Removal of Azo Dyes from Water Using Natural Luffa cylindrica as a Non-Conventional Adsorbent

Reducing high concentrations of pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, drugs, and dyes from water is an emerging necessity. We evaluated the use of Luffa cylindrica (Lc) as a natural non-conventional adsorbent to remove azo dye mixture (ADM) from water. The capacity of Lc at three different doses (2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 g/L) was evaluated using three concentrations of azo dyes (0.125, 0.250, and 0.500 g/L). The removal percent (R%), maximum adsorption capacity (Qm), isotherm and kinetics adsorption models, and pH influence were evaluated, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed. The maximum R% was 70.8% for 10.0 g L-1Lc and 0.125 g L-1 ADM. The Qm of Lc was 161.29 mg g-1. Adsorption by Lc obeys a Langmuir isotherm and occurs through the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Statistical analysis showed that the adsorbent dose, the azo dye concentration, and contact time significantly influenced R% and the adsorption capacity. These findings indicate that Lc could be used as a natural non-conventional adsorbent to reduce ADM in water, and it has a potential application in the pretreatment of wastewaters.

Green biodegradable dielectric material made from PLA and electron beam irradiated luffa cylindrica fiber: devices for a sustainable future

The growing prevalence of polymer-based plastics in the environment is an imminent risk to the natural world. As an immediate consequence of this, extensive research has been launched over the course of the past few decades in an effort to reduce the damage that manmade plastics cause to the natural environment. The current study attempts to explore the biodegradability of polylactic acid (PLA), a bio-compatible plastic, by incorporating small amount of electron beam irradiated natural fibers (2 to 10%) derived from luffa cylindrica (LC) at varying irradiation doses (0.5 Gy, 1 Gy, and 2 Gy). Natural fiber surface treatment using electron beam irradiation is effective and environmentally friendly. The biodegradation of composites was studied for 90 days in sand, soil, compost, brackish water, fresh water, salt water, and bacterial and fungal conditions. Maximum decomposition was observed in the composite sample (PLA/10% wt of LC fiber at 2.0 Gy) at 15.42% and 4.73% in bacterial and soil environments. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy validated the fiber and PLAs crystallinity and molecular interaction. The derivative thermo-gravimetric curve (DTGA) showed that electron beam irradiation removed moisture, hemicelluloses, and lignin from hydrophilic fibers. The incorporation of LC fibers into the bio-composites resulted in an increase in the glass transition temperature (Tg), melting temperature (Tm), and crystallization temperature (Tc). Additionally, after LC fiber reinforcement, the composites' dielectric properties were enhanced.

Novel 3D carbon fibers derived from Luffa wastes for oil/water separation

In this study, the 3D structure of carbon fibers (CFs) was prepared from Luffa sponge wastes by H₃PO₄ impregnation with various ratios and a low-temperature carbonization process at 500 °C in a nitrogen atmosphere. The H₃PO₄-treated Luffa sponge had higher thermal stability and carbonic yield (∼60-70%) than neat-Luffa (∼21%). Characterization analyses exposed that the synthesized CFs derived from H₃PO₄-treated Luffa exhibited oleophilic and hydrophobic carbonic nature with 3D sponge skeletal, reflecting an ideal structure for oil sorption. The engine oil sorption properties on the CFs were studied by varying the contact time. The engine oil sorption equilibrium data for 3D CFs samples was explained by the pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion models. The equilibrium oil sorption capacities of 3D CFs were as large as 23.1 ± 0.4 g/g for engine oil, 23.7 ± 1.0 g/g for gasoline, 28.1 ± 1.0 g/g for almond oil, and 29.2 ± 0.8 g/g for pomegranate seed oil in 20 min. Moreover, the optimized 3D CFs can be selectively for oil/water separation applications, such as high capacities for various oils, fast kinetic sorption, and reusability (>6 cycles). This research presented a facile and cost-effective process for the 3D CFs through recycling Luffa sponge wastes for rapid oil sorption.

An in vitro evaluation of luffa cylindrica stem sap in preadipocytes and dermal fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

Luffa cylindrica stem sap (LuCS) has been ethnopharmacologically used as a cosmetic ingredients to improve the facial condition in Asians, but there is no scientific proof about the advantages of LuCS as a supplement for skin elasticity inducer.

PURPOSE

Presently, we have validated the beneficial effect of LuCS in human preadipocyte and fibroblast.

METHODS

In vitro activities of LuCS on expression of cellular elastin and collagen type I were validated using Western blot analysis in human fibroblasts. Effect of LuCS on preadipocyte development was performed using MDI medium containing isobutyl-methylxanthine, dexamethasone, and insulin and then evaluated using oil red O staining.

RESULTS

Treatment of LuCS stimulated the expression of cellular elastin and type I procollagen in human skin fibroblasts. Exposure to LuCS induced lipid accumulation of preadipocytes via activation of CEBP/α signaling pathway in preadipocytes. Expression of collagen I, elastin, or CEBP/α mRNA was decreased by age. 3-bromo-3-methylisoxazol-5-amine enhanced the synthesis of cellular lipid in preadipocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these results suggest the rationale of LuCS treatment in enhancing the skin condition.

Luffa operculata at a late period of gestation dysregulates melatonin and cytokines interfering with weight of dams and their male offspring

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The tea made with the fruits of Luffa operculata (L.) Cogn. (Cucurbitaceae; EBN) is popularly used as abortive.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present work aimed at accessing how the exposition of female Wistar rats to 1.0 mg/kg of EBN (experimental group, EG), or distilled water (control group, CG), by gavage, at gestational days (GD) 17-21 interfered with the reproductive performance, and with dams' behavior after weaning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

At post-natal day 2 (PND2), the number of male and female pups was evaluated, as well as their weight. After weaning (PND21), dams were euthanized, and their liver and kidneys were removed for histological and biochemical analyses, while the blood was used in the evaluation of cytokines IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, corticosterone, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, melatonin, AST, ALT and creatinine levels.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Dams that were treated with EBN showed an anxiety-like behavior, weight loss at the end of gestation and weight gain at weaning, accompanied with a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines and in the melatonin level. No significant histological or biochemical alterations have occurred in the liver or kidneys. The number of female pups was significantly higher in the EG. The male pups showed weight gain at PND60.

CONCLUSION

The presence of cucurbitacins is probably involved in the dysregulations that were found, due to their polycyclic steroid triterpene structure.

