Lilian Uchoa Carneiro, Ilna Gomes da Silva, Mirian Eliza Alves de Souza, Wellington da Silva Côrtes, Mário Geraldo de Carvalho, Bruno Guimarães Marinho
Annona tomentosa R.E.Fr is a species not endemic to Brazil that belongs to the phytogeographic areas of the Amazon, Cerrado and Pantanal. Popularly known as “araticum rasteiro” or “araticum de moita”, A. tomentosa is edible and tea made from the leaves has been used as an anti-inflammatory by native communities. There is no scientific evidence for these uses of A. tomentosa, especially those related to the control of pain and inflammation. For this reason, in the present study we evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of partitions from the methanolic extract of A. tomentosa leaves (A. tomentosa leaf methanolic extract (ATFM) in hexane partition: ATFM-H; ATFM in dichloromethane partition: ATFM-D; ATFM in ethyl acetate partition: ATFM-Ac; ATFM in butanol partition: ATFM-B) in mice.
Methods
The antinociceptive effects of leaf extracts from A. tomentosa were evaluated by abdominal writhing and tail-flick tests, while the anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated by paw oedema and air-pouch tests. The locomotor activity was evaluated with the open-field test. Furthermore, we evaluated the possible action mechanism of A. tomentosa, using naloxone, nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, glibenclamide, atropine, naltrindole and norbinaltorphimine in tail-flick tests. The productions of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-1β were also evaluated.
Results
The chromatographic fractionation of the partitions of the methanolic extract from the leaves of A. tomentosa revealed the presence of diterpenes, flavonoids, and steroids compounds. From the analysis of the hexane partition kaurenoic acid was identified as the major component. ATFM-H and ATFM-D had a significant antinociceptive effect in acute pain models in mice. The ATFM-H showed central antinociceptive effect from the involvement of the δ opioid receptors, without causing alterations in the locomotor activity of the mice, while ATFM-D was effective in decreasing paw oedema and TNF-α and IL-1β production.
Conclusion
These results demonstrate that leaf extracts from A. tomentosa present antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects that can to be used in relieving algesic and inflammatory conditions.
Amiodarone is a useful antiarrhythmic drug. Phlebitis, caused by intravenous amiodarone, is common in patients in coronary care units (CCUs).
Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of topical chamomile on the incidence of phlebitis due to the administration of an amiodarone infusion into the peripheral vein.
Design, Setting, Participants and Interventions
This was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial, conducted on 40 patients (n = 20 per group) in two groups—an intervention group (chamomile ointment) and a control group (lanoline, as a placebo), hospitalized in the CCUs and undergoing an amiodarone infusion into the peripheral vein over 24 h. Following the cannulation and commencement of the infusion, placebo or chamomile ointment was rubbed in, up to 10 cm superior to the catheter and repeated every eight hours for three days. The cannula site was then assessed based on the phlebitis checklist.
Main Outcome Measures
The incidence and time of occurrence of phlebitis, relative risk, severity of phlebitis were the main outcome measures.
Results
Nineteen patients (19/20) in the control group had phlebitis on the first day of the study and one patient (20/20) on the second day. In the intervention group, phlebitis occurred in 13 cases (13/20) on the first day and another two (2/7) was found on the second day. The incidence of phlebitis was significantly different between two groups (P = 0.023). The cumulative incidence of phlebitis in the intervention group (15/20) is significantly later and lower than that in the control group (20/20) during two days (P = 0.008). Two patients in the intervention group did not develop phlebitis at all during the 3-day study. Also, the relative risk of phlebitis in the two groups was 0.68 (P = 0.008 5). A significant difference was not observed with regard to phlebitis severity in both groups.
Conclusion
It seems that phlebitis occurred to a lesser extent and at a later time frame in the intervention group compared to control group. Topical chamomile may be effective in decreasing the incidence of phlebitis due to an amiodarone infusion.
Trial Registration
This protocol was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT2014042017361N1).
Rheum ribes L. is a plant native to China, Iran, Turkey, India, and a few other countries. Antidiarrheal activity is considered to be one of its important properties according to various systems of traditional medicine. An increasing rate of bacterial resistance to antibiotics has led to treatment failure in some cases of shigellosis in children, and underlines a need for safe, efficient and valid options.
Objective
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of R. ribes syrup as a complementary medicine for treatment of shigellosis in children.
Design, Setting, Participants and Interventions
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial started with a group of 150 children aged between 12-72 months with suspected Shigella dysentery. R. ribes syrup or placebo syrup was administered to the intervention and control groups, respectively for 5 days. In addition, the standard antibiotic treatment (ceftriaxone for the first 3 days and cefixime syrup for 2 further days) was administered to both groups.
Main Outcome Measures
Body temperature, abdominal pain, need for antipyretics, defecation frequency, stool volume and consistency and microscopic stool examination were recorded as outcome measures. Any observed adverse effects were also recorded.
Results
Mean duration of fever and diarrhea in the R. ribes group was significantly lower than that in the placebo group (P = 0.016 and 0.001, respectively). In addition, patients in the R. ribes group showed shorter duration of need for antipyretics and shorter duration of abdominal pain (P = 0.012 and 0.001, respectively). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the microscopic stool analyses. Furthermore, no adverse effect was reported.
Conclusion
R. ribes syrup can be recommended as a complementary treatment for children with Shigella dysentery.
Trial Registration
Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial: IRCT2014070518356N1.
Different parts of Murraya paniculata have been used traditionally for treating several ailments including mental disorders. The present study was designed to evaluate the antianxiety and antidepressant potential of M. paniculata leaves using elevated plus maze model and forced swim test, respectively.
Methods
Extracts of M. paniculata made with petroleum ether (60-80 °C), chloroform, ethanol and water were evaluated for antianxiety and antidepressant activity. The anxiolytic chloroform extract was subjected to column chromatography, yielding five fractions (F1-F5). Fraction F5 (100 mg/kg), which showed notable anxiolytic activity, was further chromatographed to get four subfractions (F5.1-F5.4). Simultaneously, the ethanol extract was partitioned with ethyl acetate to obtain ethyl acetate soluble fraction (EASF) and ethyl acetate insoluble fraction. Phytochemical screening of bioactive extracts/fractions and detection of mahanimbine in M. paniculata leaf extract by thin-layer chromatography was also carried out.
Results
Fraction F5.3 (25 mg/kg) and EASF (20 mg/kg) showed significant anxiolytic and antidepressant activity, respectively. Thin-layer chromatography and phytochemical screening demonstrated the absence of mahanimbine in M. paniculata leaves. Coumarins were observed to be responsible for the anxiolytic activity.
