Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Euphorbia milii plant extract for enhanced antibacterial and enzyme inhibition effects

Objectives

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are gaining increasing attention in biomedical applications due to their unique properties. Green synthesis methods are environmentally friendly and have demonstrated potential for AgNP production. This study explores the green synthesis of AgNPs using the methanolic extract of Euphorbia milii, a plant known for its medicinal properties. The primary objectives of this research were to synthesize AgNPs using E. milii extract, characterize the nanoparticles (NPs) using various techniques, and evaluate their antibacterial and enzyme inhibitory activities.

Methods

E. milii plant extract was utilized for the green synthesis of AgNPs. The characterization of the NPs was performed through ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Antibacterial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, while enzyme inhibitory assays were conducted against urease, α-glucosidase, carbonic anhydrase II, and xanthine oxidase.

Results

The synthesized AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial effects, with a remarkable 20-mm zone of inhibition against S. aureus, surpassing the efficacy of the plant extract alone. Furthermore, the AgNPs demonstrated remarkable enzyme inhibition, achieving impressive percentages of 77.98% against α-glucosidase and 88.54% against carbonic anhydrase II. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration values for enzyme inhibition were highly promising, including 78.09 ± 1.98 μM for α-glucosidase, 0.22 ± 0.10 μM for carbonic anhydrase II, and 7.11 ± 0.55 μM for xanthine oxidase.

Conclusion

In this study, AgNPs were successfully synthesized using E. milii extract and characterized using various techniques. The AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial and enzyme-inhibitory activities, showcasing their potential for biomedical applications.

Analysis of Germin-like protein genes family in Vitis vinifera (VvGLPs) using various in silico approaches

Abstract Germin-like proteins (GLPs) play an important role against various stresses. Vitis vinifera L. genome contains 7 GLPs; many of them are functionally unexplored. However, the computational analysis may provide important new insight into their function. Currently, physicochemical properties, subcellular localization, domain architectures, 3D structures, N-glycosylation & phosphorylation sites, and phylogeney of the VvGLPs were investigated using the latest computational tools. Their functions were predicted using the Search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins (STRING) and Blast2Go servers. Most of the VvGLPs were extracellular (43%) in nature but also showed periplasmic (29%), plasma membrane (14%), and mitochondrial- or chloroplast-specific (14%) expression. The functional analysis predicted unique enzymatic activities for these proteins including terpene synthase, isoprenoid synthase, lipoxygenase, phosphate permease, receptor kinase, and hydrolases generally mediated by Mn+ cation. VvGLPs showed similarity in the overall structure, shape, and position of the cupin domain. Functionally, VvGLPs control and regulate the production of secondary metabolites to cope with various stresses. Phylogenetically VvGLP1, -3, -4, -5, and VvGLP7 showed greater similarity due to duplication while VvGLP2 and VvGLP6 revealed a distant relationship. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of diverse cis-regulatory elements among which CAAT box, MYB, MYC, unnamed-4 were common to all of them. The analysis will help to utilize VvGLPs and their promoters in future food programs by developing resistant cultivars against various biotic (Erysiphe necator and in Powdery Mildew etc.) and abiotic (Salt, drought, heat, dehydration, etc.) stresses.

Therapeutic potential of herbal medicine for the management of hyperlipidemia: latest updates

Hyperlipidemia, the most common form of dyslipidemia, is the main source of cardiovascular disorders, characterized by elevated level of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in peripheral blood. It is caused by a defect in lipid metabolism in the surface of Apoprotein C-II or a defect in lipoprotein lipase activity as well as reported in genetic, dietary and environmental factors. Several electronic databases were investigated as information sources, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Semantic Scholar, MEDLINE and CNKI Scholar. The current review focused on the risk factors of dyslipidemia, synthetic medication with their side effects and different types of medicinal plants having significant potential for the management of hyperlipidemia. The management of hyperlipidemia mostly involves a constant decrease in lipid level using different remedial drugs like statin, fibrate, bile acid sequestrates and niacin. However, this extensive review suggested that the consequences of these drugs are arguable, due to their numerous adverse effects. The selected parts of herb plants are used intact or their extracts containing active phytoconstituents to regulate the lipids in blood level. It was also noted that the Chinese herbal medicine and combination therapy is promising for the lowering of hyperlipidemia. This review intends to provide a scientific base for future endeavors, such as in-depth biological and chemical investigations into previously researched topics.

