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Mutombo PN, Kasilo OMJ, James PB, Wardle J, Kunle O, Katerere D, Wambebe C, Matsabisa MG, Rahmatullah M, Nikiema JB, Mukankubito I, Sheridan R, Sanogo R, Nissapatorn V, Sivakorn C, Tripathy S, Goyal R, Dhobi M. Experiences and challenges of African traditional medicine: lessons from COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e010813. [PMID: 37558269 PMCID: PMC10414097 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-010813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Management of COVID-19 in Africa is challenging due to limited resources, including the high cost of vaccines, diagnostics, medical devices and routine pharmaceuticals. These challenges, in addition to wide acceptability, have resulted in increased use of herbal medicines based on African traditional medicines (ATMs) by patients in Africa. This is in spite of the often-significant gaps in evidence regarding these traditional medicines as to their efficacy and safety for COVID-19. African scientists, with some support from their governments, and guidance from WHO and other bodies, are addressing this evidence gap, developing and testing herbal medicines based on ATMs to manage mild-to-moderate cases of COVID-19. Such efforts need further support to meet public health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polydor Ngoy Mutombo
- Faculty of Health, National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ossy Muganga Julius Kasilo
- Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Peter Bai James
- Faculty of Health, National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jon Wardle
- Faculty of Health, National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Olobayo Kunle
- Pharmaceutical Technology and Raw Materials Development, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria
| | - David Katerere
- Pharmaceutical Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Charles Wambebe
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Biomedical Sciences, International Biomedical Research Institute (IBRI), Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, University of Development Alternative, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jean-Baptiste Nikiema
- Medicines Supply, Health Infrastructure and Equipment Maintenance (MIM) Unit, Universal Health Coverage/Life Course Cluster, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Immaculee Mukankubito
- Medicines Supply, Health Infrastructure and Equipment Maintenance (MIM) Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | | | - Rokia Sanogo
- Médecine Traditionnelle, Institut National de Recherche en Sante Publique, Bamako, Mali
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Thailand
| | - Chaisith Sivakorn
- Intensive Care Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Satyajit Tripathy
- Pharmacology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
| | - Ramesh Goyal
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Delhi, India
| | - Mahaveer Dhobi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Delhi, India
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Bilia AR, Mukherjee PK, Andrade-Cetto A, Katiyar CK, Bachar SC, Matsabisa MG, Mandal SC. Editorial: Drug development of herbal medicines: Regulatory perspectives. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:989934. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.989934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Matsabisa MG, Alexandre K, Ibeji CU, Tripathy S, Erukainure OL, Malatji K, Chauke S, Okole B, Chabalala HP. In vitro study on efficacy of PHELA, an African traditional drug against SARS-CoV-2. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10305. [PMID: 35718800 PMCID: PMC9207029 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13599-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2019, coronavirus has made the third apparition in the form of SARS-CoV-2, a novel strain of coronavirus that is extremely pathogenic and it uses the same receptor as SARS-CoV, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). However, more than 182 vaccine candidates have been announced; and 12 vaccines have been approved for use, although, even vaccinated individuals are still vulnerable to infection. In this study, we investigated PHELA, recognized as an herbal combination of four exotic African medicinal plants namely; Clerodendrum glabrum E. Mey. Lamiaceae, Gladiolus dalenii van Geel, Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb, and Senna occidentalis (L.) Link; as a candidate therapy for COVID-19. In vitro testing found that PHELA inhibited > 90% of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV infection at concentration levels of 0.005 mg/ml to 0.03 mg/ml and close to 100% of MERS-CoV infection at 0.1 mg/ml to 0.6 mg/ml. The in vitro average IC50 of PHELA on SARS-COV-2, SARS-CoV and MERS-COV were ~ 0.01 mg/ml. Secondly in silico docking studies of compounds identified in PHELA showed very strong binding energy interactions with the SARS-COV-2 proteins. Compound 5 showed the highest affinity for SARS-COV-2 protein compared to other compounds with the binding energy of − 6.8 kcal mol−1. Our data showed that PHELA has potential and could be developed as a COVID-19 therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Matsabisa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa.
| | - K Alexandre
- Synthetic Biology Centre, Next Generation Health Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.
