Flavonoids with gastroprotective activity

Gastroprotective mechanism of Talinum triangulare on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in Wistar rats via inflammatory, antioxidant, and H+/K+-ATPase inhibition-mediated pathways

The increase in the incidence of gastric ulcer (GU) has posed major threat on public health. This research aimed to evaluate gastroprotective properties of the aqueous leaf extract of Talium triangulare (AETT) in ethanol-induced gastric ulceration. GU was induced via oral administration of single dose of 5 mLkg-1 of 90% ethanol in rats and protection of 200 mgkg-1 bw of AETT and 20 mgkg-1 bw of omeprazole was investigated for 14 d via oral treatment. Influence of AETT on anti-inflammatory, redox assays, ulcer index (UI), and gastric mucosa histological alterations were evaluated. Significant increase in myeloperoxidase (MPO) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels compared to untreated group established gastric inflammation in rats induced by ethanol. Gastric ulcerated group exhibited heightened oxidative stress with concurrent decline in activities of antioxidant enzymes. Ethanol exposure to rats resulted in induction of lipid peroxidation, prominently elevating gastric malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. Nevertheless, treatment with AETT or omeprazole exhibited substantial anti-inflammatory effects within gastric mucosa by attenuating expression of markers associated with inflammation. AETT demonstrated reduction in concentrations of MDA and H2O2, thereby alleviating progression of lipid peroxidation cascades. Also, AETT exhibited mitigating effect on ethanol-induced oxidative harm by enhancing the functionality of protective enzymes and elevating glutathione (GSH) concentration. Overall, AETT exhibited enhancements in activities of cytoprotective antioxidant enzymes, mitigated impact of oxidative stress and inflammation, inhibited lipid peroxidation, and decreased UI score. These beneficial effects could be attributed to phytochemicals present in AETT including 6,10,14-trimethyl-2-pentadecanone and Phytol. Outcome of this study established the traditional herbal claims of AETT.

A Comprehensive Review of Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicity of Prunus africana (Hook. F.) Kalkman from Africa

Prunus africana, a widely utilized medicinal plant in various African ethnic communities, continues to hold significant importance in traditional healing practices. Research has identified phytochemical compounds in this plant, exhibiting diverse pharmacological activities that offer potential for pharmaceutical development. Notably, P. africana is employed in treating various ailments such as wounds, diabetes mellitus, malaria, benign prostatic hyperplasia, chest pain, and prostate cancer. Its pharmacological properties are attributed to a spectrum of bioactive compounds, including tannins, saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phytosterols, and fatty acids. Multiple studies have documented the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiandrogenic, antiangiogenic, antioxidant, antidipeptidyl peptidase-4 activity, analgesic, and astringent properties of P. africana extracts. This review offers a comprehensive compilation of ethnomedicinal applications, phytochemical composition, pharmacological effects, and toxicity assessments of P. africana, serving as a foundation for future preclinical and clinical investigations. By understanding its traditional uses and chemical constituents, researchers can target specific medical conditions with greater precision, potentially expediting the development of safe and effective pharmaceuticals. Moreover, toxicity assessments provide crucial insights into the safety profile of P. africana extracts, ensuring the development of safe pharmaceuticals to treat various diseases.

Hybrid pharmacophore design and synthesis of donepezil-inspired aurone derivative salts as multifunctional acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

Flavonoids, a ubiquitous group of plant polyphenols, are well-known for their beneficial effects on human health. Their phenylchromane skeletons have structural similarities to donepezil [the US FDA-approved drug used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD)]. The objective of this study was to design and synthesize valuable agents derived from flavonoids for relieving the symptoms of AD. A variety of flavonoid derivative salts incorporating benzylpyridinium units were synthesized and several of them remarkedly inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in vitro. Additionally, aurone derivative salts protected against cell death resulting from t-BHP exposure in rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells and slightly promoted neurite outgrowth. Furthermore, they potently suppressed the aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ1-42). Our findings highlight the effectiveness of donepezil-inspired aurone derivative salts as multipotent candidates for AD.

Use of Callistemon citrinus as a gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory agent on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in obese rats

Background

Obesity leads to an elevated risk of developing gastrointestinal disease such as gastric ulcers. Callistemon citrinus leaf extract has shown antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and chemoprotective effects against colon cancer. The aim of this study is to evaluate the gastroprotective effect of C. citrinus leaf extract on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in obese rats.

Methods

Gastric ulcers were induced in female obese Wistar rats using a single oral dose of indomethacin (IND). In the first stage, the rats were fed with a high fat sugar diet (HFSD) for 15 weeks to induce obesity and, at the same time, the diet of the other group of animals included daily administration of ethanolic C. citrinus leaf extract (250 mg/kg) in addition to HFSD. In the second stage, gastric ulcers were induced with IND (30 mg/kg). The gastroprotective activity of C. citrinus, the inflammatory enzyme activities, and cytokines in the stomach were determined.

Results

C. citrinus produced a reduction of gastric lesions caused by IND. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) activities also decreased. Although inflammatory biomarkers such as TNFα, IL-6, AOPP, and leptin were significantly decreased by C. citrinus, adiponectin levels increased. Moreover, C. citrinus decreased weight gain and morphological and biochemical parameters.

Conclusion

The use of indomethacin in rats fed with a high fat-sugar diet increased gastric ulcers. Gastroprotective effect of C. citrinus in obese rats is attributed to the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the inflammatory enzymes.

A review on the traditional uses, nutritive importance, pharmacognostic features, phytochemicals, and pharmacology of Momordica cymbalaria Hook F

Momordica cymbalaria Hook F. (MC), belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae, is a plant with several biological activities. This detailed, comprehensive review gathers and presents all the information related to the geographical distribution, morphology, therapeutic uses, nutritional values, pharmacognostic characters, phytochemicals, and pharmacological activities of MC. The available literature showed that MC fruits are utilized as a stimulant, tonic, laxative, stomachic, and to combat inflammatory disorders. The fruits are used to treat spleen and liver diseases and are applied in folk medicine to induce abortion and treat diabetes mellitus. The phytochemical screening studies report that MC fruits contain tannins, alkaloids, phenols, proteins, amino acids, vitamin C, carbohydrates, β-carotenes, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, α-eleostearic acid, and γ-linolenic acid. The fruits also contain calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, copper, manganese, zinc, and phosphorus. Notably, momordicosides are cucurbitacin triterpenoids reported in the fruits of MC. Diverse pharmacological activities of MC, such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, anticancer, antiangiogenic, antifertility, antiulcer, antimicrobial, antidiarrheal and anthelmintic, have been reported by many investigators. M. cymbalaria methanolic extract is safe up to 2,000 mg/kg. Furthermore, no symptoms of toxicity were found. These pharmacological activities are mechanistically interpreted and described in this review. Additionally, the microscopic, powder and physiochemical characteristics of MC tubers are also highlighted. In summary, possesses remarkable medicinal values, which warrant further detailed studies to exploit its potential benefits therapeutically.

Ipomoea carnea mitigates ethanol-induced ulcers in irradiated rats via Nrf2/HO-1 pathway: an in vivo and in silico study

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of Ipomoea carnea flower methanolic extract (ICME) as a natural gastroprotective therapy against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers, particularly in individuals exposed to ionizing radiation (IR). The study focused on the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in protecting the gastrointestinal mucosa from oxidative stress and inflammation. Male Wistar rats were divided into nine groups, the control group received distilled water orally for one week, while other groups were treated with ethanol to induce stomach ulcers, IR exposure, omeprazole, and different doses of ICME in combination with ethanol and/or IR. The study conducted comprehensive analyses, including LC-HRESI-MS/MS, to characterize the phenolic contents of ICME. Additionally, the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, oxidative stress parameters, gastric pH, and histopathological changes were examined. The results showed that rats treated with IR and/or ethanol exhibited histopathological alterations, increased lipid peroxidation, decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced expression levels of Nrf2 and HO-1. However, pretreatment with ICME significantly improved these parameters. Phytochemical analysis identified 39 compounds in ICME, with flavonoids, hydroxybenzoic acids, and fatty acids as the predominant compounds. Virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations suggested that ICME may protect against gastric ulceration by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of ICME as a natural gastroprotective therapy for preventing gastric ulcers. These findings contribute to the development of novel interventions for gastrointestinal disorders using natural plant extracts particularly in individuals with a history of radiation exposure.

