Laboratory Assessment of Molluscicidal Activities of Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia Against Snail Host of Fasciola spp

Background: The potential molluscicidal extracts, obtained from indigenous plants Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia, were tested for toxicity against freshwater pulmonate snail Lymnaea acuminata, an intermediate host of Fasciola hepatica. The organic extracts had a significant effect on young snails. Materials and Methods: All organic extracts and column-purified fractions gave median lethal concentrations (19-100.05 mg/L; 24 h) that fell well within the threshold level of 100 mg/L, set for a potential molluscicide by the World Health Organization. Results: The toxicity of T. cordifolia stem acetone extract (96 h LC50: 16.08 mg/L) was more pronounced compared with C. sativa leaf ethanol extract (96 h LC50: 16.32 mg/L) and A. nilotica leaf ethanol extract (96 h LC50: 24.78 mg/L). β-caryophyllene, gallic acid, and berberine were characterized and identified as active molluscicidal components. Co-migration of β-caryophyllene (retardation factor [Rf] 0.95), gallic acid (Rf 0.30), and berberine (Rf 0.23) with column-purified parts of Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia on thin-layer chromatography demonstrates same Rf value, that is, 0.95, 0.30, and 0.23, respectively. Conclusion: This study indicates that these extracts thus represent potential plant-derived molluscicides that are worthy of further investigations.

Differential Impact of Zinc Salt Precursors on Physiognomies, Anticancerous, and Antibacterial Activities of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are enormously popular semi-conductor metal oxides with diverse applications in every field of science. Many physical and chemical methods applied for the synthesis of ZnONPs are being rejected due to their environmental hazards. Therefore, ZnONPs synthesized from plant extracts are steered as eco-friendly showing more biocompatibility and biodegradability. Additionally, various synthesis conditions such as the type of precursor salt also play a role in influencing the physicochemical and biological properties of ZnONPs. In this study, green synthesis of ZnONPs from Acacia nilotica was carried out using zinc acetate (ZA-AN-ZNPs), zinc nitrate (ZN-AN-ZNPs), and zinc sulfate (ZS-AN-ZNPs) precursor salts. Surprisingly, characterization of ZnONPs using UV-visible spectroscopy, TEM, XRD, and EDX revealed the important role precursor salts played in influencing the size and shape of ZnONPs, i.e., 20-23 nm spherical (ZA-AN-ZNPs), 55-59 nm triangular (ZN-AN-ZNPs), and 94-97 nm nano-flowers (ZS-AN-ZNPs). FTIR analysis showed the involvement of alkaloids, alcohols, carboxylic acid, and phenolic compounds present in Acacia nilotica extract during the synthesis process. Since different precursor salts showed different morphology of ZnONPs, their biological activities were also variable. ZN-AN-ZNPs showed the highest cytotoxicity towards HepG2 cells with the lowest cell viability (28.92 ± 0.99%), highest ROS/RNS production (3425.3 ± 184.58 relative DHR123 fluorescence), and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (1645.2 ± 32.12 relative fluorescence unit) as well as induced significant caspase-3 gene expression. In addition to this, studying the zone of inhibitions and minimum bactericidal and inhibitory concentrations of ZnONPs showed their exceptional potential as antibacterial agents. At MIC as low as 8 µg/mL, ZA-AN-ZNPs and ZN-AN-ZNPs exhibited significant bactericidal activities against human pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae and Listeria monocytogenes, respectively. Furthermore, alkaline phosphatase, DNA/RNA leakage, and phosphate ion leakage studies revealed that a damage to the bacterial cell membrane and cell wall is involved in mediating the antibacterial effects of ZnONPs.

Comparative Evaluation of the Phytochemical Analysis and Efficacy of Four Plant-derived Extracts against Streptococcus mutans: An In Vitro Study

Introduction

Oral health is a loyal part of general health. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), dental caries is the most widespread noncommunicable disease and is a significant universal public health concern. The main causative organism associated with this disease is Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Various synthetic agents like chlorhexidine and fluorides are commercially available to prevent dental caries. However, these have side effects. Presently, research is engaged in the use of plant extracts to develop an effective and biocompatible material that may be used safely in the oral cavity.

Methodology

Four plants were collected-Emblica officinalis, Vitis vinifera seeds, Psidium guajava (P. guajava) Linn leaves, and Acacia nilotica (A. nilotica), and extracts were prepared individually. These extracts were subjected to phytochemical analysis, and bacterial growth and fermentation were assessed.

Result

The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. All the plant extracts inhibited S. mutans growth at all serial dilutions except P. guajava Linn and A. nilotica showing 55 CFU/mL and 5 CFU/mL, respectively in 1/1000 dilution only. The phytochemical analysis confirmed that all four plant extracts had alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, and flavonoids. Steroids and proteins are present in P. guajava Linn. Proanthocyanidins were present in Vitis vinifera. Saponins and Anthraquinones were present in A. nilotica exclusively.

Conclusion

All the extracts were effective against S. mutans. These could be tried as herbal alternatives to conventional adjuncts. However, these results must be additionally evaluated for toxicity in animal models, and effectiveness must be assessed using in vivo studies on human subjects.

How to cite this article

Kripalani KB, Thomas NA, Thimmaiah C, et al. Comparative Evaluation of the Phytochemical Analysis and Efficacy of Four Plant-derived Extracts against Streptococcus mutans: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-3):S258-S262.

coli with Phytochemicals of Ziziphus jujube and Acacia nilotica

This study focused on the assessment of the antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated from bovine mastitis milk samples and the revealing anti-mastitis potential of phytocompounds of Ziziphus jujube and Acacia nilotica through molecular docking analysis. The mastitis milk samples were collected from various dairy farms for the isolation of the bacteria (S. aureus and E. coli) and their response to antibiotics. Ethanolic extracts of both plants were prepared. Their antibacterial activity was evaluated, and they were processed for phytochemical analysis after which, molecular docking analysis with pathogenic proteins of the bacteria was carried out. Parametric and non-parametric statistical analyses were performed to reach the conclusions of this study. The findings of the study revealed a higher drug resistance (≥40%) of E. coli against ampicillin, amikacin, and vancomycin, while S. aureus exhibited the highest resistance to ampicillin, erythromycin, and ciprofloxacin. The ethanolic extracts of the Ziziphus jujube and Acacia nilotica plants produced a ZOI between 18 and 23 mm against multidrug-resistant S. aureus and E. coli. Gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS) was used to explore 15 phytocompounds from Ziziphus jujube and 18 phytocompounds from Acacia nilotica. The molecular docking analysis of 2cyclopenten-1-one,3,4,4 trimethyl and Bis (2ethylhexyl) phthalate of Ziziphus jujube showed a binding affinity of -4.8 kcal/mol and -5.3 kcal/mol and -5.9 kcal/mol and -7.1 kcal/mol against the DNA Gyrase and toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 proteins of S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. The suberic acid monomethyl ester of Acacia nilotica showed a binding affinity of -5.9 kcal/mol and -5 kcal/mol against the outer membrane protein A and Topoisomerase IV protein of E. coli and -5.1 kcal/mol and -5.8 kcal/mol against the toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 and Enterotoxin B proteins of S. aureus. Similarly, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol di-iso-butyrate showed a binding affinity of -6.5 kcal/mol and -5.3 kcal/mol against the outer membrane protein A and Topoisomerase IV of E. coli and -5.2 kcal/mol and -5.9 kcal/mol against the toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 and Enterotoxin B proteins of S. aureus, respectively. The study concluded that there was an increasing trend for the antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus and E. coli, while the Ziziphus jujube and Acacia nilotica plant extracts expressed significant affinity to tackle this resistance; hence, this calls for the development of novel evidence-based therapeutics.