| | - Collins U Ibeji
- Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 410001, Nigeria
| | - S Tripathy
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - Ochuko L Erukainure
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - K Malatji
- Synthetic Biology Centre, Next Generation Health Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - S Chauke
- Synthetic Biology Centre, Next Generation Health Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - B Okole
- Advanced Agriculture and Food Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - H P Chabalala
- Department of Science and Innovation, Indigenous Knowledge-based Technology Innovations, Brummeria, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
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Komakech R, Shim KS, Yim NH, Song JH, Yang S, Choi G, Lee J, Kim YG, Omujal F, Okello D, Agwaya MS, Kyeyune GN, Kan H, Hwang KS, Matsabisa MG, Kang Y. GC-MS and LC-TOF-MS profiles, toxicity, and macrophage-dependent in vitro anti-osteoporosis activity of Prunus africana (Hook f.) Kalkman Bark. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7044. [PMID: 35487926 PMCID: PMC9054796 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10629-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis affects millions of people worldwide. As such, this study assessed the macrophage-dependent in vitro anti-osteoporosis, phytochemical profile and hepatotoxicity effects in zebrafish larvae of the stem bark extracts of P. africana. Mouse bone marrow macrophages (BMM) cells were plated in 96-well plates and treated with P. africana methanolic bark extracts at concentrations of 0, 6.25, 12.5, 25, and 50 µg/ml for 24 h. The osteoclast tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and cell viability were measured. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) induced Nitrite (NO) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) production inhibitory effects of P. africana bark extracts (Methanolic, 150 µg/ml) and β-sitosterol (100 µM) were conducted using RAW 264.7 cells. Additionally, inhibition of IL-1β secretion and TRAP activity were determined for chlorogenic acid, catechin, naringenin and β-sitosterol. For toxicity study, zebrafish larvae were exposed to different concentrations of 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/ml P. africana methanolic, ethanolic and water bark extracts. Dimethyl sulfoxide (0.05%) was used as a negative control and tamoxifen (5 µM) and dexamethasone (40 µM or 80 µM) were positive controls. The methanolic P. africana extracts significantly inhibited (p < 0.001) TRAP activity at all concentrations and at 12.5 and 25 µg/ml, the extract exhibited significant (p < 0.05) BMM cell viability. NO production was significantly inhibited (all p < 0.0001) by the sample. IL-6 secretion was significantly inhibited by P. africana methanolic extract (p < 0.0001) and β-sitosterol (p < 0.0001) and further, chlorogenic acid and naringenin remarkably inhibited IL-1β production. The P. africana methanolic extract significantly inhibited RANKL-induced TRAP activity. The phytochemical study of P. africana stem bark revealed a number of chemical compounds with anti-osteoporosis activity. There was no observed hepatocyte apoptosis in the liver of zebrafish larvae. In conclusion, the stem bark of P. africana is non-toxic to the liver and its inhibition of TRAP activity makes it an important source for future anti-osteoporosis drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Komakech
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea.,University of Science and Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major, KIOM campus, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea.,Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ki-Shuk Shim
- Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hui Yim
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 70 Cheomdan-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu, 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Ho Song
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungyu Yang
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Goya Choi
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Lee
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea.,University of Science and Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major, KIOM campus, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Goo Kim
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Francis Omujal
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Denis Okello
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea.,University of Science and Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major, KIOM campus, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Moses Solomon Agwaya
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Nambatya Kyeyune
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hyemin Kan
- Bio and Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Seok Hwang
- Bio and Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Motlalepula Gilbert Matsabisa
- IKS Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, Free State, South Africa
| | - Youngmin Kang
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, 58245, Republic of Korea. .,University of Science and Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major, KIOM campus, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea.
