Cardioprotective effect of the Hibiscus rosa sinensis flowers in an oxidative stress model of myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury in rat

Versatility of copper-iron bimetallic nanoparticles fabricated using Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower phytochemicals: various enzymes inhibition, antibiofilm effect, chromium reduction and dyes removal

Bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) are considered superior in terms of stability and function with respect to its monometallic counterparts. Hence, in the present study Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extract was used to synthesis copper-iron bimetallic nanoparticles (HF-FCNPs). HF-FCNPs was characterized and its applications (biological and environmental) were determined. HF-FCNPs were spherical in shape with high percentage of copper inducted into the NPs. HF-FCNPs inhibited mammalian glucosidases [maltase (IC50: 548.71 ± 61.01 µg/mL), sucrase (IC50: 441.34 ± 36.03 µg/mL), isomaltase (IC50: 466.37 ± 27.09 µg/mL) and glucoamylase (IC50: 403.12 ± 14.03 µg/mL)], alpha-amylase (IC50: 16.27 ± 1.73 µg/mL) and acetylcholinesterase [AChE (IC50: 0.032 ± 0.004 µg/mL)] activities. HF-FCNPs showed competitive inhibition against AChE, maltase and sucrase activities; mixed inhibition against isomaltase and glucoamylase activities; whereas non-competitive inhibition against α-amylase activity. HF-FCNPs showed zone of inhibition of 16 ± 2 mm against S. mutans at 100 µg/mL concentration. HF-FCNPs inhibited biofilm formation of dental pathogen, S. mutans. SEM and confocal microscopy analysis revealed the disruption of network formation and bacterial cell death induced by HF-FCNPs treatment on tooth model of S. mutans biofilm. HF-FCNPs efficiently removed hexavalent chromium in pH-independent manner and followed first order kinetics. Through Langmuir isotherm fit the qmax (maximum adsorption capacity) was determined to be 62.5 mg/g. Further, HF-FCNPs removed both anionic and cationic dyes. Altogether, facile synthesis of HF-FCNPs was accomplished and its biological (enzyme inhibition and antibiofilm activity) and environmental (catalyst to remove pollutants) applications have been understood.

Exploring the interaction of phytochemicals from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers with glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase: An integrated in vitro and in silico approach

Targeting multiple factors such as oxidative stress, alpha glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) are considered advantageous for the treatment of diabetes and diabetes associated-cognitive dysfunction. In the present study, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers anthocyanin-rich extract (HRA) was prepared. Phytochemical analysis of HRA using LC-ESI/MS/MS revealed the presence of various phenolic acids, flavonoids and anthocyanins. HRA showed in vitro antioxidant activity at low concentrations. HRA inhibited all the activities of mammalian glucosidases and AChE activity. The IC50 value of HRA for the inhibition of maltase, sucrase, isomaltase, glucoamylase and AChE was found to be 308.02 ± 34.25 µg/ml, 287.8 ± 19.49 µg/ml, 424.58 ± 34.75 µg/ml, 408.94 ± 64.82 µg/ml and 264.13 ± 30.84 µg/ml, respectively. Kinetic analysis revealed mixed-type inhibition against all the activities except for glucoamylase (competitive) activity. In silico analysis confirmed the interaction of two active constituents cyanidin 3-sophoroside (CS) and quercetin 3-O-sophoroside (QS) with four subunits, n-terminal and c-terminal subunits of human maltase-glucoamylase and sucrase-isomaltase as well as with AChE. Molecular dynamics simulation, binding free energy calculation, DCCM, PCA, PCA-based free energy surface analysis ascertained the stable binding of CS and QS with target proteins studied. HRA could be used as complementary therapy for diabetes and cognitive improvement.

Drying temperature affects the hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antihypertensive potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx in rats induced with L-NAME

The effects of different drying temperatures on the hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antihypertensive potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx was evaluated. The calyx were dried under different temperature conditions (- 58 °C, 30 °C, 40 °C, and 50 °C), and extracted with a solvent mixture of ethanol and water (1:4 % w/v). To induce hypertension, the rats were administered with 40 mg/kg body weight dose of N-nitro L-arginine methyl-ester (L-NAME), via the intra-gastric route. H. sabdariffa extract was administered orally, at varying doses (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) to the rats. Afterwards, the hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antihypertensive potentials of the extracts were evaluated using standard validated methods. Induction with L-NAME significantly (p < 0.05) increased the total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL levels, significantly decreased the HDL levels; significantly (p < 0.05) increased the levels of LPO/MDA, H2O2, and decreased GPx, and SOD activities; significantly (p < 0.05) increased the pressures (diastolic and systolic); significantly (p < 0.05) increased ACE and arginase activities, glucose level, and significantly decreased nitric oxide activity. Treatment with H. sabdariffa extract significantly (p < 0.05) reversed these trends in the hypertensive experimental rats. The hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antihypertensive properties of the extract from the calyx of H. sabdariffa, which varies with the drying temperatures of the calyx, portends its potential as a curative agent in the treatment of hypertensive conditions, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Antihypertensive and Vasorelaxant Effects of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis through Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2), and Ca2+ channels Pathways

AIMS

The aim of the study was to assess the antihypertensive activity of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

BACKGROUND

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is used traditionally to treat hypertension.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the study was to investigate the effect of the aqueous extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers (AEHRS) on resting blood pressure in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the present study, AEHRS was prepared and its antihypertensive activity was evaluated using in vivo and in vitro studies. In the in vivo study, hypertensive and normotensive rats were treated by AEHRS (100 mg/kg) orally for 6 hours in the acute treatment and for 7 days in the subchronic treatment. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure values and heart rate were then recorded using a tail cuff and a computer-assisted monitoring device. To assess the vasorelaxant activity of AEHRS, isolated thoracic aortic rings were suspended in a tissue bath and changes in tension were recorded using a data acquisition system. Potential pathways involved in the vasorelaxant activity were evaluated using several standard pharmacological agents.