GC-MS analysis of organic fractions of Chrozophora tinctoria (L.) A.Juss. and their prokinetic propensity in animal models

Chrozophora tinctoria (L.) A.Juss. is herbaceous, monecious annual plant used traditionally to cure gastrointestinal disorders. The present study was carried out to find the bioactive compounds by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, the acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential acute toxicity, and emetic activity present in the ethyl acetate fraction of Chrozophora tinctoria (EAFCT) and dichloromethane fraction of Chrozophora tinctoria (DCMFCT). The compounds detected in both fractions were mostly fatty acids, with about seven compounds in EAFCT and 10 in DCMFCT. These included pharmacologically active compounds such as imipramine, used to treat depression, or hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, an antioxidant, nematicide, pesticide, hypocholesterolemic, 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid, ethyl ester, (Z,Z,Z)- is used as a cancer preventive, antiarthritic, antihistaminic, hepatoprotective, insectifuge, nematicide, Pentadecanoic acid, 14-methyl-, methyl ester have antifungal, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, 10-Octadecanoic acid, methyl ester have the property to decrease blood cholesterol, Antioxidant and antimicrobial, 1-Eicosanol is used as an antibacterial, 1-Hexadecene has antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal activities. Both DCMFCT and EAFCT fractions inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity with IC50 values of 10 µg and 130 µg, respectively. Both the fractions were found to be toxic in a dose-dependent manner, inducing emesis at 0.5g onward and lethargy and mortality from 3-5 g upwards. Both the fractions combined with distilled water showed highly emetic activity. The significant increase in the number of vomits was shown by EAFCT plus distilled water which are 7.50±1.29, 7.25±3.10, and 11.75±2.22 number of vomits at 1g, 2g, and 3g/kg concentration respectively, while DCMFCT plus distilled water showed 5.25±2.22, 7.50±2.52 and 10.25±2.22 number of vomits at 1g, 2, and 3g/kg correspondingly. The antiemetic standard drug metoclopramide has a higher impact against the emesis induced by both the fractions than dimenhydrinate. Metoclopramide decreases the number of vomits caused by EAFCT to 1.00±0.00, 2.00±0.00, 4.00±1.00 at 1g, 2, and 3g/kg sequentially, while dimenhydrinate decreases the number of vomits to 1.33±0.58, 2.33±1.15, 4.33±0.58 at 1g, 2, and 3g respectively. In the same way, Metochloprimide decreases the number of emesis caused by DcmCt from 5.25±2.22, 7.50±2.52, 10.25±2.22 to 1.33±0.58, 2.33±1.1, 4.33±0.58 at 1g, 2, and 3g/kg concentrations. The present study is the first documented report that scientifically validates the folkloric use of Chrozophora tinctoria as an emetic agent.

Chemical divergence of the Juglans Regia L. across districts Swat and Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Juglans regia L. are nutritious fruit bearing plants mostly found in Northern areas of Pakistan. The population of walnuts was explored from district Dir and Swat Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan for their geographical, climatic and chemical divergence. The geographical differences such as altitude, latitude and longitude whereas climatic differences viz. soil EC, soil pH, precipitations, intensity of light, temperature and soil temperature. In both districts TPC ranged from 211.2±0.6 to 227.8±0.4 mg/100g, RSA ranged from 43.32±1.5% to 52.18±0.4%, conductivity ranged from 296.43±0.6 to 312.22±0.3 S/m and elemental composition such as iron, copper, calcium, zinc and magnesium in Dir differs from 0.312±0.032, 0.209±0.13, 20.0±0.313, 0.406±0.10 and 10.2±0.030 mg/L to 0.543±0.65, 0.698±0.82, 28.7±0.234, 0.685±0.15 and 17.6±0.015 mg/L respectively. Altitude and temperature showed a correlation with total phenolics contents and radical scavenging activity while soil pH, precipitations, soil temperature, soil Ec and light intensity indicated a weak correlation with chemical traits of walnuts. Further studies of walnuts are needed to explore their therapeutically important phytochemicals to succeed naturally pharmaceutical nutrients of the maximum significance for the health of human beings.

