Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is often used thanks to its anti-infectious properties to treat seasonal ... more Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is often used thanks to its anti-infectious properties to treat seasonal influenza. Some patients use it in conjunction with their conventional treatment, which can expose them to adverse effects or interactions. A case of probable pharmacokinetic interaction of levothyroxine and thyme is described. This is a case of 52-year-old woman admitted to the toxicology department in January 2024 after a phytovigilance questionnaire. The patient had a treatment for hypothyroidism consisting in levothyroxine sodium with a daily dose of 150 µg, but she showed palpitations following the taking of a T. vulgaris tea to treat her seasonal flu. She reported that the symptoms disappeared by reducing the doses of T. vulgaris. The score of the probability scale of the interaction was 6, so a probable interaction may occur in patients with thyroid disorders and taking levothyroxine sodium concomitantly with T. vulgaris.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid are the most common endocrine disorders aff... more Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid are the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of childbearing age, causing anovulation and infertility. There is an increased prevalence of thyroid dysfunction reported among PCOS women.
Aims: To evaluate the benefits of acarbose plus myo-inositol therapy on the thyroid profile of PCOS.
Methods: An open-labelled, parallel randomised clinical trial on 80 PCOS women based on inclusion and exclusion criteria was performed at the Department of Gynaecology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur. Institutional ethics committee approval and prior informed consent were obtained. The trial was registered in CTRI (No: CTRI/2022/04/041877). Group A (n = 38) received metformin 500 mg TID, and group B (n = 39) received acarbose 50 mg TID along with myoinositol 1000 mg BID. Assessment of metabolic and hormonal profile was done at baseline and at the end of six months.
Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in luteinising hormone (p <0.0001), total testosterone (p<0.05), thyroid stimulating hormone (p<0.05), fasting insulin (p<0.05), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (p<0.0001). The follicle-stimulating hormone was increased only in the metformin group. No significant changes in body mass index, free triiodothyronine, free tetraiodothyronine, and fasting glucose were observed in any group. Both therapies were safe, and no side effects or hypoglycaemia were recorded.
Conclusions: In consideration of the beneficial effects of the study, we conclude that the administration of acarbose plus myo-inositol exerts positive effects on the thyroid and other endocrinological profiles in PCOS women.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Doxorubicin is an anticancer drug that can adversely affect the liver. Therefore, seekin... more Context: Doxorubicin is an anticancer drug that can adversely affect the liver. Therefore, seeking medical attention to manage pain and minimize side effects is crucial. Aims: To evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of Vitis gracilis Wall. nanoherbs against doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: The study included five treatment groups: T0 (negative control), T+ (positive control with doxorubicin alone), TC (doxorubicin + vitamin C at 0.2 mg/kg body weight/day), T125 (doxorubicin + V. gracilis at 125 mg/kg body weight/day), and T150 (doxorubicin + V. gracilis at 150 mg/kg body weight/day). Doxorubicin, administered intraperitoneally at 0.0019 mg/kg body weight once a week for three weeks, induced hepatotoxicity in the T+ group. Results: Serum transaminases were significantly reduced in the T125 and T150 groups, indicative of the hepatoprotective effects of V. gracilis. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated the modulation of key markers, with decreased levels of pro-inflammatory tumor necrosis factor-α and increased levels of anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 in the T125 and T150 groups. The activities of oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase and caspase 3, were favorably influenced by V. gracilis nanoherb treatment. Conclusions: These findings suggest that V. gracilis nanoherbs may effectively attenuate doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity, evidenced by biochemical and immunohistochemical changes. This study provides a foundation for further exploration of V. gracilis nanoherbs as a potential adjunctive therapy in preventing chemotherapy-associated liver damage.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: The Javanese culture includes the consumption of traditional herbal medicine known as ja... more Context: The Javanese culture includes the consumption of traditional herbal medicine known as jamu. One commonly consumed type of jamu to enhance physical fitness and alleviate fatigue is Beras Kencur, which contains the kencur (Kaempferia galanga) rhizome. Although it has been used for generations, scientific testing on the effects of K. galanga as an anti-fatigue agent remains rare. Aims: To assess the anti-fatigue effects of K. galanga rhizome extract (KGE) through an endurance swimming test conducted on male Wistar rats. Methods: This study involved 30 Wistar rats randomly allocated into 5 groups: a negative control group administered with syrup vehicle, a positive control group receiving 9 mg/kg body weight (BW) of caffeine syrup, and three treatment groups receiving KGE syrup at different doses-dose 1 (37 mg/kg BW), dose 2 (73.5 mg/kg BW), and dose 3 (147 mg/kg BW). The anti-fatigue effect was evaluated based on the duration of struggling in the water in the endurance swimming test. Results: The results demonstrated that the treatment groups exhibited a significant anti-fatigue effect compared to the negative control group. The administration of a syrup formulation containing KGE at doses 1 (37 mg/kg BW), 2 (73.5 mg/kg BW), and 3 (147 mg/kg BW) revealed an anti-fatigue effect on male Wistar rats. Conclusions: The administration of K. galanga demonstrated dose-dependent anti-fatigue activity in rats. The most effective dose was found to be 147 mg/kg body weight in rats.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Acrylic resin is used in dentistry as a removable denture base. It can cause various pat... more Context: Acrylic resin is used in dentistry as a removable denture base. It can cause various pathologies when not properly cleaned. One of the pathologies is denture stomatitis caused by Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans accumulation on the acrylic resin surface. Therefore, microbial agents such as denture cleansers are needed.
Aims: To evaluate the characteristics of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) nanoparticles as a better antibacterial and antifungal herbal ingredient and their relationship with acrylic hardness.
Methods: C. citratus oil nanoparticles (LON) were synthesized and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis was used to analyze the characteristics of LON bioactive components. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) against C. albicans and S. mutans and mechanical hardness test of acrylic were performed.
Results: The LON concentration of MIC and MBC against C. albicans and S. mutans was 25 and 100%, respectively. One-way ANOVA showed no significant difference between groups of LON with different concentrations (p=0.687). A paired t-test showed significant differences in acrylic resin hardness before and after treatment of LON with 100% (p=0.022) and 50% (p=0.021) concentration. There was no significant difference in hardness before and after treatment of other concentrations of LON and chlorhexidine as positive control.
Conclusions: LON treatment on acrylic resin decreased the growth of C. albicans and S. mutans without altering the mechanical properties (hardness).
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: The population's use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine is a fundamental compon... more Context: The population's use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine is a fundamental component of the exploration of natural remedies.
Aims: To analyze a list of halophyte plants and their ethnobotanical characteristics, with a focus on those most commonly used in traditional medicine in the southeast of Algeria (Biskra).
Methods: The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between 2017 and 2019 by interviewing 120 informants using a questionnaire and applying a semi-structured interview methodology. The data was analyzed using ethnobotanical statistical tools, including the informant consensus factor (ICF), citation frequency (CF), use value (UV), family importance value (FIV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), plant part value (PPV), and relative importance (RI), as well as statistics analysis (ANOVA) to compare the use of medicinal plants according to age, gender, and education level.
Results: The results of the survey enabled us to identify 12 species distributed across eight different families. The most common family was that of the Amaranthaceae (four species), while the most frequently utilized parts of plants were leaves (PPV = 0.4). Furthermore, decoctions were the most commonly prepared form (33.39%). The highest ICF values were observed for the endocrinological and digestive disease groups (ICF = 0.97). The statistical analysis (ANOVA) revealed a significant difference in the knowledge of the use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine according to age and level of education.
Conclusions: The findings of this research suggest that the halophyte flora in our arid study area may offer a promising source for the discovery of new drugs, a prospect that requires further investigation and exploration.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern as innovative therapeutic strat... more Context: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern as innovative therapeutic strategies to enhance treatment outcomes. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of the ethanol extract derived from Volvariella volvacea in combination with cetuximab for CRC.
Aims: To evaluate the inhibition of topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) and include the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a key regulator of cell growth and differentiation.
Methods: The method used computational modeling and molecular docking to assess the binding affinities and interactions between the bioactive components, cetuximab, TOP2A, and PPARγ. In vitro experiments were conducted using CRC cell lines. Cells were treated with cetuximab alone or in combination with V. volvacea extract. Cell viability and immunofluorescence were conducted to evaluate the effect of combination therapy on TOP2A and PPARγ.
Results: The results unveiled compelling binding interactions, suggesting the potential for dual targeting of TOP2A and PPARγ. The results demonstrated a reduction in cell viability, downregulation of TOP2A, and modulation of PPARγ. These findings indicate the potential of V. volvacea extract as an adjuvant therapy to cetuximab in CRC. Targeting both TOP2A and PPARγ enhances the efficacy of CRC treatment.
