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The present study was aimed at investigating the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the solvent fractions of the roots of Echinops kebericho Mesfin in rodent models of pain and inflammation. Successive maceration was used as a method of extraction using solvents of increasing polarity: methanol and water. Ethyl acetate, chloroform and distilled water were used as solvents of the fraction process. Swiss albino mice models were used in acetic acid induced writhing, hot plate, carrageenan induced paw edema and cotton pellet granuloma to assess the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. The test groups received different doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) of the three fractions (chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous). The positive control groups received ASA (150 mg/kg) for the writing test, morphine (10 mg/kg) for the hot plate method, diclofenac Na for carrageenan-induced paw edema, and dexamethasone (10 mg/kg) for granuloma, while the negative control group received distilled water. EA fraction at all test doses employed (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg) showed statistically significant (p<0.05, p<0.01, p<0.001 respectively) analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in a dose-dependent manner. The AQ fraction on the other hand produced statistically significant (p<0.05, p<0.012) analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities at the doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, while the CH fraction exhibited statistically significant (p<0.05) analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity at the dose of 400 mg/kg. In general, the data obtained from the present study elucidated that the solvent fractions of the study plant possessed significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities and were recommended for further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Favism is a metabolic disease and this study evaluates the effectiveness of palm oil and its triacylglycerol constituent in favism-induced female rats to restore serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation. Animals were 36 female albino rats. They classified to two equal (normal and favism) groups. The normal group was divided into three equal subgroups: the control, palm oil, and triacylglycerol subgroups. The normal rats were given 1 mL of saline, 1 mL of palm oil, and 1 mL of triacylglycerol orally, respectively. The Favism group was classified also into three equal subgroups: the favism group, the favism + palm oil, the Favism + triacylglycerol. The favism rats were given 1 mL of saline, 1 mL of palm oil, and 1 mL of triacylglycerol orally. For four weeks, all treatments were administered orally via oral gavage once daily. The hemoglobin, hematocrite, the blood cells, glucose and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and liver function were decreased in favism. Female hormones such as serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, Estrone, Estriol, 17α-Estradiol, 17β-Estradiol, and Estradiol-17-β-stearate were decreased in favism. Ovarian antioxidants were decreased while ovarian inflammatory markers were increased in favism. Favism induced ovarian DNA apoptosis. Furthermore, oral administration with palm oil or its triacylglycerol constituent in favism-induced female rats restored all these parameters to be approached the control levels. Palm oil restored serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation in favism-induced female rats and this effect related to oil triacylglycerol constituent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was carried out with a view to determining the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties of the aqueous lyophilized extract of Markhamia lutea. In vitro proteinases inhibition, albumin denaturation, hemolysis of red blood cells by heat, inhibition of the proton pump H+/K+ATPase, FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power) and DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) assays were performed. In vivo, cold water immersion-induced ulceration and methylene blue-induced ulceration was used to determine the anti-ulcer properties of the lyophilizate (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg). In vitro, the lyophilizate (400 μg/mL) significantly inhibited protein denaturation (66.65 %), hemolysis of red blood cells (56.54 %), proteinase activity (69.22 %); then the IC50 was 26.31 μg/mL on proton pump activity. It has also developed a strong ferric reducing antioxidant power (EC50=52.96 mmol FeSO4/g) as well as free radicals scavenging activity (EC50=22.38 μg/mL). In vivo, the aqueous lyophilizate (200 and 300 mg/kg) protected the gastric mucosa (70.68 and 79.00 % protection respectively) and reduced (p<0.05) acetylcholine, calcium and corticosterone concentrations. A decrease in malondialdehyde level, an increased glutathione level and an increased in catalase and SOD activities were recorded. In the methylene blue test, it significantly increased gastric fluid pH, while reducing gastric volume and improving hematological parameters in ulcer animals. In addition, the histological sections show that the aqueous lyophilizate of M. lutea protected the gastric mucosa from the deleterious effects of stress. The aqueous lyophilizate of M. lutea has anti-ulcer properties thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-secretory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethanol extract of Persea americana seeds was found to inhibit the development of estrogen-dependent conditions in female Wistar rats, suggesting the ability of its secondary metabolites to interact with estrogen receptors (ERs), either as partial agonists or as antagonists. To test this hypothesis, the abovementioned extract was assessed for its ability to mimic and/or antagonize estradiol effects. Two experiments were conducted in ovariectomized (OVX) rats: (1) animals were treated with estradiol valerate (E2V; 1 mg/kg) or P. americana at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg; (2) animals were treated with E2V alone (0.75 mg/kg) or in combination with P. americana at the abovementioned doses. Treatments were given orally for 3 days and animals were sacrificed for biochemical and histological analyses of the uterus and vagina. When administered alone, P. americana did not change the histomorphology of both organs (uterus and