Study on biodegradability and thermal behaviour of composites using poly lactic acid and gamma-irradiated fibres of Luffa cylindrica

Surface modification of natural fibres by gamma irradiation is an economical and potent technique. The biodegradability of gamma irradiated Luffa cylindrica (LC) fibres having response of doses (0.5Gy, 1Gy and 2Gy) is studied. The degradation process is carried out in various environments like compost, sand, soil, salt water, brackish water and sweet water for a period of 90 days and microbial degradation using bacteria and fungi for a period of 90 days. The rate of biodegradation was calculated by measuring the loss of weight of composites at an interval of 30 days in each environmental condition. Preliminary results reported that the bacterial environment was the most prominent medium for degradation than fungi. B8 composites showed degradation of 27.5% and 3.59 in bacterial and fungal medium respectively. A minimum degradation was observed in compost medium (0.29%, 2.52%, 0.21%, 0.08%, 0.11%, 0.13%, 0.17%, 1.25% and 1.51% for B1-B9 respectively). For exploring the use of the composites in the field of biomedical sciences, the LC fibres are modified using calcium salts before reinforcement. The thermal properties like crystallization temperature (T_cc), glass transition temperature (T_g), melting peak temperature (T_m) and thermal stability of the bio-composites were analyzed using Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in temperature range from 30 °C to 250 °C and the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was done in the temperature range of 20 °C to 700 °C. With increase in irradiation dose, crystallization temperature and glass transition temperature increased. Increasing in the irradiation dose, thermal stability of the composites decreased.

Cytotoxic and Apoptotic Effects of Luffa Cylindrica Leaves Extract against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemic Stem Cells

BACKGROUND

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is an aggressive malignancy defined by accumulation of lymphoblasts in the bone marrow. Leukemic stem cells (LSCs) are the major cause of the recurrence and metastasis of ALL. This study aimed to develop an effective anti-cancer agent targeting these LSCs. Luffa Cylindrica (L.C.) leaves extract was selected to evaluate its effect on ALL via eradicating the LSCs as it contains many active anti-cancer flavonoids.

METHODS

Thirty-two bone marrow samples of ALL patients were used in this study. LSCs population was identified in the selected samples. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay and flow cytometry. Cell cycle, apoptosis, proliferation marker; ki-67 and colony forming assay were further analyzed.

RESULTS

This study revealed the expression of CD34+/CD38+ cells in addition to CD34+/CD38- population and the extract was effective against the two LSCs populations. MTT assay showed that treated leukemic cells exhibited significant reduction in the viable cells in a dose dependent manner with IC50 of 3 µg/µl which was then confirmed by flow cytometry. Cell cycle analysis results showed significant reduction in the percentage of cells treated with L.C. extract in both the S and G0/G1 phases, with concomitant increase in the G2/M phase. Also, L.C. extract could effectively induce apoptosis, inhibit proliferation and suppress colonogenecity of leukemic cells.

CONCLUSION

This study validated the medicinal potential of L.C. leaves extract as a promising anti-leukemic agent targeting both LSCs and blasts in ALL patients, which may be explained by the synergy found between its potent flavonoids especially apigenin, luteolin and kaempferol.

Iron and zirconium modified luffa fibre as an effective bioadsorbent to remove arsenic from drinking water

Porous luffa plant fibre (LF) was grafted with Fe and Zr, and the ability of the fabricated adsorbents to remove arsenate (As(V)) from water was investigated in batch and column adsorption experiments. The Langmuir adsorption capacity (mg g^-1) at pH 7 of LF was found to be 0.035, which increased to 2.55 and 2.89 after being grafted with Fe (FLF-3) and Zr (ZLF-3), respectively. Grafting with Fe and Zr increased the zeta potential and zero point of charge (ZPC) of LF (from pH 3.9 to 7.4 for Fe grafting and to 7.6 for Zr grafting), due to chemical bonding of the metals, possibly with the hydroxyl and carboxylic groups in LF as indicated in FTIR peaks. Zeta potential and ZPC decreased after As adsorption owing to inner-sphere complexation mechanism of adsorption. The increase of pH from 3 to 10 progressively reduced the adsorbents' adsorption capacity. Co-existing anions weakened the As(V) removal efficiency in the order, PO₄^3- > SiO₃^2- > CO₃^2- > SO₄^2-. Adsorption kinetics data fitted well to the Weber and Morris model, which revealed initial fast and subsequent slow rates of intra-particle As diffusion into the bigger pores and smaller pores, respectively. Column adsorption data fitted well to the Thomas model with the predicted adsorption capacities in the same order as in the batch adsorption experiment (ZLF-3 > FLF-3 > LF).

Synergistic adsorption and electrocatalytic reduction of bromate by Pd/N-doped loofah sponge-derived biochar electrode

In this work, a novel Pd/N-doped loofah sponge-derived biochar (Pd/NLSBC) material with three-dimensional (3D) network structure was prepared through the carbonization-impregnation method and applied as cathode for electrocatalytic bromate removal. The N-doped biochar not only increased the adsorption capacity of electrode, but also facilitated electron transfer, subsequently resulting in the high electrocatalytic activity for bromate removal. The results indicated higher bromate adsorption capacity of Pd/NLSBC electrode was favorable to the electrocatalytic bromate removal. The influences of significant operating factors including calcination temperature, initial solution pH, applied current intensity, and initial bromate concentration on electrocatalytic bromate removal were also optimized. Under the current intensity of 10 mA, Pd/NLSBC-800 exhibited the highest bromate removal efficiency (96.7 %) and the bromide conversion rate reached almost 100 % at the initial bromate concentration of 0.781 μmol L^-1. This process could be effectively performed over a wide range of pH (2.0-9.0) and be well fitted to the pseudo-first-order kinetic model under different conditions. The reaction mechanism study indicated that both direct electron transfer and indirect reduction by the active hydrogen atom (H*) contributed to the elctrocatalytic bromate removal. Meanwhile, Pd/NLSBC-800 electrode could maintain its high electrocatalytic activity for bromate removal after five cycles.

Loofah-derived activated carbon supported on nickel foam (AC/Ni) electrodes for the electro-sorption of ammonium ion from aqueous solutions

Activated carbon (AC), prepared from dried loofah sponge, was supported on nickel foam to fabricate AC/Ni electrodes. The characteristics of ammonium electrosorption on AC/Ni electrodes was studied. Results showed that AC prepared in one-step activation (without pre-pyrolysis), i.e., OAC, had relatively low crystallinity, high mesoporosity, and high specific capacitance compared to those made in two-step carbonation followed by activation. Adsorption and desorption density of NH₄⁺ were measured at constant potential of -1.0 V (vs. Hg/HgO) and +0.1 V (vs. Hg/HgO), respectively. Non-faradaic charging contributed to the electrochemical storage and adsorption of ammonium ions on the AC surface with a maximal charge efficiency of 80%, at an applied potential of -1.0 V (vs. Hg/HgO). Multiple-layer adsorption isotherm better described the electrosorption of ammonium ion on OAC/Ni electrodes yielding a maximum adsorption capacity of 6 mg-N g^-1, which was comparable with other similar systems. Overall, results clearly demonstrated the effect of synthesis strategy on the capacitive charging behaviors of AC/Ni electrodes and its relationship to NH₄⁺ electrosorption.

Modification of Luffa Sponge for Enrichment of Phosphopeptides

The enrichment technique is crucial to the comprehensive analysis of protein phosphorylation. In this work, a facile, green and efficient synthetic method was set up for quaternization of luffa sponge. The resultant luffa sponge showed strong anion-exchange characteristics and a high adsorption ability for phosphate ions. Along with the unique physical properties, e.g., tenacity and porous texture, quaternized luffa sponge was demonstrated to be a well-suited solid-phase extraction (SPE) material. The quaternized luffa sponge-based SPE method was simple, cost-effective and convenient in operation, and was successfully applied to the capture of phosphopeptides from protein digests. The enrichment approach exhibited exceptionally high selectivity, sensitivity and strong anti-interference ability. Four phosphopeptides were still detected by using the digest mixture of β-casein and bovine serum albumin with a molar ratio of 1:100. 21 phosphopeptides were identified from the tryptic digest of non-fat milk.

