An experiment was conducted to observe the inhibitory effects of the leaf extracts derived from Albizia lebbeck （L.） Benth. On germination and growth behavior of some popular agricultural crops （receptor） of Bangl...An experiment was conducted to observe the inhibitory effects of the leaf extracts derived from Albizia lebbeck （L.） Benth. On germination and growth behavior of some popular agricultural crops （receptor） of Bangladesh. Experiments were set on sterilized petridishes with a photoperiod of 24 h at room temperature of 27-30℃. The effects of the different concentrations of aqueous extracts were compared to distil water （control.）. The aqueous extracts of leaf caused significant inhibitory effect on germination, root and shoot elongation and development of lateral roots of receptor plants. Bioassays indicated that the inhibitory effect was proportional to the concentrations of the extracts and higher concentration （50%-100%） had the stronger inhibitory effect whereas the lower concentration （10%-25%） showed stimulatory effect in some cases. The study also revealed that, inhibitory effect was much pronounced in root and lateral root development rather than germination and shoot growth.展开更多
The current study was carried out to determine the bioactivity of P. lentiscus leaf extracts as potential antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The plant extracts were examined for antibacterial activity against a...The current study was carried out to determine the bioactivity of P. lentiscus leaf extracts as potential antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The plant extracts were examined for antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis using the agar well method (according to the guidelines of Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute). The antioxidant potential of 3 plant leaf extracts was determined by their ability to convert Fe<sup>3+</sup> to Fe<sup>2+</sup> and scavenge the DPPH free radical. At all concentrations studied, the methanolic leaf extract had higher total phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as stronger antioxidant and antibacterial inhibitory activity compared to aqueous extract. Our findings with P. aeruginosa were especially interesting, because this bacterium was inhibited by methanol extract than that of the reference antibiotics. The results also demonstrated a link between DPPH radical scavenging ability, reducing power, and total phenolic and flavonoid content of plant extracts (r > 0.97, R<sup>2</sup> > 0.95, P = 0.01). As a result, the methanolic leaf extract of the chosen plant might be employed as an effective antioxidant and antibacterial agent for the treatment of a variety of morbidities.展开更多
The anti-hair loss mechanism of Aquilaria sinensis leaf extract(ASE)has been studied by using metabolomics and network pharmacology.Metabolomics was utilized to comprehensively identify the active constituents of ASE,...The anti-hair loss mechanism of Aquilaria sinensis leaf extract(ASE)has been studied by using metabolomics and network pharmacology.Metabolomics was utilized to comprehensively identify the active constituents of ASE,and the network pharmacology was used to elucidate their anti-hair loss mechanism,which was verified by molecular docking technology.572 active compounds were identified from the ASE by metabolomics methods,where there are 1447 corresponding targets and 492 targets related to hair loss,totaling 88 targets.20 core active substances were identified by constructing a network between common targets and active substances,which include vanillic acid,chorionic acid,caffeic acid and apigenin.The five key targets of TNF,TP53,IL6,PPARG,and EGFR were screened out by the PPI network analysis on 88 common targets.The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the inflammation,hormone balance,cell growth,proliferation,apoptosis,and oxidative stress are involved.Molecular docking studies have confirmed the high binding affinity between core active compounds and key targets.The drug similarity assessment on these core compounds suggested that they have the potential to be used as potential hair loss treatment drugs.This study elucidates the complex molecular mechanism of ASE in treating hair loss,and provides a reference for the future applications in hair care products.展开更多
The purpose of this research work is to determine the removal efficiency of Cu^(2+)and Pb^(2+)ions using polyvinyl alcohol/neem leaf extract/chitosan(PVA/NLE/CS)composite films as adsorbent materials from an aqueous m...The purpose of this research work is to determine the removal efficiency of Cu^(2+)and Pb^(2+)ions using polyvinyl alcohol/neem leaf extract/chitosan(PVA/NLE/CS)composite films as adsorbent materials from an aqueous medium,with respect to pH,contact time,and adsorbent dosage.The synthesized composite material was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared(FTIR)spectroscopy,thermogravimetric analysis-Derivative Thermogravimetry(TGA-DTG),X-ray diffraction(XRD),X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),and scanning electron microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy(SEM-EDX).The antibacterial activity and swelling response of the material were studied using suitable methodologies.The FTIR study confirmed the interactions among PVA,chitosan,and neem leaf extract.The TGA data reveal the excellent thermal stability of the developed composite films.The SEM micrograph indicates a homogeneous phase morphology with good compatibility among chitosan,the monomer,and the leaf extract.The antibacterial study revealed that the prepared PVA/NLE/CS films exhibit improved antibacterial activity against bacterial growth.It was found that at pH 6.0,the adsorption capacity for both toxic metal ions is maximum,and decreases with a further rise in pH.At this pH,the adsorption capacity of PVA/NLE/CS films increases with a gradual increase in adsorbent dosage,and at a specific pH,the adsorption capacity for Cu^(2+)is greater than that for Pb^(2+).The adsorption efficiency is a function of contact time and was found to be maximal at 180 min.Hence,the developed composite material is effective for the removal of metal ions from wastewater.展开更多
