The ethyl acetate extract of Vernonia amygdalina leaf ameliorates gemcitabine effect against migration and invasion of PANC-1 cells via down-regulation the VEGF, COX2, and RAS/MEK pathways

Individuals diagnosed with cancer often turn to the use of herbal remedies with the intention of treating and ameliorating the condition, impeding the progression of metastasis, enhancing immune function, mitigating stress, and inducing relaxation. Recently, medicinal plants were combined with conventional chemotherapy to decrease the side effects and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy. This study showed the effectiveness of gemcitabine (Gem) was significantly increased after being used together with ethyl acetate extract obtained from Vernonia amygdalina (Eav) leaves. The combination doses of Eav and Gem were determined based on cytotoxic activity using the MTT assay method. The anticancer effect of this combination was identified by several parameters including the apoptosis effect, anti-migration, and anti-invasion activities of PANC-1 cells. Furthermore, this effect was explained via protein expression evaluation using immunohistochemical and flow cytometry. The Eav has a better Inhibitory Concentration 50 (IC50) than Gem of 21.19 ± 0.64 µg/mL and 164.78 ± 1.40 µg/mL. The combination of Eav and Gem at IC50 (1:1) has the strongest activity than Eav and Gem alone at 500.00 µg/mL. The anti-cancer effect of this combination showed significantly increased levels of apoptosis, particularly in the early phase of 17.46 ± 0.35 % (p < 0.0001) than Eav and Gem alone of 7.76 ± 0.25 % and 7.06 ± 0.20 %. A similar impact was evaluated in the migration and invasion of PANC-1 cells after the combination treatment. The % relative migration and cell invasion were significantly decreased compared to the control group and Eav or Gem alone by 21.49 ± 0.96 % and 125.25 ± 5.25 cells, respectively (p < 0.0001). This study found that signature molecules of VEGF, COX2, RAS, and MEK were down-regulated after treatment. Our study suggested that the Eav ameliorates the Gem effect against PANC-1 cells through apoptosis, migration, and invasion influence via RAS/MEK pathways.

Phyllanthus emblica: a comprehensive review of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties

Phyllanthus emblica Linn, a prominent member of the euphorbiaceae family, exhibits extensive distribution across a multitude of tropical and subtropical nations. Referred to as "Balakka" in Indonesia, this plant assumes various names across regions, such as "kimalaka," "balakka," "metengo," "malaka," and "kemloko" in North Sumatra, Ternate, Sundanese, and Java respectively. Phyllanthus emblica thrives in tropical locales like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, while also making its presence felt in subtropical regions like India, China, Uzbekistan, and Sri Lanka. The fruits of Balakka are enriched with bioactive constituents recognized for their wide-ranging benefits, including antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-cholesterol, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, chemoprotective, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antimutagenic, and antimicrobial properties. Comprising a spectrum of phenolic compounds (such as tannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids), alkaloids, phytosterols, terpenoids, organic acids, amino acids, and vitamins, the bioactive components of Malacca fruit offer a diverse array of health-promoting attributes. In light of these insights, this review aims to comprehensively examine the pharmacological activities associated with P. emblica and delve into the intricate composition of its phytochemical constituents.

Effect of Phaleria Macrocarpa (Scheff.) Boerl Leaf Ethanol Extract on Serum IL-6 and TNF-α Levels in Diabetic Rats

Background

Hyperglycemia conditions in diabetes mellitus (DM) can turn on pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α. These cytokines play a role in insulin resistance and the development of DM complications. People in Indonesia have used Phaleria macrocarpa to treat diabetes, but the leaf of this plant has not been studied to see if it can reduce inflammation.

Objective

This study aims to analyze the effect of ethanolic extract of Phaleria macrocarpa leaves (EEPML) in serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels of diabetic rats.

