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Cancer persists as one of the leading causes of deaths worldwide, contributing to approximately 9.6 million deaths per annum in recent years. Despite the numerous advancements in cancer treatment, there is still abundant scope to mitigate recurrence, adverse side effects and toxicities caused by existing pharmaceutical drugs. To achieve this, many phytochemicals from plants and natural products have been tested against cancer cell lines in vivo and in vitro. Likewise, casticin, a flavonoid extracted from the Vitex species, has been isolated from the leaves and seeds of V. trifolia and V. agnus-castus . Casticin possesses a wide range of therapeutic properties, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, antiasthmatic and antineoplastic activities. Several studies have been conducted on the anticancer effects of casticin against cancers, including breast, bladder, oral, lung, leukemia and hepatocellular carcinomas. The compound inhibits invasion, migration and proliferation and induces apoptosis (casticin-induced, ROS-mediated and mitochondrial-dependent) and cell cycle arrest (G0/G1, G2/M, etc.) through different signaling pathways, namely the PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, STAT3 and FOXO3a/FoxM1 pathways. This review summarizes the chemo-preventive ability of casticin as an antineoplastic agent against several malignancies.

Background: Roots of Rumex hastatus (Polygonaceae) are traditionally used for the treatment of various ailments including liver and lung diseases. In this study, various solvent extracts of R. hastatus roots, like methanolic, n-hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform, butanol and aqueous fractions were assessed through their antioxidant properties in vitro and determination of phenolic contents., Methods: Several parameters like DPPH˙, ABTS˙(+), ˙OH, H2O2, superoxide free radical scavenging, iron chelating power, reducing power, β-carotene bleaching power, antioxidant capacity and total phenolics and flavonoids were evaluated. High Performance liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was also considered., Results: Though all the fractions exhibited dose dependant activity. The samples with the highest activity were the butanol and methanol fractions in all the assays except hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging assay where chloroform fraction showed the highest scavenging aptitude. On the other hand, aquous fraction showed significant beta carotene linoleic acid, while n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions exhibited a lesser antioxidant activity in all the assays. HPLC revealed the presence of rutin, luteolin-7-glucoside, vitexin and luteolin., Conclusion: These results have to some extent substantiated the use of R. hastatus roots against different diseases, as an excellent basis of potential antioxidant due to the presence of sufficient amount of phenolics such as rutin and luteolin.

Background: Carissa opaca Stapf ex Hanes fruits is traditionally used in the treatment of asthma, hepatitis and microbial infections. The present study was arranged to investigate the antimicrobial, cytotoxic and antitumor activity of various fractions of C. opaca extract and its bioactive metabolites responsible for that activity., Methods: To characterize various fractions of C.opaca antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic and antitumor assays are used. Eight strains of bacteria including Bacillus subtilis, Enterobactor aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Micrococcus luteus, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Salmonella typhy, and Staphylococcus aureus and four strains of fungal viz: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger and Fusarium solani are used. Brine shrimps and potato dics are used for anticancer and antitumor potency of extract. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is utilized for determination of bioactive metabolites responsible for the activity., Results: HPLC chromatogram revealed the presence of orientin, isoquercetin, myricetin and apigenin. Various fractions of C. oapca showed significant antibacterial, antitumor and anticancer activity. In case of C. opaca fruit inhibition growth of Aspergillus niger was ranged between 23.2 ± 1.36% to 43.3 ± 2.39%, Aspergillus flavus ranged between 27.6 ± 1.39% to 65.6 ± 3.44%, Aspergillus fumigatus ranged between 13.2 ± 1.00% to 52.4 ± 1.54% and Fusarium solani ranged between 10.5 ± 1.02% to 14.6 ± 1.74%., Conclusion: It can be concluded that, various fractions of C.opaca are accessible source of ethno pharmacy as they are consumed in different areas of Pakistan with ultimate health compensations.

Background: Sida cordata, a member of Family Malvaceae is used in folk medicine for various ailments including liver diseases. In this study we investigated, its flavonoid constituents, in vitro antioxidant potential against different free radicals and hepatoprotection against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage in rat., Methods: Dried powder of S. cordata whole plant was extracted with methanol and the resultant (SCME) obtained was fractionated with escalating polarity to obtain n-hexane fraction (SCHE), ethyl acetate fraction (SCEE), n-butanol fraction (SCBE) and the remaining soluble portion as aqueous fraction (SCAE). Diverse in vitro antioxidants assays such as DPPH, H2O2, •OH, ABTS, β-carotene bleaching assay, superoxide radical, lipid peroxidation, reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity were studied to assess scavenging potential of methanol extract and its derived fractions. On account of marked scavenging activity SCEE was selected to investigate the hepatoprotective potential against CCl4 induced toxicity in Sprague-Dawley male rats by assessing the level of serum markers (alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin, and γ-glutamyltransferase) and of liver antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutathione-S-transfers (GST), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (TBARS). Histology of the liver was performed to study alteration in histoarchitecture. Existence of active flavonoids was established by thin layer chromatographic studies., Results: Considerable amount of flavonoid and phenolic contents were recorded in the methanol extract and its derived fractions. Although the extract and all its derived fractions exhibited good antioxidant activities however, the most distinguished scavenging potential was observed for SCEE. Treatment of SCEE decreased the elevated level of serum marker enzymes induced with CCl4 administration whereas increased the activity of hepatic antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, POD, GST, GSR and GSH-Px). Hepatic concentration of GSH was increased while lipid peroxidation was decreased with SCEE administration in CCl4 intoxicated rats. Presence of apigenin with some unknown compounds was observed in SCEE by using thin layer chromatography., Conclusions: These results revealed the presence of some bioactive compound in the ethyl acetate fraction, confirming the utility of S. cordata against liver diseases in folk medicine.