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Dassarma B, Tripathy S, Chabalala M, Matsabisa MG. Challenges in Establishing Vaccine Induced Herd Immunity through Age Specific Community Vaccinations. Aging Dis 2022; 13:29-36. [PMID: 35111360 PMCID: PMC8782562 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Presently, the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic is driving the world towards a devastating total failure of the healthcare system. The purpose of the review is to search for the studies reporting on the implication of herd immunity into a naïve population through age specific mass vaccination. This review is based on selected publications on the effect herd immunity to COVID 19 in communities. We searched published scientific articles, review articles, reports, published in 2020 as well as read some basic, cult publications related to establishment of indirect immunity to a population. We have focused on use of application of vaccine induced herd immunity into community to confer indirect immunity against COVID-19 and searched on electronic databases, including PubMed (http://www.pubmed.com), Scopus (http://www.scopus.com), Google Scholar (http://www.scholar.google.com), Web of Science (www.webofscience.com) and Science Direct by using key words such as Herd immunity, indirect or passive immunization, Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), severe acute respiratory syndrome, coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and immune-technique. This review proposes the implication of mass vaccination-induced herd immunity in a population to curb the infection, and to every individual in a given population irrespective of their age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barsha Dassarma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein9300, SA
| | - Satyajit Tripathy
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein9300, SA
| | - Matimbha Chabalala
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein9300, SA
| | - Motlalepula Gilbert Matsabisa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein9300, SA
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Komakech R, Yim NH, Shim KS, Jung H, Byun JE, Lee J, Okello D, Matsabisa MG, Erhabor JO, Oyenihi O, Omujal F, Agwaya M, Kim YG, Park JH, Kang Y. Root Extract of a Micropropagated Prunus africana Medicinal Plant Induced Apoptosis in Human Prostate Cancer Cells (PC-3) via Caspase-3 Activation. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2022; 2022:8232851. [PMID: 35116070 PMCID: PMC8807049 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8232851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths among men globally. Medicinal plants have been explored as alternative treatment options. Herein, we assessed the in vitro cytotoxic effects of 70% ethanolic root extracts of six-month-old micropropagated Prunus africana (PIR) on PC-3 prostate cancer cells as an alternative to the traditionally used P. africana stem-bark extract (PWS) treatment. In vitro assays on PC-3 cells included annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, DAPI staining, and caspase-3 activity analysis through western blotting. PC-3 cells were exposed to PWS and PIR at different concentrations, and dose-dependent antiprostate cancer effects were observed. PC-3 cell viability was determined using CCK-8 assay, which yielded IC50 values of 52.30 and 82.40 μg/mL for PWS and PIR, respectively. Annexin-V and PI staining showed dose-dependent apoptosis of PC-3 cells. Significant (p < 0.001) percent of DAPI-stained apoptotic PC-3 cells were observed in PWS, PIR, and doxorubicin treatment compared with the negative control. PWS treatment substantially elevated cleaved caspase-3 levels in PC-3 cells compared with the PIR treatment. These results provide evidence for the antiprostate cancer potential of PIR and sets a basis for further research to enhance future utilization of roots of young micropropagated P. africana for prostate cancer treatment as an alternative to stem bark. Moreover, micropropagation approach may help provide the required raw materials and hence reduce the demand for P. africana from endangered wild population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Komakech
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea
- University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nam-Hui Yim
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 70 Cheomdan-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Shuk Shim
- Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Haiyoung Jung
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 113 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Eun Byun
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Lee
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea
- University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Denis Okello
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea
- University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Motlalepula Gilbert Matsabisa
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Joseph O. Erhabor
- IKS Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, Free State, South Africa
- Phytomedicine Unit, Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Omolola Oyenihi
- IKS Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, Free State, South Africa
| | - Francis Omujal
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Agwaya
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yong-goo Kim
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hwan Park
- KM Data Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngmin Kang
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea
- University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
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Tripathy S, Dassarma B, Roy S, Chabalala H, Matsabisa MG. A review on possible modes of action of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine: repurposing against SAR-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2020; 56:106028. [PMID: 32450198 PMCID: PMC7243790 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2020.106028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chloroquine (CQ) has diverse modes of action against viral infections. CQ may interfere with SARS-CoV-2 attachment to the host ACE2 receptor. CQ may hamper the STING pathway to attenuate the pro-inflammatory response. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) might be a logical approach in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Large clinical trials are needed before clinical recommendations of HCQ against COVID-19.
Chloroquine (CQ) and its analogue hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have long been used worldwide as frontline drugs for the treatment and prophylaxis of human malaria. Since the first reported cases in Wuhan, China, in late December 2019, humans have been under threat from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (previously known as 2019-nCoV), subsequently declared a pandemic. While the world is searching for expedited approval for a vaccine, which may be only preventative and not a cure, physicians and country leaders are considering several concerted clinical trials suggesting that the age-old antimalarial drugs CQ/HCQ could be a potent therapeutic against COVID-19. Based on accumulating scientific reports, here we highlight the possible modes of action of CQ/HCQ that could justify its use against viral infections. Considering the global health crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic, the option of repurposing old drugs, e.g. CQ/HCQ, particularly HCQ, for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection could be a good choice. CQ/HCQ has diverse modes of action, including alteration of the acidic environment inside lysosomes and late endosomes, preventing endocytosis, exosome release and phagolysosomal fusion, and inhibition of the host cytokine storm. One or more diverse mechanisms might work against viral infections and reduce mortality. As there is no cure for COVID-19, clinical testing of HCQ is urgently required to determine its potency against SARS-CoV-2, as this is the currently available treatment option. There remains a need to find other innovative drug candidates as possible candidates to enter clinical evaluation and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satyajit Tripathy
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
| | - Barsha Dassarma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
| | - Somenath Roy
- Ex-Professor, Department of Human Physiology with Community Health, Vidyasagar University, Paschim Medinipur 721102, India
| | - Hlupheka Chabalala
- IK-based Technology Innovations, Department of Science and Innovations, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Motlalepula Gilbert Matsabisa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa.