Methods

This study was an experiment with a post-test-only control group design. Thirty 8-week-old male Wistar rats were used in the study. They were split into six groups: K1 was the normal control group; K2 was the DM control group; K3, K4, and K5 were given EEPML at doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/KgBW; and K6 was given metformin 45 mg/KgBW orally once a day for 14 days. A high-fat diet and a 30 mg/KgBWi.p injection of streptozotocin were used to make the diabetic rat model. ELISA method for measuring serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels. The Kruskal-Wallis and the Mann-Whitney test were used to examine the differences between the groups.

Results

There were significant differences between treatment groups in the mean levels of serum IL-6 (p=0.017), but there were no significant differences in the mean levels of serum TNF-α (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Administration of Phaleria macrocarpa leaf ethanol extract 125 mg/KgBW reduced serum IL-6 levels but could not significantly reduce serum TNF-α levels in diabetic rats.

Phytochemical Profile and Pharmacological Activity of Vernonia amygdalina Delile Stem Bark Extracts Using Different Solvent Extraction

BACKGROUND: Vernonia amygdalina is a native plant from Africa which is widely distributed to Asia, especially in Indonesia. Parts of V. amygdalina such as roots, leaves, and bark are used by the community as traditional medicines such as antidiabetic, antibacterial, and anticancer. AIM: This study aims to show the effect of solvents in the V. amygdalina stem bark extraction process on phytochemical’s content and their correlation with pharmacological activities. METHODS: V. amygdalina extract from stem bark in this study was obtained using the maceration method with different solvents. The extracts were investigated for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoids content (TFC) using calorimetry assay. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to grouping the extracts based on Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) data. Antioxidant activity of the extracts was done using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethyl benzhothiazoline sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assay. While, the cytotoxic activity of the extracts was carried out using MTT assay on PANC-1 cell line. The correlation phytochemical content and pharmacology activities of extracts were analyzed using person correlation method. RESULTS: There were significantly different TPC and total flavonoid content of extracts (p < 0.05). The ethyl acetate extract was identified to have the highest TPC, TFC, DPPH, ABTS, and cytotoxic values of 3.61 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g dry powder, 25.12 ± 0.09 mg QE/g dry powder, 27.12 ± 0.65 μg/mL, 67.02 ± 0.23 μg/mL, and 33.83 ± 0.82 μg/mL, respectively (p < 0.05). This is supported by PCA analysis which shows that there are differences in extracts based on FTIR data and there is a strong correlation between TPC and TFC values with antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. CONCLUSIONS: This study report that each extract of V. amygdalina stem bark gives a distinct phytochemical profile (TPC, TFC, and FTIR spectrum) that contributes to the antioxidant activity and cytotoxic activity.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Cermai Leaves (Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels) Ethanol Extract on Normal Male Rats and Cyclophosphamide Induction

BACKGROUND: Ethanol extract of Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels leaf contains flavonoids and saponins that were widely used as herbal medicinal plant. The present study focused on exploring the biological potential as well as immunomodulatory effects. AIM: The present study aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of P. acidus extract on total and differential leukocyte count, antibody titer, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response in normal male rats, and immunosuppressed male rats. METHODS: P. acidus extract was obtained by maceration technique by using ethanol as a solvent. Standardization of P. acidus and phytochemical screening includes examination of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, and steroids/triterpenoids. The trial animals were male rats which were divided into two large groups, namely normal group and immunosuppressed group. All animals were given extract on the 1st day until day 14, on 4th day the animals were infected with 2% sheep red blood cells. Immunosuppressed rats were injected by 70 mg/kg bw cyclophosphamide on 8th and 13th day. The immunomodulatory effect was analyzed by evaluating total leukocytes, leukocyte differential, antibody titer, and DTH. RESULTS: Phytochemicals screenings were showed alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, and steroids/triterpenoids from P. acidus extract. P. acidus extract showed an immunomodulatory activity on normal male rats and immunosuppressed male rats. The result was shown from the increasing of total leukocyte count and leukocyte differential, antibody titer value, and the volume of rat paws were higher than negative control (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results indicated that the P. acidus extract had immunomodulatory effects and its potential to be developed as immunomodulator agent.

