Search

The ESKAPE pathogens, namely Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species, pose a significant threat to individuals with compromised immune system, including children, people with underlying illnesses and patients primarily infected with viruses. Significant mortality rates have been documented as a consequence of severe pneumonia resulting from bacterial respiratory tract infections. Azanza garckeana has been reported to possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. This study aimed to determine the antibacterial activity of A. garckeana leaf and bark extracts against P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii, and S. aureus. The broth microdilution method was used to evaluate antibacterial activity. The most active extracts were subjected to phytochemical analysis to identify types of bioactive compounds present using gas chromatograph mass spectrometry (GC‒MS). The effect of the extracts on the integrity of the bacterial membrane was performed using nucleic acid and protein leakage assay. Acetone bark extract was assessed for its potential antibiofilm activity using K. pneumoniae. The toxicity profiling of the most potent extracts was performed using sheep erythrocytes and mouse peritoneal cells. The hexane bark extract exhibited greater potency by inhibiting the growth of S. aureus and A. baumannii at a concentration of 200 μg/mL. GC-MS identified the presence of important bioactive compounds including, β-carotene, 9-hexadecen-1-ol, (Z)-, hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol. Acetone bark extract exhibited antibacterial activity through disruption of bacterial membrane integrity, observed through significant nucleic acid and protein leakage. The acetone bark extract displayed promising antibiofilm activity against K. pneumoniae. Importantly, the extracts showed minimal toxicity, demonstrating less than 30 % haemolytic activity in sheep erythrocytes and were not toxic to the mouse peritoneal cells, instead boosting their growth. These findings suggest that A. garckeana may serve as a potential source of antibacterial lead agents for the management of respiratory infections., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Stanley Mukanganyama reports financial support was provided by Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. Reports a relationship with that includes: Has patent pending to. If there are other authors, they declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Erythrocytes are susceptible to oxidative stress throughout their lifespan. While compounds like vitamin C can help mitigate oxidative stress, the exploration of natural herbal products continues to be a compelling area of research. To examine the impact of subfractions derived from acidified chloroform fractions of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on red blood cells in the presence of H2O2 as an oxidant, we assessed the factors associated with erythrocyte aging and oxidative stress., Methods: The maceration technique was employed for extracting fenugreek seeds. Through chromatography, a total of 12 subfractions were isolated from the acidified chloroform extract of fenugreek seeds. Following an initial assessment, four subfractions exhibiting lower erythrocyte toxicity were chosen for further investigation. The objective was to evaluate their impact on erythrocyte aging by measuring the levels of phosphatidylserine (PS), sialic acid, CD47 on the erythrocyte surface, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers. The obtained results were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD), and data analysis was performed by using ANOVA., Results: The results of this study revealed, that among the 12 subfractions derived from the acidified chloroform fraction of fenugreek, four subfractions demonstrated protective effects against H2O2-induced hemolysis and oxidative stress. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis indicated that treatment with three of these subfractions led to elevated levels of CD47 and reduced levels of phosphatidylserine on the surface of erythrocytes., Conclusions: The results suggest that the subfractions of fenugreek extract which likely contain a higher concentration of flavonoids and a lower content of saponins could be responsible for the observed protection against erythrocyte aging processes. It appears that fenugreek seeds have the ability to safeguard human erythrocytes from oxidative damage by reducing oxidative stress, preserving the activity of antioxidative enzymes, and maintaining the integrity of erythrocyte structure.

The global epidemic of Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is causing thousands of children to die. SCA, a genetic disorder affecting the hemoglobin-globin chain, affects millions globally. The primary physiological issue in these patients is the polymerization of sickle hemoglobin within their red blood cells (RBCs) during their deoxygenating state. The RBC undergoes a sickle shape due to the polymerization of mutant hemoglobin within it and membrane deformation during anoxic conditions. To prevent complications, it is essential to effectively stop the sickling of RBCs of the patients. Various medications have been studied for treating SCA patients, focusing on antisickling, γ-globulin induction, and antiplatelet action. Natural and synthetic anti-sickling agents can potentially reduce patient clinical morbidity. Numerous clinical trials focused on using natural remedies for the symptomatic therapy of SCA. Medicinal plants and phytochemical agents have antisickling properties. Recent studies on plant extracts' natural compounds have primarily focused on in vitro RBCs sickling studies, with limited data on in vivo studies. This review discussed the potential role of phytoconstituents in the management of SCA., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier GmbH.. All rights reserved.)

Ethno-Pharmacological Relevance: Globally, the prevalence of sickle cell disease is on the rise, with developing countries experiencing particularly alarming mortality rate compared to developed nations. The World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations (UN) have acknowledged sickle cell disease as a significant global public health concern. Unfortunately, a cure for this condition is yet to be discovered, and existing allopathic treatments, while offering relief, come with serious side effects. In recent times, there has been a growing interest in exploring the potential of medicinal plants for treating sickle cell disease due to their content of secondary metabolites that may impact the disease's mechanisms. Cajanus cajan, a crucial grain legume in rain-fed agriculture in semi-arid tropics, has been traditionally used in folk medicine to manage various illnesses and is suggested to possess anti-sickling properties., Aim of the Study: The present study investigated two varieties of C. cajan for their effectiveness in treating sickle cell beta thalassemia, a variant of sickle cell disease., Materials and Methods: The study was divided into four groups consisting of the untreated group (group 1), group treated with standard drug (group 2), group treated with white C. cajan (group 3) and group treated with brown C. cajan (group 4). The effects of the two variety of C. cajan were measured by polymerization test, reversibility test, osmotic fragility test, deoxygenation and beta globin synthesis test., Result: The results revealed that both varieties of C. cajan demonstrated a reduction in polymerization rates, reversed sickled red blood cells, increased the oxygen affinity of Hb-S/β, elevated the Fe 2+ /Fe 3+ ratio, and maintained the membrane stability of red blood cells. Notably, the white variety exhibited superior anti-sickling properties compared to the brown variety., Conclusion: This suggests that this significant leguminous crop could be utilized for the treatment and management of sickling disorders, particularly in low-income countries where conventional treatments may be financially inaccessible to patients., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Traditional medicinal plants play an important role in primary health care worldwide. The phytochemical screening and activities of Geranium pusillum were investigated in this research. The dried plant leaves were extracted with ethanol, n-hexane, chloroform, dichloromethane, methanol, acetone, and aqueous solvents. These extracts were qualitatively analyzed, GC-MS, antimicrobial activities by using the disc diffusion method, antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical scavenging, and cytotoxic activity was analyzed by the hemolytic activity of human red blood cells. The results showed phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, phenols, saponins, tannins, and cardiac glycosides were detected in plant leaves. The ethanol extract at a concentration of 10 mg/mL showed a maximum inhibition zone 17.5 ± 0.09, 15.6 ± 0.11, 14.2 ± 0.17, 18.4 ± 0.11, 16.6 ± 0.15, 12.5 ± 0.13, 15.9 ± 0.10, and 13.1 ± 0.11 mm, and at 15 mg/mL showed 24.5 ± 0.09, 27.2 ± 0.12, 26.3 ± 0.17, 28.4 ± 0.10, 27.9 ± 0.16, 22.5 ± 0.13, 27.1 ± 0.10, and 24.1 ± 0.16 mm against Escherichia coli, Pasturella multocida (gram-negative), Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilus (gram-positive), Rhizopus solani, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Alternaria alternate (fungal strain), respectively, and dichloromethane showed a minimum inhibition zone as compared to other extracts against bacterial as well as fungal strains. Chloroform extract had maximum antioxidant activity (45.00 ± 0.08%) and minimum in dichloromethane (12.20 ± 0.04%). Cytotoxic activity was found maximum in acetone extract (19.83 ± 0.07%) and minimum in ethanol extract (4.72 ± 0.04%). It is concluded that phytochemicals like phenols, flavonoids, and others may be responsible for these activities, which is why this plant is used for traditional medicine. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Geranium pusillum has therapeutic properties that exhibit various biological activities beneficial for human health. G. pusillum has significant inhibitory effects against bacterial and fungal strains. Chloroform solvent extract indicates potential free radical scavenging abilities. Acetone extract exhibits notable effects on human red blood cells and demonstrates significant cytotoxic activity., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Prediabetes is a risk state that defines a high chance of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Oxidative stress mediated by hyperglycemia-induced production of reactive species could play a crucial role in this context. In the present study, we investigated whether the anion exchange capability mediated by AE1 (SLC4A1), which is sensitive to oxidative stress, was altered in human red blood cells (RBCs) obtained from prediabetic volunteers. In addition, we assessed the precise composition of bioactive compounds and the potential benefits of finger lime juice extract (Citrus australasica, Faustrime cultivar) in counteracting oxidative stress-related functional alterations. Human RBCs from normal and prediabetic volunteers were incubated with 50 µg/mL juice extract for 2 h at 25°C. Juice extract restored alterations of the anion exchange capability mediated by AE1 and prevented the structural rearrangements of AE1 and α/β-spectrin in prediabetic RBCs. AE1 functional and structural alterations were not associated with an increase in lipid peroxidation or protein oxidation at the level of the plasma membrane. An increased production of intracellular ROS, which provoked the oxidation of hemoglobin to methemoglobin, both reverted by juice extract, was instead observed. Importantly, juice extract also induced a reduction in glycated hemoglobin levels in prediabetic RBCs. Finally, juice extract blunted the overactivation of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase and prevented glutathione depletion in prediabetic RBCs. These findings contribute to clarifying cellular and molecular mechanisms related to oxidative stress and glycation events that may influence RBC and systemic homeostasis in prediabetes, identify AE1 as a sensitive biomarker of RBC structural and function alterations in prediabetes and propose finger lime juice extract as a natural antioxidant for the treatment and/or prevention of the complications associated with the prediabetic condition., (© 2024 The Author(s). Cell Biochemistry and Function published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Garlic (Allium sativum) is recognized as functional food, rich in bioactive compounds that can combat diseases associated with oxidative stress. This study aims to investigate the protective potential of aqueous garlic extract against hemolysis and oxidation. Despite being caused by membrane fragility, hemolysis can lead to inflammation through the oxidation of its products, and in some cases, even exacerbate it in certain pathological contexts. Supplementation with antioxidant molecules can improves oxidative status, in this study, we selected garlic, an excellent functional food, and targeted its effects using aqueous extract and pure molecules. The aqueous garlic extract was prepared under safe conditions and subjected to toxicity on human neutrophils and red blood cells before experimentation. The results indicate that aqueous garlic extract significantly reduces hemolysis with a maximum protection of  98. 74 ± 1. 08 % at a concentration of 5μg/ml. Additionally, experiments were conducted with pure compounds found in garlic such as quercetin, gallic acid, and caffeic acid. The outcomes show that quercetin reduces hemolysis of RBC with a maximum protection of  88. 8 ± 2. 89 % at 20 µM followed by caffeic acid and gallic acid. The action mechanism of the extract was tested on human neutrophil cells, the extract significantly reduced luminol-amplified chemiluminescence of PMA-stimulated neutrophils up to 50 % at 10 µg/ml in addition to its ability to directly scavenge hydrogen peroxide. Our results suggest that aqueous garlic extract exerts promising anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. Through its dual protection against hemolysis and Ros production, garlic may indirectly prevent inflammation reducing the oxidation of hemolysis products. These abilities make garlic aqueous extract promising candidate for improving cardiovascular health, reducing oxidative stress and modulating immunity.