Jasminum humile (Linn) is highly valued for its medicinal properties. The pulp and decoction made from its leaves are effective for skin diseases. Juice prepared from roots is used against ringworm illness. Our current study aims to illustrate the non-toxicity and protective potential of methanol extract of Jasminum humile (JHM) against CCl4-induced oxidative stress in the liver of rats. Qualitative phytochemical screening, total flavonoids (TFC), and total phenolic content (TPC) assays were performed with JHM. The toxicity of the plant was estimated by treating female rats at different JHM doses while to assess anti-inflammatory potential of plant nine groups of male rats (six rats/group) received different treatments such as: CCl4 only (1 ml/kg mixed with olive oil in a ratio of 3:7), silymarin (200 mg/kg) + CCl4, different doses of JHM alone at a ratio of 1:2:4, and JHM (at a ratio of 1:2:4) + CCl4, and were examined for different antioxidant enzymes, serum markers, and histological changes, while mRNA expression of stress, inflammatory and fibrosis markers were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Different phytochemicals were found in JHM. A high amount of total phenolic and flavonoid content was found (89.71 ± 2.79 mg RE/g and 124.77 ± 2.41 mg GAE/g) in the methanolic extract of the plant. Non-toxicity of JHM was revealed even at higher doses of JHM. Normal levels of serum markers in blood serum and antioxidant enzymes in tissue homogenates were found after co-administration of JHM along with CCl4. However, CCl4 treatment caused oxidative stress in the liver by enhancing the levels of stress and inflammatory markers and reducing antioxidant enzyme levels, while JHM treatment showed significant (P < 0.05) downregulation was in mRNA expression of those markers. Investigation of mechanism of specific signaling pathways related to apoptosis and clinical trials to assess safety and efficacy of optimal dosage of Jasminum humile will be helpful to develop FDA-approved drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vincetoxicum arnottianum (Wight) of family Apocynaceae is a rich source of therapeutic alkaloids, phenolics and flavonoids. Study aims to evaluate the protective potential of methanol extract of Vincetoxicum arnottianum (VAM) on bisphenol A (BPA)‐induced testicular toxicity in male Sprague Dawley rat. Quantitative analysis of VAM for total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total alkaloid content (TAC) along with HPLC analysis for polyphenolics was carried out. BPA‐induced testicular toxicity was determined through analysis of antioxidant enzymes, DNA damages and testicular histopathology along with reproductive hormones in serum of rat. VAM was constituted of TFC (382.50 ± 1.67 μg GAE/mg), TPC (291.17 ± 0.82 μg RE/mg), TAC (16.5 ± 0.5%), ferulic acid (2.2433 μg/mg) and vanillic acid (2.1249 μg/mg). VAM co‐administration to BPA‐treated rats attenuated the toxic effects of BPA and restored the body and testis weights. Altered level of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) in serum, and level of antioxidants (GSH, POD, CAT and SOD) and nitric oxide in testis tissues of BPA‐induced toxicity were significantly restored by VAM. Histological and comet assay studies also sanctioned the protective potential of VAM in BPA‐intoxicated rats. The presence of polyphenols and alkaloids might contribute towards the scavenging and ameliorative potential of VAM in testicular toxicity induced by BPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the bark of Acacia modesta was evaluated for anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antidepressant and anticoagulant activity by carrageenan, hot plat, forced swim and capillary tube method respectively in rats. Highest anti-inflammatory activity was exhibited by chloroform (AMC) extract (74.96% inhibition) while other two active fractions being n-hexane (AMH) and ethyl acetate (AME) exhibited 71.26% and 52.87% inhibition of edema respectively. On the other hand, the aqueous (AMA) fraction showed most effective response with 67.06% analgesic activity. Additionally, the significant (p<0.05) post-treatment antipyretic effect was found by all fractions in time dependent manner. The current findings showed that AMC, AME and AMA had significant reduction in immobility time in the antidepressant test, while AMH showed mild antidepressant activity. In anticoagulant assay, the coagulation time of crude extract A. modesta and its all fractions were comparable to that of positive control aspirin (208s). Moreover, neither mortality nor lethality was observed in the tested animals. Overall, the plant extracts showed potent anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antidepressant and anticoagulant activities which concludes that the bark of A. modesta have significant therapeutic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgroound: Lepidium pinnatifidum is a multipurpose, beneficial plant and known well for its indigenous therapeutic standards. Current study is aimed to investigate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency of Lepidium pinnatifidum. L. pinnatifidum dried powder was extracted with crude methanol (LPM) and then fractionated with various solvents to get respective fractions, termed as, n-hexane (LPH), chloroform (LPC), ethyl acetate (LPE), butanol (LPB) and the aqueous fraction (LPA). Fractions were evaluated for total flavonoid and phenolic content. Antioxidant profile was quantified via an array of antioxidant assays. Anti inflammatory activity was evaluated in vitro, and further assessed by in vivo study in Sprague Dawley rat. Result: Total phenolics (TPC) range from 48.15 ± 1.03–241.23 ± 1.07 mg GAE/g while total flavonoids (TFC) quantified were 16.32 ± 1.14–136.32 ± 1.14 mg RE/g. The in vitro antioxidant