Electrochemical degradation of oxalic acid over highly reactive nano-textured γ- and α-MnO2/carbon electrode fabricated by KMnO4 reduction on loofah sponge-derived active carbon

Manganese dioxide incorporated activated carbon (MnO₂/AC) was synthesized and used to electrochemically degrade oxalic acid in aqueous solutions. The highly porous carbon provided reactive sites for the electro-sorption of oxalic acid and MnO₂, with a specific polymorphism efficiently mediating the electron transfer between the electrode and organic pollutants. The activated carbon, made from the pyrolysis of dry loofah sponge using ZnCl₂ as activating agent, exhibited a high double-layer capacitance dependent upon the heating temperature (100 F/g at 800 °C). The γ-MnO₂ was in-situ deposited over the microporous structure of activated carbon through the redox reaction between KMnO₄ and carbon. Simple further calcination converted γ-MnO₂ to α-MnO₂ nano-whisker at temperatures above 500 °C. Cyclic voltammetry showed that oxalic acid significantly improved the anodic current of the Mn(III)/Mn(IV) redox couple on the MnO₂/AC electrode at an electrode potential around + 0.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). About 95% of oxalic acid degradation was achieved at pH < 4; meanwhile, 80% of the mineralization (total organic carbon removal) was attained independent of pH. Calcination converted γ-MnO₂ to α-MnO₂ which had higher electrochemical stability and inhibited the dissolution of Mn(II) from the electrode.

Electro-sorption of ammonium ion onto nickel foam supported highly microporous activated carbon prepared from agricultural residues (dried Luffa cylindrica)

An electrode made of loofah sponge derived activated carbon supported on nickel foam (AC/Ni) was successfully fabricated and used to remove ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) from aqueous solution. A multilayer adsorption isotherm was used to describe ammonium electro-sorption on AC/Ni electrodes at different temperature, initial NH₄⁺ concentration, and electrical field. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) results suggested that the electrical capacitance of AC/Ni electrodes, with the AC being prepared without preheating (OAC) or with low temperature heating (i.e., 300 AC), were higher than those prepared at high preheating temperature (i.e., 400 AC and 500 AC). Increasing the electro-sorption temperature from 10 to 50 °C decreased the monolayer NH₄⁺ adsorption capacity from 5 to ca. 2-3 mg-N g^-1, respectively. Background electrolyte, namely, sodium sulfate, exhibited significant competitive effect on the adsorption of ammonium ion at sodium ion concentration > 10^-2 M. The activation energy and heat of adsorption were 9-23.2 kJ mol^-1 and -3.7--10.7 kJ mol^-1, respectively, indicating a physisorption and exothermic adsorption characteristics. Based on the kinetics and thermodynamics analysis, there was slight increase in the activation energy with elevating preheating temperature, which increased the quantity of micro-pores and surface heterogeneity of the AC materials. Overall, results clearly demonstrated that carbon pyrolysis played a role on the capacitive charging behaviors of electrodes and the efficiency of NH₄⁺ electro-sorption on the AC/Ni electrodes.

Cytotoxic effect of aqueous ethanolic extract of Luffa cylindrica leaves on cancer stem cells CD44+/24- in breast cancer patients with various molecular sub-types using tissue samples in vitro

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Luffa cylindrica (L.) M.Roem is a climbing plant its parts have been used as traditional medicine for the treatment of different types of diseases including diarrhea, inflammation, cancer and viral infections. The parts used include fruit, seeds and leaves.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Our study aims to investigate the effect of the aqueous-ethanol extract of Luffa cylindrica leaves on breast cancer stem cells CD44⁺/24^- and other cell sub-populations using clinical samples with different molecular sub-types of breast cancer in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Breast tissues were obtained from patients undergoing surgery for the removal of breast tumors after complete clinical and pathological investigations. Tissue samples were processed to cell suspensions and treated with the extract in the tissue culture laboratory. Percentages of cell sub-populations within tumors and viability were measured by flowcytometry using clusters of differentiation as cell markers.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that there were decreases in the total cell viability, CD44⁺/24^- and total CD24⁺ cell sub-populations percentages after treatment with the extract, this may be an important indication of using Luffa leaves extract in the treatment of breast cancer or in combination with the traditional treatments.

CONCLUSION

Luffa cylindrica has proven to have anticancer activity on three different subtypes of breast cancer including luminal A, luminal B and Her2/neu enriched more over it has cytotoxic effect on both bulk tumor cells as well as cancer stem cells sub population CD44⁺/24^- which possess high tumorigenic potency, these results were confirmed by measuring their viable number after treatment and sphere formation assay results.

The combination of Luffa cylindrical fibers and metal oxides offers a highly performing hybrid fiber material in water decontamination

The present investigation aims to prepare a hybrid material from Luffa cylindrica and metal oxides (ZnO, Al₂O₃) by precipitation for different percentages of zinc and aluminum (1, 2, and 4%) with a determined amount of biomass (a diameter of 250 μm). Physicochemical characterization of "Luffa cylindrica" and "Luffa cylindrica-metal oxides" was carried out by Boehm titration, pH_PZC determination, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and FTIR spectroscopic analysis. The process was optimized according to the adsorbed amount of methylene blue: MB (cationic dye) and methyl orange: MO (anionic dye) onto Luffa cylindrica and hybrid materials prepared. The results demonstrated the efficiency of the designed hybrid materials in removing MB and MO, accelerating the biosorption process and improving the performance of Luffa cylindrica fibers. The highest quantities adsorbed of dyes were obtained by the hybrid material prepared using 4% ZnO. Finally, the Brouers-Sotolongo mathematical modeling of kinetics was used in order to describe the pollutants retention process.

UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis of a carbonic anhydrase-inhibiting extract and fractions of Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb (ridge gourd)

INTRODUCTION

Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb, commonly known as ridge gourd (cucurbitaceae), is a common vegetable cultivated in India. It is also a well-used medicinal plant in Indian traditional medicine.

OBJECTIVES

To analyse the phenolics content of the most potent carbonic anhydrase-inhibiting fraction from an extract of L. acutangula.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An aqueous ethanol extract of dried fruits of L. acutangula was successively fractionated into petroleum ether, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. The extract and subsequent fractions were assessed for carbonic anhydrase-inhibitory activity and the enzyme inhibition kinetics were determined for the most active fraction. Total phenolic and flavonoid content of the extract and subsequent fractions were determined spectrophotometrically. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) analysis was used to tentatively identify the major phenolics in the most active fraction.

RESULTS

The concentration of total phenolics and total flavonoids in the extract and each fraction thereof correlated with the level of carbonic anhydrase inhibition activity. The ethyl acetate fraction of the aqueous ethanol extract of L. acutangula had the highest carbonic anhydrase inhibition activity. The enzyme kinetics analysis indicated a mixed mode of inhibition. UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction indicated a number of phenolic acids, hydroxycoumarins, flavones, flavanones, and flavonoids.