A comprehensive review on the documented characteristics of four Reticulitermes termites (Rhinotermitidae, Blattodea) of China

Termites are known as social insects worldwide. Presently in China 473 species, 44 genera and 4 families of termites have been reported. Of them, 111 Reticulitermes species are widely spread in different zones of China. The dispersion flight season of these Chinese Reticulitermes species are usually started from February to June, but in some regions different species are distributed, sharing their boundaries and having overlapping flight seasons. These reasons become important sources of hybridization between two different heterospecific populations of termites. It was confirmed that the fertilized eggs and unfertilized eggs of some Reticulitermes termites have the capacity of cleavage. While the unfertilized eggs of R. aculabialis, R. chinensis and R. labralis cleaved normally and the only R. aculabialis unfertilized eggs develop in embryos. While, the R. flaviceps and R. chinensis were observed with their abnormal embryonic development, and not hatching of eggs parthenogenetically. They were reported more threatening to Chinese resources as they propagate with parthenogenesis, hybridization and sexual reproduction. Eggshell and macrophiles of eggs play important roles in species identification and control. Although, they are severe pests and cause a wide range of damages to wooden structures and products in homes, buildings, building materials, trees, crops, and forests in China's Mainland.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.): Its Chemistry, Nutritional Composition, Toxicity and Anticancer Properties

The current review discuss the chemistry, nutritional composition, toxicity, and biological functions of garlic and its bioactive compounds against various types of cancers via different anticancer mechanisms. Several scientific documents were found in reliable literature and searched in databases viz Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Research Gate were carried out using keywords such as "garlic", "garlic bioactive compounds", "anticancer mechanisms of garlic", "nutritional composition of garlic", and others. Garlic contains several phytoconstituents with activities against cancer, and these compounds such as diallyl trisulfide (DATS), allicin, and diallyl disulfide (DADS), diallyl sulfide (DAS), and allyl mercaptan (AM). The influence of numerous garlic-derived products, phytochemicals, and nanoformulations on the liver, oral, prostate, breast, gastric, colorectal, skin, and pancreatic cancers has been studied. Based on our search, the bioactive molecules in garlic were found to inhibit the various phases of cancer. Moreover, the compounds in this plant also abrogate the peroxidation of lipids, activity of nitric oxide synthase, epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), protein kinase C, and regulate cell cycle and survival signaling cascades. Hence, garlic and its bioactive molecules exhibit the aforementioned mechanistic actions and thus, they could be used to inhibit the induction, development and progression of cancer. The review describes the nutritional Composition of garlic, its bioactive molecules, and nanoformulations against various types of cancers, as well as the potential for developing these agents as antitumor drugs.

In Vivo and In Silico Studies of Flavonoids Isolated from Pistacia integerrima as Potential Antidiarrheal Agents

Pistacia integerrima leaf galls are used in several traditional medicines to cure many diseases such as diarrhea, asthma, fever, cough, vomiting, and hepatitis. The main goal of the present investigation was to assess the antidiarrheal effect of the Pistacia integerrima extracts/fractions and four isolated flavonoid compounds (1-4) on mice. An in vivo assay involving castor-oil-induced diarrhea was used to evaluate the antidiarrheal potential of extracts/fractions at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg p.o., as well as isolated compounds at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg p.o. Pretreatment of mice with extracts/fractions significantly attenuated castor-oil-induced diarrhea in a dose-dependent manner. Among all crude extracts and fractions, the ethyl acetate extract was the most effective with 100% protection against diarrhea followed by chloroform (75% protection) at 400 mg/kg p.o. Although all the isolated compounds exhibited strong antidiarrheal activity, isolated compounds 1 and 4 demonstrated 100% protection against diarrhea. Moreover, docking models were performed using the Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) and AutoDock software and suggested that the extracts and isolated compounds exert antidiarrheal activity by inhibiting mu-opioid and delta-opioid receptors. Therefore, our finding affords a strong pharmacological basis for the traditional use of P. integerrima galls in the treatment of diarrhea.

Effect of nanostructured lipid carriers on transdermal delivery of tenoxicam in irradiated rats

Transdermal delivery of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is an effective route of drug administration, as it directs the drug to the inflamed site with reduced incidence of systemic adverse effects such as gastric hemorrhage and ulcers. Tenoxicam (TNX) is a member of NSAIDs that are marketed only as oral tablets due to very poor absorption through the skin. The current study intended to formulate and characterize a hydrogel loaded with nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to enhance the transdermal delivery of TNX. Six formulations of TNX were formulated by slight modifications of high shear homogenization and ultrasonication method. The selected formula was characterized for their particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE), in-vitro drug release and ex-vivo skin permeation studies. Moreover, the effectiveness of the developed formula was studied in-vivo using carrageenan-induced paw edema and hyperalgesia model in irradiated rats. Formula F4 was chosen from six formulations, as the average diameter was 679.4 ± 51.3 nm, PDI value of about 0.02, zeta potential of -4.24 mV, EE of 92.36%, globules nanoparticles without aggregations and absence of interactions in the developed formula. Additionally, the in-vivo study showed the efficacy of formula F4 (TNX-NLCs hydrogel) equivalent to oral TNX in reducing the exaggerated inflammatory response induced by carrageenan after irradiation. In conclusion, the present findings suggest that TNX-NLCs hydrogel could be a potential transdermal drug delivery system alternative to the oral formulation for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions.