Saurauia vulcani (Korth.) As Herbal Medicine Potential From North Sumatera, Indonesia: A Literature Review

According to some studies, two-thirds of the world's plant species have therapeutic worth. Saurauia vulcani (Korth.) is one of them. This is something that can be found in Indonesia. Traditionally, this herb was known as pirdot and was used to cure diabetes. This article examines the scientific activities of pirdot leaves as well as their safety for usage. This study used a literature review article as its design. Searching for related publications using data from Pubmed, Proquest, Ebsco, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for the last ten years (2011–2021) yielded 141 articles. There are 14 pertinent articles that explore their substance and application in health. The content of secondary metabolites that have been reported proves that pirdot has properties as an antidiabetic, immunostimulant, antidiarrhoea, anticholesterol, and hepatoprotective.

The Anticancer Compound Dolichol from Ceriops tagal and Rhizophora mucronata Leaves Regulates Gene Expressions in WiDr Colon Cancer

Mangrove plants produce polyisoprenoid alcohol. The polyisoprenoid consists of polyprenol and dolichol, which in pharmacological activity act as anticancer agents. The major polyisoprenoid compound of mangrove plants Ceriops tagal and Rhizophora mucronata was reported as dolichol. The present study was conducted to examine the anticancer effects of dolichol from C. tagal and R. mucronata leaves on WiDr cells and cell cycle-related cancer for 24 h and to evaluate the regulation of five genes, p53, EGFR, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR. The inhibited cell cycle was analysed by flow cytometry and the gene expression of p53, EGFR, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR was determined using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. Dolichol from C. tagal was more effective than that from R. mucronata,where it worked on the G0/G1 cycle for 87.94% and 82.36%, respectively, and regulated positive control 5-FU on the G0/G1 cycle (88.12%), S (9.52%) and G2-M (6.42%). The upregulation (p53) and downregulation (EGFR)contributed to the contracting cell cycle of colon cancer cells (WiDr) in PI3K, Akt and mTOR genes. To summarise, the current study suggests significant pharmacological properties of dolichols in C. tagal and R. mucronata leaves, which worked explicitly in the G0/G1 phase.

Anticancer Effects of Polyisoprenoid From Nypa fruticans Leaves by Controlling Expression of p53, EGFR, PI3K, AKT1, and mTOR Genes in Colon Cancer (WiDr) Cells

The current research seeks to examine the anticancer effect of polyisoprenoids from mangrove palm, Nypa fruticans, leaves in WiDr cells by analyzing the cell cycles of cancer and regulating the expression of p53, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), PI3K, AKT1, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) genes by using the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). An inhibited cell cycle analysis was conducted using the flow cytometry, and the upregulation or downregulation of the expression of p53, EGFR, PI3K, AKT1, and mTOR genes was obtained using RT-PCR. The data were then statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance by a post hoc test, a parametric statistical analysis using Tukey’s honest significant difference. Polyisoprenoids in N. fruticans extracts worked as chemotheraupetic in the G0-G1 cycle is 79.0%, however, with positive control 5-fluorouracil as 88.1% and are carried out by the specific upregulation of the expression of the p53 gene and the downregulation of the expression of the EGFR, PI3K, AKT1, and mTOR genes. This study can also explain the significant pharmacological properties of the leaves of the species N. fruticans that work specifically in the G0-G1 phase to upregulate the expression of the p53 gene and downregulate the expression of the EGFR, PI3K, AKT1, and mTOR genes. This study also revealed polyisoprenoid (100% dolichol), which blocked the growth and development of WiDr colon cancer cells.