vagina). In combination with E2V, P. americana decreased uterine weight [30 % decrease (p<0.001) at 25 mg/kg and 24 % (p<0.01) at 50 mg/kg] and epithelium height (37 % decrease). This was associated with decreased estradiol levels (at least 86 % decrease, p<0.001) in the uterus. Similarly, vagina epithelium height decreased by at least 34 % (p<0.05) when E2V was co-administered with P. americana. The seed extract of P. americana contains ER antagonist secondary metabolites accounting for its ability to inhibit the development of estrogen-dependent conditions in female rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Unani medicine, a comprehensive treatment plan has been delineated to deal with febrile illnesses using herbal drugs along with modified dietetics, which stands as a promising area of research. The present study was aimed at evaluating the antipyretic activity of the HAE of Artemisia absinthium L. whole plant as a standalone and as an adjuvant with barley water in an animal model of pyrexia to validate the age-old Unani principle of the treatment. The pyrexia was induced in all the groups except the plain control using Brewer's yeast. Group II did not receive any treatment, while group III received crocin, group IV received HAE of A. absinthium, group V administered Ma al-Sha'ir, and group VI was treated with the HAE of A. absinthium along with Ma al-Sha'ir by oral route. The rectal temperature of each rat was recorded at '0' h, 30 min, 60 min, and 180 min. The mean rectal temperature of group III went down from 101.82±0.20 °F to 100.4±0.57 °F over the period of (0–180) minutes, whereas the mean temperature in group IV went down from 102.45±0.60 °F to 100.14±0.57 °F. The mean rectal temperature of group V decreased from 100.62±0.11 °F to 99.55±0.51 °F, while the mean rectal temperature of group VI went down from 101.95±0.1 °F to 97.7±0.11 °F. It is concluded that the HAE of A. absinthium L. as a standalone and along with Ma al Sha'ir showed excellent antipyretic activity as compared to the standard drug in an animal model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nigeria ranks second in the global prevalence of diarrhoea with most cases concentrated in the Northern-region of the country. This research explored the antidiarrhoeal efficacy of the hydroethanolic extract of Piliostigma thonningii leaves (HEPTL), locally used to manage diarrhoeal conditions in Kebbi State, Nigeria. P. thonningii leaves were screened for their secondary metabolites and mineral constituents. Using 3 standard-diarrhoea models, female Wistar rats completely-randomised into six-groups of six animals each were utilised for probing the antidiarrhoeal activity of HEPTL. Animals in groups I and II served as the negative and positive controls, whereas the rats in groups III, IV and V respectively received 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight-(bw) of HEPTL. Six secondary metabolites and eight minerals were found in the extract, with flavonoids and calcium being the most abundant while steroids and zinc were the least prevalent, respectively. High performance liquid chromatographic analysis revealed the presence of 19 bioactive substances. Furthermore, there was a significant (p<0.05) and dose-related reduction in diarrhoea onset, water content, and wet faeces count. Similarly, the amount of intestinal fluid and average distance traversed by the charcoal-meal were decreased dose-dependently by the HEPTL with a commensurate rise in the suppression of intestinal fluid accrual and peristalsis. Acetylcholinesterase, Na+/K+-ATPase, reduced glutathione, intestinal-alkaline phosphatase and protein levels increased significantly (p<0.05) whereas superoxide-dismutase, catalase, intestinal-nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels all fell significantly (p<0.05). However, the level of intestinal glucose was not significantly altered. Overall, the HEPTL exhibited a profound effect in the alleviation of the severity of diarrhoea, notably at 200 mg/kg bw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Markhamia lutea (M. lutea, Bignoniaceae) is mainly found in tropical/neotropical regions of America, Africa and Asia. The plant's leaves, stems or roots are used to treat anaemia, bloody diarrhoea, parasitic and microbial infections. This study evaluates anti-inflammatory properties (in vitro) of Markhamia lutea and their curative effects on paclitaxel-induced intestinal toxicity (in vivo). The anti-inflammatory potential of Markhamia lutea was tested over cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enzymes (cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase). While in vivo, intestinal toxicity was induced for 10 days by oral administration of paclitaxel (3 mg/kg, 0.05 mL). Animals in each group were further treated with aqueous (300 mg/kg) and ethanolic (300 mg/kg) leaves extracts of Markhamia lutea during 7 days and clinical symptoms were recorded, hematological, biochemical and histological analysis were subsequently performed. In vitro, aqueous (250 μg/mL) and ethanolic (250 μg/mL) extracts of Markhamia lutea inhibited the activities of cyclooxygenase 1 (56.67 % and 69.38 %), cyclooxygenase 2 (50.67 % and 62.81 %) and 5-lipoxygenase (77.33 % and 86.00 %). These extracts inhibited the production of intracellular ROS, extracellular ROS and cell proliferation with maximum IC50 of 30.83 μg/mL, 38.67 μg/mL and 19.05 μg/mL respectively for the aqueous extract, then 25.46 μg/mL, 27.64 μg/mL and 7.34 μg/mL respectively for the ethanolic extract. The extracts also inhibited the production of proinflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-1β and IL-6) and stimulated the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). In vivo, after administration of paclitaxel, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Markhamia lutea significantly reduced the weight loss, the diarrheal stools and the mass/length intestines ratio of the treated animals compared to the animals of the negative control group. Biochemically, the extracts lead to a significant drop in serum creatinine and alanine aminotransferase levels, followed by a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase. In addition to bringing the haematological parameters back to normal values after disturbance by paclitaxel, the extracts caused tissue regeneration in the treated animals. In vitro, aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Markhamia lutea showed anti-inflammatory properties (inhibition of COX1, COX2, 5-LOX