assays exhibited remarkable radicals scavenging action in different assays. Substantial positive correlation was instituted between TPC, TFC and various antioxidant assays. Inhibition of the heat induced protein denaturation reflected anti inflammatory potency, further supported by in vivo carrageenan induced paw edema. Conclusion: The obtained results lead to suggesting the therapeutic perspective of L. pinnatifidum in oxidative stress and inflammation associated ailments. The bio active ingredients behind its potential protectivity needs to be further confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam.), known as "Shakarqandi" in Pakistan, is an imperative root vegetable with large size, traditionally used as aphrodisiac, antiprostatic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardiotonic, and anticancer agent. Present study was conducted to gauge aphrodisiac potential of Ipomoea batatas ethyl acetate (IPT-EA, IPA-EA) and methanol (IPT-M, IPA-M) extracts from tuber and aerial part, respectively, via behavioral and biochemical tests and their possible protective role in BPA-induced gonadotoxicity at the dose 300 mg/kg in male Sprague Dawley rats. Phytochemical analysis was done qualitatively and quantitatively through total phenolic and flavonoid content (TPC and TFC) and high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC-DAD) fingerprinting while antioxidant profiling used multimode in vitro assays. To calculate sexual excitement mount latency, intromission latency, mount frequency, intromission frequency, ejaculatory latency, and postejaculatory interval were examined while for biochemical ratification semen characteristics, levels of testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol were measured. Gonadoprotective ability was assessed through comet assay and histomorphological examination of testes. Qualitative analysis ensured the presence of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanin, saponins, coumarins, terpenoids, and betacyanin. Quantitatively maximal TPC (304.32±7.20 μg GAE/mg dry extract) and TFC (214.77±4.09 μg QE/mg DE) were estimated in IPA-EA extract. IPT-EA yielded maximum rutin (7.3±0.12) and myricetin (2.7±0.14 μg/mg DE) while IPA-EA and IPA-M yielded maximum caffeic acid (4.05±0.22 and 1.92±0.17 μg/mg DE, respectively) in HPLC-DAD analysis. Extracts enhanced sexual excitement, improved semen quality, levels of testosterone, FSH, LH, and estradiol, and successfully attenuated toxic effects of BPA. Levels of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, POD, and GSH) were restored and NO abundance was minimized. Significant stimulation in sexual behavior, amelioration of toxicity symptoms, elevated spermatic production, raised viability, vitalized levels of gonadal hormones, maintained endogenous enzymes, genoprotection, and reformed testicular histology endorsed I. batatas as a better aphrodisiac alternative and gonadoprotective agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study the antioxidant capacity of Periploca hydaspidis was assessed through various in vitro assays and by the hepatoprotective potential on CCl 4 induced toxicity in rat. Phytochemical analysis of different extracts of P. hydaspidis indicated existence of various phytochemical classes. HPLC-DAD analysis of methanol extract indicated the existence of rutin, gallic acid and caffeic acid. Total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) exhibited significant ( p < 0.05) correlation with 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide, hydroxyl ion, inhibition of β-carotene oxidation, iron chelation, reducing power and total antioxidant capacity. In hepatic sample of rat, CCl 4 administration increased ( p < 0.05) the level of nitrite, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) whereas a decline was recorded in antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and in reduced glutathione (GSH). Concentration of alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST) and globulin increased ( p < 0.05) whereas level of total protein and albumin decreased in serum of CCl 4 treated rats. Level of pro-inflammatory cytokines; tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), tumor growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and resistin was increased ( p < 0.05) in serum whereby anti-inflammatory markers; interleukin-10 (IL-10), adiponectin and nuclear factor erythroid 2- related factor 2 (Nrf-2) decreased ( p < 0.05) in hepatic tissues of CCl 4 treated rats. DNA damages and histopathological alterations were induced with administration of CCl 4 to rat. The altered levels of various parameters provoked by CCl 4 toxicity restored towards the control level by the methanol extract of P. hydaspidis in a dose dependent manner. These results suggested the presence of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phyto-constituents in methanol extract of P. hydaspidis . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of doxorubicin (DOX) an anthracycline antineoplastic agent is withdrawn due to its cardio-toxic side effects. Oxidative stress has been recognized as the primary cause of DOX induced cardiotoxicity. We have investigated whether polyphenol rich ethyl acetate extract of Acacia hydaspica (AHE) can attenuate doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via inhibition of oxidative stress. Methods: AHE was administered orally to rats once daily for 6 weeks at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w. DOX (3 mg/kg b.w. i.p., single dose/week) was administered for 6 weeks (chronic model). The parameters studied to evaluate cardioprotective potential were the serum cardiac function biomarkers (CK, CKMB, AST and LDH), hematological parameters, cardiac tissue antioxidant enzymatic status and oxidative stress markers, and