Polyisoprenoids from Avicennia marina induces on P13k, Akt1, Mammalian target of rapamycin, Egfr, and P53 Gene Expression Using Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction

BACKGROUND: According to the Global Cancer Observatory in 2018, Asia was the first to note the incidence of colon cancer, which was 51.8% of cases of colon cancer which ranked the top three in the number of causes of death in the world. Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Potential natural ingredient developed as chemotherapeutic agents includes from mangrove leaves. Studies reporting on the pharmacological activity of polyisoprenoid from mangrove species are still limited, therefore, it is essential to achieve the prospects, potential, and mechanisms polyisoprenoid in mangroves as a natural ingredient of pharmaceutical and medication. AIM: The aim of the study was to investigate the inhibition activities of polyisoprenoids in mangrove plant Avicennia marina in WiDr cells induces on P13k, Akt1, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Egfr, and P53 gene expression using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The leaves of A. marina were dried and extracted with n-hexane followed by evaporation and freeze-drying. Polyisoprenoid contents were analyzed with two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography method. Cell viability was assessed with 3-(4,5-dimetiltiazol-2-il)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. The cycle cell was tested with flow cytometry method. The apoptotic test was determined with a double-staining method. The gene expression on P13k, Akt1, mTOR, Egfr, and P53 was analyzed by RT-PCR method. RESULTS: The results showed that 48 h cytotoxic activity of polyisoprenoids against WiDr cells and 5-Fu (positive control) had IC50 values, 295.25 μg/mL and 17.43 μg/mL. Cell cycle analysis depicted that the inhibition of polyisoprenoid occurred in the G0-G1 phase and 5-Fu in S phase. Polyisoprenoid and 5-Fu had the same mechanism in the early apoptotic phase. RT-PCR revealed that polyisoprenoids downregulated the P13k, Akt1, mTOR, and Egfr gene expression, and however, upregulated P53 gene expression. CONCLUSION: The present study confirmed that polyisoprenoids from A. marina leaves showing as chemopreventive agents for colon cancer.

Apoptotic with Double-Staining Test, P53, and Cyclooxygenase-2 to Proliferation Colon Cancer Cell (WiDr) of Dolichol in Three Mangrove Leaves

BACKGROUND: Mangroves secondary metabolites are mostly consisting of sterols, ubiquinones, isoprenoids, and polyisoprenoids. Polyisoprenoid is divided into two types, namely, polyprenol and dolichol, which has been reported to have biological and pharmacological activities. AIM: This research was aimed to analyze apoptosis 48 h with double staining and immunocytochemistry (ICC) 48 h of P53 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene expression from chemical constituents of dolichol in three mangrove leaves of Ceriops tagal, Nypa fruticans, and Rhizophora mucronata. METHODS: Apoptosis with the double-staining method was employed to analyze the genes expression in growth and development of cancer cells, P53, and COX-2 with ICC and flow cytometry method. The data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA parametric statistical analysis followed by Duncan’s test. RESULTS: The result revealed that the increased apoptosis of samples C. tagal was 70% fluorescence orange, while N. fruticans and R. mucronata were 35% and 30% fluorescence orange, respectively. However, it was compared with the positive control; it produced orange fluorescent as much as 75%, suggesting that C. tagal have a position similar to 5-FU. Predominance dolichol in N. fruticans and C. tagal leaves led the expression gene of p53 to have 1.57% M1 phase, indicating the domination in G0-G1 phase (70–80%). Inhibit the expression for 48 h in p53 and COX-2 showing that n-hexane extract of C. tagal had the most percentage (80.733 ± 0.11%) to upregulate the p53 and less percentage (20.16 ± 1.19%) to downregulate the COX-2, indicating positive extract belong to N. fruticans and R. mucronata leaves. CONCLUSION: The present study confirmed the pharmacological properties of dolichol from three mangrove leaves as an anticancer of tumor suppressor genes and significantly proliferated of cancer cell growth from mangrove leaves.

Cytoprotective Activity of Ethylacetate Fraction of Picria fel-terrae Lour. Herbs

AIM:

Free radicals produce from metabolism or enviromental which interact continously with biological system. Picria fel-terrae Lour. herbs have been used as antioxidant and treat various diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate cytoprotective activity of ethylacetate fraction (EAF) of Picria fel-terrae Lour. herbs.

METHODS:

Cytoprotective activity were determined by MTT asay and flow cytometry assay on Vero cells which induced with H₂O₂ 0.8 mM.