CONCLUSION

The correlation of total phenolic content with carbonic anhydrase inhibition suggested further research that might confirm that phenolic compounds of L. acutangula offer potential therapeutic benefits against carbonic anhydrase-related disorders.

Turning a Luffa Protein into a Self-Assembled Biodegradable Nanoplatform for Multitargeted Cancer Therapy

The peptide-derived self-assembly platform has attracted increasing attention for its great potential to develop into multitargeting nanomedicines as well as its inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability. However, their clinical application potentials are often compromised by low stability, weak membrane penetrating ability, and limited functions. Herein, inspired by a natural protein from the seeds of Luffa cylindrica, we engineered via epitope grafting and structure design a hybrid peptide-based nanoplatform, termed Lupbin, which is capable of self-assembling into a stable superstructure and concurrently targeting multiple protein-protein interactions (PPIs) located in cytoplasm and nuclei. We showed that Lupbin can efficiently penetrate cell membrane, escape from early endosome-dependent degradation, and subsequently disassemble into free monomers with wide distribution in cytosol and nucleus. Importantly, Lupbin abrogated tumor growth and metastasis through concurrent blockade of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and reactivation of the p53 signaling, with a highly favorable in vivo biosafety profile. Our strategy expands the application of self-assembled nanomedicines into targeting intercellular PPIs, provides a potential nanoplatform with high stability for multitargeted cancer therapy, and likely reinvigorates the development of peptide-based therapeutics for the treatment of different human diseases including cancer.

Highly porous activated carbon with multi-channeled structure derived from loofa sponge as a capacitive electrode material for the deionization of brackish water

A high quality of activated-carbon electrode materials is of great importance for improving the electrochemical performance of desalination in membrane capacitive deionization. In this study, porous activated carbon was prepared by pyrolytic carbonization and chemical activation of lignocellulosic loofa sponge (Luffa cylindrica, LS) to act as a carbonaceous electrode. After activation, a hierarchically porous structure formed, characterized by the generation of micro-/mesopores on the channel walls. The total specific surface area and pore volume of the activated carbon material rose as the alkali/char ratio increased. The LS-based carbon electrode LSCK14, referring to the activation product produced with a KOH/char ratio of 4, displayed excellent electrochemical behavior, characterized by a remarkable specific capacitance of 93.0 F g^-1 at 5 mV s^-1 in 1 M NaCl solution, as well as extraordinary reversibility for capacitive charge storage. Moreover, the electrosorption capacity was investigated in batch-mode membrane capacitive deionization at 1.0 V while treating a 10 mM NaCl electrolyte. As demonstrated, the LSCK14 activated carbon electrode presented a superior electrosorption capacity of 22.5 mg g^-1. The improved capacitor characteristics and high electrosorptive performance of this material can be attributed to its unique porous characteristics (high surface area, micrometer-scale channels and both meso- and micropores). Consequently, activated carbons derived from resource-recovered LS, which combine a multi-channeled structure, mesopores and micropores, were demonstrated to be a promising electrode material for electrochemical water desalination.

Scaling up and kinetic model validation of Direct Black 22 degradation by immobilized Penicillium chrysogenum

This research was undertaken to develop tools that facilitate the industrial application of an immobilized loofah-fungi system to degrade Direct Black 22 (DB22) azo dye. In laboratory-scale tests, the DB22, and loofah as support, were used. Assays without loofah were used as a free-cells control. The use of natural carriers to facilitate adhesion and growth of the fungi has shown favorable results. The degradation rate of immobilized cells increased twice as compared to free-cells control. At day 5 the decolorization was almost complete, while without loofah the total decolorization took more than 10 days. After 10 days, the extent of growth was nine times higher for the immobilized assays in comparison with the control flask. In subsequent experiments decolorization of DB22 was proven in a bench-scale reactor. A previously developed kinetic model was validated during the process. The model validation over free-cells assays gives an average normalized root mean squared error (ANRMSE) of 0.1659. Recalibration steps allowed prediction of the degradation with immobilized cells, resulting in an ANRMSE of 0.1891. A new calibration of the model during the scaling-up process yielded an ANRMSE of 0.1136 for DB22. The results presented encourage the use of this modeling tool in industrial scale facilities.

Production of a halotolerant biofilm from green coffee beans immobilized on loofah fiber (Luffa cylindrica) and its effect on phenanthrene degradation in seawater

A biofilm developed from low quality green coffee beans was tested for its capacity to degrade the polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), phenanthrene (Phe), in seawater. Microorganisms were immobilized on two types of Luffa cylindrica (with three and four placental cavities), and the effects of moisture content (20, 30 and 40% of water holding capacity) and particle size (<0.42 mm, 0.42-0.86 mm and 0.86-2.0 mm) of green coffee beans on microbial activity were considered. Biofilm growth determined by respirometry showed a highest microbial activity at a moisture content of 40% and particle size of 0.42-0.86 mm. The loofah fiber with three placental cavities showed the highest adherence of microorganisms. The kinetics of microbial growth in both seawater and distilled water and the scanning electron microscopies indicated that the microorganisms associated with green coffee beans are halotolerant. In fact, I-GCB-SW-G biofilm degraded 67.56% of Phe (50 mg L^-1) in seawater, at a significantly higher rate than in distilled water (I-GCB-DW-W).

Enhancing adsorption of U(VI) onto EDTA modified L. cylindrica using epichlorohydrin and ethylenediamine as a bridge

Benefiting from strong coordination ability and unique vascular structure, EDTA modified L. cylindrica opens up an alternative way for uranium recovery from seawater. However, limitations, such as poor adsorption capacity and slow adsorption rate due to low graft ratio of EDTA via one-step esterification block its practical application. Here, a strategy for increasing the graft ratio is proposed in order to improve the adsorption performance. The strategy initially involves immobilization of epichlorohydrin (EPI) onto L. cylindrica and then ethylenediamine (EDA) is introduced via facile ring-opening reaction. EPI and EDA serve as a bridge between L. cylindrica and EDTA. The graft ratio is promoted (15.01 to 21.44%) contributing to the smaller steric hindrance of EPI and EDA than EDTA and improvement in adsorption performance. In addition, the adsorbent prepared by the new strategy exhibits excellent adsorption properties in simulated seawater.

Removing Trypan blue dye using nano-Zn modified Luffa sponge

This study has presented specific features that are examined to remove the Trypan blue dye from the waste using Luffa sponge (LS) and modified Luffa sponge with zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs). Peroxidase enzyme was obtained from Euphorbia amygdaloides plant and it was used with the green synthesis of Zn nanoparticles. Luffa sponge was used to be a support material for immobilized nanoparticles and it also used in remediation work. The obtained membrane forms, fibrous materials, (LS, ZnNPs-LS) were characterized with SEM and XRD. LS and ZnNPs-LS were employed as adsorbent to be used for the removal of Trypan blue dye from aqueous via batch studies. Measurements were made for the equilibrium, pH, temperature, concentration of dye with UV-visible spectrometer (590nm; for Trypan blue dye). The optimum removal of Trypan blue dye was found at pH7, the equilibrium was attained within 30min. The thermodynamic properties ΔG⁰, ΔH⁰, and ΔS⁰ showed that adsorption of Trypan blue dye onto LS and ZnNPs-LS were spontaneous and endothermic. The equilibrium isotherm data were analyzed using Langmuir and Freundlich models and the sorption process was described by the Langmuir isotherm with maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of 45.32 and 47.3mg/g for LS and LS-ZnNPs at 303±1°K, respectively.

