Potential biological efficacy of Pinus plant species against oxidative, inflammatory and microbial disorders

Analysis of the response to two pharmacological protocols in patients with oral lichen planus: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of two different therapies on oral lichen planus (OLP) treatment through the analysis of OLP symptoms and signs and to analyze the risk of side effects related to the adopted protocols.

METHODS

Thirty-eight patients with OLP were selected according to van der Meij and van der Waal clinical and histopathological criteria. Through a randomized design, 19 patients received Tacrolimus 0.1% ointment (T group) and 19 an anti-inflammatory mouthwash (M group) composed of calcium hydroxide 10%, hyaluronic acid 0.3%, umbelliferone, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins. The patients were examined on a regular basis for OLP symptoms, signs, and disease severity score changes over a 3-month follow-up period.

RESULTS

Both treatments were effective in the reduction of OLP signs and symptoms. However, at 3 months (T3), in comparison with the M group, T group patients showed significantly lower mean values of OLP signs (p = 0.035), symptoms (p = 0.045), and disease severity scores (p = 0.041). Moreover, the Spearman test showed that there was a significant correlation between OLP signs and symptoms at each follow-up session in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Both treatments demonstrated a significant approach to control OLP. However, tacrolimus determined a more effective improvement in OLP signs and symptoms compared to anti-inflammatory mouthwash at 3-month follow-up.

Salivary macrophage chemokines as potential biomarkers of gingivitis

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to analyze the salivary levels of macrophage-activating factor (MAF), macrophage-chemotactic factor (MCF), and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in healthy and gingivitis patients, and to correlate between the concentrations of these chemo attractants with the intensity of gingival inflammation clinically.

METHODS

Sixty saliva specimens were collected from periodontally healthy (n = 30), and gingivitis patients (n = 30). Bleeding on probing (BOP), Visible Plaque Index (VPI), and Simplified Modified Gingival Index (SMGI) were recorded through clinical examination. Salivary MAF, MCF, and MIF concentrations were assayed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 28). Total mean score for each biomarker was determined, and descriptive bivariate statistics were conducted to characterize the levels of biomarkers among the study groups. The difference in the biomarker levels among the study groups were analyzed by independent sample t test and one-way ANOVA. The diagnostic ability of the biomarkers was further tested by ROC curve analysis.

RESULTS

Salivary levels of MAF was not significantly different between periodontally healthy individuals and gingivitis patients. The difference in MCF and MIF levels between patients with gingivitis and those with healthy periodontium was statistically significant (p 0.05 and p 0.001, respectively). When examined across the various stages of disease progression, MIF showed statistically significant difference among the three biomarkers (p 0.05). ROC curve analysis further revealed that area under the curve (AUC) for MIF has a better diagnostic capacity than MCF (AUC 0.981 vs. 0.673).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that MIF could be considered as a potential salivary biomarker for gingivitis.

Caryopteris odorata and its metabolite coumarin attenuate characteristic features of cardiometabolic syndrome in high-refined carbohydrate-high fat-cholesterol-loaded feed-fed diet rats

Caryopteris odorata (D. Don) B.L. Robinson (Verbenaceae family) is an aromaric shrub traditionally used to treat diabetes and related pathologies (diabetic foot ulcer), cancer/tumors, wound healing, and inflammation. It is enriched with flavonoids and phenolics like coumarins, quercetin, gallic acid, coumaric acid, stigmasterol, α-tocopherol, and iridoids. C. odorata has been reported as having α-glucosidase, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties. Its effectiveness in preventing cardiometabolic syndrome has not yet been assessed. This study aims to investigate the potential efficacy of C. odorata and coumarin for characteristic features of cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS), including obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and hypertension by using high-refined carbohydrate-high fat-cholesterol (HRCHFC)-loaded feed-fed rats. Chronic administration of C. odorata and coumarin for 6 weeks revealed a marked attenuation in body and organ weights, with a consistent decline in feed intake compared to HRCHFC diet fed rats. The test materials also caused a significant reduction in the blood pressure (systolic, diastolic, and mean) and heart rate of HRCHFC-diet fed rats. Improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity tests were also observed in test material administered rats compare to only HRCHFC-diet fed rats. C. odorata and coumarin-treated animals produced a marked decline in serum FBG, TC, TG, LFTs, and RFTs, while an increase in serum HDL-C levels was noticed. C. odorata and coumarin also significantly modulated inflammatory biomarkers (TNFα, IL-6), adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, and chemerin), and HMG-CoA reductase levels, indicating prominent anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering, and anti-hyperglycemic potential. Administration of C. odorata and coumarin exhibited a marked improvement in oxidative stress markers (CAT, SOD, and MDA). Histopathological analysis of liver, heart, kidney, pancreas, aorta, and fat tissues showed a revival of normal tissue architecture in C. odorata and coumarin-treated rats compared to only HRCHFC-diet fed rats. These results suggest that C. odorata and coumarin possess beneficial effects against the characteristic features of CMS (obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia) in HRCHFC feed-administered rats. These effects were possibly mediated through improved adipokines, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity, the attenuation of HMG-CoA reductase and inflammatory biomarkers, and modulated oxidative stress biomarkers. This study thus demonstrates a rationale for the therapeutic potential of C. odorata and coumarin in CMS.

