Pharmacological Research - Natural Products最新文献

Taxus baccata is recognized as a traditional herb with antiviral and anticancer properties, making it a valuable candidate for anti-proliferative and antiviral agents, particularly in the absence of a cure for HTLV-1 infection and related diseases. The alkaloid extract of Taxus baccata was evaluated for its impact on HTLV-1-MT2 cell proliferation and HTLV-1 protease activity, presenting a promising avenue for therapeutic applications akin to HIV-PR inhibitors. Given the pressing need for effective treatments for HTLV-1-associated conditions, our study delved into the alkaloid extract's effects through immunofluorescence assays on HTLV-1 protease both in vitro and in silico. Confirmation of Taxus baccata extraction was achieved through immunofluorescence, infrared spectroscopy (IR), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, with paclitaxel serving as a control. Furthermore, the anticancer properties of the alcoholic and alkaloid extracts were explored through in vitro assays using various cell lines, including HTLV-1-MT2, A549, HT29, and MCF7, alongside flow cytometry assessments. Notably, treatment with the alkaloid extract significantly impacted the survival of HTLV-1-MT2 cells (-2.44±0.012), alcoholic extract (11.17$\pm 0.13$) and paclitaxel (0.00$\pm 0.18$) were evaluated. GC-MS analysis identified Dimethyl malate, Lichexanthone, and Glycinexylidide as bioactive compounds within the plant, with investigations into their molecular interactions with HTLV-1 protease conducted. Molecular dynamics studies revealed key interaction sites between the compounds and HTLV-1 protease (PDB ID:4YDF), particularly highlighting the binding sequence of the dimethyl malate ligand within the protease A chain (Ala59). Collectively, the alkaloid compounds from Taxus baccata exhibit potential inhibitory effects on HTLV-1 oncovirus proliferation and transmission.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons, resulting in severe motor disabilities. Although current PD therapies aim to mitigate dopaminergic loss and alleviate symptoms, a more reliable alternative remains elusive. Oxidative stress significantly contributes to PD's development and progression. Consequently, researchers are diligently exploring novel antioxidant agents that hold potential in preventing disease progression. Syagrus coronata (S. coronata) is a palm tree native to the Brazilian caatinga. Notably, the seeds of S. coronata contain a fixed oil that is abundant in medium and long chain fatty acids, including lauric acid (36 %), caprylic acid (24 %), capric acid (14 %), myristic acid (14 %), and oleic acid (12 %), among others. In this study, we delve into the antioxidant effects of S. coronata on ameliorating motor dysfunction induced by rotenone. To deepen our understanding, we employed docking analysis to elucidate potential interactions between the lipid components of S. coronata and critical antioxidant enzymes such as Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) from Mus musculus and Homo sapiens. Additionally, we measured the in vitro antioxidant profile of the S. coronata administration using specific assays. Our findings collectively highlight the efficacy of S. coronata oil in reversing motor impairments induced by rotenone in mice in the rotarod (F(5,48)= 9,66, *p < 0.0001) and in the open field test (F(5,48) = 12, *p < 0.0001). Notably, molecular docking analysis suggested robust interactions with key antioxidant enzymes like SOD and GPX. Subsequent in vitro assays demonstrated that administering the S. coronata oil led to a reversal in the NADPH oxidase stimulation (F5,18)=62.18, *p < 0.0001) and superoxide production (F5,18)=10,62, *p < 0.0001) caused by rotenone. Simultaneously, it prompted an increase in the activity of the enzyme catalase (F(5,18) = 14.41, p < 0.001). These findings further bolster our hypothesis that the neuroprotective mechanism elicited by S. coronata is attributed to its potent antioxidant properties. As a result, the oil holds promise in counteracting the neurotoxicity induced by rotenone.