Effects of Dietary Bioactive Lipid Compounds of Acacia nilotica Bark on Productive Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Antimicrobial Activities of Growing Rabbits under Hot Climatic Conditions

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dietary Acacia nilotica bark bioactive lipid compounds (ANBBLCs) as novel feed additives on the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidants, and antimicrobial activities of growing male rabbits. A total of 100 California male weanling rabbits aged 35 days were divided into four nutritional treatments, each of which contained ANBBLCs at concentrations of 0 (control group), 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg diet (n = 25 per treatment, each replication consisting of one animal). The average body weight of the animals was 613 ± 14 g. The experiments lasted for 56 days. Dietary ANBBLC levels linearly improved (p < 0.05) the body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of rabbits. Furthermore, with increasing concentrations of ANBBLCs, the total antioxidant capacity of blood and liver tissue was linearly (p < 0.05) enhanced. Lactobacillus increased and Staphylococcus decreased (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control group when ANBBLC levels were added to the diets of rabbits. Rabbit diets supplemented with ANBBLCs increased dressing percentages and decreased abdominal fat. This study shows that ANBBLCs can be used as a feed additive to enhance the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of growing rabbits.

Efficacy of Acacia nilotica, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Salix safsafs on the mortality and development of two vector-borne mosquito species, Culex pipiens and Aedes aegypti, in the laboratory and field

Mosquitoes are one of the most lethal animals in the world and transmit many dangerous human pathogens, causing millions of deaths each year. The search for modern and better mosquito control is an endless effort almost all over the world. Phytochemicals are promising biological agents for getting rid of pests that are harmful to human and animal health and crops, they are inexpensive, biodegradable, and have diverse modes of action. The efficacy of acetone and hexane leaf extracts of Acacia nilotica, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Salix safsafs was investigated against the 2nd and 4th larvae and pupae of two vectors, Culex pipiens and Aedes aegypti. The results showed the obvious effect of A. nilotica extract on the mortality of mosquito larvae, the reduction of female eggs, and a higher mortality rate in sunlight than in shadow (fluorescein). Data from field trials revealed that A. nilotica extracts had the greatest effect on larval reduction, reaching 89.8% in 24 h and having a 12-day stability. Polyethylene glycol, sesquiterpenes, and fatty acids were the most common compounds found in A. nilotica, E. camaldulensis, and S. safsafs, respectively. The acacia plant had promising larvicidal activity, safe and effective alternative to chemical insecticides.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Acacia nilotica Flower Extract against Helicobacter pylori and Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vitro and In Silico

The resistance of cancer and Helicobacter pylori to several drugs reflects a worldwide problem, and it has been the intention of numerous researchers to overcome this problem. Thus, in this study, Acacia nilotica fruits were subjected to HPLC analysis to detect their phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Moreover, A. nilotica's anti-H. pylori activity and its inhibitory activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2 cells) were reported. Various compounds with different concentrations, such as ferulic acid (5451.04 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (4572.26 µg/mL), quercetin (3733.37 µg/mL), rutin (2393.13 µg/mL), gallic acid (2116.77 µg/mL), cinnamic acid (69.72 µg/mL), hesperetin (121.39 µg/mL) and methyl gallate (140.45 µg/mL), were detected. Strong anti-H. pylori activity at 31 mm was reported, compared to the positive control of the 21.67 mm inhibition zone. Moreover, the MIC and MBC were 7.8 µg/mL and 15.62 µg/mL, respectively, while the MIC and MBC of the positive control were 31.25 µg/mL. The concentration of MBC at 25%, 50% and 75% reflected H. pylori's anti-biofilm activity of 70.38%, 82.29% and 94.22%, respectively. Good antioxidant properties of the A. nilotica flower extract were documented at 15.63, 62.50, 250 and 1000 µg/mL, causing the DPPH scavenging percentages of 42.3%, 52.6%, 65.5% and 80.6%, respectively, with a IC₅₀ of 36.74 µg/mL. HepG-2 cell proliferation was inhibited (91.26%) using 500 µg/mL of flower extract with an IC₅₀ of 176.15 µg/mL, compared to an IC₅₀ of 395.30 µg/mL used against human normal melanocytes. Molecular docking was applied to investigate ferulic acid with the H. pylori (4HI0) crystal structure to determine the best binding mode that interacted most energetically with the binding sites. Molecular docking indicated that ferulic acid was a proper inhibitor for the 4HI0 protein enzyme of H. pylori. A low energy score (-5.58 Kcal/mol) was recorded as a result of the interaction of ferulic acid with the residue's SER 139 active site caused by the O 29 atom, which was important for its antibacterial activity.

Essential oils from Acacia nilotica (Fabales: Fabaceae) seeds: May have insecticidal effects?

In the present study Acacia nilotica seed derived essential oils were tested against Spodoptera litura, Tenebrio molitor, Oxycarenus hyalinipennis, and Aphis fabae, as well as their effects on non-target species Eudrilus eugeniae and Artemia salina at 24 h post treatment. The seed essential oil produced insecticidal activity against A. fabae (LC₅₀ = 41.679, LC₉₀ = 75.212 μl/mL), O. hyalinipennis (LC₅₀ = 37.629, LC₉₀ = 118.485 μl/mL), T. molitor (LC₅₀ = 56.796, LC₉₀ = 201.912 μl/mL), and S. litura (LC₅₀ = 62.215, LC₉₀ = 241.183 μl/mL). Essential oils do not cause a remarkable effect on E. eugeniae and A. salina cytotoxicity. The essential oils produced a lower effect on Artemia salina (LC₅₀ = 384.382, LC₉₀ = 1341.397 μl/mL) and no lethal effects were observed on E. eugeniae. The histopathological evaluation showed no sub-lethal effects of essential oils on earthworm gut tissues. GC-MS analysis results revealed that the major chemical constituent was hexadecane (19.560%) and heptacosane (17.214%) and FT-IR analysis revealed the presence of alkanes and alkyles, aromatics, and amides functional groups that may be involved in insecticidal activity. Overall, the results showed that the seed derived essential oil has excellent insecticidal action against major agricultural insect pests and may therefore offer an environmentally benign alternative to conventional insecticide.

