Artemisia pallens alleviates acetaminophen induced toxicity via modulation of endogenous biomarkers

Artemisia pallens W. Attenuates Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Freund's Complete Adjuvant-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in Wistar Rats

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes distinctive inflammatory symptoms and affects over 21 million people worldwide. RA is characterized by severe discomfort, swelling, and degradation of the bone and cartilage, further impairing joint function. The current study investigates the antiarthritic effect of a methanolic extract of Artemisia pallens (methanolic extract of A. pallens, MEAP), an aromatic herb. Artemisinin content (% per dry weight of the plant) was estimated using a UV Vis spectrophotometer. In the present study, animals were divided into six groups (n = 6). The control group (group I) was injected with 0.25% of carboxymethyl cellulose. The arthritic control group (group II) was treated with Freund's complete adjuvant (by injecting 0.1 mL). Prednisolone (10 mg/kg), a lower dose of MEAP (100 mg/kg), a medium dose of MEAP (200 mg/kg), and a higher dose of MEAP (400 mg/kg) were orally delivered to groups III, IV, V, and VI, respectively. Freund's complete adjuvant was administered into the sub-plantar portion of the left-hind paw in all the groups except vehicle control to induce rheumatoid arthritis. Weight variation; joint diameter; paw volume; thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia; hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters; radiology; and a histopathological assessment of the synovial joint were observed in order to evaluate the antiarthritic effect of the methanolic extract of A. pallens. In this study, the estimated content of artemisinin was found to be 0.28% (per dry weight of the plant), which was in good agreement with the reported value. MEAP (200 and 400 mg/kg) caused a significant reduction in increased paw volume and joint diameter in arthritic rats while significantly increasing body weight and the mechanical threshold of thermal algesia. Moreover, complete blood counts and serum enzyme levels improved significantly. Radiological analysis showed a reduction in soft tissue swelling and small erosions. A histopathological examination of the cells revealed reduced cell infiltration and the erosion of joint cartilage in MEAP-administered arthritic rats. The present research suggests that the antiarthritic activity of the methanolic extract of A. pallens wall is promising, as evidenced by the findings explored in our rat model.

Hepatic and immune modulatory effectiveness of lactoferrin loaded Selenium nanoparticles on bleomycin induced hepatic injury

This study aimed to estimate the hepatic and immune ameliorating potential of extracted bovine lactoferrin (LF), Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) or their combination (LF/SeNPs) against bleomycin (BLM) induced hepatic injury. Fifty adult male rats (160-200 g) were equally divided into five groups: (1) the saline control group, (2) BLM-injected (15 mg/kg twice a week, ip), and (3-5) groups treated orally with LF (200 mg/kg/day), SeNPs (0.0486 mg/kg/day) or LF/SeNPs combination (200.0486 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks post BLM-intoxication. Blood and liver samples were subjected to biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. The results revealed that BLM caused a significant increase in hepatic lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide, as well as serum markers of liver functions (AST, ALT and GGT activities), and levels of GM-CSF, CD4, TNF-α, IL-1β, TGF-β1, fibronectin, triglycerides, cholesterol and LDL-C. Additionally, hepatic glutathione, Na+/K+-ATPase, and glutathione peroxidase, as well as serum HDL-C, total protein and albumin levels were significantly reduced. Moreover, BLM injection resulted in marked histopathological alterations and severe expression of caspase 3. Post-treatment of BLM-intoxicated rats with LF, SeNPs or LF/SeNPs combination obviously improved the BLM-induced hepatic damages; this was achieved from the marked modulations in the mentioned parameters, besides improving the histopathological hepatic architecture. It is worth mentioning that LF/SeNPs exerted the greatest potency. In conclusion, the obtained results demonstrated that LF, SeNPs and LF/SeNPs succeeded in attenuating the BLM-induced hepatic dysfunction. Therefore, these supplements might be used to protect against drug-associated side effects.

Myricetin Attenuates Ethylene Glycol-Induced Nephrolithiasis in Rats via Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers

Urolithiasis or nephrolithiasis is a condition of kidney stone formation and is considered a painful disease of the urinary tract system. In this work, we planned to discover the therapeutic roles of myricetin on the ethylene glycol (EG)-induced nephrolithiasis in rats. The experimental rats were treated with 0.75% of EG through drinking water for 4 weeks to initiate the nephrolithiasis and subsequently treated with 25 and 50 mg/kg of myricetin. The body weight and urine volume were measured regularly. After the sacrification of rats, the samples were collected, and serum and urinary biomarkers such as creatinine, urea, Ca2 + ion, and BUN, OPN, oxalate, and citrate levels were determined using assay kits. These biomarkers, the MDA level and CAT, SOD, and GPx activities, were assessed in the kidney tissue homogenates. The IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels were also quantified using respective kits. The histopathological analysis was done on the kidney tissues. Myricetin treatment did not show major changes in the body weight and kidney weight in the EG-induced rats. The treatment with 25 and 50 mg/kg of myricetin considerably reduced the urea, creatinine, BUN, Ca2 + ion, and oxalate and increased the citrate content in serum and urine samples of EG-induced rats. Further, myricetin depleted the inflammatory cytokines and MDA levels and elevated the CAT, SOD, and GPx activities in the renal tissues. The activities of ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, and LDH were also reduced by the myricetin. Furthermore, the myricetin upheld the histoarchitecture of the kidneys. The outcomes of this investigation propose that myricetin is effective in EG-induced urolithiasis probably because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and renoprotective activities. In addition, further studies are still required to verify the precise therapeutic mechanism of myricetin.

Neuroinflammation and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Potentials of a Spiroketal-Enol Ether Polyyne Isolated from Artemisia pallens Wall. ex DC

Artemisia pallens Wall. ex DC (Asteraceae) is cultivated for the production of high-value essential oil from its aerial biomass. In this study, the chemical composition of the root (crop-residue) essential oil was investigated for the first time, using column-chromatography, GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-QTOF, and NMR techniques, which led to the identification of twenty constituents, with isolation of (E)-2-(2',4'-hexadiynylidene)-1,6-dioxaspiro [4.5]dec-3-ene (D6). The D6 was evaluated in vitro for neuroinflammation and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential. It showed inhibition of neuroinflammation in a concentration-dependent manner with significant inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. D6 did not have any significant effect on the viability of the cells at the therapeutic concentrations. D6 also has shown acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential (51.90±1.19 %) at the concentration of log 106  nM. The results showed that D6 has a potential role in the resolution of neuroinflammation, and its acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential directs further investigation of its role in the management of Alzheimer's disease-related pathogenesis.

Acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity: An overview of the promising protective effects of natural products and herbal formulations

BACKGROUND

The liver plays an important role in regulating the metabolic processes and is the most frequently targeted organ by toxic chemicals. Acetaminophen (APAP) is a well-known anti-allergic, anti-pyretic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which upon overdose leads to hepatotoxicity, the major adverse event of this over-the-counter drug.

PURPOSE

APAP overdose induced acute liver injury is the second most common cause that often requires liver transplantation worldwide, for which N-acetyl cysteine is the only synthetic drug clinically approved as an antidote. So, it was felt that there is a need for the novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of liver diseases with less adverse effects. This review provides detailed analysis of the different plant extracts; phytochemicals and herbal formulations for the amelioration of APAP-induced liver injury.

METHOD

The data was collected using different online resources including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Springer, and Web of Science using keywords given below.

RESULTS

Over the past decades various reports have revealed that plant-based approaches may be a better treatment choice for the APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in pre-clinical experimental conditions. Moreover, herbal compounds provide several advantages over the synthetic drugs with fewer side effects, easy availability and less cost for the treatment of life-threatening diseases.

