Gastroprotective Effect of Ginger Rhizome (Zingiber officinale) Extract: Role of Gallic Acid and Cinnamic Acid in H(+), K(+)-ATPase/H. pylori Inhibition and Anti-Oxidative Mechanism

The preventive effect of Zingiber officinale essential oil on demyelination of corpus callosum in a cuprizone rat model of multiple sclerosis

Objective

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent neurological disability among young adults. Anti-inflammatory drugs have shown to be effective in MS. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties of Zingiber officinale (ginger) have been shown and proven in many phytotherapy studies. This study aimed to evaluate effects of ginger essential oil on preventing myelin degradation in a rat model of MS.

Materials and Methods

In this study, we divided 49 rats into 7 groups; 4 control and 3 experimental groups that received 3 different dose of ginger essential oil (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg/day) for treatment of cuprizone-induced demyelinated rats. Basket test and transmission electron microscopy were performed in this study. Olig2 and Mbp genes and proteins were respectively evaluated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Histologically, cuprizone created demyelination in the corpus callosum fibers. Remyelination of fibers was seen in the group treated with the medium dose of ginger essence, by toluidine blue staining. transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed increased thickness of the myelin of fibers in all 3 treated groups (p<0.05). Feeding by the medium dose of ginger essence significantly increased the levels of Mbp and Olig2 genes (p<0.05). ELISA test showed that 100 mg/kg/day of ginger caused a significant difference between experimental and the cuprizone-induced groups (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that administration of ginger essential oil prevented demyelination and improved remyelination of rats` corpus callusom and can be used as an effective substance in the prevention of MS.

Dose-dependent Action of Zingiber officinale on Colonic Dysmotility and Ex Vivo Spontaneous Intestinal Contraction Modulation

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizomes are commonly used in foods and employed for many ailments including gastrointestinal disorders. Our main objective was to evaluate the effect of Zingiber officinale aqueous extract (ZOAE) on gastrointestinal (GI) physiological motility and colonic dysmotility. Thereby, Wistar rats were given loperamide (LP, 3 mg/kg, b.w.) and ZOAE (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg, b.w.) or yohimbine (YOH, 2 mg/kg, b.w.). ZOAE-action on intestinal secretion was assessed using Ussing chamber technique and intestinal motility with isometric transducer. GI-transit (GIT) and gastric emptying (GE) were evaluated with the charcoal meal test and the red phenol methods. ZOAE-bioactive components were analyzed by liquid chromatography-high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-HRESIMS). Constipation was induced with LP and the different indicators such as stool composition, GIT, oxidative stress biological parameters, and colonic mucosa histological alteration were performed. Anti-constipation effect of ZOAE was confirmed on stool composition, GIT (53.42% to 85.57%), GE (55.47% to 98.88%), and re-established oxidative balance. ZOAE induces an amplitude increase of spontaneous intestinal contraction with EC50 of 10.52 μg/mL. No effect of ZOAE was observed on electrogenic transport of intestinal fluid. These findings suggest that ZOAE-bioactive candidates might exert an anti-constipation action and spontaneous intestinal contraction modulation.

The effect of Zingiber Officinale Extract on Preventing Demyelination of Corpus Callosum in a Rat Model of Multiple Sclerosis

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent neurological disability of young adults. Anti-inflammatory drugs have relative effects on MS. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of Zingiber officinale (ginger) have been proven in some experimental and clinical investigations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ginger extract on preventing myelin degradation in a rat model of MS.

Methods

Forty nine male Wistar rats were used in this study and divided into four control groups: the normal group, cuprizone-induced group, sham group (cuprizone [CPZ] + sodium carboxymethyl cellulose [NaCMC]), standard control group (fingolimod + cuprizone), including three experimental groups of CPZ, each receiving three different doses of ginger extract: 150, 300, and 600mg/kg /kg/day.

Results

Ginger extract of 600 mg/kg prevented corpus callosum from demyelination; however, a significant difference was observed in the fingolimod group (p < 0.05). Difference in the CPZ group was quite significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Treatment with ginger inhibited demyelination and alleviated remyelination of corpus callosum in rats. Therefore, it could serve as a therapeutic agent in the MS.

Integrating Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Model to Investigate the Mechanism of Biheimaer in the Treatment of Functional Dyspepsia

Objective. Biheimaer (BHM) is a hospital formulation for clinical treatment of dyspepsia and acid reflux, based on Compatibility Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This study anticipated to elucidate the molecular mechanism of BHM against Functional dyspepsia via combined network pharmacology prediction with experimental verification. Methods. Based on network pharmacology, the potential active components and targets of BHM in the treatment of functional dyspepsia were explored by prediction and molecular docking technology. The results of protein–protein interaction analysis, functional annotation, and pathway enrichment analysis further refined the main targets and pathways. The molecular mechanism of BHM improving functional dyspepsia mice induced by L-arginine + atropine was verified on the basis of network pharmacology. Results. In this study, 183 effective compounds were screened from BHM; moreover, 1007 compound-related predicted targets and 156 functional dyspepsia-related targets were found. The results of enrichment analysis and in vivo experiments showed that BHM could regulate intestinal smooth muscle contraction to play a therapeutic role in functional dyspepsia by reducing the expression of NOS3, SERT, TRPV1, and inhibiting the inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, TNF-α) to intervene the inflammatory response in mice. Conclusions. This study revealed the molecular biological mechanisms of the Traditional Chinese Medicine formulation of BHM in functional dyspepsia by network pharmacology and experimental verification, meanwhile provided scientific support for subsequent clinical medication.

Natural Medicines as Gastro-protective Therapy in the Treatment of Peptic Ulcer: A Multifaceted Approach

Abstract:

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are the ailments of the digestive tract that affect its function like digestion, absorption and excretion. The dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract may occur due to infections by bacteria, parasites and viruses. Peptic Ulcer Disease is a gastrointestinal tract disorder of stomach and duodenum that is associated with infection of Helicobacter pylori. Helicobacter pylori is regarded as the worldwide causative agent responsible for the etiology of peptic ulcer and gastric carcinoma. The existing drug therapies are good healers in this situation, but due to resistance problems and side effects of drugs, researchers have been working to find out some safe alternatives. Interestingly, the medicinal herbs have been used for treating several disorders, including peptic ulcers and are considered an effective and safer alternative to existing drugs. It is also considered as an eco-friendly, easily available, safe, and less toxic traditional treatment therapy. The combination of herbal medicines with natural products has been shown effective in treating peptic ulcers. In this review, the medicinal plants used against H. pylori infection have been discussed. The mechanism of herbal drugs in healing peptic ulcers by inhibition of H+ K+ ATPase pump, secretion of gastric acid and gastric mucosal protection have also elaborated. The phytochemicals responsible for biological activity have been summarized in the present article. The combination of herbs and natural products in the form of the polyherbal formulation may also be helpful as an effective therapy for treating peptic ulcers. Medicinal plants may offer the researchers new chemical molecules to explore as future drugs or as biochemical agents to unravel the etiology of the disease.

