Protective Role of Tinospora cordifolia against Lead-induced Hepatotoxicity

Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy): An insight on the multifarious pharmacological paradigms of a most promising medicinal ayurvedic herb

Medicinal herbs are being widely accepted as alternative remedies for preventing various diseases especially in India and other Asian countries. However, most plant-based herbal medicines are not yet being scientifically accepted worldwide. "Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook.F. & Thomson", one of the most promising plant species of Tinospora known as "Giloy" or Guduchi that is used in several traditional medicines in treating diseases e.g., metabolic and immune disorders, diabetes, heart diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases, has been widely investigated. Varieties of bioactive phytochemical constituents isolated from the stem, root and whole plant of T. cordifolia have been identified. In the last two decades, the diverse pharmacological activities of T. cordifolia have been continuously studied. Due to its therapeutic efficacy in immune modulation, it could be effective in viral and other diseases treatment as well. A medicinal plant could be well-suited not only for the treatment of target site but also for boosting the body's immune system. As an alternate source of medication, medicinal herbs are continuously showing better compatibility with the human body with minimal side effects than other therapies. Keeping this in mind, the present review highlights the pharmacological potential of T. cordifolia against various diseases.

Natural feed additives and bioactive supplements versus chemical additives as a safe and practical approach to combat foodborne mycotoxicoses

This review highlights the possible hazard of mycotoxins occurrence in foods and feeds in regards to foodborne diseases. The possible management of the risk of contamination of foods and feeds with mycotoxins by using natural feed additives, protecting against deleterious effects of mycotoxins or inhibiting the growth of fungi and mycotoxin production, is deeply investigated in the available literature and some effective measures for safe utilization of mycotoxin contaminated feed/food are proposed. The biological methods of decontamination, degradation or biotransformation of mycotoxins are deeply analyzed and discussed. Some natural antagonists against target fungi are also reviewed and a comparison is made with conventional fungicides for ensuring a safe prevention of mycotoxin contamination. The most common and useful chemical methods of mycotoxins decontamination of agricultural commodities or raw materials are also investigated, e.g., chemical additives inactivating or destroying and/or adsorbing mycotoxins as well as chemical additives inhibiting the growth of fungi and mycotoxin production. The practical use and safety of various kind of feed/food additives or herbal/biological supplements as possible approach for ameliorating the adverse effects of some dangerous mycotoxins is deeply investigated and some suggestions are given. Various possibilities for decreasing mycotoxins toxicity, e.g., by clarifying the mechanisms of their toxicity and using some target antidotes and vitamins as supplements to the diet, are also studied in the literature and appropriate discussions or suggestions are made in this regard. Some studies on animal diets such as low carbohydrate intake, increased protein content, calorie restriction or the importance of dietary fats are also investigated in the available literature for possible amelioration of the ailments associated with mycotoxins exposure. It could be concluded that natural feed additives and bioactive supplements would be more safe and practical approach to combat foodborne mycotoxicoses as compared to chemical additives.

Effect of herbal extracts and Saroglitazar on high-fat diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic lipidome in C57BL/6J mice

We evaluated the effects of select herbal extracts (Tinospora cordifolia [TC], Tinospora cordifolia with Piper longum [TC + PL], Withania somnifera [WS], Glycyrrhiza glabra [GG], AYUSH-64 [AY-64], and Saroglitazar [S]) on various parameters in a diet-induced obesity mouse model. After 12 weeks of oral administration of the herbal extracts in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6J mice, we analyzed plasma biochemical parameters, insulin resistance (IR), liver histology, and the expression of inflammatory and fibrosis markers, along with hepatic lipidome. We also used a 3D hepatic spheroid model to assess their impact on profibrotic gene expression. Among the extracts, TC + PL showed a significant reduction in IR, liver weight, TNF-α, IL4, IL10 expression, and hepatic lipid levels (saturated triglycerides, ceramides, lysophosphocholines, acylcarnitines, diglycerides, and phosphatidylinositol levels). Saroglitazar reversed changes in body weight, IR, plasma triglycerides, glucose, insulin, and various hepatic lipid species (fatty acids, phospholipids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and triglycerides). With the exception of GG, Saroglitazar, and other extracts protected against palmitic acid-induced fibrosis marker gene expression in the 3D spheroids. TC + PL and Saroglitazar also effectively prevented HFD-induced insulin resistance, inflammation, and specific harmful lipid species in the liver.

Impact of plant extracts on hepatic redox metabolism upon lead exposure: a systematic review of preclinical in vivo evidence

The liver is a central target organ of heavy metals toxicity, and secondary metabolites of several plant species are suggested to attenuate lead (Pb)-induced hepatotoxicity through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. We used a systematic review framework to map the impact of plant extracts and bioactive secondary metabolites on immunological markers and liver redox metabolism in preclinical models of Pb exposure. This is a systematic review performed according to PRISMA guidelines. The structured research of publications was done through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases, selecting and analyzing 41 original studies included via the eligibility criteria. Evidence indicates that Pb-exposure increases reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) production by δ-aminolevulinic acid auto-oxidation, xanthine dehydrogenase, and xanthine oxidase upregulation. Pb exposure also inhibits antioxidant enzymes, potentiating ROS/NOS levels and reactive cell damage. Plant extracts rich in flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, anthocyanins, and vitamins exerted hepatoprotective effects by chelating and decreasing Pb bioaccumulation. In addition, plant extracts reinforce exogenous and endogenous antioxidant defenses, attenuating liver oxidative stress and cell death. The lack of blinded evaluators and randomized experimental groups were the main sources of bias identified, which need to be controlled in toxicological studies aimed at identifying natural products applied to the prevention or treatment of Pb poisoning.