CONCLUSION

The current review summarizes the hepatoprotective effects and therapeutic mechanisms of various plant extracts, active phytoconstituents and herbal formulations with potential application against APAP induced hepatotoxicity as the numbers of hepatoprotective natural products are more without clinical relativity. Further, pre-clinical pharmacological research will contribute to the designing of natural products as medicines with encouraging prospects for clinical application.

Artemisia spp.: An Update on Its Chemical Composition, Pharmacological and Toxicological Profiles

Artemisia plants are traditional and ethnopharmacologically used to treat several diseases and in addition in food, spices, and beverages. The genus is widely distributed in all continents except the Antarctica, and traditional medicine has been used as antimalarial, antioxidant, anticancer, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral agents. This review is aimed at systematizing scientific data on the geographical distribution, chemical composition, and pharmacological and toxicological profiles of the Artemisia genus. Data from the literature on Artemisia plants were taken using electronic databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Selected papers for this updated study included data about phytochemicals, preclinical pharmacological experimental studies with molecular mechanisms included, clinical studies, and toxicological and safety data. In addition, ancient texts and books were consulted. The essential oils and phytochemicals of the Artemisia genus have reported important biological activities, among them the artemisinin, a sesquiterpene lactone, with antimalarial activity. Artemisia absinthium L. is one of the most famous Artemisia spp. due to its use in the production of the absinthe drink which is restricted in most countries because of neurotoxicity. The analyzed studies confirmed that Artemisia plants have many traditional and pharmacological applications. However, scientific data are limited to clinical and toxicological research. Therefore, further research is needed on these aspects to understand the full therapeutic potential and molecular pharmacological mechanisms of this medicinal species.

Artemisia annua L. Extracts Improved Insulin Resistance via Changing Adiponectin, Leptin and Resistin Production in HFD/STZ Diabetic Mice

Objectives

Insulin resistance (IR) is major cause of type 2 diabetes (T2D), and adipokines (e.g., adiponectin, leptin, and resistin) play an important role in insulin sensitivity. Medicinal plants are frequently used for T2D treatment. This study investigates the effect of Artemisia annua L. (AA) extracts on adipokines in mice with high-fat-diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T2D.

Methods

We divided 60 mice into 12 groups (n = 5 per group) control, untreated T2D, treated T2D, and 9 other groups. T2D was induced in all groups, except controls, by 8 weeks of HFD and STZ injection. The treated T2D group was administered 250 mg/kg of metformin (MTF), while the nine other groups were treated with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of hot-water extract (HWE), cold-water extract (CWE), and alcoholic extract (ALE) of AA (daily oral gavage) along with 250 mg/kg of MTF for 4 weeks. The intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) was performed, and the homeostasis model assessment of adiponectin (HOMA-AD) index and blood glucose and serum insulin, leptin, adiponectin, and resistin levels were measured.

Results

Similar to MTF, all three types of AA extracts (HWEs, CWEs, and ALEs) significantly (p < 0.0001) decreased the area under the curve (AUC) of glucose during the IPGTT, the HOMA-AD index, blood glucose levels, and serum insulin, leptin, and resistin levels and increased serum adiponectin levels in the MTF group compared to the T2D group (p < 0.0001). The HWEs affected adipokine release, while the CWEs and ALEs decreased leptin and resistin production.

Conclusion

Water and alcoholic AA extracts have an antihyperglycemic and antihyperinsulinemic effect on HFD/STZ diabetic mice. In addition, they decrease IR by reducing leptin and resistin production and increasing adiponectin secretion from adipocytes.

Protective effect of naringin ameliorates TNBS-induced colitis in rats via improving antioxidant status and pro-inflammatory cytokines

Aim: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that disturbs the colon mucosal lining and is characterized by oxido-nitrosative stress and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Naringin (NG) belongs to a group of chemicals called bioflavonoids derived from grapefruit and related citrus species. NG has been widely used as folk medicine in many countries, due to its several health benefits.Method: This study examined the effect of NG on 2,4,6 trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis in rats. Forty-two male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups like Normal Control (NC), Ethanol Control (EC), Disease Control (DC), NG 20 (20 mg/kg, p.o.), NG 40 (40 mg/kg, p.o.), NG 80 (80 mg/kg, p.o.), and Dexamethasone (DEX) (2 mg/kg, p.o.). Colitis was induced in Wistar albino rats by administering TNBS intra-rectally (in 50% ethanol). The rats were then given 14 days of NG (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg) and DEX (2 mg/kg) treatment. Several behavioral, biochemical, molecular, and histological analyses were performed.Result: The treatment of rats with NG significantly increased the body weight (p < .05, p < .01), hematological parameters like hemoglobin (p < .05, p < .01, p < .001), red blood cells (p < .01, p < .001), and platelets count (p < .01, p < .001) and decreased in spleen weight (p < .01, p < .001), colon weight (p < .01, p < .001), colon weight to length ratio (p < .05, p < .01, p < .001), macroscopic score (p < .01, p < .001), adhesion score (p < .01, p < .001), diarrhea score (p < .05, p < .001), stool consistency (p < .01, p < .001), rectal bleeding score (p < .05, p < .01, p < .001), white blood cells count (p < .01, p < .001). NG significantly (p < .01, p < .001) increased colonic superoxide, glutathione, and catalase levels and decreased malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase levels. It also significantly (p < .01, p < .001) decreased the biochemical parameters, proinflammatory cytokines and reduced the histological damage in the colon tissue caused by TNBS.Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that NG treatment attenuated pathologic changes of TNBS-induced colitis in rats through restoring colonic damage and reducing inflammatory response in the colon tissue. Thus, NG might be considered as an effective candidate for the treatment of UC patients.

The role of diosgenin in crohn’s disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic idiopathic inflammation that can grossly affect the entire gastrointestinal tract (GIT) from the mouth to the anus. Crohn’s disease is the most known type of IBD and has been the focus of attention due to its increase in prevalence worldwide. Although the etiology is yet to be elucidated, recent studies have pointed out Crohn’s disease to arise from a complex interaction between environmental influences, genetic predisposition, and altered gut microbiota, resulting in dysregulated adaptive and innate responses. The presenting hallmarks of Crohn’s disease may include weight loss, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, or chills. Treatment is usually done with many approved immunosuppressive drugs and surgery. However, a promising avenue from natural compounds is a safer therapy due to its safe natural active ingredients and the strong activity it shows in the treatment and management of diseases. Diosgenin, “a major biologically active natural steroidal sapogenin found in Chinese yam,” has been widely reported as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of various classes of disorders such as hyperlipidemia, inflammation, diabetes, cancer, infection, and immunoregulation. In this review, an analysis of literature data on diosgenin employed as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of Crohn’s disease is approached, to strengthen the scientific database and curtail the dreadful impact of Crohn’s disease.

Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Artemisia annua L. improved insulin resistance via decreasing TNF-alpha, IL-6 and free fatty acids in high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

Objective:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease that influences many people worldwide. Management of insulin resistance in T2DM without side effects of chemical drugs, is the ultimate goal of the medical community. Artemisia annua L. is used for the treatment of diabetes in folkloric medicine. The present study investigated the effects of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of A. annua (AA) on insulin resistance in high-fat diet/STZ-induced diabetic mice.

Material and Methods:

Mice were divided into groups including control with a normal diet, un-treated high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice, and diabetic mice treated by oral administration of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight of water (hot and cold) and alcoholic extracts of AA. After four weeks of treatment with AA, blood sampling was carried out to measure factors involved in insulin resistance such as low-density lipoprotein/ High-density lipoprotein (LDL/HDL) ratio, free fatty acids, Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) as an index of insulin resistance.