Biosorption of alpacide blue from aqueous solution by lignocellulosic biomass: Luffa cylindrica fibers

The aim of the present work is to develop an effective and inexpensive pollutant-removal technology using lignocellulosic fibers: Luffa cylindrica, for the biosorption of an anionic dye: alpacide blue. The influence of some experimental parameters such as pH, temperature, initial concentration of the polluted solution, and mass of the sorbent L. cylindrica on the biosorption of alpacide blue by L. cylindrica fibers has been investigated. Optimal parameters for maximum quantity of biosorption dye were achieved after 2 h of treatment in a batch system using an initial dye concentration of 20 mg/L, a mass of 1 g of L. cylindrica fibers, and pH 2. In these conditions, the quantity of dye retained is 2 mg/g and the retention rate is 78 %. Finally, a mathematical modeling of kinetics and isotherms has been used for mathematical modeling; the model of pseudo-second order is more appropriate to describe this phenomenon of biosorption. Concerning biosorption isotherms, the Freundlich model is the most appropriate for a biosorption of alpacide blue dye by L. cylindrica fibers.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of Luffa operculata

Introduction

Luffa operculata is probably one of the most popular herbal medicines used in the treatment of rhinitis and rhinosinusitis. However, its specific mechanism of action is still unknown.

Objective

To evaluate in vitro antibacterial activity of L. operculata against three ordinary agents of upper respiratory tract infection: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Methods

Different concentrations of L. operculata alcoholic extract were applied to bacterial broth containing reference and community strains of the three described agents. After a 24-h incubation period, the bacterial culture turbidity was measured. The samples were then inoculated onto Mueller-Hinton and human blood agar plates. Bacterial growth was analyzed after 24- and 48-h incubation period. The test was considered negative when there was no environmental turbidity, confirmed by the absence of bacterial growth into the inoculated plates. Tests were considered positive when either turbidity changes were observed on the bacterial broth or when bacterial growth was detected on inoculated plates. Appropriate statistical analysis of the data was performed.

Results

L. operculata extracts showed antibacterial activity mainly to S. pyogenes followed by S. pneumoniae and S. aureus.

Conclusions

L. operculata extract showed promising antibacterial activity in vitro against the studied agents.

Luffa cylindrica suppresses development of Dermatophagoides farinae-induced atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in Nc/Nga mice

CONTEXT

The fruit pulp of Luffa cylindrica Roemer (Cucurbitaceae) (LC) has been used to induce hemostasis, resolve phlegm and clear fever in traditional Korean medicine. However, the efficacy of LC has not been examined in atopic dermatitis (AD).

OBJECTIVE

A 70% ethanol extract of LC was evaluated to determine anti-inflammation and anti-AD effects in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The inhibitory effects of LC on the production of PGE2 and histamine were respectively measured in lipopolysaccharide-treated (1 μg/mL) RAW264.7 macrophages and phorbol-12 myristate 13-acetate (50 nM) and A23187 (1 µM)-stimulated HMC-1 mast cells. The production of AD-related chemokines (RANTES, TARC, and MDC) were evaluated in IFN-γ and TNF-α-stimulated (10 ng/mL, each) HaCaT keratinocytes. LC (10 mg/mouse/d) was topically applied to the dorsal skin and ears of Dermatophagoides farina (Pyroglyphidae)-sensitized Nc/Nga mice for 4 weeks.

RESULTS

The IC50 values of LC on PGE2 and histamine production were 16.89 and 139.9 μg/mL, individually. The production of TARC and RANTES were inhibited 20% and 12% by LC (50 μg/mL) in HaCaT cells, respectively (p < 0.05). In sensitized-NC/Nga mice, the plasma levels of IgE and histamine were suppressed 36% and 41% by LC, respectively (p < 0.05). LC also reduced hemorrhage, hypertrophy, and hyperkeratosis of the epidermis and infiltration of mast cells in the dorsal skin and ear.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

LC can inhibit AD-like skin lesions and reduce the generation of IgE via inhibition of the inflammatory responses. LC has potential as a therapeutic agent to treat allergic diseases, including AD.

Profiling of flavonols in seeds and sprouts of Luffa cylindrical

Seeds of Luffa cylindrica (Luffa) have been considered as agricultural wastes. However, we hypothesized that the seeds and its sprouts may provide bioactive components that could provide health benefits for humans. The current study profiled the bioactive components in both seeds and sprouts of Luffa by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MSn). Apigenin was identified as a major component in the seeds of Luffa, with a concentration of 2.89 mg from 1 g fresh weight. The bioactive components in the sprouts were myricetin, luteolin, and quercetin, with concentrations of 32.4, 12.5, and 32.5 μg from 1 g fresh weight, respectively. Apigenin metabolites, such as apigenin-glucuronic acid and apigenin-acetyl glucuronic acid, were also identified in the sprouts. This implied that apigenin in the seeds, when sprouting, was changed to other flavonols having a flavone backbone. Results from the current study suggest that both seeds and sprouts of Luffa could be a bio-resource for health-promoting food materials.

Fixed-bed biosorption of cadmium using immobilized Scenedesmus obliquus CNW-N cells on loofa (Luffa cylindrica) sponge

A continuous fixed-bed biosorption process was established for cadmium (Cd) removal by Scenedesmus obliquus CNW-N (isolated from southern Taiwan) cells immobilized onto loofa sponge. This immobilized-cell biosorption process allows better recovery and reusability of the microalgal biomass. The growth of microalgae on the matrix support with appropriate nutrient supplementation could enhance the overall metal removal activity. Major operating parameters (e.g., feeding flow rate, cycle number of medium replacement, and particle diameter of the sponge) were studied for treatability evaluation. The most promising cell growth on the sponge support was obtained at a flow rate of 0.284 bed volume (BV)/min, sponge particle diameter of 1 cm, and with one cycle of medium replacement. The performance of fixed-bed biosorption (adsorption capacity of 38.4 mg, breakthrough time at 15.5 h) was achieved at a flow rate of 5 ml/min with an influent concentration of 7.5 mg Cd/l.

Dried fruit of the Luffa sponge as a source of chitin for applications as skin substitutes

LUFFACHITIN obtained from the residue of the sponge-like dried fruit of Luffa aegyptiaca was developed as a weavable skin substitute in this study. A chemical analysis revealed that LUFFACHITIN was composed of a copolymer containing N-acetyl-glucosamine (~40%) as a major monomer with a filamentary structure as demonstrated by both optical and scanning electron microscopy. The pulp-like white residue of the sponge-like dried fruit of Luffa aegyptiaca after treatment was then woven into a thin, porous membrane by filtration and lyophilization as a skin substitute for conducting wound-healing study on rats. The results indicated that the LUFFACHITIN membrane showed significant wound-healing enhancement (25 days to complete healing) compared to cotton gauze (>30 days), but not inferior to that of SACCHACHITIN. Furthermore, the LUFFACHITIN membrane had advantages of having a high yield, better physical properties for fabrication, and a more attractive appearance.