histopathological analysis to validate biochemical findings. Results: Chronic 6 week treatment of DOX significantly deteriorated cardiac function biomarkers and decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, whereas significant increase in oxidative stress biomarkers was noticed in comparison to control group. AHE dose dependently protected DOX-induced leakage of cardiac enzymes in serum and ameliorated DOX-induced oxidative stress; as evidenced by decreasing lipid peroxidation, H2O2 and NO content with increase in phase I and phase II antioxidant enzymes. Doxorubicin treatment produced severe morphological lesions, leucopenia, decrease in red blood cell counts and hemoglobin concentrations. AHE co-treatment protected the heart and blood elements from the toxic effects of doxorubicin as indicated by the recovery of hematological parameters to normal values and prevention of myocardial injuries in a dose dependent way. The protective potency of AHE (400 mg/kg b.w) was equivalent to silymarin. Conclusion: Results revealed that AHE showed protective effects against DOX induce cardiotoxicity. The protective effect might attribute to its polyphenolic constituents and antioxidant properties. AHE might be helpful in combination therapies as safer and efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed at exploring hepatoprotective potential of Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana leaves methanol extract (PJM) in rat. PJM constituted of significant amount of total phenolic and total flavonoid content. PJM and ethyl acetate fraction (PJE) exhibited strong antioxidant potential (DPPH, hydroxyl ion, nitric oxide, iron chelating, β-carotene, reducing power and phosphomolybdate assay) in comparison to other extracts. CCl 4 toxicity displayed significant (p < 0.05) increase in level of TBARS, H 2 O 2 , nitrite while a decrease in SOD, CAT, POD and GSH in liver samples of CCl 4 treated group. Serum analysis indicated significant increase in levels of ALT, AST and ALP and globulin whereas a decrease in albumin and total protein was also reported. In addition, levels of pro-inflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, TGF.β1, and leptin) of liver serum were elevated whereas adiponectin (anti-inflammatory cytokine) level was decreased in treated rats. CCl 4 induced DNA damage and histopathological architecture was also studied. However, co-administration with PJM in a dose-dependent manner reversed all the above pathological parameters caused by CCl 4 toxicity. HPLC-DAD analysis confirmed the existence of rutin, gallic acid, myricetin and caffeic acid in PJM and PJE while catechin was additionally present in PJM. Based on rich-antioxidant profile and hepatoprotective outcome on various pathological parameters prompted by CCl 4 , it can be assumed to be a promising candidate shrub for phytomedicine development against various liver ailments and oxidative-stress related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rutin, a polyphenolic flavonoid, possesses antioxidant and hypoglycemic effects. Objective: The present study was conducted to check the effect of rutin on serum reproductive hormonal level and sperm concentration in male rat. Methods: 30 rats were equally divided into 3 groups (10 rats per group). Group I was control (untreated), group II was given rutin 50 mg/kg bw while group III was given 100 mg/kg bw intragastric twice a week for four weeks respectively. The effect of rutin on antioxidant enzymes (POD, SOD, GSHpx, GST, GSR), glutathione contents and TBARS contents were checked. Results: The results revealed that rutin caused significant gain in body weight, antioxidant enzymes (POD, SOD, GSHpx, GST, GSR), glutathione contents, with significant (P< 0.01) decrease in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations. Conclusion: It may be concluded that rutin may be promising as a natural therapeutic agent in male reproductive dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fagonia olivieri (DC) being used for the treatment of diabetes, cancer, fever and claimed to be effective in many other stress related disorders. In this study we have evaluated the F. olivieri whole methanol extract and its derived fractions for various in vitro and in vivo antioxidant studies. Methods: The crude methanol extract of the whole plant of F. olivieri (FOM) and its derived fractions; n-hexane (FOH), chloroform (FOC), ethyl acetate (FOE), n-butanol (FOB) and aqueous (FOA) were evaluated for the total phenolic and flavonoid content and in vitro antioxidant abilities. The antioxidant effect of FOM was determined by acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague--Dawley (Rattus novergicus) male rats. The methanol/fractions were also analysed by HPLC analysis for the presence of polyphenolics. Results: The total phenolic content of the samples ranged from 19.3 ± 0.529 to 106.2 ± 0.892 mg GAE/g extract while total flavonoid content 16.2 ± 0.881 to 50.1 ± 1.764 mg RTE/g extract, respectively. FOA showed highest radical scavenging activity for DPPH (IC50 = 55.2 ± 1.212 µg/ml), ABTS (IC50 = 90.2 ± 1.232 µg/ml) superoxide (IC50 = 37.1 ± 0.643 µg/ml) and for H2O2 (IC50 = 64 ± 1.463 µg/ml). FOE exhibited the highest antioxidant activities for phosphomolybdenum (IC50 = 78.2 ± 0.883 µg/ml) and for hydroxyl radical scavenging (IC50 = 82 ± 2.603 µg/ml). HPLC analysis of FOM and its derived fractions showed the presence of rutin, catechin and gallic acid. Elevated levels of AST, ALT, ALP, LDH and lipid profile in serum and lipid peroxidation and DNA damages in liver; while decreased activity level of CAT, SOD, GSH-Px, GR and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration induced with acetaminophen in rat were reverted towards the control group with co-administration of FOM. Conclusion: Our results showed