Rodent Model Preclinical Assessment of PEGylated Block Copolymer Targeting Cognition and Oxidative Stress Insults of Alzheimer's Disease

Misfolded peptide amyloid beta (Aβ₄₂), neurofibrillary tangles of hyper-phosphorylated tau, oxidative damage to the brain, and neuroinflammation are distinguished determinants of Alzheimer's disease (AD) responsible for disease progression. This multifaceted neurodegenerative disease is challenging to cure under a single treatment regime until the key disease determinants are traced for their sequential occurrence in disease progression. In an early report, a novel side-chain tripeptide containing PEGylated block copolymer has been tested thoroughly in vitro and in silico for the early inhibition of Aβ₄₂ aggregation as well as degradation of preformed Aβ₄₂ fibril deposits. The present study demonstrates a preclinical assessment of the PEGylated block copolymer in colchicine-induced AD-mimicking rodent model. The colchicine-induced Wistar rats receiving an intranasal delivery of the block copolymer at a daily dosage of 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg body weights, respectively, for 14 days manifested a notable attenuation of behavioral deficit pattern, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitters' deficiency as compared to the untreated ones. The current study also reports the ameliorative property of the PEGylated compound for progressive neuroinflammation and decreased mitochondrial bioenergetics in astrocytoma cell line, viz., U87. A closer look into the drug mechanism of action of a compact 3D PEGylated block copolymer confirmed its disintegrative interaction with Aβ₄₂ fibril via in silico simulation. The results obtained from this study signify the potential of the novel PEGylated block copolymer to ameliorate the cognitive decline and progressive oxidative insults in AD and may envision a successful clinical phase trial. The amelioration of disease condition of colchicine-induced AD rat. Initially the rat has given colchicine via stereotaxic surgery which led to a mimicking condition of AD including neuronal death in hippocampal CA1 region. After recovery from the surgery, the rat was treated with the PEGylated block copolymer through intranasal delivery, and this has led to the decrease in neuronal death in hippocampal CA1 region. The mechanism of drug action has shown by the separation of monomer chains of Aβ₄₂.

Rodent model preclinical assessment of PEGylated block copolymer targeting cognition and oxidative stress insults of Alzheimer’s disease.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1907312/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Misfolded peptide amyloid beta (Aβ42), neurofibrillary tangles of hyper-phosphorylated tau, oxidative damage to the brain, neuroinflammation are distinguished determinants of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) responsible for disease progression. This multifaceted neurodegenerative disease is challenging to cure under a single treatment regime until the key disease-determinants are traced for their sequential occurrence in disease progression. In an early report, a novel side-chain tripeptide containing PEGylated block copolymer has been tested thoroughly in vitro and in silico for the early inhibition of Aβ42-aggregation as well as degradation of preformed Aβ42-fibril deposits. The present study demonstrates a preclinical assessment of the PEGylated block copolymer in colchicine-induced AD mimicking rodent model. The colchicine induced Wistar rats receiving an intranasal delivery of the block copolymer at a daily dosage of 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg body weights respectively for 14 days manifested a notable attenuation of behavioral deficit pattern, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitters’ deficiency as compared to the untreated ones. The current study also reports the ameliorative property of the PEGylated compound for progressive neuroinflammation and decreased mitochondrial bioenergetics in astrocytoma cell line viz. U87. A closer look into the drug mechanism of action of a compact three-dimensional PEGylated block copolymer confirmed its disintegrative interaction with Aβ42 fibril via in silico simulation. The results obtained herein this study signify the potential of the novel PEGylated block copolymer to ameliorate the cognitive decline and progressive oxidative insults in AD, and may envision a successful clinical phase trial.

Quercetin: a silent retarder of fatty acid oxidation in breast cancer metastasis through steering of mitochondrial CPT1

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence confirmed that the maximum energy in metastatic breast cancer progression is supplied by fatty acid oxidation (FAO) governed by a rate-limiting enzyme, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1). Therefore, the active limitation of FAO could be an emerging aspect to inhibit breast cancer progression. Herein, for the first time, we have introduced quercetin (QT) from a non-dietary source (Mikania micrantha Kunth) to limit the FAO in triple-negative breast cancer cells (TNBC) through an active targeting of CPT1.