RESULTS

The results indicated that repeated oral administration of AEHRS during 7 days lowered systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure in hypertensive rats without affecting normotensive rats. Furthermore, the data revealed that AEHRS exerts vasorelaxant properties via an endothelium-independent pathway. More interestingly, the study demonstrates that the vasorelaxant capacity of AEHRS seems to be exerted through the stimulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) and the inhibition of Ca2+ channels pathway.

CONCLUSION

The present study revealed that aqueous extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis has a significant antihypertensive activity and that its vasorelaxant effect may be mediated through stimulation of ACE-2, and inhibition of the Ca2+ channels.

Up-regulation of chemokine receptor type 4 expression in the ischemic reperfused heart by alcoholic extract of Cichorium intybus rescue the heart from ischemia injury in male rat

OBJECTIVES

Cichorium intybus is used in traditional medicine for various diseases including heart disease. This study aimed at evaluating the chemokine receptor type 4 up-regulation and cardioprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extract of C. intybus in a rat model of ischemic reperfusion.

METHODS

Animals in four groups of eight rats each received vehicle or one of three doses of C. intybus (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg/d) for 14 days. Then they were subjected to 30 min of ischemia followed by 7 days of reperfusion. At the end of the experiment, blood specimens were prepared for serum assays. The level of myocardium chemokine receptor type 4 was also measured using RT-PCR.

KEY FINDINGS

Cichorium intybus (CI-50) improved infarct size, episodes of the ventricular ectopic beat, ventricular tachycardia, and duration of ventricular tachycardia, QTc shortening. It also stabilized the ST segment changes and increased heart rate during ischemia. The blood pressure decreased in CI-50 group in comparison to the control and CI-200 group. C. intybus increased serum superoxide dismutase and reduced lactate dehydrogenase activity, Cardiac Troponin I and malondialdehyde levels. C. intybus led to an increase in the expression of chemokine receptor type 4.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that C. intybus administration before ischemia is able to induce cardioprotective effect against ischemic reperfusion injury, probably through chemokine receptor type 4 over-expression and antioxidant activity.

AMPK activating and anti adipogenic potential of Hibiscus rosa sinensis flower in 3T3-L1 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The flowers of Hibiscus rosa sinensis has array of pharmacological actions. They are used in preparation of herbal decoction and teas, which have been used traditionally to reduce body weight and for its effect on metabolic syndrome.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the anti adipogenic efficacy of major fraction from ethyl acetate extract of the Hibiscus rosa sinensis flower at 25 and 50 µg/mL (HRF 25 and 50 µg/mL) in 3T3-L1 cells and delineate its possible mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pre adipocyte 3T3-L1 cells were differentiated in the presence and absence of HRF 25 and 50 µg/mL, their lipid accumulation was measured qualitatively by Oil red O staining and quantitatively by triglyceride estimation. Effect on adipolysis was determined, adipogenic and its regulatory gene and protein expression were studied and effect of HRF 25 and 50 µg/mL on AMPK was confirmed in the presence of dorsomorphin.

RESULTS

Treatment with HRF 25 and 50 µg/mL activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and was found to alleviate triglyceride accumulation significantly (p < 0.001) by 1.6 and 2.3 times respectively in pre adipocytes during differentiation. HRF 25 and 50 µg/mL also nonsignificantly reduced lipolysis which releases free fatty acids, a major contributing factor for insulin resistance. Activation of AMPK by phosphorylation has led to reduced gene and protein expression of adipogenic factors Peroxisome proliferator- activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), CCAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), Sterol regulatory element- binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) and their targets Fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), Fatty acid synthase (FAS), Perilipin and enhanced Adiponectin expression. Treatment with HRF 25 and 50 µg/mL also resulted in inactivation of Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) by enhancing ACC phosphorylation, which reduced the levels of malonyl-CoA an allosteric inhibitor of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT1). Enhanced CPT1 levels causes induction of fatty acid β- oxidation. Effects of HRF were nullified in the presence of AMPK antagonist dorsomorphin.

CONCLUSION

In summary, HRF treatments reduced adipogenesis, enhanced factors regulating fatty acid oxidation and this is mediated by AMPK activation. The results conclusively showed anti-obesity potential of HRF and it might be helpful in treatment of associated complications.