that F. olivieri is a potential source of natural antioxidants, which justifies its use in folklore medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the present study the antioxidant potential of a methanol extract of Phyllanthus emblica leaves (PELE) was determined by in vitro methods as well as by an in vivo animal model, along with HPLC-DAD screening for phyto-constituents. Methods: The in vitro antioxidant potential of PELE was assessed by scavenging of DPPH, nitric oxide and anti-lipid peroxidation assays. For in vivo evaluation, a 60-day experimental plan was followed in which Sprague Dawley rats were administered with 1 mL/kg of CCl4 (CCl4 : DMSO + Olive oil; 30 % v/v) alone or with different doses of PELE (200, 400 mg/kg p.o.). Silymarin (100 mg/kg) as standard drug was also administered to CCl4 treated rats. HPLC-DAD analysis was performed to quantify polyphenolic phytochemicals. Results: PELE exhibited an appreciable in vitro antioxidant activity and scavenged the DPPH radical (IC50 = 39.73 ± 2.12 µg/mL) and nitric oxide (IC50 = 39.14 ±2.31 µg/mL) while for anti-lipid peroxidation moderate antioxidant activity was noticed. Reduced levels of antioxidant enzyme activities viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and reduced glutathione (GSH) whereas enhanced levels of total extractable proteins, lipid peroxides (TBARS), nitrite and H2O2 were induced by CCl4 administration in lungs of rat. Co-administration of PELE to rats exhibited a dose dependent decline in the oxidative injuries induced in these parameters. Histopathological damages such as disrupted alveoli, infiltration of macrophages and modified architecture of Clara cells was reversed to the normal state with co-administration of PELE. HPLC-DAD analysis indicated the presence of gallic acid, rutin, kaempferol and caffeic acid in the PELE. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that presence of polyphenolics and other active constituents in PELE might play a significant role in repairing the pulmonary damages instigated with CCl4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boerhavia procumbens is traditionally used in the treatment of various disorders including jaundice and gonorrhea, is a refrigerant, and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic activities. The purpose of this study was to determine the phytochemical classes, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of methanol extract (BPME) and different fractions (n-hexane (BPHE), ethyl acetate (BPEE), n-butanol (BPBE), and residual aqueous fraction (BPAE)) of B. procumbens against carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. To assess the anti-inflammatory effects of B. procumbens, 42 Sprague Dawley male rats (150–200 g) were randomly divided into seven groups. Group I received distilled water and group II was treated with diclofenac potassium (10 mg/kg) body weight (bw) orally. Groups III, IV, V, VI, and VII were administered BPME, BPHE, BPEE, BPBE, and BPAE (200 mg/kg bw) orally, 1 h before the treatment with carrageenan (10 mg/kg bw) in rats. Anti-inflammatory effects of B. procumbens were determined by estimating the inhibition of edema at 1st, 2nd, and 3rd hour after carrageenan injection. Qualitative analysis of methanol extract indicated the composition of diverse classes, namely, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phlobatannins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, and anthraquinones. Quantitative determination illustrated that BPBE and BPEE possessed the highest concentration of total phenolic (60.45 ± 2.1 mg gallic acid equivalent per gram sample) and total flavonoid content (68.05 ± 2.3 mg rutin equivalent per gram sample), respectively. A dose-dependent response for antioxidant activity was exhibited by all the samples. The sample with the highest aptitude for antioxidant activity was the BPBE for 2,2-azobis,3-ethylbenzothiozoline-6-sulfonic acid radical scavenging and total antioxidant capacity. Carrageenan-induced paw edema was significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited by BPBE and BPME at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd hour and was comparable to control drug diclofenac potassium. Results revealed that various fractions of B. procumbens manifested the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential and accredit the local use of B. procumbens in various disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alnus nitida (Spach) Endl. is traditionally used for inflammatory disorders. Diarylheptanoids constituents having diverse therapeutically importance including hepato-protective was reported in A. nitida. The aim of this study was to explore the antioxidant and hepato-protective profile of A nitida stem bark's crude methanol extract (ANM). Methods: Crude methanol extract of A nitida stem bark and its derived fractions were assessed for phytochemical classes and in vitro antioxidant profiling by multidimensional assays. Hepato-protective assessment of ANM was investigated on rats, which were made hepatotoxic using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Additionally HPLC-DAD analysis of ANM, and its derived ethyl acetate and aqueous fraction was carried out to determine the presence of active constituents. Results: Qualitative analysis of crude extract-and its fractions depicted the presence of terpenoids, saponins, coumarins, phenols and flavonoids. Maximum quantity of total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) was recorded in ANM and its derived fractions; n-hexane (ANH), chloroform (ANC), ethyl acetate (ANE) and the residual aqueous (ANA). ANM exhibited the best total antioxidant capacity, total reducing power, and scavenging of DPPH and OH radicals. ANE and ANA exhibited strong scavenging potential for iron chelation, nitric