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Enhanced replication of rubella virus (RuV) and replicons by de novo synthesized viral structural proteins has been previously described. Such enhancement can occur by viral capsid proteins (CP) alone in trans. It is not clear whether the CP in the virus particles, i.e., the exogenous CP, modulate viral genome replication. In this study, we found that exogenous RuV CP also enhanced viral genome replication, either when used to package replicons or when mixed with RNA during transfection. We demonstrated that CP does not affect the translation efficiency from genomic (gRNA) or subgenomic RNA (sgRNA), the intracellular distribution of the non-structural proteins (NSP), or sgRNA synthesis. Significantly active RNA replication was observed in transfections supplemented with recombinant CP (rCP), which was supported by accumulated genomic negative-strand RNA. rCP was found to restore replication of a few mutants in NSP but failed to fully restore replicons known to have defects in the positive-strand RNA synthesis. By monitoring the amount of RuV RNA following transfection, we found that all RuV replicon RNAs were well-retained in the presence of rCP within 24 h of post-transfection, compared to non-RuV RNA. These results suggest that the exogenous RuV CP increases efficiency of early viral genome replication by modulating the stage(s) prior to and/or at the initiation of negative-strand RNA synthesis, possibly through a general mechanism such as protecting viral RNA.

Derangements of neuroimmune, neurotrophic and neurochemical homeostasis have important implications in psychosocial stress-induced psychopathologies. Whether quercetin, a neuroactive compound, protects against psychosocial stress-induced psychiatric disturbances particularly via neurochemical mechanisms remain less well elucidated. Therefore, we further investigated the putative neurochemical as well as other cellular mechanisms of quercetin on social-defeat stress (SDS) model of psychosocial impairments. Saline (10 mL/kg,i.p.), quercetin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg,i.p.) and ginseng (50 mg/kg,i.p.) were given to intruder mice for 14 days. From days 7-14, ten minutes of aggressive-resident-induced SDS (physical and psychological) were conducted thirty minutes after treatments. Subsequently, behavioral assessments: open-field, light/dark board, Y-maze, novel-object recognition, social-interaction and tail-suspension tests were conducted on day 14. Adrenal weight and glucose levels were measured. Monoamines, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), corticosterone, inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and executioner caspase-3 concentrations were determined in specific brain regions by ELISA. Oxidative/nitrergic stress and cholinergic markers were determined with UV-spectrophotometry. Psychosocial stress-induced anxiety, depression and cognitive defects were improved by quercetin. The decreased serotonin in the prefrontal-cortex and dopamine in the striatum, elevated levels of noradrenaline and acetylcholinesterase in the prefrontal-cortex and hippocampus with corresponding decrease in BDNF were reversed by quercetin. Quercetin reduced SDS-induced increased neuronal inflammation, caspase-3 activity, malondialdehyde, nitrite levels, but increased antioxidant activities in the three brain regions. Adrenal hypertrophy, increased serum glucose and corticosterone release were reduced by quercetin. Our findings showed that quercetin attenuates psychosocial stress-induced passive coping behavior via normalization of HPA-axis, modulation of neurochemical release, enhancement of BDNF, and inhibition of brain oxidative/nitrergic stress, neuroinflammation and apoptotic pathway., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background In this study, the hematological and antioxidant potential as well as the osmotic fragility effects of a Nigerian polyherbal formulation were evaluated. Materials and methods A total of 40 fats were divided into four groups of 10 rats each. Group 1 served as the control group, and the rest were assigned increasing daily oral administration of the extract for 28 days. At the end of treatment, blood was collected for hematological and osmotic fragility studies. The free radical scavenging effect of the extract was investigated via different in vitro models as well. Results Results showed that the nitric oxide scavenging and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activities of the extract were significant (p < 0.05) and compared favorably with that of vitamin C. At 200 and 400 μg/mL, the nitric oxide scavenging activities for Ajumbise Polyherbal Extract (APE) were 60.71 ± 0.25% and 59.49 ± 0.98%, respectively, whereas for the same concentrations of vitamin C, 74.60 ± 0.25% and 85.24 ± 0.14 scavenging activities were obtained. The (DPPH) activity at 100 μg/mL was 81.24 ± 0.02% for the extract and 96.22 ± 0.18% for vitamin C. However, at all concentrations, the extract had significantly lower Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) activity than vitamin C. Red blood cell counts (RBCC), hemoglobin and packed cell volume values (PCV) were significantly lowered only in groups treated with 400 and 800 mg/kg of the extract (p < 0.05), whereas other RBCC parameters and white blood cell counts (WBCC) were not significantly affected (p < 0.05). Platelet (PLT) count was also significantly lowered in all extract-treated groups. The extract also significantly reduced RBCC percentage hemolysis (p < 0.05). Conclusions Ajumbise polyherbal may be free of hematoxicity and may improve the integrity of the RBC membrane due to its appreciable antioxidant activity.