Conclusion
The results validate the traditional use of M. paniculata leaves in the treatment of mental disorders.
To investigate the antioxidant activities as well as phytochemical constituents of Antidesma thwaitesianum Müll. Arg. leaf extracts.
Methods
The leaves of A. thwaitesianum were extracted using three different methods: blending with distilled water, maceration with ethanol and decoction. The chemical antioxidant activity of the plant leaf extracts was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS+) radical scavenging assays, as well as the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Cellular antioxidant activity was determined by superoxide and nitric oxide scavenging assays. The cytotoxicity of the leaf extracts in RAW 264.7 and differentiated HL-60 cells was tested in parallel using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium assays, respectively. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also assessed by spectrophotometric analysis. Phytochemical constituents of the most potent extract were investigated by liquid chromatography with an electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS).
Results
The ethanolic (ME) and decoction (LW) extracts of dried leaves had the highest chemical scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS+ free radicals with half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values ranging from 3.54 to 6.44 μg/mL. ME and LW exerted moderate ferric reducing activity, with ferric reducing antioxidant power values of 847.41 and 941.26 mg Fe2+/g extract, respectively. Similarly, ME showed potent cellular scavenging activity against superoxide and nitric oxide radicals with EC50 values of 58.12 and 71.90 μg/mL, respectively. However, LW exhibited only strong nitric oxide scavenging activity with an EC50 value of 91.20 μg/mL. The cell viability of RAW 264.7 and HL-60 cells was greater than 70% in all tested concentrations of both extracts, thus confirming the absence of their cytotoxicity. ME and LW contained high total phenolic contents of 231.14 and 274.42 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram, respectively, as well as high total flavonoid contents of 18.82 and 22.17 mg quercetin equivalents per gram, respectively. LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of 52 structurally characterized compounds in ME, 43 of which were tentatively identified. Hydroxycinnamic acids such as caffeic acid and its derivatives were the predominant phenolic compounds.
Conclusion
This is the first report describing potent chemical and cellular antioxidant effects of the ethanolic leaf extract of A. thwaitesianum. The extract contained high total phenolic and flavonoid contents. LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis further revealed an abundance of caffeic acid derivatives and flavonoids. These data support its potential use as dietary supplements in oxidative stress prevention.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is known to be associated with increase of oxidative stress products. The direction of effect of any treatment on these products could therefore be a reliable measure of its efficacy on DM. So the aim of this study was to investigate the activity of insulin, Ocimum gratissimum L. (OG) and Vernonia amygdalina L. (VA) on oxidative stress products.
Methods
Thirty-six female Wistar rats weighing 150-200 g were randomly divided into six groups of six rats each. Thirty rats were induced for type 1 DM (DM1) with a single intraperitoneal administration of 65 mg/kg body weight of streptozotocin. Group 1 was normal control and was administered distilled water while Group 2 served as DM1 control group; Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 were diabetic rats treated with 208 mg/kg OG (DM1 + OG), 52 mg/kg VA (DM1 + VA), 208 mg/kg OG + 52 mg/kg VA (DM1+OG +VA) and 0.16 IU insulin (DM1 + insulin) respectively. Determination of methemoglobin and sulfhemoglobin was achieved by the absorption spectrum principle. Red blood cell (RBC) catalase was assayed by continuous spectrophotometric method.
Results
The RBC catalase concentration was significantly decreased in the DM1 and DM1+VA groups when compared with the normal control. DM1 + OG significantly increased RBC-catalase when compared to DM1. The methemoglobin concentration was significantly reduced in the DM1, DM1 + VA, DM1 + OG + VA and DM1 + insulin groups when compared to the normal control group. The sulfhemoglobin concentration was significantly increased in the diabetic control and the diabetic treated groups when compared to the normal control. DM1 + OG reduced the sulfhemoglobin concentration when compared to DM1. The blood glucose concentration of all the diabetic groups was significantly raised compared to normal control. OG, VA and insulin significantly reduced the blood glucose concentration with the efficacy of OG and VA higher than insulin.
Conclusion
Adverse alteration of oxidative indices were observed in type 1 DM model. Treatment with OG and insulin showed potent antioxidant activity, while the hypoglycemic efficacy of OG and VA were higher than insulin.
Dysmenorrhea is a common gynecologic problem. In some cases, non-medical treatments are considered to be more effective, with fewer side effects. Ginger and exercise are alternative treatments for dysmenorrhea, but in the present study they were not combined.
Objective
In this study, the effects of ginger and exercise on primary dysmenorrhea were compared.
Design, Setting, Participants and Interventions
This randomized controlled trial was performed in Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Two groups of female students were recruited by simple random allocation. In each group, 61 students with moderate to severe primary dysmenorrhea with regular menstrual cycles and without a history of regular exercise were assessed. The ginger group received 250 mg ginger capsules from the onset of menstruation. In the exercise group, belly and pelvic stretching exercises were performed for 10 min, 3 times per week.
Main Outcome Measures
Intensity of pain was assessed according to a visual analogue scale after the first and the second month.
Results
Exercise was significantly more effective than ginger for pain relief (31.57 ± 16.03 vs 38.19 ± 20.47, P = 0.02), severity of dysmenorrhea (63.9% vs 44.3% mild dysmenorrhea, P = 0.02) and decrease in menstrual duration (6.08 ± 1.22 vs 6.67 ± 1.24, P = 0.006), in the second cycle.
Conclusion
Stretching exercises, as a safe and low-cost treatment, are more effective than ginger for pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea.
Trial registration
The trial was registered in www.IRCT.ir with No. 201203118822N2.
Abstract
（1277）
Recent studies have shown exercise is associated with changes in the gut microbiota in humans as well as in experimental animals. Tai Chi is an exercise that integrates a martial art, deep breathing and mediation, and has various beneficial effects for health. This review summarizes current knowledge and recent literature on the association between exercise and gut microbiota, and explores the feasibility of Tai Chi for improving gut microbiota composition and function. PubMed/MEDLINE was used to search the English literature for the keywords exercise and gut microbiota. Fourteen relevant studies were identified. In humans, exercise increases the gut microbial diversity. However, the evidence for this association is weak, as previous studies were small-scale, non-controlled studies of short duration or cross-sectional design. In animals, exercise alters the composition of gut microbiota, with some studies suggesting exercise increases the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio. However, these results are controversial, partly because host genetics and physical fitness also influence gut microbiota. Furthermore, the intensity of exercise may play a key role in how exercise affects gut microbiota. Tai Chi is a moderate-intensity exercise that improves immune function and inflammation of the gut. Tai Chi may also affect gut microbiota through vagal modulation and mediating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, no studies have investigated the association between Tai Chi and gut microbiota. Well designed studies exploring the effects of Tai Chi on gut microbiota are needed.
