Search

Background: Aegle marmelos (Bael) is one of the important medicinal plants for curing human diseases. Nevertheless, the information about the cytotoxic and antioxidant effects of Bael leaf is not much. Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of Bael leaf in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines. Materials and Methods: Bael leaves extract was prepared by 80% (v/v) aqueous ethanol and measured for total phenolic compound and antioxidant capacity. The ability of ethanolic Bael leaf extract to inhibit hepatic cancer cells (HepG2 cell) growth was evaluated by determining the percentages of cell viability. The levels of intracellular reactive-oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation were determined. Results: Bael leaf extract demonstrated the potentiality to inhibit the cancer cell growth with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) at 50 µg/ml and 72 µg/ml after 24 h and 48 h incubated times, respectively. The total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of ethanolic extract were 218.33 ± 43.81 mg gallic acid equivalent/g of dry extract and 33.62 ± 3.07 mg Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity/g of dry extract, respectively. At the lowest concentration of Bael leaf extract, it was found that Bael leaf extract shows the antioxidant activity by the ability to lowering the level of ROS and malondialdehyde in HepG2 cell. Conclusion: Bael leaf has a high antioxidant component, which is beneficial and can be developed as new therapeutic uses. However, further studies on the benefits of Bael leaf should be performed for better realizing and effective use soon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bael [Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa], is well known in Indian traditional medical system for its multipurpose use in treatment of various diseases. Fresh ripe fruits are used in various types of shakes and sharbats but bael fruits are mainly used into its processed form like nectar or squash, jelly, candy and murabba. Bael powder is another form of product which has very high pharmaceutical value, long storability and is the pure concentrated form of fruit pulp. The aim of this study is to measure the nutraceutical values in bael powder (dry weight basis) prepared from fruit of CISH B-1 harvested at various stages of growth and development [180-335 days after fruit set (DAFS)] by using a simple HPLC technique and atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The antioxidants value (in terms of FRAP) ranges from 13.45 mmol/g at 180 DAFS (month of November) to 22.6 mmol/g at 335 DAFS (month of April). Maximum polyphenols content (5.99%) was observed at 305 and 335 DAFS (months of March and April). The antioxidants and polyphenols were enhanced significantly with the maturity of the fruits. Marmelosin and psoralen concentrations were highest at 215 DAFS and were found as 737 and 511 ìg/g, respectively. Thereafter, both compounds declined significantly in mature fruit powder. Mineral contents in powder also varied with maturity stages. From this study, it may be concluded that powder prepared from immature fruits collected at early stages of development (November-January; 180-245 DAFS), possessed significantly higher amount of potassium, iron, marmelosin, psoralen and tannic acid, whereas, mature fruit powder (harvested during March-April; 305-335 DAFS) contains sginificantly higher content of zinc, copper, polyphenols and antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recipes for Thai traditional herbal teas have been formulated based on Thai traditional medicine, which tries to achieve a balance of the body's elements (fire, water, wind and earth) in each season. This study aims to assess the benefits of Thai traditional herbal teas through evaluating their antioxidant properties and measuring the satisfaction levels of healthy volunteers. Antioxidant activity tests performed on 11 tea recipes and on green tea (positive control) included 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), a radical scavenging assay and a 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay. In addition, total phenolic contents were determined using a Folin-Ciocalteu assay. Tests of satisfaction were performed on volunteer subjects aged between 18 and 30 years old, using the criteria of color, flavor, taste and overall satisfaction. Among the 11 tea recipes tested, the summer recipe 1 containing Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni, Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. and Morus alba L. demonstrated the most promising antioxidant properties (p > 0.05) and a phenolic content (p > 0.05), which was comparable to green tea. Furthermore, it got the highest satisfaction scores in every assessed category. Therefore, this study shows that Thai traditional herbal teas, developed based on the concepts of Thai traditional medicine, could be a good choice for people looking for health-promoting beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aegle marmelos is a plant belonging to the genus Aegle and family Rutaceae. It is locally known as "Bael" and widely present in the sub-Himalayan region. This study identified the phytochemicals and antioxidant properties in different extracts derived from dried leaves of A. marmelos-a value addition to waste bael-patra. The phytochemical screening of A. marmelos dried leaves revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids, and tannins. The antioxidant activity of the examined extracts varies depending on the solvent used. The antioxidants evaluated by using DPPH and CV methods showed the same hierarchy: water>acetone>ethanol with maximum 79 % inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Volatile components and biological activities of essential oil from Aegle marmelos (Bael) leaves were studied. • Antioxidant, antibacterial