Sedative-hypnotic effect and in silico study of dinaphthodiospyrols isolated from Diospyros lotus Linn

Traditionally, Diospyros lotus Linn is used for insomnia and other associated disorders. Insomnia is a worldwide disorder with different etiology which is treated with different synthetic medicine associated with addiction. Natural products are generally devoid of such addition with good efficacy. Current research was conducted to evaluate the sedative and hypnotic effects of dimeric naphthoquinones such as dinaphthodiospyrol A (1), dinaphthodiospyrol B (2), dinaphthodiospyrol C (3), dinaphthodiospyrol D (4), dinaphthodiospyrol E (5) and dinaphthodiospyrol F (6) isolated from the chloroform fractions of D. lotus. The sedative and hypnotic effects at the dose of 5 and 10 mg/kg (each compound) were assessed through open field and phenobarbital induced sleep test, respectively. In the case of open field test the administration of tested compounds significantly hindered the movement of animals, while in case of hypnotic effect the tested samples significantly improved the onset and duration of sleep as compared to control. The overall effects were in a dose dependent manner. The compounds were also assessed for acute toxicity, but no toxicity was observed. In this regard, our research triumphantly announced the strong chemical base for the folkloric values of the plant with their fringe benefits and implemented a platform for further aspects of mechanistic and clinical studies. A possible mechanism of in vivo inhibition was studied by using docking simulations on GABA receptors. Binding orientations and types of interactions revealed that a possible mechanism behind these pharmacological actions might be interaction with GABA receptors.

In Vivo Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, and Sedative Studies of the Extract and Naphthoquinone Isolated from Diospyros kaki (Persimmon)

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative medicine is used with numerous side effects, including peptic ulcer, headache, addiction, and other complications. In this regard, discovery research is undergoing a process to discover effective, safe, and economical drugs with no side effects. The aim of this study was to assess chloroform extracts and isolated compounds for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative activities in animal models. The anti-inflammatory potential was measured by using the carrageenan-induced and histamine-induced paw edema procedure, while the analgesic potential was determined using a hot plate analgesiometer. The sedative effect was observed in an animal model for screening of the locomotor effect of the extract and isolated compound 1. Our data exhibited that the extract and compound 1 attenuated carrageenan-induced and histamine-induced paw edema (93.98 and 89.54%, respectively). Furthermore, compound 1 attenuated biphasic edema associated with histamine and prostaglandins. The chloroform extract showed a moderate analgesic effect; however, compound 1 showed a significant analgesic potential (p < 0.001) by increasing the latency time of the animals in the thermally induced algesia model. Compound 1 exhibited a significant sedative effect and dose-dependent analgesic activity. It is concluded that the chloroform extract and compound 1 showed remarkable anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative activities. This research work strongly rationalizes the folkloric usage of Diospyros kaki in the treatment of inflammation, pain, and insomnia.

Evaluation of the anti-diarrheal effects of the whole plant extracts of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb in pigeons

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The antidiarrheal activity of C. reflexa was evaluated in pigeons using the juice, aqueous, and methanol extracts.

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The antidiarrheal effect of C. reflexa was evaluated using different reported research models.

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The juice, aqueous, and methanol extract of C. reflexa exhibit significant anti-motility and anti-secretory potential.

Background

Cuscuta reflexa (dodder) belonging to the family Convolvulaceae has many ethno-medicinal uses such as antidiarrheal and antiemetic. This plant has been employed to treat diarrhea, where the antidiarrheal use of this plant is well established in different communities around the world without scientific bases. In addition, the antibacterial, anthelmintic, anticholinergic, and antihistaminic effects of this parasitic vine are partly responsible for the folkloric antidiarrheal use of this plant. In the present study, the antidiarrheal activity of C. reflexa was evaluated in pigeons (Columba livia) using the juice (JCR), aqueous (CRAE), and methanol (CRME) extracts.