Nanostructured macroporous bioanode based on polyaniline-modified natural loofah sponge for high-performance microbial fuel cells

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a promising technology to recover electrical energy from different types of waste. However, the power density of MFCs for practical applications is limited by the anode performance, mainly resulting from low bacterial loading capacity and low extracellular electron transfer (EET) efficiency. In this study, an open three-dimensional (3D) structured electrode was fabricated using a natural loofah sponge as the precursor material. The loofah sponge was directly converted into a continuous 3D macroporous carbon material via a simple carbonization procedure. The loofah sponge carbon (LSC) was decorated with nitrogen-enriched carbon nanoparticles by cocarbonizing polyaniline-hybridized loofah sponges to improve their microscopic structures. The macroscale porous structure of the LSCs greatly increased the bacterial loading capacity. The microscale coating of carbon nanoparticles favored EET due to the enhanced interaction between the bacteria and the anode. By using a single-chamber MFC equipped with the fabricated anode, a power density of 1090 ± 72 mW m(-2) was achieved, which is much greater than that obtained by similarly sized traditional 3D anodes. This study introduces a promising method for the fabrication of high-performance anodes from low-cost, sustainable natural materials.

Ameliorative effect of Luffa acutangula Roxb. on doxorubicin induced cardiac and nephrotoxicity in mice

The present study reports protective effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Luffa acutangula (HAELA) on doxorubicin (DXR) induced cardio and nephrotoxicity in mice by studying various serum biomarkers, antioxidants in target organs and histoarchitecture alterations. Pretreatment with HAELA reversed significantly the elevated serum biomarkers, alanine amino transferase, lactate dehydrogenase and creatinine phosphokinase in heart and kidney in DXR treated mice. In addition, HAELA treatment inhibited elevated malondialdehyde formation and restored the depleted glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase in heart and kidney tissue. The altered histoarchitecture of heart and kidney tissue due to DXR treatment were also improved with HAELA. The protective activity observed with HAELA on DXR induced cardio and nephrotoxicity in mice was found to be related to its antioxidant property which finally results in membrane stabilization.

Improved production of cyclodextrins by alkalophilic bacilli immobilized on synthetic or loofa sponges

This study aimed to improve the production of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) by microbial cells immobilized on synthetic or loofa sponges both with and without the use of alginate or chitosan. The most suitable matrix for the immobilization of Bacillus firmus strain 7B was synthetic sponge and for Bacillus sphaericus strain 41 was loofa sponge. After 330 days of storage, the β-CD production by Bacillus firmus and Bacillus sphaericus remained at around 41% and 49%, respectively, of initial levels. After 24 days of immobilization on loofa sponge, Bacillus sphaericus strain 41 achieved an improved operational stability, reaching 86.6 mM β-CD after 20 days of production, compared to only 32.8 mM of β-CD produced by free Bacillus sphaericus strain 41 cells. The expected increase in β-CD production by immobilized cells of Bacillus firmus strain 7B on synthetic sponge for 4 days was not statistically different to that for cells immobilized for 24 days. The application of this process on an industrial scale using loofa sponge, an inexpensive and renewable matrix, will allow the stable production of β-CD.

Preservation of Bacillus firmus strain 37 and optimization of cyclodextrin biosynthesis by cells immobilized on loofa sponge

The preservation of Bacillus firmus strain 37 cells by lyophilization was evaluated and response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) production by cells immobilized on loofa sponge. Interactions were studied with the variables temperature, pH and dextrin concentration using a central composite design (CCD). Immobilization time influence on β-CD production was also investigated. B. firmus strain 37 cells remained viable after one year of storage, showing that the lyophilization is a suitable method for preservation of the microorganism. From the three-dimensional diagrams and contour plots, the best conditions for β-CD production were determined: temperature 60 °C, pH 8, and 18% dextrin. Considering that the amount of dextrin was high, a new assay was carried out, in which dextrin concentrations of 10, 15, and 18% were tested and the temperature of 60 °C and pH 8 were maintained. The results achieved showed very small differences and therefore, for economic reasons, the use of 10% dextrin is suggested. Increasing the immobilization time of cells immobilized on synthetic sponge the β-CD production decreased and did not change for cells immobilized on loofa sponge. The results of this research are important for microorganism preservation and essential in the optimization of the biosynthesis of CD.

Luffa echinata Roxb. induces human colon cancer cell (HT-29) death by triggering the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway

The antiproliferative properties and cell death mechanism induced by the extract of the fruits of Luffa echinata Roxb. (LER) were investigated. The methanolic extract of LER inhibited the proliferation of human colon cancer cells (HT-29) in both dose-dependent and time-dependent manners and caused a significant increase in the population of apoptotic cells. In addition, obvious shrinkage and destruction of the monolayer were observed in LER-treated cells, but not in untreated cells. Analysis of the cell cycle after treatment of HT-29 cells with various concentrations indicated that LER extracts inhibited the cellular proliferation of HT-29 cells via G2/M phase arrest of the cell cycle. The Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level determination revealed that LER extracts induced apoptotic cell death via ROS generation. In addition, LER treatment led to a rapid drop in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) as a decrease in fluorescence. The transcripts of several apoptosis-related genes were investigated by RT-PCR analysis. The caspase-3 transcripts of HT-29 cells significantly accumulated and the level of Bcl-XL mRNA was decreased after treatment with LER extract. Furthermore, the ratio of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis genes (Bax and Bcl-2) was sharply increased from 1.6 to 54.1. These experiments suggest that LER has anticancer properties via inducing the apoptosis in colon cancer cells, which provided the impetus for further studies on the therapeutic potential of LER against human colon carcinoma.

Inhibition of Naja nigricolis (Reinhardt) venom protease activity by Luffa egyptiaca (Mill) and Nicotiana rustica (Linn) extracts

Luffa egyptiaca and Nicotiana rustica are used in traditional medicine to treat snakebites and were evaluated for inhibitory activities on Naja nigricolis venom protease. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of L. egyptiaca significantly reduced the maximum velocity (Vmax) and the computed index of physiological efficiency (Kcat) of the enzyme in a dose dependent fashion. The protease activity was non-competitively inhibited by the aqueous extract of N. rustica with the Vmax significantly decreased and the K(M) remained unchanged. However, the N. rustica ethanol extract completely inhibited the protease activity. Ethyl acetate fractions partitioned from ethanol extracts of both plants were also found to completely inhibit the N. nigricolis venom protease activity at 0.1 and 0.05%. The use of these plants could be important in the treatment of snakebites.