All That Glitters Is Not Gold: Assessment of Bee Pollen Supplementation Effects on Gastric Mucosa

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of bee pollen supplementation on the levels of enzymes important for gastric mucosal homeostasis, namely cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and a biomarker-asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)-in the gastric mucosa of Wistar rats. The experimental phase divided the rats into four groups: two control groups, sedentary and active, both not supplemented, and two experimental groups, sedentary and active, supplemented with bee pollen. The results indicated that bee pollen supplementation reduced the levels of COX-1 and elevated iNOS levels, while showing no significant impact on COX-2 levels. These findings do not conclusively support the gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of bee pollen on gastric mucosa. However, the supplementation could have resulted in reduced ADMA levels in the physically active supplemented group. Our study does not unequivocally demonstrate the positive effects of bee pollen supplementation on the gastric mucosa, which may be attributed to the specific metabolism and bioavailability of substances within unprocessed, dried bee pollen. Further research should explore the topic of potential therapeutic applications of bee pollen in gastrointestinal health and its interactions with ADMA signaling pathways.

Promising effect of Geranium robertianum L. leaves and Aloe vera gel powder on Aspirin®-induced gastric ulcers in Wistar rats: anxiolytic behavioural effect, antioxidant activity, and protective pathways

BACKGROUND

Many drugs have been restricted in the treatment of gastric ulcers (GU). So, herbal medicines are now in great demand for their better cultural acceptability, compatibility, and minimal side effects. Therefore, our study aimed to assess the protective efficacy of Aloe vera gel and Geranium robertianum extracts against Aspirin®-induced GU in Wistar rats.

METHODS

Antioxidant activity and chemical composition of both herbs were analysed. Then, we divided forty female Wistar rats into five groups: a negative control group, a positive control group of Aspirin®-induced GU, and pretreated groups with Aloe Vera, geranium, and Famotidine (reference drug). The locomotor disability, anxiety-like behaviour, and ultrasonography were assessed. Ultimately, scarification of animals to determine gastric juice pH and ulcer index. Then the collection of stomach and liver for histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations, besides tracing the oxidative stress biomarkers and related genes.

RESULTS

High content of polyphenols was revealed in both extracts. The pretreatment with Aloe vera gel and geranium showed significant antioxidant activities with free radical scavenging and ferric-reducing power (FRAP). Moreover, they improved the stomach architecture and alleviated anxiety-like behaviour and motor deficits. They significantly reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α), inflammatory, and oxidative stress genes (NF-KB, HO-1, Nrf-2) while increasing the Keap-1 in gastric mucosa.

CONCLUSION

Data presented a significant protective effect of Aloe vera gel and geranium against Aspirin®-induced GU; they reduced gastric mucosal injury with potential anxiolytic effects through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Therefore, they may be considered promising agents for preventing or treating gastric ulceration.

Plants with potential anti-ulcerogenic activity and possible mechanism of actions based on their phyto-constitutional profile

Gastric ulcer, the most common disorder of the digestive tract is formed due to an imbalance between acid and mucus content of the stomach. However, the currently used western therapeutic regimens have many drawbacks like adverse effects, recurrence of gastric ulcers, are expensive, and also, may have interactions with other drugs. Hence, there is a need for effective alternative therapy. Medicinal herbs have been used since ancient times to treat several diseases and are also evidenced to be effective against gastric ulcers. It is also evident that medicinal herbs have been proved to be equally effective or superior as compared to the existing synthetic medicines. In this review, five herbs have been taken into consideration and assumed to be effective against gastric ulcers. Abrus mollis, Korean Thistle (Cirsium japonicum var. maackii), Astralagus complanatus Bunge, Bauhinia monandra, and Embelia ribes Burm f. are the herbs whose data is been collected and reviewed for their potential gastro-protective action. Although, their side effects and toxicity profile need to be further evaluated. Hence, the purpose of this review is to gather evidence of these five medicinal herbs and their probable mechanism of action against gastric ulcers based on their phyto-constitutional profile.

Gastroprotective and ulcer healing effects of Nauclea pobeguinii (Rubiaceae) on experimentally induced gastric ulcers in male Wistar rats

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we determined the gastroprotective and ulcer-healing effects of extracts (aqueous and methanolic) of Nauclea pobeguinii stem-back.

METHODS

Gastroprotective and healing activity were evaluated following a HCl/ethanol and an indomethacin-induced acute ulcers models; acetic acid, pylorus-ligature, pylorus ligature/histamine and pylorus ligature/acetylcholine-induced chronic ulcers models.

RESULTS

It emerges from this study that, at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, the extracts significantly reduced the various ulceration parameters. Compared to negative control male rats, the aqueous (100 mg/kg) and methanolic (400 mg/kg) extracts of Nauclea pobeguinii inhibited the ulcers induced by HCl/ethanol by 80.76 % and 100 % respectively, as well as ulcers induced by indomethacin by 88.28 % and 93.47 % respectively. Animals that received 200 mg/kg of both extracts showed a significant reduction in the levels of monocytes, lymphocytes, nitric oxide, MDA and a significant increase in the activities of SOD and catalase. Histological analysis showed repaired mucous epithelium at all doses of both extracts. Aqueous and methanol extracts inhibited ulceration indices by 89.33 % and 88.53 % for pylorus ligature, 83.81 % and 61.07 % for pylorus ligature/acetylcholine and 87.29 % and 99.63 % for pylorus ligature/histamine respectively. Both extracts protected the stomach lining with percentages inhibition of 79.49 % and 81.73 %, respectively in the ethanol test. The extracts induced a significant increase in mucus mass (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The aqueous and methanol extracts of Nauclea pobeguinii healed ulcers thanks to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-secretory and cytoprotective properties.

Gastroprotective Activities of Aqueous and 80% Methanol Leaf Extracts of Stephania abyssinica (Quart.-Dill. and A. Rich.) Walp. (Menispermaceae) in Rats

Background

An ethnobotanical study showed that the leaf of Stephania abyssinica (S. abyssinica) is used for the treatment of gastritis, but there is no scientific investigation.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the gastroprotective activities of both aqueous and 80% methanol leaf extracts of S. abyssinica in experimental rats.

Methods

Decoction and maceration techniques were used to prepare aqueous and 80% methanol leaf extracts, respectively. The extracts were evaluated against pyloric ligation, indomethacin, and ethanol-induced gastric ulcer models at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. Negative control received 2% tween 80, while positive controls received 20 mg/kg of omeprazole and 100 µg/kg of misoprostol. Parameters, such as ulcer index, gastric mucin content, gastric juice volume, pH, and free and total acidity were measured.

Results

In the pyloric ligation induced gastric ulcer model, all doses of both extracts significantly reduced the ulcer index and gastric juice volume, while doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg exhibited a significant increment in mucus content and gastric juice pH as well as decrease in free and total acidity as compared to negative control. In indomethacin and ethanol induced gastric ulcer models, pretreatment with both extracts significantly reduced the ulcer index and enhanced gastric mucin content in a dose-dependent manner. Phytochemical screening of both extracts showed the existence of flavonoids, phenols, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and coumarins with high contents of phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids in 80% methanol extract.

Conclusion

This study revealed that aqueous and 80% methanol leaf extracts of S. abyssinica possessed remarkable gastroprotective activities against experimentally induced gastric ulcer models, and this possibly justify the traditional use of S. abyssinica leaves to treat gastritis.

Phytosterols in rice bran and their health benefits

With the continuous technological innovation in the high-value utilization of rice bran byproducts, rice bran oil retains a higher concentration of beneficial components such as a well-balanced composition of fatty acids and abundant phytosterols. This makes it a highly nutritious and healthy vegetable oil. This review provides an overview of the advancements made in separating, purifying, and processing phytosterols in rice bran oil. The review also introduces techniques for assessing the stability of rice bran oil. Moreover, the review emphasizes the nutritional value of phytosterols found in rice bran oil, highlighting their various health benefits, including their anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antibacterial, cholesterol-lowering, skin-protective, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, and immune-enhancing effects. Attaining a comprehensive understanding of the research progress made in phytosterols derived from rice bran oil can offer valuable guidance for the efficient utilization of rice bran.