The effect of Acacia nilotica bark extract on growth performance, carcass characteristics, immune response, and intestinal morphology in broilers as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoter

Objective

Present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of Acacia nilotica bark extract as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in broilers.

Methods

Six hundred, day-old broiler chicks were randomly divided into six groups (NC: without any supplementation; AB: NC+Zinc Bacitracin; PB: NC+Safmannan; ANBE1: NC+A. nilotica bark extract 0.1 %; ANBE3: NC+A. nilotica bark extract 0.3 %; ANBE5: NC+A. nilotica bark extract 0.5 %), with ten replicates per group (10 chicks/replicate) and feeding trial was lasted for 35 days.

Results

Results showed that weight gain (1296.63 g) and FCR (1.59) of AB was better than NC, during the finisher phase. Overall FCR of AB (1.53), PB (1.54) and ANBE5 (1.54) was significantly (P<0.05) better than NC. From carcass parameters relative weight of wing and heart were highest in ANBE3 (2.5 and 1.51 %, respectively). Significantly (P<0.05) highest blood glucose level was observed in NC (264.5 mg/dl) and highest albumin concentration was found in AB (1.46 mg/dl). In addition, antibody titer levels against ND and IBD were higher in ANBE5 than NC, while higher relative weight of bursa was observed in ANBE3 than NC. The villus height to crypt depth ratio in all experimental groups was better than NC.

Conclusion

Acacia nilotica bark extract could be a suitable alternative to antibiotic growth promoters to support the growth in broilers.

Histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular investigation of atrazine toxic effect on some organs of adult male albino rats with a screening of Acacia nilotica as a protective trial

Atrazine (ATZ) is a widely used herbicide; however, it has deleterious effects. The current study aimed to investigate the potential toxic effect of ATZ as a neuroendocrine disruptor on the cerebellum and thyroid gland and on the liver as a detoxifying organ. We examined the ability of ATZ to induce oxidative stress and subsequent apoptosis in these organs. Moreover, we investigated the potential protective effect of Acacia nilotica, because of its potent antioxidant activity. Thus, our study was carried out on 40 adult male albino rats that were divided equally into 4 groups (10 rats/each group). The first group received distilled water, while the second group received ATZ dissolved in corn oil at 200 mg/kg body weight/day by stomach gavage. The third group was treated orally by ATZ (200 mg/kg body weight/day) plus Acacia nilotica (400 mg/kg/day). Group IV received Acacia nilotica only at a dose (400 mg/kg/day). After successive 30 days of the experiment, blood and tissue samples were collected from all groups. Our findings revealed the ability of ATZ to induce toxic effects was observed microscopically in the form of degenerated neurons and vacuolated neuropil of the cerebellum, degenerated hepatocytes, and vacuolation of the follicular cells of the thyroid gland. Furthermore, ATZ significantly elevated AST, ALT, and ALP serum levels and TB concentration, while decreased GSH. DNA fragmentation% and activated caspase-3 expression significantly increased after ATZ exposure. Interestingly, Acacia nilotica administration was able to partially protect the examined organs against the toxic effect of ATZ exposure.

A study on the biosorption kinetics of Cu (II) and Zn (II) ions from aqueous phase (sulphate medium) using waste sawdust generated from Acacia nilotica wood carpentry

In the present study, the natural biosorption capacity of Acacia nilotica sawdust (wood biomass) was studied for the removal of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) heavy metal ions. The process was optimized for several important factors such as pH, contact time, biomass amount, and metal ion concentration. The maximum biosorption of Zn onto Acacia nilotica sawdust was 66.092% at pH 7.0, contact time 20 min, biomass concentration 0.4 g, and initial Zn concentration 8.4 mg/L. The maximum Cu biosorption to Acacia nilotica sawdust was 66.097% at pH 4, contact time 45 min, biomass 0.8 g, initial metal ion concentration 27 mg/L. The experimental data were analyzed by two different adsorption isotherms i.e. Langmuir and Freundlich models. Based on the regression coefficient the Freundlich isotherm model showed the best fit for Zn whereas Cu metal ion adsorption gave a favorable fit for Langmuir isotherm. Both metal ions followed pseudo-second-order kinetics in the adsorption process using sawdust of Acacia nilotica.

Toxic effects of purified phenolic compounds from Acacia nilotica against common cutworm

Phenolics are the most abundant secondary metabolites of plants that are widely distributed in the plant kingdom. In the last few years, the development and identification of phenolic compounds from various plants have become a major area of the environment and health-related research. In the present study, different phenolic compounds were purified from the bark of the medicinally important plant Acacia nilotica which is rich in polyphenols and were evaluated for their insecticidal potential against a polyphagous pest, Spodoptera litura (Fab.). The compounds viz. Catechin, Chlorogenic acid, and Umbelliferone were purified from ethyl acetate-acetone (E-AE) fraction using Semi-preparative HPLC and were identified using melting point determination, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Mass Spectroscopy (MS). These phenolic compounds recorded detrimental effects on the growth and development of second instar larvae (6 days old) of S. litura. The larval growth, survival, adult emergence, pupal weight, and different nutritional indices were adversely affected by the various concentrations of these purified compounds. The findings revealed the insecticidal potential of polyphenols obtained from the bark of A. nilotica, which can provide an alternative for resistance management, as these plant phytochemicals are highly effective against insecticide-resistant insect pests.

Two New Antiprotozoal Diterpenes From the Roots of Acacia nilotica

The powdered roots of the medicinal plant Acacia nilotica were extracted with hexane and ethyl acetate, and the extracts were subjected to column chromatography for the isolation of potentially bioactive compounds and their screening against kinetoplastid pathogens. NMR and HREI mass spectrometric analyses identified two new diterpenes, characterized as 16, 19-dihydroxycassa-12-en-15-one (Sandynone, 1) and (5S, 7R, 8R, 9R, 10S, 13Z, 17S)-7,8:7,17:16,17-triepoxy-7,8-seco-cassa-13-ene (niloticane B, 2). The previously reported (5S,7R,8R,9R,10S) -(-)-7,8-seco-7, 8-oxacassa-13,15-diene-7,17-diol (3), (5S,7R,8R,9R,10S) -(-)-7,8-seco-7, 8-oxacassa-13,15-dien-7-ol-17-al (4), and (5S,7R,8R,9R,10S) -(-)-7,8-seco-7, 8-oxacassa-13,15-dien-7-ol (5) a, mixture of stigmasterol (6a) and sitosterol (6b), and lupeol (7) were also isolated. Several column fractions displayed significant activity against a panel of Trypanosoma and Leishmania spp., and from the most active fraction, compound 4 was isolated with high purity. The compound displayed high activity, particularly against T. brucei, T. evansi, and L. mexicana (0.88-11.7 µM) but only a modest effect against human embryonic kidney cells and no cross-resistance with the commonly used melaminophenyl arsenical and diamidine classes of trypanocides. The effect of compound 4 against L. mexicana promastigotes was irreversible after a 5-h exposure, leading to the sterilization of the culture between 24 and 48 h.

Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Acacia nilotica (L.) Extract to Overcome Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae

Recently, concerns have been raised globally about antimicrobial resistance, the prevalence of which has increased significantly. Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC) is considered one of the most common resistant bacteria, which has spread to ICUs in Saudi Arabia. This study was established to investigate the antibacterial activity of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) against KPC in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we used the aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica (L.) fruits to mediate the synthesis of ZnO-NPs. The nanoparticles produced were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, zetasizer and zeta potential analyses, X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antimicrobial activity of ZnO-NPs against KPC was determined via the well diffusion method, and determining minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), the results showed low MIC and MBC when compared with the MIC and MBC of Imipenem and Meropenem antibiotics. The results of in vitro analysis were supported by the results upon applying ZnO-NP ointment to promote wound closure of rats, which showed better wound healing than the results with imipenem ointment. The biosynthesized ZnO-NPs showed good potential for use against bacteria due to their small size, applicability, and low toxicity to human cells.

In vitro activities of Acacia nilotica (L.) Delile bark fractions against Oral Bacteria, Glucosyltransferase and as antioxidant

BACKGROUND

Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most common chronic infectious oral diseases in the world. Acacia nilotica was commonly known in Sudan as Garad or Sunt has a wide range of medicinal uses. In the present study, antibacterial activity of oral bacteria (Streptococcus sobrinus and Porphyromonas gingivalis), inhibitory activity against glucosyltransferase (GTF) enzyme and antioxidant activity were assayed for methanolic crude extract of A. nilotica bark and its fractions.

METHODS

Methanoilc crude extract of A. nilotica bark was applied to a Sephadex LH-20 column and eluted with methanol, aqueous methanol, and finally aqueous acetone to obtain four fractions (Fr1- Fr4). Furthermore, the crude extract and fractions were subjected to analytical high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The crude extract and its fractions were assayed for antibacterial activity against S. sobrinus and P. gingivalis using a microplate dilution assay method to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), as well as GTF inhibition and antioxidant activity using ABTS radical scavenging method.

RESULTS

Fractions (Fr1 and Fr2) exhibited MIC values of 0.3 mg/ml against the P. gingivalis. Additionally, Fr2 displayed MBC value of 1 mg/ml against two types of bacteria. Fr4 showed an especially potent GTF inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ value of 3.9 μg/ml. Fr1 displayed the best antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ value of 1.8 μg/ml. The main compound in Fr1 was identified as gallic acid, and Fr2 was mostly a mixture of gallic acid and methyl gallate.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained in this study provide some scientific rationale and justify the use of this plant for the treatment of dental diseases in traditional medicine. A. nilotica bark, besides their antibacterial potentiality and GTF inhibitory activity, it may be used as adjuvant antioxidants in mouthwashes. Further studies in the future are required to identify the rest of the active compounds.

A comparative evaluation of the antibacterial efficacy of Thymus vulgaris, Salvadora persica, Acacia nilotica, Calendula arvensis, and 5% sodium hypochlorite against Enterococcus faecalis: An in-vitro study

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the antibacterial efficacy of Thymus vulgaris, Salvadora persica, Acacia nilotica, Calendula arvensis, and 5% sodium hypochlorite against Enterococcus faecalis.

Methodology:

Herbal extracts of T. vulgaris, S. persica, A. nilotica and C. arvensis were prepared. Tryptone soya broth was used to grow E. faecalis and agar plates were prepared. The tested solutions (Group A: 5% NaOCl, Group B: 20% T. vulgaris, Group C: 12.5% S. persica, Group D: 10% A. nilotica, Group E: 10% C. arvensis) were added to the wells made on agar media. Agar diffusion test was performed. Plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Bacterial zones of inhibition were recorded.

Results:

The data were analyzed statistically by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and post hoc comparison by Tukey's t-test. The highest zone of inhibition against E. faecalis was shown by 5% NaOCl, followed by 10% C. arvensis, 20% T. vulgaris and 10% A. nilotica showed similar comparable antibacterial activity. The least zone of inhibition was showed by S. persica.

Conclusion:

5% NaOCl showed the maximum antibacterial activity, and herbal products demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against E. faecalis and can be employed as an alternative to NaOCl.

with strong antimicrobial and insecticidal activity

A Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitor protein has been purified and characterized from seeds of Acacia nilotica L. LC-MS/MS analysis of Acacia nilotica trypsin inhibitor (AnTI) provided the N-terminal fragment of 11 amino acids which yielded 100% identity with already reported Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitor protein of Acacia confusa (AcTI) in UniProtKB database search. SDS-PAGE showed a single band of ~21 kDa under nonreduced condition and appearance of a daughter band (17 kDa) in the presence of β-mercaptoethanol indicating the presence of interchain disulfide linkage typical for Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitors. AnTI was purified from seed extract by using a combination of anion exchange and gel filtration chromatography. Since AnTI showed maximum homology with AcTI, a molecular structure of AcTI was predicted which showed highly β-sheeted molecular conformation similar to crystallographic structure of Enterolobium contortisiliquum trypsin inhibitor (EcTI). AnTI (20 µg) produces significant population inhibition against different human pathogenic bacteria along strong antifungal activity (50 µg). Entomotoxin potential of AnTI was evaluated against two stored grain insect pests Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Tenebrionidae: Coleoptera) and Sitophilus oryzae (Linnaeus) (Curculionidae: Coleoptera). Statistically significant mortality of T. castaneum adults was observed at 1.5 mg after 15 days in comparison to control. Additionally, number of total eggs, larvae, pupae, adults, and their male/female ratio were also severely reduced in comparison to control. Similarly, two generation progeny of S. oryzae was studied after mixing AnTI with rice kernels. Mean percent mortality of adult population was significantly higher after 9 days of exposure in comparison to control group. AnTI significantly reduced the F1 generation while little mortality was observed for F2 generation. Exploration of such potent molecules is the prerequisite of our time regarding the anticipation of postantibiotic era and the development of insect resistance against chemical pesticides.

Formulation and evaluation of microsphere of antiulcer drug using Acacia nilotica gum

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to evaluate the formulation of the microspheres for antiulcer drug using natural polymer Acacia nilotica gum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All parameters evaluated A. nilotica gum, aqueous solution of purified gum was used for chemical characterization, organoleptic character, flow properties, pH, particle size determination, solubility, viscosity, surface tension, infrared spectroscopy, etc. The microspheres of famotidine were prepared by ionotropic gelation technique using cross-linking solution of aluminum chloride, barium chloride, and calcium chloride.

