Unveiling the chemical profiling and remarkable modulation of carbohydrate metabolism by costus root, Dolomiaea costus (Falc.) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dolomiaea costus (Falc.), formerly Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch., an ayurvedic medicinal plant, has long been recognized and utilized in diverse indigenous systems of medicine for its multifaceted therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, carminative, expectorant, antiarthritic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, anodyne, and antidiabetic effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The potential and underlying mechanisms of D. costus root as an antidiabetic agent were investigated in this study. Additionally, the quantification of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which dominate the extracts, was of particular interest in order to elucidate their contribution to the observed effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS) was employed to analyze the chemical constituents in D. costus root aqueous extract (DCA) and D. costus root ethanolic extract (DCE). Furthermore, the inhibitory potentials of DCE and its respective fractions as well as DCA against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipase enzymes were assessed. Subsequently, the efficacy of DCA and DCE extracts was evaluated using an established streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic animal model; this involved administering the extracts at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg bwt. and comparing them with a positive control (glibenclamide (Glib.) at 0.6 mg/kg bwt.). After induction of diabetes (except for negative control), all animals received the treatments orally for 21 days consecutively, followed by the collection of rat serum to assess various parameters including, glycemic and lipid profiles, liver and kidney functions, antioxidant activity, glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis pathways.

RESULTS

The results of HPLC-ESI-MS/MS revealed that isochlorogenic acid A (8393.64 μg/g) and chlorogenic acid (6532.65 μg/g) were the predominant compounds in DCE and DCA, respectively. Both extracts exhibited notable antidiabetic properties, as evidenced by their ability to regulate blood glycemic and lipid profiles (glucose, insulin, HBA1C; HDL, TC, TGs), liver enzymes (ALT, ALP, AST), kidney function (urea, creatinine, uric acid), oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA), antioxidant enzymes (CAT, GSH, SOD), as well as glycolysis (glucokinase) and gluconeogenesis (G-6-P, FBP1) pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Furthermore, the administration of D. costus extracts significantly mitigated STZ-induced diabetic hyperglycemia. These results can be attributed, at least partially, to the presence of several polyphenolic compounds with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Irvingia gabonensis baill. (African Mango): A comprehensive review of its ethnopharmacological significance, unveiling its long-standing history and therapeutic potential

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Irvingia gabonensis (Aubry-Lecomte ex O'Rorke) Baill. (IG) is a multipurpose tree native to tropical Africa such as Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria, Gabon, and Cameroon with high ethnomedicinal values.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review emphasizes the ethnopharmacological significance, phytochemical, and functional properties of African mango, focusing on its potential for human health and industrial applications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature published on IG was traced by different databases, including the Egyptian Knowledge Bank database (EKB), ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholars, Research Gate, Web of Science, Elsevier, and Scopus. Numerous keywords were used to achieve an inclusive search in the databases, like 'African Mango', 'Bush Mango', 'Irvingia gabonensis', 'Wild Mango', 'Dika Nut', 'Phytochemistry', 'Traditional uses', 'Functional foods', 'Polyphenols', 'Ogbono', 'Ellagic acid and its derivatives', and 'Pharmacological activities'.

RESULTS

Different parts of IG have been employed in traditional medicine and recorded a great success. The ripe fruit pulp was consumed fresh or processed into juice and wine documented for anti-diarrheal, anti-diabetic, anti-ulcer, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The kernels, which are widely traded and incorporated into traditional dishes, remain an integral part of culinary traditions. Seeds have folkloric uses for weight loss and are popular as blood thinners and anti-diabetics. Where the bark is reported for dysentery, colic, scabies, toothache, and various skin conditions. In Senegal, the stem bark is employed for gonorrhea, hepatic disorders, and gastrointestinal ailments. The leaves possess the potential to enhance renal and hepatic functions, safeguarding these vital organs against the detrimental effects of toxic substances. Pulp is rich in vitamin C, carbohydrates, and proteins. Oil is the major constituent of the seed, which is mainly composed of myristic and lauric acids. The defatted extracts are characterized by flavonoid glycosides and ellagic acid derivatives. Despite their widespread use, IG extracts are still inadequately characterized phytochemically and merit further investigation within the realm of scientific research. Encouragingly, toxicity studies have demonstrated the relative safety of IG extract at the administered doses.

CONCLUSION

The review extends our knowledge of the health benefits of IG, where these effects could be attributed to the phytochemicals present.

A mechanistic exploration of the metabolome of African mango seeds and its potential to alleviate cognitive impairment induced by high-fat/high-carbohydrate diets: Involvement of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β/CREB, PERK/CHOP/Bcl-2, and AMPK/SIRT-1/mTOR Axes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Irvingia gabonensis (Aubry-Lecomte ex O'Rorke) Baill., also known as "African mango" or "bush mango", belonging to family Irvingiaceae, has been mostly used as food and traditional medicine for weight loss and to enhance the health.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The overconsumption of high-fat and high-carbohydrate (HFHC) food induces oxidative stress, leading to neurological and cognitive dysfunction. Consequently, there is an immediate need for effective treatment. Hence, this study explored the efficacy of orlistat, metformin, and I. gabonensis seeds' total aqueous extract (IG SAE) in addressing HFHC-induced cognitive impairment by mitigating oxidative stress and their underlying mechanistic pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Initially, the secondary metabolite profile of IG SAE is determined using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a mass detector (UHPLC/MS). The in vivo study involves two phases: an established model phase with control (10 rats on a standard diet) and HFHC diet group (50 rats) for 3 months. In the study phase, HFHC is divided into 5 groups. The first subgroup receives HFHC diet only, while the remaining groups each receive HFHC diet with either Orlistat, metformin, or IG SAE at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, respectively, for 28 days.

RESULTS

More than 150 phytoconstituents were characterized for the first holistic approach onto IG metabolome. Characterization of IG SAE revealed that tannins dominate metabolites in the plant. Total phenolics and flavonoids were estimated to standardize our extract (77.12 ± 7.09 μg Gallic acid equivalent/mg extract and 8.039 ± 0.53 μg Rutin equivalent/mg extract, respectively). Orlistat, metformin, and IG SAE successfully reduced the body weight, blood glucose level, lipid profile, oxidative stress and neurotransmitters levels leading to improved behavioral functions as well as histological alternation. Also, IG SAE halted inflammation, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, together with promoting autophagy, via modulation of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β/CREB, PERK/CHOP/Bcl-2 and AMPK/SIRT-1/m-TOR pathways.

CONCLUSION

Metformin, orlistat, and IG SAE offer a promising multi-target therapy to mitigate HFHC diet-induced oxidative stress, addressing cognitive function. This involves diverse molecular mechanisms, particularly the modulation of inflammation, ER stress, and both PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β/CREB and AMPK/SIRT-1/m-TOR pathways. Furthermore, the higher dose of IG SAE demonstrated effects comparable to orlistat and metformin across most studied parameters.

LC/MS-Based Metabolomics Reveals Chemical Variations of Two Broccoli Varieties in Relation to Their Anticholinesterase Activity: In vitro and In silico Studies

Broccoli is commonly consumed as food and as medicine. However, comprehensive metabolic profiling of two broccoli varieties, Romanesco broccoli (RB) and purple broccoli (PB), in relation to their anticholinergic activity has not been fully disclosed. A total of 110 compounds were tentatively identified using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS metabolomics. Distinctively different metabolomic profiles of the two varieties were revealed by principal component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, by volcano diagram analysis, it was found that PB had a significantly higher content of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and glucosinolates, indicating the different beneficial health potentials of PB that demonstrated higher antioxidant and anticholinergic activities. Moreover, Pearson's correlation analysis revealed 18 metabolites, mainly phenolic and sulfur compounds, as the main bioactive. The binding affinity of these biomarkers to the active sites of acetyl- and butyryl-cholinesterase enzymes was further validated using molecular docking studies. Results emphasize the broccoli significance as a functional food and nutraceutical source and highlight its beneficial effects against Alzheimer's disease.

In Silico and In Vitro Screening of Some Pregnane Glycosides Isolated from Certain Caralluma Species as SARS-COV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors

SARS-CoV-2 caused pandemic represented a major risk for the worldwide human health, animal health and economy, forcing extraordinary efforts to discover drugs for its prevention and cure. Considering the extensive interest in the pregnane glycosides because of their diverse structures and excellent biological activities, we investigated them as antiviral agents against SARS-COV-2. We selected 21 pregnane glycosides previously isolated from the genus Caralluma from Asclepiadaceae family to be tested through virtual screening molecular docking simulations for their potential inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. Almost all target compounds showed a more or equally negative docking energy score relative to the co-crystallized inhibitor X77 (S=-12.53 kcal/mol) with docking score range of (-12.55 to -19.76 kcal/mol) and so with a potent predicted binding affinity to the target enzyme. The activity of the most promising candidates was validated by in vitro testing. Arabincoside C showed the highest activity (IC50=35.42 μg/ml) and the highest selectivity index (SI=9.9) followed by Russelioside B (IC50=50.80 μg/ml), and Arabincoside B (IC50=53.31 μg/ml).