Conclusions: Moreover, it highlights the importance of harnessing natural compounds and molecular insights to develop innovative combinatorial therapies for complex diseases like CRC.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: The prevalence of obesity was 8% in 2002 and increased to 11.5% in 2011 in Indonesia. Th... more Context: The prevalence of obesity was 8% in 2002 and increased to 11.5% in 2011 in Indonesia. The results of the 2018 Basic Health Research stated that 13.6% of people over the age of 18 were overweight, and 21.8% were obese. Aims: To analyze the effect of intermittent restriction diet and continuous exercise with moderate intensity on individuals exposed to a high-calorie diet. Methods: A randomized posttest control group design was used as the research design, with 6 mice in each group as the study subjects. The groups in this study were the control group with a high-calorie diet (CON+), the intermittent restriction diet group (IRD), the moderate-intensity continuous exercise group (MEX), the combined intermittent restriction diet group and the moderate-intensity continuous exercise (HYB) group. The measured variables were cardiomyocyte diameter and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) expression. Results: The results of this study were cardiomyocyte diameter CON+ (27.94 ± 5.65 µm), IRD (20.99 ± 11.80 µm), MEX (25.08 ± 9.14 µm), HYB (24.52 ± 5.90 µm) with p=0.578. Expression scores of BNP CON+ (6.00 ± 1.50), IRD (4.67 ± 1.00), MEX (5.42±2.09), HYB (6.27 ± 1.54) with p=0.335. These results showed no significant difference, but the intermittent restriction diet showed the most optimal mean with the lowest mean cardiomyocyte diameter and BNP expression.
Conclusions: There was no effect between the combination of an intermittent restriction diet and moderate-intensity continuous exercise on cardiomyocyte diameter and BNP expression. However, there is a potential that an intermittent restriction diet has the optimal effect in preventing changes in the cardiac structure.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: High-fat diets contribute to oxidative stress and trigger cellular senescence through an... more Context: High-fat diets contribute to oxidative stress and trigger cellular senescence through an imbalance in reactive oxygen species. The potential of coriander (Coriandrum sativum) seed, known for its therapeutic properties against oxidative stress and senescence in obese hearts, has been relatively unexplored.
Aims: To evaluate the impact of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract on oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, and senescence parameters in the hearts of obese rats induced by a high-fat diet.
Methods: Twenty-nine male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, fed different diets for 24 weeks, and received C. sativum extract treatment for 12 weeks. This experiment assessed malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker, antioxidant level by measuring catalase and glutathione (GSH), cellular senescence state by measuring senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, and p21 levels in heart tissue.
Results: C. sativum seed extract demonstrated a significant reduction in MDA levels in the hearts of obese rats when compared to the control groups. Furthermore, the extract led to a significant increase in catalase and GSH levels in the hearts of non-obese rats, whether on a normal or high-fat diet. Although the C. sativum-treated groups exhibited a downward trend in senescence markers (SA-β-Gal and p21), the observed differences did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: Ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract exhibited promising potential in mitigating oxidative stress in the hearts of obese rats and enhancing antioxidant levels in the hearts of non-obese rats subjected to both normal and high-fat diets. This underscores the preventive role of C. sativum seed extract in alleviating oxidative stress, particularly in the context of a high-fat diet. However, there was insufficient evidence to conclusively demonstrate a significant improvement in cellular senescence with the use of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. The limited efficacy and possi... more Context: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. The limited efficacy and possible side effects of available anti-obesity agents highlight the need to find new, effective, and safe agents. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an aromatic herbal plant traditionally used as an anti-obesity agent, but previous review studies did not explain the mechanism in detail. Aims: To evaluate the anti-obesity activity of C. citratus in vitro, in vivo, and in humans. Methods: Full-text relevant articles published between 2003 and 2023 were searched through Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) quality criteria checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Data were systematically analysed and presented in tables and flowcharts. Results: Eighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The anti-obesity activity of C. citratus could come from various parts of the plant (leaves, stalks, roots, or whole plant). Its hydroalcoholic-based extract was rich in polyphenols, which had anti-obesity activity through inhibiting digestive enzymes, appetite suppression, modulation of lipid metabolism, and adipogenesis inhibition. Its essential oil and citral had anti-obesity activity through energy expenditure stimulation, lipid metabolism modulation, and adipogenesis inhibition. Dietary fibre from C. citratus had anti-obesity activity by inhibiting digestive enzymes and modulating lipid metabolism. Conclusions: The anti-obesity activity of C. citratus could come from its polyphenol content, essential oil, or fibre through the same or different mechanisms, namely inhibition of digestive enzymes, suppression of appetite, modulation of lipid metabolism, inhibition of adipogenesis, and stimulation of energy expenditure.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Simvastatin can be modified by the formation of multicomponent crystals to increase its ... more Context: Simvastatin can be modified by the formation of multicomponent crystals to increase its solubility. Aims: To compare the solubility of multicomponent simvastatin crystals to pure simvastatin. Methods: The in silico study of simvastatin and the coformers arginine and glycine revealed non-covalent interactions, so multicomponent preparations of simvastatin crystals were prepared by solvent evaporation using a mole ratio of 1:1; 1:2 and 2:1. Results: Each simvastatin-arginine and simvastatin-glycine ratio increased the solubility, with the highest increase observed for the 1:2 ratio compared to pure simvastatin. Conclusions: Simvastatin-arginine multicomponent crystals (1:2) showed the best dissolution profile in phosphate buffer medium pH 7.0 with 67.69% dissolution, while simvastatin-glycine multicomponent crystals (1:2) exhibited the best dissolution profile in buffer media pH 1.2 with 16.19% dissolution. Characterization of the multicomponent crystals revealed a shift in the peaks, a decreased melting point, and enthalpy, indicating decreased % crystallinity and the formation of a new solid phase.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Hyperuricemia is the cause of gout in the inflammatory joint condition. The xanthine oxi... more Context: Hyperuricemia is the cause of gout in the inflammatory joint condition. The xanthine oxidase enzyme is a therapeutic target for gout treatment because it plays a role in the generation of uric acid. Allopurinol is used to treat gout. It prevents the xanthine oxidase enzyme from producing as much uric acid. When selecting a medication, one must consider the various adverse effects of allopurinol. Phyllanthus emblica plants are among the medicinal plants that can be used as an alternative treatment for gout.
Aims: To evaluate isolated compounds from the Phyllanthus emblica as antihyperuricemia candidates.
Methods: The isolated compounds were characterized using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Thin Layer Chromatography-Densitometry. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and cupric ion (CUPRAC) antioxidant capacity procedures were used to develop the antioxidant activity index. The ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase was determined using a spectrophotometer.
Results: Compound 1 was indicated as rutin having antioxidant capacity with an antioxidant activity index (AAI) DPPH value of 7.89 ± 0.03 and AAI CUPRAC value of 15.83 ± 0.04 stronger than compound 2 (quercitrin) with an AAI DPPH value of 3.72 ± 0.01 and AAI CUPRAC 3.24 ± 0.03. The IC50 for quercitrin's inhibition of xanthine oxidase is 23.85 ± 2.04, which was higher than rutin’s IC50 value of 32.77 ± 4.49 µg/mL.
Conclusions: Flavonol glycosides present in the ethanol extract of Phyllanthus emblica leaves gave potent xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity stronger than the extract. Quercitrin gave stronger xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, but this compound has weaker antioxidant capacity compared to rutin.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Perilla frutescens and its dried extract have been employed in food and pharmaceutical m... more Context: Perilla frutescens and its dried extract have been employed in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing due to the plant's biological activities, which include antibacterial, anti-allergic, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant, and antidepressant properties. Despite numerous studies on preparing dry extracts from various medicinal herbs, no research has been conducted to optimize spray-drying conditions specifically for P. frutescens.
Aims: To optimize the spray-drying parameters using BCPharSoft software and evaluate the quality of P. frutescens dry extract.
Methods: D-optimal design based on four independent variables carrier type (Glucidex, Glucidex: Arabic gum 9:1, Glucidex: Arabic gum 8:2), carrier mass (10, 15, and 20 g), inlet air temperature (160, and 180℃) and flow rate (12, and 14 rpm/min) was applied to investigate the cause-effect relations and optimized preparation process. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and total flavonoid content were investigated as four dependent variables.
Results: All independent variables had significant effects on the dependent variables. The optimal parameters of the preparation process included using carrier Glucidex: Arabic gum at a ratio of 9:1, carrier mass of 19 g, inlet air temperature of 161°C, and flow rate of 12 rpm/min. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and flavonoid content of the optimized P. frutescens dry extract were found to be 10.42%, 4.80%, and 90.57 mg GA/g, and 53.55 mg QE/g, respectively.
Conclusions: Dried P. frutescens extract has been efficiently produced using the spray-drying technique, establishing a foundation for future manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and functional foods derived from P. frutescens.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Honey has been employed for its therapeutic attributes since ancient eras, with a histor... more Context: Honey has been employed for its therapeutic attributes since ancient eras, with a history of medicinal utilization, and recent studies have highlighted its diverse clinical applications. The medicinal benefits of honey can be ascribed to various mechanisms, encompassing its osmotic and acidic characteristics, hydrogen peroxide generation, and particular bioactive compounds. While honey generally has a good safety profile, rare risks exist, particularly in infants under one year of age. More rigorous clinical trials and standardized protocols are needed to establish its optimal dosage, application methods, and specific indications. Economic considerations and regional variations in honey composition and quality should also be considered. Aims: To provide an overview of the clinical uses of honey in the medical field, emphasizing its effectiveness and potential therapeutic benefits. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather relevant studies on the clinical applications of honey. The search encompassed various databases and included studies published with the range from May 2001 to May 2023. The selected studies were critically reviewed to extract pertinent information for this critical review. Results: Natural honey comes from two types of honey-producing bees: honeybees and stingless bees. Honey constitutes a multifaceted amalgamation of sugars, enzymes, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, all contributing to its therapeutic attributes. It exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant effects. In wound management, honey promotes healing, reduces infection rates, and minimizes scarring. It also shows promise in treating bacterial and fungal infections. Furthermore, honey has effectively alleviated symptoms associated with respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and dermatological conditions. Conclusions: Honey possesses multifaceted clinical applications in the medical field. Its diverse therapeutic properties and minimal adverse effects make it an attractive option for various conditions. However, further research is necessary to solidify its role in evidence-based clinical practice, including conducting more rigorous clinical trials, establishing standardized protocols, and considering economic and regional factors.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Mentha species are well known for their health benefits. Products extracted from aromati... more Context: Mentha species are well known for their health benefits. Products extracted from aromatic plants of this genus (Mentha) are increasingly being studied for their active constituents in order to replace synthetic products that are harmful to health.