RESULTS

Micrometric evaluation was performed of natural polymer microspheres. The micrometric parameters such as bulk density, bulkiness, compressibility index Hausner's ratio, and angle of repose better flow and good packaging properties (bulk density F5±0.02) formulation F1 showed maximum tapped density 0.06±0.04. The concentration was changed of A. nilotica gum so formulation F5 given maximum percentage yield of microspheres. Particle size ranges 846.31-989.04 µm. Formulation F3 shows the smallest particle size and F5 shows the largest particle size. Swelling index for all the formulations was found in an excellent range from 114.2 to 144.4. Formulation F5 showed the highest swelling property. Highest drug content was found in formulation F1 ranged from 88.98% to 98.23%. In in vitro drug release, F1 showed maximum release of drug, whereas F6 showed minimum release of drug.

CONCLUSIONS

Natural polymer A. nilotica gum was successfully used for the preparation of famotidine microparticulates. Formulation with A. nilotica gum was impacted to the particular size, surface morphology, swelling conduct, and in vitro drug release. Stability studies F1, F3, and F5 formulations showed no reduction in drug content and in percent release. In short, A. nilotica gum may be utilized during pharmaceutical dose frames by giving support to drug delivery system and avoiding side effects for the patients.

Methanogenic potential of tropical feeds rich in hydrolyzable tannins1,2

The present study was carried out to determine the effect of Acacia nilotica, a tropical plant rich in hydrolyzable tannins (HT), on rumen fermentation and methane (CH4) production in vitro. We used leaves and pods from A. nilotica alone and combined. The combination of HT from A. nilotica leaves and pods and condensed tannins (CT) from Calliandra calothyrsus and Leucaena leucocephala were also evaluated to assess potential differences in biological activity between HT and CT. Four series of 24-h incubations were performed using rumen contents of 4 sheep fed a tropical grass (natural grassland based on Dichanthium spp.). A first experiment tested different levels of replacement of this tropical forage (control [CTL] without tannins) by A. nilotica leaves or pods: 0:100, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25 and 100:0. A second experiment tested the mixture of A. nilotica leaves and pods in different proportions: 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100. A third experiment tested the 50:50 combination of A. nilotica leaves or pods with C. calothyrsus and L. leucocephala. Acacia nilotica pods and leaves had a high content of HT (350 and 178 g/kg DM, respectively), whereas C. calothyrsus and L. leucocephala had a high content of CT (361 and 180 g/kg DM, respectively). The inclusion of HT from A. nilotica leaves and pods decreased CH4 production dose-dependently (P < 0.01). Total replacement of the CTL by A. nilotica decreased CH4 production by 64 and 55% with leaves and pods, respectively. Pods were richer in HT than leaves, but their antimethanogenic effect did not differ (P > 0.05). Although A. nilotica leaves and pods inhibited fermentation, as indicated by the lower gas production and VFA production (P < 0.01), this effect was less pronounced than for CH4. Volatile fatty acid production decreased by 12% in leaves and by 30% in pods when compared with the CTL alone. Positive associative effect was reported for VFA, when HT-rich sources and CT-rich sources were mixed. Combining the 2 sources of HT did not show associative effects on fermentation or CH4 production (P > 0.05). Hydrolyzable tannin-rich sources were more effective in suppressing methanogenesis than CT-rich sources. Our results show that HT-rich A. nilotica leaves and pods have the potential to reduce ruminal CH4 production.

In Vivo Anti Cancer Potential of Pyrogallol in Murine Model of Colon Cancer

Background: Colon cancer is aggressive and it causes 0.5 million deaths per year. Practicing natural medicines for cancer treatment is safer than conventional drugs. World health organization emphasizes on the importance of practicing natural medicines and developing natural product based drugs for cancer treatment. Recently we reported an anti colon cancer activity associated with pyrogallol isolated from medicinal plant Acacia nilotica in HT-29 cells in vitro. To extend our observation in this study we evaluated in vivo colon tumor remission property of acetone extract of A. nilotica (ACE) and pyrogallol. Materials and Methods: In vivo toxicity of ACE and pyrogallol was assessed and In vivo tumor remission activity of ACE and pyrogallol was determined in murine model. Results: Mice were tolerated different doses of ACE and pyrogallol. Tumor size was considerably reduced in pyrogallol treated mice similar to doxorubicin. Tumor bearing mice treated with ACE and pyrogallol showed mild decline in body weight. Conclusion: Pyrogallol was found to be an effective anti colon cancer agent with less toxicity.

Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Potential of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles by Some Plant Extracts

The provision of nanoparticles using biogenic material as a part of green chemistry is an attractive nanotechnology. The current research aimed to test the antimicrobial and cytotoxic efficacy of silver nanoparticles synthesized by extracts of Phoenix dactylifera, Ferula asafetida, and Acacia nilotica as reductant and stabilizing agents in silver nanoparticle formation. Synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) using an agar well diffusion assay. Furthermore, cytotoxic ability was investigated against LoVo cells. The potential phyto-constituents of plant extracts were identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) techniques. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and zeta potential analyzed the size and morphology of the biogenic nanoparticles. The current study revealed the ability of the tested plant extract to convert silver ions to silver nanoparticles with an average size that ranged between 67.8 ± 0.3 and 155.7 ± 1.5 nm in diameter. Biogenic AgNPs showed significant antibacterial ability (10 to 32 mm diameter) and anticancer ability against a LoVo cell with IC50 ranged between 35.15–56.73 μg/mL. The innovation of the present study is that the green synthesis of NPs, which is simple and cost effective, provides stable nano-materials and can be an alternative for the large-scale synthesis of silver nanoparticles.

Comparative Analysis of Major Mosquito Vectors Response to Seed-Derived Essential Oil and Seed Pod-Derived Extract from Acacia nilotica

Botanical metabolites are increasingly realized as potential replacements to chemical insecticides. In the present study, Acacia nilotica seed essential oil and seed pod solvent extracts were tested for bioefficacy against three important types of mosquitoes. Mortality was recorded 24 h post-treatment, while smoke toxicity of adult mosquitoes was recorded at 10 min intervals for 40 min. Seed pod powder was extracted with different solvents and hydrodistilled seed oil chemical constituents were determined by using Gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) -. Larvicidal and adulticidal efficacy of seed hydrodistilled essential oil and solvent extracts were tested against larval and adult mosquitoes. The seed hydrodistilled oil provided strong larvicidal activity against Anopheles stephensi, (LC50 (lethal concentration that kills 50% of the exposed larvae) = 5.239, LC90 (lethal concentration that kills 90% of the exposed larvae) = 9.713 mg/L); Aedes aegypti, (LC50 = 3.174, LC90 = 11.739 mg/L); and Culex quinquefasciatus, (LC50 = 4.112, LC90 = 12.325 mg/L). Smoke toxicities were 82% in Cx. quinquefasciatus, 90% in Ae. aegypti, and 80% mortality in An. stephensi adults, whereas 100% mortality was recorded for commercial mosquito coil. The GC-MS profile of seed essential oil from A. nilotica showed the presence of hexadecane (18.440%) and heptacosane (15.914%), which are the main and active compounds, and which may be involved in insecticidal activity. Overall findings suggest that the seed oil showed strong mosquitocidal activity against mosquito vectors and therefore may provide an ecofriendly replacement to chemical insecticides.