Phytochemical Evaluation and Antioxidant Potential of Polyherbal Extract Mixture-an In Vitro and In Silico Study

Standardisation of polyherbal formulations plays a key role in estimating the quality and safety of drugs. In this study, a novel polyherbal formulation was prepared for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy and it was attempted to evaluate for its safety and efficacy against free radicals. To ascertain the safety of the formulation, individual herbs and polyherbal formulation have been screened for microbial load, heavy metals, pesticide residues and aflatoxins according to Ayush guidelines. Phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard procedures and GCMS analysis to identify the bioactive compounds. Antioxidant methods such as DPPH, nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl and superoxide radical scavenging assays were undertaken. To predict the mechanism behind the antioxidant efficacy, a molecular docking analysis was performed against Keap1/Nrf2 (PDB ID: 2FLU) protein using AutoDock Vina software. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavones, glycosides, polyphenols, phytosterols and saponins. The results of in vitro antioxidant studies showed increase in percentage inhibition with increase in concentration and found no significant difference compare with standards. Among the 15 bioactive compounds identified from GCMS analysis, guanosine showed high binding affinity with Keap1/Nrf2 and interacting with similar residues as that of standard ascorbic acid which is analysed through molecular docking. Based on the results, it has been concluded that the safety parameters of polyherbal formulation were found within specified limits of Ayush guidelines and its efficacy against oxidative stress plays an effective role to treat diabetic nephropathy due to its synergistic antioxidant effect.

Study of the acute and repeated dose 28-day oral toxicity in mice treated with PT-31, a molecule with potential antipsychotic profile

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder that affects 1% of the world population and is treated with antipsychotics, which may induce important biochemical and hematological alterations. Since it is necessary to verify the safety of new molecules with antipsychotic potential, the present study aimed to evaluate the oral toxicity of PT-31, a putative α₂-adrenoreceptor agonist, after acute (2000 mg/kg) and repeated doses (28 days) gavage treatment, in three different doses: minimum effective dose in animal models (10 mg/kg), twice the dose (20 mg/kg), and four times the dose (40 mg/kg), as recommended by the OECD guidelines. Balb/C female adult mice were used, and biochemical, hematological, and histopathological analyses were performed. PT-31 10 and 20 mg/kg did not cause biochemical alterations related to hepatic and renal toxicity, and neither altered glycemic and lipid profiles. The preclinical dose of PT-31 also did not promote mice histopathological changes in the liver, kidney, and brain. In the hematimetric parameters, PT-31 only increased HGB at 20 mg/kg, and MCH and MCHC at 40 mg/kg. However, all the tested doses of PT-31 showed platelet increase, which must be better investigated. Therefore, further studies are needed to investigate the safety of PT-31 as a potential antipsychotic drug.

Role of medicinal plants in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 and in the management of post-COVID-19 complications

BACKGROUND

The worldwide corona virus disease outbreak, generally known as COVID-19 pandemic outbreak resulted in a major health crisis globally. The morbidity and transmission modality of COVID-19 appear more severe and uncontrollable. The respiratory failure and following cardiovascular complications are the main pathophysiology of this deadly disease. Several therapeutic strategies are put forward for the development of safe and effective treatment against SARS-CoV-2 virus from the pharmacological view point but till date there are no specific treatment regimen developed for this viral infection.

PURPOSE

The present review emphasizes the role of herbs and herbs-derived secondary metabolites in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 virus and also for the management of post-COVID-19 related complications. This approach will foster and ensure the safeguards of using medicinal plant resources to support the healthcare system. Plant-derived phytochemicals have already been reported to prevent the viral infection and to overcome the post-COVID complications like parkinsonism, kidney and heart failure, liver and lungs injury and mental problems. In this review, we explored mechanistic approaches of herbal medicines and their phytocomponenets as antiviral and post-COVID complications by modulating the immunological and inflammatory states.

STUDY DESIGN

Studies related to diagnosis and treatment guidelines issued for COVID-19 by different traditional system of medicine were included. The information was gathered from pharmacological or non-pharmacological interventions approaches. The gathered information sorted based on therapeutic application of herbs and their components against SARSCoV-2 and COVID-19 related complications.

METHODS

A systemic search of published literature was conducted from 2003 to 2021 using different literature database like Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science to emphasize relevant articles on medicinal plants against SARS-CoV-2 viral infection and Post-COVID related complications.

RESULTS

Collected published literature from 2003 onwards yielded with total 625 articles, from more than 18 countries. Among these 625 articles, more than 95 medicinal plants and 25 active phytomolecules belong to 48 plant families. Reports on the therapeutic activity of the medicinal plants belong to the Lamiaceae family (11 reports), which was found to be maximum reported from 4 different countries including India, China, Australia, and Morocco. Other reports on the medicinal plant of Asteraceae (7 reports), Fabaceae (8 reports), Piperaceae (3 reports), Zingiberaceae (3 reports), Ranunculaceae (3 reports), Meliaceae (4 reports) were found, which can be explored for the development of safe and efficacious products targeting COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

Keeping in mind that the natural alternatives are in the priority for the management and prevention of the COVID-19, the present review may help to develop an alternative approach for the management of COVID-19 viral infection and post-COVID complications from a mechanistic point of view.

Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers: Protection mechanisms and strategies against oxidative stress-related diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers (Menispermaceae) is a Mediterranean herb, used in Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani, and folk medicines. The herb is also used in conventional medicine to treat oxidative stress-related diseases and conditions, including inflammation, pain, diarrhea, asthma, respiratory infections, cancer, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The taxonomy, botanical classification, geographical distribution, and ethnobotanical uses of T. cordifolia, as well as the phytochemical compounds found in the herb, the toxicology of and pharmacological and clinical studies on the effects of T. cordifolia are all covered in this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To gather information on T. cordifolia, we used a variety of scientific databases, including Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct. The information discussed focuses on biologically active compounds found in T. cordifolia, and common applications and pharmacological activity of the herb, as well as toxicological and clinical studies on its properties.

RESULTS

The findings of this study reveal a connection between the use of T. cordifolia in conventional medicine and its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and other biological effects. The entire plant, stem, leaves, root, and extracts of T. cordifolia have been shown to have a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective impact. Toxicological testing demonstrated that this plant may have medicinal applications. T. cordifolia contains a variety of biologically active compounds from various chemical classes, including alkaloids, terpenoids, sitosterols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Based on the reports researched for this review, we believe that chemicals in T. cordifolia may activate Nrf2, which leads to the overexpression of antioxidant enzymes such as CAT, GPx, GST, and GR, and thereby induces the adaptive response to oxidative stress. T. cordifolia is also able to reduce NF-κB signalling by inhibiting PI3K/Akt, activating AMPK and sirtuins, and downregulating PI3K/Akt.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that the pharmacological properties displayed by T. cordifolia back up its conventional uses. Antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antidiabetic, nephroprotective, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective activities were all demonstrated in T. cordifolia stem extracts. To validate pharmacodynamic targets, further research is needed to evaluate the molecular mechanisms of the known compounds against gastrointestinal diseases, inflammatory processes, and microbial infections, as immunostimulants, and in chemotherapy. The T. cordifolia safety profile was confirmed in a toxicological analysis, which prompted pharmacokinetic assessment testing to confirm its bioavailability.

Some Indian herbs have protective effects against deleterious effects of ochratoxin A in broiler chicks

A protective effect of two herbs, Glycyrrhiza glabra and Tinospora cordifolia, given as feed additives was observed against the growth inhibitory effect of ochratoxin A (OTA) and associated immunosuppression and biochemical or pathomorphological changes. The feed levels of 3 mg/kg OTA and fine powder of one of both herbs were given during a period of 32 days to female broiler chicks divided into 3 experimental and 1 control groups (14 chicks per group). The observed pathological and biochemical changes, the changes in relative organs’ weight and body weight, and the decrease of antibody titer against Newcastle disease were more pronounced in the OTA-treated chicks without herbal supplementation, and less pronounced in the chicks treated additionally with G. glabra or T. cordifolia as was shown by the better feed performance and the higher body weight in the chicks treated with the herbs. The higher relative weight of lymphoid organs of the chicks supplemented with both herbs revealed their beneficial effects on the immune system. The hepatoprotective effect of both herbs was evident, being stronger in the chicks additionally supplemented with G. glabra shown by the pathomorphological findings and by the lower levels of aspartate transaminase (131.1 U/l) compared to chicks given only OTA (156.0 U/l). A protective effect of T. cordifolia on the bone marrow and kidneys was found as was shown by the lower levels of uric acid (382.9 μmol/l) compared to chicks given only OTA (466.9 μmol/l).

<i>Tinospora cordifolia</i> (Giloy): Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology, Clinical Application and Conservation Strategies

Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy) is a medicinal plant used in folk and Ayurvedic medicines throughout India since ancient times. All the parts of the plant are immensely useful due to the presence of different compounds of pharmaceutical importance belonging to various groups as alkaloids, diterpenoid lactones, glycosides, steroids, sesquiterpenoid, and phenolics. These compounds possess pharmacological properties, which make it anti-diabetic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, hepato-protective, and immuno-modulatory. However, due to the increasing population, there is an inadequate supply of drugs. Therefore, this review focuses on phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, clinical application and its conservation strategies so that the plant can be conserved for future generations and utilized as alternative medicine as well as to design various pharmacologically important drugs.

Phytoremedial effect of Tinospora cordifolia against arsenic induced toxicity in Charles Foster rats

Arsenic poisoning is one of the most serious health hazards of recent times. It has been estimated that more than 200 million people of about 105 countries in the world are affected due to arsenic poisoning. Except mitigation, there is no such mode by which the population can be prevented from being exposed to arsenic. Tinospora cordifolia (T. cordifolia) is widely used in the folk medicine system for the treatment of various diseases. Hence, the aim of the present study was to investigate the antidote effects of ethanolic extract of T. cordifolia stem against arsenic induced hepato-renal toxicity in rat model. Twenty-four male Charles Foster rats (weighing 160-180 g) were randomly divided into two groups, where six rats were used as control group. Eighteen rats were orally treated with arsenic at the dose of 8 mg/kg body weight for 90 days daily and then further divided into three sub groups (n = 6 each). Sub group I-arsenic treated rats, were sacrificed after treatment; sub group II rats were used as arsenic control and the sub group III rats were administrated with T. cordifolia at the dose of 400 mg/kg body weight/day for 90 days. After the completion of dose duration, all the control and treatment group rats were sacrificed to evaluate the various parameters. Arsenic induced rats had significantly (p < 0.0001) altered biochemical serum levels of SGPT, SGOT, ALP, total bilirubin, urea, uric acid, creatinine and albumin; But, after the administration of T. cordifolia there was significant (p < 0.0001) restoration observed in these liver and kidney function parameters. The T. cordifolia administration also significantly (p < 0.0001) restored the serum MDA levels and arsenic concentration in blood, liver and kidney tissues, as well as significant (p < 0.0001) improvement in haematological variables. In histopathological study, the arsenic treated rats showed degenerative changes in the liver and kidney tissues such as lesions and vacuolizations in hepatocytes and nephrocytes respectively. However, after the administration with T. cordifolia rats, there was considerably significant restoration in liver and kidney tissues. The entire study suggests that arsenic caused severe damage to the liver and kidney at haematological, biochemical and histopathological levels in rats. However, T. cordifolia played the vital role to combat the arsenic induced toxicity in rats. Hence, T. cordifolia might be used as a nutritional supplement to combat the arsenic led toxicity among the exposed population.