Hepatoprotective activity of Luffa acutangula against CCl4 and rifampicin induced liver toxicity in rats: a biochemical and histopathological evaluation

Hepatoprotective activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Luffa acutangula (HAELA) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and rifampicin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats was evaluated and probable mechanism(s) of action has been suggested. Administration of standard drug- silymarin and HAELA showed significant hepatoprotection against CCl4 and rifampicin induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Hepatoprotective activity of HAELA was due to the decreased levels of serum marker enzymes viz., (AST, ALT, ALP and LDH) and increased total protein including the improvement in histoarchitecture of liver cells of the treated groups as compared to the control group. HAELA also showed significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) formation, increased activity of non-enzymatic intracellular antioxidant, glutathione and enzymatic antioxidants, catalase and superoxide dismutase. Results of this study demonstrated that endogenous antioxidants and inhibition of lipid peroxidation of membrane contribute to hepatoprotective activity of HAELA.

A natural sorbent, Luffa cylindrica for the removal of a model basic dye

In this work, application of Luffa cylindrica in malachite green (MG) removal from aqueous solution was studied in a batch system. The effect of contact time, pH and temperature on removal of malachite green was also investigated. By the time pH was increased from 3 to 5, the amount of sorbed malachite green also increased. Beyond the pH value of 5, the amount of sorbed malachite green remains constant. The fits of equilibrium sorption data to Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich equations were investigated. Langmuir isotherm exhibited best fit with the experimental data. Monolayer sorption capacity increased with the increasing of temperature. Sorption kinetic was evaluated by pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich rate equations and intraparticle diffusion models. It was inferred that sorption follows pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Thermodynamic parameters for sorption process were also found out. Spontaneous and endothermic nature of sorption was obtained due to negative value of free energy (DeltaG(o)) and positive value of enthalpy (DeltaH(o)) changes. FTIR analyses were also conducted to confirm the sorption of malachite green onto L. cylindrica.

Disinfection of waterborne coliform bacteria using Luffa cylindrica fruit and seed extracts

This study examined the potential of extracts of the plant Luffa cylindrica to act as disinfectants of drinking water. Aqueous extracts of the seeds and fruit of L. cylindrica were tested against total and faecal coliform bacteria in surface water by varying the extract doses and contact times. Inactivation of both faecal coliforms and total coliforms was highly variable and dose-dependent. The maximum coliform inactivation achieved in any trial was 86%. Fruit extracts were more successful at inactivating total coliforms than faecal coliforms. Seed extracts achieved higher coliform inactivation levels than fruit extracts generally. Overall, the antimicrobial potential of seeds and fruit from L. cylindrica was demonstrated; however the disinfection performance was less than would be required for these extracts to be considered reliable disinfectants for drinking water treatment.

Loofa egyptiaca as a novel adsorbent for removal of direct blue dye from aqueous solution

In this paper, Loofa egyptiaca (LE), an agricultural plant cultivated in Egypt, was used to prepare low-cost activated carbon (LE(C1) and LE(C2)) adsorbents. The adsorbents (LE, LE(C1) and LE(C2)) were evaluated for their ability to remove direct blue 106 dye from aqueous solutions. Batch mode experiments were conducted using various parameters such as pH, contact time, dye concentration and adsorbent concentration. The surface chemistry of LE, LE(C1) and LE(C2) was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental data were examined using Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Harkins-Jura isotherms. The results showed that the adsorption of direct blue 106 was maximal at the lowest value of pH (pH=2). Removal efficiency was increased with an increase in dye concentration and a decrease in amount of adsorbent. Maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 57.14, 63.3 and 73.53 mg/g for LE, LE(C1) and LE(C2) respectively. Kinetics were also investigated using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intra-particle diffusion models. The experimental data fitted very well with the pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The results indicate that LE, LE(C1) and LE(C2) could be employed as adsorbents for the removal of direct blue dye from aqueous solutions.

Loofa Sponge as a Scaffold for Culture of Rat Hepatocytes

The dried fruit from Luffa cylindrica (loofa sponge, LS), which represents a new chitinous source material, was used as a 3-D scaffold for the culture of rat hepatocytes. With the macroporous structure and large pore size (ca. 800 microm) of LS, cell loading to the scaffold should be carried out by dynamic seeding with continuous shaking throughout the seeding period. Hepatocytes attach well to the surface of loofa fibers after seeding and maintain their round shapes. The initial ammonia removal and urea-N synthesis rates of hepatocytes immobilized within LS slightly decreased with increasing cell densities, but their metabolic activities were comparable to or better than those in monolayer culture on tissue culture polystyrene control surfaces. Both urea-N synthesis and albumin secretion rates could be maintained up to 7 days for cells immobilized within LS and spheroid-like cell aggregates could be found after the second day.

A new flavone glycoside from the fruits of Luffa cylindrica

The methyl ester of diosmetin 7-O-beta-D-glucuronide (1) was isolated from the fruits of Luffa cylindrica. Its structure was determined by spectroscopic methods.

Immunomodulatory effects of two sapogenins 1 and 2 isolated from Luffa cylindrica in Balb/C mice

Two Triterpenoids (sapogenins 1 and 2) isolated from Luffa cylindrica were subjected to immunomodulatory activity in male Balb/c mice. Mice were treated with three doses of sapogenins 1 and 2 (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg) and levamisole (2.5 mg/kg) used as a standard reference drug for 15 days. Immune responses to T-dependent antigen SRBCs were observed using parameters like HA, PFC, DTH, lymphocyte proliferation and phagocytosis. As regards these parameters, sapogenins 1 and 2 elicited a significant increase in the HA, PFC and DTH response at dose 10 mg/kg (P<0.01) and 100 mg/kg (P<0.001), respectively. Sapogenins 1 and 2 also showed significant dose-dependent decrease and increase in lymphocyte proliferation assay and phagocytic activity of macrophages. Overall, sapogenins 1 and 2 showed dose relative immunostimulatory effect on in vivo immune functions in mice.

Dynamic seeding and perfusion culture of hepatocytes with galactosylated vegetable sponge in packed-bed bioreactor

A galactose moiety was introduced into the fiber surface of a vegetable sponge by the covalent binding of lactobionic acid. The galactosylated sponge was used as scaffold for the culture of rat hepatocytes in a packed-bed bioreactor. Hepatocytes could be dynamically seeded into and uniformly distributed throughout the scaffold, and the immobilized cells maintained high albumin and urea production rates during long-term perfusion culture. The hepatocytes showed an increasing albumin production rate from 49 to 109 microg/10(6) cells/d over the 7-d culture.

Antioxidant constituents in the fruits of Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem

Hydrophilic antioxidant constituents in the fruits of the vegetable Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem (sponge gourds) were separated by an antioxidant-guided assay to yield eight compounds: p-coumaric acid (1), 1-O-feruloyl-beta-D-glucose (2), 1-O-p-coumaroyl-beta-D-glucose (3), 1-O-caffeoyl-beta-D-glucose (4), 1-O-(4-hydroxybenzoyl)glucose (5), diosmetin-7-O-beta-D-glucuronide methyl ester (6), apigenin-7-O-beta-D-glucuronide methyl ester (7), and luteolin-7-O-beta-D-glucuronide methyl ester (8). The eight compounds were isolated by high-speed countercurrent chromatography and identified by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry and NMR analysis, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated by the radical scavenging effect on the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis showed that a total amount of the eight compounds in the dried gourds without skin was about 1%. The results demonstrate that the consumption of sponge gourds can supply some antioxidant constituents to human body.