and enzyme inhibitory effects were tested for biological activities. • Limonene was detected as major compound in the essential oil. • Computational studies were done to understand interactions between volatile compounds and tyrosinase and α-glucosidase. • A. marmelos could be regarded as a potential source of biologically-active compounds for industrial applications. Abstract The increasing therapeutic use of plant essential oil (EO) in aromatherapy has urged scientists to investigate into its biological potency. We report the phytochemical composition of the EO of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corrêa using GC–MS analysis, together with its pharmacological properties (antibacterial, antioxidant, and enzyme inhibitory properties). Molecular docking of the major identified compounds against tyrosinase and α-glucosidase was also performed. The EO displayed the highest total antioxidant potential in the phosphomolybdenum assay (24.70 mmol TE/g sample), but showed mild scavenging (DPPH = 0.03 mmol TE/g sample), and reducing effect (CUPRAC = 0.54 mmol TE/g sample, FRAP = 0.21 mmol TE/g sample). Moreover, the EO of A. marmelos showed the greatest inhibitory property against tyrosinase 53.68 (mg KAE/g sample) and good inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase (39.08 mmol ACAE/g sample) compared with α-amylase (0.19 mmol ACAE/g sample). In addition, the EO exhibited moderate AChE inhibition (2.75 mg GALAE/g sample) and BChE inhibition (4.93 mg GALAE/g sample). Disc diffusion assay revealed that S. aureus (Zone of inhibition (ZOI) = 21.4 mm) was most susceptible to the EO followed by C. diphtheriae (ZOI = 17.2 mm) while the lowest MIC value was observed against B. cereus and C. diphtheriae (MIC = 125 μg/ml). The EO of A. marmelos was abundant in limonene (74.9%) followed by β-phellandrene (4.4%), p -cymene (4.2%), and β-caryophyllene (2.0%). Humulene and cryptone exhibited higher docking score after docking to tyrosinase while the best docking scores observed against α-glucosidase was found for humulene and carveol. The EO of A. marmelos showed promising inhibitory activities against vital enzymes related to diabetes, neurological, and skin disorders, and mild antioxidant ability, thus highlighting the quenching abilities of surplus reactive oxygen species related to these disorders. It is predicted that the results obtained will stimulate further research to probe into the therapeutic properties of A. marmelos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of leaves of Aegle marmelos and Murraya koenigii in dairy cows with endometritis. Sixteen cows with a history of repeat breeding were enrolled in the study. Endometritis was initially diagnosed on the basis of mucopurulent/cloudy cervico-vaginal discharge or presence of pus flakes in uterine lavage. The diagnosis was confirmed by endometrial cytology using >5% polymorphonuclear (PMN) as the cut-off point. Twelve of the 16 enrolled cows were diagnosed with endometritis and allocated to treatment ( n  = 6) and control ( n  = 6) groups. Cows in the treatment group were supplemented with 200 gm of Aegle marmelos and Murraya koenigii leaf powder daily for 9 days through oral route. The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects were assessed by evaluating the changes in bacterial load, PMN cell count and oxidative parameters [malondialdehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid (ASCA), reduced glutathione (R-GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)], respectively. Results indicated significant reduction in the bacterial load and PMN cell count in the herb supplemented cows. The MDA concentration decreased drastically, whereas ASCA and R-GSH concentrations and TAC increased significantly in herb supplemented cows as compared to control. Although the SOD activity was not significantly different between the groups, there was a tendency of higher activity in herb supplemented cows. In conclusion, Aegle marmelos and Murraya koenigii reduce bacterial load and inflammation in endometritic dairy cows with a concurrent increase in the endogenous antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant activities of leaves of Aegle marmelos and to identify the bioactive compounds by performing GC-MS analysis resulting in the presence of volatile and semi volatile compounds. The IC50 of DPPH? radical scavenging assay was 78.36µg/mL concentration respectively. Also, the IC50 of Phosphomolybdenum reduction and ferric reducing power assay were 41.35 and 20.58µg/mL concentration respectively. Also, total phenolic and flavonoid content were determined, in which flavonoids were found to be predominantly higher. The results of this study portray the effective antioxidant activity of Aegle marmelos and further studies are required to isolate the active compounds from various parts of this species and their mode of action. From the study it can be concluded that the plant might be promising as a curative for many diseases associated with free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the volatile components of the leaves of Aegle marmelos, Psidium guajava, and seeds of Nigella sativa, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) and correlate with their in vitro antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: Plant material was analyzed for heavy metal content (HMC), pesticide residue (PR), and the presence of microbes/fungi. Following hydrodistillation, the volatile components (AM, PG, and NS) were subjected to GC-MS analysis and in vitro antioxidant assay (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl). Results: The plant material passed the test for HMC, PR, microbial, and fungal contamination. Using GC-MS, the number of compounds identified in AM, PG, and NS were 62, 46, and 58, respectively. The antioxidant activity of AM, PG, and NS was 98.538%, 98.955%, and 97.755%, respectively. Conclusion: GC-MS-based methods can be successfully utilized for phytochemical profiling and standardization of plant material. Abbreviations Used: AM: Volatile oil of Aegle marmelos Correa.; GC-MS: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; HMC: Heavy metal content; NS: Volatile oil of Nigella sativa Linn.; PG: Volatile oil of Psidium guajava Linn.; PR: Pesticide residue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa (AM) leaf has been used as a remedy for lowering blood sugar level in traditional system of medicine in India due to the presence of various constituents such as flavonoids, tannins and alkaloids like Aegelin, Marmelosin and Luvangetin. Aim: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the total antioxidant activity of the wild variety of AM leaves from forest of Gir Somnath, Gujarat, India and cultivated variety from Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Vejalpur, Panchmahals, Gujarat to assess the role of this plant in ethanomedicine in India. Methods: The methanolic extracts of the leaves were screened for total antioxidant capacity through Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Potential (FRAP) and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay; Total Phenol content (TPC) through spectrophotometric technique based on Folin Ciocalteau assay and for qualitative estimation of phenols, High performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used. Results: TPC of wild and cultivated variety was 7.6% and 6.5% respectively. FRAP values and IC50 value (DPPH) for wild and cultivated variety were found to be 14.65 µmol/l and 11.80µmol/l; 437 µg/ml and 620µg/ml respectively. Wild variety was found to be superior to the cultivated one. Conclusion: This study proved that the leaves of AM leaves have high antioxidant component. AM could be used as a potential preventive intervention for free radical mediated diseases such as diabetes and as neutraceutical in medicinal formulation. Further intervention trials are needed to prove the therapeutic potential of these leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aegle marmeloes L. (L.), belonging to Rutaceae family, is a widely used medicinal plant. This plant is known to possess hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, radio protective, anti-oxidative and anticancer activities. The present study is aimed to find out the important phytochemicals present in Aegle marmeloes L. (L.) leaves using FTIR and GC-MS. Most structurally similar compound as per FTIR was L (-)-glyceraldehyde unnatural form. Phytol was detected as a major ingredient in GC-MS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The antioxidant potential of medicinal plants has been illustrated through many reports clearly depicting that plants are a rich source of antioxidants, making them a great resource of novel drugs and health-care products. Objectives: The current study is, therefore, focused toward the assessment of antioxidant properties along with the presence of phytochemicals in leaves of 18 varieties/accessions of Aegle marmelos. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activities were initially measured using superoxide radical scavenging method, 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and ferric-reducing ability of plasma assays. Further, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance TLC, and column chromatography were performed to isolate the potentially active fraction and anti-inflammatory activity of crude, and the isolated fraction was tested on J774 macrophage cell line. Results: The maximum inhibition of superoxide anions was shown by Pant Aparna. Additionally, Pant Aparna extract was most efficient, exhibiting 92.0% inhibition in scavenging the DPPH radicals. The content of total carotenoids was found to be higher in Pant Aparna among all the varieties/accessions. Furthermore, the crude extract and the fraction A. marmelos methanolic fraction 21 (AMMF21) were found to be nontoxic and significant reactive oxygen species, and NO inhibition was observed in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the methanolic extract of variety Pant Aparna showed promising in vitro antioxidant activity, indicating its potency for therapeutic applications. Conclusion: In brief, this is the first ever report on Pant Aparna as the best variety in terms of phytocompounds and identification of potential antioxidant activity. In addition, the AMMF21 fraction of methanolic extract possessing best antioxidant activity on macrophage cells indicates its use as a novel phytotherapeutic agent. Abbreviations used: AMMF21: Aegle marmelos methanolic fraction 21, DPPH: (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), FRAP: Ferric-reducing ability of plasma, HP-TLC: High-performance-thin-layer chromatography, TLC: Thin-layer chromatography, TCA: Trichloroacetic acid, TPTZ: 2,4,6-Tripyridyl-s-triazine, DNPH: 2,4-dinitrophenyl hydrazine, NBT: Nitroblue tetrazolium, NADH: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, PMS: Phenazine metho-sulfate, DMEM: Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium; MTT: (3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide, DCFDA: 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate, LPS: Lipopolysaccharide, NED: N-(1-Naphthyl) ethylenediamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complication of arabinogalactan protein (AGP) structure, a significant ingredient of gum polysaccharides, not merely hinders the allocation of its role, but restricts its utilization as well. Here, we describe structural details of an AGP purified from Aegle marmelos fruit gum. This AGP (310 × 10 3 g/mol), which is water-soluble, contains β-1,3-linked galactopyranosyl main chain substituted at O- 6 position with side chains containing galactose and arabinose residues. Also data on sugar composition, ring size, glycosidic linkage pattern, anomeric