The present work aimed to use the methanol extracts of Croton bonplandianus (Cb) and Tithonia diversifolia (Td) and the synergistic activity of Croton bonplandianus and Tithonia diversifolia (CbTd) for the phytochemical screening, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Phytochemical screening was done by the standard protocols. In vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammation, were assayed by using disc diffusion, total antioxidant activity, DPPH method, HRBC (human red blood cells) membrane stabilization and anti-protein denaturation tests. The synergistic approach of the two plants showed potent antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammation activity. In vitro antibacterial activity was done against Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus at different concentrations. The maximum zone of inhibition (21 mm) was observed in the combinatorial approach. The maximum inhibition of free radicals is observed in CbTd with a low IC 50 , i.e., 7.64 mg/ml, followed by Cb with an IC 50 value of 11.8mg/ml and Td with an IC 50 of 28.3 mg/ml. The percentage inhibition of hemolysis and protein denaturation is high in CbTd (93% and 69%). The experimental analysis reveals the effectiveness of the synergistic effect of these plants with anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, further it can be used in the formulations against infectious human pathogens.

Sea buckthorn and Japanese knotweed are known in many traditional medicine systems to be a great source of bioactive substances. This research aims to compare the bioactivity and protective effects of the phenolic extracts of leaves from sea buckthorn and roots and leaves from the Japanese knotweed on erythrocytes. The polyphenol composition of the extract was analyzed using UPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS. The extracts' toxicity and impact on the erythrocytes' osmotic fragility were measured spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity was determined based on the inhibition of oxidation of erythrocytes and their membrane induced by 2,2'-Azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH),measured spectrophotometrically and using fluorimetry. To find the possible mechanism of the extracts' action, extract-modified cells were observed under a microscope, and the potential localization of the extract's phytochemical composition was checked using fluorescent probes. The results showed that the used extracts are not toxic to erythrocytes, increase their osmotic resistance, and successfully protect them against free radicals. Extract components localize on the outer part of the membrane, where they can scavenge the free radicals from the environment. Altogether, the presented extracts can greatly protect living organisms against free radicals and can be used to support the treatment of diseases caused by excess free radicals.

Products derived from medicinal plants with antimicrobial activity are considered a promising alternative in the treatment of fungal infections. In this perspective, this study proposed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the dichloromethane fraction of Annona crassiflora Mart. against C. albicans strains. Tests were carried out to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Fungicide Concentration (MFC), microbial growth kinetics, fungal cell wall and membrane mechanisms of action, antifungal biofilm activity, and cytotoxic effects on human erythrocytes. The extract presented MIC and MFC values that ranged from 256 µg/mL to 1,024 µg/mL, with fungicidal activity in the microbial growth kinetics assay. The mechanism of action did not occur through damage to the cell wall or via binding to ergosterol in the membrane, though the fraction presents activity against biofilm and is not cytotoxic in human erythrocytes. The dichloromethane fraction of Annona crassiflora Mart. presented antifungal activity and reduced biofilm growth, without toxicity against human erythrocytes; however, further studies are needed to define its mechanism of action.

A dynamic chitosan-based ZnO nanocomposite (NC) was fabricated via a cost-effective formulation and an eco-friendly procedure utilizing Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) plant extract. This study investigates the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, together with the cytocompatibility aspects of chitosan-incorporated ZnO nanocomposite (CS-ZnO/CQE). The formation and structural morphology of the nanocomposites were examined using FTIR, UV-Vis, XRD, XPS, BET, TGA, SEM, and TEM techniques. The antibacterial test results demonstrated the greatest inhibitory zone diameter against S. aureus (19 ± 1.00 mm) and E. coli (17 ± 1.05 mm), assessed through agar well diffusion method. Also, the composite exhibited a DPPH inhibition rate of 78.7 ± 0.34 %, indicating its high effectiveness in neutralizing free radicals. In addition, the nanocomposite exhibited less toxicity towards human erythrocytes, HDF and HEK-293 cells as a result of the biocompatibility exhibited by CS, ZnO, and CQ plant extract. Likewise, it has exceptional cell migratory capacity and possesses biodegradability factors. These observations strongly suggest the potential of CS-ZnO/CQE as a cutting-edge antibacterial and antioxidant agent to be implemented in the medical sector., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Garlic is known to have diverse effects on mammalian cells, being cytotoxic, especially to cancer cells, but also protect against oxidative stress. Mammalian erythrocyte is a simple cell devoid of intracellular organelles, protein synthesis ability, and most signaling pathways. Therefore, examination of the effects of garlic on erythrocytes allows for revealing primary events in the cellular action of garlic extract. In this study, human erythrocytes or erythrocyte membranes were exposed to garlic extract at various dilutions. Hemoglobin oxidation to methemoglobin, increased binding of hemoglobin to the membrane, and formation of Heinz bodies were observed. Garlic extract depleted acid-soluble thiols, especially glutathione, and induced a prooxidative shift in the cellular glutathione redox potential. The extract increased the osmotic fragility of erythrocytes, induced hemolysis, and inhibited hemolysis in isotonic ammonium chloride, indicative of decreased membrane permeability for Cl - and increased the membrane fluidity. Fluorescent probes indicated an increased level of reactive oxygen species and induction of lipid peroxidation, but these results should be interpreted with care since the extract alone induced oxidation of the probes (dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and BODIPY C11). These results demonstrate that garlic extract induces oxidative changes in the erythrocyte, first of all, thiol and hemoglobin oxidation.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways strongly associated with interleukin-4 (IL-4), a cytokine that mediates and regulates various immune responses, including allergic reactions. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of an Aqueous Extract of Clove (AEC) Syzygium aromaticum on the lungs and erythrocytes of an experimental asthma model in Wistar rats. For this purpose, four groups of male rats were examined: control, sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA), treated with AEC, and treated with a combination of OVA/AEC. After treatment, the antioxidant effect was determined by measuring the malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT) levels. The anti-inflammatory effect was determined by measuring IL-4 levels by performing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using serum, lung, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples. A significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) in the MDA levels and a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in the levels of GPx and CAT were observed in the lungs of rats treated with cloves. However, no statistically significant variation was observed in GSH levels. In erythrocytes, no statistically significant differences were observed between the experimental batches. Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect, the administration of S. aromaticum extract to sensitized rats resulted in a recovery in the levels of total proteins and IL-4 and a decrease in the three compartments studied (lungs, serum, and bronchoalveolar liquid). These results were confirmed by microscopic examination of lung histological sections. Overall, these findings confirmed that the AEC has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Background: Hordeum vulgare, commonly known as Barley grass, is a historically significant cultivated plant with profound implications for societies, agricultural sciences, and human nutrition. It has been valued for both sustenance and its potential medicinal properties., Objectives: This study aims to comprehensively investigate the medicinal properties of Hordeum vulgare, focusing on its potential therapeutic benefits and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, we seek to quantify and compare the phytochemical content of two distinct extracts: Barley Grass Hexane Extract (BGHE) and Barley grass aqueous extract (BGAQ)., Methods: We quantified the phytochemical contents of BGHE and BGAQ and evaluated their anti-inflammatory effects using UV spectroscopy at 560 nm, coupled with the RBC membrane stabilization technique. Subsequently, we conducted in silico studies to assess the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of Barley grass leaf extracts., Results: Both BGHE and BGAQ demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on inflammation compared to the control group. However, BGHE exhibited superior anti-inflammatory efficacy when compared to BGAQ, suggesting its role as a potential anti-inflammatory agent. In silico studies further supported the anti-inflammatory potential of Barley grass leaf extracts., Conclusion: Hordeum vulgare, or Barley grass, offers a wealth of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-acne, and anti-depressant properties. These properties contribute to improved immunity, reduced cardiovascular disorders, and alleviation of fatigue. The distinct extracts, BGHE and BGAQ, both exhibit promising anti-inflammatory capabilities, but BGHE shows better anti-inflammatory activity. This research sheds light on the therapeutic potential of Barley grass, making it a valuable candidate for further exploration in the field of natural medicine., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