Evaluation of botanicals as potential COVID-19 symptoms terminator

Information about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is still evolving since its appearance in December 2019 and has affected the whole world. Particularly, a search for an effective and safe treatment for COVID-19 continues. Botanical mixtures contain secondary metabolites (such as flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, essential oils etc.) with many therapeutic effects. In this study, the use of herbal treatments against COVID-19 was evaluated. Medical synthetic drugs focus mainly on respiratory symptoms, however herbal therapy with plant extracts may be useful to relieve overall symptoms of COVID-19 due to the variety of bioactive ingredients. Since COVID-19 is a virus that affects the respiratory tract, the antiviral effects of botanicals/plants against respiratory viruses have been examined through clinical studies. Data about COVID-19 patients revealed that the virus not only affects the respiratory system but different organs including the gastrointestinal (GI) system. As GI symptoms seriously affect quality of life, herbal options that might eliminate these problems were also evaluated. Finally, computer modeling studies of plants and their active compounds on COVID-19 were included. In summary, herbal therapies were identified as potential options for both antiviral effects and control of COVID-19 symptoms. Further data will be needed to enlighten all aspects of COVID-19 pathogenesis, before determining the effects of plants on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Design, Synthesis, and Activity Study of Cinnamic Acid Derivatives as Potent Antineuroinflammatory Agents

Neuroinflammatory cytokines are promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Herein, we described our efforts toward the investigation of cinnamic acid derivatives as antineuroinflammatory agents. Intensive structural modifications led to the identification of compound 4f as the most effective antineuroinflammatory agent in vitro. The oral administration of compound 4f could reverse lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced memory disturbance and normalize glucose uptake and metabolism in the brains of mice. Further biological studies in vivo revealed that compound 4f was directly bound to the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, resulting in suppression of its downstream signaling pathway by blocking neuroinflammatory progression. Docking studies showed that compound 4f could be inserted into the active pocket of interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Furthermore, it was confirmed that compound 4f formed hydrogen bonds with SER84 to enhance the binding affinity. Taken together, these results are of great importance in the development of cinnamic acid derivatives for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Impact of Gallic Acid on Gut Health: Focus on the Gut Microbiome, Immune Response, and Mechanisms of Action

Gallic acid (GA) is a naturally occurring polyphenol compound present in fruits, vegetables, and herbal medicines. According to previous studies, GA has many biological properties, including antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. GA and its derivatives have multiple industrial uses, such as food supplements or additives. Additionally, recent studies have shown that GA and its derivatives not only enhance gut microbiome (GM) activities, but also modulate immune responses. Thus, GA has great potential to facilitate natural defense against microbial infections and modulate the immune response. However, the exact mechanisms of GA acts on the GM and immune system remain unclear. In this review, first the physicochemical properties, bioavailability, absorption, and metabolism of GA are introduced, and then we summarize recent findings concerning its roles in gastrointestinal health. Furthermore, the present review attempts to explain how GA influences the GM and modulates the immune response to maintain intestinal health.

Solid γ-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Compound with Gingerols, a Multi-Component Guest: Preparation, Properties and Application in Yogurt

Gingerols from the rhizome of fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) were obtained by a simple extraction, followed by purification. The gingerols extract was composed of 6-gingerol (54%), 8-gingerol (20%), and 10-gingerol (26%). It was included into γ-cyclodextrin by classic co-dissolution procedures. Solid-state characterisation of γ-cyclodextrin·gingerols shows that this inclusion compound features 1:1 host-to-guest stoichiometry and that it is a microcrystalline powder with a crystalline cell that belongs to the tetragonal space group 4212, having the host molecules stacked in infinite channels where the gingerols are accommodated. In chimico studies with ABTS•+ scavenging, NO• scavenging, β-carotene peroxidation, and 5-LOX inhibition show that γ-cyclodextrin is a suitable carrier for gingerols, because it does not alter their reactivity towards these substances. Yogurt was tested as a matrix for the incorporation of gingerols and γ-cyclodextrin·gingerols into foodstuff. The colour of the fortified yogurt suffered little alterations. In the case of yogurt with the inclusion compound, γ-cyclodextrin·gingerols, as fortificant, these alterations were not perceptible to the naked eye. Moreover, yogurt with γ-cyclodextrin·gingerols showed a good antioxidant activity, thus being suitable for use in nutraceutical applications.

Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Properties of Zingiber officinale Essential Oil and Extracts

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been traditionally employed in south East Asia as well as India and China for treatment of nausea, asthma, fever, vomiting, cough, constipation, pain, arthritis, inflammation, etc. This chapter discusses the phytochemical composition and pharmacological studies of ginger extracts, ginger essential oil (GEO), and active bioactive constituents. The essential oil of fresh and dry ginger was ranged between 0.2% - 2.62% and 0.72% - 4.17% respectively. The bioactive constituent zingiberene, β-sesquiphellandrene, curcumene, β-bisabolene, β-farnesene, camphene, and gingerol and shogal are the major constituents in ginger extracts. These compounds are chief bioactive substances responsible for pharmacological activities such antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, anticoagulant, antiradiation, anti-inflammatory, gastrointestinal, antimicrobial, cardiovascular, anti-obesity, and weight loss effects. Future research needs to investigate the suitable duration, maximum dosage of ginger, concerns of overdosage, and its side effects in animal models and humans.