The present study utilized soil Bacillus isolate as a cell factory for production of certain antibiotics from Mangifera indica fruit juice and Zea mays grain powder. Soil sample (10 g) was collected for Bacillus species isolation and re-culturing on sterilized Nutrient Agar (NA) at 37°C, followed by Gram staining and starch hydrolysis. Ripe Mangifera indica fruits were peeled, followed by the crushing of the pulp. The juice was filtered, and filtrate was kept as Mangifera indica fruit juice (MIFJ). Grains of Zea mays were mechanically grinded to obtain Zea mays grain powder (ZMGP). Fermentation of MIFJ and ZMGP was carried out inside 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask containing 100 ml of production medium for 192 h. Time-Course of antibiotics (peptide, macrolide and Fluoroquinolone) production was spectrophotometrically assessed by standard protocols at every 24 h for 192 h. Fermentation broths were centrifuged and subjected to High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Whitish colonies on Nutrient Agar plate revealed growth of Bacillus species, which were rod-shaped and positive for both Gram staining and Starch hydrolysis. Maximum concentrations of peptide antibiotics in the fermentation broths of MIFJ and ZMGP were found to be 114.96 µg/ml (120 h) and 117.79 µg/ml (114 h). In the Bacillus fermentation of MIFJ and ZMGP, maximum concentrations of macrolide antibiotics were 333.38 µg/ml and 340.11 µg/ml at 192 h. Fluoroquinolone antibiotics concentrations in MIFJ and ZMGP broths were noticed at 192 h (340.11 µg/ml) and 96 h ((959.49 µg/ml). HPLC chromatogram shows Spectinomycin (35.15%) and Kanamycin (35.35%) as prominent antibiotics in MIFJ, while Bacitracin B (11.49%), Bacilysin (24.23%) and Bacillomycin D (12.34%) were prominent in ZMGP. This study shows that soil Bacillus species could be exploited in fermentation of Mangifera indica fruit juice and Zea mays grains powder to produce important antibiotics.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an autoimmune-mediated inflammatory skin condition with limited remedies. This study mainly focuses on exploring the therapeutic efficiencies of Wrightia tinctoria R.Br (WT) for the treatment of PsA. Quantification and chemical profiling for the WT leaves were tested using standard in vitro biochemical assays. The ethanol extract of WT has been found to have high amounts of phenolic (24.48±0.03 mg/mL) and flavonoid (29.2±0.16 mg/mL) contents when compared to other solvent fractions. We also conducted a series of in vitro assays, including DPPH, nitric oxide radical scavenging, and protein denaturation inhibition assays, to assess the overall antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities of WT extracts. The GC-MS analysis of WT leaf extract displayed Lup-20(29)-en-3-yl acetate, 24-Norursa-3,12-diene, and 3-O-Methyl-D-fructose as major bioactive compounds. The screened bioactive compounds, via pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis, were subjected to density functional theory for energy minimization. Further, the hub targets of PsA were filtered from the Open Target online database to study the drug-target interaction. CD4, CXCL12, KLRD1, MMP9, and SERPINA1 were found to be the primary targets, which have a central role in the disease pathway. Selected disease targets were then docked with the energy-minimized bioactive compounds from WT leaves using PyRx. The results suggest that the ethanolic leaf extract from WT leaves could alter the progression of pathway mediators and effectively manage the PsA.

Viral infection one of the major causes of concern, as it has complex pathophysiology and treatment challenges. Virus like Covid-19, Hepatitis, Dengue, and influenza are commonly occurred infection, there are different medication for the symptomatic relief, but a specific potent therapeutic option is rare. However, diverse medicinal plants include a variety of vital phytoconstituents such as polyphenols, alkaloids, acids and enzymes, and essential oils. There are also some bioactive phytoconstituents which showing antiviral activity for different types of viruses. Discovering newer antiviral drugs are always challenging for pharmaceutical companies. However, these are having specific spectrum as compared with the traditional existing various kind of natural products. Several studies have shown that medicinal plants definitely can be a promising approach in case of treatment. The mechanistic approach also proposed by several scientists through the computer assisted drug design and experimental process like in vivo and in vitro testing. So, the potent medication as well as the therapeutic option finding is the ultimate solution of this root cause problem. As most of the virus is highly contagious it’s very difficult to control the spreading. These plant-based products can be the pioneers for the treatment strategies for this kind of virus and future therapy.

The COVID-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly affected various facets of human existence, encompassing health, the environment, the economy, education, and psychology. This narrative study examines the multifaceted impacts of COVID-19 on individuals and communities while also exploring the potential of traditional medicine in mitigating its spread. The review examines the symptoms, spread patterns, and groups at risk of COVID-19, emphasizing the complex relationship between health and socioeconomic welfare. Furthermore, it analyzes the environmental consequences, encompassing air quality changes, waste disposal difficulties, and energy usage modifications. The pandemic's psychological ramifications, marked by increased anguish and anxiety, are also examined closely. Simultaneously, this analysis thoroughly examines the preventive actions suggested by conventional medicine. This study examines traditional treatments, including plant secondary metabolites, herbal teas, decoctions, and cultural behaviors like steam inhalation and salt water gargling.

Moreover, lifestyle therapies, such as well-rounded diets, stress reduction methods, and conventional exercise methods, are evaluated for their potential impact on overall health and the immune system. The discussion consolidates the findings, providing a critical analysis of the effectiveness of conventional preventive strategies in light of the worldwide epidemic. This text offers an in-depth understanding of these traditional behaviors' cultural importance and scientific justification. The review's findings are used to suggest future study topics and promote cooperation efforts between traditional and modern medicine in preparing for pandemics. This article offers an intricate examination of the substantial impact of COVID-19 on human existence and investigates the potential of conventional medicine in mitigating its effects. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of traditional medicine in building a stronger and more flexible response to future global health crises.