Eucalyptus Oils Phytochemical Composition in Correlation with Their Newly Explored Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Potential: in Vitro and in Silico Approaches

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the latest arisen contagious respiratory pathogen related to the global outbreak of atypical pneumonia pandemic (COVID-19). The essential oils (EOs) of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. ficifolia F. Muell., E. citriodora Hook, E. globulus Labill, E. sideroxylon Cunn. ex Woolls, and E. torquata Luehm. were investigated for its antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. The EOs phytochemical composition was determined using GC/MS analysis. Correlation with the explored antiviral activity was also studied using multi-variate data analysis and Pearson's correlation. The antiviral MTT and cytopathic effect inhibition assays revealed very potent and promising anti SARS-CoV-2 potential for E. citriodora EO (IC50 = 0.00019 µg/mL and SI = 26.27). The multivariate analysis revealed α-pinene, α-terpinyl acetate, globulol, γ -terpinene, and pinocarvone were the main biomarkers for E. citriodora oil. Pearson's correlation revealed that globulol is the top positively correlated compound in E. citriodora oil to its newly explored potent anti SARS-CoV-2 potential. A molecular simulation was performed on globulol via docking in the main active sites of both SARS-CoV-2 viral main protease (Mpro) and spike protein (S). In silico predictive ADMET study was also developed to investigate the pharmacokinetic profile and predict globulol toxicity. The obtained in silico, in vitro and Pearson's correlation results were aligned showing promising SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory activity of E. citriodora and globulol. This study is a first record for E. citriodora EO as a novel lead exhibiting potent in vitro, and in silico anti SARS-CoV-2 potential and suggesting its component globulol as a promising candidate for further extensive in silico, in vitro and in vivo anti-COVID studies.

Euphorbia grantii Oliv. standardized extract and its fraction ameliorate doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy in Ehrlich carcinoma bearing mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Euphorbia plants have long been used as traditional medicine in China, Europe, America, Turkey, India, Africa, Iran, and Pakistan because of its high medicinal value and health advantages especially as a remedy for several types of cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most frequently prescribed drugs in cancer chemotherapy, with dose-limiting cardiotoxicity. The development of medicinal approaches to attenuate drug's toxicity represents an area of great concern in cancer research. Because research on this topic is still disputed and limited, we aim to investigate the potential of supplementation with Euphorbia grantii Oliv. on DOX-induced cardiomyopathy in Ehrlich carcinoma bearing mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis of total methanolic extract (TE), and its bioactive dichloromethane fraction (DCMF) was applied for the determination of friedelin. Male BALB/c mice were used to keep the Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. The experiment was performed for a 2-weeks period.

RESULTS

A good linearity relationship was found to be with correlation coefficient (r2) value of 0.9924 for the isolated friedelin. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) was found to be 0.00179, and 0.000537 ng/band respectively for friedelin. The amount of friedelin in the TE and DCMF were determined by using calibration curve of standard as 106.32 ± 5.69 μg, and 159.2 ± 4.24 μg friedelin/mg extract, respectively. DOX-induced cardiomyopathy by decreasing the ejection fraction (EF) compared to the Ehrlich and negative control groups. It resulted in a decrease in the EF by 30 and 39% compared to the other groups. High and low doses of the TE and DCMF did not result in significantly different ejection fractions compared to the Ehrlich group. Co-administration of DCMF with DOX ameliorated the alteration in the serum CKMB and LDH levels. As revealed from histopathological study, DOX impairs viability of cardiac myocytes and DCMF could effectively and extensively counteract this action of DOX and potentially protect the heart from severe toxicity of DOX.

CONCLUSIONS

Finally, our results indicated that Euphorbia grantii Oliv. would be the best option to reduce DOX adverse effects.

Maca roots: A potential therapeutic in the management of metabolic disorders through the modulation of metabolic biochemical markers in rats fed high-fat high-carbohydrate diet

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Maca root (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) is a Peruvian plant of the Brassicaceae family. Maca roots are popular food supplements used to treat a variety of ailments described traditionally as enhancing metabolic and health conditions.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been the real scourge globally, affecting more than one-fourth of the global population. MetS causes the development of multi-organ illnesses, including altered blood cholesterol and sugar levels, oxidative stress, and hypertension. This study evaluated maca root total methanolic extract (MTE) as a potential nutraceutical to manage the complications of MetS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After the first 4 weeks of a high-fat high-carbohydrate diet (HFCD), streptozotocin (STZ) was injected in Wistar rats to induce the MetS model. Animals were treated orally with MTE at 100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg for 4 weeks compared to metformin at 200 mg/kg after confirmation of diabetes.

RESULTS

One month of MTE supplementation in HFCD-fed rats remarkably decreased the elevation of blood glucose and lipids, improved liver function and insulin resistance, additionally it successfully restored the state of inflammatory and oxidative stress. The extract was standardized to contain total phenolics equal to 24.45 ± 0.96 μg Gallic acid/mg extract.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that MTE improves MetS by reducing hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress. While also improving beta cell secretory functions, implying that MTE could be used as a balancing drug in the prevention and treatment of metabolic abnormalities linked to type 2 diabetes.

LC-QToF chemical profiling of Euphorbia grantii Oliv. and its potential to inhibit LPS-induced lung inflammation in rats via the NF-κB, CY450P2E1, and P38 MAPK14 pathways

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening syndrome that causes high morbidity and mortality worldwide. The aerial parts of Euphorbia grantii Oliv. were extracted with methanol to give a total methanolic extract (TME), which was further fractionated into dichloromethane (DCMF) and the remaining mother liquor (MLF) fractions. Biological guided anti-inflammatory assays in vitro revealed that the DCMF showed the highest activity (IC50 6.9 ± 0.2 μg/mL and 0.29 ± 0.01 μg/mL) compared to. celecoxib (IC50 of 88.0 ± 1 μg/mL and 0.30 ± 0.01 μg/mL) on COX-1 and COX-2, respectively. Additionally, anti-LOX activity was IC50 = 24.0 ± 2.5 μg/mL vs. zileuton with IC50 of 40.0 ± 0.5 μg/mL. LC-DAD-QToF analysis of TME and the active DCMF resulted in the tentative identification and characterization of 56 phytochemical compounds, where the diterpenes were the dominated metabolites. An LPS-induced inflammatory model of ALI (10 mg/kg i.p) was used to assess the anti-inflammatory potential of DCMF in vivo at dose of 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg compared to dexamethasone (5 mg/kg i.p). Our treatments significantly reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, and MPO), increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH), decreased the activity of oxidative stress enzyme (MDA), and reduced the expression of inflammatory genes (p38.MAPK14 and CY450P2E1). The western blotting of NF-κB p65 in lung tissues was inhibited after orally administration of the DCMF. Histopathological study of the lung tissues, scoring, and immunohistochemistry of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) were also assessed. In both dose regimens, DCMF of E. grantii prevented further lung damage and reduced the side effects of LPS on acute lung tissue injury.

Gastroprotective potential of red onion (Allium cepa L.) peel in ethanol-induced gastric injury in rats: Involvement of Nrf2/HO-1 and HMGB-1/NF-κB trajectories

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The utilization of plants with therapeutic properties in traditional medicine has a longstanding practice. Among them, the well-known Allium cepa L. commonly known as onion has been valued for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential in the treatment of various ailments, including gastric ulcers.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigated the gastroprotective potential of red onion peel extract and its fractions in a rat model of ethanol-induced gastric ulcer. Moreover, their phytochemical profiles were compared to identify the active metabolites.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and chemometrics were performed for phytochemical analysis. Ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model was used to assess the gastroprotective activity. Nine groups of rats were allocated as follows: Group 1 was the normal control; Group 2 rats were used as a positive control/model and received 1 mL of absolute ethanol; and Group 3 rats were treated with famotidine at a dose of 20 mg/kg orally. Group 4 and 5 rats were treated with total acidified ethanolic extract (T1, T2). Group 6 and 7 rats were treated with anthocyanins-rich fractions (P1, P2). Groups 8 and 9 were the flavonoids-rich fraction (S1, S2) treatment. Prior to scarification, the ulcer index in mm was obtained from gastric tissues photographed beside a ruler with further analysis using ImageJ software.

RESULTS

Seventy key major and discriminatory metabolites were identified including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and miscellaneous compounds. The examined extract and its fractions significantly reduced the ulcer index and inflammatory cytokines via downregulating HMGB-1/NF-κB. Also, they augmented the expression of Nrf2/HO-1 and reduced NOX1/4 mRNA expression. Moreover, there was a significant reduction in the oxidative stress and apoptotic biomarkers as well as a noticeable enhancement in histopathological changes of the stomach tissues.

CONCLUSION

Red onion peels have a promising dose dependent gastroprotective potential in alcohol-induced ulcers via modulating Nrf2/HO-1 and HMGB-1/NF-κB trajectories. This highlights the potential of red onion peels in treating gastric ulcers.