Hepatoprotective effects of bioactive compounds from traditional herb Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) against galactosamine-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Ocimum sanctum L. (Tulsi; Family: libiaceae), also known as "The Queen of herbs" or "Holy Basil," is an omnipresent, multipurpose plant that has been used in folk medicine of many countries as a remedy against several pathological conditions, including anticancer, antidiabetic, cardio-protective, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, and adaptogenic actions. This study aims to assess O. sanctum L.'s hepatoprotective potential against galactosamine-induced toxicity, as well as investigate bioactive compounds in each extract and identify serum metabolites. The extraction of O. sanctum L as per Ayurveda was simultaneously standardized and quantified for biochemical markers: rutin, ellagic acid, kaempferol, caffeic acid, quercetin, and epicatechin by HPTLC. Hepatotoxicity was induced albino adult rats by intra-peritoneal injection of galactosamine (400 mg/kg). The quantified hydroalcoholic and alcoholic extract of O. sanctum L (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight/day) were compared for evaluation of hepatoprotective potential, which were assessed in terms of reduction in histological damage, change in serum enzymes such as AST, ALT, ALP and increase TBARS. Twenty chemical constituents of serum metabolites of O. sanctum were identified and characterized based on matching recorded mass spectra by GC-MS with those obtained from the library-Wiley/NIST. We evaluated the hepatoprotective activity of various fractions of hydroalcoholic extracts based on the polarity and investigated the activity at each phase (hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate) in vitro to determine how they affected the toxicity of CCL4 (40 mM) toward Chang liver cells. The ethyl acetate fraction of the selected plants had a higher hepatoprotective activity than the other fractions, so it was used in vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC). The ethyl acetate fraction contains high amounts of rutin (0.34% w/w), ellagic acid (2.32% w/w), kaempferol (0.017% w/w), caffeic acid (0.005% w/w), quercetin (0.038% w/w), and epicatechin (0.057% w/w) which are responsible for hepatoprotection. In comparison to standard silymarin, isolated bioactive molecules displayed the most significant hepatoprotective activity in Chang liver cells treated to CCl4 toxicity. The significant high hepatoprotection provided by standard silymarin ranged from 77.6% at 100 μg/ml to 83.95% at 200 μg/ml, purified ellagic acid ranged from 70% at 100 μg/ml to 81.33% at 200 μg/ml, purified rutin ranged from 63.4% at 100 μg/ml to 76.34% at 200 μg/ml purified quercetin ranged from 54.33% at 100 μg/ml to 60.64% at 200 μg/ml, purified epicatechin ranged from 53.22% at 100 μg/ml to 65.6% at 200 μg/ml, and purified kaempferol ranged from 52.17% at 100 μg/ml to 60.34% at 200 μg/ml. These findings suggest that the bioactive compounds in O. sanctum L. have significant protective effects against galactosamine-induced hepatotoxicity.

Gastroprotective effects of Pikad Tri-phol-sa-mut-than herbal remedy on multiple gastric ulcer models in rats

In Thai traditional medicine, Pikad Tri-phol-sa-mut-than has long been used to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms, renal disease, inflammation-related disorders, and severe malady. This recipe is composed of dried fruits of Morinda citrifolia L., Coriandrum sativum L., and Aegle marmelos (L.) Corrêa. The aim of this study was to assess the anti-gastric ulcer property of the water extract of Pikad Tri-phol-sa-mut-than (TS), using various animal models with different inducers, including restraint water immersion stress, indomethacin, and ethanol/hydrochloric acid (EtOH/HCl). Its mechanisms of anti-gastric ulcer actions were also elucidated using both in vitro and in vivo experiments. When compared with the control groups, the oral pretreatment of TS at the doses of 150, 300 and 600 mg/kg significantly reduced the gastric ulcer formation in all models. It was also found that TS at the dose of 600 mg/kg could increase gastric wall mucus in rats but could not produce the significant reduction of the gastric volume or total acidity of gastric content. Results from hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining examinations of gastric tissues confirmed that TS visibly reduced gastric mucosal damage, while immunohistochemistry revealed that TS remarkably suppressed the protein expression of Bcl-2-associated X (BAX), a regulator of apoptosis, compared to those of the control group. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays showed antioxidant effects of TS. All of these findings demonstrated that TS has gastroprotective effects, which may be related to the increase in the gastric wall mucus secretion, not anti-secretory activity, as well as its antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities.

Investigation of the phytochemical composition and remedial effects of southern grape hyacinth (Muscari neglectum Guss. ex Ten.) plant extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative stress in rats

We aimed to determine the phytochemical contents of the aerial part M. neglectum aerial part (MAP) and M. neglectum bulb (MB) ethanolic extract of Muscari neglectum and to investigate their protective effects on gastric damage induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) in rats. After the toxicity testing, 42 female Wistar albino rats were divided into 7 groups, Control, MAP, MB, CCl₄, CCl₄ + MAP, CCl₄ + MB, and CCl₄ + Silymarin groups. At the end of the experiment, the serum biochemical parameters, antioxidant defense enzymes, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in the stomach tissue were evaluated to determine the antioxidant role of the M. neglectum extracts. According to the gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy, fatty acid analysis, octadecadienoic, and 9,12,15 octadecatrienoic fatty acids were found as major fatty acids in the MAP, whereas 9,12 octadecadienoic and octadecanoic acids were the major fatty acids in the MB. According to the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, quinic acid, fumaric acid, gentisic acid, caffeic acid, kaempferol, and apigenin were found in the MAP, while quinic acid, fumaric acid, caffeic acid, and kaempferol were found in the MB. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the extract were determined in the MAP and MB. The MAP and MB extracts generally caused a statistically significant decrease in the MDA content and increase in the antioxidant parameters in the stomach tissue. It was concluded that MAP and MB extracts may have antioxidant and gastric protective effects due to the phytochemical content of M. neglectum.HighlightsAccording to LC-MS/MS results, quinic acid, fumaric acid, chemferol, apigenin, and caffeic acid were determined as major compounds in M. neglectum extracts.According to GC-MS results, octadecadienoic, octadecatrienoic, and octadecanoic methyl esters were the major fatty acids of the M. neglectum extracts.The M. neglectum extracts regulated the levels of stomach damage and biochemical parameters.The M. neglectum extracts extract might have pharmaceutical-nutritional potential.

Flavonoids and related privileged scaffolds as potential urease inhibitors: a review

Infections caused by bacteria are a significant issue on a global scale, and imperative action is required to discover novel or improved therapeutic agents. Flavonoids are a class of plant-derived compounds that have a variety of potentially useful bioactivities. These activities include immediate antimicrobial properties, synergistic effect with antimicrobials, ferocious repression of pathogenicity, anti-urease activity etc. This review summarizes current studies concerning anti-urease actions of flavonoids as well as structural-activity correlation investigations of the flavonoid core structure. It is possible that if researchers investigate the many structural changes that may be made in flavonoid rings, they'll be able to build up novel compounds that have powerful and effective anti-urease properties.

Dimethyl Cardamonin from Fruits of Campomanesia reitziana D. Legrand Promotes Gastroprotection and Gastric Healing Effects in Rodents

Campomanesia reitziana D. Legrand (Myrtaceae) displays antiulcer properties when given to rodents. The major active chemical components of C. reitziana are chalcones, including 4',6'-dihydroxy-2'-methoxy-3',5'-dimethylchalcone or dimethyl cardamonin (DMC); therefore, we hypothesized that this compound could have antiulcer effects and the present study aimed to evaluate its gastroprotective and gastric healing properties. DMC was isolated from the fruits of C. reitziana, and its gastroprotective effect was evaluated by ethanol and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer models in mice (0.1 mg/kg, i.p. and 1 and 3 mg/kg, p.o.). Oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters were analyzed in the gastric tissue. Moreover, its gastric healing effect was evaluated in rats. In addition, the compound's mode of action was evaluated in vivo and in vitro by measuring H⁺ -K⁺ -ATPase activity. Finally, the cytotoxic potential of DMC was tested in fibroblasts and human gastric adenocarcinoma cells. The DMC reduced the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in mice by 77 %, increased the adhered mucus, and reduced lipoperoxides levels. The block of nonprotein sulfhydryls (NP-SH) compounds by pretreatment with N-ethylmaleimide (NEM), the inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME), or the antagonism of α₂ receptor using yohimbine reversed the gastroprotective effects of DMC. Furthermore, DMC reduced the acidity of gastric content in pylorus-ligated rats but did not change H⁺ , K⁺ -ATPase (isolated from rabbit) activity in vitro. DMC reduced the lesion area in acetic acid-induced ulcers and decreased myeloperoxidase activity. DMC did not change the viability of fibroblast cells (L929) but reduced the viability of human gastric adenocarcinoma cells (AGS). The results confirmed that DMC could significantly enhance the gastric healing process and prevent ulcers due to improving protective factors on the gastric mucosa and reducing gastric acid secretion.

Kaempferol: Antimicrobial Properties, Sources, Clinical, and Traditional Applications

Flavonoids are a category of plant-derived compounds which exhibit a large number of health-related effects. One of the most well-known and studied flavonoids is kaempferol, which can be found in a wide variety of herbs and plant families. Apart from their anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory effects, kaempferol and its associated compounds also exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, and antiprotozoal activities. The development of drugs and treatment schemes based on these compounds is becoming increasingly important in the face of emerging resistance of numerous pathogens as well as complex molecular interactions between various drug therapies. In addition, many of the kaempferol-containing plants are used in traditional systems all over the world for centuries to treat numerous conditions. Due to its variety of sources and associated compounds, some molecular mechanisms of kaempferol antimicrobial activity are well known while others are still under analysis. This paper thoroughly documents the vegetal and food sources of kaempferol as well as the most recent and significant studies regarding its antimicrobial applications.