Acacia nilotica leaf improves insulin resistance and hyperglycemia associated acute hepatic injury and nephrotoxicity by improving systemic antioxidant status in diabetic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acacia nilotica (L.) Delile is used as a traditional anti-diabetic remedy in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt, Nigeria and is mentioned in Ayurveda as well.

AIM

The objective of the study was to evaluate the ethnomedicinal claim of A. nilotica leaf (ANL) extract for its efficiency in ameliorating diabetic complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ANL was orally administrated (50 and 200mg/kg) to alloxanized mice (blood glucose > 200mg/dL) for 20d. Parameters of glucose metabolism, hepatotoxicity, hyperlipidemia and nephrotoxicity were measured with emphasis on elevated oxidative stress. ANL was chemically characterized using GC-MS. Further, docking studies were employed to predict molecular interactions.

RESULTS

ANL lowered (65%, P< 0.001) systemic glucose load in diabetic mice, which was otherwise 398% higher than control. ANL lowered (35%) insulin resistance, without any significant effect on insulin sensitivity (P> 0.05). Anti-hyperglycemic properties of ANL was further supported by lowering of HbA1c (34%; P< 0.001) and improved glucose utilization (OGTT). Overall diabetic complications were mitigated as reflected by lowered hepatic (ALT, AST) and renal (creatinine, BUN) injury markers and normalization of dyslipidemia. Elevated systemic oxidative stress was lowered by increased catalase and peroxidase activities in liver, kidney and skeletal muscle, resulting in 32% decrease of serum MDA levels. Apart from high phenolic and flavonoid content, tocopherol, catechol and β-sitosterol, identified in ANL, demonstrated substantial binding affinity with Nrf2 protein (5FNQ) reflecting possible crosstalk with intracellular antioxidant defense pathways.

CONCLUSION

The present study revealed the potentials of A. nilotica to alleviate diabetes-related systemic complications by limiting oxidative stress which justified the ethnopharmacological antidiabetic claim.

Determination of antioxidant potential of Acacia nilotica leaf extract in oxidative stress response system of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

BACKGROUND

From ancient times, plants and plant-derived products have been used as folkloric medicines for a variety of health disorders owing to their tremendous therapeutic potential. The present study aimed to determine the antioxidant efficacy of crude Acacia nilotica extract in the oxidative stress response system of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism.

RESULTS

Acacia nilotica showed significant antioxidant activity, with IC₅₀ values of 75.157 and 159.57 µg mL^-1 for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities respectively at a concentration of 500 µg mL^-1 . The total antioxidant activity of A. nilotica showed an ascorbic acid equivalent of 152.79 ± 7.43 µg mL^-1 . The presence of phytoconstituents such as phytol and α-tocopherol from gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the potential of A. nilotica as an antioxidant. The results were validated using the stress response mechanism in S. cerevisiae wild type and its isogenic deletion strains sod1Δ and tsa1Δ. Acacia nilotica substantially neutralized reactive oxygen species generated by hydrogen peroxide in mutant strains, as evident from spot assay and fluorescence assay using fluorescence microscopy and intensity studies.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested the efficacy of A. nilotica as a potent antioxidant in the S. cerevisiae system for the first time and its use in neutraceuticals/therapeutics. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

In vitro antioxidant and antimalarial activities of leaves, pods and bark extracts of Acacia nilotica (L.) Del

BACKGROUND

The emergence of drug resistant malaria is threatening our ability to treat and control malaria in the Southeast Asian region. There is an urgent need to develop novel and chemically diverse antimalarial drugs. This study aimed at evaluating the antimalarial and antioxidant potentials of Acacia nilotica plant extracts.

METHODS

The antioxidant activities of leaves, pods and bark extracts were determined by standard antioxidant assays; reducing power capacity, % lipid peroxidation inhibition and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. The antimalarial activities of plant extracts against Plasmodium falciparum parasites were determined by the 48 h schizont maturation inhibition assay. Further confirmation of schizonticide activity of extracts was made by extending the incubation period up to 96 h after removing the plant extract residues from parasites culture. Inhibition assays were analyzed by dose-response modelling.

RESULTS

In all antioxidant assays, leaves of A. nilotica showed higher antioxidant activity than pods and bark. Antimalarial IC₅₀ values of leaves, pods and bark extracts were 1.29, 4.16 and 4.28 μg/ml respectively, in the 48 h maturation assay. The IC₅₀ values determined for leaves, pods and bark extracts were 3.72, 5.41 and 5.32 μg/ml respectively, after 96 h of incubation. All extracts inhibited the development of mature schizont, indicating schizonticide activity against P. falciparum.

CONCLUSION

A. nilotica extracts showed promising antimalarial and antioxidant effects. However, further investigation is needed to isolate and identify the active components responsible for the antimalarial and antioxidant effects.

Anti-Onchocerca and Anti-Caenorhabditis Activity of a Hydro-Alcoholic Extract from the Fruits of Acacia nilotica and Some Proanthocyanidin Derivatives

Acacia nilotica fruits with high tannin content are used in the northern parts of Cameroon as anti-filarial remedies by traditional healers. In this study, the hydro-alcoholic fruit extract (crude extract (CE)) and, one of the main constituents in its most active fractions, (+)-catechin-3-O-gallate (CG), as well as four related proanthocyanidins, (−)-epicatechin-3-O-gallate (ECG), (+)-gallocatechin (GC), (−)-epigallocatechin (EGC) and (−)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), were assessed for their potential in vitro anthelmintic properties against the free-living model organism Caenorhabditis elegans and against the cattle filarial parasite Onchocerca ochengi. Worms were incubated in the presence of different concentrations of fruit extract, fractions and pure compounds. The effects on mortality were monitored after 48 h. The plant extract and all of the pure tested compounds were active against O. ochengi (LC₅₀ ranging from 1.2 to 11.5 µg/mL on males) and C. elegans (LC₅₀ ranging from 33.8 to 350 µg/mL on wild type). While high LC₅₀ were required for the effects of the compounds on C. elegans, very low LC₅₀ were required against O. ochengi. Importantly, tests for acute oral toxicity (lowest dose: 10 mg/kg) in Wistar rats demonstrated that crude extract and pure compounds were non-toxic and safe to use. Additionally, the results of cytotoxicity tests with the Caco-2 cell line (CC₅₀ ranging from 47.1 to 93.2 µg/mL) confirmed the absence of significant toxicity of the crude extract and pure compounds. These results are in good accordance with the use of A. nilotica against nematode infections by traditional healers, herdsmen and pastoralists in Cameroon.