Production of fungal biomass immobilized loofa sponge (FBILS)-discs for the removal of heavy metal ions and chlorinated compounds from aqueous solution

A white rot basidiomycete, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, was immobilized on loofa sponge (FBILS) discs. It removed ca. 37 and 71 mg Cd (II) g(-1) from 50 and 200 mg l(-1) aqueous solutions and up to 89% of 4-chloroanisole from a 10 mg l(-1) aqueous solution. FBILS are physically strong and chemically recalcitrant, resisting temperature, mechanical agitation, and variations in pH without alteration to shape, structure or texture.

Luffa operculata affects mucociliary function of the isolated frog palate

BACKGROUND

Luffa operculata is a medicinal plant used in homeopathic and alternative medicine. In the United States, it is sold in a purified spray form, whereas a homemade L. operculata dry fruit infusion (DFI) is commonly used in Latin America. The L. operculata DFI is applied intranasally, inducing profuse mucous secretion and relieving nasal symptoms. Nevertheless, this medication may cause irritation of the nasal mucosa, as well as epistaxis or anosmia. Given the growing popularity of alternative medicine, a decision was made to evaluate the effects of this substance on mucous membranes.

METHODS

The effects of L. operculata DFI on mucociliary transport velocity, ciliary beat frequency, and transepithelial potential difference (PD) were evaluated in an isolated frog palate preparation. We tested 46 palates immediately before immersion and again at 5 and 20 minutes after immersion. Four groups (n = 10) were tested in frog Ringer: control; L. operculata DFI, 60 mg/L; 600 mg/L; and 1200 mg/L. An additional group was tested using L. operculata DFI prepared with water (600 mg/L of H2O, n = 6). Epithelial samples were harvested for ultrastructural study.

RESULTS

In treated palates, mucociliary transport velocity and ciliary beat frequency decreased significantly (p < 0.001 and p < 0.008, respectively). There was a dose-dependent decrease in PD modulus (p < .007). Our PD findings indicated ion-fluid transport abnormalities, which were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy that showed enlargement of interepithelial spaces.

CONCLUSION

In this ex vivo model, the L. operculata DFI infusion promoted significant changes in the mucociliary function of the epithelium, suggesting that it is potentially noxious to human nasal mucosa.

[Cloning and expression of luffin-a gene from the seeds of Luffa cylindrical]

OBJECTIVE

To clone luffin-a cDNA from the seeds of Luffa cylindrical, and to obtain bioactive recombinant luffin-a protein using the expression vector pET-44a (+) in E. coli.

METHODS

The cDNA sequence encoding luffin-a was cloned from the fresh seeds of Luffa cylindrical by RT-PCR. The target DNA fragments were sequenced after T-A cloning. The luffin-a expression plasmid was constructed by inserting the luffin-a cDNA fragment into vector pET-44a (+). Luffin-a was expressed in E. coli by addition of IPTG into final concentration 1.0 mmol/L. The recombinant luffin-a was identified by SDS-PAGE. The biological activity of luffin-a protein was evaluated by using the MTT assay in HepG2 cells following fluid-phase endocytosis.

RESULTS

In comparison with the reported luffin-a, the homology of nucleotide sequence of the cloned luffin-a gene was 99.73%, while their amino acid sequences were identical. The solubility of recombinant protein was analyzed by SDS-PAGE, and the luffin-a was mainly produced in inclusion bodies. The recombinant luffin-a, renatured by dialysis of the denatured products, showed a similar cytotoxicity to ricin A chain.

CONCLUSION

The cDNA of luffin-a has been successfully cloned. The recombinant luffin-a protein expressed by E. coli is bioactive.

Two New Cucurbitacin Glucosides, Opercurins A and B, from the Brazilian Folk Medicine "Buchinha" (Luffa operculata)

The structures of two new cucurbitacin glucosides designated opercurins A (1) and B (2), isolated from the fruit of Luffa operculata, have been confirmed by extensive spectroscopic investigation.

[Purification and partial characterization of luffin P1, a peptide with translational inhibitory activity and trypsin inhibitory activity, from seeds of Luffa cylindrica]

A peptide, luffin P1, from seeds of Luffa cylindrica, was purified by ammonia sulfate precipitation, CM-52 ion exchange chromatography, Blue-gel affinity chromatography and FPLC Mono S ion exchange chromatography. Its molecular weight was 5226.5 as determined by MALDI-TOF-MS analysis. The sequence of N-terminal 11 amino acids of luffin P1 was identical with the partial N-terminal sequence (from G3 to R13) of 6.5K Arg/Glu rich peptide, which was also isolated from the seeds of Luffa cylindrica. Besides, luffin P1 had a very high homology with a trypsin inhibitor, named C2 peptide, from pumpkin seeds. Interestingly, the purified luffin P1 not only showed a strong inhibitory activity on protein synthesis in rabbit reticulocyte lysate cell-free translation system with IC(50) of 0.6 nmol/L, but also had trypsin inhibitory activity with IC(50) of 22 micromol/L.

Purification and characterization of Luffin P1, a ribosome-inactivating peptide from the seeds of Luffa cylindrica

A peptide designated Luffin P1 was purified from the seeds of Luffa cylindrica. Its molecular mass was determined to be 5226.1 Da by MALDI-TOF MS analysis. The purified Luffin P1 shows a strong inhibitory activity on protein synthesis in the cell-free rabbit reticulocyte lysate with IC(50) of 0.88 nM. Its reaction mechanism is the same as that of the ribosome-inactivating protein trichosanthin, which is an rRNA N-glycosidase. Besides, the results of gel filtration chromatography suggested the existence of polymers of Luffin P1 and polymerization of Luffin P1 enhanced its rRNA N-glycosidase activity. Luffin P1 was the smallest peptide yet reported that has translational inhibitory activity. The cDNA and deduced amino acid sequence of Luffin P1 has also been determined.

Loofa sponge as a scaffold for the culture of human hepatocyte cell line

Loofa sponge was investigated as a three-dimensional scaffold for stationary and perfusion culture of human hepatoblastoma cell line C3A/HepG2. In stationary culture, C3A/HepG2 cells in loofa cubes showed higher alpha-fetoprotein and albumin secretion rates than those in polyurethane foam (PU). To use loofa cylinders in a packed-bed reactor, immobilization of C3A/HepG2 cells by recirculating medium at 26 mL/min (superficial velocity = 51.7 cm/min) resulted in a cell loading density of 5.15 x 10(7) cells/cm(3)-loofa. This cell loading density is higher than values reported in the literature for packed-bed reactor intended for bioartificial liver. During 9 days of perfusion culture in the reactor, immobilized C3A/HepG2 showed steady synthesis of albumin with an average synthesis rate at 42.2 microg/10(6) cells/day. These experimental results and observations by SEM suggested that loofa sponge is a suitable scaffold for high-density culture of human hepatocyte cell line and the immobilized cells could express high levels of liver-specific functions.