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PREFACE
INTRODUCTION
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, under Department of AYUSH, New Delhi
intends to publish Ayurveda Research Digest (Half-Yearly) and circulate to the Council staff.
The main objective of this publication is to disseminate the research information/ citation about
research articles on Ayurveda and related fields published in various journals/magazines
subscribed by the Council as well as free on-line journals and complementary issues received by
the Council.
SCOPE
This issue vol I, Issue No. 2 (July to December, 2011) covers more than 200 articles on
Ayurveda and related sciences which have been broadly classified under various subjects/ sub
topics viz. Ayurveda, Botany, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Ethnomedicine, Phramacognosy,
Pharmacology, Review Articles’ Abstracts and Vaterinery Science.
ARRANGEMENT OF DATA
The articles are indexed under subject, which have been arranged alphabetically. Under each
subject/ subtopics, the entries are arranged alphabetically by Author.
Arrangement of each bibliographic details are as follow:
Name of the Authors (seperated by,) (last name first) .Title of the article.Title of the journal in
italic.Year month and date of the journal; Vol of the journal (issue of the journal within bracket):
pages of the journal. If online, URL of the journal mentioned.
JOURNALS INDEXED
This Research Digest consists of the articles published during the period from July to December,
2011 from the following journals subscribed by CCRAS, complementary journals and the
authors of the published papers from the units of CCRAS.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Acta Pol Pharm
Am J Chin Med
Anat Sci Int
Anc Sci Life
Andrologia
Anticancer Drugs
Asian Pac J Trop Med.
Ayu
1
9. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol
10. Bioinformation
11. Biol Trace Elem Res
12. Biomed Chromatogr
13. Bioorg Med Chem.
14. BMC Clin Pathol.
15. Bone
16. Br J Nutr
17. Bratisl Lek Listy
18. Cancer Prev Res (Phila)
19. Carbohydr Res
20. Chem Biodivers
21. ChemMedChem
22. Chin J Physiol
23. Clin Ter
24. Clinics (Sao Paulo)
25. Curr Drug Metab
26. Curr Drug Targets
27. Endocr Relat Cancer
28. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol
29. Eur J Med Chem.
30. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci.
31. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med
32. Fitoterapia
33. Food Funct.
34. Free Redic Biol Med.
35. Front Pharmacol
36. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol
37. Indian J Anaesth
38. Indian J Exp Biol
39. Indian J Med Res
40. Indian J Pharmacol
41. Inflammation
42. Inflammopharmacology
43. Int J Cosmet Sci.
44. Int J Mol Sci.
45. Int J Yoga Therap
46. Iran J Allergy Asthma Immunol
47. J Adv Pharm Technol Res
48. J Agric Food Chem.
2
49. J Altern Complement Med
50. J AOAC Int
51. J Assoc Physicians India
52. J Ayurveda Integr Med
53. J Biosci
54. J Chem Ecol.
55. J Egypt Soc Parasitol
56. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol
57. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed
58. J Ethnopharmacol
59. J Food Sci
60. J Hazard Mater.
61. J Hematol Oncol
62. J Immunotoxicol
63. J Med Food
64. J Nat Med
65. J Nat Prod.
66. J Pak Med Assoc.
67. J Pharm Biomed Anal.
68. J Sep Sci.
69. Korean J Physiol Pharmacol
70. Mar Drugs
71. Med Princ Pract
72. Mol Carcinog
73. Mol Nutr Food Res.
74. Molecules
75. Nat Prod Commun.
76. Nat Prod Res
77. Neurochem Res
78. Pak J Pharm Sci.
79. Parasitol Res.
80. Pharm Biol
81. Pharmacogn Mag.
82. Pharmacognosy Res
83. Pharmazie
84. Phytochem Anal.
85. Phytochem Lett.
86. Phytochemistry
87. Phytomedicine
88. Phytother Res
3
89. Planta Med
90. PLoS One
91. PLoS Pathog
92. Rom J Morphol Embryol
93. Sci Pharm
94. Sci Total Environ
95. Scott Med J.
96. Tetrahedron Lett
97. Toxicol Ind Health
98. World J Gastroenterol
99. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are grateful to Dr. D. Ramesh Babu, Director General, CCRAS for his encouragement and
valuable guidance. We are also grateful to all who coordinate to bring out this issue successfully.
Dr. G.Gnana Sekari
LIO, CCRAS HQs,
New Delhi.
Our Contact Details:
CCRAS Website:
http://ccras.nic.in
CCRAS Library Website:
http://ccraslibrary.webs.com
E-mail Ids for Library:
[email protected]
AYURVEDA
4
Acharya S, Panda PK, Acharya G, Mohanty N, Nathsharma PK, Dash SC. A comparative
clinical trial of Chincha kshara and Kadali kshara on Amlapitta. Ayu.2011 Oct;32(4):494-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
A clinical trial was carried out on 30 patients of Amlapitta aged between 20 to 35 years with
complaints of Avipaka, hrit-kanthadaha, tikta-amlodgara, utklesa, udarasula, adhmana and
aruchi, who were registered from OPD and IPD of Gopabandhu Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Puri.
They were equally divided into three groups Chincha kshara, Kadali kshara and placebo (who
were administered with fresh wheat powder) for 30 days in a dose of 500 mg thrice daily with
water. Investigations was done in order to exclude upper gastrointestinal tract ulcer, carcinoma in
stomach, cholecystitis, carcinoma gall bladder, and heart diseases. The clinical assessments were
carried out on the 30(th) day by subjective and objective parameters and it was inferred that both
Chincha kshara and Kadali kshara were effective and reduced the symptoms of amlapitta.
Chincha kshara was found to be more effective than Kadali kshara. The study shows the effect of
Chincha and Kadali kshara which led to cure in 4(40%) and 3(30%) patients respectively, and
maximum improvement in 4(40%) and 5(50%) patients affected with amlapitta disease,
respectively. No untoward effect was noticed due to administration of ksharas during the clinical
trial period.
Anupam A, Dwivedi RR. Application of Satkaryavada based on theory of Karya-Karana Vada.
Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):546-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Cikitsa in Ayurveda is based on Karya-Karana Siddhanta. Satkaryavada is an independent view
of Samkhyas regarding Karya-Karana. According to this principle, the Karya is present in
Karana in subtle form before its manifestation. All the Karyas are possible only by the Sat
Karana (existent cause). On this ground a hypothesis has been formulated and applied. The
hypothesis was that since Karana is present in a drug it will perform the Karma. The clinical
study was planned to study the Anulomana Karma of Haritaki in patients of Anaha. The drug
was used in 38 patients. These were divided into two groups. In group "A" 26 patients were
provided with haritaki tablet, while in group "B" 12 patients were provided with placebo tablets.
In group "A" 7.69% of patients got complete relief, followed by 38.46% patients who got
marked relief; 42.31% of patients got moderate relief, while 11.54% patients got mild relief.
Group A showed highly significant results in comparison to group B.
5
Bhardwaj A, Tanwar M. Effect of rasanjana madhu ashchyotana in netra abhishyanda
(mucopurulent
conjunctivitis).
Ayu.
2011
Jul;32(3):365-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Ayurvedic formulation a Rasanjana Madhu (RM) eye
drops and Honey Rose (HR) water eye drops in Netra Abhishyanda in mucopurulent
conjunctivitis, the current study is planned. Total of 35 patients attending the outpatient
department of Shalakya Tantra at R. G. G. PostgraduateAyurvedic College, Paprola, Distt.
Kangra, Himachal Pradesh with characteristic features of Netra Abhishyanda were selected for
the present study. Twenty patients were given trial drug, i.e., RM eye drops, while 15 patients
were given HR eye drops. Random sampling technique was adopted for the present study. The
duration of the treatment was 7 days with 1 week follow-up. Patients receiving the trial group
demonstrated reduction of redness, burning sensation, lacrimation, photophobia, foreign body
sensation, discharge, and congestion, which were statistically significant with 93% patients cured
or markedly improved category. Signs and symptoms stated above were also statistically reduced
with HR eye drops, probably because of well-documented hygroscopic and bacteriocidal
properties of honey. Based on the study, it can be concluded that, RM eye drops are very
effective in the management of Netra Abhishyanda viz. Infective conjunctivitis.
Chaturvedi R, Jha CB. Standard manufacturing procedure of Rajata Bhasma. Ayu. 2011
Oct;32(4):566-71. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Rasa Shastra is a branch of Ayurveda which deals with the processing of minerals and metals
having therapeutic importance. Rajata comes under the group of metals having high therapeutic
value. Minerals and metals are mostly used in the form of Bhasma. During the medieval period
Rasacharyas extensively worked and developed a number of processing methods for a single
drug. They all are standard manufacturing procedures (SMP) which ensure the quality, safety,
efficacy and reproducibility of the product. EarlierAyurvedic physicians were producing
medicines by themselves according to their need. Now a day, due to commercialization
of Ayurvedic medicines and ignorance of classical methods, quality of drugs has deteriorated.
Presently, the demand of Ayurvedic drugs in the global market is increasing day by day. Hence it
is the need of time to develop SMP for Ayurvedic products for global acceptability. This paper
aims at providing SMP for the manufacture of Rajata Bhasma and also attempts to study the
effect of Shodhana process on Rajata. Rajata was obtained from the local market of Varanasi.
Rajata Bhasma was prepared and it was observed that during the preparation of Rajata Bhasma,
use of Muffle Furnace instead of conventional Puta is more advantageous due to better
6
temperature control. Use of mercury and sulphur together acts as best medium in the preparation
of Rajata Bhasma.
Datta HS, Mitra SK, Patwardhan B. Wound healing activity of topical application forms based
on
Ayurveda.
Evid
Based
Complement
Alternat
Med.
2011;2011:134378.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The traditional Indian medicine-Ayurveda, describes various herbs, fats, oils and minerals with
anti-aging as well as wound healing properties. With aging, numerous changes occur in skin,
including decrease in tissue cell regeneration, decrease in collagen content, loss of skin elasticity
and mechanical strength. We prepared five topical anti-aging formulations using cow ghee, flax
seed oil, Phyllanthus emblica fruits, Shorea robusta resin, Yashada bhasma as study materials.
For preliminary efficacy evaluation of the anti-aging activity we chose excision and incision
wound healing animal models and studied the parameters including wound contraction, collagen
content and skin breaking strength which in turn is indicative of the tissue cell regeneration
capacity, collagenation capacity and mechanical strength of skin. The group treated with the
formulations containing Yashada bhasma along with Shorea robusta resin and flax seed oil
showed significantly better wound contraction (P < .01), higher collagen content (P < .05) and
better skin breaking strength (P < .01) as compared to control group; thus proposing them to be
effective prospective anti-aging formulations.
Deole YS, Chavan SS, Ashok BK, Ravishankar B, Thakar AB, Chandola HM. Evaluation of
anti-depressant and anxiolytic activity of Rasayana Ghana Tablet (A compound Ayurvedic
formulation) in albino mice. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):375-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
In recent years, many Ayurvedic formulations are being researched to provide an effective
antidepressant and anxiolytic drug in the field of psycho-pharmacology. The present study was
planned to evaluate the anti-depressant and anxiolytic activity of Rasayana Ghana Tablet
comprising three herbs Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia Miers), Aamalaki (Emblica officinalis
Garten) (RGT) and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn). Swiss albino mice were divided into four
groups of six animals each, comprising of both male and female in each group. Group I received
water served as normal control (WC), group II received vehicle and served as vehicle control
(VC), group III received Rasayana Ghana tablet and group IV received standard drug diazepam
(2 mg/kg) for anxiolytic study in elevated plus maze and standard antidepressant imipramine (5
mg/kg) for anti-depressant activity in behavior despair test. Rasayana Ghana tablet along with
ghee and honey as vehicle is found to be having antidepressant and anxiolytic activity in
7
experimental animals. Thus, this formulation can be used in prevention and treatment of
depression and anxiety.
Galani VJ, Patel BG. Psychotropic activity of Argyreia speciosa roots in experimental animals.
Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):380-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Argyreia speciosa (L.f.) Sweet (convolvulaceae) commonly known as Briddhadaraka is regarded
as a "Rasayana" drug in the ayurvedic system of medicine to cure diseases of nervous system. In
this study, hydroalcoholic root extract of A. speciosa was subjected to evaluate psychotropic
effects in classical experimental models. Effect of the extract on spontaneous motor activity,
pentobarbital-induced sleeping time, motor coordination, exploratory behavior, and
apomorphine-induced stereotypy were investigated in mice. Effect of the extract on catalepsy
and haloperidol-induced catalepsy were studied in rats. Preliminary phytochemical and acute
toxicity screenings were also performed. The extract (100, 200, and 500 mg/kg, p.o.)
significantly decreased spontaneous motor activity, exploratory behavior, and prolonged
pentobarbital sleeping time in mice. The extract also remarkably attenuated the intensity of
apomorphine-induced stereotypy but had no effect on motor coordination. The extract produced
catalepsy and potentiated haloperidol-induced catalepsy in rats. These results provide evidence
that the hydroalcoholic extract of A. speciosa roots may contain psychoactive substances that are
sedative in nature with possible neuroleptic properties.
Gunturu KS, Nagarajan P, McPhedran P, Goodman TR, Hodsdon ME, Strout MP. Ayurvedic
herbal medicine and lead poisoning. J Hematol Oncol. 2011 Dec 20;4:51.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Although the majority of published cases of lead poisoning come from occupational exposures,
some traditional remedies may also contain toxic amounts of lead. Ayurveda is a system of
traditional medicine that is native to India and is used in many parts of world as an alternative to
standard treatment regimens. Here, we report the case of a 58-year-old woman who presented
with abdominal pain, anemia, liver function abnormalities, and an elevated blood lead level. The
patient was found to have been taking the Ayurvedic medicine Jambrulin prior to presentation.
Chemical analysis of the medication showed high levels of lead. Following treatment with an
oral chelating agent, the patient's symptoms resolved and laboratory abnormalities normalized.
This case highlights the need for increased awareness that some Ayurvedic medicines may
8
contain potentially harmful levels of heavy metals and people who use them are at risk of
developing associated toxicities.
Mehta CS, Dave AR, Shukla VD. A clinical study of some Ayurvedic compound drugs in the
assessment quality of life of patients with Eka Kushtha (psoriasis). Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):333-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic disease that can have substantial psychological and social impact on
patient's life. Psoriasis has been shown to affect health-related Quality of Life to an extent
similar to the effects of other chronic diseases such as depression, myocardial infarction,
hypertension, etc. The modern treatment options not only provide temporary relief but also have
serious side effects. Thus, the chronic and recurring nature of the disease hampers the Quality of
Life to a great extent. In the present study, patients were randomly divided into two groups.
Koshtha Shuddhi was done by Eranda bhrushta haritaki (6 g at night with ushnodaka) in patients
of both the groups for 3 days before starting the treatment. A total of 111 patients were selected
for the present study and were grouped into two. Patients of group A (45) were given "Navayasa
rasayana leha" and "Dhatryadhyo lepa" for external application. Stress is a well-known
precipitating factor of Psoriasis. Hence, to study the efficacy of Medhya rasayana drugs, patients
of group B (49) were given Medhya rasayana tablet along with the application of Dhatryadhyo
lepa. The duration of the study was 3 months and follow-up was done for one month. Both the
groups showed equally good results on improving the quality of life in the patients in terms of
Dermatology life quality index and Psoriasis disability index.
Mitra S, Shukla VJ, Acharya R. Effect of Shodhana (processing) on Kupeelu (Strychnos nuxvomica Linn.) with special reference to strychnine and brucine content. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):4027. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Kupeelu (Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.) commonly known as nux vomica is a poisonous plant
used
extensively
in
various ayurvedic formulations,
with
great
therapeutic
significance. Ayurveda recommended the administration of Kupeelu only after purification in
different media like cow's urine (Go mutra), cow's milk (Go dugdha), cow's ghee (Go ghrita),
Kanji (sour gruel), and so on. Apart from the classical methods some other methods are also
adopted by the traditional practitioners using castor oil (Eranda taila), ginger juice (Ardraka
swarasa), in the purification of Kupeelu seeds. In the present study an attempt has been made to
9
purify the seeds by performing two different methods (one classical and another traditional)
using Kanji and Ardrakaswarasa as Shodhana media. This study reveals that both the methods
studied reduce the strychnine and brucine contents in comparison to the raw seeds as determined
by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). After purification in Kanji and
Ardraka swarasa, the strychnine content was reduced by 39.25% and 67.82%, respectively, and
the brucine content in the purified seeds was also found to have decreased by 17.60% and
40.06%, in comparison to the raw seeds.
Mohapatra S, Jha CB. Evaluation of the effect of conventionally prepared swarna makshika
bhasma on different bio-chemical parameters in experimental animals. J Ayurveda Integr Med.
2011 Oct;2(4):187-91. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Swarna makshika (chalcopyrite) bhasma (SMB) has been used for different therapeutic purposes
since long inAyurveda. The present study is conducted to evaluate the effect of conventionally
prepared SMB on different bio-chemical parameters in experimental animals, for providing
scientific data base for its logical use in clinical practice. The genuine SMB was prepared by
following classical techniques of shodhana and marana most commonly used by
different Ayurvedic drug manufacturers. Shodhana was done by roasting raw swarna makshika
with lemon juice for three days and marana was performed by 11 putas. The experimental
animals (rats) were divided into two groups. SMB mixed with diluted honey was administered
orally in therapeutic dose to Group SMB and diluted honey only was administered to vehicle
control Group, for 30 days. The blood samples were collected twice, after 15 days and after 30
days of drug administration and different biochemical investigations were done. Biochemical
parameters
were
chosen
based
on
references
from Ayurvedic classics
and
contemporary medicine. It was observed that Hb% was found significantly increased and LDL
and VLDL were found significantly decreased in Group SMB when compared with vehicle
control group. This experimental data will help the clinician for the logical use of SMB in
different disease conditions with findings like low Hb% and high LDL, VLDL levels.
Morandi A, Tosto C, Sartori G, Roberti di Sarsina P. Advent of a Link between Ayurveda and
Modern Health Science: The Proceedings of the First International Congress on Ayurveda,
"Ayurveda: The Meaning of Life-Awareness, Environment, and Health" March 21-22, 2009,
Milan,
Italy.
Evid
Based
Complement
Alternat
Med.
2011;2011:929083.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
10
The First International Congress on Ayurveda was held in Milan, Italy in March 2009 and it has
been the first scientific event of this kind in western world. This groundbreaking international
congress was devoted to human being as the product of interactions between Awareness,
Environment and Health, subjects that the West tends to consider separate and independent, but
that are believed deeply connected in Ayurveda, whose interdependence defines "The Meaning
of Life". The Congress established a bridge between indian and western philosophy, scientific
and biomedical thinking in order to expand knowledge and healthcare. Main attention and
address of the invited speakers was on the concept of "relationships" that, connecting living
beings with environment, shape Nature itself. This concept is central in Ayurveda but is also
common to other western scientific disciplines such as quantum physics and epigenetics that, in
the four Sessions of the Congress, were represented by eminent experts. The importance of this
event was underlined by the attendance of more than 400 participants and by noteworthy
institutional endorsements, that added a significative political dimension of high social impact
due to the topical period for CAM acceptance and integration in Europe.
Nandha R, Singh H, Moudgill P, Kular G. A pilot study to clinically evaluate the role of
herbomineral compound "Rakatchap Har" in the management of essential hypertension. Ayu.
2011 Jul;32(3):329-32. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of a
herbomineral medicine Rakatchaphar (Each 500 mg cap contains Sarpgandha 150 mg,
Shankhpushpi 75 mg, Jatamansi 75 mg, Jahar Mohra Khatai Pishti 75 mg, Moti Pishti 75 mg,
Ras Sindoor 50 mg) in essential hypertension, an observational prospective study was done at
Shri Ashutosh Maharaj (SAM) Ayurvedic Treatment and Research Centre, Noormahal. Ninetyeight patients in the age group 28-76 years with essential hypertension without any co-morbid
illness were included in the study. Patients were treated with cap Rakatchaphar 500 mg twice a
day. Blood pressure (BP) was monitored on subsequent follow-up visits at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks.
Change in Diastolic BP (DBP), Systolic BP (SBP), and Mean BP (MBP) were analyzed
statistically by Student's t test, ANOVA, and Post hoc Bonferroni test. On first visit the mean
SBP, DBP, and MBP was 164.16±17.27, 101.88±9.20, and 122.27±10.57 mm Hg, respectively.
After 8 weeks of therapy there was a statistically significant fall in SBP (122.98±11.36), DBP
(80.90±8.57), and MBP (94.86±9.24) in mmHg (P value <0.0001). Rakatchap Har offers an
efficacious and safe combination of natural products available for the treatment of hypertension.
Palmer KK, Vaghela DB, Manjusha R. A clinical study on the effect of Arka Taila in the
management
of
Karnasrava
(Otomycosis).
Ayu.
2011
Jul;32(3):349-52.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
11
Abstract
Karnasrava is the condition characterized by discharge from Karna and occurs mainly due to
Avarana of Vata Dosha. Otomycosis denotes diffuse otitis externa due to fungal infection in ear.
Otomycosis being one of the causes of Karnasrava was selected for the study. The present study
is done on 28 patients of Karnasrava, who were grouped in to two with 14 patients in each group.
Group-A was treated with Arka TailaKarnapurana and Group-B with Clotrimazole ear drops
(standard control). The signs and symptoms were studied before and after treatment. Result of
the study indicates that Arka Taila and Clotrimazole are equally effective in all the signs and
symptoms of Karnasrava (Otomycosis).
Panda G, Mohapatra KB. Clinical effect of Kukkutanda Twak Bhasma in the management of
Swetapradara. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):370-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Swetapradara is an important gynecological disorder nowadays. Most women in the reproductive
age group complain about white discharge. Due to white discharge, they are prone to so many
other symptoms, such as backache, itching in vulva, and burning micturition. According
to Ayurveda, swetapradara is caused by the vitiation of Kapha and Vata dosha. Kukkutanda twak
is also said to be Kapha Vata shamaka and swetapradara shamaka. In Ayurveda so many drugs
are mentioned in the treatment of swetapradara. Among them Kukkutanda twak bhasma is a
good medicine. In this clinical study Kukkutanda twak bhasma has shown statistically significant
improvement in white discharge, backache, itching, anemia, weakness, and urinary tract
infection.
Pandey RK, Bhatt NN, Singhala TM, Shukla VD. A comparative study of Vamana and
Virechana Karma in the management of Sthula Pramehi w.s.r. to Type-2 diabetes. Ayu. 2011
Oct;32(4):536-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
In the present study, Vamana and Virechana along with palliative treatment was given to patients
of Sthula Prameha (Diabetes mellitus or DM). An attempt was made to compare and evaluate the
role of Shodhana therapy (Vamana and Virechana). Total 47 patients of Sthula Pramehi were
registered in this study, out of which 38 completed the treatment. The patients were divided into
two groups, viz. Vamana with Shamana (Group A) and Virechana with Shamana (Group B).
Eighteen patients completed the treatment in Group A and 20 in Group B. Neem giloy satva
capsule was used as Shamana drug at a dose of 500 mg twice daily after meals for 30 days in
both the groups. The efficacy of therapy was assessed based on relief in cardinal signs and
12
symptoms and blood sugar, lipid profile and other biochemical parameters etc. The results
showed that the Vamana provided better relief in signs and symptoms as well as on fasting blood
sugar (FBS) and postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) in comparison to Virechana.
Patel MV, Gupta SN, Patel NG. Effects of Ayurvedic treatment on 100 patients of chronic renal
failure
(other
than
diabetic
nephropathy).
Ayu.
2011
Oct;32(4):483-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Chronic renal failure (CRF) refers to an irreversible deterioration in renal function, which
develops over a period of years. This initially manifests only as a biochemical abnormality. CRF
is considered when glomerular filtration rate (GFR) falls below 30 ml/min. The conventional
approach of management includes dialysis and renal transplantation, which are not affordable by
Indian population mainly due to economic reasons. Therefore, exploration of a safe and
alternative therapy is needed, which proves to be helpful in reducing the requirement of dialysis
and in postponing the renal transplantation. A clinical study of 100 patients of CRF was
conducted at OPD and IPD of PD Patel Ayurved Hospital, Nadiad. They were given Niruha basti
of Punarnavadi kvatha daily with
oral medicaments including Goksuradi
guggulu, Rasayana churna, and Varunadi kvatha for 1 month period. The patients of CRF,
having diabetic nephropathy as a cause, were excluded since a separate study for diabetic
nephropathy is being conducted. Results were analyzed statistically using the "t" test. The
symptoms and signs, serum creatinine, blood urea, urine albumin level were reduced, which
were found to be statistically highly significant on "t" test.
Patwardhan K, Gehlot S, Singh G, Rathore HC. The Ayurveda education in India: how well are
the graduates exposed to basic clinical skills? Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.
2011;2011:197391. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
"Ayurveda" is an ancient system of healthcare that is native to India. At present, in India, there
are more than 240 colleges that offer a graduate-level degree (Bachelor of Ayurvedic
Medicine and Surgery-BAMS) inAyurveda. Even though the Central Council of
Indian Medicine, the governing body that monitors the matters related to Ayurveda education,
has imposed various educational norms and regulations, the standard of education has been a
cause of concern in recent years. The mushrooming of substandard Ayurvedic colleges is the
most important factor that is being held responsible for this kind of erosion in the standards. The
present study is a mailed survey, which was carried out to evaluate the "Extent of exposure to
13
basic clinical skills during BAMS course" as perceived by the sample groups of students and
teachers drawn from 32 Ayurvediceducational institutions spread all over India. A methodically
validated questionnaire was used as the tool in the study, to which 1022 participants responded.
The study indicates that there are some serious flaws in the existing system of the graduatelevel Ayurveda education. Since the Ayurvedic graduates play an important role in the primary
healthcare delivery system of the country, governing bodies are required to take necessary steps
to ensure the adequate exposure of the students to basic clinical skills. Along with the strict
implementation of all the regulatory norms during the process of recognition of the colleges,
introducing some changes in the policy model may also be required to tackle the situation.
Poonam, Manjusha R, Vaghela DB, Shukla VJ. A clinical study on the role of Akshi Tarpana
with Jeevantyadi Ghrita in Timira (Myopia).
Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):540-5.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Myopia is a major public health problem pertaining to eye that entails substantial societal,
personal, educational, and economical impact. Various surveys in India have found the
prevalence of myopia ranging from 6.9% to 19.7%. Myopia progression is irreversible and
methods for the correction of myopia are not without complications. Myopia closely resembles
Timira involving first and second Patala in terms of symptoms, anatomical structures involved,
and the pathogenesis of the disease. The study is aimed at evaluating the efficacy of the AkshiTarpana procedure with Jeevantyadi Ghrita in fresh and old myopes. A total of 54 patients (108
eyes) having myopia ≥-6 D were registered for the study and divided into two groups (Group A,
Akshi-Tarpana with Jeevantyadi Ghrita, and Group B, Akshi-Tarpana with plain Go Ghrita), by
stratified sampling. The procedure was done in 5 sittings of 5 days each with an equal interval of
5 days between each sitting. A total of 22 patients in Group A and 18 in Group B completed the
treatment. Obtained data were statistically analyzed using a t-test and the study reveals that
objectively, 09.30% and 05.55% eyes were cured, 16.28% and 02.78% markedly improved, and
34.88% and 11.11% moderately improved in Group A and B, respectively.
Pradhan SL, Pradhan PS. Ayurvedic medicine and anaesthesia. Indian J Anaesth. 2011
Jul;55(4):334-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
The use of herbal medicines has increased dramatically over the past few years. The United
States alone noted a 380% increase in the consumption of these products. Although the common
practice of taking over-the-counter herbal soups, herbal teas and other such prepacked
14
preparations was not associated with adverse events at large, still, some herbs are known to cause
problems, especially when large doses are taken. The American Society of Anaesthesiologist
(ASA) has taken a conservative stance and recommended that it is prudent to stop these products
at least 2-3 weeks prior to anaesthesia and surgery. This advice may be difficult to implement as
most preoperative evaluations occur only a few days prior to surgery. Some of
theAyurvedic preparations have shown to improve the patient outcome when taken during the
perioperative period. Hence, the conservative stance by ASA may not always benefit the patient.
More scientific studies are needed to have more targeted recommendations. This article puts
forward the facts that need to be addressed by researchers in the future.
Rajput DS, Tekale GS. Study on Bhasma Kalpana with special reference to the preparation of
Kasisa Bhasma. Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):554-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Bhasma means ash but according to Ayurveda, Bhasma means conversion of a metal into a form
which is irreversible in the sense that one cannot derive the metal back from it again
(Apunarbhava). It should be so light so that it must float on the surface of water after sprinkling,
called Varitara. Its particle should be so small that it can enter in to the creases of fingers called
Rekha-purnatva. The preparative procedure of Bhasma is a bit complicated. Many texts are
available regarding the identification, acceptable qualities of metals and minerals, their
purification, uses and method of preparation of their Bhasma. But in many texts, the method of
Bhasma preparation of some metals and minerals is mentioned very briefly, i.e. their references
are available in Sutrarupa. This leads to many practical difficulties in the preparation of Bhasma.
Kasisa Bhasma is one of them. The present work was aimed to study the basic concept of
Bhasma Kalpana by means preparing Kasisa Bhasma. This study suggests some modifications
and ways for standardization of Bhasma procedure.
Ramteke R, Vinodkumar G, Meharjan T. An open clinical trial to analyze Samyak Snigdha
Lakshana of Shodhananga Snehapana with Mahatikthakam Ghritam in Psoriasis. Ayu. 2011
Oct;32(4):519-25. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
An open clinical trial was conducted in Govt. Ayurveda College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram,
Department of Kayachikitsa and Panchakarma. As there is no work done on the Samyak Snigdha
Lakshana (SSL), this study was undertaken to work on the different aspects of Samyak Snigdha
Lakshana. To minimize variables, subjects suffering with psoriasis and same Ghritam were
selected on the basis of strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Shodhananga Abhyantara
15
Snehapana was advised before Vamana and Virechana. Samyak Snigdha Lakshanas which are
described in all texts are different in milieu. Shodhananga Snehapana with Mahatiktakam
Ghritam was given according to Koshta and Agni in 30 subjects. Samyak Snigdha Lakshanas
were assessed using a special scoring pattern and the biochemical parameters were observed in
all subjects. Statistical analysis using paired't' test were done. In all patients Vatanulomana,
Diptagni, Snehodvega, Klama and Adhastat Sneha Darshanam were seen; whereas Angalaghava
and Twak Snigdhata were noted in less percentage of persons. The onset of various Samyak
Snigdha Lakshanas occurs in sequence. There are changes in some biochemical parameters like
serum cholesterol, Serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and fat globules in stool
after Snehapana. Shodhananga Snehapana with Mahatikthakam Ghritam decrease features of
psoriasis up to some extent. More in depth studies are required to evaluate their importance and
for their application in modern medical practice.
Rout AK, Dwivedi RR. A clinical study of Haritaki and Saindhava Lavana in Kaphaja Kasa with
special
reference
to
Samyoga
Guna.
Ayu.
2011
Jul;32(3):357-60.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
In clinical practice, Guna which are to be with Bhisak are mainly the Paradi Gunas which can
also be called as Miscellaneous Gunas. As rightly quoted by Acarya Caraka, for getting success
in the treatment Paradi Gunas are the best. The Sutra quotes "Sidhyupaya Cikitsayam" which
means that Cikitsa i. e. Dhatusamya will be done mainly with the help of Paradi Gunas. Thus in
this study an attempt was made to know the comparative effect of Haritaki and Saindhava lavana
alone and Samyukta effect in Kaphaja Kasa. Three groups were made for proper evaluation of
the therapy. In Group-A Haritaki Tablet 2 gm/ twice a day (500 mg tablet × 4), In Group-B
Saindava Lavana Curna 2 gm/ twice a day and in Group-C Haritaki + Saindhava lavana Tablet 4
gm/twice a day (500 mg tablet × 8) was given. Results were assessed after 7 days with the help
of a specially prepared proforma. The hematological, Urine and Stool investigations were carried
out. In subjective and objective criterias, significant results were found in Group-C as compared
to Group-A and Group-B. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the combined (Samyoga)
effect of Haritaki and Saindhava lavana is much efficient than the single drug therapy.
Samarakoon SM, Chandola HM, Ravishankar B. Effect of dietary, social, and lifestyle
determinants of accelerated aging and its common clinical presentation: A survey study. Ayu.
2011 Jul;32(3):315-21. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
16
Aging is unavoidable and natural phenomenon of life. Modern gerontologists are realizing the
fact that aging is a disease, which Ayurveda had accepted as natural disease since long. Rate of
aging is determined by one's biological, social, lifestyle, and psychological conditions and
adversity of which leads to accelerated form of aging (Akalaja jara or premature aging). The aim
of this study is to identify potential factors that may accelerate aging in the context of dietry
factors, lifestyle and mental makeup. The 120 diagnosed subjects of premature-ageing of 30-60
years were randomly selected in the survey study. Premature ageing was common among
females (75.83%), in 30-40 age group (70%), 86.67% were married, had secondary level of
education (36.66%), house-views (61.67%), belongs top middle class (58.33%) and engaged in
occupations that dominating physical labour (88.33%). The maximum patients are constipated
(60%), had mandagni (80%), vata-kapha prakriti (48.33%), rajasika prakriti (58.33%),
madhyama vyayama shakti (73.33%), and madhyama jarana shakti (85.83%). Collectively,
43.33% patients were above normal BMI. The more patients had anushna (38.33%) and
vishamasana dietary pattern (25.83%), consumed Lavana (88.33%) and Amla rasa (78.33%) in
excess on regular basis. Some patients had addicted to tobacco (11.67%) and beetle chewing
(5.83%). The maximum patients had no any exercise (79.17%) and specific hobby (79.17%) in
their leisure times. Analyzing Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales revealed that
39.80%, 37.86%, 33.98%, 24.27% and 18.44% patients had insomnia, depression, tension, GIT
symptoms and anxious mood respectively. These data suggest that certain social, dietary and
lifestyle factors contribute towards accelerated ageing among young individuals.
Sharma H, Chandola HM. Prameha in Ayurveda: correlation with obesity, metabolic syndrome,
and diabetes mellitus. Part 1-etiology, classification, and pathogenesis. J Altern Complement
Med. 2011 Jun;17(6):491-6. Erratum in: J Altern Complement Med. 2011 Jul;17(7):661.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes mellitus are increasing in epidemic proportions
globally. Prameha is a syndrome described in the ancient Ayurvedic texts that includes clinical
conditions involved in obesity, prediabetes, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Integrating the theory and modalities of Ayurveda in the management of these disorders may
prove to be beneficial. Even though Prameha is a Tridoshaja Vyadhi (a disease involving all
three of the psychophysiologic principles known as Doshas [i.e., Vata, Pitta, and Kapha]), it is
basically a disease with Kapha predominance.
17
RESULTS:
There are 20 subtypes of Prameha due to the interaction of the three Doshas and 10 Dushyas
(disturbed functioning of the principles that support the various bodily tissues); several of these
subtypes have sweet urine, whereas some of them have different coloration of the urine,
highlighting the inflammatory conditions involved in the metabolic syndrome. This disease has
close ties to Sthaulya (i.e., obesity). With regard to diabetes mellitus, Sahaja Prameha and Jatah
Pramehi correlate with type 1 diabetes; Apathyanimittaja Prameha correlates with type 2
diabetes. Madhumeha is a subtype of Vataja Prameha (Prameha with Vata predominance) that
can occur as the terminal stage of type 2 diabetes (in which insulin is required), or as type 1
diabetes beginning in early childhood. The latter is defined as Jatah Pramehi Madhumehino in
Charaka Samhita, one of the classical Ayurvedic texts.
CONCLUSIONS:
Various dietary, lifestyle, and psychologic factors are involved in the etiology of Prameha,
particularly in relation to disturbances in fat and carbohydrate metabolism. The
ancient Ayurvedic knowledge regarding Prameha can be utilized to expand the current
understanding of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.
Shilpa S, Murthy CG. Development and standardization of Mysore Tridosha scale. Ayu. 2011
Jul;32(3):308-14. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
The authors have developed a personality scale to assess Tridoshas i.e. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
from psychological perspective in human beings. The Tridoshas are composed of the Pancha
Mahabhutas, but one or the other Dosha is dominant singularly or in combination. There can
never be a state when one or the other Pancha Mahabhutas and consequently the Tridoshas are
absent totally. All five are essential to sustain life. Vata Dosha is composed of Akasa and Vayu
Mahabhuta. Pitta Dosha is composed of Tejas or Agni and Ap Mahabhuta. Kapha Dosha is
composed of Ap and Prithvi Mahabhuta. Although Tridosha is studied, understood, and applied
in Ayurveda, the present authors have tried to validate the same from the domain of psychology.
Since the authors are not from the domain of Ayurveda but of Psychology, there are some
constructs that are not amenable for psychological testing which have been ignored. Only those
constructs that can be used by psychologists to assess the psychological aspects of the Dosha
Prakriti have been used to build items for the assessment of personality. In this process, the
psychometric properties of the scale are established. The scale assesses the psychological
manifestation of the Tridoshas, which was the basic objective. The standardization procedure
involved in the development of the Mysore Psychological Tridosha Scale is herewith delineated.
18
Skandhan KP, Amith S, Karunatilake LP, Avni KP, Singh K. Water purification prescribed in
Ayurveda. Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):448-50. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Authors present here water purifying methods for drinking purpose by employing few kinds of
flowers, a traditional knowledge available in India from the classics of Ayurveda, the oldest
system of medical practices. A simple method is designed to conduct a study for finding out the
efficacy of the said method.
Sujatha V. What could 'integrative' medicine mean? Social science perspectives on contemporary
Ayurveda. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2011 Jul;2(3):115-23. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
The paper attempts to critically engage with the idea of integrative medicine as a marker of
pharmaceuticalization of Ayurveda in the recent decades. It examines what it means to say
'integrative'medicine using the metaphor of language from philosophy of science. Drawing upon
fieldwork with Ayurvedapractitioners, the paper also discusses the ramifications of
integrative medicine in the current scenario in which there is no organizational parity
between Ayurveda and biomedicine. The paper calls for a focus onAyurveda for public health
rather than the global health market.
Tripathi PK, Patwardhan K, Singh G. The basic cardiovascular responses to postural changes,
exercise, and cold pressor test: do they vary in accordance with the dual constitutional types of
Ayurveda? Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011. pii: 251850.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
According to Ayurveda, the native Indian system of healthcare, three Doshas, namely, Vata,
Pitta, and Kapha, are the basic mutually reciprocal mechanisms that are responsible for the
maintenance of homeostasis in human beings. Ayurveda classifies entire human population into
seven constitutional types (Prakriti), based on the dominance of any single or a combination of
two or three Doshas. Considering the fact that, in the recent past there have been several studies
that have proposed some important genetic, biochemical and haematological bases for Prakriti,
we conducted the present study in 90 randomly selected clinically healthy volunteers belonging
to dual constitutional types (Dvandvaja Prakriti) to evaluate the variability of heart rate and
arterial blood pressure in response to specific postural changes, exercise, and cold pressor test.
19
The results of this study, in general, suggest that these basic cardiovascular responses do not vary
significantly as per the dual constitutional types. However, we noted a significant fall in the
diastolic blood pressure immediately after performing the isotonic exercise for five minutes, in
Vata-Kapha individuals in comparison to the other two groups, namely, Pitta-Kapha and VataPitta.
Upadhyay BN, Gupta V. A clinical study on the effect of Rishyagandha (Withania coagulans) in
the management of Prameha (Type II Diabetes Mellitus). Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):507-11.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
The study was conducted with an objective of evaluating the role of Rishyagandha (Withania
coagulans) powder in clinically diagnosed cases of Prameha. 53 Registered cases were divided
into 3 groups; Group A (Rishyagandha fruits powder), Group B (Oral Hypoglycaemic Agent i.e.
OHA), and Group C (Rishyagandha fruits powder and OHA both). Statistically significant
improvement was observed in objective and subjective parameters in all 3 groups after
completion of the course of treatment. Based on the results, it has been concluded that,
Rishyagandha fruits powder is an effective therapeutic regimen in the management of
uncomplicated cases of Prameha.
Vyas HA, Dwivedi RR. Prevalence of Adhyashana in patients attending IPGT and RA Hospital
and its effect on health. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):340-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Adhyashana is a technical term of Ayurveda, which means eating before digestion of previous
food. All the ancient classics describe the ill effects of Adhyashana. Charaka mentioned it as a
prime causative factor for Grahani dosha. It is also said that Adhyashana can cause severe and
incurable diseases or even death. All these references indicate the importance of Adhyashana as
one of the health destroying factors, and yet this subject remained untouched by
the Ayurvedic scientists for research. The present study was carried out to search the prevalence
of Adhyashana in the patients of various diseases. For this purpose a survey study was planned
and a total of 235 subjects attending outpatient and inpatient department of the Institute for Post
Graduate Teaching and Research Hospital were surveyed. Among these patients 62.98% were
found to be habituated to Adhyashana. Purishvaha Srotodushti was found in a maximum number
of patients, which was 42%. Status of the disease was Krichchhra saadhya in maximum of these
patients.
20
Werner W. Thoughts on legal and ethical concepts on the professional development of Ayurveda
in the U.S. Int J Yoga Therap. 2011;(21):17-20. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
The following is a transcript of a talk given by Wynn Werner, who is a board member of the
National AyurvedicMedical Association (NAMA) and member of the NAMA standards
committee, at the NAMA conference in April 2010. In this talk, Werner discusses the legal and
licensing challenges facing Ayurvedic practitioners in the United States. IAYT finds the work of
NAMA on the issue of professional development to be both educational and thought-provoking
for our own field's parallel process. We present this transcript to contribute to the conversation
within the yoga therapy community.
Botany
Abd El-Mawla AM, Mohamed KM, Mostafa AM. Induction of Biologically Active Flavonoids
in Cell Cultures of Morus nigra and Testing their Hypoglycemic Efficacy. Sci Pharm.
2011;79(4):951-61. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The antidiabetic activity of both leaves and MJ-treated cell cultures of Morus nigra was
evaluated after their oral administration to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The antidiabetic
activity of extracts from leaves given to streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats for 10 days increased
with increasing doses of leaves extract up to 500 mg/kg/day. The administration of 500
mg/kg/day of leaves extract reduced the concentration of glucose from 370 ± 7.31 mg/dl
(control) to 154 ± 6.27 mg/dl, and a significant increase in the insulin level from 11.3 ± 0.31
μU/ml (control) to 14.6 ± 0.43 μU/ml was recorded. Cell suspension cultures were established
from the young leaves of Morus nigra cultivated on modified MS medium supplemented with
2.0 mg/l 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), 0.2 mg/l 6-(furfurylamino)purine (kinetin). The
changes in cell weight and flavonoid content were monitored between day zero and 12. The
linear increase in fresh weight was found to be parallel to flavonoids production. Cell cultures
treated with 100 μM methyl jasmonate for 24 hours showed a noticeable increase in level of
flavonoids and significant and more effective hypoglycemic activity than that for extract from
leaves. The major flavonoids were isolated by TLC and HPLC and identified as rutin, quercetin,
21
Morusin and cyclomorusin by co-chromatography and mass spectrometry in comparison to
samples of authentic reference compounds.
Abdel-Hady NM, Dawoud GT, El-Hela AA, Morsy TA. Interrelation of antioxidant, anticancer
and antilieshmania effects of some selected Egyptian plants and their phenolic constituents. J
Egypt Soc Parasitol. 2011 Dec;41(3):785-800. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Medicinal plants are the most potential resource of new therapeutic agents. They are diverse,
largely productive, biologically active and chemically unique; among their constituents
"polyphenol compounds group" one of the main determinant factors in evaluating the
pharmacological potentials i.e. polyphenols display an array of pharmacological properties such
as antioxidant, immunostimulant, antitumor and antiparasitic effects. Cancer is a dreadful human
disease, increasing with changing life style, nutrition and global warming while current available
anticancer drugs cause serious side effects in most instances. Several reports suggested the
relationship between antioxidant, anticancer and antiparasitic effects; they suggested that they act
indirectly through promoting host resistance, restabilizing body equilibrim and conditioning
body tissues in addition to their direct effect on certain parasites involved in cancer etiology.
This work was conducted for estimation of total phenolic, flavonoids, phenylethanoid glycoside
and iridoid content of twenty-three selected Egyptian plants as well as screening of their
anticancer, antioxidant and antileishmanial effects, the overall gained results for suggest that the
most suitable medicinal plant used as anticancer and antioxidant is Petrea volubilis L. which
contain adequate mixture of total phenolic compounds 88.7 mg% and flavonoids 50.80 mg% and
also suggest that flavonoid compounds are the category of phenolic compounds possess
significant antioxidant and anticancer effects while the antilieshamnia screening revealed that
Thymus decussatus Benth. extract exhibited the highest effect due to the presence of flavonoids
and iridoids in adequate combination where iridoid compounds 201 mg% and flavonoid content
was 128 mg%.
Adhami HR, Farsam H, Krenn L. Screening of medicinal plants from Iranian traditional
medicine for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Phytother Res. 2011 Aug;25(8):1148-52. doi:
10.1002/ptr.3409. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
To find new herbal compounds with an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory effect, this study
focused on herbal drugs and resins which have been used in Iranian traditional medicine for the
22
treatment of cognitive disorders. Forty drugs were selected from authoritative written documents
of Iranian traditional medicine. Each drug was extracted by accelerated solvent extraction using
dichloromethane followed by methanol. The 80 extracts were screened for AChE inhibitory
activity by a TLC bioautography method. The inhibiting effect of the 32 most active extracts was
measured by a microplate colorimetric assay. Due to the best activity, the seeds of Peganum
harmala L. were investigated in detail. From the TLC bioautography assay the alkaloids
harmaline and harmine were identified as active compounds. This result was confirmed by
means of HPLC-DAD. The IC(50) values were 41.2 μg/mL for the methanol extract, 95.5 μg/mL
for the dichloromethane extract, 8.4 μg/mL for harmaline and 10.9 μg/mL for harmine. The
concentrations of active compounds in the extracts were determined by a fast and precise HPLC
method. As the amounts of harmaline and harmine in the extracts were correlated with the IC(50)
values of the extracts, it can be concluded that these two alkaloids are responsible for the AChE
inhibitory activity of P. harmala.
Akdemir Z, Kahraman C, Tatlı II, Küpeli Akkol E, Süntar I, Keles H. Bioassay-guided isolation
of anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healer glycosides from the flowers of
Verbascum mucronatum Lam. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Jul 14;136(3):436-43.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
The leaves, flowers and whole aerial parts of Verbascum L. species have been used to treat
respiratory problems, haemorrhoids and other types of inflammatory conditions in traditional
Turkish medicine.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
In order to evaluate this traditional information, the anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and
wound healing activities of Verbascum mucronatum Lam. which is used as haemostatic in
Turkish folk medicine were investigated.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In vivo inhibitory effect of the extracts on the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model in
mice was studied for the assessment of anti-inflammatory activity. Moreover, the wound healing
potential of the plant were evaluated by using in vivo wound healing experimental models, i.e.
incision and excision models on mice and rats, were comparatively assessed with a reference
ointment Madecassol(®). Skin samples were also evaluated histopathologically.
RESULTS:
23
The results of these experimental studies exhibited that Verbascum mucronatum displays antiinflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healing activities. Through bioassay-guided
fractionation and isolation procedures four iridoid glucosides, ajugol (1), aucubin (2),
lasianthoside I (3), catalpol (4), two saponins, ilwensisaponin A (5) and C (6) and a
phenylethanoid glycoside, verbascoside (7) were isolated and their structures were elucidated by
spectral techniques. Verbascoside (7) was found to possess significant wound healing activity as
well as antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potentials, per os without inducing any apparent
acute toxicity or gastric damage.
CONCLUSION:
The experimental study revealed that Verbascum mucronatum displays remarkable
antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities.
Al-Musayeib N, Perveen S, Fatima I, Nasir M, Hussain A. Antioxidant, anti-glycation and antiinflammatory activities of phenolic constituents from Cordia sinensis. Molecules. 2011 Dec
8;16(12):10214-26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Nine compounds have been isolated from the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of C. sinensis, namely
protocatechuic acid (1), trans-caffeic acid (2), methyl rosmarinate (3), rosmarinic acid (4),
kaempferide-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), quercetin3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside
(7),
kaempferide-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl
(1→6)-β-Dglucopyranoside (8) and kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamno-pyranosyl (1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside
(9), all reported for the first time from this species. The structures of these compounds were
deduced on the basis of spectroscopic studies, including 1D and 2D NMR techniques.
Compounds 1-9 were investigated for biological activity and showed significant antiinflammatory activity in the carrageen induced rat paw edema test. The antioxidant activities of
isolated compounds 1-9 were evaluated by the DPPH radical scavenging test, and compounds 1,
2, 4 and 7-9 exhibited marked scavenging activity compared to the standard BHA. These
compounds were further studied for their anti-glycation properties and some compounds showed
significant anti-glycation inhibitory activity. The purity of compounds 2-5, 8 and 9 was
confirmed by HPLC. The implications of these results for the chemotaxonomic studies of the
genus Cordia have also been discussed.
Al-Said MS, Mothana RA, Al-Sohaibani MO, Rafatullah S. Ameliorative effect of Grewia tenax
(Forssk) fiori fruit extract on CCl(4)-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity in rats. J Food
24
Sci.
2011
Nov-Dec;76(9):T200-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
doi:
10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02381.x.
Abstract
The ethanol extract of Grewia tenax (GTE) fruit was tested for possible efficacy against carbon
tetrachloride (CCl(4)) induced liver toxicity in Wistar albino rats. GTE at doses of 250 and 500
mg/kg were administered orally to CCl(4)-treated rats. Acute toxicity test and sleeping time
determination were done with mice. The results showed that oral administration of GTE for 3 wk
to rats significantly reduced the CCl(4)-induced elevated levels of serum glutamate oxaloacetate
transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline
phosphatase, bilirubin, cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, very low
density lipoproteins, and triglycerides. Moreover, it was found that the treatment with GTE
significantly elevated the hemoglobin level in serum and increased the nonprotein sulfhydryl and
total protein contents in the liver tissue, and a significant diminution was observed in the CCl(4)induced elevated levels of malondialdehyde in the liver tissue. The biochemical findings were
supported by an evaluation with liver histopathology. Pentobarbital-induced prolongation of
narcolepsy in mice was shortened significantly by the extract. The observed hepatoprotective
effect is believed to occur due to antioxidant properties of the contents of G. tenax extract, which
may provide a new drug to be used for fighting liver diseases and it validates its folkloric use in
anemic and other conditions.
Albert D. Atsamo, Telesphore B. Nguelefack, Jacques Y. Datte, Albert Kamanyi, Acute and
subchronic oral toxicity assessment of the aqueous extract from the stem bark of Erythrina
senegalensis DC (Fabaceae) in rodents.Journal of Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):697-702.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-520M1W03/2/dc0b451108842a6ddb6161edf4fab94c
Abstract:
Aim of the study: The decoction of the stem bark of Erythrina senegalensis (EAES) is
traditionally used in the Western region of Cameroon against liver disorders. The present study
evaluated the potential toxicity of this decoction after acute and sub-chronic administration in
rodents.Materials and methods: In acute study, a single administration of EAES was given orally
to mice at doses ranging from 1.25 to 12.5 g/kg. General behaviour, adverse effects and mortality
were determined for up to 14 days post treatment. In the sub-chronic study, EAES was given
orally as a single administration to Wistar rats at doses of 300, 600 and 1200 mg/kg/day for 28
days. Animal body weight was observed throughout the experimental period while
haematological and biochemical parameters of blood and urine, as well as kidney and liver
tissues histology were evaluated at the end of the experiment.Results: In the acute study in mice,
none of the doses used induced mortality or significant behavioural changes. In the sub-chronic
25
study in rats, daily oral administration of EAES at the dose of 600 mg/kg resulted in a significant
increase in the relative body weight at the last week of treatment. The relative weights of organs
were not affected by the treatment. No haematological changes were observed a part of a
significant increase in WBC count at the dose of 600 mg/kg. Serum AST, ALT, ALP, total
protein, total cholesterol and triglycerides decreased significantly while total and conjugated
bilirubin significantly increased. Renal function indices assay in blood showed significant
modification in all the treated groups compared to control while, in urine, only urea excretion
markedly reduced at a dose of 1200 mg/kg. Histological analysis did no show any liver or kidney
alteration.Conclusion: These results demonstrated that there is a wide margin of safety for the
therapeutic use of EAES and further corroborated the traditional use of this extract as a
hepatoprotective agent.
Ali B, Mujeeb M, Aeri V, Mir SR, Ahmad S, Siddique NA, Faiyazuddin M, Shakeel F. Highperformance thin layer chromatographic quantification of bioactive psoralen and daidzein in
leaves
of
Ficus
carica
L.
Nat
Prod
Res.
2011
Oct;25(17):1666-70.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
This study was undertaken to quantify psoralen and daidzein by high-performance thin layer
chromatography (HPTLC). The methanolic extract of 10 mg mL(-1) concentration solution was
prepared for HPTLC quantification of psoralen and daidzein. HPTLC aluminium-backed plates
coated with 0.2 mm layers of silica gel 60 F(254) were used as the stationary phase. The working
standard solution of psoralen and daidzein was applied along with the test sample solution by
means of Camag Linomat IV sample applicator. R (f) values of psoralen and daidzein were
found to be 0.60 and 0.88, whilst as their percentage values in methanolic extract were found to
be 3.02% and 5.64% (w/w), respectively. A simple quantitative estimation method of psoralen
and daidzein by HPTLC is reported that can be used for the quality control of marketed
preparations containing Ficus carica. However, further study is warranted to isolate and quantify
active constituents present in the leaves of F. carica by sophisticated techniques.
Ali NA, Marongiu B, Piras A, Porcedda S, Falconieri D, Al-Othman AH. Comparative analysis
of the oil and supercritical CO(2) extract of Schinus molle L. growing in Yemen. Nat Prod Res.
2011 Aug;25(14):1366-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In this study, we report the preliminary data on the chemical composition of Yemeni Schinus
molle L. volatile oil obtained by supercritical extraction with carbon dioxide (40°C and 90 bar),
26
SFE, and by hydrodistillation (HD). The composition of the volatile oil has been analysed by GC
and GC-MS. The content of the major constituents in the oils from leaves varied in the following
ranges: germacrene D 3.7% in SFE and 16.7% in HD; β-caryophyllene 19.1% in SFE and 13.5%
in HD. The amount of monoterpenes constituted 4%, in all the analysed samples, while the
number of sesquiterpenes was 44% in supercritical and 67% in HD oil. Some compounds were
not identified by GC-MS and it will require further analysis using other analytical techniques.
Ali NH, Faizi S, Kazmi SU. Antibacterial activity in spices and local medicinal plants against
clinical isolates of Karachi, Pakistan. Pharm Biol. 2011 Aug;49(8):833-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Development of resistance in human pathogens against conventional antibiotic necessitates
searching indigenous medicinal plants having antibacterial property. Twenty-seven medicinal
plants used actively in folklore, Ayurvedic and traditional system of medicine were selected for
the evaluation of their antimicrobial activity for this study. Eleven plants chosen from these 27
are used as spices in local cuisine.
OBJECTIVE:
Evaluation of the effectiveness of some medicinal plant extracts against clinical isolates.
MATERIAL AND METHODS:
Nonedible plant parts were extracted with methanol and evaporated in vacuo to obtain residue.
Powdered edible parts were boiled three times and cooled in sterile distilled water for 2 min each
and filtrate collected. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of plant extracts and
filtrates/antibiotics was evaluated against clinical isolates by microbroth dilution method.
RESULTS:
Water extract of Syzygium aromaticum L. (Myrtaceae) buds, methanol extracts of Ficus carica
L. (Moraceae) and Olea europaea L. (Oleaceae) leaves and Peganum harmala L. (Nitrariaceae)
seeds had MIC ranges of 31.25-250 µg/ml. S. aromaticum nhibited growth of Staphylococcus
aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi
and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. F. carica and O. europaea inhibited growth of S. aureus, S.
epidermidis, and S. pyogenes whereas P. harmala was effective against S. aureus, Acinetobacter
calcoaceticus and Candida albicans. Ampicillin, velosef, sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline and
ceftazidime, cefotaxime, cefepime, which are used as control, had MIC ≥ 50 and 1.5 µg/ml,
respectively, for organisms sensitive to extracts.