Synthesis and molecular docking simulation of new benzimidazole-thiazole hybrids as cholinesterase inhibitors

Dementia is a cognitive disturbance that is generally correlated with central nervous system diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease. The limited number of medications available is insufficient to improve the lifestyle of the patients suffering from this disease. Thus, new benzimidazole-thiazole hybrids (3-10) were designed and synthesized as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory agents. The in vitro evaluation displayed that the derivatives 4b, 4d, 5b, 6a, 7a, and 8b demonstrated dual inhibitory efficiency against both AChE with IC50 ranging from 4.55 to 8.62 µM and BChE with IC50 ranging from 3.50 to 8.32 µM. By analyzing the Lineweaver-Burk plot, an uncompetitive form of inhibition was determined for the highly active compound 4d, revealing its inhibition type. The human telomerase reverse transcriptase-immortalized retinal pigment epithelial cell line was used to ensure the safety of the most potent cholinesterase inhibitors. Furthermore, compounds 4b, 4d, 5b, 6a, 7a, and 8b were evaluated for their neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, as well as their ability to suppress COX-2. The results demonstrated that compounds 4d, 5b, and 8b presented significant neuroprotection efficiency against H2 O2 -induced damage in SH-SY5Y cells with % cell viability of 67.42 ± 7.90%, 62.51 ± 6.71%, and 72.61 ± 8.10%, respectively, while the tested candidates did not reveal significant antioxidant activity. Otherwise, compounds 4b, 6a, 7a, and 8b displayed outstanding COX-2 inhibition effects with IC50 ranging from 0.050 to 0.080 μM relative to celecoxib (IC50  = 0.050 µM). In addition, molecular docking was carried out for the potent benzimidazole-thiazole hybrids with the active sites of both AChE (PDB ID: 4EY7) and BChE (PDB code: 1P0P). The tested candidates fit well in the active sites of both portions, with docking scores ranging from -8.65 to -6.64 kcal/mol (for AChE) and -8.71 to -7.73 kcal/mol (for BChE). In silico results show that the synthesized benzimidazole-thiazole hybrids have good physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties with no Lipinski rule violations. The preceding results exhibited that compound 4d could be used as a new template for developing more significant cholinesterase inhibitors in the future.

Protective potential of frankincense essential oil and its loaded solid lipid nanoparticles against UVB-induced photodamage in rats via MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways; A promising anti-aging therapy

Frankincense oil has gained increased popularity in skin care, yet its anti-aging effect remains unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the anti-photoaging effect of frankincense (Boswellia papyrifera (Del.) Hochst., Family Burseraceae) essential oil in an in vivo model. The oil was initially extracted by two methods: hydro-distillation (HD) and microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MAHD). GC/MS analysis revealed the dominance of n-octyl acetate, along with other marker compounds of B. papyrifera including octanol and diterpene components (verticilla 4(20) 7, 11-triene and incensole acetate). Thereafter, preliminary investigation of the anti-collagenase and anti-elastase activities of the extracted oils revealed the superior anti-aging effect of HD-extracted oil (FO), comparable to epigallocatechin gallate. FO was subsequently formulated into solid lipid nanoparticles (FO-SLNs) via high shear homogenization to improve its solubility and skin penetration characteristics prior to in vivo testing. The optimimal formulation prepared with 0.5% FO, and 4% Tween® 80, demonstrated nanosized spherical particles with high entrapment efficiency percentage and sustained release for 8 hours. The anti-photoaging effect of FO and FO-SLNs was then evaluated in UVB-irradiated hairless rats, compared to Vitamin A palmitate as a positive standard. FO and FO-SLNs restored the antioxidant capacity (SOD and CAT) and prohibited inflammatory markers (IL6, NFκB p65) in UVB-irradiated rats via downregulation of MAPK (pERK, pJNK, and pp38) and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, alongside upregulating TGF-β expression. Subsequently, our treatments induced Procollagen I synthesis and downregulation of MMPs (MMP1, MMP9), where FO-SLNs exhibited superior anti-photoaging effect, compared to FO and Vitamin A, highlighting the use of SLNs as a promising nanocarrier for FO. In particular, FO-SLNs revealed normal epidermal and dermal histological structures, protected against UVβ-induced epidermal thickness and dermal collagen degradation. Our results indicated the potential use of FO-SLNs as a promising topical anti-aging therapy.

Hydrazone-sulfonate hybrids as potential cholinesterase inhibitors: design, synthesis and molecular modeling simulation

Aim: Design and synthesis of a series of hydrazone-sulfonate hybrids, 5a-r. Methodology: The inhibitory properties of the synthesized compounds against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase were evaluated using donepezil as the reference standard. Results & conclusion: Compound 5e was identified as the most potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 9.30 μM), and compound 5i was the most potent inhibitor of butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 11.82 μM). To confirm the safety of the most potent hits at the used doses, toxicological bioassays were conducted. Molecular docking was performed and the tested derivatives were found to fit well in the active sites of both enzymes. This study provides valuable insights into the potential of hydrazone-sulfonate hybrids as drug candidates.

Therapeutic effects of Stemmoside C against Salmonella enterica serotype typhimurium infected BALB/c mice

Salmonella is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes gastrointestinal diseases in 20 to 40 million people globally. Stemmoside C is a steroidal glycoside isolated from Argel, although its antibacterial and antibiofilm properties have not been studied. The antibacterial activity of Stemmoside C against Salmonella enterica was revealed, where MIC of the compound was 16 μg/mL (0.15 µM). Biofilm-associated Stemmoside C treatment destroyed S. typhi cells and reduced viable S. typhi numbers below detectable levels. When compared to Stemmoside C or Ciprofluxacin-treated mice, infected BALB/c mice had a greater death rate and a larger bacterial blood burden. The protective effects of orally administered Stemmoside C at dose of 25 and 50 mg/kg b.wt. against bacterial infection was associated with reduction in the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, Il-1β, IL-2, IL-6, MPO, and TNF-α) and elevation of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10 and IL-12) in serum. Where, Stemmoside C at dose of 50 mg/kg b.wt. regulated the levels almost as normal control group and demonstrated apparently normal intestinal sections. It also resulted in a decrease in the number of viable S. typhi retrieved from feces. Stemmoside C is a promising drug for the treatment or prevention of S. typhimurium infection.

Eucalyptus torquata L. flowers: a comprehensive study reporting their metabolites profiling and anti-gouty arthritis potential

Gouty arthritis is one of the most common metabolic disorders affecting people. Plant based drugs can lower the risk of this health disorder. The anti-gouty potential of Eucalyptus torquata flowers methanol extract (ETME) was evaluated in vitro via measuring the inhibitory effects of five pro-inflammatory enzymes; xanthine oxidase (XO), hyaluronidase, lipoxygenase (5-LOX), cyclooxygenases COX-1, and COX-2, in addition to evaluating the inhibition of histamine release, albumin denaturation, membrane stabilization, tyrosinase, and protease inhibitory activities. Also, its antioxidant potential was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assays and ferric reducing power assay (FRAP). HPLC-PDA-MS/MS was used to identify the metabolites in the tested extract. The latter exhibited substantial anti-arthritic properties in all assays with comparable potential to the corresponding reference drugs. HPLC-MS/MS analysis of this bioactive extract tentatively annotated 46 metabolites including phloroglucinols, gallic and ellagic acids derivatives, terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, and miscellaneous metabolites. Our study highlights the medicinal importance of E. torquata as an anti-gouty candidate and opens new avenues of gouty management.

Natural compounds as possible anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic agents: an in-vitro and in-silico study

WHO declared severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2' (SARS-CoV-2) was global health emergency since 2020. In our study eighteen natural compounds were investigated for possible anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential, where the most potent natural compounds were ursolic acid and dioscin with IC50 value of 4.49 µg/mL and 7.11 µg/mL, respectively. Hesperidin, catechin, diosmin, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside and hyperoside showed medium antiviral activity with IC50 value of 20.87, 22.57, 38.92, 39.62 and 47.10 µg/mL, respectively. Molecular modelling studies including docking study and predictive ADME study were performed on all tested molecules. Their binding energies after docking were calculated and their orientations at the active sites of both SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) and spike (S) receptors were visualised and compared to the downloaded ligands. Also, the predictive ADME studies showed good pharmacokinetic properties of most of the tested compounds. The obtained in silico results obtained confirmed that many of the tested compounds are promising SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors.

A Comparative GC/MS Analysis of Citrus Essential Oils: Unveiling the Potential Benefits of Herb-Drug Interactions in Preventing Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Our study aimed to test the potential of Citrus oils in protecting against paracetamol (PAR)-induced hepatotoxicity. The essential oils of Pineapple sweet orange (OO), Murcott mandarin (MO), Red grapefruit (GO), and Oval kumquat (KO) were investigated using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Twenty-seven compounds were identified, with monoterpene hydrocarbons being abundant class. d-Limonene had the highest percentage (92.98 %, 92.82 %, 89.75 %, and 94.46 % in OO, MO, GO, and KO, respectively). Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal components analysis (PCA) revealed that octanal, linalool, germacrene D, and d-limonene were the principal discriminatory metabolites that segregated the samples into three distinct clusters. In vitro antioxidant capacities were ranged from 1.2-12.27, 1.79-5.91, and 235.05-585.28 μM Trolox eq/mg oil for 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic (ABTS), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), respectively. In vivo, citrus oils exhibited a significant reduction in alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and nitric oxide (NO). Additionally, there was an increase in glutathione reductase (GSH), and the liver architecture was nearly normal. Molecular docking revealed that d-limonene exhibited a good inhibitory interaction with cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoforms 1A2, 3A4, and 2E1, with binding energies of -6.17, -4.51, and -5.61 kcal/mol, respectively.