Results:

The results showed that all AA extracts (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and metformin (250 mg/kg) significantly reduced the serum levels of free fatty acids, TNF-alpha, IL-6, LDL/HDL ratio, and HOMA-IR in diabetic mice compared to untreated diabetic mice (p<0.0001). Notably, the 400 mg/kg dose of cold-water extract was more effective than metformin in reduction of TNF-alpha and IL-6 (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively).

Conclusion:

These data illustrated that AA extracts attenuated insulin resistance by reducing the lipid profile and adipocytokines.

New Insights into the Chemical Composition, Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Inhibition Profile of Davana (Artemisia pallens Wall. ex DC.) Essential Oil and cis-Davanone in Primary Macrophage Cells

Artemisia pallens Wall. ex DC., popularly known as davana, has gained considerable attention because of its unique fragrance, high economic value, and pharmacological properties. The compositional complexity of davana essential oil (DO) has been a challenge for quality control. In this study, the chemical profile of DO was developed using polarity-based fractionation and a combination of gas chromatographic (GC-FID), hyphenated chromatographic (GC/MS), and spectroscopic (Fourier-Transform Infra-Red, 1D, 2D-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) techniques. The analysis led to the identification of ninety-nine compounds. Major components of the DO were cis-davanone (D3, 53.0 %), bicyclogermacrene (6.9 %), trans-ethyl cinnamate (4.9 %), davana ether isomer (3.4 %), spathulenol (2.8 %), cis-hydroxy davanone (2.4 %), and trans-davanone (2.1 %). The study led to identifying several co-eluting novel minor components, which could help determine the authenticity of DO. The rigorous column-chromatography led to the isolation of five compounds. Among these, bicyclogermacrene, trans-ethyl cinnamate, and spathulenol were isolated and characterized by spectroscopic methods for the first time from DO. Pharmacological profile revealed that the treatment of DO and D3 inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in primary macrophages without any cytotoxic effect after administration of their effective concentrations. The result of this study indicates the suitability of DO and D3 for further investigation for the treatment of chronic skin inflammatory conditions.

Sarsasapogenin and fluticasone combination improves DNFB induced atopic dermatitis lesions in BALB/c mice

OBJECTIVE

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a pruritic, chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease. The research aims to study the effects of Sarsasapogenin and its combination with Fluticasone in 2, 4-Dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) induced atopic dermatitis in BALB/c mice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty male Balb/c mice were divided into 5 groups: (i) Normal control (NC), (ii) Disease control (DNFB), (iii) Sarsasapogenin (SG) (50 µg/mice), (iv) Fluticasone (FC) (50 µg/mice), (v) Sarsasapogenin + Fluticasone (SG + FC) combination (25 µg/mice). Dermatitis was induced by repeated application of DNFB in Balb/c mice. On topical application of SG, FC, and SG + FC combination on the ear and skin lesions, body weight, ear weight, ear thickness, erythema score, spleen weight, cytokines, immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, nitric oxide (NO) level, hematological parameters, and oxidative stress markers were evaluated. Histological analysis of the ear tissue was also done.

RESULTS

The results stated that SG and SG + FC treatment to mice considerably decrease the ear weight, ear thickness, spleen weight, serum IgE, cytokines, NO levels, and restoration of antioxidant stress markers with elevation in the hematological parameters. The observations were further confirmed by histopathological analysis of ear tissue.

CONCLUSION

These data specify that SG has been demonstrated as a probable therapy for the treatment of allergic skin diseases in combination with FC by decreasing its dose from 50 to 25 µg/mice to avoid the chronic side effects of FC. Hence, it can be concluded that SG and SG + FC combination significantly improved the AD-like symptoms in the DNFB sensitized mice through mitigating the production of proinflammatory mediators and restoration of oxidative stress markers.

In vivo demonstration of a novel non-invasive model for inducing localized hypothermia to ameliorate hepatotoxicity

Moderate hypothermia (32 °C) has been previously shown to ameliorate drug-induced liver injuries in vitro. However, there are concerns regarding its clinical relevance as it remains a challenge to perform selective liver cooling in a non-invasive manner. To reconcile this dilemma, we propose the use of pulsed cooling for regional hypothermic conditioning in liver. This involves intermittent cooling applied in pulses of 15 min each, with a one-hour recovery interval between pulses. Cooling is achieved by applying ice packs to the cutaneous region overlying the liver. Through an in vivo C57BL/6NTac mouse study, we demonstrated the feasibility of attaining localized hypothermia close to the liver while maintaining core body temperature. This has successfully ameliorated acetaminophen-induced liver injury based on the liver function tests, liver histology and total weight change. Collectively, we provide a proof of concept for pulsed external localized cooling as being clinically actionable to perform induced selective hypothermia.

Baicalin regulates mRNA expression of VEGF-c, Ang-1/Tie2, TGF-β and Smad2/3 to inhibit wound healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic foot ulcer rats

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is biggest life threats globally and increases their severity increases health complications for health of patients. The present study was investigated to recover the wound healing activity of baicalin in STZ-induced DFU rats by evaluating biochemical and molecular markers. The experimental animals induced with diabetes and excision wounds were treated with different doses of baicalin (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg). The serum glucose level, body weight and food intake were measured. In addition, DFU rat groups showed decreased food intake and increased body weight. The tissue was subjected to biochemical evaluation, histopathology, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Histopathology reports revealed that diabetic wound control (DWC) + baicalin (100 mg/kg) treated group showed more than 90% recovery with more epithelization and remarkably improved angiogenesis and infiltration of the inflammatory cells. In this study we also proved that upregulated the p-ERK, ERK, HSP27, and p-HSP27 protein expression and mRNA expression of Ang-1, VEGF-c, TGF-β, Tie-2, and SMAD2/3 implicating the potential antidiabetic and wound healing property of baicalin. Thus, baicalin is a potential therapeutic candidate for a diabetic foot ulcer and chronic wounds treatment.

Protective effect of sarsasapogenin in TNBS induced ulcerative colitis in rats associated with downregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition considered by oxido-nitrosative stress and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines that affects the mucosal lining of the colon. Sarsasapogenin (SG), as an active component, has been found in many plants, and it exhibits potential protective effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-psoriasis, anti-arthritis, anti-asthma, anti-depressant and anti-cancer. However, the effects of SG on UC remain unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of SG on 2, 4, 6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced UC in rats.

METHOD

Thirty Wistar rats were randomized into five groups: (i) Normal control, (ii) Disease control (TNBS), (iii) Sarsasapogenin (SG) (50 µg/rat), (iv) Fluticasone (FC) (50 µg/rat), (v) Sarsasapogenin + Fluticasone (SG + FC) (25 µg/rat). UC was induced in rats by trans-rectal instillation of TNBS (10 mg/kg). SG, FC and SG + FC were administered for 11 days and on the 8th day colitis was induced. Several molecular, biochemical and histological alterations were evaluated in the colon tissue. All treatment group results were compared to the TNBS group results.

RESULT

The study results revealed that treatment of rats with SG and SG + FC combination significantly decreased the colon weight/length ratio, macroscopic inflammation score, lesions score, diarrhea score and adhesion score. Combination treatment in rats significantly reduced the production of biochemical parameters, proinflammatory cytokines, haematological parameters, serum IgE levels and restored the oxidative stress markers. SG and SG + FC treatment also considerably restored the histopathological changes induced by TNBS.