Myocardial Protection from Ischemia-Reperfusion Damage by the Antioxidant Effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linnaeus on Metabolic Syndrome Rats

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) constitute one of the most prevalent health problems worldwide, being strongly associated with metabolic syndrome (MS). Oxidative stress (OS) is present in both CVD and MS. Infusions of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linnaeus (HSL) have antioxidant properties and could therefore decrease the presence of OS in these diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate myocardial protection during ischemia/reperfusion due to the antioxidant effect of HSL infusion (3%) on a MS rat model induced by the administration of 30% sucrose in drinking water. We determined in control, MS, and MS + HSL rat hearts (n = 6 per group) cardiac mechanical performance (CMP), coronary vascular resistance (CVR), and activities of manganese and copper/zinc superoxide dismutases (Mn and Cu/Zn-SOD), peroxidases, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), glutathione s-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione (GSH). We also determined lipoperoxidation (LPO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and the nitrate/nitrite ratio (NO₃⁻/NO₂⁻). The treatment with the HSL infusion restored the CMP (p = 0.01) and CVR (p = 0.04) and increased the Mn- (p = 0.02), Cu/Zn-SOD (p = 0.05), peroxidases (p = 0.04), GST (p = 0.02) activity, GHS (p = 0.02), TAC (p = 0.04), and NO₃⁻/NO₂⁻ (p = 0.01) and decreased the LPO (p = 0.02) in the heart of MS rats undergoing ischemia/reperfusion. The results suggest that the treatment with an infusion from HSL calices protects the cardiac function from damage by ischemia and reperfusion through the antioxidant activities of the substances it possesses. It favors antioxidant enzymatic activities and nonenzymatic antioxidant capacity.

Cardioprotective Effect of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Melissa Officinalis L Against Regional Ischemia-Induced Arrhythmia and Heart Injury after Five Days of Reperfusion in Rats

Melissa officinalis has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and is used in various diseases. Aim of the study: We investigated the role of M. officinalis extract (MOE) against ischemia-induced arrhythmia and heart injury after five days of reperfusion in an in-vivo rat model of regional heart ischemia. The leaf extract of M. officinalis was standardized through HPLC analysis. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 32) were subjected to 30 min of ischemia by occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery followed by 5 days of reperfusion. The rats (n = 8 in each group) were randomized to receive vehicle or M. officinalis as follows: group I served as saline control with ischemia, groups II, III and IV received different doses of MOE- (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively), by oral gavage daily for 14 days prior to ischemia. Administration of M. officinalis significantly improved ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced myocardial dysfunction by reduction of infarct size, also, during the ischemic period, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular ectopic beats episodes decreased as compared with that of the control group. Stabilized ST segment changes and QTc shortening increased the R and T wave amplitudes and the heart rate during ischemia. The extract also caused significant elevations in serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity as well as a significant decrease in serum cardiac troponin I (CTnI), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, 5 days after reperfusion. MOE-100mg/kg was the effective dose. Cinamic acid (21.81 ± 1.26 mg/gr) was the main phenolic compound of plant sample. The ethanol extract of M. officinalis was observed to exhibit cardioprotective effects against I/R injury, probably due to antioxidant properties. The results indicate that MOE has antioxidant and cardio-protective effects against ischemia-induced arrhythmias and ischemia-reperfusion induced injury as was reflected by reduction of infarct size and cardiac injury biomarkers. These data support the potential uses of M. officinalis in the treatment of heart ischemia- reperfusion disorders and even developing new anti- arrhythmias drugs after further investigations.

Pin1 facilitates isoproterenol‑induced cardiac fibrosis and collagen deposition by promoting oxidative stress and activating the MEK1/2‑ERK1/2 signal transduction pathway in rats

Peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase, NIMA-interacting 1 (Pin1) is a member of a large superfamily of phosphorylation-dependent peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerases, which not only regulates multiple targets at various stages of cellular processes, but is also involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including microbial infection, cancer, asthma and Alzheimer's disease. However, the role of Pin1 in cardiac fibrosis remains to be fully elucidated. The present study investigated the potential mechanism of Pin1 in isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial fibrosis in rats. The rats were randomly divided into three groups. Echocardiography was used to evaluate changes in the size, shape and function of the heart, and histological staining was performed to visualize inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrosis. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, immunohistochemistry and Picrosirius red staining were used to differentiate collagen subtypes. Additionally, cardiac-specific phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) and extracellular-signal regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), and the activities of Pin1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and other oxidative stress parameters were estimated in the heart. The administration of ISO resulted in an increase in cardiac parameters and elevated the heart-to-body weight ratio. Histopathological examination of heart tissues revealed interstitial inflammatory cellular infiltrate and disorganized collagen fiber deposition. In addition, lipid peroxidation products and oxidative stress marker activity in plasma and tissues were significantly increased in the ISO-treated rats. Western blot analysis showed significantly elevated protein levels of phosphorylated Pin1, MEK1/2, ERK1/2 and α-SMA in remodeling hearts. Treatment with juglone following intraperitoneal injection of ISO significantly prevented inflammatory cell infiltration, improved cardiac function, and suppressed oxidative stresses and fibrotic alterations. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that the activation of Pin1 promoted cardiac extracellular matrix deposition and oxidative stress damage by regulating the phosphorylation of the MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling pathway and the expression of α-SMA. By contrast, the inhibition of Pin1 alleviated cardiac damage and fibrosis in the experimental models, suggesting that Pin1 contributed to the development of cardiac remodeling in ISO-administered rats, and that the inactivation of Pin1 may be a novel therapeutic candidate for the treatment of cardiovascular disease and heart failure.

Beneficial effects of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. flower aqueous extract in pregnant rats with diabetes

Purpose

The Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower is widely used in Brazilian traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes and has shown antifertility activity in female Wistar rats. However, there is no scientific confirmation of its effect on diabetes and pregnancy. The aim of this study was evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of H. rosa-sinensis flowers on maternal-fetal outcome in pregnant rats with diabetes.