27
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
Mono/multiextract from identified plants will provide an array of safe antimicrobial agents to
control infections by drug-resistant bacteria.
Ali Z, Khan IA. Alkyl phenols and saponins from the roots of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah).
Phytochemistry. 2011 Nov;72(16):2075-80. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Recently, there is a remarkable boom in the sales of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah) in the
Malaysian market, as an extract of the plant is used to gain energy and libido as well as to treat
many other ailments. A chemical analysis of its roots was undertaken and three metabolites,
demethylbelamcandaquinone B (1), fatimahol (2), and dexyloprimulanin (3) together with 21
known compounds including epoxyoleanane glycosides, alkenated phenolics, cerebroside,
glycerogalactolipids, and lipids were isolated and identified. Structure elucidation was achieved
by spectroscopic and chemical studies. The MeOH extract of KF and compounds 12 and 13
exhibited moderate in vitro antibacterial activity.
Annan K, Jackson N, Dickson RA, Sam GH, Komlaga G. Acaricidal effect of an isolate from
Hoslundia opposita vahl against Amblyomma variegatum (Acari: Ixodidae). Pharmacognosy
Res. 2011 Jul;3(3):185-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Hoslundia opposita Vahl. (Lamiaceae), a common local shrub in Ghana, is traditionally known
not only for its pharmacological benefits but also for its insecticidal properties. Its acaricidal
property, however, has not been investigated.
OBJECTIVE:
To test the acaricidal effects of the crude extract and fractions of H. opposita leaves as well as to
isolate and characterize the acaricidal principles.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The crude methanolic extract, pet. ether, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions of the leaves of H.
opposita were tested against the larvae of the cattle tick, Amblyomma variegatum, using the
Larval Packet Test. A bioassay-guided isolation was carried out to identify the acaricidal
principle obtained from the ethyl acetate fraction.
28
RESULTS:
The active principle was characterised as ursolic acid, a triterpene previously isolated from the
leaves of the same plant. The extract and fractions were less potent than the control, malathion
(LC(50) 1.14 × 10(-4) mg/ml). Among the plant samples however the crude methanolic extract
exhibited the highest effect against the larvae (LC(50) 5.74 × 10(-2) mg/ml), followed by the
ethyl acetate fraction (LC(50) 8.10 × 10(-2) mg/ml). Ursolic acid, pet. ether and aqueous
fractions however showed weak acaricidal effects with LC(50) values of 1.13 mg/ml, 8.96 × 10(1) mg/ml and 1.44 mg/ml, respectively.
CONCLUSION:
Ursolic acid was not as potent as the crude methanolic extract and the ethyl acetate fraction from
which it was isolated. The overall acaricidal effect of H. opposita may have been due to synergy
with other principles having acaricidal properties.
Ansil PN, Nitha A, Prabha SP, Wills PJ, Jazaira V, Latha MS. Protective effect of
Amorphophallus campanulatus (Roxb.) Blume. tuber against thioacetamide induced oxidative
stress
in
rats.
Asian
Pac
J
Trop
Med.
2011
Nov;4(11):870-7.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To identify the phytochemical constituents of Amorphophallus campanulatus (A. campanulatus)
tuber and to evaluate its antioxidant potential through in vitro and in vivo models.
METHODS:
Phytochemical screening and in vitro antioxidant activities of A. campanulatus tuber n-hexane
extract (ACHE) and methanolic extract (ACME) were evaluated using DPPH, hydroxyl radical,
reducing power and total antioxidant capacity assays. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents
were also investigated. The protective potential of two different doses of ACME (125 and 250
mg/kg) was also evaluated against thioacetamide (TAA) induced oxidative stress in rats.
Silymarin used as a standard drug control. Hepatotoxicity was assessed by quantifying the serum
levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline
phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The antioxidant potential of ACME were
also evaluated by the estimation of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione
reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid
peroxidation (Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) in hepatic and renal tissues.
Histopathologic changes of liver were also evaluated.
29
RESULTS:
In vitro studies revealed that ACME has higher antioxidant and radical scavenging activity than
ACHE, which may be attributed to its higher phenolic and flavonoid content. ACME
significantly prevented the elevation of serum AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, and tissue
malondialdehyde levels(P < 0.05). Hepatic and renal GSH, GST, GR, GPx, and catalase levels
were remarkably increased by the treatment with the extract. Quantification of histopathological
changes also supported the dose dependent protective effects of ACME.
CONCLUSIONS:
The results do suggest that A. campanulatus tuber could be considered as a potential source of
natural antioxidant.
Aslan M, Orhan DD, Orhan N. Effect of Gentiana olivieri on experimental epilepsy models.
Pharmacogn Mag. 2011 Oct;7(28):344-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Flowering herbs of Gentiana olivieri Griseb. (Gentianaceae) are widely used as bitter tonic,
stomachic, stimulant of appetite, antipyretic, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic and for mental
problems in the different regions of Turkey.
OBJECTIVE:
To establish the anticonvulsant activity potential of G. olivieri.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In this work, the ethanol extract of G. olivieri was tested in three doses (200, 750 and 1000
mg/kg) for anticonvulsant activity against seizures produced in mice by pentylenetetrazole
(PTZ), picrotoxin (PIC) and maximal electroshock (MES). Neurotoxicity of the ethanol extract
was also determined by the Rota rod test to evaluate the safety. Ethosuximide (150 mg/kg),
diazepam (0.5 mg/kg) and carbamazepine (30 mg/kg) were used as reference drugs.
RESULTS:
Intraperitonally, injection of the extract significantly prolonged the onset of seizures at doses of
200 and 750 mg/kg, but did not alter the incidence of PTZ-induced seizures. Onset of PICinduced seizures was delayed by the injection of the extract (1000 mg/kg). Moreover, only 750
mg/kg of the extract protected 25% of the mice against PIC-induced seizures. On the other hand,
G. olivieri extract (200, 750 and 1000 mg/kg) showed a significant protective effect against
30
MES-induced seizures. In the Rota rod test, the ethanol extract (200 mg/kg, ip) induced
disturbance in motor coordination.
CONCLUSION:
The results indicate that G. olivieri has possessed anticonvulsant activity against MES-induced
seizures in mice.
Aviello G, Canadanovic-Brunet JM, Milic N, Capasso R, Fattorusso E, Taglialatela-Scafati O,
Fasolino I, Izzo AA, Borrelli F. Potent antioxidant and genoprotective effects of boeravinone G,
a rotenoid isolated from Boerhaavia diffusa. PLoS One. 2011;6(5):e19628.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS:
Free radicals are implicated in the aetiology of some gastrointestinal disorders such as gastric
ulcer, colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. In the present study we investigated the
antioxidant and genoprotective activity of some rotenoids (i.e. boeravinones) isolated from the
roots of Boerhaavia diffusa, a plant used in the Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of diseases
affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS:
Antioxidant activity has been evaluated using both chemical (Electron Spin Resonance
spectroscopy, ESR) and Caco-2 cells-based (TBARS and ROS) assays. DNA damage was
evaluated by Comet assay, while pERK(1/2) and phospho-NF-kB p65 levels were estimated by
western blot. Boeravinones G, D and H significantly reduced the signal intensity of ESR induced
by hydroxyl radicals, suggesting a scavenging activity. Among rotenoids tested, boeravinone G
exerted the most potent effect. Boeravinone G inhibited both TBARS and ROS formation
induced by Fenton's reagent, increased SOD activity and reduced H(2)O(2)-induced DNA
damage. Finally, boeravinone G reduced the levels of pERK(1) and phospho-NF-kB p65 (but not
of pERK(2)) increased by Fenton's reagent.
CONCLUSIONS:
It is concluded that boeravinone G exhibits an extraordinary potent antioxidant activity
(significant effect in the nanomolar range). The MAP kinase and NF-kB pathways seem to be
involved in the antioxidant effect of boeravinone G. Boeravinone G might be considered as lead
compound for the development of drugs potentially useful against those pathologies whose
aetiology is related to ROS-mediated injuries.
31
Awad NE, Seida AA, Hamed MA, Elbatanony MM. Hypolipidaemic and antioxidant activities
of Ficus microcarpa (L.) in hypercholesterolemic rats. Nat Prod Res. 2011 Jul;25(12):1202-7.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Saponifiable and unsaponifiable fractions of Ficus microcarpa leaves hexane extract have been
phytochemically studied and evaluated for its hypolipidaemic and antioxidant effects in
hypercholesterolemic rats. The effect of the extract on the lipid profile was assessed by
measuring the levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, phospho and total lipids. Lipid peroxides,
glutathione and superoxide dismutase were measured as antioxidants. The work was extended to
evaluate liver function indices as well as the histopathological picture of the liver after treatment.
Treatment with leaves extract (500 mg kg⁻¹ body weight) 5 times/week for 9 weeks at the same
time of cholesterol administration (30 mg/0.3 mL 0.7% tween/animal) recorded an improvement
of lipid profile, antioxidants, liver function enzymes and the liver histopathological picture. The
lipoidal matters of the unsaponifiable fraction of the hexane extract by GC/MS led to the
identification of 22 compounds, while saponifiable fraction by (MS/MS) technique led to
identification of 13 unsaturated and saturated fatty acid methyl ester derivatives. It can be
concluded that the hexane extract of F. microcarpa L has been proved to have hypolipidaemic
and antioxidant effects in hypercholesterolemic rats through its role in counteracting LDL
oxidation, enhancement of HDL synthesis and inhibition of lipid peroxidation.
Battu GR, Parimi R, Chandra Shekar KB. In vivo and in vitro pharmacological activity of
Aristolochia tagala (syn: Aristolochia acuminata) root extracts. Pharm Biol. 2011
Nov;49(11):1210-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Aristolochia tagala Cham. (syn: Aristolochia acuminata Lam.) (Aristolochiaceae), known as
Nallayishwari in Telugu, has been of interest to researchers because of its traditional uses for
treating rheumatic pains and fever.
OBJECTIVE:
The anti-inflammatory activity of the petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extracts of A.
tagala roots were investigated for the first time.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
32
In vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects were investigated employing the carrageenaninduced hind paw edema in rats and the macrophage cell line RAW264.7 stimulated with
proinflammatory stimuli (lipopolysaccharide interferon γ or the calcium ionophore A23187) to
determine PGE(2) or LTB(4) release, respectively.
RESULTS:
All the extracts exhibited anti-inflammatory effects which were found to be significant
(p < 0.001) at 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o, in rats tested and the ethyl acetate extract inhibited the
induction of PGE(2) with IC(50) = 39.1 mg mL(-1) and LTB(4) with IC(50) = 29.5 mg mL(-1).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
These findings demonstrate that the A. tagala roots have excellent anti-inflammatory activity and
validate the traditional indications of this plant in its origin country.
Ben Sghaier M, Krifa M, Mensi R, Bhouri W, Ghedira K, Chekir-Ghedira L. In vitro and in vivo
immunomodulatory and anti-ulcerogenic activities of Teucrium ramosissimum extracts. J
Immunotoxicol. 2011 Oct-Dec;8(4):288-97. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Teucrium ramosissimum (Lamiaceae), a native and endemic plant from South Tunisia, has
traditionally been used as a treatment for inflammation and for ulcers. Though the plant and its
products are widely used, very few studies have analyzed the pharmacological/toxicological
properties of this plant. Thus, the aim of these studies was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory/antiulcerogenic activities of various extracts (i.e., methanolic, aqueous, and total oligomer flavonoid
[TOF]-enriched) from leaves of T. ramosissimum. In vitro, the effects from each extract on
lysosomal enzyme activity and proliferation of, respectively, freshly isolated peritoneal
macrophages and splenic lymphocytes were assessed. The extracts alone clearly affected
macrophage function, as evidenced by a significant modulation of cell lysosomal enzyme
activity and ability to form and/or release nitric oxide. These extracts were also found to be able
to significantly modify the proliferation of splenocytes, even when lipopolysaccharide or lectin
mitogens were absent. With respect to the anti-ulcerogenic activity of the extracts, these studies
found that the leaf extracts were able to exert significant protective effects against ethanolinduced ulcers in a rat model; at some doses, the extract effects were even greater than that
obtained using a cytoprotective histamine H2-antagonist, cimetidine. Based on these studies, we
conclude that the extracts from T. ramosissimum appear to be potentially potent modulators of
innate immunity and that their efficacy against ulcer formation may be due, in part, to a
cytoprotective effect. Further, these results fortify the ethnopharmacological importance of the
use of T. ramosissimum products as anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer agents. Nevertheless,
33
ongoing/further studies are needed to clarify more precisely mechanisms underlying effects
against ulcers and on lymphocyte and macrophage functionality, as well as the causative agents.
Bencsik T, Horváth G, Papp N. Variability of total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin contents in
some Lythrum salicaria populations. Nat Prod Commun. 2011 Oct;6(10):1417-20.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Lythrum salicaria L. can vary in some morphological and phytochemical features according to its
habitat. The present study investigates and compares the total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin
composition of twelve populations of L. salicaria collected from different ecological habitats in
south-west Hungary. We studied the plant heights and soil moistures of the habitats analyzing
the potential correlation between the morphological and environmental factors and chemical
compositions. Total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin contents were determined according to the
valid spectroscopic methods of the European Pharmacopoeia. Total flavonoid content was higher
in the populations collected during the main blooming period in August than at the beginning of
flowering in July. Higher values for total polyphenol and tannin were detected in flowering
branch tips in August than in July, and higher ones in leaves and shoots in July than in August.
The highest flavonoid content was measured in the leaves, followed by the flowering branches
and shoots as opposed to the total polyphenol and tannin contents, which were higher in the
flowering branch tips than in the other organs.
Bero J, Hannaert V, Chataigné G, Hérent MF, Quetin-Leclercq J. In vitro antitrypanosomal and
antileishmanial activity of plants used in Benin in traditional medicine and bio-guided
fractionation of the most active extract. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Sep 2;137(2):998-1002.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
The aim of the study was to evaluate the in vitro antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial activity of
crude extracts of 10 plant species traditionally used in Benin to treat parasitic infections.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
For each species, dichloromethane, methanol and aqueous extracts were tested. Their
antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial activities were evaluated in vitro on Trypanosoma brucei
brucei (strain 427) (Tbb) and on promastigotes of Leishmania mexicana mexicana
(MHOM/BZ/84/BEL46) (Lmm).
34
RESULTS:
The best growth inhibition was observed with the dichloromethane extracts of aerial parts of
Acanthospermum hispidum DC. (Asteraceae) (IC(50)=14.5 μg/ml on Tbb and 11.1 μg/ml on
Lmm), twigs of Keetia leucantha (K. Krause) Bridson (syn. Plectronia leucantha Krause)
(IC(50)=5.8 μg/ml on Tbb), aerial parts of Byrsocarpus coccineus Schumach. & Thonn (syn.
Rourea coccinea (Schumach. & Thonn.) Hook.f.) (IC(50)=14.7 μg/ml on Tbb) and aerial parts of
Carpolobia lutea G.Don. (IC(50)=18.3 μg/ml on Tbb). All these extracts had a low cytotoxicity.
It is not the case for the methanolic and water extracts of roots of Anchomanes difformis
(Blume) Engl. (IC(50)=14.7 and 13.8 μg/ml on Tbb) which were toxic at the same concentration
range on WI38, human cells. A bio-guided fractionation of the most active extract of Keetia
leucantha allowed to identify oleanolic acid and ursolic acid as responsible for the observed
activities.
CONCLUSION:
Our study gives some justification for antiparasitic activity of some investigated plants.
Bussmann RW, Swartzinsky P, Worede A, Evangelista P. Plant use in Odo-Bulu and Demaro,
Bale
region,
Ethiopia.
J
Ethnobiol
Ethnomed.
2011
Sep
24;7:28.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
This paper reports on the plant use of laypeople of the Oromo in Southern Ethiopia. The Oromo
in Bale had names/uses for 294 species in comparison to 230 species documented in the lower
reaches of the Bale area. Only 13 species was used for veterinary purposes, or as human
medicine (46). Plant medicine served mostly to treat common everyday ailments such as stomach
problems and diarrhea, for wound treatment and as toothbrush-sticks, as anthelmintic, for skin
infections and to treat sore muscles and. Interestingly, 9 species were used to treat spiritual
ailments and to expel demons. In most cases of medicinal applications the leaves or roots were
employed.Traditional plant knowledge has clearly declined in a large part of the research area.
Western style health care services as provided by governments and NGOs, in particular in rural
areas, seem to have contributed to a decline in traditional knowledge, in part because the local
population simply regards western medicine as more effective and safer.
Butler A, Keating R. Old herbal remedies and modern combination therapy. Scott Med J. 2011
Aug;56(3):170-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
35
The use of herbs as cures for human ailments is as old as modern man, but has now been
replaced by synthetic drugs. However, the mixture of bioactive substances found in many
traditional herbal remedies has similarities with modern combination therapies, like those
developed by Sir John Crofton in Edinburgh for the treatment of tuberculosis. It is suggested
that, in the development of these therapies, it might be possible to learn from the drug 'cocktails'
found in plants.
Caballero-George C, Gupta MP. A quarter century of pharmacognostic research on Panamanian
flora: a review. Planta Med. 2011 Jul;77(11):1189-202. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Panama is a unique terrestrial bridge of extreme biological importance. It is one of the "hot
spots" and occupies the fourth place among the 25 most plant-rich countries in the world, with
13.4 % endemic species. Panamanian plants have been screened for a wide range of biological
activities: as cytotoxic, brine shrimp-toxic, antiplasmodial, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant,
immunosuppressive, and antihypertensive agents. This review concentrates on
ethnopharmacological uses of medicinal plants employed by three Amerindian groups of Panama
and on selected plants with novel structures and/or interesting bioactive compounds. During the
last quarter century, a total of approximately 390 compounds from 86 plants have been isolated,
of which 160 are new to the literature. Most of the work reported here has been the result of
many international collaborative efforts with scientists worldwide. From the results presented, it
is immediately obvious that the Panamanian flora is still an untapped source of new bioactive
compounds.
Chaturvedi AP, Tripathi YB. Methanolic extract of leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum Linn
modulates oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. Inflammopharmacology. 2011
Oct;19(5):273-81. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum (JG) are in clinical use in Ayurveda for wound
management. Since, oxidative stress and inflammation are the primary causes in delayed wound
healing, so here its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities have been investigated using in
vitro as well as in vivo models. The solvent-free methanolic extract of dried leaves of JG were
tested for its trapping capacity toward pre-generated ABTS•+ radicals, instantly generated
superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, along with metal chelation property, reducing power and total
phenolic content. Further, it was tested on LPS-induced nitric oxide and cell viability, on primary
culture of rat peritoneal macrophages. Its anti-inflammatory property was also tested on
36
carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. This extract significantly inhibited iron-induced lipid
peroxidation and trapped ABTS•+, superoxide and OH radicals. It significantly inhibited nitric
oxide (NO) release, without affecting the cell viability at 800 μg/ml concentration and reduced
the formation of paw edema in rats. Thus, it could be suggested that the aforesaid antiinflammatory properties of JG leaves are associated to its high phenolic content (2.25±0.105
mg/l of gallic acid equivalent), reducing power and its free radical-scavenging property.
Chizzola R. Composition of the essential oils from Anthriscus cerefolium var. trichocarpa and A.
caucalis growing wild in the urban area of Vienna (Austria). Nat Prod Commun. 2011
Aug;6(8):1147-50. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The composition of the essential oil from the different above ground plant parts of Anthriscus
cerefolium and A. caucalis collected in the urban area of Vienna has been studied. The essential
oils of A. cerefolium were dominated by estragole (= methylchavicol) and 1-allyl-2,4dimethoxybenzene, occurring in various proportions. The oils from young flowering plants had
more estragole than 1-allyl-2,4-dimethoxybenzene. Fruits from one location reached 95%
estragole in the essential oil. In A. caucalis, the main compound of all oils was cis-chrysanthenyl
acetate (up to 74%) followed by cis-chrysanthenol (up to 16%). The fruit oils displayed a higher
proportion of cis-chrysanthenyl acetate than the leaf or stem oils.
Chlipala GE, Mo S, Orjala J. Chemodiversity in freshwater and terrestrial cyanobacteria - a
source for drug discovery. Curr Drug Targets. 2011 Oct;12(11):1654-73. Review.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are considered a promising source for new pharmaceutical lead compounds and a
large number of chemically diverse and bioactive metabolites have been obtained from
cyanobacteria over the last few decades. This review highlights the structural diversity of natural
products from freshwater and terrestrial cyanobacteria. The review is divided into three areas:
cytotoxic metabolites, protease inhibitors, and antimicrobial metabolites. The first section
discusses the potent cytotoxins cryptophycin and tolytoxin. The second section covers protease
inhibitors from freshwater and terrestrial cyanobacteria and is divided in five subsections
according to structural class: aeruginosins, cyanopeptolins, microviridins, anabaenopeptins, and
microginins. Structure activity relationships are discussed within each protease inhibitor class.
The third section, antimicrobial metabolites from freshwater and terrestrial cyanobacteria, is
divided by chemical class in three subsections: alkaloids, peptides and terpenoids. These
37
examples emphasize the structural diversity and drug development potential of natural products
from freshwater and terrestrial cyanobacteria.
Csupor D, Borcsa B, Heydel B, Hohmann J, Zupkó I, Ma Y, Widowitz U, Bauer R. Comparison
of a specific HPLC determination of toxic aconite alkaloids in processed Radix aconiti with a
titration method of total alkaloids. Pharm Biol. 2011 Oct;49(10):1097-101.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
In traditional Chinese medicine, Aconitum (Ranunculaceae) roots are only applied after
processing. Nevertheless, several cases of poisoning by improperly processed aconite roots have
been reported.
OBJECTIVE:
The aim of this study was to develop a reliable analytical method to assess the amount of toxic
aconite alkaloids in commercial aconite roots, and to compare this method with the commonly
used total alkaloid content determination by titration.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The content of mesaconitine, aconitine, and hypaconitine in 16 commercial samples of processed
aconite roots was determined by an HPLC method and the total alkaloid content by indirect
titration. Five samples were selected for in vivo toxicological investigation.
RESULTS:
In most of the commercial samples, toxic alkaloids were not detectable, or only traces were
found. In four samples, we could detect >0.04% toxic aconite alkaloids, the highest with a
content of 0.16%. The results of HPLC analysis were compared with the results obtained by
titration, and no correlation was found between the two methods. The in vivo results reassured
the validity of the HPLC determination.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
Samples with mesaconitine, aconitine, and hypaconitine content below the HPLC detection limit
still contained up to 0.2% alkaloids determined by titration. Since titration of alkaloids gives no
information selectively on the aconitine-type alkaloid content and toxicity of aconite roots this
method is not appropriate for safety assessment. The HPLC method developed by us provides a
38
quick and reliable assessment of toxicity and should be considered as a purity test in
pharmacopoeia monographs.
Efferth T, Kaina B. Toxicities by herbal medicines with emphasis to traditional Chinese
medicine. Curr Drug Metab. 2011 Dec;12(10):989-96. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
It is estimated that three quarters of the world population rely on herbal and traditional medicine
as a basis for primary health care. Therefore, it is one of the most important and challenging
tasks for scientists working in drug research to investigate the efficacy of herbal medicine, to
dissect favorable from adverse effects, to identify active principles in medicinal plants and to ban
poisonous plants or contaminations from herbal mixtures. In the present review, some problems
are critically discussed. Botanical misidentification or mislabeling of plant material can play a
role for toxic reactions in humans. Some plant descriptions in traditional herbal medicine (e.g.
traditional Chinese medicine) have changed over time, which may lead to unintended
intoxication by using wrong plants. A problem is also the contamination of herbals with
microorganisms, fungal toxins such as aflatoxin, with pesticides and heavy metals.
Unprofessional processing, which differs from safe traditional preparation represents another
potential source for herbal poisoning. Unwanted effects of herbal products may also develop by
the interaction of herbs with conventional drugs upon concomitant intake. The art of herbal
medicine is to dissect pharmacologically and therapeutically valuable herbal drugs from harmful
and toxic ones and to develop combinations of medicinal plants as safe and efficient herbal
remedies. Standardization and strict control measures are necessary to monitor sustainable high
quality of herbal products and to exclude contaminations that badly affect patients consuming
herbal medicine.
Fred-Jaiyesimi AA, Adepoju A, Egbebunmi O. Anthelmintic activities of chloroform and
methanol extracts of Buchholzia coriacea Engler seed. Parasitol Res. 2011 Aug;109(2):441-4.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The anthelmintic potentials of the chloroform and methanol extracts of Buchholzia coriacea
Engler seed were investigated. In folklore medicine, B. coriacea (Capparidaceae) is believed to
be useful in the treatment of various kinds of ailments and diseases. At doses of 10 mg/kg, 25
mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, the extracts were tested against Eudrilus eugeniae (earthworm) and
Bunostomum phlebotomum (cattle hookworm). The extracts exhibited dose-dependent
anthelmintic effects on the earthworms and hookworms. The methanol extract at 50 mg/kg was
39
the most active extract against the helminths, and the activity of the methanol extract was not
significantly different from that of piperazine hydrate (reference drug, 10 mg/kg) against the
earthworms.
Gupta P, Nahata A, Dixit VK. An update on Murraya koenigii spreng: a multifunctional
Ayurvedic herb. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Aug;9(8):824-33. Review.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Murraya koenigii Spreng (Rutaceae), a medicinally important herb of Indian origin, has been
used for centuries in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Leaves, fruits, roots and bark of this
plant are a rich source of carbazole alkaloids. These alkaloids have been reported for their
various pharmacological activities such as antitumor, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiarrhoeal,
diuretic and antioxidant activities. Apart from these activities, the plant is reported to possess a
wide spectrum of biological activities. Phytochemistry and pharmacology of this plant make a
demand of an exhaustive review of its potential as a valuable therapeutic agent for the treatment
and management of various ailments frequently affecting humans. The present review gives a
detailed description of the phytochemical, pharmacological, clinical and pre-clinical works
carried out on this medicinal herb and also throws light on its therapeutic potential.
Haider S, Nazreen S, Alam MM, Gupta A, Hamid H, Alam MS. Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of ethanolic extract and its various fractions from Adiantum capillus
veneris
Linn.
J
Ethnopharmacol.
2011
Dec
8;138(3):741-7
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY:
To investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of the crude ethanolic extract
of Adiantum capillus veneris Linn. (Adiantaceae) and its various fractions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The ethanolic extract and its fractions were given at a dose of 200 mg/kg po and 300 mg/kg po
for testing their anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The
analgesic activity of the ethanolic extract and its fractions has been carried out by tail-flick
method and writhing test at a dosage of 300 mg/kg po. Gastric ulceration studies have been
further carried out to study the antiulcer effect of the ethanolic extract and its various fractions at
dose of 900 mg/kg body weight.
40
RESULTS:
Amongst the tested fractions, the ethyl acetate fraction exhibited better inhibition (67.27%) at
300 mg/kg po dosage when compared to the standard drug Indomethacin (63.63%) after 3h in the
carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extract
and its various fractions appear to be related to the inhibition of NO release, and the decreasing
TNF-α level. The ethanolic extract and all its fractions especially the ethyl acetate (p<0.01)
showed significant analgesic activity with insignificant ulceration as compared to the standard
drug, i.e. ibuprofen. The histopathological study of ethanolic extract and its fractions reveals that
none of them cause ulcer.
CONCLUSION:
The present study indicates that Adiantum capillus veneris Linn. has significant antiinflammatory and analgesic effect.
Hullatti KK, Gopikrishna UV, Kuppast IJ. Phytochemical investigation and diuretic activity of
Cyclea peltata leaf extracts. J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2011
Oct;2(4):241-4.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Ayurvedic system of medicine is well known for treating renal problems. A vast number of
medicinal plants mentioned in Ayurvedic system of medicine are known to possess diuretic
properties. Present study reports the preliminary phytochemical investigation of petroleum ether
and ethanolic extracts of Cyclea peltata and their diuretic activity. Preliminary phytochemical
screening reveals the presence of phytosterols and alkaloids as major phytoconstituents in
petroleum ether extract. The ethanolic extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids,
tannins, diterpenes and saponins. Pharmacological investigation revealed that ethanolic extract of
C. peltata leaves possessed significant diuretic activity in a given dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg
body weight (Diuretic action 1.7 and 2.6, respectively). Where as petroleum ether extract has
shown moderate diuresis at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight (Diuretic action 1.1). The present
study justifies the use of C. peltata in the Ayurvedic system of medicine as a diuretic drug.
Jalalpure SS, Mandavkar YD, Khalure PR, Shinde GS, Shelar PA, Shah AS. Antiarthritic
activity of various extracts of Mesua ferrea Linn. seed. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Dec
8;138(3):700-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
41
Mesua ferrea Linn. (Cluciaseae), Cobra's saffron, is named after the heaviness of its timber and is
cultivated in tropical climates for its form, foliage, and fragrant flowers. It is prescribed in
the Ayurvedic literature for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and rheumatic conditions.
OBJECTIVE:
In present investigation, activity of Mesua ferrea and its evaluation in the formaldehyde and
Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in rats is reported.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The extracts obtained from successive extraction were subjected to preliminary phytochemical
investigation and antiarthritic activity was evaluated by inducing formaldehyde and CFA. Body
weight changes and haematological parameters were measured.
RESULTS:
The results indicate that Mesua ferrea protects rats against formaldehyde and CFA induced
arthritis. The body weight changes and haematological perturbations induced by CFA were
maintained. The overall results indicated that Mesua ferrea exerts a potent protective effect
against formaldehyde and adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats.
CONCLUSION:
These findings demonstrate that the present study validates the ethnomedicinal use of seeds of
Mesua ferrea in the treatment of arthritis conditions.
Katoch M, Fazli IS, Suri KA, Ahuja A, Qazi GN. Effect of altitude on picroside content in core
collections of Picrorhiza kurrooa from the north western Himalayas. J Nat Med. 2011 Jul;65(34):578-82. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Picrorhiza kurrooa Royle ex Benth (Scrophulariaceae), commonly known as Kutki, is a major
ingredient of many ayurvedic preparations prescribed in the treatment of various diseases.
Picrosides I and II are the active agents responsible for the medicinal effects of Kutki, and the
variation in content of these compounds in plants at different altitudes is a major question to be
addressed. The picroside I and II content in various plant parts of P. kurrooa collected from
different altitudes, viz. Sonemarg (2,740 m a.s.l.), Tangmarg (2,690 m a.s.l.), and Pulwama
(1,630 m a.s.l.) in the north-western Kashmir Himalayas was analyzed by HPLC. A considerable
degree of variation in picroside content was observed. Picroside I and II was highest in
populations collected from Sonemarg followed by Tangmarg, suggesting that picroside
accumulation is directly correlated with altitudinal change. More picroside I was found in the
42
rhizome and roots of the Pulwama population as compared to Tangmarg samples, whereas the
quantity of Picroside II was reduced in plants from Pulwama compared to the Tangmarg
population, suggesting that cultivation of P. kurroa at lower altitude reduces the picroside
content. The quantities of picrosides also varied spatially, being highest in rhizome followed by
roots, inflorescence and leaves in the populations from all three locations. The study concludes
that picroside I and II accumulation depends on altitude, which could help in the selection and
collection of superior genotypes with uniform effects for utilization by the pharmaceutical
industry.
Lardos A, Prieto-Garcia J, Heinrich M. Resins and Gums in Historical Iatrosophia Texts from
Cyprus - A Botanical and Medico-pharmacological Approach. Front Pharmacol. 2011;2:32.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
This study explores historical iatrosophia texts from Cyprus from a botanical and medicopharmacological point of view focusing on remedies containing resins and gums. The iatrosophia
are a genre of Greek medical literature of Byzantine origin and can be described as medicine
handbooks which serve as therapeutic repositories containing recipes or advice. To extract and
analyze information on plant usage in such sources - which are largely unedited texts and so far
have not been translated - we investigate (i) the relationship of the iatrosophia to Dioscorides' De
Materia Medica as well as historic pharmaceutical books or standard texts on modern
phytotherapy and (ii) the validity of the remedies by comparing them to modern scientific data
on reported biological activities. In the six texts investigated 27 substances incorporating plant
exudates are mentioned. They are obtained from over 43 taxa of higher plants and in particular
are used to treat dermatological, gastrointestinal, and respiratory tract conditions. The
comparison to historic pharmaceutical books and phytotherapy texts reflects the gradual decline
of the use of plant exudates in Western medicine. While remarkable parallels to Dioscorides' text
exist, the non-Dioscoridean influence suggests a complex pattern of knowledge exchange.
Overall, this resulted in an integration of knowledge from so far poorly understood sources. The
comparison with bioscientific data reveals a fragmentary picture and highlights the potential of
these unexplored substances and their uses. Where relevant bioscientific data are available, we
generally found a confirmation. This points to a largely rational use of the associated remedies.
Taken together, the iatrosophia are a valuable resource for ethnopharmacological and natural
product research. Most importantly they contribute to the understanding of the development of
herbal medicines in the (Eastern) Mediterranean and Europe.
43
Mathen C, Peter SM, Hardikar BP. Comparative evaluation of the cytotoxic and apoptotic
potential of Poecilocerus pictus and Calotropis gigantea. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol.
2011;30(1):83-92. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Calotropis gigantea, the giant milkweed, is traditionally used for the treatment of cancer and
in Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-helminthic, anti-pyretic, and anti-malarial agent. Poecilocerus
pictus, an orthopteran insect, feeds on C. gigantea and both are known to possess cardiac
glycosides. The increasing reports on the specific cytotoxicity of cardiac glycosides on human
tumor cell lines led us to attempt characterization and comparative evaluation of cardenolides in
both the insect and plant extracts for their anti-tumor and apoptotic potential.Chemical
characterization using high-performance thin layer chromatography, ultraviolet and infrared
spectra analysis confirmed the presence of cardiac glycosides, but differences in the components
of the insect extract were indicative of biotransformation. The cytotoxicity studies revealed a
more potent trend for the insect extract compared with the plant extract on A549 and COLO205
cells. There was a considerably lesser measure of toxicity on WI38 cells and peripheral blood
lymphocytes, whereas B16F1 remained unaffected by both extracts. DNA ploidy analysis on
COLO205 indicated that both extracts induced dose-dependent apoptosis. Therefore, both the
insect and the plant extracts differentiate between human cancer cells and normal cells and
exhibit species specificity. Further investigations are necessary to establish these extracts as
promising lead candidates for anti-neoplastic activity.
Mutheeswaran S, Pandikumar P, Chellappandian M, Ignacimuthu S. Documentation and
quantitative analysis of the local knowledge on medicinal plants among traditional Siddha
healers in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, India. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Sep
1;137(1):523-33. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
India has a population with high degree of medical pluralism. Siddha system of Indian
traditional medicine is practiced dominantly by the people in Tamil Nadu. The traditionally
trained Siddha healers still play an important role in the rural health care. Their knowledge is
comparatively more vulnerable than the documented traditional knowledge. Thus, the present
study was aimed to document and quantitatively analyze the local knowledge of the traditional
Siddha healers in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, India.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
44
The results presented in this paper are the outcome of series of interviews conducted between
January and August, 2010 consisting of 196 field days. After getting prior informed consent,
interviews were conducted and successive free-listing was used in the interviews in order to
make informants cite the medicinal plants that they have used. By this way 96 healers were
interviewed and their data were quantitatively analyzed using various indices such as Informant
Consensus Factor (F(ic)), Fidelity Level (FL), Informant Agreement on Remedies (IAR) and
Cultural Importance Index (CII).
RESULTS:
This study recorded the ethno-medicinal usage of 227 species which were used to prepare 611
formulations for the treatment of 36 illness categories. The knowledge holders had the
experience of minimum 20 years. There was unevenness in male-female ratio. Regarding the
medicinal plants, easily available plants were holding significantly high number of citations, IAR
and CII values. Nine illness categories had a high F(ic) value, compared to others. Species with
high citations in these groups were Moringa oleifera (aphrodisiacs), Acalypha indica
(dermatological ailments), Dodonaea viscosa (musculo-skeletal disorders), Solanum trilobatum
(pulmonary ailments), Phyllanthus amarus (jaundice), Piper nigrum (adjuvant) Allium cepa
(hemorrhoids), Azadirachta indica (antiseptic) and Tribulus terrestris (urinary ailments).
CONCLUSION:
Quantitative analysis of the data had revealed that the easily available species hold a high
consensus and cultural importance. Future biomedical studies using the medicinal plants
enumerated in this study, particularly those with high number of citations and high F(ic) values
might yield some novel prototypes. Such studies will also be useful to assess the efficacy and
safety of these herbal treatments to take decisions on the health care of rural India.
Obolskiy D, Pischel I, Feistel B, Glotov N, Heinrich M. Artemisia dracunculus L. (tarragon): a
critical review of its traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology, and safety. J Agric
Food Chem. 2011 Nov 9;59(21):11367-84. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Artemisia dracunculus L. (tarragon) has a long history of use as a spice and remedy. Two welldescribed "cultivars" (Russian and French) are used widely and differ in ploidy level,
morphology, and chemistry. Key biologically active secondary metabolites are essential oils
(0.15-3.1%), coumarins (>1%), flavonoids, and phenolcarbonic acids. In vivo studies mainly in
rodents, particularly from Russian sources, highlight potential anti-inflammatory,
hepatoprotective, and antihyperglycemic effects. Despite concerns about the toxic effects of two
of its main constituents, estragole (up to 82%) and methyleugenol (up to 39%), no acute toxicity
45
or mutagenic activity has been reported at doses relevant for human consumption. Water extracts
of A. dracunculus contain very low amounts of estragole and methyleugenol and, therefore, are
considered to pose a very limited risk. Overall, a stronger focus on clinical studies and precise
taxonomic and phytochemical definition of the source material will be essential for future
research efforts.
Omeish AF, Abbadi W, Ghanma IM, Drabaa Z, Botoosh FA, Seif A, Massadeh M. Hospitalbased study on the use of herbal medicine in patients with coronary artery disease in Jordan. J
Pak Med Assoc. 2011 Jul;61(7):683-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To determine the frequency and pattern of herbal therapy use among patients with chronic
coronary artery disease as self remedies.
METHODS:
This cross-sectional study was conducted by face to face interview of 690 consecutive patients
visiting the outpatient department at Queen Alia Heart Institute during the period 1/6/2008 to
1/6/2009. Data was collected using a specially designed questionnaire.
RESULTS:
Overall frequency of herbal use was 14.1%. The most commonly used herbs in Jordan were
hawthorn and ginger. A total of 27 local and one Chinese herbal product were used, while the
use of adulterated formulae were absent. Pharmacists were never consulted regarding the
quantity or frequency of herb use. Side effects were rare.
CONCLUSION:
The use of medicinal herbs among cardiac patients in Jordan is not uncommon and consists
largely of local herbs. Active role of pharmacists and doctors for counseling patients on the
appropriate use of herbal products should prevent toxicity, ensure proper modes of preparation
and optimize safety and efficacy.
46
Policegoudra RS, Aradhya SM, Singh L. Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.)--a promising
spice for phytochemicals and biological activities. J Biosci. 2011 Sep;36(4):739-48.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) is a unique spice having morphological resemblance with
ginger but imparts a raw mango flavour. The main use of mango ginger rhizome is in the
manufacture of pickles and culinary preparations. Ayurveda and Unani medicinal systems have
given much importance to mango ginger as an appetizer, alexteric, antipyretic, aphrodisiac,
diuretic, emollient, expectorant and laxative and to cure biliousness, itching, skin diseases,
bronchitis, asthma, hiccough and inflammation due to injuries. The biological activities of
mango ginger include antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, antiinflammatory activity, platelet aggregation inhibitory activity, cytotoxicity, antiallergic activity,
hypotriglyceridemic activity, brine-shrimp lethal activity, enterokinase inhibitory activity, CNS
depressant and analgesic activity. The major chemical components include starch, phenolic
acids, volatile oils, curcuminoids and terpenoids like difurocumenonol, amadannulen and
amadaldehyde. This article brings to light the major active components present in C. amada
along with their biological activities that may be important from the pharmacological point of
view.
Ramadan G, Al-Kahtani MA, El-Sayed WM. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of
Curcuma longa (turmeric) versus Zingiber officinale (ginger) rhizomes in rat adjuvant-induced
arthritis. Inflammation. 2011 Aug;34(4):291-301.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Turmeric (rich in curcuminoids) and ginger (rich in gingerols and shogaols) rhizomes have been
widely used as dietary spices and to treat different diseases in Ayurveda/Chinese medicine since
antiquity. Here, we compared the anti-inflammatory/anti-oxidant activity of these two plants in
rat adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA). Both plants (at dose 200 mg/kg body weight) significantly
suppressed (but with different degrees) the incidence and severity of arthritis by
increasing/decreasing the production of anti-inflammatory/pro-inflammatory cytokines,
respectively, and activating the anti-oxidant defence system. The anti-arthritic activity of
turmeric exceeded that of ginger and indomethacin (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug),
especially when the treatment started from the day of arthritis induction. The percentage of
disease recovery was 4.6-8.3% and 10.2% more in turmeric compared with ginger and
indomethacin (P < 0.05), respectively. The present study proves the anti-inflammatory/antioxidant activity of turmeric over ginger and indomethacin, which may have beneficial effects
against rheumatoid arthritis onset/progression as shown in AIA rat model.
47
Viji V, Helen A. Inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators: role of Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst.
Inflammopharmacology. 2011 Oct;19(5):283-91. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst is a renowned plant in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. The
present study seeks to identify the anti-inflammatory activity of two fractions from the
methanolic extract of Bacopa, viz. the triterpenoid and bacoside-enriched fractions. The ability
of these two fractions to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor
necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 was tested using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated
peripheral blood mononuclear cells and peritoneal exudate cells in vitro. We found that
triterpenoid and bacoside-enriched fractions significantly inhibited LPS-activated TNF-α, IL-6
and nitrite production in mononuclear cells. Significant antioxidant activity was exhibited by the
bacoside enriched fraction compared to the triterpenoid fraction. Carrageenan-induced hind paw
oedema assay revealed that triterpenoid and bacoside-enriched fractions exerted antioedematogenic effect, while in the arthritis model only the triterpenoid fraction exerted an antiarthritic potential. The present study provides an insight into the ability of Bacopa monniera to
inhibit inflammation through modulation of pro-inflammatory mediator release.
Zia-Ul-Haq M, Cavar S, Qayum M, Imran I, de Feo V. Compositional studies: antioxidant and
antidiabetic activities of Capparis decidua (Forsk.) Edgew. Int J Mol Sci. 2011;12(12):8846-61.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Capparis decidua is one of the traditional remedies used for various medicinal treatments in
Pakistan. This study presents the determination of proximate composition, amino acids, fatty
acids, tocopherols, sterols, glucosinolate and phenolic content in extracts obtained from different
aerial parts of C. decidua, as well as their antidiabetic and antioxidant activity. All examined
extracts were prominently rich in phenolics and glucosinates, and they showed potent
antidiabetic and antihemolytic activity. The present study could be helpful in developing
medicinal preparations for the treatment of diabetes and related symptoms.
48
Biochemistry
Chang JC, LaSarre B, Jimenez JC, Aggarwal C, Federle MJ. Two group A streptococcal peptide
pheromones act through opposing Rgg regulators to control biofilm development. PLoS Pathog.
2011 Aug;7(8):e1002190. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) is an important human commensal that
occasionally causes localized infections and less frequently causes severe invasive disease with
high mortality rates. How GAS regulates expression of factors used to colonize the host and
avoid immune responses remains poorly understood. Intercellular communication is an important
means by which bacteria coordinate gene expression to defend against host assaults and
competing bacteria, yet no conserved cell-to-cell signaling system has been elucidated in GAS.
Encoded within the GAS genome are four rgg-like genes, two of which (rgg2 and rgg3) have no
previously described function. We tested the hypothesis that rgg2 or rgg3 rely on extracellular
peptides to control target-gene regulation. We found that Rgg2 and Rgg3 together tightly
regulate two linked genes encoding new peptide pheromones. Rgg2 activates transcription of and
is required for full induction of the pheromone genes, while Rgg3 plays an antagonistic role and
represses pheromone expression. The active pheromone signals, termed SHP2 and SHP3, are
short and hydrophobic (DI[I/L]IIVGG), and, though highly similar in sequence, their ability to
disrupt Rgg3-DNA complexes were observed to be different, indicating that specificity and
differential activation of promoters are characteristics of the Rgg2/3 regulatory circuit. SHPpheromone signaling requires an intact oligopeptide permease (opp) and a metalloprotease (eep),
supporting the model that pro-peptides are secreted, processed to the mature form, and
subsequently imported to the cytoplasm to interact directly with the Rgg receptors. At least one
consequence of pheromone stimulation of the Rgg2/3 pathway is increased biogenesis of
biofilms, which counteracts negative regulation of biofilms by RopB (Rgg1). These data provide
the first demonstration that Rgg-dependent quorum sensing functions in GAS and substantiate
the role that Rggs play as peptide receptors across the Firmicute phylum.
Chavan SV, Chavan NR, Balaji A, Trivedi VD, Chavan PR. A pilot study on the use of serum
glyoxalase as a supplemental biomarker to predict malignant cases of the prostate in the PSA
range
of
4-20
ng/ml.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Oct;134:458-62.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
49
Serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) though most commonly used for diagnosis of prostate
cancer lacks specificity. This study was aimed at exploring the use of serum glyoxalase as a
supplemental biomarker to differentiate between malignant vs non-malignant diseases of the
prostate in patients with PSA in the range of 4-20 ng/ml.
METHODS:
Serum glyoxalase and PSA were measured in 92 men (30 control, 31 cases of benign prostate
hyperplasia (BPH) and 31 cases of adenocarcinoma of prostate). Of the latter group, 11 cases of
prostate cancer in the PSA range of 4-20 ng/ml were included for studying the diagnostic utility
of combination of both serum PSA and glyoxalase.
RESULTS:
In prostate cancer cases with PSA in the range of 4-20 ng/ml, the glyoxalase was found to be
233.3 ± 98.6 μmol/min while for the non-malignant group it was 103.1 ± 19.7 μmol/min. A cutoff of 19.2 ng/ml PSA showed sensitivity of 9 per cent, specificity of 96.7 per cent, positive
predictive value (PPV) of 50 per cent and negative predictive value (NPV) of 75 per cent. A
serum glyoxalase cut-off of 141 μmol/min showed sensitivity of 81.8 per cent, specificity of 100
per cent, PPV of 100 per cent and NPV of 93.9 per cent. Further, ROC analysis showed a
significant difference in the area under curve (AUC) for glyoxalase as compared to serum PSA
(0.92 vs 0.57; P<0.001).
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Serum glyoxalase appears to be predictive of prostate cancer in the PSA range of 4-20 ng/ml.
Studies with larger number of participants would be required to confirm this finding.
Dharmalingam N. Gunadharini, Perumal Elumalai, Ramachandran Arunkumar, Kalimuthu
Senthilkumar, Jagadeesan Arunakaran, Induction of apoptosis and inhibition of PI3K/Akt
pathway in PC-3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cells by ethanolic neem leaf extract.Journal of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):644-650.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-5223Y291/2/84c977cc45d73e94dd69ea8508ada2fe.
Abstract:
Aim of the study: The present study is aimed to delineate the effect of ethanolic neem leaf
extract on PI3K/Akt and apoptotic pathway in prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3 and
LNCaP).Materials and methods: To test the hypothesis, two different prostate cancer cell lines
LNCaP (androgen dependent) and PC-3 (androgen independent) were taken. Cells were exposed
to various concentrations of ethanolic neem leaf extract (ENLE) (25-125 [mu]g/ml). The doses
50
were fixed by cell viability (MTT) assay. For apoptotic detection in situ apoptosis assay,
caspase-3 activity and protein expression of cytochrome c and Poly-ADP Ribose Polymerase
(PARP) were analysed as well as mRNA expression of Bcl-2 family proteins was studied by RTPCR. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and p-Akt were analysed by western blotting and
mRNA expression of Akt 1 and 2, PTEN was performed by RT-PCR. Immunoblotting of cyclin
D1 and p21 was done to access the inhibition of cell proliferation.Results: ENLE gives 50%
inhibition at a dose of 100 [mu]g/ml in both PC-3 and LNCaP cells and considered as effective
dose. ENLE decreased the protein expression of PI3K as well as p-Akt and the mRNA
expression of Akt 1and 2 in both the cells. There was a significant decrease in mRNA expression
of PTEN in LNCaP cells. ENLE induced apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation by inhibiting
PI3K/Akt pathway. Decrease in p-Akt leads to increase in the protein level of Bad, p21 and
decrease in the cyclin D1, respectively. ENLE treatment increased the cytochrome c expression
and caspase-3 activity as well as regulated the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 family proteins
thereby inducing apoptosis to both the cell lines. In situ apoptosis assay showed increased red
fluorescence in 100 [mu]g/ml of ENLE in both PC-3 and LNCaP cell lines.Conclusions The
results suggested that ENLE induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation through inhibiting
PI3K/Akt pathway in both PC-3 and LNCaP cells.
El-Alfy TS, El-Gohary HM, Sokkar NM, Hosny M, Al-Mahdy DA. A New Flavonoid CGlycoside from Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. Leaves and Potential Antioxidant
and Cytotoxic Activities. Sci Pharm. 2011;79(4):963-75. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
A major development over the past two decades has been the realization that free radical induced
lipid peroxidation and DNA damage are associated with major health problems, e.g. cancer and
ageing. Plant-derived antioxidants are increasingly found beneficial in protecting against these
diseases. Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. are two plants that have a variety of uses in
folk medicine but have not been evaluated before for their antioxidant and cytotoxic properties.
Therefore, the extracts of both plants' leaves were investigated for these activities, as well as
isolation of the bioactive compounds responsible for the activities. Molecular structures of the
compounds were elucidated by UV, HRESIMS, 1D ((1)H and (13)C) and 2D ((1)H-(13)C HSQC
and (1)H-(13)C HMBC) NMR analyses. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts, n-butanol fractions
and the isolated major compound were tested for their antioxidant activity using DPPH radical
scavenging assay, xanthine oxidase-induced generation of superoxide radical and lipid
peroxidation assay by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) method using rat tissue
homogenates. Cytotoxic activities were studied using standard MTT assay. A novel flavonoid Ctriglycoside, 4‴-α-rhamnopyranosyl-2″-O-β-d-galactopyranosylvitexin, was isolated from both
51
plants' leaves, together with seven known flavonoids. The n-butanol fractions and the major
compound 2″-O-β-galactopyranosylvitexin showed significant antioxidant activities, more
pronounced than the tested standards BHT and dl-α-tocopherol in most tests. All extracts showed
variable cytotoxic activities. This study provides strong evidence for the antioxidant and
cytotoxic activities of the extracts of Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. leaves, which
were attributed to the polar n-butanol fractions and the major isolated flavonoid 2″galactosylvitexin.
El-Hawary SA, Sokkar NM, Ali ZY, Yehia MM. A profile of bioactive compounds of Rumex
vesicarius L. J Food Sci. 2011 Oct;76(8):C1195-202. doi: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02370.x.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the bioactive compounds in extracts of Rumex
vesicarius L. (Polygonaceae), a wild edible herb growing in Egypt. Ethyl acetate and n-butanol
fractions of leaves of R. vesicarius were conducted by HPLC-PDA-MS/MS-ESI in the negative
mode to analyze phenolics content. Results revealed the identification of 13 phenolic
compounds: 8-C-glucosyl-apigenin, 8-C-glucosyl-luteolin, 6-C-hexosyl-quercetin, 3-Orutinosyl-quercetin, 7-O-rhamno-hexosyl-diosmetin, 7-O-rhamno-acetylhexosyl-diosmetin,
catechin, epicatechin, ferulohexoside, 6-C-glucosyl-naringenin, epicatechin gallate, 6-Cglucosyl-catechin, and epigallocatechin gallate. Quantification of the identified compounds
revealed that 6-C-glucosyl-naringenin was the major compound. Also, qualitative and
quantitative analysis of the hydro-ethanolic extract of leaves was carried out for ascorbic acid, αtocopherol, β-carotene. The essential oil as well as lipids analysis of saponifiable and
unsaponifiable matters. Investigation of the effect of hommad as a safe hepatoprotective diet
that prospectively directs the attention to a valuable therapeutic natural herb rich in bioactive
constituents. The biochemical studies were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant and
hepatoprotective potential of roots (REE), leaves (LEE), and fruits (FEE) ethanolic extracts of R.
vesicarius (100 mg/kg b.wt., p.o., each) against hepatotoxicity induced by CCl(4) (0.5 mL/kg
b.wt., p.o., 3 times a week) compared with silymarin (50 mg/kg b.wt., p.o.) as standard drug. The
results confirmed that coadministration of the tested extracts or silymarin with CCl(4) for 4 wk
exhibited a marked hepatoprotective activity, attributed to their antioxidant potential, membrane
stabilizing effect, and antifibrogenic activities.
Gomber S, Arora SK, Das S, Ramachandran VG. Immune response to second dose of MMR
vaccine
in
Indian
children.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Sep;134:302-6.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
52
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
MMR vaccine in a two dose schedule has successfully eliminated measles, mumps and rubella
from many developed countries. In India, it is not a part of national immunization programme
but is included in the State immunization programme of Delhi as a single dose between 15-18
months. This prospective study was carried out to assess the extent of seroprotection against
these three diseases in immunized children and to study the immune response to a second dose of
MMR.
METHODS:
Consecutive children aged 4-6 yr, attending the immunization clinic of a tertiary care hospital in
Delhi for routine DT vaccination, were enrolled. Second dose of MMR was given and pre- and
post-vaccination antibody levels were compared.
RESULTS:
The pre-vaccination percentage seropositivity observed in the 103 children recruited, was 20.4
per cent for measles, 87.4 per cent for mumps and 75.7 per cent for rubella. Amongst the 84
children who were followed up after the second dose, the percentage seroprotection for measles
rose from 21.4 (18/84) to 72.6 per cent (61/84) and 100 per cent became seroprotected to mumps
and rubella.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
The percentage of children protected against measles was found to be alarmingly low which
needs to be investigated. Though the observed protection against mumps and rubella was
adequate, its durability was not known. The need for re-appraisal of the current MMR
immunization policy is called for by carrying out longitudinal studies on a larger sample.
Hahm ER, Moura MB, Kelley EE, Van Houten B, Shiva S, Singh SV. Withaferin A-induced
apoptosis in human breast cancer cells is mediated by reactive oxygen species. PLoS One.
2011;6(8):e23354. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a promising anticancer constituent of Ayurvedic medicinal plant Withania
somnifera, inhibits growth of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in culture
and MDA-MB-231 xenografts in vivo in association with apoptosis induction, but the
mechanism of cell death is not fully understood. We now demonstrate, for the first time, that
WA-induced apoptosis is mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production due to
53
inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. WA treatment caused ROS production in MDA-MB-231
and MCF-7 cells, but not in a normal human mammary epithelial cell line (HMEC). The HMEC
was also resistant to WA-induced apoptosis. WA-mediated ROS production as well as apoptotic
histone-associated DNA fragment release into the cytosol was significantly attenuated by ectopic
expression of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. ROS
production resulting from WA exposure was accompanied by inhibition of oxidative
phosphorylation and inhibition of complex III activity. Mitochondrial DNA-deficient Rho-0
variants of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were resistant to WA-induced ROS production,
collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, and apoptosis compared with respective wildtype cells. WA treatment resulted in activation of Bax and Bak in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7
cells, and SV40 immortalized embryonic fibroblasts derived from Bax and Bak double knockout
mouse were significantly more resistant to WA-induced apoptosis compared with fibroblasts
derived from wild-type mouse. In conclusion, the present study provides novel insight into the
molecular circuitry of WA-induced apoptosis involving ROS production and activation of
Bax/Bak.