This study evaluated the micro-morphology as well as the chemical and biological features of Citrus lumia seeds. The cream-colored pyriform seed showed a woody coat covered by a thick layer of mucilage and an embryo with two large cotyledons rich in oil bodies. Hydroxycinnamic acid glycosides and flavonoids are the most abundant compounds in methanol and ethyl acetate extracts (ME and EAE), respectively. Conversely, fatty acids and α-tocopherol represent the main bioactive compounds in the hexane extract (HE). ME showed the most promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities already in cell-free assays. These results were confirmed by experiments carried out on human primary cells. Indeed, ME showed the best inhibitory activity against heat-induced haemolysis and ROS formation in erythrocytes. Moreover, the same order of potency (ME > EAE > HE) was observed also on peripheral blood mononuclear cells, in which the seed extracts were able to decrease TNF-α and IL-6 release after LPS-induced inflammation., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACT) are the frontline treatments against malaria worldwide. Recently the use of traditional infusions from Artemisia annua (from which artemisinin is obtained) or Artemisia afra (lacking artemisinin) has been controversially advocated. Such unregulated plant-based remedies are strongly discouraged as they might constitute sub-optimal therapies and promote drug resistance. Here, we conducted the first comparative study of the anti-malarial effects of both plant infusions in vitro against the asexual erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium falciparum and the pre-erythrocytic (i.e., liver) stages of various Plasmodium species. Low concentrations of either infusion accounted for significant inhibitory activities across every parasite species and stage studied. We show that these antiplasmodial effects were essentially artemisinin-independent and were additionally monitored by observations of the parasite apicoplast and mitochondrion. In particular, the infusions significantly incapacitated sporozoites, and for Plasmodium vivax and P. cynomolgi , disrupted the hypnozoites. This provides the first indication that compounds other than 8-aminoquinolines could be effective antimalarials against relapsing parasites. These observations advocate for further screening to uncover urgently needed novel antimalarial lead compounds., (© 2021 Ashraf et al.)

Background: Among other negative effects, herbicides induce oxidative stress, leading to lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. Therefore, there is a growing need to identify natural compounds with sufficient antioxidant capacity and mitigate the negative effects of herbicides without side effects. Objective: Our study aimed to examine the protective effect of the phenolic extract of wild garlic (WG) leaves on terbuthylazine-treated erythrocytes. Material and methods: In human erythrocytes treated with the herbicide terbuthylazine (4.5 mg/L) alone and a combination of terbuthylazine and WG extract, we measured malondialdehyde (MDA) and haemoglobin (Hb) concentrations and the antioxidant activities of CuZn superoxide dismutase (SOD1; EC 1.15.1.1) and catalase (CAT; EC 1.11.1.6) in vitro . Results: In comparison with terbuthylazine, WG extract reduced the concentrations of MDA and Hb from 59.69 to 43.45 nmol/gHb (27%, p  < 0.001) and 165.08 to 128.64 g/L (22%, p  < 0.05), respectively. Catalase activity was induced for samples treated with both WG extract and terbuthylazine compared with terbuthylazine alone ( p  < 0.05). Conclusions: The results demonstrated that WG may reduce the toxicity of terbuthylazine, and the erythrocyte membrane may be the primary site of phenolic action. Therefore, the lipid peroxidation intensity could be a biomarker of oxidative damage caused by terbuthylazine and the protective effect of WG.