A Mixture of Kaempferol-3-O-sambubioside and Kaempferol-3-O-sophoroside from Malvaviscus arboreus Prevents Ethanol-Induced Gastric Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Histologic Changes

Malvaviscus arboreus is used in traditional Mexican medicine to treat gastrointestinal diseases. Therefore, a mixture of Kaempferol-O-sambubioside and Kaempferol-O-sophoroside (MaSS) isolated from flowers of this species was tested as a preventive treatment on gastric lesions induced with ethanol in rats. MaSS was obtained by chromatographic methods and administered by oral pathway to male Sprague Dawley rats with ethanol-induced gastric lesions. Pretreatment with MaSS at doses of 30, 90, 120, and 180 mg/kg significantly prevents gastric lesions, inhibits the increment in relative stomach weight (%) in gastric IL-6, and also provokes an increment of IL-10 concentration and catalase activity. Finally, MaSS prevented edema in the mucosa and submucosa and diminished microscopic gastric lesions provoked by ethanol.

Evaluation of Ulcer Protective Activity of Morus alba L. Extract-Loaded Chitosan Microspheres in Ethanol-Induced Ulcer in Rat Model

Due to an unhealthy lifestyle, gastric ulcers have become a very common disease these days. Moreover, the side effects linked with the prolonged use of conventional treatments have shifted the paradigm towards herbal therapies. The leaves of Morus alba L. (Family-Moraceae) have been traditionally used for a large number of metabolic diseases. In the present research, we focused on the development of chitosan microspheres using extracts of leaves of Morus alba L. and their evaluation for gastroprotective efficacy against ethanol-induced ulcers in experimental rats. The process of development of M. alba extract microsphere (MEM) is also optimized using the Box-Behnken design. The formulation was prepared at optimized conditions (chitosan concentration (1.66% w/w), volume of glutaraldehyde (4.69 mL), and stirrer rotation per minute, RPM, 854.8), and the percentage yield (Y ₁) of the resulted microspheres is ∼95% with an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of (Y _2(rutin)) ∼86%, Y _2(quercetin)) ∼85%, and particle size (Y ₃) of ∼40 µm. The MEM prepared at optimized conditions can also be characterized for various parameters to ensure the uniformity of parameters. Also, the drug release studies indicated that the percentage release of rutin and quercetin from MEM was enhanced as compared to M. alba extract (ME) alone. Furthermore, in vivo analysis of the antiulcer potential of pretreatment with ME and MEM (500 mg/kg p.o.) in rats indicated that mucosal lesions, gastric juice volume, and total acidity were significantly altered as compared to ethanol-treated animals. Histopathology of tissue sections also confirmed the protection of gastric mucosa on pretreatment with MEM at 500 mg/kg p.o. On the basis of these findings, we can conclude that prepared microspheres can be used to develop a sustained release formulation of extract for the management of gastric ulcers. However, additional research is needed to establish the specific mechanisms of M. alba's antiulcer efficacy.

Sonchus oleraceus L. Promotes Gastroprotection in Rodents via Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antisecretory Activities

Sonchus oleraceus L. is an edible and medicinal plant used to treat stomachache and gastric ailments around the world. Thus, this study aimed to determine the gastroprotective mode of action of hydroalcoholic extract of S. oleraceus (HES). Mice were treated with HES before induction of gastric ulceration by ethanol/HCl. The area and histological appearance of ulcers were quantified, and mucus was measured histochemically. The effects of HES on inflammatory and oxidative markers were assessed in the ulcerated tissue. In addition, we investigated the gastric acid antisecretory activity of HES in pylorus-ligated rats. Chemical analyses of HES and its antioxidant activity were also performed in vitro. The HES (30 or 300 mg/kg) reduced the ulceration by 71.5 and 76.2%, respectively, compared with vehicle (p < 0.001), and the histological analysis confirmed the macroscopic results with elevation in mucin levels by 361.4 and 477.5%, respectively, compared with vehicle (p < 0.001). Moreover, the gastroprotection was accompanied by increases in GSH levels and in SOD, CAT, and GST activities; in parallel to a reduction in MPO activity and TNF levels. Furthermore, HES reduced the total acidity, and pepsin activity of the gastric juice of rats by 61 and 63%, respectively, compared to the vehicle. Phytochemical analysis indicated that luteolin-7-O-β-D-glucoside is the main active compound annotated in HES. Was also found that HES scavenged the DPPH radical with an IC₅₀ of 15.41 μg/mL. In conclusion, the gastroprotective effects of HES involve reductions in oxidative stress and inflammatory injury, in conjunction with an increase in mucus layer and inhibition of gastric secretion. This study advances in elucidating the modes of the antiulcer potential of S. oleraceus and contributes to the prospection of new gastroprotective molecules.

Studies Regarding the Pharmaceutical Potential of Derivative Products from Plantain

In this study, three types of extracts isolated from leaves of Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) were tested for their chemical content and biological activities. The three bioproducts are combinations of polysaccharides and polyphenols (flavonoids and iridoidic compounds), and they were tested for antioxidant, antifungal, antitumor, and prebiotic activity (particularly for polysaccharides fraction). Briefly, the iridoid-enriched fraction has revealed a pro-oxidant activity, while the flavonoid-enriched fraction had a high antioxidant potency; the polysaccharide fraction also indicated a pro-oxidant activity, explained by the co-presence of iridoid glycosides. All three bioproducts demonstrated moderate antifungal effects against Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp., and dermatophytes, too. Studies in vitro proved inhibitory activity of the three fractions on the leukemic tumor cell line THP-1, the main mechanism being apoptosis stimulation, while the polysaccharide fraction indicated a clear prebiotic activity, in the concentration range between 1 and 1000 µg/mL, evaluated as higher than that of the reference products used, inulin and dextrose, respectively.

Profiling of secondary metabolites and DNA typing of three different Annona cultivars grown in Egypt

OBJECTIVES

Natural products are often efficacious and safe alternatives to synthetic drugs. This study explored secondary leaves and bark metabolites profiles in extracts of a new Egyptian hybrid, Annona cherimola × Annona squamosa, known as Abdel Razek. This hybrid exhibited 100% similarity with A. cherimola as evidenced by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) analyses.

METHODS

Primary constituents in methanol extracts of different plant organs were identified. Extracts richest in alkaloids and polyphenolics were assessed for in vitro antioxidant activity and the most potent were further studied in vivo for treating gastric ulcer in rats. The latter activity was assessed histopathologically.

RESULTS

Structural analysis with HPLC/ESI-MSⁿ, and UPLC/HESI-MS/MS identified 63 metabolites, including seven amino acids, 20 alkaloids, 16 flavonoids, eight phenolics and other compounds. Severe stomach alteration was observed after ethanol induction in rats. Ulcer score, oxidative stress biomarkers, cell organelles biomarker enzymes, and gastrointestinal histological features improved to variable degrees after treatment with Annona Abdel Razek hybrid leaves and bark methanol extracts.

CONCLUSION

Extracts of Annona Abdel Razek had showed in vitro antioxidant effect and may be promising for the treatment of gastric ulcers.

Evaluation of the Antiulcer Activity of Methanolic Extract and Solvent Fractions of the Leaves of Calpurnia aurea (Ait.) Benth. (Fabaceae) in Rats

Introduction. In Ethiopia, traditionally, the leaves of Calpurnia aurea have been utilized to treat peptic ulcer disease. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to examine the antiulcer activity of Calpurnia aurea hydromethanolic leaf extract and solvent fractions in rats. Methods. The ulcer-healing potential of the crude test extract was assessed in rats by adopting pyloric ligation-, acidified ethanol-, and acetic acid-induced ulcer methods; while, in solvent fractions, the acidified ethanol-induced ulcer model was used. In all models, three serial test doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) were given and the antiulcer activity was investigated. Standard drugs like sucralfate (100 mg/kg), omeprazole (20 mg/kg), and cimetidine (100 mg/kg) have been used as a positive control; whereas distilled water (10 mL/kg) was used as the negative control. Parameters like ulcer index, total acidity, pH, gastric volume, and gastric mucin level were all measured. Results. In an acute toxicity study, the test extract at the limit test dose (2 g/kg) was safe following a single dose administration. In pyloric ligation-induced ulcers, the plant extract at 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the ulcer index, the volume of stomach secretion, and total acidity while raising gastric pH and mucus content ( $P<0.05$ ). Likewise, in the acidified ethanol- and acetic acid-induced ulcer models, the extract at both test doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) also displayed a substantial reduction ( $P<0.05$ ) in ulcer index. Among the fractions, the ethyl acetate fraction revealed remarkable cytoprotective activity at all test doses and the aqueous fraction at 400 mg/kg ( $P<0.05$ ). In contrast, the effect of chloroform fraction was found to be negligible. The peak ulcer inhibition was noted at 400 mg/kg of ethyl acetate fraction (52.4%). Conclusion. The study showed that the crude extract and solvent fractions possess remarkable antiulcer activity.