Plants used for the treatment of icterus (jaundice) in Central India: A review

Jaundice is one of the most common medical condition affecting infants, children, and adults. Jaundice is not a disease but it is a visible sign and symptom of liver disease which occurs when there is an increase in the amount of bilirubin circulating in the blood due to the abnormal metabolism and excretion in the urine. Medicinal plants are being used long ago by our ancestors for the treatment of jaundice. At the present era, consumption of these herbal medicines is increasing at a high speed, due to its less or no side effect and cost-effectiveness as compared to synthetic medicines. This review describes approximately 55 medicinal plants which are used by rural and tribal people of different area of Chhattisgarh for curing jaundice. The data was collected from different kinds of literature survey from the year 1993 to 2018. This review has been conferred in a systematic way which includes plant's vernacular name, botanical name along with its family, part used and ethnomedicinal uses in a tabulated form and also the description of scientific evidence behind the folklore uses of some medicinal plants along with their mechanism of action which have been reported in different kinds of literature. The current study may be useful for the development of new medicines for the treatment of jaundice.

Identification of bioactive compounds in ethylacetate fraction of Tapinanthus bangwensis leaves that ameliorate CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats

The pharmacological effects of medicinal plants are due to the presence of certain chemical compounds present in them. Previous studies have shown that crude extracts of Tapinanthus bangwensis ( T. bangwensis) possess hepatocurative potential. However, the present study aims on evaluating the antioxidant activity as well as identifying the chemical compounds in ethylacetate fraction of T. bangwensis that ameliorate carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Six subfractions of ethylacetate fraction were obtained by column chromatography. The antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH), biochemical assay determined by spectrophotometry, and compound elucidation by liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) analysis. The DPPH result shows that subfraction F0 exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity followed by F4 while F1 exhibited the lowest. Oral administration of 100 mg/kg body weight of the subfractions of ethylacetate fraction of T. bangwensis increases superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and also glutathione level and decreases malondialdehyde level compared to the positive control group. Subsequently, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, and conjugated bilirubin were reduced while albumin and total protein levels increased compared to the positive control group. However, there were no significant differences between the positive control group and the group induced and treated with the subfractions at p < 0.05. The histopathology study shows normal hepatocyte distribution with no fat deposit in the induced and treated groups while fatty liver was observed in the positive group. The anti-hepatotoxic effect was higher in F4 than in other subfraction treated groups. Hence, the LC-MS analysis of F4 reveals the presence of 8-hydroxyluteolin-8-glucoside, Avicularin, Fisetin-7-glucoside, Isoscutellarein-7-xyloside, and Isovitexin, respectively, and has been reported to exhibit antioxidant and hepatocurative activities. It can be concluded that the hepatocurative effect could be due to the chemical compounds identified above.

Using Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) as an eco-friendly feed supplement in human and poultry nutrition

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) is a well-recognized and widely distributed traditional plant that is used successfully in Indian Ayurveda medicine. T. cordifolia has shown many promising biological activities, such as antioxidative, antimicrobial, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, osteoprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiarrheal, and antistress effects. Guduchi is a rich source of protein and micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, copper, calcium, phosphorus, and manganese. It also contains many secondary plant metabolites, such as terpenes, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and glycosides. Based on previous studies in poultry, the supplementation levels of Guduchi range from 1 to 5 g/kg of diet (different sources, such as powder, extracts, roots, and leaves, have been used). It was suggested that this variation in supplementation levels depends on different factors, including the extraction method, the supplementation proposed, the method of supplementation (either in feed or drinking water), and the species and physiological status of the birds. Generally, dietary supplementation of poultry broilers with T. cordifolia yielded positive impacts on growth performance, body gains (increased by 4.8%), dressing percentage (increased by 7.1%), meat quality traits, and the shelf life of the meat. In addition, T. cordifolia exerted a palliative effect on the general health status of the birds through reducing live enzymes and plasma uric acids and enhancing the immune response, as indicated by the leukocyte count, hemagglutinin titer, interleukin activity, and mortality levels. Further investigations concluded that T. cordifolia showed strong antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis, with subsequent reductions in mortality. Moreover, T. cordifolia showed an ability to improve humoral and cell-mediated immunity against Newcastle disease, infectious anemia, gout, and aflatoxicosis. The current review discusses many beneficial properties of T. cordifolia, although the lack of pharmacological trials limits the use of this extract in poultry. Further research should be performed regarding the composition of the active compound, the possible mechanisms of action, and the effective doses to fully understand the activities and benefits of T. cordifolia as a growth performance improvement supplement.