In Vitro Anti-Colorectal Cancer and Anti-Microbial Effects of Pinus roxburghii and Nauplius graveolens Extracts Modulated by Apoptotic Gene Expression

The use of phytochemicals is gaining increasing attention for treating cancer morbidity with minimal burden side effects. This study evaluated the cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activities of Pinus roxburghii branch (P. roxburghii) and Nauplius graveolens (N. graveolens) extracts in vitro. Cell viability was estimated using MTT assay. DNA fragmentation was determined to detect apoptotic pathway initiation. Mechanistically, the apoptotic pathway was tracked by estimating the relative mRNA expression levels of the Bcl-2, Bax, Cas3, NF-κB, and PI3k genes by qRT-PCR. P. roxburghii exhibited moderate antioxidant activity, while N. graveolens possessed highly significant (p < 0.05) scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS assays. HPLC analysis demonstrated that catechin and chlorogenic acid were the predominant polyphenolic compounds in P. roxburghii and N. graveolens, respectively. The P. roxburghii and N. graveolens extracts inhibited the viability of HCT-116 cells with IC50 values of 30.6 µg mL−1 and 26.5 µg mL−1, respectively. DNA fragmentation analysis showed that the proposed extracts induced apoptosis in HCT-116 cells. Moreover, the IC50 doses of the selected extracts significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated Bax and cleaved Cas-3, and downregulated Bcl-2, NF-κB, and PI3k genes versus the GAPDH gene as a housekeeping gene in comparison to the control group. The Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was raised upon treatment. The mentioned extracts exhibited antimicrobial action against all tested bacteria and fungi. The highest antibacterial effect was recorded against E. coli, with inhibition zones of 12.0 and 11.2 mm for P. roxburghii and N. graveolens, respectively. On the other hand, the highest antifungal action was registered for Penicillium verrucosum and A. niger, with inhibition zones of 9.8 and 9.2 mm for the tested extracts, respectively. In conclusion, the outcomes of this study indicate that P. roxburghii and N. graveolens extracts could potentially be used as anticancer, antibacterial, and antifungal agents.

Pinus roxburghii and Nauplius graveolens Extracts Elevate Apoptotic Gene Markers in C26 Colon Carcinoma Cells Induced in a BALB/c Mouse Model

The present study aimed to evaluate the chemopreventive potential of Pinus roxburghii branch (P. roxburghii) and Nauplius graveolens (N. graveolens) extracts against human colorectal cancer (CRC) induced by C26 murine cells in a BALB/c mouse model. Real-time qRT-PCR was used to evaluate the apoptotic pathway by measuring the relative mRNA expression levels of the Bcl-2, Bax, Cas3, NF-κB, and PI3k genes. At the termination of the 30-day period, blood samples were collected to assay the biomarkers. The results showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the levels of TGF-β, CEA, CA19-9, malondialdehyde, ALT, AST, ALP, urea, and creatinine in the positive control compared to the negative control group. In addition, the glutathione reductase activity and total antioxidant activity were reduced in the positive control compared to the negative control. The biomarkers mentioned above were restored to almost normal levels after administering a safe dose (1/10) of a lethal dose of P. roxburghii and N. graveolens extracts. Administration of one-tenth of the LD50 of P. roxburghii and N. graveolens extracts caused a significant upregulation of the expression of Bax and Cas-3 and downregulation of the Bcl-2, NF-ĸB, and PI3k genes vs. the GAPDH gene as a housekeeping gene compared to the control group. Furthermore, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio increased upon treatment. After administration of P. roxburghii and N. graveolens at a safe dose (1/10) of a lethal dose, the results showed improvement in both body weight gain and a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in tumor volume. Histopathological changes supported these improvements. Conclusively, the research outputs show that P. roxburghii and N. graveolens extracts can be utilized as potential chemopreventive agents for CRC treatment by stimulating cancer cell apoptosis and suppressing CRC survival and proliferation.