activities, inhibition of ROS production and cell proliferation); in vivo, the same extracts showed curative properties against intestinal toxicity caused by paclitaxel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hepatoprotective properties of scopoletin have been explored in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver injury but not in drug-induced liver injury (DILI) scenarios. Only N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) has proven efficacy in DILI treatment. Accordingly, we conducted a study to assess the hepatoprotective action of scopoletin in the anti-tubercular treatment (ATT)-DILI model in Wistar rats, if any. A total of 36 rats were evaluated, with six in each group. A 36-day ATT at 100 mg/kg dose for isoniazid, 300 mg/kg for rifampicin and 700 mg/kg for pyrazinamide were fed to induce hepatotoxicity in rats. Group I and II–VI received normal saline and ATT, respectively. Oral scopoletin (1,5 and 10 mg/kg) and NAC 150 mg/kg were administered in groups III, IV, V and VI, respectively, once daily for the last 15 days of the experiment. LFT monitoring was performed at baseline, days 21, 28, and 36. Rats were sacrificed for the histopathology examination. Aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin levels were significantly increased in group II (receiving ATT) compared to normal control on day 28 and day 36 (p<0.05). All three doses of scopoletin and NAC groups led to the resolution of AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin changes induced by ATT medications effect beginning by day 28 and persisting on day 36 (p<0.01). An insignificant effect was observed on albumin and total protein levels. The effect was confirmed with antioxidants and histopathology analysis. The study confirms the hepatoprotective efficacy of scopoletin in a more robust commonly encountered liver injury etiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we determined the gastroprotective and ulcer-healing effects of extracts (aqueous and methanolic) of Nauclea pobeguinii stem-back. Gastroprotective and healing activity were evaluated following a HCl/ethanol and an indomethacin-induced acute ulcers models; acetic acid, pylorus-ligature, pylorus ligature/histamine and pylorus ligature/acetylcholine-induced chronic ulcers models. It emerges from this study that, at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, the extracts significantly reduced the various ulceration parameters. Compared to negative control male rats, the aqueous (100 mg/kg) and methanolic (400 mg/kg) extracts of Nauclea pobeguinii inhibited the ulcers induced by HCl/ethanol by 80.76 % and 100 % respectively, as well as ulcers induced by indomethacin by 88.28 % and 93.47 % respectively. Animals that received 200 mg/kg of both extracts showed a significant reduction in the levels of monocytes, lymphocytes, nitric oxide, MDA and a significant increase in the activities of SOD and catalase. Histological analysis showed repaired mucous epithelium at all doses of both extracts. Aqueous and methanol extracts inhibited ulceration indices by 89.33 % and 88.53 % for pylorus ligature, 83.81 % and 61.07 % for pylorus ligature/acetylcholine and 87.29 % and 99.63 % for pylorus ligature/histamine respectively. Both extracts protected the stomach lining with percentages inhibition of 79.49 % and 81.73 %, respectively in the ethanol test. The extracts induced a significant increase in mucus mass (p<0.001). The aqueous and methanol extracts of Nauclea pobeguinii healed ulcers thanks to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-secretory and cytoprotective properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vernonia amygdalina (VA) is a plant that consumed as vegetable by Indonesians contained numerous secondary metabolites. VA's pharmacological action, including its antioxidant properties, anticancer, antidiabetic, and hepatoprotective. The purpose of this research is to reveal the activity of Vernonia amygdalina. leafs aqueous fraction (VALAF) as a blood pressure-lowering agent in hypertensive model. Combination of prednisone and NaCl were used as hypertensive inducer. The animals were split into five different groups, normal control group treated with distilled water, treatment VALAF groups with dose of 10; 20 and 40 mg/kg BW respectively, while the last group was treated with captopril at dose of 2.25 mg/kg BW. All animals were given an oral treatment for 15 days. On days 5, 10, and 15, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and blood flow (BF) were all measured. On days 0 and 15, NO level were assessed. All data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, and Duncan Multiple Range Test. The V. amygdalina leaf aqueous fraction has blood pressure lowering activity. The blood pressure parameter of the rats treated with VALAF were lower as compared to the normal control group (p<0.05). NO levels in the VALAF group were not significantly higher than in the normal control group (p>0.05). The VALAF 20 give the greatest percentage of decrease in blood pressure, heart rate and blood volume on the 15th day of examination. These study indicated that V. amygdalina leaf aqueous fraction has the potential to be an alternative therapy for managing blood pressure in hypertensive animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diarrhea, an abnormal state in which the individual has about three or more daily bowel movements, is now considered one of the most challenging global public health problems. Using plant products, such as Bridelia ferruginea is an alternative treatment option. The objective of this study was to investigate the antidiarrheal activity of B. ferruginea bark methanolic extract (BfME) and the mechanisms involved. BfME antidiarrheal activity was evaluated in mice model of castor oil-induced diarrhea and enteropooling. To evaluate motility, gastrointestinal transit time was carried out using phenol red meal, while intestinal activities of selected ATPases were also evaluated. Furthermore, the active components in BfME were detected by GC-MS analysis, while molecular docking of the most abundant compounds with muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3) and prostaglandin E2 receptor 3 (EP3) were conducted. BfME at 400 and 800 mg/kg showed antidiarrheal activity by delaying onset of diarrhea, reduced gastrointestinal transit and increased intestinal activities of Na+ K+-ATPase, Ca2+ Mg2+-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase. Molecular docking revealed that