Abstract
（1088）
The purpose of this article is to briefly introduce the status and challenges of major noncommunicable diseases (mNCDs), which include cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer, as well as related risk factors, such as environmental pollution, smoking, obesity and sleep disorders. “S-E-E-D” rules or the strategies of “S-E-E-D” intervention (SEEDi) consist of four core healthy elements: sleep, emotion, exercise and diet. The history of SEEDi1.0-3.0 is also introduced, which includes versions 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 3.0 of the program. These guidelines are suitable for prevention and control of mNCDs. Not only the “Healthy China” initiated in China's “13th Five-year Plan,” but also the “Healthy World” philosophy needs SEEDi1.0-3.0 strategies for control of mNCDs.
Abstract
（1030）
Marzotto et al. showed that homeopathic preparations of Arnica montana L. acted directly on gene expression of Tamm-Horsfall protein-1 (THP-1) monocyte/macrophage cell lines activated with phorbol12-myristate13-acetate and interleukin-4 (IL-4). A. montana homeopathic dilutions are used in complementary and alternative medicine to treat inflammation disorders and post-traumatic events as well as for wound repair. The French Pharmacopoeia of these remedies uses 0.3% ethanol in each centesimal dilution. In this paper, we discuss how ethanol-containing A. montana homeopathic centesimal dilutions can change gene expression in IL-4-treated monocyte/macrophage THP-1. We assessed the role of ethanol in the Arnica homeopathic dilutions containing this alcohol by investigating its action on gene expression of THP-1 cell. Evidence would strongly suggest that the presence of ethanol in these remedies might play a fundamental role in the dilutions ability to affect gene expression, particularly for doses from 5c to 15c. Where, rather than playing a major role in the mesoscopic structure of water, the ethanol might have a chemical-physical role in the induction of THP-1 gene expression, apoptosis, and deoxyribonucleic acid function. This evidence generates a debate about the suggestion that the use of a binary-mixed solvent in homeopathic chemistry, used by Hahnemann since 1810, may be fundamental to explain the activity of homeopathy on cell models.
Geophila repens (L.) I. M. Johnst. (Rubiaceae), a small, creeping, perennial herb, is claimed to have memory-enhancing property. The goal of this study was to assess its antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity and conduct a rapid bioautographic enzyme assay for screening acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition of G. repens extracts.
Methods
Antioxidant activity of G. repens extracts was assessed by performing 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide (SOD), hydroxyl (OH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assays. Anticholinesterase activity was investigated by quantifying the AChE and BChE inhibitory activities of chloroform (CGR), ethyl acetate (EGR) and methanol (MGR) extract fractions from G. repens leaves. A rapid high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) bioautographic method for the detection of AChE and BChE inhibition was performed.
Results
Among all extract fractions, EGR exhibited the highest half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in DPPH, SOD, NO, OH and TAC assays, with IC50 of (38.33 ± 3.21), (45.14 ± 1.78), (59.81 ± 1.32), (39.45 ± 0.79) and (43.76 ± 0.81) μg/mL respectively. EGR displayed competitive, reversible inhibition of AChE and BChE activities with IC50 of (68.63 ± 0.45) and (59.45 ± 0.45) μg/mL, respectively. Total phenolic and flavonoids contents of EGR were found to be 360.42 mg gallic acid equivalents and 257.31 mg quercetin equivalents per gram of extract. Phytoconstituents of the EGR extract that were inhibitors of cholinesterase produced white spots on the yellow background of HPTLC plates in the bioautographic test.
Conclusion
The results of this study revealed that phenols and flavonoids could be responsible for the antioxidant, anticholinesterase activities of G. repens.
Jeremiah Olorunjuwon Olugbami, Robert Damoiseaux, Bryan France, Michael A. Gbadegesin, Adam Z. Stieg, Shivani Sharma, Oyeronke A. Odunola, James K. Gimzewski
The fatality of cancer is mostly dependent on the possibility of occurrence of metastasis. Thus, if the development of metastasis can be prevented through novel therapeutic strategies targeted against this process, then the success of cancer treatment will drastically increase. In this study, therefore, we evaluated the antimetastatic potentials of an extract of Khaya senegalensis and curcumin on the metastatic liver cell line HepG2, and also assessed the anticancer property of the extract.
Methods
Cells were cultured and treated with graded concentrations of test substances for 24, 48, or 72 h with provisions made for negative controls. Treated cells were assessed as follows: nanotechnologically—atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to determine cell stiffness; biochemically—cell cytotoxicity, glutathione level and adenosine triphosphate status, caspase activation and mitochondrial toxicity were considered; and microbiologically—a carrot disk assay was used to assess the anticancer property of the extract of K. senegalensis.
Results
Curcumin and K. senegalensis increased the cell stiffness by 2.6- and 4.0-fold respectively, indicating their antimetastatic effects. Corresponding changes in redox (glutathione level) and energy (adenosine triphosphate) status of the cells were also demonstrated. Further mechanistic studies indicated that curcumin was not mitotoxic in HepG2 cells unlike the K. senegalensis extract. In addition, the extract potently inhibited the Agrobacterium tumefaciens-induced genetic transformation based on carrot disk assay.
Conclusion
Cell elasticity measurement data, using AFM, strongly suggested, for the first time, that both curcumin and the extract of K. senegalensis exhibited antimetastatic properties on HepG2 cells.
To evaluate the effects of homoeopathic ultrahigh dilutions of Aconitum napellus in Baker's yeast-induced fever in rabbits.
Methods
Rabbits were divided into 4 groups and each group contained 6 rabbits. Baker's yeast suspension (20%) was injected subcutaneously. After fever induction, paracetamol and homoeopathic ultrahigh dilutions (A. napellus 200c and 1 000c) were given orally. Rectal temperature was measured with digital thermometer hourly.
Results
Fever was induced in all the rabbits after 4 hours of Baker's yeast administration. A. napellus 200c and 1000c significantly reduced the temperature (P > 0.05). In positive control, temperature decrease was more significant (P > 0.001).
Conclusion
The above findings indicate the effectiveness of ultrahigh dilutions of A. napellus in Baker's yeast-induced fever in rabbits. However, the effects were slower and less significant than standard medicine. Moreover, future research is required to know their mechanism of reducing temperature.