configuration and sequence of monosaccharide units of a number of oligosaccharides produced from this AGP by chemical and enzymatic methods were acquired. Biochemical analysis reveals resemblance in antioxidative potential between this arabinogalactan protein and standard antioxidants. Moreover, mixture of AGP and β-lactoglobulin form stable water soluble complex having binding constant K = 2.38 × 10 6 /M. As gum polysaccharides are important raw materials of food industry discovering an antioxidative gum with the ability of creating stable water soluble complex with β -lactoglobulin may have important implication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was carried out to assess the effect of various dehydration techniques such as sun drying, solar drying, drying after freezing (Freeze for one hour followed by drying using lab scale air oven), vacuum drying and drying using lab scale air oven on physiochemical and retention of antioxidant in different fruit powder prepared from Bael (Aegle marmelos), Sour Sop (Annona muricata) and Palmyra (Borassus flabellifer). Moisture content, Total Ash, Crude fiber %, Fat %, Crude protein %, ascorbic acid and β-Carotene were tested. All fruit powders prepared by using sun drying showed minimum moisture content and the highest level of moisture content was recorded by the samples dehydrated using vacuum drying. Among different drying treatments the highest fat percentage recorded by the solar dried sample and there is no any significant difference (α= 0.05) between sun drying and vacuumed drying. Higher concentration of β-Carotene was recorded in vacuum dried samples both in bael and Palmyra fruit powders and it significantly different (α= 0.05) from other treatments tested. Maximum retention of ascorbic acid content (26.59 Mcg/100g) was recorded by the soursop powder prepared by vacuum drying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant potential of bael (Aegle marmelos L.) pulp residue (BPR) and its influence at two different levels (i.e., 0.25 and 0.5%) as an antioxidant dietary fiber on the quality of goat meat nuggets. The antioxidant potential (total phenolics, radical-scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power) and dietary fiber content of BPR were evaluated. The results showed that BPR contained good amount of total phenolics (15.16 mg GAE/g dry weight) and dietary fiber (56.91%). The addition of BPR significantly improved the emulsion stability, cooking yield, ash, total phenolics and dietary fiber of the meat products. BPR decreased (P < 0.05) the hardness, gumminess and chewiness and improved (P < 0.05) the products' lightness and redness values. Sensory evaluation of the products revealed significant improvement in the appearance score and nonsignificant (P > 0.05) increase in the score of other attributes. BPR decreased lipid peroxidation and microbial counts in meat products during 21 days of storage period. The results demonstrated that BPR, which is rich in bioactive components such as phenolic compounds and dietary fiber, could be used as an antioxidant dietary fiber in muscle food products without affecting its quality and acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing emergence of lead drugs for the resistance produced by the pathogenic strains and arrival of new diseases have initiated the need for searching novel metabolites with best anticancer and antimicrobial properties than the existing one. With this view, the investigation was conducted for the isolation, identification, and biological evaluation of potential endophytic fungi of Aegle marmelos, a medicinal tree used for more than three decades, for curing various disorders. A total of 169 endophytic fungal strains obtained from sampling and among those 67 were pigmented strains. Upon antagonistic screening, five endophytic fungal strains exhibited antagonistic potentiality by inhibiting the pathogens. These five potent strains were characterized at molecular level by sequencing the amplified internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 and ITS 4 regions of rDNA and they were grouped under order Pleosporales, Eurotiales, and Capnodiales. The metabolites from the respective strains were produced in fungal culturing media and extracted using polar solvents. Further, the extracts of five endophytes manifested antimicrobial activity against tested clinical pathogens and Alternaria alternata (FC39BY), Al. citrimacularis (FC8ABr), and Curvularia australiensis (FC2AP) exhibited significant antimicrobial profile against 9 of 12 tested pathogens, showing broad spectrum activity. The antioxidant levels of all the five endophytes revealed the highest activity at least concentrations, and major activity was unveiled by the members of order Pleosporales FC2AP and FC8ABr. This research explains the value of endophytic fungal extracts and its significance of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to establish conditions that allow optimal yield and antioxidant activity for GoldenApple Snail (GAS) (Pomacea canaliculata) protein hydrolysate by employing response surface methodology (RSM). A three level, face-centered, central composite design (CCD) was adapted to assess the effects of temperature (45-65°C); pH (8-10); the ratio of enzyme to substrate (2-4%); and hydrolysis time (60-180 min). The antioxidative activity of the hydrolysate obtained under optimized conditions was then evaluated via the following metrics: hydroxyl radical scavenging, reducing power, and chelating effects on ferrous ion. Established optimal conditions for the enzymatic protein hydrolysis of GAS were a temperature of 45°C, a pH of 10, an enzyme concentration of 2%, and hydrolysis time of 159 minutes. The optimized GAS protein hydrolysate produced an experimental yield of 9.72% and antioxidant activity of 73.54%--slightly less than the predicted yield of 11.36% and antioxidant activity of 