Moringa oleifera decoction is used in folk medicine to alleviate various gastrointestinal ailments and has been shown in several studies to exhibit diverse biological activities: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and myorelaxant on intestine strips. However, its protective effect on pro-inflammatory cytokines in colitis remains to be ascertained. We investigated Moringa oleifera leaf aqueous extract activities on a rat model of acetic acid-induced colitis. Thirty-six rats were divided in random into six groups, and received either distilled water (10 mL/kg), the aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) or the reference drug Loperamide (5 mg/kg) for 20 days. Animal body weight and food intake were followed-up. Colitis was induced on day 15, and daily stool weight was followed up. Animals were sacrificed (day 21), serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines MPO, IL-6, and TNF-α were evaluated, and the colon and liver preserved for histological examinations. After one-week pre-treatment, a significant (P < 0.05) weight increase was observed. At day 20, the extract significantly (P < 0.01) prevented weight loss. Food intake decreased by 36.33% in the colitis control, and by 4.34% in the extract (100 mg/kg) treated animals (P < 0.01). Moringa oleifera (100 mg/kg, day 20) decreased stool weights to 4.75±0.3 g (P < 0.05). The extract decreased (P < 0.01) MPO level. At 100 mg/kg, it significantly (P < 0.05) reduced IL-6 –0.58 ± 0.14 against 0.85 ± 0.00 ng/L in the colitis control. At the same dose, TNF-α levels decreased to 417.96 ± 0.17 ng/L (P < 0.001). Moringa oleifera alleviated colitis symptoms by reducing stool emission, alleviating inflammation, and preserving colon and liver cytoarchitecture.

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic had globally caused a significant burden on governments and the medical community. Drugs notably Remdesivir, favipiravir, lopinavir-ritonavir, ribavirin, and interferon were repurposed for COVID-19 treatment. Whereas, alternative system of medicine also gained popularity emphasizing COVID-19 prevention and cure. In India, Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, jointly referred to as Ayush, are prevalently practiced since time immemorial much before the allopathic system of medicine came into existence.

Methods

All the data in the current study was collected using scientific databases like Pub Med, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE. The information requisite to carry out the current study related to Ayush medicines in the management of COVID 19 were gathered and interpreted. All the articles published between 2020 and 2023 were attempted to be cited, and the review on this subject included over 50 research citations.

Results and discussion

Ayush medicines have been used as prophylactics for viral diseases like chicken pox, mumps, influenza, and dengue. Recent clinical trials reported their benefits as an adjunct therapy, leading to early clinical recovery in COVID-19 patients. Data from the in-silico and in-vitro models along with clinical studies supports the therapeutic application of Ayush medicines to treat COVID-19. This review addresses the Ayush therapies in COVID-19, integrating the complete spectrum of the Indian Traditional System of Medicine against COVID-19. Additionally, the health care professionals, guideline makers, and authorities will all benefit from this up-to-date analysis enumerating the varied approaches of Ayush medicines in the treatment of COVID-19.

Background

Many infectious bacteria have changed throughout time and there are alarmingly large number of antibiotic resistant species that can withstand the inhibitory impact of these treatments., Plants are new sources of antibacterial agents hence there is a need to determine and evaluate the antioxidant activity, antibacterial properties of medicinal plants

Objective

The present study focuses on qualitative, quantitative phytochemical analysis, antioxidant, and antimicrobial evaluation of leaves’ extracts of Prunus cerasoides Buch. -Ham. ex D. Don.

Materials and methods

The Antioxidant activity of leaves extracts of Prunus cerasoides Buch. -Ham. ex D.Don was determined by DPPH method. Antibacterial activity was determined by serial dilution method. Further docking interactions were investigated using Maestro 12.7 (Schrodinger 2021) and ADME by using QikProp tool of Schrodingers 2021.

Results

The leaves’ extracts of Prunus cerasoides Buch. -Ham. ex D.Don showed potent antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Methanol extract was found to be the most active against all the four strains of bacteria and showed MIC value (3.125 μg/mL) against both E. coli and S. aureus. Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts had the highest radical scavenging activity. Further molecular docking and ADME studies for phytoconstituents of Prunus cerasoides Buch. -Ham. ex D. Don. using different bacterial protein targets of reported phytoconstituents of Prunus cerasoides Buch. -Ham. ex D. Don. and found that emodin, amygdalin and aromadendrin were the phytoconstituents having good docking score and drug likeliness properties.

Conclusions

The leaves extracts of Prunus cerasoides Buch. -Ham. ex D.Don showed potent free radical scavenging property as well as antibacterial activity.

Aim

To evaluate the neuroprotective activity of Hibiscus abelmoschus Linn. against Parkinson’s Disease in rat model.

Materials and methods

Neuroprotective activity was carried out on Parkinson’s Disease by inducing striatal 6-OHDA lesions in SD rats. The behavioral studies such as behavioral assessment, muscular coordination, locomotor activity, and open field were performed along with enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants level were estimated. Striatal infarction area and histopathological studies were also performed.

Results

The hydroalcohol extract of Hibiscus abelmoschus Linn. showed neuroprotective activity against Parkinson’s Disease by positive response in behavioral studies including significant decrease in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) and total thiol levels in extract treated groups as compared to control group. Striatal infarction area was significantly reduced in extract treated groups as compared to control group. Histopathological studies also shows a significant effect of extract.

Conclusion

The hydroalcohol extract of Hibiscus abelmoschus Linn. Showed neuroprotective against Parkinson’s Disease in rat model.