BACKGROUND The investigation of plant-based therapeutic agents in medicinal plants has revealed their presence in the extracts and provides the vision to formulate novel techniques for drug therapy.Vitex negundo(V.neg...BACKGROUND The investigation of plant-based therapeutic agents in medicinal plants has revealed their presence in the extracts and provides the vision to formulate novel techniques for drug therapy.Vitex negundo(V.negundo),a perennial herb belonging to the Varbanaceae family,is extensively used in conventional medication.AIM To determine the existence of therapeutic components in leaf and callus extracts from wild V.negundo plants using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GCMS).METHODS In this study,we conducted GC-MS on wild plant leaf extracts and correlated the presence of constituents with those in callus extracts.Various growth regulators such as 6-benzylaminopurine(BAP),2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid(2,4-D),α-naphthylacetic acid(NAA),and di-phenylurea(DPU)were added to plant leaves and in-vitro callus and grown on MS medium.RESULTS The results clearly indicated that the addition of BAP(2.0 mg/L),2,4-D(0.2 mg/mL),DPU(2.0 mg/L)and 2,4-D(0.2 mg/mL)in MS medium resulted in rapid callus development.The plant profile of Vitex extracts by GC-MS analysis showed that 24,10,and 14 bioactive constituents were detected in the methanolic extract of leaf,green callus and the methanolic extract of white loose callus,respectively.CONCLUSION Octadecadienoic acid,hexadecanoic acid and methyl ester were the major constituents in the leaf and callus methanolic extract.Octadecadienoic acid was the most common constituent in all samples.The maximum concentration of octadecadienoic acid in leaves,green callus and white loose callus was 21.93%,47.79%and 40.38%,respectively.These findings demonstrate that the concentration of octadecadienoic acid doubles in-vitro compared to in-vivo.In addition to octadecadienoic acid;butyric acid,benzene,1-methoxy-4-(1-propenyl),dospan,tridecanedialdehyde,methylcyclohexenylbutanol,chlorpyrifos,n-secondary terpene diester,anflunine and other important active compounds were also detected.All these components were only available in callus formed in-vitro.This study showed that the callus contained additional botanical characteristics compared with wild plants.Due to the presence of numerous bioactive compounds,the medical use of Vitex for various diseases has been accepted and the plant is considered an important source of therapeutics for research and development.展开更多
Objective:To determine the phytochemical and larvicidal activity of Tragia involucrata(T.involucrata)leaf extracts against fourth instar larvae of Ae.aegypti.Methods:Phytochemical analysis of hexane leaf extract was p...Objective:To determine the phytochemical and larvicidal activity of Tragia involucrata(T.involucrata)leaf extracts against fourth instar larvae of Ae.aegypti.Methods:Phytochemical analysis of hexane leaf extract was performed and larvicidal activity was determined against Ae.aegypti at concentrations of 50,100,150,200 and 250 mg/L.Larval mortality was assessed after 24 h.Results:The hexane extracts of T.involucrata was found to be higher mortality against the larvae of Ae.aegypti with a LC_(50) value of 153.51 mg/L.Conclusions:These results suggested that the leaf extracts of T.involucrata showed potential to be used as an ideal ecofriendly approach for the control of the Ae.aegypti.展开更多
Aim: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in researching and developing new antimicrobial agents from various sources to combat microbial resistance. The study was aimed at determining the phytochemical ...Aim: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in researching and developing new antimicrobial agents from various sources to combat microbial resistance. The study was aimed at determining the phytochemical constituents and in vitro antibacterial activity of methanol and aqueous extracts of Psidium guajava leaves and stem bark on Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus sp. in Ugbokolo, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical screening of the plant materials for various bioactive components was conducted between July and December, 2019 using standard laboratory techniques. The extracts were purified using column chromatography. The identity of the test isolates were confirmed using morphological characteristics, gram stain, motility and appropriate biochemical tests such as indole, catalase, coagulase, triple sugar iron agar. The susceptibility of the isolates to each bioactive component was determined using the agar well diffusion method. The broth dilution method was employed for the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extracts. Results: The result of the study showed the presence of phenol, tannins, flavonoids and saponins as bioactive compounds. The antibacterial susceptibility of the isolates to aqueous and methanol extracts of leaf and stem bark of Psidium guajava varied significantly (P Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible isolate at 200 mg/ml concentration with average zone of inhibition of 13.05 mm for leaf extract and 15.34 mm for stem bark extract. Proteus sp. is the least susceptible with average zone of inhibition of 8.88 mm for the leaf extract and 12.36 mm for the stem bark extract respectively. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration of aqueous and methanol extract of P. guajava leaf and stem bark showed that dilutions of various concentrations of aqueous and methanol extracts can inhibit and/or kill the isolates. Lower MIC (3.125 mg/ml) was shown by methanol extract than aqueous extract. MBC of methanol extract ranges between 6.25 - 25.0 mg/ml. Statistical analysis of the result showed methanol extract is more effective than aqueous extract while the stem bark of the plant showed higher efficacy than the leaf. Conclusion: The findings of the study imply that the extract of Psidium guajava has shown promising properties against tested microorganisms. Further study of the extract is therefore recommended.展开更多
Abstract： In the present study, we established an ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry （UPLC-QTOF-MSE） method to simultaneously quantify 33 components in Ginkgo bilo...Abstract： In the present study, we established an ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry （UPLC-QTOF-MSE） method to simultaneously quantify 33 components in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts （GBEs）, including 17 flavonol glycosides, five terpene trilactones （TTLs）, four polyphenols and seven carboxylic acids. This optimized method was successfully applied to analyze the explicit compositions of GBE samples collected from different places. Furthermore, the data were processed through unsupervised principal component analysis （PCA） and supervised orthogonal partial least squared discrimination analysis （OPLS-DA） to evaluate the quality and compare the differences between the samples according to the contents of the 33 chemical constituents. Bilobalide, protocatechuic acid, shikimic acid, quinic acid, ginkgolide B, ginkgolide J, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside, quercetin-3-O-ct-L-rhamnopyranocyl-2＂-（6＇＂-p-coumaroyl）-β-D-glucoside and rutin were recognized as characteristic chemical markers that contributed most to control the quality of GBEs. Based on the fact that GBEs should be standardized with the characteristic components as quality control chemical markers, it is most important to maintain the quality of GBEs stable and reliable, and this method also provided a good strategy to further rectify and standardize the GBEs market.展开更多
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a respiratory condition characterized by several symptoms.The pathogenesis of COPD is complex and involves multiple factors.A fantastic drug from traditional Chinese medic...Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a respiratory condition characterized by several symptoms.The pathogenesis of COPD is complex and involves multiple factors.A fantastic drug from traditional Chinese medicine,Isodon Suzhouensis(ISZ)is a perennial herb belonging to the Labiaceae family.It has the functions of resolving phlegm,removing stasis,promoting blood circulation and eliminating qi stagnation.ISZ has been found to possess great potential against COPD.Present study is focused on identifying micro RNA(mi RNA)biomarkers for COPD and determining the role of ISZ leaf extract in regulating the disease through mi RNA expression in serum exosomes.The Sprague Dawley(SD)rats were randomly divided into control group,COPD group and COPD+ISZ group.After the establishment of the model,the rats were sacrificed,and the results were compared with the control group.Then the total RNA of rat serum was extracted and identified by nanoparticle tracker.Finally,high-throughput screening and sequencing were performed to screen mi RNAs with significant differential expression.Then,different databases were used to figure out the possible target genes,and their functions were assessed by employing Gene Ontology(GO)as well as Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)analyses.The sequencing results were then further verified by q RT-PCR.The results pointed out that these 17 differentially expressed mi RNAs may have the potential of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers against COPD.Interestingly,it was also found that ISZ leaf extract may regulate the occurrence of COPD by affecting the expression of mi RNAs.This study identified the biomarkers of COPD and clarified the mechanism of the treatment of COPD by ISZ leaf extract,which is helpful to improve the level of early diagnosis and treatment of COPD.展开更多