RESULTS:

EAF at 100 µg/mL were showed highest viability (88.83 ± 2.90%) and ROS expression (66.75%) on Vero cells.

CONCLUSION:

EAF of Picria fel-terrae Lour. herbs have cytoprotective activity.

Effect of Salt and Fresh Water Concentration on Polyisoprenoid Content in Bruguiera cylindrica Seedlings

BACKGROUND:

Mangrove forest is a typical forest found along the coast or river mouth which is affected by tides and salinity. Although polyisoprenoid was widespread in the plant kingdom, the physiological roles of these compounds are not well understood, especially from mangrove plants. It is therefore essential to characterize the polyisoprenoid content under abiotic stress.

AIM:

This study aimed to determine the effect of salinity and subsequent fresh water change on polyisoprenoids concentration in Bruguiera cylindrica seedlings.

METHODS:

Bruguiera cylindrica planted in a greenhouse for three months under various salinity concentrations. After three months grew under variable salinity, these seedlings were then divided into two treatment groups, and grown for another three months: one continuously in a salt solution and another in fresh water to relieve salt stress. The leaves and roots of B. cylindrica seedlings were harvested after six months of cultivation. The leaves and roots of B. cylindrica seedlings were extracted for polyisoprenoids content and composition analyzed using two-dimensional thin layer chromatography.

RESULTS:

Polyisoprenoids composition under salinity and subsequent fresh water with dominating dolichols (more than 90%) were found in leaves and roots of B. cylindrica seedlings referring type I of polyisoprenoid composition. The carbon chain length of dolichols located in the leaves and roots were ranging from C₇₅–C₁₀₀ and C₇₅–C₁₀₅, respectively.

CONCLUSON:

Dolichol dominated over polyprenol both in B. cylindrical leaves and roots under salinity and subsequent relief supported the previous finding on the predominance dolichols over polyprenols in mangrove plants. The present study suggested the significance of dolichols in the adaptation to cope with salt stress and or water stress.

Cell Cycle Inhibition and Apoptotic Induction of Vernonia amygdalina Del. Leaves Extract on MCF-7 Cell Line

AIM:

The research aimed to determine the cytotoxic activity, cell cycle inhibition, and apoptosis induction of the ethyl acetate extract of the African leaves Vernonia amygdalina Del. on the MCF-7 cancer cells.

METHODS:

The extraction of Vernonia amygdalina Del. leaves was done using the maceration method whereas the cytotoxic was performed using MTT assay. After that, the cell cycle testing and apoptosis induction were conducted using flow cytometry assay.

RESULTS:

The IC₅₀ values of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extract of Vernonia amygdalina Del. on the MCF-7 cancer cells were 206.211 ± 0.99, 50,365 ± 0.07, and 967.033 ± 2.68 µg/mL, respectively. The percentage of the cycle cell results in the G₀-G₁ phase in the cell control with 72.08% decreased in the treatment with ethyl acetate extract 1/2 IC₅₀ with 62.58% and 1/5 IC₅₀ with 44.72%. For the S and G2-M phase, the highest percentage was found in the ethyl acetate extract 1/5 IC₅₀ treatment with 47.27% and 9.50% which were higher than the control cells with 23.26% and 5.90%.

CONCLUSION:

Based on the results, the Vernonia amygdalina Del. extract provides chemopreventive agent as anti-cancer. Our future study will assess the mechanism of ethyl acetate fraction in inhibiting angiogenesis and metastatic in breast cancer.

Evaluation of Cytotoxic Activity Alkaloid Fractions of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. Fruits

AIM:

This study was carried out to investigate cytotoxic activity towards T47D, 4T1, MCF-7, HeLa, and Raji cells of alkaloid fractions of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. fruits. Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC.

METHODS:

The fruit was extracted by maceration. The ethanol extract was fractionated with liquid-liquid extraction using n-hexane, chloroform at pH 3, 7, and 9 to obtained alkaloid fractions. Cytotoxic activity for fraction chloroform at pH 7 and 9 was determined with MTT assay.