Methods

The antidiarrheal effect of C. reflexa was evaluated using different reported research models, with few modifications. In pigeons, diarrhea was induced by administration of castor oil (6 mL/kg, PO), ampicillin (250 mg/kg, IP), magnesium sulfate (2 gm/kg, PO), and cisplatin (6 mg/kg, IV). In these experiments, loperamide (2 mg/kg, IM) was used as a positive control, whereas JCR (1 mL/kg (1%) and 1 mL/kg (2%), CRAE (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) and CRME (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were administered intramuscularly at different doses into each pigeon in the test groups.

Results

In addition to cisplatin-induced diarrhea, all paradigms tested gave significant results (P < 0.01). The JCR, at different doses, exhibited a significant (p < 0.01) a dose-dependent antidiarrheal effect on both the frequency and the onset of diarrhea. Similarly, CRAE and CRME, at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg, showed considerable (p < 0.001) inhibition against the onset and frequency of diarrhea. On the other hand, JCR, CRAE, and CRME exerted significant effects (p < 0.001) on the percentage inhibition (PI) of diarrhea and gastrointestinal charcoal transit in a dose-dependent manner. In this respect, the maximum PI (p < 0.01) of JCR, CRAE, and CRME in different experimental paradigms was 43.13, 49.14, and 55.99 %, respectively.

Conclusions

Taken all together, results from this study reveal that the juice, aqueous, and methanol extract of C. reflexa exhibit significant anti-motility and anti-secretory potential. These findings may explain the medicinal use of C. reflexa in folk medicine as an antidiarrheal medicinal plant.

Novel Anticancer Dimeric Napthoquiones from Diospyros lotus Having Anti-Tumor, Anti-Inflammatory and Multidrug Resistance Reversal Potential: In Vitro, In Vivo and In Silico Evidence

BACKGROUND

Cancer being a genetically heterogenous and complex disease and the available therapies are not very effective, rendering them the predominant cause of mortality across the world. The discovery of new anticancer drugs with higher efficacy and milder side effects is a great challenge for health professionals.

OBJECTIVE

The current study focused on anticancer potential of two known dimeric napthoquiones, diospyrin (1) and 8-hydroxydiospyrin (2) isolated from the roots of Diospyros lotus.

METHODS

In-vitro Epstein-Barr-Virus (EVA) early antigen activation assay was used to evaluate the antitumor potential of test compounds followed by two-stage carcinogenesis assay on mouse skin for anti-carcinogenic effect. Compounds were also assessed for their multidrug resistance reversal potential. The in-vitro heat induced protein denaturation assay was used for the anti-inflammatory effect of the test compounds.

RESULTS

Both compounds evoked marked cytotoxic activity with IC50 of 47.40 and 36.91 ppm, respectively. In Epstein-Barr-Virus (EVA) early antigen activation assay compounds 1 and 2 showed IC50 values of 426 ppm and 412 ppm, respectively. The tested compounds showed 60% survival rate of the lymphoblastoid Raji cells at a concentration of 1000 (mol / ratio 32 pmol TPA). In two-stage carcinogenesis assay on mouse skin, both compounds significantly delayed the formation of papillomas on mouse skin. Compound 1 showed 50% effect at 14th weeks, whereas compound 2 exerted the same effect at 13th weeks, while both provoked 100% effect at 20th weeks. Both compounds significantly attenuated thermal induced protein denaturation with EC50 values of 298 and 264 µg/mL, respectively. The dimeric napthoquiones were evaluated for their effects on the reversion of multidrug resistant (MDR) cell lines mediated by P-glycoprotein using rhodamine 123 dye-based exclusion screening test on human mdr1 gene transfected thymic lymphoma L5178 cell line. The compounds 1 and 2 exhibited promising MDR reversal effect in a dose-dependent manner against mouse Tlymphoma cell line. Docking results also showed that both compounds have good docking statistics as compared with standard.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the compounds demonstrated marked anti-tumor, anti-carcinogenic, and MDR reversal effects with significant attenuation of thermal induced denaturation of protein. These compounds may explain the traditional uses of D. lotus and might be effective anticancer agents.