Methods

Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (STZ, 40 mg/kg) in virgin, adult, female Wistar rats. After diabetes induction, the rats were mated. The pregnant rats were distributed into four groups (n minimum = 11 animals/group): non-diabetic, non-diabetic treated, diabetic, and diabetic treated. Oral aqueous extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis was administered to rats in the treatment groups during pregnancy. At term pregnancy, maternal reproductive outcomes, fetal parameters, and biochemical parameters were analyzed.

Results

The non-diabetic treated group showed decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol, increased atherogenic index (AI) and coronary artery risk index (CRI), and increased preimplantation loss rate compared to the non-diabetic group. Although treatment with H. rosa-sinensis led to no toxicity, it showed deleterious effects on cardiac and reproductive functions. However, the diabetic treated group showed increased maternal and fetal weights, reduced AI and CRI, and reduced preimplantation loss rate compared to the untreated diabetic group.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate beneficial effects of this flower only in pregnant rats with diabetes and their offspring. Although these findings cannot be extrapolated to human clinical use, they show that the indiscriminate intake of H. rosa-sinensis may be harmful to healthy individuals and its use should be completely avoided in pregnancy.

Coenzyme Q10 prevents oxidative stress and fibrosis in isoprenaline induced cardiac remodeling in aged rats

Background

The objective of the present study aimed to investigate the effect of CoQ10 treatment on isoprenaline (ISO)-induced cardiac remodeling in rats.

Methods

Rats were divided into three groups namely Control group, ISO treated group and CoQ10 + ISO treated group, each consisting of 6 rats. The cardiac specific CK-MB, AST, ALT activity and other oxidative stress parameters were estimated in heart and kidneys. Additionally histological examination was also performed to visualize the inflammatory cells infiltration and fibrosis in both tissues.

Results

Administration of ISO resulted in an increase in the heart-to-body weight (HW/BW) ratio and an also increased the serum CK-MB, AST and ALT enzyme activity. Serum levels of lipid peroxidation products, and oxidative stress markers showed significant increase in ISO-treated rats. Histopathological examination of heart tissue revealed focal areas of endocardium degeneration, mononuclear cells infiltration, fibrous tissue deposition, and increased thickness of the myocardium of left ventricle. Similar degeneration was also found in kidneys. Treatment with CoQ10 (100 mg/kg) significantly improved the oxidative stresses in ISO treated rats. Moreover, CoQ10 treatment prevented inflammatory cells infiltration and reduced fibrosis in ISO administered rats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study provides evidence that CoQ10 may prevent the development of cardiac remodeling, and fibrosis in ISO administered rats.

Phytochemical Content, Health Benefits, and Toxicology of Common Edible Flowers: A Review (2000-2015)

Edible flowers contain numerous phytochemicals which contribute to their health benefits, and consumption of edible flowers has increased significantly in recent years. While many researchers have been conducted, no literature review of the health benefits of common edible flowers and their phytochemicals has been compiled. This review aimed to present the findings of research conducted from 2000 to 2015 on the species, traditional application, phytochemicals, health benefits, and the toxicology of common edible flowers. It was found in 15 species of common edible flowers that four flavonols, three flavones, four flavanols, three anthocyanins, three phenolic acids and their derivatives were common phytochemicals and they contributed to the health benefits such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective effect. Toxicology studies have been conducted to evaluate the safety of common edible flowers and provide information on their dosages and usages.

Protective Effect of Adansonia digitata against Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Injury in Rats

The baobab fruit (Adansonia digitata) was analyzed for proximate composition, amino acids, and minerals. The fruit pulp was found to be a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, phenols, and substantial quantities of K, Ca, and Mg. Amino acid analyses revealed high glutamic and aspartic acid, but the sulfur amino acids were the most limited. The present study was designed to investigate the role of Adansonia digitata (Baobab fruit pulp) against isoproterenol induced myocardial oxidative stress in experimental rats by demonstrating the changes in tissue cardiac markers, some antioxidant enzymes, interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1), myeloperoxidase (MPO), Collagen-1, galectin-3, and serum corticosterone. The activities of enzymatic antioxidant glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and non-enzymatic antioxidant reduced glutathione (GSH) in the heart tissue; additionally, histopathological examination of the heart was estimated. Male albino rats were randomly divided into four groups of ten animals each. Group I served as normal control animal. Group II animals received isoproterenol (ISP) (85 mg/kg body weight intraperitonealy (i.p.) to develop myocardial injury. Group III were myocardial oxidative animals treated with Baobab fruit pulp (200 µg/rats/day) for 4 weeks. Group IV received Baobab fruit pulp only. The data suggested an isoproterenol increase in levels of cardiac marker enzymes [creatine kinase MB (CK- MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)], IL-1ß, MCP-1, MPO, Collagen, and galectin-3, with concomitant decrease in the activities GPX and GSH in heart tissue as well as corticosterone in serum. Baobab fruit pulp brings all the parameters to near normal level in ISP-induced myocardial infarction in rats. Histopathological examination of heart tissue of ISP-administered model rat showed infiltration of inflammatory cells and congestion in the blood vessels. However, treatment with Baobab fruit pulp (200 µg/rats/day) showed predominantly normal myocardial structure and no inflammatory cell infiltration. It has been concluded that Baobab fruit pulp has cardio protective effect against ISP-induced oxidative stress in rats.