Anticholinesterases activity of Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. and Murraya paniculata (L.) Jacq. essential oils with GC/MS analysis and molecular docking

GC/MS analysis of Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. and Murraya paniculata (L.) Jacq. leaves revealed the identification of 73 components, with an evident greater contribution of monoterpenes hydrocarbons to their total volatiles. α-Pinene (37.5%) and β-caryophyllene (27.4%) were the most abundant compounds in M. koenigii leaves and β-phellandrene (40.7%) in M. paniculata leaves, using headspace. β-Phellandrene (33.7%) was the major constituent by M. koenigii leaves where germacrene D (23.8%), and δ-elemene (22.0%) were predominant in M. paniculata leaves, using steam distillation. M. koenigii leaves oil showed quite remarkable cholinesterase inhibitory activity, where oil of M. paniculata leaves showed strong inhibitory activity against AChE (IC₅₀=13.2 ± 0.9 µg/mL) and BChE (IC₅₀=5.1 ± 0.3 µg/mL). Germacrene D, α-zingiberene, and δ-elemene showed higher affinity to BChE than AChE as revealed from docking scores (S = -5.65 to -6.03 Kcal/mol) for BChE and (S = -5.56 to -6.25 Kcal/mol) for AChE.

Taming Food-Drug Interaction Risk: Potential Inhibitory Effects of Citrus Juices on Cytochrome Liver Enzymes Can Safeguard the Liver from Overdose Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Paracetamol overdose is the leading cause of drug-induced hepatotoxicity worldwide. Because of N-acetyl cysteine's limited therapeutic efficacy and safety, searching for alternative therapeutic substitutes is necessary. This study investigated four citrus juices: Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck var. Pineapple (pineapple sweet orange), Citrus reticulata Blanco × Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck (Murcott mandarin), Citrus paradisi Macfadyen var. Ruby Red (red grapefruit), and Fortunella margarita Swingle (oval kumquat) to improve the herbal therapy against paracetamol-induced liver toxicity. UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS profiling of the investigated samples resulted in the identification of about 40 metabolites belonging to different phytochemical classes. Phenolic compounds were the most abundant, with the total content ranked from 609.18 to 1093.26 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mL juice. The multivariate data analysis revealed that phloretin 3',5'-di-C-glucoside, narirutin, naringin, hesperidin, 2-O-rhamnosyl-swertisin, fortunellin (acacetin-7-O-neohesperidoside), sinensetin, nobiletin, and tangeretin represented the crucial discriminatory metabolites that segregated the analyzed samples. Nevertheless, the antioxidant activity of the samples was 1135.91-2913.92 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, 718.95-3749.47 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, and 2304.74-4390.32 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, as revealed from 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity, respectively. The in vivo paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity model in rats was established and assessed by measuring the levels of hepatic enzymes and antioxidant biomarkers. Interestingly, the concomitant administration of citrus juices with a toxic dose of paracetamol effectively recovered the liver injury, as confirmed by normal sections of hepatocytes. This action could be due to the interactions between the major identified metabolites (hesperidin, hesperetin, phloretin 3',5'-di-C-glucoside, fortunellin, poncirin, nobiletin, apigenin-6,8-digalactoside, 6',7'-dihydroxybergamottin, naringenin, and naringin) and cytochrome P450 isoforms (CYP3A4, CYP2E1, and CYP1A2), as revealed from the molecular docking study. The most promising compounds in the three docking processes were hesperidin, fortunellin, poncirin, and naringin. Finally, a desirable food-drug interaction was achieved in our research to overcome paracetamol overdose-induced hepatotoxicity.

In Vitro Cytotoxic Study of Euphorbia grantii Oliv. Aerial Parts against MCF-7 and MCF-7ADR Breast Cancer Cell Lines: A Bioactivity-Guided Isolation

The development of highly efficient and low-toxicity anticancer drugs is one of the most critical problems in the medical field. Euphorbia grantii is commonly reported as an antiviral plant; a dilute solution of its latex is used for intestinal worms and to promote blood clotting and tissue healing. Our study evaluated the antiproliferative activity of the total extract, its respective fractions, and the isolated compounds from E. grantii aerial parts. A phytochemical study was done by several chromatographic methods, and the cytotoxic activity was assessed using the sulforhodamine B assay. The dichloromethane fraction (DCMF) exhibited promising cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MCF-7^ADR), with an IC₅₀ of 10.31 and 10.41 μg/mL, respectively. Chromatographic purification of the active fraction revealed the isolation of eight compounds. Among the isolated compounds, euphylbenzoate (EB) exhibited a promising effect with an IC₅₀ of 6.07 and 6.54 μM against MCF-7 and MCF-7^ADR, respectively, while other compounds showed no activity. Euphol, cycloartenyl acetate, cycloartenol, and epifriedelinyl acetate showed moderate activity (33.27-40.44 μM). Euphylbenzoate has smartly tackled both apoptosis and autophagy programmed cell death mechanisms. These results demonstrated that E. grantii aerial parts yield active compounds with significant antiproliferative potential.

9-Methoxyellipticine: Antibacterial Bioactive Compound Isolated from Ochrosia elliptica Labill. Roots

Antibacterial resistance bears a major threat to human health worldwide, causing about 1.2 million deaths per year. It is noteworthy that carbazole derivatives have shown a potential antibacterial activity, for example, 9-methoxyellipticine, which was isolated from Ochrosia elliptica Labill. roots (Apocynaceae) in the present study. An in vitro screening of the antibacterial activity of 9-methoxyellipticine was investigated against four multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC O157) as Gram-negative bacteria, in addition to Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with Bacillus cereus as Gram-positive bacteria. The compound had significant antibacterial activity against the two Gram-negative isolates and lower activity against the Gram-positive ones. The synergistic use of 9-methoxyellipticine and antibiotics was successfully effective in reducing the MDR microorganisms. Lung pneumonia and kidney infection mice models were used to investigate the compound's efficacy in vivo for the first time. Noteworthy reductions in K. pneumoniae and STEC shedding and the colonization were observed, with a reduction in pro-inflammatory factors and immunoglobulin levels. Other related lesions such as inflammatory cell infiltration, alveolar interstitial congestion, and edema were noticed to occur, lessened to different limits. The anti-STEC and anti-K. pneumoniae activities of 9-methoxyellipticine were revealed, providing a new alternative against MDR nosocomial infections.

Anticholinesterase and anti-inflammatory constituents from Caralluma awdeliana, a medicinal plant from Yemen

From the dichloromethane (DCM) fraction of the crude ethanolic extract of Caralluma awdeliana, four pregnane glycosides and a flavone glycoside were isolated using a bio-guided isolation approach. The different extracts of C. awdeliana were subjected to in vitro enzyme inhibitory assays of anticholinesterases (AChE and BChE) and anti-inflammatory (COXs and 5-LOX). The highest inhibitory activity was exhibited by DCM fraction against COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX with IC₅₀ of 4.8 ± 0.5 μg/mL, 0.68 ± 0.2 μg/mL, and 39.5 ± 3.0 μg/mL, respectively. The DCM showed also a moderate activity against AChE (IC₅₀ 384.72 ± 3.6 μg/mL), and BChE (IC₅₀ 384.72 ± 3.6 μg/mL). The repeated chromatography of DCM fraction resulted in the isolation of two new pregnane glycosides, namely awdeliosides A (1) and B (4), two known ones, namely caratuberosides B and D, along with the known flavone glycoside identified as luteolin 4 -O-neohesperidoside. All the isolated compounds were tested for their in vitro enzyme inhibitory assays. Among the isolated compounds, awdelioside B (4) showed the most potent effect against COX-1 with IC₅₀ value of 10.99 ± 0.35 μM, compared to standard celecoxib (IC₅₀ 230.74 ± 2.62 μM). All the isolated compounds showed weak anticholinesterase, except a moderate activity observed for awdelioside B (4) against BChE with IC₅₀ value of 15.63 ± 3.5 μM, compared to standard donepezil (IC₅₀ 0.77 ± 0.0088 μM).

Identification of Antimicrobial Metabolites from the Egyptian Soil-Derived Amycolatopsis keratiniphila Revealed by Untargeted Metabolomics and Molecular Docking

Actinomycetes are prolific producers of bioactive secondary metabolites. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens has prompted us to search for potential natural antimicrobial agents. Herein, we report the isolation of rare actinobacteria from Egyptian soil. The strain was identified as Amycolatopsis keratiniphila DPA04 using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Cultivation profiling, followed by chemical and antimicrobial evaluation of crude extracts, revealed the activity of DPA04 ISP-2 and M1 culture extracts against Gram-positive bacteria. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) values ranged from 19.5 to 39 µg/mL. Chemical analysis of the crude extracts using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF) led to the identification of 45 metabolites of different chemical classes. In addition, ECO-0501 was identified in the cultures with significant antimicrobial activity. Multidrug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus is reported to be related to the multidrug efflux pump (MATE). ECO-0501 and its related metabolites were subjected to molecular docking studies against the MATE receptor as a proposed mechanism of action. ECO-0501 and its derivatives (AK_1 and N-demethyl ECO-0501) had better binding scores (-12.93, -12.24, and -11.92 kcal/mol) than the co-crystallized 4HY inhibitor (-8.99 kcal/mol) making them promising candidates as MATE inhibitors. Finally, our work established that natural products from this strain could be useful therapeutic tools for controlling infectious diseases.