METHODS

Molecular quantification of QT was confirmed through high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Computational docking analyses predicted the binding affinity of QT to CPT1. Cell-based seahorse energy efflux investigated the mitochondrial respiration rate, glycolytic function and ATP production rate. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) investigated the FAO-associated gene expression. Matrigel cell invasion and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses investigated anti-metastatic and apoptotic cell death induction activities, respectively. In vivo antitumor activities were checked using the female breast cancer mice (BALB/c) model.

RESULTS

QT resulted in a significant reduction in the intracellular mitochondrial respiration and glycolytic function, limiting extensive ATP production. In turn, QT elevated the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depleted antioxidant levels to induce anti-metastatic and cell apoptosis activities. qRT-PCR resulted in active healing of altered FAO-associated gene expression which was well predicted through the successful in silico molecular binding potentiality of QT to CPT1. Subsequently, QT has shown excellent in vivo antitumor activities through the altered lipid profile and oxidative stress-healing capabilities.

CONCLUSIONS

All the obtained data significantly grounded the fact that QT could be a promising metabolism-targeted breast cancer therapeutic.

Murine model preclinical assessment of PEGylated block copolymer targeting cognition and oxidative stress insults of Alzheimer’s disease.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1303843/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Misfolded peptide amyloid beta (Aβ42), neurofibrillary tangles of hyper-phosphorylated tau, oxidative damage to the brain, neuroinflammation are distinguished determinants of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) responsible for disease progression. This multifaceted neurodegenerative disease is challenging to cure under a single treatment regime until the key disease-determinants are traced for their sequential occurrence in disease progression. In an early report, a novel side-chain tripeptide containing PEGylated block copolymer has been tested thoroughly in vitro and in silico for the early inhibition of Aβ42-aggregation as well as degradation of preformed Aβ42-fibril deposits. The present study demonstrates a preclinical assessment of the PEGylated block copolymer in colchicine-induced AD mimicking murine model. The colchicine induced Wistar rats receiving an intranasal delivery of the block copolymer at a daily dosage of 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg body weights respectively for 14 days manifested a notable attenuation of behavioral deficit pattern, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitters’ deficiency as compared to the untreated ones. The current study also reports the ameliorative property of the PEGylated compound for progressive neuroinflammation and decreased mitochondrial bioenergetics in astrocytoma cell line viz. U87. A closer look into the drug mechanism of action of a compact three-dimensional PEGylated block copolymer confirmed its disintegrative interaction with Aβ42 fibril via an in silico simulation. The results obtained herein this study signify the potential of the novel PEGylated block copolymer to ameliorate the cognitive decline and progressive oxidative insults in AD, and may envision a successful clinical phase trial.

Quercetin: Silent Retarder of Fatty Acid Oxidation in Breast Cancer Metastasis Through Steering of Mitochondrial CPT1.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-849234/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Recent evidence concreted that maximum energy in metastatic breast cancer progression is supplied by fatty acid oxidation (FAO) governed by a rate-limiting enzyme, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1). Therefore, active limitation of FAO could be an emerging aspect to inhibit breast cancer progression. Herein, for the first time we have introduced Quercetin (QT) from a non-dietary source (Mikania micrantha Kunth) to seize the FAO in triple-negative breast cancer cells (TNBC) through an active targeting of CPT1. Apart from successive molecular quantification, QT has resulted a significant reduction in the intracellular mitochondrial respiration and glycolytic function limiting extensive ATP production. In turn, QT has elevated the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depleted antioxidant level to induce anti-metastatic and cell apoptosis activities. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) investigated the FAO associated gene expression resulting significant depletion in FAO which were further confirmed through the successful in-silico molecular docking prediction for active binding potentiality of QT to CPT1. Subsequently, QT has shown an excellent in-vivo antitumor activities through the altered lipid profile and oxidative stress healing capabilities in female breast cancer BALB/c mice model. Therefore, all the obtained data significantly grounded the fact that QT could be a promising metabolism-targeted breast cancer therapeutics.