Hettihewa LM. Prolonged expression of MHC class I - peptide expression in bone marrow
derived retrovirus transfected matured dendritic cells by continuous centrifugation in the
presence
of
IL-4.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Nov;134(5):672-8.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent antigen presenting cells which proceed from immature to a
mature stage during their differentiation. There are several methods of obtaining long lasting
mature antigen expressing DCs and different methods show different levels of antigen
expressions. We investigated bone marrow derived DCs for the degree of maturation and
genetically engineered antigen presentation in the presence of interleukin-4 (IL-4) as a maturity
enhancer.
METHODS:
DCs and transfected retrovirus were cultured together in the presence of granulocytemacrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF)-IL4, GMCSF +IL4, lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
B 7.1, B7.2 and CD11c were measured by the degree of immune fluorescence using enhanced
green fluorescent protein (EGFP) shuttled retrovirus transfected antigen. Degree of MHC class I
molecule with antigen presentation of antigen was also evaluated by fluorescence activated cell
sorting. The antigen presenting capacity of transfected DCs was investigated. Bone marrow DCs
were generated in the presence of GMCSF and IL-4 in vitro. Dividing bone marrow cells were
54
infected with EGFP shuttled retrovirus expressing SSP2 by prolonged centrifugation for three
consecutive days from day 5, 6 and 7 and continued to culture in the presence of GMSCF and
IL-4 until day 8.
RESULTS:
IL-4 as a cytokine increased the maturation of retrovirus transfected DCs by high expression of
B 7-1 and B 7-2. Also, IL-4 induced DC enhanced by the prolonged centrifugation and it was
shown by increased antigen presentation of these dendric cells as antigen presenting cell (APC).
Cytolytic effects were significantly higher in cytotoxic T cell response (CTLs) mixed with
transfected DCs than CTLs mixed with pulsed DCs.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
There was an enhanced antigen presentation by prolonged expression of antigen loaded MHC
class I receptors in DCs in the presence of IL-4 by prolonged centrifugation.
Hickok JR, Sahni S, Shen H, Arvind A, Antoniou C, Fung LW, Thomas DD. Dinitrosyliron
complexes are the most abundant nitric oxide-derived cellular adduct: biological parameters of
assembly and disappearance. Free Radic Biol Med. 2011 Oct 15;51(8):1558-66.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
It is well established that nitric oxide ((•)NO) reacts with cellular iron and thiols to form
dinitrosyliron complexes (DNIC). Little is known, however, regarding their formation and
biological fate. Our quantitative measurements reveal that cellular concentrations of DNIC are
proportionally the largest of all (•)NO-derived adducts (900 pmol/mg protein, or 45-90 μM).
Using murine macrophages (RAW 264.7), we measured the amounts, and kinetics, of DNIC
assembly and disappearance from endogenous and exogenous sources of (•)NO in relation to
iron and O(2) concentration. Amounts of DNIC were equal to or greater than measured amounts
of chelatable iron and depended on the dose and duration of (•)NO exposure. DNIC formation
paralleled the upregulation of iNOS and occurred at low physiologic (•)NO concentrations (50500 nM). Decreasing the O(2) concentration reduced the rate of enzymatic (•)NO synthesis
without affecting the amount of DNIC formed. Temporal measurements revealed that DNIC
disappeared in an oxygen-independent manner (t(1/2)=80 min) and remained detectable long
after the (•)NO source was removed (>24 h). These results demonstrate that DNIC will be
formed under all cellular settings of (•)NO production and that the contribution of DNIC to the
multitude of observed effects of (•)NO must always be considered.
55
Hilliard TS, Gaisina IN, Muehlbauer AG, Gaisin AM, Gallier F, Burdette JE. Glycogen synthase
kinase 3β inhibitors induce apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells and inhibit in-vivo tumor growth.
Anticancer Drugs. 2011 Nov;22(10):978-85. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy among US women.
Paclitaxel/carboplatin is the current drug therapy used to treat ovarian cancer, but most women
develop drug resistance and recurrence of the disease, necessitating alternative strategies for
treatment. A possible molecular target for cancer therapy is glycogen synthase kinase 3β
(GSK3β), a downstream kinase in the Wnt signaling pathway that is overexpressed in serous
ovarian cancer. Novel maleimide-based GSK3β inhibitors (GSK3βi) were synthesized, selected,
and tested in vitro using SKOV3 and OVCA432 serous ovarian cancer cell lines. From a panel of
10 inhibitors, GSK3βi 9ING41 was found to be the most effective in vitro. 9ING41 induced
apoptosis as indicated by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole-positive nuclear condensation, poly
(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end
labeling staining. The mechanism for apoptosis was through caspase-3 cleavage. GSK3βi
upregulated phosphorylation of the inhibitory serine residue of GSK3β in OVCA432 and
SKOV3 cell lines and also inhibited phosphorylation of the downstream target glycogen
synthase. An in-vivo xenograft study using SKOV3 cells demonstrated that tumor progression
was hindered by 9ING41 in vivo. The maximum tolerated dose for 9ING41 was greater than 500
mg/kg in rats. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed 9ING41 to have a bioavailability of 4.5% and to
be well distributed in tissues. Therefore, GSK3β inhibitors alone or in combination with existing
drugs may hinder the growth of serous ovarian cancers.
Indavarapu A, Akinapelli A. Neutrophils to lymphocyte ratio as a screening tool for swine
influenza. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Sep;134:389-91. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
During an outbreak of influenza like illness throat swab culture and virus isolation are done to
identify causal virus, and it may cause a significant delay in diagnosis and isolation. There is a
need to determine a sensitive laboratory parameter which could play a major role in identifying
H1N1 infection among patients presenting with influenza like symptoms. We undertook this
study to determine a laboratory parameter to identify swine influenza infection amoung patients
presenting with influenza like symptoms while awaiting throat swab culture and virus isolation
reports.
METHODS:
56
This retrospective study was conducted on patients presenting to A.P TB and Chest Hospital,
Hyderabad, with swine influenza symptoms during September-October 2009. They were divided
into swine flu positive (SW+) and swine flu negative (SW-) groups, based on their throat swab
culture reports and laboratory data. Neutrophils to lymphocyte (N/L) ratio was calculated for
every patient and also mean N/L ratio for two groups. Mean WBC count was also noted for both
groups.
RESULTS:
There were 55 patients in each group. The WBC count in SW+ group varied from 3000 to
10600 cells/mm 3 (mean 5714), while in SW- group it varied from 4500 to 14300 cells/mm 3
(10252). The N/L ratio was less than two for 92.7 per cent of patients in SW+ group and for 3.63
per cent patients in SW- group. N/L ratio < 2 as an indicator for swine flu had a sensitivity of
92.7 per cent and specificity of 96.36 per cent. It has a positive predictive value of 96.22 per cent
and a negative predictive value of 92.8 per cent.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
N/L < 2 along with a decrease in WBC count can be used as a screening tool in patients
presenting with influenza like symptoms, while awaiting throat swab culture reports for
confirmation.
King SM, Hilliard TS, Wu LY, Jaffe RC, Fazleabas AT, Burdette JE. The impact of ovulation on
fallopian tube epithelial cells: evaluating three hypotheses connecting ovulation and serous
ovarian cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer. 2011 Sep 20;18(5):627-42. Print 2011 Oct.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy affecting American women. Current
hypotheses concerning the etiology of ovarian cancer propose that a reduction in the lifetime
number of ovulations decreases ovarian cancer risk. Advanced serous carcinoma shares several
biomarkers with fallopian tube epithelial cells, suggesting that some forms of ovarian carcinoma
may originate in the fallopian tube. Currently, the impact of ovulation on the tubal epithelium is
unknown. In CD1 mice, ovulation did not increase tubal epithelial cell (TEC) proliferation as
measured by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining as
compared to unstimulated animals. In superovulated mice, an increase in the number of proinflammatory macrophages was detected in the oviduct. Ovulation also increased levels of
phospho-γH2A.X in TEC, indicating that these cells were susceptible to double-strand DNA
breakage following ovulation. To determine which components of ovulation contributed to DNA
damage in the fallopian tube, an immortalized baboon TEC cell line and a three-dimensional
57
organ culture system for mouse oviduct and baboon fallopian tubes were developed. TEC did not
proliferate or display increased DNA damage in response to the gonadotropins or estradiol alone
in vitro. Oxidative stress generated by treatment with hydrogen peroxide or macrophageconditioned medium increased DNA damage in TEC in culture. Ovulation may impact the
fallopian tube epithelium by generating DNA damage and stimulating macrophage infiltration
but does not increase proliferation through gonadotropin signaling.
Kokkiripati PK, Bhakshu LM, Marri S, Padmasree K, Row AT, Raghavendra AS, Tetali SD.
Gum resin of Boswellia serrata inhibited human monocytic (THP-1) cell activation and platelet
aggregation.
J
Ethnopharmacol.
2011
Sep
1;137(1):893901Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Stem bark gum resin extract of Boswellia serrata is traditionally used in India for its hemostatic,
antiinflammatory and cardiovascular health effects and it is named as Śallakī in Ayurvedic
medicine.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidative and antithrombotic properties of stem
bark gum resin extracts of Boswellia serrata (BS).
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The inhibitory activity of the BSWE and BSAE on FeCl(3) induced lipid peroxidation (in vitro)
in rat liver and heart homogenates was measured spectrophotometrically. Their effect on
H(2)O(2) induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human monocytic (THP-1) cells
was investigated by tracking intensity of a cell permeable fluorescent dye, H(2)DCFDA and
subjecting the cell samples to confocal microscopy. Further, the effect of BSAE and BSWE on
ADP-induced platelet aggregation was assessed using a multimode detection plate reader, plasma
coagulation times using an automated blood coagulation analyzer and on human blood clotting
factors Xa and XIa using chromogenic substrate. Phytomarker analysis of the water (BSWE) and
hydroalcoholic (BSAE) extracts of BS-gum resin was done through HPLC using a standard
compound AKβBA.
RESULTS:
BSAE and BSWE inhibited, to varied extents, the lipid peroxidation in liver (80%) and heart
(50%) tissue homogenates of male Wistar rats. Further, BSAE (30 μg dwt/mL) and BSWE (300
μg dwt/mL) attenuated ≥ 60% of H(2)O(2) mediated ROS generation in THP-1 cells. In case of
58
standard compounds, ascorbate (20 μg dwt/mL) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (10 μg
dwt/mL) completely scavenged ROS in the cells. BSAE and BSWE at 3 mg dwt/mL completely
inhibited ADP induced platelet aggregation and activities were comparable to 20 μg/mL of
heparin. The extracts also showed very high activity in prolonging coagulation time periods.
Both types of extracts extended prothrombin time (PT) from ∼13 to >60s and activated partial
thromboplastin time (APTT) from ∼32s to >90s. BSAE inhibited clotting factors Xa and XIa
remarkably at 6 μg of dwt where as BSWE did not show much effect on FXa and showed 30%
inhibition on FXIa at 120 μg. 10 μg of heparin was required to inhibit about 30% activity of the
above factors. HPLC analyses suggested that BSAE and BSWE had AKβBA of 9% (w/w) and
7.8% (w/w) respectively.
CONCLUSION:
Present study demonstrated antioxidant and antithrombotic anticoagulant activities of water and
hydroalcoholic extracts of Boswellia serrata's gum resin. We suggest that BS-gum resin as a
good source for lead/therapeutic compounds possessing antioxidant, antiplatelet and
anticoagulant activities.
Kumerz M, Heiss EH, Schachner D, Atanasov AG, Dirsch VM. Resveratrol inhibits migration
and Rac1 activation in EGF- but not PDGF-activated vascular smooth muscle cells. Mol Nutr
Food
Res.
2011
Aug;55(8):1230-6.
doi:
10.1002/mnfr.201100309.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
SCOPE:
Migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) reflects one of the initial steps in
atherosclerosis. Resveratrol (RV) is suggested to mediate putative vasoprotective properties of
red wine leading to the hypothesis that RV interferes with growth factor-induced migration of
VSMC.
METHODS AND RESULTS:
We show here that RV (50 μM) strongly reduces epidermal growth factor (EGF)- but not
platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced VSMC migration using the wound-healing
technique. Accordingly, RV inhibited Rac1 activation and lamellipodia formation in response to
EGF but not PDGF as shown by pull-down assays and fluorescence microscopy after actin
staining with phalloidin-FITC, respectively. Since Src-family kinases and the
phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) are reported to be crucial upstream mediators of Rac1
activation we examined the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin and the src kinase inhibitor SU6656 sideby-side with RV for their anti-migratory potential. Whereas src inhibition abrogated both EGF59
and PDGF-triggered migration, wortmannin, like RV, was more effective in EGF- than PDGFactivated cells, suggesting that PI3K inhibition, previously shown for RV in growth factoractivated VSMC, contributes to the anti-migratory effect of RV in EGF-stimulated VSMC.
CONCLUSION:
This study is the first to discover an anti-migratory potential of RV in EGF-activated VSMC that
is most likely mediated via Rac1 inhibition.
Liu C, Li XW, Cui LM, Li LC, Chen LY, Zhang XW. Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by TTF1
from extract of herbal medicine. World J Gastroenterol. 2011 Nov 28;17(44):4875-82.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
AIM:
To study the inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by 5,2,4´-trihydroxy-6,7,5´-trimethoxyflavone
(TTF1) isolated from an extract of herbal medicine Sorbaria sorbifolia.
METHODS:
Angiogenic activity was assayed using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM)
method. Microvessel density (MVD) was determined by staining tissue sections
immunohistochemically for CD34 using the Weidner capillary counting method. The mRNA and
protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelialgrowth factor
receptor 2 (VEGFR2, Flk-1/KDR), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), cyclo-oxygenase
(COX)-2 and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α were detected by quantitative real-time
polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting analysis.
RESULTS:
The TTF1 inhibition rates for CAM were 30.8%, 38.2% and 47.5% with treatment
concentrations of 25, 50 and 100 μg/embryo × 5 d, respectively. The inhibitory rates for tumor
size were 43.8%, 49.4% and 59.6% at TTF1 treatment concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 μmol/kg,
respectively. The average MVD was 14.2, 11.2 and 8.5 at treatment concentrations of 5 μmol/kg,
10 μmol/kg and 20 μmol/kg TTF1, respectively. The mRNA and protein levels of VEGF, KDR,
bFGF, COX-2 and HIF-1α in mice treated with TTF1 were significantly decreased.
CONCLUSION:
TTF1 can inhibit tumor angiogenesis, and the mechanism may be associated with the downregulation of VEGF, KDR, bFGF, HIF-1α and COX-2.
60
Mallah EM, Hamad MF, Elmanaseer MA, Qinna NA, Idkaidek NM, Arafat TA, Matalka KZ.
Plasma concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D among Jordanians: Effect of biological and
habitual factors on vitamin D status. BMC Clin Pathol. 2011 Aug 4;11:8.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Vitamin D is cutaneously synthesized following sun exposure (vitamin D3) as well as it is
derived from dietary intake (vitamin D3 and D2). Vitamin D2 and D3 are metabolized in the
liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). This metabolite is considered the functional indicator
of vitamin D stores in humans. Since Jordan latitude is 31°N, cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D3
should be sufficient all year round. However, many indications reveal that it is not the case.
Thus, this study was conducted to determine the 25(OH)D status among Jordanians.
METHODS:
Three hundred healthy volunteers were enrolled in a cross sectional study; 201 females and 99
males. 25(OH)D and calcium concentrations were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent
assay and spectroscopy techniques, respectively. All participants filled a study questionnaire that
covered age, sex, height, weight, diet, and dress style for females. Females were divided
according to their dress style: Western style, Hijab (all body parts are covered except the face
and hands), and Niqab (all body parts are covered including face and hands).
RESULTS:
The average plasma 25(OH)D levels in males and females were 44.5 ± 10.0 nmol/l and 31.1 ±
12.0 nmol/l, respectively. However, when female 25(OH)D levels were categorized according to
dress styles, the averages became 40.3, 31.3 and 28.5 nmol/l for the Western style, Hijab and
Niqab groups, respectively. These 25(OH)D levels were significantly less than those of males (p
< 0.05, 0.001, 0.001, respectively). In addition, the plasma 25(OH)D levels of the Western style
group was significantly higher than those of Hijab and Niqab groups (p < 0.001). Furthermore,
dairy consumption in males was a positive significant factor in vitamin D status. Even though
calcium concentrations were within the reference range, the Hijab and Niqab-dressed females
have significantly less plasma calcium levels than males (p < 0.01).
CONCLUSIONS:
Very low plasma 25(OH)D levels in females wearing Hijab or Niqab are highly attributed to low
sunlight or UVB exposure. In addition, most of males (76%) and Western style dressed females
(90%) have 25(OH)D concentrations below the international recommended values (50 nmol/l),
61
suggesting that although sun exposure should be enough, other factors do play a role in these low
concentrations. These findings emphasize the importance of vitamin D supplementation
especially among conservatively dressed females, and determining if single nucleotide
polymorphisms of the genes involved in vitamin D metabolism do exist among Jordanians.
Medhi S, Deka M, Deka P, Swargiary SS, Hazam RK, Sharma MP, Gumma PK, Asim M, Kar P.
Promoter region polymorphism & expression profile of toll like receptor-3 (TLR-3) gene in
chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients from India. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Aug;134:200-7.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) induces an immune response of the host, manifested by the formation of
anti-HCV antibodies mediated by adaptive and innate immunity. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play
a pivotal role in innate immunity system. This study was aimed to investigate the promoter
region polymorphism and expression of TLR3 gene in patients with chronic HCV infection.
METHODS:
Patients with chronic HCV infection (N=180) and an equal number of age-sex matched controls
were included in the study. Patients positive for HCV-RNA were subjected to analysis of TLR3
polymorphism by direct sequencing of PCR products verified by comparing with the sequences
reported in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database (accession
number: NT 022792). Expression of TLR3 gene was analyzed by semiquantitative RT-PCR
using housekeeping β-actin gene as the internal control.
RESULTS:
Polymorphisms at position -288G/A and -705A/G were identified. The results were significant in
-705 allele (P=0.004) OR 2.79(1.46-5.42) and were associated with high risk of HCV infection.
In silico sequence analysis showed the presence of ectropic viral integration site 1 encoded
factor, in which G at -705 results in the loss of this site. The -7C/A polymorphism was not seen
in our study cohort. The expression of TLR3 was upregulated in chronic HCV patients compared
to healthy controls.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Polymorphism in the -705A/G allele at the promoter region of the TLR3 gene may predispose
individual to HCV infection. However association of TLR3 expression with polymorphism of
TLR3 promoter was not found.
62
Ru P, Steele R, Nerurkar PV, Phillips N, Ray RB. Bitter melon extract impairs prostate cancer
cell-cycle progression and delays prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia in TRAMP model. Cancer
Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Dec;4(12):2122-30. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Prostate cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths among American men. Earlier
diagnosis increases survival rate in patients. However, treatments for advanced disease are
limited to hormone ablation techniques and palliative care. Thus, new methods of treatment and
prevention are necessary for inhibiting disease progression to a hormone refractory state. One of
the approaches to control prostate cancer is prevention through diet, which inhibits one or more
neoplastic events and reduces the cancer risk. For centuries, Ayurveda has recommended the use
of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) as a functional food to prevent and treat human health
related issues. In this study, we have initially used human prostate cancer cells, PC3 and LNCaP,
as an in vitro model to assess the efficacy of bitter melon extract (BME) as an anticancer agent.
We observed that prostate cancer cells treated with BME accumulate during the S phase of the
cell cycle and modulate cyclin D1, cyclin E, and p21 expression. Treatment of prostate cancer
cells with BME enhanced Bax expression and induced PARP cleavage. Oral gavage of BME, as
a dietary compound, delayed the progression to high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia in
TRAMP (transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate) mice (31%). Prostate tissue from BMEfed mice displayed approximately 51% reduction of proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression.
Together, our results suggest for the first time that oral administration of BME inhibits prostate
cancer progression in TRAMP mice by interfering cell-cycle progression and proliferation.
Chemistry
Abbas S, Kelly M, Bowling J, Sims J, Waters A, Hamann M. Advancement into the Arctic
region for bioactive sponge secondary metabolites. Mar Drugs. 2011;9(11):2423-37.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Porifera have long been a reservoir for the discovery of bioactive compounds and drug
discovery. Most research in the area has focused on sponges from tropical and temperate waters,
63
but more recently the focus has shifted to the less accessible colder waters of the Antarctic and,
to a lesser extent, the Arctic. The Antarctic region in particular has been a more popular location
for natural products discovery and has provided promising candidates for drug development.
This article reviews groups of bioactive compounds that have been isolated and reported from
the southern reaches of the Arctic Circle, surveys the known sponge diversity present in the
Arctic waters, and details a recent sponge collection by our group in the Aleutian Islands,
Alaska. The collection has yielded previously undescribed sponge species along with primary
activity against opportunistic infectious diseases, malaria, and HCV. The discovery of new
sponge species and bioactive crude extracts gives optimism for the isolation of new bioactive
compounds from a relatively unexplored source.
Abd El-Mawla AM, Mohamed KM, Mostafa AM. Induction of Biologically Active Flavonoids
in Cell Cultures of Morus nigra and Testing their Hypoglycemic Efficacy. Sci Pharm.
2011;79(4):951-61. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The antidiabetic activity of both leaves and MJ-treated cell cultures of Morus nigra was
evaluated after their oral administration to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The antidiabetic
activity of extracts from leaves given to streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats for 10 days increased
with increasing doses of leaves extract up to 500 mg/kg/day. The administration of 500
mg/kg/day of leaves extract reduced the concentration of glucose from 370 ± 7.31 mg/dl
(control) to 154 ± 6.27 mg/dl, and a significant increase in the insulin level from 11.3 ± 0.31
μU/ml (control) to 14.6 ± 0.43 μU/ml was recorded. Cell suspension cultures were established
from the young leaves of Morus nigra cultivated on modified MS medium supplemented with
2.0 mg/l 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), 0.2 mg/l 6-(furfurylamino)purine (kinetin). The
changes in cell weight and flavonoid content were monitored between day zero and 12. The
linear increase in fresh weight was found to be parallel to flavonoids production. Cell cultures
treated with 100 μM methyl jasmonate for 24 hours showed a noticeable increase in level of
flavonoids and significant and more effective hypoglycemic activity than that for extract from
leaves. The major flavonoids were isolated by TLC and HPLC and identified as rutin, quercetin,
Morusin and cyclomorusin by co-chromatography and mass spectrometry in comparison to
samples of authentic reference compounds.
Acıkara OB, Citoğlu GS, Dall'acqua S, Smejkal K, Cvačka J, Zemlička M. A new triterpene
from Scorzonera latifolia (Fisch. and Mey.) DC. Nat Prod Res. 2011 Oct 13.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
64
A novel triterpene 1 (3-β-hydroxy-fern-7-en-6-one-acetate) together with four known
compounds, urs-12-en-11-one-3-acetyl (2), 3-β-hydroxy-fern-8-en-7-one-acetate (3), olean-12en-11-one-3-acetyl (4) and leucodin (5) were obtained from the S. latifolia roots. All compounds
were isolated from the n-hexane extract of S. latifolia roots using several chromatographic
techniques. The structure of the isolated compounds was elucidated on the basis of (1)H-NMR,
(13)C-NMR and 2D NMR data (HMBC, HMQC, COSY, TOCSY, NOESY, DEPT) as well as
GC EITOF-HRMS.
Adhami HR, Farsam H, Krenn L. Screening of medicinal plants from Iranian traditional
medicine for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Phytother Res. 2011 Aug;25(8):1148-52. doi:
10.1002/ptr.3409. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
To find new herbal compounds with an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory effect, this study
focused on herbal drugs and resins which have been used in Iranian traditional medicine for the
treatment of cognitive disorders. Forty drugs were selected from authoritative written documents
of Iranian traditional medicine. Each drug was extracted by accelerated solvent extraction using
dichloromethane followed by methanol. The 80 extracts were screened for AChE inhibitory
activity by a TLC bioautography method. The inhibiting effect of the 32 most active extracts was
measured by a microplate colorimetric assay. Due to the best activity, the seeds of Peganum
harmala L. were investigated in detail. From the TLC bioautography assay the alkaloids
harmaline and harmine were identified as active compounds. This result was confirmed by
means of HPLC-DAD. The IC(50) values were 41.2 μg/mL for the methanol extract, 95.5 μg/mL
for the dichloromethane extract, 8.4 μg/mL for harmaline and 10.9 μg/mL for harmine. The
concentrations of active compounds in the extracts were determined by a fast and precise HPLC
method. As the amounts of harmaline and harmine in the extracts were correlated with the IC(50)
values of the extracts, it can be concluded that these two alkaloids are responsible for the AChE
inhibitory activity of P. harmala.
Agarwal HK, Buszek B, Ricks KG, Tjarks W. Synthesis of Closo-1,7-Carboranyl Alkyl Amines.
Tetrahedron Lett. 2011 Oct 26;52(43):5664-5667. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Of the three closo-carborane isomers (C(2)B(10)H(12)), closo-1,2-carborane has been used most
widely in the various conditions including attack by basic amino groups. In order to overcome
this problem, closo-1,7-carboranyl ethyl-, propyl-, and butylamine were synthesized, which
should be more stable towards basic synthesis of carboranyl amines. However, closo-1,265
carboranes are prone to deboronation to nido-7,8-carborane under deboronation than their closo1,2-carboranyl counterparts. These closo-1,7-carboranyl amines (5, 18 and 19) were synthesized
using two different methods, both starting from the corresponding closo-1,7-carboranyl alkyl
iodides (3, 14 and 15). One of the carboranyl alkyl amine (5) was conjugated with folic acid to
form a closo-1,7-carborane-folic acid bioconjugate (20).
Akdemir Z, Kahraman C, Tatlı II, Küpeli Akkol E, Süntar I, Keles H. Bioassay-guided isolation
of anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healer glycosides from the flowers of
Verbascum mucronatum Lam. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Jul 14;136(3):436-43.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
The leaves, flowers and whole aerial parts of Verbascum L. species have been used to treat
respiratory problems, haemorrhoids and other types of inflammatory conditions in traditional
Turkish medicine.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
In order to evaluate this traditional information, the anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and
wound healing activities of Verbascum mucronatum Lam. which is used as haemostatic in
Turkish folk medicine were investigated.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In vivo inhibitory effect of the extracts on the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model in
mice was studied for the assessment of anti-inflammatory activity. Moreover, the wound healing
potential of the plant were evaluated by using in vivo wound healing experimental models, i.e.
incision and excision models on mice and rats, were comparatively assessed with a reference
ointment Madecassol(®). Skin samples were also evaluated histopathologically.
RESULTS:
The results of these experimental studies exhibited that Verbascum mucronatum displays antiinflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healing activities. Through bioassay-guided
fractionation and isolation procedures four iridoid glucosides, ajugol (1), aucubin (2),
lasianthoside I (3), catalpol (4), two saponins, ilwensisaponin A (5) and C (6) and a
phenylethanoid glycoside, verbascoside (7) were isolated and their structures were elucidated by
spectral techniques. Verbascoside (7) was found to possess significant wound healing activity as
well as antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potentials, per os without inducing any apparent
acute toxicity or gastric damage.
66
CONCLUSION:
The experimental study revealed that Verbascum mucronatum displays remarkable
antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities.
Al-Musayeib N, Perveen S, Fatima I, Nasir M, Hussain A. Antioxidant, anti-glycation and antiinflammatory activities of phenolic constituents from Cordia sinensis. Molecules. 2011 Dec
8;16(12):10214-26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Nine compounds have been isolated from the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of C. sinensis, namely
protocatechuic acid (1), trans-caffeic acid (2), methyl rosmarinate (3), rosmarinic acid (4),
kaempferide-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), quercetin3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside
(7),
kaempferide-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl
(1→6)-β-Dglucopyranoside (8) and kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamno-pyranosyl (1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside
(9), all reported for the first time from this species. The structures of these compounds were
deduced on the basis of spectroscopic studies, including 1D and 2D NMR techniques.
Compounds 1-9 were investigated for biological activity and showed significant antiinflammatory activity in the carrageen induced rat paw edema test. The antioxidant activities of
isolated compounds 1-9 were evaluated by the DPPH radical scavenging test, and compounds 1,
2, 4 and 7-9 exhibited marked scavenging activity compared to the standard BHA. These
compounds were further studied for their anti-glycation properties and some compounds showed
significant anti-glycation inhibitory activity. The purity of compounds 2-5, 8 and 9 was
confirmed by HPLC. The implications of these results for the chemotaxonomic studies of the
genus Cordia have also been discussed.
Ali B, Mujeeb M, Aeri V, Mir SR, Ahmad S, Siddique NA, Faiyazuddin M, Shakeel F. Highperformance thin layer chromatographic quantification of bioactive psoralen and daidzein in
leaves
of
Ficus
carica
L.
Nat
Prod
Res.
2011
Oct;25(17):1666-70.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
This study was undertaken to quantify psoralen and daidzein by high-performance thin layer
chromatography (HPTLC). The methanolic extract of 10 mg mL(-1) concentration solution was
prepared for HPTLC quantification of psoralen and daidzein. HPTLC aluminium-backed plates
coated with 0.2 mm layers of silica gel 60 F(254) were used as the stationary phase. The working
standard solution of psoralen and daidzein was applied along with the test sample solution by
means of Camag Linomat IV sample applicator. R (f) values of psoralen and daidzein were
67
found to be 0.60 and 0.88, whilst as their percentage values in methanolic extract were found to
be 3.02% and 5.64% (w/w), respectively. A simple quantitative estimation method of psoralen
and daidzein by HPTLC is reported that can be used for the quality control of marketed
preparations containing Ficus carica. However, further study is warranted to isolate and quantify
active constituents present in the leaves of F. carica by sophisticated techniques.
Ali NA, Marongiu B, Piras A, Porcedda S, Falconieri D, Al-Othman AH. Comparative analysis
of the oil and supercritical CO(2) extract of Schinus molle L. growing in Yemen. Nat Prod Res.
2011 Aug;25(14):1366-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In this study, we report the preliminary data on the chemical composition of Yemeni Schinus
molle L. volatile oil obtained by supercritical extraction with carbon dioxide (40°C and 90 bar),
SFE, and by hydrodistillation (HD). The composition of the volatile oil has been analysed by GC
and GC-MS. The content of the major constituents in the oils from leaves varied in the following
ranges: germacrene D 3.7% in SFE and 16.7% in HD; β-caryophyllene 19.1% in SFE and 13.5%
in HD. The amount of monoterpenes constituted 4%, in all the analysed samples, while the
number of sesquiterpenes was 44% in supercritical and 67% in HD oil. Some compounds were
not identified by GC-MS and it will require further analysis using other analytical techniques.
Ali Z, Khan IA. Alkyl phenols and saponins from the roots of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah).
Phytochemistry. 2011 Nov;72(16):2075-80. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Recently, there is a remarkable boom in the sales of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah) in the
Malaysian market, as an extract of the plant is used to gain energy and libido as well as to treat
many other ailments. A chemical analysis of its roots was undertaken and three metabolites,
demethylbelamcandaquinone B (1), fatimahol (2), and dexyloprimulanin (3) together with 21
known compounds including epoxyoleanane glycosides, alkenated phenolics, cerebroside,
glycerogalactolipids, and lipids were isolated and identified. Structure elucidation was achieved
by spectroscopic and chemical studies. The MeOH extract of KF and compounds 12 and 13
exhibited moderate in vitro antibacterial activity.
Angelis A, Urbain A, Halabalaki M, Aligiannis N, Skaltsounis AL. One-step isolation of γoryzanol from rice bran oil by non-aqueous hydrostatic countercurrent chromatography. J Sep
68
Sci.
2011
Sep;34(18):2528-37.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
doi:
10.1002/jssc.201100192.
Abstract
The value-added γ-oryzanol was purified in one step from crude rice bran oil (RBO) using a
preparative hydrostatic countercurrent chromatography (hydrostatic CCC) method, operating in
the dual mode. The fractionation was performed using a non-aqueous biphasic solvent system
consisting of heptane-acetonitrile-butanol (1.8:1.4:0.7, v/v/v), leading rapidly to the target
compounds. Transfer of the analytical CCC method to large-scale isolation was also carried out
yielding a high quantity-high purity fraction of γ-oryzanol. In addition, a fraction of
hydroxylated triterpene alcohol ferulates (polar γ-oryzanol) was clearly separated and obtained.
Furthermore, a fast HPLC-APCI(±)-HRMS method was developed and applied for the
identification of γ-oryzanol as well as the polar γ-oryzanol in RBO and the resulting fractions.
The purity of γ-oryzanol fraction was estimated as 97% based on HPLC-APCI-HRMS analysis.
Argyropoulou C, Karioti A, Skaltsa H. Minor labdane diterpenes from Marrubium thessalum.
Chem
Biodivers.
2011
Oct;8(10):1880-90.
doi:
10.1002/cbdv.201000215.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Five new labdane diterpenes, thessalines A, B, and D, 14β-hydroxythessaline A, and 14βhydroxythessaline B (1-5, resp.) were isolated from the aerial parts of Marrubium thessalum,
along with the known labdane diterpene deacetylvitexilactone (6) and the methoxylated flavones
4',7-dimethylapigenin and salvigenin. (3S,5R)-Loliolide was also found in the same source.
Their structures were established by 1D- and 2D-NMR (COSY, HSQC, HMBC, NOESY, and
ROESY) and MS analyses. The plant produces a great variety of labdane-type diterpenes, with
variations in functionalities, particularly in the side chain. Their structures could be of
chemotaxonomic significance for the genus Marrubium.
B. Ncube, V.N.P. Ngunge, J.F. Finnie, J. Van Staden, A comparative study of the antimicrobial
and phytochemical properties between outdoor grown and micropropagated Tulbaghia violacea
Harv.
plants.Journal
of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):775-780.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-5230PT5C/2/147c0e32426929dce39bfd7a44485729.
Abstract:
69
Aim of the study :The study aimed to compare the antimicrobial and phytochemical properties of
in vitro cultured and outdoor grown Tulbaghia violacea plants in the quest to validate the use of
micropropagated plants as alternatives to outdoor grown plants in traditional medicine.
Tulbaghia violacea is used extensively in South African traditional medicine for HIV/AIDS
patients and in the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments, asthma, fever and
tuberculosis.Materials and methods: Extracts of micropropagated and outdoor grown Tulbaghia
violacea plants were evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against Bacillus
subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and a fungus Candida
albicans using microdilution methods. Saponins and phenolic compounds including condensed
tannins, gallotannins and flavonoids were quantitatively determined using spectrophotometric
methods. A qualitative test for saponins was also carried out.Results: The petroleum ether (PE)
extracts of micropropagated plants and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts of outdoor grown plants
showed good antibacterial activity, each against two bacterial test strains. PE extracts of
micropropagated plants showed the best antibacterial activity with a minimum inhibitory
concentration (MIC) of 0.39 mg/ml against Bacillus subtilis. Good MIC (<1 mg/ml) and
minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values of 0.78 mg/ml were only obtained in DCM
extracts of outdoor grown plants. MIC and MFC values for water and ethanol extracts of both
micropropagated and outdoor grown plants were similar and in the range 3.125-12.5 mg/ml.
Total phenolics, gallotannins, flavonoids and saponins were significantly higher in
micropropagated plants than in outdoor grown ones. In all cases, the amounts of phytochemical
compounds in micropropagated plants were more than twice that of outdoor grown plants except
for condensed tannins.Conclusion: The results form a good basis for the use of Tulbaghia
violacea micropropagated plants as a complement to the outdoor grown plants in traditional
medicine.
Bai Y, Tohda C, Zhu S, Hattori M, Komatsu K. Active components from Siberian ginseng
(Eleutherococcus senticosus) for protection of amyloid β(25-35)-induced neuritic atrophy in
cultured
rat
cortical
neurons.
J
Nat
Med.
2011
Jul;65(3-4):417-23.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Not only neuronal death but also neuritic atrophy and synaptic loss underlie the pathogenesis of
Alzheimer's disease as direct causes of the memory deficit. Extracts of Siberian ginseng (the
rhizome of Eleutherococcus senticosus) were shown to have protective effects on the
regeneration of neurites and the reconstruction of synapses in rat cultured cortical neurons
damaged by amyloid β (Aβ)(25-35), and eleutheroside B was one of the active constituents. In
this study, a comprehensive evaluation of constituents was conducted to explore active
components from Siberian ginseng which can protect against neuritic atrophy induced by Aβ(2535) in cultured rat cortical neurons. The ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water fractions from the
70
methanol extract of Siberian ginseng showed protective effects against Aβ-induced neuritic
atrophy. Twelve compounds were isolated from the active fractions and identified. Among them,
eleutheroside B, eleutheroside E and isofraxidin showed obvious protective effects against
Aβ(25-35)-induced atrophies of axons and dendrites at 1 and 10 μM.
Baumgartner L, Schwaiger S, Stuppner H. Quantitative analysis of anti-inflammatory lignan
derivatives in Ratanhiae radix and its tincture by HPLC-PDA and HPLC-MS. J Pharm Biomed
Anal. 2011 Nov 1;56(3):546-52. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Root preparations of Krameria lappacea (Dombey) Burdet et Simpson are traditionally used
against oropharyngeal inflammation. Besides antimicrobial and astringent procyanidines, lignan
derivatives, including ratanhiaphenol I, II, III and (+)-conocarpan, contribute to the activity of
Ratanhiae radix, exerting a significant topical anti-inflammatory activity in vivo, and in vitro by
inhibiting NF-κB and the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Besides
gravimetrical analysis of the ratanhiaphenols I, II and III, the content of these compounds in the
herbal drug has never been determined. The developed HPLC method enables the quantification
of twelve active lignan derivatives in the roots, and is also suitable for the determination of the
constituents in Tinctura Ratanhiae. Separation was achieved on a phenyl-hexyl column material
using a solvent gradient consisting of 0.02% aqueous TFA and a mixture of acetonitrile/methanol
(75:25, v/v). Sensitivity, accuracy (recovery rates were between 95% and 105.6%), repeatability
(RSD ≤ 4.6%), and precision (intra-day precision ≤ 4.8%; inter-day precision ≤ 3.4%) of the
method were determined. HPLC-MS experiments in positive and negative electrospray
ionization mode confirmed identity and peak purity of analytes. The analysis of several root and
tincture samples revealed that (+)-conocarpan and ratanhiaphenol II dominated with contents of
0.49-0.71% and 0.51-0.53% in the roots and 0.66-0.68 mg/ml and 0.70-0.71 mg/ml in the
commercial tinctures, respectively.
Baumgartner L, Sosa S, Atanasov AG, Bodensieck A, Fakhrudin N, Bauer J, Favero GD, Ponti
C, Heiss EH, Schwaiger S, Ladurner A, Widowitz U, Loggia RD, Rollinger JM, Werz O, Bauer
R, Dirsch VM, Tubaro A, Stuppner H. Lignan derivatives from Krameria lappacea roots inhibit
acute inflammation in vivo and pro-inflammatory mediators in vitro. J Nat Prod. 2011 Aug
26;74(8):1779-86. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The roots of Krameria lappacea are used traditionally against oropharyngeal inflammation. So
far, the astringent and antimicrobial properties of its proanthocyanidin constituents are
71
considered to account for the anti-inflammatory effect. The aim of the present study was to
characterize pharmacologically a lipophilic extract of K. lappacea roots and several isolated
lignan derivatives (1-11) in terms of their putative anti-inflammatory activity. The
dichloromethane extract (ID₅₀ 77 μg/cm²) as well compounds 1-11 (ID₅₀ 0.31-0.60 μmol/cm²)
exhibited topical antiedematous properties comparable to those of indomethacin (ID₅₀ 0.29
μmol/cm²) in a mouse ear in vivo model. Two of the most potent compounds, 2-(2-hydroxy-4methoxyphenyl)-5-(3-hydroxypropyl)benzofuran (5) and (+)-conocarpan (7), were studied
regarding their time-dependent edema development and leukocyte infiltration up to 48 h after
croton oil-induced dermatitis induction, and they showed activity profiles similar to that of
hydrocortisone. In vitro studies of the isolated lignan derivatives demonstrated the inhibition of
NF-κB, cyclooxygenase-1 and -2, 5-lipoxygenase, and microsomal prostaglandin E₂ synthase-1
as well as antioxidant properties, as mechanisms possibly contributing to the observed in vivo
effects. The present findings not only support the ethnopharmacological use of K. lappacea roots
but also reveal that the isolated lignan derivatives contribute strongly to the anti-inflammatory
activity of this herbal drug.
Bencsik T, Horváth G, Papp N. Variability of total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin contents in
some Lythrum salicaria populations. Nat Prod Commun. 2011 Oct;6(10):1417-20.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Lythrum salicaria L. can vary in some morphological and phytochemical features according to its
habitat. The present study investigates and compares the total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin
composition of twelve populations of L. salicaria collected from different ecological habitats in
south-west Hungary. We studied the plant heights and soil moistures of the habitats analyzing
the potential correlation between the morphological and environmental factors and chemical
compositions. Total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin contents were determined according to the
valid spectroscopic methods of the European Pharmacopoeia. Total flavonoid content was higher
in the populations collected during the main blooming period in August than at the beginning of
flowering in July. Higher values for total polyphenol and tannin were detected in flowering
branch tips in August than in July, and higher ones in leaves and shoots in July than in August.
The highest flavonoid content was measured in the leaves, followed by the flowering branches
and shoots as opposed to the total polyphenol and tannin contents, which were higher in the
flowering branch tips than in the other organs.
Bora KS, Sharma A. Evaluation of Antioxidant and Cerebroprotective Effect of Medicago sativa
Linn. against Ischemia and Reperfusion Insult. Evid BasedComplement Alternat Med.
2011;2011:792167. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
72
Abstract
Antioxidants have been the focus of studies for developing neuroprotective agents to be used in
the therapy for stroke, which is an acute and progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Medicago
sativa (MS) has a long tradition of use as ayurvedic and homoeopathic medicine in central
nervous system disorders. The plant has been reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
and antidiabetic effects. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the
neuroprotective effect of methanol extract of MS on ischemia and reperfusion-induced cerebral
injury in mice. Bilateral carotid artery occlusion (BCAO) for 15 min followed by 24-h
reperfusion, resulted in significant elevation in infarct size, xanthine oxidase (XO) activity,
superoxide anion (O(•-) (2)) production and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS)
levels, and significant depletion in endogenous antioxidant [reduced glutathione (GSH),
superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total tissue sulfhydryl (T-SH) groups] systems in mice brain.
Further, BCAO led to impairment in short-term memory and motor coordination. Pre-treatment
with MS (100 or 200 mg kg(-1), p.o.) markedly reduced cerebral infarct size, XO, O(•-) (2) and
TBARS levels, significantly restored GSH, SOD and T-SH levels and attenuated impairment in
short-term memory and motor coordination. In addition, MS directly scavenged free radicals
generated against a stable radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and O(•-) (2) generated in
phenazine methosulphate-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide systems, and also inhibited XD/XO
conversion and resultant O(•-) (2) production. The data from this study suggest that treatment
with MS enhances the antioxidant defense against BCAO-induced global cerebral ischemia and
exhibits neuroprotective activity.
Bose SK, Dewanjee S, Sahu R, Dey SP. Effect of bergapten from Heracleum nepalense root on
production of proinflammatory cytokines. Nat Prod Res. 2011 Sep;25(15):1444-9.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In the present investigation, the anti-inflammatory activity of isolated bergapten from
hydroalcoholic extract of Heracleum nepalense root was evaluated in vitro using human
peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Bergapten exhibited significant inhibition of the
production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely tumour necrotic factor-α (TNF-α) and
interleukin-6 (IL-6) by PBMCs stimulated with lipopolysaccharide in a concentration-dependent
manner.
Bunluepuech K, Sudsai T, Wattanapiromsakul C, Tewtrakul S. Inhibition on HIV-1 integrase
activity and nitric oxide production of compounds from Ficus glomerata. Nat Prod Commun.
2011 Aug;6(8):1095-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
73
Abstract
An ethanol Ficus glomerata wood extract and its purified components were investigated for their
HIV-1 integrase (IN) and nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activities. From bioassay-guided isolation,
five compounds: beta-sitosterol-D-glucoside (1), aloe-emodin (2), genistein (3), 1,3,6trihydroxy-8-methyl-anthraquinone (4) and 3-(1-C-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-2,6-dihydroxy-5methoxybenzoic acid (5) were isolated. Among the tested samples, at concentrations of 100
microM; compound 2 showed 31.9% inhibition of HIV-1 IN, followed by 4 (19.5%), whereas
other compounds were inactive. With regard to the inhibitory effect on NO production, 3
possessed the highest activity with an IC50 value of 27.5 microM, followed by 4 (IC50 = 34.7
microM) and 2 (IC50 = 41.8 microM), respectively. This is the first time that compounds 2-5
have been isolated from Ficus glomerata.
Cao M, Muganga R, Tits M, Angenot L, Frédérich M. 17-O-acetyl,10-hydroxycorynantheol, a
selective antiplasmodial alkaloid isolated from Strychnos usambarensis leaves. Planta Med. 2011
Dec;77(18):2050-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In the course of our investigations on Strychnos usambarensis leaves in order to isolate
isostrychnopentamine, the main alkaloid responsible for the antiplasmodial activity of the plant,
a new tertiary indolic alkaloid has been isolated: 17-O-acetyl,10-hydroxycorynantheol 1. Its
structure was determined by means of spectroscopic and spectrometric methods such as UV, IR,
CD, NMR, and ESI-MS. 17-O-acetyl,10-hydroxycorynantheol 1 is one of the most active
monomeric indole alkaloids known to date showing an in vitro activity against Plasmodium
falciparum close to 5 µM and a high selectivity.
Changwichit K, Khorana N, Suwanborirux K, Waranuch N, Limpeanchob N, Wisuitiprot W,
Suphrom N, Ingkaninan K. Bisindole alkaloids and secoiridoids from Alstonia macrophylla
Wall. ex G. Don. Fitoterapia. 2011 Sep;82(6):798-804. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The ethanolic extract from stems of a Thai medicinal plant, Alstonia macrophylla Wall. ex G.
Don (Apocynaceae) showed a significant inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
determined by using Ellman assay. Four compounds i.e., a bisindole alkaloid, macralstonine (1),
a new bisindole alkaloid, thungfaine (2), a secoiridoid glycoside, sweroside (3) and a new
secoiridoid glycoside, naresuanoside (4) were isolated. Compound 4 showed moderate AChE
and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory effects. Interestingly, compound 4 inhibited cell
74
growth on human androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cell line (LNCaP) but no effect on viability
of human foreskin fibroblast cells (HF).
Chaturvedi AP, Tripathi YB. Methanolic extract of leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum Linn
modulates oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. Inflammopharmacology. 2011
Oct;19(5):273-81. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum (JG) are in clinical use in Ayurveda for wound
management. Since, oxidative stress and inflammation are the primary causes in delayed wound
healing, so here its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities have been investigated using in
vitro as well as in vivo models. The solvent-free methanolic extract of dried leaves of JG were
tested for its trapping capacity toward pre-generated ABTS•+ radicals, instantly generated
superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, along with metal chelation property, reducing power and total
phenolic content. Further, it was tested on LPS-induced nitric oxide and cell viability, on primary
culture of rat peritoneal macrophages. Its anti-inflammatory property was also tested on
carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. This extract significantly inhibited iron-induced lipid
peroxidation and trapped ABTS•+, superoxide and OH radicals. It significantly inhibited nitric
oxide (NO) release, without affecting the cell viability at 800 μg/ml concentration and reduced
the formation of paw edema in rats. Thus, it could be suggested that the aforesaid antiinflammatory properties of JG leaves are associated to its high phenolic content (2.25±0.105
mg/l of gallic acid equivalent), reducing power and its free radical-scavenging property.
Chaturvedi R, Jha CB. Standard manufacturing procedure of Rajata Bhasma. Ayu. 2011
Oct;32(4):566-71. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Rasa Shastra is a branch of Ayurveda which deals with the processing of minerals and metals
having therapeutic importance. Rajata comes under the group of metals having high therapeutic
value. Minerals and metals are mostly used in the form of Bhasma. During the medieval period
Rasacharyas extensively worked and developed a number of processing methods for a single
drug. They all are standard manufacturing procedures (SMP) which ensure the quality, safety,
efficacy and reproducibility of the product. EarlierAyurvedic physicians were producing
medicines by themselves according to their need. Now a day, due to commercialization
of Ayurvedic medicines and ignorance of classical methods, quality of drugs has deteriorated.
Presently, the demand of Ayurvedic drugs in the global market is increasing day by day. Hence it
is the need of time to develop SMP for Ayurvedic products for global acceptability. This paper
75
aims at providing SMP for the manufacture of Rajata Bhasma and also attempts to study the
effect of Shodhana process on Rajata. Rajata was obtained from the local market of Varanasi.
Rajata Bhasma was prepared and it was observed that during the preparation of Rajata Bhasma,
use of Muffle Furnace instead of conventional Puta is more advantageous due to better
temperature control. Use of mercury and sulphur together acts as best medium in the preparation
of Rajata Bhasma.
Chen W, Gaisina IN, Gunosewoyo H, Malekiani SA, Hanania T, Kozikowski AP. Structureguided design of a highly selective glycogen synthase kinase-3β inhibitor: a superior
neuroprotective pyrazolone showing antimania effects. ChemMedChem. 2011 Sep 5;6(9):158792. doi: 10.1002/cmdc.201100231. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Chinese herbs are thought to be effective for type A H1N1 influenza. Series of Chinese herbs
have been authorized recommended by the Chinese government, and until now a number of
clinical trials of Chinese herbs for H1N1 influenza have been conducted. However, there is no
critically appraised evidence such as systematic reviews or meta-analyses on potential benefits
and harms of medicinal herbs for H1N1 influenza to justify their clinical use and their
recommendation.
METHODS AND FINDINGS:
CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CBM, CNKI, VIP, China Important Conference Papers
Database, China Dissertation Database, and online clinical trial registry websites were searched
for published and unpublished randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Chinese herbs for H1N1
influenza till 31 August, 2011. A total of 26 RCTs were identified and reviewed. Most of the
RCTs were of high risk of bias with flawed study design and poor methodological quality. The
combination of several Chinese herbal medicines with or without oseltamivir demonstrated
positive effect on fever resolution, relief of symptoms, and global effectiveness rate compared to
oseltamivir alone. However, only one herbal medicine showed positive effect on viral shedding.
Most of the trials did not report adverse events, and the safety of herbal medicines is still
uncertain.
CONCLUSIONS:
Some Chinese herbal medicines demonstrated potential positive effect for 2009 type A H1N1
influenza; however, due to the lack of placebo controlled trial and lack of repeated test of the
intervention, we could not draw confirmative conclusions on the beneficial effect of Chinese
herbs for H1N1 influenza. More rigorous trials are warranted to support their clinical use.
76
Crockett SL, Boevé JL. Flavonoid glycosides and naphthodianthrones in the sawfly Tenthredo
zonula and its host-plants, Hypericum perforatum and H. hirsutum. J Chem Ecol. 2011
Sep;37(9):943-52. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Larvae of the sawfly Tenthredo zonula are specialized on Hypericum. Whether the sawfly is able
to sequester plant metabolites was unknown. Aerial materials of Hypericum perforatum and H.
hirsutum, as well as dissected larvae and prepupae of T. zonula, were analyzed by HPLC to
determine the presence and content of flavonoid glycosides (rutin, hyperoside, isoquercitrin, and
quercitrin) and naphthodianthrones (pseudohypericin and hypericin). All flavonoid glycosides
were detected in both Hypericum species, with hyperoside as major compound in H. perforatum
(ca. 1.7 μmol/g fresh weight, FW) and isoquercitrin in H. hirsutum (0.7 μmol/g FW).
Naphthodianthrones were present at low concentrations (0.02 μmol/g FW) in the former, and
almost undetected in the latter species. In the body parts (i.e., hemolymph, digestive tract,
salivary glands, or miscellaneous organs) of T. zonula, the surveyed compounds were detected
more frequently in prepupae than in larvae. The compounds were not present in every sample,
and flavonoid glycosides especially occurred in highly variable amounts, with maximal
concentrations of 41 μg rutin/prepupa in salivary glands, 8 μg hyperoside/prepupa in hemolymph
(= 0.36 μmol/g FW), 32 μg isoquercitrin/prepupa in salivary glands, and 63 μg quercitrin/larva in
miscellaneous organs (mainly composed of the integument). We conclude that flavonoid
glycosides are sequestered since they were detected in organs other than the digestive tract of
larvae, and because prepupae are a non-feeding stage. The naphthodianthrone pseudohypericin,
but not hypericin, occurred generally in the digestive tract (up to 0.25 μg/larva). Both
naphthodianthrones and related unidentified compounds, but not flavonoid glycosides, were
found in the larval excrement. The highly variable distributions of flavonoid glycosides and
naphthodianthrones in T. zonula larvae and prepupae make it difficult to determine the
ecological significance of these metabolites.
Csupor D, Borcsa B, Heydel B, Hohmann J, Zupkó I, Ma Y, Widowitz U, Bauer R. Comparison
of a specific HPLC determination of toxic aconite alkaloids in processed Radix aconiti with a
titration method of total alkaloids. Pharm Biol. 2011 Oct;49(10):1097-101.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
77
In traditional Chinese medicine, Aconitum (Ranunculaceae) roots are only applied after
processing. Nevertheless, several cases of poisoning by improperly processed aconite roots have
been reported.
OBJECTIVE:
The aim of this study was to develop a reliable analytical method to assess the amount of toxic
aconite alkaloids in commercial aconite roots, and to compare this method with the commonly
used total alkaloid content determination by titration.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The content of mesaconitine, aconitine, and hypaconitine in 16 commercial samples of processed
aconite roots was determined by an HPLC method and the total alkaloid content by indirect
titration. Five samples were selected for in vivo toxicological investigation.
RESULTS:
In most of the commercial samples, toxic alkaloids were not detectable, or only traces were
found. In four samples, we could detect >0.04% toxic aconite alkaloids, the highest with a
content of 0.16%. The results of HPLC analysis were compared with the results obtained by
titration, and no correlation was found between the two methods. The in vivo results reassured
the validity of the HPLC determination.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
Samples with mesaconitine, aconitine, and hypaconitine content below the HPLC detection limit
still contained up to 0.2% alkaloids determined by titration. Since titration of alkaloids gives no
information selectively on the aconitine-type alkaloid content and toxicity of aconite roots this
method is not appropriate for safety assessment. The HPLC method developed by us provides a
quick and reliable assessment of toxicity and should be considered as a purity test in
pharmacopoeia monographs.
Csupor-Löffler B, Hajdú Z, Zupkó I, Molnár J, Forgo P, Vasas A, Kele Z, Hohmann J.
Antiproliferative constituents of the roots of Conyza canadensis. Planta Med. 2011
Jul;77(11):1183-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Bioassay-guided fractionation of the N-hexane and CHCl₃ phases of the methanol extract of the
roots of Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronquist led to the isolation of two new dihydropyranones
named conyzapyranone A (1) and B (2), and the known 4 Z,8 Z-matricaria- γ-lactone (3), 4 E,8
Z-matricaria- γ-lactone (4), 9,12,13-trihydroxy-10(E)-octadecenoic acid (5), epifriedelanol (6),
78
friedeline (7), taraxerol (8), simiarenol (9), spinasterol (10), stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, and
apigenin. The structures were determined by means of ESIMS and 1D and 2D NMR
spectroscopy, including ¹H-¹H COSY, NOESY, HSQC, and HMBC experiments. The isolated
compounds were evaluated for their antiproliferative activities and were demonstrated to exert
considerable cell growth-inhibitory activity against human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa), skin
carcinoma (A431), and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cells. Some of the active components,
including 2, 4, and 10, proved to be substantially more potent against these cell lines than against
noncancerous human foetal fibroblasts (MRC-5) and can therefore be considered selective
antiproliferative natural products.