CONCLUSION

Thus, SG and SG + FC combination could alter the disease progression and could be a hopeful therapeutic target for the management of UC by reducing its dose in combination with FC to elude the long term adverse effects of FC.

d-Pinitol protects against endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury via modulation of AFT4-CHOP/GRP78 and caspase-3 signaling pathways

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major unavoidable clinical problem often accompanying various liver surgery and transplantation. d-Pinitol, a cyclic polyol, exhibits hepatoprotective efficacy. The objective of this study is to determine the possible mechanism of action of pinitol against endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress regulation-mediated hepatic IRI and compare its effects with thymoquinone (TQ) in experimental rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were pre-treated orally with either vehicle (DMSO) or d-Pinitol (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) or TQ (30 mg/kg) for 21 days and subjected to 60 min of partial hepatic ischemia followed by 24 h of reperfusion. Pre-treatment with pinitol (10 and 20 mg/kg) effectively (P < 0.05) protected against IRI-induced hepatic damage reflected by attenuation of elevated oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, western blot and ELISA analyses suggested that pinitol significantly (P < 0.05) down-regulated expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress apoptotic markers, namely glucose-regulated protein (GRP)-78, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), activating transcription factor (AFT)-4 and -6α, X-box binding protein-1, and caspase-3, 9, and 12. Additionally, pinitol pre-treatment effectively (P < 0.05) improved mitochondrial function and phosphorylation of Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 and p38. Pinitol markedly (P < 0.05) protected hepatic apoptosis determined by flow cytometry. Further, pinitol provided effective (P < 0.05) protection against hepatic histological and ultrastructural aberrations induced by IRI. TQ showed more pronounced protective effect against attenuation of IRI-induced hepatic injury as compared to d-Pinitol. Pinitol offered protection against endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38, thereby inhibiting AFT4-CHOP/GRP78 signaling response and caspase-3 induced hepatocellular apoptosis during hepatic ischemia-reperfusion insults. Thus, Pinitol can be considered as a viable option for the management of hepatic IRI.

Two antibacterial spiro compounds from the roots of Artemisia pallens wall: evidence from molecular docking

Bioassay-guided isolation from acetone extract of the roots of Artemisia pallens Wall yielded two spiro compounds (1 and 2). The structures of these compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic techniques such as IR, MS, 1 D and 2 D- NMR. The acetone extract, fractions and the isolated two compounds were investigated for their antibacterial activity against two gram negative (E. coli, P. aeruginosa) and two gram positive (S. aureus, B. subtilis) bacterial strains. Compound (2) showed the best spectra of activity with IC₅₀ and MIC values between 2.48-3.08 and 12.78 - 21.77 µM and Compound (1) with 2.57-3.69 and 38.17 - 80.57 µM, respectively, for the four bacterial strains, whereas inactive against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Molecular docking study could further help in understanding the various interactions between these compounds and DNA gyrase active site in detail and thereby could provide valuable insight into the mechanism of action.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Compositae Family and Its Therapeutic Potential

Compositae is the largest family of flowering plants, with more than 1600 genera and 22 000 species. It has many economic uses in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutics. The literature reports its numerous medicinal benefits and recognized anti-inflammatory activity. Thus, this study evaluated the technological trends of anti-inflammatory activity of Compositae, based on the survey of scientific databases, articles, and patents, as well as the website of the Brazilian National Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), which is responsible for registering and controlling of healthcare and cosmetic products in the Brazil. The survey was conducted between 2008 and 2018, in the databases Science Direct, Lilacs, PubMed, and Web of Science (main collection), as well as the SciELO Citation Index. The patent survey was carried out on the basis of the Derwent Innovations Index, an important source for worldwide patent consultation, which covers 20 y of registered patents. Despite the numerous studies involving species of the Compositae family in different models of anti-inflammatory activity, there are few records of patents or products on the market from these species for that purpose. Some species have a traditional use and are present even in the Phytotherapic Summary of the Brazilian Pharmacopeia. This review confirms the therapeutic potential of Compositae for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs and reinforces the need to develop competencies and reduce technological bottlenecks to promote research and innovation in biodiversity products.

Hecogenin and fluticasone combination attenuates TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis in rats via downregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress

OBJECTIVE

Ulcerative colitis is common types of severe, progressive, idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease that involves the mucosal lining of the large intestine. The purpose of the study is to explore the effects of hecogenin in TNBS (2, 4, 6- trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid) induced ulcerative colitis model in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty Wistar rats were randomized into five groups: (i) Normal Control (NC), (ii) Disease Control (DC), (iii) Hecogenin (HG) (50 µg/rat), (iv) Fluticasone (FC) (50 µg/rat), (v) Hecogenin + Fluticasone (HG + FC) combination (25 µg/rat). Colitis was induced by trans-rectal administration of TNBS using a catheter inserted 8 cm into the rectal portion of the rat. Colitis was evaluated by an independent observer who was blinded to the treatment. All treatment group results were compared to the TNBS group results.

RESULTS

The study results revealed that treatment of rats with HG and HG + FC significantly improved the body weight and colon length whereas; decreased the spleen weight, colon weight/length ratio, macroscopic lesions score, diarrhea score and adhesion score. The drug treatment in rats substantially decreased the development of inflammatory cytokines, levels of serum immunoglobulin E, colonic nitric oxide contents and restoration of antioxidant stress markers. Histopathological colon sample study significantly reduced colonic inflammation with a substantial decrease in inflammation score.

CONCLUSION

Thus, HG and HG + FC combination could change the pathogenesis of the disease and may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of ulcerative colitis by a reduction in dose in conjunction with FC to prevent the persistent adverse effects associated with FC.

Phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of the genus artemisia

Artemisia and its allied species have been employed for conventional medicine in the Northern temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia for the treatments of digestive problems, morning sickness, irregular menstrual cycle, typhoid, epilepsy, renal problems, bronchitis malaria, etc. The multidisciplinary use of artemisia species has various other health benefits that are related to its traditional and modern pharmaceutical perspectives. The main objective of this review is to evaluate the traditional, modern, biological as well as pharmacological use of the essential oil and herbal extracts of Artemisia nilagirica, Artemisia parviflora, and other allied species of Artemisia. It also discusses the botanical circulation and its phytochemical constituents viz disaccharides, polysaccharides, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids. The plants have different biological importance like antiparasitic, antimalarial, antihyperlipidemic, antiasthmatic, antiepileptic, antitubercular, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, anxiolytic, antiemetic, antidepressant, anticancer, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, insecticidal, antiviral activities, and also against COVID-19. Toxicological studies showed that the plants at a low dose and short duration are non or low-toxic. In contrast, a high dose at 3 g/kg and for a longer duration can cause toxicity like rapid respiration, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, etc. However, further in-depth studies are needed to determine the medicinal uses, clinical efficacy and safety are crucial next steps.

Elucidation of colon-protective efficacy of diosgenin in experimental TNBS-induced colitis: inhibition of NF-κB/IkB-α and Bax/Caspase-1 signaling pathways

The aim of present investigation was to elucidate the unrevealed beneficial role of diosgenin against an experimental model of TNBS (2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesufonic acid)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC). Colitis was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by intrarectal administration of TNBS (in 50% ethanol). Then animals were treated with diosgenin (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) for 14 days. Various biochemical, behavioral, molecular, and histological analysis was performed. Diosgenin significantly decreased (p < 0.05) TNBS-induced elevated colonic oxido-nitrosative damage, myeloperoxidase, hydroxyproline, mRNA expressions of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ) and inflammatory markers (iNOs and COX-2) induced by TNBS. Western blot analysis relevated that TNBS-induced up-regulated protein expressions of NF-κB, IκBα, Bax, and Caspase-1 were markedly decreased (p < 0.05) by diosgenin treatment. It also markedly ameliorated the histological insults induced in the colon by TNBS. In conclusion, diosgenin exerts its colon-protective efficacy probably through the inhibition of NF-κB/IkB-α and Bax/Caspase-1 signaling pathways to experimental TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis.