Aims: To determine the chemical composition, physicochemical parameters, and antioxidant properties of essential oils of M. spicata, M. piperita, and M. pulegium. These plants were collected from three different geographical areas in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region of Morocco, with an additional focus on analyzing the fluctuation of their chemical composition based on their locations.
Methods: Essential oils obtained through hydrodistillation of the fresh aerial parts of the plants were analyzed via gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antioxidant capacity was measured by several chemical tests: DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP.
Results: Multiple major components were identified, showcasing variations in composition between species as well as between plants of the same species. M. spicata was characterized by carvone, piperitone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; while M. piperita features linalool, D-carvone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; and M. pulegium had a single major component which is pulegone. To the best of our knowledge, it is assumed that a new set of chemotypes may be defined based on the geographical regions studied. The examined essential oils demonstrated notable antioxidant efficacy.
Conclusions: These findings suggest the potential use of extracts from these plants as an alternative to synthetic chemical products. Therefore, they could find applications in complementary medicine as well as in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. There is currently no cure, and the... more Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. There is currently no cure, and the available pharmacological treatment focuses on treating the symptoms. This study aimed to analyze the pharmacological treatments for AD protected in the US Patent Office. The Matheo Patent software was used to search for patents granted in the 2010–2020 period in the USPTO database. The search strategy «Alzheimer» was used in title and abstract and the International Patent Classification (IPC) codes A61P* and A61K*. The selected patents were divided into six categories according to therapeutic target. Complementary information from scientific databases was used to determine the stage of investigation and efficacy of the patented molecules. In the analyzed period, 58 patents were granted: 10 directed to Aβ peptide metabolism and deposition, three to tau, seven to inflammation, nine to cholinergic, two to glutamatergic and 27 to other targets. More than 80.0% belong to holders from the USA, France, and Japan. The molecules Elenbecestat and LY3202626 decreased the burden of Aβ plaques without significant cognitive improvement, Donanemab is in Phase 3 clinical trial, and the FDA has designated it Breakthrough Therapy. CPC-201 and PXT864 demonstrated, in Phase 2, good tolerability and improvement of AD symptoms. Most of the inventions are focused on treating the earliest phase of AD. The most advanced treatments in their research are those focused on treating Aβ accumulation. More studies are needed to prove the efficacy of the patented molecules.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: In the last decade, antimicrobial resistance cases have been widespread. The discovery a... more Context: In the last decade, antimicrobial resistance cases have been widespread. The discovery and development of new drugs need to be done to overcome the case. Some research has found that some compounds, which are curcumin transformation derivatives, are able to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. Aims: To evaluate the development of antimicrobial candidates of curcumin versus S. aureus. Methods: The in silico approach method, along with the QSAR technique, plays an important role in the process of discovery and development of new drugs. In this study, we focused on developing curcumin transformation derivatives that are much more potent by making the best QSAR equation of curcumin and eight curcumin transformation derivatives that have been tested in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Results: The best QSAR equation was obtained from curcumin transformation derivatives as antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, with pMIC = 0.812 (± 0.162)EHOMO +5.443 (± 1.659) (n = 9; Sig = 0.002; R = 0.884; R2 = 0.782; F = 25.153; Q2 = 0.57.
Conclusions: In this study, an increase in the antimicrobial activity of curcumin transformation derivatives against S. aureus by increasing EHOMO was observed. The best QSAR equation can be a tool to obtain a more potential new chemical structure model and reduce trials and errors.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Prostate cancer remains a significant global health concern, and understanding the molec... more Context: Prostate cancer remains a significant global health concern, and understanding the molecular drivers of this disease is crucial for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC-3), a member of the SRC family, has emerged as a key player in prostate cancer pathogenesis. Aims: To examine the role of SRC-3 in prostate cancer, encompassing molecular mechanisms, clinical implications, and therapeutic opportunities. Methods: A systematic literature search following PRISMA guidelines was conducted in PubMed, PMC, and other relevant databases to identify studies that investigate SRC-3 in prostate cancer. Results: 785 articles were retrieved from databases using specific keywords and MeSH terms related to SRC-3 and Prostate Cancer. After removing 461 duplicates, 260 articles were excluded based on title and abstract review. Subsequently, a comprehensive screening by three researchers resulted in 47 relevant articles for this systematic review. Evidence suggests that SRC-3 expression correlates with prostate cancer aggressiveness, disease recurrence, and poor patient outcomes. Its potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target if explored, offers insights into personalized medicine approaches. Conclusions: SRC-3 plays a pivotal role in prostate cancer, influencing disease progression and clinical outcomes. Understanding the molecular intricacies of SRC-3 in prostate cancer offers new opportunities for precision medicine and innovative therapeutic approaches. This review provides a comprehensive overview of SRC-3's involvement in prostate cancer, emphasizing its clinical relevance and potential as a therapeutic target, ultimately contributing to improved patient care in the era of personalized oncology.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Ageratum conyzoides L. and eggshell membrane have the potential to be used as medicine. ... more Context: Ageratum conyzoides L. and eggshell membrane have the potential to be used as medicine. The independent use of A. conyzoides extract or eggshell membrane hydrolysates independently as a natural medicine has been widely known, but the mixture of the two as an anti-inflammatory has not been studied.
Aims: To evaluate both the in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates, independently and in combination. In silico testing was conducted to identify chemicals that have a key role in inflammation signaling pathways.
Methods: The chronic anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates were evaluated on cotton pellet-induced rats using diclofenac-Na as a control. In vitro anti-inflammatory effects were studied via protein denaturation, membrane stability, and antiprotease activity. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed on the p38-MAPK signaling pathway using compounds found in A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates.
Results: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates given separately or in combination can inhibit the formation of exudates and granulomas. Molecular docking simulations showed that the metabolites in the extract and hydrolysate interact with p38-MAPK. Nobiletin in the extract is the potential metabolite that interacts with the p38-MAPK receptor with a free energy of binding and inhibition constant of -8.92 kcal/mol and 260.80 nM. Amino acids in the hydrolysates showed weaker interactions compared to the compound in the extract.
Conclusions: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates work additively to inhibit the severity of chronic inflammation.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and also death in t... more Context: Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and also death in the world. Administration of Szeto-Schiller-31 (SS-31) as a potential therapeutic candidate that can decrease the renal function damage progressivity in diabetes needs to be comprehensively analyzed.
Aims: To assess the protective effects of SS31 against the progressivity of diabetic nephropathy.
Methods: This systematic review follows PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines 2020. Searches of databases (Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus, ProQuest, and Springer) were done on 17 September 2023 in order to find articles related to the animal diabetic model and SS-31 treatment. Manual searches from medRxiv were also conducted to obtain additional evidence. Renal function, histopathology analysis, reactive oxygen species in vivo, and in vitro analysis were described.
Results: There were six in vivo studies, each of which discussed the renal function, histopathology, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and four in vitro studies that discussed ROS. The available data suggested that SS-31 improves kidney function by lowering urinary albumin excretion, proteinuria, serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, and BUN, supported by histopathological improvements. In addition, SS-31 also has the effect of lowering 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) expression.
Conclusions: SS31 had a renoprotective effect that could prevent the worsening of renal function in diabetic mice. In addition, the results of histopathology and ROS analysis also support the positive results of SS-31 treatment. Further studies are required to confirm its findings.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is often used thanks to its anti-infectious properties to treat seasonal ... more Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is often used thanks to its anti-infectious properties to treat seasonal influenza. Some patients use it in conjunction with their conventional treatment, which can expose them to adverse effects or interactions. A case of probable pharmacokinetic interaction of levothyroxine and thyme is described. This is a case of 52-year-old woman admitted to the toxicology department in January 2024 after a phytovigilance questionnaire. The patient had a treatment for hypothyroidism consisting in levothyroxine sodium with a daily dose of 150 µg, but she showed palpitations following the taking of a T. vulgaris tea to treat her seasonal flu. She reported that the symptoms disappeared by reducing the doses of T. vulgaris. The score of the probability scale of the interaction was 6, so a probable interaction may occur in patients with thyroid disorders and taking levothyroxine sodium concomitantly with T. vulgaris.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid are the most common endocrine disorders aff... more Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid are the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of childbearing age, causing anovulation and infertility. There is an increased prevalence of thyroid dysfunction reported among PCOS women.
Aims: To evaluate the benefits of acarbose plus myo-inositol therapy on the thyroid profile of PCOS.
Methods: An open-labelled, parallel randomised clinical trial on 80 PCOS women based on inclusion and exclusion criteria was performed at the Department of Gynaecology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur. Institutional ethics committee approval and prior informed consent were obtained. The trial was registered in CTRI (No: CTRI/2022/04/041877). Group A (n = 38) received metformin 500 mg TID, and group B (n = 39) received acarbose 50 mg TID along with myoinositol 1000 mg BID. Assessment of metabolic and hormonal profile was done at baseline and at the end of six months.
Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in luteinising hormone (p <0.0001), total testosterone (p<0.05), thyroid stimulating hormone (p<0.05), fasting insulin (p<0.05), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (p<0.0001). The follicle-stimulating hormone was increased only in the metformin group. No significant changes in body mass index, free triiodothyronine, free tetraiodothyronine, and fasting glucose were observed in any group. Both therapies were safe, and no side effects or hypoglycaemia were recorded.
Conclusions: In consideration of the beneficial effects of the study, we conclude that the administration of acarbose plus myo-inositol exerts positive effects on the thyroid and other endocrinological profiles in PCOS women.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Doxorubicin is an anticancer drug that can adversely affect the liver. Therefore, seekin... more Context: Doxorubicin is an anticancer drug that can adversely affect the liver. Therefore, seeking medical attention to manage pain and minimize side effects is crucial. Aims: To evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of Vitis gracilis Wall. nanoherbs against doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: The study included five treatment groups: T0 (negative control), T+ (positive control with doxorubicin alone), TC (doxorubicin + vitamin C at 0.2 mg/kg body weight/day), T125 (doxorubicin + V. gracilis at 125 mg/kg body weight/day), and T150 (doxorubicin + V. gracilis at 150 mg/kg body weight/day). Doxorubicin, administered intraperitoneally at 0.0019 mg/kg body weight once a week for three weeks, induced hepatotoxicity in the T+ group. Results: Serum transaminases were significantly reduced in the T125 and T150 groups, indicative of the hepatoprotective effects of V. gracilis. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated the modulation of key markers, with decreased levels of pro-inflammatory tumor necrosis factor-α and increased levels of anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 in the T125 and T150 groups. The activities of oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase and caspase 3, were favorably influenced by V. gracilis nanoherb treatment. Conclusions: These findings suggest that V. gracilis nanoherbs may effectively attenuate doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity, evidenced by biochemical and immunohistochemical changes. This study provides a foundation for further exploration of V. gracilis nanoherbs as a potential adjunctive therapy in preventing chemotherapy-associated liver damage.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: The Javanese culture includes the consumption of traditional herbal medicine known as ja... more Context: The Javanese culture includes the consumption of traditional herbal medicine known as jamu. One commonly consumed type of jamu to enhance physical fitness and alleviate fatigue is Beras Kencur, which contains the kencur (Kaempferia galanga) rhizome. Although it has been used for generations, scientific testing on the effects of K. galanga as an anti-fatigue agent remains rare. Aims: To assess the anti-fatigue effects of K. galanga rhizome extract (KGE) through an endurance swimming test conducted on male Wistar rats. Methods: This study involved 30 Wistar rats randomly allocated into 5 groups: a negative control group administered with syrup vehicle, a positive control group receiving 9 mg/kg body weight (BW) of caffeine syrup, and three treatment groups receiving KGE syrup at different doses-dose 1 (37 mg/kg BW), dose 2 (73.5 mg/kg BW), and dose 3 (147 mg/kg BW). The anti-fatigue effect was evaluated based on the duration of struggling in the water in the endurance swimming test. Results: The results demonstrated that the treatment groups exhibited a significant anti-fatigue effect compared to the negative control group. The administration of a syrup formulation containing KGE at doses 1 (37 mg/kg BW), 2 (73.5 mg/kg BW), and 3 (147 mg/kg BW) revealed an anti-fatigue effect on male Wistar rats. Conclusions: The administration of K. galanga demonstrated dose-dependent anti-fatigue activity in rats. The most effective dose was found to be 147 mg/kg body weight in rats.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Acrylic resin is used in dentistry as a removable denture base. It can cause various pat... more Context: Acrylic resin is used in dentistry as a removable denture base. It can cause various pathologies when not properly cleaned. One of the pathologies is denture stomatitis caused by Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans accumulation on the acrylic resin surface. Therefore, microbial agents such as denture cleansers are needed.
Aims: To evaluate the characteristics of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) nanoparticles as a better antibacterial and antifungal herbal ingredient and their relationship with acrylic hardness.
Methods: C. citratus oil nanoparticles (LON) were synthesized and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis was used to analyze the characteristics of LON bioactive components. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) against C. albicans and S. mutans and mechanical hardness test of acrylic were performed.
Results: The LON concentration of MIC and MBC against C. albicans and S. mutans was 25 and 100%, respectively. One-way ANOVA showed no significant difference between groups of LON with different concentrations (p=0.687). A paired t-test showed significant differences in acrylic resin hardness before and after treatment of LON with 100% (p=0.022) and 50% (p=0.021) concentration. There was no significant difference in hardness before and after treatment of other concentrations of LON and chlorhexidine as positive control.
Conclusions: LON treatment on acrylic resin decreased the growth of C. albicans and S. mutans without altering the mechanical properties (hardness).
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: The population's use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine is a fundamental compon... more Context: The population's use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine is a fundamental component of the exploration of natural remedies.
Aims: To analyze a list of halophyte plants and their ethnobotanical characteristics, with a focus on those most commonly used in traditional medicine in the southeast of Algeria (Biskra).
Methods: The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between 2017 and 2019 by interviewing 120 informants using a questionnaire and applying a semi-structured interview methodology. The data was analyzed using ethnobotanical statistical tools, including the informant consensus factor (ICF), citation frequency (CF), use value (UV), family importance value (FIV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), plant part value (PPV), and relative importance (RI), as well as statistics analysis (ANOVA) to compare the use of medicinal plants according to age, gender, and education level.
Results: The results of the survey enabled us to identify 12 species distributed across eight different families. The most common family was that of the Amaranthaceae (four species), while the most frequently utilized parts of plants were leaves (PPV = 0.4). Furthermore, decoctions were the most commonly prepared form (33.39%). The highest ICF values were observed for the endocrinological and digestive disease groups (ICF = 0.97). The statistical analysis (ANOVA) revealed a significant difference in the knowledge of the use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine according to age and level of education.
Conclusions: The findings of this research suggest that the halophyte flora in our arid study area may offer a promising source for the discovery of new drugs, a prospect that requires further investigation and exploration.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern as innovative therapeutic strat... more Context: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern as innovative therapeutic strategies to enhance treatment outcomes. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of the ethanol extract derived from Volvariella volvacea in combination with cetuximab for CRC.
Aims: To evaluate the inhibition of topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) and include the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a key regulator of cell growth and differentiation.
Methods: The method used computational modeling and molecular docking to assess the binding affinities and interactions between the bioactive components, cetuximab, TOP2A, and PPARγ. In vitro experiments were conducted using CRC cell lines. Cells were treated with cetuximab alone or in combination with V. volvacea extract. Cell viability and immunofluorescence were conducted to evaluate the effect of combination therapy on TOP2A and PPARγ.
Results: The results unveiled compelling binding interactions, suggesting the potential for dual targeting of TOP2A and PPARγ. The results demonstrated a reduction in cell viability, downregulation of TOP2A, and modulation of PPARγ. These findings indicate the potential of V. volvacea extract as an adjuvant therapy to cetuximab in CRC. Targeting both TOP2A and PPARγ enhances the efficacy of CRC treatment.
Conclusions: Moreover, it highlights the importance of harnessing natural compounds and molecular insights to develop innovative combinatorial therapies for complex diseases like CRC.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: The prevalence of obesity was 8% in 2002 and increased to 11.5% in 2011 in Indonesia. Th... more Context: The prevalence of obesity was 8% in 2002 and increased to 11.5% in 2011 in Indonesia. The results of the 2018 Basic Health Research stated that 13.6% of people over the age of 18 were overweight, and 21.8% were obese. Aims: To analyze the effect of intermittent restriction diet and continuous exercise with moderate intensity on individuals exposed to a high-calorie diet. Methods: A randomized posttest control group design was used as the research design, with 6 mice in each group as the study subjects. The groups in this study were the control group with a high-calorie diet (CON+), the intermittent restriction diet group (IRD), the moderate-intensity continuous exercise group (MEX), the combined intermittent restriction diet group and the moderate-intensity continuous exercise (HYB) group. The measured variables were cardiomyocyte diameter and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) expression. Results: The results of this study were cardiomyocyte diameter CON+ (27.94 ± 5.65 µm), IRD (20.99 ± 11.80 µm), MEX (25.08 ± 9.14 µm), HYB (24.52 ± 5.90 µm) with p=0.578. Expression scores of BNP CON+ (6.00 ± 1.50), IRD (4.67 ± 1.00), MEX (5.42±2.09), HYB (6.27 ± 1.54) with p=0.335. These results showed no significant difference, but the intermittent restriction diet showed the most optimal mean with the lowest mean cardiomyocyte diameter and BNP expression.
Conclusions: There was no effect between the combination of an intermittent restriction diet and moderate-intensity continuous exercise on cardiomyocyte diameter and BNP expression. However, there is a potential that an intermittent restriction diet has the optimal effect in preventing changes in the cardiac structure.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: High-fat diets contribute to oxidative stress and trigger cellular senescence through an... more Context: High-fat diets contribute to oxidative stress and trigger cellular senescence through an imbalance in reactive oxygen species. The potential of coriander (Coriandrum sativum) seed, known for its therapeutic properties against oxidative stress and senescence in obese hearts, has been relatively unexplored.
Aims: To evaluate the impact of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract on oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, and senescence parameters in the hearts of obese rats induced by a high-fat diet.