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Erhabor JO, Komakech R, Kang Y, Tang M, Matsabisa MG. Ethnopharmacological importance and medical applications of Myrothamnus flabellifolius Welw. (Myrothamnaceae)-A review. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 252:112576. [PMID: 31958487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Myrothamnus flabellifolius Welw. (resurrection plant) is a desiccant-tolerant, woody, and shrubby plant. It is popularly used as a local medicinal herbal tea in South Africa, other Southern Africa nations, and Central Africa. M. flabellifolius is used in treating several ailments including epilepsy, mental disorder, cough, pain, stroke, shingles, diabetes, hypertension, wounds, asthma, kidneys and chest ailments. AIM OF THIS REVIEW This review focuses on the botanical description, distribution, conservation status, ethnobotany, chemistry and pharmacological properties of M. flabellifolius to spur further research that will promote its sustainable harvesting and commercialization. MATERIAL AND METHODS A literature search on diverse scientific databases, including Google, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, theses, dissertations and ethnobotanical textbooks, were conducted. RESULTS The conducted search reveals that M. flabellifolius has many traditional uses that can be categorized into infectious diseases, Well-being, respiratory, inflammation, wound and kidney ailments. M. flabellifolius is a natural caffeine-free medicinal herbal tea reported to have antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, antidiabetic and antimicrobial properties. Toxicological tests on M. flabellifolius were found scarce with gaps in genotoxicological and in vivo studies. Essential oils and isolated compounds were identified from M. flabellifolius with biological activities such as anticancer, antiinflammation, antimicrobial, antiarthritic, antiulcer, antioxidant and antiviral properties. CONCLUSION It is envisaged that the current review will add value to more scientific research on M. flabellifolius and enhance/promote the increased interest in the sustainable commercialization of M. flabellifolius herbal tea as well as lead to the validation of unverified ethnobotanical claims.
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Affiliation(s)
- J O Erhabor
- IKS Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, Free State, South Africa; Phytomedicine Unit, Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Benin, PMB, 1154, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - R Komakech
- University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Institute of Oriental Medicine, Korean Convergence Medicine Major, Daejeon, Republic of Korea; Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Republic of Korea; Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 4864, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Y Kang
- University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Institute of Oriental Medicine, Korean Convergence Medicine Major, Daejeon, Republic of Korea; Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - M Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - M G Matsabisa
- IKS Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, Free State, South Africa.