78.88%. The optimized GAS protein hydrolysate formed demonstrated both higher chelating effects and hydroxyl scavenging activity but had lower reducing power. These results suggest that GAS protein hydrolysate holds potential as a natural antioxidant for use in food processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Wine, from β-carotene rich tropical bael (Aegle marmelos L.) fruits, widely known for their immense medicinal properties (anti-diarrheic, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory) was prepared by fermenting with the wine yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as starter culture. Biochemical and sensory analyses were conducted to study the proximate and sensory attributes of the wine. The wine had the following proximate composition: Total soluble solids, 2.9ø Brix; total sugar of 2.03g/100ml; titratable acidity, 0.15g tartaric acid/100ml; pH, 4.1; total phenolics, 0.93g/100ml; β-carotene, 33æg/100ml; ascorbic acid, 80mg/100ml; lactic acid, 0.64mg/100ml and ethanol content of 7.87% (v/v). The bael wine had a DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity of 48% at a dose of 250æg/ml. Principal Component Analysis reduced the 10 original analytical and proximate variables (TSS, total sugar, TA, pH, phenol, β-carotene, ascorbic acid, lactic acid, ethanol and DPPH scavenging activity) into three independent components which accounted for 80.78% variation. Sensory evaluation was carried out by 16 selected panelists on various attributes such as taste, aroma, flavor, color/appearance and after taste. The results showed that the bael wine was very much liked by the panelists and there was no significant difference between the two sets (p<0.05) in most sensory parameters. Wine prepared from bael fruit pulp is a novel beverage rich in anti-oxidants with an alcoholic concentration of 7.87% (v/v). There is a good prospect for commercialization of this wine as a medicinal wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aegle marmelos (AM) fruit has been advocated in indigenous system of medicine for the treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders, fever, asthma, inflammations, febrile delirium, acute bronchitis, snakebite, epilepsy, leprosy, myalgia, smallpox, leucoderma, mental illnesses, sores, swelling, thirst, thyroid disorders, tumours and upper respiratory tract infections. Objective: The objective of this study was to study the curative effect of 50% ethanol extract of dried fruit pulp of AM (AME) against 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced experimental colitis. Materials and Methods: AME (200 mg/kg) was administered orally, once daily for 14 days after TNBS-induced colitis. Rats were given intracolonic normal saline or TNBS alone or TNBS plus oral AME. AME was studied for its in vitro antibacterial activity against Gram-negative intestinal bacteria and on TNBS-induced changes in colonic damage, weight and adhesions (macroscopic and microscopic), diarrhea, body weight and colonic levels of free radicals (nitric oxide and lipid peroxidation), antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione) and pro-inflammatory marker (myeloperoxidase [MPO]) in rats. Results: AME showed antibacterial activity against intestinal pathogens and decreased colonic mucosal damage and inflammation, diarrhea, colonic free radicals and MPO and enhanced body weight and colonic antioxidants level affected by TNBS. The effects of AME on the above parameters were comparable with sulfasalazine, a known colitis protective drug (100 mg/kg, oral). Conclusion: AME shows curative effects against TNBS-induced colitis by its antibacterial activity and promoting colonic antioxidants and reducing free radicals and MPO-induced colonic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruit pulp essential oil of wood apple (Feronia limonia) was studied for its chemical constituents, in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Totally, 50 constituents were identified by GC and GC–MS analyses and thymol (52.22%) was identified as the major chemical compound. The antioxidant activity showed that the essential oil had good scavenging potential viz. DPPH radical (IC50 = 41.35 μg/ml), H2O2 (IC50 = 45.49 μg/ml), O2−(IC50 = 30.86 μg/ml), OH (IC50 = 25.05 μg/ml) and ABTS+ (IC50 = 30.28 μg/ml). The antimicrobial activity showed that Staphylococcus aureus (26.2 ± 1.32 mm; MIC = 31.25 μg/mL) and Bacillus cereus (24.6 ± 1.15 mm; MIC = 62.5 μg/mL) were the most sensitive organisms and also moderate activity was recorded against all the fungal strains tested. The present study suggests that the wood apple essential oil can be considered as a new and potential source of natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study was designed to carry out comparative and combined studies to screen anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant and hypolipidemic studies of Ficus racemosa Linn. (Gular) fruit extract (FRE) and Aegle marmelos (Bael) root extract (AME) in various experimental models of ulcer. Diabetes was induced by Streptozotocin (STZ) 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally. Serum glucose levels were estimated using GOD-POD method. Total lipids, total cholesterol were estimated using kits. Other biochemical parameters like thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were estimated in liver and kidney homogenates spectrophotmetrically. FRE fruit extract has shown more degree of anti-hyperglycemic activity and anti-oxidant activity than AME root extract does. But, both have produced similar degree of hypolipidemic activity. Moreover, among the combinations A1, A2 & A3, combination A3 has shown more degree of efficacy at lower dose combinations than the individual biological effects of these two plant extracts. FRE fruit extract and AME root extract exhibits potent anti-hyperglycemic, anti-oxidative and anti-hyperlipidemic