Endometriosis, an estrogen-dependent chronic gynecological disease, is characterized by a systemic inflammation that affects circulating red blood cells (RBC), by reducing anti-oxidant defenses. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential beneficial effects of licorice intake to protect RBCs from dapsone hydroxylamine (DDS-NHOH), a harmful metabolite of dapsone, commonly used in the treatment of many diseases. A control group (CG, n = 12) and a patient group (PG, n = 18) were treated with licorice extract (25 mg/day), for a week. Blood samples before (T 0 ) and after (T 1 ) treatment were analyzed for: i) band 3 tyrosine phosphorylation and high molecular weight aggregates; and ii) glutathionylation and carbonic anhydrase activity, in the presence or absence of adjunctive oxidative stress induced by DDS-NHOH. Results were correlated with plasma glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) concentrations, measured by HPLC-MS. Results showed that licorice intake decreased the level of DDS-NHOH-related oxidative alterations in RBCs, and the reduction was directly correlated with plasma GA concentration. In conclusion, in PG, the inability to counteract oxidative stress is a serious concern in the evaluation of therapeutic approaches. GA, by protecting RBC from oxidative assault, as in dapsone therapy, might be considered as a new potential tool for preventing further switching into severe endometriosis.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: The seed of Avocado (Persea americana, Lauraceae), non-edible part of the fruit is used as health product. It has been reported as traditional female contraceptive and sterilizer in Peru and some Asian countries and in Nigeria as cardio-protective agent. The present study focused on the effect of hydro-methanolic seed extract of Persea americana on female hormones and toxicity profile using animal models., Materials and Methods: The serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and progesterone (PROG) concentrations in mature non-pregnant female rats were assayed using hormonal kits. The toxicity profile was assessed using Lorke's acute toxicity model, haemato-biochemical evaluation and histopathological studies of reproductive related organs. Parameters were measured on day-30, 60 and 90. Presence of biomarker flavonoid compounds were confirmed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography., Results: The extract at 20, 100 and 500 mg kg -1 altered FSH and PROG hormone profile of the treated groups. The extract initially, dose-dependently decreased FSH level in day-30 (6.95, 3.97, 2.08 IU/L respectively) compared to untreated group before a significant increase was observed for day 60 and 90. Progesterone increased dose-dependently in the treated groups throughout the 90-day treatment duration. This may be Indicating cumulative effect on the hormone. No deleterious or toxicity effect was noticed., Conclusions: The extract of Persea americana seed affects female hormone activity. This may find application in various hormonal management procedures, maternal and reproductive health and fertility control/help health facilities. However, it should be used with caution in women intending to conceive., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Antibiotic resistance has contributed to the burden of infectious diseases both in the hospital and community setting, and represents a great threat to public health. Previous studies have revealed the role of reactive oxygen species as intermediate mediators of tissue damage, following antibiotherapies, indicating the need of associating antioxidants to these treatments. Therefore, the present work was designed to study the antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities of extracts and compounds from Rumex abyssinicus Jacq. (Polygonaceae), as well as to investigate the antibacterial mechanisms of action of the most effective agents., Methods: The plant extracts were prepared by maceration in organic solvents followed by column chromatography of the EtOAc fraction and purification of different fractions which led to the isolation and characterization of pure compounds. The antimicrobial activities of the extracts/compounds and their combinations with ciprofloxacin and fluconazole were evaluated using the broth microdilution method by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum microbicidal concentration (MMC). The effects of the extracts on the bacterial cell membrane and microbial respiratory chain dehydrogenase enzyme activity were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and gallic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity (GAEAC) assays., Results: Chrysophanol (1), physcion (2), Ergosta-6,22-diene-3,5,8-triol (3), emodin (4), 6-hydroxyemodin (citreorosein) (5), chrysophanein (6) and physcionin (7) were isolated from EtOAc fraction of R. abyssinicus and displayed different degrees of antimicrobial activities (MIC = 8-256 μg/mL). The MeOH extract and compounds 2 and 4 exhibited synergistic effects with ciprofloxacin and fluconazole. Compounds 1, 2 and the combined mixture of 6 + 7 displayed the highest antioxidant activity (GAEAC = 83.38-106.03 μg/mL)., Conclusion: R. abyssinicus is a potential source of antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant agents. The antibacterial mechanisms of action of the MeOH extract and compound 2 are due to disruption of the cytoplasmic membrane and inhibition of the microbial respiratory chain dehydrogenase enzyme activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of test samples and ciprofloxacin / fluconazole association against MDR strains. The observed activity of the isolated compounds against bacteria and fungi including MDR strains deserves further exploration.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Nectandra angustifolia belongs to the Lauraceae family and it is widely known in phytomedicine by local inhabitants of South America against various maladies. It is popularly used for the treatment of different types of inflammatory processes, like rheumatism, arthritis and its associated pain., Aim of the Study: To characterize the phytochemicals in an ethanolic extract of Nectandra angustifolia and to evaluate the total antioxidant content and its anti-inflammatory effect with multiparametric analyses through in vitro assays and an in vivo model., Methods: Leaves and stems of Nectandra angustifolia were air-dried and an ethanolic extract (NaE) was further obtained. Total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin content were determined and the antioxidant activity was addressed by DPPH and FRAP assays. NaE was first analyzed by HPLC and then two tests were carried out as screening assays for anti-inflammatory activities: red blood cell membrane stabilization and protein denaturation. The non-cytotoxic concentration of NaE was determined for in vitro biological assays using RAW 264.7 (murine macrophages) cell cultures through cell counting with Trypan-blue and XTT assay. Subsequently, the cell cycle of RAW 264.7 cells exposed for 24 h to NaE was analyzed. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory capacity of NaE was evaluated by RT-qPCR of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, NF-κB translocation was observed by confocal microscopy at different times. Finally, formalin-induced mice paw inflammation was used as an in vivo model., Results: The chromatographic profile of NaE showed peaks compatible with flavonoids content. NaE exhibited better membrane stabilization effect on HRBC and protection of BSA denaturation than the standard drug (diclofenac). NaE diminished mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines when added 1-h prior LPS stimulation. Moreover, NaE prevented the translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus and in formalin-induced mice paw inflammation, reduced the edema and the stimulus of inflammatory phase., Conclusion: This study shows for the first time, that Nectandra angustifolia ethanolic extract has a high content of flavonoids and that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biological properties as demonstrated by multiparametric analyses from in vitro assays and an in vivo model of inflammation., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Trianthema triquetra Rottl. ex Willed is being used as a herbal remedy for various diseases in India and Pakistan. Still, no scientific data is available about therapeutic potential and phytochemistry of the plant. The aim of the current investigation is to perform GC-MS analysis, antioxidant (total phenolic and flavonoid content, DPPH assay), antimicrobial (disc diffusion assay) and cytotoxic (XTT and RBC's cellular membrane protection assay) studies. Methanolic extract and its fractions (n-hexane, ethyl-acetate, chloroform, n-butanol and water) were investigated for in vitro studies. Results showed that n-butanol fraction exhibited a significant (p<0.05) antioxidant potential (IC50=63.35±0.13 μg/mL) and also possess highest phenolic content (177±4.36 mg/g GAE). Whereas, n-hexane fraction showed highest flavonoid content (14.67±1.53 mg/g QE). 2, 4-Ditert-butyl-6-nitrophenol (26.79%) and Squalene (25.64%) were detected as major components through GC-MS analysis of chloroform fraction, eluted from column chromatography. Moreover, chloroform fraction also exhibited antimicrobial potential. Significant (p<0.05) dose dependent inhibition response on cell growth against CCRF-CEM cell lines was exhibited by methanolic extract. Furthermore, hemolytic potential of methanolic extract was found to be in safe range (2.23%-6.37%). So, it can be inferred that Trianthema triquetra can be exploited as an alternative remedy for cancer, oxidative stress related disorders and various skin diseases.

Objective: To determine the phytochemical composition of Byrsonima gardneriana (A. Juss) leaf extract (BGE) and its antifungal activity against Candida spp., antioxidant potential and in vitro cytotoxicity., Material and Methods: BGE was obtained and submitted to Gas Chromatography Coupled to Mass Spectrometry for phytochemical analysis. The ethanolic extract was tested for its antifungal activity against C. albicans and non-albicans reference strains and clinical isolates in addition to inhibition of C. albicans growth kinetics. It was also tested for antioxidant potential in the presence of phenylhydrazine and reactive oxygen species (ROS). And cytoxicity in human erythrocytes. The data were analyzed by one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's or Dunnett's post-hoc test, with α = 0.05., Results: Pyroglutamic acid (90.77 %), eucalyptol (89.61 %) and octanoic acid (76.22 %) were the major compounds detected in BGE, P (%) is the percent probability of compound identification, according to the mass spectra library. The extract showed fungistatic activity, with MIC of 125 μg/mL against most tested strains. While BGE showed low hemolytic activity on all blood types tested herein, it could not prevent osmotic stress in human erythrocytes. The extract did not have oxidizing effects in the presence of phenylhydrazine, but it showed antioxidant potential against ROS when tested at 31 μg/mL and 62 μg/mL., Conclusion: B. gardneriana extract showed antifungal activity against Candida spp., demonstrated low hemolytic potential, no oxidant activity in human erythrocytes and antioxidant activity against ROS. This study opens avenues for the study of BGE as a promising biocompatible antifungal agent., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Marine algae are a promising source of potent bioactive agents against oxidative stress, diabetes, and inflammation. However, the possible therapeutic effects of many algal metabolites have not been exploited yet. In this regard, we explored the therapeutic potential of Enteromorpha intestinalis extracts obtained from methanol, ethanol, and hexane, in contrasting oxidative stress. The total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) content were quantified in all extracts, with ethanol yielding the best values (about 60 and 625 mg of gallic acid and rutin equivalents per gram of extract, respectively). Their antioxidant potential was also assessed through DPPH • , hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anion scavenging assays, showing a concentration-dependent activity which was greater in the extracts from protic and more polar solvents. The α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities were estimated for checking the antidiabetic capacity, with IC 50 values of about 3.8 µg/mL for the methanolic extract, almost as low as those obtained with acarbose (about 2.8 and 3.3 µg/mL, respectively). The same extract also showed remarkable anti-inflammatory effect, as determined by hemolysis, protein denaturation, proteinase and lipoxygenase activity assays, with respectable IC 50 values (about 11, 4, 6, and 5 µg/mL, respectively), also in comparison to commercially used drugs, such as acetylsalicylic acid.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Verbesina macrophylla (Cass.) S.F.Blake is a medicinal plant from South America, popularly known as "asa de peixe", "asa de peixe branco", "cambará branco" or "cambará guaçu", being used by traditional communities for its healing powers in the form of teas, infusions, liqueurs and extracts, for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections of the urinary and respiratory tracts, such as kidney problems, bronchitis, inflammation and fever. However, none of the ethnopharmacological properties has been scientifically evaluated., Aim of the Study: Based on the ethnopharmacological use of the species, this study investigated the chemical composition, and for the first time acute toxicity, hemolytic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of the essential oil from leaves of V. macrophylla., Material and Methods: The essential oil was obtained from the leaves by hydrodistillation (HD), being characterized by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detection (GC-FID). The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the broth microdilution technique in bacteria and fungi that cause infections of the respiratory and urinary tract, and toxicological safety regarding hemolytic activity on human red blood cells (hRBCs), and acute toxicity in mice. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by the model carrageenan-induced peritonitis with quantification of the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the intraperitoneal fluid, and ear edema induced by croton oil. The antipyretic activity evaluated in mice with pyrexia induced by yeast., Results: The extraction of essential oil by hydrodistillation (HD) showed a yield of 0.33 ± 0.04%, with its composition constituted mainly by sesquiterpenes of hydrocarbons (94.00%). The essential oil demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal activity, with a low rate of hemolysis in human red blood cells (hRBCs) and no clinical signs of toxicity were observed in animals after acute treatment, which suggested that the LD 50 is greater than 5000 mg/kg; p.o. The essential oil demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α (38.83%, 72.42% and 73.52%) and IL-1β (37.70%, 75.92% and 87.71%), and ear edema by 49.53%, 85.04% and 94.39% at concentrations of 4, 40 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. The antipyretic activity presented by the essential oil is statistically similar to dipyrone., Conclusion: The set of results obtained, validates the main activities attributed to the traditional use of Verbesina macrophylla (Cass.) S.F.Blake. These data add industrial value to the species, considering that the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities present results similar to the drugs already used also presenting safety. The results suggest that essential oil from V. macrophylla may be used by industry for the development of drugs with natural antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effect., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: The species Euphorbia umbellata (leitosinha) has been traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases and cancer., Aim of the Study: Evaluation the effect of E. umbellata latex extracts obtained with hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol on the activation of the complement pathways and neutrophil chemotaxis., Materials and Methods: The latex was partitioned using Soxhlet apparatus and hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol as solvents. The classical and alternative pathway activity were performed by hemolytic assays with sensitized sheep or rabbit erythrocytes, respectively; the lectin pathway activity was quantified by ELISA, through the measurement of C4 molecules and the chemotaxis of human neutrophils was performed using 1% casein as the chemotactic inducer and Boyden's chamber. GC-Q-ToF and NMR analyses were applied to evaluate the chemical composition of E. umbellata latex extracts., Results: All E. umbellata latex extracts exhibited an inhibitory effect on the activation of the alternative pathway. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts inhibited the classical pathway while chloroform extract activated this pathway. Ethyl acetate and hexane extracts inhibited lectin activation. All E. umbellata extracts inhibited casein-induced neutrophil chemotaxis. Terpenes and phenolic compounds have been suggested to be present in the E. umbellta latex extracts., Conclusion: The E. umbellata latex was able to modulate the functions of the immune system. Thus, it is possible to infer that the terpenes and phenolic compounds of the phytocomplex of E. umbellata latex can contribute for the activity on the complement pathways., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The current study was carried out to estimate the protective effect of methanolic extract of Chaetomorpha gracilis (MECG) against High Cholesterol Diet (HCD) induced erythrocyte damage in mice. The results of the in vitro assay showed that MECG have higher antioxidant capacities in the DPPH, TAC, ABTS, NBT, NO . inhibition assays. The HPLC analysis confirmed that this potential antioxidant seems to be due to the active compounds, in particular polyphenols, flavonoids. HCD promoted oxidative stress with a rise the level of malonaldehyde (MDA), advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP) levels and a significant decrease of the Vitamin C content, as well the antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. In addition, HCD treatment caused significant lipid profile disorders via increase the cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL levels and reduction HDL-Ch level. A statistically significant decrease of Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ ATPase activities accompanied with a severe damage in the erythrocytes structure and hematological parameters alterations were also noted in hypercholesterolemic mice. Pre-treatment with MECG significantly restored biochemical markers and pathological lesions. It can be suggest that supplementation of MECG displays high potential to quench free radicals and attenuates high cholesterol diet induced erythrocytes oxidative stress and related damages.