oxide and β-carotene bleaching assay. ANM treatment converse the activities of serum-marker enzymes and lipid profile, altered by CCl4 treatment in rat. CCl4 induced hepatic-cirrhosis in rat resulted in decrease of antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase and glutathione reductase-which were restored towards the normal level with ANM. Similarly diminished level of reduced glutathione while enhanced level of lipid peroxides, hydrogen peroxide and nitrite in liver of cirrhotic rats was normalized by treatment of ANM. The histopathological studies of liver tissues also represented that ANM possessed the hepato-protective activity. HPLC-DAD analysis against eight known standards confirmed the presence of gallic acid, catechin and rutin in ANM and in ANA while in ANE gallic acid was only detected. Conclusion: Based on the results of antioxidants, restoration of various antioxidant enzymes and histopathological studies, the recent study concludes that antioxidant potential of A nitida bark might protect the liver damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acacia hydaspica R. Parker, family leguminosae, is a medicinally important plant. Different plant parts are used in various ailments in folk medicine. The current study aimed at investigating the in vitro antioxidant, anti-hemolytic and anticancer activity of A. hydaspica. Methods: Antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH, ABTS and •OH, scavenging of H2O2, inhibition of ipid peroxidation and β-carotene bleaching inhibition assays. Anti-hemolytic activity was assessed using H2O2 induced hemolysis of RBCs. Anticancer potential was assessed using MTT assay. Spectrometric methods and HPLC-DAD analysis was performed for phytochemical screening. Results: EC50 values based on reduction of DPPH, ABTS and •OH, scavenging of H2O2, inhibition of lipid peroxidation and β-carotene bleaching for AHB, AHE and AHM were generally lower manifesting potential antiradical capacities. The fractions also exhibited significant (P <0.001) anti-hemolytic potential. Regarding IC50 values for anticancer activity against HCC-38 and MDA-MB-361 cancer cell lines; AHB, AHE and AHM exhibited significant (P <0.001) cyto-selection indices. Plant extracts showed no cytotoxicity against normal Vero cells (IC50 > 250 µg/ml). While significant (P <0.001) cytotoxicity was elicited by these extract/fractions against cancer cell lines. AHE was the most effective and IC50 was found to be 29.9±0.909 µg/ml (SI =9.83) and 39.5 ±0.872 µg/ml (SI = 7.44) against MDA-MB-361 and HCC-38 cancer cells respectively. Higher amounts of TPC and TFC were exhibited by AHE and AHB as compared to other fractions. Gallic acid, catechin and myricetin were identified in AHE whereas gallic acid and catechin were identified in AHB by HPLC. Conclusion: The presence of bioactive constituents in AHE and AHB might be responsible for antioxidant, anti-hemolytic and anticancer activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plants provide an alternative source to manage various human disorders due to diverse metabolites. Euphorbia dracunculoides of family Euphorbiaceae is used by local practitioners in rheumatism, epilepsy, edema, snake bite, warts and also possesses diuretic and purgative effects. The present study evaluated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of various extracts of E. dracunculoides. Further, phytochemical constituents of the leading extracts were also investigated. Methods: Dry powder of E. dracunculoides was extracted with n-hexane (EDH), acetone (EDA), ethanol (EDE), ethanol + water (1:1) (EDEW) and methanol (EDM) and screened for phytochemical classes, total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC). Antioxidant effects of the extracts were manifested by in vitro multidimensional assays. The anti¬inflammatory and analgesic activities of the extracts were evaluated through carrageenan induced paw edema and hot plate test in rat. In addition, GC-MS analysis of EDH and HPLC-DAD analysis of EDEW was carried out to determine the presence of active constituents. Results: Qualitative analysis of various extracts of E. dracunculoides assured the existence of tannins and coumarins while presence of anthraquinones and anthocyanins was not traced in these extracts. Maximum quantity of TPC and TFC was recorded in EDEW followed by EDE. EDEW and EDE showed significant antioxidant activities with therapeutic potential against hydroxyl and phosphomolybdate radicals, β-carotene bleaching assay and in reducing of iron while moderate to low scavenging abilities were recorded for DPPH, nitric oxide and for iron chelation. During anti-inflammatory activity after 4 h of drug administration the 300 mg/kg body weight dose of EDH (68.660 ± 10.502 %) and EDE (51.384 ± 8.623 %) exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity and reduced the carrageenan-induced paw edema in rat as compared to standard drug diclofenac sodium (78.823 ± 6.395 %). Treatment of rats with EDH (70.206 ± 5.445 %) and EDE (56.508 ± 6.363 %) after 90 min showed significant increase in percent latency time in hot plate test as compared to morphine (63.632 ± 5.449 %) treatment in rat. GC-MS analysis of EDH indicated the presence of 30 compounds predominantly of steroids and terpenoids. HPLC-DAD analysis against known standards established the presence of rutin, catechin, caffeic acid and myricetin in EDEW. Conclusion: Our results suggest that presence of various polyphenolics, terpenoids and steroids render E. dracunculoides with therapeutic potential for oxidative stress and inflammation related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: CCl4 induces oxidative stress in various tissues by altering antioxidant enzymes defense system. In this study we investigated the chemical composition and protective