The gastroprotective activity of Moringa oleifera leaf extract against aspirin-induced ulcers was investigated in rats. Thirty (30) rats under starvation but with access to drinking water for 48 h were divided into 6 groups of 5 animals each. Animals in groups 1 and 2 were pretreated with 0.2 ml normal saline via the oral route. Group 3 received 32 mg/kg cimetidine while those in groups 4, 5 and 6 received oral Moringa leaf extract treatments at doses 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight respectively. Thirty minutes after treatment, all animals in groups 2 to 6 were given 800 mg/kg Aspirin to induce ulcer. Results obtained showed complete erosion of the superficial epithelium with complete loss of the mucus globules and sloughing off of immediate underlying cells and sparsely distributed intraepithelial lymphocytes in the stomach of rats in which no treatment was given and significantly differed from those of the normal control animals which were essentially intact. No significant gastroprotection was observed in rats pretreated with the lowest dose of the extract (200 mg/kg) as a high degree of intestinal mucosal lesions and complete erosion of the surface epithelium with intraepithelial haemorrhage, moderate inflammation and tissue oedema were observed. Pretreatment with 400 mg/kg, however, offered a mild degree of protection with patches of surface epithelial protection and mucus globules, even though there was still predominant disintegration and sloughing off of superficial and underlying epithelial cells. The level of protection was sufficiently increased in animals treated with 800 mg/kg Moringa extract as there was increased protection of surface epithelium with more mucus globules and compared favourably with the effect of Cimetidine in which patches of intact superficial cells were observed. Moringa leaf extract may contain active agents with gastroprotective and mucus enhancing activities and could be harnessed into safe and potent treatment agents for ulcer in addition to providing template for the development of new antiulcer agents., Competing Interests: Compliance with ethical standardsThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.All applicable international, national and/or institutional guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed. This article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors.

Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an enzyme of purine metabolism commonly associated with severe combined immunodeficiency disease and believed to modulate bioactivity of insulin. Its contributory role in patients with metabolic syndrome (having features such as obesity, insulin resistance, fasting hyperglycaemia, lipid abnormalities and hypertension) in South Eastern Nigeria was studied. Body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), Glycated haemoglobin (GHbA1c), total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol (usually impaired in metabolic syndrome) and total serum ADA activity were measured in different groups of patients with metabolic syndrome (test subjects) and apparently healthy subjects (controls). The test subjects comprised six subgroups made up of the following; obese diabetic (N=25), obese non-diabetic (N=25), Non-obese diabetic (N=25), patients with hypercholesterolaemia (N=25), LDL-cholesterolaemia (N=25) and HDL-cholesterolaemia (N=25). The results showed that the mean values of all the parameters studied (BMI, FBG, GHbA1c, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol) were higher in the test subjects than their controls. BMI did not correlate significantly with FBG, GHbA1c, and ADA in the test and control subjects respectively. The mean serum ADA activity in the test subjects of obese diabetic, obese non-diabetic and non-obese diabetic subjects was higher than in controls (p&lt; 0.001). ADA activity was also higher in the test subjects of hypercholesterolaemia, HDL-cholesterolaemia and LDL-cholesterolaemia than in control (p&lt; 0.001). ADA activity also correlated positively with hypercholesterolemia (r = 0.640; p&lt;0.001), HDL-cholesterolaemia (r = 0.646; p&lt;0.001) and LDL-cholesterolaemia (r = 0.932; p&lt;0.001), with the highest correlation in the LDL-cholesterolaemia. In conclusion, ADA activity is increased significantly in all parameters of metabolic syndrome studied and showed a significant correlation with all the three groups of dyslipidaemic subjects studied. ADA could therefore be used in daily routine laboratory assessment of most metabolic diseases especially in obese and diabetic patients.

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) is potentially harmful environmental toxicant causing cognitive decline with depressive features. PCB-induced behavioral deficits are associated with neurochemical dysfunctions, immune changes, and oxidative stress. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of D-ribose-L-cysteine (DRLC), a neuroprotective precursor element of glutathione on PCB-induced neurobehavioral impairments. Following the initial 15 days of PCB (2 mg/kg) exposure to rats, DRLC (50 mg/kg) was given orally for an additional 15 days, from days 16 to 30. Animals were assessed for behavioral effect such as changes in locomotion, cognition, and depression. Oxidative/nitrergic stress markers; antioxidant regulatory proteins paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nfr2), NADPH oxidase-1 (NOX-1), NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and neuroinflammation (NF-kβ, and TNF-α); and neurochemical metabolizing enzymes (acetylcholinesterase (AChE), monoamine oxidase-A and -B (MAO-A, MAO-B)) were carried out. The PCB-induced decline in locomotion, cognitive performance, and depressive-like features were reversed by DRLC. More specifically, PCB-induced oxidative and nitrergic stress, typified by reduced levels GSH, CAT, and SOD, accompanied by elevated MDA and nitrite were attenuated by DRLC. Additionally, DRLC restored the neuroinflammatory milieu indicated by decreased NF-kβ and TNF-α levels toward normal. Hyperactivities of AChE, MAO-A, MAO-B, PON-1, and NOX-1 levels as well as Nfr2, NQO1, and PON-1 due to PCB exposure were mitigated by DLRC. Our results suggest DRLC as a prospective neurotherapeutic agent against PCB-induced neurobehavioral impairments such as cognitive deficit and depressive-like feature through antioxidative and anti-nitrergic stress, anti-neuroinflammation, inhibition of brain metabolizing enzymes, and normalization of neurochemical homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sembung rambat (Mikania micrantha Kunth) is a weed that grows easily and may hinder cultivation of plants. However, it also has medicinal benefits. M. micrantha contains various secondary compounds such as linalool, quercetin, a-terpinene, and terpinene-4-ol, which have anti-depressant effects. To our knowledge, no studies have been conducted on the anxiolytic and anti-depressant activities of the leaves of this plant. This study determined the anxiolytic and anti-depressant activities of the ethanol extract of M.micrantha Kunth leaves. 