Effect of gabapentin on fetal rat brain and its amelioration by ginger

Intrauterine exposure to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is associated with neurodevelopmental alterations causing postnatal behavioral and cognitive alterations. These disorders are associated with the interference of these AEDs with the developing cerebral cortex and hippocampal neurons. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the drugs that should be avoided during pregnancy in order to prevent AED mediated developmental alterations. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of prenatal exposure to the antiepileptic drug gabapentin (GBP) on the rat fetal brain during the organogenesis phase and to examine the potential ameliorative effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale). Consequently, the current study addressed the developmental neural changes on the histological, immuno-histochemical and ultrastructural levels. The brain of fetuses from the GBP group showed a highly significant decrease in their weight. Histologically, the cerebral cortex and hippocampus regions of fetuses maternally injected with GBP showed layer disorganization, vacuolated neuropil and massive cell degeneration. The expression of Caspase 3 was significantly increased in the brain of GBP fetuses, unlike the expression of Bcl-2 which was significantly decreased. On the ultrastructure level, the neurons showed pyknotic and chromatolytic nuclei. The cytoplasm was rarefied with swollen organelles. Co-administration of ginger evidently ameliorated most of these effects. In conclusion, GBP administration during pregnancy could possibly affect the developing fetal brain and ginger may have ameliorating effect against the induced GBP neurotoxicity and should be taken in parallel.

The Carcinogenic Agent Diethylnitrosamine Induces Early Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Proliferation in Rat Liver, Stomach and Colon: Protective Effect of Ginger Extract

Background: Diethylnitrosamine (DENA), a well-known dietary carcinogen, related to cancer initiation of various organs. The present study investigated the deleterious mechanisms involved in the early destructive changes of DENA in different organs namely, liver, stomach and colon and the potential protective effect of GE against these mechanisms. Methods: Adult male albino rats were assigned into four groups. A normal control group received the vehicle, another group was injected with a single necrogenic dose of DENA (200 mg/kg, i.p) on day 21. Two groups received oral GE (108 or 216 mg/kg) daily for 28 days. Sera, liver, stomach and colon were obtained 7 days after DENA injection. Serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase were detected as well as reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde, nitric oxide metabolites, interleukin 1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and nuclear factorerythroid 2-related factor2 (Nrf2) in liver, stomach and colon. Histopathological studies and immunohistochemical examination of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) were conducted. Results: DENA induced elevation in liver function enzymes with significant increase in oxidation and inflammation biomarkers and AFP while decreased levels of Nrf2 in liver, stomach and colon were detected. Histologically, DENA showed degenerative changes in hepatocytes and inflammatory foci. Inflammatory foci displayed increased expression of COX2 in immunohistochemical staining. GE-pretreatment improved liver function and restored normal GSH with significant mitigation of oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers compared to DENA-treated group. AFP was reduced by GE in both doses, while Nrf2 increased significantly. Histology and immunostaining of hepatic COX-2 were remarkably improved in GE-treated groups in a dose dependent manner. Conclusion: GE exerted a potential anti-proliferative activity against DENA in liver, stomach and colon via Nrf2 activation, whilst suppression of oxidation and inflammation.

Infrared-assisted extraction followed by high performance liquid chromatography to determine angoroside C, cinnamic acid, and harpagoside content in Scrophularia ningpoensis

Background

Angoroside C, cinnamic acid, and harpagoside are bioactive constituents in Scrophularia ningpoensis. Currently, an infrared-assisted extraction (IRAE) method coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) for the analysis of bioactive constituents in this plant is lacking.

Methods

A method based on HPLC following IRAE has been developed for quantifying angoroside C, cinnamic acid, and harpagoside in Scrophularia ningpoensis. Four main factors, namely, extraction solvent, solid/liquid ratio, illumination time, and distance between the infrared lamp and the round-bottom flask, were optimized for extraction. Furthermore, conventional ultrasonic extraction (USE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) were also investigated to validate the developed method.

Results

The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: ethanol concentration, 37.5%; solid/liquid ratio, 1:25; illumination time, 10 min; and distance between infrared lamp and round-bottom flask, 3 cm. The results of method validation demonstrated that the developed method meets the requirement of analysis.

Conclusion

The results show that the IRAE-HPLC is a simple, accurate, and green analytical preparatory method for the potential extraction and quantification of angoroside C, cinnamic acid, and harpagoside in Scrophularia ningpoensis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-019-2552-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Correlation in Chemical Metabolome and Endophytic Mycobiome in Cynomorium songaricum from Different Desert Locations in China

Cynomorium songaricum Rupr. is a valuable food and medicinal plant with functions, such as an increase in sexual function, mainly attributed to its complex secondary metabolites. However, the effect of internal microbes on metabolite production in C. songaricum is still largely unclear. In this study, the relationship between endophytes and differential secondary metabolites in C. songaricum from seven major producing regions of China were explored based on established methods of metabolomics and high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that there were 13 different marker metabolites, seven shared fungal OTUs, and numerous unshared OTUs among C. songaricum distributed at different locations in China and identified significant correlations between metabolites and endophytic fungi. Our study revealed that endophytic fungi may be one possible factor that can affect the plant secondary metabolite composition.

Ameliorative and protective effects of ginger and its main constituents against natural, chemical and radiation-induced toxicities: A comprehensive review

Fatal unintentional poisoning is widespread upon human exposure to toxic agents such as pesticides, heavy metals, environmental pollutants, bacterial and fungal toxins or even some medications and cosmetic products. In this regards, the application of the natural dietary agents as antidotes has engrossed a substantial attention. One of the ancient known traditional medicines and spices with an arsenal of metabolites of several reported health benefits is ginger. This extended literature review serves to demonstrate the protective effects and mechanisms of ginger and its phytochemicals against natural, chemical and radiation-induced toxicities. Collected data obtained from the in-vivo and in-vitro experimental studies in this overview detail the designation of the protective effects to ginger's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Ginger's armoury of phytochemicals exerted its protective function via different mechanisms and cell signalling pathways, including Nrf2/ARE, MAPK, NF-ƙB, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β1/Smad3, and ERK/CREB. The outcomes of this review could encourage further clinical trials of ginger applications in radiotherapy and chemotherapy regime for cancer treatments or its implementation to counteract the chemical toxicity induced by industrial pollutants, alcohol, smoking or administered drugs.

Discovery of a new mitochondria permeability transition pore (mPTP) inhibitor based on gallic acid

Pharmacological interventions targeting mitochondria present several barriers for a complete efficacy. Therefore, a new mitochondriotropic antioxidant (AntiOxBEN₃) based on the dietary antioxidant gallic acid was developed. AntiOxBEN₃ accumulated several thousand-fold inside isolated rat liver mitochondria, without causing disruption of the oxidative phosphorylation apparatus, as seen by the unchanged respiratory control ratio, phosphorylation efficiency, and transmembrane electric potential. AntiOxBEN₃ showed also limited toxicity on human hepatocarcinoma cells. Moreover, AntiOxBEN₃ presented robust iron-chelation and antioxidant properties in both isolated liver mitochondria and cultured rat and human cell lines. Along with its low toxicity profile and high antioxidant activity, AntiOxBEN₃ strongly inhibited the calcium-dependent mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening. From our data, AntiOxBEN₃ can be considered as a lead compound for the development of a new class of mPTP inhibitors and be used as mPTP de-sensitiser for basic research or clinical applications or emerge as a therapeutic application in mitochondria dysfunction-related disorders.

