Aloe vera gel homogenate shows anti-inflammatory activity through lysosomal membrane stabilization and downregulation of TNF-α and Cox-2 gene expressions in inflammatory arthritic animals

Unlocking the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of polysaccharide fractions from Lepidium sativum seed-coat mucilage

Inflammation coupled with oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenicity of various clinical disorders. Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense system, leading to cellular damages. The study investigated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of polysaccharides isolated from Lepidium sativum seed-coat mucilage. The water-soluble polysaccharides were extracted from mucilage and fractionated using gel permeation chromatography. The radical scavenging potential of various fractions was determined using DPPH, H2O2, and lipid peroxidation assays. The most effective EC50 was recorded for F53 (57.41 ± 1.34 μg/mL), followed by F20 (69.19 ± 0.61 μg/mL) and F52 (75.06 ± 0.45 μg/mL). In vitro anti-inflammatory effect was determined through human membrane stabilization assay while the in vivo effect was evaluated using a carrageenan-induced paw edema in mouse model where F53 demonstrated significant (P = 0.05) anti-inflammatory potential (92.60 % compared to diclofenac sodium 91.46 %). GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of galacturonic acid and glucuronic acid as main acidic monosaccharides along with varying quantities of rhamnose, arabinose, and maltose as prominent neutral monosaccharides. The study concludes that cress seed mucilage contains potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polysaccharides. Further studies on the mode of action of these polysaccharides could provide deeper insights into their potential use as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents.

Attenuation of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in Ajuga bracteosa extract treated mice

Ajuga bracteosa (Ab) has tremendous medicinal value with long-established disease curing potential. The present study aimed to assess the hepatoprotective potential of Ab extracts in paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Group I (normal control) were treated with saline 1 ml/kg BW orally for 7 days while Group II (toxicant control) received saline 1 ml/kg BW for 6 days and Paracetamol (1000 mg/kg BW) on day7of the treatment. Group III received Standard drug silymarin (100 mg/kg BW) for 6 days and Paracetamol (1000 mg/kg BW) on day 7of treatment. Groups IV andV were administered with methanol extract (ME) 200 mg/kg BW and aqueous extract (AE) 1000 mg/kg BW for 6 days and Paracetamol (1000 mg/kg BW) on day 7th of the study. Both extracts showed hepatoprotective potential against the toxic effects of paracetamol, evidenced by serum analysis of biomarkers involved in liver injury and histopathological findings. Hepatotoxic mice pretreated with Ab plant extract or silymarin exhibited significant decrease in ALP, AST, and ALT enzyme level while GSH levels were markedly increased. According to histological observations, groups treated with PCM (toxicant control) showed significant necrosis and lymphocyte infiltration, while groups treated with silymarin and Ajuga bracteosa plant extract showed preservation of the normal liver structural features. The phytochemical analysis of ME and AE of Ab showed the presence of glycosides, phenolic compounds, tannins, fats, saponins, flavonoids, terpenes, oils, and fats. The antioxidant activity of these two extracts was determined by nitric oxide assay, DPPH assay, and ferric reducing power assay. The methanolic extract exhibited the highest antioxidant potential (78.09 ± 0.0806). The antioxidant potential of aqueous extract was 73.08 ± 0.248. The reducing power for methanolic extract and ascorbic acid (standard) 500 μg/ml was 0.933 and 0.987 respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity of both extracts was demonstrated by in vitro methods, namely albumin denaturation, proteinase inhibition, and membrane stabilization assays. The study suggests that Ab extracts have competence for attenuating inflammation, oxidants, and hepatotoxicity.

Aloe vera Leaf Extract Reduced BBB Permeability and Improved Neurological Results after Traumatic Brain Injury: The Role of Oxidative Stress

Introduction

Recognizing the importance of medicinal plants and the absence of specific medications for traumatic brain injury (TBI) treatment, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of an aqueous extract of Aloe vera on oxidative stress, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, and neurological scores following TBI.