48 male Swiss-Webster mice were assigned into four groups. All extracts, control, and Amitriptylilne groups were administered the same treatment. The forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were carried out to examine anti-depressant activity, whereas the elevated plus maze test (EPM) was used to assess anxiolytic activity. The FST and TST data showed that immobility times were significantly reduced when M. micrantha Kunth was administered at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses (p<0.001, p<0.05, p<0.012, and p<0.033, respectively), while 250 mg/kg of M. micrantha Kunth increased the time spent in the open arms against the control group, although it was slightly lower than the amitriptyline group (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the open-arm entries within the groups. M. micrantha Kunth leaves ethanol extract reduces the immobility time in FST and TST with increased entries on open arms and time spent in EPM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Nigeria, abattoir workers use scrap tires as a source of fuel to remove furs from slaughtered animals. The smoke from the tires contains particulate matter (PM), and inhalation of the PM is associated with undesirable toxic effects such as cardiopulmonary toxicity. This study investigated the toxicological effects of smoke from the burning tire in male Wistar rats. The experimental rats were assigned into five (5) groups of 5 rats in each group. Group 1 served as the normal control (not exposed to smokes from the burning tire), while groups 2–5 were exposed to 10 mg/m3 PM10 smoke from burning tire once daily for 15, 30, 60, and 120 min, respectively, for 21 days. The rats were sacrificed, and the toxicity profile was measured by evaluating the hematological and biochemical parameters along with the liver, heart, kidney, and lung histology. Our results showed that smokes from tire significantly (P < 0.05) decreased red blood cell, pack cell volume, hemoglobin, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase while white blood cell, platelet, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, urea, sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, and malondialdehyde significantly (P < 0.05) increased following a dose (time of exposure) dependent pattern. Histological sections of liver from the exposed rats showed prominent fatty change or steatosis, while lung sections had mild destruction of alveoli and high levels of alveolar hemorrhage. The results of this study showed that smokes from burning tires can induce oxidative stress as well as cause hepatotoxicity and renotoxicity in adult male rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Object: Acmella caulirhiza is a medicinal plant traditionally widely used in Cameroon for the management of several pathologies, hence the need for confirming its pharmacological properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the subacute toxicity of the aqueous extract of leaves and flowers of A. caulirhiza (AE-AC) on Wistar rats. Methods: Three groups of female rats received the aqueous extract of A. caulirhiza (AE-AC) at 100, 250, or 500 mg kg−1 Bw doses respectively while a normal group (NG) received distilled water by oral intubation at 10 mL kg−1 Bw daily for 28 days. Animals were weighed every 4 days, death and general toxicity signs were recorded. At the end, rats were fasted for 12 h and after diazepam and ketamine anaesthesia, they were sacrificed; blood was collected for blood count and biochemical analysis. The liver integrity was assessed through transaminase activities, total protein, total cholesterol, and glucose levels, and the kidney integrity through the evaluation of uric acid, and electrolytes level. Histology of some vital organs was also carried out. Results: Administration of the extract did not result in death or any observable deleterious effects in rats. No difference in body weight variation of the animals was noted. At 100 and 250 mg/kg Bw doses, AE-AC induced hepatic (through the decrease in transaminase activities and total cholesterol level) and nephroprotective effects (through the decrease in creatinine, uric acid and electrolyte levels) and no change of microarchitecture among treated rats compared to the control group. AE-AC led to an increase in the relative weight of the brain, uterus, and ovaries as well as a change in some haematological parameters compared to normal rats. Conclusion: Results indicate that AE-AC had immune-stimulatory effects on rats but could have deleterious effects at 500 mg/kg Bw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disorder is the leading cause death in the world, one of them are acute myocardial infarction (AMI) which associated with hypertension and cardiac remodeling. ISO may cause inflammation, enhance the production of oxidative stress while decrease the antioxidant defensive system, myocardium impairment, calcium overload, enhanced cyclic adenosine monophosphate level, intracellular acidosis, and altered membrane permeability. Vernonia amygdalina (VA) is a medicinal plant with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the potential cardioprotective effect of VA on ISO-induced cardiac toxicity in rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups: ISO (ISO), quercetin 100 mg/kg plus ISO (ISO+QR), VA ethanol extract 100, 300, 500 mg/kg plus ISO (ISO+VA100, ISO+VA300 and ISO+VA500). ISO was administered subcutaneously (85 mg/ kg) on days 15 while quercetin and VA extract and was given orally for 14 days. At the end of the experiment, the blood was taken from the heart were analyzed for markers of cardiac, oxidative stress and inflammation. The ISO group exhibited significant (p<0.05) elevation of cardiac biomarkers such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), troponin-T, and BNP as well as increased oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and Glutathione peroxidases (GPx). Additionally, the ISO group had elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), Highly sensitive c reactive protein (HsCRP) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Treatment with VA extract significantly (p<0.001) reduced these parameters in