Gastrointestinal Motility, Muscle Relaxation, Antipyretic and Acute Toxicity Screening of Amyrin Type Triterpenoid (Daturaolone) Isolated From Datura metel Linnaeus (Angel's Trumpet) Fruits

Datura metel Linn is used traditionally for the treatment of various diseases including relaxation of smooth muscles, relief of fever, as well as gastrointestinal disorder. This study deals with the bio-guided isolation of an active, amyrin-type triterpenoid, namely 3-oxo-6-β-hydroxy-β-amyrin (daturaolone; 1), from the chloroform fraction of Datura metel L. (Angel’s trumpet) fruits and its gastrointestinal motility, antipyretic, and muscle relaxation effects in animal models. The chemical structure of daturaolone (1) was elucidated by NMR spectroscopy and crystallography techniques. The chloroform fraction and daturaolone (1) were assessed for the GIT motility test. Data exhibited in charcoal meal GI transit test show that chloroform fraction and daturaolone (1) significantly reduce GIT motility and increased intestinal transit time, comparable to the standard (atropine), a muscarinic receptor blocking agent. Muscle relaxant potency of the extract and daturaolone (1) was assessed in various animal paradigms. In the inclined plane screening test, it produced a significant (P < 0.05) muscle relaxation potential in a dose-dependent manner after 30, 60, and 90 min. Likewise, the muscle relaxation potential of the extract and daturaolone (1) was strongly complemented by the chimney and traction test, representing a dominant effect after 60 min of sample administration. The chloroform fraction showed good antipyretic activity, and while daturaolone (1) exhibited significant activity at a higher dose, the maximum effect (84.64%) was at 20 mg/kg i.p. In acute toxicity screening test, the chloroform extract (100, 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg) and daturaolone (1) (5, 10, 20, and 50 mg/kg) were found safe. In conclusion, the chloroform extract and daturaolone (1) exhibited strong gastrointestinal motility, muscle relaxation, and antipyretic activity in different animal models and intestinally, was found safe at higher tested doses.

Anti-inflammatory and In Silico Docking Studies of Heterophragma adenophyllum Seem Stem Constituents

Heterophragma adenophyllum is a traditional medicinal plant that has been used as anti-inflammatory and to relief muscular tension. In the current research, four isolated constitutes namely lapacho (1), peshawaraquinone (2), indanone derivatives (3), α-lapachone (4) of H. adenophyllum were tested for anti-inflammatory effect using the carrageenan- and histamine-induced paw edema paradigm. The tested compounds (1-4) were evaluated for anti-inflammatory effect during the early and late phase of edema induction. In the early phase, all tested compounds (0.5 2.5 mg/kg each i.p.) demonstrated less than 50% effect, while in the later phase, compounds (2 and 3) demonstrated 85.66 and 89.87% attenuation. In addition, compounds (1-4) were subjected to histamine-induced inflammation, where compounds 2 and 3 exhibited excellent effects 86.87 and 89.98%, respectively at 5 mg/kg after the 2nd hour of administration, whereas compounds 1 and 4 did not exhibit any significant effect as compared with the negative control. Molecular docking results revealed a very high potency of compound based on the protein-ligand interaction (PLI) profile, which was further evaluated through a molecular dynamic simulation study. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory effect of H. adenophyllum attributed to the presence of these bioactive compounds (1-4) strongly supports the traditional uses of H. adenophyllum for treatment of inflammation. However, compounds 2 and 3 which exerted anti-inflammatory effect must be subjected for further mechanistic studies.

Hepcidin, an overview of biochemical and clinical properties

Hepcidin is a peptide hormone which helps in regulating iron homeostasis in the human body. Iron obtained from daily diet is passed through the intestinal enterocyte apical membrane via divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), which is either stored as ferritin or moved into the plasma by hepcidin-ferroportin (Fpn) as an exporter. Hepcidin (hepatic bactericidal protein) is a cysteine rich peptide, was initially identified as a urinary antimicrobial peptide. It contains 25 amino acids and four disulfide bridges. It has significant role in regulation of iron in the body. Stimulation of iron in plasma and further its storage is linked with the production of hepcidin. This enhancement of iron hampers the absorption of iron from the diet. The cause of hereditary recessive anemia also known as Iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia (IRIDA) is characterized by increased hepcidin production due to a gene mutation in the suppressor matriptase-2/TMPRSS6. During infection, hepcidin plays a defensive role against various infections by depleting the extracellular iron from the body. Moreover, hepcidin lowers the concentrations of iron from the duodenal enterocytes, macrophages and also decrease its transport across the placenta.This review highlights the significant role of hepcidin in the iron homeostasis and as an antimicrobial agent.

In vivo analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative activity and a molecular docking study of dinaphthodiospyrol G isolated from Diospyros lotus

BACKGROUND

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative drugs are available with potential side effects such as peptic ulcer and addiction among other things. In this regard, research is underway to find safe, effective, and economical drugs free of these side effects. In this study, an isolated natural product from Diospyros lotus, was tested for the aforementioned bioactivities.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative potential of D. lotus extracts in animal paradigms using BALB/c mice as experimental model.