Effect of feeding Acacia nilotica pod meal on hematobiochemical profile and fecal egg count in goats

Aim:

This study was conducted to observe the effect of feeding Acacia nilotica pod meal on hematobiochemical profile and gastrointestinal parasitic load in growing goats.

Materials and Methods:

To experiment was conducted for a period of 3-month on 24 male goats (3½ month old, average body weight [BW] 6.50±1.50 kg), distributed into four groups of six animals each. The experimental animals were fed graded level of A. nilotica pod meal (0%, 10%, 20% and 30%) mixed in concentrate mixture equivalent to tannin concentration of 0%, 1.91%, 3.82% and 5.73% in the total mixed ration I, II, III and IV, respectively, but ad libitum measured quantity of green sorghum fodder (Sorghum bicolor) feeding. The blood samples were collected from experimental goats during the feeding experiment for the examination of different hematological indices and serum biochemical profile to know the overall health status of animals and standard method was followed to analyze the samples. Fecal sample was collected directly from the anus of goats by inserting middle finger and kept the samples in labeled polythene bag. Further fresh sample was processed and examined by McMaster Technique for eggs per gram and oocysts per gram. It gives accurate information regarding severity of infection.

Results:

The feeding of babul pod meal did not address significant changes about the hematological parameters among various treatment groups. The lymphocyte count was significantly higher (p=0.07) in T₃ group as compared to control and increase with increase in level of babul pod meal in the diet. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level was 4.86 and 6.59% lower in T₁ and T₂ group as compared to control and inversely proportional with level of supplement in ration. The decrease in BUN reflected good dietary protein metabolism happened in animals supplemented with babul pod meal. Serum creatinine level was significantly lower (p<0.01) in T₂ group as compared to control. The creatinine level was 20.17% lower in T₂ group as compared to control. Haemonchus and Coccidian egg count was significantly reduced (p<0.01) in T₂ and T₃ group followed with T₁ as compared to control group.

Conclusion:

The metabolic status of the animal was not affected with the supplementation of babul pod meal, however, lower serum creatinine level and remarkable reduction in nematode, as well as protozoan egg count in the treatment group, showed good health impact of babul pod.

Toxicological studies of aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica root

Acacia nilotica is a widely used plant in traditional medical practice in Northern Nigeria and many African countries. The aim of this study was to determine the toxicological effects of a single dose (acute) and of repeated doses (sub-acute) administration of aqueous extract of A. nilotica root in rodents, following our earlier study on antiplasmodial activity. In the acute toxicity test, three groups of Swiss albino mice were orally administered aqueous extract of A. nilotica (50, 300 and 2000 mg/kg body weight) and signs of toxicity were observed daily for 14 days. In the sub-acute toxicity study, four groups of 12 rats (6 male and 6 female) were used. Group 1 received 10 ml/kg b.w distilled water (control), while groups 2, 3 and 4 received 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg b.w of the extract, respectively, for 28 consecutive days by oral gavage. Signs of toxicity/mortality, food and water intake and body weight changes were observed. Biochemical parameters were analysed in both plasma and liver homogenate. In the acute and sub-acute toxicity studies, the extract did not cause mortality. A significant reduction in the activity of lactate dehydrogenase was observed at 250 and 500 mg/kg b.w, while alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities were significantly higher than control values at 500 mg/kg b.w. The aqueous extract of A. nilotica was found to be safe in single dose administration in mice but repeated administration of doses higher than 250 mg/kg b.w of the extract for 28 days in rats may cause hepatotoxicity.

Antimalarial activity of fractions of aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica root

BACKGROUND

The problem of resistance of malarial parasites to available antimalarial drugs makes the development of new drugs imperative, with natural plant products providing an alternative source for discovering new drugs.

AIM

To evaluate the antimalarial activity of eluted fractions of Acacia nilotica root extract and determine the phytochemicals responsible for its antimalarial activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extract was eluted successively in gradients of solvent mixture (hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) in multiples of 100 ml, and each fraction was collected separately. Eluates that showed similar thin layer chromatographic profiles and Rf values were combined to produce 4 main fractions (F-1, F-2, F-3, and F-4), which were tested separately for antimalarial activity using the curative test. Changes in body weight, temperature, and packed cell volume (PCV) were also recorded.

RESULTS

Fraction F-1 of A. nilotica at 50 and 100 mg/kg b/w produced significant and dose-dependent reduction in parasite count in Plasmodium berghei infected mice compared to the control, and also significantly increased the survival time of the mice compared to the control group. This fraction also ameliorated the malaria-induced anemia by improving PCV in treated mice.

CONCLUSION

Antimalarial activity of extract of A. nilotica root is probably localized in the F-1 fraction of the extract, which was found to be rich in alkaloids and phenolics. Further study will provide information on the chemical properties of the active metabolites in this fraction.

Sprengel, Eucalyptus hybrid, and Psidium guajava on primary plaque colonizers: An in vitro comparison between hot and cold extraction process

Background:

The potential drawbacks of the existing antiplaque agents call for innovative strategies that are safe, effective, and easily available.

Objective:

The objective was to assess and compare antimicrobial efficacy of four plant extracts derived using hot and cold extraction methods against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguis, and Streptococcus salivarius.

Materials and Methods:

The leaves of Acacia nilotica, P. guajava, Eucalyptus hybrid, and Murraya konigii L. Sprengel were collected from the surrounding areas, identified and authenticated by a taxonomist. The leaves were washed, shade-dried, and hand crushed to obtain coarse powder. This was subsequently ground into a fine powder and extracted using ethanol by cold infusion and hot extraction process. The antimicrobial efficacy testing was done on American Type Culture Collection strains of S. mutans, S. sanguis, and S. salivarius using agar well diffusion method. 0.2% chlorhexidine and dimethyl sulfoxide were used as positive and negative controls. The mean inhibition zone using 10% concentration of these extracts was compared using independent sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance.

Results:

All the four plant extracts inhibited the growth of S. mutans, S. sanguis, and S. salivarius irrespective of the method of extraction. The extracts of A. nilotica, P. guajava, and E. hybrid derived from both the methods of extraction exhibited a significantly higher inhibition zone against S. mutans in comparison with Murraya koenigii L. Sprengel and chlorhexidine. The cold extracts of A. nilotica and E. hybrid exhibited higher zone of inhibition against S. sanguis while the hot extracts of M. koenigii L. Sprengel exhibited a higher zone of inhibition against S. mutans.

Conclusion:

All the four plant extracts derived using either hot or cold extraction were effective against these bacteria and have the potential to be used as antiplaque agents.