Luteolin 4′-Neohesperidoside Inhibits Clinically Isolated Resistant Bacteria In Vitro and In Vivo

Multidrug resistance (MDR) pathogens are usually associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. Flavonoids are good candidates for the development of new potential antimicrobials. This research investigated whether luteolin 4′-neohesperidoside (L4N) has antibacterial and synergistic activities against four antibiotic-resistant pathogens: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Klebsiella pneumoniae, fosA-positive shiga toxin producing the Escherichia coli serogroup O111 (STEC O111), and Bacillus cereus. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed highly potent anti-MRSA (MIC of 106.66 ± 6.95 µg/mL), anti-K. pneumoniae (MIC of 53.33 ± 8.47 µg/mL) and anti-STEC O111 (MIC of 26.66 ± 5.23 µg/mL) activities. Significant synergistic combination was clearly noted in the case of gentamycin (GEN) against Gram-negative bacteria. In the case of B. cereus, the combination of vancomycin (VAN) with L4N could efficiently inhibit bacterial growth, despite the pathogen being VAN-resistant (MIC of 213.33 ± 7.9 µg/mL). In vivo evaluation of L4N showed significant decreases in K. pneumoniae and STEC shedding and colonization. Treatment could significantly diminish the levels of pro-inflammatory markers, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and immunoglobulin (IgM). Additionally, the renal and pulmonary lesions were remarkably enhanced, with a significant decrease in the bacterial loads in the tissues. Finally, this study presents L4N as a potent substitute for traditional antibiotics with anti-STEC O111 and anti-K. pneumoniae potential, a finding which is reported here for the first time.

Arabincoside B isolated from Caralluma arabica as a potential anti-pneumonitis in LPS mice model

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening condition usually associated with poor therapeutic outcomes and a high mortality rate. Since 2019, the situation has worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALI had approximately 40% of deaths before COVID-19, mainly due to the dysfunction of the blood-gas barrier that led to lung edema, failure of gas exchange, and dyspnea. Many strategies have been taken to mitigate the disease condition, such as diuretics, surfactants, antioxidants, glucocorticoids, heparin, and ventilators with concomitant sedatives. However, until now, there is no available effective therapy for ALI. Thus, we are presenting a new compound termed Arabincoside B (AR-B), recently isolated from Caralluma arabica, to be tested in such conditions. For that, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mice model was used to investigate the capability of the AR-B compound to control the ALI compared to standard dexamethasone. The results showed that AR-B had a significant effect on retrieving ALI. A further mechanistic study carried out in the serum, lung homogenate, histological, and immunohistochemistry sections revealed that the AR-B either in 50 mg/kg or 75 mg/kg dose inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-13, NF-κB, TNFα, and NO and stimulated regulatory cytokines IL-10. Moreover, AR-B showed a considerable potential to protect the pulmonary tissue against oxidative stress by decreasing MDA and increasing catalase and Nrf2. Also, the AR-B exhibited an anti-apoptotic effect on the lung epithelium, confirmed by reducing COX and BAX expression and upregulating Bcl-2 expression. These results pave its clinical application for ALI.

Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Antimicrobial Components and LC/QToF Profile of Plumeria obtusa: Potential for the Treatment of Antimicrobial Resistance

The methanolic fraction (M-F) of the total extract (TE) of Plumeria obtusa L. aerial parts showed promising antibacterial effects against the MDR (multidrug-resistant) gram-negative pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli O157:H7 [Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC)]. In addition, M-F had a synergistic effect (in combination with vancomycin) against the MDR gram-positive strains MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and Bacillus cereus. After treating the K. pneumoniae- and STEC-infected mice with M-F (25 mg/kg, i.p.), the level of IgM and TNF-α was decreased and the severity of pathological lesions were reduced better than that observed after administration of gentamycin (33 mg/kg, i.p.). Thirty-seven compounds including 10 plumeria-type iridoids and 18 phenolics, 7 quinoline derivatives, 1 amino acid, and 1 fatty acid were identified in TE using LC/ESI-QToF. Furthermore, five compounds; kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside (M1), quercetin 3-O-rutinoside (M2), glochiflavanoside B (M3), plumieride (M4), and 13-O-caffeoylplumieride (M5) were isolated from M-F. M5 was active against K. pneumoniae (MIC of 64 μg/mL) and STEC (MIC of 32 μg/mL). These findings suggested that M-F and M5 are promising antimicrobial natural products for combating MDR K. pneumoniae and STEC nosocomial infections.

Bioactive fraction from Plumeria obtusa L. attenuates LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice and inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages: LC/QToF-MS and molecular docking

In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of the methanolic extract (TE) of Plumeria obtusa L. (aerial parts) and its fractions were evaluated in vitro, and active fraction was evaluated in vivo. Among tested extracts, dichloromethane fraction (DCM-F) exhibited the strongest inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The effect of DCM-F on LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice was studied. The animals were divided into five groups (n = 7) randomly; Gp I: negative control, GP II: positive control (LPS group), GP III: standard (dexamethasone, 2 mg/kg b.wt), GP IV and V: DCM-F (100 mg/kg), and DEM-F (200 mg/kg), respectively. DCM-F at a dose of 200 mg/kg suppressed the ability of LPS to increase the levels of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), NO, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6), as measured by ELISA. In addition, the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was reduced (determined by immunohistochemistry) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased while that of catalase was restored to the normal values. Furthermore, the histopathological scores of inflammation induced by LPS were reduced. Twenty-two compounds were tentatively identified in DCM-F using LC/ESI-QToF with iridoids, phenolic derivatives and flavonoids as major constituents. Identified compounds were subjected to two different molecular docking processes against iNOS and prostaglandin E synthase-1 target receptors. Notably, protoplumericin A and 13-O-coumaroyl plumeride were the most promising members compared to the co-crystallized inhibitor in each case. These findings suggested that DCM-F attenuates the LPS-induced ALI in experimental animals through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential.

Hypericum perforatum L. Nanoemulsion Mitigates Cisplatin-Induced Chemobrain via Reducing Neurobehavioral Alterations, Oxidative Stress, Neuroinflammation, and Apoptosis in Adult Rats

Cisplatin (Cis) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent; however, it is linked with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, which may harmfully affect the brain. Hypericum perforatum L. (HP L.) is a strong medicinal plant, but its hydrophobic polyphenolic compounds limit its activity. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective action of HP L. and its nanoemulsion (NE) against Cis-induced neurotoxicity. The prepared HP.NE was subjected to characterization. The droplet size distribution, surface charge, and morphology were evaluated. In addition, an in vitro dissolution study was conducted. Compared to Cis-intoxicated rats, HP L. and HP.NE-treated rats displayed improved motor activity and spatial working memory. They also showed an increase in their antioxidant defense system and a reduction in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain. Moreover, they showed an increase in the expression levels of the PON-3 and GPX genes, which are associated with a reduction in the brain levels of COX-2 and TP-53. These findings were confirmed by reducing the immunohistochemical expression of nuclear factor kappa (NF-ƘB) and enhanced Ki-67 levels. In conclusion, HP L. is a promising herb and could be used as an adjuvant candidate to ameliorate chemotherapeutic-induced neurotoxicity. Moreover, HP.NE has superior activity in lessening Cis-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in brain tissue.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antibiofilm Activity of Red Onion Scales: An Agro-Food Waste

Red onion wastes (ROW) are valuable sources of bioactive metabolites with promising antimicrobial effects. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are a growing risk in hospitals and communities. This study aims to investigate the in vitro and in vivo antibiofilm activities of the acidified ethanolic extract of red onion scales (RO-T) and its fractions against an MRSA vaginal colonization model. The RO-T extract, as well as its anthocyanin-rich fraction (RO-P) and flavonoid-rich fraction (RO-S), recorded a promising antibacterial activity against highly virulent strains of bacteria (MRSA, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). RO-S showed the highest antibacterial activity (MBC of 0.33 ± 0.11 mg/mL) against MRSA USA300 and significantly eradicated its biofilm formation with an IC₅₀ of 0.003. Using a rat model, in vivo assessment on all samples, which were formulated as a hydrogel, revealed a significant reduction of MRSA bacterial load recovered from an infected vagina compared to that of the negative control group (NCG). RO-T extract and vancomycin groups recorded the highest antibacterial activity with a bacterial load 2.998 and 3.358 logs lower than the NCG, respectively. The histopathological investigation confirmed our findings. RO-T and RO-S were standardized for their quercetin content. Finally, ROW offers a new potent antibiofilm agent mostly due to its high quercetin content.

Salix subserrata Bark Extract-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Attenuate Neurotoxicity Induced by Sodium Arsenate in Rats in Relation with HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS Profile

Pollution is a worldwide environmental risk. Arsenic (As) is an environmental pollutant with a major health concern due to its toxic effects on multiple body organs, including the brain. Humans are exposed to As through eating contaminated food and water or via skin contact. Salix species (willow) are plants with medicinal efficacy. Salix subserrata Willd bark extract-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SBE.CNPs) was formulated, characterized, and evaluated against As-induced neurotoxicity. The stem bark was selected for nanoparticle formulation based on HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS profiling and in vitro antioxidant assessment using free radical scavenging activity. SBE.CNPs demonstrated an average un-hydrated diameter of 193.4 ± 24.5 nm and zeta potential of + 39.6 ± 0.4 mV with an encapsulation efficiency of 83.7 ± 4.3%. Compared to As-intoxicated rats, SBE.CNP-treated rats exhibited anxiolytic activity and memory-boosting as evidenced in open field test, light-dark activity box, and Y-maze. Also, it increased the antioxidant biomarkers, including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase associated with reducing the malondialdehyde levels and apoptotic activity. Besides this, SBE.CNPs maintained the brain architecture and downregulated both nuclear factor-kappa B and heme oxygenase-1 expression. These results suggest that SBE.CNP administration showed promising potent neuroprotective and antioxidative efficiencies against arsenic-induced oxidative threats.