Abstract
（1013）
Research on acupuncture has been muddled by attempts to bridge the ancient with the modern. Barriers to effectiveness research are reflected in recurring conflicts that include disagreement on use of the most basic terms, lack of standard intervention controls, and the absence of functional measures for assessing treatment effect. Acupuncture research has stalled at the “placebo barrier” wherein acupuncture is “no better than placebo.” The most widely recognized comparative effectiveness research in acupuncture does not compare acupuncture treatment protocols within groups, thereby, mutating large scale effectiveness studies into large scale efficacy trials. Too often research in acupuncture attempts to tie outcomes to traditional belief systems thereby limiting usefulness of the research. The acupuncture research paradigm needs to focus more closely on a scientific definition of treatments and outcomes that compare protocols in terms of prevalent clinical issues such as relative effectiveness for treating pain.
Acute diarrhea is one of the major illnesses that cause death in children, despite clinical interventions and the use of oral rehydration therapy. Thus, there is need to discover other effective, affordable and accessible treatments for this disease. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate the effects of hexane extract of Citrus limon peel (HECLP) on castor oil-induced diarrhea in rats.
Methods
Diarrhea was induced in male albino Wistar rats weighing 100-150 g. The antidiarrheal activity of HECLP at different oral dosages (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) was investigated by counting the number of wet fecal pellets. Animals were further treated with propranolol, prazosin, nifedipine and atropine to assess the effects of receptor blockers on the activities of the extract. The effects of HECLP on castor oil-induced enteropooling and the intestinal transit time of activated charcoal were also evaluated.
Results
Each of the 3 doses of C. limon significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the number of wet fecal pellets produced by animals, with 20 mg/kg HECLP producing the highest percentage inhibition (34.2%). Wet fecal pellet inhibition by the standard drug loperamide (3 mg/kg p.o.) was 68.4% relative to the negative control. Blockage of β adrenergic receptors by propanolol abolished the antidiarrheal effects of HECLP. Intestinal fluid accumulation was inhibited by 68.7% and 78.5% by 20 mg/kg HECLP and loperamide respectively. Furthermore, 20 mg/kg HECLP significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the percentage intestinal transit time (21.4% ± 1.42%), relative to the control (34.2% ± 4.29%); atropine (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the percentage intestinal transit time to 11.2% ± 0.85%.
Conclusion
These results suggest that C. limon peel possesses antidiarrheal effects through antisecretory and antimotility mechanisms that act through the β adrenergic system.
To evaluate the effects of Zingiber cassumunar (Plai cream) in either 7% or 14% concentration on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
Methods
Seventy-five untrained healthy volunteers (28 males and 47 females), performed 4 sets of 25 eccentric repetitions of the dominant quadriceps muscle on an isokinetic dynamometry machine. Participants were then randomized into 3 groups: 14% Plai cream, 7% Plai cream and placebo cream. Two grams of the cream (strips of 5-cm long) were gently rubbed into the quadriceps muscles for 5 min immediately following the exercise and every 8 h thereafter for 7 d in all groups. Muscle soreness, muscle strength, jump height, thigh circumference and creatine kinase were measured before and after eccentric exercise.
Results
Compared to the placebo cream the 14% Plai cream substantially reduced muscle soreness over the 7 d by -82% (95% CI = -155% to -6%, P = 0.03), but had similar muscle soreness effects to 7% Plai cream (-34%, -96% to 27%, P = 0.2). Compared to the placebo cream the 7% Plai cream resulted in a small non-significant reduction in muscle soreness levels over the following 7 d (-40%, -116% to 36%, P = 0.3). Compared to placebo cream there was little effect of Plai cream (7% or 14%) on muscle strength, jump height, thigh circumference or creatine kinase concentration.
Conclusion
Using 14% Plai cream over a 7-day period substantially reduced muscle soreness symptoms compared to 7% Plai cream or a placebo cream. The authors suggest that the administration of 14% Plai cream is a useful alternative in the management of DOMS.
Abstract
（1060）
It is estimated that 80% of the world population depends on traditional medicine for primary healthcare need. Trianthema portulacastrum Linn. (family: Aizoaceae) is a small perennial weed found in the Americas, Africa, India, and other regions of the world. This plant is used extensively in Indian traditional medicines and is also consumed as a vegetable throughout Asia for its perceived health benefits. Phytochemical analysis of T. portulacastrum reveals the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds. Emerging studies demonstrate that crude extracts as well as bioactive phytoconstituents of T. portulacastrum exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-infective, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activities. A growing number of in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate various biological and pharmacological activities, including prevention and amelioration of hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, infectious diseases and cancer. This review aims to present and analyze available literature to understand the full potential of T. portulacastrum in health promotion and disease prevention. Current limitations and future directions of research on this medicinal and dietary plant are also critically discussed.
Though the initial etiologies of arthritis are multifactorial, clinically, patients share the prime complaints of the disease, pain. Here the authors assessed the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of UP1304, a composite that contains a standardized blend of extracts from the rhizome of Curcuma longa and the root bark of Morus alba, on rats with carrageenan-induced paw edema.
Methods
A plant library was screened for bradykinin receptor antagonists. In vivo, the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the standardized composite, UP1304, were evaluated in rats with carrageenan-induced paw edema using oral dose ranges of 100-400 mg/kg. Ibuprofen, at a dose of 200 mg/kg, was used as a reference compound. In vitro, cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition assays were performed to evaluate the degree of inflammation.
Results
Statistically significant improvements in pain resistance and paw edema suppression were observed in animals treated with UP1304, when compared to vehicle-treated rats. Resultsfrom the highest dose of UP1304 (400 mg/kg) were similar to those achieved by ibuprofen treatment at 200 mg/kg. In vitro, UP1304 showed dose-dependent inhibition of the enzymatic activities of COX and LOX. A half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 9.6 μg/mL for bradykinin B1 inhibition was calculated for the organic extract of C. longa. Curcumin showed Ki values of 2.73 and 58 μg/mL for bradykinin receptors B1 and B2, respectively.
Conclusion
Data presented here suggest that UP1304, analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent of botanical origin, acted as a bradykinin receptor B1 and B2 antagonist, and inhibited COX and LOX enzyme activities. This compound should be considered for the management of symptoms associated with arthritis.