The chemical constituents and diverse pharmacological importance of Tinospora cordifolia

Tinospora cordifolia is a popular medicinal plant which is used in several traditional medicines to cure various diseases. The common names are Amrita and Guduchi and belong to the family of Menispermaceae. It is considered an essential herbal plant of Indian system of medicine (ISM) and has been used in the treatment of fever, urinary problem, dysentery, skin diseases leprosy, diabetes, and many more diseases. The plant reported containing chemical compound including Alkaloids, Terpenoids, Lignans, Steroids and others that establish the phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of Tinospora cordifolia. The present review highlights the pharmacological importance viz antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, anti-diabetic activity, antistress activity, hypolipidaemic effect, hepatic disorder, anticancer anti HIV potential, antiosteoporotic effects, antitoxic effects, wound healing, anticomplementary activity, and immunomodulating activity, systemic infection and Parkinson's disease.

Prevalence and current therapy in chronic liver disorders

BACKGROUND

Herbal medicine plays an important role in health, particularly in remote parts of developing areas with few health facilities. According to WHO estimates, about three-quarters of the world's population currently use herbs or traditional medicines to treat various ailments, including liver diseases. Several studies have found that the use of medicinal plants was effective in the treatment of infectious and non-infectious diseases. Hepatitis and liver cirrhosis associated with many clinical manifestations can be treated with allopathic medicines, but reports of a number of side effects including immunosuppression, bone marrow suppression, and renal complications have motivated researchers to explore more natural herbal medicines with low or no side effects and with high efficacy in treating hepatic diseases.

METHODS

Databases including PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar were searched for findings on the hepatoprotective effects of plants.

RESULTS

Various medicinal plants are used for the treatment of liver disorders. The range of alternative therapies is huge, and they are used worldwide, either as part of primary health care or in combination with conventional medicine. Hepatoprotective plants contain a variety of chemical constituents including flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, carotenoids, coumarins, phenols, essential oil, organic acids, monoterpenes, xanthenes, lignans, and lipids.

CONCLUSION

This review shows that numerous plants are found to contain hepatoprotective compounds. However, further studies are needed to determine their association with existing regimes of antiviral medicines and to develop evidence-based alternative medicine to cure different kinds of liver disease in humans.

Literature review of liver injury induced by Tinospora crispa associated with two cases of acute fulminant hepatitis

INTRODUCTION

Species of Tinospora are used as herbal remedies for the treatment of various diseases with very few toxic effects having been reported. Tinospora cordifolia (TCF) has been reported to effectively prevent hepatotoxicity. However, there are an increasing number of cases revealing that Tinospora crispa (TCP) might have the negative effect of inducing hepatotoxicity. Because of the similar leaves, people may mistake TCP for TCF, and consume it with the purpose of protecting liver function.

OBJECTIVE

Find out the misusing level of TCP and TCF and which chemical compound in TCP might induce hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

We report two cases of acute fulminant hepatitis associated with chronic use of TCP. Given that the two herbs were misidentified in these two reports, we investigated the frequency of erroneous identification by using three keywords ("Guduchi", "Tinospora cordifolia", "Tinospora crispa") to search images from the Google Images database. To further clarify the influence of liver function between TCP and TCF, we searched PubMed (up to 29 July 2018) for relevant publications on clinical trials or case reports.

RESULTS

Based on web review, over 35 percent of websites failed to accurately identify these two herbs. The different effects on liver function between TCP and TCF were compared through literature review. It indicated that TCF exerted liver protection, TCP had a contrary effect, suggesting its cis-Clerodane-type furano-diterpenoids might be an important factor of inducing hepatotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded that people might cause hepatic injury or even death without correctly identifying these two Tinospora species.

Tinospora cordifolia extract prevents cadmium-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity in experimental rats

Background

Cadmium (Cd) pollution is of serious concern due to its toxic effects in both humans and animals. The study investigates the protective effect of Tinospora cordifolia stem methanolic extract (TCME) on Cd induced hepatotoxicity.

Objective(s)

The objective of the study was to explore the hepatoprotective effects of T. cordifolia extract.

Materials and methods

Rats were administered orally with Cd (5 mg/kg) and TCME (100 mg/kg) for 28 days. At the end of the treatment period, serum and liver tissues homogenates were subjected to biochemical analysis.

Results

Cd treated rats showed increased activities of the serum marker enzymes of liver damage such as AST and ALT along with increased levels of LPO and protein carbonyl content in liver tissues. Cd treatment also leads to decreased activities of endogenous antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GSH, GPx and GST), membrane ATPases (Na⁺K⁺ATPase, Ca²⁺ATPase and Mg²⁺K⁺ATPase) and the tissue glycoprotein levels (hexose, fucose, hexosamine and sialic acid). Histological analysis revealed vacuolar degeneration of hepatocytes with focal necrosis upon Cd administration. TCME co-treatment restored the biochemical and histological alterations caused by Cd intoxication to near normal levels.

Conclusion

The results of the present investigation reveal the hepatoprotective nature of T.cordifolia against Cd induced hepatotoxicity.

Natural products: a hope for glioblastoma patients

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive malignant tumors with an overall dismal survival averaging one year despite multimodality therapeutic interventions including surgery, radiotherapy and concomitant and adjuvant chemotherapy. Few drugs are FDA approved for GBM, and the addition of temozolomide (TMZ) to standard therapy increases the median survival by only 2.5 months. Targeted therapy appeared promising in in vitro monolayer cultures, but disappointed in preclinical and clinical trials, partly due to the poor penetration of drugs through the blood brain barrier (BBB). Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have intrinsic resistance to initial chemoradiation therapy (CRT) and acquire further resistance via deregulation of many signaling pathways. Due to the failure of classical chemotherapies and targeted drugs, research efforts focusing on the use of less toxic agents have increased. Interestingly, multiple natural compounds have shown antitumor and apoptotic effects in TMZ resistant and p53 mutant GBM cell lines and also displayed synergistic effects with TMZ. In this review, we have summarized the current literature on natural products or product analogs used to modulate the BBB permeability, induce cell death, eradicate CSCs and sensitize GBM to CRT.