Deng Y, Chin YW, Chai HB, de Blanco EC, Kardono LB, Riswan S, Soejarto DD, Farnsworth
NR, Kinghorn AD. Phytochemical and Bioactivity Studies on Constituents of the Leaves of
Vitex Quinata. Phytochem Lett. 2011 Sep 1;4(3):213-217. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
A phytochemical investigation of the leaves of Vitex quinata (Lour.) F.N. Williams
(Verbenaceae), guided by the MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line, led to the isolation of a new
δ-truxinate derivative (1) and a new phytonoic acid derivative (2), together with 12 known
compounds. The structures of the new compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods as
dimethyl 3,4,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-δ-truxinate (1) and methyl 10R-methoxy-12-oxo-9(13),16Ephytodienoate (2), respectively. In a cytotoxicity assay, (S)-5-hydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxyflavanone
(3) was found to be the sole active principle, with ED(50) values of 1.1-6.7 μM, respectively,
when tested against a panel of three human cancer cells. Methyl 3,4,5-O-tricaffeoyl quinate (4)
showed activity in an enzyme-based ELISA NF-κB p65 assay, with an ED(50) value of 10.3 μM.
Dhooghe L, Meert H, Cimanga RK, Vlietinck AJ, Pieters L, Apers S. The quantification of
ellagic acid in the crude extract of Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn. (Euphorbiaceae).
Phytochem
Anal.
2011
Jul-Aug;22(4):361-6.
doi:
10.1002/pca.1288.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn. (Euphorbiaceae), already well known for its antiviral,
antihyperglycaemic and antihepatotoxic effects, is also investigated for its antimalarial activity.
The major constituent of the crude extract of the whole plant was isolated and identified in this
research to be ellagic acid, for which antiplasmodial activity already has been reported.
79
OBJECTIVE:
Because of the potential of the plant and the interesting properties of ellagic acid, an analytical
method can be useful for the standardisation of the extracts to allow further biological and
pharmacological investigations. In order to obtain an easily performable and inexpensive
method, an HPLC analysis was developed and validated.
METHODOLOGY:
The samples were dissolved in DMSO, ultrasonicated for 15 min, and diluted with 50%
methanol. Analysis was performed using water and methanol containing 0.06% TFA and the
peaks were detected at 254 nm.
RESULTS:
Ellagic acid showed a linear relationship in the range of 1.74-20.91 µg/mL and a single-point
calibration was allowed. The method was shown to be precise with respect to time (RSD of
1.84%, 3 days, n = 6) and concentration (RSD of 2.54%, 3 levels, n = 6). The overall mean
content of ellagic acid was 2.06%. A recovery experiment was performed and it showed an
accuracy of 100.4%.
CONCLUSION:
Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the newly developed method is suitable
for its purpose, namely the determination of ellagic acid in the crude extract of P. amarus.
Ding M, Wu X, Yuan L, Wang S, Li Y, Wang R, Wen T, Du S, Zhou X. Synthesis of core-shell
magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers and detection of sildenafil and vardenafil in herbal
dietary
supplements.
J
Hazard
Mater.
2011
Jul
15;191(1-3):177-83.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
An analytical procedure for selective extraction of sildenafil and vardenafil in herbal dietary
supplements (HDSs) has been set up by using the magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers
(MMIPs) as the extraction and clean-up materials, followed by high performance liquid
chromatography-ultraviolet (HPLC-UV). The MMIPs were prepared by a surface molecular
imprinting technique, using Fe(3)O(4) magnetite as a magnetically susceptible component,
sildenafil as template molecule, 2-(trifluoromethyl) acrylic acid (TFMAA) as functional
monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as polymeric matrix components. The
MMIPs were characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform
infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and vibrating sample magnetometer
(VSM), respectively. The heterogeneity of the MMIPs was modeled with the Freundlich
80
isotherm equation. The resulting MMIPs had high recognition ability and fast binding kinetics
for sildenafil. The MMIPs were used as dispersive solid-phase extraction (DSPE) materials to
selectively extract sildenafil and vardenafil from HDSs, the contents of sildenafil and vardenafil
were found to be 8.05 and 3.86 μg g(-1), respectively, and the average recoveries in spiked HDSs
were 70.91-91.75% with a relative standard deviation (R.S.D.) below 7%. The MMIPs were
successfully used to selectively enrich and determine sildenafil and vardenafil from HDSs.
El-Alfy TS, El-Gohary HM, Sokkar NM, Hosny M, Al-Mahdy DA. A New Flavonoid CGlycoside from Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. Leaves and Potential Antioxidant
and Cytotoxic Activities. Sci Pharm. 2011;79(4):963-75. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
A major development over the past two decades has been the realization that free radical induced
lipid peroxidation and DNA damage are associated with major health problems, e.g. cancer and
ageing. Plant-derived antioxidants are increasingly found beneficial in protecting against these
diseases. Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. are two plants that have a variety of uses in
folk medicine but have not been evaluated before for their antioxidant and cytotoxic properties.
Therefore, the extracts of both plants' leaves were investigated for these activities, as well as
isolation of the bioactive compounds responsible for the activities. Molecular structures of the
compounds were elucidated by UV, HRESIMS, 1D ((1)H and (13)C) and 2D ((1)H-(13)C HSQC
and (1)H-(13)C HMBC) NMR analyses. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts, n-butanol fractions
and the isolated major compound were tested for their antioxidant activity using DPPH radical
scavenging assay, xanthine oxidase-induced generation of superoxide radical and lipid
peroxidation assay by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) method using rat tissue
homogenates. Cytotoxic activities were studied using standard MTT assay. A novel flavonoid Ctriglycoside, 4‴-α-rhamnopyranosyl-2″-O-β-d-galactopyranosylvitexin, was isolated from both
plants' leaves, together with seven known flavonoids. The n-butanol fractions and the major
compound 2″-O-β-galactopyranosylvitexin showed significant antioxidant activities, more
pronounced than the tested standards BHT and dl-α-tocopherol in most tests. All extracts showed
variable cytotoxic activities. This study provides strong evidence for the antioxidant and
cytotoxic activities of the extracts of Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. leaves, which
were attributed to the polar n-butanol fractions and the major isolated flavonoid 2″galactosylvitexin.
El-Hawary SA, Sokkar NM, Ali ZY, Yehia MM. A profile of bioactive compounds of Rumex
vesicarius L. J Food Sci. 2011 Oct;76(8):C1195-202. doi: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02370.x.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
81
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the bioactive compounds in extracts of Rumex
vesicarius L. (Polygonaceae), a wild edible herb growing in Egypt. Ethyl acetate and n-butanol
fractions of leaves of R. vesicarius were conducted by HPLC-PDA-MS/MS-ESI in the negative
mode to analyze phenolics content. Results revealed the identification of 13 phenolic
compounds: 8-C-glucosyl-apigenin, 8-C-glucosyl-luteolin, 6-C-hexosyl-quercetin, 3-Orutinosyl-quercetin, 7-O-rhamno-hexosyl-diosmetin, 7-O-rhamno-acetylhexosyl-diosmetin,
catechin, epicatechin, ferulohexoside, 6-C-glucosyl-naringenin, epicatechin gallate, 6-Cglucosyl-catechin, and epigallocatechin gallate. Quantification of the identified compounds
revealed that 6-C-glucosyl-naringenin was the major compound. Also, qualitative and
quantitative analysis of the hydro-ethanolic extract of leaves was carried out for ascorbic acid, αtocopherol, β-carotene. The essential oil as well as lipids analysis of saponifiable and
unsaponifiable matters. Investigation of the effect of hommad as a safe hepatoprotective diet
that prospectively directs the attention to a valuable therapeutic natural herb rich in bioactive
constituents. The biochemical studies were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant and
hepatoprotective potential of roots (REE), leaves (LEE), and fruits (FEE) ethanolic extracts of R.
vesicarius (100 mg/kg b.wt., p.o., each) against hepatotoxicity induced by CCl(4) (0.5 mL/kg
b.wt., p.o., 3 times a week) compared with silymarin (50 mg/kg b.wt., p.o.) as standard drug. The
results confirmed that coadministration of the tested extracts or silymarin with CCl(4) for 4 wk
exhibited a marked hepatoprotective activity, attributed to their antioxidant potential, membrane
stabilizing effect, and antifibrogenic activities.
Ferreira D, Coleman CM. Towards the synthesis of proanthocyanidins: half a century of
innovation. Planta Med. 2011 Jul;77(11):1071-85. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Results emanating from the synthesis of proanthocyanidins played a crucial role in defining the
constitution, regiochemistry, and absolute configuration of this complex but fascinating group of
plant secondary metabolites. The initial efforts, commencing in 1966, were focused on structure
elucidation of, especially, the procyanidins, profisetinidins, and prorobinetinidins. However, over
the past 12 years the emphasis has shifted to the synthesis of the bioactive procyanidins and
some of their derivatives at a scale that would permit assessment of their pharmacological
properties. With a few exceptions, the vast majority of these synthetic protocols involve the
formation of the interflavanyl bond by acid/Lewis acid activation at C-4 of a flavan-3,4-diol or
its equivalent, and subsequent trapping of the incipient C-4 carbocation by the nucleophilic
centers of a flavan-3-ol (catechin). This review represents the first comprehensive chronicle
depicting the development of the subject of proanthocyanidin synthesis.
82
Foubert K, Cuyckens F, Matheeussen A, Vlietinck A, Apers S, Maes L, Pieters L. Antiprotozoal
and antiangiogenic saponins from Apodytes dimidiata. Phytochemistry. 2011 Aug;72(1112):1414-23. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Bioassay-guided isolation was performed on the leaves of Apodytes dimidiata E. Mey. Ex Arn.
(Icacinaceae), based on previously demonstrated activity against Leishmania. Six saponins never
isolated from nature before were elucidated with LC-MS/MS, GC-MS and 1D and 2D NMR.
The compounds apodytine A-F are responsible at least in part for the antiprotozoal activity, but
also possess haemolytic activity and display antiangiogenic activity in the rat aorta ring assay, an
effect which may be due to a non-selective toxicity.
Giridharan VV, Thandavarayan RA, Mani V, Ashok Dundapa T, Watanabe K, Konishi T.
Ocimum sanctum Linn. leaf extracts inhibit acetylcholinesterase and improve cognition in rats
with experimentally induced dementia. J Med Food. 2011 Sep;14(9):912-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Cognitive disorders such as dementia, attention deficits, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been
well investigated. However, effective interventions for the promotion and progression of AD are
unavailable to date. The present work was undertaken to investigate the effects of the aqueous
(300 and 500 mg/kg) and alcoholic (300 and 500 mg/kg) extracts of Ocimum sanctum Linn.
leaves as an antidementic and anticholinesterase agent and also as an immunostimulant in rats.
Maximal electroshock, atropine, and cyclosporine were used to induce dementia. The passive
avoidance task was used for assessing memory. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was
estimated in different parts of the brain, and immune status was studied using
dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) skin sensitivity tests. In all the three models both aqueous and
alcoholic O. sanctum extracts decreased the time taken to reach the shock-free zone and the
number of mistakes and significantly decreased the AChE activity in rats. O. sanctum treatment
significantly increased the induration in the DNCB skin test. Therefore, O. sanctum was shown
to be useful for the management of experimentally induced cognitive dysfunctions in rats.
Habash M, Taha MO. Ligand-based modelling followed by synthetic exploration unveil novel
glycogen phosphorylase inhibitory leads. Bioorg Med Chem. 2011 Aug 15;19(16):4746-71.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
83
Glycogen phosphorylase (GP) is a valid anti-diabetic target. Accordingly, we applied a drug
discovery workflow to unveil novel inhibitory GP leads via combining pharmacophore
modeling, QSAR analysis and in silico screening, followed by synthetic exploration of active
hits. Virtual screening identified six low micromolar inhibitory leads from the National Cancer
Institute (NCI) list of compounds. The most potent hits exhibited anti-GP IC(50) values of 3.2
and 4.1 μM. Synthetic exploration of hit 59 (IC(50)=4.1 μM) yielded 25 lead inhibitors with the
best illustrating IC(50) of 3.0 μM. Interestingly, we prepared several novel mixed oxalyl amide
anti-GP leads employing new chemical reaction involving succinic acid-based adducts.
Habtemariam S. The therapeutic potential of Berberis darwinii stem-bark: quantification of
berberine and in vitro evidence for Alzheimer's disease therapy. Nat Prod Commun. 2011
Aug;6(8):1089-90. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Berberis darwinii is native to South America but has been widely distributed in Europe and other
continents following its discovery by Charles Darwin. Herewith, the therapeutic potential of
stem-bark of the plant for treating Alzheimer's disease was studied using an in vitro
acetylcholinesterase inhibition assay. It was found that the methanolic extract of the stem-bark
was a potent inhibitor of the enzyme with an IC50 value of 1.23 +/- 0.05 microg/mL. An HPLCbased berberine quantification study revealed an astonishing 38% yield of the dried methanolic
extract.
Haggag EG, Kamal AM, Abdelhady MI, El-Sayed MM, El-Wakil EA, Abd-El-Hamed SS.
Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of polyphenolic compounds isolated from the leaves of
Leucenia
leucocephala.
Pharm
Biol.
2011
Nov;49(11):1103-13.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Cancer is a serious clinical problem to the health care system. Anticancer drugs have been
extracted from plants containing phenolic compounds. Leucenia species (Fabaceae) contain a
variety of bioactive components of numerous biological and pharmacological properties.
OBJECTIVE:
This study explored the constitutive polyphenols of Leucenia leucocephala Lam. growing in
Egypt and evaluated the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity.
84
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Chemical structures of the isolated compounds from the leaves of L. leucocephala were
established by spectral techniques (UV, (1)H, and (13)C NMR, MS).
RESULTS:
Chromatographic separation of 80% MeOH extract of the leaves of L. leucocephala have
resulted in a novel flavonoid-galloyl glycoside [myricetin 3-O-(2',3'4'-tri-O-galloyl)-α-Lrhamnopyranoside] with three known polyphenolic compounds isolated for the first time from
this species (apigenin 7-O-β-D-glucuronopyranoside methyl ester, luteolin 7-O-β-Dglucuronopyranoside methyl ester, and 1,3,6-tri-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranose) and seven known
previously isolated compounds. Also, 80% methanol extract exhibited high antioxidant activity
(SC(50) = 3.94 µg/ml), which is correlated with its phenolic content. The extract also showed
cytotoxic activity against Hep G2 (IC(50) value 1.41 µg/ml) confirming its anticancer activity
against hepatocellular carcinoma. Among the tested compounds (4-8) for antioxidant property,
compound 7 was the most active compound (SC(50) = 2.49 µg/ml). Also compounds 7 and 8
exhibited high cytotoxic activity (IC(50) = 2.41 and 2.81 µg/ml, respectively).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
These findings demonstrate that the leaves of L. leucocephala contain a considerable amount of
polyphenolic compounds with high antioxidant properties, thus it has great potential as a source
for natural health products.
Huiping Ma, Xirui He, Yan Yang, Maoxing Li, Dingjun Hao, Zhengping Jia, The genus
pimedium: An ethnopharmacological and phytochemical review. Journal of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):519-541.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-51W6DRR2/2/9762c2990fd4c9e6c8024bad7f924e8b.
Abstract:
Epimedium (Berberidaceae), is a genus of about 52 species in the family Berberidaceae, which
also known as Rowdy Lamb Herb, Xianlinpi, Barrenwort, Bishop's Hat, Fairy Wings, Horny
Goat Weed, and Yangheye or Yin Yang Huo (Chinese: ). Many plants have been proven to
possess efficacy on sexual dysfunction and osteoporosis in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
The paper reviews the ethnopharmacology, the biological activities and the correlated chemical
compounds of Epimedium species. More than 260 compounds have been isolated;among them
prenyl-flavonoids are the major constituents and also important chemotaxonomic markers.
Modern pharmacology studies and clinical practice demonstrated that Epimedium and its active
compounds possess wide pharmacological actions, especially in strengthening yang, hormone
85
regulation, anti-osteoporosis, immunological function modulation, anti-oxidation and anti-tumor,
anti-aging, anti-atherosclerosis and anti-depressant activities. Currently, effective monomeric
compounds or active parts have been screened for pharmacological activity from Epimedium in
vivo and in vitro.
Hullatti KK, Gopikrishna UV, Kuppast IJ. Phytochemical investigation and diuretic activity of
Cyclea peltata leaf extracts. J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2011
Oct;2(4):241-4.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Ayurvedic system of medicine is well known for treating renal problems. A vast number of
medicinal plants mentioned in Ayurvedic system of medicine are known to possess diuretic
properties. Present study reports the preliminary phytochemical investigation of petroleum ether
and ethanolic extracts of Cyclea peltata and their diuretic activity. Preliminary phytochemical
screening reveals the presence of phytosterols and alkaloids as major phytoconstituents in
petroleum ether extract. The ethanolic extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids,
tannins, diterpenes and saponins. Pharmacological investigation revealed that ethanolic extract of
C. peltata leaves possessed significant diuretic activity in a given dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg
body weight (Diuretic action 1.7 and 2.6, respectively). Where as petroleum ether extract has
shown moderate diuresis at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight (Diuretic action 1.1). The present
study justifies the use of C. peltata in the Ayurvedic system of medicine as a diuretic drug.
Katoch M, Fazli IS, Suri KA, Ahuja A, Qazi GN. Effect of altitude on picroside content in core
collections of Picrorhiza kurrooa from the north western Himalayas. J Nat Med. 2011 Jul;65(34):578-82. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Picrorhiza kurrooa Royle ex Benth (Scrophulariaceae), commonly known as Kutki, is a major
ingredient of many ayurvedic preparations prescribed in the treatment of various diseases.
Picrosides I and II are the active agents responsible for the medicinal effects of Kutki, and the
variation in content of these compounds in plants at different altitudes is a major question to be
addressed. The picroside I and II content in various plant parts of P. kurrooa collected from
different altitudes, viz. Sonemarg (2,740 m a.s.l.), Tangmarg (2,690 m a.s.l.), and Pulwama
(1,630 m a.s.l.) in the north-western Kashmir Himalayas was analyzed by HPLC. A considerable
degree of variation in picroside content was observed. Picroside I and II was highest in
populations collected from Sonemarg followed by Tangmarg, suggesting that picroside
accumulation is directly correlated with altitudinal change. More picroside I was found in the
86
rhizome and roots of the Pulwama population as compared to Tangmarg samples, whereas the
quantity of Picroside II was reduced in plants from Pulwama compared to the Tangmarg
population, suggesting that cultivation of P. kurroa at lower altitude reduces the picroside
content. The quantities of picrosides also varied spatially, being highest in rhizome followed by
roots, inflorescence and leaves in the populations from all three locations. The study concludes
that picroside I and II accumulation depends on altitude, which could help in the selection and
collection of superior genotypes with uniform effects for utilization by the pharmaceutical
industry.
Khedekar S, Patgiri BJ, Ravishankar B, Prajapati PK. Standard manufacturing process of
Makaradhwaja prepared by Swarna Patra - Varkha and Bhasma. Ayu. 2011 Jan;32(1):109-15.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Makaradhwaja is an important Kupipakwa Rasayana. It is prepared by using Swarna (gold),
Parada (mercury) and Gandhaka (sulfur) in different ratios, i.e. 1:8:16, 1:8:24 and 1:2:4,
respectively. The amount of Gandhaka in the Jarana process is directly proportional to the
increase in therapeutic efficacy and reduces the toxicity of the product. Specific temperature
pattern for the preparation of Makaradhwaja has been followed. In the present study Swarna,
Parada and Gandhaka were taken in the ratio 1:8:24, respectively, and 12 h of heating for a
specified amount of Kajjali (i.e., 400 g) in a Kacha Kupi 1/3(rd) of its capacity. There are some
controversies regarding the form of Swarna (i.e., Swarna Patra Swarna Varkha or Swarna
Bhasma) used in the preparation of Makaradhwaja. Therefore, in the present study, the samples
of Makaradhwaja were prepared by Swarna Patra, Varkha and Bhasma in different batches. It
was found that the use of Varkha produced a good-quality product along with the maximum
amount of gold, i.e. 268 ppm, in comparison with Patra, i.e. 131 ppm, and Bhasma, i.e. 19 ppm,
respectively.
Koch I, Moriarty M, House K, Sui J, Cullen WR, Saper RB, Reimer KJ. Bioaccessibility of lead
and arsenic in traditional Indian medicines. Sci Total Environ. 2011 Oct 1;409(21):4545-52. doi:
10.1016/j.scitotenv.2011.07.059. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Arsenic and lead have been found in a number of traditional Ayurvedic medicines, and the
practice of Rasa Shastra (combining herbs with metals, minerals and gems), or plant ingredients
that contain these elements, may be possible sources. To obtain an estimate of arsenic and lead
solubility in the human gastrointestinal tract, bioaccessibility of the two elements was measured
87
in 42 medicines, using a physiologically-based extraction test. The test consisted of a gastric
phase at pH 1.8 containing organic acids, pepsin and salt, followed by an intestinal phase, at pH
7 and containing bile and pancreatin. Arsenic speciation was measured in a subset of samples
that had sufficiently high arsenic concentrations for the X-ray absorption near edge structure
analysis used. Bioaccessible lead was found in 76% of samples, with a large range of
bioaccessibility results, but only 29% of samples had bioaccessible arsenic. Lead bioaccessibility
was high (close to 100%) in a medicine (Mahayograj Guggulu) that had been compounded with
bhasmas (calcined minerals), including naga (lead) bhasma. For the samples in which arsenic
speciation was measured, bioaccessible arsenic was correlated with the sum of As(V)-O and
As(III)-O and negatively correlated with As-S. These results suggest that the bioaccessible
species in the samples had been oxidized from assumed As-S raw medicinal ingredients (realgar,
As(4)S(4), added to naga (lead) bhasma and As(III)-S species in plants). Consumption at
recommended doses of all medicines with bioaccessibile lead or arsenic would lead to the
exceedance of at least one standard for acceptable daily intake of toxic elements.
Lardos A, Prieto-Garcia J, Heinrich M. Resins and Gums in Historical Iatrosophia Texts from
Cyprus - A Botanical and Medico-pharmacological Approach. Front Pharmacol. 2011;2:32.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
This study explores historical iatrosophia texts from Cyprus from a botanical and medicopharmacological point of view focusing on remedies containing resins and gums. The iatrosophia
are a genre of Greek medical literature of Byzantine origin and can be described as medicine
handbooks which serve as therapeutic repositories containing recipes or advice. To extract and
analyze information on plant usage in such sources - which are largely unedited texts and so far
have not been translated - we investigate (i) the relationship of the iatrosophia to Dioscorides' De
Materia Medica as well as historic pharmaceutical books or standard texts on modern
phytotherapy and (ii) the validity of the remedies by comparing them to modern scientific data
on reported biological activities. In the six texts investigated 27 substances incorporating plant
exudates are mentioned. They are obtained from over 43 taxa of higher plants and in particular
are used to treat dermatological, gastrointestinal, and respiratory tract conditions. The
comparison to historic pharmaceutical books and phytotherapy texts reflects the gradual decline
of the use of plant exudates in Western medicine. While remarkable parallels to Dioscorides' text
exist, the non-Dioscoridean influence suggests a complex pattern of knowledge exchange.
Overall, this resulted in an integration of knowledge from so far poorly understood sources. The
comparison with bioscientific data reveals a fragmentary picture and highlights the potential of
these unexplored substances and their uses. Where relevant bioscientific data are available, we
generally found a confirmation. This points to a largely rational use of the associated remedies.
Taken together, the iatrosophia are a valuable resource for ethnopharmacological and natural
88
product research. Most importantly they contribute to the understanding of the development of
herbal medicines in the (Eastern) Mediterranean and Europe.
Madavi SS, Patgiri BJ, Prajapati PK. Preparation of dhatryarishta by dhatri swarasa and dhatri
kwatha. Ayu. 2011 Apr;32(2):265-70. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Dhatryarishta has been described for the first time in Charaka Samhita, in the context of
Panduroga. The same reference is available in Chakradatta, Bhaishajya Ratnavali, and
Sahastrayogam too. Generally Dhatri Swarasa [Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)] is used in
the preparation of Dhatryarishta as per classical reference, but fresh Amalaki is not available in
every season, so in the present study, Amalaki Kwatha (decoction) is used instead of Swarasa. A
total of 13 batches of Dhatryarishta were prepared, out of which nine batches were prepared with
Dhatri Swarasa and four batches with Dhatri Kwatha. For Dhatryarishta prepared by using Dhatri
Swarasa, three methods were applied and in Dhatryarishta prepared by using Dhatri Kwatha two
methods were applied. The study revealed that Dhatryarishta could only be prepared by using
Amalaki Swarasa as quoted in the classics and not by using Amalaki Kwatha.
Mallavadhani UV, Panigrahi R, Pattnaik B. A rapid and highly sensitive UPLC-QTOF MS
method for quantitative evaluation of Nardostachys jatamansi using Nardin as the marker.
Biomed
Chromatogr.
2011
Aug;25(8):902-7.
doi:
10.1002/bmc.1540.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Nardostachys jatamansi DC. is a highly reputed Medhya and Nootropic (Learning and
Memory) Ayurvedicmedicinal plant. Its use as herbal medicine singly and as an ingredient of
multi-herbal formulations is fast increasing. In order to authenticate and evaluate it
quantitatively, its standardization is highly warranted with respect to a reliable marker. In this
connection a rapid and highly sensitive UPLC-QTOF MS method has been developed. The
analysis was carried out on an Acquity BEH C(18) column with gradient elution of methanolwater and 3 mm ammonium acetate using QTOF mass detector in negative ionization mode. The
method was validated over a concentration range of 9.76-156.25 ng/mL nardin. The calibration
curve is linear with the correlation coefficient (r) and coefficient of determination (R(2)) were
0.9997 and 0.9995 respectively. The LOD and LOQ were 3.050 and 9.277 ng/mL respectively.
The recovery of nardin in the range 96.36-111.13% achieved from spiked samples was consistent
and reproducible. The inter-day and intra-day assay precision of the analytes over the entire
concentration range was less than 5%. The developed method required only 4 min for
89
chromatography to authenticate and quantify the marker, viz. nardin in N. jatamansi samples, in
addition to the sample preparation time.
Mourya SK, Dubey S, Durgabanshi A, Shukla SK, Esteve-Romero J, Bose D. Determination of
disulfiram by micellar liquid chromatography in illicit preparations. J AOAC Int. 2011 JulAug;94(4):1082-8. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Presently, disulfiram is used in aversion therapy for recovering alcoholics. It acts by inhibiting
aldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to high blood levels of acetaldehyde. A simple direct injection
micellar liquid chromatographic procedure was developed to determine disulfiram in illicit
preparations (ayurvedic, herbal, divine ash, and traditional medicine), as well as in
pharmaceuticals and biological samples (urine). After application of a predictive optimization
strategy, the proposed method was developed using a 0.1 M sodium dodecyl sulfate-butanol 4%
(v/v) buffered to pH 7 as the mobile phase at a flow rate of 1 mL/min, an octyl silyl (C8) 150
mm column, and diode array detection at 248 nm. Under the above conditions, the analysis time
was below 8 min. Validation studies were based on U.S. Food and Drug Administration
guidelines. The LOD (3 x SD criterion) was 15 ng/mL and LOQ (10 x SD criterion) was 70
ng/mL for disulfiram. The intraday and interday precisions were below 3.5%, recoveries were in
the range of 97-102%, and robustness was below 3%. The optimized and validated micellar
liquid chromatographic method was successfully applied to the determination of disulfiram
in ayurvedic, herbal, divine ash, and other samples. The procedure developed could also be used
in the fields of QC, routine analysis, and pharmacokinetic studies.
Obmann A, Werner I, Presser A, Zehl M, Swoboda Z, Purevsuren S, Narantuya S, Kletter C,
Glasl S. Flavonoid C- and O-glycosides from the Mongolian medicinal plant Dianthus versicolor
Fisch. Carbohydr Res. 2011 Sep 27;346(13):1868-75. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Eighteen flavonoids were identified from an aqueous extract of the aerial parts of Dianthus
versicolor, a plant used in traditional Mongolian medicine against liver diseases. The flavonoid
C- and O-glycosides isoorientin-7-O-rutinoside, isoorientin-7-O-rhamnosyl-galactoside,
isovitexin-7-O-rutinoside, isovitexin-7-O-rhamnosyl-galactoside, isoscoparin-7-O-rutinoside,
isoscoparin-7-O-rhamnosyl-galactoside, isoscoparin-7-O-galactoside, and isoorientin-7-Ogalactoside were isolated and structurally elucidated. Their structures were established on the
basis of extensive spectroscopic techniques including LC-UV-DAD, LC-MS(n), LC-HRMS, 1D
and 2D NMR spectroscopy, and by GC-MS analysis after hydrolysis. Flavonoids with such a
90
high glycosylation pattern are rare within the genus Dianthus. Furthermore, isovitexin-7-Oglucoside (saponarin), isovitexin-2″-O-rhamnoside, apigenin-6-glucoside (isovitexin), luteolin-7O-glucoside, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, as well as the aglycons luteolin, apigenin, chrysoeriol,
diosmetin, and acacetin were identified by TLC and LC-DAD-MS(n) in comparison to reference
substances or literature data. The NMR data of seven structures have not been reported in the
literature to date.
Obolskiy D, Pischel I, Feistel B, Glotov N, Heinrich M. Artemisia dracunculus L. (tarragon): a
critical review of its traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology, and safety. J Agric
Food Chem. 2011 Nov 9;59(21):11367-84. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Artemisia dracunculus L. (tarragon) has a long history of use as a spice and remedy. Two welldescribed "cultivars" (Russian and French) are used widely and differ in ploidy level,
morphology, and chemistry. Key biologically active secondary metabolites are essential oils
(0.15-3.1%), coumarins (>1%), flavonoids, and phenolcarbonic acids. In vivo studies mainly in
rodents, particularly from Russian sources, highlight potential anti-inflammatory,
hepatoprotective, and antihyperglycemic effects. Despite concerns about the toxic effects of two
of its main constituents, estragole (up to 82%) and methyleugenol (up to 39%), no acute toxicity
or mutagenic activity has been reported at doses relevant for human consumption. Water extracts
of A. dracunculus contain very low amounts of estragole and methyleugenol and, therefore, are
considered to pose a very limited risk. Overall, a stronger focus on clinical studies and precise
taxonomic and phytochemical definition of the source material will be essential for future
research efforts.
Olszewska MA. In vitro antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the inflorescences,
leaves and fruits of Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz. Acta Pol Pharm. 2011 Nov-Dec;68(6):945-53.
Erratum in: Acta Pol Pharm. 2012 Jan-Feb;69(1):167. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The antioxidant potential of 70% methanolic extracts from the inflorescences, leaves and fruits
of Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz was evaluated using three in vitro test systems: the DPPH (2,2diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl) and the ABTS [2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic
acid)] free radical scavenging assays, and the AAPH [2,2'-azobis-(2-amidinopropane)
dihydrochloride]-induced [corrected] linoleic acid (LA) peroxidation test. The results were
compared with the activity of the extracts obtained from the model antioxidant Sorbus species
(Sorbus aucuparia L.), and also with the activity of phenolic standards such as quercetin, Trolox
91
[(+/-)-6-hydroxy-2,2,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic
acid],
BHA
(butylated
hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and TBHQ (tert-butylhydroquinone). The
radical scavenging capacities of the S. torminalis extracts towards the DPPH radical were in the
range of 62.0-244.1 micromolar Trolox equivalents/g d.w. of plant material. They were
significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with the results of the ABTS test (r = 0.8535), and with the
chain-breaking activities determined in the LA-peroxidation test (r = 0.9831). In comparison
with the synthetic standards, the free radical scavenging capacity of the Sorbus extracts was
remarkably higher than their chain-breaking activity. Both kinds of antioxidant effects of the
extracts were significantly (R2 > 0.8097, p < 0.05) influenced by the total phenolic content
(TPC) as determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The plant tissues derived from S. torminalis
exhibited lower antioxidant potentials than those of S. aucuparia by a factor of 1.5-3.2, partially
due to the lower TPC levels (multiplicity factors of 1.2-1.9). After the original antioxidant
capacities of the extracts were recalculated according to the TPC levels, the resulting antioxidant
capacities of the phenolic fractions in the S. torminalis extracts were lower than those from S.
aucuparia by a factor of 1.1-1.6, suggesting that the distinctive chemistry of the phenolic
constituents also influences the antioxidant power of the two species.
Patel JR, Tripathi P, Sharma V, Chauhan NS, Dixit VK. Phyllanthus amarus: ethnomedicinal
uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology: a review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Nov 18;138(2):286313. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn. belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae is a small herb well
known for its medicinal properties and widely used worldwide. P. amarus is an important plant
of Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine which is used in the problems of stomach, genitourinary
system, liver, kidney and spleen. It is bitter, astringent, stomachic, diuretic, febrifuge and
antiseptic. The whole plant is used in gonorrhea, menorrhagia and other genital affections. It is
useful in gastropathy, diarrhoea, dysentery, intermittent fevers, ophthalmopathy, scabies, ulcers
and wounds.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The present review covers a literature across from 1980 to 2011. Some information collected
from traditional Ayurvedic texts and published literature on ethanomedicinal uses of Phyllanthus
amarus in different countries worldwide.
RESULTS:
92
Phytochemical studies have shown the presence of many valuable compounds such as lignans,
flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins (ellagitannins), polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols and alkaloids.
The extracts and the compounds isolated from P. amarus show a wide spectrum of
pharmacological activities including antiviral, antibacterial, antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory,
antimalarial, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective
nephroprotective and diurectic properties.
CONCLUSION:
The present review summarizes information concerning the morphology, ecology,
ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biological activities, clinical applications and toxicological
reports of P. amarus. This review aims at gathering the research work undertaken till date on this
plant in order to provide sufficient baseline information for future works and commercial
exploitation.
Rajput DS, Tekale GS. Study on Bhasma Kalpana with special reference to the preparation of
Kasisa Bhasma. Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):554-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Bhasma means ash but according to Ayurveda, Bhasma means conversion of a metal into a form
which is irreversible in the sense that one cannot derive the metal back from it again
(Apunarbhava). It should be so light so that it must float on the surface of water after sprinkling,
called Varitara. Its particle should be so small that it can enter in to the creases of fingers called
Rekha-purnatva. The preparative procedure of Bhasma is a bit complicated. Many texts are
available regarding the identification, acceptable qualities of metals and minerals, their
purification, uses and method of preparation of their Bhasma. But in many texts, the method of
Bhasma preparation of some metals and minerals is mentioned very briefly, i.e. their references
are available in Sutrarupa. This leads to many practical difficulties in the preparation of Bhasma.
Kasisa Bhasma is one of them. The present work was aimed to study the basic concept of
Bhasma Kalpana by means preparing Kasisa Bhasma. This study suggests some modifications
and ways for standardization of Bhasma procedure.
Rauf K, Subhan F, Abbas M, Badshah A, Ullah I, Ullah S. Effect of Bacopasides on acquisition
and expression of morphine tolerance. Phytomedicine. 2011 Jul 15;18(10):836-42. .
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
93
Opioids are extensively used for the management of both chronic malignant and non malignant
pains. One major serious limitation associated with chronic use of opioids is the development of
tolerance to its analgesic effect. The effect of Bacopa monnieri, a renowned ayurvedic
medicine for acquisition and expression of morphine tolerance in mice, was investigated. Bacopa
monnieri, n-Butanol fraction was analyzed on High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC),
for Bacopaside A major components i.e. Bacoside A(3), Bacopaside ll and Bacosaponin C.
Antinociceptive effect of n-Butanol extract of Bacopa monnieri (n Bt-ext BM) (5, 10 and 15
mg/kg) was assessed on hot plate. Effect of different doses of n Bt-ext BM on morphine
antinociception was also assessed. n Bt-ext BM was also screened for development of tolerance
to antinociceptive effect of Bacopa monnieri by administering 15 mg/kg n Bt-ext BM for seven
days. Tolerance to morphine analgesia was induced in mice by administering intraperitoneally
(I.P.) 20 mg/kg morphine twice daily for five days. Acute and Chronic administration of 5, 10
and 15 mg/kg n Bt-ext BM significantly reduced both expression and development of tolerance
to morphine analgesia in mice. Additionally, Bacopa monnieri was found to enhance
antinociceptive effect of morphine in intolerant animals. However, no tolerance to Bacopa
monnieri antinociceptive effect was observed in seven days treatment schedule. These findings
indicate effectiveness of Bacopa monnieri for management of morphine tolerance.
Santhi N, Aishwarya S. Insights from the molecular docking of withanolide derivatives to the
target protein PknG from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Bioinformation. 2011;7(1):1-4.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
A crucial virulence factor for intracellular Mycobacterium tuberculosis survival is Protein kinase
G (PknG), a eukaryotic-like serinethreonine protein kinase expressed by pathogenic
mycobacteria that blocks the intracellular degradation of mycobacteria in lysosomes. Inhibition
of PknG results in mycobacterial transfer to lysosomes. Withania somnifera, a reputed herb
in ayurvedic medicine, comprises a large number of steroidal lactones known as withanolides
which show various pharmacological activities. We describe the docking of 26 withanferin and
14 withanolides from Withania somnifera into the three dimensional structure of PknG of M.
tuberculosis using GLIDE. The inhibitor binding positions and affinity were evaluated using
scoring functions- Glidescore. The withanolide E, F and D and Withaferin - diacetate 2 phenoxy
ethyl carbonate were identified as potential inhibitors of PknG. The available drug molecules and
the ligand AX20017 showed hydrogen bond interaction with the aminoacid residues Glu233 and
Val235. In addition to Val235 the other amino acids, Gly237, Gln238 and Ser239 are important
for withanolide inhibitor recognition via hydrogen bonding mechanisms.
94
Selvi R, Angayarkanni N, Biswas J, Ramakrishnan S. Total antioxidant capacity in Eales'
disease,
uveitis
&
cataract.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Jul;134:83-90.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
The human system possesses antioxidants that act harmoniously to neutralize the harmful
oxidants. This study was aimed to evaluate the serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as a
single parameter in Eales' disease (ED) and in an acute inflammatory condition such as uveitis
and in cataract which is chronic, compared to healthy controls.
METHODS:
The TAC assay was done spectrophotometrically in the serum of Eales' disease cases (n=20) as
well as in other ocular pathologies involving oxidative stress namely, uveitis and cataract (n=20
each). The oxidative stress measured in terms of TBARS, was correlated with the TAC.
Individual antioxidants namely vitamin C, E and glutathione were also estimated and correlated
with TAC.
RESULTS:
TAC was found to be significantly lower in Eales' disease with active vasculitis (0.28 ± 0.09
mM, P<0.001), Eales' disease with healed vasculitis (0.67 ± 0.09 mM), uveitis (0.46 ± 0.09 mM,
P<0.001) and cataract (0.53 ± 0.1 mM, P=0.001) compared to the healthy controls, with a TAC
level of 0.77 ± 0.09 mM. The TAC was found to correlate positively with vitamin E levels
(P=0.05), GSH (P=0.02) but not with vitamin C, as seen in ED cases. In ED cases supplemented
with vitamin E and C, there was a significant increase in the TAC level (P=0.02).
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
The TAC measurement provided a comprehensive assay for establishing a link between the
antioxidant capacity and the risk of disease as well as monitoring antioxidant therapy. This
method is a good substitute for assay of individual antioxidants as it clearly gives the status of
the oxidative stress in the disease process.
Tanna I, Samarakoon SM, Chandola HM, Shukla VJ. Physico-chemical analysis of a Herbomineral compound Mehamudgara vati - A pilot study. Ayu. 2011 Oct;32(4):572-5.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
95
Efforts have been made to lay down analytical standards for Mehamudgara vati (MMV), which
were not found reported till date. Weight variation showed that 90% tablets of MV manufactured
in the Gujarat Ayurved University Pharmacy were within acceptable range (323 mg ± 10%), pH
4.58, and disintegration time 17 min, whereas hardness was 1.25 kg/cm(2). Loss on drying was
found to be 9.3% w/w, acid insoluble ash was 0.9 %w/w, water soluble extract was 24.06% w/w
and methanol soluble extract 14.1% w/w. Determination of iron as Fe(2)O(3) was done as Lauha
bhasma being the major ingredient of MMV. The result showed that iron content was reduced in
the formulation (28.67%) as compared to that in Lauha bhasma (61.19%). In TLC, 5 spots each
at 254 nm and 366 nm were found.
Yadav SS, Galib, Patgiri BJ, Shukla VJ, Prajapati PK. Standardization of Shirishavaleha with
reference
to
physico-chemical
characteristics.
Ayu.
2011
Oct;32(4):560-5.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Ten batches of Shirishavaleha were prepared by using Twak (Bark) and Sara (Heartwood) of
Shirisha [Albizzia lebbeck Benth]. The adopted formulation was based on Shirisharishta of
Bhaishajya Ratnavali. Though Shirisharishta has significant therapeutic effect in cases of
Tamaka swasa, etc.; it has few difficulties during the pharmaceutical procedure like consuming
long time, climatic influences etc. Considering these inconveniencies, the formulation
composition has been converted in to Shirishavaleha. Avaleha has been prepared by using Twak
and Sara of Shirisha. No significant differences were found in pharmaceutical aspects of both the
samples of Shirishavaleha and the current method of preparation can be considered as standard.
Attempts were also made to develop analytical profile of avaleha, which were almost similar in
both the samples, except showing more Rf values in High Performance Thin Layer
Chromatography profile of Sara group.
Ethnomedicine
Damanpreet Singh, Bikram Singh, Rajesh Kumar Goel, Traditional uses. Phytochemistry and
pharmacology of Ficus religiosa: A review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):565583.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-523CDP71/2/c928fe6ac7cf98aba7610582d4e3933e.
Abstract:
96
Ethnopharmacological relevance Ficus religiosa L. (Moraceae) has been extensively used in
traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments of the central nervous system, endocrine
system, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive system, respiratory system and infectious
disorders.Aim of the review To comprehend the fragmented information available on the botany,
traditional uses. Phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of F. religiosa to explore its
therapeutic potential and future research opportunities.Materials and methods: All the available
information on F. religiosa was collected via electronic search (using Pubmed, SciFinder, Scirus,
Google Scholar, Agricola and Web of Science) and a library search.Results:Ethnomedical uses
of F. religiosa are recorded throughout South Asia, where it has been used for about 50 types of
disorders. Phytochemical research had led to the isolation of phytosterols, amino acids,
furanocoumarins, phenolic components, hydrocarbons, aliphatic alcohols, volatile components
and few other classes of secondary metabolites from F. religiosa. Fresh plant materials, crude
extracts and isolated components of F. religiosa showed a wide spectrum of in vitro and in vivo
pharmacological activities like, antidiabetic, cognitive enhancer, wound healing, anticonvulsant,
anti-inflammatory,
analgesic,
antimicrobial,
antiviral,
hypolipidemic,
antioxidant,
immunomodulatory, antiasthmatic, parasympathetic modulatory, esterogenic, antitumor,
antiulcer, antianxiety, antihelmintic, endotheilin receptor antagonistic, apoptosis inducer and
hypotensive.Conclusions:F. religiosa emerged as a good source of traditional medicine for the
treatment of asthma, diabetes, diarrhea, epilepsy, gastric problems, inflammatory disorders,
infectious disorders and sexual disorders. Although many of the experimental studies validated
its traditional medicinal uses, but employed uncharacterized crude extracts. Thus, it is difficult to
reproduce the results and pinpoint the bioactive metabolite. Hence, there is a need of
phytochemical standardization and bioactivity-guided identification of bioactive metabolites.
The results of few pharmacological studies and bioactive metabolites already reported in F.
religiosa warrant detailed investigation for its potential against cancer, cardiovascular disorders,
neuroinflammatory disorders, neuropsychiatric disorders, oxidative stress related disorders and
parasitic infections. The outcome of these studies will further expand the existing therapeutic
potential of F. religiosa and provide a convincing support to its future clinical use in modern
medicine.
Derita M, Zacchino S. Validation of the ethnopharmacological use of Polygonum persicaria for
its
antifungal
properties.
Nat
Prod
Commun.
2011
Jul;6(7):931-3.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Polygonum L. genus (Polygonaceae) is represented in Argentina by 21 species and some of them
have been used in the traditional medicine of our country to treat affections related with fungal
infections, such as skin ailments and vaginal diseases. With the aim of contributing to the correct
ethnopharmacological use of this genus, in the present work we describe the antifungal
97
properties of P. persicaria (species not studied up to now) and the bio-guided isolation of the
main active compounds. Results showed that dichloromethane extracts was the most active with
MICs (Minimun Inhibitory Concentrations) between 31.2 - 1000 microg/mL, validating the
ethnopharmacological use of P. persicaria to treat affections related with fungal infections in the
Argentinean traditional medicine.
Gomes A, Alam MA, Bhattacharya S, Dasgupta SC, Mukherjee S, Bhattacharya S, Gomes A.
Ethno biological usage of zoo products in rheumatoid arthritis. Indian J Exp Biol. 2011
Aug;49(8):565-73. Review. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common autoimmune disorder which causes
swelling, redness, pain, stiffness, restriction of limb movements, decreases life expectancy and
early death of the patients. Available drugs include non steroidal anti-inflammatory and
analgesics, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and steroids (glucocorticoids etc). All these
drugs have their own limitations such as gastrointestinal irritations, cardiovascular problems, and
drug dependency. Search for alternative therapy from natural products are being ventured
throughout the world. Zoo therapy in arthritis, a common practice of the ancient times that have
been mentioned in traditional and folk medicine. The scientific basis of some of the zoo products
are being explored and have been showing promising results in experimental rheumatoid
arthritis. These therapies have minimum side effects and many of them have potential to give rise
to drug development clues against rheumatoid arthritis. The present review is an effort to
establish the folk and traditional treatment of rheumatoid arthritis using zoo products.
Ka H. Wong, George Q. Li, Kong M. Li, Valentina Razmovski-Naumovski, Kelvin Chan, Kudzu
root: Traditional uses and potential medicinal benefits in diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Journal
of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):584-607.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-524WF561/2/d78bb3b0d18ba5d5a4269c6107821da8.
Abstract:
Kudzu root (Gegen in Chinese) is the dried root of Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi, a semi-woody,
perennial and leguminous vine native to South East Asia. It is often used interchangeably in
traditional Chinese medicine with thomson kudzu root (Fengen in Chinese), the dried root of P.
thomsonii, although the Chinese Pharmacopoeia has separated them into two monographs since
the 2005 edition. For more than 2000 years, kudzu root has been used as a herbal medicine for
the treatment of fever, acute dysentery, diarrhoea, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Both
98
English and Chinese literatures on the traditional applications. Phytochemistry, pharmacological
activities, toxicology, quality control and potential interactions with conventional drugs of both
species have been included in the present review. Over seventy phytochemicals have been
identified in kudzu root, with isoflavonoids and triterpenoids as the major constituents.
Isoflavonoids, in particular puerarin, have been used in most of the pharmacological studies.
Animal and cellular studies have provided support for the traditional uses of kudzu root on
cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and endocrine systems, including diabetes and its complications.
Further studies to define the active phytochemical compositions, quality standards and clinical
efficacy are warranted. Strong interdisciplinary collaboration to bridge the gap between
traditional medicine and modern biomedical medicine is therefore needed for the development of
kudzu root as an effective medicine for the management of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Marco Leonti, The future is written: Impact of scripts on the cognition, selection, knowledge and
transmission of medicinal plant use and its implications for ethnobotany and thnopharmacology.
Journal
of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):542-555.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-52079XY1/2/909b72bb74eda710c190d9dacfa248c0.
Abstract:
Aim of the study:Apart from empirically learned medicinal and pharmacological properties, the
selection of medicinal plants is dependent on cognitive features, ecological factors and cultural
history. In literate societies the transmission of medicinal plant knowledge through texts and,
more recently, other media containing local as well as non-local knowledge has a more
immediate and a more prolonged effect than oral transmission. Therefore, I try to visualize how
field based studies in ethnobiology and especially medical ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology
run the risk of repeating information and knowledge and illustrate the importance of
differentiating and acknowledging the origin, transmission and rationale of plant use made by
humans.Materials and methods Reviewing literature dealing with the traditional parameters (e.g.
hot/cold dichotomy, organoleptic properties, doctrine of signatures) influencing the selection and
transmission of plant use in a juxtaposition to our recent finding of causal influence of text on
local plant use. Discussing the passing down of knowledge by text as a special case of
oblique/one-to-many knowledge transmission.Results Historical texts on materia medica,
popular books on plant use, clinical studies, and informants of ethnobotanical field studies
generate a circle of information and knowledge, which progressively conditions the results of
ethnobotanical field studies. While text reporting on phytotherapeutical trends may cause
innovation through the introduction of 'new' applications to local customs, persistently repeating
well established folk remedies leads to the consolidation of such uses adding a conservative
dimension to a local pharmacopoeia, which might not actually be there to that
extent.Conclusions Such a 'shaping' of what might appear to be the results of a field investigation
99
is clearly outside the ordinary principles of scientific enquiry. The traditional pillars of
ethnobotanical field studies - that is, 'input to drug discovery' and 'conservation of cultural
heritage' - are also incompatible with this process. Ethnobotancial field studies aimed at a
contribution to natural products research and/or the conservation of cultural heritage, as well as
those aimed at an assessment and validation of local pharmacopoeias should differentiate
between local plant use and widespread as well as modern knowledge reported in popular
textbooks and scientific literature.
Patel JR, Tripathi P, Sharma V, Chauhan NS, Dixit VK. Phyllanthus amarus: ethnomedicinal
uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology: a review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Nov 18;138(2):286313. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn. belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae is a small herb well
known for its medicinal properties and widely used worldwide. P. amarus is an important plant
of Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine which is used in the problems of stomach, genitourinary
system, liver, kidney and spleen. It is bitter, astringent, stomachic, diuretic, febrifuge and
antiseptic. The whole plant is used in gonorrhea, menorrhagia and other genital affections. It is
useful in gastropathy, diarrhoea, dysentery, intermittent fevers, ophthalmopathy, scabies, ulcers
and wounds.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The present review covers a literature across from 1980 to 2011. Some information collected
from traditional Ayurvedic texts and published literature on ethanomedicinal uses of Phyllanthus
amarus in different countries worldwide.
RESULTS:
Phytochemical studies have shown the presence of many valuable compounds such as lignans,
flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins (ellagitannins), polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols and alkaloids.
The extracts and the compounds isolated from P. amarus show a wide spectrum of
pharmacological activities including antiviral, antibacterial, antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory,
antimalarial, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective
nephroprotective and diurectic properties.
CONCLUSION:
The present review summarizes information concerning the morphology, ecology,
ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biological activities, clinical applications and toxicological
100
reports of P. amarus. This review aims at gathering the research work undertaken till date on this
plant in order to provide sufficient baseline information for future works and commercial
exploitation.
Pharmacognosy
Abd El-Mawla AM, Mohamed KM, Mostafa AM. Induction of Biologically Active Flavonoids
in Cell Cultures of Morus nigra and Testing their Hypoglycemic Efficacy. Sci Pharm.
2011;79(4):951-61. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The antidiabetic activity of both leaves and MJ-treated cell cultures of Morus nigra was
evaluated after their oral administration to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The antidiabetic
activity of extracts from leaves given to streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats for 10 days increased
with increasing doses of leaves extract up to 500 mg/kg/day. The administration of 500
mg/kg/day of leaves extract reduced the concentration of glucose from 370 ± 7.31 mg/dl
(control) to 154 ± 6.27 mg/dl, and a significant increase in the insulin level from 11.3 ± 0.31
μU/ml (control) to 14.6 ± 0.43 μU/ml was recorded. Cell suspension cultures were established
from the young leaves of Morus nigra cultivated on modified MS medium supplemented with
2.0 mg/l 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), 0.2 mg/l 6-(furfurylamino)purine (kinetin). The
changes in cell weight and flavonoid content were monitored between day zero and 12. The
linear increase in fresh weight was found to be parallel to flavonoids production. Cell cultures
treated with 100 μM methyl jasmonate for 24 hours showed a noticeable increase in level of
flavonoids and significant and more effective hypoglycemic activity than that for extract from
leaves. The major flavonoids were isolated by TLC and HPLC and identified as rutin, quercetin,
Morusin and cyclomorusin by co-chromatography and mass spectrometry in comparison to
samples of authentic reference compounds.
Inić S, Kujundzić N. The first independent pharmacognosy institute in the world and its founder
Julije
Domac
(1853-1928).
Pharmazie.
2011
Sep;66(9):720-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
101
The aim of this article is to describe the foundation and development of the first distinct Institute
ofPharmacognosy in the world and to provide a biography of its founder Julije Domac. The
Institute was founded in 1896 as a separate institution at the University of Zagreb, Croatia, part
of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the time. In other European university
centers, pharmacognosy institutes were founded together with pharmacology, botany,
pharmaceutical or general chemistry. Julije Domac (1853-1928) graduated pharmacy from the
University of Vienna (1874) and received his Ph.D. from the University of Graz (1880) with a
paper elucidating the structure of hexene and mannitol obtained from manna. He
lectured pharmacognosy at the University of Zagreb (1887-1924), wrote chemistry
and pharmacognosy textbooks, and co-wrote the Croatian-Slavonian Pharmacopoeia.
Santra G, Sinha PK, De D. Nephropathy in association with annular psoriasis.
Physicians India. 2011 Sep;59:595-7. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
J Assoc
Abstract
Occurrence of glomerular diseases in psoriasis is rare, although the number of reports is
increasing in recent years. Different types of glomerular involvement have been reported but
mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis with IgA deposits, AA amyloidosis and membranous
nephropathy are relatively common in association with psoriasis. The term 'psoriatic
nephropathy' has been introduced recently. We contribute a case to the ongoing discussin
regarding psoriatic nephropathy. Our patient had mesangio-proliferative glomerulonephritis
(with IgG and C3 deposition) in association with annular psoriasis (rare variety of chronic plaque
psoriasis). Presence of messangio-proliferative glomerulonephritis with IgG deposition is rare in
association with psoriasis. The patient responded well to weekly methotrexate (15 mg) injection.
Methotrexate has not been tried previously in psoriatic nephropathy or reported to be effective in
it.
Sharma SK, Sheela MA. Pharmacognostic evaluation of leaves of certain Phyllanthus species
used as a botanical source of Bhumyamalaki in Ayurveda. Ayu. 2011 Apr;32(2):250-3.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Today, World over, there is a great deal of interest in Ayurvedic system of medicine and thus the
demand for various medicinal plants in the production of Ayurvedic medicines is ever
increasing. Due to varied geographical locations where these plants grow, a great deal of
adulteration or substitution is encountered in the commercial markets. Histological studies of the
102
plant drugs are not only to study the adulterants but also are indispensable in accurate
identification. Microscopic observations of the Phyllanthus species revealed the occurrence of
anisocytic and paracytic type of stomata in Phyllanthus amarus , while only anisocytic type of
stomata is present in P. fraternus and P. maderaspatensis. Epidermal cell walls of P. amarus and
P. fraternus are wavy and straight walled epidermal walls are observed in P. maderaspatensis. In
India all the above-mentioned species of Phyllanthus are called "Bhumyamalaki" and they are
being used in the treatment of various liver disorders. However, all the species of Phyllanthus
doesn't have the active constituents responsible for the treatment of liver disorders. In the present
investigation by using simple micro techniques accurate identification of different species of
Phyllanthus has been established.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
These findings indicate that hydroalcoholic extract of the fruit T. chebula displays potential
antiulcerogenic activity. This activity thus lends pharmacological credence to the suggested use
of the plant as a natural remedy in the treatment or management of ulcer.
Pharmacology
Abd El-Mawla AM, Mohamed KM, Mostafa AM. Induction of Biologically Active Flavonoids
in Cell Cultures of Morus nigra and Testing their Hypoglycemic Efficacy. Sci Pharm.
2011;79(4):951-61. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The antidiabetic activity of both leaves and MJ-treated cell cultures of Morus nigra was
evaluated after their oral administration to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The antidiabetic
activity of extracts from leaves given to streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats for 10 days increased
with increasing doses of leaves extract up to 500 mg/kg/day. The administration of 500
mg/kg/day of leaves extract reduced the concentration of glucose from 370 ± 7.31 mg/dl
(control) to 154 ± 6.27 mg/dl, and a significant increase in the insulin level from 11.3 ± 0.31
μU/ml (control) to 14.6 ± 0.43 μU/ml was recorded. Cell suspension cultures were established
from the young leaves of Morus nigra cultivated on modified MS medium supplemented with
2.0 mg/l 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), 0.2 mg/l 6-(furfurylamino)purine (kinetin). The
103
changes in cell weight and flavonoid content were monitored between day zero and 12. The
linear increase in fresh weight was found to be parallel to flavonoids production. Cell cultures
treated with 100 μM methyl jasmonate for 24 hours showed a noticeable increase in level of
flavonoids and significant and more effective hypoglycemic activity than that for extract from
leaves. The major flavonoids were isolated by TLC and HPLC and identified as rutin, quercetin,
Morusin and cyclomorusin by co-chromatography and mass spectrometry in comparison to
samples of authentic reference compounds.