γ-sitosterol, α-amyrin, and stigmasterol have outstanding binding affinity for M3 and EP3. In view of these results, the observed antidiarrheal activity possibly occurs via the activation of ATPases activities and inhibition of M3 and EP3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the potential of honey-supplemented medium (HSM) for expanding corneal keratocytes and its transplantation in a model of corneal laceration. Keratocytes were cultured in 1 % HSM- or 10 % fetal bovine serum (FBS)-supplemented medium for 24 h. The effect of HSM on keratocyte proliferation was evaluated using the MTT assay. The relative expression of Lum, Kera, and ALDH3A1, known markers of native keratocytes, was quantified by real-time PCR. The safety and efficacy of HSM-treated keratocyte intrastromal injection in a rabbit model of corneal laceration were also evaluated. The MTT assay showed that HSM treatment did not significantly affect cell viability compared to FBS-supplemented medium (84.71 ± 2.38 vs. 100.08 ± 10.92, respectively; p=0.076). Moreover, HSM-treated keratocytes had significantly increased expression of Lum, Kera, and ALDH3A1 compared to cells treated with FBS, while the expression of the proliferation biomarker Thy-1 did not significantly differ between the two treatments. Intrastromal injection of HSM-treated keratocytes in the laceration animal model was safe and uneventful, resulting in less stromal inflammation and neovascularization, and consequently, better final architecture with less residual haze compared to the group injected with FBS-treated keratocytes. These findings suggest that honey is a suitable supplement for keratocyte treatment and corneal cell therapy. The use of HSM may have potential applications in the treatment of corneal injuries and diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining tamoxifen, the most common breast cancer hormonal therapy, with natural antitumor substances may prevent its hyperplastic effects on the uterine endometrium. Dacryodes edulis (DE) is traditionally recommended for the treatment of cancerous diseases. To investigate its antiproliferative properties, the present study was designed to assess the ability of the combined administration of tamoxifen with the aqueous extract of DE leaves to inhibit the trophic effect of this hormone therapy on rat uterine endometrium without compromising its non-proliferative effect on breast tissue. Ovariectomized (OVX) female Wistar rats were simultaneously treated with tamoxifen (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally and DE leaves (at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kgBW) by gavage. Control groups received either distilled water or tamoxifen alone. Treatments lasted 37 days. The 38th day, animals were sacrificed under anesthesia (diazepam: 10 mg/kgBW and ketamine: 50 mg/kgBW). The relative uterine weight was determined and the histological analysis of the uterus and mammary gland was performed. The oxidative status of the uterus was assessed and the levels of cholesterol and estradiol were evaluated in serum and uterus. Tamoxifen increased uterine weight and induced endometrial hyperplasia. This effect was associated with increased uterine levels of cholesterol (164.22%; p < 0.001), estradiol (927.5%; p < 0.001) and malondiadehyde (86%; p < 0.05), but unchanged antioxidant enzymes activities. The administration of DE leaves unchanged tamoxifen-increased uterine weight but reduced uterine epithelium hypertrophy (56.4%; p < 0.01). DE also increased uterine levels of malondiadehyde and antioxidant enzymes. The levels of estradiol and cholesterol in the uterus decreased while no changes were observed in the mammary gland of animals treated with tamoxifen alone or in co-administration with DE. D. edulis has antiproliferative properties and could complement endocrine therapy of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polyherbal formulation with hepatoprotective and choleretic properties combining pharmacological potential of eight medicinal plants was developed in Nargiz Medical center (Republic of Azerbaijan) for the use as herbal tea. To explore the effect of polyherbal composition on the metabolism of LPS-stimulated macrophages in vitro. The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis was conducted using specific color reactions and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Nitric oxide (NO) assay was determined using the Griess reaction. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was measured using ROS-sensitive fluorescence indicator, H2DCFDA, by flow cytometry. Arginase activity was examined by colorimetric method. The studied polyherbal formulation exerted anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated macrophages which was evidenced by dose-dependent decrease of ROS generation and by shift of arginine metabolism to the increase of arginase activity and decrease of NO release. Our findings suggest that the herbal tea reduces macrophage inflammatory activity, that provide an important rationale to utilize it for the attenuation of chronic inflammation typical of hepatobiliary disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artocarpus is a tropical plant known for its high concentration of secondary metabolites, especially flavonoids and phenolics. This study aims to evaluate the potential use of ethanol extracts obtained from three species of Artocarpus (Artocarpus altilis, Artocarpus champeden, and Artocarpus heterophyllus) as gastroprotective agents. The gastroprotective potential of the extracts at concentrations of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW was studied in an animal model induced by absolute ethanol. The animals were subjected to extract pre-treatment for 14 days. Subsequently, the gastroprotective potential was evaluated based on the area of the lesion, the volume of gastric fluid, gastric pH, total acidity, gastric wall mucus content, and microscopic lesions. There was a significant decrease in the lesion area and gastric fluid volume in the animals that received pre-treated extracts of A. altilis, A. Champeden, and A. heterophyllus, as well as a significant increase in the pH and gastric wall mucus secretion when compared to the ethanol group (p<0.05), rather than the omeprazole or the normal group (p>0.05). Both macroscopic and microscopic examinations revealed a significant decrease in necrotic lesions. Extracts of A. altilis, A. Champeden, and A. heterophyllus are effective in lowering the risk of peptic ulcers since