Anticestodal properties of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. (Malvaceae): an in vitro and in vivo study against Hymenolepis diminuta (Rudolphi, 1819), a zoonotic tapeworm

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo anticestodal effects of methanol extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. (Malvaceae) leaf against Hymenolepis diminuta (Rudolphi, 1819), a zoonotic tapeworm. Under the in vitro study, H. diminuta worms were exposed to 10, 20 and 40 mg/ml concentrations of methanol leaf extract and the effects were judged on the basis of physical motility/mortality of worms. On the other hand, in the case of in vivo study, H. diminuta infected rats were treated individually with 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg doses of leaf extract for 5 days. The effects were judged on the basis of reduction in eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces and worm counts. In case of in vitro test, the treatment with 40 mg/ml concentration of extract revealed prominent anticestodal effect and caused paralysis of worms in 3.00 ± 0.53 h and mortality in 4.08 ± 0.21 h. However, under in vivo study, the 800 mg/kg dose of extract revealed the highest anticestodal effect and caused 66.55 % reduction in EPG count and 75.00 % reduction in worm count in the treated animals. The results of this study indicated that H. rosa-sinesis leaf extract possesses concentration-dependent anticestodal effect against H. diminuta, indicating that the plant possesses promising active principle for the control of intestinal helminthic infections.

Effects of Hibiscus rosa sinensis L (Malvaceae) on Wound Healing Activity: A Preclinical Study in a Sprague Dawley Rat

Hibiscus rosa sinensis (H rosa sinensis), a plant product, has been used for the treatment of a variety of diseases as well as to promote wound healing. The wound-healing activity of the ethanol extract of H rosa sinensis flower was determined in rats, using excision, incision, and dead space wound models and is presented in this report. The animals were randomly divided into 2 groups of 6 each in all the models. Test group animals in each model were treated with the ethanol extract of H rosa sinensis orally by mixing in drinking water (120 mg kg— 1 day—1), and the control group animals were maintained with plain drinking water. Healing was assessed by the rate of wound contraction, period of epithelialization, tensile strength (skin breaking strength), granulation tissue weight, and hydroxyproline content. The antimicrobial activity of the flower extract against selected microorganisms that infect the wounds was also assessed. Animals treated with the extract exhibited an 86% reduction in the wound area compared with controls, who exhibited a 75% reduction. The extract-treated animals were found to epithelize their wounds significantly faster than controls (P < .002) and have shown significantly higher skin-breaking strength than controls (P < .002). The dry and wet weight of granulation tissue and hydroxyproline content were also increased significantly when compared with controls. The reported observations suggest H rosa sinensis aids wound healing in the rat model.

Antioxidant activity and protective effects of cocoa and kola nut mistletoe ( Globimetula cupulata ) against ischemia/reperfusion injury in Langendorff-perfused rat hearts

Protection against cardiomyocyte damage following ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is highly desirable in patients with ischemic heart disease. Hydromethanol extracts of Globimetula cupulata (mistletoe) growing on cocoa (CGCE) and kola nut (KGCE) trees were assessed for antioxidant content and cardioprotective potential against I/R. Graded concentrations (1–50 μg/mL) of CGCE or KGCE were tested on Langendorff-perfused rat hearts to evaluate the effects on the flow rate, heart rate, and force of cardiac contraction, while another set of hearts were subjected to biochemical analyses. Both extracts showed good antioxidant content and activity, but KGCE (EC₅₀: 24.8±1.8 μg/mL) showed higher hydroxyl radical scavenging activity than CGCE (70.2±4.5 μg/mL). Both extracts at 3 μg/mL reversed (p < 0.001) membrane peroxidation and the significant decrease in nitrite level, coronary flow rate, and superoxide dismutase and catalase activity caused by the I/R cycle. It is concluded that G. cupulata protects against ischemia–reperfusion injury in rat hearts via augmenting endogenous antioxidants and significant restoration of altered hemodynamic parameters.

Shemamruthaa, a Herbal Formulation Induces Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cells and Inhibits Tumor Progression in Rats

Phytochemicals present in plants are more effective than their individual constituents in preventing cancer through synergetic effects. From this perspective, Shemamruthaa, a herbal formulation was evaluated with a view to potentiate more intense anticancer property. This study investigates the anticancer activity of Shemamruthaa in breast cancer (MDA-MB 231) cell lines and its cancer therapeutic potential in 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene induced breast cancer rats. Results of MTT, trypan blue, and apoptotic marker assays suggested that Shemamruthaa can induce cytotoxicity in cancer cells, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Oral administration of Shemamruthaa effectively suppressed the tumor progression as evidenced by decrease in tumor volume and modulation of oxidant-antioxidant status and resulted in extended life span. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of Shemamruthaa revealed the presence of pyrogallol, 5-hydrxoymethylfurfural, trilinolein, and flavonoids. Finally, we show that Shemamruthaa contains potential anticancer agents acting either singly or in combination against breast cancer cell proliferation.

Effects of losartan and vanillic Acid co-administration on ischemia-reperfusion-induced oxidative stress in isolated rat heart

Background:

Experimental studies have demonstrated that angiotensin II (ANG-II)-induced oxidative stress contributes to the pathogenesis of I/R injury.

Objectives:

This study was aimed to investigate the protective effects of co-administration of losartan, as a selective ANG-II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blocker, and vanillic acid (VA), as an antioxidant, in I/R-induced oxidative stress in isolated rat heart.