ABBREVIATIONS

ANOVA: Analysis of variance; 5-ASA: 5-aminosalicylic acid; Bax: Bcl-2-associated X protein; COX-2: Cyclooxygenase-2; DAI: Disease Activity Index; DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide; GAPDH: Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase; GSH: Glutathione; HP: Hydroxyproline; IAEC: International Animal Ethics Committee; IBD: Inflammatory Bowel Disease; IBS: Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome; IL's: Interleukin's; IFN-γ: Interferon-gamma; IκBα: nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor-alpha; iNOs: Inducible nitric oxide synthase; LTB4: Leukotriene B4; MDA: Malondialdehyde; MPO: Myeloperoxidase; NO: Nitric Oxide; NF-κB: Nuclear Factor-κB; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; SOD: Superoxide Dismutase; TNBS: Trinitrobenzene Sulfonic Acid; TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-α.

Allium Jesdianum Extract Improve Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatic Failure through Inhibition of Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress

Objectives

Allium jesdianum (Aj) is a medicinal plant that has highlighted pharmacological features. In this study, the effects of Aj extract were examined on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatic failure in rats.

Methods

Methanolic fraction of hydro-alcoholic extract of Aj was obtained by silica gel column chromatography method. Animals were randomly divided into four groups each containing six rats and treated by gavage as follows: the first and second groups received normal saline, the third and fourth groups were received with 50 and 100 mg/kg of Aj extract, respectively. After two consecutive weeks, the groups 2–4 were given a single dose of APAP (2 g/kg). After 48 hours, blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical and histological examinations.

Results

The findings of the study demonstrated that APAP caused a significant increase in ALT (P < 0.001), AST (P < 0.001), LDH (P < 0.001), ALP (P < 0.001) serum levels, hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO; P < 0.001) and nitric oxide (NO; P < 0.001). In this regard, APAP led to the depletion of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC; P < 0.001), glutathione and total thiol groups (TTGs; P < 0.001), and structural change in the liver. In the Aj extract groups, a considerable improvement was found in the hepatic function alongside the histopathologic changes.

Conclusion

This investigation indicated that the influential effects of Aj extract in APAP-induced hepatic failure might depend on its effect on improving oxidant/antioxidant balance in hepatic tissue.

Se - [(2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl) methyl] 4-chlorobenzoselenolate reduces the nociceptive and edematogenic response by chemical noxious stimuli in mice: Implications of multi-target actions

BACKGROUND

The present study evaluated the antioxidant, antinociceptive and anti-edematogenic effects of Se-[(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl) methyl] 4-chlorobenzoselenolate (Se-DMC).

METHODS

In vitro experiments were carried out to evaluate Se-DMC antioxidant action. Thiobarbituric acid reactive species levels, 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-thylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radicals scavenging and glutathione S-transferase-like activity were determined. Male Swiss mice were orally pretreated with Se-DMC (1, 10 and 50 mg/kg), meloxicam (50 mg/kg) or vehicle 30 min prior to acetic acid or glutamate test. To extend our knowledge of the pharmacological properties of this compound, it was tested in an inflammatory model through ear edema induced by croton oil. The contribution of glutamatergic and serotonergic systems was also investigated.

RESULTS

In vitro experiments revealed that Se-DMC exerts antioxidant activity. Nociception induced by glutamate or acetic acid was reduced by Se-DMC or meloxicam. Se-DMC diminished the paw edema formation induced by glutamate, while meloxicam did not show any effect. Se-DMC and meloxicam decreased the ear edema formation and protected against the increase in myeloperoxidase activity in mice ear induced by croton oil. The pretreatment of animals with MK-801 did not alter antinociception caused by Se-DMC in the glutamate test. The antinociceptive effect exerted by Se-DMC in the acetic acid test was reverted by the pretreatment of mice with different serotonergic antagonists (WAY100635, ketanserin and pindolol).

CONCLUSIONS

Data presented here showed that the modulation of serotonergic and glutamatergic systems and the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions could contribute to the antinociceptive and anti-edematogenic effects of Se-DMC and it supported the therapeutic potential of this compound.

Synthesis of Isoxazolines by the Electrophilic Chalcogenation of β,γ-Unsaturated Oximes: Fishing Novel Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Herein, we describe a new strategy to prepare chalcogen-functionalized isoxazolines. The strategy involves the reaction of β,γ-unsaturated oximes with electrophilic selenium and tellurium species, affording 19 new selenium- and tellurium-containing isoxazolines in good yields after 1 h at room temperature. The method was efficiently extended to the synthesis of 5 new (bis)isoxazoline ditellurides. One of the prepared compounds, 3-phenyl-5-((phenylselanyl)methyl)-isoxazoline, demonstrated better anti-inflammatory and antiedematogenic effects than the reference drug Celecoxib.

Chrysin ameliorates ANTU-induced pulmonary edema and pulmonary arterial hypertension via modulation of VEGF and eNOs

Alpha-naphthylthiourea (ANTU), a rodenticide induces lung toxicity. Chrysin a flavonoid possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive potential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of chrysin against ANTU-induced pulmonary edema (PE) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in laboratory rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were used to induce PE (ANTU, 10 mg/kg, ip) and PAH (ANTU, 5 mg/kg, ip, 4 weeks). Animals were treated with chrysin (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) and various biochemical, molecular, and histological parameters were evaluated. Acute administration of ANTU induces PE revealed by significant (P < 0.05) increase in relative lung weight, pleural effusion volume, lung edema, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cell counts, total protein, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), whereas pretreatment with chrysin (20 and 40 mg/kg, ip) significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated these ANTU-induced biochemical and histological alterations. Repeated administration of ANTU caused induction of PAH evaluated by significant (P < 0.05) alterations in electrocardiographic, hemodynamic changes, and left ventricular function, whereas chrysin (20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) treatment significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated these alterations. ANTU-induced hematological and serum biochemical (aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, LDH, and creatinine kinase MB) alterations were significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited by chrysin. It also significantly (P < 0.05) decreased elevated levels of oxido-nitrosative stress in the right ventricle (RV) and lung. Chrysin significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated downregulated endothelial nitric oxide synthase and upregulated vascular endothelial growth factor messenger RNA and protein expressions both in the RV and pulmonary artery. Chrysin inhibited ANTU-induced PE and PAH via modulation of inflammatory responses (5-HT, LDH, and GGT), oxido-nitrosative stress, and VEGF and eNOs levels.

Diarylheptanoid, a constituent isolated from methanol extract of Alpinia officinarum attenuates TNF-α level in Freund's complete adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory and destructive joint disease that affects the worldwide population. Alpinia officinarum Hance (Zingiberaceae), rhizomes are widely used ethnobotanically as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant agent in traditional medicine.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and possible mechanism of isolated phytoconstituent from the methanol extract of A. officinarum (MEAO) rhizomes against Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis in rats. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to study the binding mode of this compound into the active site of TNF-α.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diarylheptanoid was isolated from MEAO, well characterized (HPTLC, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and ESI-MS) and evaluated for its antiarthritic activity in female Wistar rats (170-200 g). Diarylheptanoid (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered starting from day 12. Various behavioral, biochemical, molecular and histopathology parameters were evaluated. Molecular docking study was performed using Glide module integrated into Schrodinger molecular modeling software.

RESULTS

The structure and molecular weight of the isolated compound (diarylheptanoid) were confirmed by 1D and mass spectral data and characterized as 1-phenyl-5-hydroxy-7- (4''-hydroxy-3''-methoxyphenyl) heptane-3-one (i.e., 5-HPH) with molecular formula C₂₀H₂₄O₄. Administration of 5-HPH (10 and 20 mg/kg) significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) FCA induced increases in paw volume, joint diameter, thermal hyperalgesia and tactile allodynia. It also significantly decreased oxido-inflammatory markers (SOD, GSH, MDA, and TNF-α). FCA induced a histological alteration in ankle joint also attenuated by 5-HPH. Its Glide docking score was found to be -9.702 with binding energy (Glide energy) of -37.033 kcal/mol.