the VA+ISO group compared to the ISO group. These findings suggest that VA has a potential protective effect against ISO-induced cardiotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. (The graphiccal abstract can be seen in the Fig. 1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Emerging evidence indicates that persistent alcohol consumption escalates psychosocial trauma achieved by social defeat stress (SDS)-induced neurobiological changes and behavioral outcomes. Treatment with compounds with neuroprotective functions is believed to reverse ethanol (EtOH)-aggravated SDS-induced behavioral impairments., Objectives: We investigated the outcomes of diosgenin treatment, a phytosteroidal sapogenin in mice co-exposed to repeated SDS and EtOH administration., Methods: During a period of 14 days, SDS male mice were repeatedly administered EtOH (20%, 10 mL/kg) orally from days 8-14 (n = 9). Within days 1-14, SDS mice fed with EtOH were simultaneously treated with diosgenin (25 and 50 mg/kg) or fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) by oral gavage. Locomotor, cognitive-, depressive-, and anxiety-like behaviors were assessed. Adrenal weight, serum glucose, and corticosterone levels were assayed. Brain markers of oxido-inflammatory, neurochemical levels, monoamine oxidase-B, and acetylcholinesterase activities were measured in the striatum, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus., Results: The anxiety-like behavior, depression, low stress resilience, social, and spatial/non-spatial memory decline exhibited by SDS mice exposed to repeated EtOH administration were alleviated by diosgenin (25 and 50 mg/kg) and fluoxetine, illustrated by increased dopamine and serotonin concentrations and reduced monoamine oxidase-B and acetylcholinesterase activities in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum. Diosgenin attenuated SDS + EtOH interaction induced corticosterone release and adrenal hypertrophy, accompanied by reduced TNF-α, IL-6, malondialdehyde, and nitrite levels in the striatum, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. Diosgenin increased glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels in SDS + EtOH-exposed mice., Conclusions: Our data suggest that diosgenin reverses SDS + EtOH interaction-induced behavioral changes via normalization of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, neurochemical neurotransmissions, and inhibition of oxidative and inflammatory mediators in mice brains., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

This study evaluated the effects of Crude Methanol Extract of Adansonia digitata Fruit Pulp on Naja nigricollis Venom-Induce Toxicity in Wistar rats. A. digitata was extracted using 70% methanol and median lethal dose (LD50) of both the extract and venom were determined using the up-and-down method. Sixty Wistar rats were randomly assigned into 10 groups of 6 rats each and were administered with normal saline, venom only, venom + antivenom, 125 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg crude methanol extract (CME) pre-envenomation, 125 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg CME post-envenomation, and venom + antivenom + 250 mg/kg CME, respectively. Blood samples were collected 8-h post-envenomation in EDTA and plain sample bottles. Erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) test was carried out on the EDTA blood samples while serum was harvested and used for Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) assays. LD50 of the CME and venom was >5,000 mg/kg and 0.889 mg/kg, respectively. N. nigricollis-induced oxidative stress was evident in group B through increased % haemolysis, MDA and lowered SOD activities. The groups treated with antivenom only, 250 mg/kg CME post-envenomation and antivenom +250 mg/kg CME significantly (p<0.05) reduced EOF, MDA values and increased SOD. The CME revealed better ameliorative effect than protective via inhibition of EOF, MDA values and increased SOD activity. The CME when administered singly showed more ameliorative properties and the combination of CME with antivenom for protection was not as effective as when compared to single administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the successful oral delivery of peptide drugs, considerable barriers created by the harsh environment of the gastrointestinal tract, mucus, and epithelial cells must be overcome. This study was to establish a core-shell structure with chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (NP) as the core and poly-N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide (pHPMA) as the intelligent escape shell to overcome pH and mucus barriers and improve the delivery efficiency of peptide drugs. A core-shell system (COS) composed of pHPMA-AT-1002-cys-chitosan (LRA-PA-CNPs) was prepared and used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus with the large-molecule peptide drug liraglutide (LRA). The complete COS system was observed through electron microscopy; the particle size of the LRA-PA-CNPs was approximately 160 nm; the encapsulation efficiency was approximately 69% ± 5%; the zeta potential was close to neutral; the mucus and epithelial penetration of the COS system were increased; and animal experiments showed that the COS system enhanced the oral hypoglycaemic effect of LRA. Intelligent escape material of poly-N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide as the shell. Core-shell nanoparticles penetrate the mucus layer and exposing the chitosan core. Overcome pH and mucus barriers to improve the delivery efficiency of peptide drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social defeat stress (SDS) due to changes in biochemical functions has been implicated in the pathogenesis of affective and cognitive disorders. Employing pharmacological approach with adaptogens in the management and treatment of psychosocial stress is increasingly receiving scientific attention. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effect of rutin, a bioflavonoid with neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory functions on neurobehavioral and neuro-biochemical changes in mice exposed to SDS. Groups of mice named the intruder mice received normal saline (10 mL/kg), rutin (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg, i.p.), and ginseng (50 mg/kg, i.p.) daily for 14 days, and then followed by 10 min daily SDS (physical/psychological) exposures to aggressor mice from days 7-14. Investigations consisting of neurobehavioral (locomotion, memory, anxiety, and depression) phenotypes, neuro-biochemical (oxidative, nitrergic, cholinergic, and pro-inflammatory cytokines) levels in discrete brain regions, and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis consisting adrenal weight, corticosterone, and glucose concentrations were assessed. Rutin restored the neurobehavioral deficits and reduced the activity of acetylcholinesterase in the brains. Adrenal hypertrophy, increased serum glucose and corticosterone levels were significantly attenuated by rutin. SDS-induced release of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 in the striatum, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus were also suppressed by rutin in a brain-region-dependent manner. Moreover, SDS-induced oxidative stress characterized by low antioxidants (glutathione, superoxide-dismutase, catalase) and lipid peroxidation and nitrergic stress were reversed by rutin in discrete brain regions. Collectively, our data suggest that rutin possesses an adoptogenic potential in mice exposed to SDS via normalization of HPA, oxidative/nitrergic, and neuroinflammatory inhibitions. Thus, may be adopted in the management of neuropsychiatric syndrome due to psychosocial stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global incidence of erectile dysfunction is increasingly becoming a significant health concern, as its frequency demonstrates a consistent upward trajectory each year. In recent years, FDA-approved drugs like sildenafil among others has been approved to treat this disorder however the drug is not without its own side effects. In a bid to develop alternative therapeutic option, scientists have now turned to traditional medicine in search of a treatment regimen. Africa is blessed with numerous medicinal plants used in the treatment and management of several diseases including erectile dysfunction. Due to limited access to modern medicine and high-quality medical facilities, a significant number of individuals in Africa continue to depend on traditional medicine as a means of addressing critical health issues. Perhaps one of the grossly explored medicinal properties of plants in Africa is for erectile function. Through years of extensive research in medicinal plants, several plants indigenous to Africa have been identified to show profound ability to mitigate erectile dysfunction. While previous reports have indeed corroborated the ability of this plant to abate erectile dysfunction, there is still a dearth of information regarding the mechanistic aspect of these plants. Hence, the current review aims to provide a comprehensive mechanistic perspective to the major African medicinal plant which have been reported to be effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction., (© 2023 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

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

This study determined the efficacy of extract of the stem bark of Lannea coromandelica (ESBLc) on histopathology and inflammatory cell infiltration in the gastric of rats induced by mefenamic acid. We grouped 20 rats (Rattus norvegicus) into 5; Group 1 (positive control, mefenamic acid + sucralfate suspension), Group 2 (negative control, mefenamic acid), Group 3 (mefenamic acid + ESBLc 1575 mg/kg), Group 4 (mefenamic acid + ESBLc 3150 mg/kg), and Group 5 (mefenamic acid + ESBLc 3600 mg/kg). The dose of mefenamic acid used was 23.25 mg/kg, given orally for 7 days. Gastric histopathological observations were carried out qualitatively, and inflammatory cell infiltration was analyzed quantitatively by one-ay ANOVA. The qualitative and quantitative analysis results showed that ESBLc had efficacy in restoring damaged gastric tissue of rats; statistically, 3150 mg/kg and 6300 mg/kg effectively reduced inflammatory cell infiltration. ESBLc recovered the function of gastric organs of Rattus norvegicus L. induced by mefenamic acid, including improved mucosa and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the gastric. The doses of ESBLc, which effectively reduced inflammatory cell infiltrations, were 3150 mg/kg and 6300 mg/kg BW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although diet is an essential aspect of human health, the link between diet and pain is still not well understood. Preclinical animal research provides information to understand underlying mechanisms that allow identifying the needs for human research. This study aims to give a systematic overview of the current evidence from preclinical studies regarding the analgesic and pronociceptive effects of various diets in non-neuropathic, non-cancer, or non-visceral acute and chronic pain models. A systematic Review This study examined studies that investigate the analgesic and pronociceptive effects of various diets in non-neuropathic, non-cancer, or non-visceral acute and chronic pain models. This review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42019133473. The certainty of evidence was examined by a modified GRADE approach. After the screening process twenty-four eligible papers were included in this review. Nineteen studies examined acute pain, nine studies chronic inflammatory pain, and four studies assessed both acute and chronic pain models. Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies, a meta-analysis was not included in this study. In animal models, excessive saturated, monounsaturated or omega-6 polyunsaturated fat ingestion and diets rich in fats and carbohydrates can decrease pain sensitivity in acute nociceptive pain, whereas it can induce mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in chronic inflammatory pain. Additionally, diets rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients, as well as a calorie-restricted diet can promote recovery from primary mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in chronic inflammatory pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study evaluated the effect of ethanol extract of Aju Mbaise (EEAM) on sperm morphology, semen quality, sex hormonal levels, gonadosomatic index, and testicular histology of Avodart-induced rats. Material and Methods: The study had normal control, Avodart control, EEAM control, Avodart+500mg/kg EEAM, and Avodart +1000mg/kg EEAM groups. The rats were orally administered 0.5 mg/kg Avodart and 1 hour later treated with EEAM for 28 consecutive days. The Avodart control had milky white semen with low Ph, volume and semen consistency compared to the normal control and EEAM treated rats with creamy white semen with higher pH and semen consistency, respectively. Results: The results indicated a substantial decline in spermatozoa mass motility; spermatozoa live proportion, spermatozoa concentrations, normal spermatozoa proportions, animal live weight, paired testes weight, and