The Importance of Pine Species in the Ethnomedicine of Transylvania (Romania)

The geographical and ecological features of Transylvania enable the wide ethnobotanical use of pine species. The aim of this study was to survey the current ethnomedicinal and other traditional use of pine species of Hungarian-speaking ethnic groups in Transylvania and to compare them with earlier reports performed in Transylvania and from other countries related to the Carpathian Basin. Information on pine species was obtained using semi-structured interviews with 515 Transylvanian informants from 18 villages in the period 2007–2019. The young shoots of Abies alba Mill., Picea abies (L.) H. Karst., Pinus nigra J. F. Arnold, and Pinus sylvestris L. were applied to treat respiratory diseases, while the resin was used for dental problems. Syrup and decoction were made from the cones of all species, except Abies alba. Picea abies was the most frequently documented with seven preparations from different parts (even needles), and this species was mentioned in the treatment of 21 diseases. The least recorded was Abies alba, which was applied for coughs and decayed teeth. We recorded the use of the cones and needles of Picea abies for dyspnoea, thyroid glands, and kidney disorders, previously unknown in ethnomedicinal literature. Our data on the pine species confirm their current use and significance in Transylvania.

Studies of Phytochemicals, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Activities of Pinus gerardiana and Pinus roxburghii Seed Extracts

Pine seeds are considered as nonwood forest products (NWFP) with regularly increasing market's demand. They can be eaten in various ways such as roasted or raw. In addition, they are included in various traditional dishes like in cookies, sauces, candies, cakes, breads, and other bakery items and, moreover, for medicinal purposes. GC-MS study is performed to analyze the phytochemical compounds present in the seed extracts of Pinus roxburghii (Chir) and Pinus gerardiana (Chilgoza). In total, 25 compounds were identified each in Chir and Chilgoza. In Chir seeds, abundantly present compounds were 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (16.6%), followed by ç-Terpinene (9.9%) and cyclohexanol, 4-ethenyl-4-methyl-3-(1-methylethenyl)-, (1à,3à,4á) (9.8%), whereas in Chilgoza seeds, the maximum amount of compound was 1-hexyl-1-nitrocyclohexane (17.3%), followed by phenol, 2,6-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) (15.4%), and heptadecane, 2-methyl (8.4%). The total phenolic content of Chir seed sample was 1536 ± 4.35 (mg GAE/100 g), whereas in the Chilgoza seed extract was 642.66 ± 2.08 (mg GAE/100 g). The application of RP-HPLC-DAD system revealed that Chir and Chilgoza seeds have maximum quantity of catechin (15.77 ± 0.16 μg/mg and 17.49 ± 0.32 μg/mg, respectively). Both Chir and Chilgoza seed extracts exhibited significant antioxidant (radical scavenging) potential, through H₂O₂ (618.94 ± 21.45 μg/mL and 575.16 ± 19.88 μg/mL) and DPPH (552.60 ± 13.03 μg/mL and 429.15 ± 3.80 μg/mL) assays, respectively. Additionally, a well-known antibacterial potential was also found in both plants' dichloromethane extracts, with 64 to 256 μg/mL of minimum inhibitory concentrations. As a whole, result shows the importance of both plants as a naturally occurring phytochemical source with significant antibacterial and antioxidant activity.

Antimicrobial Activity of Pinus wallachiana Leaf Extracts against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense and Analysis of Its Fractions by HPLC

Fusarium wilt has ruined banana production and poses a major threat to its industry because of highly virulent Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) race 4. The present study focused on the efficacy of Pinus wallachiana leaf extracts and its organic fractions against Foc in in vitro and greenhouse experiments. The presence of polyphenols in the fractions was also investigated using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The in vitro tests carried out for the leaf extract of P. wallachiana showed its inhibitory effect on the mycelial growth and, based on this evidence, further characterization of fractions were done. Complete mycelial inhibition and the highest zone of inhibition against Foc was observed for the n-butanol fraction in vitro, while the n-hexane and dichloromethane fractions showed lower disease severity index (DSI) in greenhouse experiments. The fractions were further analysed by HPLC using nine polyphenolic standards, namely quercitin, myrecitin, kaempferol, rutin, gallic acid, trans-ferulic acid, coumeric acid, epicatechin and catechin. The highest content of polyphenols, based on standards used, was quantified in the n-butanol fraction followed by the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaf extract. This is the first report of antimicrobial activity of Pinus wallachiana extracts against Foc to the best of our knowledge.