Materials and Methods:

Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided to sham, control, and five treatment groups (n = 10). Two doses of VA (5 and 10 mg/kg), one dose of losartan (20 mg/kg) alone, and one dose of losartan in combination with either doses of VA were administered orally for 10 days. The hearts were isolated and exposed to 30 minutes ischemia and 60 minutes reperfusion, using Langendorff apparatus. I/R-induced myocardial injury was assessed by estimating the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and myocardial creatine kinase (CK-MB) in coronary effluent at 5, 15, and 60 minutes of reperfusion. The oxidative stress in the hearts was assessed by estimating malondialdehyde (MDA). The effects of treatments on endogenous antioxidant enzymes were assessed by measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT).

Results:

There was a more significant decrease in the levels of LDH, CPK, CK-MB, and MDA as well as increase in the levels of SOD, CAT and GPx in groups that had received combined treatment in comparison to VA or losartan alone.

Conclusions:

It may be concluded that combination of losartan with higher dose of VA decreases ischemic markers and lipid peroxidation and augments endogenous antioxidant and hence, protects myocardium against I/R-induced oxidative stress injuries.

Consensus analysis of sastric formulations used by non-institutionally trained siddha medical practitioners of Virudhunagar and Tirunelveli districts of Tamil Nadu, India

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Siddha system of traditional medicine has been practiced in Tamil Nadu. This system of medicine has a high number of non-institutionally trained practitioners but studies on their traditional medicinal knowledge are not adequate. The present study is aimed to document and analyze the sastric (traditional) formulations used by the non-institutionally trained siddha medical practitioners in Virudhunagar and Tirunelveli districts of Tamil Nadu, India.

METHODS

After obtaining prior informed consent, interviews were conducted with 115 non-institutionally trained siddha medical practitioners about the sastric formulations used by them for the treatment. Successive free listing method was adopted to collect the data and the data were analyzed by calculating Informant Consensus Factor (Fic) and Informant Agreement Ratio (IAR).

RESULTS

The study documented data regarding 194 sastric formulations and they were classified into plant, mineral and animal based formulations. Quantitative analysis showed that 62.5% of the formulations were plant based, while the mineral based formulations had a high mean number of citations and versatile uses. Gastrointestinal (12.0%), kapha (11.3%) and dermatological (10.8%) ailments had a high percentage of citations. Jaundice had a high Fic value (0.750) followed by the dermatological ailments. The illness categories with high Fic values under each type of formulation were as follows: jaundice, aphrodisiac and urinary ailments (plant based); jaundice, cuts & wounds and dermatological ailments (mineral based); and hemorrhoids, kapha ailments and heart ailments (animal based formulations). The scientific studies conducted with important formulations under each illness category are discussed.

CONCLUSION

The present study indicated the importance of some illnesses over the others and inclusion of new illnesses under each formulation. The ingredients used to prepare these formulations have shown varying degrees of scientific evidence; generally limited studies were available on the efficacy of them as formulations. Further in-depth studies on the formulations with high IAR value and Fic value of illness categories will be helpful to improve health status of the people.

Immunomodulation by Hibiscus rosa-sinensis: effect on the humoral and cellular immune response of Mus musculus

In West India, the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. (Malvaceae) is traditionally used as tea as a natural diuretic. Extract of this plant contains Vitamin C and is used traditionally as a mild medicine. In spite of a long history of traditional medicinal value of H. rosa-sinensis still no data are available for immunomodulatory activity. In present investigation, aqueous extract of H. rosa-sinensis (AEHrs) (500 mg kg(-1) BW) was intraperitoneally (IP) injected to the male Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus) to evaluate the immunomodulatory property of extract. In addition for evaluation of phytochemical constituents of flowers of H. rosa-sinensis HPTLC was performed. The crude extract of H. rosa-sinensis has immunomodulatory activity. After the 15 days treatment, the number of plaque forming cells increased by 0.6%, antibody titre was increased 38.15% and significant increase of 52% was observed in DTH response. At the same concentration of dose the level of serum IL-1alpha enhanced significantly (14.27%) whereas a considerable decrease (32.70%) in the concentration of IL-2 was observed among AEHrs treated mice in comparison to the control mice. HPTLC chromatogram revealed that H. rosa-sinensis posses alkaloid (Rf 0.93) and flavonoids (Rf 0.02, 0.06, 0.14) on the basis of Rf values. Results of investigation supports for the immunomodulatory activity of H. rosa-sinensis aqueous extract.

Putative antioxidant property of sesame oil in an oxidative stress model of myocardial injury

BACKGROUND

Sesame oil is a potent antioxidant dietary source for human health. Oxidative stress through generation of free radicals damages the myocardium in different experimental condition. The present research was designed to evaluate the antioxidant property of chronic oral administration of sesame oil against isoproterenol induced myocardial injury.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 6) and treated as per treatment protocol with two different doses of sesame oil (5 and 10 ml/kg b.w.) orally for thirty days. At the end of the treatment all the rats (except control rats) were administered with isoproterenol (85 mg/kg) two consecutive days and subjected to biochemical and histopathological estimation. Isoproterenol (group ISO) induced the oxidative myocardial damage via alteration in the endogenous antioxidant enzymes and myocardial marker enzymes. Sesame oil in both the dose (group S1 and S2) shows protective mechanism via decreasing thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and enhancing the endogenous antioxidant enzymes (reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase). Sesame oil also increased the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate transaminase (AST) as a myocardial marker enzyme in heart homogenate. As histologically evident isoproterenol induced myocardial injury was well preserved by the chronic administration of sesame oil. The protective role of sesame oil was compared with the reference standard α-tocopherol (group S3) also showing the similar effect.

CONCLUSION

From this finding it has been concluded that chronic administration of sesame oil offers cardio protective action via putative antioxidant property.