Strongyloidiasis is a parasitosis that represents a public health problem, in tropical regions. The present study aimed to investigate the anthelmintic effects of several extracts of Argemone mexicana, as well as its main component berberine (Ber) against the third-stage larvae (L3) of Strongyloides venezuelensis in-vitro experiments. Also, the anti-hemolytic activity of the extract, fractions, and Ber were tested in human erythrocytes. A dose-response anthelminthic bioassay demonstrated Ber as the most effective component, followed by methanolic subfraction (Fr3) and finally the crude extract of A. mexicana (Am) showing LC 50 response values of 1.6, 19.5, and 92.1 μg/mL, at 96 h respectively. Also, Am, Fr3, and Ber did not produce significant hemolysis against human erythrocytes (p ≤ 0.05). Am and Fr3 showed erythrocyte protection effect capacity at the membrane level (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, Ber was found to have an antioxidant activity of 168.18 μg/mL. According to the results, the Fr3 of A. mexicana, and particularly Ber, exhibited potent in-vitro effects against L3 of S. venezuelensis, without hemolytic activity against human erythrocytes and presented good antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, the extracts of A. mexicana and the main component have activity against S. venezuelensis, nevertheless, further studies are required to elucidate the mechanism of action., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Context: Schumanniophyton magnificum Harms (Rubiaceae) is used traditionally in Nigeria for the treatment of snake bites. Snake venom contains phospholipase A 2 (PLA 2 ) which plays a key role in causing inflammation and pain., Objective: To assess the anti-inflammatory effect of the methanol extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum (MESM) leaves through the inhibition of PLA 2 and investigate the compounds responsible for the effect., Materials and Methods: PLA 2 -inhibitory activity of MESM was assessed at concentrations of 0.1-0.8 mg/mL using human red blood cells as substrate. Prednisolone was used as the standard control. MESM was subsequently partitioned using n -hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and aqueous-methanol (90:10 v/v), after which PLA 2 -inhibitory activity of the partitions was determined. The best partition was subjected to chromatographic techniques and the fractions obtained were assessed for PLA 2 inhibition at 0.4 mg/mL. Compounds in the most active fraction were determined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy ( FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)., Results: MESM significantly inhibited PLA 2 activity at 0.8 mg/mL (44.253%) compared to prednisolone (35.207%). n -Hexane partition (SMP1) proved more active with inhibition of 55.870% observed at 0.1 mg/mL. Fraction 1 (SMF1) showed the highest PLA 2 -inhibitory activity of 58.117%. FTIR studies revealed the presence of some functional groups in SMF1, and GC-MS confirmed the presence of 9 compounds which are first reported in this plant. Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester was identified as the major compound (24.906%)., Discussion and Conclusions: The PLA 2 -inhibitory activity of MESM suggests that its compounds may be explored further in monitoring anti-inflammatory genes affected by the venoms.

Pterospartum tridentatum is an edible endemic plant common in Portugal. Its flowers are used in culinary and are part of the popular medicine owing to its therapeutic properties. In this study, P. tridentatum flower infusion and hydroethanolic extracts were characterized concerning their phenolic composition and biological potential. By high-performance liquid chromatography method coupled to a diode array detector analysis were detected 13 phenolics. Genistein was the major one. Concerning the biological potential, the hydroethanolic extract was the most active against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl ● and also as α-glucosidase inhibitor, while the infusion proved to be a remarkable free radical scavenger. Concerning human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells, it was observed that both extracts displayed dose-dependent cytotoxicity on the viability of Caco-2 cells, presenting cytotoxic selectivity for these cancer cells when compared to the NHDF normal cell line. Additionally, they also showed protective effects against oxidative stress induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide on Caco-2 cells. The obtained results suggest that these extracts may be interesting to enrich nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and food industries; however, more studies need to be done for their inclusion in pharmaceutical preparations and/or food additives. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Pterospartum tridentatum is an endemic plant commonly used in folk medicine due to its depurative and hypoglycaemic properties. For this reason, we decided to determine the phenolic content of infusion and hydroethanolic extracts of P. tridentatum and their biological potential. The obtained results proved that P. tridentatum extracts are a rich source of bioactive compounds and possess great antioxidant and antidiabetic activities, ability to protect human erythrocytes against oxidative damage, inhibiting hemolysis, hemoglobin oxidation, and lipid peroxidation, and to interfere with Caco-2 cells growth and to protect these cells when subject to tert-butyl hydroperoxide oxidative stress conditions., (© 2020 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Cissampelos pareira is used traditionally in India as a remedy for the treatment of various diseases including malaria but the active ingredients responsible for antiplasmodial activity have not yet been investigated., Aim of the Study: The identification and quantification of compounds responsible for antiplasmodial activity in different parts (leaf, stem and root) of C. pareira is the target of current study., Material and Methods: The hydro ethanolic parent extracts of different parts of C. pareira and fractions prepared from these extracts were evaluated against Pf3D7 (chloroquine sensitive) and PfINDO (chloroquine resistance) strains in culture to quantify the IC 50 for extracts and fractions. Promising fractions of root part of plant were subjected to silica gel column chromatography to obtain pure compounds and their structures were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic analysis. Pure compounds were also tested against Pf3D7 and PfINDO strains. A rapid and simple UPLC-DAD method was developed for the identification and quantification of pharmaceutically important metabolites of C. pareira., Results: Among different extracts, the hydro ethanolic extract of root part of C. pareira was found most active with IC 50 values (μg/ml) of 1.42 and 1.15 against Pf 3D7 and Pf INDO, respectively. Tested against Pf 3D7 the most potent fractions were root ethyl acetate fraction (IC 50 4.0 μg/ml), stem water fraction (IC 50 4.4 μg/ml), and root water fraction (IC 50 8.5 μg/ml). Further, phytochemical investigation of active fractions of root part led to the isolation and characterization of a new isoquinoline alkaloid, namely pareirarine (8), along with five known compounds magnoflorine (5), magnocurarine (10), salutaridine (11), cissamine (13) and hayatinine (15). Hayatinine (15), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, isolated from root ethyl acetate fraction was most promising compound with IC 50 of 0.41 μM (Pf INDO) and 0.509 μM (Pf 3D7). Magnocurarine (10) and cissamine (13) were also found active with IC 50 values of 12.51 and 47.34 μM against Pf INDO and 12.54 and 8.76 μM against Pf 3D7, respectively. A total of thirty compounds were detected in studied extracts and fractions, structures were assigned to 15 of these and five of these biologically important compounds were quantified. Isolation of saluteridine (11) from C. pareira and the evaluation of antiplasmodial activity of pure compound from C. pariera is disclosed for the first time., Conclusion: This study concludes that the antimalarial potential of C. pareira may be attributed to isoquinoline type alkaloids present in this plant and also provides the scientific evidence for the traditional use of this plant in treatment of malaria., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Pani heloch ( Antidesma montanum ) is traditionally used to treat innumerable diseases and is a source of wild vegetables for the management of different pathological conditions. The present study explored the qualitative phytochemicals; quantitative phenol and flavonoid contents; in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and thrombolytic effects; and in vivo antipyretic and analgesic properties of the methanol extract of A. montanum leaves in different experimental models. The extract exhibited secondary metabolites including alkaloids, flavonoids, flavanols, phytosterols, cholesterols, phenols, terpenoids, glycosides, fixed oils, emodines, coumarins, resins, and tannins. Besides, Pani heloch showed strong antioxidant activity (IC 50 = 99.00 µg/mL), while a moderate percentage of clot lysis (31.56%) in human blood and significant anti-inflammatory activity ( p < 0.001) was achieved with the standard. Moreover, the analgesic and antipyretic properties appeared to trigger a significant response ( p < 0.001) relative to in the control group. Besides, an in silico study of carpusin revealed favorable protein-binding affinities. Furthermore, the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity analysis and toxicological properties of all isolated compounds adopted Lipinski's rule of five for drug-like potential and level of toxicity. Our research unveiled that the methanol extract of A. montanum leaves exhibited secondary metabolites that are a good source for managing inflammation, pyrexia, pain, and cellular toxicity. Computational approaches and further studies are required to identify the possible mechanism which responsible for the biological effects.