RESULTS:

The IC₅₀ of fraction chloroform at pH 7 and 9 was (92.67 ± 1.37; 71.87 ± 1.04; 159.87 ± 0.63; 123.39 ± 0.81; and 103.09 ± 0.58 µg/mLfor pH 7) and (451.29 ± 25.48; 247.18 ± 2.82; 318.46 ± 5.40; 303.96 ± 8.75; and 181.45 ± 1.35 µg/mL for pH 9) respectively.

CONCLUSION:

The results reveal that alkaloid fractions at pH 7 and 9 of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. Fruits have cytotoxic activity. Our further study is to isolate and assesses anticancer activity from alkaloid compounds.

Cyclin D1, Caspase 9 and P53 Expressions in T47D Cell Lines after Treatment of Plectranthus amboinicus, (Lour.) Spreng. Leaves Ethanolic Extract Nanoparticles

BACKGROUND

The application of nanotechnology is aimed to enhance the capability of the chemical compounds of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng. leaves activity. The contact area of the particle surface becomes larger in nano size, which can increase the amount of the isolated active substance. The nanoparticles of this extract exhibited the most effective impact in decreasing the cell number of T47D by induction of apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle.

AIM

To evaluate the expressions of cyclin D1, caspase-9 and p53 in T47D cell lines treated by Plectranthus amboinicus, (Lour.) Spreng. Leaves Ethanolic Extract Nanoparticles (PAEEN).

METHODS

The inhibition of cyclin D1 was done by flow cytometry assay. The expression of cyclin D1, caspase-9 and p53 were observed by immunocytochemistry assay.

RESULTS

Plectranthus amboinicus, (Lour.) Spreng. Leaves Ethanolic Extract Nanoparticles (PAEEN) on concentration IC₅₀ (89.2 µg/mL) inhibited the expression of cyclin D1 around 5.59%. Further, the immunocytochemistry assay indicated that there was an inhibition of cyclin D1, upregulation of caspase-9 and restoration of p53, indicated by their expression.

CONCLUSIONS

The Plectranthus amboinicus, (Lour.) Spreng. Leaves Ethanolic Extract Nanoparticles could be an effective anticancer by improving its downregulation on cyclinD1, upregulation caspase-9 and p53.

Prominent Secondary Metabolites from Selected Genus of Avicennia Leaves

BACKGROUND

Mangrove plants distributed in the intertidal of the tropical and subtropical region including in North Sumatra, Indonesia. The production of secondary metabolite compounds is well known to mangroves. Characterisation of prominent compounds from mangrove plants such as genus of Avicennia is required to explore for their biological and pharmacological properties of these compounds.

AIM

The purpose of this research was to analyse the prominent secondary metabolites through the characterisation of phytochemical, physicochemical, and microscopic of the mangrove genus Avicennia leaves, particularly Avicennia alba, A. lanata, A. marina, and A. officinalis.

METHODS

Phytochemical screening was carried out on Avicennia spp leaves to the established process. Physicochemical characters of mangrove leaves were investigated by simplicial powder consisting of moisture content, water-soluble, ethanol-soluble, ash content and ash soluble acid according to the WHO formula. Microscopic analysis on the simplicial powder was carried out based on the WHO procedure.

RESULTS

The result showed that physicochemical feature displays diversity among the species and important findings on the water concentration was less than 10% as a prerequisite for the drug. The phytochemical search of simplified grain also depicted divergence among the species, only alkaloid, saponin, and triterpenoid or phytosterol were found entirely in Avicennia spp leaves. Microscopic search found a similar type of stoma in Avicennia spp leaves, namely diacytic.

CONCLUSION

The prominent secondary metabolites in Avicennia spp leaves consisting of alkaloid and saponin in simplicial and triterpenoid/sterol was either in simplicial or hexane extract. The present study may provide significant pharmacological properties from mangrove Avicennia genus green foliages, which could accelerate another prospect for non-wood mangrove utilisation.