Antidepressant-like activity of anthocyanidins from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers in tail suspension test and forced swim test

Aim:

Flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn (Malvaceae) popularly known as “China-rose flowers” contain flavonoids. Flavonoids have been found to have antidepressant activity. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the antidepressant activity of flavonoids in H. rosa-sinensis flowers with possible involvement of monoamines.

Materials and Methods:

Anti-depressant activity of methanol extract containing anthocyanins (MHR) (30 and 100 mg/kg) and anthocyanidins (AHR) (30 and 100 mg/ kg) of H. rosa-sinensis flowers were evaluated in mice using behavioral tests such as tail suspension test (TST) and forced swim test (FST). The mechanism of action involved in antidepressant activity was investigated by observing the effect of extract after pre-treatment with low dose haloperidol, prazosin and para-chlorophenylalanine (p-CPA).

Results:

Present study exhibited significant decrease in immobility time in TST and FST, similar to that of imipramine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) which served as a positive control. The extract significantly attenuated the duration of immobility induced by Haloperidol (50 μg/ kg, i.p., a classical D₂-like dopamine receptor antagonist), Prazosin (62.5 μg/kg, i.p., an α₁-adrenoceptor antagonist) and p-chlorophenylalanine (100 mg/kg, i.p., × 3 days; an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis) in both TST and FST.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that MHR and AHR possess potential antidepressant activity (through dopaminergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic mechanisms) and has therapeutic potential in the treatment of CNS disorders and provides evidence at least at preclinical levels.

Protection against renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by ischemic postconditioning

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is inevitable during transplantation. Attempts to reduce IRI have mainly focused on ways to improve hypothermic organ preservation and reduce the nephrotoxic effects of calcineurin inhibitors. Recently, it has been shown that short, repeated sequences of intermittent ischemia and reperfusion after a prolonged ischemic episode, so-called ischemic postconditioning (IPoC), reduce myocardial infarct size by approximately 40% in animal models and in humans. The principle of IPoC could be applied to every organ after ischemic injury, including kidney transplants. In fact, IPoC has demonstrated its clinical potential by reducing IRI in different organs in several animal models. In this review, we provide an overview of animal experiments on renal IRI and IPoC, demonstrating benefits with respect to organ damage and kidney function. We propose potential mechanisms by which IPoC protects against IRI. However, thus far, no human trials investigating IPoC in transplantation have been performed. Such clinical studies are needed to establish whether a simple procedure such as IPoC can improve the outcomes of human organ transplantation.

Aqueous extract of Saussurea lappa root ameliorate oxidative myocardial injury induced by isoproterenol in rats

Saussurea lappa Clarke (Compositae), is commonly known as Kushta. In Ayurvedha, it is mentioned that the aqueous extract of the root S. lappa was used for treatment of angina pectoris. The present study was designed to investigate the cardioprotective effect of aqueous extract of root of S. lappa against isoproterenol induced myocardial injury. Myocardial injury in rat was induced by the administration of isoproterenol at a dose of 85 mg/kg, i.p., The rats were pretreated with the aqueous extract of S. lappa (AESL) in three different doses (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg, p.o.) through the oral route. Isoproterenol alone-treated rats showed increased serum concentration of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine kinase (CK), and aspartate transaminase (AST), increased myocardial thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level, and decreased myocardial glutathione (GSH) level due to myocardial damage produced by isoproterenol. This is further conformed by histopathological changes. Chronic oral administration of AESL in three different doses significantly restored the level of myocardial LDH, CK, AST, TBARS, and GSH. The extract effect was compared with the reference standard α-tocopherol which also offered similar protection in biochemical and histopathological changes. The overall beneficial effect which was observed with the dose of 200 mg/kg indicated that AESL produced significant dose-dependent activity against isoproterenol induced myocardial injury.

Long-term ingestion of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract enhances myocardial capillarization in the spontaneously hypertensive rat

The effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) in lowering blood pressure in human and animal hypertension have been documented. This study investigated the effect of the water extract of the dried calyx of HS and Hibiscus anthocyanins (HAs) on left ventricular myocardial capillary length and surface area in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Twelve-week-old male SHRs were divided into eight groups (six rats in each group). Three groups were given three doses; 10%, 15% and 20% of the water extract of HS in lieu of drinking water for 10 consecutive weeks (HS10, HS15 and HS20) with one group kept as control (C). Another three groups were given three doses of the HAs orally at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg for five consecutive days with one group kept as a control (C). Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures, as well as heart rate (HR), were measured weekly. After the experimental protocols, the left ventricles (LV) of all rats were obtained. Capillary surface area density and length density were determined by unbiased sterological methods on 3 μm LV tissue samples from perfusion-fixed hearts. HS ingestion significantly reduced SBP, DBP and LV mass in a dose-dependent fashion but did not affect the HR. HS significantly increased surface area and length density of myocardial capillaries by 59%, 65% and 86%, and length density by 57%, 77% and 57%, respectively. Myocyte nuclear volume was significantly decreased in HS-treated rats. There was a decrease (although insignificant) in SBP and DBP with HA ingestion compared with controls. These changes suggest that the observed beneficial effect of HS on high BP in SHRs could be mediated through a reduction in the diffusion distance between capillaries and myocytes, as well as new vessel formation. It is proposed that these effects might be beneficial in restoring myocyte normal nutritional status compromised by the hypertrophic state of hypertension.