The Potency of Red Seaweed (Eucheuma cottonii) Extracts as Hepatoprotector on Lead Acetate-induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice

BACKGROUND

Lead is one of the most toxic metals, producing severe organ damage in animals and humans. Oxidative stress is reported to play an important role in lead acetate-induced liver injury.

AIM

This study was carried out to investigate the role of ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii in protecting against lead acetate-induced hepatotoxicity in male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample used fifty male mice which were divided into five groups: negative control (mice were given daily with Aquadest); positive control (mice were given daily with lead acetate 20 mg/kg body weight (BW) orally once in a day for 21 days); and the treatment group (mice were given E. cottonii extracts 200 mg, 400 mg, and 800 mg/kg BW orally once in a day for 25 days, and on the 4^th day, were given lead acetate 20 mg/kg BW 1 h after E. cottonii extract administration for 21 days). On day 25, the levels of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured. The data of SGOT, SGPT, ALP, MDA, SOD, and GPx were analyzed with one-way ANOVA, followed by least significant difference test.

RESULTS

The results showed that oral administration of lead acetate 20 mg/kg BW for 21 days resulted in a significant increase in SGOT, SGPT, ALP, and MDA levels. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in SOD and GPx levels. Treatment with E. cottonii extracts of 800 mg/kg BW but not with 200 mg/kg BW and 400 mg/kg BW significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the elevated SGPT, SGOT, ALP, and MDA levels as compared to positive control group. Treatment with E. cottonii extracts of 800 mg/kg BW also showed a significant increase in SOD and GPx levels as compared to positive control group. Treating mice with lead acetate showed different histopathological changes such as loss of the normal structure of hepatic cells, blood congestion, and fatty degeneration whereas animals treated with lead acetate and E. cottonii extracts showed an improvement in these changes and the tissue appeared with normal structures.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that E. cottonii extracts could be a potent natural product and can provide a promising hepatoprotective effect against lead acetate-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

SUMMARY

In summary, Oxidative stress reported to play an important role in lead acetate induced liver injury. The lead acetate treatment significantly increased the SGOT, SGPT, ALP, MDA, and decreased the antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GPx) in liver. The inhibition of antioxidant enzymes will increase free radicals in liver tissues and might induce liver injury in mice. The presence of ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii with lead acetate showed protective effects as attenuating lead acetate against its liver toxicity, and this may be due to the activity of ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii as antioxidant. The antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GPx) were increased, and MDA, SGOT, SGPT, ALP were decreased after ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii administration. The enzymatic activities (SOD and GPx) and MDA in mice can be used as biomarkers of heavy metal toxicity such as lead acetate. Histopathological view of liver sections in the lead acetate treated group showed the liver damage, as compared to the negative control group. However, administration of ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii significantly improved the histopathological in liver of lead acetate-treated mice. From the results of this study we concluded that the ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii could be a potent natural product provide a promising protective effect against lead acetate induced liver toxicity in mice. Abbreviations Used: SGOT: Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase, SGPT: Serum Glutamic Pyruvate Transaminase, ALP: Alkaline Phosphatase, MDA: Malondialdehyde, SOD: Superoxide Dismutase, GPx: Glutathione Peroxidase.

Tinospora cordifolia as a protective and immunomodulatory agent in combination with cisplatin against murine visceral leishmaniasis

Effect of pure herb, Tinospora cordifolia was studied for its hepatoprotective, nephroprotective and immunomodulatory activity against high dose cisplatin treatment in Leishmania donovani infected BALB/c mice. Administration of cisplatin (5mg/kg b.wt. daily for 5 days, i.p.) reduced the parasite load in L. donovani infected BALB/c mice but produced damage in liver and kidney as manifested biochemically by an increase in serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum urea, serum creatinine and various electrolytes etc. These biochemical analyses were further supported by cisplatin induced morphological changes in kidney, liver and spleen. To combat this pure herb, T. cordifolia (100mg/kg b.wt. for 15 days daily) was used in combination with cisplatin in L. donovani infected BALB/c mice and it was found that all the aforementioned changes were effectively attenuated by T. cordifolia when administered in combination with cisplatin. Moreover, flow cytometric analysis of lymphocyte surface markers of T cells (CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+), NK1.1 and B cells (CD19) indicated prominent enhancement in proliferation and differentiation of lymphocytes. T. cordifolia in combination with cisplatin selectively induced Th1 type of immune response as depicted by enhanced levels of IFN-γ and IL-2 whereas Th2 specific cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 observed a moderate decline. Confirmation of Th1 polarization was further obtained from augmented levels of IgG2a over IgG1 and heightened DTH (delayed type hypersensitivity) response. Thus, our results suggest that treatment by T. cordifolia may be a critical remedy for the amelioration of adverse effects of cisplatin. Thus, this might serve as a novel combination against visceral leishmaniasis in future.