The effects of herbal medicine on epilepsy

Traditional herbal medicine plays a significant role in the treatment of epilepsy. Though herbal medicine is widely used in antiepileptic treatment, there is a lack of robust evidence for efficacy and toxicity of most herbs. Besides, the herbal medicine should be subject to evidence-based scrutiny. In this context, we present a review to introduce the effects of herbal medicine on epilepsy. However, hundreds of herbal medicines have been investigated in the available studies. Some commonly used herbal medicines for epilepsy have been listed in our study. The overwhelming majority of these data are based on animal experiments. The lack of clinical data places constraints on the clinical recommendation of herbal medicine. Our study may conduct further studies and provide some insight on the development of anti-epileptic drugs.

Effects of Tissue Culture and Mycorrhiza Applications in Organic Farming on Concentrations of Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Capacities in Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) Rhizomes and Leaves

Tissue culture and mycorrhiza applications can provide disease-free seedlings and enhanced nutrient absorption, respectively, for organic farming. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is rich in phytochemicals and has various health-protective potentials. This study was aimed at determining effects of tissue culture and mycorrhiza applications alone or in combinations in organic farming on phytochemical contents (total phenolics and flavonoids [TP and TF, respectively], gingerol and shogaol homologues, phenolic acids, and carotenoids) and antioxidant capacities (DPPH [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl] radical scavenging, oxygen radical absorbance (ORAC), and iron-chelating capacities [ICC]) in solvent-extractable (Free) and cell-wall-matrix-bound (Bound) fractions of ginger rhizome and Free fraction of the leaves in comparison with non-organics. Concentrations of the phytochemicals and antioxidant capacities, except for carotenoids and ICC, were significantly higher in organic ginger rhizomes and leaves than in non-organics regardless of the fractions and treatments (P < 0.05). Mycorrhiza application in organic farming significantly increased levels of TP, TF, gingerols, and ORAC in the Free fraction of the rhizome (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the combined application of tissue culture and mycorrhiza significantly increased concentrations of TF and gingerols and ORAC in the Free fraction of the rhizome (P < 0.05), suggesting their synergistic effects. Considerable amounts of phenolics were found in the Bound fractions of the rhizomes. Six-gingerol, ferulic acid, and lutein were predominant ones among gingerols, phenolic acids, and carotenoids, respectively, in ginger rhizomes. The results suggest that organic farming with mycorrhiza and tissue culture applications can increase concentrations of phytochemicals and antioxidant capacities in ginger rhizomes and leaves and therefore improve their health-protective potentials.

Gastroprotective [6]-Gingerol Aspirinate as a Novel Chemopreventive Prodrug of Aspirin for Colon Cancer

A growing body of research suggests daily low-dose aspirin (ASA) reduces heart diseases and colorectal cancers. However, the major limitation to the use of aspirin is its side effect to cause ulceration and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Preclinical studies have shown that ginger constituents ameliorate ASA-induced gastric ulceration. We here report the design and synthesis of a novel prodrug of aspirin, [6]-gingerol aspirinate (GAS). Our data show that GAS exerts enhanced anti-cancer properties in vitro and superior gastroprotective effects in mice. GAS was also able to survive stomach acid and decomposed in intestinal linings or after absorption to simultaneously release ASA and [6]-gingerol. We further present that GAS inactivates both COX-1 and COX-2 equally. Our results demonstrate the enhanced anticancer properties along with gastroprotective effects of GAS, suggesting that GAS can be a therapeutic equivalent for ASA in inflammatory and proliferative diseases without the deleterious effects on stomach mucosa.

Physiologically induced changes in bound phenolics and antioxidants, DNA/cytoprotective potentials in pectic poly/oligosaccharides of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)

BACKGROUND

Antioxidant, cyto/DNA protective potentials are known to offer significant protection against free radical induced injury to cells or tissues and cellular damages that are envisaged in various diseases including chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, etc, while galectin-3 inhibitory potentials are known to block or delay the process of metastasis in cancer. Antioxidant, cyto/DNA protection and galectin-3 inhibitory potentials were examined in pectic polysaccharides (PPs) and pectic oligosaccharides (POs) from four types of two varieties of tomatoes such as Sour (Mallika local variety) raw (SrRT-SrRTPP, SrRTPO), Sour ripe (SrRIT-SrRITPP, SrRITPO), Sweet (Rashmi local variety) raw (SwRT-SwRTPP, SwRTPO) and Sweet ripe (SwRIT-SwRITPP and SwRITPO).

RESULTS

Results indicate that unripe PPs and POs show approximately four- to five-fold better galectin-3 inhibitory property than ripe ones. An approximately nine- to 10-fold increase in galectin-3 inhibitory activity in sour variety was observed. The IC₅₀ as determined by free radical scavenging (FRS), red blood cell (RBC) and DNA protection assays revealed reduction in FRS and RBC protective potencies in pectic oligosaccharides (POs) than pectic polysaccharides (PPs), supporting the fact that phenolics contribute towards these activities. Loss of activity could be attributed to the hydrolysis of certain phenolics during the ripening process as well as during conversion of PPs to POs.

CONCLUSION

This study, for the first time, showed changes in bioactivity profiling in unripened and ripened conditions in tomato. Precise alterations in biomolecular components, such as bound cinnamyl/ferulyl and vanillic acid derivatives, along with alterations in sugar composition that reflect changes in antioxidants, cyto/DNA protective and antimetastatic potentials, have been delineated. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

A preliminary randomised controlled study of short-term Antrodia cinnamomea treatment combined with chemotherapy for patients with advanced cancer

Background

Antrodia cinnamomea (AC) is a popular medicinal mushroom in Taiwan that has been widely used for treatment of various cancers. Few clinical studies have reported its application and efficiency in therapeutic chemotherapy strategies. We performed a double-blind, randomized clinical study to investigate whether AC given for 30 days had acceptable safety and efficacy in advanced cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

Methods

Patients with advanced and/or metastatic adenocarcinoma, performance status (PS) 0–2, and adequate organ function who had previously been treated with standard chemotherapy were randomly assigned to receive routine chemotherapy regimens with AC (20 ml twice daily) orally for 30 days or placebo. The primary endpoint was 6-month overall survival (OS); the secondary endpoints were disease control rate (DCR), quality of life (QoL), adverse event (AE), and biochemical features within 30 days of treatment.