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Komakech R, Kim YG, Kim WJ, Omujal F, Yang S, Moon BC, Okello D, Rahmat E, Kyeyune GN, Matsabisa MG, Kang Y. A Micropropagation Protocol for the Endangered Medicinal Tree Prunus africana (Hook f.) Kalkman: Genetic Fidelity and Physiological Parameter Assessment. Front Plant Sci 2020; 11:548003. [PMID: 33324427 PMCID: PMC7726163 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.548003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Prunus africana is an endangered medicinal plant and hence new propagation methods are urgently required to increase its populations. Unfortunately, propagation through seeds is challenging due to its long flowering cycle and recalcitrant seeds. We developed a protocol for micropropagation using nodal segment explants. A woody plant medium supplemented with vitamins, 15 g L-1 sucrose, and 1.0 mg L-1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) supported the optimum rate (100%) of axillary shoot initiation. Supplementation with 15 g L-1 sucrose and 1.5 mg L-1 indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) provided the optimum rate (75%) of root initiation. Rooted plantlets were successfully planted in sterilized horticultural soil containing perlite (2:1 v/v) and the survival rate was 98% following acclimatization. The photosynthetic rate assessed using FlourPen FP110 series showed that the ratio of variable fluorescence to maximum fluorescence mean value for in vitro regenerated P. africana (0.830 ± 0.0008) was similar to that of the maternal P. africana plant (0.825 ± 0.005), indicating similarity in their photosynthetic performance; a pivotal process for growth and development. The Fourier transform near-IR (FT-NIR) spectrometer analysis of the in vitro regenerated and the maternal P. africana plant samples exhibited homogeneity in the absorbance peaks at 8,273, 6,344, and 4,938-4,500 cm-1 associated with lipids, starch, and proteins. The genetic fidelity of regenerated plants was confirmed using the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique. Our protocol is suitable for use in large-scale P. africana to meet the increasing demands for it in the global market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Komakech
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), Naju-si, South Korea
- Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yong-Goo Kim
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), Naju-si, South Korea
| | - Wook Jin Kim
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), Naju-si, South Korea
| | - Francis Omujal
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sungyu Yang
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), Naju-si, South Korea
| | - Byeong Cheol Moon
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), Naju-si, South Korea
| | - Denis Okello
- Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
- Gombe Secondary School, Mpigi, Uganda
| | - Endang Rahmat
- Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Grace Nambatya Kyeyune
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute (NCRI), Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Motlalepula Gilbert Matsabisa
- IKS Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Youngmin Kang
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine (KIOM), Naju-si, South Korea
- Korean Convergence Medicine Major KIOM, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Youngmin Kang,
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10
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Dassarma B, Tripathy S, Matsabisa MG. Employment of old options to control novel coronavirus: Pros and Cons. BLDE Univ J Health Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/2468-838x.303755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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11
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Chukwuma CI, Matsabisa MG, Erukainure OL, Ibeji CU, Islam MS. D-mannitol modulates glucose uptake ex vivo; suppresses intestinal glucose absorption in normal and type 2 diabetic rats. FOOD BIOSCI 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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12
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Da O, Yerbanga RS, Traore/Coulibaly M, Koama BK, Kabre Z, Tamboura S, Dakuyo ZP, Sekhoacha MP, Matsabisa MG, Nikiema JB, Ouedraogo JB, Ouedraogo GA. Evaluation of the Antiplasmodial Activity and Lethality of the Leaf Extract of Cassia alata L. (Fabaceae). Pak J Biol Sci 2017; 19:171-178. [PMID: 29022993 DOI: 10.3923/pjbs.2016.171.178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cassia alata L. (Fabaceae), one of the three plants contained in Saye, a polyherbal antimalarial remedy was assessed for its antimalarial potential and safety in mice. METHODOLOGY Organic extracts were prepared from the leaves and tested on the D 10 chloroquine-sensitive strain of Plasmodium falciparum using the parasite lactate dehydrogenase assay. The 4 days suppressive test using Plasmodium berghei in mice was used to evaluate the in vivo antiplasmodial activity of the extracts. Animals were treated by oral route, once a day with 50, 100, 250 and 400 mg kg -1 b.wt., of the extracts. The acute toxicity of the extracts was assessed in mice according to Thompson and Weil method. The lethal effects of the extracts on animal's body weight, tissues, biochemical and haematological parameters were determined at 823.5, 1235.5, 1853 and 2779.5 mg kg -1 b.wt., respectively. RESULTS The dichloromethane/methane (1:1, v/v) extract of Cassia alata was the most active against Plasmodium falciparum. The mean percent suppression of parasitemia in mice was equal to 22.5, 41.8 and 45.2% at 50, 250 and 400 mg kg -1 b.wt., respectively. No death and no clinically significant changes were recorded in mice. The maximum non-lethal dose was more than 16875 mg kg -1 in animals. No significant changes were observed in body weight, tissues morphology, biochemical and hematological parameters at doses above or equal to 2779.5 mg kg -1 b.wt. CONCLUSION The dichloromethane/methanol leaf extract of Cassia alata had a good to moderate in vitro and in vivo antiplasmodial activity and was found to have low toxicity at high doses in tested animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Da