Ankaferd hemostat (ABS; Ankaferd Blood Stopper®, İstanbul, Turkey) is a hemostatic agent having an impact on red blood cell– fibrinogen interactions. The hemostatic effect of ABS depends upon the quick promotion of a protein network, particularly fibrinogen gamma, in relation to the erythrocyte aggregation. The entire physiological process involves ABS-induced formation of the protein network by vital erythrocyte aggregation. Vital erythrocyte aggregation occurs with the spectrine, ankyrin, and actin proteins on the membrane of the red blood cells. ABS notably affects cell metabolism and cell cycle mechanisms. Meanwhile, ABS has antiproliferative effects on cancer cells. The aim of this review is to assess molecular basis of ABS as a hemostatic drug. The literature search on ABS was performed in PubMed, Web of Science (SCI expanded), and Scopus with particular focus on the studies of molecular basis of ABS, in vivo research, case series, and controlled randomized clinical studies. Current perspective for the utilization of ABS is to provide hemostasis with accelerating wound healing. Future controlled trials are needed to elucidate the pleiotropic clinical effects of ABS such as antineoplastic, antiinflammatory, antiinfective, antifungal, and antioxidative effects., Competing Interests: The authors of this paper have no conflict of interests, including specific financial interests, relationships, and/ or affiliations relevant to the subject matter or materials included., (This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.)

Metal nanoparticles (AgNPs and ZnONPs) were synthesized using a green methodology with the green leaves extract of the Bedu ( Ficus palmata ) tree as a reducing agent and the support of natural fibers. The synthesized AgNPs and ZnONPs were characterized by several techniques, including ultraviolet-visible spectral analysis, powder X-ray diffraction crystal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, EDAX, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, which confirmed that the synthesized particles are in the nano range (1-100 nm), i.e., 30 nm for AgNPs with polydispersity and a spherical shape, whereas the average size of synthesized ZnONPs is 34 nm and they seem to exhibit a distorted spherical shape. The results of thermogravimetric analysis confirmed a weight loss of 18.02% for AgNPs under exothermic conditions due to the desorption of water, and ZnONPs show weight loss between 265 and 500 °C. Both synthesized MNPs are highly thermally stable. Anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic studies of metal NPs have been evaluated. The AgNPs and ZnONPs of F. palmata leaves showed remarkably highly potent activity for respective strains. In vitro anti-diabetic activity was found for inhibition of α-amylases and α-glucosidases by synthesized silver nanoparticles.

The discovery and development of multistage antimalarial drugs targeting intra-erythrocytic asexual and sexual Plasmodium falciparum parasites is of utmost importance to achieve the ambitious goal of malaria elimination. Here, we report the validation of naphthylisoquinoline (NIQ) alkaloids and their synthetic analogues as multistage active antimalarial drug candidates. A total of 30 compounds were tested, of which 17 exhibited IC 50 values <1 μM against drug-sensitive P. falciparum parasites (NF54 strain); 15 of these retained activity against a panel of drug-resistant strains. These compounds showed low in vitro cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells, with selectivity indices of >10. The tested compounds showed activity in vitro against both early- and late-stage P. falciparum gametocytes while blocking male gamete formation (>70% inhibition of exflagellation at 2 μM). Additionally, five selected compounds were found to have good solubility (≥170 μM in PBS at pH 6.5), while metabolic stability towards human, mouse, and rat microsomes ranged from >90% to >7% after 30 min. Dioncophylline C (2a) emerged as a front runner from the study, displaying activity against both asexual parasites and gametocytes, a lack of cross-resistance to chloroquine, good solubility, and microsomal stability. Overall, this is the first report on the multistage activity of NIQs and their synthetic analogues including gametocytocidal and gametocidal effects induced by this class of compounds., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

The key purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the thrombolytic, antioxidant, membrane stabilizing and antimicrobial potentials of crude ethanol extracts (CEE) of whole plant, organic and aqueous soluble fractions (OF & AQSF). CEE showed the highest (44.63%) clot lysis activity compared to streptokinase (64.35%). In DPPH study, petroleum ether soluble fraction (PSF) has exhibited IC50 of 18.83 μg/mL while the standard ascorbic acid was 2.48 µg/mL. AQSF profoundly inhibited the lysis of erythrocytes (66.20%) which was insignificantly different (p > 0.05) to acetylsalicylic acid (71.98%), the reference. However, AQSF showed a significantly stronger level of protection against heat-induced hemolysis (64.80%) as compared with the acetylsalicylic acid (78.90%). CEE, OF and AQSF have displayed reasonable growth of inhibition of tested bacteria compared to negative control and standard drug (77.50 mg of GAE/g).

Natural and synthetic dyes are widely used in foodstuff, medicines and cosmetics industries to enhance and/or restore the color of the final products. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of oral consumption of one carotenoids and anacardic acids-enriched extract (CAE), obtained by green extraction from cashew apple residue fibers, a byproduct of the cashew juice industry. Presenting intense yellow color, CAE could be proposed as a new natural dye. Single and repeated-dose oral toxicity (30 days) were evaluated in female Swiss mice at doses ranging from 50 to 1000 mg/kg, while (anti)mutagenic effects were evaluated in CHO-K1 cells (in vitro Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus assay - CBMN) and in erythrocytes collected from murine bone marrow (in vivo). CAE did not induce toxic or mutagenic effects in female mice even after 30 days of treatment, regardless of the dose used. Considering cyclophosphamide (CPA)-challenged animals treated with CAE, neither antimutagenic effect was observed nor CAE increased CPA-mutagenic effects although in vitro CBMN results indicated that CAE might increase methyl methanesulfonate-induced micronuclei (MN) frequency besides promoting reduction on CPA-induced MN frequency. The obtained results suggest that CAE may be a safe source of carotenoids with potential use as industrial dye., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