relative testicular weight in the Avodart control compared to the normal control. The Avodart induction caused a significant reduction in the serum testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone levels compared to the normal control. Also, there was a substantial decline in spermatogenic activity and the absence of mature spermatocytes in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules in the Avodart control relative to the normal control and EEAM control. The alterations in the sperm morphology, semen quality, sex hormonal levels and gonadosomatic index were significantly reverted to normal in the EEAM treated Avodart induced rats in a dose-dependent manner compared to the Avodart control. Conclusion: These findings showed that EEAM ameliorates Avodart toxicity and improves fertility by restoring sperm quality and sex hormonal levels to normal in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sickle cell disease (SCD) treatment and management remain a challenging puzzle especially among developing Nations. Chrysin's sickling-suppressive properties in human sickle (SS) erythrocytes in addition to its effect on AA-genotype erythrocytes were evaluated. Sickling was induced (76%) with 2% sodium metabisulphite at 3 h. Chrysin prevented (81.19%) the sickling and reversed same (84.63%) with strong IC50s (0.0257 µM and 0.00275 µM, respectively). The levels of oxygenated haemoglobin in the two groups (before and after induction approaches) were similar but significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of SS erythrocytes (the 'induced' control), with chrysin-treated AA-genotype showing no effects relative to the untreated. The level of deoxygenated haemoglobin in the 'induced' control group was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those of the chrysin-treated SS erythrocytes. Normal and chrysin-untreated erythrocytes (AA-untreated) were significantly more resistant to osmotic fragility than the SS-untreated. However, treatment with chrysin significantly reduced the osmotic fragility of the cells relative to the untreated cells. Furthermore, chrysin treatment significantly lowers the high level of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) observed in the sickle erythrocytes, with no effects on AA-genotype erythrocytes. Based on functional chemistry, chrysin treatment alters the functional groups in favour of its antisickling effects judging from the observed bends and shifts. From metabolomics analysis, it was observed that chrysin treatment favors fatty acid alkyl monoesters (FAMEs) production with concomitant shutting down-effects on selenocompound metabolism. Thus, sickling-suppressive effects of chrysin could potentially be associated with modulation of oxygenated and deoxygenated haemoglobin via alteration of human sickle erythrocyte's functional chemistry and metabolic pathways implicated in SCD crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research was pointed to the protective impact of anthocyanin and betalain dye of pomegranate juice (P), beetroot juice (BR), and their mixture (PB) versus Ehrlich-ascites-carcinoma (EAC)-bearing female mice. Female mice were orally administrated with pomegranate, beetroot juices and their mixture (1 ml/ day), for sequential 15 days then, injected (i.p) by EAC. Cisplatin drug was injected two times as a comparative chemical drug. The results manifested that P BR and PB juices as anthocyanin and betalain dye sources significantly enhanced biological evaluation. Juice mixture induced significant decrement of the liver functions. Pomegranate and mixture juices have significantly decrement of undesirable blood lipids, versus increment benefit HDL and have major power to decrement of tumor cell count. Hence, the current study confirmed that these plant foods which have red dye can significantly protect the cells from EAC and improve the biochemical analysis and biological evaluation of the experimental animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally, Justicia carnae is used in treatment of anaemia. In this study, the haematoprotective effects of ethanol and aqueous leaf extracts of J. carnae were evaluated in sodium nitrate-treated male rats. Acute toxicity values, phytochemical, vitamin B12, vitamin C and iron contents of the extracts were analytically determined. Seventy (70) adult rats divided into seven groups of 10 rats each were assigned specific treatments. Group I served as the normal control, while group II was treated with the induction agent (sodium nitrate (NaNO3), 300 mg/kg body weight) only. Group III was pretreated with fesolate before NaNO3 induction, while groups IV to VII received leaf extracts in addition to induction. The daily oral treatments lasted for 28 days and at the end, the animals were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for haematological studies. Results obtained revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, terpenes, saponins, alkaloids, vitamins C, B12 and iron in both extracts. The LD50 value for each extract was >5,000 mg/kg body weight. There were increased significant co-administration effects (p < 0.05) in red blood cell, packed cell volume, haemoglobin, white blood cells and platelet counts in the extract and fesolate treated groups compared to negative control. Bleeding time values were not significantly altered in all test groups (p > 0.05), but the increased clotting time values were lowered to about normal values following treatment with the extracts. The results showed that J. carnae extract has haematoprotective potential and may be a good candidate for haematopoiesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study examined the healing potential of royal jelly on the acetic acid induced wounds healing in male rat's gastric mucosa. Background: Scientific reports suggest that, bee products can help in the wounds healing. Methods: 96 adult male Wistar rats were divided into in 4 groups as follows: control, omeprazole 20 mg/kg, and royal jelly 50 and 200 mg/kg). Wound was induced in stomach mucosa of each rat with 100% acetic acid. Samples groups received omeprazole or royal jelly from 1st to 14th day after acetic ulcer induction. Gastric ulcer healing and histopathological parameters were evaluated on 4, 7, 10, 15th days after ulceration. Both descriptive and statistical analyses were used. P <0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The royal jelly administration significantly reduced the depth of lesion in comparison with the control group (p<0.05) and attuned histopathological changes in the treatment groups. The largest healing effect was demonstrated with royal