Antidepressant and Cardioprotective Effects of Self-Nanoemulsifying Self-Nanosuspension Loaded with Hypericum perforatum on Post-Myocardial Infarction Depression in Rats

Hypericum perforatum (HP) is characterized by potent medicinal activity. However, the poor water solubility of many HP constituents limits their therapeutic effectiveness. Self-nanoemulsifying self-nanosuspension loaded with HP (HP.SNESNS) was formulated to improve the bioefficacy of HP. It was prepared using 10% triacetin, 57% Tween 20, and 33% PEG 400 and then incorporated with HP extract (100 mg/mL). HP.SNESNS demonstrated a bimodal size distribution (258.65 ± 29.35 and 9.08 ± 0.01 nm) corresponding to nanosuspension and nanoemulsion, respectively, a zeta potential of -8.03 mV, and an enhanced dissolution profile. Compared to the unformulated HP (100 mg/kg), HP.SNESNS significantly improved cardiac functions by decreasing the serum myocardial enzymes, nitric oxide (NO), and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) as well as restoring the heart tissue's normal architecture. Furthermore, it ameliorates anxiety, depressive-like behavior, and cognitive dysfunction by decreasing brain TNF-α, elevating neurotransmitters (norepinephrine and serotonin), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In addition, HP.SNESNS augmented the immunohistochemical expression of cortical and hippocampal glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels while downregulating the cortical Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) expression levels. Surprisingly, these protective activities were comparable to the HP (300 mg/kg). In conclusion, HP.SNESNS (100 mg/kg) exerted antidepressant and cardioprotective activities in the post-MI depression rat model.

Development of spiro-3-indolin-2-one containing compounds of antiproliferative and anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties

A series of 1″-(alkylsulfonyl)-dispiro[indoline-3,2'-pyrrolidine-3',3″-piperidine]-2,4″-diones 6a‒o has been synthesized through regioselective multi-component azomethine dipolar cycloaddition reaction of 1-(alkylsulfonyl)-3,5-bis(ylidene)-piperidin-4-ones 3a‒h. X-ray diffraction studies (6b‒d,h) confirmed the structures. The majority of the synthesized analogs reveal promising antiproliferation properties against a variety of human cancer cell lines (MCF7, HCT116, A431 and PaCa2) with good selectivity index towards normal cell (RPE1). Some of the synthesized agents exhibit potent inhibitory properties against the tested cell lines with higher efficacies than the standard references (sunitinib and 5-fluorouracil). Compound 6m is the most potent. Multi-targeted inhibitory properties against EGFR and VEGFR-2 have been observed for the synthesized agents. Flow cytometry supports the antiproliferation properties and shows the tested agents as apoptosis and necrosis forming. Vero cell viral infection model demonstrates the anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties of the synthesized agents. Compound 6f is the most promising (about 3.3 and 4.8 times the potency of the standard references, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine). QSAR models explain and support the observed biological properties.

Lepidium meyenii (Maca) Roots: UPLC-HRMS, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics

Lepidium meyenii or Maca is widely cultivated as a health care food supplement due to its nutritional and medicinal properties. Although there are a few in-depth studies evaluating Maca antihypertensive effects, the correlations between the chemical constituents and bioactivity of the plant have not been studied before. Thus, the roots were extracted using different solvents (aqueous, methanol, 50% methanol, and methylene chloride) and investigated for their antihypertensive and antioxidant activities through several in vitro assays. The methanolic extract exhibited the best renin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ values of 24.79 ± 1.3 ng/mL and 22.02 ± 1.1 ng/mL, respectively, along with the highest antioxidant activity. In total, 120 metabolites from different classes, e.g., alkylamides, alkaloids, glucosinolates, organic acids, and hydantoin derivatives, were identified in the methanolic extract using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC/HRMS). Molecular docking simulations were used to investigate the potential binding modes and the intermolecular interactions of the identified compounds with ACE and renin active sites. Glucotropaeolin, β-carboline alkaloids, succinic acid, and 2,4-dihydroxy-3,5-cyclopentyl dienoic acid showed the highest affinity to target the ACE with high docking scores (S ranging from -35.32 to -22.51 kcal mol^-1) compared to lisinopril (S = -36.64 kcal mol^-1). Interestingly, macamides displayed the greatest binding affinity to the active site of renin with docking scores (S ranging from -22.47 to -28.25 kcal mol^-1). Further, β-carbolines achieved docking scores comparable to that of the native ligand (S ranging from -13.50 to -20.06 kcal mol^-1). Molecular dynamics simulations and MMPBSA were also carried out and confirmed the docking results. Additionally, the computational ADMET study predicted that the compounds attaining promising docking results had proper pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness characteristics, and safe toxicological profiles. Ultimately, our findings revealed that Maca roots could be considered a promising candidate as an antihypertensive drug.

Bioactive phenolics fraction of Hedera helix L. (Common Ivy Leaf) standardized extract ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury in the mouse model through the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress

Hedera helix L. (family Araliaceae) is classified as a conventional plant used as a medicinal product in the cure and prevention of upper respiratory tract inflammation and infection due to its secretolytic and broncholytic effects. Our research was conducted to authenticate the anti-inflammatory effect of ivy leaves extract in the prevention of acute lung injury (ALI) caused by intranasal administration of lipopolysaccharides (LPS). In-vitro antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant were evaluated, in addition to the in-vivo acute lung inflammation model induced by LPS in mice. The animals were divided into seven groups randomly (each group containing 10 mice): control negative (saline only), control positive (LPS group), standard (Dexamethasone 2 mg/kg), ethanolic ivy leaves extract (EIE, 100 mg/kg), ethanolic ivy leaves extract (EIE, 200 mg/kg), saponin rich fraction (SRF, 100 mg/kg) and phenolic rich fraction (PRF, 100 mg/kg). Right lungs were homogenized to determine the levels of SOD, MDA, catalase, IL-10, TNF-α, NO, IL-1β, IL-6, PGE2, and MPO. Left lungs were excised for histopathology and histomorphometry. Immunohistochemistry of Cox-2 and TNF-α levels were measured. Additionally, Western blotting was used to determine the levels of phosphorylated MAPK. Also, the ethanolic extract was also standardized through HPLC analysis for its content of rutin.The data showed that the oral supplementation with EIE, 200 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the pro-inflammatory mediators, and oxidative stress biomarkers induced by LPS. Interestingly, the phenolics showed promising activity, therefore they are responsible for the action. In conclusion, the standardized ivy leaf extract could be advised for acute lung injury for its antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.

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Ivy leaf is a traditional perennial edible herb used as an anti-inflammatory agent for respiratory disorders.

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The plant significantly reduced the serum oxidative stress biomarkers and inflammatory cytokines in the in-vivo acute lung inflammation model induced by LPS.

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Also, it had antimicrobial activity.

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Phenolics not saponins are responsible for the activity of the plant.

Chemical profiles with cardioprotective and anti-depressive effects of Morus macroura Miq. leaves and stem branches dichloromethane fractions on isoprenaline induced post-MI depression

This study was conducted to explore the potential cardioprotective and anti-depressive effects of dichloromethane (DCM) fractions of Morus macroura leaves (L) and stem branches (S) on post-myocardial infarction (MI) depression induced by isoprenaline (ISO) in rats in relation to their metabolites. The study was propped with a UPLC-ESI-MS/MS profiling and chromatographic isolation of the secondary metabolites. Column chromatography revealed the isolation of lupeol palmitate (6) that was isolated for the first time from nature with eight known compounds. In addition, more than forty metabolites belonging, mainly to flavonoids, and anthocyanins groups were identified. The rats were injected with ISO (85 mg kg⁻¹, s.c) in the first two days, followed by the administration of M. macroura DCM-L and DCM-S fractions (200 mg kg⁻¹ p.o) for 19 days. Compared with the ISO exposed rats, the treated rats displayed a reduction in cardiac biomarkers (LDH and CKMB), anxiety, and depressive-like behaviour associated with an increase in the brain defense system (SOD and GSH), neuronal cell energy, GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, confirmed by histopathological investigations. In conclusion, DCM-L and DCM-S fractions' cardioprotective and anti-depressive activities are attributed to their metabolite profile. Therefore, they could serve as a potential agent in amending post-MI depression.

This study was conducted to explore the potential cardioprotective and anti-depressive effects of dichloromethane fractions of Morus macroura leaves and stem branches on post-myocardial infarction depression induced by isoprenaline in rats in relation to their metabolites.