they have the potential to be used as natural gastroprotective agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Sanguisorba minor has been used as herbal medicine, no study has ever examined its potential toxicity. This study investigated acute and subacute toxicities of S. minor hydroalcoholic extract (SE). In the acute toxicity test, a single oral dose (300, 2,000, and 3,000 mg/kg) of SE was given to mice. The oral administration of SE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg for 4 weeks) was performed to evaluate subacute toxicity. After the treatments, neurobehavioral, histopathology, hematological, and biochemical parameters were monitored. In vitro cytotoxicity was also assessed. Moreover, high-performance liquid chromatography fingerprint was done for the standardization of SE. The no-observed-adverse-effect level of SE was up to 2,000 mg/kg, and the LD50 of the prepared extract was over 3,000 mg/kg. The rats exposed to the extract did not show any marked change in their body weight. The extract at used doses did not affect neuromuscular coordination. According to the hematological, biochemical, and histological examinations, no significant treatment-related adverse effect of the extract was observed, even at 400 mg/kg. Only 48 h exposure to 400 μg/mL of SE reduced the viability of PC12 cells. The findings revealed that this plant could be well-tolerated, regarded safe, and used as herbal medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the antibiofilm activity and toxicity of the glycolic extract of Persea americana "P. americana" over multidrug-resistant strains of Acinetobacter baumannii "A. baumannii" as alternative therapy to be investigated. A bacterial inoculum of each bacterial strain (4a, 5a, 9a, 12a, ATCC 19606) of A. baumannii was prepared and adjusted by the spectrophotometer. The microdilution broth method was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). P. americana glycolic extracts were obtained of the tree stalk and leaves. The biofilm viability was tested by MTT assay after 5 min exposure. The toxicity of the extracts was tested by invertebrate model Galleria mellonella. The data were analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey test and log-rank method (α=0.05). The extract showed an inhibitory and bactericidal action over all the tested strains with the lowest MIC value observed for the reference strain (3.12 mg/mL). The extract did not demonstrate toxicity in any of the tested concentrations (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/mL) in Galleria mellonella larvae, with a survival percentage above 80% after 168 h. The glycolic extract of P. americana has microbicidal and antibiofilm activity on multidrug-resistant clinical strains of A. baumannii and showed low toxicity for the invertebrate model G. mellonella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To validate the concept of abadāl-i-adwiya (drug substitution) by evaluation of physicochemical standardization and hepatoprotective activity of Aristolochia rotunda & its substitute, Curcuma Zedoaria in albino Wistar rats. Physicochemical standardization by estimation of moisture content, ash values and extractive values were carried out using standard methods. Hepatotoxicity was induced in albino Wistar rats using CCl4 1 mL/kg s. c. on alternate day for 14 days. Group I was served as Plain control and Group II as Negative control. Group III was administered silymarin 50 mg/kg p. o. while Group IV received HAE of A. rotunda 89.64 mg/kg p. o., and Group V was administered HAE of C. Zedoaria 45.73 mg/kg p. o. At the end of the study, serum bilirubin, AST (SGOT), ALT (SGPT) and ALP were estimated. The histopathology of liver was also carried out. The physicochemical parameters of both test drugs viz. moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash and water soluble ash were found within normal limit. The total serum bilirubin, direct bilirubin, AST (SGOT), ALT (SGPT) levels were significantly decreased in Test groups A and B when compared to the Negative and Standard controls. The microscopic examination of liver collected from animals of Group IV and Group V revealed significant recovery from hepatic toxicity compared to the Negative control. The study experimentation has revealed that C. Zedoaria may be used as a substitute for A. rotunda in the treatment of liver diseases. However, the outcome has to be further corroborated with phytochemical evaluation and clinical trials of both the drugs. Furthermore, the concept of drug substitute in Unani system of medicine is also validated in the light of above study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug. However, its non-target organ toxicities pose a serious problem. This study is to assess the protective role of Clerodendrum volubile leaf extract (CVE) against DOX-induced toxicities in rats. In addition, the inhibitory activities of three phytochemical compounds (Rutin, Gallic acid and Rosmarinic acid) from CVE against Carbonyl reductase 1 (CBR1) were examined. Rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: (a) Control group rats were given 0.9% NaCl as vehicle, (b) DOX group: A single dose of DOX (25 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered and rats were sacrificed 4 days after DOX injection, while groups (c–e) CVE-treated DOX rat groups were given 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight of extracts orally for 12 consecutive days; 8 days before, and 4 days after the DOX administration. Computational techniques were used to determine the inhibitory activities of the compounds against CBR1. DOX intoxication caused a significant increase (p<0.05) in serum marker enzymes: ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, CK activities. The levels of liver and heart tissues antioxidant parameters: GPx, SOD, CAT, and GSH were significantly (p<0.05) decreased in DOX-intoxicated rats with concomitant elevation of malondialdehyde levels. Pretreatment with CVE reversed the above trends. From the structural analysis, Rutin and RSA exhibited the highest binding free energies against CBR1, and also exhibited structural stability when bound with CBR1. Our study indicates the protective effect of CVE when used in combination with doxorubicin thus improving its chemotherapeutic application via inhibition of CBR-mediated metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytocannabinoids beyond the Δ9-tetrahy-drocannabinol have shown anticonvulsive effects. Also, alkylamides from Echinacea