Materials and Methods

Adult male rats were categorized into five groups: sham, TBI, vehicle, low-dose Aloe vera (LA), and high-dose Aloe vera (HA). We induced diffuse TBI using the Marmaro model and administered the aqueous Aloe vera leaf extract, as well as vehicle, via intraperitoneal injection half an hour after TBI. Neurological outcomes were assessed both before and several hours after TBI. Additionally, oxidative stress factors were measured 24 hr after TBI, and Evans blue content (a BBB permeability index) was determined 5 hr after TBI in both serum and brain.

Results

Both LA and HA reduced the increase in BBB permeability after TBI, with HA having a more pronounced effect than LA. Both Aloe vera doses decreased brain MDA levels, increased brain TAC, and lowered both serum and brain PC levels. The impact of Aloe vera on brain oxidative parameters was more significant than on serum. HA also counteracted the declining effects of TBI on neurological outcomes at 4 and 24 hr post-TBI.

Conclusion

This study suggests that Aloe vera extract may reduce BBB permeability and improve neurological outcomes after TBI by decreasing oxidative factors and increasing antioxidant factors.

Aloe vera-An Extensive Review Focused on Recent Studies

Since ancient times, Aloe vera L. (AV) has attracted scientific interest because of its multiple cosmetic and medicinal properties, attributable to compounds present in leaves and other parts of the plant. The collected literature data show that AV and its products have a beneficial influence on human health, both by topical and oral use, as juice or an extract. Several scientific studies demonstrated the numerous biological activities of AV, including, for instance, antiviral, antimicrobial, antitumor, and antifungal. Moreover, its important antidepressant activity in relation to several diseases, including skin disorders (psoriasis, acne, and so on) and prediabetes, is a growing field of research. This comprehensive review intends to present the most significant and recent studies regarding the plethora of AV's biological activities and an in-depth analysis exploring the component/s responsible for them. Moreover, its morphology and chemical composition are described, along with some studies regarding the single components of AV available in commerce. Finally, valorization studies and a discussion about the metabolism and toxicological aspects of this "Wonder Plant" are reported.

Nano-platform Strategies of Herbal Components for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review on the Battle for Next-Generation Formulations

INTRODUCTION

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that initially affects small joints and then spreads to the bigger joints. It also affects other organs of the body such as lungs, eyes, kidneys, heart, and skin. In RA, there is destruction of cartilage and joints, and ligaments and tendons become brittle. Damage to the joints leads to abnormalities and bone degradation, which may be quite painful for the patient.

METHOD

The nano-carriers such as liposomes, phytosomes, nanoparticles, microcapsules, and niosomes are developed to deliver the encapsulated phytoconstituents to targeted sites for the better management of RA.

RESULTS

The phytoconstituents loaded nano-carriers have been used in order to increase bioavailability, stability and reduce the dose of an active compound. In one study, the curcumin-loaded phytosomes increase the bioavailability of curcumin and also provides relief from RA symptoms. The drug-loaded nano-carriers are the better option for the management of RA.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, there are many anti-arthritic herbal and synthetic medicine available in the market that are currently used in the treatment of RA. However, chronic use of these medications may result in a variety of side effects. Because therapy for RA is frequently necessary for the rest of ones life. The use of natural products may be a better option for RA management. These phytoconstituents, however, have several disadvantages, including limited bioavailability, low stability, and the need for a greater dosage. These problems can be rectified by using nano-technology.

A Review of the Occurrence of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Potential Treatments through Medicinal Plants from an Indian Perspective

Arthritis is a medical condition that affects the joints and causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness. There are different types of arthritis, and it can affect people of all ages, even infants and the elderly. Recent studies have found that individuals with diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are more likely to experience arthritis symptoms. According to the World Health Organization, over 21% of people worldwide suffer from musculoskeletal problems. Roughly 42.19 million individuals in India, constituting around 0.31% of the populace, have been documented as having Rheumatic Arthritis (RA). Compared to other common diseases like diabetes, cancer, and AIDS, arthritis is more prevalent in the general population. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for arthritis, and treatment plans usually involve non-pharmacological methods, surgeries, and medications that target specific symptoms. Plant-based remedies have also been shown to be effective in managing inflammation and related complications. In addition to therapies, maintaining a healthy diet, exercise, and weight management are essential for managing arthritis. This review discusses the causes, prevalence, diagnostic methods, current and prospective future treatments, and potential medicinal plants that may act as anti-inflammatory or anti-rheumatic agents. However, more research is necessary to identify the underlying mechanisms and active molecules that could improve arthritis treatment.

Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal-Based Antiacne Gel Preparations

Acne vulgaris is an inflammatory skin condition that affects virtually everyone at some point. Papules, comedones, pustules, scarring, and nodules are standard features of the disease and can have a detrimental social and psychological impact on an individual. Although allopathic acne treatments are available, they have adverse side effects, are expensive, and are prone to cause antibiotic resistance. The present study is aimed at formulating and evaluating topical gels containing Aloe vera, Allium cepa, and Eucalyptus globulus extracts as potential antiacne drugs. Six formulations containing the herbal extracts were prepared using 1% Carbopol 940 as a gelling agent. The phytochemical composition of the plant extracts was determined. The extracts and gels' minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was assessed using the microbroth dilution method. The physicochemical properties of the formulated gels, such as homogeneity, colour, texture, odour, grittiness, spreadability, extrudability, viscosity, pH, and drug content, were evaluated. All the plant extracts contained alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, triterpenoids, and coumarins. The gel formulations showed varying activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at various concentrations. The phytochemical components of the plant extracts are probably responsible for the antimicrobial activity of the gel formulations. The 5% Aloe vera-Allium cepa (1 : 1) combination gel formulation showed excellent activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans, with MICs of 12.50, 25.00, 6.25, 25.00, and 12.50 mg/mL, respectively. The gels generally had good physicochemical and antimicrobial properties and could be used as antiacne remedies.

Aloe vera-Based Hydrogels for Wound Healing: Properties and Therapeutic Effects

Aloe vera-based hydrogels have emerged as promising platforms for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings due to their biocompatibility and unique wound-healing properties. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the application of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for wound healing. The synthesis methods, structural characteristics, and properties of Aloe vera-based hydrogels are discussed. Mechanisms of therapeutic agents released from Aloe vera-based hydrogels, including diffusion, swelling, and degradation, are also analyzed. In addition, the therapeutic effects of Aloe vera-based hydrogels on wound healing, as well as the reduction of inflammation, antimicrobial activity, and tissue regeneration, are highlighted. The incorporation of various therapeutic agents, such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ones, into Aloe vera-based hydrogels is reviewed in detail. Furthermore, challenges and future prospects of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for wound dressing applications are considered. This review provides valuable information on the current status of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings and highlights their potential to improve wound healing outcomes.

Simultaneous Study of Analysis of Anti-inflammatory Potential of Dryopteris ramosa (C. Hope) C. Chr. using GC-Mass and Computational Modeling on the Xylene-induced Ear Oedema in Mouse Model

INTRODUCTION

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the extraction and identification of the potential phytochemicals from the Methanolic Extract of Dryopteris ramosa (MEDR) using GC-MS profiling for validating the traditional uses of MEDR its efficacy in inflammations by using in-vitro, in-vivo and in silico approaches in anti-inflammatory models.

METHODS

GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of a total of 59 phytochemical compounds. The human red blood cells (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay and heat-induced hemolysis method were used as in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity of the extract. The in-vivo analysis was carried out through the Xylene-induced mice ear oedema method. It was found that MEDR at a concentration of 20 μg, 30 μg, and 40 μg showed 35.45%, 36.01%, and 36.33% protection to HRBC in a hypotonic solution, respectively. At the same time, standard Diclofenac at 30 μg showed 45.31% protection of HRBC in a hypotonic solution.

RESULTS

The extract showed inhibition of 25.32%, 26.53%, and 33.31% cell membrane lysis at heating at 20 μg, 30 μg, and 40 μg, respectively. In comparison, standard Diclofenac at 30 μg showed 50.49% inhibition of denaturation to heat. Methanolic extract of the plant exhibited momentous inhibition in xylene-induced ear oedema in mice treated with 30 μg extract were 47.2%, 63.4%, and 78.8%, while inhibition in mice ear oedema treated with 60 μg extract was 34.7%, 43.05%, 63.21% and reduction in ear thickness of standard drug were 57.3%, 59.54%, 60.42% recorded at the duration of 1, 4 and 24 hours of inflammation. Molecular docking and simulations were performed to validate the anti-inflammatory role of the phytochemicals that revealed five potential phytochemicals i.e. Stigmasterol,22,23dihydro, Heptadecane,8methyl, Pimaricacid, Germacrene and 1,3Cyclohexadiene,_5(1,5dimethyl4hexenyl)-2methyl which revealed potential or significant inhibitory effects on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL-6) in the docking analysis.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of the study signifies that MEDR can offer a new prospect in the discovery of a harmonizing and alternative therapy for inflammatory disease conditions.