Chlorogenic Acid Enriched Green Coffee Ameliorated Renal Injury in Rats

The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) during the treatment with gentamicin (GM) is very common in hospitalized patients. Green coffee bean, containing chlorogenic acid (CGA) has been reported to improve non communicable diseases. In the present study, CGA enriched fraction of green coffee bean was evaluated on GM induced nephrotoxicity in rats. It was a preclinical case-controlled experimental intervention conducted in the Department of Pharmacology, R G Kar Medical College, Kolkata, India from 2016-2019 using animal model. CGA content of green coffee bean extract (GCBE) was isolated and quantified by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) (6.426%). The rats were treated with GCBE at the dose of 100, 200 and 400mg/kg in gentamicin (GM) induced AKI for five consecutive days. At day 6, the renal function was assessed through analysing urine, blood and renal tissues. GCBE dose dependently and significantly (p<0.001) lowered blood urea, creatinine and potassium while, enhanced sodium compared to AKI control. Moreover, it showed significant elevation in glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and reduction in lipid peroxides (p<0.001). It was suggested that chlorogenic acid of green coffee seed can protect kidney through down regulation of p53 transcription factor and thereby attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptotic process in renal tubules.

Herbometallic nano-drug inducing metastatic growth inhibition in breast cancer through intracellular energy depletion

Cancer cells need extensive energy supply for their uncontrolled cell division and metastasis which is exclusively dependent on neighboring cells, especially adipocytes. Herein, we have introduced a novel herbometallic nano-drug, Heerak Bhasma nanoparticle (HBNP) from natural resources showing high potential in the reduction of energy supply thereby promoting cell death in breast cancer cells. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectra (ICP-OES), atomic absorption spectra (AAS), Raman spectra, X-ray diffraction analyses confirmed the physicochemical properties of HBNP. The differential light scattering (DLS) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) analyzed the cell-permeable size of HBNP, whereas, cell viability assay confirmed the non-toxic effect. Seahorse energy efflux assay, apoptotic cell quantification, ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential, in vivo oxidative stress etc. were measured using standard protocol. The notable changes in cancer energy metabolism investigated by cellular Mito and Glyco-stress analyses confirmed the HBNP induced intracellular energy depletion. Also, a significant reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and subsequently, extensive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generations were observed in presence of HBNP followed by the induction of cell apoptosis. The cell invasion and wound healing assay followed by reduced expression both protein (MMP 2, MMP 9) and cytokine (IL6, IL10) had signified the effectiveness of HBNP against cancer metastasis. In addition, HBNP also showed an excellent antitumor activity in vivo followed by developing healing characteristics due to oxidative stress. All these findings strongly suggest that HBNP has the potential to be the new cancer therapeutic. A schematic phenomenon represents the overall HBNP mediated anticancer activity via limitation of both fatty acid uptake and energy metabolism.

Effect of Yarcha Gumba (O sinensis) on Male Reproductive System in Rat

The present study was undertaken to assess the aphrodisiac effect of O sinensis. It was a pre-clinical experimental case-control study performed in the Department of Pharmacology, RG Kar Medical College, Kolkata, India; from February 2019 to March 2019 using Wister rat model. One group of rats was given the test drug suspension (10mg/kg body weight) and the control group animals received the same volume of vehicle devoid of drug orally for 10 days. Sexual behaviour of individual rats was studied on 9th day of treatment with oestrogenized female Wister rats. On 10th day of treatment the animals were sacrificed by decapitation. After collection of blood sera from each animal; serum LH, FSH, testosterone and nitric oxide were assessed. Histological assessment of testes was done. Improved sexual behaviour, hypertrophy of Leydig cells, significant increase in serum LH (1.248 vs. 1.448mIU/ml), FSH (0.324 vs. 0.413mIU/ml) testosterone (3.120 vs. 4.498ng/ml) and nitric oxide (0.01757 vs. 0.02690nM/ml) were noted. Elevated NO titre in animals treated with O sinensis extract might be the cause of good erection capacity and increased libido in them. Nevertheless, result of the present study points that the active principle of O sinensis also acts on LHRH receptors present in pituitary gonadotrophs evidenced by significant increase in serum LH and FSH and indicating great aphrodisiac property.