Long-term ultrastructural indices of lead intoxication in pulmonary tissue of the rat

In the present research long-term pulmonary toxicity of lead was investigated in rats treated by intraperitoneal administration of lead acetate for three consecutive days (25 mg/kg per day). Five weeks after treatment average lead content in the whole blood was 0.41 μg/dL ± 0.05, in the lung homogenates it measured 3.35 μg/g ± 0.54, as compared to the control values of 0.13 ± 0.07 μg/dL and 1.03 μg/g ± 0.59, respectively. X-ray microanalysis of lung specimens displayed lead localized mainly within type II pneumocytes and macrophages. At the ultrastructural level the effects of lead toxicity were found in lung capillaries, interstitium, epithelial cells, and alveolar lining. Alveolar septa showed intense fibrosis, consisting of collagen, elastin, and fibroblasts. Thinned alveolar septa had emphysematous tissue with some revealing signs of angiogenesis. Type II pneumocytes contained lamellar bodies with features of laminar destruction. Fragments of the surfactant layer were often detached from the alveolar epithelium. These findings indicate that 5 weeks after exposure, lead provokes reconstruction of the alveolar septa including fibrosis and emphysematous changes in the lung tissue.

Aqueous ethanolic extract of Tinospora cordifolia as a potential candidate for differentiation based therapy of glioblastomas

Glioblastomas are the most aggressive primary brain tumors and their heterogeneity and complexity often renders them non responsive to various conventional treatments. Search for herbal products having potential anti-cancer activity is an active area of research in the Indian traditional system of medicine i.e., Ayurveda. Tinospora cordifolia, also named as ‘heavenly elixir’ is used in various ayurvedic decoctions as panacea to treat several body ailments. The current study investigated the anti-brain cancer potential of 50% ethanolic extract of Tinospora cordifolia (TCE) using C6 glioma cells. TCE significantly reduced cell proliferation in dose-dependent manner and induced differentiation in C6 glioma cells, resulting in astrocyte-like morphology as indicated by phase contrast images, GFAP expression and process outgrowth data of TCE treated cells which exhibited higher number and longer processes than untreated cells. Reduced proliferation of cells was accompanied by enhanced expression of senescence marker, mortalin and its translocation from perinuclear to pancytoplasmic spaces. Further, TCE showed anti-migratory and anti-invasive potential as depicted by wound scratch assay and reduced expression of plasticity markers NCAM and PSA-NCAM along with MMP-2 and 9. On analysis of the cell cycle and apoptotic markers, TCE treatment was seen to arrest the C6 cells in G0/G1 and G2/M phase, suppressing expression of G1/S phase specific protein cyclin D1 and anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-xL, thus supporting its anti-proliferative and apoptosis inducing potential. Present study provides the first evidence for the presence of anti-proliferative, differentiation-inducing and anti-migratory/anti-metastatic potential of TCE in glioma cells and possible signaling pathways involved in its mode of action. Our primary data suggests that TCE and its active components may prove to be promising phytotherapeutic interventions in gliobalstoma multiformae. 

Tinospora cordifolia: One plant, many roles

Natural products with medicinal value are gradually gaining importance in clinical research due to their well-known property of no side effects as compared to drugs. Tinospora cordifolia commonly named as "Guduchi" is known for its immense application in the treatment of various diseases in the traditional ayurvedic literature. Recently the discovery of active components from the plant and their biological function in disease control has led to active interest in the plant across the globe. Our present study in this review encompasses (i) the genetic diversity of the plant and (ii) active components isolated from the plant and their biological role in disease targeting. The future scope of the review remains in exploiting the biochemical and signaling pathways affected by the compounds isolated from Tinospora so as to enable new and effective formulation in disease eradication.

Protective potential of Black grapes against lead induced oxidative stress in rats

From time immemorial Vitis vinifera (Black grapes) have been used both for medicinal and nourishment purposes. The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of Black grapes against lead nitrate induced oxidative stress. Exposure to lead significantly increased malondialdehyde levels with a significant decrease in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and the concentration of GSH in the liver and kidneys of rats. Significantly increased levels of AST, ALT, ALP, BUN and serum creatinine and decreased levels of total protein were observed. The administration of lead significantly decreased the body weight and organ weights at the end of the experimental period. Statistically significant decrease in hemoglobin, red blood cell and total leukocyte count was observed. Pretreatment of hydroalcoholic extract of Black grapes to lead exposed rats significantly ameliorated lead-induced oxidative stress in tissues and produced improvement in hematological parameters over lead-exposed rats, indicating the beneficial role of Black grapes to counteract the lead-induced oxidative stress.

Mangiferin, a natural xanthone, protects murine liver in Pb(II) induced hepatic damage and cell death via MAP kinase, NF-κB and mitochondria dependent pathways

One of the most well-known naturally occurring environmental heavy metals, lead (Pb) has been reported to cause liver injury and cellular apoptosis by disturbing the prooxidant-antioxidant balance via oxidative stress. Several studies, on the other hand, reported that mangiferin, a naturally occurring xanthone, has been used for a broad range of therapeutic purposes. In the present study, we, therefore, investigated the molecular mechanisms of the protective action of mangiferin against lead-induced hepatic pathophysiology. Lead [Pb(II)] in the form of Pb(NO₃)₂ (at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight, 6 days, orally) induced oxidative stress, hepatic dysfunction and cell death in murine liver. Post treatment of mangiferin at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight (6 days, orally), on the other hand, diminished the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced the levels of serum marker enzymes [alanine aminotranferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)]. Mangiferin also reduced Pb(II) induced alterations in antioxidant machineries, restored the mitochondrial membrane potential as well as mutual regulation of Bcl-2/Bax. Furthermore, mangiferin inhibited Pb(II)-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) (phospho-ERK 1/2, phosphor-JNK phospho- p38), nuclear translocation of NF-κB and apoptotic cell death as was evidenced by DNA fragmentation, FACS analysis and histological assessment. In vitro studies using hepatocytes as the working model also showed the protective effect of mangiferin in Pb(II) induced cytotoxicity. All these beneficial effects of mangiferin contributes to the considerable reduction of apoptotic hepatic cell death induced by Pb(II). Overall results demonstrate that mangiferin exhibit both antioxidative and antiapoptotic properties and protects the organ in Pb(II) induced hepatic dysfunction.