The PI3KCA and AKT Inhibitory Activities of Litsea Cubeba Lour. Fruits and Heartwoods Towards Hela Cells

AIM:

To investigated the activities of chloroform fractions at pH 7 of Litsea cubeba Lour. Fruits and heartwoods (CF-7F and CF-7H) in decrease expression of PI3KCA, Akt-1 and Akt-2 genes towards cervical cancer cell culture (HeLa) experiments in vitro.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

CF-7F and CF-7H (12.5 and 25 µg/mL) were tested for its potential inhibition on gene expression of PI3KCA, Akt-1 and Akt-2 genes by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) method.

RESULT:

CF-7F and CF-7H were showed the activity to reduce the expression of PI3KCA, Akt-1 and Akt-2 genes.

CONCLUSION:

Our results suggest that CF-7F and CF-7H significantly inhibit the expression of PI3KCA, Akt-1 and Akt-2 genes.

The Anti-Proliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Properties of Ethanol Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng. Leaves Ethanolic Extract Nanoparticles on T47D Cell Lines

Objectives: Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng. is a plant which has the potential as an anti-cancer agent. To enhance the bioavailability of an extract, it is necessary to transform the extract into nanoparticles. This research aimed to create nanoparticles of the extract and investigate the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptosis effects on T47D breast cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: The extraction with ethanol was performed using maceration method. The nanoparticles were prepared by using the ionic gelation method. Cytotoxic assay method evaluation of the proliferation of T47D cell line (using doubling time) was carried out using the MTT assay. Apoptosis was observed using the flow cytometry assay. Results: Treatment with Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng. ethanolic extract nanoparticles (PAEEN) inhibited the proliferation of T47D cell lines after 48 hours and 72 hours of incubation at concentrations of 22.3 μg/mL, 44.6 μg/mL, and 89.2 μg/mL. The viable cells were 93%, 86%, 54% (48 hours), and 98%, 71%, 57% (72 hours), respectively. The nanoparticles of extract also induced apoptosis at concentrations of ¼ IC50 (2.16%), ½ IC50 (1.57%), and IC50 (2.43%). Conclusion: PAEEN exhibits the anti-proliferative effect on T47D breast cancer cells via apoptosis. Further study is required to confirm the mechanism of PAEEN in the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction on T47D cells.

Cell Cycle Inhibition of Ethylacetate Fraction of Zanthoxylum Acanthopodium DC. Fruit against T47D Cells

BACKGROUND:

The use of medicinal plants is increasing in several decades for relief many diseases. Indonesia consists of thousands of islands with various plants and the manners of the community using plants as a treatment for every disease traditionally.

AIM:

Cytotoxic activity of ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium fruit was tested towards T47D breast cancer cells.

METHODS:

The in vitro cytotoxic activity was performed by MTT assay, and the result was expressed as the IC50 (Inhibitory Concentration), and cell cycle inhibition was investigated by flow cytometry to assess the inhibition in every phase of cell cycle, and the role of expression cyclin D1 and p53 in cell cycle inhibition were performed by immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS:

EAF was showed to have high activity with a value of IC₅₀ 48.94 ± 0.32 µg/mL. EAF of 25 µg/mL caused cell accumulation at G0/G1 (60.48%) and in a control cell (51.69%) and decreased expression of cyclin D1 and increased expression of p53.

CONCLUSION:

The results obtained in this study provided scientific support for further investigation on compounds in Z. acanthopodium fruit which in the future could be used for medication.

The Effect of Puguntano Leaf Extract (Curanga Fel - Terrae Merr.) On P38 Mapk Levels and Glut-4 Expression in Type 2 Diabetic Rat Muscle

BACKGROUND

Puguntano (Curanga feel-terrae Merr.) contains flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and steroids/ terpenoids which improved post-receptor insulin signalling in rats model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

AIM

This study aimed to determine the effect of puguntano leaf extract on p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) levels and glucose transporter-4 (GLUT-4) expression in diabetic rats muscle.