Ayurvedic formulations are preferred over other formulations as well as commercialized on broad level to treat various ailments. The World Health Organization has established certain guidelines for quality control of heavy metals and pesticide residues. Bacopa monnieri, a popular herb with immunomodulator and memory-enhancing properties is the chief constituent of several Ayurvedic formulations, which include Brahmi Vati (BV), Brahmi Ghrita (BG) and Saraswat Churna (SC), etc. In view of the World Health Organization guidelines, two products of each formulation from six different manufacturers were purchased from Ayurvedic Pharmacy, Bulanala-Varanasi, India for testing heavy metal and pesticide residue.
Methods
In the present study, all the formulations—BV, BG and SC—were selected for estimation of four heavy metals namely lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) by a plasma emission spectrophotometer. Organochlorine pesticidal residues were estimated for dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane, isomers of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and α-endosulfan, etc. in total 12 samples of test formulations containing Bacopa monnieri L. using gas chromatography technique.
Results
Out of 12 samples, Pb, Cd, Cr and Ni were present in all samples but below the permissible limit. Although atrazine, aldrin, dialdrin were in below detection limit, but other pesticides were detected in some samples as oxamyl, hexachlorocyclohexanes (α-HCH, β-HCH and γ-HCH), dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane and dichlorodiphenyl dichloroethylene.
Conclusion
The presence of heavy metals in the formulations was low to cause toxicity. However evaluation of heavy metals and pesticide residue in every batch is necessary.
Abstract
（1103）
Infertility due to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a worldwide problem that is increasing at alarming rates. Insulin resistance, the prime factor of PCOS, induces comorbid metabolic syndrome as well. Durian (Durio zibenthinus Linn), a fruit of Southeast Asia, is used as a natural supplement in healthy diets. This paper is a short literature review that examines the fruit's effects against various components of metabolic syndrome and its fertility-enhancing properties in PCOS. Various published literature was reviewed to learn of the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-obesity, anticholesterol, and antihypoglycaemic nature of the fruit. The literature search was done using PubMed, Google Scholar and library databases. The keywords used were polycystic ovarian syndrome, infertility, metabolic syndrome and Durian zibenthinus Linn. Reviewed studies showed that the fruit is effective against various components of metabolic syndrome, but the mechanisms of action against anovulation and menstrual disturbances in PCOS have yet to be studied. The traditional use of durian as a fertility-enhancing agent needs to be validated scientifically by isolating its various components and ascertaining its fertility enhancing properties.
Abstract
（224）
Objective:Salvadora persica (SP) is used as a
food additive and is a common ingredient in folk medicine. This study
investigates the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and beneficial effects
of SP against cyclophosphamide (CYP) toxicity in rats. Methods: In a 10-day study, 32 male rats were equally allocated into 4 groups (8
rats/group) as follows: the normal control (NC group), normal rats that
only received oral aqueous extract of SP (100 mg/[kg·d]; SP group),
animals treated with intraperitoneal CYP injections (30 mg/[kg·d]; CYP
group), and the CYP + SP group that concurrently received CYP with SP
aqueous extract. Serum samples were collected to measure the liver and
renal biochemical profiles, as well as antioxidant and oxidative stress
markers and the concentrations of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10,
tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and adenosine
5’-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Hepatic and renal
tissues were also harvested for histopathology and to measure apoptosis
using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end
labeling technique, alongside tissue levels of oxidative stress markers. Results: Liver enzymes, total bilirubin, creatinine and urea, as well as serum
IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and NF-κB increased significantly, whilst total
protein, albumin, calcium, IL-10 and AMPK declined in serum of the CYP
group relative to the NC group. The hepatorenal concentrations of
glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and catalase declined markedly in
the CYP group, whereas malondialdehyde, protein adducts, and apoptosis
index increased compared with the NC group. By contrast, the hepatorenal
biochemistry and apoptosis index of the SP group were comparable to the
NC group. Interestingly, the CYP + SP group had significant
improvements in the liver and renal biochemical parameters, enhanced
anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, and marked declines in
hepatic and renal apoptosis relative to the CYP group. Moreover, all
monitored parameters were statistically indistinguishable between the
CYP + SP group and the NC group. Conclusion: This
study suggests that the aqueous extract of SP could be a potential
remedy against CYP-induced hepatorenal damage and may act by modulating
the AMPK/NF-κB signaling pathway and promoting anti-oxidative and
anti-inflammatory activities.
Abstract
（327）
Aconitum heterophyllum (Patrees) is a critically endangered medicinal herb of the northwestern Himalayas and has enormous pharmacological potential. It is the only nonpoisonous member of the genus Aconitum, and has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times. A. heterophyllum is an important ingredient in many traditional systems of medicine. Mostly, it is harvested for its roots, and its medicinal properties are due to the presence of diverse bioactive secondary metabolites, commonly known as aconites. Our understanding of the pharmacological properties of this intriguing genus is continuously growing due to its broad chemical diversity. The therapeutic uses identified by traditional medicinal practice are receiving extensive study. Multiple in vitro experimental investigations of A. heterophyllum have reported the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiarrhythmic, antiparasitic and anticancer properties, as well as its effects on the central nervous system. In this review, we highlight the classification, distribution, commerce, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and conservation measures relevant to this species. Additionally, this review includes the biosynthetic pathways of A. heterophyllum’s key constituents, which could be targeted to enhance the expression levels of desired metabolites via genetic interventions. Studying the genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomic aspects of this species would be helpful in developing highly designed genotypes and chemotypes of this species to be used in commercial production.
Abstract
（133）
Objective
Aconite is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that has been found to inhibit the development of liver cancer; however, its exact molecular mechanisms in this process remain unclear. This study explores how aconite aqueous extract (AAE) inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Methods
An in vivo mouse model of subcutaneous liver cancer was established. After AAE treatment, immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to determine the effect of AAE on natural killer (NK) cells. Subsequently, C57BL/6 mice were used to establish the subcutaneous tumor model, and a group of these mice were treated with anti-PK163 antibody to remove NK cells, which was verified by flow cytometry and IHC. The effect of AAE on the proliferation of HCC cells in vitro was determined using cell counting kit-8. The effect of AAE on chemokine production in HCC cells was measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effect of AAE on the migration of NK cells was determined using a transwell assay. Finally, the molecular mechanism was investigated using the Western blotting method.
Results
We demonstrated that the ability of AAE to induce overexpression of the cytokine C–C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) in HCC cells is fundamental to the infiltration of NK cells into the tumor bed. Mechanistically, we found that the upregulation of CCL2 was achieved by the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase but not extracellular regulated protein kinase or p38.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that AAE can be used as an effective immune adjuvant to enhance antitumor immunity by increasing NK cell infiltration into tumors, which could help to improve the efficacy of HCC treatments.