Anti-arthritic activity of the flavonoids fraction of ivy leaves (Hedera helix L.) standardized extract in adjuvant induced arthritis model in rats in relation to its metabolite profile using LC/MS

Ivy leaves (Hedera helix) is a traditional plant used for common cold, cough, and bronchial disorders and can be used for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as an attempt in alternative medicine. RA is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by its increasing frequency and adverse consequences. There is an urgent need for a long-term therapy that has favorable biological effects and is less expensive than the already authorized synthetic medicines. This study aimed to determine the anti-arthritic potentials of Hedera helix with determination of the bioactive fraction and discovery of its second-generation metabolites by means of LC/MS. The total ivy ethanolic extract (TIE-E), saponins fraction (Sap-F) and flavonoids fraction (Flav-F) were investigated for their in-vitro anti-arthritic effects and in-vivo by Adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) using Complete Freund's Adjuvant (0.1 mL, CFA) intradermal relative to the usual dose of ibuprofen (5 mg/kg). We examined the physical alterations, rheumatoid biomarkers, cytokines that cause and inhibit inflammation, markers of oxidative stress, hyaluronidase and β-glucuronidase enzyme activity. Each paw's histopathology was also evaluated. The chemical profiles of TIE-E were studied using LC/MS in both positive and negative ionization modes. TIE-E (200 mg/kg) and Flav-F (100 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) lowered the edema of the paws, serum immunological indicators, inflammatory cytokines, degenerative enzymes, and indicators of reactive oxygen species with increasing in the anti-inflammatory cytokines. Our findings suggest that extracts of ivy leaves might be used effectively to treat rheumatoid arthritis, where its flavonoid content is responsible for that, and it is able to repress biochemical, oxidative, and pathological changes associated with (AIA) Adjuvant-induced arthritis.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract attenuates hepatic and cognitive deficits in thioacetamide-induced rat model of hepatic encephalopathy via induction of Nrf2/HO-1 and mitigation of NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ashwagandha (ASH) is one of the medicinal plants used in traditional Indian, Ayurvedic, and Unani medicines for their broad range of pharmacological activities including, tonic, aphrodisiac, energy stimulant, and counteracting chronic fatigue. Besides, it is used in the treatment of nervous exhaustion, memory-related conditions, insomnia, as well as improving learning ability and memory capacity. ASH is preclinically proven to be efficient in hepatoprotection and improving cognitive impairment, however, its beneficial effects against hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is still unclear. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the protective effects of ASH root extract against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced HE and delineate the underlying behavioral and pharmacological mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ASH metabolites were identified using UPLC-HRMS. Rats were pretreated with ASH (200 and 400 mg/kg) for 29 days and administrated TAA (i.p, 350 mg/kg) in a single dose. Then, behavioral (open field test, Y-maze, modified elevated plus maze and novel object recognition test), and biochemical (ammonia and hepatic toxicity indices) assessments, as well as oxidative stress markers (MDA and GSH) were evaluated. The hepatic and brain levels of glutamine synthetase (GS), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme-oxygenase (HO)-1, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mRNA expressions of p38/ERK½ were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Moreover, histopathological investigations and immunohistochemical (NF-κB and TNF-α immunohistochemical expressions) examinations were performed.

RESULTS

Metabolite profiling of ASH revealed more than 45 identified metabolites including phenolic acids, flavonoids and steroidal lactone triterpenoids. Compared to the TAA-intoxicated group, ASH improved the locomotor and cognitive deficits, serum hepatotoxicity indices and ammonia levels, as well as brain and hepatic histopathological alterations. ASH reduced hepatic and brain levels of MDA, GS, and iNOS, and increased their GSH, Nrf2, and HO-1 levels. Also, ASH downregulated p38 and ERK½ mRNA expressions, and NF-κB and TNF-α immunohistochemical expressions in brain and hepatic tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provided insights into the promising hepato- and neuroprotective effects of ASH, with superiority to 400 mg/kg ASH, to ameliorate HE with its sequential hyperammonemia and liver/brain injuries. This could be attributed to the recorded increase in the spontaneous alternation % and recognition index, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as upregulation of Nrf2 and downregualtion of MAPK signaling pathways.

Anti-inflammatory activity of Jasminum grandiflorum L. subsp. floribundum (Oleaceae) in inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis models

Our study has renewed interest in the genus Jasmine for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions. Aerial parts of Jasminum grandiflorum L. subsp. floribundum total methanolic extract (JTME) were tested for its therapeutic potential as an anti-inflammatory agent using two experimental models in rats; acetic acid (AA) induced ulcerative colitis and adjuvant induced arthritis. The administration of JTME showed anti-inflammatory activity in a dose dependent manner. JTME, 400 mg/kg was like prednisolone, 2 mg/kg p.o. (the reference drug), since it improved the tissues of the colon clinically, macro and microscopically (ulcer index), and histopathological (scoring). It reduced the intestinal expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the colonic mucosa; IFNγ, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1, and MPO. It also preserved tight junctions in intestinal epithelial cells by counter-regulating claudin-5 and occludin levels additionally, it had a potent antioxidant activity. The expressions of NF-κB p65, TNF-α and caspase-3 in rats administered AA (2 mL of 4% solution, once, intrarectally) were significantly increased, where the lowest expression was scored in JTME, 400 mg/kg group. In the adjuvant induced model of rheumatoid arthritis, the TJME, 400 mg/kg reduced the levels of cathepsin D, iNOS, NO, RF, CRP, CPP and elevated the total antioxidant capacity of tissues. Additionally, it maintained bones without histopathological lesions, articular cartilage damage, and inflammation of the synovial membrane and periarticular tissues, in contrast to arthritic rats. Finally, we report a new detailed study to validate the medicinal importance of Jasminum for the chronic inflammatory disorders with immune dysfunction with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

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

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

Unravelling the anthelmintic bioactives from Jasminum grandiflorum L. subsp. Floribundum adopting in vitro biological assessment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Jasminum grandiflorum L. is a medicinal plant widely used in the traditional system of Medicine as an anthelmintic in ringworm infections, for treating ulcers, stomatitis, skin diseases, and wounds.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The emergence of resistance by different parasites to currently used chemicals has been reported. There are increasing needs for more effective and safer parasiticides. Therefore, the current study was designed to investigate the methanolic extract of the aerial parts of J. grandiflorum subsp. Floribundum (JGTE) to confirm its traditional uses as anthelmintic through a bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation of the active components with anthelmintic activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The JGTE was partitioned into dichloromethane (DCM-F) and n-butanol (BuOH-F) fractions. The JGTE, fractions, and the isolated compounds were tested in vitro for their anthelmintic activity using two nematodes; one larval stage of cestode and one arthropod. Four major compounds were isolated from the most active fraction (BuOH-F) including two flavonoids and two secoirridoid glycosides, identified as kaempferol-3-O-neohesperoside (1), rutin (2), oleuropein (3), and ligstroside (4).

RESULTS

Among the isolated compounds from most active fraction (BuOH-F), rutin (2) displayed the highest anthelmintic activity in a dose-dependent activity with IC₅₀ of 41.04 μg/mL against H. muscae adult worm, followed by ligstroside (4) with IC₅₀ of 50.56 μg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings could advocate the traditional use of J. grandiflorum L. and provide further insight into the anthelmintic activity of flavonoids.

Bioguided Isolation of Antibiofilm and Antibacterial Pregnane Glycosides from Caralluma quadrangula: Disarming Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDRAB) present a serious challenge because of their capability to cause biofilm resistance to commonly used antibiotics producing chronic infections and hindering the process of wound healing. In the current study, we investigated the antibacterial activity of Caralluma quadrangula extracts (MeOH, and its fractions CH₂Cl₂ and n-butanol) against multidrug-resistant MRSA USA300 and A. baumannii AB5057. In vitro, the MeOH extract and both fractions of C. quadrangula significantly inhibited biofilm formation and disrupted previously established biofilm by MRSA and MDRAB at all the tested concentrations (0.625, 0.313, and 0.156 mg/mL). In vivo, C. quadrangula extracts successfully decreased bacterial loads in MRSA-infected skin lesions in mice. Four pregnane glycosides and one flavone glycoside were isolated from the bioactive n-butanol fraction. The isolated compounds (Rus A–E) were tested for their biofilm inhibition and biofilm detachment activities. The results revealed that Rus C was the most active compound (IC₅₀ = 0.139 mmole), while Rus E was the least active (IC₅₀ = 0.818 mmole). These results support the potential use of C. quadrangula extracts or their isolated compounds for hindering the biofilm attachment and the virulence of MRSA and MDRAB and their application as a topical antimicrobial preparation for MRSA skin infections.

HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS Profiling and Anti-Biofilm Potential of Eucalyptussideroxylon Flowers

The development of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains is a worldwide emerging problem that needs a global solution. Exploring new natural antibiofilm agents is one of the most important alternative therapies in combating bacterial infections. This study aimed at testing the antimicrobial potential of Eucalyptus sideroxylon flowers extract (ESFE) against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans prior to testing the antibiofilm activity against S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and C. albicans. ESFE demonstrated antimicrobial activity and promising inhibition activity against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) biofilm formation up to 95.9% (p < 0.05) at a concentration of 0.05 mg/mL and eradicated C. albicans biofilm formation up to 71.2% (p < 0.05) at a concentration of 0.7 mg/mL. LC-MS analysis allowed the tentative identification of eighty-three secondary metabolites: 21 phloroglucinol, 18 terpenes, 16 flavonoids, 7 oleuropeic acid derivatives, 7 ellagic acid derivatives, 6 gallic acid derivatives, 3 phenolic acids, 3 fatty acids and 2 miscellaneous. In conclusion, E. sideroxylon is a rich source of effective constituents that promote its valorization as a promising candidate in the management of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.