A rapid HPTLC method to estimate piperine in Ayurvedic formulations

Background

Trikatu, Sitopaladi, Hingavastaka, Avipattikara, Sringyadi and Talisadya are very popular Ayurvedic (churna) medicines practiced in India; however, unfortunately, they possess several quality control issues.

Objective

The aim of this study was to find out a simple, accurate and sensitive HPTLC method for the detection and quantification of marker molecule, piperine (alkaloid) on these Ayurvedic formulations for standardization.

Materials and methods

Methanolic extraction (reflux) was performed from the above six churnas as well as three single ingredients Piper longum (pipul), Piper nigrum (marich) and Piper chaba (chai). HPTLC was done using piperine as a standard. The mobile phase was a mixture of toluene-ethyl acetate (7:3, v/v) and detection at 342λ.

Results

The R_f was detected at 0.39. Piperine was quantified in all samples. P. nigrum showed higher piperine than P. longum and P. chaba. The maximum piperine was noted in Hingavastaka churna and followed by Sringyadi churna, Sitopaladi churna, Talisadya churna, Trikatu churna and Avipattikara churna.

Conclusion

This method can be successfully employed for standardization and quantitative analysis of piperine in Ayurvedic formulations (churnas) and also be helpful to clinicians and pharmacists to draw significant role of piperine present in all these samples.

Effect of Coelogyne cristata Lindley in alleviation of chronic fatigue syndrome in aged Wistar rats

BACKGROUND

Swarna Jibanti scientifically known as Coelogyne cristata Lindley (Orchidaceae), an orchid mentioned in Ayurvedic medicine is used to promote healthy life span.

OBJECTIVE(S)

The present work was planned to study the efficacy of hydro-alcoholic extract of pseudobulbs of C. cristata (CCE) to assess its role on chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) induced behavioural and biochemical changes in aged Wistar rats compared to Panax ginseng (PG), a prototype anti-stress agent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CFS was induced by forced swimming for consecutive 21 days for fixed duration (15 min sessions). The criteria of CFS due to fatigue were counted using locomotor activity, depression and anxiety through automated photactometer, immobility time and plus maze activity respectively. Acute toxicity study of CCE (upto 2 g/kg, Limit test) was also performed. For CFS, animals were divided into five groups, naive control, control, CCE treated (25 mg/kg b.w., 250 mg/kg b.w.) and standard PG treated (100 mg/kg b.w.) groups. All drugs were given orally for consecutive 21 days along with CFS. After assessing behavioural parameters, all animals were sacrificed at day 21 and in vivo antioxidant potential of CCE was determined by lipid peroxides, nitrite, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in brain tissue.

RESULTS

CCE was found to be non-toxic. CCE treated aged rats significantly improved (p < 0.001) the spontaneous locomotor movement with respect to control rats, while, decreased the mobility period or depression score. In CFS, CCE also enhanced the time spent (p < 0.001) in open arms while reducing the time spent in closed arm as compared to CFS control, indicating lowering anxiety score. Moreover, marked diminution in lipid peroxidation, nitrite and SOD level was exhibited after CCE treatment and significantly enhanced catalase level significantly (p < 0.01) with respect to CFS control. PG also showed similar actions.

CONCLUSION

The results confirmed the potential therapeutic actions of CCE against experimentally induced CFS in aged rats that might be due to its CNS mediatory antioxidant properties.

Polypharmacy and comorbidity status in the treatment of type 2 diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital: An observational and questionnaire-based study

Purpose/Aim:

Diabetes mellitus is associated with several comorbid conditions. Thus, often, diabetic patients are prescribed multiple drugs. Although multiple drugs help to combat various diseases, they also increase the propensity of drug interactions and adverse drug reactions. The present study thus tried to evaluate the comorbid conditions and concurrent medications associated with type 2 diabetic patients. It also aimed to address patient compliance for the medications provided to them.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted for 2 months – January–February 2017. Data were collected from prescriptions of the patients and also by interviewing the willing patients, attending the Diabetic Clinic of R. G. Kar Medical College, Kolkata, India.