activity in STZ diabetic rats. There appears to be more beneficial outcome when these plant extracts are combined. These results support herbal combinations in the treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hepatoprotective activity of the aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos investigated against Rifampicin induced liver damage in rats. At the dose of 500mg/kg, Rifampicin induced liver damage in rat as manifested by statistically significant increase in serum Alanine Amino Transferase (ALT), Aspartate amino Transferase (AST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP). Pretreatment of rats with the aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos prior to Rifampicin dosing at 250mg/kg statistically lowered serum liver enzymes activities. Silymarin was given as reference standard. The present finding suggest that the hepatoprotective effect of Aegle marmelos in Rifampicin induced oxidative damage may be related to its antioxidant and free radicals scavenging activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In continuation of our drug discovery program on metabolic diseases, we identified an alkaloidal amide, that is, Aegeline (V) from the plant Aegle marmelos leaves as a dual acting agent (antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic). We therefore synthesized a series of alkaloidal amides [N-(2-hydroxy-2-p-tolylethyl)-amides and N-(2-oxo-2-p-tolylethyl)-amide derivatives] related to Aegeline and screened for their in vivo antihyperlipidemic activity in Triton induced hyperlipidemia model. The synthetic compounds 4, 17 and 20 showed equipotent activity to the natural product, that is, Aegeline (V). These compounds also showed strong antioxidant activity, which support their antihyperlipidemic activity. Compound 12 showed better antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant profile than the natural product V. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: The pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is complex, and the therapeutic options available to treat DCM are limited. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa (Rutaceae) leaf extract on early stage DCM in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats (150-200 g) by injecting alloxan (150 mg kg−1; i.p.). Ethanol extract of A. marmelos leaves was administered at varying doses (100, 200, and 400 mg kg−1) and tolbutamide (100 mg kg−1) as standard. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) were determined by standard methods. Results: A. marmelos extract (AME) was found to decrease the levels of FBG, total cholesterol, TBARS, LDH and CK, and increase the levels of GSH, CAT and SOD dose dependently as compared to diabetic control groups. The maximum dose-dependent decrease in TBARS (63.46%), LDH (34.04%), CK (53.14%), and increase in GSH (64.91%), CAT (59.34%), SOD (69.65%) was evident at an optimum dose of 200 mg kg−1. Histopathological studies revealed salvage in the morphological derangements as indicated by absence of necrosis and marked decrease in inflammatory cells in AME-treated groups as compared to diabetic control. Conclusions: The present investigations conclude that treatment with AME attenuates the severity and improves the myocardium in the early stages of alloxan-induced DCM at a dose of 200 mg kg−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the inhibitory effects of Aegle marmelos methanolic extract on diethylnitrosamine (DEN) initiated and 2-acetyl aminofluorene (2-AAF) promoted liver carcinogenesis in male Wistar rats. Interestingly, it was found that A. marmelos (25 and 50 mg/kg body weight) resulted in a marked reduction of the incidence of liver tumors, which was further confirmed with histopathology. Furthermore to understand the underlying mechanisms of chemoprevention potential of A. marmelos, we evaluated the levels of hepatic antioxidant defence enzymes, ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity and hepatic DNA synthesis as a marker for tumor promotion since a direct correlation between these marker parameters and carcinogenicity have been well documented. Treatment of male Wistar rats for five consecutive days with 2-AAF induced significant hepatic toxicity, oxidative stress and hyper-proliferation. Pretreatment of A. marmelos extract (25 and 50 mg/kg body weight) prevented oxidative stress and toxicity by restoring the levels of antioxidant enzymes at both the doses. The promotion parameters (ODC activity and DNA synthesis) induced by 2-AAF administration in diet with partial hepatectomy (PH) were also significantly suppressed dose-dependently by A. marmelos. Therefore, we can conclude that ultimately the protection against liver carcinogenesis by A. marmelos methanolic extract might be mediated by multiple actions, which include restoration of cellular antioxidant enzymes, detoxifying enzymes, ODC activity and DNA synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s) Diabetes mellitus is associated with disturbances of learning and memory and cognitive functioning. Aegle marmelos Corr. from Rutaceae family is widely used in Iranian folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Considering the beneficial antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of A. marmelos, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of oral administration of A. marmelos on learning and spatial memory in diabetic rats using Morris water maze test. Materials and Methods Considering the beneficial antidiabetic potential of A. marmelos, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of chronic oral administration of A. marmelos as cognitive enhancer, on learning and spatial memory in diabetic rats using Morris water maze test. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into normal-control, diabetic-control, and A. marmelos-treated diabetic groups (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.). Animals were treated for 4 weeks by A. marmelos or normal saline. Diabetes was induced by a single dose i.p. injection of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg). In each group of animals, spatial learning and memory parameters were analyzed. Results Clear impairment of spatial learning and memory was observed in diabetic group versus normal-control group. A. marmelos showed dose dependent improvement in spatial learning and memory parameters that swimming time (Escape Latency) in normal-control and A. marmelos-treated diabetic animals rats was significantly (P< 0.01) lower than diabetic-control, while swimming speed was significantly (P< 0.05) higher. Conclusion The study demonstrated that A. marmelos has significant protective affect against diabetes-induced spatial learning and memory deficits. This effect could be attributed to hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activity of A. marmelos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is produced under diabetic conditions and is likely involved in the progression of pancreatic damage found in diabetes. This study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of Aegle marmelos leaf extract, a medicinal plant, on the tissue antioxidant defense system and lipid peroxidative status in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Ethanol extract of A. marmelos was administered orally for 30 days (150 mg/kg body weight/day) to diabetic rats. Activity of the three primary scavenger enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase), levels of glutathione, and lipid peroxidation were estimated in plasma and pancreas of diabetic rats and compared to the reference drug, glibenclamide (600 µg/kg body weight/day). A significant increase in the levels of plasma glucose, vitamin E, ceruloplasmin, lipid peroxides, and a concomitant decrease in the levels of vitamin C and reduced glutathione were observed in diabetic rats. The activities of antioxidant enzymes were altered in diabetic rats. These alterations were reverted back to near normal levels after treatment with A. marmelos and glibenclamide. Histopathological studies also revealed the protective effect of A. marmelos on pancreatic β-cells. The present study indicates that extract of A. marmelos modulates the activity of enzymic and nonenzymic antioxidants and enhances the defense against reactive oxygen species–generated damage in diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For many years, Aegle marmelos (A. marmelos) has been used medicinally and as a dietary supplement. Despite this, there are minimal research data on A. marmelos phytochemical properties and pharmacological effects. This study aimed to explore the phytoconstituents, cytotoxicity, glucose uptake, and antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of an alcoholic extract of A. marmelos leaf. The cytotoxicity of A. marmelos in HepG2 cells was tested in vitro, and the results revealed that it has strong cytocompatibility and cytoprotective properties. The extract's antioxidant activities were investigated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. Antioxidant potential was shown to be quite impressive. The enzymes α-amylase and α-glycosidase were found to be substantially inhibited by A. marmelos, with IC50 values of 46.21 and 42.07 mg/mL, respectively. In HepG2 cells, A. marmelos significantly reduced ROS levels that were elevated due to high glucose and enhanced glucose consumption (p < 0.05). These activities might be due to the enrichment of bioactive phytoconstituents analyzed chromatographically using GC/MS and HPLC. The findings of this study show that A. marmelos could be an effective restorative therapy for diabetes and related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Indian systems of medicine, there are many highly valued medicinal plants. Aegle marmelos Correa (Rutaceae), commonly known as "bael," is one of them. Its fruit exhibited antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant properties. This study was designed to evaluate in vitro antioxidant activity of umbelliferone and psoralen in a methanol extract of A. marmelos fruit pulp. A simple high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method has been developed for the simultaneous quantification of umbelliferone and psoralen. The method was validated for precision, repeatability, and accuracy in accordance with International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines. Inhibition of oxygen-derived free radicals (ODFR), viz., free radical scavenging, reducing power, superoxide anion scavenging assay, nitric oxide scavenging assay, and anti-lipid peroxidation, were carried out. All the antioxidant activities were compared with standard antioxidants such as BHA and α-tocopherol acetate. The extract was found to be a good scavenger of DPPH radical, nitric oxide, and superoxide anion with IC50 values of 1.015 ± 3.8, 1.381 ± 5, and 1.102 ± 4.1 mg/mL, respectively. The reducing power was calculated in terms of absorbance, which represented transfer of ferric ions to ferrous. Anti-lipid peroxidation was done with liver and brain homogenates, with IC50 values of 1.441 ± 5.2 and 1.628 ± 4.3 mg/mL, respectively. The results obtained from the current study suggest that A. marmelos fruit is a potential source of natural antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency of micronucleated polychromatic (MPCE), normochromatic erythrocytes (MNCE), and polychromatic/normochromatic erythrocyte ratio (PCE/NCE), was studied in the bone marrow of mice orally administered with 0, 200, 225, 250, 275 and 300 mg/kg body weight of hydroalcoholic leaf extract of Aegle marmelos (AME). Treatment of mice with AME, once daily for 5 consecutive days, before exposure to 2 Gy resulted in a significant decline in the frequency of MPCE when compared to the non-drug-treated irradiated