purpurea have been proved as cannabinomimetics. We examined the effect of the hydroalcoholic root extract of E. purpurea on pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced tonic–clonic seizures and kindling model of epileptogenesis and the involvement of CB2 receptors as the mediator of this effect. Male Wistar rats (200 ± 20 g) were used. Single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of PTZ (80 mg/kg) was used to induce tonic–clonic seizures. The kindling model of epileptogenesis was induced by daily injections of PTZ (37 mg/kg; i.p. for 15 days). Latency and duration of the stages were monitored for analysis. The hydroalcoholic root extract of E. purpurea was injected (i.p.) 20 min before seizure induction at the doses of 10, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg. CB2 receptor antagonist SR144528 was injected (0.1 mg/kg; i.p.) 20 min before the Echinacea injection. In the tonic–clonic model, pretreatment with E. purpurea at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly increased latencies to S2–S6, while it significantly decreased S6 duration and mortality rate. SR144528 injection before the injection of 100 mg/kg of E. purpurea significantly prevented the effects of the extract on S4–S6 latencies. In the kindling model, E. purpurea at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly delayed epileptogenesis and decreased mortality rate, while SR144528 injection before the injection of 100 mg/kg of E. purpurea significantly blocked this effect of the extract. These findings revealed the anticonvulsive and antiepileptogenesis effects of the E. purpurea root extract, which can be mediated by CB2 receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights a study to compare between olive oil and almond oil to ameliorate blood parameters, liver function, blood and liver antioxidants and DNA, and liver histology in favism rats. It discusses that Almond oil restored blood parameters, liver function, blood and liver antioxidants and DNA, and liver histology more efficiently than olive oil in favism.

The article highlights a study to evaluate the effect of Ficus glumosa on phenylhydrazineinduced hemolytic anemia and hepatic damage in rats. It discusses that the leaves of F. glumosa contain important antioxidant(s) that could effectively reduce hemolytic anemia and hepatic damage, especially during phenylhydrazine-induced toxicity.

The article highlights a study which demonstrated the enhancing actions of probiotic on the antitrypanosomal effects of diminazene aceturate in dogs experimentally infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei. It discusses that : The administration of multispecies probiotic to infected dogs enhanced the antitrypanosomal effects of diminazene aceturate.

Cynometra travancorica, endemic to Western Ghats of India is pharmacologically similar to Saraca asoca and occasionally used as substitute in a well-known Ayurvedic uterine tonic Asokarishta. S. asoca possess various biological properties, but there are no reports on C. travancorica. The present study evaluated the pharmacological properties of C. travancorica and its efficacy in attenuating the sodium fluoride (NaF) induced oxidative stress in mice. Antioxidant potential of methanolic extract of C. travancorica (CTE) stem bark was evaluated using DPPH, superoxide radical scavenging and total antioxidant assays. The effect of CTE on mitigating NaF deteriorated redox status in the liver tissue of mice was evaluated. Functional groups in CTE were analyzed by FTIR analysis. CTE effectively scavenged the free radicals in in vitro condition. CTE could augment catalase (46.6%), superoxide dismutase (53.8%) activities and GSH level (48.1%) against NaF induced decline in the liver tissue of mice. The peroxidation of lipids was found to be decreased by 44.9% and tissue damage abated as inferred by histopathology. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of biologically active functional groups in CTE. The study revealed the ameliorative effect of C. travancorica against NaF induced deleterious effect in experimental animals by its potent antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening pulmonary dysfunction associated with severe inflammation. There are still no effective pharmacological therapies for the treatment of ALI. In this concern, several anti-inflammatory agents could be used as add-on therapy to inhibit inflammation. Achillea wilhelmsii (AW) C. Koch is a well-known medicinal plant in the Iranian ethnomedical practices with anti-inflammatory activity. This study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ethanolic extract of AW on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in mice. The ALI model was established via the intra-tracheal (i.t.) administration of LPS (2 mg/kg) to male BALB/c mice. The ALI mice were divided into four groups (n=8 each) which intra-peritoneally (i.p.) treated with repeated doses of saline (model), dexamethasone (2 mg/kg), and AW (150–300 mg/kg) 1, 11 and 23 h post LPS administration. Twenty-four hours after the LPS challenge, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue were evaluated for inflammatory cell influx, level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and histopathological changes. The AW (150–300 mg/kg) treated mice showed lower inflammatory cells infiltration in BALF and TNF-α level when compared to the model group. In addition, LPS induced several pathological alterations such as edema, alveolar hemorrhage and inflammatory cell infiltration into the interstitium and alveolar spaces. Treatment with AW significantly reduced LPS-induced pathological injury. Taken together, the data here indicated that AW may be considered as a promising add-on therapy for ALI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing hypertension incidence in Sub-Sahara Africa and the current cost of management of the metabolic disorder has necessitated research on medicinal plants employed in African Traditional Medicine for hypertension. Thus, this study evaluated antihypertensive effect of Annona muricata leaves or Curcuma longa rhizomes in experimentally-induced hypertensive male Wistar rats (n=70) which were unilaterally nephrectomized and daily loaded with 1% salt. Cardiovascular and haematological changes, as well as urinalysis were determined. Rats were uninephrectomized and NaCl (1%) included in drinking water for 42 days. Extract-treated hypertensive rats were compared to normotensive, untreated hypertensive and