Results:

During the study period, 150 patients were interviewed and their prescriptions were studied. Out of 150 patients, 69 (46%) were males and 81 (54%) were females. The mean age of the study population was 51.5 (±0.78) years. The present study evaluated that 83.3% (125) of the study population suffered from at least one comorbid conditions, the most common being hyperlipidemia (70.7%) and hypertension (47.3%). The average number of drugs prescribed is 4.72 (±0.11) per prescription. Metformin was prescribed to 96% of the patients. The concurrent medications recommended included hypolipidemics (72%), antihypertensives (68%), drugs for peptic ulcer (34.7%), and antiplatelets (10.7%).

Conclusion:

The present study thus concluded that diabetic patients suffer from a number of comorbid conditions, most commonly, cardiovascular problems. The comorbidity increased with the age. The level of polypharmacy was also high, thereby increasing the pill burden for the patients.

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of Indian Sunderban mangrove Bruguiera gymnorrhiza L. leave

Background:

Bruguiera gymnorrhiza L. (family Rhizophoraceae) is a true mangrove habitat in Indian Sunderban and traditionally uses for liver disorders.

Objectives:

The aim was to evaluate antioxidant and hepatoprotective actions of leave extract of B. gymnorrhiza L.

Materials and Methods:

Hydro-methanolic extract of mangrove leaves (BR) was standardized using spectrophotometric and high-performance thin layer chromatography methods. Radical scavenging activities were assessed in different in vitro methods, like 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethyl benzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid ⁺, superoxides, nitric oxides and hydroxyl radicals. Hepatoprotective efficacy of BR (125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg, p.o) was measured in D-galactosamine (GalN) induced (200 mg/kg, i.p) hepatitis in Wistar rats. Silymarin (25 mg/kg, p.o) was used as known hepatoprotective agent.

Results:

Polyphenols such as gallic acid, quercetin, and coumarin obtained from BR exhibited powerful antioxidant properties. Moreover, it produced dose-dependent protection against GalN induced hepatitis in rats. It significantly reduced GalN induced elevation of enzymes (alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase) in serum and resist oxidative stress marked by lipid peroxides, glutathione, and catalase in hepatic parenchyma.

Conclusions:

Polyphenols rich B. gymnorrhiza L. leaves ameliorate hepatic tissue injury through its antioxidant effects.

Acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity study of black tea in rodents

Objectives:

Systematic oral toxicity study for black tea (Camellia sinensis), the most commonly consumed variety of tea, is lacking. The present study was undertaken to assess the iron load on black tea (Camellia sinensis) and its safety aspects in animals.

Materials and Methods:

The analysis of iron was done in six tea samples as per American Public Health Association method using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Maximum physical iron-loaded tea sample was identified on black tea sample 2 (BTS-2), and this was further studied for acute and 90-day sub-chronic toxicity following Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines.

Results:

Black tea sample 2 did not show any signs of toxicity or mortality at up to 2 g/kg per oral dose in Swiss albino mice. 90-day toxicity studies in Wistar rats did not reveal any evidence of toxicity at up to 250 mg/kg/day (2.5% infusion of BTS-2) oral dose as exhibited by regular observations, body weight, food consumption, hematology, serum chemistry, organ weights, and histopathology. Further, serum iron, total iron binding capacity, unsaturated iron binding capacity, and ferritin were not altered after 90 days of treatment. Masson trichrome staining and Perls’ staining did not reveal any abnormalities in hepatic tissue following 90-day treatment of high iron-loaded BTS-2.

Conclusions:

This safety study provides evidence that BTSs, in spite of relatively high iron content, show no significant iron-related toxicity on acute or sub-chronic oral administration in animals.

Antidiabetic and antioxidant activity of Rhizophora mucronata leaves (Indian sundarban mangrove): An in vitro and in vivo study

Background:

Rhizophora mucronata is a salt-tolerant true mangrove which is widely distributed in Indian mangrove forest and traditionally used to treat diabetes and other health ailments.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to elucidate the role of Indian variety of R. mucronata leaves on glucose impairing metabolism during diabetes by in vitro and in vivo methods.

Materials and Methods:

The ethanolic fraction of R. mucronata leaves extract (RHE) was assessed for DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging and in vitro anti-diabetic action through α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity assessment. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin sensitivity test (IST) were assessed and their counteraction with RHE (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o) and glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p.o) in streptozotocin (STZ) (50 mg/kg, intravenous) induced hyperglycemic rats were also monitored for 28 days. The data were analyzed statistically using t-test.