METHODS

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and sedative activities of dinaphthodiospyrol G (1) isolated from the chloroform fraction of D. lotus were evaluated using different experimental procedures. Anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using the carrageenan and histamine-induced paw edema, whereas the antinociceptive effect was quantified by means of the hot plate analgesiometer. On the other hand, the sedative effect was determined using animal assay for screening the locomotors effects of compound 1. Compound 1 was also subjected to molecular modeling studies against cyclooxygenase enzymes.

RESULTS

Results from this investigation showed that the extract is devoid of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive potentials but has a significant sedative effect, whereas the tested compound exhibited 55.23 and 78.34% attenuation in paw edema by carrageenan and histamine assays, respectively. A significant (p < 0.001) and dose-dependent antinociceptive and sedative effects were demonstrated by the isolated compound. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies of the isolated compound against cyclooxygenase enzyme indicated that compound 1 forms specific interactions with key residues in the active site of the target receptor, which validates the potential use of the isolated compound as cyclooxygenase inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

Compound 1 exhibited remarkable analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative activities. These findings strongly justify the traditional use of D. lotus in the treatment of inflammation, pain, and insomnia.

In vitro α-glycosidase and urease enzyme inhibition profile of some selected medicinal plants of Pakistan

The current study aims at exploring enzyme inhibition of four species of medicinal herbs, namely Senna bicapsularis, Thevetia peruviana, Nerium oleander and Vinca major. Plant selection was done on the basis of their therapeutic uses by local practitioners. The crude methanolic extracts of these plants were tested for their α-glycosidase and urease enzyme inhibition potential. The observed urease inhibitory potential for the crude extract of S. bicapsularis, T. peruviana and N. oleander were 8.3 ± 0.33 μg, 6.98 ± 0.98 μg and 9.56 ± 1.43 μg, respectively while the V. major did not show any inhibition. In addition, the IC₅₀ value for Thiourea was 22.3 ± 1.14 μg. The crude extracts of S. bicapsularis, T. peruviana, N. oleander, V. major were shown to inhibit α-glycosidase activity with an IC₅₀ value of 630.3 ± 0.03 μg, 700.7 ± 2.43 μg, 430.4 ± 3.97 μg, and the standard (acarbose) 880 ± 1.03  μM, respectively. Based on the TLC profile, the extract of S. bicapsularis was subjected to column chromatography and the major component named rhein (1) was identified. Compound 1 exhibited excellent urease and α-glycosidase inhibitory activity with an IC₅₀ value of 7.4 ± 0.32 and 622.3 ± 1.03 μM, respectively.

In-vitro and in-silico anticancer potential of taxoids from Taxus wallichiana Zucc

INTRODUCTION

Natural products derived from medicinal plants provide beneficial cancer chemotherapeutic drugs. Bioactive constituents from plants are explored for their anticancer properties.

METHODS

Three known compounds (deacetylbaccatin III, tasumatrol B, and taxawallin J) were isolated from Taxus wallichiana. Compounds were screened against four cancer cell lines, such as eA498, HepG2, NCI-H226, and MDR 2780AD. Cytotoxic activity was evaluated using MTT assay against cancer cell lines.

RESULTS

Tasumatrol B showed good cytotoxic activity conducted for the improvement of inhibiting potential of these compounds against the cancer drug target protein (EGFR tyrosine kinase enzyme). The docking study showed that all compounds have binding affinities and interaction profile with the receptor tyrosine kinase.

DISCUSSION

The study suggests that these compounds could be used for the discovery of novel inhibitors against the target receptors for the treatment of cancer.

Anti-Dengue, Cytotoxicity, Antifungal, and In Silico Study of the Newly Synthesized 3-O-Phospo-α-D-Glucopyranuronic Acid Compound

The aim of the current study was to synthesize new bioactive compounds and evaluate their therapeutic relevance. The chemical structure of compound 7 (methyl 3-O-phospo-α-D-glucopyranuronic acid was elucidated by physical and advance spectral technique. Also, this compound was assessed for various in vitro biological screening. The results showed that compound 7 has promising antifungal activity against selected fungal strains. Computational study was also carried out to find antimalarial efficacy of the synthesized compounds. Compounds (2-7) were tested for cytotoxicity by MTT assay, and no considerable cytotoxicity was observed. Molecular docking study was performed to predict the binding modes of new compound (7). The docking results revealed that the compound has strong attraction towards the target protein, as characterized by good bonding networks. On the basis of the acquired results, it can be predicted that compound (7) might show good inhibitory activity against dengue envelope protein.