Methods: Twenty-nine male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, fed different diets for 24 weeks, and received C. sativum extract treatment for 12 weeks. This experiment assessed malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker, antioxidant level by measuring catalase and glutathione (GSH), cellular senescence state by measuring senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, and p21 levels in heart tissue.
Results: C. sativum seed extract demonstrated a significant reduction in MDA levels in the hearts of obese rats when compared to the control groups. Furthermore, the extract led to a significant increase in catalase and GSH levels in the hearts of non-obese rats, whether on a normal or high-fat diet. Although the C. sativum-treated groups exhibited a downward trend in senescence markers (SA-β-Gal and p21), the observed differences did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: Ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract exhibited promising potential in mitigating oxidative stress in the hearts of obese rats and enhancing antioxidant levels in the hearts of non-obese rats subjected to both normal and high-fat diets. This underscores the preventive role of C. sativum seed extract in alleviating oxidative stress, particularly in the context of a high-fat diet. However, there was insufficient evidence to conclusively demonstrate a significant improvement in cellular senescence with the use of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. The limited efficacy and possi... more Context: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. The limited efficacy and possible side effects of available anti-obesity agents highlight the need to find new, effective, and safe agents. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an aromatic herbal plant traditionally used as an anti-obesity agent, but previous review studies did not explain the mechanism in detail. Aims: To evaluate the anti-obesity activity of C. citratus in vitro, in vivo, and in humans. Methods: Full-text relevant articles published between 2003 and 2023 were searched through Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) quality criteria checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Data were systematically analysed and presented in tables and flowcharts. Results: Eighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The anti-obesity activity of C. citratus could come from various parts of the plant (leaves, stalks, roots, or whole plant). Its hydroalcoholic-based extract was rich in polyphenols, which had anti-obesity activity through inhibiting digestive enzymes, appetite suppression, modulation of lipid metabolism, and adipogenesis inhibition. Its essential oil and citral had anti-obesity activity through energy expenditure stimulation, lipid metabolism modulation, and adipogenesis inhibition. Dietary fibre from C. citratus had anti-obesity activity by inhibiting digestive enzymes and modulating lipid metabolism. Conclusions: The anti-obesity activity of C. citratus could come from its polyphenol content, essential oil, or fibre through the same or different mechanisms, namely inhibition of digestive enzymes, suppression of appetite, modulation of lipid metabolism, inhibition of adipogenesis, and stimulation of energy expenditure.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Simvastatin can be modified by the formation of multicomponent crystals to increase its ... more Context: Simvastatin can be modified by the formation of multicomponent crystals to increase its solubility. Aims: To compare the solubility of multicomponent simvastatin crystals to pure simvastatin. Methods: The in silico study of simvastatin and the coformers arginine and glycine revealed non-covalent interactions, so multicomponent preparations of simvastatin crystals were prepared by solvent evaporation using a mole ratio of 1:1; 1:2 and 2:1. Results: Each simvastatin-arginine and simvastatin-glycine ratio increased the solubility, with the highest increase observed for the 1:2 ratio compared to pure simvastatin. Conclusions: Simvastatin-arginine multicomponent crystals (1:2) showed the best dissolution profile in phosphate buffer medium pH 7.0 with 67.69% dissolution, while simvastatin-glycine multicomponent crystals (1:2) exhibited the best dissolution profile in buffer media pH 1.2 with 16.19% dissolution. Characterization of the multicomponent crystals revealed a shift in the peaks, a decreased melting point, and enthalpy, indicating decreased % crystallinity and the formation of a new solid phase.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Hyperuricemia is the cause of gout in the inflammatory joint condition. The xanthine oxi... more Context: Hyperuricemia is the cause of gout in the inflammatory joint condition. The xanthine oxidase enzyme is a therapeutic target for gout treatment because it plays a role in the generation of uric acid. Allopurinol is used to treat gout. It prevents the xanthine oxidase enzyme from producing as much uric acid. When selecting a medication, one must consider the various adverse effects of allopurinol. Phyllanthus emblica plants are among the medicinal plants that can be used as an alternative treatment for gout.
Aims: To evaluate isolated compounds from the Phyllanthus emblica as antihyperuricemia candidates.
Methods: The isolated compounds were characterized using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Thin Layer Chromatography-Densitometry. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and cupric ion (CUPRAC) antioxidant capacity procedures were used to develop the antioxidant activity index. The ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase was determined using a spectrophotometer.
Results: Compound 1 was indicated as rutin having antioxidant capacity with an antioxidant activity index (AAI) DPPH value of 7.89 ± 0.03 and AAI CUPRAC value of 15.83 ± 0.04 stronger than compound 2 (quercitrin) with an AAI DPPH value of 3.72 ± 0.01 and AAI CUPRAC 3.24 ± 0.03. The IC50 for quercitrin's inhibition of xanthine oxidase is 23.85 ± 2.04, which was higher than rutin’s IC50 value of 32.77 ± 4.49 µg/mL.
Conclusions: Flavonol glycosides present in the ethanol extract of Phyllanthus emblica leaves gave potent xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity stronger than the extract. Quercitrin gave stronger xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, but this compound has weaker antioxidant capacity compared to rutin.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Perilla frutescens and its dried extract have been employed in food and pharmaceutical m... more Context: Perilla frutescens and its dried extract have been employed in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing due to the plant's biological activities, which include antibacterial, anti-allergic, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant, and antidepressant properties. Despite numerous studies on preparing dry extracts from various medicinal herbs, no research has been conducted to optimize spray-drying conditions specifically for P. frutescens.
Aims: To optimize the spray-drying parameters using BCPharSoft software and evaluate the quality of P. frutescens dry extract.
Methods: D-optimal design based on four independent variables carrier type (Glucidex, Glucidex: Arabic gum 9:1, Glucidex: Arabic gum 8:2), carrier mass (10, 15, and 20 g), inlet air temperature (160, and 180℃) and flow rate (12, and 14 rpm/min) was applied to investigate the cause-effect relations and optimized preparation process. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and total flavonoid content were investigated as four dependent variables.
Results: All independent variables had significant effects on the dependent variables. The optimal parameters of the preparation process included using carrier Glucidex: Arabic gum at a ratio of 9:1, carrier mass of 19 g, inlet air temperature of 161°C, and flow rate of 12 rpm/min. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and flavonoid content of the optimized P. frutescens dry extract were found to be 10.42%, 4.80%, and 90.57 mg GA/g, and 53.55 mg QE/g, respectively.
Conclusions: Dried P. frutescens extract has been efficiently produced using the spray-drying technique, establishing a foundation for future manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and functional foods derived from P. frutescens.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Honey has been employed for its therapeutic attributes since ancient eras, with a histor... more Context: Honey has been employed for its therapeutic attributes since ancient eras, with a history of medicinal utilization, and recent studies have highlighted its diverse clinical applications. The medicinal benefits of honey can be ascribed to various mechanisms, encompassing its osmotic and acidic characteristics, hydrogen peroxide generation, and particular bioactive compounds. While honey generally has a good safety profile, rare risks exist, particularly in infants under one year of age. More rigorous clinical trials and standardized protocols are needed to establish its optimal dosage, application methods, and specific indications. Economic considerations and regional variations in honey composition and quality should also be considered. Aims: To provide an overview of the clinical uses of honey in the medical field, emphasizing its effectiveness and potential therapeutic benefits. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather relevant studies on the clinical applications of honey. The search encompassed various databases and included studies published with the range from May 2001 to May 2023. The selected studies were critically reviewed to extract pertinent information for this critical review. Results: Natural honey comes from two types of honey-producing bees: honeybees and stingless bees. Honey constitutes a multifaceted amalgamation of sugars, enzymes, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, all contributing to its therapeutic attributes. It exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant effects. In wound management, honey promotes healing, reduces infection rates, and minimizes scarring. It also shows promise in treating bacterial and fungal infections. Furthermore, honey has effectively alleviated symptoms associated with respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and dermatological conditions. Conclusions: Honey possesses multifaceted clinical applications in the medical field. Its diverse therapeutic properties and minimal adverse effects make it an attractive option for various conditions. However, further research is necessary to solidify its role in evidence-based clinical practice, including conducting more rigorous clinical trials, establishing standardized protocols, and considering economic and regional factors.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Mentha species are well known for their health benefits. Products extracted from aromati... more Context: Mentha species are well known for their health benefits. Products extracted from aromatic plants of this genus (Mentha) are increasingly being studied for their active constituents in order to replace synthetic products that are harmful to health.
Aims: To determine the chemical composition, physicochemical parameters, and antioxidant properties of essential oils of M. spicata, M. piperita, and M. pulegium. These plants were collected from three different geographical areas in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region of Morocco, with an additional focus on analyzing the fluctuation of their chemical composition based on their locations.
Methods: Essential oils obtained through hydrodistillation of the fresh aerial parts of the plants were analyzed via gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antioxidant capacity was measured by several chemical tests: DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP.
Results: Multiple major components were identified, showcasing variations in composition between species as well as between plants of the same species. M. spicata was characterized by carvone, piperitone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; while M. piperita features linalool, D-carvone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; and M. pulegium had a single major component which is pulegone. To the best of our knowledge, it is assumed that a new set of chemotypes may be defined based on the geographical regions studied. The examined essential oils demonstrated notable antioxidant efficacy.