Results:

RHE dose-dependently inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes and lowered the area under the curve (AUC) for glucose on both OGTT and IST. RHE also significantly (p < 0.01) controlled glycemic index and thereby reducing diabetic complications as assessed by lipid profiles, atherogenic index, and coronary index in STZ rats.

Conclusion:

RHE at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg/day for 28 days provided a significant decrease in diabetes complications and metabolic impairment.

Detection of arecoline by simple high-performance thin-layer chromatographic method in Indian nontobacco pan masala

Chewing the habit of blended pan masala containing areca nut with or without tobacco is a common practice in the Indian subcontinent. Arecoline, a pyridine alkaloid presence in areca nut alarmed for oral carcinogenesis and strictly prohibited in the western world. However, in India using blended pan masala is very popular among young and old individuals. In this context, we aimed to detect arecoline in Indian blended nontobacco pan masala sold in Kolkata using a simple densitometric high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method and for alarming their use in common people. Eleven popularly Indian blended nontobacco pan masala were collected from the territory of Kolkata and isolated arecoline, following solvent extraction method derived for pyridine alkaloid. The quantitative analysis of arecoline was measured using automated software-based HPTLC instruments and validated the method according to International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. Arecoline was detected in all 11 blended nontobacco pan masala samples in a range of minimum 130 to maximum 415 μg/g dry samples. Arecoline is hazardous carcinogenic compound, so the use of Indian blended nontobacco pan masala should be restricted. Further, the method was found suitable for routine quantitative analysis of arecoline in areca nut containing substances.

Antiradical and antidiabetic properties of standardized extract of Sunderban mangrove Rhizophora mucronata

BACKGROUND

Mangroves have the ability to grow where no other vascular plants survive. Rhizophora mucronata is a true mangrove and traditionally used to treat diabetes and its allied complications.

OBJECTIVES

In the present study, we standardized the 80% methanolic standardized extract of R. mucronata leaves (RH) and found out its antiradical and antidiabetic activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The methanolic extract of R. mucronata leaves (RH) was standardized and quantified for phenolics, flavonoinds, gallic acid, quercetin, and coumarin. The reducing abilities and antiradical activities of RH were performed in vitro methods like, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, nitric oxides, superoxides, hydroxyl, and ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethyl benzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid). Thereafter, RH was evaluated for it antidiabetic potentialities on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type-2 diabetes. STZ (90 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) was administered to 2 days old pups to induce diabetes. RH was fed at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg and glibenclamide (positive control) at 5 mg/kg, when the rats were 6 weeks old and continued for 10 weeks. Fasting glucose was monitored before and after the treatment. Further, lipid peroxides and reduced glutathione level were estimated on rat liver.

RESULTS

The results obtained from this study revealed RH possesses flavonoinds and also gallic acid, quercetin, and coumarin. Further, it has antiradical activities. It has also reduced blood glucose level in type-2 diabetic rats and reduced the formation of lipid peroxidation in liver. RH enhanced the level of glutathione in liver tissue.

CONCLUSION

RH exhibits source of natural antioxidants and great potentialities as an antidiabetic agent by improving the hyperglycemia through its antiradical action.

Effect of Pueraria tuberosa tuber extract on chronic foot shock stress in Wistar rats