role of Oxalis corniculata methanol extract (OCME) on CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity in rat. Presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, phlobatannins and steroids was determined in OCME while tannins were absent. Total phenolic contents estimated were 7.76±0.36 (mg gallic acid equivalents/g extract) while total flavonoid contents recorded were 6.92±0.52 (mg rutin equivalents/g extract). Intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 (1ml/kg b.w., 20% in olive oil) once a day for seven days caused nephrotoxicity as evident by elevated levels of urinary specific gravity, RBCs, WBCs, creatinine, protein, urobilinogen and nitrite. Serum level of creatinine, urea, blood urea nitrogen were significantly increased while protein and creatinine clearance was decreased by CCl4 treatment in kidney samples. Activity of antioxidant enzymes; catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase and glutathione concentration was decreased whereas lipid peroxidation and protein contents were increased along with histopathological injuries. Treatment with OCME caused significant recovery in changed parameters. It could be concluded that OCME has a protective role against CCl4-induced oxidative stress in rat, due to antioxidant effects of phenolics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant effect of the chloroform extract of Citharexylum spinosum (CSCE) (Family: Verbenaceae) leaves in Sprague–Dawley male rats. The different groups of animals were administered with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4; 20% in olive oil, 2ml/kg body weight) 7 doses (i.p.) at 48h interval. The CSCE at the doses of 100 and 200mg/kg or silymarin at a dose of 50mg/kg were administered intragastrically after 24h to the CCl4 treated rats. The effect of CSCE or silymarin on urine and serum markers (urea, creatinine, creatinine clearance, protein, albumin, urobilinogen and nitrite) was measured in CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity in rat. Further, the effects on lipid peroxidation (TBARS), enzymatic antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase) and non-enzymatic antioxidant glutathione (GSH) were estimated in the kidney samples. The CSCE and silymarin produced significant renal protective effects by restoring the concentration of urine and serum markers. Activity level of antioxidant enzymes and GSH contents were increased while lipid peroxidation (TBARS) was decreased, dose dependently with CSCE and silymarin. Decrease in body whereas increase in kidney weight induced with CCl4 was restored with CSCE and silymarin. Chemical composition of CSCE indicated the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids and very low amount of saponins. Total flavonoids estimated were (127±14.6) as rutin equivalent mg/g of the extract. From these results, it is suggested that CSCE possesses potent nephroprotective and antioxidant properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The chloroform and aqueous fractions of Carissa opaca fruit, a traditional medicinal fruit in Pakistan possessed a high amount of total phenolic and flavonoid contents as compare to other solvent fractions with potent antioxidant activities in scavenging DPPH, superoxides, hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide, ABTS radicals, and had strong iron chelating activity. On the other hand, the ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest inhibition of β-carotene linoleic acid peroxidation and phosphomolybdate assay. A high correlation coefficient existed between EC50 values of DPPH, superoxides, hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide, ABTS radicals, total phenolics and flavonoids, but a non significant correlation was found in the case of iron chelaters, β-carotene and phosphomolybdate assay. This study verified that the chloroform and aqueous fractions have strong antioxidant activities which were correlated with its high level of phenolics and flavonoids. These fractions can be used as a source of potential antioxidant or functional food material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Increase oxidative trauma is the main cause behind Cisplatin (CP) induced cardiotoxicity which restricts its clinical application as anti-neoplastic prescription. Acacia hydaspica is a natural shrub with diverse bioactivities. Acacia hydaspica ethyl acetate extract (AHE) ameliorated drug-induced cardiotoxicity in animals with anti-oxidative mechanisms. Current study aimed to evaluate the protective potential of A. hydaspica against cisplatin-induced myocardial injury. Methods: Rats were indiscriminately distributed into six groups (n = 6). Group 1: control; Groups 2: Injected with CP (7.5 mg/kg bw, i.p, single dose) on day 16; Group 3: Treated for 21 days with AHE (400 mg/kg b.w, oral); Group 4: Received CP injection on day 16 and treated with AHE for 5 days post injection; Group 5: Received AHE (400 mg/kg b.w/day, p.o.) for 21 days and CP (7.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) on day 16; Group 6: Treated with silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) after 1 day interval for 21 days and CP injection (7.