Conclusions: These findings suggest the potential use of extracts from these plants as an alternative to synthetic chemical products. Therefore, they could find applications in complementary medicine as well as in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. There is currently no cure, and the... more Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. There is currently no cure, and the available pharmacological treatment focuses on treating the symptoms. This study aimed to analyze the pharmacological treatments for AD protected in the US Patent Office. The Matheo Patent software was used to search for patents granted in the 2010–2020 period in the USPTO database. The search strategy «Alzheimer» was used in title and abstract and the International Patent Classification (IPC) codes A61P* and A61K*. The selected patents were divided into six categories according to therapeutic target. Complementary information from scientific databases was used to determine the stage of investigation and efficacy of the patented molecules. In the analyzed period, 58 patents were granted: 10 directed to Aβ peptide metabolism and deposition, three to tau, seven to inflammation, nine to cholinergic, two to glutamatergic and 27 to other targets. More than 80.0% belong to holders from the USA, France, and Japan. The molecules Elenbecestat and LY3202626 decreased the burden of Aβ plaques without significant cognitive improvement, Donanemab is in Phase 3 clinical trial, and the FDA has designated it Breakthrough Therapy. CPC-201 and PXT864 demonstrated, in Phase 2, good tolerability and improvement of AD symptoms. Most of the inventions are focused on treating the earliest phase of AD. The most advanced treatments in their research are those focused on treating Aβ accumulation. More studies are needed to prove the efficacy of the patented molecules.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: In the last decade, antimicrobial resistance cases have been widespread. The discovery a... more Context: In the last decade, antimicrobial resistance cases have been widespread. The discovery and development of new drugs need to be done to overcome the case. Some research has found that some compounds, which are curcumin transformation derivatives, are able to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. Aims: To evaluate the development of antimicrobial candidates of curcumin versus S. aureus. Methods: The in silico approach method, along with the QSAR technique, plays an important role in the process of discovery and development of new drugs. In this study, we focused on developing curcumin transformation derivatives that are much more potent by making the best QSAR equation of curcumin and eight curcumin transformation derivatives that have been tested in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Results: The best QSAR equation was obtained from curcumin transformation derivatives as antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, with pMIC = 0.812 (± 0.162)EHOMO +5.443 (± 1.659) (n = 9; Sig = 0.002; R = 0.884; R2 = 0.782; F = 25.153; Q2 = 0.57.
Conclusions: In this study, an increase in the antimicrobial activity of curcumin transformation derivatives against S. aureus by increasing EHOMO was observed. The best QSAR equation can be a tool to obtain a more potential new chemical structure model and reduce trials and errors.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Prostate cancer remains a significant global health concern, and understanding the molec... more Context: Prostate cancer remains a significant global health concern, and understanding the molecular drivers of this disease is crucial for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC-3), a member of the SRC family, has emerged as a key player in prostate cancer pathogenesis. Aims: To examine the role of SRC-3 in prostate cancer, encompassing molecular mechanisms, clinical implications, and therapeutic opportunities. Methods: A systematic literature search following PRISMA guidelines was conducted in PubMed, PMC, and other relevant databases to identify studies that investigate SRC-3 in prostate cancer. Results: 785 articles were retrieved from databases using specific keywords and MeSH terms related to SRC-3 and Prostate Cancer. After removing 461 duplicates, 260 articles were excluded based on title and abstract review. Subsequently, a comprehensive screening by three researchers resulted in 47 relevant articles for this systematic review. Evidence suggests that SRC-3 expression correlates with prostate cancer aggressiveness, disease recurrence, and poor patient outcomes. Its potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target if explored, offers insights into personalized medicine approaches. Conclusions: SRC-3 plays a pivotal role in prostate cancer, influencing disease progression and clinical outcomes. Understanding the molecular intricacies of SRC-3 in prostate cancer offers new opportunities for precision medicine and innovative therapeutic approaches. This review provides a comprehensive overview of SRC-3's involvement in prostate cancer, emphasizing its clinical relevance and potential as a therapeutic target, ultimately contributing to improved patient care in the era of personalized oncology.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Ageratum conyzoides L. and eggshell membrane have the potential to be used as medicine. ... more Context: Ageratum conyzoides L. and eggshell membrane have the potential to be used as medicine. The independent use of A. conyzoides extract or eggshell membrane hydrolysates independently as a natural medicine has been widely known, but the mixture of the two as an anti-inflammatory has not been studied.
Aims: To evaluate both the in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates, independently and in combination. In silico testing was conducted to identify chemicals that have a key role in inflammation signaling pathways.
Methods: The chronic anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates were evaluated on cotton pellet-induced rats using diclofenac-Na as a control. In vitro anti-inflammatory effects were studied via protein denaturation, membrane stability, and antiprotease activity. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed on the p38-MAPK signaling pathway using compounds found in A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates.
Results: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates given separately or in combination can inhibit the formation of exudates and granulomas. Molecular docking simulations showed that the metabolites in the extract and hydrolysate interact with p38-MAPK. Nobiletin in the extract is the potential metabolite that interacts with the p38-MAPK receptor with a free energy of binding and inhibition constant of -8.92 kcal/mol and 260.80 nM. Amino acids in the hydrolysates showed weaker interactions compared to the compound in the extract.
Conclusions: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates work additively to inhibit the severity of chronic inflammation.
Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 2024
Context: Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and also death in t... more Context: Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and also death in the world. Administration of Szeto-Schiller-31 (SS-31) as a potential therapeutic candidate that can decrease the renal function damage progressivity in diabetes needs to be comprehensively analyzed.
Aims: To assess the protective effects of SS31 against the progressivity of diabetic nephropathy.
Methods: This systematic review follows PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines 2020. Searches of databases (Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus, ProQuest, and Springer) were done on 17 September 2023 in order to find articles related to the animal diabetic model and SS-31 treatment. Manual searches from medRxiv were also conducted to obtain additional evidence. Renal function, histopathology analysis, reactive oxygen species in vivo, and in vitro analysis were described.
Results: There were six in vivo studies, each of which discussed the renal function, histopathology, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and four in vitro studies that discussed ROS. The available data suggested that SS-31 improves kidney function by lowering urinary albumin excretion, proteinuria, serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, and BUN, supported by histopathological improvements. In addition, SS-31 also has the effect of lowering 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) expression.
Conclusions: SS31 had a renoprotective effect that could prevent the worsening of renal function in diabetic mice. In addition, the results of histopathology and ROS analysis also support the positive results of SS-31 treatment. Further studies are required to confirm its findings.
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Aims: To evaluate the benefits of acarbose plus myo-inositol therapy on the thyroid profile of PCOS.
Methods: An open-labelled, parallel randomised clinical trial on 80 PCOS women based on inclusion and exclusion criteria was performed at the Department of Gynaecology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur. Institutional ethics committee approval and prior informed consent were obtained. The trial was registered in CTRI (No: CTRI/2022/04/041877). Group A (n = 38) received metformin 500 mg TID, and group B (n = 39) received acarbose 50 mg TID along with myoinositol 1000 mg BID. Assessment of metabolic and hormonal profile was done at baseline and at the end of six months.
Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in luteinising hormone (p <0.0001), total testosterone (p<0.05), thyroid stimulating hormone (p<0.05), fasting insulin (p<0.05), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (p<0.0001). The follicle-stimulating hormone was increased only in the metformin group. No significant changes in body mass index, free triiodothyronine, free tetraiodothyronine, and fasting glucose were observed in any group. Both therapies were safe, and no side effects or hypoglycaemia were recorded.
Conclusions: In consideration of the beneficial effects of the study, we conclude that the administration of acarbose plus myo-inositol exerts positive effects on the thyroid and other endocrinological profiles in PCOS women.
Aims: To evaluate the characteristics of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) nanoparticles as a better antibacterial and antifungal herbal ingredient and their relationship with acrylic hardness.
Methods: C. citratus oil nanoparticles (LON) were synthesized and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis was used to analyze the characteristics of LON bioactive components. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) against C. albicans and S. mutans and mechanical hardness test of acrylic were performed.
Results: The LON concentration of MIC and MBC against C. albicans and S. mutans was 25 and 100%, respectively. One-way ANOVA showed no significant difference between groups of LON with different concentrations (p=0.687). A paired t-test showed significant differences in acrylic resin hardness before and after treatment of LON with 100% (p=0.022) and 50% (p=0.021) concentration. There was no significant difference in hardness before and after treatment of other concentrations of LON and chlorhexidine as positive control.
Conclusions: LON treatment on acrylic resin decreased the growth of C. albicans and S. mutans without altering the mechanical properties (hardness).
Aims: To analyze a list of halophyte plants and their ethnobotanical characteristics, with a focus on those most commonly used in traditional medicine in the southeast of Algeria (Biskra).
Methods: The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between 2017 and 2019 by interviewing 120 informants using a questionnaire and applying a semi-structured interview methodology. The data was analyzed using ethnobotanical statistical tools, including the informant consensus factor (ICF), citation frequency (CF), use value (UV), family importance value (FIV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), plant part value (PPV), and relative importance (RI), as well as statistics analysis (ANOVA) to compare the use of medicinal plants according to age, gender, and education level.
Results: The results of the survey enabled us to identify 12 species distributed across eight different families. The most common family was that of the Amaranthaceae (four species), while the most frequently utilized parts of plants were leaves (PPV = 0.4). Furthermore, decoctions were the most commonly prepared form (33.39%). The highest ICF values were observed for the endocrinological and digestive disease groups (ICF = 0.97). The statistical analysis (ANOVA) revealed a significant difference in the knowledge of the use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine according to age and level of education.
Conclusions: The findings of this research suggest that the halophyte flora in our arid study area may offer a promising source for the discovery of new drugs, a prospect that requires further investigation and exploration.