Results

From August 2010 to July 2012, 37 subjects with gastric, lung, liver, breast, and colorectal cancer (17 in the AC group, 20 in the placebo group) were enrolled in the study. Disease progression was the primary cause of death in 4 (33.3 %) AC and 8 (66.7 %) placebo recipients. Mean OSs were 5.4 months for the AC group and 5.0 months for the placebo group (p = 0.340), and the DCRs were 41.2 and 55 %, respectively (p = 0.33). Most hematologic, liver, or kidney functions did not differ significantly between the two groups, but platelet counts were lower in the AC group than in the placebo group (p = 0.02). QoL assessments were similar in the two groups, except that the AC group showed significant improvements in quality of sleep (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Although we found a lower mortality rate and longer mean OS in the AC group than in the control group, A. cinnamomea combined with chemotherapy was not shown to improve the outcome of advanced cancer patients, possibly due to the small sample size. In fact, the combination may present a potential risk of lowered platelet counts. Adequately powered clinical trials will be necessary to address this question.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01287286.

Reversed-phase-liquid chromatography method for separation and quantification of gallic acid from hydroalcoholic extracts of Qualea grandiflora and Qualea parviflora

Background:

Qualea parviflora and Qualea grandiflora (Vochysiaceae), commonly known in Brazil as “pau-terra” and “pau-terrinha,” respectively, have been widely used in the treatment of ulcer and gastritis. These therapeutic effects are attributed to various compounds present in the plants, including phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, due to their important antioxidant activity.

Objective:

The aim of the present study was to validate a high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) method for the quantitative determination of gallic acid in the stem bark of Q. parviflora and Q. grandiflora hydroalcoholic extracts.

Materials and Methods:

The chromatography analysis was successfully achieved on a Dionex column, Acclaim^® 120 (250 mm × 4.60 mm, 5 µm) with a gradient elution of water and methanol at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min and ultraviolet detection at 280 nm.

Results:

The validation data, including linearity, precision, specificity, accuracy and robustness of this method demonstrated good reliability and sensitivity.

Conclusion:

The method is able to quantify gallic acid in the stem bark of both species. What is more, the chromatographic peaks showed good resolution and there are also the advantages of easy sample preparation and a short time between each injection.

Combined Efficacy of Gallic Acid and MiADMSA with Limited Beneficial Effects Over MiADMSA Against Arsenic-induced Oxidative Stress in Mouse

Gallic acid is an organic acid known for its antioxidant and anticancer properties. The present study is focused on evaluating the role of gallic acid in providing better therapeutic outcomes against arsenic-induced toxicity. Animals pre-exposed to arsenic were treated with monoisoamyl meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (MiADMSA), a new chelating drug, alone and in combination with gallic acid, consecutively for 10 days. The study suggests that (1) gallic acid in presence of MiADMSA is only moderately beneficial against arsenic, (2) monotherapy with gallic acid is more effective than in combination with MiADMSA after arsenic exposure in reducing oxidative injury, and (3) MiADMSA monotherapy as reported previously provides significant therapeutic efficacy against arsenic. Thus, based on the present results, we conclude that gallic acid is effective against arsenic-induced oxidative stress but provides limited additional beneficial effects when administered in combination with MiADMSA. We still recommend that lower doses of gallic acid be evaluated both individually and in combination with MiADMSA, as it might not exhibit the shortcomings we observed with higher doses in this study.

Alteration of pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure threshold by chronic administration of ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract in male mice

CONTEXT

Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), or ginger, used in traditional Chinese medicine, has antioxidant activity and neuroprotective effects. The effects of this plant on clonic seizure have not yet been studied.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluated the anticonvulsant effect of ginger in a model of clonic seizures induced with pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anticonvulsant effect of Z. officinale was investigated using i.v. PTZ-induced seizure models in mice. Different doses of the hydroethanolic extract of Z. officinale (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) were administered intraperitonal (i.p.), daily for 1 week before induction of PTZ. Phenobarbital sodium (30 mg/kg), a reference standard, was also tested for comparison. The effect of ginger on to the appearance of three separate seizure endpoints, e.g., myoclonic, generalized clonic, and tonic extension phase, was recorded.

RESULTS

Hydroethanolic extract of Z. officinale significantly increased the onset time of myoclonic seizure at doses of 25-100 mg/kg (55.33 ± 1.91 versus 24.47 ± 1.33 mg/kg, p < 0.001) and significantly prevented generalized clonic (74.64 ± 3.52 versus 47.72 ± 2.31 mg/kg, p < 0.001) and increased the threshold for the forelimb tonic extension (102.6 ± 5.39 versus 71.82 ± 7.82 mg/kg, p < 0.01) seizure induced by PTZ compared with the control group.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Based on the results, the hydroethanolic extract of ginger has anticonvulsant effects, possibly through an interaction with inhibitory and excitatory systems, antioxidant mechanisms, and oxidative stress inhibition.

Vernonia kotschyana roots: therapeutic potential via antioxidant activity

The roots of Vernonia kotschyana Sch. Bip. ex Walp. (Asteraceae) are used in Malian traditional medicine in the treatment of gastroduodenal ulcers and gastritis. Since oxidative stress is involved in gastric ulceration, the aim of this study was to screen the root extracts for their in vitro antioxidant activity and phenolic content. The roots were extracted successively with chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol and water. The antioxidant activity of root extracts was evaluated in both cell-free and cell-based assays. Their chemical characterization was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) whereas the total phenolic content was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The ethyl acetate extract displayed the highest phenolic content and was found to be the most active in the free radical scavenging and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays; it also showed a high antioxidant activity in MCF-12F cells. This study suggests a potential use of the ethyl acetate extract of Vernonia kotschyana not only as an antioxidant agent in gastroduodenal ulcers and gastritis, but also in other disorders characterized by high levels of oxidative stress.