METHODS

Forty-eight male Wistar rats had T2DM induced using a combination of feeding a high-fat diet for 5 weeks and multiple intraperitoneal injections of low-dose streptozotocin (30 mg/kg). The diabetic rats were randomly divided into control and treatment groups, and 200 mg/kg/day puguntano extract was administered orally for 10 days to treatment group. Subsequently, p38 MAPK levels were measured by Sandwich Elisa and plasma membrane GLUT-4 expression was evaluated by Immunohistochemistry in their gastrocnemius muscles.

RESULTS

There were significantly higher p38 MAPK levels and GLUT-4 expression in the treatment group than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that a puguntano leaf extract can improve post-receptor insulin signalling by enhancing p38 MAPK levels and GLUT-4 expression in a rat model of T2DM.

Antimigration Activity of an Ethylacetate Fraction of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. Fruits in 4T1 Breast Cancer Cells

Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the antimigration activity of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. in the 4T1 breast cancer cell line. Methods: Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. fruit powder was extracted by maceration method with n-hexane and ethylacetate solvents. Cytotoxicity and proliferation were assessed using the MTT method and the cell cycle by flow cytometry. In addition, wound healing assays were conducted by a microscopic method, and expression of COX-2 and VEGFR-2 were determined using qRT-PCR. Results: The IC50 of the ethylacetate fraction (EAF) was 48.1 ± 1.06 μg/mL. The EAE at a concentration 10 μg/mL with viable cells was 62.3 ± 0.28% after 72 h incubation, with accumulation in the G2-M phase, inhibition of cell migration in the wound healing assay, and decrease in expression of COX-2 (0.62 ± 0.01) and VEGFR-2 (0.39 ± 0.003). Conclusion: The results reveal that an ethylacetate fraction of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. fruits provides effective antimigration effects. Further studies are now planned to assess the potential of the ethylacetate fraction to inhibit angiogenesis in breast cancer and determine underlying mechanisms.

Total Phenolic Content of Ethanol Extract of Artrocarpus camansi Leave and its Effect to Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Level in Mice

A free radical is one of the triggers of degenerative diseases that become the biggest cause of death. Excessive production of free radicals can be neutralized by antioxidant. Antioxidants can be generated from within the body (intracellular). One of them by the enzyme SOD (superoxide dismutase). However, when the production of free radicals exceeds the ability of intracellular antioxidants to neutralize it, antioxidants from outside (extracellular) is necessary. The ethanol extract of Artocarpus camansi leaves (EEACL) contains phenolic compounds which has very strong antioxidant activity based on in vitro study using the DPPH method, but the in vivo study about the total phenolic content effect of its leaves toward antioxidant activity has not been done. 25 mice were divided into 5 groups consisting of control group, a group was induced by stress and three groups were induced by stress, but given EEACL with each dose of 50 mg/kg bw, 100 mg/kg bw and 150 mg/kg bw. Inducing stress in the form of psychological stress was carried out for 7 days and continued with the EEACL administration for 7 days. The mice were dissected and the livers were isolated, then the liver morphological was examined using Hematoxyllin Eosin (HE) staining method and SOD level was examined with immunohistochemical staining method. The data were analyzed with One Way ANOVA and Duncan test using SPSS program version 19.0. Total phenolic content of EEACL is 235.03 ± 4.306 mg GAE/ g of sample. The average SOD levels in the control group is 94.05 %, stressed group is 55.94 %, stress with EEACL dose 50 mg/kg bw group is 58.40 %, stress with EEACL dose 100 mg/kg bw group is 79.68 %, stress with EEACL dose 150 mg/kg bw group is 80.90 %. Based on statistical result, SOD level increased along with the increase of EEACL dose, but not significantly (p < 0,05). Total phenolic content of EEACL has an influence to SOD levels. SOD level increased along with the increase of EEACL administration dose. The higher dose of EEACL leading to higher levels of SOD in the mouse liver.Keywords : total phenolic content, superoxide dismutase, antioxidant, Artocarpus camansi