hypertensive rats treated with lisinopril (5 mg/70 kg) or hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg/70 kg). A. muricata extract or C. longa extract were administered at 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg. Blood pressure (systolic, diastolic and mean arterial) and electrocardiogram was measured on day 41. Twenty-four-hour urine samples were collected from day 42. Blood samples were collected on day 43 for haematology (PCV, red cell indices, WBC and its differentials, and platelets). A. muricata or C. longa extracts caused a decline in elevated blood pressure of hypertensive rats. Heart rate and QT segment reduction coupled with prolonged QRS duration were reversed in extract-treated rats, with significant increases in hemogram parameters indicating increased blood viscosity. Also, leukocyturia, proteinuria and ketonuria with increased urine alkalinity, urobilinogen and specific gravity which are classical indicators of poor prognostic outcomes in hypertension were reversed in extract-treated rats. In conclusion, A. muricata and C. longa have cardioprotective effect with reversal of derangements in haemogram and urinalysis associated with hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teucrium polium (TP) has been traditionally used for treatment of the diabetes mellitus, kidney and liver diseases, and inflammations but some studies have reported the hepatotoxicity effects of this plant. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of TP aqueous extract on the liver of the diabetic rats. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: (Control) Normal rats that were gavaged with normal saline (1 mL), (TP100) Normal rats (Non-diabetic) that were gavaged with TP (100 mg/kg), (DM) diabetic model rats, which became diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg), (DTP100) diabetic rats that were gavaged with TP (100 mg/kg), and (DTP200) diabetic rats that were gavaged with TP (200 mg/kg). The effects of the aqueous extract on the blood glucose, body weight, the activities of enzyme markers of liver damage (Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)) were investigated in the serum of the control and treated groups. At the end of study liver histopathology and the total antioxidant activity (TAA) test were evaluated. Finally, obtained data were analyzed by the SPSS software (version 16). Results showed that the AST and ALT levels were significantly increased in the diabetic rats (p<0.001). A comparison of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg doses of TP administration in diabetic rats also showed a significant difference (p=0.01), indicating a better performance of 100 mg/kg dose. No significant difference was found between the control group and rats treated by the TP (TP100) (p=0.382). Also, triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol levels were significantly decreased in the treated groups compared to the diabetic untreated group. Findings of the study revealed no hepatotoxicity, and the hepatoprotective effects of the TP were proved in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparative evaluation of cardioprotective activity of Gala and Fuji apple juice against isoprenaline induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Rats (125–150 g) were orally administered Gala (GA) and Fuji (FA) apple juice (3 mL/day, per oral) for 13 days. Myocardial injury was inducted on 14th and 15th day by the administration of Isoprenaline (85 mg/kg/day, subcutaneous). In treated group i.e. GA and FA, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), Troponin-I level and malondialdehyde (MDA) content was reduced while glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) level was significantly increased. Marked reduction in cholesterol, triglyceride, phospholipids, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) was observed while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level increased significantly. In tissue and serum total serum protein (TSP) level, Albumin, Globulin and A/G ratio increased very significantly in the treated group while the level of white blood corpuscles (WBC), haemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), total fibrinogen (TF), bleeding time (BT), c-reactive protein (C-rP), red blood corpuscles (RBC), clotting time (CT) and prothrombin time (PT) showed a significant rise in the level. The level of Sialic acid, hexose, fucose and hexosamine was highly significantly increased, there was an increase in the level of K+ and glycogen while a significant reduction in electrolyte and glucose level was observed when all these parameters were compared to Isoprenaline (ISO) group. The above findings were supported by histopathological examination of hearts. Cardioprotective activity was compared with standard drug, metoprolol. On comparative analysis of both juices, GA juices have found more effective when compared to FA juice. The study was concluded that Gala and Fuji apple possessed significant prophylactic and protective effects against Isoprenaline-induced cardiotoxicity in rats through maintaining inhibiting lipid peroxidation, endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities and cytokine levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early diagnosis and management of known cardiovascular disease risk attributes such as hypertension lessens morbidity and mortality as well as increase quality of life of patients. This present study was modelled to investigate the ameliorative effect of Kolaviron, an extract of Garcinia kola Heckel seeds, in ethanol- and sucrose-induced hypertension. Test animals were divided into six groups of six animals each for each hypertensive model. Animals were treated daily with distilled water (10 ml/kg); 35% ethanol (3 g/kg) or sucrose (5–7%); Kolaviron (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) separately plus ethanol or sucrose and Amlodipine (0.14 mg/kg) separately plus ethanol or sucrose for 8 weeks. Systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures were determined using non-invasive BP system after 8 weeks. Blood was obtained for the assessment of biochemical parameters, lipid profile and antioxidant indices. Vital organs were collected for approximation of tissue antioxidant levels. Results show that Kolaviron at various doses and Amlodipine significantly reduced (p<0.05–0.001) the elevated systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures produced by ethanol and sucrose administration. Additionally, Kolaviron