Evaluation of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities and molecular docking analysis of steroidal lactones from Datura stramonium L

BACKGROUND

Datura stramonium L. is widely used across the world for its therapeutic potential to treat inflammatory disorders. The current work was designed to isolate and identify steroidal lactones from D. stramonium leaves and evaluate their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

METHODS

Several compounds were isolated from D. stramonium leaves and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and high-resonance electron spray ionization mass spectrometry techniques. Further, anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds were evaluated by in vitro assays, such as release of NO and pro-inflammatory cytokines by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated J774A.1 macrophages. Using in vivo models, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects were examined by mouse tail-flick, carrageenan-induced inflammation in rat paw model, vascular permeability in rats, and acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. The docking studies were performed for assessing the binding efficiency of the test compounds with cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2, lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), inducible nitric oxide synthases (iNOS) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB).

RESULTS

Three lactones were isolated and confirmed as daturalactone (D1), 12-deoxywithastramonolide (D23), and daturilin (D27). Further, the isolated compounds showed nitric oxide inhibition and pro-inflammatory cytokines released by LPS-activated J774A.1 macrophages. The in vivo results suggest that D1, D23 and D27 (20 mg/kg) were able to reduce the pain and inflammation in various animal models. The docking analysis showed that these three compounds actively bind with COX-1, COX-2, LOX-1, NF-κB, and iNOS, validating the anti-inflammatory effects of the lactones.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate substantial anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of D. stramonium-derived lactones and their potential as anti-inflammatory agents to treat chronic inflammatory ailments.

In vitro and in silico pharmaceutical activities of the methylated cyclic pentapeptide, persipeptides

AIMS

The persipeptides were recognized as a promising source of multiple pharmaceutical activities which were revealed following structure-activity prediction and examination in experimental analysis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The profile of toxicity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-ageing activity of persipeptides and the crude extract were evaluated experimentally. The pure Persipeptide A and B revealed a moderate xanthine oxidase inhibition activity at the concentration of 10 µg/ml. Persipeptide exhibited α-glucosidase inhibition activity (~10% inhibition) and less than 2% tyrosinase inhibition activity at the concentration of 10 µg/ml. The extract exhibited the inhibition of less than 2% acetylcholine esterase inhibition activity, but the pure persipeptide showed 6%-14% inhibition activity at the concentration of 10 µg/ml. The molecular docking analysis revealed that the activities of Persipeptide A and B are due to interaction with xanthin oxidase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, tyrosinase and acetylcholine esterase enzymes.

CONCLUSIONS

The persipeptides showed a similar inhibition rate with positive control that might imply its potential as an anti-diabetic and anti-gout compound among. Only acetylcholine esterase inhibition of persipeptide was higher than the extract. The interacting amino acids of the molecules with different targets show that persipeptides might have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-ageing activity and even other potential pharmaceutical activities that were not investigated in this study.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This report was presented to find some new pharmaceutical activities of Persipeptide A and B including the α-glucosidase inhibition activity as a molecular target of diabetes mellitus. Persipeptides also exhibited an effective inhibition of xanthine oxidase (XO) which can be a drug-like candidate in the treatment of diseases associated with XO like gout. The binding values indicated the interaction of persipeptides with these enzymes.

Conifers Phytochemicals: A Valuable Forest with Therapeutic Potential

Conifers have long been recognized for their therapeutic potential in different disorders. Alkaloids, terpenes and polyphenols are the most abundant naturally occurring phytochemicals in these plants. Here, we provide an overview of the phytochemistry and related commercial products obtained from conifers. The pharmacological actions of different phytochemicals present in conifers against bacterial and fungal infections, cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are also reviewed. Data obtained from experimental and clinical studies performed to date clearly underline that such compounds exert promising antioxidant effects, being able to inhibit cell damage, cancer growth, inflammation and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, an attempt has been made with the intent to highlight the importance of conifer-derived extracts for pharmacological purposes, with the support of relevant in vitro and in vivo experimental data. In short, this review comprehends the information published to date related to conifers' phytochemicals and illustrates their potential role as drugs.