Differences in Metabolite Composition of Aloe barbadensis Mill. Extracts Lead to Differential Effects on Human Blood T Cell Activity In Vitro

Aloe barbadensis Mill. (Aloe) is used for diverse therapeutic properties including immunomodulation. However, owing to the compositionally complex nature of Aloe, bioactive component(s) responsible for its beneficial properties, though thought to be attributed to polysaccharides (acemannan), remain unknown. We therefore aimed to determine the metabolite composition of various commercial Aloe extracts and assess their effects on human blood T cell activity in vitro. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy donors were stimulated polyclonally in presence or absence of various Aloe extracts. T cell phenotype and proliferation were investigated by flow cytometry. Aloe extracts were analyzed using targeted ¹H-NMR spectroscopy for standard phytochemical quality characterization and untargeted gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for metabolite profiling. Aloe extracts differing in their standard phytochemical composition had varying effects on T cell activation, proliferation, apoptosis, and cell-death in vitro, although this was not related to the acemannan content. Furthermore, each Aloe extract had its own distinct metabolite profile, where extracts rich in diverse sugar and sugar-derivatives were associated with reduced T cell activity. Our results demonstrate that all commercial Aloe extracts are unique with distinct metabolite profiles, which lead to differential effects on T cell activity in vitro, independent of the acemannan content.

Pro-inflammatory cytokine molecules from Boswellia serrate suppresses lipopolysaccharides induced inflammation demonstrated in an in-vivo zebrafish larval model

BACKGROUND

Boswellia serrate is an ancient and highly valued ayurvedic herb. Its extracts have been used in medicine for centuries to treat a wide variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. However, the mechanism by which B. serrata hydro alcoholic extract inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae with LPS-induced inflammation remained unknown.

METHODS

LC-MS analysis was used to investigate the extract's phytochemical components. To determine the toxicity of B. serrata extract, cytotoxicity and embryo toxicity tests were performed. The in-vivo zebrafish larvae model was used to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of B. serrata extract.

RESULTS

According to an in silico study using molecular docking and ADMET, the compounds acetyl-11-keto-boswellic and 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid present in the extract had higher binding affinity for the inflammatory specific receptor, and it is predicted to be an orally active molecule. In both in-vitro L6 cells and in-vivo zebrafish larvae, 160 µg/mL concentration of extract caused a high rate of lethality. The extract was found to have a protective effect against LPS-induced inflammation at concentrations ranged between 10 and 80 µg/mL. In zebrafish larvae, 80 µg/mL of treatment significantly lowered the level of intracellular ROS, apoptosis, lipid peroxidation, and nitric oxide. Similarly, zebrafish larvae treated with B. serrata extract (80 µg/mL) showed an increased anti-inflammatory activity by lowering inflammatory specific gene expression (iNOS, TNF-α, COX-2, and IL-1).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our findings suggest that B. serrata can act as a potent redox scavenger against LPS-induced inflammation in zebrafish larvae and an inhibitor of specific inflammatory genes.

Utilization of Aloe Compounds in Combatting Viral Diseases

Plants contain underutilized resources of compounds that can be employed to combat viral diseases. Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. (syn. Aloe barbadensis Mill.) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and A. vera extracts have been reported to possess a huge breadth of pharmacological activities. Here, we discuss the potential of A. vera compounds as antivirals and immunomodulators for the treatment of viral diseases. In particular, we highlight the use of aloe emodin and acemannan as lead compounds that should be considered for further development in the management and prevention of viral diseases. Given the immunomodulatory capacity of A. vera compounds, especially those found in Aloe gel, we also put forward the idea that these compounds should be considered as adjuvants for viral vaccines. Lastly, we present some of the current limitations to the clinical applications of compounds from Aloe, especially from A. vera.