control. The greatest reduction in MPCE was observed for 250 mg/kg body weight AME, accompanied by the highest polychromatic erythrocyte to normochromatic erythrocyte ratio, in comparison with the non-drug-treated irradiated control. Therefore, further studies were carried out using this dose of AME, where the animals were administered with 250 mg/kg body weight of AME before exposure to 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 4 Gy of γ-radiation and evaluated at 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours post-irradiation. Whole body irradiation of mice to different doses of g-radiation resulted in a dosedependent increase in the frequency of MPCE at all postirradiation times. Treatment of 250 mg/kg AME orally (p.o.) before irradiation significantly reduced the frequency of MPCE at all post-treatment times. The frequency of MPCE increased with time, reached a peak level at 24 hours, and declined thereafter. The occurrence of MNCE has also shown a pattern similar to MPCE, except that the MNCE frequency reached a peak level by 48 hours. The AME significantly reduced the frequency of MNCE at all post-irradiation times, when compared to the non-drug-treated irradiated group. Treatment of mice with AME before exposure to different doses of g-radiation resulted in the inhibition of a radiation-induced decline in the PCE/NCE ratio, when compared with the concurrent irradiated controls. To gain insight into the mechanism of action, AME was tested for its antioxidant effects in cell-free chemical systems using H2O2/FeSO4 to generate hydroxyl (•OH) radicals, which were measured by a fluorescent probe, 2V, 7V-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH/DA). Xanthine/xanthine oxidase was used to generate superoxide (O2•-) anion radical, which was measured by a fluorescent probe dihydroethidium (DHE). AME significantly reduced fluorescence in a concentration dependent manner, indicating its efficacy to scavenge free radicals. Our results demonstrate that one of the mechanism of reduction in the radiation-induced DNA damage in mice bone marrow by AME may be due to scavenging of free radicals and elevation in the antioxidant status, as previously reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aegle marmelos Correa. (Bael) fruit exhibit antidiabetic, antihyperlipidaemic and antioxidant properties. This study was designed to elucidate the protective effect of an aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos fruits on the histopathology of the pancreas in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of Aegle marmelos fruit extract at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg twice daily to diabetic rats for a period of 30 days resulted in a significant increase in body weight, weight of the pancreas and insulin levels associated with a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose levels. The fruit extract treated groups showed improved functional state of the pancreatic p-cells and partially reversed the damage caused by streptozotocin to the pancreatic islets. The findings of our study indicate that Aegle marmelos fruit extract exhibits protective effects on the pancreas. The effects observed in the fruit extract treated animals were better those in animals treated with glibenclamide (300 µg/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos Correa. fruits (AMFEt) was studied in normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats and anti-lipid peroxidative activity was studied in hepatic and renal tissues in diabetic rats. Oral administration of AMFEt for 30 days (twice a day) prevented significantly the STZ-induced hyperglycaemia and hypoinsulinemia. The extract also produced a significant decrease in peroxidation products, viz., thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroperoxides in diabetic rats. The activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase was found to be increased in the hepatic and renal tissues of diabetic animals treated with AMFEt. AMFEt, at a dose of 250 mg/kg, was more effective than glibenclamide and reversed all the values to near normal status. Thus, AMFEt exhibits antidiabetic and anti-oxidative activity in STZ-diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the ethanol extract of the unriped fruits of Aegle marmelos Correa was assessed on experimentally induced diarrhoea and gastric ulceration in rats. The extract (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) exhibited a dose-dependent decrease in the intestinal propulsion from 61.79–39.32% which is equivalent to 38.21–60.68% intestinal propulsion inhibition (control 58.3 ± 3.4 inhibition, P < 0.5 to P ± 0.001) and caused a dose-dependent decrease in the total number of faecal matter in castor oil-induced diarrhoea (control 70, reduced to 51 and 42 at 100 and 200 mg/kg extract, p.o.). Further, yohimbine, a α2 adrenoreceptor blocker, attenuated the antidiarrhoeal effect of the extract in a dose of 200 mg/kg to 17.14%, and diphenoxylate by 74.28%. The extract also reduced the ulcer index induced by ethanol (control 18.7 ± 4.4, 34.22-72.73% protection), aspirin (control 22.6 ± 3.4, 36.73-81.42% protection) and cold restraint stress (control 23.8 ± 3.2, 56.72% and 81.51% protection). Further study on tissue lipid peroxidation was significantly increased (P < 0.001) as evidenced by accumulation of malondialdehyde in cold restraint stress ulcers. Administration of A. marmelos (100 and 200 mg/kg), cimetidine 50 mg/kg and reduced glutathione (150 mg/kg) prior to cold restraint stress causes significant decrease in ulcer index and lipid peroxidation (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). The result showed that A. marmelos had significant antidiarrhoeal and ulcer protective activity by scavenging the reactive oxygen species on the cold restraint stress-induced gastric damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]