jelly on 10th treatment day, at a higher concentration (200 mg/kg). Conclusion: These findings supported that royal jelly had effectively contributed to the wound healing, valid gastroprotective activity, and can be used for peptic ulcer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, the anti-fertility effect of Corchorus olitorius leaf extract (COLE) was evaluated in adult male rats. Materials and Methods: Forty rats assigned to 4 groups of 10 rats each, were orally given COLE for 28 days. Group 1 was the control group but groups 2, 3 and 4 were administered with 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight, respectively and were considered the test groups. Blood collection from the animals was performed at the end of treatments and blood samples were used for reproductive hormone assays. Also, sperm sample quality was ascertained, and basic organs were evaluated histologically for all groups. Results: A significant fall in relative organ weights for the testes and prostate was observed following high-dose treatment (p<0.05). Sperm sample pH, and individual sperm motility, viability, progressiveness and concentration decreased, while total abnormalities increased following high-dose (1000 mg/kg) treatment (p<0.05). Serum concentration of FSH significantly increased at 500 and 1000 mg/kg dose levels while LH and testosterone concentrations were significantly higher than control at all dose levels (p<0.05) except estrogen which was higher than control at 250 and 500 mg/kg but lower at 1000 mg/kg dose level. Control testes showed intact histological architecture with mature spermatid density of 300 cells per tubule and well differentiated Leydig cells, while those animals treated with 250 and 500 mg/kg of the extract, were without significant pathology but had average spermatid densities of 200 and 280 cells per tubule, respectively. Significant azoospermia and spermatid density of only 30 cells per tubule and prostatic degeneration were seen in the group treated with 1000 mg/kg body weight of the extract. Conclusion: Consumption of high amounts of C. olitorius may inhibit reproductive functions in males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Aluminium chloride is a neurotoxic metal that induce several neurodegenerative diseases such as anxiety, depression and Alzheimer diseases. The aim of this study designed to investigate the effects of aluminium chloride on some behavioral and physiological parameters of male rats. Material and Method: Twenty one male rats were used in this study and divided to three groups with seven rats for each group, included untreated control group received distilled water and two treated groups that received aluminium chloride at the doses 300 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of body weight orally and daily for 60 days, the following behavioral parameters measured by using Elevated Plus - Maze test. The Results: Administration two different dose of Al for eight weeks of rats in group II and group III causing significantly reduced in brain monoamine oxidase A and neurotransmitters levels (serotonin and dopamine), In addition, Al causing also significantly decreased in serum hormones (testosterone, corticosterone and LH) compared to control group I. The results showed significantly suppressed of the sexual behavior and memory disorders of rats that exposure to aluminium compared to control group. In conclusion, Aluminum enhances depression and anxiety parameters and cognitive disorders characterized by the affection of memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of Crude Methanol Extract of Adansonia digitata Fruit Pulp on Naja nigricollis Venom-Induce Toxicity in Wistar rats., Methods: A . digitata was extracted using 70% methanol and median lethal dose (LD 50 ) of both the extract and venom were determined using the up-and-down method. Sixty Wistar rats were randomly assigned into 10 groups of 6 rats each and were administered with normal saline, venom only, venom + antivenom, 125 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg crude methanol extract (CME) pre-envenomation, 125 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg CME post-envenomation, and venom + antivenom + 250 mg/kg CME, respectively. Blood samples were collected 8-h post-envenomation in EDTA and plain sample bottles. Erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) test was carried out on the EDTA blood samples while serum was harvested and used for Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) assays., Results: LD 50 of the CME and venom was >5,000 mg/kg and 0.889 mg/kg, respectively. N . nigricollis -induced oxidative stress was evident in group B through increased % haemolysis, MDA and lowered SOD activities. The groups treated with antivenom only, 250 mg/kg CME post-envenomation and antivenom +250 mg/kg CME significantly (p<0.05) reduced EOF, MDA values and increased SOD. The CME revealed better ameliorative effect than protective via inhibition of EOF, MDA values and increased SOD activity., Conclusions: The CME when administered singly showed more ameliorative properties and the combination of CME with antivenom for protection was not as effective as when compared to single administration., (© 2022 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

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The Moringa plant (Moringa oleifera) is known for its potential medicinal properties and health benefits in addition to its high nutritional value. The current study aimed to investigate the antiulcer effect of moringa leaves and its aqueous extract on pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators in ulcerative rats. Rats were treated with either moringa leaves (10%) or moringa extract (300 mg/kg body weight) for 4 weeks then treated with a single dose of aspirin to induce gastric ulcer. Moringa leaves and its extract markedly reduced ulcer index, gastric volume and total acidity. Both treatments induced a significant increase in gastric mucosal mucin content and plasma NO level associated with significant decrease in plasma TNFα. Moringa leaves and its extract prompted down-regulation of TNFα, TGFβ1 and COX2 genes expression by 2.7, 3.5, and 8.4 fold-change for moringa leaves and 2.7, and 2.3, 4.1 fold-change for moringa extract, respectively. Moringa leaves and extract treatments altered the COX-1 gene expression levels to near normal values. This study confirms the gastro-protective influence of moringa leaves and its extract on aspirin-induced ulcer in rats as manifested by its significant reduction in inflammatory cytokines and normalization of gastric mucosal mucin and NO