- Direction Regionale de l'Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante (IRSS-DRO/CNRST), BP 545 Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - R S Yerbanga
- Direction Regionale de l'Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante (IRSS-DRO/CNRST), BP 545 Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - B K Koama
- Direction Regionale de l'Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante (IRSS-DRO/CNRST), BP 545 Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Z Kabre
- Direction Regionale de l'Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante (IRSS-DRO/CNRST), BP 545 Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - S Tamboura
- Direction Regionale de l'Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante (IRSS-DRO/CNRST), BP 545 Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Z P Dakuyo
- Pharmacie de la Comoe, Phytofla, BP 293 Banfora, Burkina Faso
| | - M P Sekhoacha
- Indigenous Knowledge System Unit of the Medical Research Council (IKS/MRC) in Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M G Matsabisa
- Indigenous Knowledge System Unit of the Medical Research Council (IKS/MRC) in Cape Town, South Africa
| | - J B Nikiema
- Direction Generale de la Pharmacie, Du Medicament et des Laboratories (DGPML), 03 BP 7009 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | | | - G A Ouedraogo
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Science de la Sante et Biotechnologie Animale (LARESBA), Universite Polytechnique de Bobo-Dioulasso,BP 1091 Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
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13
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Lekhooa MR, Walubo A, du Plessis JB, Matsabisa MG. The development and use of a drug-induced immunosuppressed rat-model to screen Phela for mechanism of immune stimulation. J Ethnopharmacol 2017; 206:8-18. [PMID: 28473245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Revised: 04/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCY Phela, is code name for a medicinal product made from four South African traditional medicinal plants (Clerodendrum glabrum E. Mey, Polianthes tuberosa (Linn.), Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. and Senna occidentalis (L.) Link). All these plants have established traditional use in a wide spectrum of diseases. Phela is under development for use as an immune booster in immunocompromised patients, which includes patients with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Already several studies, both pre-clinical and clinical, have shown that Phela is a safe and effective immune booster. Despite some studies on the action of Phela, the mechanism of action by Phela is still not known. Understanding the mechanism of action will enable safer and effective use of the drug for the right indications. Unfortunately, there is no well characterized test-system for screening products for immune stimulant activity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to use Phela as the test article, to develop and validate a rat-model (test system) by which to screen medicines for immune stimulant activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS First, the batch of Phela used was authenticated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques; analytical methods for the immunosuppressant drugs, cyclosporine A (CsA), cyclophosphamide (CP) and dexamethasone (Dex) were developed and validated; and a slide-A-Lyzer dialysis was used to test for potential interactions in rat plasma of Phela with CsA, CP and Dex. Thereafter, using Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and in separate experiments, the effective dose of Phela in the study animals was determined in a dose ranging study with levamisole, a known immune stimulant as the positive control; the appropriate doses for immunosuppression by CsA, CP and Dex were determined; the time to reach 'established immunosuppression' with each drug was determined (it was also the time for intervention with Phela); and eventually, the effect of Phela on the immune system was tested separately for each drug induced immunosuppression. The immune system was monitored by observing for changes in plasma profiles of IL-2, IL-10, IgG, IgM, CD4 and CD8 cell counts at appropriate intervals, while in addition to function tests, the kidneys, liver, spleen, thymus, were weighed and examined for any pathology. RESULTS The chromatographic fingerprint certified this batch of Phela as similar to the authentic Phela. There was no significant interaction between Phela and CsA, CP and Dex. The effective dose of Phela was determined to be 15.4mg/kg/day. Phela led to a moderate increase in the immune parameters in the normal rats. Co-administration of Phela 15mg/kg/day orally for 21 days with CsA led to stoppage and reversal of the immunosppressive effects of CsA that were exhibited as increased IL-2, IL-10, CD4 and CD8 counts, implying that Phela stimulates the cell mediate immunity (CMI). For CP, Phela led to stoppage and reversal, though moderate, of CP-induced suppression of IL-10, IgM and IgG only, implying that Phela stimulates the humoral immunity (HI) too. Phela had no effect on Dex induced immunosuppression. Stimulation of the CMI means that Phela clinical testing programme should focus on diseases or disorders that compromise the CMI, e.g., HIV and TB. The stimulation of the HI immunity means that Phela may stimulate existing memory cells to produce antibodies. CONCLUSION The present study has revealed Phela's mechanism of action as mainly by stimulation of the CMI, implying that the use of Phela as immune booster in HIV patients is appropriate; and that using Phela as the test product, a rat model for screening medicinal products for immune stimulation has been successfully developed and validated, with a hope that it will lead to the testing of other related medicinal products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makhotso Rose Lekhooa
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa.
| | - Andrew Walubo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa.
| | - Jan B du Plessis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa.