Association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index and Gastric Disease Risk: Findings from a Korean Population-Based Cohort Study

Evidence suggests that diets with high pro-inflammatory potential may play a substantial role in the origin of gastric inflammation. This study aimed to examine the association between the energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index (E-DIITM) and gastric diseases at baseline and after a mean follow-up of 7.4 years in a Korean population. A total of 144,196 participants from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study_Health Examination (KoGES_HEXA) cohort were included. E-DII scores were computed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to assess the association between the E-DII and gastric disease risk. In the prospective analysis, the risk of developing gastric disease was significantly increased among individuals in the highest quartile of E-DII compared to those in the lowest quartile (HRquartile4vs1 = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.08–1.38). Prospective analysis also showed an increased risk in the incidence of gastritis (HRquartile4vs1 = 1.19; 95% CI = 1.04–1.37), gastric ulcers (HRquartile4vs1 = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.16–1.85), and gastric and duodenal ulcers (HRquartile4vs1 = 1.46; 95% CI = 1.17–1.81) in the highest E-DII quartile compared to the lowest quartile. In the cross-sectional analysis, the E-DII score was not associated with the risk of gastric disease. Our results suggest that a pro-inflammatory diet, indicated by high E-DII scores, is prospectively associated with an increased risk of gastric diseases. These results highlight the significance of an anti-inflammatory diet in lowering the risk of gastric disease risk in the general population.

Protective effect of active components of Eucommia ulmoides leaves on gastric ulcers in rats: Involvement of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway

Eucommia ulmoides leaves are widely developed as food and medicines in China and Japan. Its main components have anti-inflammatory properties against gastric ulcers. The purpose of this study was to assess the protective role of an extract derived from the active components of Eucommia ulmoides leaves (EUL 50) against a gastric ulcer and analyze the underlying antiulcer mechanism. The main components of EUL 50 were identified using an ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) method. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were performed to predict the possible mechanism of action of EUL 50 in the treatment of gastric ulcers. The rats received EUL 50 intragastric administration twice a day for 3 days. Hydrochloric acid/ethanol (HCl/EtOH) was utilized to induce gastric ulcers, followed by histopathological and histochemical evaluation of the ulcer tissues and determination of the main oxidative stress parameters and inflammatory cytokines. The expression of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway-related proteins was measured. Neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and so on were identified as the major components of EUL 50 by UPLC. The prediction results identified the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway as the main possible protective mechanism against gastric ulcers. Furthermore, in a dose-dependent manner, EUL 50 reduced gastric tissue damage. In addition, the high dose of EUL 50 administration resulted in remarkable reductions in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) by 22.64%, 42.61%, 57.78%, and 56.51%, respectively, and suppression of the phosphorylation of Akt, p65, IKKα, and IκBα by 60.87%, 67.65, 74.58%, and 59.57%, respectively, and increased the antioxidant enzyme activity. EUL 50 is rich in flavonoids and organic acids that can act on the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway; as a result, oxidative stress and inflammation are considerably reduced, and gastric ulcers caused by HCl/EtOH are reduced. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: As a medicinal and food substance, Eucommia ulmoides leaves are widely used in the development of health products. EUL 50, a moderately polar part of E. ulmoides leaves, was obtained by extraction and enrichment and was found to have a better protective effect against HCl/EtOH-induced gastric ulcers. This finding can enrich the traditional application of E. ulmoides leaves and provide a basis for their health product development.

Enhanced Healing Activity of Manuka Honey and Nitrofurazone Composite in Full-Thickness Burn Wounds in the Rabbit Model

Burns cause many significant changes in metabolism and inflammatory reactions, leading to poor regeneration in animals and humans. A list of medicines to treat burns is available in the market. But due to the high cost of these medicines, these are unaffordable, especially for farmers of middle-class families of Africa and Asia. Therefore, a low-cost complementary treatment has always been a topic of many researchers, and there is a dire need of time for the welfare of animals to save them. The current study was planned to scrutinize the therapeutic effects of Manuka honey and Nitrofurazone ointments on full-thickness burn wounds in the rabbit model. The healing efficacy was performed through wound contraction rate, hematological analysis, the thickness of dermis and epidermis, and collagen content percentage. Histopathology was performed after taking biopsy samples at the end of the research. Based on statistical analysis using wound healing time (days, D), the combination (MO + NT) resulted in a shorter period (27 D ± 1) than the average healing time of controlled (36 ± 2), Manuka ointment (31.33 D ± 1.52), and Nitrofurazone ointment (32 ± 1). A significant decrease in the count of red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) in all treatments was noticed mainly in MO + NT. Furthermore, burns induced a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the white blood cells (WBCs) count levels in the MO-treated group. While the level of platelets (PLTs) was not significantly different from the healthy control group. Histopathological assessment (epithelialization, fibrosis, and angiogenesis) of skin showed burn healing to be better in MO and MO + NT groups. In conclusion, the composite of Manuka honey with Nitrofurazone led to the faster recovery than other treatments.

The ameliorative impacts of wheat germ oil against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers: involvement of anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antioxidant activities

This study examined if wheat germ oil (WGO) has gastroprotective impacts against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Rats were assigned into control, WGO, ethanol, omeprazole + ethanol, and WGO + ethanol. WGO prevented gastric ulceration and damage induced by ethanol, the same effect induced by omeprazole, a widely known medication used for gastric ulcer treatment. WGO reduced gastric ulcer index, nitric oxide, and malondialdehyde levels in the stomach. WGO boosted the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), Bcl2, and the antioxidants. WGO showed inflammatory and anti-inflammatory impacts through the control of interleukin (IL)-1β, Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and IL-10 that were altered in ethanol-administered rats. Ethanol up-regulated caspase-3 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) expression and showed histopathological changes such as necrosis and mucosal degeneration that were mitigated by pre-administration of WGO. Moreover, WGO decreased gastric immunoreactivity of NF-kB and increased transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) that were associated with upregulation of Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and antioxidant expression and production. In conclusion, WGO reduced ethanol-induced stomach toxicity by regulating genes involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic/antiapoptotic pathways.

Evaluation of Gastroprotective Effect from Phaleria macrocarpa Fruits Extract on Gastric Ulcer in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract   BACKGROUND: The long-term use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) triggers gastric mucosal damage and causes ulcers. Meanwhile, studies showed that God's crown fruit (Phaleria macrocarpa) contains secondary metabolites of flavonoids and tannins that can protect the gastric mucosa. AIM: This study aims to determine the gastroprotective effect of P. macrocarpa ethanolic extracts against gastric ulcers in rats induced with acetosal and ethanol. The extracts were obtained by maceration method using 96% ethanol as solvent. METHODS: The male rats used were divided into 7 groups for each test with ethanol and acetosal induction. Each group consisted of 5 rats, namely normal control, induction, carrier, positive control (sucralfate 360 mg/kg BW and omeprazole 3.6 mg/kg BW), and extract doses 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight. All groups were given treatment for 7 days except normal and induction controls. On day 6, rats were fasted for 36 hours and induced with acetosal/ethanol. In ethanol induction, the animal was sacrificed after 10 hours of immersion while in acetosal, the animal was sacrificed 6 hours later. The stomach section was taken for macroscopic, microscopic parameters and gastric acid secretion examination. RESULTS: The results of phytochemical screening showed that the extract contained flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and glycosides. In acetosal-induced ulcers, the administration of one dose of the extract reduced the number and score of ulcers, repair epithelial cells, increase pH, and total gastric acidity. Furthermore, the percentage of ulcer inhibition at the extract dose of 400 mg/kg BW was 91.91±3.74% in ethanol induction, and 59±13.08% in acetosal. CONCLUSION: The ethanolic extract of P. macrocarpa has a gastroprotective effect on acetosal-induced gastric ulcer rats.   Keywords: Phaleria macrocarpa, Mahkota Dewa fruit, gastroprotective, gastric ulcers, extract

Comparison of the effects of alcoholic extract of aerial parts of Anvillea garcinii and atorvastatin on the lipid profile and thyroid hormones in hypercholesterolemic rats

Objective

Decreased thyroid hormones along with increased blood fats and overweight, lead to atherosclerosis and eventually cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of alcoholic extract of aerial parts of Anvilea garcinii and atorvastatin on the lipid profile and thyroid hormones in hypercholesterolemic rats.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 40 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (n=8): control, hypercholesterolemic vehicle and three experimental groups. The control group, received water and normal food daily, the hypercholesterolemic vehicle group received drug solvent (atorvastatin dissolved in distilled water) and three experimental groups received alcoholic extract of A. garcinii (100 and 300 mg/kg) and atorvastatin (10 mg/kg) as gavage. At the end of the 45- day period, blood samples were prepared from all groups and the amount of desired factors was measured and analyzed.