Medicinal plants from the Himalayan region for potential novel antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory skin treatments

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Adequate treatment of wounds remains one of the major medical needs globally, most notably in the regions with poor or limited access to health care. In many local and traditional systems of medicine, plants are often widely used for treating infected wounds.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The overarching aim of this project was selection of potential species for use in a future treatment by combining with plant resources with aspects of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). Specifically, we focussed on species used locally in the Himalayan region for the treatment of skin disorders and then assessed the existing pharmacological evidence for key species based on the published evidence available.

METHODS

Database searches were performed to identify relevant publications describing local and traditional uses of plants in the Himalayan region of Bhutan, PR China, India, Nepal and Pakistan. Using the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), species were researched in terms of their distribution including in different climatic regions, focussing on species mostly found in higher climatic zones (based on the Köppen-Geiger climate classification). For species used in three or more countries and restricted to the higher altitudes, data on safety, pharmacology, as it relates to dermatological conditions, and phytochemistry were retrieved.

KEY FINDINGS

The study identified a total of 606 species that are used in the treatment of various skin conditions often associated with infections reported in 84 articles. Common weeds like Ageratum conyzoides and Bidens pilosa, widely used and cultivated species like Centealla asiatiaca and Prunus armenica were excluded. This ultimately led to the identification of a core group of five widely used species restricted to the Himalayan region (Cedrus deodara, Nardostachys jatamansi, Pinus wallichiana, Pinus roxburghii and Valeriana jatamansi).

CONCLUSIONS

Here we apply a novel approach comprising an assessment of the published information on the use of medicinal plants (i.e. local and traditional knowledge) in the context of their potential to be used in a biomedical form of clinical treatment - aPDT. Then, once sustainable sourcing based on access and benefit-sharing arrangements is in place, these species are investigated for their potential in wound treatment. Ultimately, the goal is to develop a new baseline for primary health care in some of the regions of the world with poor or limited access to health care.

Analysis of the Efficacy of Two Treatment Protocols for Patients with Symptomatic Oral Lichen Planus: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated disease, which can alter the quality of life of patients. The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to compare the therapeutic efficacy of clobetasol oral gel 0.05% versus an anti-inflammatory in oral solution (mouthwash) in the management of patients suffering from symptomatic OLP. The secondary objective was to analyze which one of the two treatments induced a greater risk of developing side effects. Forty patients were assigned (20 patients for group), through a randomized design, to receive clobetasol gel 0.05% or an anti-inflammatory mouthwash, which contains calcium hydroxide, hyaluronic acid, umbelliferone and oligomeric pro-anthocyanidins) for three months. At baseline (T0) and after 3 months (T1), patients underwent dental and dermatological examinations to assess their symptoms (Numerical Pain Scale (NRS) score) and signs (Thongprasom score). Data were calculated using T-test for the dependent variable, Wilcoxon test and Mann-Whitney u test. Both clobetasol and anti-inflammatory resulted in a statistically significant reduction of signs, (p < 0.001 and p = 0.02, respectively) and symptoms (p < 0.001 for clobetasol and p = 0.02 for anti-inflammatory). In conclusion, the results evidenced that, compared to clobetasol, the anti-inflammatory was less effective in determining the reduction of signs and symptom in OLP patients.

Datura stramonium essential oil composition and it's immunostimulatory potential against colon cancer cells

The current study deals with the investigation of the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of the essential oil from Datura stramonium leaves (D. oil). The GC-MS analysis showed that the dominant compounds present in the D. oil were neophytadiene (Phytol acetate) (10.76%), β-damascenone (9.67%), and β- eudesmol (7.2%). D. oil exhibited in vitro scavenging potential of free radicals by DPPH and ABTS assays (IC₅₀ values 71.35 ±1.06 μg/ml and 61.01 ± 1.07 μg/ml, respectively). We found that D. oil decreased the nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated J774A.1 cells by 52.43% without affecting their cell viability. D. oil was found to stimulate the proliferation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and, also enhanced the secretion of IL-2, IFN-γ and TNF-α. Furthermore, D. oil treatment of PBMC induced the expression of CD3, CD8, and CD56 and intracellular granulysin levels in the immune cells. The treatment of human lymphocytes by D. oil enhanced their ability to kill colon cancer cells HCT-116 (51.09 ± 7.5%) and SW620 (48.57 ± 8.08%) at 20:1 (effector: target ratio). Moreover, these activated lymphocytes cause target cell death by reactive oxygen species and by damaging mitochondrial membrane potential of these cells. Taken together, the current findings showed D. oil as immunotherapeutic agent which can be used for colon cancer treatment.