Aims: To evaluate the inhibition of topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) and include the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a key regulator of cell growth and differentiation.
Methods: The method used computational modeling and molecular docking to assess the binding affinities and interactions between the bioactive components, cetuximab, TOP2A, and PPARγ. In vitro experiments were conducted using CRC cell lines. Cells were treated with cetuximab alone or in combination with V. volvacea extract. Cell viability and immunofluorescence were conducted to evaluate the effect of combination therapy on TOP2A and PPARγ.
Results: The results unveiled compelling binding interactions, suggesting the potential for dual targeting of TOP2A and PPARγ. The results demonstrated a reduction in cell viability, downregulation of TOP2A, and modulation of PPARγ. These findings indicate the potential of V. volvacea extract as an adjuvant therapy to cetuximab in CRC. Targeting both TOP2A and PPARγ enhances the efficacy of CRC treatment.
Conclusions: Moreover, it highlights the importance of harnessing natural compounds and molecular insights to develop innovative combinatorial therapies for complex diseases like CRC.
Conclusions: There was no effect between the combination of an intermittent restriction diet and moderate-intensity continuous exercise on cardiomyocyte diameter and BNP expression. However, there is a potential that an intermittent restriction diet has the optimal effect in preventing changes in the cardiac structure.
Aims: To evaluate the impact of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract on oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, and senescence parameters in the hearts of obese rats induced by a high-fat diet.
Methods: Twenty-nine male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, fed different diets for 24 weeks, and received C. sativum extract treatment for 12 weeks. This experiment assessed malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker, antioxidant level by measuring catalase and glutathione (GSH), cellular senescence state by measuring senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, and p21 levels in heart tissue.
Results: C. sativum seed extract demonstrated a significant reduction in MDA levels in the hearts of obese rats when compared to the control groups. Furthermore, the extract led to a significant increase in catalase and GSH levels in the hearts of non-obese rats, whether on a normal or high-fat diet. Although the C. sativum-treated groups exhibited a downward trend in senescence markers (SA-β-Gal and p21), the observed differences did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: Ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract exhibited promising potential in mitigating oxidative stress in the hearts of obese rats and enhancing antioxidant levels in the hearts of non-obese rats subjected to both normal and high-fat diets. This underscores the preventive role of C. sativum seed extract in alleviating oxidative stress, particularly in the context of a high-fat diet. However, there was insufficient evidence to conclusively demonstrate a significant improvement in cellular senescence with the use of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract.
Aims: To evaluate isolated compounds from the Phyllanthus emblica as antihyperuricemia candidates.
Methods: The isolated compounds were characterized using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Thin Layer Chromatography-Densitometry. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and cupric ion (CUPRAC) antioxidant capacity procedures were used to develop the antioxidant activity index. The ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase was determined using a spectrophotometer.
Results: Compound 1 was indicated as rutin having antioxidant capacity with an antioxidant activity index (AAI) DPPH value of 7.89 ± 0.03 and AAI CUPRAC value of 15.83 ± 0.04 stronger than compound 2 (quercitrin) with an AAI DPPH value of 3.72 ± 0.01 and AAI CUPRAC 3.24 ± 0.03. The IC50 for quercitrin's inhibition of xanthine oxidase is 23.85 ± 2.04, which was higher than rutin’s IC50 value of 32.77 ± 4.49 µg/mL.
Conclusions: Flavonol glycosides present in the ethanol extract of Phyllanthus emblica leaves gave potent xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity stronger than the extract. Quercitrin gave stronger xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, but this compound has weaker antioxidant capacity compared to rutin.
Aims: To optimize the spray-drying parameters using BCPharSoft software and evaluate the quality of P. frutescens dry extract.
Methods: D-optimal design based on four independent variables carrier type (Glucidex, Glucidex: Arabic gum 9:1, Glucidex: Arabic gum 8:2), carrier mass (10, 15, and 20 g), inlet air temperature (160, and 180℃) and flow rate (12, and 14 rpm/min) was applied to investigate the cause-effect relations and optimized preparation process. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and total flavonoid content were investigated as four dependent variables.
Results: All independent variables had significant effects on the dependent variables. The optimal parameters of the preparation process included using carrier Glucidex: Arabic gum at a ratio of 9:1, carrier mass of 19 g, inlet air temperature of 161°C, and flow rate of 12 rpm/min. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and flavonoid content of the optimized P. frutescens dry extract were found to be 10.42%, 4.80%, and 90.57 mg GA/g, and 53.55 mg QE/g, respectively.
Conclusions: Dried P. frutescens extract has been efficiently produced using the spray-drying technique, establishing a foundation for future manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and functional foods derived from P. frutescens.
Aims: To determine the chemical composition, physicochemical parameters, and antioxidant properties of essential oils of M. spicata, M. piperita, and M. pulegium. These plants were collected from three different geographical areas in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region of Morocco, with an additional focus on analyzing the fluctuation of their chemical composition based on their locations.
Methods: Essential oils obtained through hydrodistillation of the fresh aerial parts of the plants were analyzed via gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antioxidant capacity was measured by several chemical tests: DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP.
Results: Multiple major components were identified, showcasing variations in composition between species as well as between plants of the same species. M. spicata was characterized by carvone, piperitone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; while M. piperita features linalool, D-carvone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; and M. pulegium had a single major component which is pulegone. To the best of our knowledge, it is assumed that a new set of chemotypes may be defined based on the geographical regions studied. The examined essential oils demonstrated notable antioxidant efficacy.
Conclusions: These findings suggest the potential use of extracts from these plants as an alternative to synthetic chemical products. Therefore, they could find applications in complementary medicine as well as in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Conclusions: In this study, an increase in the antimicrobial activity of curcumin transformation derivatives against S. aureus by increasing EHOMO was observed. The best QSAR equation can be a tool to obtain a more potential new chemical structure model and reduce trials and errors.
Aims: To evaluate both the in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates, independently and in combination. In silico testing was conducted to identify chemicals that have a key role in inflammation signaling pathways.
Methods: The chronic anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates were evaluated on cotton pellet-induced rats using diclofenac-Na as a control. In vitro anti-inflammatory effects were studied via protein denaturation, membrane stability, and antiprotease activity. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed on the p38-MAPK signaling pathway using compounds found in A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates.
Results: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates given separately or in combination can inhibit the formation of exudates and granulomas. Molecular docking simulations showed that the metabolites in the extract and hydrolysate interact with p38-MAPK. Nobiletin in the extract is the potential metabolite that interacts with the p38-MAPK receptor with a free energy of binding and inhibition constant of -8.92 kcal/mol and 260.80 nM. Amino acids in the hydrolysates showed weaker interactions compared to the compound in the extract.
Conclusions: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates work additively to inhibit the severity of chronic inflammation.
Aims: To assess the protective effects of SS31 against the progressivity of diabetic nephropathy.
Methods: This systematic review follows PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines 2020. Searches of databases (Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus, ProQuest, and Springer) were done on 17 September 2023 in order to find articles related to the animal diabetic model and SS-31 treatment. Manual searches from medRxiv were also conducted to obtain additional evidence. Renal function, histopathology analysis, reactive oxygen species in vivo, and in vitro analysis were described.
Results: There were six in vivo studies, each of which discussed the renal function, histopathology, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and four in vitro studies that discussed ROS. The available data suggested that SS-31 improves kidney function by lowering urinary albumin excretion, proteinuria, serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, and BUN, supported by histopathological improvements. In addition, SS-31 also has the effect of lowering 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) expression.
Conclusions: SS31 had a renoprotective effect that could prevent the worsening of renal function in diabetic mice. In addition, the results of histopathology and ROS analysis also support the positive results of SS-31 treatment. Further studies are required to confirm its findings.
Aims: To evaluate the benefits of acarbose plus myo-inositol therapy on the thyroid profile of PCOS.
Methods: An open-labelled, parallel randomised clinical trial on 80 PCOS women based on inclusion and exclusion criteria was performed at the Department of Gynaecology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur. Institutional ethics committee approval and prior informed consent were obtained. The trial was registered in CTRI (No: CTRI/2022/04/041877). Group A (n = 38) received metformin 500 mg TID, and group B (n = 39) received acarbose 50 mg TID along with myoinositol 1000 mg BID. Assessment of metabolic and hormonal profile was done at baseline and at the end of six months.
Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in luteinising hormone (p <0.0001), total testosterone (p<0.05), thyroid stimulating hormone (p<0.05), fasting insulin (p<0.05), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (p<0.0001). The follicle-stimulating hormone was increased only in the metformin group. No significant changes in body mass index, free triiodothyronine, free tetraiodothyronine, and fasting glucose were observed in any group. Both therapies were safe, and no side effects or hypoglycaemia were recorded.
Conclusions: In consideration of the beneficial effects of the study, we conclude that the administration of acarbose plus myo-inositol exerts positive effects on the thyroid and other endocrinological profiles in PCOS women.
Aims: To evaluate the characteristics of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) nanoparticles as a better antibacterial and antifungal herbal ingredient and their relationship with acrylic hardness.
Methods: C. citratus oil nanoparticles (LON) were synthesized and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis was used to analyze the characteristics of LON bioactive components. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) against C. albicans and S. mutans and mechanical hardness test of acrylic were performed.