CONCLUSION

5-HPH may exhibit its anti-arthritic potential via inhibition of elevated oxido-inflammatory markers thus restoring the elevated hyperalgesia, allodynia and reducing destruction in synovial membrane and cartilage. Therefore, 5-HPH is a potential moiety bearing antioxidant and with anti-inflammatory properties to inhibit FCA-induced arthritis in rats. The results of the present investigation should enable the design of potent small-molecule inhibitors that inactivate TNF-α with high affinity and specificity.

Fisetin, a plant flavonoid ameliorates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in experimental rats: the decisive role of caspase-3, COX-II, cTn-I, iNOs and TNF-α

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used anthracycline antibiotic for the management of carcinoma. However, it is associated with cardiotoxicity. Fisetin is a plant flavonoid reported to have anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic potential. To evaluate the cardioprotective potential of fisetin in DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in experimental rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were pre-treated with either fisetin (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) or sitagliptin (10 mg/kg, p.o.) for 7 days. Cardiac toxicity was induced in rats (except the normal group) by doxorubicin (15 mg/kg i.p.) on 8th day. Various behavioral, biochemical, molecular and histological parameters were assessed in cardiac tissue. DOX-induced alterations in electrocardiographic, hemodynamic and left ventricular function were significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited by fisetin (20 and 40 mg/kg) treatment. Fisetin significantly decrease (p < 0.05) DOX-induced elevated serum CK-MB, LDH, AST, ALT and ALP levels. DOX-induced elevated cardiac oxido-nitrosative (SOD, GSH, MDA and NO) was significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) by fisetin. Up-regulated cardiac caspase-3, COX-II, cTn-I, iNOs, TNF-α, and IL-1β mRNA, as well as protein expressions were significantly decreased (p < 0.05) by fisetin treatment. It also significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated DOX-induced histopathological alterations in cardiac tissue. In conclusion, the fisetin exerts its cardioprotective potential against DOX-induced toxicity via inhibition of multiple pathways including oxidative stress (SOD, GSH, MDA and NO), inflammation (COX-II, TNF-α, and IL-1β), and apoptosis (Caspase-3). Therefore, fisetin can be considered as a potential cardioprotective agent during the management of carcinoma using doxorubicin anthracyclines.

The effects of colostrum on some biochemical parameters in the experimental intoxication of rats with paracetamol

In the current study, the possible prophylactic and therapeutic effects of colostrum (COL) on acute organ injury caused by paracetamol (PAR) in rats were evaluated. Within the scope of this study, a 2-month-old male (150-200 g) 70 Wistar Albino rat was used and a total of seven groups were designed. The first group (CNT) was maintained for control purposes. The second group (COL-1) was given COL for 1 day, at a dose of 500 mg/kg at 6-h intervals, and blood and tissue sampling was performed at 24 h. The third group (COL-7) received COL for 7 days, at a dose of 500 mg/kg at 6-h intervals on day 1 and at a daily dose of 500 mg/kg on the following days, and blood and tissue samples were taken at the end of seventh day. The fourth group (PAR-1) was administered with PAR at a dose of 1.0 g/kg bw and was blood and tissue sampled at 24 h. The fifth group (PAR-7) received PAR at a dose of 1.0 g/kg bw on day 1 and was blood and tissue was removed at the end of day 7. The sixth group (PAR+COL-1) was administered with a combination of PAR (1 g/kg bw) and COL (500 mg/kg at 6-h intervals), and blood and tissue samples were collected at 24 h. The seventh group (PAR+COL-7) received 1.0 g/kg bw of PAR on day 1 and was given COL throughout the 7-day study period (at a dose of 500 mg/kg at 6-h intervals on day 1 and at a daily dose of 500 mg/kg on the following days). In the seventh group, blood and tissue samples were taken at the end of seventh day. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), glucose, creatinine, triglyceride, total bilirubin, total protein and albumin levels/activities were analysed in the serum samples. The malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels/activities, known as oxidative stress parameters, were assayed for tissue homogenates and blood (erythrocytes/plasma); in addition, enzyme activities of GSH S-transferase (GST), cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1), NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase (CYTB5), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), NADPH-cytochrome P450 C reductase (CYTC) and glutathione (GSH) levels/activities defined as drug metabolising parameters were measured in liver homogenates. In result, it was determined that PAR caused significant alterations in some biochemical and lipid peroxidation parameters and the activities/levels of drug metabolising parameters in the liver and that COL normalised some of these parameters and reduced PAR-induced tissue damage.

Hesperidin, a plant flavonoid accelerated the cutaneous wound healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: Role of TGF-ß/Smads and Ang-1/Tie-2 signaling pathways

Background: Delayed wound healing is a diverse, multifactorial, complex and inter-related complication of diabetes resulting in significant clinical morbidity. Hesperidin possesses potent antidiabetic and wound healing activity.

Aim: To evaluate the potential of hesperidin against experimentally induced diabetes foot ulcers.

Methods: Diabetes was induced experimentally by streptozotocin (STZ, 55 mg/kg, i.p.) in Sprague Dawley rats (180-220 g) and wounds were created on the dorsal surface of the hind paw of rats. Hesperidin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered for 21 days after wound stabilization. Various biochemical, molecular and histopathological parameters were evaluated in wound tissue.

Results: STZ-induced decrease in body weight and increase in blood glucose, food, and water intake was significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited by hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment. It showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in percent wound closure and serum insulin level. The STZ-induced decrease in SOD and GSH level, as well as elevated MDA and NO levels, were significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated by hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment. Intraperitoneal administration of STZ caused significant down-regulation in VEGF-c, Ang-1, Tie-2, TGF-β and Smad 2/3 mRNA expression in wound tissues whereas hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment showed significant up-regulation in these mRNA expressions. STZ-induced alteration in would architecture was also attenuated by hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment.

Conclusion: Together, treatment with hesperidin accelerate angiogenesis and vasculogenesis via up-regulation of VEGF-c, Ang-1/Tie-2, TGF-β and Smad-2/3 mRNA expression to enhance wound healing in chronic diabetic foot ulcers.

Elucidation of protective efficacy of Pentahydroxy flavone isolated from Madhuca indica against arsenite-induced cardiomyopathy: Role of Nrf-2, PPAR-γ, c-fos and c-jun

BACKGROUND

Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. (Sapotaceae) is widely used ethnobotanically as anti-diabetic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. It was shown to possess potent anti-apoptotic property.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the possible mechanism of action of isolated phytoconstituent from Madhuca indica Leaves methanolic extract (MI-ALC) on arsenic-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone (QTN) was isolated and characterized by using HPTLC, ¹H NMR, and LC-MS from MI-ALC. QTN (5, 10 and 20mg/kg, p.o.) was administered in arsenic intoxicated rats (5mL/kg, p.o.) for 28days and evaluated for various behavioral, biochemical, molecular and ultra-histological changes.

RESULTS

Treatment with QTN (10 and 20mg/kg, p.o.) significantly inhibited (p<0.05) arsenic-induced electrocardiographic, hemodynamic and left ventricular function alterations. Elevated levels of cardiac markers (LDH, CK-MB, AST, ALT, and ALP), altered lipid metabolism (total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL, and VLDL) was significantly restored (p<0.05) by QTN. It also significantly inhibited (p<0.05) altered cardiac oxido-nitrosative stress, Na-K-ATPase level and mitochondrial enzymes (I-IV) activity after arsenite administration. QTN significantly increased (p<0.05) myocardial Nrf-2, PPAR-γ and significantly decreased (p<0.05) myocardial c-fos and c-jun mRNA expressions. Flow cytometric analysis showed that treatment with QTN (10 and 20mg/kg) significantly inhibited (p<0.05) arsenite-induce ROS and apoptosis. It also reduced ultra-histological aberrations induced by sodium arsenite.