Nontraditional therapies to treat Helicobacter pylori infection

The Gram-negative pathogen Helicobacter pylori is increasingly more resistant to the three major antibiotics (metronidazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin) that are most commonly used to treat infection. As a result, there is an increased rate of treatment failure; this translates into an overall higher cost of treatment due to the need for increased length of treatment and/or the requirement for combination or sequential therapy. Given the rise in antibiotic resistance, the complicated treatment regime, and issues related to patient compliance that stem from the duration and complexity of treatment, there is clearly a pressing need for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat H. pylori infection. As such, researchers are actively investigating the utility of antimicrobial peptides, small molecule inhibitors and naturopathic therapies. Herein we review and discuss each of these novel approaches as a means to target this important gastric pathogen.

Acute administration of ginger (Zingiber officinale rhizomes) extract on timed intravenous pentylenetetrazol infusion seizure model in mice

PURPOSE

Zingiber officinale (Zingiberaceae) or ginger, which is used in traditional medicine has antioxidant activity and neuroprotective effects. The effects of this plant on clonic seizure have not yet been studied. The present study evaluated the anticonvulsant effect of ginger in a model of clonic seizures induced with pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anticonvulsant effect of Z. officinale was investigated using i.v. PTZ-induced seizure models in mice. Different doses of the hydroethanolic extract of Z. officinale (25, 50, and 100mg/kg) were administered intraperitonal (i.p.), 2 and 24h before induction of PTZ. Phenobarbital sodium (30mg/kg), a reference standard, was also tested for comparison. The effect of ginger on to the appearance of three separate seizure endpoints (myoclonic, generalized clonus and forelimb tonic extension phase) was recorded.

RESULTS

The results showed that the ginger extract has anticonvulsant effects in all the experimental treatment groups of seizure tested as it significantly increased the seizure threshold. Hydroethanolic extract of Z. officinale significantly increased the onset time of myoclonic seizure at doses of 25-100mg/kg (p<0.001) and significantly prevented generalized clonic (p<0.001) and increased the threshold for the forelimb tonic extension (p<0.01) seizure 2 and 24h before induction of PTZ compared with control group.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results the hydroethanolic extract of ginger has anticonvulsant effects, possibly through an interaction with inhibitory and excitatory system, antioxidant mechanisms, oxidative stress and calcium channel inhibition.

Gastroprotective effect of desmosdumotin C isolated from Mitrella kentii against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal hemorrhage in rats: possible involvement of glutathione, heat-shock protein-70, sulfhydryl compounds, nitric oxide, and anti-Helicobacter pylori activity

BACKGROUND

Mitrella kentii (M. kentii) (Bl.) Miq, is a tree-climbing liana that belongs to the family Annonaceae. The plant is rich with isoquinoline alkaloids, terpenylated dihydrochalcones and benzoic acids and has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of this study is to assess the gastroprotective effects of desmosdumotin C (DES), a new isolated bioactive compound from M. kentii, on gastric ulcer models in rats.

METHODS

DES was isolated from the bark of M. kentii. Experimental rats were orally pretreated with 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg of the isolated compound and were subsequently subjected to absolute ethanol-induced acute gastric ulcer. Gross evaluation, mucus content, gastric acidity and histological gastric lesions were assessed in vivo. The effects of DES on the anti-oxidant system, non-protein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) content, nitric oxide (NO)level, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme activity, bcl-2-associated X (Bax) protein expression and Helicabacter pylori (H pylori) were also investigated.

RESULTS

DES pre-treatment at the administered doses significantly attenuated ethanol-induced gastric ulcer; this was observed by decreased gastric ulcer area, reduced or absence of edema and leucocytes infiltration compared to the ulcer control group. It was found that DES maintained glutathione (GSH) level, decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) level, increased NP-SH content and NO level and inhibited COX-2 activity. The compound up regulated heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) and down regulated Bax protein expression in the ulcerated tissue. DES showed interesting anti-H pylori effects. The efficacy of DES was accomplished safely without any signs of toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study reveals that DES demonstrated gastroprotective effects which could be attributed to its antioxidant effect, activation of HSP-70 protein, intervention with COX-2 inflammatory pathway and potent anti H pylori effect.

Ecstasy-induced caspase expression alters following ginger treatment

INTRODUCTION

Exposure to 3-4, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) leads to cell death. Herein, we studied the protective effects of ginger on MDMA- induced apoptosis.

METHODS

15 Sprague dawley male rats were administrated with 0, 10 mg/kg MDMA, or MDMA along with 100mg/kg ginger, IP for 7 days. Brains were removed to study the caspase 3, 8, and 9 expressions in the hippocampus by RT-PCR. Data was analyzed by SPSS 16 software using the one-way ANOVA test.

RESULTS

MDMA treatment resulted in a significant increase in caspase 3, 8, and 9 as compared to the sham group (p < 0.001). Ginger administration however, appeared to significantly decrease the same (p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that ginger consumption may lead to the improvement of MDMA-induced neurotoxicity.

Antiulcerogenic activity of chlorogenic acid in different models of gastric ulcer

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is found in many foods, including coffee, berries, potatoes, carrots, wine, apples, and various herbs, and has anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antitumoral actions. The CGA is well absorbed orally, and its effects on gastric ulcer have not been previously reported. The present manuscript evaluated the effect of oral administration of CGA on ethanol/HCl (Et/HCl) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric ulcer model in male Swiss mice. Animals were pretreated with 0.2 % carboxymethylcellulose (vehicle, p.o.), omeprazole (positive control, 30 mg/kg, p.o.), carbenoxolone (antioxidant positive control, 100 mg/kg, p.o.), or CGA (5, 25, or 50 mg/kg, p.o.). One hour later, the gastric ulcer was induced by injecting Et/HCl solution (100 μL/10 g body weight; Et 60 % + HCl 0.03 M) or piroxicam (100 mg/kg, p.o). After another hour or 4 h later, gastric tissues were collected from Et/HCl or piroxicam-treated animals, respectively, to evaluate the size of the lesion, histological alterations, secretion of gastric acid, neutrophil migration, oxidative/antioxidative enzymes, markers of lipid peroxidation, or concentrations of inflammatory mediators. CGA treatment had a gastroprotective effect in both models, reducing the percentage of lesioned area. CGA treatment did not alter the secretion of gastric action but inhibited neutrophil migration and restored the levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in mice treated with Et/HCl. Additionally, CGA treatment blocked the increase of tumor necrosis factor alpha and leukotriene B4 but did not restore the reduced prostaglandin levels in the NSAID-induced ulcer. Together, the data presented herein show that CGA may be a suitable natural compound for the prevention and treatment of gastric lesions caused by a different etiology.