Abdel-Hady NM, Dawoud GT, El-Hela AA, Morsy TA. Interrelation of antioxidant, anticancer
and antilieshmania effects of some selected Egyptian plants and their phenolic constituents. J
Egypt Soc Parasitol. 2011 Dec;41(3):785-800. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Medicinal plants are the most potential resource of new therapeutic agents. They are diverse,
largely productive, biologically active and chemically unique; among their constituents
"polyphenol compounds group" one of the main determinant factors in evaluating the
pharmacological potentials i.e. polyphenols display an array of pharmacological properties such
as antioxidant, immunostimulant, antitumor and antiparasitic effects. Cancer is a dreadful human
disease, increasing with changing life style, nutrition and global warming while current available
anticancer drugs cause serious side effects in most instances. Several reports suggested the
relationship between antioxidant, anticancer and antiparasitic effects; they suggested that they act
indirectly through promoting host resistance, restabilizing body equilibrim and conditioning
body tissues in addition to their direct effect on certain parasites involved in cancer etiology.
This work was conducted for estimation of total phenolic, flavonoids, phenylethanoid glycoside
and iridoid content of twenty-three selected Egyptian plants as well as screening of their
anticancer, antioxidant and antileishmanial effects, the overall gained results for suggest that the
most suitable medicinal plant used as anticancer and antioxidant is Petrea volubilis L. which
contain adequate mixture of total phenolic compounds 88.7 mg% and flavonoids 50.80 mg% and
also suggest that flavonoid compounds are the category of phenolic compounds possess
significant antioxidant and anticancer effects while the antilieshamnia screening revealed that
Thymus decussatus Benth. extract exhibited the highest effect due to the presence of flavonoids
and iridoids in adequate combination where iridoid compounds 201 mg% and flavonoid content
was 128 mg%.
Abdul-Hay S, Schiefer IT, Chandrasena RE, Li M, Abdelhamid R, Wang YT, Tavassoli E,
Michalsen B, Asghodom RT, Luo J, Thatcher GR. NO-SSRIs: Nitric Oxide Chimera Drugs
Incorporating a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. ACS Med Chem Lett. 2011 Sep
8;2(9):656-661. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
104
Abstract
Hybrid nitrate drugs have been reported to provide NO bioactivity to ameliorate side effects or to
provide ancillary therapeutic activity. Hybrid nitrate selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (NOSSRIs) were prepared to improve the therapeutic profile of this drug class. A synthetic strategy
for use of a thiocarbamate linker was developed, which in the case of NO-fluoxetine facilitated
hydrolysis to fluoxetine at pH 7.4 within 7 hours. In cell culture, NO-SSRIs were weak inhibitors
of the serotonin transporter, however, in the forced swimming task (FST) in rats, NO-fluoxetine
demonstrated classical antidepressant activity. Comparison of NO-fluoxetine, with fluoxetine,
and an NO-chimera nitrate developed for Alzheimer's disease (GT-1061), was made in the step
through passive avoidance (STPA) test of learning and memory in rats treated with scopolamine
as an amnesic agent. Fluoxetine was inactive, whereas NO-fluoxetine and GT-1061 both restored
long-term memory. GT-1061 also produced antidepressant behavior in FST. These data support
the potential for NO-SSRIs to overcome the lag in onset of therapeutic action and provide cotherapy of neuropathologies concomitant with depression.
Adamson PC, Krupp K, Freeman AH, Klausner JD, Reingold AL, Madhivanan P. Prevalence &
correlates of primary infertility among young women in Mysore, India. Indian J Med Res. 2011
Oct;134:440-6. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
There are sparse data on the prevalence of primary infertility in India and almost none from
Southern India. This study describes the correlates and prevalence of primary infertility among
young women in Mysore, India.
METHODS:
The baseline data were collected between November 2005 through March 2006, among 897
sexually active women, aged 15-30 yr, for a study investigating the relationship of bacterial
vaginosis and acquisition of herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) infection. A secondary data
analysis of the baseline data was undertaken. Primary infertility was defined as having been
married for longer than two years, not using contraception and without a child. Logistic
regression was used to examine factors associated with primary infertility.
RESULTS:
The mean age of the women was 25.9 yr (range: 16-30 yr) and the prevalence of primary
infertility was 12.6 per cent [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 10.5-15.0%]. The main factor
105
associated with primary infertility was HSV-2 seropositivity (adjusted odds ratio: 3.41; CI: 1.86,
6.26).
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
The estimated prevalence of primary infertility among women in the study was within the range
reported by the WHO and similar to other estimates from India. Further research is needed to
examine the role of HSV-2 in primary infertility.
Adhami HR, Farsam H, Krenn L. Screening of medicinal plants from Iranian traditional
medicine for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Phytother Res. 2011 Aug;25(8):1148-52. doi:
10.1002/ptr.3409. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
To find new herbal compounds with an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory effect, this study
focused on herbal drugs and resins which have been used in Iranian traditional medicine for the
treatment of cognitive disorders. Forty drugs were selected from authoritative written documents
of Iranian traditional medicine. Each drug was extracted by accelerated solvent extraction using
dichloromethane followed by methanol. The 80 extracts were screened for AChE inhibitory
activity by a TLC bioautography method. The inhibiting effect of the 32 most active extracts was
measured by a microplate colorimetric assay. Due to the best activity, the seeds of Peganum
harmala L. were investigated in detail. From the TLC bioautography assay the alkaloids
harmaline and harmine were identified as active compounds. This result was confirmed by
means of HPLC-DAD. The IC(50) values were 41.2 μg/mL for the methanol extract, 95.5 μg/mL
for the dichloromethane extract, 8.4 μg/mL for harmaline and 10.9 μg/mL for harmine. The
concentrations of active compounds in the extracts were determined by a fast and precise HPLC
method. As the amounts of harmaline and harmine in the extracts were correlated with the IC(50)
values of the extracts, it can be concluded that these two alkaloids are responsible for the AChE
inhibitory activity of P. harmala.
Aggarwal BB, Prasad S, Reuter S, Kannappan R, Yadev VR, Park B, Kim JH, Gupta SC,
Phromnoi K, Sundaram C, Prasad S, Chaturvedi MM, Sung B. Identification of novel antiinflammatory agents from Ayurvedic medicine for prevention of chronic diseases: "reverse
pharmacology" and "bedside to bench" approach. Curr Drug Targets. 2011 Oct;12(11):1595653. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
106
Inflammation, although first characterized by Cornelius Celsus, a physician in first Century
Rome, it was Rudolf Virchow, a German physician in nineteenth century who suggested a link
between inflammation and cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, pulmonary diseases,
neurological diseases and other chronic diseases. Extensive research within last three decades
has confirmed these observations and identified the molecular basis for most chronic diseases
and for the associated inflammation. The transcription factor, Nuclear Factor-kappaB (NFkappaB) that controls over 500 different gene products, has emerged as major mediator of
inflammation. Thus agents that can inhibit NF-kappaB and diminish chronic inflammation have
potential to prevent or delay the onset of the chronic diseases and further even treat them. In an
attempt to identify novel anti-inflammatory agents which are safe and effective, in contrast to
high throughput screen, we have turned to "reverse pharmacology" or "bed to benchside"
approach. We found that Ayurveda, a science of long life, almost 6,000 years old, can serve as a
"goldmine" for novel anti-inflammatory agents used for centuries to treat chronic diseases. The
current review is an attempt to provide description of various Ayurvedicplants currently used for
treatment, their active chemical components, and the inflammatory pathways that they inhibit.
Ahmad M, Imran H, Yaqeen Z, Rehman Z, Rahman A, Fatima N, Sohail T. Pharmacological
profile of Salvadora persica. Pak J Pharm Sci. 2011 Jul;24(3):323-30.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
This work was conducted to investigate the various pharmacological activities of Salvadora.
persica family Salvadoracea and that includes anti inflammatory, analgesic, CNS, bleeding and
clotting time activity by oral administration at the dose of 300 and 500mg/kg of body weight in
animal models. Acute oral toxicity results showed that crude extract of S. persica is safe up to the
dose of 5g/kg body weight of animals. Carraganeen induced hind paw edema method for anti
inflammatory activity, tail immersion test method for analgesic activity, Rota rod and grip
strength test for CNS activity were carried out in animal models. The analgesic activity was
compared with aspirin, 300mg/kg body weight, anti inflammatory activity was compared with
indomethacine, 10mg/kg body weight, Transamin 250mg/kg and Vitamin K 10mg were used for
bleeding and clotting time activity respectively while diazepam 5mg/kg were used as standard
for behavior and CNS activities. In all activities S. persica showed prolonged and dose dependent
effects. Phytochemical analysis was also carried out which showed the presence of certain
phytoconstituents which possesses these properties. Therefore the results justified the traditional
use of the plant.
Akase T, Shimada T, Harasawa Y, Akase T, Ikeya Y, Nagai E, Iizuka S, Nakagami G, Iizaka S,
Sanada H, Aburada M. Preventive Effects of Salacia reticulata on Obesity and Metabolic
107
Disorders in TSOD Mice. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.2011;2011:484590.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The extracts of Salacia reticulata (Salacia extract), a plant that has been used for the treatment of
early diabetes, rheumatism and gonorrhea in Ayurveda, have been shown to have an anti-obesity
effect and suppress hyperglycemia. In this study, the effects of Salacia extract on various
symptoms of metabolic disorder were investigated and compared using these TSOD mice and
non-obese TSNO mice. Body weight, food intake, plasma biochemistry, visceral and
subcutaneous fat (X-ray and CT), glucose tolerance, blood pressure and pain tolerance were
measured, and histopathological examination of the liver was carried out. A significant dosedependent decline in the gain in body weight, accumulation of visceral and subcutaneous fat and
an improvement of abnormal glucose tolerance, hypertension and peripheral neuropathy were
noticed in TSOD mice. In addition, hepatocellular swelling, fatty degeneration of hepatocytes,
inflammatory cell infiltration and single-cell necrosis were observed on histopathological
examination of the liver in TSOD mice. Salacia extract markedly improved these symptoms
upon treatment. Based on the above results, it is concluded that Salacia extract has remarkable
potential to prevent obesity and associated metabolic disorders including the development of
metabolic syndrome.
Akdemir Z, Kahraman C, Tatlı II, Küpeli Akkol E, Süntar I, Keles H. Bioassay-guided isolation
of anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healer glycosides from the flowers of
Verbascum mucronatum Lam. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Jul 14;136(3):436-43.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
The leaves, flowers and whole aerial parts of Verbascum L. species have been used to treat
respiratory problems, haemorrhoids and other types of inflammatory conditions in traditional
Turkish medicine.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
In order to evaluate this traditional information, the anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and
wound healing activities of Verbascum mucronatum Lam. which is used as haemostatic in
Turkish folk medicine were investigated.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
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In vivo inhibitory effect of the extracts on the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model in
mice was studied for the assessment of anti-inflammatory activity. Moreover, the wound healing
potential of the plant were evaluated by using in vivo wound healing experimental models, i.e.
incision and excision models on mice and rats, were comparatively assessed with a reference
ointment Madecassol(®). Skin samples were also evaluated histopathologically.
RESULTS:
The results of these experimental studies exhibited that Verbascum mucronatum displays antiinflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healing activities. Through bioassay-guided
fractionation and isolation procedures four iridoid glucosides, ajugol (1), aucubin (2),
lasianthoside I (3), catalpol (4), two saponins, ilwensisaponin A (5) and C (6) and a
phenylethanoid glycoside, verbascoside (7) were isolated and their structures were elucidated by
spectral techniques. Verbascoside (7) was found to possess significant wound healing activity as
well as antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potentials, per os without inducing any apparent
acute toxicity or gastric damage.
CONCLUSION:
The experimental study revealed that Verbascum mucronatum displays remarkable
antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities.
Al-Musayeib N, Perveen S, Fatima I, Nasir M, Hussain A. Antioxidant, anti-glycation and antiinflammatory activities of phenolic constituents from Cordia sinensis. Molecules. 2011 Dec
8;16(12):10214-26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Nine compounds have been isolated from the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of C. sinensis, namely
protocatechuic acid (1), trans-caffeic acid (2), methyl rosmarinate (3), rosmarinic acid (4),
kaempferide-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), quercetin3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside
(7),
kaempferide-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl
(1→6)-β-Dglucopyranoside (8) and kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamno-pyranosyl (1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside
(9), all reported for the first time from this species. The structures of these compounds were
deduced on the basis of spectroscopic studies, including 1D and 2D NMR techniques.
Compounds 1-9 were investigated for biological activity and showed significant antiinflammatory activity in the carrageen induced rat paw edema test. The antioxidant activities of
isolated compounds 1-9 were evaluated by the DPPH radical scavenging test, and compounds 1,
2, 4 and 7-9 exhibited marked scavenging activity compared to the standard BHA. These
compounds were further studied for their anti-glycation properties and some compounds showed
significant anti-glycation inhibitory activity. The purity of compounds 2-5, 8 and 9 was
109
confirmed by HPLC. The implications of these results for the chemotaxonomic studies of the
genus Cordia have also been discussed.
Al-Said MS, Mothana RA, Al-Sohaibani MO, Rafatullah S. Ameliorative effect of Grewia tenax
(Forssk) fiori fruit extract on CCl(4)-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity in rats. J Food
Sci.
2011
Nov-Dec;76(9):T200-6.
doi:
10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02381.x.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The ethanol extract of Grewia tenax (GTE) fruit was tested for possible efficacy against carbon
tetrachloride (CCl(4)) induced liver toxicity in Wistar albino rats. GTE at doses of 250 and 500
mg/kg were administered orally to CCl(4)-treated rats. Acute toxicity test and sleeping time
determination were done with mice. The results showed that oral administration of GTE for 3 wk
to rats significantly reduced the CCl(4)-induced elevated levels of serum glutamate oxaloacetate
transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline
phosphatase, bilirubin, cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, very low
density lipoproteins, and triglycerides. Moreover, it was found that the treatment with GTE
significantly elevated the hemoglobin level in serum and increased the nonprotein sulfhydryl and
total protein contents in the liver tissue, and a significant diminution was observed in the CCl(4)induced elevated levels of malondialdehyde in the liver tissue. The biochemical findings were
supported by an evaluation with liver histopathology. Pentobarbital-induced prolongation of
narcolepsy in mice was shortened significantly by the extract. The observed hepatoprotective
effect is believed to occur due to antioxidant properties of the contents of G. tenax extract, which
may provide a new drug to be used for fighting liver diseases and it validates its folkloric use in
anemic and other conditions.
Albert D. Atsamo, Telesphore B. Nguelefack, Jacques Y. Datte, Albert Kamanyi, Acute and
subchronic oral toxicity assessment of the aqueous extract from the stem bark of Erythrina
senegalensis DC (Fabaceae) in rodents.Journal of Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):697-702.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-520M1W03/2/dc0b451108842a6ddb6161edf4fab94c
Abstract:
Aim of the study: The decoction of the stem bark of Erythrina senegalensis (EAES) is
traditionally used in the Western region of Cameroon against liver disorders. The present study
evaluated the potential toxicity of this decoction after acute and sub-chronic administration in
rodents.Materials and methods: In acute study, a single administration of EAES was given orally
110
to mice at doses ranging from 1.25 to 12.5 g/kg. General behaviour, adverse effects and mortality
were determined for up to 14 days post treatment. In the sub-chronic study, EAES was given
orally as a single administration to Wistar rats at doses of 300, 600 and 1200 mg/kg/day for 28
days. Animal body weight was observed throughout the experimental period while
haematological and biochemical parameters of blood and urine, as well as kidney and liver
tissues histology were evaluated at the end of the experiment.Results: In the acute study in mice,
none of the doses used induced mortality or significant behavioural changes. In the sub-chronic
study in rats, daily oral administration of EAES at the dose of 600 mg/kg resulted in a significant
increase in the relative body weight at the last week of treatment. The relative weights of organs
were not affected by the treatment. No haematological changes were observed a part of a
significant increase in WBC count at the dose of 600 mg/kg. Serum AST, ALT, ALP, total
protein, total cholesterol and triglycerides decreased significantly while total and conjugated
bilirubin significantly increased. Renal function indices assay in blood showed significant
modification in all the treated groups compared to control while, in urine, only urea excretion
markedly reduced at a dose of 1200 mg/kg. Histological analysis did no show any liver or kidney
alteration.Conclusion: These results demonstrated that there is a wide margin of safety for the
therapeutic use of EAES and further corroborated the traditional use of this extract as a
hepatoprotective agent.
Ali NH, Faizi S, Kazmi SU. Antibacterial activity in spices and local medicinal plants against
clinical isolates of Karachi, Pakistan. Pharm Biol. 2011 Aug;49(8):833-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Development of resistance in human pathogens against conventional antibiotic necessitates
searching indigenous medicinal plants having antibacterial property. Twenty-seven medicinal
plants used actively in folklore, Ayurvedic and traditional system of medicine were selected for
the evaluation of their antimicrobial activity for this study. Eleven plants chosen from these 27
are used as spices in local cuisine.
OBJECTIVE:
Evaluation of the effectiveness of some medicinal plant extracts against clinical isolates.
MATERIAL AND METHODS:
Nonedible plant parts were extracted with methanol and evaporated in vacuo to obtain residue.
Powdered edible parts were boiled three times and cooled in sterile distilled water for 2 min each
111
and filtrate collected. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of plant extracts and
filtrates/antibiotics was evaluated against clinical isolates by microbroth dilution method.
RESULTS:
Water extract of Syzygium aromaticum L. (Myrtaceae) buds, methanol extracts of Ficus carica
L. (Moraceae) and Olea europaea L. (Oleaceae) leaves and Peganum harmala L. (Nitrariaceae)
seeds had MIC ranges of 31.25-250 µg/ml. S. aromaticum nhibited growth of Staphylococcus
aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi
and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. F. carica and O. europaea inhibited growth of S. aureus, S.
epidermidis, and S. pyogenes whereas P. harmala was effective against S. aureus, Acinetobacter
calcoaceticus and Candida albicans. Ampicillin, velosef, sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline and
ceftazidime, cefotaxime, cefepime, which are used as control, had MIC ≥ 50 and 1.5 µg/ml,
respectively, for organisms sensitive to extracts.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
Mono/multiextract from identified plants will provide an array of safe antimicrobial agents to
control infections by drug-resistant bacteria.
Ali Z, Khan IA. Alkyl phenols and saponins from the roots of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah).
Phytochemistry. 2011 Nov;72(16):2075-80. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Recently, there is a remarkable boom in the sales of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah) in the
Malaysian market, as an extract of the plant is used to gain energy and libido as well as to treat
many other ailments. A chemical analysis of its roots was undertaken and three metabolites,
demethylbelamcandaquinone B (1), fatimahol (2), and dexyloprimulanin (3) together with 21
known compounds including epoxyoleanane glycosides, alkenated phenolics, cerebroside,
glycerogalactolipids, and lipids were isolated and identified. Structure elucidation was achieved
by spectroscopic and chemical studies. The MeOH extract of KF and compounds 12 and 13
exhibited moderate in vitro antibacterial activity.
Annan K, Jackson N, Dickson RA, Sam GH, Komlaga G. Acaricidal effect of an isolate from
Hoslundia opposita vahl against Amblyomma variegatum (Acari: Ixodidae). Pharmacognosy
Res. 2011 Jul;3(3):185-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
112
Hoslundia opposita Vahl. (Lamiaceae), a common local shrub in Ghana, is traditionally known
not only for its pharmacological benefits but also for its insecticidal properties. Its acaricidal
property, however, has not been investigated.
OBJECTIVE:
To test the acaricidal effects of the crude extract and fractions of H. opposita leaves as well as to
isolate and characterize the acaricidal principles.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The crude methanolic extract, pet. ether, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions of the leaves of H.
opposita were tested against the larvae of the cattle tick, Amblyomma variegatum, using the
Larval Packet Test. A bioassay-guided isolation was carried out to identify the acaricidal
principle obtained from the ethyl acetate fraction.
RESULTS:
The active principle was characterised as ursolic acid, a triterpene previously isolated from the
leaves of the same plant. The extract and fractions were less potent than the control, malathion
(LC(50) 1.14 × 10(-4) mg/ml). Among the plant samples however the crude methanolic extract
exhibited the highest effect against the larvae (LC(50) 5.74 × 10(-2) mg/ml), followed by the
ethyl acetate fraction (LC(50) 8.10 × 10(-2) mg/ml). Ursolic acid, pet. ether and aqueous
fractions however showed weak acaricidal effects with LC(50) values of 1.13 mg/ml, 8.96 × 10(1) mg/ml and 1.44 mg/ml, respectively.
CONCLUSION:
Ursolic acid was not as potent as the crude methanolic extract and the ethyl acetate fraction from
which it was isolated. The overall acaricidal effect of H. opposita may have been due to synergy
with other principles having acaricidal properties.
Ansil PN, Nitha A, Prabha SP, Wills PJ, Jazaira V, Latha MS. Protective effect of
Amorphophallus campanulatus (Roxb.) Blume. tuber against thioacetamide induced oxidative
stress
in
rats.
Asian
Pac
J
Trop
Med.
2011
Nov;4(11):870-7.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To identify the phytochemical constituents of Amorphophallus campanulatus (A. campanulatus)
tuber and to evaluate its antioxidant potential through in vitro and in vivo models.
113
METHODS:
Phytochemical screening and in vitro antioxidant activities of A. campanulatus tuber n-hexane
extract (ACHE) and methanolic extract (ACME) were evaluated using DPPH, hydroxyl radical,
reducing power and total antioxidant capacity assays. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents
were also investigated. The protective potential of two different doses of ACME (125 and 250
mg/kg) was also evaluated against thioacetamide (TAA) induced oxidative stress in rats.
Silymarin used as a standard drug control. Hepatotoxicity was assessed by quantifying the serum
levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline
phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The antioxidant potential of ACME were
also evaluated by the estimation of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione
reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid
peroxidation (Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) in hepatic and renal tissues.
Histopathologic changes of liver were also evaluated.
RESULTS:
In vitro studies revealed that ACME has higher antioxidant and radical scavenging activity than
ACHE, which may be attributed to its higher phenolic and flavonoid content. ACME
significantly prevented the elevation of serum AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, and tissue
malondialdehyde levels(P < 0.05). Hepatic and renal GSH, GST, GR, GPx, and catalase levels
were remarkably increased by the treatment with the extract. Quantification of histopathological
changes also supported the dose dependent protective effects of ACME.
CONCLUSIONS:
The results do suggest that A. campanulatus tuber could be considered as a potential source of
natural antioxidant.
Asamenew G, Bisrat D, Mazumder A, Asres K. In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activities
of anthrone and chromone from the latex of Aloe harlana Reynolds. Phytother Res. 2011
Dec;25(12):1756-60. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3482. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In the search for new antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds from plants, the latex of the
medicinal plant Aloe harlana Reynolds from Ethiopia was subjected to bioassay-guided
fractionation, which led to the isolation of two known compounds, anthrone (aloin) and
chromone (7-O-methylaloeresin A). The latex and its two constituents were assessed for their
possible antimicrobial activities against 23 bacterial and four fungal strains using the disc
diffusion method and their antioxidant activity by two complementary test systems, namely 2,2diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2-deoxyribose degradation assay methods. The isolated
114
compounds showed promising results against various pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains in
comparison with standard drugs. Moreover, 7-O-methylaloeresin A exhibited good activity
against multiple drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus (NCTC 11994) and Salmonella
typhimurium (ATCC 1255) with MIC values of 0.72 and 0.18 mm, respectively. Among the
fungal strains tested, Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) was the most susceptible organism to the
latex and the two isolated compounds. The latex and isolated compounds also showed significant
activities on both antioxidant assays with the highest activity being observed for 7-Omethylaloeresin A, which gave IC(50) values of 0.026 mm and 0.021 mm for DPPH and 2deoxyribose degradation assay, respectively. These findings support the traditional uses of the
plant for the treatment of various infectious and inflammatory diseases.
Ashok BK, Bhat SD, Shukla VJ, Ravishankar B. Study on the diuretic activity of Euphorbia
fusiformis
Buch.-Ham.
in
albino
rats.
Ayu.
2011
Jul;32(3):385-7.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to evaluate diuretic activity of Euphorbia fusiformis root
powder in Wistar strain albino rats. Randomly selected animals were divided into three groups of
six animals each. The root powder was suspended in distilled water and administered orally at a
dose of 90 mg/kg therapeutically equivalent dose (TED) and 180 mg/kg (TED × 02) to overnight
fasted rats. The diuretic activity was evaluated by determination of urine volume and urinary
electrolyte concentrations. Test drug showed significant increase in urine volume and urinary
electrolyte excretion in a dose-dependant manner. Thus, from this study, it can be concluded that
roots of E. fusiformis possess diuretic activity.
Aslan M, Orhan DD, Orhan N. Effect of Gentiana olivieri on experimental epilepsy models.
Pharmacogn Mag. 2011 Oct;7(28):344-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Flowering herbs of Gentiana olivieri Griseb. (Gentianaceae) are widely used as bitter tonic,
stomachic, stimulant of appetite, antipyretic, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic and for mental
problems in the different regions of Turkey.
OBJECTIVE:
To establish the anticonvulsant activity potential of G. olivieri.
115
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In this work, the ethanol extract of G. olivieri was tested in three doses (200, 750 and 1000
mg/kg) for anticonvulsant activity against seizures produced in mice by pentylenetetrazole
(PTZ), picrotoxin (PIC) and maximal electroshock (MES). Neurotoxicity of the ethanol extract
was also determined by the Rota rod test to evaluate the safety. Ethosuximide (150 mg/kg),
diazepam (0.5 mg/kg) and carbamazepine (30 mg/kg) were used as reference drugs.
RESULTS:
Intraperitonally, injection of the extract significantly prolonged the onset of seizures at doses of
200 and 750 mg/kg, but did not alter the incidence of PTZ-induced seizures. Onset of PICinduced seizures was delayed by the injection of the extract (1000 mg/kg). Moreover, only 750
mg/kg of the extract protected 25% of the mice against PIC-induced seizures. On the other hand,
G. olivieri extract (200, 750 and 1000 mg/kg) showed a significant protective effect against
MES-induced seizures. In the Rota rod test, the ethanol extract (200 mg/kg, ip) induced
disturbance in motor coordination.
CONCLUSION:
The results indicate that G. olivieri has possessed anticonvulsant activity against MES-induced
seizures in mice.
Awad NE, Seida AA, Hamed MA, Elbatanony MM. Hypolipidaemic and antioxidant activities
of Ficus microcarpa (L.) in hypercholesterolemic rats. Nat Prod Res. 2011 Jul;25(12):1202-7.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Saponifiable and unsaponifiable fractions of Ficus microcarpa leaves hexane extract have been
phytochemically studied and evaluated for its hypolipidaemic and antioxidant effects in
hypercholesterolemic rats. The effect of the extract on the lipid profile was assessed by
measuring the levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, phospho and total lipids. Lipid peroxides,
glutathione and superoxide dismutase were measured as antioxidants. The work was extended to
evaluate liver function indices as well as the histopathological picture of the liver after treatment.
Treatment with leaves extract (500 mg kg⁻¹ body weight) 5 times/week for 9 weeks at the same
time of cholesterol administration (30 mg/0.3 mL 0.7% tween/animal) recorded an improvement
of lipid profile, antioxidants, liver function enzymes and the liver histopathological picture. The
lipoidal matters of the unsaponifiable fraction of the hexane extract by GC/MS led to the
identification of 22 compounds, while saponifiable fraction by (MS/MS) technique led to
identification of 13 unsaturated and saturated fatty acid methyl ester derivatives. It can be
116
concluded that the hexane extract of F. microcarpa L has been proved to have hypolipidaemic
and antioxidant effects in hypercholesterolemic rats through its role in counteracting LDL
oxidation, enhancement of HDL synthesis and inhibition of lipid peroxidation.
Azadbakht M, Hosseinimehr SJ, Shokrzadeh M, Habibi E, Ahmadi A. Diospyros lotus L. fruit
extract protects G6PD-deficient erythrocytes from hemolytic injury in vitro and in vivo:
prevention of favism disorder. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2011 Nov;15(11):1270-81.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Diospyros lotus L. fruit extract
against the hemolytic damage induced by Vicia faba beans extract in both G6PD enzymedeficient human and rat erythrocyte in vitro and in vivo.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In the former model, venous blood samples were obtained from five subjects with known G6PD
deficiency and erythrocyte hemolysis induced by Vicia faba L. bean extract was asessed
spectrophotometrically in the presence and absence of Diospyros lotus L. fruits extract. In the in
vivo model, G6PD-deficient rats (induced by intraperitoneal injection of dehydroepiandrosterone
for 35 days) pre-treated with different doses of Diospyros lotus L. (500, 750, 1000, and 1500
mg/kg, p.o for 7 days) were challenged with Vicia faba beans extract and the protective effect of
the fruit extract against hemolysis was evaluated as above.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:
The results have shown that Diospyros lotus L. fruits extract has antioxidant activity that may
protect against hemolytic damage induced by Vicia faba bean extract in both G6PD-deficient
human and rat erythrocytes. The study gives a scientific basis for the efficacy of the fruit extract
as used in Iran. The fact that this was shown in human erythrocytes in vitro is significant and
provides a rationale for further testing in vivo in G6PD-deficient human populations.
B. Ncube, V.N.P. Ngunge, J.F. Finnie, J. Van Staden, A comparative study of the antimicrobial
and phytochemical properties between outdoor grown and micropropagated Tulbaghia violacea
Harv.
plants.Journal
of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):775-780.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-5230PT5C/2/147c0e32426929dce39bfd7a44485729.
117
Abstract:
Aim of the study :The study aimed to compare the antimicrobial and phytochemical properties of
in vitro cultured and outdoor grown Tulbaghia violacea plants in the quest to validate the use of
micropropagated plants as alternatives to outdoor grown plants in traditional medicine.
Tulbaghia violacea is used extensively in South African traditional medicine for HIV/AIDS
patients and in the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments, asthma, fever and
tuberculosis.Materials and methods: Extracts of micropropagated and outdoor grown Tulbaghia
violacea plants were evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against Bacillus
subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and a fungus Candida
albicans using microdilution methods. Saponins and phenolic compounds including condensed
tannins, gallotannins and flavonoids were quantitatively determined using spectrophotometric
methods. A qualitative test for saponins was also carried out.Results: The petroleum ether (PE)
extracts of micropropagated plants and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts of outdoor grown plants
showed good antibacterial activity, each against two bacterial test strains. PE extracts of
micropropagated plants showed the best antibacterial activity with a minimum inhibitory
concentration (MIC) of 0.39 mg/ml against Bacillus subtilis. Good MIC (<1 mg/ml) and
minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values of 0.78 mg/ml were only obtained in DCM
extracts of outdoor grown plants. MIC and MFC values for water and ethanol extracts of both
micropropagated and outdoor grown plants were similar and in the range 3.125-12.5 mg/ml.
Total phenolics, gallotannins, flavonoids and saponins were significantly higher in
micropropagated plants than in outdoor grown ones. In all cases, the amounts of phytochemical
compounds in micropropagated plants were more than twice that of outdoor grown plants except
for condensed tannins.Conclusion: The results form a good basis for the use of Tulbaghia
violacea micropropagated plants as a complement to the outdoor grown plants in traditional
medicine.
Bai Y, Tohda C, Zhu S, Hattori M, Komatsu K. Active components from Siberian ginseng
(Eleutherococcus senticosus) for protection of amyloid β(25-35)-induced neuritic atrophy in
cultured
rat
cortical
neurons.
J
Nat
Med.
2011
Jul;65(3-4):417-23.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Not only neuronal death but also neuritic atrophy and synaptic loss underlie the pathogenesis of
Alzheimer's disease as direct causes of the memory deficit. Extracts of Siberian ginseng (the
rhizome of Eleutherococcus senticosus) were shown to have protective effects on the
regeneration of neurites and the reconstruction of synapses in rat cultured cortical neurons
damaged by amyloid β (Aβ)(25-35), and eleutheroside B was one of the active constituents. In
this study, a comprehensive evaluation of constituents was conducted to explore active
118
components from Siberian ginseng which can protect against neuritic atrophy induced by Aβ(2535) in cultured rat cortical neurons. The ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water fractions from the
methanol extract of Siberian ginseng showed protective effects against Aβ-induced neuritic
atrophy. Twelve compounds were isolated from the active fractions and identified. Among them,
eleutheroside B, eleutheroside E and isofraxidin showed obvious protective effects against
Aβ(25-35)-induced atrophies of axons and dendrites at 1 and 10 μM.
Banerjee AA, Vasu KK, Pancholi H, Rajani M, Nivsarkar MA. Detoxification of Nerium
indicum roots based on Indian system of medicine: phytochemical and toxicity evaluations. Acta
Pol Pharm. 2011 Nov-Dec;68(6):905-11. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Indian system of medicine describes the usage of certain very toxic plant based drugs after
performing a detoxification process (Shodhana samskara). Nerium indicum is traditionally used
as a medicine though known to cause severe allergic symptoms, tachycardia and gastrointestinal
effects leading to fatalities. In this study, the detoxification (shodhana) for Nerium indicum was
scientifically validated based on phytochemical and toxicity profiles. Shodhana was performed
according to traditional literature. HPTLC densitometric studies were performed for the pre- and
post-shodhana powders followed by sub-acute toxicity evaluation in rats. Preparative TLC and
LC-MS showed the reduction of oleandrin peak in the post-shodhana sample. Prominent features
of cardiotoxicity including tachycardia were noted in the pre-shodhana Nerium treated animals
along with mortality. However, no such toxicity was encountered in the post-shodhana Nerium
treated animals. Hence, using the recommended detoxification (shodhana), the toxicity of an
important medicinal plant was significantly nullified. Such studies provide a scientific support
towards our traditional medicinal practices using modem analytical and experimental
methodologies and may prove to be very useful in establishing standard scientific procedures for
routine and safe use of traditional medicines.
Barman TK, Rao M, Bhati A, Kishore K, Shukla G, Kumar M, Mathur T, Pandya M, Upadhyay
DJ. Non invasive real-time monitoring of bacterial infection & therapeutic effect of antimicrobials in five mouse models. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Nov;134(5):688-95.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
In vivo imaging system has contributed significantly to the understanding of bacterial infection
and efficacy of drugs in animal model. We report five rapid, reproducible, and non invasive
119
murine pulmonary infection, skin and soft tissue infection, sepsis, and meningitis models using
Xenogen bioluminescent strains and specialized in vivo imaging system (IVIS).
METHODS:
The progression of bacterial infection in different target organs was evaluated by the photon
intensity and target organ bacterial counts. Genetically engineered bioluminescent bacterial
strains viz. Staphylococcus aureus Xen 8.1, 29 and 31; Streptococcus pneumoniae Xen 9 and 10
and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Xen-5 were used to induce different target organs infection and
were validated with commercially available antibiotics.
RESULTS:
The lower limit of detection of colony forming unit (cfu) was 1.7-log10 whereas the lower limit
of detection of relative light unit (RLU) was 4.2-log10 . Recovery of live bacteria from different
target organs showed that the bioluminescent signal correlated to the live bacterial count.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
This study demonstrated the real time monitoring and non-invasive analysis of progression of
infection and pharmacological efficacy of drugs. These models may be useful for pre-clinical
discovery of new antibiotics.
Battu GR, Parimi R, Chandra Shekar KB. In vivo and in vitro pharmacological activity of
Aristolochia tagala (syn: Aristolochia acuminata) root extracts. Pharm Biol. 2011
Nov;49(11):1210-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Aristolochia tagala Cham. (syn: Aristolochia acuminata Lam.) (Aristolochiaceae), known as
Nallayishwari in Telugu, has been of interest to researchers because of its traditional uses for
treating rheumatic pains and fever.
OBJECTIVE:
The anti-inflammatory activity of the petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extracts of A.
tagala roots were investigated for the first time.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects were investigated employing the carrageenaninduced hind paw edema in rats and the macrophage cell line RAW264.7 stimulated with
120
proinflammatory stimuli (lipopolysaccharide interferon γ or the calcium ionophore A23187) to
determine PGE(2) or LTB(4) release, respectively.
RESULTS:
All the extracts exhibited anti-inflammatory effects which were found to be significant
(p < 0.001) at 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o, in rats tested and the ethyl acetate extract inhibited the
induction of PGE(2) with IC(50) = 39.1 mg mL(-1) and LTB(4) with IC(50) = 29.5 mg mL(-1).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
These findings demonstrate that the A. tagala roots have excellent anti-inflammatory activity and
validate the traditional indications of this plant in its origin country.
Baumgartner L, Sosa S, Atanasov AG, Bodensieck A, Fakhrudin N, Bauer J, Favero GD, Ponti
C, Heiss EH, Schwaiger S, Ladurner A, Widowitz U, Loggia RD, Rollinger JM, Werz O, Bauer
R, Dirsch VM, Tubaro A, Stuppner H. Lignan derivatives from Krameria lappacea roots inhibit
acute inflammation in vivo and pro-inflammatory mediators in vitro. J Nat Prod. 2011 Aug
26;74(8):1779-86. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The roots of Krameria lappacea are used traditionally against oropharyngeal inflammation. So
far, the astringent and antimicrobial properties of its proanthocyanidin constituents are
considered to account for the anti-inflammatory effect. The aim of the present study was to
characterize pharmacologically a lipophilic extract of K. lappacea roots and several isolated
lignan derivatives (1-11) in terms of their putative anti-inflammatory activity. The
dichloromethane extract (ID₅₀ 77 μg/cm²) as well compounds 1-11 (ID₅₀ 0.31-0.60 μmol/cm²)
exhibited topical antiedematous properties comparable to those of indomethacin (ID₅₀ 0.29
μmol/cm²) in a mouse ear in vivo model. Two of the most potent compounds, 2-(2-hydroxy-4methoxyphenyl)-5-(3-hydroxypropyl)benzofuran (5) and (+)-conocarpan (7), were studied
regarding their time-dependent edema development and leukocyte infiltration up to 48 h after
croton oil-induced dermatitis induction, and they showed activity profiles similar to that of
hydrocortisone. In vitro studies of the isolated lignan derivatives demonstrated the inhibition of
NF-κB, cyclooxygenase-1 and -2, 5-lipoxygenase, and microsomal prostaglandin E₂ synthase-1
as well as antioxidant properties, as mechanisms possibly contributing to the observed in vivo
effects. The present findings not only support the ethnopharmacological use of K. lappacea roots
but also reveal that the isolated lignan derivatives contribute strongly to the anti-inflammatory
activity of this herbal drug.
121
Ben Sghaier M, Krifa M, Mensi R, Bhouri W, Ghedira K, Chekir-Ghedira L. In vitro and in vivo
immunomodulatory and anti-ulcerogenic activities of Teucrium ramosissimum extracts. J
Immunotoxicol. 2011 Oct-Dec;8(4):288-97. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Teucrium ramosissimum (Lamiaceae), a native and endemic plant from South Tunisia, has
traditionally been used as a treatment for inflammation and for ulcers. Though the plant and its
products are widely used, very few studies have analyzed the pharmacological/toxicological
properties of this plant. Thus, the aim of these studies was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory/antiulcerogenic activities of various extracts (i.e., methanolic, aqueous, and total oligomer flavonoid
[TOF]-enriched) from leaves of T. ramosissimum. In vitro, the effects from each extract on
lysosomal enzyme activity and proliferation of, respectively, freshly isolated peritoneal
macrophages and splenic lymphocytes were assessed. The extracts alone clearly affected
macrophage function, as evidenced by a significant modulation of cell lysosomal enzyme
activity and ability to form and/or release nitric oxide. These extracts were also found to be able
to significantly modify the proliferation of splenocytes, even when lipopolysaccharide or lectin
mitogens were absent. With respect to the anti-ulcerogenic activity of the extracts, these studies
found that the leaf extracts were able to exert significant protective effects against ethanolinduced ulcers in a rat model; at some doses, the extract effects were even greater than that
obtained using a cytoprotective histamine H2-antagonist, cimetidine. Based on these studies, we
conclude that the extracts from T. ramosissimum appear to be potentially potent modulators of
innate immunity and that their efficacy against ulcer formation may be due, in part, to a
cytoprotective effect. Further, these results fortify the ethnopharmacological importance of the
use of T. ramosissimum products as anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer agents. Nevertheless,
ongoing/further studies are needed to clarify more precisely mechanisms underlying effects
against ulcers and on lymphocyte and macrophage functionality, as well as the causative agents.
Bero J, Hannaert V, Chataigné G, Hérent MF, Quetin-Leclercq J. In vitro antitrypanosomal and
antileishmanial activity of plants used in Benin in traditional medicine and bio-guided
fractionation of the most active extract. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Sep 2;137(2):998-1002.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
The aim of the study was to evaluate the in vitro antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial activity of
crude extracts of 10 plant species traditionally used in Benin to treat parasitic infections.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
122
For each species, dichloromethane, methanol and aqueous extracts were tested. Their
antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial activities were evaluated in vitro on Trypanosoma brucei
brucei (strain 427) (Tbb) and on promastigotes of Leishmania mexicana mexicana
(MHOM/BZ/84/BEL46) (Lmm).
RESULTS:
The best growth inhibition was observed with the dichloromethane extracts of aerial parts of
Acanthospermum hispidum DC. (Asteraceae) (IC(50)=14.5 μg/ml on Tbb and 11.1 μg/ml on
Lmm), twigs of Keetia leucantha (K. Krause) Bridson (syn. Plectronia leucantha Krause)
(IC(50)=5.8 μg/ml on Tbb), aerial parts of Byrsocarpus coccineus Schumach. & Thonn (syn.
Rourea coccinea (Schumach. & Thonn.) Hook.f.) (IC(50)=14.7 μg/ml on Tbb) and aerial parts of
Carpolobia lutea G.Don. (IC(50)=18.3 μg/ml on Tbb). All these extracts had a low cytotoxicity.
It is not the case for the methanolic and water extracts of roots of Anchomanes difformis
(Blume) Engl. (IC(50)=14.7 and 13.8 μg/ml on Tbb) which were toxic at the same concentration
range on WI38, human cells. A bio-guided fractionation of the most active extract of Keetia
leucantha allowed to identify oleanolic acid and ursolic acid as responsible for the observed
activities.
CONCLUSION:
Our study gives some justification for antiparasitic activity of some investigated plants.
Bora KS, Sharma A. Evaluation of Antioxidant and Cerebroprotective Effect of Medicago sativa
Linn. against Ischemia and Reperfusion Insult. Evid BasedComplement Alternat Med.
2011;2011:792167. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Antioxidants have been the focus of studies for developing neuroprotective agents to be used in
the therapy for stroke, which is an acute and progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Medicago
sativa (MS) has a long tradition of use as ayurvedic and homoeopathic medicine in central
nervous system disorders. The plant has been reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
and antidiabetic effects. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the
neuroprotective effect of methanol extract of MS on ischemia and reperfusion-induced cerebral
injury in mice. Bilateral carotid artery occlusion (BCAO) for 15 min followed by 24-h
reperfusion, resulted in significant elevation in infarct size, xanthine oxidase (XO) activity,
superoxide anion (O(•-) (2)) production and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS)
levels, and significant depletion in endogenous antioxidant [reduced glutathione (GSH),
superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total tissue sulfhydryl (T-SH) groups] systems in mice brain.
Further, BCAO led to impairment in short-term memory and motor coordination. Pre-treatment
123
with MS (100 or 200 mg kg(-1), p.o.) markedly reduced cerebral infarct size, XO, O(•-) (2) and
TBARS levels, significantly restored GSH, SOD and T-SH levels and attenuated impairment in
short-term memory and motor coordination. In addition, MS directly scavenged free radicals
generated against a stable radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and O(•-) (2) generated in
phenazine methosulphate-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide systems, and also inhibited XD/XO
conversion and resultant O(•-) (2) production. The data from this study suggest that treatment
with MS enhances the antioxidant defense against BCAO-induced global cerebral ischemia and
exhibits neuroprotective activity.
Caballero-George C, Gupta MP. A quarter century of pharmacognostic research on Panamanian
flora: a review. Planta Med. 2011 Jul;77(11):1189-202. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Panama is a unique terrestrial bridge of extreme biological importance. It is one of the "hot
spots" and occupies the fourth place among the 25 most plant-rich countries in the world, with
13.4 % endemic species. Panamanian plants have been screened for a wide range of biological
activities: as cytotoxic, brine shrimp-toxic, antiplasmodial, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant,
immunosuppressive, and antihypertensive agents. This review concentrates on
ethnopharmacological uses of medicinal plants employed by three Amerindian groups of Panama
and on selected plants with novel structures and/or interesting bioactive compounds. During the
last quarter century, a total of approximately 390 compounds from 86 plants have been isolated,
of which 160 are new to the literature. Most of the work reported here has been the result of
many international collaborative efforts with scientists worldwide. From the results presented, it
is immediately obvious that the Panamanian flora is still an untapped source of new bioactive
compounds.
Cattoor K, Remon JP, Boussery K, Van Bocxlaer J, Bracke M, De Keukeleire D, Deforce D,
Heyerick A. Bioavailability of hop-derived iso-α-acids and reduced derivatives. Food Funct.
2011 Jul;2(7):412-22. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Iso-α-acids (IAA) and their reduced derivatives (dihydro-iso-α-acids (DHIAA) and tetrahydroiso-α-acids (THIAA)) have been administered to Caco-2 cell monolayers (30, 60, and 120 μM)
to investigate epithelial transport, in both absorptive and secretive directions. In addition, 25 mg
kg(-1) IAA, DHIAA, and THIAA were applied to New Zealand white rabbits (±3-3.5 kg) in a
single intravenous and oral dose. The most important pharmacokinetic parameters (C(max),
t(max), half life, clearance, and AUC(0-∞)) and the absolute bioavailability were determined for
124
each class of hop acid. The results from the in vitro Caco-2 study of IAA, DHIAA, and THIAA,
showed a higher membrane permeability for IAA and THIAA, both in absorptive (P(appAB)
range 1.6-5.6 × 10(-6) cm s(-1)) and secretive directions (P(appBA) range 5.7-16.3 × 10(-6) cm
s(-1)), when compared to DHIAA. Factors limiting transport of DHIAA could include phase II
metabolism. After oral and i.v. dosing to New Zealand white rabbits, the absolute bioavailability
for IAA was determined to be 13.0%. The reduced derivatives reached higher bioavailabilities
with 28.0% for DHIAA and 23.0% for THIAA. The area under curve AUC(0-∞) upon oral
gavage for DHIAA and THIAA was 70.7 ± 48.4 μg h ml(-1) and 57.4 ± 9.0 μg h ml(-1),
respectively, while that for IAA was 10.6 ± 5.3 μg h ml(-1). Phase I metabolism was indicated as
the main factor limiting the bioavailability of IAA. Bioavailability of DHIAA is mostly
influenced by phase-II metabolism as shown by enzymatic hydrolysis of plasma samples upon
administration of DHIAA.
Chandrasekar SB, Divakar K, Pawar AT, Goli D, Harisha R, Bhanumathy M, Sushma G,
Shivaprasad HN. Involvement of opioid, adenosine and 5-HT(3) receptors in antinociceptive
effects of an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation. Med Princ Pract. 2011;20(1):66-70.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antinociceptive effects of
an ayurvedicpolyherbal formulation in rats and mice employing the tail immersion test and acetic
acid-induced writhing test, respectively.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
With the tail immersion method, rats received two different doses (270 and 405 mg/kg BW, p.o.)
of a formulation, pethidine (5.4 mg/kg BW, p.o.) as a reference standard and the combination of
the higher dose of the formulation with naloxone (2 mg/kg, i.p.), an opioid receptor antagonist,
and caffeine (16 mg/kg, i.p.), used as an adenosine receptor antagonist. In the acetic acid-induced
writhing test, mice received two different doses (390 and 585 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) of formulation,
diclofenac sodium (15 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) as a reference standard and the combination of the
higher dose of the polyherbal formulation with ondansetron (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), a serotonin
receptor antagonist.
RESULTS:
125
The polyherbal formulation (405 mg/kg) exhibited a significant (p < 0.01) antinociceptive effect
using the tail immersion method. In the acetic acid-induced writhing test, the formulation
showed significant (p < 0.01) dose-dependent activity. The antinociceptive effect of the
polyherbal formulation apparently involved an opiate-like mechanism, since its antinociceptive
action was attenuated by naloxone pretreatment. In addition, antinociceptive activity was
attenuated by caffeine and reversed by ondansetron pretreatment.
CONCLUSION:
Our data suggest that the polyherbal formulation possessed centrally and peripherally mediated
antinociceptive properties. The activity could be mediated through opioid, adenosine, and
serotonin receptors and via inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase- and/or lipoxygenase-dependent
pathways.
Chaturvedi AP, Tripathi YB. Methanolic extract of leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum Linn
modulates oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. Inflammopharmacology. 2011
Oct;19(5):273-81. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum (JG) are in clinical use in Ayurveda for wound
management. Since, oxidative stress and inflammation are the primary causes in delayed wound
healing, so here its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities have been investigated using in
vitro as well as in vivo models. The solvent-free methanolic extract of dried leaves of JG were
tested for its trapping capacity toward pre-generated ABTS•+ radicals, instantly generated
superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, along with metal chelation property, reducing power and total
phenolic content. Further, it was tested on LPS-induced nitric oxide and cell viability, on primary
culture of rat peritoneal macrophages. Its anti-inflammatory property was also tested on
carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. This extract significantly inhibited iron-induced lipid
peroxidation and trapped ABTS•+, superoxide and OH radicals. It significantly inhibited nitric
oxide (NO) release, without affecting the cell viability at 800 μg/ml concentration and reduced
the formation of paw edema in rats. Thus, it could be suggested that the aforesaid antiinflammatory properties of JG leaves are associated to its high phenolic content (2.25±0.105
mg/l of gallic acid equivalent), reducing power and its free radical-scavenging property.
Chen CC, Chuang PH, Chen YS, Yao CH, Chen HM. Chip-based drug screening for inhibiting
α-glucosidase. Fitoterapia. 2011 Dec;82(8):1249-57. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
126
Intestinal α-glucosidase performs a physiologically vital function in the digestive process of
dietary carbohydrates. Administration of an α-glucosidase inhibitor may retard the digestion and
absorption of carbohydrates. Consequently, the rise in postprandial blood glucose could be
suppressed. This study developed a novel technology, called "after flowing through immobilized
receptor (AFTIR)," for targeting components in herbal medicines with α-glucosidase-suppressing
capability. As a result, we reveal that the AFTIR system is a highly-efficient drug screening
platform, capable of purifying and identifying active components with α-glucosidase-suppressing
capability in herbal medicines.
Chen G, Cho SJ, Huang XP, Jensen NH, Svennebring A, Sassano MF, Roth BL, Kozikowski
AP. Rational Drug Design Leading to the Identification of a Potent 5-HT(2C) Agonist Lacking
5-HT(2B)
Activity.
ACS
Med
Chem
Lett.
2011
Dec
8;2(12):929-932.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The 5-HT(2C) receptor is an attractive drug target in the quest for new therapeutics to treat a
variety of human disorders. We have previously undertaken a structural optimization campaign
that has led to some potent and moderately selective 5-HT(2C) receptor agonists. After
expanding our structure-function library, we were able to combine our datasets so as to allow the
design of compounds of improved selectivity and potency. We disclose herein the structural
optimization of our previously reported 5-HT(2B)/5-HT(2C) agonists, which has led to the
identification
of
a
highly
selective
5-HT(2C)
agonist,
(+)-trans-[2-(2cyclopropylmethoxyphenyl)cyclopropyl]methylamine hydrochloride, with an EC(50) of 55 nM
and no detectable agonism at the 5-HT(2B) receptor.
Chen H, Zuo S, Wang X, Tang X, Zhao M, Lu Y, Chen L, Liu J, Liu Y, Liu D, Zhang S, Li T.
Synthesis of 4β-triazole-podophyllotoxin derivatives by azide-alkyne cycloaddition and
biological evaluation as potential antitumor agents. Eur J Med Chem. 2011 Sep;46(9):4709-14.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
A representative synthetic process of derivatizing the natural product podophyllotoxin utilizing
the copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) is described including molecular
design, reaction optimization and X-ray structure confirmation. Evaluation of cytotoxicity
against human cancer cell lines (Hela, K562 and K562/A02) using MTT assay proves that these
triazole derivatives have good antitumor activities. High activities toward the drug resistant
K562/A02 cell line reveal promising future for these derivatives. The rarely prepared 1,5127
disubstituted triazole isomers, which would be omitted by the "click chemistry", were found to
have superior cytotoxicities to that of the 1,4-disubstituted isomers.
Chen Y, Ji LL, Liu TY, Wang ZT. Evaluation of gender-related differences in various oxidative
stress enzymes in mice. Chin J Physiol. 2011 Dec 31;54(6):385-90. doi:
10.4077/CJP.2011.AMM080. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Oxidative stress caused by redundant free radical, lipid oxygen and peroxide usually results in
the pathogenesis of various diseases, which can be alleviated by cellular antioxidant enzymes.
According to statistics, there are different incidence rates of some diseases depending on the
gender. The present study aimed to investigate potential gender-related differences of antioxidant
enzymes in mice. The activities of glutamate-cysteine ligase (GCL), glutathione reductase (GR),
glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and
catalase (CAT) in the kidney, brain, lung and heart of both male and female mice were
determined. Our results showed that GPx and GCL activities were higher in female kidney and
brain than those in male. On the other hand, the activities of SOD were higher in female brain
and lung than those in male. Moreover, female kidney appeared to show higher activities of CAT
than the male kidney. But the activities of GCL and GPx were higher in male heart than those in
female. Taken together, our results demonstrate that there are gender-related differences in the
activities of cellular antioxidant enzymes in various important organs in mice. Variations in such
enzymes may be the explanation for some gender-related diseases.
Chinasa EC, Ifeoma IA, Obodoike EC, Chhukwuemeka ES. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory
property of the leaves of Sansevieria liberica ger. and labr. (fam: Dracaenaceae). Asian Pac J
Trop Med. 2011 Oct;4(10):791-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate the anti-inflammatory property of leaves of Sansevieria liberica Ger. and Labr. and
to ascertain the toxicity and phytochemical profiles of the extract of the leaves.
METHODS:
The juice from the fresh leaves was expressed manually and lyophilized. The crude extract (CE)
was then fractionated into n-hexane fraction (HF), chloroform fraction (CF), ethylacetate fraction
(EF) and methanol fraction (MF). The crude extract (CF) and the fractions were screened for
anti-inflammatory activity using egg albumen-induced paw (systemic) edema in rats as a
128
measure of acute inflammation. The toxicity test and phytochemical screening were done using
standard procedures.
RESULTS:
The CE and the fractions significantly (P<0.05) inhibited the development of paw edema induced
by egg albumen in rats. The potency/activity of the CE and the fractions increased in the order
HF>CE>MF>CF>EF, with the CE and HF at 400 mg/kg exhibiting inhibition comparable to that
obtained with 5 mg/kg diclofenac sodium. Acute toxicity test on CE established an oral and
intraperitoneal LD(50) of > 5 000 mg/kg in mice. Phytochemical screening of the CE and the
fractions showed the presence of various bioactive substances such as alkaloids, saponins,
flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, glycosides, reducing sugars, tannins, resins, carbohydrates,
proteins, acidic compounds, fats and oils.
CONCLUSIONS:
The results of the study showed that the leaves of Sansevieria liberica Ger and Labr. possess
anti-inflammatory effects which may be due to its bioactive constituents. Further purification on
these bioactive constituents may result in the development of potent anti-inflammatory agent
with low toxicity and better therapeutic index.