Abstract
（114）
Objective To explore whether the ethanol extract of Herpetospermum caudigerum Wall (EHC), a Xizang medicinal plant traditionally used for treating liver diseases, can improve imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation.
Methods Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine the effects of topical EHC use in vivo on the skin pathology of imiquimod-induced psoriasis in mice. The protein levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-17A (IL-17A) in mouse skin samples were examined using immunohistochemical staining. In vitro, IFN-γ-induced HaCaT cells with or without EHC treatment were used to evaluate the expression of keratinocyte-derived intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and chemokine CXC ligand 9 (CXCL9) using Western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide and proteasome inhibitor MG132 were utilized to validate the EHC-mediated mechanism underlying degradation of ICAM-1 and CXCL9.
Results EHC improved inflammation in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model and reduced the levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17A in psoriatic lesions. Treatment with EHC also suppressed ICAM-1 and CXCL9 in epidermal keratinocytes. Further mechanistic studies revealed that EHC suppressed keratinocyte-derived ICAM-1 and CXCL9 by promoting ubiquitin–proteasome-mediated protein degradation rather than transcriptional repression. Seven primary compounds including ehletianol C, dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol, herpetrione, herpetin, herpetotriol, herpetetrone and herpetetrol were identified from the EHC using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry.
Conclusion Topical application of EHC ameliorates psoriasis-like skin symptoms and improves the inflammation at the lesion sites.
Abstract
（188）
Objective: Although the protective effects of Momordica charantia L. (MC) extract on chemical-induced testicular damage have been
studied, the preventive effects of MC extract on functional proteins in
the epididymis under chronic stress have never been reported. This study
investigated the protective effects of MC fruit extract on protein
secretion, especially tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins, in the
epididymis of rats exposed to chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). Methods: Total phenolic compounds (TPC), total flavonoid compounds (TFC) and
antioxidant capacities of MC extract were measured. Adult male rats were
divided into 4 groups: control group, CUS group, and 2 groups of CUS
that received different doses of MC extract (40 or 80 mg/kg). In treated
groups, rats were given MC daily, followed by induction of CUS (1
stressor was randomly applied from a battery of 9 potential stressors)
for 60 consecutive days. Plasma corticosterone and testosterone levels
were analyzed after the end of experiment. Expressions of heat-shock
protein 70 (HSP-70) and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins present in the
fluid of the head and tail of the epididymis were quantified using
Western blot. Results: MC extract contained TPC of
(19.005 ± 0.270) mg gallic acid equivalents and TFC of (0.306 ± 0.012)
mg catechin equivalents per gram, and had 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl
antioxidant capacity of (4.985 ± 0.086) mg trolox equivalents per gram,
radical half-maximal inhibitory concentration of (2.011 ± 0.008) mg/mL
and ferric reducing antioxidant power of (23.697 ± 0.819) μmol Fe(II)
per gram. Testosterone level in the epididymis was significantly
increased, while the corticosterone level was significantly improved in
groups treated with MC extract, compared to the CUS animals.
Particularly, an 80 mg/kg dose of MC extract prevented the impairments
of HSP-70 and tyrosine-phosphorylated protein expressions in the luminal
fluid of the epididymis of CUS rats. Conclusion: MC
fruit extract had antioxidant activities and improved the functional
proteins secreted from the head and tail of the epididymis. It is
possible to develop the MC fruit extract as a male fertility supplement
for enhancing functional sperm maturation in stressed men.
Abstract
（215）
Objective: This study investigated the potential mechanisms behind the beneficial effects of Fructus Zanthoxyli (FZ) against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on network pharmacology and experimental validation.
Methods: Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were used to identify the constituents of FZ. Next, the differentially expressed genes linked to the treatment of diabetes with FZ were screened using online databases (including Gene Expression Omnibus database and Swiss Target Prediction online database), and the overlapping genes and their enrichment were analyzed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Finally, the pathway was verified by in vitro experiments, and cell staining with oil red and Nile red showed that the extract of FZ had a therapeutic effect on T2DM.
Results: A total of 43 components were identified from FZ, and 39 differentially expressed overlapping genes were screened as the possible targets of FZ in T2DM. The dug component-target network indicated that PPARA, PPARG, PIK3R3, JAK2 and GPR88 might be the core genes targeted by FZ in the treatment of T2DM. Interestingly, the enrichment analysis of KEGG showed that effects of FZ against T2DM were closely correlated with the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathways. In vitro experiments further confirmed that FZ significantly inhibited palmitic acid-induced lipid formation in HepG2 cells. Moreover, FZ treatment was able to promote the AMPK and PI3K/Akt expressions in HepG2 cells.
Conclusion: Network pharmacology combined with experimental validation revealed that FZ extract can improve the glycolipid metabolism disorder of T2DM via activation of the AMPK/PI3K/Akt pathway.
The present study investigated antiglycation and antioxidant activities of crude dry extract and saponin fraction of Tribulus terrestris. It also developed a method of microencapsulation and evaluated antiglycation and antioxidant activities of crude dry extract and saponin fraction before and after microcapsules release.
Methods
Antiglycation activity was determined by relative electrophoretic mobility (REM), free amino groups and inhibition of advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation. Antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) tests. Microcapsules were prepared using maltodextrin as wall material and freeze-drying as encapsulation technique. Morphological characterization of microcapsules was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, and encapsulation efficiency and microcapsules release were determined by total saponins released. Antiglycation and antioxidant assays were performed using crude dry extract and saponin fraction of T. terrestris before and after release.
Results
Saponin fraction showed an increase of 32.8% total saponins. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed the presence of saponins in the obtained fraction. Antiglycation evaluation by REM demonstrated that samples before and after release present antiglycation activity similar to bovine serum albumin treated with aminoguanidine. Additionally, samples inhibited AGEs formation, highlighting treatment with saponins fraction after release (89.89%). Antioxidant tests demonstrated antioxidant activity of the samples. Crude dry extract before encapsulation presented the highest activities in DPPH (92.00%) and TBARS (32.49%) assays. Saponins fraction before encapsulation in FRAP test (499 μmol Trolox equivalent per gram of dry sample) and NO test (15.13 μmol nitrite formed per gram of extract) presented the highest activities.
Conclusion
This study presented antiglycation activity of crude dry extract and saponins fraction of T. terrestris, besides it demonstrated promising antioxidant properties. It also showed that the encapsulation method was efficient and maintained biological activity of bioactive compounds after microcapsules release. These results provide information for further studies on antidiabetic and antiaging potential, and data for new herbal medicine and food supplement formulations containing microcapsules with crude extract and/or saponins fraction of T. terrestris.