: To understand the RBC protecting efficiency and antiplatelet activity of methanolic extract of Caesalpinia crista coat (MECCC). RBC-protecting activity of MECCC was evaluated using assays, such as DPPH, level of lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl content, superoxide dismutase and catalase as a marker of oxidative stress whereas, platelet aggregation inhibition was performed using human platelet-rich plasma (PRP). MECCC showed about 76% of DPPH-scavenging activity, with an IC50 value of 71.89 μg/ml. The MECCC reduced the level of lipid peroxidation and protein carboxylation in RBC caused by NaNO2 in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, MECCC normalized the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in oxidative stress-induced RBC in a dose-dependent manner. This suggested the protective effect of MECCC on RBC against oxidative stress. Furthermore, MECCC also exhibited mild antiplatelet activity by inhibiting both ADP and epinephrine agonists that induced platelet aggregation. The noticed inhibition percentage was found to be 28 and 23%, respectively at the concentration of 150 μg. Interestingly, MECCC did not hydrolyse the RBC suggesting its nontoxic properties. MECCC possesses protective effect of RBC against NaNO2 (10 mmol/l) induce oxidative stress and inhibits platelet aggregation.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: A preparation of Benja Amarit (BJA) has been effectively used in folk medicine to treat diseases related to the liver and colon and forms of cancer for hundreds of years in Thailand. However, there has not been any research on BJA with regard to its anticancer activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma and colon cancer cells., Aim of the Study: This study was to obtain the scientific supports for the traditional usage in anticancer potential of BJA extracts on hepatocellular carcinoma and colon cancer., Materials and Methods: The cytotoxic effects were determined using MTT assay. Apoptosis was quantitated by annexin V-FITC/PI staining. Caspases activities were measured by using specific substrates and colorimetric analysis. The protein expressions were determined by Western blot analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, and calcium ion levels were measured by specific fluorescence probes and flow cytometry. The chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane model has been used to study the in vivo anticancer activity. The phytochemical identification was performed by GC-MS and LC-MS., Results: Notably, 95% (BJA-95) and 50% (BJA-50) ethanolic extract of BJA inhibited hepatocellular carcinoma and colon cancer cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. While, the water extract of BJA (BJA-W) was not found to be toxic to both kinds of cancer cell lines. BJA extract induced both the extrinsic and intrinsic or mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathways. Moreover, BJA-95 caused ROS generation and endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis. The extract exhibited the growth inhibitory effects on cancer cells in vivo. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the major active compounds were piperine, xanthotoxol and dihydrogambogic acid., Conclusion: This study is the first to demonstrate anticancer efficiency of BJA extracts on human cancer cells. We consider BJA extract to be a potentially alternative cancer treatment and to be a promising candidate in the future development of antitumor agents., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest We confirm that there are no known conflicts of interest related to this publication and there has been no financial support that could have influenced its outcome., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Clerodendrum cyrtophyllum Turcz, a plant belonging to the Verbenaceae family, has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases in many Asian countries., Aim of the Study: The study aimed to evaluate anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanol extract from Clerodendrum cyrthophyllum Turcz leaves (EE-CC) through in vitro and in vivo models., Material and Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the extract were determined using colorimetric methods and HPTLC. In red blood cell membrane stabilization model, rat erythrocyte suspension was treated with crude ethanol extract at different concentrations, the hemoglobin content of the supernatant solution released by red blood hemolysis was estimated. We also evaluated the effects of the ethanol extract from this plant on the production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In order to elucidate its anti-inflammatory molecular mechanisms, we further evaluated the effects of the EE-CC on the expression of the inflammatory genes in inflammation-induced zebrafish model by tail-cutting using qPCR analysis., Results: Colorimetric methods and HPTLC revealed high phenolic and flavonoid contents in the extract. In the red blood cell membrane stabilization model, the amount of hemoglobin released by red blood hemolysis significantly decreased in the presence of EE-CC, demonstrating a strong membrane stabilizing activity. EE-CC did not cause any toxic effect on cell viability but strongly inhibited NO and TNF-ɑ release due to LPS induction. The association with EE-CC significantly reduced the expression of cox-2, pla2, c3a, il-1(il1fma), il-8 (cxcl8b.1), tnf-α, and nf-ƙb, while increased the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine il-10 gene in cut-tail induced inflammation of zebrafish model., Conclusions: Taken together, the results suggest that the raw ethanol extract from C. cyrtophyllum Turcz leaves presents potent anti-inflammatory activities and may be useful for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Sub - Saharan Africa has a high malaria burden and Nigeria accounts for majority of malaria cases worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate selected plants extracts used against malaria in Nigeria for antiplasmodial activity., Materials and Methods: An ethnomedicinal based - approach by literature survey was used to identify plants used in the study. The parts of the plant used were collected and extracted with 70% v/v ethanol; a portion of each extract was used to prepare successive solvent and residual fractions. Chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) P. falciparum strain and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293) were used for antiplasmodial and cytotoxicity screening respectively. Hemolysis assay was also carried out on red blood cells (RBCs). Test for in vivo efficacy of an active extract was conducted in a mouse model of established P. berghei ANKA-infection., Results: A total of six plants; Andropogon schirensis, Celtis durandii, Chasmanthera dependens, Daniellia ogea, Icacina trichantha and Triumfetta cordifolia were selected and screened. Triumfetta cordifolia leaf extract was observed to display moderate in vitro antiplasmodial activity (IC 50  = 48.09 μg/ml) and was non-toxic to HEK293 cells and erythrocytes. At a dose of 400 mg/kg, T. cordifolia significantly (p<0.001) suppressed parasitemia, significantly (p<0.001) inhibited RBC depletion and prolonged survival in infected mice., Conclusions: T. cordifolia ethanol extract possesses antiplasmodial efficacy and this is the first report of its kind on the plant. It is a potential candidate for further studies to identify its mechanism of action., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Authors declare nil., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Alibertia edulis (L.C. Rich.) A.C. Rich is a vegetable species used in Brazilian folk medicine due to it is putative hypoglycemiant effect but has never been pharmacologically investigated. It is popularly used for the control of diabetes, especially in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Following confirmation of the antioxidant activity of A. edulis by Aquino et al. (2017), the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of leaves of A. edulis aqueous extract (AEAE) on some biochemical parameters in mice fed a high-fat fed., Material and Methods: Leaves of A. edulis were air-dried in an oven at 40 °C for 10 days and ground into a fine powder by mechanical milling. The AEAE was prepared by decoction (1:10 w/v) at 97 °C for 15 min, and later filtered and lyophilized. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of the AEAE has been already indetified the presence of caffeic acid, quercetin 3-rhamnosyl-(1 → 6)-galactoside and iridois ioxide, ferulic acid and rutin in decocted leaves (Aquino et al., 2017). In one experiment, the acute oral toxicity AEAE was evaluated at 2,000 mg/kg of body weight. The animals were observed periodically for 14 days. In second experiment, the animals were divided into four groups (n = 5): Control, AEAE 200, AEAE 400 mg/kg and positive control (Metformin 100 mg/kg). In a third experiment, animals were divided into: Control RC (standard diet) (n = 24) and Control HFF (high-fat fed) (n = 24) groups for induction of glucose intolerance. After eight weeks, they were further subdivided into six groups (n = 8 each) RC or HFF with or without AEAE at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg (2-wk) treatments to assess glucose tolerance. Plasma indicators of glucose tolerance and liver damage, skeletal muscle expression of antioxidant enzymes, and expression of the antioxidant proteins of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and phosphorylated IKK were determined., Results: The HF-fed animals developed glucose intolerance which the AEAE failed to revert. Meanwhile, the AEAE treatment did lower the glucose levels in the normolipidic cohorts by virtue of its antioxidant property. It was also observed that the treatment with the AEAE reduced food intake negatively interfering weight accretion. Beyond that, the treatment with AEAE interfered in the SOD and catalase expression and inhibited phosphorylation of IKK thus suggesting that the observed hypoglycemiant power may be related to its known antioxidant potential. No sings of toxicity or hemolysis were detectaed at indicating that, at the concentrations evaluated, the extract was not toxic to normal cells., Conclusion: The AEAE showed a hypoglycemiant effect in the normolipidic mice that received the control diet, but not in those that were made glucose-intolerant by consuming a high-fat fed. The extract also exhibited substantial protection against hemolysis and oxidative stress. Moreover, no signs of toxicity were evident at 2000 mg/kg of body weight., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This study is planned to synthesise new biocompatible, nano antimicrobial formulation against biofilm producing strains. Aqueous root extract of Arctium lappa l. was used to synthesise ceria nanoparticles (CeO 2 -NPs). The synthesised nanoparticles were encapsulated with nano-chitosan by sol-gel method and characterised using standard techniques. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometer of Arctium lappa l. revealed the presence of ethanol, acetone, 1- propanol, 2-methylethane, 1,1-di-ethoxy, 1-Butanol, and oleic acid acted as reducing and surface stabilising agents for tailoring morphology of CeO 2 -NPs. Erythrocyte integrity after treatment with synthesised nanomaterials was evaluated by spectrophotometer measurement of haemoglobin release having biocompatibility. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of mono dispersed beads shaped particles with mean particle size of 26.2 nm. X-ray diffractometry revealed cubic crystalline structure having size of 28.0 nm. After encapsulation by nano-chitosan, the size of CeO 2 -NPs enhances to 48.8 nm making average coverage of about 22.6 nm. The synthesised nanomaterials were found effective to disrupt biofilm of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa . Interestingly, encapsulated CeO 2 -NPs revealed powerful antibacterial and biofilm disruption activity examined by fluorescent live/dead staining using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The superior antibacterial activities exposed by encapsulated CeO 2 -NPs lead to the conclusion that they could be useful for controlling biofilm producing multidrug resistance pathogens.