Choi KM, Shin E, Liu Q, Yoo HS, Kim YC, Sung SH, Hwang BY, Lee MK. Hydroxyframoside
B, a secoiridoid of Fraxinus rhynchophylla, inhibits adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells.
Planta Med. 2011 Jul;77(10):1020-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Fraxinus rhynchophylla showed significant inhibitory activity on adipocyte differentiation in the
3T3-L1 preadipocyte cell line as assessed by measuring fat accumulation using Oil Red O
staining. Further fractionation led to the isolation of two secoiridoids, oleuropein and
hydroxyframoside B. Hydroxyframoside B significantly reduced fat accumulation and
triglyceride content in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells without affecting cell viability, whereas
oleuropein showed little effect. Further studies with interval treatment demonstrated that
hydroxyframoside B exerted inhibitory activity on adipocyte differentiation when treated within
2 days (days 0-2) after differentiation induction. In addition, hydroxyframoside B significantly
blocked the induction of adipogenic transcription factors such as C/EBP α, C/EBP β, and PPAR
γ. Taken together, these results suggest that hydroxyframoside B inhibited early/middle stage of
adipogenic differentiation, in part, via inhibition of C/EBP α, C/EBP β, and PPAR γ-dependent
pathways.
129
Csupor-Löffler B, Hajdú Z, Zupkó I, Molnár J, Forgo P, Vasas A, Kele Z, Hohmann J.
Antiproliferative constituents of the roots of Conyza canadensis. Planta Med. 2011
Jul;77(11):1183-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Bioassay-guided fractionation of the N-hexane and CHCl₃ phases of the methanol extract of the
roots of Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronquist led to the isolation of two new dihydropyranones
named conyzapyranone A (1) and B (2), and the known 4 Z,8 Z-matricaria- γ-lactone (3), 4 E,8
Z-matricaria- γ-lactone (4), 9,12,13-trihydroxy-10(E)-octadecenoic acid (5), epifriedelanol (6),
friedeline (7), taraxerol (8), simiarenol (9), spinasterol (10), stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, and
apigenin. The structures were determined by means of ESIMS and 1D and 2D NMR
spectroscopy, including ¹H-¹H COSY, NOESY, HSQC, and HMBC experiments. The isolated
compounds were evaluated for their antiproliferative activities and were demonstrated to exert
considerable cell growth-inhibitory activity against human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa), skin
carcinoma (A431), and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cells. Some of the active components,
including 2, 4, and 10, proved to be substantially more potent against these cell lines than against
noncancerous human foetal fibroblasts (MRC-5) and can therefore be considered selective
antiproliferative natural products.
Deng Y, Chin YW, Chai HB, de Blanco EC, Kardono LB, Riswan S, Soejarto DD, Farnsworth
NR, Kinghorn AD. Phytochemical and Bioactivity Studies on Constituents of the Leaves of
Vitex Quinata. Phytochem Lett. 2011 Sep 1;4(3):213-217. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
A phytochemical investigation of the leaves of Vitex quinata (Lour.) F.N. Williams
(Verbenaceae), guided by the MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line, led to the isolation of a new
δ-truxinate derivative (1) and a new phytonoic acid derivative (2), together with 12 known
compounds. The structures of the new compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods as
dimethyl 3,4,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-δ-truxinate (1) and methyl 10R-methoxy-12-oxo-9(13),16Ephytodienoate (2), respectively. In a cytotoxicity assay, (S)-5-hydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxyflavanone
(3) was found to be the sole active principle, with ED(50) values of 1.1-6.7 μM, respectively,
when tested against a panel of three human cancer cells. Methyl 3,4,5-O-tricaffeoyl quinate (4)
showed activity in an enzyme-based ELISA NF-κB p65 assay, with an ED(50) value of 10.3 μM.
Dey P, Chandra S, Chatterjee P, Bhattacharya S. Neuropharmacological properties of Mikania
scandens (L.) Willd. (Asteraceae). J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2011 Oct;2(4):255-9.
Abstract
130
Mikania scandens (L.) Willd. (Asteraceae), known as climbing hemp weed in English, is a
herbaceous climbing vine grown as a weed throughout the plains of the Indian subcontinent. The
present study evaluated some neuropharmacological properties of hydroalcoholic extract of
aerial parts from M. scandens (HAMS) in experimental animal models. HAMS (at 250 and 500
mg/kg body weight, i.p.) was evaluated for central antinociceptive activity by tail flick method.
Locomotor depressant activity was measured by means of an actophotometer. Skeletal muscle
relaxant effect was evaluated by using rotarod apparatus and sedative potentiating property by
phenobarbitone-induced sleep potentiation study. The results of the present study revealed
significant (P<0.001) and dose-dependent central antinociceptive, locomotor depressant, muscle
relaxant, and sedative potentiating effects of HAMS, demonstrating its depressant action on the
central nervous system (CNS). From the present study, it can be concluded that the aerial parts of
M. scandens possessed prominent depressant action on the CNS, as manifested by the important
neuropharmacological properties in mice.
Dharmalingam N. Gunadharini, Perumal Elumalai, Ramachandran Arunkumar, Kalimuthu
Senthilkumar, Jagadeesan Arunakaran, Induction of apoptosis and inhibition of PI3K/Akt
pathway in PC-3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cells by ethanolic neem leaf extract. Journal of
Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):644-650.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-5223Y291/2/84c977cc45d73e94dd69ea8508ada2fe.
Abstract:
Aim of the study: The present study is aimed to delineate the effect of ethanolic neem leaf
extract on PI3K/Akt and apoptotic pathway in prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3 and
LNCaP).Materials and methods: To test the hypothesis, two different prostate cancer cell lines
LNCaP (androgen dependent) and PC-3 (androgen independent) were taken. Cells were exposed
to various concentrations of ethanolic neem leaf extract (ENLE) (25-125 [mu]g/ml). The doses
were fixed by cell viability (MTT) assay. For apoptotic detection in situ apoptosis assay,
caspase-3 activity and protein expression of cytochrome c and Poly-ADP Ribose Polymerase
(PARP) were analysed as well as mRNA expression of Bcl-2 family proteins was studied by RTPCR. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and p-Akt were analysed by western blotting and
mRNA expression of Akt 1 and 2, PTEN was performed by RT-PCR. Immunoblotting of cyclin
D1 and p21 was done to access the inhibition of cell proliferation.Results: ENLE gives 50%
inhibition at a dose of 100 [mu]g/ml in both PC-3 and LNCaP cells and considered as effective
dose. ENLE decreased the protein expression of PI3K as well as p-Akt and the mRNA
expression of Akt 1and 2 in both the cells. There was a significant decrease in mRNA expression
of PTEN in LNCaP cells. ENLE induced apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation by inhibiting
PI3K/Akt pathway. Decrease in p-Akt leads to increase in the protein level of Bad, p21 and
decrease in the cyclin D1, respectively. ENLE treatment increased the cytochrome c expression
131
and caspase-3 activity as well as regulated the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 family proteins
thereby inducing apoptosis to both the cell lines. In situ apoptosis assay showed increased red
fluorescence in 100 [mu]g/ml of ENLE in both PC-3 and LNCaP cell lines.Conclusions The
results suggested that ENLE induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation through inhibiting
PI3K/Akt pathway in both PC-3 and LNCaP cells.
Dickson RA, Ekuadzi E, Annan K, Komlaga G. Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and
antioxidant effects of the leaves and stem bark of Glyphaea brevis (Spreng) Monachino
(Tiliaceae): A comparative study. Pharmacognosy Res. 2011 Jul;3(3):166-72.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Glyphaea brevis (Spreng) Monachino (Tiliaceae) have traditional uses in the management of
conditions characterized by infections, inflammatory disorders and oxidative stress. The paper
aims to report the comparative data on the leaves and stem bark of Glyphaea brevis with respect
to their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The antibacterial effects of the 70% ethanol extracts of the leaves and stem bark were determined
using the agar well diffusion and micro dilution assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was
assessed using the carrageenan-induced oedema model in 7-day old cockerels. Using the DPPH
free radical scavenging, total antioxidant and total phenol content assays, the antioxidant
potential of the extract was assessed.
RESULTS:
The bark extract had the higher antibacterial effect against 6 of the 8 microorganisms used.
Noteworthy are its activity against Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecalis with lowest MIC
value of 500 μg/mL respectively. In doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg, both extracts reduced the
carrageenan-induced oedema in 7-day old cockerels. Based on the ED(50) values, both extracts
demonstrated similar potencies (ED(50) =21.00 mg/kg). The stem bark extract exhibited higher
free radical scavenging activity (IC(50) = 1.392 mg/mL) compared to the leaf extract (IC(50) =
9.509 mg/mL). In the total phenol content, the bark extract showed higher content (15.91 mg/g
of dry mass) compared to the leaf extract (2.68 mg/g dry mass). Both extracts demonstrated
equal potencies in the total antioxidant capacity determinations (0.60 mg/g dry weight of
extract).
CONCLUSIONS:
132
The results of this work provide scientific evidence for the traditional uses of Glyphaea brevis.
Donga S, Shukla VJ, Ravishankar B, Ashok BK, Mishtry IU. Chronic toxicity study of Butea
monosperma (Linn.) Kuntze seeds in albino rats. Ayu. 2011 Jan;32(1):120-5.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
In the present study, toxic effects of powder of seeds of Butea monosperma (Linn.) Kuntze were
evaluated for a period of 3 months in albino rats. Control group received distilled water. The
powder suspension was orally given to the treated group at a dose of 800 mg/kg/day for 90 days.
Parameters like body weight, weight of important organs, biochemical, hematological
parameters, bone marrow cytology and histopathology of vital organs were studied. Test drug
administration did not affect the body weight, organ weight and bone marrow cytology to a
significant extent. Among the 18 hematological parameters studied, significant changes were
observed in three parameters, namely, significant decrease in hemoglobin content, red blood cell
count and hematocrit. Of 16 biochemical parameters studied, significant changes were observed
in 5 parameters, namely, decrease in total protein, albumin, bilirubin and significant increase in
very low density lipoprotein and triglyceride. The histopathology of 18 organs revealed changes
such as fatty changes, glomerular congestion and tubular hemorrhage in the kidneys, decrease in
the cellularity of the spleen, epithelial disruption in jejunum, decrease in spermatogenesis in the
testis, epithelial proliferation in ventral prostate and decrease in epithelial proliferation in the
uterus. Thus, toxicity profile obtained from the present study shows that B. monosperma seeds
are likely to produce toxic effect when administered in a powder form.
Du J, Wei YJ, Peng C, Ran X, Zhang H, Jiang YP, Rahman K, Qin LP. Establishment of a
luciferase assay-based screening system for detecting estrogen receptor agonists in plant extracts.
Bone. 2011 Sep;49(3):572-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In order to effectively treat osteoporosis and other bone-loss disorders, small compounds that
could induce bone formation are needed. The present study attempted to establish a screening
system for detecting estrogenic activity of compounds, which probably have anti-osteoporosis
effects. For this purpose, we established osteoblastic-like MG63 cells stably transfected with the
PGL3 reporter gene driven by a promoter consisting of three estrogen response elements (EREs).
Using this system, we screened numerous plant extracts, and found several which displayed
bioactivity. We conclude that the MG63 cells with estrogen-specific reporter plasmids (MG63-
133
pERE) are useful for high-throughput screening of estrogen receptor agonists from plants which
may have favorable potency and could be developed into novel anti-osteoporosis drugs.
El-Alfy TS, El-Gohary HM, Sokkar NM, Hosny M, Al-Mahdy DA. A New Flavonoid CGlycoside from Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. Leaves and Potential Antioxidant
and Cytotoxic Activities. Sci Pharm. 2011;79(4):963-75. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
A major development over the past two decades has been the realization that free radical induced
lipid peroxidation and DNA damage are associated with major health problems, e.g. cancer and
ageing. Plant-derived antioxidants are increasingly found beneficial in protecting against these
diseases. Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. are two plants that have a variety of uses in
folk medicine but have not been evaluated before for their antioxidant and cytotoxic properties.
Therefore, the extracts of both plants' leaves were investigated for these activities, as well as
isolation of the bioactive compounds responsible for the activities. Molecular structures of the
compounds were elucidated by UV, HRESIMS, 1D ((1)H and (13)C) and 2D ((1)H-(13)C HSQC
and (1)H-(13)C HMBC) NMR analyses. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts, n-butanol fractions
and the isolated major compound were tested for their antioxidant activity using DPPH radical
scavenging assay, xanthine oxidase-induced generation of superoxide radical and lipid
peroxidation assay by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) method using rat tissue
homogenates. Cytotoxic activities were studied using standard MTT assay. A novel flavonoid Ctriglycoside, 4‴-α-rhamnopyranosyl-2″-O-β-d-galactopyranosylvitexin, was isolated from both
plants' leaves, together with seven known flavonoids. The n-butanol fractions and the major
compound 2″-O-β-galactopyranosylvitexin showed significant antioxidant activities, more
pronounced than the tested standards BHT and dl-α-tocopherol in most tests. All extracts showed
variable cytotoxic activities. This study provides strong evidence for the antioxidant and
cytotoxic activities of the extracts of Celtis australis L. and Celtis occidentalis L. leaves, which
were attributed to the polar n-butanol fractions and the major isolated flavonoid 2″galactosylvitexin.
El-Hawary SA, Sokkar NM, Ali ZY, Yehia MM. A profile of bioactive compounds of Rumex
vesicarius L. J Food Sci. 2011 Oct;76(8):C1195-202. doi: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02370.x.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the bioactive compounds in extracts of Rumex
vesicarius L. (Polygonaceae), a wild edible herb growing in Egypt. Ethyl acetate and n-butanol
134
fractions of leaves of R. vesicarius were conducted by HPLC-PDA-MS/MS-ESI in the negative
mode to analyze phenolics content. Results revealed the identification of 13 phenolic
compounds: 8-C-glucosyl-apigenin, 8-C-glucosyl-luteolin, 6-C-hexosyl-quercetin, 3-Orutinosyl-quercetin, 7-O-rhamno-hexosyl-diosmetin, 7-O-rhamno-acetylhexosyl-diosmetin,
catechin, epicatechin, ferulohexoside, 6-C-glucosyl-naringenin, epicatechin gallate, 6-Cglucosyl-catechin, and epigallocatechin gallate. Quantification of the identified compounds
revealed that 6-C-glucosyl-naringenin was the major compound. Also, qualitative and
quantitative analysis of the hydro-ethanolic extract of leaves was carried out for ascorbic acid, αtocopherol, β-carotene. The essential oil as well as lipids analysis of saponifiable and
unsaponifiable matters. Investigation of the effect of hommad as a safe hepatoprotective diet
that prospectively directs the attention to a valuable therapeutic natural herb rich in bioactive
constituents. The biochemical studies were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant and
hepatoprotective potential of roots (REE), leaves (LEE), and fruits (FEE) ethanolic extracts of R.
vesicarius (100 mg/kg b.wt., p.o., each) against hepatotoxicity induced by CCl(4) (0.5 mL/kg
b.wt., p.o., 3 times a week) compared with silymarin (50 mg/kg b.wt., p.o.) as standard drug. The
results confirmed that coadministration of the tested extracts or silymarin with CCl(4) for 4 wk
exhibited a marked hepatoprotective activity, attributed to their antioxidant potential, membrane
stabilizing effect, and antifibrogenic activities.
Elango G, Zahir AA, Bagavan A, Kamaraj C, Rajakumar G, Santhoshkumar T, Marimuthu S,
Rahuman AA. Efficacy of indigenous plant extracts on the malaria vector Anopheles subpictus
Grassi
(Diptera:
Culicidae).
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Sep;134:375-83.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Mosquito control is facing a threat due to the emergence of resistance to synthetic insecticides.
Insecticides of plant origin may serve as suitable alternative biocontrol techniques in the future.
The purpose of the present study was to assess the ethyl acetate, acetone and methanol extracts
of Andrographis paniculata, Eclipta prostrata and Tagetes erecta leaves tested for ovipositiondeterrent, ovicidal and repellent activities against malaria vector, Anopheles subpictus Grassi
(Diptera: Culicidae).
METHODS:
The dried leaves of the three plants were powdered mechanically and extracted with ethyl
acetate, acetone and methanol. One gram of crude extract was first dissolved in 100 ml of
acetone (stock solution). From the stock solution, test solution concentrations of 31.21- 499.42
mg/l for oviposition- deterrence assay and repellency and 15.60 - 998.85 mg/l were used in
135
ovicidal assay. The percentage oviposition- deterrence, hatching rate of eggs and protection time
were calculated. One-way analysis of variance was used for the multiple concentration tests and
for per cent mortality to determine significant treatment differences.
RESULTS:
The percentage of effective oviposition repellency was highest at 499.42 mg/l and the lowest at
31.21 mg/l in ethyl acetate, acetone and methanol extracts of A. paniculata, E. prostrata and T.
erecta. The oviposition activity index (OAI) value of ethyl acetate, acetone and methanol extracts
of A. paniculata, E. prostrata and T. erecta at 499.42 mg/l were -0.91, -0.93, -0.84, -0.84, -0.87, 0.82, -0.87, -0.89 and -0.87, respectively. Mortality (no egg hatchability) was 100 per cent with
ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of A. paniculata, E. prostrata and T. erecta at 998.85 mg/l.
The maximum adult repellent activity was observed at 499.42 mg/l in ethyl acetate extracts of A.
paniculata, E. prostrata and methanol extracts of T. erecta, and the mean complete protection
time ranged from 120 to 150 min with the different extracts tested.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
The acetone extract of A. paniculata, methanol extract of E. prostrata and T. erecta showed good
oviposition-deterrent, ovicidal and repellent activities respectively. These results suggest that the
leaf extracts of A. paniculata, E. prostrata and T. erecta may have the potential to be used as an
ideal eco-friendly approach for the control of the An. subpictus.
Emadi F, Yassa N, Hadjiakhoondi A, Beyer C, Sharifzadeh M. Sedative effects of Iranian
Artemisia annua in mice: possible benzodiazepine receptors involvement. Pharm Biol. 2011
Aug;49(8):784-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Artemisia annua L. (Asteraceae), commonly known as sweet wormwood or Qinghao, is an
annual herb/shrub native of Asia. The plant grows broadly in Caspian Sea shores in North of
Iran. In China, the aerial parts of this plant are source of artemisinin, which is an antimalarial
compound.
OBJECTIVE:
This study aimed to establish the scientific basis of reported ethnomedicinal use of A. annua as
sedative agent.
MATERIAL AND METHODS:
136
The plants were gathered from Gilan Province in Iran. Plant aerial parts were extracted with
methanol and concentrated in vacuum. Methanol extract was partitioned into chloroform,
petroleum ether, and ethyl acetate. Each fraction was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) in male
mice with different concentrations (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg), and for evaluation of sedative
activity, immobility time was determined. In effort to clarify the mechanism of action,
flumazenil (3 mg/kg, i.p.) as a benzodiazepine (BZD) receptor antagonist was injected 15 min
before chloroform fraction (200 mg/kg, i.p.).
RESULTS:
Compared with control group (saline-treated mice), the chloroform fraction significantly
increased immobility time in a dose-dependent manner. Flumazenil decreased immobility time
induced by chloroform fraction significantly.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
The results of the present study suggest that A. annua growing in Iran has sedative effects, which
are probably mediated via BZD receptors pathways.
Faujdar J, Gupta P, Natrajan M, Das R, Chauhan DS, Katoch VM, Gupta UD. Mycobacterium
indicus pranii as stand-alone or adjunct immunotherapeutic in treatment of experimental animal
tuberculosis.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Nov;134(5):696-703.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Mycobacterium w (M.w) is a saprophytic cultivable mycobacterium and shares several antigens
with M. tuberculosis. It has shown good immunomodulation in leprosy patients. Hence in the
present study, the efficacy of M.w immunotherapy, alone or in combination with multi drug
chemotherapeutic regimens was investigated against drug sensitive M. tuberculosis H37Rv and
three clinical isolates with variable degree of drug resistance in mice.
METHODS:
BALB/c mice were infected with M. tuberculosis H37Rv (susceptible to all first and second line
drugs) and three clinical isolates taken from the epository of the Institute. The dose of 200 bacilli
was used for infection via respiratory route in an aerosol chamber. Chemotherapy (5 days/wk)
was given one month after infection and the vaccinated group was given a dose of 1x107 bacilli
by subcutaneous route. Bacterial load was measured at 4 and 6 wk after initiation of
chemotherapy.
137
RESULTS:
M.w when given along with chemotherapy (4 and 6 wk) led to a greater reduction in the bacterial
load in lungs and other organs of TB infected animals compared to. However, the reduction was
significantly (P<0.05) more in terms of colony forming units (cfu) in both organs (lungs and
spleen).
CONCLUSION:
M.w (as immunomodulator) has beneficial therapeutic effect as an adjunct to chemotherapy.
Fletcher JN, Kinghorn AD, Slack JP, McCluskey TS, Odley A, Jia Z. In vitro evaluation of
flavonoids from Eriodictyon californicum for antagonist activity against the bitterness receptor
hTAS2R31.
J
Agric
Food
Chem.
2011
Dec
28;59(24):13117-21.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The leaves of the native North American plant, Eriodictyon californicum, were once used to
mask the bitter taste of pharmaceuticals, an application currently of importance. Ten flavonoids
(1-10) were isolated from the leaves of E. californicum, of which the structure and absolute
configuration of 6-methoxyhesperetin (8) were assigned for the first time. In addition, the
absolute configurations at C-2 were established for 4'-isobutyrylhomoeriodictyol (3) and 6methoxyhomoeriodictyol (7). Using a cell-based assay, it was determined that the 7methoxylated flavanones, sakuranetin (2) and 6-methoxysakuranetin (9), and the flavone,
jaceosidin (10), are antagonists of hTAS2R31.
Foubert K, Cuyckens F, Matheeussen A, Vlietinck A, Apers S, Maes L, Pieters L. Antiprotozoal
and antiangiogenic saponins from Apodytes dimidiata. Phytochemistry. 2011 Aug;72(1112):1414-23. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Bioassay-guided isolation was performed on the leaves of Apodytes dimidiata E. Mey. Ex Arn.
(Icacinaceae), based on previously demonstrated activity against Leishmania. Six saponins never
isolated from nature before were elucidated with LC-MS/MS, GC-MS and 1D and 2D NMR.
The compounds apodytine A-F are responsible at least in part for the antiprotozoal activity, but
also possess haemolytic activity and display antiangiogenic activity in the rat aorta ring assay, an
effect which may be due to a non-selective toxicity.
138
Fred-Jaiyesimi AA, Adepoju A, Egbebunmi O. Anthelmintic activities of chloroform and
methanol extracts of Buchholzia coriacea Engler seed. Parasitol Res. 2011 Aug;109(2):441-4.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The anthelmintic potentials of the chloroform and methanol extracts of Buchholzia coriacea
Engler seed were investigated. In folklore medicine, B. coriacea (Capparidaceae) is believed to
be useful in the treatment of various kinds of ailments and diseases. At doses of 10 mg/kg, 25
mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, the extracts were tested against Eudrilus eugeniae (earthworm) and
Bunostomum phlebotomum (cattle hookworm). The extracts exhibited dose-dependent
anthelmintic effects on the earthworms and hookworms. The methanol extract at 50 mg/kg was
the most active extract against the helminths, and the activity of the methanol extract was not
significantly different from that of piperazine hydrate (reference drug, 10 mg/kg) against the
earthworms.
Fucharoen S, Winichagoon P. Haemoglobinopathies in southeast Asia. Indian J Med Res. 2011
Oct;134:498-506. Review.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Mycobacterium w (M.w) is a saprophytic cultivable mycobacterium and shares several antigens
with M. tuberculosis. It has shown good immunomodulation in leprosy patients. Hence in the
present study, the efficacy of M.w immunotherapy, alone or in combination with multi drug
chemotherapeutic regimens was investigated against drug sensitive M. tuberculosis H37Rv and
three clinical isolates with variable degree of drug resistance in mice.
METHODS:
BALB/c mice were infected with M. tuberculosis H37Rv (susceptible to all first and second line
drugs) and three clinical isolates taken from the epository of the Institute. The dose of 200 bacilli
was used for infection via respiratory route in an aerosol chamber. Chemotherapy (5 days/wk)
was given one month after infection and the vaccinated group was given a dose of 1x107 bacilli
by subcutaneous route. Bacterial load was measured at 4 and 6 wk after initiation of
chemotherapy.
RESULTS:
M.w when given along with chemotherapy (4 and 6 wk) led to a greater reduction in the
bacterial load in lungs and other organs of TB infected animals compared to. However, the
139
reduction was significantly (P<0.05) more in terms of colony forming units (cfu) in both organs
(lungs and spleen).
CONCLUSION:
M.w (as immunomodulator) has beneficial therapeutic effect as an adjunct to chemotherapy.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Gadge NB, Jalalpure SS. Natriuretic and saluretic effects of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br. root
extracts
in
rats.
Indian
J
Pharmacol.
2011
Nov;43(6):714-7.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
The present study was aimed to investigate the diuretic effects of aqueous (AqE) and ethanolic
(EtE) crude extracts of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br. roots (family - Asclepiadaceae) using acute
model in rats.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A single individual dose of AqE and EtE of H. indicus root (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, p.o.,
each), frusemide and hydrochlorothiazide, (25 mg/kg, p.o., each) as reference diuretic drugs were
administered orally to dehydrated rats. Control group rats were fed with normal saline (25 ml/kg,
p.o.). All rats were caged in metabolic cages in a pairs and their urine output was monitored at 5
and 24 h intervals.
RESULTS:
Both extracts significantly increased the urine output in higher doses. Although, the onset of this
diuretic action was gradual (within 5 h), it lasted throughout the studied period (up to 24 h).
Further, the intensity of diuresis induced by AqE (400 mg/kg) in 5 h was almost similar to that of
frusemide and hydrochlothiazide. AqE of H. indicus root also caused marked increase in urinary
Na(+) and K(+) levels. However, the routine urinalysis showed non-significant alterations in pH
and specific gravity by either dose of crude extracts of H. indicus roots.
CONCLUSIONS:
These effects demonstrate possible diuretic actions of H. indicus root extracts and support its
folklore use in various urinary ailments. Further study need to be done to characterize active
phytoconstituents.
140
Galani VJ, Patel BG. Psychotropic activity of Argyreia speciosa roots in experimental animals.
Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):380-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Argyreia speciosa (L.f.) Sweet (convolvulaceae) commonly known as Briddhadaraka is regarded
as a "Rasayana" drug in the ayurvedic system of medicine to cure diseases of nervous system. In
this study, hydroalcoholic root extract of A. speciosa was subjected to evaluate psychotropic
effects in classical experimental models. Effect of the extract on spontaneous motor activity,
pentobarbital-induced sleeping time, motor coordination, exploratory behavior, and
apomorphine-induced stereotypy were investigated in mice. Effect of the extract on catalepsy
and haloperidol-induced catalepsy were studied in rats. Preliminary phytochemical and acute
toxicity screenings were also performed. The extract (100, 200, and 500 mg/kg, p.o.)
significantly decreased spontaneous motor activity, exploratory behavior, and prolonged
pentobarbital sleeping time in mice. The extract also remarkably attenuated the intensity of
apomorphine-induced stereotypy but had no effect on motor coordination. The extract produced
catalepsy and potentiated haloperidol-induced catalepsy in rats. These results provide evidence
that the hydroalcoholic extract of A. speciosa roots may contain psychoactive substances that are
sedative in nature with possible neuroleptic properties.
Ganjare AB, Nirmal SA, Rub RA, Patil AN, Pattan SR. Use of Cordia dichotoma bark in the
treatment
of
ulcerative
colitis.
Pharm
Biol.
2011
Aug;49(8):850-5.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
CONTEXT:
The plant Cordia dichotoma Forst. f. (Boraginaceae) is commonly known as "Bhokar" in
Marathi. This tree species has been of interest to researchers because traditionally its bark is
reported in the treatment of ulcer and colic pain.
OBJECTIVE:
The present work was undertaken to validate its folk use in the treatment of ulcerative colitis
(UC) by using scientific methods.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Dried bark powder was extracted with methanol and this crude methanol extract was fractionated
using various solvents. These fractions were tested for effectiveness against UC. Macroscopical
study and histopathology of the colon, level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde
141
(MDA) in colon and blood were studied for the assessment of the activity. Antioxidant activity
of these fractions was screened by using various methods.
RESULTS:
Animals treated with the methanol fraction of the crude methanol extract showed lower
pathological scores and good healing. This fraction reduced MPO and MDA levels significantly
in blood and tissue. It showed antioxidant potential [in DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl)
assay IC₅₀ value is 26.25; trolox equivalent (TE) antioxidant capacity µg/ml TE/g of plant
material on dry basis in ABTS (2,2'-azinobis[3-ethylbenzthiazoline]-6-sulfonic acid) and FRAP
(ferric reducing antioxidant potential) assay is 2.03 and 2.45, respectively]. The fraction contains
a high level of phenolics.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
The methanol fraction of crude methanol extract of C. dichotoma bark is effective in the
treatment of UC.
Ghafourian Boroujerdnia M, Azemi ME, Hemmati AA, Taghian A, Azadmehr A.
Immunomodulatory effects of Astragalus gypsicolus hydroalcoholic extract in ovalbumininduced allergic mice model. Iran J Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2011 Dec;10(4):281-8.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that herbal extracts possess various biological effects
including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. The present study was aimed to
investigate the protective effects of the Astragalus gypsicolus (AG) hydroalcoholic extract in
early allergic sensitized mice induced by ovalbumin. Phytochemical assay was used to recognize
the main active constituents in the AG hydroalcoholic extract. Mice were immunized with
subcutaneous injection of ovalbumin and aluminum hydroxide. Efficiency of sensitization was
assessed by serum IgE levels and eosinophil count. After sensitization, two doses of extract (250
mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) were injected intrapritoneally. On day 14, mice were challenged with
intrapritoneal injection of ovalbumin. IL-4 and IFNγ levels in broncoalveolar lavage fluid, which
had been collected on day 15, were assessed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
kit. Our results indicate two main active constituents including flavonoids and terpenoids are
present in the AG hydroalcoholic extract. Intrapritoneal injection of the AG hydroalcoholic
extract was able to decrease IL-4 and increase IFNγ. It seems the AG hydroalcoholic extract has
the potential to modulate the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines in allergy.
142
Giridharan VV, Thandavarayan RA, Mani V, Ashok Dundapa T, Watanabe K, Konishi T.
Ocimum sanctum Linn. leaf extracts inhibit acetylcholinesterase and improve cognition in rats
with experimentally induced dementia. J Med Food. 2011 Sep;14(9):912-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
Cognitive disorders such as dementia, attention deficits, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been
well investigated. However, effective interventions for the promotion and progression of AD are
unavailable to date. The present work was undertaken to investigate the effects of the aqueous
(300 and 500 mg/kg) and alcoholic (300 and 500 mg/kg) extracts of Ocimum sanctum Linn.
leaves as an antidementic and anticholinesterase agent and also as an immunostimulant in rats.
Maximal electroshock, atropine, and cyclosporine were used to induce dementia. The passive
avoidance task was used for assessing memory. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was
estimated in different parts of the brain, and immune status was studied using
dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) skin sensitivity tests. In all the three models both aqueous and
alcoholic O. sanctum extracts decreased the time taken to reach the shock-free zone and the
number of mistakes and significantly decreased the AChE activity in rats. O. sanctum treatment
significantly increased the induration in the DNCB skin test. Therefore, O. sanctum was shown
to be useful for the management of experimentally induced cognitive dysfunctions in rats.
Gupta RK, Hussain T, Panigrahi G, Das A, Singh GN, Sweety K, Faiyazuddin M, Rao CV.
Hepatoprotective effect of Solanum xanthocarpum fruit extract against CCl4 induced acute liver
toxicity in experimental animals. Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2011 Dec;4(12):964-8.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the hepatoprotective potential of Solanum xanthocarpum (Solanaceae) (S.
xanthocarpum) in experimental rats to validate its traditional claim.
METHODS:
50% ethanolic fruit extract of S. xanthocarpum (SXE, 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg body weight) was
administered daily for 14 days in experimental animals. Liver injury was induced chemically, by
CCl(4) administration (1 mL/kg i. p.). The hepatoprotective activity was assessed using various
biochemical parameters like aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT),
Serum alkaline phosphatise (SALP) and total bilirubin. Meanwhile, in vivo antioxidant activities
as lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and
catalase (CAT) were screened along with histopathological studies.
143
RESULTS:
Obtained results demonstrated that the treatment with SXE significantly (P<0.05-<0.001) and
dose-dependently prevented chemically induced increase in serum levels of hepatic enzymes.
Furthermore, SXE significantly (up to P<0.001) reduced the lipid peroxidation in the liver tissue
and restored activities of defence antioxidant enzymes GSH, SOD and catalase towards normal
levels. Histopathology of the liver tissue showed that SXE attenuated the hepatocellular necrosis
and led to reduction of inflammatory cells inflltration.
CONCLUSIONS:
The results of this study strongly indicate the protective effect of SXE against acute liver injury
which may be attributed to its hepatoprotective activity, and there by scientifically support its
traditional use.
Habtemariam S. Methyl-3-O-methyl gallate and gallic acid from the leaves of Peltiphyllum
peltatum: isolation and comparative antioxidant, prooxidant, and cytotoxic effects in neuronal
cells. J Med Food. 2011 Nov;14(11):1412-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Methyl-3-O-methyl gallate (M3MG) is a rare natural product with close structural similarity to
gallic acid. In the present report, the isolation of M3MG from Peltiphyllum peltatum leaves and
its comparative antioxidant, prooxidant, and cytotoxicity to neuronal SH-SY5Y cells are
discussed. When tested in concentrations up to 1 mM, M3MG consistently showed antioxidant
activity without prooxidant effect both in cell and cell-free assay models. In contrast to M3MG,
gallic acid showed a copper-dependent prooxidant effect that resulted in DNA damage, increased
the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species, and induced cytotoxicity in neuronal cells. The
identification of M3MG in P. peltatum leaves is furtherz evidence of the great antioxidant
potential and nutritional value of the plant.
Habtemariam S. The therapeutic potential of Berberis darwinii stem-bark: quantification of
berberine and in vitro evidence for Alzheimer's disease therapy. Nat Prod Commun. 2011
Aug;6(8):1089-90. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Berberis darwinii is native to South America but has been widely distributed in Europe and other
continents following its discovery by Charles Darwin. Herewith, the therapeutic potential of
stem-bark of the plant for treating Alzheimer's disease was studied using an in vitro
acetylcholinesterase inhibition assay. It was found that the methanolic extract of the stem-bark
144
was a potent inhibitor of the enzyme with an IC50 value of 1.23 +/- 0.05 microg/mL. An HPLCbased berberine quantification study revealed an astonishing 38% yield of the dried methanolic
extract.
Haggag EG, Kamal AM, Abdelhady MI, El-Sayed MM, El-Wakil EA, Abd-El-Hamed SS.
Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of polyphenolic compounds isolated from the leaves of
Leucenia
leucocephala.
Pharm
Biol.
2011
Nov;49(11):1103-13.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Cancer is a serious clinical problem to the health care system. Anticancer drugs have been
extracted from plants containing phenolic compounds. Leucenia species (Fabaceae) contain a
variety of bioactive components of numerous biological and pharmacological properties.
OBJECTIVE:
This study explored the constitutive polyphenols of Leucenia leucocephala Lam. growing in
Egypt and evaluated the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Chemical structures of the isolated compounds from the leaves of L. leucocephala were
established by spectral techniques (UV, (1)H, and (13)C NMR, MS).
RESULTS:
Chromatographic separation of 80% MeOH extract of the leaves of L. leucocephala have
resulted in a novel flavonoid-galloyl glycoside [myricetin 3-O-(2',3'4'-tri-O-galloyl)-α-Lrhamnopyranoside] with three known polyphenolic compounds isolated for the first time from
this species (apigenin 7-O-β-D-glucuronopyranoside methyl ester, luteolin 7-O-β-Dglucuronopyranoside methyl ester, and 1,3,6-tri-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranose) and seven known
previously isolated compounds. Also, 80% methanol extract exhibited high antioxidant activity
(SC(50) = 3.94 µg/ml), which is correlated with its phenolic content. The extract also showed
cytotoxic activity against Hep G2 (IC(50) value 1.41 µg/ml) confirming its anticancer activity
against hepatocellular carcinoma. Among the tested compounds (4-8) for antioxidant property,
compound 7 was the most active compound (SC(50) = 2.49 µg/ml). Also compounds 7 and 8
exhibited high cytotoxic activity (IC(50) = 2.41 and 2.81 µg/ml, respectively).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
145
These findings demonstrate that the leaves of L. leucocephala contain a considerable amount of
polyphenolic compounds with high antioxidant properties, thus it has great potential as a source
for natural health products.
Hahm ER, Lee J, Huang Y, Singh SV. Withaferin a suppresses estrogen receptor-α expression in
human breast cancer cells. Mol Carcinog. 2011 Aug;50(8):614-24. doi: 10.1002/mc.20760.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
We have shown previously that withaferin A (WA), a promising anticancer constituent
of Ayurvedic medicineplant Withania somnifera, inhibits growth of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231
human breast cancer cells in culture and MDA-MB-231 xenografts in vivo by causing apoptosis.
However, the mechanism of WA-induced apoptosis is not fully understood. The present study
was designed to systematically determine the role of tumor suppressor p53 and estrogen
receptor-α (ER-α) in proapoptotic response to WA using MCF-7, T47D, and ER-α
overexpressing MDA-MB-231 cells as a model. WA treatment resulted in induction as well as
increased S15 phosphorylation of p53 in MCF-7 cells, but RNA interference of this tumor
suppressor conferred modest protection at best against WA-induced apoptosis. WA-mediated
growth inhibition and apoptosis induction in MCF-7 cells were significantly attenuated in the
presence of 17β-estradiol (E2). Exposure of MCF-7 cells to WA resulted in a marked decrease in
protein levels of ER-α (but not ER-β) and ER-α regulated gene product pS2, and this effect was
markedly attenuated in the presence of E2. WA-mediated down-regulation of ER-α protein
expression correlated with a decrease in its nuclear level, suppression of its mRNA level, and
inhibition of E2-dependent activation of ERE2e1b-luciferase reporter gene. Ectopic expression
of ER-α in the MDA-MB-231 cell line conferred partial but statistically significant protection
against WA-mediated apoptosis, but not G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. Collectively, these results
indicate that WA functions as an anti-estrogen, and the proapoptotic effect of this promising
natural product is partially attenuated by p53 knockdown and E2-ER-α.
Hahm ER, Moura MB, Kelley EE, Van Houten B, Shiva S, Singh SV. Withaferin A-induced
apoptosis in human breast cancer cells is mediated by reactive oxygen species. PLoS One.
2011;6(8):e23354. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a promising anticancer constituent of Ayurvedic medicinal plant Withania
somnifera, inhibits growth of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in culture
146
and MDA-MB-231 xenografts in vivo in association with apoptosis induction, but the
mechanism of cell death is not fully understood. We now demonstrate, for the first time, that
WA-induced apoptosis is mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production due to
inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. WA treatment caused ROS production in MDA-MB-231
and MCF-7 cells, but not in a normal human mammary epithelial cell line (HMEC). The HMEC
was also resistant to WA-induced apoptosis. WA-mediated ROS production as well as apoptotic
histone-associated DNA fragment release into the cytosol was significantly attenuated by ectopic
expression of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. ROS
production resulting from WA exposure was accompanied by inhibition of oxidative
phosphorylation and inhibition of complex III activity. Mitochondrial DNA-deficient Rho-0
variants of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were resistant to WA-induced ROS production,
collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, and apoptosis compared with respective wildtype cells. WA treatment resulted in activation of Bax and Bak in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7
cells, and SV40 immortalized embryonic fibroblasts derived from Bax and Bak double knockout
mouse were significantly more resistant to WA-induced apoptosis compared with fibroblasts
derived from wild-type mouse. In conclusion, the present study provides novel insight into the
molecular circuitry of WA-induced apoptosis involving ROS production and activation of
Bax/Bak.
Haider S, Nazreen S, Alam MM, Gupta A, Hamid H, Alam MS. Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of ethanolic extract and its various fractions from Adiantum capillus
veneris
Linn.
J
Ethnopharmacol.
2011
Dec
8;138(3):741-7
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY:
To investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of the crude ethanolic extract
of Adiantum capillus veneris Linn. (Adiantaceae) and its various fractions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The ethanolic extract and its fractions were given at a dose of 200 mg/kg po and 300 mg/kg po
for testing their anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The
analgesic activity of the ethanolic extract and its fractions has been carried out by tail-flick
method and writhing test at a dosage of 300 mg/kg po. Gastric ulceration studies have been
further carried out to study the antiulcer effect of the ethanolic extract and its various fractions at
dose of 900 mg/kg body weight.
RESULTS:
147
Amongst the tested fractions, the ethyl acetate fraction exhibited better inhibition (67.27%) at
300 mg/kg po dosage when compared to the standard drug Indomethacin (63.63%) after 3h in the
carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extract
and its various fractions appear to be related to the inhibition of NO release, and the decreasing
TNF-α level. The ethanolic extract and all its fractions especially the ethyl acetate (p<0.01)
showed significant analgesic activity with insignificant ulceration as compared to the standard
drug, i.e. ibuprofen. The histopathological study of ethanolic extract and its fractions reveals that
none of them cause ulcer.
CONCLUSION:
The present study indicates that Adiantum capillus veneris Linn. has significant antiinflammatory and analgesic effect.
Harishankar N, Vajreswari A, Giridharan NV. WNIN/GR-Ob - an insulin-resistant obese rat
model from inbred WNIN strain. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Sep;134:320-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
WNIN/GR-Ob is a mutant obese rat strain with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) developed at
the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, India, from the existing 80 year old Wistar
rat (WNIN) stock colony. The data presented here pertain to its obese nature along with IGT trait
as evidenced by physical, physiological and biochemical parameters. The study also explains its
existence, in three phenotypes: homozygous lean (+/+), heterozygous carrier (+/-) and
homozygous obese (-/-).
METHODS:
Thirty animals (15 males and 15 females) from each phenotype (+/+, +/-, -/-) and 24 lean and
obese (6 males and 6 females) rats were taken for growth and food intake studies respectively.
Twelve adult rats from each phenotype were taken for body composition measurement by total
body electrical conductivity (TOBEC); 12 rats of both genders from each phenotype at different
ages were taken for clinical chemistry parameters. Physiological indices of insulin resistance
were calculated according to the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMAIR) and also by studying U¹⁴C 2-deoxy glucose uptake (2DG).
RESULTS:
WNINGR-Ob mutants had high growth, hyperphagia, polydipsia, polyurea, glycosuria, and
significantly lower lean body mass, higher fat mass as compared with carrier and lean rats. These
148
mutants, at 50 days of age displayed abnormal response to glucose load (IGT),
hyperinsulinaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, hypercholesterolaemia and hyperleptinaemia. Basal
and insulin-stimulated glucose uptakes by diaphragm were significantly decreased in obese rats
as compared with lean rats.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Obese rats of the designated WNIN/GR-Ob strain showed obesity with IGT, as adjudged by
physical, physiological and biochemical indices. These indices varied among the three
phenotypes, being lowest in lean, highest in obese and intermediate in carrier phenotypes thereby
suggesting that obesity is inherited as autosomal incomplete dominant trait in this strain. This
mutant obese rat model is easy to propagate, and can easily be transformed to frank diabetes
model by dietary manipulation and thus can be used for screening anti-diabetic drugs.
He L, Qi Y, Rong X, Jiang J, Yang Q, Yamahara J, Murray M, Li Y. The Ayurvedic Medicine
Salacia oblonga Attenuates Diabetic Renal Fibrosis in Rats: Suppression of Angiotensin II/AT1
Signaling.
Evid
Based
Complement
Alternat
Med.
2011;2011:807451.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
In human diabetic nephropathy, the extent of tubulointerstitial fibrosis is the leading cause of
end-stage renal disease; fibrosis is closely correlated with renal dysfunction. Although a wide
array of medicinal plants play a role in the prevention and treatment of diabetes, there are few
reports of the application of herbal medicines in amelioration of renal fibrosis, or the underlying
mechanisms
by
which
such
benefits
are
mediated.
The
efficacy
of
the Ayurvedic antidiabetic medicine Salacia oblonga (SO) root on rat renal fibrosis was
investigated. An aqueous extract from SO (100 mg/kg, p.o., 6 weeks) diminished renal
glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, as revealed by van
Giesen-staining. SO also reduced renal salt-soluble, acid-soluble and salt-insoluble collagen
contents. These changes were accompanied by normalization of hypoalbuminemia and BUN.
Gene profiling revealed that the increase in transcripts encoding the glomerulosclerotic
mediators collagen I, collagen IV, fibronectin, angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1), transforming
growth factor (TGF)-β1, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 observed in ZDF rat kidney
was suppressed by SO. In rat-derived mesangial cells, similar to the effect of the AT1 antagonist
telmisartan, SO and its major component mangiferin suppressed the stimulatory effect of
angiotensin II on proliferation and increased mRNA expression and/or activities of collagen I,
collagen IV, fibronectin, AT1, TGF-β1 and PAI-1. Considered together the present findings
demonstrate that SO attenuates diabetic renal fibrosis, at least in part by suppressing anigiotensin
II/AT1 signaling. Further, it now emerges that mangiferin is an effective antifibrogenic agent.
149
Hemalatha R, Kumar RH, Venkaiah K, Srinivasan K, Brahmam GN. Prevalence of &
knowledge, attitude & practices towards HIV & sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among
female sex workers (FSWs) in Andhra Pradesh. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Oct;134:470-5.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
As part of the baseline survey carried out during 2005-06, biological and behavioural data were
generated on about 3200 female sex workers (FSWs), from eight districts of Andhra Pradesh
(AP), India. This study describes the relationship between socio-demographic and behavioural
factors with consistent condom use (CCU) and HIV among FSWs in AP.
METHODS:
A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among female sex workers (FSW) in
eight districts of Andhra Pradesh, India, using conventional cluster sampling and time-location
cluster sampling. Key risk behaviours and STIs related to the spread of HIV were assessed.
Blood samples were collected to detect syphilis, Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2)
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neiserria gonorrhoeae (NG) and HIV serology.
RESULTS:
About 70 per cent of the FSWs were illiterates, nearly 50 per cent were currently married and 41
per cent of the FSWs had sex work as the sole source of income. More than 95 per cent of the
FSWs heard of HIV, but about 99 per cent believed that HIV/AIDS cannot be prevented.
Logistic regression analysis showed significantly lesser CCU with high client volume, not
carrying condom and could not use condom in past 1 month due to various reasons such as non
co-operation by the clients. Similarly, CCU was significantly (P<0.001) lesser (only 8.9%) with
regular non-commercial partners. Overall there was 16.3 per cent prevalence of HIV amongst
FSWs. C. trachomatis and N. gonorrheae were prevalent in 3.4 and 2 per cent of the FSWs,
respectively and about 70 per cent of the FSWs were positive for HSV2 serology. HIV was
significantly associated with STIs.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Misconception that HIV/AIDS cannot be prevented is very high. Most of the subjects in the
present study had first sexual debut at a very young age. HIV was associated with STIs,
emphasizing aggressive STI diagnosis and treatment. CCU must be emphasized right from first
sexual debut with all clients and non-commercial partners as well.
150
Hemshekhar M, Sebastin Santhosh M, Kemparaju K, Girish KS. Emerging Roles of Anacardic
Acid and Its Derivatives: A Pharmacological Overview. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2011
Nov 21. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2011.00833.x. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Anacardic acid (AA) is a bioactive phytochemical found in nutshell of Anacardium occidentale.
Chemically, it is a mixture of several closely related organic compounds, each consisting of
salicylic acid substituted with an alkyl chain. The traditional Ayurveda depicts nutshell oil as a
medicinal remedy for alexeritic, amebicidal, gingivitis, malaria and syphilitic ulcers. However,
the enduring research and emerging evidence suggests that AA could be a potent target molecule
with bactericide, fungicide, insecticide, anti-termite and molluscicide properties and as a
therapeutic agent in the treatment of the most serious pathophysiological disorders like cancer,
oxidative damage, inflammation and obesity. Furthermore, AA was found to be a common
inhibitor of several clinically targeted enzymes such as NFκB kinase, histone acetyltransferase
(HATs), lipoxygenase (LOX-1), xanthine oxidase, tyrosinase and ureases. In view of this, we
have made an effort to summarize the ongoing research on the therapeutical role of AA and its
derivatives. The current MiniReview sheds light on the pharmacological applications, toxicity
and allergic responses associated with AA and its derivatives. Although the available records are
promising, much more detailed investigations into the therapeutical properties, particularly the
anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities, are urgently needed. We hope the present
MiniReview will attract and encourage further research on elucidating and appreciating the
possible curative properties of AA and its derivatives in the management of multifactorial
diseases.
Hilliard TS, Gaisina IN, Muehlbauer AG, Gaisin AM, Gallier F, Burdette JE. Glycogen synthase
kinase 3β inhibitors induce apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells and inhibit in-vivo tumor growth.
Anticancer Drugs. 2011 Nov;22(10):978-85. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy among US women.
Paclitaxel/carboplatin is the current drug therapy used to treat ovarian cancer, but most women
develop drug resistance and recurrence of the disease, necessitating alternative strategies for
treatment. A possible molecular target for cancer therapy is glycogen synthase kinase 3β
(GSK3β), a downstream kinase in the Wnt signaling pathway that is overexpressed in serous
ovarian cancer. Novel maleimide-based GSK3β inhibitors (GSK3βi) were synthesized, selected,
and tested in vitro using SKOV3 and OVCA432 serous ovarian cancer cell lines. From a panel of
10 inhibitors, GSK3βi 9ING41 was found to be the most effective in vitro. 9ING41 induced
apoptosis as indicated by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole-positive nuclear condensation, poly
(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end
151
labeling staining. The mechanism for apoptosis was through caspase-3 cleavage. GSK3βi
upregulated phosphorylation of the inhibitory serine residue of GSK3β in OVCA432 and
SKOV3 cell lines and also inhibited phosphorylation of the downstream target glycogen
synthase. An in-vivo xenograft study using SKOV3 cells demonstrated that tumor progression
was hindered by 9ING41 in vivo. The maximum tolerated dose for 9ING41 was greater than 500
mg/kg in rats. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed 9ING41 to have a bioavailability of 4.5% and to
be well distributed in tissues. Therefore, GSK3β inhibitors alone or in combination with existing
drugs may hinder the growth of serous ovarian cancers.
Hullatti KK, Gopikrishna UV, Kuppast IJ. Phytochemical investigation and diuretic activity of
Cyclea peltata leaf extracts. J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2011
Oct;2(4):241-4.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Ayurvedic system of medicine is well known for treating renal problems. A vast number of
medicinal plants mentioned in Ayurvedic system of medicine are known to possess diuretic
properties. Present study reports the preliminary phytochemical investigation of petroleum ether
and ethanolic extracts of Cyclea peltata and their diuretic activity. Preliminary phytochemical
screening reveals the presence of phytosterols and alkaloids as major phytoconstituents in
petroleum ether extract. The ethanolic extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids,
tannins, diterpenes and saponins. Pharmacological investigation revealed that ethanolic extract of
C. peltata leaves possessed significant diuretic activity in a given dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg
body weight (Diuretic action 1.7 and 2.6, respectively). Where as petroleum ether extract has
shown moderate diuresis at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight (Diuretic action 1.1). The present
study justifies the use of C. peltata in the Ayurvedic system of medicine as a diuretic drug.
Jagtap M, Chandola HM, Ravishankar B. Clinical efficacy of Coleus forskohlii (Willd.) Briq.
(Makandi) in hypertension of geriatric population. Ayu. 2011 Jan;32(1):59-65.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Hypertension is the most common psychosomatic disorder affecting 972 million people
worldwide. The present clinical study deals with the effect of Makandi (Coleus forskohlii
(Willd.) Briq.) Ghana vati and tablets of its powder in hypertension found in the geriatric age
group (50-80 years). A total of 49 hypertensive patients fulfilling the diagnostic criteria were
registered in two groups-Group I (Ghana vati) and Group II (Churna tablet). Out of 27 enrolled
patients of group I, 21 patients completed the treatment. In Group II, out of 22 registered
152
patients, a total of 20 patients completed the treatment. The effect of the therapy was assessed on
the basis of changes in the systolic and diastolic blood pressures, in both sitting and supine
positions; with Manasa Bhava Pariksha, Manasa Vibhrama Pariksha, symptomatology, geriatric
signs and symptoms, and a brief psychiatric rating scale. Analysis of the results showed that the
treatment in both the groups had been found to be good. It can be stated that Makandi, either in
Ghana vati form or in churna tablet form, is an effective remedy for the treatment of
hypertension. On analyzing the overall effect, 76.19% patients in Group I and 75.00% patients in
Group II were mildly improved. Comparatively the overall treatment with group I was found to
be better.
Jalalpure SS, Mandavkar YD, Khalure PR, Shinde GS, Shelar PA, Shah AS. Antiarthritic
activity of various extracts of Mesua ferrea Linn. seed. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Dec
8;138(3):700-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Mesua ferrea Linn. (Cluciaseae), Cobra's saffron, is named after the heaviness of its timber and is
cultivated in tropical climates for its form, foliage, and fragrant flowers. It is prescribed in
the Ayurvedic literature for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and rheumatic conditions.
OBJECTIVE:
In present investigation, activity of Mesua ferrea and its evaluation in the formaldehyde and
Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in rats is reported.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The extracts obtained from successive extraction were subjected to preliminary phytochemical
investigation and antiarthritic activity was evaluated by inducing formaldehyde and CFA. Body
weight changes and haematological parameters were measured.
RESULTS:
The results indicate that Mesua ferrea protects rats against formaldehyde and CFA induced
arthritis. The body weight changes and haematological perturbations induced by CFA were
maintained. The overall results indicated that Mesua ferrea exerts a potent protective effect
against formaldehyde and adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats.
CONCLUSION:
153
These findings demonstrate that the present study validates the ethnomedicinal use of seeds of
Mesua ferrea in the treatment of arthritis conditions.
Jeloka TK, Jhamnani A. Survival of elderly/dialysis patients--a single center study from India. J
Assoc Physicians India. 2011 Jul;59:412-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: In the absence of national registry and uniformity of treatment, survival of patients
on dialysis in our country has been variedly reported. There are no published data on survival of
elderly patients (>65 years) on dialysis. Because of several social, economical and practical
reasons (mentioned below), not many elderly chronic kidney disease patients opt for dialysis. It
is worth while to look into the data of survival of elderly CKD (chronic kidney disease) patients
on dialysis to justify the treatment. All CKD patients who continued dialysis for more than 1
month at our center from 1st November 2006 to 31st August 2009 were included in the analysis.
Patients who moved to their native place after initiation of dialysis, underwent transplant,
discontinued dialysis for personal reasons, or died in the first month were excluded. The survival
analysis (Kaplan-Meier) and the demographics were calculated for the elderly group and
compared with the young ones (Independent sample T-test). 86 adult patients were included in
the retrospective survival analysis, out of which 18 were elderly (21%). Mean age of elderly
patients on dialysis was 72.3 +/- 7 years. 77.7 % were males and 77.7 % were diabetics. Median
survival of these patients was 25.6 months (SE 10, and 95% CI 5.9 - 45.3) while the younger
ones had a median survival of 79.6 months (SE 7.9, 95% CI 64 - 95.3). 24 months survival
calculated from KM data set was 41.1% in the elderly whereas it was 96.9% in the young age
group. It is conclude that Median survival of elderly dialysis patients is more than 2 years and 2
year survival is more than 40%. Elderly CKD patients, hence, should be encouraged for renal
replacement therapy rather than discouraging them with poor survival.
Jisha S, Sreeja S, Manjula S. In vitro & in vivo estrogenic activity of glycoside fractions of
Solanum
nigrum
fruit.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Sep;134:369-74.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
The mature fruits of Solanum nigrum contains steroidal glycosides. These are often used as
vegetable and there are evidences on tribal use of these fruits as an oral contraceptive. The
present study was carried out to evaluate the estrogenic potential of S. nigrum fruits by in vitro
and in vivo assays.