Pharmacological mechanisms underlying gastroprotective activities of the fractions obtained from Polygonum minus in Sprague Dawley rats

The leaves of Polygonum minus were fractionated using an eluting solvent to evaluate the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the anti-ulcerogenic activity of P. minus. Different P. minus fractions were obtained and evaluated for their ulcer preventing capabilities using the ethanol induction method. In this study, Sprague Dawley rats weighing 150–200 g were used. Different parameters were estimated to identify the active fraction underlying the mechanism of the gastroprotective action of P. minus: the gastric mucus barrier, as well as superoxide dismutase, total hexosamine, and prostaglandin synthesis. Amongst the five fractions from the ethanolic extract of P. minus, the ethyl acetate:methanol 1:1 v/v fraction (F2) significantly (p < 0.005) exhibited better inhibition of ulcer lesions in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, rats pre-treated with F2 showed a significant elevation in superoxide dismutase (SOD), hexosamine and PGE2 levels in the stomach wall mucosa in a dose-dependent matter. Based on these results, the ethyl acetate:methanol 1:1 v/v fraction was considered to be the best fraction for mucous protection in the ethanol induction model. The mechanisms underlying this protection were attributed to the synthesis of antioxidants and PGE2.

Zingiber Officinale Alters 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rat Brain

OBJECTIVE

The spice Zingiber officinale or ginger possesses antioxidant activity and neuroprotective effects. The effects of this traditional herbal medicine on 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) induced neurotoxicity have not yet been studied. The present study considers the effects of Zingiber officinale on MDMA-induced spatial memory impairment and apoptosis in the hippocampus of male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, 21 adult male Sprague Dawley rats (200-250 g) were classified into three groups (control, MDMA, and MDMA plus ginger). The groups were intraperitoneally administered 10 mg/kg MDMA, 10 mg/kg MDMA plus 100 mg/kg ginger extract, or 1 cc/kg normal saline as the control solution for one week (n=7 per group). Learning memory was assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) after the last administration. Finally, the brains were removed to study the cell number in the cornu ammonis (CA1) hippocampus by light microscope, Bcl-2 by immunoblotting, and Bax expression by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Data was analyzed using SPSS 16 software and a one-way ANOVA test.

RESULTS

Escape latency and traveled distances decreased significantly in the MDMA plus ginger group relative to the MDMA group (p<0.001). Cell number increased in the MDMA plus ginger group in comparison to the MDMA group. Down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax were observed in the MDMA plus ginger group in comparison to the MDMA group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that ginger consumption may lead to an improvement of MDMA-induced neurotoxicity.

Antioxidant activity and protecting health effects of common medicinal plants

Medicinal plants are traditionally used in folk medicine as natural healing remedies with therapeutic effects such as prevention of cardiovascular diseases, inflammation disorders, or reducing the risk of cancer. In addition, pharmacological industry utilizes medicinal plants due to the presence of active chemical substances as agents for drug synthesis. They are valuable also for food and cosmetic industry as additives, due to their preservative effects because of the presence of antioxidants and antimicrobial constituents. To commonly used medicinal plants with antioxidant activity known worldwide belong plants from several families, especially Lamiaceae (rosemary, sage, oregano, marjoram, basil, thyme, mints, balm), Apiaceae (cumin, fennel, caraway), and Zingiberaceae (turmeric, ginger). The antioxidant properties of medicinal plants depend on the plant, its variety, environmental conditions, climatic and seasonal variations, geographical regions of growth, degree of ripeness, growing practices, and many other factors such as postharvest treatment and processing. In addition, composition and concentration of present antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds, are related to antioxidant effect. For appropriate determination of antioxidant capacity, the extraction technique, its conditions, solvent used, and particular assay methodology are important.

Role of phenolic compounds in peptic ulcer: An overview

Peptic ulcer is the most common gastrointestinal tract (GIT) disorder in clinical practice, which affects approximately 5-10% of the people during their life. The use of herbal drugs for the prevention and treatment of various diseases is constantly developing throughout the world. This is particularly true with regard to phenolic compounds that probably constitute the largest group of plants secondary metabolites. Phenolic compounds have attracted special attention due to their health-promoting characteristics. In the past ten years a large number of the studies have been carried out on the effects of phenolic compounds on human health. Many studies have been carried out that strongly support the contribution of polyphenols to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, osteoporosis, neurodegenerative diseases, and diabetes mellitus, and suggest a role in the prevention of peptic ulcer. Polyphenols display a number of pharmacological properties in the GIT area, acting as antisecretory, cytoprotective, and antioxidant agents. The antioxidant properties of phenolic compounds have been widely studied, but it has become clear that their mechanisms of action go beyond the modulation of oxidative stress. Various polyphenolic compounds have been reported for their anti-ulcerogenic activity with a good level of gastric protection. Besides their action as gastroprotective, these phenolic compounds can be an alternative for the treatment of gastric ulcers. Therefore, considering the important role of polyphenolic compounds in the prevention or reduction of gastric lesions induced by different ulcerogenic agents, in this review, we have summarized the literature on some potent antiulcer plants, such as, Oroxylum indicum, Zingiber officinale, Olea europaea L., Foeniculum vulgare, Alchornea glandulosa, Tephrosia purpurea, and so on, containing phenolic compounds, namely, baicalein, cinnamic acid, oleuropein, rutin, quercetin, and tephrosin, respectively, as active constituents.

Gastroprotective Properties of Karanjin from Karanja (Pongamia pinnata) Seeds; Role as Antioxidant and H, K-ATPase Inhibitor

Plant extracts are the most attractive sources of newer drugs and have been shown to produce promising results for the treatment of gastric ulcers. Karanjin, a furano-flavonoid has been evaluated for anti-ulcerogenic property by employing adult male albino rats. Karanjin (>95% pure) was administered to these rats in two different concentrations, that is, 10 and 20 mg kg⁻¹ b.w. Ulcers were induced in the experimental animals by swim and ethanol stress. Serum, stomach and liver-tissue homogenates were assessed for biochemical parameters. Karanjin inhibited 50 and 74% of ulcers induced by swim stress at 10 and 20 mg kg⁻¹ b.w., respectively. Gastric mucin was protected up to 85% in case of swim stress, whereas only 47% mucin recovery was seen in ethanol stress induced ulcers. H⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity, which was increased 2-fold in ulcer conditions, was normalized by Karanjin in both swim/ethanol stress-induced ulcer models. Karanjin could inhibit oxidative stress as evidenced by the normalization of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme (i.e., catalase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase) levels. Karanjin at concentrations of 20 mg kg⁻¹ b.w., when administered orally for 14 days, did not indicate any lethal effects. There were no significant differences in total protein, serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and alkaline phosphatase between normal and Karanjin-treated rats indicating no adverse effect on major organs. During treatment schedule, animals remained as healthy as control animals with normal food and water intake and body weight gain.