Envenomation by snakes is a worldwide health public issue, and antivenoms are less efficient in neutralizing local toxic effects. Thus, more efficient therapies to treat patients deserve attention, and plants have been extensively tested. So, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the aqueous fraction of the plant Schwartzia brasiliensis to inhibit some toxic activities of Bothrops jararaca or B. jararacussu venom. S. brasiliensis inhibited coagulant, hemolytic, proteolytic, hemorrhagic, edematogenic, and lethal activities of both venoms, regardless if plant was mixed together with venoms or injected after them as well as the route of administration (intravenous, oral or subcutaneous) of the plant. The S. brasiliensis extract showed no toxicity to mice or red blood cells. Thus, S. brasiliensis may be useful as an alternative treatment for snakebite envenomation and aid antivenom therapy to neutralize relevant toxic activities in patients bitten by Bothrops species., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.. All rights reserved.)

Erythrocytes exhibit high susceptibility to hemolysis in several pathologies due to the oxidation of cellular components. We hypothesized that annatto carotenoids improve the redox status of erythrocyte plasma membranes and promote a consequent increase in human erythrocyte resistance to hemolysis. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether food-grade annatto carotenoids can increase human erythrocyte resistance to hemolysis in vitro and ex vivo. For the in vitro experiment, erythrocytes from healthy volunteers were isolated and coincubated with bixin (BIX) or norbixin (NBIX) and 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH), glucose, or sodium nitrite (NaNO 2 ) as hemolysis inducers. In the ex vivo study, healthy volunteers consumed a capsule containing BIX or NBIX (0.05 mg/kg body weight per day) or placebo for 7 days before blood sample collection. Their erythrocytes were isolated and incubated with AAPH, glucose, or NaNO 2 . In both the ex vivo and in vitro studies, erythrocytes were subjected to osmotic fragility tests. The activity of antioxidant enzymes, and reduced glutathione and lipid peroxidation levels in erythrocytes were also evaluated ex vivo. In vitro BIX and NBIX not only reduced erythrocyte membrane fragility induced by AAPH, glucose, or NaNO 2 but also improved basal osmotic resistance in the micromole-per-liter range (P < .05). BIX and NBIX supplementation increased erythrocyte membrane resistance (P < .05), with BIX being more effective. Also, BIX and NBIX protected erythrocytes from lipid peroxidation and improved the cellular redox environment (P < .05). These results support the hypothesis that annatto carotenoids supplementation exerts antihemolytic properties by preventing the oxidative damage of human erythrocytes., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Phenyl myristate was isolated from Homalium nepalense, which is known for its therapeutic virtues in traditional medicine. However, the study of radical scavenging-capacity of phenyl myristate is limited by its relatively low abundance in medicinal plants. We have studied the isolation, structure-elucidation, and bioactivities of high-performance thin-layer chromatography validated phenyl myristate from hydroalcohol-extract of bark of H. nepalense. The chemical structure of phenyl myristate was elucidated by spectroscopic methods. The chromatography was performed on high-performance thin-layer chromatography aluminum plates coated with silica-gel 60 F 254 . Determination and quantitation of phenyl myristate were performed by densitometric-scanning at 254 nm (chloroform-methanol, 9:1, v/v; R f 0.49). The method was validated according to International Council for Harmonisation guidelines in terms of linearity, specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, precision, robustness, and stability. Linearity-range of phenyl myristate was 100-500 ng/5 µL with correlation-coefficient r 2  = 0.9997. Limits of detection and quantitation were 3.35 and 10.17 ng, respectively. Phenyl myristate showed significant free-radical-scavenging activities in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, oxygen-radical-absorbance-capacity, and ex vivo cell-based-antioxidant-protection-in-erythrocytes assays. Molecular-docking approach of phenyl myristate showed effective binding at active sites of human serum albumin (HSA) with the lowest binding energy (-8.4 kcal/mol) that was comparable with ascorbic acid (-5.0 kcal/mol). These studies provide mechanistic insight into the potential free radical scavenging activities of phenyl myristate., (© 2020 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Tea leaves of Alibertia edulis is popularly used in folk medicine. However, studies on the genotoxicity of this plant are not available. We aimed to investigate the in vivo and in vitro cytotoxic, genotoxic and mutagenic potentials of the aqueous extract of A. edulis leaves (AEAE). Antioxidant assays, the Artemia salina test, MTT in human platelets, micronucleus in bone marrow and comet in peripheral blood were performed. Animals received four different doses of the AEAE by oral gavage for 30 days. Saline and cyclophosphamide were used as controls. The AEAE exhibited a maximal inhibition at 100 and 250 µg/mL, according to the ABTS and DPPH methods, respectively. The A. salina assay showed that the AEAE presented some toxicity at doses of 100, 250 and 500 μg/mL. Through the MTT assay, the AEAE showed no toxic effects on human platelets during the incubation period. The alkaline comet assay showed that all doses of the AEAE were statistically similar to the negative control group since they did not induce any significant increase of the overall number of damaged cells nor the severity of the cell damage. In the micronucleous assay, results demonstrate that the AEAE did not increase the production of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and was statistically similar to the negative control. The four doses of the plant extract did not affect the production of new erythrocytes and were statistically similar to the negative control groups. Furthermore, the AEAE demonstrated no cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity at the doses tested in rats.

Aromatic plants have been used since antiquity as seasoning ingredients to impart unique flavours to foods, and also as folk medicines, and are currently used as a source of several compounds of interest for different industries. Lovage (Levisticum officinale W.J.D. Koch) is an aromatic plant from the Apiaceae family with a strong flavour that has long been used in culinary products, in traditional medicine and by the food industry. Despite its significance and relevance, apart from its composition in volatile compounds, there is a scarcity of information about this plant species. To the best of our knowledge, this study documents for the first time the nutritional value and composition in fatty acids, organic acids and tocopherols of the edible aerial part of lovage, evidencing a low caloric value, a predominance of polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly α-linolenic acid, oxalic acid as the most abundant organic acid and α-tocopherol as the most abundant vitamin E isoform. The essential oil was mainly characterised by the presence of monoterpenes, showing also a high abundance of phthalides. In addition, a total of 7 phenolic compounds were identified in the decoction and hydroethanolic extracts, which showed interesting antioxidant properties and bacteriostatic activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. Only the decoction showed cytotoxicity against a tumoral cell line (HepG2).

Background: The need for suitable antibacterial agents effective against Multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria is acknowledged globally. The present study was designed to evaluate the possible antibacterial potential of an extracted compound from edible flowers of Moringa oleifera., Methods: Five different solvents were used for preparing dried flower extracts. The most effective extract was subjected to fractionation and further isolation of the active compound with the highest antibacterial effect was obtained using TLC, Column Chromatography and reverse phase- HPLC. Approaches were made for characterization of the isolated compound using FTIR, NMR and Mass spectrometry. Antibacterial activity was evaluated according to the CLSI guidelines., Results: One fraction of aqueous acetic acid extract of M. oleifera flower was found highly effective and more potent than conventional antibiotics of different classes against Multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacilli (MDR-GNB) when compared. The phytochemical analysis of the isolated compound revealed the presence of hydrogen-bonded amine and hydroxyl groups attributable to unsaturated amides., Conclusion: The present study provided data indicating a potential for use of the flowers extract of M. oleifera in the fight against infections caused by lethal MDR-GNB., Recommendations: Aqueous acetic acid flower extract of M. oleifera is effective, in-vitro, against Gram-negative bacilli. This finding may open a scope in pharmaceutics for the development of new classes of antibiotics., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Background: Flavonol derivative and phenolic acids derived from the plants function as free radical scavengers, reducing agents, and quenchers for the formation of singlet oxygen. Flavonoids and phenolic constituents also play an important role in various human diseases and disorders primarily through modulation of inflammatory responses., Objective: To estimate the Flavonol Derivatives (FD) and phenolic acids (PA) in Capsicum annuum (CA) and other important phytochemicals having an anti-inflammatory effect., Methods: In the present study, FD and PA were estimated in CA and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity (pilot study) was determined and correlation was established., Results: The results were found to be significant using RP-HPLC. FD and PA were found to be 0.0659±0.0058 and 0.0862±0.0.0134 mg/gram dry weight, respectively. For in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, the inhibition of albumin denaturation and antiproteinase activity was found to be maximum in Quercetin (QE) with 98.230±1.589% and 59.906±1.529%, respectively. Heat-induced hemolysis of erythrocytes was found to be maximum in salicylic acid (SA) (71.830±2.838%). Hypotonicity-induced hemolysis showed significant activity with QE (76.770±3.475%). Lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase inhibition was found to be maximum in QE with 56.930±4.069% and 61.660±3.135%, respectively., Conclusion: A strong positive correlation of 0.9 was observed between the extract of CA and standard QE and SA against the anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, the role of FD and PA has been postulated to be an active phytochemical of CA accountable for its anti-inflammatory activity. However further work is desirable to fully elucidate the phytochemicals responsible for their anti-inflammatory activity and to develop better herbal drug formulations., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)