154
METHODS:
Defatted methanol extract of dried S. nigrum fruits was column fractionated and the glycoside
positive fractions pooled. Definite concentrations of the fraction were used for in vitro and in
vivo assays. The effect on cell viability was analyzed in MCF-7 cell lines by MTT assay
followed by in vitro evaluation of estrogenicity by hydroxy apatite (HAP) binding assay. The
results were further evaluated in vivo by performing uterotrophic assay in ovariectomized mouse
models.
RESULTS:
At low concentration (40 μg/ml), SNGF induced a dose-dependent increase in MCF-7 cell
proliferation, while higher extract concentrations (80-320 μg/ml) caused progressive cell growth
inhibition. The competitive binding assay using ³H-E₂ suggests that this effect is mediated by
estrogen receptor. Mouse uterotrophic assay revealed a classical uterotrophic response in
ovariectomized mice in response to S. nigrum glycoside fraction (SNGF). SNGF at a dose of 100
mg/kg of body wt induced the maximum height of luminal epithelial cells which indicated an
increase of 30.8 per cent over control (P<0.01) with a correlated increase in uterine wet wt
(150% increase over control). Higher doses (250 and 500 mg/kg body wt) of SNGF did not
induce any uterotrophic effect.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Our preliminary data demonstrate the hormone like activity of Solanum glycosides both in vitro
and in vivo in mouse, which needs to be further explored to evaluate the possible mechanism and
clinical implications.
Kamaraj C, Bagavan A, Elango G, Zahir AA, Rajakumar G, Marimuthu S, Santhoshkumar T,
Rahuman AA. Larvicidal activity of medicinal plant extracts against Anopheles subpictus &
Culex
tritaeniorhynchus.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Jul;134:101-6.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Mosquitoes transmit serious human diseases, causing millions of deaths every year and the
development of resistance to chemical insecticides resulting in rebounding vectorial capacity.
Plants may be alternative sources of mosquito control agents. The present study assessed the role
of larvicidal activities of hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone, and methanol dried leaf and
bark extracts of Annona squamosa L., Chrysanthemum indicum L., and Tridax procumbens L.
155
against the fourth instar larvae of malaria vector, Anopheles subpictus Grassi and Japanese
encephalitis vector, Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles (Diptera: Culicidae).
METHODS:
Larvicidal activities of three medicinal plant extracts were studied in the range of 4.69 to 1000
mg/l in the laboratory bioassays against early 4 th instar larvae of An. subpictus and Cx.
tritaeniorhynchus. The mortality data were subjected to probit analysis to determine the lethal
concentrations (LC50 and LC90) to kill 50 and 90 per cent of the treated larvae of the respective
species.
RESULTS:
All plant extracts showed moderate effects after 24 h of exposure; however, the highest toxic
effect of bark methanol extract of A. squamosa, leaf ethyl acetate extract of C. indicum and leaf
acetone extract of T. procumbens against the larvae of An. subpictus (LC 50 = 93.80, 39.98 and
51.57 mg/l) and bark methanol extract of A. squamosa, leaf methanol extract of C. indicum and
leaf ethyl acetate extract of T. procumbens against the larvae of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (LC50
=104.94, 42.29 and 69.16 mg/l) respectively.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Our data suggest that the bark ethyl acetate and methanol extract of A. squamosa, leaf ethyl
acetate and methanol extract of C. indicum, acetone and ethyl acetate extract of T. procumbens
have the potential to be used as an ecofriendly approach for the control of the An. subpictus, and
Cx. tritaeniorhynchus.
Kannan R, Babu UV. Pharmacognostical Studies on Balanophora fungosa – a Negative Listed
Plant. Anc Sci Life. 2011 Jul;31(1):22-5Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Balanophora fungosa Forster & Forster ssp. indica (Arn.) B. Hansen var. indica,
(Balanophoraceae) syn. B. indica, is a root parasite found in hills of south India. This plant is
included in the list of negative list, which are restricted and prohibited for export. Though it is
not an official drug in any of the indigenous systems ofmedicine in India, it is used in tribal
medicines in south India. However, it is found in crude drug markets as substitute/adulterant for
the Ayurvedic drug Gajapippali (Scindapsus officinalis). Few phytochemical constituents were
reported on this plant. However, there is no pharmacognostical report to authenticate the
commercial samples of B. fungosa and to differentiate them from Scindapsus officinalis. This
article describes the pharmacognostical characteristics of Balanophora fungosa and diagnostic
features to differentiate it from Scindapsus officinalis.
156
King SM, Hilliard TS, Wu LY, Jaffe RC, Fazleabas AT, Burdette JE. The impact of ovulation on
fallopian tube epithelial cells: evaluating three hypotheses connecting ovulation and serous
ovarian cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer. 2011 Sep 20;18(5):627-42. Print 2011 Oct.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy affecting American women. Current
hypotheses concerning the etiology of ovarian cancer propose that a reduction in the lifetime
number of ovulations decreases ovarian cancer risk. Advanced serous carcinoma shares several
biomarkers with fallopian tube epithelial cells, suggesting that some forms of ovarian carcinoma
may originate in the fallopian tube. Currently, the impact of ovulation on the tubal epithelium is
unknown. In CD1 mice, ovulation did not increase tubal epithelial cell (TEC) proliferation as
measured by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining as
compared to unstimulated animals. In superovulated mice, an increase in the number of proinflammatory macrophages was detected in the oviduct. Ovulation also increased levels of
phospho-γH2A.X in TEC, indicating that these cells were susceptible to double-strand DNA
breakage following ovulation. To determine which components of ovulation contributed to DNA
damage in the fallopian tube, an immortalized baboon TEC cell line and a three-dimensional
organ culture system for mouse oviduct and baboon fallopian tubes were developed. TEC did not
proliferate or display increased DNA damage in response to the gonadotropins or estradiol alone
in vitro. Oxidative stress generated by treatment with hydrogen peroxide or macrophageconditioned medium increased DNA damage in TEC in culture. Ovulation may impact the
fallopian tube epithelium by generating DNA damage and stimulating macrophage infiltration
but does not increase proliferation through gonadotropin signaling.
Kokkiripati PK, Bhakshu LM, Marri S, Padmasree K, Row AT, Raghavendra AS, Tetali SD.
Gum resin of Boswellia serrata inhibited human monocytic (THP-1) cell activation and platelet
aggregation.
J
Ethnopharmacol.
2011
Sep
1;137(1):893-901
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Stem bark gum resin extract of Boswellia serrata is traditionally used in India for its hemostatic,
antiinflammatory and cardiovascular health effects and it is named as Śallakī in Ayurvedic
medicine.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
157
This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidative and antithrombotic properties of stem
bark gum resin extracts of Boswellia serrata (BS).
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The inhibitory activity of the BSWE and BSAE on FeCl(3) induced lipid peroxidation (in vitro)
in rat liver and heart homogenates was measured spectrophotometrically. Their effect on
H(2)O(2) induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human monocytic (THP-1) cells
was investigated by tracking intensity of a cell permeable fluorescent dye, H(2)DCFDA and
subjecting the cell samples to confocal microscopy. Further, the effect of BSAE and BSWE on
ADP-induced platelet aggregation was assessed using a multimode detection plate reader, plasma
coagulation times using an automated blood coagulation analyzer and on human blood clotting
factors Xa and XIa using chromogenic substrate. Phytomarker analysis of the water (BSWE) and
hydroalcoholic (BSAE) extracts of BS-gum resin was done through HPLC using a standard
compound AKβBA.
RESULTS:
BSAE and BSWE inhibited, to varied extents, the lipid peroxidation in liver (80%) and heart
(50%) tissue homogenates of male Wistar rats. Further, BSAE (30 μg dwt/mL) and BSWE (300
μg dwt/mL) attenuated ≥ 60% of H(2)O(2) mediated ROS generation in THP-1 cells. In case of
standard compounds, ascorbate (20 μg dwt/mL) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (10 μg
dwt/mL) completely scavenged ROS in the cells. BSAE and BSWE at 3 mg dwt/mL completely
inhibited ADP induced platelet aggregation and activities were comparable to 20 μg/mL of
heparin. The extracts also showed very high activity in prolonging coagulation time periods.
Both types of extracts extended prothrombin time (PT) from ∼13 to >60s and activated partial
thromboplastin time (APTT) from ∼32s to >90s. BSAE inhibited clotting factors Xa and XIa
remarkably at 6 μg of dwt where as BSWE did not show much effect on FXa and showed 30%
inhibition on FXIa at 120 μg. 10 μg of heparin was required to inhibit about 30% activity of the
above factors. HPLC analyses suggested that BSAE and BSWE had AKβBA of 9% (w/w) and
7.8% (w/w) respectively.
CONCLUSION:
Present study demonstrated antioxidant and antithrombotic anticoagulant activities of water and
hydroalcoholic extracts of Boswellia serrata's gum resin. We suggest that BS-gum resin as a
good source for lead/therapeutic compounds possessing antioxidant, antiplatelet and
anticoagulant activities.
Kumerz M, Heiss EH, Schachner D, Atanasov AG, Dirsch VM. Resveratrol inhibits migration
and Rac1 activation in EGF- but not PDGF-activated vascular smooth muscle cells. Mol Nutr
158
Food
Res.
2011
Aug;55(8):1230-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
doi:
10.1002/mnfr.201100309.
Abstract
SCOPE:
Migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) reflects one of the initial steps in
atherosclerosis. Resveratrol (RV) is suggested to mediate putative vasoprotective properties of
red wine leading to the hypothesis that RV interferes with growth factor-induced migration of
VSMC.
METHODS AND RESULTS:
We show here that RV (50 μM) strongly reduces epidermal growth factor (EGF)- but not
platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced VSMC migration using the wound-healing
technique. Accordingly, RV inhibited Rac1 activation and lamellipodia formation in response to
EGF but not PDGF as shown by pull-down assays and fluorescence microscopy after actin
staining with phalloidin-FITC, respectively. Since Src-family kinases and the
phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) are reported to be crucial upstream mediators of Rac1
activation we examined the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin and the src kinase inhibitor SU6656 sideby-side with RV for their anti-migratory potential. Whereas src inhibition abrogated both EGFand PDGF-triggered migration, wortmannin, like RV, was more effective in EGF- than PDGFactivated cells, suggesting that PI3K inhibition, previously shown for RV in growth factoractivated VSMC, contributes to the anti-migratory effect of RV in EGF-stimulated VSMC.
CONCLUSION:
This study is the first to discover an anti-migratory potential of RV in EGF-activated VSMC that
is most likely mediated via Rac1 inhibition.
Lakshmanan D, Werngren J, Jose L, Suja KP, Nair MS, Varma RL, Mundayoor S, Hoffner S,
Kumar RA. Ethyl p-methoxycinnamate isolated from a traditional anti-tuberculosis medicinal
herb inhibits drug resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in vitro. Fitoterapia. 2011
Jul;82(5):757-61. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2011.03.006. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Many plants are used in Ayurveda for the treatment of tuberculosis. Our aim was to examine if
these plants possess any specific molecule that inhibits Mycobacterium tuberculosis. One of
them, Kaempferia galanga, yielded an anti-TB molecule, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (EPMC). By
resazurin microtitre assay (REMA), EPMC was shown to inhibit M. tuberculosis H37Ra,
H37Rv, drug susceptible and multidrug resistant (MDR) clinical isolates (MIC 0.242-0.485mM).
159
No cross resistance was observed to any standard anti-TB drugs in the MDR strains. The
compound did not inhibit any prototype bacteria tested. EPMC seems to be a potential anti-TB
lead molecule.
Larissa J.R.P. Raymundo, Carolina C. Guilhon, Daniela S. Alviano, Maria Eline Matheus,
Angelo R. Antoniolli, Socrates C.H. Cavalcanti, Pericles B. Alves, Celuta S. Alviano, Patricia D.
Fernandes, Characterisation of the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the Hyptis
pectinata (L.) Poit essential oil. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.2011;134(3):725-732.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6T8D-521NWBK4/2/75a5d9c18ec507d1536d7e92b1042666.
Abstract:
Aim of the study: Hyptis pectinata Poit (Lamiaceae) is grown in the northeastern regions of
Brazil and is popularly known as 'sambacaita' or 'canudinho'. It is extensively used in folk
medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, bacterial infections, pain, and cancer.Materials and
methods: Hyptis pectinata essential oil (EO, 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and the reference drugs
morphine (5 mg/kg, p.o.) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, 200 mg/kg, p.o.) were evaluated using
models for analgesia (acetic acid-induced contortions and hot plate) or inflammation (formalininduced licking response and the subcutaneous air-pouch model). To elucidate the EO's
mechanism of action, animals were pre-treated with the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone (1
mg/kg, i.p.), the cholinergic antagonist atropine (1 mg/kg, i.p.), or l-nitro arginine methyl ester (lNAME, 3 mg/kg, i.p.) 30 min prior to the oral administration of the EO.Results: The EO
significantly inhibited the number of writhings and the time the animals spent licking their
formalin-injected paws (second phase). The EO, at doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg, increased
baseline measurements and area under the curve measurements in the hot plate model,
respectively. The administration of naloxone reversed the antinociceptive effect of the EO in the
hot plate model. l-NAME significantly reversed the effects of the EO in the contortions and hot
plate models. Atropine completely reversed the antinociceptive activity of the EO in all models.
Additionally, the EO inhibited the inflammatory process induced by subcutaneous carrageenan
injection by reducing cell migration, exudate 2011;, protein concentration, and inflammatory
mediators (nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, IL-6, and TNF-[alpha]) produced in the
pouch.Conclusions: Our results indicate that the Hyptis pectinata essential oil exhibits
antinociceptive effects, likely mediated by opioid and cholinergic receptors, and antiinflammatory activity through the inhibition of nitric oxide and PGE2 production.
Li J, Gödecke T, Chen SN, Imai A, Lankin DC, Farnsworth NR, Pauli GF, van Breemen RB,
Nikolić D. In vitro metabolic interactions between black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and
160
tamoxifen via inhibition of cytochromes P450 2D6 and 3A4. Xenobiotica. 2011 Aug 9.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Women who experience hot flashes as a side effect of tamoxifen (TAM) therapy often try
botanical remedies such as black cohosh to alleviate these symptoms. Since pharmacological
activity of TAM is dependent on the metabolic conversion into active metabolites by the action
of cytochromes P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) and 3A4, the objective of this study was to evaluate
whether black cohosh extracts can inhibit formation of active TAM metabolites and possibly
reduce its clinical efficacy. At 50 μg/mL, a 75% ethanolic extract of black cohosh inhibited
formation of 4-hydroxy- TAM by 66.3%, N-desmethyl TAM by 74.6% and α-hydroxy TAM by
80.3%. In addition, using midazolam and dextromethorphan as probe substrates, this extract
inhibited CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 with IC(50) values of 16.5 and 50.1 μg/mL, respectively. Eight
triterpene glycosides were identified as competitive CYP3A4 inhibitors with IC(50) values
ranging from 2.3-5.1 µM, while the alkaloids protopine and allocryptopine were identified as
competitive CYP2D6 inhibitors with K(i) values of 78 and 122 nM, respectively. The results of
this study suggests that co-administration of black cohosh with TAM might interfere with the
clinical efficacy of this drug. However, additional clinical studies are needed to determine the
clinical significance of these in vitro results.
Liu C, Li XW, Cui LM, Li LC, Chen LY, Zhang XW. Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by TTF1
from extract of herbal medicine. World J Gastroenterol. 2011 Nov 28;17(44):4875-82.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
AIM:
To study the inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by 5,2,4´-trihydroxy-6,7,5´-trimethoxyflavone
(TTF1) isolated from an extract of herbal medicine Sorbaria sorbifolia.
METHODS:
Angiogenic activity was assayed using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM)
method. Microvessel density (MVD) was determined by staining tissue sections
immunohistochemically for CD34 using the Weidner capillary counting method. The mRNA and
protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelialgrowth factor
receptor 2 (VEGFR2, Flk-1/KDR), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), cyclo-oxygenase
161
(COX)-2 and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α were detected by quantitative real-time
polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting analysis.
RESULTS:
The TTF1 inhibition rates for CAM were 30.8%, 38.2% and 47.5% with treatment
concentrations of 25, 50 and 100 μg/embryo × 5 d, respectively. The inhibitory rates for tumor
size were 43.8%, 49.4% and 59.6% at TTF1 treatment concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 μmol/kg,
respectively. The average MVD was 14.2, 11.2 and 8.5 at treatment concentrations of 5 μmol/kg,
10 μmol/kg and 20 μmol/kg TTF1, respectively. The mRNA and protein levels of VEGF, KDR,
bFGF, COX-2 and HIF-1α in mice treated with TTF1 were significantly decreased.
CONCLUSION:
TTF1 can inhibit tumor angiogenesis, and the mechanism may be associated with the downregulation of VEGF, KDR, bFGF, HIF-1α and COX-2.
Malik J, Karan M, Vasisht K. Nootropic, anxiolytic and CNS-depressant studies on different
plant
sources
of
shankhpushpi.
Pharm
Biol.
2011
Dec;49(12):1234-42.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
CONTEXT:
Shankhpushpi, a well-known drug in Ayurveda, is extensively used for different central nervous
system (CNS) effects especially memory enhancement. Different plants are used under the name
shankhpushpi in different regions of India, leading to an uncertainty regarding its true source.
Plants commonly used under the name shankhpushpi are: Convolvulus pluricaulis Chois.,
Evolvulus alsinoides Linn., both from Convolvulaceae, and Clitoria ternatea Linn.
(Leguminosae).
OBJECTIVE:
To find out the true source of shankhpushpi by evaluating and comparing memory-enhancing
activity of the three above mentioned plants. Anxiolytic, antidepressant and CNS-depressant
activities of these three plants were also compared and evaluated.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The nootropic activity of the aqueous methanol extract of each plant was tested using elevated
plus-maze (EPM) and step-down models. Anxiolytic, antidepressant and CNS-depressant studies
were evaluated using EPM, Porsolt?s swim despair and actophotometer models, respectively.
162
RESULTS:
C. pluricaulis extract (CPE) at a dose of 100 mg/kg, p.o. showed maximum nootropic and
anxiolytic activity (p < 0.001). E. alsinoides extract (EAE) and C. ternatea extract (CTE) showed
maximum memory-enhancing and anxiolytic activity (p < 0.001) at 200 and 100?mg/kg,
respectively. Amongst the three plants, EAE and CTE showed significant (p < 0.05), while CPE
did not exhibit any antidepressant activity. All the three plants showed CNS-depressant action at
higher dose levels.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS:
The above results showed all the three plants possess nootropic, anxiolytic and CNS-depressant
activity. The results of memory-enhancing activity suggest C. pluricaulis to be used as true
source of shankhpushpi.
Mathen C, Peter SM, Hardikar BP. Comparative evaluation of the cytotoxic and apoptotic
potential of Poecilocerus pictus and Calotropis gigantea. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol.
2011;30(1):83-92. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Calotropis gigantea, the giant milkweed, is traditionally used for the treatment of cancer and
in Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-helminthic, anti-pyretic, and anti-malarial agent. Poecilocerus
pictus, an orthopteran insect, feeds on C. gigantea and both are known to possess cardiac
glycosides. The increasing reports on the specific cytotoxicity of cardiac glycosides on human
tumor cell lines led us to attempt characterization and comparative evaluation of cardenolides in
both the insect and plant extracts for their anti-tumor and apoptotic potential.Chemical
characterization using high-performance thin layer chromatography, ultraviolet and infrared
spectra analysis confirmed the presence of cardiac glycosides, but differences in the components
of the insect extract were indicative of biotransformation. The cytotoxicity studies revealed a
more potent trend for the insect extract compared with the plant extract on A549 and COLO205
cells. There was a considerably lesser measure of toxicity on WI38 cells and peripheral blood
lymphocytes, whereas B16F1 remained unaffected by both extracts. DNA ploidy analysis on
COLO205 indicated that both extracts induced dose-dependent apoptosis. Therefore, both the
insect and the plant extracts differentiate between human cancer cells and normal cells and
exhibit species specificity. Further investigations are necessary to establish these extracts as
promising lead candidates for anti-neoplastic activity.
163
Minhas U, Minz R, Das P, Bhatnagar A. Therapeutic effect of Withania somnifera on pristaneinduced
model
of
SLE.
Inflammopharmacology.
2011
Dec
13.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus commonly known as lupus is an intricate disorder with multiple
organ involvement characterized primarily by inflammation caused due to deposition of
immune-complexes formed by production of autoantibodies against nuclear, nucleolar as well as
cytoplasmic self-antigens. Lack of availability of suitable treatments or treatments that are only
symptomatic calls for investigation of possible modalities. Withania somnifera with its
immunomodulatory properties is prescribed for arthritis in ayurveda. In the present study, the
therapeutic effect of Withania somnifera pure root powder (at 1,000 and 500 mg/kg body weight)
on pristane-induced Balb/c model of lupus was investigated to elucidate its remedial outcome on
SLE. SLE-like symptoms are produced in the model of lupus: production of autoantibodies,
proteinuria, nephritis as well as immune-complex deposition along with various other
inflammatory markers such as formation of lipogranuloma, production of pro-inflammatory
cytokines including interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide and reactive oxygen
species. Withania somnifera was found to have potent inhibitory effect on proteinuria, nephritis
and other inflammatory markers. Humoral response, however, was found to be impervious. The
potent reduction in inflammation in the present model of lupus suggests further investigation of
this herb for its possible therapeutic use in SLE.
Mishra PK, Raghuram GV, Bhargava A, Ahirwar A, Samarth R, Upadhyaya R, Jain SK, Pathak
N. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the anticarcinogenic and cancer chemopreventive potential
of a flavonoid-rich fraction from a traditional Indian herb Selaginella bryopteris. Br J Nutr. 2011
Oct;106(8):1154-68. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/..
Abstract
Prevention of cancer through nutritional intervention has gained significant recognition in recent
years. Evidence revealed from mechanistic investigations coupled with molecular epidemiology
show an inverse association of dietary flavonoids intake with cancer risk. The chemopreventive
and anticarcinogenic potential of Selaginella bryopteris, a traditional Indian herb referred to as
'Sanjeevani' in the Ayurvedic system of medicine, was examined in the present study.
Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted on the flavonoid-rich benzene
fraction of the aqueous extract that demonstrated a significant cytoprotective activity.
Biomarkers of chemoprevention such as proliferative index and status of cell-cycle regulatory
proteins, antioxidant property, anti-inflammatory effect, reversal of stress-induced senescence
and genoprotective effect were investigated in human and murine cell cultures. Chemopreventive
potential was assessed in benzopyrene-induced lung carcinogenesis and 7,12-dimethyl
164
benz(a)anthracene-mediated skin papillomagenesis test models. Inhibition of DNA
fragmentation, unperturbed cell-cycle regulation, maintenance of intracellular antioxidant
defence, anti-inflammatory activity, prevention of stress-induced senescence and genoprotective
effects against methyl isocyanate carcinogenicity was observed. Medium-term
anticarcinogenicity and two-stage skin papillomagenesis tests strongly substantiated our in vitro
observations. Results from the present study provide evidence of anticarcinogenic and
chemopreventive activities of S. bryopteris hitherto unreported and reaffirm the nutritional
significance of flavonoids in cancer prevention.
Mora FD, Ríos N, Rojas LB, Díaz T, Velasco J, Carmona JA, Silva B. Chemical composition
and in vitro antibacterial activity of the essential oil of Phthirusa adunca from Venezuelan
Andes. Nat Prod Commun. 2011 Jul;6(7):1051-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
In this paper, preliminary studies on the chemical characterization of Phthirusa adunca Meyer
essential oil, obtained by hydrodistillation, is presented. The separation of the components was
performed by GC-MS. Twenty-three compounds (94.5% of the sample) were identified of which
the three major ones (76% of the sample) were beta-phellandrene (38.1%), germacrene D
(26.8%) and beta-pinene (11.5%). The essential oil showed a broad spectrum of activity against
Salmonella Typhi CDC 57 (100 microg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 (200
microg/mL), Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 (250 microg/mL), Escherichia coli ATCC
25922 y Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 23357 (500 microg/mL). This is the first report on the
composition and activity of the essential oil of this species.
More SD, Dwivedi RR. A clinical study of Panchakola Siddha Yavagu in the management of
Agnimandya. Ayu. 2011 Jan;32(1):70-5. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
This research is carried out with the aim to study Agnidipana effect of Panchakola Siddha
Yavagu which comprises Pippali (Piper longum), Pippalimula (root of Piper longum), Chavya
(Piper chaba Hunter), Chitraka (Plumbago zelynica) and Nagara (Zingiber officinale) which are
all in equal proportion processed in six times of water. A randomized open clinical trial on 47
patients of Agnimandya has been screened on the basis of clinical findings and the patients were
allocated to two groups. Group A having 29 cases received the trial drug (Panchakola Siddha
Yavagu) and 18 cases in Group B received simple Yavagu with roasted rice powder as the
control group. Special scoring pattern was done for the assessment of Agnimandya state.
165
Complete cure of the patient was found in 17.24% of the patients, 34.48% patients were
improved moderately as well as markedly, whereas mild improvement was observed in 13.80%
patients by treatment with Panchakola Yavagu.
Nariya PB, Bhalodia NR, Shukla VJ, Acharya RN. Antimicrobial and antifungal activities of
Cordia
dichotoma
(Forster
F.)
bark
extracts.
Ayu.
2011
Oct;32(4):585-9.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Cordia dichotoma Forst.f. bark, identified as botanical source of Shlesmataka
in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeias. Present study was carried out with an objective to investigate the
antibacterial and antifungal potentials of Cordia dichotoma bark. Antibacterial activity of
methanol and butanol extracts of the bark was carried out against two gram negative bacteria
(Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and two Gram positive bacteria (St. pyogenes
and Staphylococcus aureus). The antifungal activity of the extracts was carried out against three
common pathogenic fungi (Aspergillus niger, A.clavatus, and Candida albicans). Zone of
inhibition of extracts was compared with that of different standards like Amplicilline,
Ciprofloxacin, Norfloxacin and Chloramphenicol for antibacterial activity and Nystain and
Greseofulvin for antifungal activity. The extracts showed remarkable inhibition of zone of
bacterial growth and fungal growth and the results obtained were comparable with that of
standards drugs against the organisms tested. The activity of extracts increased linearly with
increase in concentration of extract (mg/ml). The results showed the antibacterial and antifungal
activity against the organisms tested.
Obolskiy D, Pischel I, Feistel B, Glotov N, Heinrich M. Artemisia dracunculus L. (tarragon): a
critical review of its traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology, and safety. J Agric
Food Chem. 2011 Nov 9;59(21):11367-84. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Artemisia dracunculus L. (tarragon) has a long history of use as a spice and remedy. Two welldescribed "cultivars" (Russian and French) are used widely and differ in ploidy level,
morphology, and chemistry. Key biologically active secondary metabolites are essential oils
(0.15-3.1%), coumarins (>1%), flavonoids, and phenolcarbonic acids. In vivo studies mainly in
rodents, particularly from Russian sources, highlight potential anti-inflammatory,
hepatoprotective, and antihyperglycemic effects. Despite concerns about the toxic effects of two
of its main constituents, estragole (up to 82%) and methyleugenol (up to 39%), no acute toxicity
or mutagenic activity has been reported at doses relevant for human consumption. Water extracts
166
of A. dracunculus contain very low amounts of estragole and methyleugenol and, therefore, are
considered to pose a very limited risk. Overall, a stronger focus on clinical studies and precise
taxonomic and phytochemical definition of the source material will be essential for future
research efforts.
Olszewska MA. In vitro antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the inflorescences,
leaves and fruits of Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz. Acta Pol Pharm. 2011 Nov-Dec;68(6):945-53.
Erratum in: Acta Pol Pharm. 2012 Jan-Feb;69(1):167. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
The antioxidant potential of 70% methanolic extracts from the inflorescences, leaves and fruits
of Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz was evaluated using three in vitro test systems: the DPPH (2,2diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl) and the ABTS [2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic
acid)] free radical scavenging assays, and the AAPH [2,2'-azobis-(2-amidinopropane)
dihydrochloride]-induced [corrected] linoleic acid (LA) peroxidation test. The results were
compared with the activity of the extracts obtained from the model antioxidant Sorbus species
(Sorbus aucuparia L.), and also with the activity of phenolic standards such as quercetin, Trolox
[(+/-)-6-hydroxy-2,2,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic
acid],
BHA
(butylated
hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and TBHQ (tert-butylhydroquinone). The
radical scavenging capacities of the S. torminalis extracts towards the DPPH radical were in the
range of 62.0-244.1 micromolar Trolox equivalents/g d.w. of plant material. They were
significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with the results of the ABTS test (r = 0.8535), and with the
chain-breaking activities determined in the LA-peroxidation test (r = 0.9831). In comparison
with the synthetic standards, the free radical scavenging capacity of the Sorbus extracts was
remarkably higher than their chain-breaking activity. Both kinds of antioxidant effects of the
extracts were significantly (R2 > 0.8097, p < 0.05) influenced by the total phenolic content
(TPC) as determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The plant tissues derived from S. torminalis
exhibited lower antioxidant potentials than those of S. aucuparia by a factor of 1.5-3.2, partially
due to the lower TPC levels (multiplicity factors of 1.2-1.9). After the original antioxidant
capacities of the extracts were recalculated according to the TPC levels, the resulting antioxidant
capacities of the phenolic fractions in the S. torminalis extracts were lower than those from S.
aucuparia by a factor of 1.1-1.6, suggesting that the distinctive chemistry of the phenolic
constituents also influences the antioxidant power of the two species.
Park B, Prasad S, Yadav V, Sung B, Aggarwal BB. Boswellic acid suppresses growth and
metastasis of human pancreatic tumors in an orthotopic nude mouse model through modulation
of multiple targets. PLoS One. 2011;6(10):e26943. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
167
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PaCa) is one of the most lethal cancers, with an estimated 5-year survival of
<5% even when patients are given the best treatment available. In addition, these treatments are
often toxic and expensive, thus new agents which are safe, affordable and effective are urgently
needed. We describe here the results of our study with acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA),
an agent obtained from an Ayurvedic medicine, gum resin of Boswellia serrata. Whether AKBA
has an activity against human PaCa, was examined in in vitro models and in an orthotopic nude
mouse model of PaCa. We found that AKBA inhibited the proliferation of four different PaCa
cell lines (AsPC-1, PANC-28, and MIA PaCa-2 with K-Ras and p53 mutations, and BxPC-3
with wild-type K-Ras and p53 mutation). These effects correlated with an inhibition of
constitutively active NF-κB and suppression of NF-κB regulating gene expression. AKBA also
induced apoptosis, and sensitized the cells to apoptotic effects of gemcitabine. In the orthotopic
nude mouse model of PaCa, p.o. administration of AKBA alone (100 mg/kg) significantly
inhibited the tumor growth; this activity was enhanced by gemcitabine. In addition, AKBA
inhibited the metastasis of the PaCa to spleen, liver, and lungs. This correlated with decreases in
Ki-67, a biomarker of proliferation, and CD31, a biomarker of microvessel density, in the tumor
tissue. AKBA produced significant decreases in the expression of NF-κB regulating genes in the
tissues. Immunohistochemical analysis also showed AKBA downregulated the expression of
COX-2, MMP-9, CXCR4, and VEGF in the tissues. Overall these results demonstrate that
AKBA can suppress the growth and metastasis of human pancreatic tumors in an orthotopic nude
mouse model that correlates with modulation of multiple targets.
Patel BR, Ashok BK, Ravishankar B. Study on the diuretic activity of Veerataru Kwatha in
albino rats. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):395-7. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the diuretic activity of Veerataru
[Dichrostachys cinerea (Linn.)] Kwatha in experimental animals by following the standard
procedure. Randomly selected animals were divided into three groups of six animals each. The
root of Veerataru was administered orally in the form of Kwatha at a dose of 5.4 and 10.8 ml/kg.
Parameters like volume of urine, pH of urine and urinary electrolyte concentrations like sodium,
potassium and chloride were studied. Veerataru Kwatha increased the urine output in a dosedependent manner. However, it did not affect the urinary electrolyte concentrations. From the
present study, it can be concluded that the root of Veerataru has diuretic property.
Patel K, Gupta SN, Shah N. Effect of Ayurvedic management in 130 patients of diabetic
nephropathy. Ayu. 2011 Jan;32(1):55-8. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
168
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy is a specific form of renal disease. It is a major cause of renal insufficiency
and ultimately of death. The present study has been carried out to prove the efficacy
of Ayurvedic drugs in the management of diabetic nephropathy, which can be helpful in
reducing the need of dialysis and avoiding or delaying renal transplantation. A total of 130
patients of this disease were treated in IPD (Group A) and OPD (Group
B). Ayurvedic formulations including Gokshuradi Guggulu, Bhumyamalaki, Vasa and
Shilajatvadi Vati were given to all the patients for 2 months. Group A patients were given special
planned food. Results were analyzed statistically using "t" test. In group A patients, highly
significant reduction was found in the values of serum creatinine, blood urea and urinary
excretion of albumin. Marked improvement was found in the patients' general physical wellbeing, together with reduction in symptoms, in group A patients. This shows the importance of
Pathyapathya in Ayurvedic management of the disease. This management may bring some new
hope to the patients of diabetic nephropathy, which usually terminates to chronic renal failure
and ultimately to death. Further studies are being carried out in this regard.
Patel MV, Gupta SN, Patel NG. Effects of Ayurvedic treatment on 100 patients of chronic renal
failure
(other
than
diabetic
nephropathy).
Ayu.
2011
Oct;32(4):483-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Chronic renal failure (CRF) refers to an irreversible deterioration in renal function, which
develops over a period of years. This initially manifests only as a biochemical abnormality. CRF
is considered when glomerular filtration rate (GFR) falls below 30 ml/min. The conventional
approach of management includes dialysis and renal transplantation, which are not affordable by
Indian population mainly due to economic reasons. Therefore, exploration of a safe and
alternative therapy is needed, which proves to be helpful in reducing the requirement of dialysis
and in postponing the renal transplantation. A clinical study of 100 patients of CRF was
conducted at OPD and IPD of PD Patel Ayurved Hospital, Nadiad. They were given Niruha basti
of Punarnavadi kvatha daily with
oral medicaments including Goksuradi
guggulu, Rasayana churna, and Varunadi kvatha for 1 month period. The patients of CRF,
having diabetic nephropathy as a cause, were excluded since a separate study for diabetic
nephropathy is being conducted. Results were analyzed statistically using the "t" test. The
symptoms and signs, serum creatinine, blood urea, urine albumin level were reduced, which
were found to be statistically highly significant on "t" test.
169
Patel RV, Kori VK, Patel KS. A clinical study of Devadarvyadi-Vati on Grahani Dosha in
children. Ayu. 2011 Apr;32(2):187-91. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Childhood period is considered as the period of rapid growth and development, as it is the crucial
stage of establishing future. Gastro-intestinal disorders show high prevalence in pediatric
practice. These conditions generally produce chronic illness. Grahanidosha is a disease related
with Agnidushti. This condition is seen more in childhood period due to faulty dietary habit and
changing lifestyle. The present paper deals with study on etiopathogenesis of Grahanidosha and
evaluates the efficacy of Deavadarvyadi-Vati. The etiological factors and symptoms were
observed carefully to make clear etiopathogenesis. Total 32 patients (3-12 years) were registered
and randomly divided into two groups. In Group A Devadarvyadi-Vati (treated group) and in
Group B Bhunimbadi-Vati (control group) given for 4 weeks with Koshna Jala. In Group A
(Devadarvyadi-Vati), marked improvement was observed in 21.43% of the patients, moderate
improvement was observed in 57.14% of patients and mild improvement was observed in
21.43% of patients.
Pathak N. Reverse pharmacology of Ayurvedic drugs includes mechanisms of molecular actions.
J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2011 Apr;2(2):49-50. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Obesity is defined as the condition in which excessive amount of fat is accumulated in the body.
ClassicalAyurvedic texts describe eight types of despicable designated as 'Nindita purusha'
including atisthaulya. Corpulent people are characterized by short in longevity, slow movement,
difficult to indulge in sex, weak, emission of bad body odor, profuse perspiration, excessive
hunger and excessive thirst. Sixty to seventy percent of cardiac patients die of obesity and
contribute to develop coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia.
In the present study, 66 patients of obesity were treated with Shilajatu processed with
Agnimantha. After complition of therapy, 5.09 ± 0.24 kg and 2.06 ± 0.10 kg/m(2) reduction of
body weight and body mass index, respectively were noted. The result was found to be
statistically highly significant (P<0.001). No adverse effects were observed in any of the treated
patients.
Policegoudra RS, Aradhya SM, Singh L. Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.)--a promising
spice for phytochemicals and biological activities. J Biosci. 2011 Sep;36(4):739-48.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
170
Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) is a unique spice having morphological resemblance with
ginger but imparts a raw mango flavour. The main use of mango ginger rhizome is in the
manufacture of pickles and culinary preparations. Ayurveda and Unani medicinal systems have
given much importance to mango ginger as an appetizer, alexteric, antipyretic, aphrodisiac,
diuretic, emollient, expectorant and laxative and to cure biliousness, itching, skin diseases,
bronchitis, asthma, hiccough and inflammation due to injuries. The biological activities of
mango ginger include antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, antiinflammatory activity, platelet aggregation inhibitory activity, cytotoxicity, antiallergic activity,
hypotriglyceridemic activity, brine-shrimp lethal activity, enterokinase inhibitory activity, CNS
depressant and analgesic activity. The major chemical components include starch, phenolic
acids, volatile oils, curcuminoids and terpenoids like difurocumenonol, amadannulen and
amadaldehyde. This article brings to light the major active components present in C. amada
along with their biological activities that may be important from the pharmacological point of
view.
Rajan KE, Singh HK, Parkavi A, Charles PD. Attenuation of 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide
induced hippocampus-dependent memory impairment by a standardised extract of Bacopa
monniera
(BESEB
CDRI-08).
Neurochem
Res.
2011
Nov;36(11):2136-44.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Bacopa monniera is a well-known medhya-rasayana (memory enhancing and rejuvenating) plant
in Indian traditional medical system of Ayurveda. The effect of a standardized extract of Bacopa
monniera (BESEB CDRI-08) on serotonergic receptors and its influence on other
neurotransmitters during hippocampal-dependent learning was evaluated in the present study.
Wistar rat pups received a single dose of BESEB CDRI-08 during postnatal days 15-29 showed
higher latency during hippocampal-dependent learning accompanied with enhanced 5HT(3A)
receptor expression, serotonin and acetylcholine levels in hippocampus. Furthermore, 5HT(3A)
receptor agonist 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide (mCPBG) impaired learning in the passive
avoidance task followed by reduction of 5HT(3A) receptor expression, 5HT and ACh levels.
Administration of BESEB CDRI-08 along with mCPBG attenuated mCPBG induced behavioral,
molecular and neurochemical alterations. Our results suggest that BESEB CDRI-08 possibly acts
on serotonergic system, which in turn influences the cholinergic system through 5-HT(3)
receptor to improve the hippocampal-dependent task.
Ramadan G, Al-Kahtani MA, El-Sayed WM. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of
Curcuma longa (turmeric) versus Zingiber officinale (ginger) rhizomes in rat adjuvant-induced
arthritis. Inflammation. 2011 Aug;34(4):291-301.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
171
Abstract
Turmeric (rich in curcuminoids) and ginger (rich in gingerols and shogaols) rhizomes have been
widely used as dietary spices and to treat different diseases in Ayurveda/Chinese medicine since
antiquity. Here, we compared the anti-inflammatory/anti-oxidant activity of these two plants in
rat adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA). Both plants (at dose 200 mg/kg body weight) significantly
suppressed (but with different degrees) the incidence and severity of arthritis by
increasing/decreasing the production of anti-inflammatory/pro-inflammatory cytokines,
respectively, and activating the anti-oxidant defence system. The anti-arthritic activity of
turmeric exceeded that of ginger and indomethacin (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug),
especially when the treatment started from the day of arthritis induction. The percentage of
disease recovery was 4.6-8.3% and 10.2% more in turmeric compared with ginger and
indomethacin (P < 0.05), respectively. The present study proves the anti-inflammatory/antioxidant activity of turmeric over ginger and indomethacin, which may have beneficial effects
against rheumatoid arthritis onset/progression as shown in AIA rat model.
Randhawa MA, Alghamdi MS. Anticancer activity of Nigella sativa (black seed) - a review. Am
J Chin Med. 2011;39(6):1075-91. Review. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Nigella sativa (N. sativa) seed has been an important nutritional flavoring agent and natural
remedy for many ailments for centuries in ancient systems of medicine, e.g. Unani, Ayurveda,
Chinese and Arabic Medicines. Many active components have been isolated from N. sativa,
including thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, dithymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol, nigellimineN-oxide, nigellicine, nigellidine and alpha-hederin. In addition, quite a few pharmacological
effects of N. sativa seed, its oil, various extracts and active components have been identified to
include immune stimulation, anti-inflammation, hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, antiasthmatic,
antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant and anticancer effects. Only a few authors have reviewed
the medicinal properties of N. sativa and given some description of the anticancer effects. A
literature search has revealed that a lot more studies have been recently carried out related to the
anticancer activities of N. sativa and some of its active compounds, such as thymoquinone and
alpha-hederin. Acute and chronic toxicity studies have recently confirmed the safety of N. sativa
oil and its most abundant active component, thymoquinone, particularly when given orally. The
present work is aimed at summarizing the extremely valuable work done by various investigators
on the effects of N. sativa seed, its extracts and active principles against cancer. Those related to
the underlying mechanism of action, derivatives of thymoquinone, nano thymoquinone and
combinations of thymoquinone with the currently used cytotoxic drugs are of particular interest.
We hope this review will encourage interested researchers to conduct further preclinical and
172
clinical studies to evaluate the anticancer activities of N. sativa, its active constituents and their
derivatives.
Rastogi S, Srivastav PS. Ayurveda in critical care: Illustrating Ayurvedic intervention in a case of
hepatic encephalopathy. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):345-8.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Ayurvedic interventions have largely been considered helpful in chronic debilitating conditions
where active management of a clinical condition is not required. It is for this
notion; Ayurvedic therapies have never been approached in any critical care condition requiring
an active management. A perception that herbo-metallic components of various Ayurvedic drugs
may actually harm the patients who are in compromised vital status has further added to this
apprehension against use of such medicines in critical care. Contrary to the conventional belief,
we observed a case of grade three hepatic encephalopathy with severely compromised liver
function that was successfully treated with Ayurvedic therapy containing many heavy metal
containing compounds. The liver function got improved in this case following
the Ayurvedic intervention. The symptomatic improvements in this case were also identifiable
through biochemical tests showing the functional status of liver. This case therefore is worthy of
taking a note for possible inclusion of Ayurvedic interventions in critical care
where Ayurvedic therapies are discarded without being given a chance of getting evaluated.
Rout AK, Dwivedi RR. A clinical study of Haritaki and Saindhava Lavana in Kaphaja Kasa with
special
reference
to
Samyoga
Guna.
Ayu.
2011
Jul;32(3):357-60.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
In clinical practice, Guna which are to be with Bhisak are mainly the Paradi Gunas which can
also be called as Miscellaneous Gunas. As rightly quoted by Acarya Caraka, for getting success
in the treatment Paradi Gunas are the best. The Sutra quotes "Sidhyupaya Cikitsayam" which
means that Cikitsa i. e. Dhatusamya will be done mainly with the help of Paradi Gunas. Thus in
this study an attempt was made to know the comparative effect of Haritaki and Saindhava lavana
alone and Samyukta effect in Kaphaja Kasa. Three groups were made for proper evaluation of
the therapy. In Group-A Haritaki Tablet 2 gm/ twice a day (500 mg tablet × 4), In Group-B
Saindava Lavana Curna 2 gm/ twice a day and in Group-C Haritaki + Saindhava lavana Tablet 4
gm/twice a day (500 mg tablet × 8) was given. Results were assessed after 7 days with the help
of a specially prepared proforma. The hematological, Urine and Stool investigations were carried
out. In subjective and objective criterias, significant results were found in Group-C as compared
173
to Group-A and Group-B. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the combined (Samyoga)
effect of Haritaki and Saindhava lavana is much efficient than the single drug therapy.
Ru P, Steele R, Nerurkar PV, Phillips N, Ray RB. Bitter melon extract impairs prostate cancer
cell-cycle progression and delays prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia in TRAMP model. Cancer
Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Dec;4(12):2122-30. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Prostate cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths among American men. Earlier
diagnosis increases survival rate in patients. However, treatments for advanced disease are
limited to hormone ablation techniques and palliative care. Thus, new methods of treatment and
prevention are necessary for inhibiting disease progression to a hormone refractory state. One of
the approaches to control prostate cancer is prevention through diet, which inhibits one or more
neoplastic events and reduces the cancer risk. For centuries, Ayurveda has recommended the use
of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) as a functional food to prevent and treat human health
related issues. In this study, we have initially used human prostate cancer cells, PC3 and LNCaP,
as an in vitro model to assess the efficacy of bitter melon extract (BME) as an anticancer agent.
We observed that prostate cancer cells treated with BME accumulate during the S phase of the
cell cycle and modulate cyclin D1, cyclin E, and p21 expression. Treatment of prostate cancer
cells with BME enhanced Bax expression and induced PARP cleavage. Oral gavage of BME, as
a dietary compound, delayed the progression to high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia in
TRAMP (transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate) mice (31%). Prostate tissue from BMEfed mice displayed approximately 51% reduction of proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression.
Together, our results suggest for the first time that oral administration of BME inhibits prostate
cancer progression in TRAMP mice by interfering cell-cycle progression and proliferation.
Sainath SB, Meena R, Supriya Ch, Reddy KP, Reddy PS. Protective role of Centella asiatica on
lead-induced oxidative stress and suppressed reproductive health in male rats. Environ Toxicol
Pharmacol. 2011 Sep;32(2):146-54.
Abstract
Centella asiatica has been mentioned in ancient ayurvedic text of the Indian system
of medicine for its properties to promote intelligence. The objective of the present study was to
investigate the beneficial effects of C. asiatica on lead-induced oxidative stress and suppressed
reproductive performance in male rats. Significant decrease in the weights of testes and
epididymis were observed in lead treated animals. Exposure to lead acetate significantly
increased malondialdehyde levels with a significant decrease in the superoxide dismutase and
174
catalase activities in the liver, brain, kidneys and testes of rats. Epididymal sperm count, viable
sperms, motile sperms and HOS-tail coiled sperms decreased significantly in lead-exposed rats.
Testicular steroidogenic enzyme activities also decreased significantly in lead-exposed rats. No
significant changes in the selected reproductive variables were observed in the plant extract
alone treated rats. Whereas, co-administration of aqueous extracts of C. asiatica to lead exposed
rats showed a significant increase in the weights of reproductive organs, reduction in leadinduced oxidative stress in the tissues and improvement in selected reproductive parameters over
lead-exposed rats indicating the beneficial role of C. asiatica to counteract lead-induced
oxidative stress and to restore the suppressed reproduction in male rats.
Samarakoon SM, Chandola HM, Ravishankar B. Effect of dietary, social, and lifestyle
determinants of accelerated aging and its common clinical presentation: A survey study. Ayu.
2011 Jul;32(3):315-21. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Aging is unavoidable and natural phenomenon of life. Modern gerontologists are realizing the
fact that aging is a disease, which Ayurveda had accepted as natural disease since long. Rate of
aging is determined by one's biological, social, lifestyle, and psychological conditions and
adversity of which leads to accelerated form of aging (Akalaja jara or premature aging). The aim
of this study is to identify potential factors that may accelerate aging in the context of dietry
factors, lifestyle and mental makeup. The 120 diagnosed subjects of premature-ageing of 30-60
years were randomly selected in the survey study. Premature ageing was common among
females (75.83%), in 30-40 age group (70%), 86.67% were married, had secondary level of
education (36.66%), house-views (61.67%), belongs top middle class (58.33%) and engaged in
occupations that dominating physical labour (88.33%). The maximum patients are constipated
(60%), had mandagni (80%), vata-kapha prakriti (48.33%), rajasika prakriti (58.33%),
madhyama vyayama shakti (73.33%), and madhyama jarana shakti (85.83%). Collectively,
43.33% patients were above normal BMI. The more patients had anushna (38.33%) and
vishamasana dietary pattern (25.83%), consumed Lavana (88.33%) and Amla rasa (78.33%) in
excess on regular basis. Some patients had addicted to tobacco (11.67%) and beetle chewing
(5.83%). The maximum patients had no any exercise (79.17%) and specific hobby (79.17%) in
their leisure times. Analyzing Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales revealed that
39.80%, 37.86%, 33.98%, 24.27% and 18.44% patients had insomnia, depression, tension, GIT
symptoms and anxious mood respectively. These data suggest that certain social, dietary and
lifestyle factors contribute towards accelerated ageing among young individuals.
175
Saranya P, Geetha A. Antiulcer activity of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) wall. against
cysteamine-induced duodenal ulcer in rats. Indian J Exp Biol. 2011 Jul;49(7):525-33.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Antiulcer activity of Andrographis paniculata was evaluated by cysteamine induced duodenal
ulcer model in rats. Male albino Wistar rats were pre-administered with 200 mg/kg body wt. of
hydroalcoholic extact of Andrographis paniculata (HAEAP) orally, for 30 days prior to i.p.
administration of 420 mg/kg body wt. of cysteamine as a single dose. Rats preadministered with
30 mg/kg body wt. of ranitidine served as standard drug. Ulcer index, thiobarbituric acid reactive
substances, mucin, glutathione peroxidase and myeloperoxidase activities, reduced
glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio, glycoproteins and membrane bound
enzyme activities were measured in duodenum of experimental animals. The ulcer score and
myeloperoxidase activity were significantly minimized in rats treated with HAEAP. Mucin
content was found to be preserved in rats treated with the extract. GSH/GSSG ratio and
glutathione peroxidase activities were found to be maintained by the HAEAP. Level of lipid
peroxidation products was found to be significantly low in HAEAP treated rats compared to
ulcer control rats. The basolateral and brush border membrane bound enzyme activities which
were depleted significantly in ulcer control rats were found to be maintained in rats pre-treated
with the extract. The ulcer preventing effect was comparable to that of ranitidine treated rats.
Level of glycoproteins was also found to be preserved in rats treated with the extract. The normal
rats treated with the HAEAP did not show any abnormal alterations in the parameters studied.
Histopathological observations also showed the ulcer preventing effect of the HAEAP. It is
suggested that the ulcer preventing effect may be due to its mucin preserving and antioxidant
nature.
Shailajan S, Menon S, Pednekar S, Singh A. Wound healing efficacy of Jatyadi Taila: in vivo
evaluation in rat using excision wound model. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Oct 31;138(1):99-104.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
In traditional Indian medicinal treatise there are severalAyurvedic formulations mentioned which
have been claimed as potential wound healing agents like Madhu Ghrita and Jatyadi Taila.
Jatyadi Taila (JT) is a medicated oil formulation (Taila) popularly used in the treatment of
various topical wounds.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
176
Though JT has its composition recorded in ancient Ayurvedic texts, there have been minimal
attempts to standardize its use in the management of wound. The current work evaluates the
wound healing efficacy of JT and also provides evidence of the dermal absorption kinetics of
Karanjin from JT.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
JT was subjected to preliminary phytochemical evaluation. Therapeutically active marker
components β-sitosterol, lupeol and karanjin were detected and separated using HPTLC. As a
part of safety evaluation, skin irritation potential of JT was evaluated on rabbit skin. Excision
wound model in rats were used to evaluate the wound healing efficacy of JT. Histopathological
and biochemical evaluations of excised skin tissues at wound sites were carried out. The HPTLC
method developed was also validated to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of Karanjin from JT after
topical application on pinna of rabbit.
RESULTS:
Preliminary phytochemical evaluation of JT revealed presence of flavonoids, essential oils,
tannins, glycosides, steroids and alkaloids while resins were found to be absent. HPTLC
confirmed the presence of karanjin, lupeol and β-sitosterol in JT. JT was found to be non-irritant
when applied to the skin of rabbits. Topical application of JT on excision wounds caused
significantly faster reduction in wound area as compared to the application of modern topical
formulation (Neosporin(®)) and untreated control wounds. Animals treated with JT showed
significant increase in protein, hydroxyproline and hexosamine content in the granulation tissue
when compared with the untreated controls. Wound healing potential of JT was found to be dose
dependant. HPTLC method was successfully used to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of Karanjin
after topical application of JT on rabbit pinna.
CONCLUSIONS:
Current work demonstrates a modern approach towards standardization of the use of traditional
topical formulation JT. The results justify the traditional claim of JT for its use in the
management of wounds.
Sharma U, Singh D, Kumar P, Dobhal MP, Singh S. Antiparasitic activity of plumericin &
isoplumericin isolated from Plumeria bicolor against Leishmania donovani. Indian J Med Res.
2011 Nov;134(5):709-16. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
177
The severe toxicity, exorbitant cost and emerging resistance of Leishmania species against most
of the currently used drugs underscores the urgent need for the alternative drugs. The present
study evaluates in vitro anti-leishmanial activity of Plumeria bicolor and its isolated compounds.
METHODS:
The in vitro anti-parasitic activity of chloroform extract of Plumeria bicolor, plumericin and
isoplumericin were tested alongwith appropriate controls against promastigote and amastigote
forms of Leishmania donovani using 96 well microtiter plate. The concentration used for
assessing the anti-leishmanial activity of extract of Plumeria bicolor and both isolated
compounds were 100 μg/ml and 15 μM, respectively. The viability of the cells was assessed by
MTT assay. The cytotoxicity of these compounds was performed against J774G8 murine
macrophage cells lines at the concentration of 30 μM.
RESULTS:
The Plumeria bicolor extract showed activity with the IC 50 of 21±2.2 and 14±1.6 μg/ml against
promastigote and amastigote forms of L. donovani, respectively. Plumericin consistently showed
high activity with the IC 50 of 3.17±0.12 and 1.41±0.03 μM whereas isoplumericin showed the
IC50 of 7.2±0.08 μM and 4.1±0.02 μM against promastigote and amastigote forms, respectively.
Cytotoxic effect of the chloroform extract of P. bicolor, plumericin and isoplumericin was
evaluated in murine macrophage (J774G8) model with CC50 value of 75±5.3 μg/ml, 20.6±0.5
and 24±0.7 μM, respectively.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Our results indicated that plumericin showed more potent activity than isoplumericin and might
be a promising anti-leishmanial agent against L. donovani.
Singh S, Nair V, Gupta YK. Antiarthritic activity of majoon suranjan (a polyherbal Unani
formulation)
in
rat.
Indian
J
Med
Res.
2011
Sep;134:384-8.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Majoon Suranjan (MS) is a polyherbal formulation used in Unani system of medicine for the
treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The present study evaluates the antiarthritic efficacy of
this formulation in three different experimental models.
METHODS:
178
The anti-inflammatory activity of MS (in doses of 450, 900 and 1800 mg/kg body wt) was
evaluated using the turpentine oil induced paw oedema model and the antiarthritic efficacy was
evaluated using the formaldehyde and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis
models. Aspirin (100 mg/kg body wt) was used as the standard drug in all the models. In order to
assess the safety of the test drug, oral acute and 28 day toxicity studies were also carried out.
RESULTS:
MS produced a dose dependent protective effect in all the experimental models. Its antiarthritic
efficacy was comparable to aspirin in formaldehyde induced arthritis and was superior to aspirin
in turpentine oil induced paw oedema and CFA induced arthritis. MS also inhibited the delayed
increase in joint diameter as seen in control and aspirin treated animals in CFA induced arthritis.
Oral LD 50 of MS was found to be >5000 mg/kg in rats. Chronic administration did not produce
any significant physiological changes in the tested animals.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Results of the present study suggest that the antiarthritic activity of MS was due to the interplay
between its anti-inflammatory and disease modifying activities, thus supporting its use in
traditional medicine for the treatment of RA.
Siveen KS, Kuttan G. Immunomodulatory and antitumor activity of Aerva lanata ethanolic
extract.
Immunopharmacol
Immunotoxicol.