To examine whether Caulerpa okamurae ethanolic extract (COE) could inhibit obesity-mediated inflammation, improve glucose metabolism and increases insulin sensitivity, using in vitro cell models of RAW 264.7 macrophages and 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Methods
We cocultured 3T3-L1 adipocytes in direct contact with lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages and induced insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the presence or absence of 250 μg/mL of COE. We investigated various markers of inflammation, glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity in these models using Griess reagent to measure nitric oxide (NO) production, 2-[N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl) amino]-2-deoxyglucose to measure glucose uptake, Western blot analysis to quantify protein expression and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to evaluate mRNA expression.
Results
We found that COE (250 μg/mL) significantly inhibited the lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 macrophages by downregulating NO production, nitric oxide synthase 2 expression and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB. COE also showed similar anti-inflammatory activity in coculture, along with decreased TNF-α, interleukin-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein mRNA expression. In addition, COE also improved glucose uptake in coculture by upregulating glucose transporter-4 (GLUT-4) and adiponectin and reducing serine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS1). In the TNF-α-induced insulin resistance model of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, COE significantly improved both basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, accompanied by phosphorylation of IRS1 at tyrosine 632, phospho-5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase α and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (Ser9) as well as upregulation of GLUT-4.
Conclusion
Together, these findings suggest that COE has potential to treat or prevent obesity-induced metabolic disorders.
Abstract
（490）
Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the hydroalcoholic extracts of Malva sylvestris flowers or Carum carvi and Medicago sativa seeds, alone and in combination, which have been used in traditional Iranian medicine.
Methods
Male Wistar rats were divided into 6 treatment groups: distilled water, sodium salicylate (SS), M. sylvestris extract (600 mg/kg), C. carvi extract (600 mg/kg), M. sativa extract (300 mg/kg) and combined extract (including 300 mg/kg M. sylvestris and C. carvi extracts, and 150 mg/kg M. sativa extract). The formalin pain model was used to evaluate the antinociceptive effects of the treatments. For anti-inflammatory effect, acute (one hour after injection) and chronic (during a week after injection) paw inflammation was measured after subcutaneous injection of 2.5% formalin in the hindpaw. Finally, tissue samples from all groups were prepared for histopathological studies.
Results
The combined extract significantly inhibited the nociception in the acute phase of the formalin test (P < 0.001). In the chronic phase, all the extracts and SS had significant analgesic effect (P < 0.001). Analgesic activity of the combined extract was significantly stronger than SS (P < 0.01). In the acute inflammation model, M. sylvestris, C. carvi and the combined drug had significant inhibitory effects against paw edema (P < 0.05). All extracts, individually and in combination, significantly alleviated chronic paw inflammation (P < 0.01). The combined extract had much more anti-inflammatory activity than SS (P < 0.05). Histopathological results indicated improvement and reduction of inflammatory factors in the treatment groups.
Conclusion M. sylvestris, C. carvi and M. sativa have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Potentially, each of these extracts or a mixture of them might be a valuable alternative drug to control pain and inflammation.
Triphala extract is a well known medicinal herbal formula which is usually prescribed by Thai traditional doctors to adjust the physiological functions of the body. Previous studies have reported that Triphala has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypercholesterolemia and anticancer properties. Though this herbal recipe is commonly used in Thailand, its human safety, especially in the oral form, has not been studied. We therefore conducted a clinical trial (Phase I).
Objective
This study evaluated the safety of administering the aqueous extract of Triphala to healthy volunteers at 2500 mg/d.
Design, setting, participants and interventions
An open-label, single-arm trial was conducted at Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand, between July 2017 and July 2018. The study enrolled 10 male and 10 female healthy volunteers; all were given Triphala (water extract; five capsules of 500 mg each) orally, once a day, at bedtime, for four consecutive weeks.
Main outcome measures
Signs and symptoms, physical examinations, hematology and blood chemistry were assessed at the beginning of the trial and every week thereafter, for four consecutive weeks. After finishing the trial, on day 28, all volunteers were invited to a follow-up session on day 35 to evaluate the safety of the herbal recipe using the same measurements.
Results
At the oral dose of 2500 mg/d, Triphala had no serious adverse effects in healthy volunteers. Moreover, it was found to have significantly improved the volunteers’ high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels on day 35 and also reduced their blood sugar levels on days 14 and 35.
Conclusions
We conclude that aqueous extract of Triphala is safe for healthy volunteers and that it elevates HDL-C levels and lowers blood sugar. Further clinical study should investigate its effects on HDL-C and blood sugar levels among the dyslipidemic and prediabetic groups.
Trial registration
This trial was registered in the Thai Clinical Trial Registry with the identifier TCTR20180423002.
Abstract
（1174）
Objective: This study investigated cytotoxicity and
induction of apoptosis in human cervical cancer cells (HELA) and
prostate cancer cells (PC-3) using the most active fraction of Moringa peregrina seed extract.
Methods: Dried and powdered seeds were extracted using 95% ethanol. The total
ethanolic extract was further dissolved in distilled water and separated
into petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous extracts.
Based on the results of in vitro anticancer studies of all
extracts, the most highly active extract was selected for evaluation of
apoptosis induction and cell cycle analysis on HELA and PC-3 cells at
its half maximal inhibitory concentration using flow cytometry; DNA
fragmentation by agarose gel electrophoresis and the expression of
protein were measured by Western blot.
Results: The chloroform fraction from the ethanolic extract of M. peregrina (CFEE) was the most active antitumor fraction. The selectivity index,
determined using the normal Vero cell line, indicated that CFEE had a
high degree of selectivity against HELA and PC-3 cells. CFEE induced
apoptosis, confirmed by cell cycle arrest at sub-G0 phase and
DNA fragmentation. CFEE induced an increase in mRNA expression of
caspase-3, a decrease in Bcl-2 mRNA expression, and decreased ATP
levels. CFEE increased protein expression of caspase-3 and decreased
protein expression of poly-ADP-ribose polymerase-1 (PARP-1). Flow
cytometric analysis showed an appreciable increase in the number of
cells in the early apoptotic stage in CFEE-treated HELA and PC-3 cells.
CFEE treatment significantly increased lipid peroxidation
(malondialdehyde level) in HELA and PC-3 cells.
Conclusion: Seed extract of M. peregrina displayed a significant antitumor effect through apoptosis induction in HELA and PC-3 cells.