Effect of A-HRS on blood pressure and metabolic alterations in fructose-induced hypertensive rats

Fructose feeding induces a rise in blood pressure in normal rats that is associated with insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycaemia, hypercholesterolaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia. We have examined the effect of chronic administration of A-HRS (100 and 300 mg kg⁻¹; p.o.) isolated from Hibiscus rosa sinensis (Malvaceae) on systolic blood pressure (SBP), vascular reactivity, serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, uric acid and insulin in fructose-induced hypertension model. A-HRS treatment (100 and 300 mg kg⁻¹, p.o. for 6 weeks) reduced SBP, vascular reactivity changes to catecholamines and reversed the metabolic alterations induced by fructose (10%) treatment for 6 weeks. The cumulative concentration response curve (CCRC) of angiotensin II (Ang II) was shifted towards the right in rats treated with A-HRS using an isolated strip of ascending colon. The results suggest that A-HRS could prevent the development of high-blood pressure induced by a diet rich in fructose, probably by reversing the metabolic alterations induced by fructose. In conclusion, A-HRS has an antihypertensive action in a fructose model.

Cognitive enhancing and antioxidant activity of ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol extract of Hibiscus rosa sinensis in scopolamine-induced amnesia

Objective:

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the cognitive enhancing and antioxidant activity of Hibiscus rosa sinensis.

Materials and Methods:

The learning and memory was impaired by administration of scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) in mice which is associated with altered brain oxidative status. The object recognition test (ORT) and passive avoidance test (PAT) were used to assess cognitive enhancing activity. Animals were treated with an ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol extract of H. sinensis (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o).

Results:

The ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol extract of H. sinensis (EASF) attenuated amnesia induced by scopolamine and aging. The discrimination index (DI) was significantly decreased in the aged and scopolamine group in ORT. Pretreatment with EASF significantly increased the DI. In PAT, scopolamine-treated mice exhibited significantly shorter step-down latencies (SDL). EASF treatment showed a significant increase in SDL in young, aged as well as in scopolamine-treated animals. The biochemical analysis of brain revealed that scopolamine treatment increased lipid peroxidation and decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione reductase (GSH). Administration of extract significantly reduced LPO and reversed the decrease in brain SOD and GSH levels. The administration of H. sinensis improved memory in amnesic mice and prevented the oxidative stress associated with scopolamine. The mechanism of such protection of H. sinensis may be due to augmentation of cellular antioxidants.

Conclusion:

The results of the present study suggested that H. sinensis had a protective role against age and scopolamine-induced amnesia, indicating its utility in management of cognitive disorders.

Hemidesmus indicus and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Affect Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Isolated Rat Hearts

Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R. Br. (HI) and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. (HRS) are widely used traditional medicine. We investigated cardioprotective effects of these plants applied for 15 min at concentrations of 90, 180, and 360 μg/mL in Langendorff-perfused rat hearts prior to 25-min global ischemia/120-min reperfusion (I/R). Functional recovery (left ventricular developed pressure—LVDP, and rate of development of pressure), reperfusion arrhythmias, and infarct size (TTC staining) served as the endpoints. A transient increase in LVDP (32%–75%) occurred at all concentrations of HI, while coronary flow (CF) was significantly increased after HI 180 and 360. Only a moderate increase in LVDP (21% and 55%) and a tendency to increase CF was observed at HRS 180 and 360. HI and HRS at 180 and 360 significantly improved postischemic recovery of LVDP. Both the drugs dose-dependently reduced the numbers of ectopic beats and duration of ventricular tachycardia. The size of infarction was significantly decreased by HI 360, while HRS significantly reduced the infarct size at all concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, it can be concluded that HI might cause vasodilation, positive inotropic effect, and cardioprotection, while HRS might cause these effects at higher concentrations. However, further study is needed to elucidate the exact mechanism of their actions.

Neuroprotective effect of Hibiscus rosa sinensis in an oxidative stress model of cerebral post-ischemic reperfusion injury in rats

CONTEXT

The ischemic brain lesions induced in rats by temporary occlusion of the bilateral common carotid arteries and restoration of blood flow to an ischemic brain region is associated with generation of reactive oxygen species with consequent reperfusion injury.

OBJECTIVE

The present study investigated the neuroprotective potential of Hibiscus rosa sinensis L. (Malvaceae) in a bilateral common carotid artery (BCCA) occlusion model of global cerebral ischemic reperfusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The animals underwent 30 min BCCA occlusion and 45 min reperfusion. The methanol extract of H. sinensis (100, 200, 300 mg/kg/day for 6 days, p.o.) was administered 30 min before induction of BCCA occlusion.

RESULTS

The bilateral common carotid artery occlusion resulted in increase in lipid peroxidation, and reduction in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductase (GSH) activity. The extract attenuated the ischemic reperfusion-induced increase in lipid peroxidation and fall in SOD, CAT, and GSH levels. The cerebral hypoperfusion caused a propensity towards anxiety and was accompanied by deficits of learning and memory. The extract ameliorated anxiety and there was improvement of learning and memory.

DISCUSSION

The administration of H. sinensis prevented the oxidative stress and the biochemical changes associated with cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury. The mechanism of such protection of H. sinensis may be due to cerebral adaptation, through augmentation of cellular antioxidants such as GSH, SOD and CAT. The results suggest the protective role of H. sinensis in ischemic reperfusion injury.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates the beneficial role of H. sinensis in cerebrovascular insufficiency states and dementia.