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Sarkar R, Chaudhary SK, Sharma A, Yadav KK, Nema NK, Sekhoacha M, Karmakar S, Braga FC, Matsabisa MG, Mukherjee PK, Sen T. Anti-biofilm activity of Marula - a study with the standardized bark extract. J Ethnopharmacol 2014; 154:170-175. [PMID: 24742751 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.03.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2013] [Revised: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Marula (Sclerocarya birrea; family - Anacardiaceae) is an African plant, which enjoys wide socio-economic importance particularly in southern part of Africa. The fruits are consumed as food and also as alcoholic beverage (cream liquor). In different parts of Africa, the decoction of the bark is traditionally used for the treatment of dysentery, diarrhoea, and various other infectious conditions. The aim of the study was to investigate the anti-biofilm properties of the methanol extract of Marula bark (stem bark of Sclerocarya birrea), with a view towards combating the emergence of antimicrobial resistance often associated with bacterial biofilms. MATERIALS AND METHODS The standardized methanol extract was initially tested for its antimicrobial property. The crystal violet assay was used for evaluating anti-biofilm (biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeuginosa) activity. Further in order to study the mechanism of anti-biofilm activity, the same was evaluated for understanding its role on various quorums sensing mediated phenomenon (swarming motility assay, protease and pyoverdin assay) that are known to be associated with the formation of biofilms and pathogenicity. RESULTS The methanol extract showed no inhibition of bacterial growth up to a concentration of 200 µg/ml. Interestingly, the sample produced anti-biofilm activity (around 75% decrease; 100 µg/ml) at sub-lethal concentration. Further it also significantly reduced the QS mediated swarming motility. The release of various virulent factors (protease and pyoverdin) was found to be lowered when pre-treated with the extract. CONCLUSION The present study illustrates the anti-biofilm property Sclerocarya birrea. The standardized extract significantly disrupted the quorum sensing mediated production of biofilm formation and also inhibited swarming ability of the cells. The extract displayed a regulatory role on the secretion of protease and pyoverdin, two QS dependent pathogenic factors found in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study also validates the ethnobotanical use of Marula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratul Sarkar
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Sushil K Chaudhary
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Amrita Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Kirendra K Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Neelesh K Nema
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Mamello Sekhoacha
- IKS (Health) Research Unit, Medical Research Council, Parow Valley, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sanmoy Karmakar
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Fernão C Braga
- Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Pulok K Mukherjee
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Tuhinadri Sen
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India.
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Matsabisa MG, Sekhoacha MP, Ibrahim O, Moodley P, Faber M. Nutritional content and a phase-I safety clinical trial of a herbal-nutritional supplement (IMUNITI) with putative immune-modulating properties. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med 2012; 9:19-23. [PMID: 23983351 PMCID: PMC3746619 DOI: 10.4314/ajtcam.v9i3s.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between HIV and AIDS and poor nutrition has been well established. Poor nutrition hastens the progression of HIV infection to AIDS. The rising pandemic of HIV and AIDS and high toxicity associated with anti-retroviral use are major factors that have compelled research to explore traditional herbal medicines as potential alternatives or supplements to anti-retroviral agents. A Phase I clinical trial was conducted on IMUNITI Wellness Pack, a herbal product with putative immune-modulating properties. The product is a combination of 7 herbal preparations, minerals, vitamins, and a specially formulated soya-maize meal porridge and a bottle of water purifier. The aim was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of IMUNITI, with a purpose of developing it for use in HIV-infected patients. The phase I study was conducted at the MRC clinic in Botha's hill and the study lasted 5 weeks from date of participant dosing. The study was a randomised blinded placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial conducted on 48 healthy males. The participants were randomly divided into 4 groups of 12. The 3 groups received different escalating doses of IMUNITI while the forth group received placebo tablets. Participants consumed IMUNITI daily for a period of 5 weeks. Assessments were done at baseline, week 1 and week 5 to determine the safety parameters in all participants. In this study, IMUNITI did not show any safety concerns. In all study participants, there were no significant changes above the upper limit of the reference ranges of the laboratory tests for full blood count, INR, renal and biochemical safety parameters. IMUNITI was well tolerated. Furthermore, the nutritional content analysis of IMUNITI showed that it is a high kilojoule, high protein content product which contains a mixture of sugars, vitamins, traces of calcium, phosphorus and minerals.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Matsabisa
- IKS Lead Programme, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parow valley, Cape Town.
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