The present study was undertaken to explore the protective effects of tuberous root extract of Pueraria tuberosa on chronic foot shock stress (CS) induced physiological, neurobehavioral and neuropathological alterations. Male Wistar rats (120-150 g) were divided into seven groups, consisting of ten animals in each. Group I served as normal, group II as positive control, while group III-VII as test drug treated. P tuberosa tuber extract (PTE) was given to rats of groups III-VI at the doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg respectively, while group VII treated with Withania somnifera rhizome extract (WSE) (100 mg/kg) as reference drug. Group II (stress control) received only equivalent volume of distilled water (0.5 ml/100 g) orally. All the drugs were given orally once/day for 14 consecutive days. The last dose was given 1 h before study. Simultaneously, all the animals (except group I) were subjected to 1 h of foot-shock (2 mA) through a grid floor for those 14 days in a standard conditioning chamber with the escape route closed [Chronic stress (CS)]. Thereafter, the rats were placed on open-field and plus maze apparatus for studying the behavioral patterns of them, and the anxiolytic effects of the putative drug. Sexual activities of the animals were also studied. Finally, the animals were sacrificed and their ulcer formation in gastric mucosa was noted. Weights of adrenals and spleen were also taken. Further, plasma corticosterone levels were estimated spectroflurometrically. Results indicated that, CS significantly altered the behavioral patterns, decreased the sexual urge and activities, damaged the gastric mucosal layers, enhanced plasma corticosterone levels and increased adrenal glands and spleen weights. PTE and WSE showed significant anxiolytic activity, protected the gastric mucosa, lowered plasma corticosterone level (indicating HPA axis inhibition) and negated the hypertrophy of adrenals and spleen. PTE also enhanced the sexual urge and activities in animals exposed to chronic stress. The findings suggest significant anxiolytic and anti-stress properties of PTE, confirming the clinical efficacy of the plant mentioned in Ayurveda (Indian system of traditional medicine).

A clinical study on the management of generalized anxiety disorder with Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica is reputed for its beneficial effects in various neurological disorders. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the role of 70% hydro-ethanolic extract of Centella asiatica (CA) on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in man. Hamilton's Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was used to screen the subjects. Thirty-three participants (18 male and 15 female; average age 33 yrs) were medicated with the CA in a fixed dose regime (500 mg/capsule, twice daily, after meal). They were thoroughly investigated using standard questionnaires based on psychological rating scale at baseline (day 0), mid-term (day 30) and final (day 60). The scale also includes a number of direct queries about current levels of experienced stress. The observations revealed that, CA not only significantly (p<0.01) attenuated anxiety related disorders but it also significantly (p<0.01) reduced stress phenomenon and its correlated depression. CA further significantly (p<0.01) improved the willingness for adjustment and cognition. Results indicated that Centella asiatica may be useful in the treatment of GAD and may be used as a promising anxiolytic agent in near future.

Controlled programmed trial of Ocimum sanctum leaf on generalized anxiety disorders

Ocimumn sanctum, an Indian medicinal plant, has been on trial for its role in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in hospital based clinical set-up. Hamilton's brief psychiatric rating scale (BPRS) and thorough clinical investigations were used to screen the subjects. Thirty-five subjects (21 male and 14 female; average age 38.4 years) were medicated with the plant extract in a fixed dose regime (500 mg/capsule, twice daily, p.o. after meal). They were thoroughly investigated clinically and using standard questionnaires based on different psychological rating scale at baseline (day 0), mid-term (day 30) and final (day 60). The observations exhibited that, O. sanctum significantly (p<0.001) attenuated generalized anxiety disorders and also attenuated its correlated stress and depression. It further significantly (p<0.001) improved the willingness to adjustment and attention in human. Therefore, it may be concluded that O. sanctum may be useful in the treatment of GAD in human and may be a promising anxiolytic agent in near future.

Initial exploratory observational pharmacology of Valeriana wallichii on stress management: a clinical report

Valeriana wallichii, an Indian medicinal plant, has been on trial for its role in stress disorders in hospital based clinical set-up. Hamilton's Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was used and thorough clinical investigations were carried out to screen the subjects. Thirty-three subjects (20 male and 13 female; average age 34.2 years) were medicated with the plant extract in a fixed dose regime (500 mg/capsule, twice daily, p.o. after meal). They were thoroughly investigated clinically and using standard questionnaires based on different psychological rating scale at baseline (day 0), mid-term (day 30) and final (day 60). The observations exhibited that, V wallichii not only significantly (p < 0.001) attenuated stress and anxiety, but also significantly (p < 0.001) improved depression and also enhanced the willingness to adjustment. Nevertheless it did not alter memory, concentration or attention of the volunteers. The results suggest that V wallichii may be useful in the treatment of stress related disorders in human and may be a promising anti-stress agent in near future.

Effect of Sonachandi Chyawanprash and Chyawanprash Plus--two herbal formulations on immunomodulation

The immunomodulatory effects of Sonachandi Chyawanprash and Chyawanprash Plus--two herbal formulations have been evaluated. Both the drugs increased the macrophage activity and their number indicating enhancement of non-specific immune response and reduction of chances of infection. Besides that both Sonachandi Chyawanprash and Chyawanprash Plus efficiently protected Cyclosporine A induced immunosuppression suggesting the immunoprotective role of the aforesaid herbal formulations.