Results

The amount of lipid profiles (cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL,TG) and thyroid stimulating hormone in the vehicle group were increased compared to the control group, while the amount of these factors were decreased in the experimental groups compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, the level of thyroid hormones in the hypercholesterolemic vehicle group was decreased compared to the control group, while the level of these hormones was increased in the experimental groups receiving the extract compared to the vehicle group.

Conclusion

Alcoholic extract of A. garcinii aerial parts, may increase thyroid hormones, and sequentially reduce blood lipids; thus, it could be a good candidate for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and hypothyroidism.

Re-appraising the role of flavonols, flavones and flavonones on osteoblasts and osteoclasts- A review on its molecular mode of action

Bone disorders have become a global concern illustrated with decreased bone mineral density and disruption in microarchitecture of natural bone tissue organization. Natural compounds that promote bone health by augmenting osteoblast functions and suppressing osteoclast functions has gained much attention and offer greater therapeutic value compared to conventional therapies. Amongst several plant-based molecules, flavonoids act as a major combatant in promoting bone health through their multi-faceted biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and osteogenic properties. They protect bone loss by regulating the signalling cascades involved in osteoblast and osteoclast functions. Flavonoids augment osteoblastogenesis and inhibits osteoclastogenesis through their modulation of various signalling pathways. This review discusses the role of various flavonoids and their molecular mechanisms involved in maintaining bone health by regulating osteoblast and osteoclast functions.

Protective effect of chrysin on indomethacin induced gastric ulcer in rats: role of multi-pathway regulation

We investigated the potential gastroprotective effects of chrysin on indomethacin induced gastric ulcers in rats. We used six groups of animals: control; indomethacin (Indo); reference (Ulcuran®); indomethacin + 25 mg/kg chrysin (Indo + CHR25); indomethacin + 50 mg/kg chrysin (Indo + CHR50); indomethacin + 100 mg/kg chrysin (Indo + CHR100). All doses of chrysin were given orally to rats before indomethacin. Gastric lesions were examined macroscopically and microscopically. The effects of treatment with chrysin were assessed versus a single dose of 30 mg/kg Ulcuran® (generic ranitidine) as reference standard. We also investigated gastric mucosal superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), malonaldehyde (MDA) and arginase activities, and COX-2, PGE₂, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, NFκB, MPO, Bax, caspase-3 and 8-OHdG levels. We assessed caspase-3 and Bax levels using immunohistochemistry. Compared to the control and reference groups, SOD, CAT, GPx and arginase activities and GSH levels decreased, and MDA levels increased in the indomethacin induced gastric ulcer group. iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, NFκB, MAPK-14, MPO, Bax and 8-OHdG levels were increased in the indomethacin treated gastric group, while COX-2 activity and PGE₂ levels were decreased. The three doses of chrysin co-administered with indomethacin increased COX-2 activity and PGE₂ levels in rats with ulcers. Chrysin exhibited gastroprotective effects on indomethacin induced gastric ulcer due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities.

Gastroprotective effects of extract of Jasminum grandiflorum L. flower in HCl/EtOH-induced gastric mucosal ulceration mice

Jasminum grandiflorum L. is a medicinal plant used to treat hepatitis and gastritis, but the mechanisms underlying its protective effects against gastrointestinal mucosal damage remain to be elucidated. In this study, we analyzed the effects of four different extracts and two compounds from the flower of J. grandiflorum in a mouse model of HCl/EtOH-induced gastric ulcer. The flower extracts alleviated gastric mucosal ulceration by increasing PGE2 production and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, along with the suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, lipid peroxidation, apoptosis-related proteins, pro-inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO) production.

Development of raft-forming liquid and chewable tablet formulations incorporating quercetin solid dispersions for treatment of gastric ulcers

Gastroretentive raft-forming formulations were developed in liquid and chewable tablet dosage forms to achieve prolonged delivery of quercetin in the stomach. The formulations contained a solid dispersion of quercetin and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP K 30) at a 1:10 w/w ratio to improve the solubility of the flavonoid. The formulations also contained sodium alginate as a gel forming agent, calcium carbonate as a calcium source and carbon dioxide producer and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K100M as a drug release retarding polymer. The chewable tablets incorporated mannitol as a diluent. Both liquid and chewable tablet formulations exhibited rapid floating behaviour (lag time < 1 min) and long floating duration (>24 h) in 0.1 N HCl. The optimized liquid formulation showed superior characteristics based on high raft strength (10.4 g) and sustained release of quercetin (93 % over 8 h) whereas the optimized chewable tablet formulation exhibited lower raft strength (7.2 g) and lower drug release (79 % in 8 h). The optimized liquid and chewable tablet formulations were found to induce anti-inflammatory activity in cell culture using RAW 264.7 cells macrophages and enhance the migration of human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) epithelial cells in vitro, indicating wound healing potential for treatment of gastric ulcers.

Agarwood Alcohol Extract Protects against Gastric Ulcer by Inhibiting Oxidation and Inflammation

Background

Agarwood has been used for centuries, especially for treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Earlier studies of our laboratory suggested that agarwood alcohol extracts (AAEs) provided gastric mucosal protection. This study aims to investigate the ameliorative effect of AAEs on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers and its mechanism.

Methods

Mice were given agarwood induced by the whole-tree agarwood-inducing technique alcohol extract (WTAAE, 0.71, 1.42, and 2.84 g/kg), wild agarwood induced by axe wounds alcohol extract (WAAE, 2.84 g/kg), and burning-chisel-drilling agarwood alcohol extract (FBAAE, 2.84 g/kg) orally, respectively. After 7 days' pretreatment with AAEs, the gastric ulcers were induced by absolute ethanol. The ulcer index, gastric histopathology, biochemical parameters, and inflammatory proteins were evaluated.

Results

Pharmacological results showed AAEs (1.42 and 2.84 g/kg) reduced the gastric occurrence and ulcer inhibition rates up to more than 60%. AAEs decreased the level of nitric oxide (NO) and increased glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Besides, AAEs decreased the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), but the interleukin-10 (IL-10) was upregulated. The expressions of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and phosphorylated protein 38 (p-P38) were inhibited. The effect of WTAAE was better than that of FBAAE and similar to that of WAAE at the dose of 2.84 g/kg.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that agarwood alleviates the occurrence and development of gastric ulcers via inhibiting oxidation and inflammation.

Propolis and Its Gastroprotective Effects on NSAID-Induced Gastric Ulcer Disease: A Systematic Review

Gastric ulcer disease induced by the consumption of NSAIDs is a major public health problem. The therapy used for its treatment causes adverse effects in the patient. Propolis is a natural product that has been used for the treatments of different diseases around the world. Nevertheless, there is little information about the activity of propolis in gastric ulcers caused by treatment with NSAIDs. Therefore, this review evaluates and compares the gastroprotective potential of propolis and its function against NSAID-induced gastric ulcers, for which a systematic search was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. The main criteria were articles that report the gastroprotective activity of propolis against the damage produced by NSAIDs in the gastric mucosa. Gastroprotection was related to the antioxidant, antisecretory, and cytoprotective effects, as well as the phenolic compounds present in the chemical composition of propolis. However, most of the studies used different doses of NSAIDs and propolis and evaluated different parameters. Propolis has proven to be a good alternative for the treatment of gastric ulcer disease. However, future studies should be carried out to identify the compounds responsible for these effects and to determine their potential use in people.

Gastroprotective Activity of Neoglaziovia variegata (Arruda) Mez. (Bromeliaceae) in Rats and Mice

Neoglaziovia variegata (Arruda) Mez (Bromeliaceae) is a medicinal plant popularly known as "caroá." The leaves are made up of highly resistant fibers, which is of great commercial value to the handicraft and textile industry. Some studies have demonstrated that ethanolic extract of N. variegata have gastroprotective properties. This study aimed to investigate the gastroprotective activity and cytoprotective mechanisms of ethyl acetate (Nv-AcOEt), hexane (Nv-Hex), and chloroform (Nv-CHCl₃) fractions of N. variegata leaves. The gastroprotective activity of Nv-AcOEt, Nv-Hex, and Nv-CHCl₃ was evaluated using the ethanol and ethanol/HCl-induced gastric injury model. To elucidate the gastroprotective mechanisms, the functions of prostaglandins (PGs), nitric oxide (NO), and K_ATP channels were evaluated. In addition, the nonprotein sulfhydryl groups and the mucus content in the gastric tissues were analyzed. All fractions of N. variegata leaves at oral doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg significantly decreased ethanol and ethanol/HCl-induced gastric lesions, leading to gastroprotection, accompanied by an increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) and gastric mucus. Gastroprotective activity of Nv-AcOEt was inhibited after pretreatment with ibuprofen and N(G)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG). Gastroprotective effect of Nv-Hex and Nv-CHCl₃ was also inhibited after pretreatment with L-NOARG and with glibenclamide. The results indicate that N. variegata (Arruda) Mez exhibits promising gastroprotective activity with the possible participation of NO, PGs, mucus, sulfhydryl groups, and K_ATP.