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) on day 16. On 22nd day, the animals were sacrificed and their heart tissues were removed. Cisplatin induced cardiac toxicity and the influence of AHE were evaluated by examination of serum cardiac function markers, cardiac tissue antioxidant enzymes, oxidative stress markers and histology. Results: CP inoculation considerably altered cardiac function biomarkers in serum and diminished the antioxidant enzymes levels, while increased oxidative stress biomarkers in cardiac tissues AHE treatment attenuated CP-induced deteriorations in creatine kinase (CK), Creatine kinase isoenzymes MB (CK-MB), cardiac Troponin I (cTNI) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and ameliorated cardiac oxidative stress markers as evidenced by decreasing lipid peroxidation, H2O2 and NO content along with augmentation in phase I and phase II antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, CP inoculation also induced morphological alterations which were ameliorated by AHE. In pretreatment group more significant protection was observed compared to post-treatment group indicating preventive potential of AHE. The protective potency of AHE was comparable to silymarin. Conclusion: Results demonstrate that AHE attenuated CP induce cardiotoxicity. The polyphenolic metabolites and antioxidant properties of AHE might be responsible for its protective influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaves of W. heynei (family: Rubiaceae) are used by the folklore in swelling, wounds and body aches. In this study anti-inflammatory potential of W. heynei leaves has been evaluated during in vitro studies and in rat. Methanol extract of the leaves of W. heynei (WHLM) and its fractions; n-hexane (WHLH), chloroform (WHLC), ethyl acetate (WHLE), n-butanol (WHLB) and residual soluble aqueous (WHLA) were screened for phytochemical analysis and several active constituents (alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, β-carotene and lycopene) were also quantified. Heat induced albumin denaturation assay and in vitro cell cultures was carried out for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, while various in vivo assays like TPA induced ear edema, croton oil induced anus edema, formalin and carrageenan-induced hind paw edema was investigated in Sprague-Dawley rats. Alterations on levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and prostaglandins (PGE 2) induced with WHLE was studied in serum after carrageenan induced paw edema in rat. Meanwhile, the dose dependent WHLE inhibition of NFκB pathway via regulation of the phosphorylation of IKKs, IκBα, and p65 subunit was studied in LPS-induced rat peritoneal macrophages. On account of marked anti-inflammatory activity of WHLE its bioactive components were analyzed by HPLC-DAD analysis. The phytochemical analysis yielded alkaloids, saponins, tannins, coumarins, glycosides, quinones and vitamin C in WHLM and in all fractions. Fraction (WHLE) was enriched with alkaloids (20.20 ± 2.5%), flavonoids (25.26 ± 2.11%) and tannins (307.2 ± 2.03 mg of GAE/g of extract), while terpenoids (21.60 ± 1.65%) were the major constituents of WHLH. Ethyl acetate fraction convincingly protected heat induced albumin denaturation. WHLE exhibited highest edema inhibition in models of TPA-induced ear edema (74.51 ± 2.05) and croton oil-induced anal edema (75.38 ± 2.83). The pretreatment with WHLE significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the paw edema with formalin (78.99 ± 2.26%) assessed after 6 h and in carrageenan (75.71 ± 4.46%) was detected after 4 h. Level of anti-inflammatory markers; IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and PGE 2 in carrageenan induced paw edema in serum of rat was significantly (p < 0.001) decreased with WHLE pretreatment to rat. WHLE significantly inhibited the NFκB by reducing the phosphorylation of IKKs, IκBα, and p65 subunit in LPS-induced inflammation in rat peritoneal macrophages. HPLC-DAD analysis of WHLE indicated the presence of rutin, gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid and myricetin. It is concluded that WHLM fractions have marked anti-inflammatory activity and this study endorsed the folklore use of W. heynei leaves for swelling related disorders. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abutilon pannosum is used in Pakistan for bladder inflammation, diuretic, lung disorders, diabetes and in lowering pyrexia. Amount of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and HPLC analysis of APM for the presence of polyphenolics were carried out. Antioxidant activity was determined by using different in vitro antioxidant assays. Amelioration effects of APM (200 mg/kg body weight and 400 mg/kg body weight) against CCl 4 induced kidney and lung toxicity in rat was assessed by determining level of antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation products, cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-2), comet assay and histological analysis. HPLC-DAD studies of APM indicated the presence of rutin (0.635 ± 0.011 μg/mg dry extract), gallic acid (1.07 ± 0.043 μg/mg dry extract) and catechin (0.246 ± 0.08 μg/mg dry extract) and considerable quantity of total phenolic (55.485 ± 0.85 mg GAE/g dry extract) and total flavonoid content (19.90 ± 0.58 mg Rutin/g dry extract). During in vitro antioxidant assays APM showed significant (p < 0.05) activity for iron chelation, reducing potential, inhibition of β-carotene oxidation while moderate potential for scavenging of DPPH, hydroxyl, nitrite and phosphomolybdenum radical. Administration of CCl 4 to rat severely depleted the activity level of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration while appreciably increased the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), H 2 O 2 , nitrite, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-2 in lung and kidney tissues of rat. Comet length, % DNA in tail and tail moment significantly (p < 0.01) increased in lung and kidney cells of CCl 4 intoxicated rat. Further, injuries in lung and kidney tissues were recorded with CCl 4 induced toxicity in rat. The rats treated with APM along with CCl 4 exhibited an appreciable level of restoration of the altered parameters towards the control animals. The results of this study suggested the protective potential of APM in CCl 4 intoxicated rats for kidney and lung injuries. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]