Hepatoprotective effect of Himoliv, a polyherbal formulation in rats

The effect of Himoliv (HV) was evaluated in carbon tetrachloride or paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Liver necrosis was produced by administering single dose of either carbon tetrachloride (CCl4, 1 ml/kg, 50% v/v with olive oil, s.c.) or paracetamol (PC, 1 g/kg, p.o.). The liver damage was evidenced by elevated levels of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and hepatic thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). HV pretreatment (0.5 and 1.0 ml/kg, p.o.) significantly (P < 0.001) reduced CCl4 or PC-induced elevations of the levels of SGOT, SGPT, ALP and TBARS, while the reduced concentration of SOD due to CCl4 or PC was reversed. Silymarin (25 mg/ kg, p.o.), a known hepatoprotective drug showed similar results.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet aggregation activity of human placental extract

AIM

To find the anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet aggregatory activity of human placental extract (HPE, Placentrex).

METHODS

The HPE was studied for anti-inflammatory effect in Wistar rats on carrageenin, serotonin (5-HT), and prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) induced edema in acute model and cotton pellet induced granuloma on sub-acute model. Anti-platelet aggregation was studied against protection of adinosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced aggregation of human platelet through in vitro study.

RESULTS

HPE showed positive results both in acute and sub-acute models of inflammation. Highly significant (P<0.01) results were obtained against 5-HT induced acute inflammation and cotton pellet induced sub-acute inflammation in comparison with standard (diclofenac sodium) and control (normal saline) drugs. The anti-inflammatory property of HPE in animal model was well supported with clinical study of platelet aggregation. There was highly significant (P<0.01) inhibition of platelet aggregation with HPE at different doses against ADP.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that human placental extract may be useful in suppressing inflammation and platelet aggregation.

Studies on the antiinflammatory activity of Betula alnoides bark

The antiinflammatory activity of Betula alnoides extract was evaluated in acute and subacute inflammation models. The extract was also evaluated for antiinflammatory activity in sheep RBC induced sensitivity and in membrane stabilization models. Except for the sheep RBC induced sensitivity model, the extract showed significant antiinflammatory activity.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Alstonia macrophylla Wall ex A. DC. leaf extract

Methanolic extract of dried leaves of Alstonia macrophylla Wall ex A. DC. and its fractions were investigated for its anti-inflammatory activity. The extract at a concentration of 200 mg kg(-1) and 400 mg kg(-1), p.o. and its fractions at 25 mg kg(-1) and 50 mg kg(-1), p.o. showed the significant dose dependent antiinflammatory activity in carrageenan and dextran-induced rats hind paw edema (acute models) as well as in cotton pellet-induced granuloma (chronic model) in rats. Anti-inflammatory activity of the tested extract and its fractions was comparable with that of the standard drug Indomethacin (10 mg kg(-1)).

Effect of Panax ginseng and diazepam on brain 5-hydroxytryptamine and its modification by diclofenac in rat

Wistar male rats pretreated with anti-stress agents like, Panax ginseng (Pg) and diazepam (Diaz) were stressed by restraining for 1 h and 5-HT content of brain and hypothalamus as well as plasma corticosterone were measured spectrophotoflurometrically. Diclofenac (DICLO), a prostaglandin (PG) synthesis inhibitor was used to confirm the role of prostaglandin in restraint stress-induced elevation of central 5-HT correspondingly confirmed by elevation of plasma corticosterone and modification of the above anti-stress agents. Pg, Diaz and DICLO per se did not modify brain and hypothalamic 5-HT in control rats. But they attenuated stress-induced elevation of brain and hypothalamic 5-HT. Anti-stress action of both Pg and Diaz reflected by inhibition of stress-induced elevation of brain and hypothalamic content of 5-HT as also stress-induced concurrent elevation of plasma corticosterone were further diminished by DICLO. The mediatory action of 5-HT in anti-stress effects of Pg and Diaz may be modulated through prostaglandins.