Results: The LON concentration of MIC and MBC against C. albicans and S. mutans was 25 and 100%, respectively. One-way ANOVA showed no significant difference between groups of LON with different concentrations (p=0.687). A paired t-test showed significant differences in acrylic resin hardness before and after treatment of LON with 100% (p=0.022) and 50% (p=0.021) concentration. There was no significant difference in hardness before and after treatment of other concentrations of LON and chlorhexidine as positive control.
Conclusions: LON treatment on acrylic resin decreased the growth of C. albicans and S. mutans without altering the mechanical properties (hardness).
Aims: To analyze a list of halophyte plants and their ethnobotanical characteristics, with a focus on those most commonly used in traditional medicine in the southeast of Algeria (Biskra).
Methods: The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between 2017 and 2019 by interviewing 120 informants using a questionnaire and applying a semi-structured interview methodology. The data was analyzed using ethnobotanical statistical tools, including the informant consensus factor (ICF), citation frequency (CF), use value (UV), family importance value (FIV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), plant part value (PPV), and relative importance (RI), as well as statistics analysis (ANOVA) to compare the use of medicinal plants according to age, gender, and education level.
Results: The results of the survey enabled us to identify 12 species distributed across eight different families. The most common family was that of the Amaranthaceae (four species), while the most frequently utilized parts of plants were leaves (PPV = 0.4). Furthermore, decoctions were the most commonly prepared form (33.39%). The highest ICF values were observed for the endocrinological and digestive disease groups (ICF = 0.97). The statistical analysis (ANOVA) revealed a significant difference in the knowledge of the use of halophyte plants in traditional medicine according to age and level of education.
Conclusions: The findings of this research suggest that the halophyte flora in our arid study area may offer a promising source for the discovery of new drugs, a prospect that requires further investigation and exploration.
Aims: To evaluate the inhibition of topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) and include the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a key regulator of cell growth and differentiation.
Methods: The method used computational modeling and molecular docking to assess the binding affinities and interactions between the bioactive components, cetuximab, TOP2A, and PPARγ. In vitro experiments were conducted using CRC cell lines. Cells were treated with cetuximab alone or in combination with V. volvacea extract. Cell viability and immunofluorescence were conducted to evaluate the effect of combination therapy on TOP2A and PPARγ.
Results: The results unveiled compelling binding interactions, suggesting the potential for dual targeting of TOP2A and PPARγ. The results demonstrated a reduction in cell viability, downregulation of TOP2A, and modulation of PPARγ. These findings indicate the potential of V. volvacea extract as an adjuvant therapy to cetuximab in CRC. Targeting both TOP2A and PPARγ enhances the efficacy of CRC treatment.
Conclusions: Moreover, it highlights the importance of harnessing natural compounds and molecular insights to develop innovative combinatorial therapies for complex diseases like CRC.
Conclusions: There was no effect between the combination of an intermittent restriction diet and moderate-intensity continuous exercise on cardiomyocyte diameter and BNP expression. However, there is a potential that an intermittent restriction diet has the optimal effect in preventing changes in the cardiac structure.
Aims: To evaluate the impact of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract on oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, and senescence parameters in the hearts of obese rats induced by a high-fat diet.
Methods: Twenty-nine male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, fed different diets for 24 weeks, and received C. sativum extract treatment for 12 weeks. This experiment assessed malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker, antioxidant level by measuring catalase and glutathione (GSH), cellular senescence state by measuring senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, and p21 levels in heart tissue.
Results: C. sativum seed extract demonstrated a significant reduction in MDA levels in the hearts of obese rats when compared to the control groups. Furthermore, the extract led to a significant increase in catalase and GSH levels in the hearts of non-obese rats, whether on a normal or high-fat diet. Although the C. sativum-treated groups exhibited a downward trend in senescence markers (SA-β-Gal and p21), the observed differences did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: Ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract exhibited promising potential in mitigating oxidative stress in the hearts of obese rats and enhancing antioxidant levels in the hearts of non-obese rats subjected to both normal and high-fat diets. This underscores the preventive role of C. sativum seed extract in alleviating oxidative stress, particularly in the context of a high-fat diet. However, there was insufficient evidence to conclusively demonstrate a significant improvement in cellular senescence with the use of ethanol-based C. sativum seed extract.
Aims: To evaluate isolated compounds from the Phyllanthus emblica as antihyperuricemia candidates.
Methods: The isolated compounds were characterized using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Thin Layer Chromatography-Densitometry. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and cupric ion (CUPRAC) antioxidant capacity procedures were used to develop the antioxidant activity index. The ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase was determined using a spectrophotometer.
Results: Compound 1 was indicated as rutin having antioxidant capacity with an antioxidant activity index (AAI) DPPH value of 7.89 ± 0.03 and AAI CUPRAC value of 15.83 ± 0.04 stronger than compound 2 (quercitrin) with an AAI DPPH value of 3.72 ± 0.01 and AAI CUPRAC 3.24 ± 0.03. The IC50 for quercitrin's inhibition of xanthine oxidase is 23.85 ± 2.04, which was higher than rutin’s IC50 value of 32.77 ± 4.49 µg/mL.
Conclusions: Flavonol glycosides present in the ethanol extract of Phyllanthus emblica leaves gave potent xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity stronger than the extract. Quercitrin gave stronger xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, but this compound has weaker antioxidant capacity compared to rutin.
Aims: To optimize the spray-drying parameters using BCPharSoft software and evaluate the quality of P. frutescens dry extract.
Methods: D-optimal design based on four independent variables carrier type (Glucidex, Glucidex: Arabic gum 9:1, Glucidex: Arabic gum 8:2), carrier mass (10, 15, and 20 g), inlet air temperature (160, and 180℃) and flow rate (12, and 14 rpm/min) was applied to investigate the cause-effect relations and optimized preparation process. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and total flavonoid content were investigated as four dependent variables.
Results: All independent variables had significant effects on the dependent variables. The optimal parameters of the preparation process included using carrier Glucidex: Arabic gum at a ratio of 9:1, carrier mass of 19 g, inlet air temperature of 161°C, and flow rate of 12 rpm/min. The drying performance, moisture content, total phenol, and flavonoid content of the optimized P. frutescens dry extract were found to be 10.42%, 4.80%, and 90.57 mg GA/g, and 53.55 mg QE/g, respectively.
Conclusions: Dried P. frutescens extract has been efficiently produced using the spray-drying technique, establishing a foundation for future manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and functional foods derived from P. frutescens.
Aims: To determine the chemical composition, physicochemical parameters, and antioxidant properties of essential oils of M. spicata, M. piperita, and M. pulegium. These plants were collected from three different geographical areas in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region of Morocco, with an additional focus on analyzing the fluctuation of their chemical composition based on their locations.
Methods: Essential oils obtained through hydrodistillation of the fresh aerial parts of the plants were analyzed via gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antioxidant capacity was measured by several chemical tests: DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP.
Results: Multiple major components were identified, showcasing variations in composition between species as well as between plants of the same species. M. spicata was characterized by carvone, piperitone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; while M. piperita features linalool, D-carvone, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene; and M. pulegium had a single major component which is pulegone. To the best of our knowledge, it is assumed that a new set of chemotypes may be defined based on the geographical regions studied. The examined essential oils demonstrated notable antioxidant efficacy.
Conclusions: These findings suggest the potential use of extracts from these plants as an alternative to synthetic chemical products. Therefore, they could find applications in complementary medicine as well as in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Conclusions: In this study, an increase in the antimicrobial activity of curcumin transformation derivatives against S. aureus by increasing EHOMO was observed. The best QSAR equation can be a tool to obtain a more potential new chemical structure model and reduce trials and errors.
Aims: To evaluate both the in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates, independently and in combination. In silico testing was conducted to identify chemicals that have a key role in inflammation signaling pathways.
Methods: The chronic anti-inflammatory effects of A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates were evaluated on cotton pellet-induced rats using diclofenac-Na as a control. In vitro anti-inflammatory effects were studied via protein denaturation, membrane stability, and antiprotease activity. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed on the p38-MAPK signaling pathway using compounds found in A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates.
Results: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates given separately or in combination can inhibit the formation of exudates and granulomas. Molecular docking simulations showed that the metabolites in the extract and hydrolysate interact with p38-MAPK. Nobiletin in the extract is the potential metabolite that interacts with the p38-MAPK receptor with a free energy of binding and inhibition constant of -8.92 kcal/mol and 260.80 nM. Amino acids in the hydrolysates showed weaker interactions compared to the compound in the extract.
Conclusions: A. conyzoides extract and eggshell membrane hydrolysates work additively to inhibit the severity of chronic inflammation.
Aims: To assess the protective effects of SS31 against the progressivity of diabetic nephropathy.
Methods: This systematic review follows PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines 2020. Searches of databases (Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus, ProQuest, and Springer) were done on 17 September 2023 in order to find articles related to the animal diabetic model and SS-31 treatment. Manual searches from medRxiv were also conducted to obtain additional evidence. Renal function, histopathology analysis, reactive oxygen species in vivo, and in vitro analysis were described.
Results: There were six in vivo studies, each of which discussed the renal function, histopathology, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and four in vitro studies that discussed ROS. The available data suggested that SS-31 improves kidney function by lowering urinary albumin excretion, proteinuria, serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, and BUN, supported by histopathological improvements. In addition, SS-31 also has the effect of lowering 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) expression.
Conclusions: SS31 had a renoprotective effect that could prevent the worsening of renal function in diabetic mice. In addition, the results of histopathology and ROS analysis also support the positive results of SS-31 treatment. Further studies are required to confirm its findings.