Evaluating the Impact of a Pragmatic Nutrition Awareness Program for Expectant Mothers upon Birth Weight of the Newborn

Poor maternal nutritional status and substandard antenatal care, which result in increased women's risk, low birth weight and stillbirth, afflict many countries with weak or emerging economies even today. Studies that address the effect of extending nutrition awareness among pregnant women to the net outcome of pregnancy remain scarce. We aimed to compare and contrast the effect of a pragmatic nutrition awareness program for expectant mothers (NAPEM) on birth weight of the newborn with a control group who received no such nutrition awareness activity. The effect of variables of mode of newborn delivery, associated complications at birth, and APGAR score of the newborn were also assessed. A pragmatic intervention trial of an antenatal care (ANC) program that consisted in nutrition awareness was conducted involving 53 pregnant women. Awareness was given through one-to-one interview and through informational literature provided to the participants in the local language. A hospital registry for deliveries undertaken during the study period was screened for identification of variables. A control group of matched pregnant women (n = 53) was obtained from the same hospital registry from preceding years, when the nutrition awareness program was not executed. A statistically significant improvement in birth weight of the newborn was observed in the intervention group, where expectant mothers were made aware about desired nutrition during pregnancy. A reduced incidence of complications associated with pregnancy was also observed in the intervention group. Providing awareness about nutritional requirements during pregnancy and suggesting the pragmatic ways to meet them was shown to be one possible effective measure to deal with pregnancy-related undernutrition. We show the efficacy of the intervention for underprivileged regions of India marked by inadequate health care delivery and lower socio-economical standards. We discuss our findings in the context of available evidence-based guidelines.

Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori growth and its cytotoxicity by 2-hydroxy 4-methoxy benzaldehyde of Decalepis hamiltonii (Wight & Arn); a new functional attribute

Helicobacter pylori mediated gastric ulcer and cancers are common global problems since it was found to colonize in ∼50% of gastric ulcer/cancer patients. Decalepis hamiltonii, (Asclepiadaceae family) extracts have been depicted with medicinal properties supporting the traditional knowledge of health beneficial attributes of D. hamiltonii. Previously we have shown that both aqueous as well as methanol extracts of D. hamiltonii containing abundant phenolics with predominant levels (20-40% of total phenolics) of 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzaldehyde (HMBA). Despite higher levels, HMBA contributed very little to the antioxidant activity (<10%) when compared to other phenolic compounds in the extract. In the current study we attempted to explore antimicrobial property, particularly anti-H. pylori activity, since traditional users document D. hamiltonii as a fighter of microbial infections. HMBA was isolated from the roots of D. hamiltonii by hydrodistillation and cold crystallization method; identified by HPLC and characterized using ESI-MS and confirmed by NMR studies as a compound of molecular mass 152 Da. Isolated HMBA was found to inhibit the growth of H. pylori, a potential ulcerogen in a dose dependent manner with MIC of ∼39 μg/mL as apposed to that of amoxicillin (MIC - 26 μg/mL) for which H. pylori is susceptible. Results were further substantiated by the lysis of H. pylori by electron microscopy and electrophoretic studies. Studies on the mechanism of action indicated the counteracting effect of vacuolating toxin (VacA) of H. pylori which otherwise would lead to host cell cytotoxicity. Further the increased binding ability of HMBA to DNA and protein offered an impact on DNA protectivity and bioavailability. Results for the first time provide a direct evidence for anti-microbial attribute of HMBA. Insignificant antioxidant attribute of HMBA also reveals the anti-H. pylori activity via mechanisms other than antioxidative routes.

Zingiber officinale Mitigates Brain Damage and Improves Memory Impairment in Focal Cerebral Ischemic Rat

Cerebral ischemia is known to produce brain damage and related behavioral deficits including memory. Recently, accumulating lines of evidence showed that dietary enrichment with nutritional antioxidants could reduce brain damage and improve cognitive function. In this study, possible protective effect of Zingiber officinale, a medicinal plant reputed for neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress-related brain damage, on brain damage and memory deficit induced by focal cerebral ischemia was elucidated. Male adult Wistar rats were administrated an alcoholic extract of ginger rhizome orally 14 days before and 21 days after the permanent occlusion of right middle cerebral artery (MCAO). Cognitive function assessment was performed at 7, 14, and 21 days after MCAO using the Morris water maze test. The brain infarct volume and density of neurons in hippocampus were also determined. Furthermore, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in cerebral cortex, striatum, and hippocampus was also quantified at the end of experiment. The results showed that cognitive function and neurons density in hippocampus of rats receiving ginger rhizome extract were improved while the brain infarct volume was decreased. The cognitive enhancing effect and neuroprotective effect occurred partly via the antioxidant activity of the extract. In conclusion, our study demonstrated the beneficial effect of ginger rhizome to protect against focal cerebral ischemia.

Spices, herbal xenobiotics and the stomach: Friends or foes?

Spices and herbal remedies have been used since ancient times to treat a variety of disorders. It has been experimentally demonstrated that spices, herbs, and their extracts possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, lipid-lowering, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antimutagenic and anticancer activities, besides their gastroprotective and anti-ulcer activities. Despite a number of reports on the toxicity of herbs and spices, they are generally accepted as safer alternatives to conventional therapy against gastric ulcers. To this end, it is also believed, that excessive consumption of spices may favor the pathogenesis of gastric and duodenal ulcer and some studies have substantiated this common perception. Based on various in vivo experiments and clinical studies, on the effects of spices and herbs on gastric ulcers, it has indeed been shown that certain spices do possess remarkable anti-ulcer properties mediated by antisecretory, cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-Helicobacter pylori effects and mechanisms regulated by nitric oxide, prostaglandins, non-protein sulfhydryl molecules and epidermal growth factor expression. Accordingly, their consumption may attenuate and help prevent peptic ulcer disease. In the present review, the beneficial effects of spices and herbal nutritive components on the gastric mucosa are discussed against the paradigm of their deleterious potential.