Gastrointestinal Motility and Acute Toxicity of Pistagremic Acid Isolated from the Galls of Pistacia integerrima

BACKGROUND

Pistacia integerrima has many medicinal uses in therapeutic as well as folk medicine. P. integerrima has been used for the treatment of different ailments such as blood purifier, anti-inflammatory, and as remedy for gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting and diarrhea, expectorant, cough, asthma and fever.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this research work was to evaluate the effect of pistagremic acid (PA) isolated from the galls of Pistacia integerima in acute toxicity and gastrointestinal (GIT) motility tests.

METHODS

Compound 1 namely pistagremic acid (PA) (at 10, 50, 100 mg/kg i.p) were assessed for their in-vivo gastrointestinal motility test using charcoal screening model.

RESULTS

Results revealed that pretreatment of PA exhibited substantial safety in acute toxicity test up to the dose of 500 mg/kg p.o. However, when studied in charcoal meal GI transit test, PA caused significant (p < 0.05) attenuation of GIT motility and an increase in intestinal transit time, comparable to atropine (a muscarinic receptor blocking agent).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, PA displayed a strong dose-dependent reduction in GIT motility with considerable safety.

Diospyros, an under-utilized, multi-purpose plant genus: A review

The genus Diospyros from family Ebenaceae has versatile uses including edible fruits, valuable timber, and ornamental uses. The plant parts of numerous species have been in use as remedies in various folk healing practices, which include therapy for hemorrhage, incontinence, insomnia, hiccough, diarrhea etc. Phytochemical constituents such as terpenoids, ursanes, lupanes, polyphenols, tannins, hydrocarbons, and lipids, benzopyrones, naphthoquinones, oleananes, and taraxeranes have been isolated from different species of this genus. The biological activities of these plants such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, anthelmintic, antihypertensive, cosmeceutical, enzyme-inhibitory etc. have been validated by means of an in vitro, in vivo, and clinical tests. As a rich reserve of pharmacologically important components, this genus can accelerate the pace of drug discovery. Accordingly, the aim of the present review is to survey and summarize the recent literature pertaining to the medicinal and pharmacological uses of Diospyros, and to select experimental evidence on the pharmacological properties of this genus. In addition, the review also aims at identifying areas that need development to make use of this genus, especially its fruit and phytochemicals as means for economic development and for drug discovery.

In vivo antinociceptive and muscle relaxant activity of leaf and bark of Buddleja asiatica L

The current study was designed to assess the antinociceptive and skeleton muscle relaxant effect of leaves and barks of Buddleja asiatica in animal models. In acetic acid induced writhing test, pretreatment of ethanolic extract of leaves and barks evoked marked dose dependent antinociceptive effect with maximum of 70% and 67% pain relief at 300mg/kg i.p. respectively. In chimney test, the ethanolic extract of leaves and barks evoked maximum of 66.66% and 53.33% muscle relaxant effect after 90min of treatment at 300mg/kg i.p respectively. In traction test, the ethanolic extract of leaves and barks caused maximum of 60% and 73.33% muscle relaxant effect after 90min of treatment at 300mg/kg i.p respectively. In short, both leaves and barks demonstrated profound antinociceptive and skeleton muscle relaxant effects and thus the study provided natural healing agents for the treatment of said disorders.

A comparison of the chromatographic properties of silica gel and silicon hydride modified silica gels

The retention properties of a silica gel column and a type C silica (silicon hydride) column for bases, sugars and polar acids were compared in hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) mode with formic acid or ammonium acetate as aqueous phase modifiers. The type C silica column was much more retentive for a series of model bases than the silica gel column and, surprisingly, retention of bases increased on the type C silica column when, the higher pH, ammonium acetate containing mobile phase was used. The retention of sugars was greater on the type C silica column than on the silica gel column and also increased on the type C silica column with increased pH suggesting either a silanophilic mechanism of retention or some unknown mechanism. Three type C silica based columns, type C silica, cogent diamond hydride and a β-pinene modified column, which it was hoped might exert some additional stereochemical discrimination, were tested for metabolomic profiling of urine. In general the unmodified type C silica column gave the strongest retention of the many polar metabolites in urine and could provide a useful complement to established HILIC methods for metabolomic profiling.