Effects of ethanolic extracts of Quercus, Cirsium vulgare, and Falcaria vulgaris on gastric ulcer, antioxidant and inflammatory indices, and gene expression in rats

INTRODUCTION

Gastric ulcer is a multifaceted process and is usually caused by mucosal damage. Herbal medicines have received much attention considering the side effects of chemical drugs. Nowadays, the use of herbal medicines has received much attention considering the side effects of chemical drugs. Quercus brantii Lindl, Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten, and Falcaria vulgaris Bernh are plants used as traditional phytomedicine for gastric ulcer diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to investigate the protective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of these herbs on ethanol-induced gastric ulceration, in addition, to investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gene expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty Sprague Dawley rats, (200-250 g), were divided into six groups: Control: intact animals; sham: gavaged with distilled water (14 days); negative control: gavaged with 20 mg/kg of omeprazole (14 days); experimental groups I, II, and III: gavaged with 500 mg/kg of the extract of Falcaria vulgaris, Quercus brantii, and Cirsium vulgare, respectively, (14 days). The number of ulcers and pathological parameters were assessed. The serum superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, albumin, total protein, haptoglobin, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, total globulin, alpha-2-macroglobulin, C-fos, C-myc, and Caspase-9 were measured by ELISA and RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The extracts significantly reduced gastric ulcer (52.33%). The results showed that the Quercus brantii extract was more effective. There were significant differences between the serum levels of alpha-1-acid glycoprotein and those of alpha-2-macroglobulin. Also, there was a significant difference in the serum level of antioxidant parameters. Changes in the expression of the genes also confirmed the results suggested by other parameters. The expression levels of C-fos, C-myc, and caspase-9 were decreased, but the Bcl-2 expression increased.

CONCLUSION

The hydro-alcoholic extracts revealed various protection and noticeable change in the expression of caspase-9, C-myc, C-fos, and Bcl-2 genes in rats.

Phytochemical characterization and anti-inflammatory potential of Egyptian Murcott mandarin cultivar waste (stem, leaves and peel)

The stem (S), leaf (L) and fruit peel (P) of Murcott mandarins were separately extracted using 80% ethanol and then fractionated into dichloromethane (DCM) and ethyl acetate (ET). Their metabolic profiles were studied via HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS and afforded a tentative characterization of 98 compounds, including free organic acids, phenolic acid derivatives, flavonoid aglycones, flavonoid glycosides, flavonoids containing 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaroyl (HMG) units, coumarin derivatives and limonoids. Column chromatography resulted in isolation of six metabolites for the first time that were identified as nobiletin (C1), isosinensetin (C2), limonin (C3), 4'-demethylnobiletin (C4), stigmasterol-O-glucoside (C5) and hesperidin (C6). In vitro studies of the anti-inflammatory activity of DCM-L against cyclooxygenases (COXs) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzymes revealed that DCM-L showed higher activity than the other tested fractions. The in vivo gastroprotective effects of that fraction were evaluated using alcohol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. The obtained findings validated the gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic activities of DCM-L through its anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects. Therefore, we recommend the use of Murcott mandarin leaves as a part of a protection strategy for gastric ulcer.

Hydromethanolic Crude Extract of the Leaf of Urtica simensis Hochst. ex. A. Rich. (Urticaceae) Acquires Appreciable Antiulcer Effect: Validation for In Vivo Antiulcer Activity

BACKGROUND

Urtica simensis has been used for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease in Ethiopian folkloric medicine by drinking its juice after boiling the semicrushed leaf. To our latest understanding, no in vivo study was available regarding its antiulcer activity. The present study was done to appraise the ulcer-protective and ulcer healing activity of hydromethanolic crude extract of leaf of U. simensis in rats.

METHODS

Preliminary qualitative phytochemical screening and oral acute toxicity were carried out using a standard protocol. To validate U. simensis in vivo antiulcer potential pyloric ligature, cold restraint stress and acetic acid-induced ulcer models were employed. The extracts (100, 200, and 400 mg per kg of body weight per day), standard treatment (omeprazole 20 mg/kg/day), and vehicle (distilled water 10 ml/kg/day) were given to treatment, positive, and negative controls by oral gavage, respectively. Parameters were then evaluated accordingly after the humane scarification of rats.

RESULTS

Any sign of toxicity was not observed in the oral acute toxicity test. The crude extracts exerted a significant (P < 0.05) inhibition of ulcer risk compared to the negative control. In the pylorus ligation-induced ulcer model, its antisecretory activity was in a dose-dependent manner. The highest gastroprotective effect (67.68%) was exhibited by the 400 mg/kg/day dose of 80% methanolic crude extract. Regarding the chronic ulcer model, treatment at a dosage of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day cures ulcers by 33.54%, 58.33%, and 67.07%, respectively, as compared to the negative control groups remarkably.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study confirmed the safety and a promising in vivo ulcer healing and antiulcerogenic activity of U. simensis, thus supporting the traditional claim. In-depth investigations on the plant, however, are highly recommended.

Isolation and characterization of flavonoid compounds from Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl and its role as anti-gastro ulcerative agent in rats

CONTEXT

Stomach ulcer is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in the world.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to isolate flavonoid compounds from methanol extract of the aerial parts of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl. and evaluate its protective and therapeutic effects against gastric ulcer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chromatographic techniques were used for the identification of the isolated compounds. To explore the effects of the plant extract, it was administrated by oral gavage for one week either before or post-ethanol ulcer induction. Ranitidine was also evaluated as a reference drug. Stomach pH, gastric juice volume, lesions number, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase, Interleukin-10, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, prostaglandin E2, and total protein levels were estimated in gastric tissue. Stomach histopathological features were also monitored.

RESULTS

Six flavonoid compounds were isolated, where five of them were isolated for the first time (vitexin, isovitexin, apigenin 7,4'-dimethyl ether, 5,7,2'-trimethoxyflavone, and scutellarein), while apigenin was previously reported. Treatment with plant extract recorded amelioration in all the biochemical parameters.

CONCLUSION

The methanol extract of plant aerial parts had prophylactic and treatment effects against gastric ulcer in rats, where its treatment effect exceeded its protective role. The extract recorded anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects due to the presence of flavonoid compounds.

Protective and therapeutic effects of the flavonoid "pinocembrin" in indomethacin-induced acute gastric ulcer in rats: impact of anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms

Peptic ulcer including gastric and duodenal ulcers is a common gastro-intestinal disorder worldwide, associated with a significant mortality due to bleeding and perforation. Numerous efforts are being exerted to look for natural drugs that lack the potential side effects but still keep beneficial effects for treatment and/or prevention of gastric ulcer. Pinocembrin (PINO) is a natural flavonoid retaining anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study was conducted to investigate the protective and therapeutic effects of PINO against indomethacin (INDO)-induced gastric ulcer in rats and the possible underlying mechanisms. PINO (25 and 50 mg/kg) promoted mucus secretion, decreased ulcer index, and inhibited histopathological changes induced by INDO. Further investigation of possible mechanisms showed that PINO significantly attenuated INDO-induced oxidative and inflammatory responses in both doses when administrated before or after ulcer induction. PINO downregulated mRNA expression level of p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) which subsequently inhibited NF-κB activation and inflammatory cytokine release including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β). Additionally, PINO inhibited apoptotic activity which was confirmed by downregulation of caspase-3 transcription. The current results demonstrated the promising therapeutic activity of PINO against INDO-induced gastric ulcer due to-at least partly-its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Gastroprotective Activities of Ethanol Extract of Black Rice Bran (Oryza sativa L.) in Rats

Black rice is a type of rice in the Oryza sativa L. species. There are numerous reports regarding the pharmacological actions of black rice bran, but scientific evidence on its gastroprotection is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective activities of black rice bran ethanol extract (BRB) from the Thai black rice variety Hom Nil (O. sativa L. indica) as well as its mechanisms of action, acute oral toxicity in rats, and phytochemical screening. Rat models of gastric ulcers induced by acidified ethanol, indomethacin, and restraint water immersion stress were used. After pretreatment with 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg of BRB in test groups, BRB at 800 mg/kg significantly inhibited the formation of gastric ulcers in all gastric ulcer models, and this inhibition seemed to be dose dependent in an indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer model. BRB could not normalize the amount of gastric wall mucus, reduce gastric volume and total acidity, or increase gastric pH. Although BRB could not increase NO levels in gastric tissue, the tissue MDA levels could be normalized with DPPH radical scavenging activity. These results confirm the gastroprotective activities of BRB with a possible mechanism of action via antioxidant activity. The major phytochemical components of BRB comprise carotenoid derivatives with the presence of phenolic compounds. These components may be responsible for the gastroprotective activities of BRB. The 2000 mg/kg dose of oral BRB showed no acute toxicity in rats and confirmed, in part, the safe uses of BRB.