Green and Sustainable Valorization of Bioactive Phenolic Compounds from Pinus By-Products

In Europe, pine forests are one of the most extended forests formations, making pine residues and by-products an important source of compounds with high industrial interest as well as for bioenergy production. Moreover, the valorization of lumber industry residues is desirable from a circular economy perspective. Different extraction methods and solvents have been used, resulting in extracts with different constituents and consequently with different bioactivities. Recently, emerging and green technologies as ultrasounds, microwaves, supercritical fluids, pressurized liquids, and electric fields have appeared as promising tools for bioactive compounds extraction in alignment with the Green Chemistry principles. Pine extracts have attracted the researchers’ attention because of the positive bioproperties, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-neurodegenerative, antitumoral, cardioprotective, etc., and potential industrial applications as functional foods, food additives as preservatives, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Phenolic compounds are responsible for many of these bioactivities. However, there is not much information in the literature about the individual phenolic compounds of extracts from the pine species. The present review is about the reutilization of residues and by-products from the pine species, using ecofriendly technologies to obtain added-value bioactive compounds for industrial applications.

Unravelling the Biological Potential of Pinus pinaster Bark Extracts

Natural compounds from agro-food by-products have fostered interest in food industries. The aim of this study was to unravel potential uses for Pinus pinaster bark extracts (PBE). As functional features of this type of extracts are usually attributed to phenolic compounds, the extraction process was studied. Different PBEs were achieved, with high content in phenolic compounds, using different water/ethanol combinations as a solvent. These PBEs were chemically characterized, and their bioactivity and in vitro cell viability were evaluated. Extracts obtained with hydroethanolic solvents had higher content in phenolic and flavonoid compounds. All the PBEs presented high antioxidant, antibacterial and antihyperglycemic activities. Moreover, PBEs have low cytotoxicity and a selective activity against cancer cells as these were negatively affected. These features may allow the extracts to be used in food formulation and processing (as preservatives, antioxidants or bioactive ingredients), but they showed also potential for the pharmaceutical or nutraceutical sectors.

Chemical characterization, antioxidant evaluation, and antidiabetic potential of Pinus gerardiana (Pine nuts) extracts

Methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of pine nuts were evaluated for in vitro antioxidant and inhibition of alpha-amylase activities. Pine nut extracts were orally administered to alloxan monohydrate-induced diabetes in mice at 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg. Both extracts showed a significant antioxidant and inhibition of alpha-amylase activities. Animal studies showed a decline in fasting blood glucose, hyperlipidemia, and weight loss in diabetic mice. The administration of plant extracts decreased the blood glucose level during the oral glucose tolerance test. Histopathological examination showed a decrease in alloxan-induced lesions in the pancreas, liver, and kidney of animals treated with pine nut extracts. Furthermore, pine nut extract ameliorated oxidative stress-induced hepatotoxicity in diabetic mice. The presence of quercetin, gallic acid, vanillic acid, benzoic acid, syringic acid, m-coumaric acid, and other phenolic compounds might be related to hypoglycemic, alpha-amylase inhibitory, antioxidant, and antihyperlipidemic potential of pine nut extracts. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Dry fruits are rich in dietary nutrients, minerals, and phytochemicals that can be used to treat and prevent lifestyle disease. Pine nuts are edible and have economic importance in addition to several traditional uses such as diuretic, antiseptic, expectorant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antihypertensive, and antineuralgic properties. This study was conducted to investigate the pine nut extracts for their antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials using in vitro methods and animal disease model. The findings of the present study suggest that the extracts of Pine nuts may be helpful in treating hyperglycemia during diabetes and prevent its complications such as hepatic damage, nephrotoxicity, weight loss, and hyperlipidemia.