2011
Sep;33(3):423-32.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Cancer is responsible for millions of deaths each year worldwide. Pharmacological intervention
with plant-derived products alone or in combination to reverse, suppress, or prevent the cancer
progression plays a key role in the fight against this terrible disease. Aerva lanata is an important
medicinal plant widely used in traditional systems of medicine like ayurveda and siddha.
Ethanolic extract of whole plant of A. lanata exhibited immunomodulatory and antitumor
activity. Intraperitoneal administration of five doses of the extract (10 mg/kg body weight) was
found to enhance the total WBC count (14,238 cells/mm(3)), bone marrow cellularity
(22.33 × 10(6) cells/femur), and number of α-esterase-positive cells (1276 cells/4000 cells).
Aerva treatment also showed enhanced proliferation of splenocytes, thymocytes, and bone
marrow cells both in the presence and absence of specific mitogens in vitro and in vivo. The
number of plaque-forming cells (PFC) in spleen (243.33 PFC/10(6) spleen cells) and circulating
antibody titer were also increased (P < 0.001). The extract was 100% cytotoxic to Dalton's
lymphoma ascites (DLA) and Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells at a concentration of 500
µg/mL. It was also found to be cytotoxic toward L929 and HELA cells at higher concentrations,
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whereas the nontoxic concentrations produced a reduction in the rate of proliferation.
Simultaneous administration of five doses of A. lanata extract could produce significant
inhibition in DLA-induced solid tumor development in mice and increase the life span of micebearing EAC tumors by 53.47%.
Sumathi T, Shobana C, Kumari BR, Nandhini DN. Protective role of Cynodon dactylon in
ameliorating the aluminium-induced neurotoxicity in rat brain regions. Biol Trace Elem Res.
2011 Dec;144(1-3):843-53. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Cynodon dactylon (Poaceae) is a creeping grass used as a traditional ayurvedic medicine in
India. Aluminium-induced neurotoxicity is well known and different salts of aluminium have
been reported to accelerate damage to biomolecules like lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. The
objective of the present study was to investigate whether the aqueous extract of C. dactylon
(AECD) could potentially prevent aluminium-induced neurotoxicity in the cerebral cortex,
hippocampus and cerebellum of the rat brain. Male albino rats were administered with AlCl(3) at
a dose of 4.2 mg/kg/day i.p. for 4 weeks. Experimental rats were given C. dactylon extract in two
different doses of 300 mg and 750 mg/keg/day orally 1 h prior to the AlCl(3) administration for
4 weeks. At the end of the experiments, antioxidant status and activities of ATPases in cerebral
cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum of rat brain were measured. Aluminium administration
significantly decreased the level of GSH and the activities of SOD, GPx, GST, Na(+)/K(+)
ATPase, and Mg(2+) ATPase and increased the level of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in all the brain
regions when compared with control rats. Pre-treatment with AECD at a dose of 750 mg/kg b.w
increased the antioxidant status and activities of membrane-bound enzymes (Na(+)/K(+) ATPase
and Mg(2+) ATPase) and also decreased the level of LPO significantly, when compared with
aluminium-induced rats. The results of this study indicated that AECD has potential to protect
the various brain regions from aluminium-induced neurotoxicity.
Sur TK, Auddy B, Bhattacharyya D. Effects of Indian herbal formulation Body Revival on
human platelet aggregation and myocardial ischemia in rats. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011
Jul;9(7):746-51. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To study the effect of Body Revival (BR), a compound traditional Indian herbal medicine, on
human platelet aggregation and isoproterenol (IS)-induced myocardial ischemia (MI) damage in
male Wistar rats.
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METHODS:
BR suspension 10, 20 and 30 μg was mixed with platelet-rich plasma and incubated at 37
degrees centigrade for 30 min, respectively. Then, adenosine diphosphate (ADP, 20 mmol/L) or
collagen (2 μg) was added in the mixture and the aggregation was observed against platelet-poor
plasma mixed with equal volume of suspension of the same test samples. Wistar rats divided into
4 groups were used to investigate BR's effects on IS-induced MI. Levels of serum creatinine
kinase (CK), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were estimated by
standard commercial biological kits. Serum nitric oxide (NOx) was also measured. The lipid
peroxides (LPO) and protein concentrations in heart tissues were measured.
RESULTS:
BR could inhibit ADP- or collagen-induced human platelet aggregation dose-dependently.
Moreover, it could protect MI caused by IS in rats. BR reduced the levels of serum CK, AST,
ALT and NOx dose-dependently and also lowered LPO in heart tissues in comparison with the
MI control (P<0.01).
CONCLUSION:
BR can inhibit human platelet aggregation and protect MI caused by IS in rats.
Taty Anna K, Elvy Suhana MR, Das S, Faizah O, Hamzaini AH. Anti-inflammatory effect of
Curcuma longa (turmeric) on collagen-induced arthritis: ananatomico-radiological study. Clin
Ter. 2011;162(3):201-7. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:
Curcuma longa (CL) or turmeric is an Ayurvedic herb that has been traditionally used to treat
inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) is a
well established experimental auto-immune mediated polyarthritis in susceptible strains of
rodents. The main aim of the study was to observe the inflammatory, macroscopic and
radiological changes in the arthritic ankle joints of experimentally collagen-induced arthritis
animals treated with or without CL extract.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Thirty six male Sprague-Dawley (6-8 weeks-old, 150 ± 50) rats were equally divided into six
groups. The first group served as a control while the rest five groups were immunized
subdermally with 150 µg collagen type-II on day-0. All rats with established CIA with arthritis
score (AS) exceeding 1 were treated orally with betamethasone (0.5 mg/ml/kg body weight) and
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varying doses of CL extract (30, 60 and 110 mg/ml/kg body weight) using olive oil as vehicle,
daily for four weeks. Arthritic scoring (AS) of the paws, measurement of erythrocyte
sedimentation rate (ESR) and paw thickness and radiological scoring were performed.
RESULTS:
Treatment with 110 mg/ml/kg CL showed significant mean difference in the ESR (p<0.01), AS
(p<0.05) and radiological scores (p<0.01) on day-28 compared to the vehicle treated group. The
mean difference for the ESR, AS and radiological scores of this highest CL dose group were
found to be insignificant compared to the betamethasone treated group.
CONCLUSION:
The administration of CL extract arrested the degenerative changes in the bone and joints of
collagen-induced arthritic rats.
Thakur M, Thompson D, Connellan P, Deseo MA, Morris C, Dixit VK. Improvement of penile
erection, sperm count and seminal fructose levels in vivo and nitric oxide release in vitro by
Ayurvedic herbs. Andrologia. 2011 Aug;43(4):273-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01068.x.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
In the present study, the effect of four Vajikaran Rasayana herbs on penile erection, sperm count,
seminal fructose content in vivo and nitric oxide (NO) release in vitro was assessed. Lyophilised
aqueous extracts of Asparagus racemosus Willd. (AR), Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant. F.
(CB), Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. (CO), and Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soo (DH) were
orally administered at 100 mg/kg body weight to Wistar strain male albino rats. Penile erection
index and sperm count were determined by visual observation; the seminal fructose
concentration was measured spectrophotometrically using resorcinol reagent; and NO release
was assessed in a mouse macrophage cell line (RAW264) spectrophotometrically using a
commercial Griess reagent kit. Penile erection index, sperm count, seminal fructose
concentration and in vitro NO release were the parameters measured. A significant effect on the
sperm count, seminal fructose content and penile erection index was observed upon treatment
with the extracts. The effect of extracts on inducible NO release in vitro directly correlated with
the enhanced erectile function in vivo. The aphrodisiac claims attributed to the four Vajikaran
Rasayana herbs were tested and a distinctive effect of all extracts tested was observed, with C.
borivilianum showing a highly significant response for all parameters measured in vivo and in
vitro. The present study also provides a good correlation between the in vivo improvement of
penile erection and in vitro NO releasing activity of the extracts. Increase in seminal fructose
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levels and sperm count further validates the role of these herbs in improving reproductive
function.
Vasant RA, Khajuria MC, Narasimhacharya AV. Antioxidant and ACE enhancing potential of
Pankajakasthuri in fluoride toxicity: an in vitro study on mammalian lungs. Toxicol Ind Health.
2011 Oct;27(9):793-801. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Fluoride toxicity occurs due to high concentrations of fluoride in water sources or anthropogenic
causes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of an Ayurvedic drug-Pankajakasthuri (PK)--in relation to fluoride-induced toxicity in mammalian lungs. The results
indicated that sodium fluoride increased lipid peroxidation and decreased enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants in a concentration-dependent manner in lungs. The antioxidant potential
of the lungs was suppressed maximally at 10 ppm fluoride concentration and PK at all three dose
levels (i.e., 100, 200 and 300 µl) decreased fluoride induced lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05) and
increased the levels of total ascorbic acid, superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione,
glutathione peroxidase and FRAP values significantly (p < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner.
When PK was examined for its effects on angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, in
fluoride-induced toxicity, the ACE activity was found to increase (p < 0.0001) in lung
homogenates with all three doses. This study indicates that PK, an Ayurvedic drug, improves
mammalian lung function by increasing antioxidant potential and ACE activity under the
conditions of fluoride toxicity.
Vidyashankar S, Varma SR, Azeemudin M, Godavarthi A, Krishna NS, Patki PS. A novel herbal
formulation "LiverCare" differentially regulates primary rat hepatocyte and hepatocarcinoma cell
proliferation
in
vitro.
J
Med
Food.
2011
Sep;14(9):1023-31.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) plays an important role in hepatocyte proliferation. HGF
expression is regulated by various signaling molecules and nuclear receptors. In the present
study, LiverCare(®) (LC), a novel polyherbal formulation (The Himalaya Drug Company,
Bangalore, India), was evaluated for its efficacy, using co-cultures of primary rat hepatocytesnon-parenchymal cells (NPCs) and human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). The rate of
primary hepatocyte co-culture proliferation was significantly and dose-dependently increased by
LC as determined by [(3)H]thymidine incorporation into newly synthesized DNA and cell
proliferation assay. LC also increased HGF expression in primary hepatocyte co-culture.
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Albumin and urea content remained constant during proliferation of hepatocyte co-cultures in the
presence of LC with decreased activity of alanine aminotransferase. It is interesting that LC
inhibited incorporation of [(3)H]thymidine into DNA in HepG2 cells. LC enhanced peroxisome
proliferator-activated receptor-α expression during hepatocyte proliferation, whereas tumor
necrosis factor-α expression remained unaffected. In conclusion, our study clearly showed that
LC differentially regulates primary rat hepatocytes and human hepatocarcinoma cell
proliferation. LC may be a promising candidate for treating degenerative liver diseases by
enhancing liver regeneration.
Viji V, Helen A. Inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators: role of Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst.
Inflammopharmacology. 2011 Oct;19(5):283-91. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst is a renowned plant in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. The
present study seeks to identify the anti-inflammatory activity of two fractions from the
methanolic extract of Bacopa, viz. the triterpenoid and bacoside-enriched fractions. The ability
of these two fractions to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor
necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 was tested using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated
peripheral blood mononuclear cells and peritoneal exudate cells in vitro. We found that
triterpenoid and bacoside-enriched fractions significantly inhibited LPS-activated TNF-α, IL-6
and nitrite production in mononuclear cells. Significant antioxidant activity was exhibited by the
bacoside enriched fraction compared to the triterpenoid fraction. Carrageenan-induced hind paw
oedema assay revealed that triterpenoid and bacoside-enriched fractions exerted antioedematogenic effect, while in the arthritis model only the triterpenoid fraction exerted an antiarthritic potential. The present study provides an insight into the ability of Bacopa monniera to
inhibit inflammation through modulation of pro-inflammatory mediator release.
Vollala VR, Upadhya S, Nayak S. Enhanced dendritic arborization of amygdala neurons during
growth spurt periods in rats orally intubated with Bacopa monniera extract. Anat Sci Int. 2011
Dec;86(4):179-88. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Bacopa monniera (BM)--a small, creeping herb-has been classified under Medhya rasayana
(medicinal plants rejuvenating intellect and memory) in the ancient Indian system of medicine,
viz., Ayurveda. Therefore, this plant has been investigated in several laboratories in India for its
neuropharmacological effects. Here, we investigated the role of BM standardized extract on the
dendritic morphology of amygdaloid neurons-one of the regions concerned with learning and
184
memory. The rat pups (10 days old) were fed standardized extract of BM (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg)
for 2, 4 and 6 weeks. After the treatment period, the rats were killed by decapitation, the brains
were removed and amygdaloid neurons were impregnated with silver nitrate (Golgi staining).
Amygdaloid neurons were traced using camera lucida. Dendritic branching points (a measure of
dendritic arborization) and dendritic intersections (a measure of dendritic length) were
quantified. These data were compared with control rats. The results showed a significant increase
in dendritic length and dendritic branching points along the length of dendrites of the amygdaloid
neurons of rats treated with all doses of BM for longer periods of time (i.e., 4 and 6 weeks). We
conclude that constituents present in BM extract have neuronal dendritic growth stimulating
properties.
Vollala VR, Upadhya S, Nayak S. Learning and memory-enhancing effect of Bacopa monniera
in neonatal rats. Bratisl Lek Listy. 2011;112(12):663-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the learning and memory-enhancing effect of Bacopa
monniera in neonatal rats.
BACKGROUND:
Learning is an acquisition and storage of information as a consequence of experience. Memory is
a relatively permanent storage form of the learned information. In the process of 'learning',
activation of neurons occurs in specific areas or specific memory systems of the brain concerned
with the processing of the specific modality of sensory information. Rasayana plants are said to
prevent ageing, re-establish youth, strengthen life, brain power and prevent diseases. Bacopa
monniera (BM) is shown to be very useful in improving learning and memory.
METHODS:
In the present study neonatal rat pups (10 days old) were given different doses of BM extract
orally for different periods of time. These rats were then subjected to spatial learning (T- Maze)
and passive avoidance tests along with the age matched normal and gum acacia control rats. The
data were compared with those of control rats.
RESULTS:
The results showed improvement in spatial learning performance and enhanced memory
retention in neonatal rats treated with extract of BM. Conclusion: We conclude that treatment
with BM extract during growth spurt period of neonatal rats enhances learning and memory
(Tab. 3, Fig. 3, Ref. 45). Full Text in free PDF www.bmj.sk.
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Vollala VR, Upadhya S, Nayak S. Enhanced dendritic arborization of hippocampal CA3 neurons
by Bacopa monniera extract treatment in adult rats. Rom J Morphol Embryol. 2011;52(3):87986.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Bacopa monniera (BM), a traditional Ayurvedic medicine has been used in treatment for a
number of disorders, particularly those involving anxiety, intellect and poor memory. The
current study examined the effects of standardized extract of Bacopa monniera on the dendritic
morphology in adult rats of hippocampal CA3 neurons, one of the regions concerned with
learning and memory.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Adult Wistar (2.5-month-old) rats were designated into 2-, 4- and 6-week treatment groups. Rats
in each of these groups were divided into 20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg dose groups (n=8
for each dose). These rats along with age-matched control rats were then subjected to spatial
learning (T-maze) and passive avoidance tests. Subsequent to the T-maze and passive avoidance
tests, these rats were killed by decapitation, brains were removed and hippocampal neurons were
impregnated with silver nitrate (Golgi staining). Hippocampal CA3 neurons were traced using
camera lucida. Dendritic branching points (a measure of dendritic arborization) and dendritic
intersections (a measure of dendritic length) were quantified. These data were compared with
control rats.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:
The results showed improvement in spatial learning performance and enhanced memory
retention in rats treated with BM extract. There was a significant increase in the dendritic
intersections and dendritic branching points along the length of both apical and basal dendrites in
rats treated with BM extract for four and six weeks. However, the rats treated with BM extract
for two weeks did not show any significant change in hippocampal CA3 neuronal dendritic
arborization. We conclude that constituents present in BM extract have neuronal dendritic
growth stimulating properties.
Vollala VR, Upadhya S, Nayak S. Enhancement of basolateral amygdaloid neuronal dendritic
arborization following Bacopa monniera extract treatment in adult rats. Clinics (Sao Paulo).
2011;66(4):663-71.
Abstract
186
OBJECTIVE:
In the ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Bacopa monniera is classified as Medhya
rasayana, which includes medicinal plants that rejuvenate intellect and memory. Here, we
investigated the effect of a standardized extract of Bacopa monniera on the dendritic morphology
of neurons in the basolateral amygdala, a region that is concerned with learning and memory.
METHODS:
The present study was conducted on 2½-month-old Wistar rats. The rats were divided into 2-, 4and 6-week treatment groups. Rats in each of these groups were further divided into 20 mg/kg,
40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg dose groups (n = 8 for each dose). After the treatment period, treated rats
and age-matched control rats were subjected to spatial learning (T-maze) and passive avoidance
tests. Subsequently, these rats were killed by decapitation, the brains were removed, and the
amygdaloid neurons were impregnated with silver nitrate (Golgi staining). Basolateral
amygdaloid neurons were traced using camera lucida, and dendritic branching points (a measure
of dendritic arborization) and dendritic intersections (a measure of dendritic length) were
quantified. These data were compared with the data from the age-matched control rats.
RESULTS:
The results showed an improvement in spatial learning performance and enhanced memory
retention in rats treated with Bacopa monniera extract. Furthermore, a significant increase in
dendritic length and the number of dendritic branching points was observed along the length of
the dendrites of the basolateral amygdaloid neurons of rats treated with 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg
of Bacopa monniera (BM) for longer periods of time (i.e., 4 and 6 weeks).
CONCLUSION:
We conclude that constituents present in Bacopa monniera extract have neuronal dendritic
growth-stimulating properties.
Yadav SS, Galib, Prajapati PK, Ashok BK, Ravishankar B. Evaluation of immunomodulatory
activity of "Shirishavaleha"-An Ayurvedic compound formulation in albino rats. J Ayurveda
Integr Med. 2011 Oct;2(4):192-6. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
The immunomodulatory activity of Shirishavaleha prepared from two different parts of Shirisha
(Albizia lebbeck Benth), i.e., Twak (Bark) and Sara (Heartwood) as main ingredients was
evaluated for humoral antibody formation and cell-mediated immunity in established
experimental models. The study used Wistar rats of either sex weighing 200 ± 40 g, while the
test drug was administered orally at a dose of 1.8 g/kg. Hemagglutination titer and body weight
187
were recorded to assess effects on humoral immunity; immunological paw edema was assessed
for cell-mediated immunity. Shirishavaleha prepared from heartwood shows significant
enhancement in antibody formation, attenuation of body weight changes, and suppression of
immunological paw edema, while Shirishavaleha prepared from bark shows weak
immunomodulatory activity. The study therefore concludes that Shirishavaleha prepared from
heartwood has significant immunomodulatory activity.
Yin H, Yang EJ, Park SJ, Han SK. Glycine- and GABA-mimetic Actions of Shilajit on the
Substantia Gelatinosa Neurons of the Trigeminal Subnucleus Caudalis in Mice. Korean J Physiol
Pharmacol. 2011 Oct;15(5):285-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
Shilajit, a medicine herb commonly used in Ayurveda, has been reported to contain at least 85
minerals in ionic form that act on a variety of chemical, biological, and physical stressors. The
substantia gelatinosa (SG) neurons of the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) are involved in
orofacial nociceptive processing. Shilajit has been reported to be an injury and muscular pain
reliever but there have been few functional studies of the effect of Shilajit on the SG neurons of
the Vc. Therefore, whole cell and gramicidin-perfotrated patch clamp studies were performed to
examine the action mechanism of Shilajit on the SG neurons of Vc from mouse brainstem slices.
In the whole cell patch clamp mode, Shilajit induced short-lived and repeatable inward currents
under the condition of a high chloride pipette solution on all the SG neurons tested. The Shilajitinduced inward currents were concentration dependent and maintained in the presence of
tetrodotoxin (TTX), a voltage gated Na(+) channel blocker, CNQX, a non-NMDA glutamate
receptor antagonist, and AP5, an NMDA receptor antagonist. The Shilajit-induced responses
were partially suppressed by picrotoxin, a GABA(A) receptor antagonist, and totally blocked in
the presence of strychnine, a glycine receptor antagonist, however not affected by
mecamylamine hydrochloride (MCH), a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. Under the
potassium gluconate pipette solution at holding potential 0 mV, Shilajit induced repeatable
outward current. These results show that Shilajit has inhibitory effects on the SG neurons of Vc
through chloride ion channels by activation of the glycine receptor and GABA(A) receptor,
indicating that Shilajit contains sedating ingredients for the central nervous system. These results
also suggest that Shilajit may be a potential target for modulating orofacial pain processing.
Yu WG, Xu G, Ren GJ, Xu X, Yuan HQ, Qi XL, Tian KL. Preventive action of curcumin in
experimental acute pancreatitis in mouse. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Nov;134(5):717-24.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
188
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES:
Curcuma longa (turmeric) has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for
inflammatory conditions. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the preventive
effects of curcumin against acute pancreatitis (AP) induced by caerulein in mouse and to
elucidate possible mechanism of curcumin action.
METHODS:
Curcumin (50 mg/kg/day) was intraperitoneally injected to Kun Ming male mice for 6 days,
followed by injection of caerulein to induce AP. GW9662 (0.3 mg/kg), a specific peroxisome
proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) antagonist, was intravenously injected along
with curcumin. Murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells were treated with 100 μmol/l curcumin for
2 h, and then stimulated with 0.1 μ g/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Serum amylase and
transaminase levels were measured at 10 h after AP. TNF-α level in mouse serum and cell
culture medium were detected by ELISA. Expression of PPARγ and NF-κB were analyzed by
RT-PCR and Western blot.
RESULTS:
Curcumin significantly decreased the pancreas injury and reversed the elevation of serum
amylase, ALT and AST activities and TNF-α level in mice with AP. Curcumin treatment
inhibited the elevation of NF-κB-p65 in the nucleus of mouse pancreas AP group and
RAW264.7 cells, but significantly increased the expression of PPARγ. GW9662 could abolish
the effects of curcumin on serum levels of amylase, ALT, AST, TNF-α, and NF-κB level.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS:
Our results suggest that curcumin could attenuate pancreas tissue and other organ injury by
inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. These effects may involve upregulation
of PPARγ and subsequent downregulation of NF-κB.
Zia-Ul-Haq M, Cavar S, Qayum M, Imran I, de Feo V. Compositional studies: antioxidant and
antidiabetic activities of Capparis decidua (Forsk.) Edgew. Int J Mol Sci. 2011;12(12):8846-61.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Capparis decidua is one of the traditional remedies used for various medicinal treatments in
Pakistan. This study presents the determination of proximate composition, amino acids, fatty
acids, tocopherols, sterols, glucosinolate and phenolic content in extracts obtained from different
aerial parts of C. decidua, as well as their antidiabetic and antioxidant activity. All examined
extracts were prominently rich in phenolics and glucosinates, and they showed potent
189
antidiabetic and antihemolytic activity. The present study could be helpful in developing
medicinal preparations for the treatment of diabetes and related symptoms.
Review Articles’ Abstracts
Galib, Barve M, Mashru M, Jagtap C, Patgiri BJ, Prajapati PK. Therapeutic potentials of metals
in ancient India: A review through Charaka Samhita. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2011 Apr;2(2):5563. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.
Abstract
The Ayurvedic system of medicine has stood the test of time for four millennia or more. The
ancient seers found that drugs of different origin (herbal, metal or animal) in addition to codes of
conduct and dietary regulations are suitable tools to maintain health in healthy and eradicating
diseases in diseased. Use of metallic preparations in healthcare is a unique feature in this system.
Processed metals including Mercury, Gold, Silver, Lead, Zinc, Copper etc. were used very
frequently by seers of the Indian tradition in different disease conditions with great authority. It
is generally claimed, that these metals are detoxified during the highly complex manufacturing
processes described in Ayurvedic, especially Rasashastra texts. Charaka Samhita, one of the
scheduled books of Ayurveda also holds ample of references regarding the use of metals for
different purposes, which are summarized in the current paper.
Gómez-Estrada H, Díaz-Castillo F, Franco-Ospina L, Mercado-Camargo J, Guzmán-Ledezma J,
Medina JD, Gaitán-Ibarra R. Folk medicine in the northern coast of Colombia: an overview. J
Ethnobiol Ethnomed. 2011 Sep 22;7:27. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Traditional remedies are an integral part of Colombian culture. Here we present the results of a
three-year study of ethnopharmacology and folk-medicine use among the population of the
Atlantic Coast of Colombia, specifically in department of Bolívar. We collected information
related to different herbal medicinal uses of the local flora in the treatment of the most common
190
human diseases and health disorders in the area, and determined the relative importance of the
species surveyed.
METHODS:
Data on the use of medicinal plants were collected using structured interviews and through
observations and conversations with local communities. A total of 1225 participants were
interviewed.
RESULTS:
Approximately 30 uses were reported for plants in traditional medicine. The plant species with
the highest fidelity level (Fl) were Crescentia cujete L. (flu), Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (flu and
cough), Euphorbia tithymaloides L. (inflammation), Gliricidia_sepium_(Jacq.) Kunth (pruritic
ailments), Heliotropium indicum L. (intestinal parasites) Malachra alceifolia Jacq.
(inflammation), Matricaria chamomilla L. (colic) Mentha sativa L. (nervousness), Momordica
charantia L. (intestinal parasites), Origanum vulgare L. (earache), Plantago major L.
(inflammation) and Terminalia catappa L. (inflammation). The most frequent ailments reported
were skin affections, inflammation of the respiratory tract, and gastro-intestinal disorders. The
majority of the remedies were prepared from freshly collected plant material from the wild and
from a single species only. The preparation of remedies included boiling infusions, extraction of
fresh or dry whole plants, leaves, flowers, roots, fruits, and seeds. The parts of the plants most
frequently used were the leaves. In this study were identified 39 plant species, which belong to
26 families. There was a high degree of consensus from informants on the medical indications of
the different species.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study presents new research efforts and perspectives on the search for new drugs based on
local uses of medicinal plants. It also sheds light on the dependence of rural communities in
Colombia on medicinal plants.
Gupta P, Nahata A, Dixit VK. An update on Murraya koenigii spreng: a multifunctional
Ayurvedic herb. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Aug;9(8):824-33. Review.
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Murraya koenigii Spreng (Rutaceae), a medicinally important herb of Indian origin, has been
used for centuries in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Leaves, fruits, roots and bark of this
plant are a rich source of carbazole alkaloids. These alkaloids have been reported for their
various pharmacological activities such as antitumor, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiarrhoeal,
191
diuretic and antioxidant activities. Apart from these activities, the plant is reported to possess a
wide spectrum of biological activities. Phytochemistry and pharmacology of this plant make a
demand of an exhaustive review of its potential as a valuable therapeutic agent for the treatment
and management of various ailments frequently affecting humans. The present review gives a
detailed description of the phytochemical, pharmacological, clinical and pre-clinical works
carried out on this medicinal herb and also throws light on its therapeutic potential.
Kanlayavattanakul M, Lourith N. Therapeutic agents and herbs in topical application for acne
treatment. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011 Aug;33(4):289-97. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2011.00647.x.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed
Abstract
Acne vulgaris suppresses an individual's self-confidence by causing distress with regard to
physical appearance, which affects a significant number of individuals during puberty and is
delineated by adolescence. Several treatments have been introduced to decrease the aesthetic and
psychological problems caused by acne. The topical application of therapeutic agents has been
found to be more feasible than hormonal treatment and laser therapy. The ingredients in topical
acne treatments, particularly herbs and naturally derived compounds, have received considerable
interest as they have fewer adverse effects than synthetic agents.
Randhawa MA, Alghamdi MS. Anticancer activity of Nigella sativa (black seed) - a review. Am
J Chin Med. 2011;39(6):1075-91. Review. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Nigella sativa (N. sativa) seed has been an important nutritional flavoring agent and natural
remedy for many ailments for centuries in ancient systems of medicine, e.g. Unani, Ayurveda,
Chinese and Arabic Medicines. Many active components have been isolated from N. sativa,
including thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, dithymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol, nigellimineN-oxide, nigellicine, nigellidine and alpha-hederin. In addition, quite a few pharmacological
effects of N. sativa seed, its oil, various extracts and active components have been identified to
include immune stimulation, anti-inflammation, hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, antiasthmatic,
antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant and anticancer effects. Only a few authors have reviewed
the medicinal properties of N. sativa and given some description of the anticancer effects. A
literature search has revealed that a lot more studies have been recently carried out related to the
anticancer activities of N. sativa and some of its active compounds, such as thymoquinone and
alpha-hederin. Acute and chronic toxicity studies have recently confirmed the safety of N. sativa
oil and its most abundant active component, thymoquinone, particularly when given orally. The
192
present work is aimed at summarizing the extremely valuable work done by various investigators
on the effects of N. sativa seed, its extracts and active principles against cancer. Those related to
the underlying mechanism of action, derivatives of thymoquinone, nano thymoquinone and
combinations of thymoquinone with the currently used cytotoxic drugs are of particular interest.
We hope this review will encourage interested researchers to conduct further preclinical and
clinical studies to evaluate the anticancer activities of N. sativa, its active constituents and their
derivatives.
Veterinery Science
Rastogi S, Kaphle K. Sustainable traditional medicine: taking the inspirations from ancient
veterinary science. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:151435. .
Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract
Rapid reduction in natural resources as a consequence to the expanded urbanization, global
warming and reduced natural habitat posed a considerable threat to the sustainability of
traditional medicine. Being completely dependent upon natural resources like herbs, minerals
and animal products, traditional medicinewould possibly rank first in order of extinction of
heritage if an alternative way is not considered well in time. In reference to the use of animal
products, Ayurveda presents some unique examples where animals are used without causing
harm to them and so without posing a threat to their existence. In the current context, when
natural resources are facing a threat to their existence, a revisit to these ideas may give us a new
insight to refine our look at natural resources used in traditional medicine
Sinyorita S, Ghosh CK, Chakrabarti A, Auddy B, Ghosh R, Debnath PK. Effect of Ayurvedic
mercury preparation Makaradhwaja on geriatric canine--a preliminary study. Indian J Exp Biol.
2011 Jul;49(7):534-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
Abstract
193
Makaradhwaja, an alchemical Ayurvedic mercury preparation is used as stimulant and vitalizer.
Towards veterinary practices, the acceptability, tolerability and toxicity studies were undertaken
in geriatric pet dogs aged more than 10 years irrespective of breed and sex for future use.
Makaradhwaja (2.5 mg/kg) was used with honey once daily for 30 days. Before and after
treatment, blood was collected for hematological studies as well as liver, kidney function and
anti-oxidant activity. In control group, honey itself showed no appreciable change whereas,
Makaradhwaja lowered neutrophil and total leucocyte count. Serum cholesterol, urea, glucose,
alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, sodium, phosphorus and calcium were
decreased. Haemoglobin and serum creatinine were significantly increased. There was
appreciable physical, behavioral and body weight change including quality of life. The dose was
used in replication of human dose (125 mg/50 kg). Anti-oxidant study showed significant
increase of lipid per oxidation in experimental group while the values of ABTS radical cation
decolorisation assay although decreased but did not show any significant changes. Decrease of
serum urea and increase of serum creatinine could not be explained on single dose response.
Different dose study could only explain the optimum dose to be required in canine practices.
194
Author Index:
Abbas S
Anupam A
Abd El-Mawla AM
Argyropoulou C
Abdel-Hady NM
Asamenew G
Abdul-Hay S
Ashok BK
Acharya S
Aslan M
Acıkara OB
Aviello G
Adamson PC
Awad NE
Adhami HR
Azadbakht M
Agarwal HK
B. Ncube
Aggarwal BB
Bai Y
Ahmad M
Banerjee AA
Akase T
Barman TK
Akdemir Z
Battu GR
Albert D
Baumgartner L1
Ali B
Baumgartner L2
Ali NA
Ben Sghaier M
Ali NH
Bencsik T
Ali Z, Khan IA
Bencsik T
Al-Musayeib N
Bero J
Al-Musayeib N
Bhardwaj A
Al-Said MS
Bora KS
Angelis A
Bose SK
Annan K
Bunluepuech K
Ansil PN
Bussmann RW
195
Butler A
Deole YS
Caballero-George C
Derita M
Cao M
Dey P
Cattoor K
Dharmalingam N
Chandrasekar SB
Dhooghe L
Chang JC
Dickson RA
Changwichit K
Ding M
Chaturvedi AP
Donga S
Chaturvedi R
Du J
Chavan SV
Efferth T
Chen CC
El-Alfy TS
Chen G
Elango G
Chen H
El-Hawary SA
Chen W
Emadi F
Chen Y
Faujdar J
Chinasa EC
Ferreira D
Chizzola R
Fletcher JN
Chlipala GE
Foubert K
Choi KM
Fred-Jaiyesimi AA
Crockett SL
Fucharoen S
Csupor D
Gadge NB
Csupor-Löffler B
Galani VJ
Damanpreet Singh
Galib
Datta HS
Ganjare AB
Deng Y
Ghafourian Boroujerdnia M
196
Giridharan VV
Jagtap M
Gomber S
Jalalpure SS
Gomes A
Jeloka TK
Gómez-Estrada H
Jisha S
Gunturu KS
Ka H
Gupta P
Kamaraj C
Gupta RK
Kanlayavattanakul M
Habash M
Kannan R
Habtemariam S1
Katoch M
Habtemariam S2
Khedekar S
Haggag EG
King SM
Hahm ER1
Koch I
Hahm ER2
Kokkiripati PK
Haider S
Kumerz M
Harishankar N
Lakshmanan D
He L
Lardos A
Hemalatha R
Larissa J.R.P. Raymundo
Hemshekhar M
Li J
Hettihewa LM
Liu C
Hickok JR
Madavi SS
Hilliard TS
Malik J
Huiping Ma
Mallah EM
Hullatti KK
Mallavadhani UV
Indavarapu A
Marco Leonti
Inić S
Mathen C
197
Medhi S
Patel MV
Mehta CS
Patel RV
Minhas U
Pathak N
Mishra PK
Patwardhan K
Mitra S
Policegoudra RS
Mohapatra S
Poonam
Mora FD
Pradhan SL
Morandi A
Rajan KE
More SD
Rajput DS
Mourya SK
Ramadan G
Mutheeswaran S
Ramteke R
Nandha R
Randhawa MA
Nariya PB
Rastogi S
Obmann A
Rauf K
Obolskiy D
Rout AK
Olszewska MA
Ru P
Omeish AF
Sainath SB
Palmer KK
Samarakoon SM
Panda G
Santhi N
Pandey RK
Santra G
Park B
Saranya P
Patel BR
Selvi R
Patel JR
Shailajan S
Patel K
Sharma H
Patel MV
Sharma SK
198
Sharma U
Vasant RA
Shilpa S
Vidyashankar S
Singh S
Viji V
Sinyorita S
Vollala VR1
Siveen KS
Vollala VR2
Skandhan KP
Vollala VR3
Sujatha V
Vyas HA
Sumathi T
Werner W
Sur TK
Yadav SS
Tanna I
Yadav SS2
Taty Anna K
Yin H
Thakur M
Yu WG
Tripathi PK
Zia-Ul-Haq M
Upadhyay BN
Title Index:
199
A clinical study of Devadarvyadi-Vati on Grahani Dosha in children.
A clinical study of Haritaki and Saindhava Lavana in Kaphaja Kasa with special reference to
Samyoga Guna.
A clinical study of Panchakola Siddha Yavagu in the management of Agnimandya.
A clinical study of some Ayurvedic compound drugs in the assessment quality of life of patients
with Eka Kushtha (psoriasis).
A clinical study on the effect of Arka Taila in the management of Karnasrava (Otomycosis).
A clinical study on the effect of Rishyagandha (Withania coagulans) in the management of
Prameha (Type II Diabetes Mellitus).
A clinical study on the role of Akshi Tarpana with Jeevantyadi Ghrita in Timira (Myopia).
A comparative clinical trial of Chincha kshara and Kadali kshara on Amlapitta.
A comparative study of the antimicrobial and phytochemical properties between outdoor grown
and micropropagated Tulbaghia violacea Harv.
A comparative study of Vamana and Virechana Karma in the management of Sthula Pramehi
w.s.r. to Type-2 diabetes.
A critical review of its traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology, and safety.
A new triterpene from Scorzonera latifolia (Fisch. and Mey.) DC.
A novel herbal formulation "LiverCare" differentially regulates primary rat hepatocyte and
hepatocarcinoma cell proliferation in vitro.
A pilot study on the use of serum glyoxalase as a supplemental biomarker to predict malignant
cases of the prostate in the PSA range of 4-20 ng/ml.
A pilot study to clinically evaluate the role of herbomineral compound "Rakatchap Har" in the
management of essential hypertension.
A profile of bioactive compounds of Rumex vesicarius L.
A quarter century of pharmacognostic research on Panamanian flora: a review.
A rapid and highly sensitive UPLC-QTOF MS method for quantitative evaluation of
Nardostachys jatamansi using Nardin as the marker.
A selective antiplasmodial alkaloid isolated from Strychnos usambarensis leaves.
200
Acaricidal effect of an isolate from Hoslundia opposita vahl against Amblyomma variegatum
(Acari: Ixodidae).
Active components from Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) for protection of
amyloid β(25-35)-induced neuritic atrophy in cultured rat cortical neurons.
Acute and subchronic oral toxicity assessment of the aqueous extract from the stem bark of
Erythrina senegalensis DC (Fabaceae) in rodents.
Advancement into the Arctic region for bioactive sponge secondary metabolites.
Advent of a Link between Ayurveda and Modern Health Science.
Alkyl phenols and saponins from the roots of Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah).
Ameliorative effect of Grewia tenax (Forssk) fiori fruit extract on CCl(4)-induced oxidative
stress and hepatotoxicity in rats.
An open clinical trial to analyze Samyak Snigdha Lakshana of Shodhananga Snehapana with
Mahatikthakam Ghritam in Psoriasis.
An update on Murraya koenigii spreng: a multifunctional Ayurvedic herb.
Anthelmintic activities of chloroform and methanol extracts of Buchholzia coriacea Engler seed.
Antiarthritic activity of various extracts of Mesua ferrea Linn. seed.
Antibacterial activity in spices and local medicinal plants against clinical isolates of Karachi,
Pakistan.
Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects of the leaves and stem bark of Glyphaea
brevis (Spreng) Monachino (Tiliaceae): A comparative study.
Anticancer activity of Nigella sativa (black seed) - a review.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of ethanolic extract and its various fractions
from Adiantum capillus veneris Linn.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of Curcuma longa (turmeric) versus Zingiber
officinale (ginger) rhizomes in rat adjuvant-induced arthritis.
Anti-inflammatory effect of Curcuma longa (turmeric) on collagen-induced arthritis:
ananatomico-radiological study.
Antimicrobial and antifungal activities of Cordia dichotoma (Forster F.) bark extracts.
201
Antioxidant and ACE enhancing potential of Pankajakasthuri in fluoride toxicity: an in vitro
study on mammalian lungs.
Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of polyphenolic compounds isolated from the leaves of
Leucenia leucocephala.
Antioxidant, anti-glycation and anti-inflammatory activities of phenolic constituents from Cordia
sinensis.
Antiparasitic activity of plumericin & isoplumericin isolated from Plumeria bicolor against
Leishmania donovani.
Antiproliferative constituents of the roots of Conyza canadensis.
Antiprotozoal and antiangiogenic saponins from Apodytes dimidiata.
Antiulcer activity of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) wall. against cysteamine-induced
duodenal ulcer in rats.
Application of Satkaryavada based on theory of Karya-Karana Vada.
Attenuation of 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide induced hippocampus-dependent
impairment by a standardised extract of Bacopa monniera (BESEB CDRI-08).
memory
Ayurveda in critical care: Illustrating Ayurvedic intervention in a case of hepatic encephalopathy.
Ayurvedic herbal medicine and lead poisoning.
Ayurvedic medicine and anaesthesia.
Bioaccessibility of lead and arsenic in traditional Indian medicines.
Bioassay-guided isolation of anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healer glycosides
from the flowers of Verbascum mucronatum Lam.
Bioavailability of hop-derived iso-α-acids and reduced derivatives.
Bisindole alkaloids and secoiridoids from Alstonia macrophylla Wall. ex G. Don.
Bitter melon extract impairs prostate cancer cell-cycle progression and delays prostatic
intraepithelial neoplasia in TRAMP model.
Boswellic acid suppresses growth and metastasis of human pancreatic tumors in an orthotopic
nude mouse model through modulation of multiple targets.
Characterisation of the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the Hyptis pectinata
(L.) Poit essential oil.
202
Chemical composition and in vitro antibacterial activity of the essential oil of Phthirusa adunca
from Venezuelan Andes.
Chemodiversity in freshwater and terrestrial cyanobacteria - a source for drug discovery.
Chip-based drug screening for inhibiting α-glucosidase.
Chronic toxicity study of Butea monosperma (Linn.) Kuntze seeds in albino rats.
Clinical effect of Kukkutanda Twak Bhasma in the management of Swetapradara.
Clinical efficacy of Coleus forskohlii (Willd.) Briq. (Makandi) in hypertension of geriatric
population.
Comparative analysis of the oil and supercritical CO(2) extract of Schinus molle L. growing in
Yemen.
Comparative evaluation of the cytotoxic and apoptotic potential of Poecilocerus pictus and
Calotropis gigantea.
Comparison of a specific HPLC determination of toxic aconite alkaloids in processed Radix
aconiti with a titration method of total alkaloids.
Composition of the essential oils from Anthriscus cerefolium var. trichocarpa and A. caucalis
growing wild in the urban area of Vienna (Austria).
Compositional studies: antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Capparis decidua (Forsk.)
Edgew.
Determination of disulfiram by micellar liquid chromatography in illicit preparations.
Detoxification of Nerium indicum roots based on Indian system of medicine: phytochemical and
toxicity evaluations.
Development and standardization of Mysore Tridosha scale.
Dinitrosyliron complexes are the most abundant nitric oxide-derived cellular adduct: biological
parameters of assembly and disappearance.
Documentation and quantitative analysis of the local knowledge on medicinal plants among
traditional Siddha healers in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, India.
Effect of altitude on picroside content in core collections of Picrorhiza kurrooa from the north
western Himalayas.
Effect of Ayurvedic management in 130 patients of diabetic nephropathy.
203
Effect of Ayurvedic mercury preparation Makaradhwaja on geriatric canine--a preliminary
study.
Effect of Bacopasides on acquisition and expression of morphine tolerance.
Effect of bergapten from Heracleum nepalense root on production of proinflammatory cytokines.
Effect of dietary, social, and lifestyle determinants of accelerated aging and its common clinical
presentation: A survey study.
Effect of Gentiana olivieri on experimental epilepsy models.
Effect of rasanjana madhu ashchyotana in netra abhishyanda (mucopurulent conjunctivitis).
Effect of Shodhana (processing) on Kupeelu (Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.) with special
reference to strychnine and brucine content.
Effects of Ayurvedic treatment on 100 patients of chronic renal failure (other than diabetic
nephropathy).
Effects of Indian herbal formulation Body
myocardial ischemia in rats.
Revival on human platelet aggregation and
Efficacy of indigenous plant extracts on the malaria vector Anopheles subpictus Grassi (Diptera:
Culicidae).
Emerging Roles of Anacardic Acid and Its Derivatives: A Pharmacological Overview.
Enhanced dendritic arborization of amygdala neurons during growth spurt periods in rats orally
intubated with Bacopa monniera extract.
Enhanced dendritic arborization of hippocampal CA3 neurons by Bacopa monniera extract
treatment in adult rats.
Enhancement of basolateral amygdaloid neuronal dendritic arborization following Bacopa
monniera extract treatment in adult rats.
Establishment of a luciferase assay-based screening system for detecting estrogen receptor
agonists in plant extracts.
Ethno biological usage of zoo products in rheumatoid arthritis.
Ethyl p-methoxycinnamate isolated from a traditional anti-tuberculosis medicinal herb inhibits
drug resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in vitro.
Evaluation of anti-depressant and anxiolytic activity of Rasayana Ghana Tablet (A compound
Ayurvedic formulation) in albino mice.
204
Evaluation of Antioxidant and Cerebroprotective Effect of
Ischemia and Reperfusion Insult.
Medicago sativa Linn. against
Evaluation of gender-related differences in various oxidative stress enzymes in mice.
Evaluation of immunomodulatory activity of "Shirishavaleha"-An Ayurvedic compound
formulation in albino rats.
Evaluation of the effect of conventionally prepared swarna makshika bhasma on different biochemical parameters in experimental animals.
Flavonoid C- and O-glycosides from the Mongolian medicinal plant Dianthus versicolor Fisch.
Flavonoid glycosides and naphthodianthrones in the sawfly Tenthredo zonula and its host-plants,
Hypericum perforatum and H. hirsutum.
Folk medicine in the northern coast of Colombia: an overview.
fruit extract protects G6PD-deficient erythrocytes from hemolytic injury in vitro and in vivo:
prevention of favism disorder.
Glycine- and GABA-mimetic Actions of Shilajit on the Substantia Gelatinosa Neurons of the
Trigeminal Subnucleus Caudalis in Mice.
Glycogen synthase kinase 3β inhibitors induce apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells and inhibit invivo tumor growth.
Gum resin of Boswellia serrata inhibited human monocytic (THP-1) cell activation and platelet
aggregation.
Haemoglobinopathies in southeast Asia.
Hepatoprotective effect of Solanum xanthocarpum fruit extract against CCl4 induced acute liver
toxicity in experimental animals.
High-performance thin layer chromatographic quantification of bioactive psoralen and daidzein
in leaves of Ficus carica L.
Hospital-based study on the use of herbal medicine in patients with coronary artery disease in
Jordan.
Hydroxyframoside B, a secoiridoid of Fraxinus rhynchophylla, inhibits adipocyte differentiation
in 3T3-L1 cells.
Hypolipidaemic and antioxidant activities of Ficus microcarpa (L.) in hypercholesterolemic rats.
205
Identification of novel anti-inflammatory agents from Ayurvedic medicine for prevention of
chronic diseases: "reverse pharmacology" and "bedside to bench" approach.
Immune response to second dose of MMR vaccine in Indian children.
Immunomodulatory and antitumor activity of Aerva lanata ethanolic extract.
Immunomodulatory effects of Astragalus gypsicolus hydroalcoholic extract in ovalbumininduced allergic mice model.
Improvement of penile erection, sperm count and seminal fructose levels in vivo and nitric oxide
release in vitro by Ayurvedic herbs.
In vitro & in vivo estrogenic activity of glycoside fractions of Solanum nigrum fruit.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the anticarcinogenic and cancer chemopreventive potential of
a flavonoid-rich fraction from a traditional Indian herb Selaginella bryopteris.
In vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory and anti-ulcerogenic activities of Teucrium
ramosissimum extracts.
In vitro antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the inflorescences, leaves and fruits of
Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz.
In vitro antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial activity of plants used in Benin in traditional
medicine and bio-guided fractionation of the most active extract.
In vitro evaluation of flavonoids from Eriodictyon californicum for antagonist activity against
the bitterness receptor hTAS2R31.
In vitro metabolic interactions between black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and tamoxifen via
inhibition of cytochromes P450 2D6 and 3A4.
In vivo and in vitro pharmacological activity of Aristolochia tagala (syn: Aristolochia acuminata)
root extracts.
Induction of apoptosis and inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway in PC-3 and LNCaP prostate cancer
cells by ethanolic neem leaf extract.
Induction of apoptosis and inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway in PC-3 and LNCaP prostate cancer
cells by ethanolic neem leaf extract.
Induction of Biologically Active Flavonoids in Cell Cultures of Morus nigra and Testing their
Hypoglycemic Efficacy.
Inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators: role of Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst.
206
Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by TTF1 from extract of herbal medicine.
Inhibition on HIV-1 integrase activity and nitric oxide production of compounds from Ficus
glomerata.
Insights from the molecular docking of withanolide derivatives to the target protein PknG from
Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Interrelation of antioxidant, anticancer and antilieshmania effects of some selected Egyptian
plants and their phenolic constituents.
Involvement of opioid, adenosine and 5-HT(3) receptors in antinociceptive effects of an
Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation.
Kudzu root: Traditional uses and potential medicinal benefits in diabetes and cardiovascular
diseases.
Larvicidal activity of medicinal plant extracts against Anopheles subpictus & Culex
tritaeniorhynchus.
Learning and memory-enhancing effect of Bacopa monniera in neonatal rats.
Leaves and Potential Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities.
Ligand-based modelling followed by synthetic exploration unveil novel glycogen phosphorylase
inhibitory leads.
Lignan derivatives from Krameria lappacea roots inhibit acute inflammation in vivo and proinflammatory mediators in vitro.
Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.)--a promising spice for phytochemicals and biological
activities.
Methanolic extract of leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum Linn modulates oxidative stress and
inflammatory mediators.
Methyl-3-O-methyl gallate and gallic acid from the leaves of Peltiphyllum peltatum: isolation
and comparative antioxidant, prooxidant, and cytotoxic effects in neuronal cells.
Minor labdane diterpenes from Marrubium thessalum.
Mycobacterium indicus pranii as stand-alone or adjunct immunotherapeutic in treatment of
experimental animal tuberculosis.
Natriuretic and saluretic effects of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br. root extracts in rats.
Nephropathy in association with annular psoriasis.
207
Neuropharmacological properties of Mikania scandens (L.) Willd. (Asteraceae).
Neutrophils to lymphocyte ratio as a screening tool for swine influenza.
Nitric Oxide Chimera Drugs Incorporating a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor.
Non invasive real-time monitoring of bacterial infection & therapeutic effect of anti-microbials
in five mouse models.
Nootropic, anxiolytic and CNS-depressant studies on different plant sources of shankhpushpi.
Ocimum sanctum Linn. leaf extracts inhibit acetylcholinesterase and improve cognition in rats
with experimentally induced dementia.
Old herbal remedies and modern combination therapy.
One-step isolation of γ-oryzanol from rice bran oil by non-aqueous hydrostatic countercurrent
chromatography.
Pharmacognostic evaluation of leaves of certain Phyllanthus species used as a botanical source
of Bhumyamalaki in Ayurveda.
Pharmacognostical Studies on Balanophora fungosa – a Negative Listed Plant.
Pharmacological profile of Salvadora persica.
Phyllanthus amarus: ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology: a review.
Physico-chemical analysis of a Herbo-mineral compound Mehamudgara vati - A pilot study.
Phytochemical and Bioactivity Studies on Constituents of the Leaves of Vitex Quinata.
Phytochemical investigation and diuretic activity of Cyclea peltata leaf extracts.
Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Ficus religiosa: A review.
Plant use in Odo-Bulu and Demaro, Bale region, Ethiopia.
Plasma concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D among Jordanians: Effect of biological and
habitual factors on vitamin D status.
Potent antioxidant and genoprotective effects of boeravinone G, a rotenoid isolated from
Boerhaavia diffusa.
Prameha in Ayurveda: correlation with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes mellitus. Part
1-etiology, classification, and pathogenesis.
Preparation of dhatryarishta by dhatri swarasa and dhatri kwatha.
208
Prevalence & correlates of primary infertility among young women in Mysore, India.
Prevalence of & knowledge, attitude & practices towards HIV & sexually transmitted infections
(STIs) among female sex workers (FSWs) in Andhra Pradesh.
Prevalence of Adhyashana in patients attending IPGT and RA Hospital and its effect on health.
Preventive action of curcumin in experimental acute pancreatitis in mouse.
Preventive Effects of Salacia reticulata on Obesity and Metabolic Disorders in TSOD Mice.
Prolonged expression of MHC class I - peptide expression in bone marrow derived retrovirus
transfected matured dendritic cells by continuous centrifugation in the presence of IL-4.
Promoter region polymorphism & expression profile of toll like receptor-3 (TLR-3) gene in
chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients from India.
Protective effect of Amorphophallus campanulatus (Roxb.) Blume. tuber against thioacetamide
induced oxidative stress in rats.
Protective role of Centella asiatica on lead-induced oxidative stress and suppressed reproductive
health in male rats.
Protective role of Cynodon dactylon in ameliorating the aluminium-induced neurotoxicity in rat
brain regions.
Psychotropic activity of Argyreia speciosa roots in experimental animals.
Quantitative analysis of anti-inflammatory lignan derivatives in Ratanhiae radix and its tincture
by HPLC-PDA and HPLC-MS.
Resins and Gums in Historical Iatrosophia Texts from Cyprus - A Botanical and Medicopharmacological Approach.
Resveratrol inhibits migration and Rac1 activation in EGF- but not PDGF-activated vascular
smooth muscle cells.
Reverse pharmacology of Ayurvedic drugs includes mechanisms of molecular actions.
Screening of medicinal plants from Iranian traditional medicine for acetylcholinesterase
inhibition.
Sedative effects of Iranian Artemisia annua in mice: possible benzodiazepine receptors
involvement.
Standard manufacturing procedure of Rajata Bhasma.
209
Standard manufacturing process of Makaradhwaja prepared by Swarna Patra - Varkha and
Bhasma.
Standardization of Shirishavaleha with reference to physico-chemical characteristics.
Structure-guided design of a highly selective glycogen synthase kinase-3β inhibitor: a superior
neuroprotective pyrazolone showing antimania effects.
Study on Bhasma Kalpana with special reference to the preparation of Kasisa Bhasma.
Study on the diuretic activity of Euphorbia fusiformis Buch.-Ham. in albino rats.
Survival of elderly/dialysis patients--a single center study from India.
Sustainable traditional medicine: taking the inspirations from ancient veterinary science.
Synthesis of 4β-triazole-podophyllotoxin derivatives by azide-alkyne cycloaddition and
biological evaluation as potential antitumor agents.
Synthesis of Closo-1,7-Carboranyl Alkyl Amines.
Synthesis of core-shell magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers and detection of sildenafil and
vardenafil in herbal dietary supplements.
The Ayurveda education in India: how well are the graduates exposed to basic clinical skills?
The Ayurvedic Medicine Salacia oblonga Attenuates Diabetic Renal Fibrosis in Rats:
Suppression of Angiotensin II/AT1 Signaling.
The basic cardiovascular responses to postural changes, exercise, and cold pressor test: do they
vary in accordance with the dual constitutional types of Ayurveda?
The first independent pharmacognosy institute in the world and its founder Julije Domac (18531928).
The future is written: Impact of scripts on the cognition, selection, knowledge and transmission
of medicinal plant use and its implications for ethnobotany and thnopharmacology.
The genus pimedium: An ethnopharmacological and phytochemical review.
The impact of ovulation on fallopian tube epithelial cells: evaluating three hypotheses connecting
ovulation and serous ovarian cancer.
The quantification of ellagic acid in the crude extract of Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn.
(Euphorbiaceae).
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The therapeutic potential of Berberis darwinii stem-bark: quantification of berberine and in vitro
evidence for Alzheimer's disease therapy.
Therapeutic agents and herbs in topical application for acne treatment.
Therapeutic effect of Withania somnifera on pristane-induced model of SLE.
Therapeutic potentials of metals in ancient India: A review through Charaka Samhita.
Thoughts on legal and ethical concepts on the professional development of Ayurveda in the U.S.
Total antioxidant capacity in Eales' disease, uveitis & cataract.
Towards the synthesis of proanthocyanidins: half a century of innovation.
Toxicities by herbal medicines with emphasis to traditional Chinese medicine.
Two group A streptococcal peptide pheromones act through opposing Rgg regulators to control
biofilm development.
Use of Cordia dichotoma bark in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.
Validation of the ethnopharmacological use of Polygonum persicaria for its antifungal properties.
Variability of total flavonoid, polyphenol and tannin contents in some Lythrum salicaria
populations.
Water purification prescribed in Ayurveda.
What could 'integrative' medicine mean? Social science perspectives on contemporary Ayurveda.
Withaferin a suppresses estrogen receptor-α expression in human breast cancer cells.
Withaferin A-induced apoptosis in human breast cancer cells is mediated by reactive oxygen
species.
Withaferin A-induced apoptosis in human breast cancer cells is mediated by reactive oxygen
species.
WNIN/GR-Ob - an insulin-resistant obese rat model from inbred WNIN strain.
Wound healing activity of topical application forms based on Ayurveda.
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Subject Index:
Ayurveda
Botany
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Ethnomedicine
Pharmacognosy
Pharmacology
Review Articles’ Abstracts
Veterinery Science
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