CONCLUSION

Administration of 3,5,7,3',4'- Pentahydroxy flavone (i.e. Quercetin (QTN)) isolated from MI-ALC showed significant protection against arsenic-induced oxido-nitrosative stress and myocardial injury via modulation of Nrf2, PPAR-γ, and apoptosis.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of Guaianolide isolated from Cyathocline purpurea: Role of COX-2 inhibition

BACKGROUND

Inflammation activated by oxidative stress can cause various diseases, such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes, etc. Plant constituents with sesquiterpene lactones possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

AIM

To determine the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of isolated phytoconstituent from Cyathocline purpurea Buch-Ham ex D (CP). Don in laboratory animals. Furthermore, to understand the interactions involved in the binding of this compound to cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) via computational docking.

METHODS

Phytoconstituent was isolated, purified and well characterized (using IR, NMR, and MS) from ethyl acetate fraction of CP methanolic extract. It was then evaluated for its in-vitro antioxidant activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and hydroxyl (OH) radical assays as well as in-vivo anti-inflammatory potential against carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. The molecular docking study was performed against the crystal structure of COX-2 to evaluate the binding potential of phytoconstituent towards this enzyme.

RESULTS

The isolated compound 6α-hydroxy-4 [14], 10 [15]-guainadien-8α, 12-olide (HGN) showed significant (p<0.001) antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values of 76μg/mL. Administration of HGN (10 and 20mg/kg) significantly (p<0.001) reduced the increased paw volume after subplantar administration of carrageenan. It also exhibits good binding affinity towards with COX-2 with a docking score of -8.98 and Glide binding energy of -36.488kcal/mol shedding light on the potential mechanism of anti-inflammatory action.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of hydroxyl group in HGN provides a credential to its in-vivo anti-inflammatory and in-vitro antioxidant activities. Furthermore, the good binding affinity of HGN for the active site of COX-2 may open novel vistas in therapeutic option with natural antioxidants like Cyathocline purpurea to treat various inflammatory disorders.

Ameliorative effects of Artemisia pallens in a murine model of ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma via modulation of biochemical perturbations

INTRODUCTION

Asthma is a chronic, heterogeneous airway disorder characterized by airway inflammatory and remodeling. Artemisia pallens has been reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic potential.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the anti-asthmatic effects of methanolic extract of Artemisia pallens (APME) against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

AHR was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats (180-200g) by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of OVA and boosted with an identical OVA solution (s.c.) on day 7. Rats were either treated orally with vehicle (10mg/kg), montelukast (10mg/kg) or APME (100, 200 and 400mg/kg) for next 28days. At the end treatments, various biochemical, molecular (RT-PCR and ELISA analysis) and histological parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

APME (200 and 400mg/kg) significantly attenuated (p<0.05) OVA-induced alteration in lung functions measured by Whole-body plethysmography. Increased Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) fluid differential cell count, as well as total protein and albumin in BAL fluid and lungs, was significantly decreased (p<0.05) by APME. It also significantly attenuated (p<0.05) elevated lung oxido-nitrosative stress, myeloperoxidase, and serum IgE levels. OVA-induced down-regulation in lung Nrf2 and upregulation in TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, TGF-β mRNA expression was significantly attenuated (p<0.05) by APME (200 and 400mg/kg) treatment. Histopathological analysis of lung tissue showed that APME treatment reduced OVA-induced inflammatory influx and fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

Artemisia pallens simultaneously orchestrate plethora of mechanisms viz. modulations of IgE, TGF-β, TNF-α, IL's and Nrf-2 levels to exhibit its anti-asthmatic potential in OVA-induced AHR in rats.

Glycosides Based Standardized Fenugreek Seed Extract Ameliorates Bleomycin-induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats Via Modulation of Endogenous Enzymes

BACKGROUND

Liver fibrosis a complex process of excess collagen deposition resulted in disturbance of hepatic cellar function. Glycosides based standardized fenugreek seed extract (SFSE-G) has potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic properties.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of SFSE-G against bleomycin (BLM)-induced liver fibrosis in laboratory animals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats (180-220 g) were assigned to various groups, namely, normal, sham, BLM control, SFSE-G (5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, p.o.), methylprednisolone (10 mg/kg, p.o.), and sildenafil (25 mg/kg, p.o.). Liver fibrosis was induced in various groups (except normal and sham) by single intratracheal BLM (6 IU/kg) injection. Various biochemical, molecular (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) and histological parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

Intratracheal BLM administration caused significant induction (P < 0.001) of hepatotoxicity and liver fibrosis reflected by elevated levels of serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total as well as direct bilirubin, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Administration of SFSE-G (20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced (P < 0.001) levels of AST, ALT, and GGT and significantly increased (P < 0.001) the level of serum albumin. BLM-induced elevated liver oxidative stress and decreased total antioxidant capacity was significantly restored (P < 0.001) by SFSE-G (20 and 40 mg/kg) treatment. It also significantly inhibited BLM-induced alteration in liver Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) mRNA expression. SFSE-G treatment reduced histopathological alteration induced by BLM in liver.

CONCLUSION

SFSE-G exerts its hepatoprotective potential via inhibition of oxido-nitrosative stress and modulation of FXR mRNA expression thus ameliorates BLM-induced liver fibrosis.

Neuroprotective effect of Azadirachta indica standardized extract in partial sciatic nerve injury in rats: Evidence from anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic studies

Chronic neuropathic pain is a common and widely recognized pain syndrome for patients and difficult to manage for physicians. Azadirachta indica (AI) possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of AI standardized extract in an animal model of peripheral neuropathy induced by partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL). PSNL was induced in male Wistar rats (180-200 g) with tight ligation of the nerve. Rats received treatment with either vehicle i.e. distilled water (PSNL control), Pyridoxine (100 mg/kg, p.o.) or AI (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) for 28 days. Various behavioral parameters, biochemical, molecular and histological parameters were evaluated. PSNL resulted in a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in allodynia, hyperalgesia, motor coordination and motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) whereas chronic treatment with AI (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) these behavioral changes. Enhanced activity of oxidative-nitrosative stress, inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB) as well as mRNA expression of Bax, Caspase-3, and iNOs were significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) by AI treatment. It also significantly increased (p < 0.05) peripheral blood oxygen content and Bcl-2 mRNA expression. The flow cytometric analysis revealed that AI (200 and 400 mg/kg) treatment significantly attenuated neural apoptosis and reactive oxygen species levels. PSNL induced histological aberrations were also decreased by AI treatment. Azadirachta indica exerts its neuroprotection against PSNL induced neuropathic pain via inhibition of oxidative-nitrosative stress, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis to improve MNCV (graphical abstract, Figure 1(Fig. 1)).

Hepatoprotective effect of withanolide-rich fraction in acetaminophen-intoxicated rat: decisive role of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-II and iNOS

CONTEXT

Overdose of acetaminophen (APAP) is common in humans and is often associated with hepatic damage. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) shows multiple pharmacological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the possible mechanism of hepatoprotective activity of withanolide-rich fraction (WRF) isolated from a methanolic extract of Withania somnifera roots.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced by oral administration of APAP (750 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 d. The control group received the vehicle. APAP-treated animals were given either silymarin (25 mg/kg) or graded doses of WRF (50, 100 and 200mg/kg) 2 h prior to APAP administration. Animals were killed on 15th day and blood and liver tissue samples were collected for the further analysis.