Therapeutic potential of russelioside B as anti-arthritic agent in Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Caralluma species are traditional edible herbs used in folkloric medicine as antidiabetic, antioxidant, antipyretic, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory and anthelmintic agents. C. quadrangula was selected in this study to document the traditional use of the genus as anti-rheumatic treatment and the possible mechanisms of action.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The higher mortality rates and shorter survival among the patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) led to the increased interest on searching for new treatments for RA. Russelioside B (RB), a major pregnane glycoside found in C. quadrangula, was evaluated as a new anti-rheumatic agent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The n-butanol fraction of C. quadrangula was chromatographed on a silica gel column to isolate RB. The adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model was established in rats by intradermal injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) to evaluate its anti-arthritic effect. Ibuprofen was used as a reference drug. Forty rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 8): normal (NOR); CFA model (CFA); ibuprofen, 5 mg/kg; RB, 25 mg/kg and RB, 50 mg/kg. The treatments were initiated from day 16 when AIA model was established and continued up to day 40. Serum diagnostic rheumatoid markers, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress biomarkers, cartilage and bone degeneration enzymes were assessed.

RESULTS

RB at 50 mg/kg b. wt., showed significant decreases in the activities of hyaluronidase and β-glucouronidase enzymes as well significant decreases in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines as nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) compared to the CFA group; 11.04 ± 0.61 pg/mg protein, 4.35 ± 0.25 pg/mg protein, 3.32 ± 0.13 pg/mg protein & 2.75 ± 0.14 pg/mg protein for RB, 50 mg/kg b. wt. group vs. 25.33 ± 2.13 pg/mg protein, 25.65 ± 2.1 pg/mg protein, 22.20 ± 1.34 pg/mg protein & 13.27 ± 1.40 pg/mg protein for the arthritic group, respectively. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was significantly restored to normal values in RB, 50 mg/kg treated rats (4.01 ± 0.09 nmol/mL vs. 3.71 ± 0.27 nmol/mL) and the levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) reduced by 10-folds of the CFA arthritic group. Bone histomorphometry revealed that RB treatment significantly attenuated the CFA-induced bone loss in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that the anti-arthritic effect of RB was mediated through the reduction of the rheumatoid markers, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action, inhibition of cartilage and bone degenerative enzymes as well as attenuation of bone loss and osteoclastogenesis.

A mechanistic study of Solenostemma argel as anti-rheumatic agent in relation to its metabolite profile using UPLC/HRMS

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Solenostemma argel (Argel) is a traditional perennial edible herb that is commonly used in folkloric medicine for the treatment of rheumatic pain, inflammation, bronchitis, cold, diabetes, gastrointestinal cramps, and urinary tract infections. No previous reports traced the mechanistic activity of this plant for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in relation to its chemical constituents.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was designed to substantiate the anti-arthritic potential of S. argel and identification of its secondary metabolites responsible for the action using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC/HRMS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The air-dried powder of S. argel was subjected to liquid-liquid fractionation method to yield polar metabolites fraction (PMF) and nonpolar metabolites fraction (NPMF) where the metabolites that represent each fraction were identified using UPLC/HRMS. The in-vitro anti-arthritic effects of both fractions were tested using protein denaturation, membrane stabilization and proteinase inhibition assays, in addition to in-vitro enzyme inhibition assays of COXs, LOX and collagenases. Adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model was also established to evaluate their anti-arthritic effects in-vivo at two doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) in compared to the standard ibuprofen (5 mg/kg). Physical changes with hind paw edema and body weight gain as well as the assessment of serum rheumatoid biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and the activity of hyaluronidase and β-glucouronidase enzymes were studied. The histopathological study of ankle and knee joints and immunohistochemistry of caspase-3 and TNF-α in joint synovium were also examined.

RESULTS

The PMF significantly (P < 0.05) reduced paw edema, serum rheumatoid markers, pro-inflammatory mediators, degeneration enzymes of cartilage and bone, and oxidative stress biomarkers. Interestingly, flavonoid glycosides and phenolic acids dominated the polar fraction, which showed the promising anti-arthritic activity of Argel compared to the NPMF which was dominated by pregnane glycosides.

CONCLUSIONS

Since arthritis is a chronic disease and there are imperative needs for a lifelong treatment with desirable pharmacological action and lower cost than the currently approved synthetic drugs having severe side effects, the PMF of Argel could be used as a potent anti-rheumatic agent.

Gastroprotective effect of mucilage fraction from Solenostemma argel via cytoprotection and attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis

Introduction: Polysaccharides have numerous therapeutic values including immunity stimulation, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition, wound healing, anti-diabetic and cytotoxic activities, in addition to their potent anti-oxidant properties. This work examined the gastroprotective and ulcer healing potential of mucilage fraction isolated from Solenostemma argel (Delile) Hayne (MFA) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Methods: Forty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=8); normal control (I), ethanol control (II), 20 mg/kg Antodine pretreated rats (III), 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg MFA pretreated rats, respectively (IV & V). All rats in groups II-V received single intragastric dose of ethanol (5 mL/kg) to induce gastric ulcer. Gastric mucosal injuries were assessed by stomach gross examination as well as histopathology, and immunohistochemistry of apoptotic markers. Also, several biochemical parameters including oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokines, cytoprotective and cell proliferative biomarkers were measured. Results: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of MFA revealed its composition of glucose, D-fucose and N-acetyl glucosamine as monosaccharaides, in addition to glucuronic and galacturonic acids. The data showed that MFA, 200 mg/kg had potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, cell proliferative, and antiapoptotic activities which were better than Antodine. Conclusion: This study revealed that MFA had significant gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric injuries and could be a promising adjuvant therapy for ulcer treatment.

In vivo Antibacterial Activity of Star Anise (Illicium verum Hook.) Extract Using Murine MRSA Skin Infection Model in Relation to Its Metabolite Profile

Introduction

Star anise fruits (Illicium verum Hook.) have been used as an important treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. The previous studies reported the activity of the non-polar fractions as potential sources of antibacterial metabolites, and little was done concerning the polar fractions of star anise.

Methods

The antibacterial activity of the star anise aqueous methanolic (50%) extract against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii AB5057 and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA USA300) was investigated in vitro (disc diffusion assay, minimum bactericidal concentration determination, anti-biofilm activity and biofilm detachment activity). The antibacterial activity was further tested in vivo using a murine model of MRSA skin infection. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC/HRMS) approach was applied for the identification of the metabolites responsible for the antibacterial activity. The antioxidant potential was evaluated using five in vitro assays: TAC (total antioxidant capacity), DPPH, ABTS, FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) and iron-reducing power.

Results

In vitro, star anise aqueous methanolic extract showed significant inhibition and detachment activity against biofilm formation by the multidrug-resistant and highly virulent Acinetobacter baumannii AB5057 and MRSA USA300. The topical application of the extract in vivo significantly reduced the bacterial load in MRSA-infected skin lesions. The extract showed strong antioxidant activity using five different complementary methods. More than seventy metabolites from different classes were identified: phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, sesquiterpenes, tannins, lignans and flavonoids.

Conclusion

This study proposes the potential use of star anise polar fraction in anti-virulence strategies against persistent infections and for the treatment of staphylococcal skin infections as a topical antimicrobial agent. To our knowledge, our research is the first to provide the complete polar metabolome list of star anise in an approach to understand the relationship between the chemistry of these metabolites and the proposed antibacterial activity.

Russelioside B; A pregnane glycoside for treatment of gastric ulcer via modulation of heat shock protein-70 and vascular endothelial growth factor

Gastric ulcers are a very common public health problem affecting up to 10% worldwide. Russelioside B is a steroidal glycoside isolated from several Caralluma species. No study tested the ulcer healing potential of the compound. The current study aimed to assess the protective effect of russelioside B against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats. Ulcer was induced on rats by a single intragastric dose of absolute ethanol (5 mL/kg). Rats were randomly assorted into four groups (n = 8) and given treatments (Antodine, 20 mg/kg or russelioside B, 50 mg/kg) by oral gavage 1 h before ulcer induction. Pretreatment with russelioside B (50 mg/kg) attenuated the gastric mucosal injury as proved by a decrease of ulcer index, and histological scores. It suppressed the gastric inflammation by a significant lowering the tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 levels with myeloperoxidase activity (which are also aggravating factors in the case of Covid-19 infection). In addition, administration of russelioside B halted the gastric oxidative stress via inhibition of lipid peroxides by maintaining reduced glutathione and by decreasing malondialdehyde. It was able also to restore the sharp drop in the levels of heat shock protein-70, vascular endothelial growth factor and prostaglandin E2 induced by ethanol. Additionally, it showed carbonic anhydrase inhibition activity. The gastroprotective action of russelioside B was umpired through multi mechanistic actions; suppression of gastric oxidative stress, inflammation, anti-apoptotic activities and enhanced gastric mucosal protection by up-regulation of endothelial growth factor, normalization of heat shock protein-70 and prostaglandin E2. These actions were comparable in part to some classical antiulcer drugs such as Antodine.