Nootropic herbs (Medhya Rasayana) in Ayurveda: An update

Cognitive deficits that present with many of neuropsychiatric conditions and/or alone as developmental deficit demand use of nootropics to boost cognitive abilities. Recently there is a tremendous urge to explore medicinal plants globally for improving cognitive function owing to their less adverse effects. Ayurveda provides a list of herbs known for nootropic activity as well as their multi-dimensional utility in various conditions. Present paper is a review to update knowledge on pharmacological properties, major chemical constituents, therapeutic actions, preclinical studies, safety and possible mode of action of the selected herbs from ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. Concurrently, it opens up for further research and standardization on nootropic herbs

Acute and repeated-doses (28 days) toxicity study of Hypericum polyanthemum Klotzsch ex Reichardt (Guttiferare) in mice

Hypericum polyanthemum, a South Brazilian species showed antidepressant-like and antinociceptive effects in rodents. Since limited information is available on the toxicity and safety profile of the Hypericum genus, we therefore investigated whether H. polyanthemum cyclo-hexane extract (POL) treatment could be associated with toxicity in preclinical setting using mice as an experimental model. These toxicity studies were based on the guidelines of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD-guidelines 423 and 407). Animals received POL single dose (2000 mg/kg, p.o.) or daily for 28-days (90, 450 and 900 mg/kg, p.o.). Acute toxicity study did not detect any clinical signs, changes in behavior or mortality. In repeated dose toxicity study, POL affected the body weight gain and induced biochemical, hematological and liver histological changes at 450 and 900 mg/kg. Mice treated with POL 90 mg/kg did not show any toxicity signs. In conclusion H. polyanthemum can be classified as safe (category 5) according to OECD acute toxicity parameters. However, the alterations observed after repeated treatment with high doses suggest that the liver could be the target organ on potential H. polyanthemum toxicity and point to the need of further toxicity studies.

The redox status in rats treated with flaxseed oil and lead-induced hepatotoxicity

Lead is a persistent environmental pollutant, and its toxicity continues to be a major health problem due to its interference with natural environment. In the present study, we have evaluated the effect of flaxseed oil on lead acetate-mediated hepatic oxidative stress and toxicity in rats. Lead acetate enhanced lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide production in both serum and liver with concomitant reduction in glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase activities, these findings were associated with DNA fragmentation. In addition, lead acetate caused liver injury as indicated by histopathological changed of the liver with an elevation in total bilirubin, serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, and alkaline phosphatase. Treatment of rats with flaxseed oil resulted in marked improvement in most of the studied parameters as well as histopathological features. On the basis of the above results it can hypothesized that flaxseed oil is a natural product can be protect against lead acetate-mediated hepatic cytotoxicity.

Effect of glycine on lead mobilization, lead-induced oxidative stress, and hepatic toxicity in rats

The effectiveness of glycine in treating experimental lead intoxication was examined in rats. Male Wistar rats were exposed to 3 g/L lead acetate in drinking water for 5 weeks and treated thereafter with glycine (100 and 500 mg/kg, orally) once daily for 5 days or glycine (1000 mg/kg, orally) once daily for 28 days. The effect of these treatments on parameters indicative of oxidative stress (glutathione and malondialdehyde levels), the activity of blood δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase, and lead concentration in blood, liver, kidney, brain, and bone were investigated. Liver samples were observed for histopathological changes. Glycine was found to be effective in (1) increasing glutathione levels; (2) reducing malondialdehyde levels; (3) decreasing lead levels in bone with the highest dose. However, glycine had no effect on lead mobilization when 100 and 500 mg/kg glycine were administered. In microscopic examination, glycine showed a protective effect against lead intoxication.

The protective effect of Rubia cordifolia against lead nitrate-induced immune response impairment and kidney oxidative damage

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the in vivo antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract of the roots of Rubia cordifolia (RC) and to study its influence on lead nitrate-induced impairment of immune responses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-two adult male Swiss albino mice were used for biochemical and immunological studies and were divided into six groups of six mice each. Mice were treated with lead nitrate (40 mg/kg, orally) either alone and or in combination with RC (50 and 100 mg/kg body weight) daily for 40 days. For immunological studies, all mice were challenged twice with sheep RBC with on days 14 and 20 of the experiment. The immune function was assessed using macrophage yield, viability of macrophage, phagocytic index, serum immunoglobulin level, and plaque forming cell count (PFC), whereas the oxidative stress was assessed by estimating lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH) content, and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT).

RESULTS

Lead nitrate administration induced a significant (P<0.001) increase in LPO, whereas a significant (P<0.001) depletion of CAT and GSH in renal tissues. In addition, it also showed a significant (P<0.001) reduction in macrophage yield, viability of macrophage, phagocyte index, serum immunoglobulin level, and PFC in kidney. However, combination treatment with RC observed a significant (P<0.001) reversal of lead nitrate-induced toxicity on oxidative stress and immunological parameters.

CONCLUSION

The lead nitrate-induced immunosuppression is due to oxidative stress and RC can prevent the same by virtue of its in vivo antioxidant property.