and Amlodipine significantly overturned (p<0.05–0.001) the reduction in GSH, SOD and CAT, and elevation in MDA levels elicited by ethanol and sucrose. Furthermore, Kolaviron and Amlodipine produced significant reduction (p<0.001) in levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins, as well as significant increase (p<0.01–0.001) in levels of high-density lipoproteins. Results from this study demonstrate that Kolaviron possibly possesses significant antihypertensive effect which may possibly be attributed to its antioxidant effects and relative improvement of lipid profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Madhulai Manappagu – a well-known sastric and widely prescribed Siddha herbal syrup formulation indicated for treating Veluppu Noi (Anaemia especially Iron deficiency Anaemia) has been in day today practice in Tamil Nadu for a quite longer decades. The syrup is a herbal preparation which has a sweet pleasant odour and a palatable taste, contain the juice of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) as the main ingredient. Though the formulation is a fruit juice, the safety profile of the syrup is not established and is being marketed without toxicological evaluation. The study is aimed at ascertaining the acute and sub-acute toxicity assessment of Madhulai Manappagu in Wistar Albino rats. The acute and sub-acute (28day repeated oral) toxicity studies were performed as per the guidelines mentioned in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) 423 (adopted on December 2001) and TG 407 (adopted on October 2008) with slight modifications respectively. For acute toxicity study, three female rats were randomly selected as control; three female rats were randomly selected and were administered a single dose of 5,000 mg/kg body weight per oral route. For sub-acute (28day repeated oral) toxicity studies, three doses of test drug MM of 500 mg/kg/day (low dose), 750 mg/kg/day (intermittent dose) and 1,000 mg/kg/day (high dose) were selected for administration. Both sexes of Wistar Albino rats were randomized into four groups of 10 animals each (five males, five females). Group I was kept as control group. Group II, III and IV served as low, intermittent and high doses of MM respectively. Animals were observed for mortality, morbidity, body weight changes, feed and water intake. Haematology, clinical biochemistry, electrolytes, gross pathology, relative organ weight and histopathological examination were performed. In the acute toxicity study, rats showed no toxicological signs on behavior, gross pathology and body weight of rats when treated with a single dose of 5,000 mg/kg body weight per oral route. In the subacute (28 days repeated oral) toxicity study, rats have showed no significant changes on behavior, gross pathology, body weight, and hematological and biochemical parameters when treated with Madhulai Manappagu in three different doses. The toxicity studies which include both acute and 28 days repeated (subacute) oral toxicity studies, revealed no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of Madhulai Manappagu in animals. Thus the safety of the drug in human usage was ensured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parshioshan (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.), Duqu (Peucedanum grande C.B. Clarke), Kaknaj (Physalis alkekengi L.) and Kharekhasak (Tribulus terresteris L.) have been selected for this study as they have been associated with medicinal actions for litholytic activity. The experiment was carried out in Sprague Dawley rats divided into seven groups, serving as plain control, disease control, standard control, curative A and B and preventive A and B groups. Animals of plain control received distilled water. Remaining six groups received Ethylene glycol 0.75% and Ammonium chloride 1% by adding in the drinking water for the first three days followed by 0.75% Ethylene glycol for 18 days. From 8th day till 21st day, standard control received Cystone in the dose of 750 mg/kg. Preventive and curative test groups were treated with hydroalcoholic extract of the test drug in the dose of 132 mg/kg and 264 mg/kg from 1st to 21st day and 8th to 21st day of calculi induction. Test drug reduced the number of calcium oxalate crystals in the urine; the level of urinary calcium, creatinine, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and chloride decreased significantly in standard and test groups. The urine volume increased significantly in all the test groups. The level of serum calcium, urea, phosphorus and creatinine were significantly reduced in all the test groups. These results indicated that the test drug reduced and prevented the growth of urinary stones. Moreover, the test drug also possessed significant antiurolithiatic activity. However, the protective effect was found more than its curative effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of almond (Terminalia catappa) leaf (ALE) and stem bark (ABE) extracts on the enzyme activities and oxidative stress markers in the brain and liver tissues of cyclosporine-A (CsA) stressed male albino rats. Eighty-eight adult male rats weighing between 200 and 220 g were randomly distributed to into 11 groups (n=8) and different doses (100 and 200 mg/kg bwt.) of ALE and ABE were administered through oral gavages to the normal rats and 50 mg/kg/bwt/day CsA-stressed, while normal control rats was given a saline solution (p.o), and the treatment lasted for 14 days. Blood plasma, liver and brain tissues were prepared for biochemical analysis. Neuronal [acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butrylcholinesterase (BChE) and arginase] enzyme activities and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) level, plasma aspartate transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities, liver non-protein thiol (NPSH) level were analyzed. The results revealed that, the administration of CsA induced a significant increase in neuronal AChE, BChE, arginase, TBARS level, but decreased nitric oxide (NO) level. CsA also increased ALT, AST, and ALP activities in the blood plasma of CsA stress rats compared to normal control, but were significantly reversed respectively (p<0.001) upon treatment with the ALE and ABE dose-dependently. The study revealed that ALE and ABE could prevent neuronal dysfunction and liver toxicity induced by CsA administration, however, higher dose (200 mg/kg) of the studied extracts appears to be more potent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]