In vitro thrombolytic potential of root extracts of four medicinal plants available in Bangladesh

Context:

Thrombus formation inside the blood vessels obstructs blood flow through the circulatory system leading hypertension, stroke to the heart, anoxia, and so on. Thrombolytic drugs are widely used for the management of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis patients, but they have certain limitations. Medicinal plants and their components possessing antithrombotic activity have been reported before. However, plants that could be used for thrombolysis has not been reported so far.

Aims:

This study's aim was to evaluate the thrombolytic potential of selected plants’ root extracts.

Settings and Design:

Plants were collected, dried, powdered and extracted by methanol and then fractionated by n-hexane for getting the sample root extracts. Venous blood samples were drawn from 10 healthy volunteers for the purposes of investigation.

Subjects and Methods:

An in vitro thrombolytic model was used to check the clot lysis potential of four n-hexane soluble roots extracts viz., Acacia nilotica, Justicia adhatoda, Azadirachta indica, and Lagerstroemia speciosa along with streptokinase as a positive control and saline water as a negative control.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Dunnett t-test analysis was performed using SPSS is a statistical analysis program developed by IBM Corporation, USA. on Windows.

Results:

Using an in vitro thrombolytic model, A. nilotica, L. speciosa, A. indica, and J. adhatoda at 5 mg extract/ml NaCl solution concentration showed 15.1%, 15.49%, 21.26%, and 19.63% clot lysis activity respectively. The reference streptokinase showed 47.21%, and 24.73% clot lysis for 30,000 IU and 15,000 IU concentrations, respectively whereas 0.9% normal saline showed 5.35% clot lysis.

Conclusions:

The selected extracts of the plant roots possess marked thrombolytic properties that could lyse blood clots in vitro; however, in vivo clot dissolving properties and active components responsible for clot lysis are yet to be discovered.

sprengel, Eucalyptus hybrid and Psidium guajava on primary plaque colonizers

Background:

There is an urgent need for innovative strategies to combat the two most common dental diseases of mankind namely dental caries and periodontitis.

Objective:

The aim was to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of the double combinations of Acacia nilotica (AN), Murraya koenigii L. Sprengel (MKL), Eucalyptus hybrid and Psidium guajava on primary plaque colonizers.

Materials and Methods:

The plant extracts of AN, MKL. Sprengel, Eucalyptus hybrid and P. guajava were prepared using Soxhlet apparatus. The stock solutions of individual plant extracts (100 mg/ml) were prepared. Equal quantities of stock solutions were mixed to obtain six double combinations of herbal extracts. The antimicrobial efficacy testing was done against three primary plaque colonizers using agar well-diffusion method. 0.2% chlorhexidine and dimethyl sulfoxide were used as positive and as negative controls. The mean inhibition zone between the categories was compared using one-way Analysis of Variance and Tukey's post hoc test.

Results:

The combination of AN and P. guajava produced the highest mean diameter of inhibition zone (21.08 mm ± 2.11) against Streptococcus mutans. The chlorhexidine produced the least inhibition zone against S. mutans (14.50 ± 2.07). The combination of AN and P. guajava produced the maximum antimicrobial efficacy against Streptococcus sanguis (19.67 ± 1.03) and Streptococcus salivarius (20.33 ± 1.86).

Conclusion:

All the combinations of plant extracts have the potential to be used as antiplaque and anticaries agents. The combinations of herbal extracts offer enhanced antimicrobial efficacy due to the synergistic effects besides slowing the development of resistance.

Potential antileishmanial effect of three medicinal plants

The antileishmanial activity of three organic solvent extracts and water residue of the plants: Acacia nilotica (Mimosaceae) (husk), Ambrosia miratima (Astraceae) (aerial shoot) and Azadarichta indica (Meliaceae) (leaves) were tested in vitro against Leishmania donovani promastigotes. The study revealed that the extracts of A. nilotica and A. miratima have effectious antileishmanial activity at concentrations (IC₅₀) less than 8 μg/ml, while the extracts of A. indica lack antileishmanial activity. The chromatographic analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of A. nilotica, the most potent extract, resulted in four TLC fractions. Three of these fractions possessed antileishmanial activity. Phytochemical study of the potent fractions revealed the presence of poly hydroxyl compounds.

The Anti-fertility Effects of Acacia nilotica in Male Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND

A bulk of contraceptives on the market is women-oriented today. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a medicinal herb, Acacia nilotica on various parameters of male fertility using a rat model.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly divided in to two groups. One group received Acacia nilotica, while the other acted as controls. Ten animals from each group were sacrificed after 16 weeks. Treatment was withdrawn for the remaining animals for 8 weeks. Blood was collected for hormonal analysis. The testis was removed for histological examination, while epididymal spermatozoa were retrieved for motility and morphological analysis. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test. A value of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Sperm motility, progressive motility and sperm concentration significantly decreased in treated animals compared to the controls (p<0.05). Withdrawing the treatment did not restore these parameters (p<0.05). Abnormal sperm morphology significantly increased in both the treated and treatment withdrawn groups when compared to the controls (p<0.05). Testosterone concentrations were significantly lower in the treated group when compared to the controls (p<0.05) and no significant differences were observed between the controls and the treated animals when treatment was withdrawn. Histological observations showed that Acacia nilotica treatment disrupted semeniferous tubule architechture and consequently the spermatogenesis process.

CONCLUSION

These results show that Acacia nilotica severely affects sperm morphology, progressive motility and sperm concentration irreversibly in Wistar rats.

Optimized mixture of hops rho iso-alpha acids-rich extract and acacia proanthocyanidins-rich extract reduces insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and improves glucose and insulin control in db/db mice

Rho iso-alpha acids-rich extract (RIAA) from Humulus lupulus (hops) and proanthocyanidins-rich extracts (PAC) from Acacia nilotica exert anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activity in vitro and in vivo. We hypothesized that a combination of these two extracts would exert enhanced effects in vitro on inflammatory markers and insulin signaling, and on nonfasting glucose and insulin in db/db mice. Over 49 tested combinations, RIAA:PAC at 5:1 (6.25 µg/mL) exhibited the greatest reductions in TNFα-stimulated lipolysis and IL-6 release in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, comparable to 5 µg/mL troglitazone. Pretreatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with this combination (5 µg/mL) also led to a 3-fold increase in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake that was comparable to 5 µg/mL pioglitazone or 901 µg/mL aspirin. Finally, db/db mice fed with RIAA:PAC at 5:1 (100 mg/kg) for 7 days resulted in 22% decrease in nonfasting glucose and 19% decrease in insulin that was comparable to 0.5 mg/kg rosiglitazone and better than 100 mg/kg metformin. RIAA:PAC mixture may have the potential to be an alternative when conventional therapy is undesirable or ineffective, and future research exploring its long-term clinical application is warranted.