Abstract
（1190）
Objective
The objective of the work was to optimize the brazilin content and antibacterial activity of Caesalpinia sappan L. heartwood extract using computer software.
Methods
Two independent factors were studied: extraction temperature (45–95 °C) and extraction time (30–60 min). In addition, five dependent factors were monitored, including extraction yield, brazilin content, and clear zones against Staphylococcus aureus TISTR 1466, Staphylococcus epidermidis TISTR 518 and Propionibacterium acnes DMST 14961. The brazilin content was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography and antibacterial activity was determined by disc diffusion assay.
Results
The high temperature provided high total extract yield as well as brazilin content, while extraction time had little effect on yield or brazilin content. Extraction time had a positive effect, while extraction temperature had little effect on clear zone against S. aureus. The largest clear zone against S. epidermidis was achieved at low extraction temperature and high extraction time. Conversely, low extraction time and high extraction temperature provided the largest clear zone against P. acnes. The optimal conditions providing the highest brazilin content was an extraction temperature and extraction time of 95 °C and 30 min, respectively. The same optimal conditions also provided the simultaneous greatest antibacterial activity against the three bacteria. Modeled optimal conditions were validated be conducting extraction using these values. Yield and antibacterial activity of the resulting extract demonstrated that the model had a low percentage error.
Conclusion
The optimal condition will be used as a standard condition for extraction of C. sappan heartwood to maximize brazilin content and antibacterial activity.
Abstract
（1175）
Objective
Pittosporum angustifolium Lodd. is used to treat a variety of pathogenic diseases and inflammation by Australian aborigines. Practitioners of complementary medicine frequently use herbal medicines concurrently with conventional antibiotics. There is a need to evaluate their effects in combination.
Methods
The bacterial growth inhibitory activity of P. angustifolium leaf extracts was assessed against a panel of pathogenic triggers of some autoimmune diseases by standard disc diffusion and liquid dilution minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) methods. Combinational effects between the extracts and conventional antimicrobials were classified using the sum of the fractional inhibitory concentration. Synergistic interactions were further assessed across a range of ratios by isobologram analysis. The toxicity of the individual samples and combinations was evaluated by Artemia lethality and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) human dermal fibroblast cell viability assays.
Results P. angustifolium leaf extracts strongly inhibited the growth of several bacterial triggers of autoimmune diseases. The methanolic, aqueous and ethyl acetate extracts were particularly good inhibitors of Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumonia growth (MIC?=?26 and 57?μg/mL respectively). Some combinations of the extracts and conventional antibiotics significantly potentiated the combined inhibitory activity compared to the individual components. Of the 250 combinations studied, approximately 0.02% showed synergistic interactions, 49.6% were additive, 46.8% showed indifferent interactions and antagonism occurred in only 0.02% of the combinations. Interestingly, all of the synergistic and antagonistic combinations contained tetracycline as their antibiotic component.
Conclusion P. angustifolium leaf extracts inhibit the growth of pathogenic triggers of some autoimmune diseases. Some extracts also potentiated the activity of conventional antibiotics, without significantly affecting the toxicity of the combination.
Ginkgo biloba L. preparations (GBLPs) are a class of Chinese herbal medicine used in the adjuvant treatment of ischemic stroke (IS). Recently, several systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) of GBLPs for IS have been published.
Objective
This overview aims to assess the quality of related SRs and MAs.
Search strategy
PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Chinese Biological Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and Chinese Science and Technology Journals databases were searched from their inception to December 31, 2022.
Inclusion criteria
SRs and MAs of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that explored the efficacy of GBLPs for patients with IS were included.
Data extraction and analysis
Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the methodological quality, risk of bias (ROB), reporting quality, and credibility of evidence of the included SRs and MAs using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2), Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS), the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA), and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), respectively. Additionally, descriptive analysis and data synthesis were conducted.
Results
Twenty-nine SRs/MAs involving 119 outcomes were included in this review. The overall methodological quality of all SRs/MAs was critically low based on AMSTAR 2, and 28 had a high ROB based on the ROBIS. According to the PRISMA statement, the reporting items of the included SRs/MAs are relatively complete. The results based on GRADE showed that of the 119 outcomes, 8 were rated as moderate quality, 24 as low quality, and 87 as very low quality. Based on the data synthesis, GBLPs used in conjunction with conventional treatment were superior to conventional treatment alone for decreasing neurological function scores.
Conclusion
GBLPs can be considered a beneficial supplemental therapy for IS. However, because of the low quality of the existing evidence, high-quality RCTs and SRs/MAs are warranted to further evaluate the benefits of GBLPs for treating IS.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the herbal pair, Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae (RAB) and Eucommiae Cortex (EC), is widely used to treat osteoporosis. Herein, we determined
whether this herbal pair can be used to ameliorate glucocorticoid
(GC)-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) and find its optimal dosage in
zebrafish.
Methods
The characteristics of
the aqueous extract of RAB and EC were separately characterized using
high-performance liquid chromatography. Osteoporosis was induced in
5-day post-fertilization zebrafish larvae by exposing them to 10 μmol/L
dexamethasone (Dex) for 96 h. Seven combinations of different ratios of
RAB and EC were co-administered. Treatment efficacy was determined by
calculating zebrafish vertebral area and sum brightness, via alizarin
red staining, and by detecting alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity.
Multiple regression analysis was conducted to test the optimal dosage
ratio.
Results
According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2015), β-ecdysone (β-Ecd) is a major bioactive marker in RAB extract,
while pinoresinol diglucoside (PDG) is the major marker in EC extract.
Both of β-Ecd and PDG content values aligned with the Chinese Pharmacopoeia standards. Treatment with 10 μmol/L Dex reduced zebrafish vertebral
area, sum brightness, and ALP activity, but RAB and EC attenuated these
effects. Combining 50 μg/mL RAB and 50 μg/mL EC was optimal for
preventing GIOP in zebrafish. Reverse transcription-quantitative
polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the mRNA expression of
osteogenesis-related genes. A treatment of 10 μmol/L Dex decreased
runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1), bone γ-carboxyglutamic acid-containing protein (BGLAP), and β-catenin levels. This effect was counteracted by RAB and EC co-treatment (P <
0.05). Additionally, the effect of using the two herbal extracts
together was better than single-herb treatments separately. These
results demonstrated that RAB and EC preserve osteoblast function in the
presence of GC. The best mass ratio was 1:1.
Conclusion
RAB and EC herbal pair could ameliorate GC-induced effects in zebrafish, with 1:1 as the optimal dosage ratio.
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