level. Overall, moringa leaves powder is more efficient as antiulcer agent than moringa extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased levels of reactive oxygen species is a key factor involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a nonenzymatic antioxidant that restores other antioxidants. Materials and Methods: This randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial study has been designed to evaluate the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on serum values of amylase, adenosine deaminase, catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) in women with T2DM. Serum levels of CoQ10 were measured too. Sixty-eight women with T2DM were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into two groups. One group received 100 mg/day of CoQ10 supplement for 12 weeks (n = 34), and the other group was given placebo for the same time duration and dosage (n = 34). Results: After the intervention, serum CAT activity (P < 0.001), TAC (P = 0.006), CoQ10 (P = 0.001), and QUICKI (P = 0.005) increased and fasting blood sugar (FBS) (P = 0.05) decreased significantly in CoQ10 group. Conclusion: This study showed that daily supplementation with 100 mg of CoQ10 could increase TAC and CAT activity as, CoQ10 and QUICKI and could reduce oxidative stress and FBS in women with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gastroprotective activity of Moringa oleifera leaf extract against aspirin-induced ulcers was investigated in rats. Thirty (30) rats under starvation but with access to drinking water for 48 h were divided into 6 groups of 5 animals each. Animals in groups 1 and 2 were pretreated with 0.2 ml normal saline via the oral route. Group 3 received 32 mg/kg cimetidine while those in groups 4, 5 and 6 received oral Moringa leaf extract treatments at doses 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight respectively. Thirty minutes after treatment, all animals in groups 2 to 6 were given 800 mg/kg Aspirin to induce ulcer. Results obtained showed complete erosion of the superficial epithelium with complete loss of the mucus globules and sloughing off of immediate underlying cells and sparsely distributed intraepithelial lymphocytes in the stomach of rats in which no treatment was given and significantly differed from those of the normal control animals which were essentially intact. No significant gastroprotection was observed in rats pretreated with the lowest dose of the extract (200 mg/kg) as a high degree of intestinal mucosal lesions and complete erosion of the surface epithelium with intraepithelial haemorrhage, moderate inflammation and tissue oedema were observed. Pretreatment with 400 mg/kg, however, offered a mild degree of protection with patches of surface epithelial protection and mucus globules, even though there was still predominant disintegration and sloughing off of superficial and underlying epithelial cells. The level of protection was sufficiently increased in animals treated with 800 mg/kg Moringa extract as there was increased protection of surface epithelium with more mucus globules and compared favourably with the effect of Cimetidine in which patches of intact superficial cells were observed. Moringa leaf extract may contain active agents with gastroprotective and mucus enhancing activities and could be harnessed into safe and potent treatment agents for ulcer in addition to providing template for the development of new antiulcer agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromolaena odorata (Family: Asteraceae) synonyms as Eupatorium odoratum is a traditional medicinal plant that is widely used for its wound healing property. In particular, the several parts of this herb have been used to treat wounds, burns, and skin infections. Furthermore, it has also been shown to possess anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Its phytochemical components are alkaloids, flavonoids, flavanone, essential oils, phenolics, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids. The other important constituents of this plant are Eupolin, chromomoric acid, quercetagetin, and quercetin, all of which contribute to its remedial properties. Published information on the wound healing property of C. odorata was gathered by the use of different scientific websites such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, and Web of Knowledge to provide an up-to-date review showing its importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chromolaena odorata is a medicinal plant whose root has not been reported for detailed anti-diabetic properties. Hence, this study investigated the anti-diabetic properties of the methanol root extract of Chromolaena odorata and its effect on biochemical parameters in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Methods: In-vitro studies were carried out using α-amylase inhibition, glycosylated heamoglobin inhibition and glucose uptake test in yeast cells. Twenty (20) alloxan (120 mg/kg bw) induced diabetic rats were divided into 4 groups and treated with 0, 300 and 600 mg/kg bw of the extract and 5 mg/kg b.wt glibenclamide respectively. All treatments were administered daily for 14 days through oral route with the aid of esophageal cannula. Five (5) rats were also set up as normal control. Serum biochemical parameters were analysed. Results: Chromolaena odorata exhibited strong inhibition of α-amylase activity and glycosylated heamoglobin with IC 50 values; 533.05 μg/ml and 679.12 μg/ml respectively Extract doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg bw exhibited 49.86% and 68.30% in vivo hypoglycemic effect and increase the weight gain of animals to 13.23 ± 0.67 g and 13.87 ± 0.67 g respectively. The concentrations of sodium, chloride, bicarbonates, aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total proteins were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated while albumin, direct and total bilirubins were lowered in diabetic untreated rats when compared with the control Treatment with extract at 300 and 600 mg/kg bw significantly (p < 0.05) restored the concentrations of AST, ALP, albumin, total proteins, direct and total bilirubins towards their normal levels but could not significantly (P > 0.05) attenuate the elevated sodium, chloride, bicarbonates, urea and creatinine concentration when compared with the untreated control. Conclusion: Chromolaena odorata root extract exhibited anti-diabetic and protective effect against diabetic induced hepatic impairment. However, diabetic induced renal impairment was not attenuated by treatment with Chromolaena odorata in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]