Nauclea latifolia Sm. Leaf Extracts Extenuates Free Radicals, Inflammation, and Diabetes-Linked Enzymes

This study was carried out to assess the in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects of Nauclea latifolia (Sm.) leaf extracts. Ethanolic (NLE) and aqueous (NLA) extract of N. latifolia leaves were prepared and assessed for their anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant potential, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, and the mechanism of enzyme inhibition in vitro using standard established methods. From the results, phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides, and tannins were detected in both extracts of N. latifolia with NLE having a significantly (p < 0.05) higher phytochemical content. NLE displayed significantly (p < 0.05) better total antioxidant capacity, reducing power, 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, and hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activities. For anti-inflammatory activities, 70.54 ± 2.45% albumin denaturation inhibition was observed for NLE while 68.05 ± 1.03% was recorded for NLA. Likewise, 16.07 ± 1.60 and 14.08 ± 1.76% were obtained against hypotonic solution and heat-induced erythrocyte haemolysis, respectively, for NLE while 20.59 ± 4.60 and 24.07 ± 1.60% were respective NLA values. NLE (IC₅₀: 4.20 ± 0.18 and 1.19 ± 0.11 mg/mL) and NLA (IC₅₀: 11.21 ± 0.35 and 2.64 ± 0.48 mg/mL) α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities were dose-dependent with uncompetitive and competitive inhibition elicited, respectively, by the extracts. A significant positive association (p < 0.01 and 0.05) was identified between antioxidant activity and carbohydrate-metabolising enzyme inhibitory activity. The obtained result suggests N. latifolia leaf could serve as an alternative candidate for managing diabetes mellitus due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory association with diabetes-linked enzymes.

Ethnobotany and Pharmacology of Pinus Species Growing Naturally in Indian Himalayas: A Plant Review

Pinus species are amongst the most commonly used medicinal plants in Indian Northwestern Himalayas. Nearly all parts of the plant especially needles are believed to possess medicinal and clinical values in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurvedic, Unani or Homeopathic. They are used to heal numerous diseases, including afflictions of the skin, eyes, throats and ears. Various parts of the plant including needles are rich in biologically active compounds, such as thunbergol, 3-carene, cembrene, α-pinene, quercetin, xanthone, etc. The scientific data available for the biological potential of this plant and its constituents have been found to be scanty and also does not satisfy the basis of their age-old folklore and local uses. This review focuses on a detailed analysis of ethnopharmacognosical studies on the needles of different Pinus species growing naturally in northwestern region of Indian Himalayas including investigations and findings that have come up with a concrete view of the abilities of plant components for example phenolics, flavonoids, tannins and other constituents to treat oxidative, inflammatory and microbial responses. Careful evaluation of the data presented may be helpful for the researchers to discover and evaluate the specific chemical entities responsible for the traditional medicinal uses of P. roxburghii, P.wallichiana, P. merkusii, P.kesiya and P.thunbergii.

Comparative Study on Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Annona Muricata Plant Parts Cultivated in Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria

Annonamuricata plant parts possess a broad range of medicinal and biological properties. This research compared the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of Annonamuric at aparts. Proximate, mineral, total phenol and total flavonoid content as well as invitro antioxidant activity were examined. Results revealed the leaves contained significantly(p<0.05) higher composition of moisture (8.69±0.22%), ash (4.60±0.02%), protein (14.53±0.11%), crude fat (10.28±0.03%),chromium (0.38±0.05 mg/100g), nickel (1.75±0.04mg/100g), total phenol (1.01±0.03mgpyrocatechol/mL) and total flavonoid (1.12±0.03mgGAE/mL)compared to the respective values for root. Carbohydrate (9.29±0.24%), lead (0.13±0.02mg/100g) and cobalt (1.93±0.02mg/100g) composition was significantly lower(p<0.05) in the leaves compared to the respective compositions in the root. The leaf and root extract exhibited a concentration-dependent increase in hydroxyl radical scavenging activity with no observable(p<0.05)difference in their EC50 value. This study suggests the leaves of A. muricata found in Covenant University had better chemical composition when compared to the root. Nonetheless, these plant parts may be further exploited for not only their nutritive composition and mineral content but also a natural source of antioxidant agents.

In-vitro osteoblast proliferation and in-vivo anti-osteoporotic activity of Bombax ceiba with quantification of Lupeol, gallic acid and β-sitosterol by HPTLC and HPLC

BACKGROUND

Bombax ceiba is used traditionally to treat bone disorders, rheumatism, and joint pain. The aim of the study is to carry out osteogenic activity in-vitro and anti-osteoporotic activity in-vivo of stem bark of B. ceiba in surgical ovariectomy model in female rats.