RESULTS

In WRF-treated group, there was significant and dose-dependent (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) decrease in serum bilirubin, ALP, AST and ALT levels with significant and dose-dependent (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) increase in hepatic SOD, GSH and total antioxidant capacity. The level of MDA and NO decreased significantly (p < 0.01) by WRF treatment. Up-regulated mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-II and iNOS was significantly down-regulated (p < 0.001) by WRF. Histological alternations induced by APAP in liver were restored to near normality by WRF pretreatment.

CONCLUSION

WRF may exert its hepatoprotective action by alleviating inflammatory and oxido-nitrosative stress via inhibition of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-II and iNOS.

Isolation, characterization and hypolipidemic activity of ferulic acid in high-fat-diet-induced hyperlipidemia in laboratory rats

Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce (Leguminosae) (syn. Prosopis spicigera L.) has antidiabetic and antioxidant potential. Earlier we reported its hypolipidemic activity obtained from ethanol extract (ET-PCF). Object of this work was to isolate ferulic acid (FA) from ET-PCF and evaluate hypolipidemic activity against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hyperlipidemic laboratory rats. ET-PCF was subjected to flash column chromatography to isolate FA. The chemical structure of the isolated compound was elucidated by UV, IR, ¹H NMR,¹³C NMR and LC-MS. Further, the antihyperlipidemic effect of FA (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) in HFD-induced hyperlipidemic rats was investigated. Hyperlipidemia was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding with HFD for 60 days. Lipid parameters such as total cholesterol (TC), Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides (TG) levels were measured in serum and hepatic tissue. Hepatic oxido-nitrosative stress (SOD, GSH, MDA and NO) were also determined. Histological evaluation of liver tissue was carried out. The structure of the isolated compound was characterized based on spectral data and confirmed as FA. HFD induced an alteration in serum, and hepatic lipid profile (triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL, and LDL) was significantly restored (p < 0.001) by administration of FA (20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.). The elevated level of oxido-nitrosative stress in liver was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) by FA (20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.). Histological aberration induced in the liver after HFD ingestion were restored by FA administration. Ferulic acid isolated from ET-PCF showed hypolipidemic effects in HFD-induced hyperlipidemic rats via modulation of elevated oxido-nitrosative stress.

Protective effect of L-glutamine against diabetes-induced nephropathy in experimental animal: Role of KIM-1, NGAL, TGF-β1, and collagen-1

Diabetic nephropathy is a serious microvascular complication and one of the main causes of end-stage renal disease. L-Glutamine (LG) is naturally occurring amino acids with antidiabetic and antioxidant potential. The aim of present investigation was to evaluate the potential of LG against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy (DN) in laboratory rats. DN was induced in male Wistar rats (200-220 g) by intraperitoneal administration of STZ (55 mg/kg). Animals were treated orally with either distilled water (10 mg/kg) or LG (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) or Sitagliptin (5 mg/kg). Various biochemical, molecular, and histological (hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome stain) parameters were assessed. Administration of LG (500 and 1000 mg/kg) significantly inhibited (p < .05) STZ-induced alterations in serum and urine biochemistry (urine creatinine, uric acid, albumin, and BUN). It also significantly increased creatinine clearance rate. STZ induced increase in renal oxidonitrosative stress was significantly decreased (p < .05) by LG (500 and 1000 mg/kg) treatment. Upregulated renal KIM-1, NGAL, TGF-β1, and collagen-1 mRNA expression after STZ administration was significantly inhibited (p < .05) by LG (500 and 1000 mg/kg) treatment. Correlation analysis also revealed that antidiabetic potential of LG attenuates STZ-induced elevated renal KIM-1, NGAL, TGF-β1, and collagen-1 mRNA expression. Histopathological alteration induced by STZ in renal tissue was ameliorated by LG treatment. In conclusion, results of present investigation suggest that treatment with LG ameliorated STZ-induced DN via the inhibition of oxidonitrosative stress as well as downregulation of KIM-1, NGAL, TGF-β1, and collagen-1 mRNA expressions.

Ferulic acid ameliorates TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis through modulation of cytokines, oxidative stress, iNOs, COX-2, and apoptosis in laboratory rats

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic immune-inflammatory disorder characterized by oxido-nitrosative stress, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis. Ferulic acid (FA), a phenolic compound is considered to possess potent antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim is to evaluate possible mechanism of action of FA against trinitrobenzensulfonic acid (TNBS) induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats. UC was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats (150-200 g) by intrarectal administration of TNBS (100 mg/kg). FA was administered (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days after colitis was induced. Various biochemical, molecular and histological changes were assessed in the colon. Intrarectal administration of TNBS caused significant induction of ulcer in the colon with an elevation of oxido-nitrosative stress, myeloperoxidase and hydroxyproline activity in the colon. Administration of FA (20 and 40 mg/kg) significantly decrease oxido-nitrosative stress, myeloperoxidase, and hydroxyproline activities. Up-regulated mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOs, as well as down-regulated IL-10 mRNA expressions after TNBS administration, were significantly inhibited by FA (20 and 40 mg/kg) treatment. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that intrarectal administration of TNBS-induced significantly enhanced the colonic apoptosis whereas administration of FA (20 and 40 mg/kg) significantly restored the elevated apoptosis. FA administration also significantly restored the histopathological aberration induced by TNBS. The findings of the present study demonstrated that FA ameliorates TNBS-induced colitis via inhibition of oxido-nitrosative stress, apoptosis, proinflammatory cytokines production, and down- regulation of COX-2 synthesis.Graphical Abstract: TNBS caused activation of T cells which interact with CD40 on antigen presenting cells i.e. dendritic cells (DC) that induce the key Interleukin 12 (IL-12)-mediated Th1 T cell immune inflammatory response. It releases interferon-γ (IFN-γ), which in turn induces macrophages (MAC) to produce TNF-α and other pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, IL-6). This inflammatory influx resulted in induction of ulcerative colitis (UC). Administration of FA may inhibit this IFN-γ induced inflammatory cascade via a decrease in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines to ameliorate TNBS-induced colitis.

Gastroprotective potential of Pentahydroxy flavone isolated from Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. leaves against acetic acid-induced ulcer in rats: The role of oxido-inflammatory and prostaglandins markers

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. (Sapotaceae) has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective potential. It has been traditionally used as laxative, tonic, anti-burn, anti-earthworm, wound healing and headache.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the efficacy and possible mechanism of Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. leaves methanolic extract (MI-ALC) and its isolated chloroform fraction (D3) against experimental induced gastric ulcers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

D3 was isolated from MI-ALC, well characterized (HPTLC, FT-IR, (1)H-NMR and LC-MS) and evaluated for its gastroprotective activity by using acetic acid induced ulcer in male Wistar rats (150-200g). D3 (2.5, 5 and 10mg/kg, p.o.) were administered for the period of 14 days. At the end of treatment, rats were sacrificed to collect the stomach sample for evaluation of antioxidant (SOD, GSH, and MDA) enzyme, oxido-inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1, iNOs) and prostaglandins (COX-II) markers by using RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The structure and molecular weight (MW) of the isolated compound (D3) were confirmed by 1D and 2D spectral data and characterized as 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone with MW C15H10O7. Administration of 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone (5 and 10mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently inhibited (P<0.01 and P<0.001) acetic acid induced an alteration in the antioxidant enzyme. It also significantly and dose-dependently down-regulated gastric oxido-inflammatory and prostaglandins markers. Histopathological aberration induced in the stomach also attenuated by 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone treatment.

CONCLUSION

Finding of present investigation suggests that MI-ALC possessed potent antiulcer activity due to the presence of 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone via its oxido-inflammatory and prostaglandins modulatory potential.