Protective Effects of Small-Molecule Oligopeptides Isolated from Tilapia Fish Scale on Ethanol-Induced Gastroduodenal Injury in Rats

Peptic ulcer has a serious impact on people’s health around the world, and traditional medicines can cause adverse reactions. This study investigated the protective effects of tilapia collagen oligopeptides (TCOPs) on gastroduodenal injury. Seventy-two specific pathogen-free (SPF) male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into six groups according to body weight: normal control group, ethanol group, whey protein group (500 mg/kg BW), and three TCOPs dose groups (250, 500, 1000 mg/kg BW). After intragastric administration for 30 days, the acute gastroduodenal injury was induced by anhydrous ethanol (5 mL/kg, intragastrically) in all groups except the normal control group. Biomarkers in gastric and duodenal tissue and serum were measured. Furthermore, western blot was used to detect the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. The results showed that the administration with TCOPs significantly reduced gastric and duodenal ulcer index, increased gastric juice pH, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, along with the reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. TCOPs decreased tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels, while interleukin– 10 (IL-10) levels were increased. Furthermore, pepsinogens 1 (PG1), pepsinogens 2 (PG2), gastrin (GAS), and the pepsinogen ratio (PGR) were decreased, the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and NO contents were increased after TCOPs intervention. Moreover, TCOPs up-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 and inhibited the expression of Bax and Caspase-3. In conclusion, TCOPs have protective effects on ethanol-induced gastroduodenal injury through gastrointestinal mucosal microcirculation promotion, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis mechanisms.

Medicinal Plants with Prospective Benefits in the Management of Peptic Ulcer Diseases in Ghana

Background

The growth or multiplication of harmful microorganisms in addition to harmful human activities has led to many disorders in humans. Consequently, there is a search for medications to treat these disorders. Interestingly, medicines of plant origin are known to be among the most attractive sources of new drugs and have shown promising results in the treatment of various diseases including peptic ulcers. This review, therefore, is aimed at obtaining knowledge on some Ghanaian ethnomedicinal plants used to treat peptic ulcers, their folkloric uses, their phytochemicals, and their antiulcer and related pharmacological activities as well as finding areas for prospective studies.

Methods

Published peer-reviewed articles on ethnomedicinal plants used for the management of peptic ulcers in Ghana from 1967 to 2020 were sourced and used for the study.

Results

In this review, 13 plants were identified which belong to 10 different families including Sapindaceae, Apocynaceae, and Bignoniaceae. The parts most often used for most preparations were the leaves (53%), followed by stem bark and roots (both having the same percentage of use of 17.6%), the whole plant (5.9%), and the rhizomes (5.9%). Azadirachta indica was the only plant that had undergone some patient studies in addition to animal studies. Conclusion. A discussion of various antiulcer activity studies using ulcer models carried out on selected medicinal plants used for the management of peptic ulcer disease in addition to brief information on their folkloric uses and their phytochemical and other pharmacological properties is presented. These medicinal plants may be used in developing herbal products for the management of peptic ulcer disease.

Evaluation of the gastroprotective effects of Chihuahua propolis on indomethacin- induced gastric ulcers in mouse

The aim of this work was to evaluate the gastroprotective activity of a Mexican propolis on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in a mouse model. The following contents of the ethanolic extract of propolis of Chihuahua (EEPCh) were determined: antioxidant activity (SA50), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and chemical composition by HPLC-DAD and HPLC-MS, as well as acute toxicity by OECD Guideline 423. Gastric lesions were induced by intragastric indomethacin treatment in male ICR mice. As the positive control, omeprazole was administered, and three doses of EEPCh were evaluated (50, 150 and 300 mg/kg). Gastric mucosal injury, histological changes and mucosal content were evaluated by means of H&E and PAS staining. For homogenized gastric tissues, the following were evaluated: TBARS, MPO, and PGE2 levels; SOD and GPx antioxidant enzymatic activity; and the concentrations of the proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. EEPCh had a significant SA50 of 41.55 µg/mL. The TPC of EEPCh was 860 mg GAE/g, and its TFC was 49.58 mg QE/g. Different phenolic compounds were identified in the extract and were not toxic. The EEPCh doses decreased mucosal damage and histological injuries, maintained the mucosal content and reduced the TBARS, MPO and concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines in gastric ulcer tissues. The 150 and 300 mg/kg doses increased the SOD activity and maintained the PGE2 content. Only the 300 mg/kg dose increased the GPx activity. The results of this study suggest that EEPCh displays gastroprotective effects by means of its antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effects and promotes ulcer protection through the maintenance of mucosal content and PGE2 levels.

Gastroprotective Effect of Sinapic Acid on Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats: Involvement of Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB Signaling and Antiapoptotic Role

Background: In the current study, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of sinapic acid (SA) in terms of the mechanism underlying its gastroprotective action against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats.

Methods: These effects were examined through gross macroscopic evaluation of the stomach cavity [gastric ulcer index (GUI)], alteration in pH, gastric juice volume, free acidity, total acidity, total gastric wall mucus, and changes in PGE2. In addition, we evaluated lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde), antioxidant systems (catalase and glutathione), inflammatory markers [tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and myeloperoxidase (MPO)], apoptotic markers (caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2), nuclear factor-κB [NF-κB (p65)], NO levels, and histopathological staining (H and E and PAS).

Results: In rats with ethanol-induced ulcers, pre-treatment with SA (40 mg/kg p. o.) decreased the sternness of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries by decreasing the GUI, gastric juice volume, free acidity, and total acidity. In addition, the pH and total gastric mucosa were increased, together with histopathological alteration, neutrophil incursion, and increases in PGE2 and NO₂. These effects were similar to those observed for omeprazole, a standard anti-ulcer drug. SA was shown to suppress gastric inflammation through decreasing TNF-α, IL-6, and MPO, as well as curbing gastric oxidative stress through the inhibition of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and restoration of depleted glutathione and catalase activity. SA inhibited Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) and caspase-3 activity, and restored the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2; these findings indicate the antiapoptotic potential of SA, leading to enhanced cell survival. SA also repressed NF-κB signaling and increased IκBα. Moreover, SA upregulated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), thereby restoring depleted antioxidant defense enzymes and implicating the NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathways.

Conclusion: These results suggest that the prophylactic administration of SA (40 mg/kg) can ameliorate ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats primarily via the modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling and subsequent enhancement of cell viability.

Gastroprotective Effects of Inulae Flos on HCl/Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats

Inulae Flos, the flower of Inula britannica L., is used as a dietary supplement, beverage, and medicine in East Asia. In this study, we evaluated the gastroprotective effects of Inulae Flos extract (IFE) against gastric mucosal lesions induced by hydrochloric acid (HCl)/ethanol in rats and explored its potential mechanisms by measuring antioxidant enzyme activity, mucus secretion, and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) levels. Pretreatment with IFE at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg significantly inhibited gastric lesions in HCl/ethanol-treated rats. IFE increased the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase and the levels of glutathione and PGE₂ in gastric tissues. The administration of IFE also significantly increased the gastric wall mucus contents in HCl/ethanol-induced gastric lesions. These findings suggest that IFE has gastroprotective effects against HCl/ethanol-induced gastric lesions and exerts these effects through increased antioxidant levels and gastric mucus secretion. Inulae Flos may be a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of gastritis and gastric ulcers.

Dual role of eugenol on chronic gastric ulcer in rats: Low-dose healing efficacy and the worsening gastric lesion in high doses

This study evaluated the gastric healing activity of eugenol, the main bioactive compound from clove (Syzygium aromaticun) essential oil. Five groups of female Wistar rats were submitted to acetic acid-induced ulcer model and treated with Vehicle (1 mL/kg, p.o.), eugenol (1, 10 or 100 mg/kg, p.o) or omeprazole (20 mg/kg, p.o), twice a day, by seven or fourteen days. Macroscopic, microscopic and biochemical analyses were performed in the ulcerated site. Eugenol (1 mg/kg, p.o) administered by 7 or 14 days accelerated the gastric healing process by 33% and 52%, respectively. The healing actions of eugenol were accompanied by the rescue on the histological architecture and the normalization of the superoxide dismutase and catalase activity. Moreover, eugenol (1 mg/kg, p.o) reduced the gastric mucosal myeloperoxidase activity and increased the mucin secretion. In contrast, eugenol at a dose of 100 mg/kg administered by 7 days enhanced 49% the ulcerated area, but at 10 mg/kg did not change the ulcer area after 7 or 14 days of treatment. Thus, despite the undesirable results due to the worsening of the gastric lesion with the use of eugenol in high doses, the antiulcer potential of this compound is evident and manageable in an adequate dose.