METHODS

Plant drug: B. ceiba stem bark was extracted with solvents petroleum ether and methanol using Soxhlet extraction. In-vitro osteoblastic proliferation study was performed using UMR-106 cell lines. Both the extracts were undergone to acute toxicity study as per OECD423 guidelines. Female Wistar albino rats 180-240 g were used (n = 6). Surgical ovariectomy was performed under anesthesia to induce bone porosity and loss in all animals except normal control and sham control. Each extract was administered at two dose level: 100 and 200 mg/kg and the standard Raloxifene was given at 1 mg/kg orally for 28 days. The phytochemical study of both the extracts was performed using HPLC and HPTLC.

RESULTS

A significant osteoblast cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity were observed with B. ceiba extracts in UMR-106 cell lines. Surgical removal of ovaries produced significant (p < 0.05) decline in bone mineral density, bone breaking strength, serum ALP, calcium, phosphorus, and estradiol level and marked bone tissue destruction in histology. Administration of petroleum ether and methanolic extract for 28 days significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated the consequences of ovariectomy induced bone porosity and restored the normal architecture of bone, as compared to OVX control. The phytochemical screening of both the extracts were also carried out. The quantification of phytoconstituents showed the presence of β-sitosterol and lupeol in petroleum ether extract, whereas the lupeol is also quantified in the methanolic extract. The presence of gallic acid was quantified in methanolic extract using HPLC.

CONCLUSION

B. ceiba: stem bark ameliorated the state of bone fragility and fracture possibly due to estrogenic modulation, as also confirmed by in-vitro osteogenic activity which may be due to the presence of lupeol, gallic acid and β-sitosterol constituents of the plant.

Potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Sambucus australis

CONTEXT

Sambucus australis Cham. & Schltdl. (Adoxaceae) is used in Brazilian folk medicine to treat inflammatory disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the in vitro anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of S. australis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activity of ethanol extracts of the leaf and bark of S. australis (1-100 μg/mL) were studied in lipopolysaccharide/interferon γ stimulated murine macrophages RAW 264.7 cells (24 h incubation) by investigating the release of nitric oxide (NO) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and in the TNF-α-induced nuclear factor kappa (NF-κB) assay. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by the microdilution test (24 h incubation). Antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the NO scavenging assays. Chemical composition was assessed by LC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

Antioxidant activities in the DPPH (IC₅₀ 43.5 and 66.2 μg/mL), FRAP (IC₅₀ 312.6 and 568.3 μg/mL) and NO radical scavenging assays (IC₅₀ 285.0 and 972.6 μg/mL) were observed in the leaf and bark ethanol extracts, respectively. Solely the leaf extract showed significant inhibition of NO and TNF-α production in RAW264.7 cells at concentrations of 2 and 100 μg/mL, respectively, and suppression of TNF-α inhibition of NF-κB by 12.8 and 20.4% at concentrations of 50 and 100 μg/mL, respectively. The extract also exhibited antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhimurium (MIC 250 μg/mL) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MIC 250 μg/mL). LC-MS/MS revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid and rutin as major compounds.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results indicate that the ethanol leaf extract of S. australis exhibit prominent anti-inflammatory effects.

Chemical Composition of Pinus roxburghii Bark Volatile Oil and Validation of Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity Using Molecular Modelling and Bleomycin-Induced Inflammation in Albino Mice

The chemical composition of Pinus roxburghii bark essential oil (PRO) was qualitatively and quantitatively determined using GC/FID and GC/MS. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed in vitro by evaluating the binding percentages on the cannabinoids and opioids receptors. Bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary inflammation in albino mice was adopted to assess PRO anti-inflammatory efficacy in vivo. In silico molecular modelling of its major components was performed on human glucocorticoids receptor (GR). Seventy-five components were identified in which longifolene (33.13%) and palmitic acid (9.34%) constituted the predominant components. No binding was observed on cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), whereas mild binding was observed on cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2), delta, kappa, and mu receptors accounting for 2.9%, 6.9%, 10.9% and 22% binding. A significant in vivo activity was evidenced by reduction of the elevated malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels by 55.56%, 55.66%, 64.64%, 58.85% and 77.78% with concomitant elevation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities comparable to BLM-treated group at 100 mg/kg body weight. In silico studies showed that palmitic acid exerted the fittest binding. PRO could serve as a potent anti-inflammatory natural candidate that should be supported by further clinical trials.