Olive leaves have an antioxidant capacity, and olive leaf extract can protect the blood, spleen and hippocampus in lead-poisoned mice. However, little is known about the effects of olive leaf extract on lead-induced b...Olive leaves have an antioxidant capacity, and olive leaf extract can protect the blood, spleen and hippocampus in lead-poisoned mice. However, little is known about the effects of olive leaf extract on lead-induced brain injury. This study was designed to determine whether olive leaf extract can inhibit lead-induced brain injury, and whether this effect is associated with antioxidant capacity. First, we established a mouse model of lead poisoning by continuous intragastric administration of lead acetate for 30 days. Two hours after successful model establishment, lead-poisoned mice were given olive leaf extract at doses of 250, 500 or 1 000 mg/kg daily by intragastric administration for 50 days. Under the transmission electron microscope, olive leaf extract attenuated neuronal and capillary injury and reduced damage to organelles and the matrix around the capillaries in the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex in the lead-poisoned mice. Olive leaf extract at a dose of 1 000 mg/kg had the greatest protective effect. Spectrophotometry showed that olive leaf extract significantly in- creased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, alkaline phosphatase and acid phes- phatase, while it reduced malondialdehyde content, in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining revealed that olive leaf extract dose-dependently decreased Bax protein expression in the cerebral cortex of lead-poisoned mice. Our findings indicate that olive leaf extract can inhibit lead-induced brain injury by increasing antioxidant capacity and reducing apop- tosis.展开更多
Myocardial infarction triggers massive biochemical changes, even cardiac cell death. Endoplasmic reticulum stress is involved in the pathology of myocardial infarction-mediated apoptosis. In the present study, myocard...Myocardial infarction triggers massive biochemical changes, even cardiac cell death. Endoplasmic reticulum stress is involved in the pathology of myocardial infarction-mediated apoptosis. In the present study, myocardial cell line H9c2 cells were treated with cobalt chloride（CoCl_2） to induce hypoxia. Isoproterenol was used for two successive days to induce myocardial infarction in SD rats. The cardioprotective effect of olive leaf extract（OLE） and its main constituent hydroxytyrosol and the underlying mechanisms were evaluated. The results showed that hydroxytyrosol markedly protected H9c2 cells against CoCl2-induced apoptosis. Hydroxytyrosol could reduce the mRNA and protein expression of GRP78 and CHOP induced by CoCl2 in vitro. In vivo, the decreased ejection fraction and fractional shortening, increased heart weight/body ratio, the formation of infarction, disordered cardiac muscle fibers and infiltration of inflammatory cells induced by isoproterenol could be significantly ameliorated by pretreatment with OLE for a month. Similarly, OLE could also reverse the increase of GRP78 and CHOP expression induced by isoproterenol. Therefore, OLE and hydroxytyrosol exert a cardioprotective effect through endoplasmic reticulum stress, which could be a new target for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.展开更多
Since ancient times,mulberry leaf has a prominent intestinal regulatory effect,and the close relationship between intestinal diseases and other diseases has attracted more and more attention.This article reviewed the ...Since ancient times,mulberry leaf has a prominent intestinal regulatory effect,and the close relationship between intestinal diseases and other diseases has attracted more and more attention.This article reviewed the relevant articles on the mulberry leaf in recent years and summarized the research progress of mulberry leaf‘s biological activities and their effects on human intestinal regulation and the corresponding mechanisms.Multiple components in the mulberry leaf can individually or synergistically affect the human intestine,directly and indirectly promote the digestion,absorption,and transport function of the small intestine,adjust the balance of the flora,enhance the barrier function of the intestinal mucosa,improve the immunity of the part,and facilitate the intestine recovery from illness.展开更多
Objective： To examine the protective effect of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract （GbE） on learning and memory deficit induced by aluminum chloride （AlCl3）, and explore its mechanisms. Methods： The rat models with learn...Objective： To examine the protective effect of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract （GbE） on learning and memory deficit induced by aluminum chloride （AlCl3）, and explore its mechanisms. Methods： The rat models with learning and memory deficit were induced by administering via gastrogavage and drinking of AlCl3 solution. And the model rats were treated with GbE at the dose of 50, 100, 200 mg/kg every day for 2 months accompanied with drinking of AlCl3 solution, respectively. Their abilities of spatial learning and memory were tested by Morris water maze, and the acetylcholinesterase （ACHE） activity in serum was assayed with chemical method, the AChE expression in hippocampus was observed by immunohistochemistry assay, and then quantitative analysis was done by BI 2000 image analysis system. Results： Learning and memory deficit of rats could be induced by AlCl3 solution （P〈0.01）, and AChE expressions in rats hippocampus were increased （P〈0.01）; GbE ameliorated learning and memory deficit and reduced AChE expression in rats hippocampus in a dose-dependent manner, while GbE significantly increased serum AChE activity at the dose of 200 mg/kg each day （P〈0.05）. Conclusion： GbE can ameliorate learning and memory deficit induced by AlCl3, which may be due to its inhibition of the AChE expression in hippocampus.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on angiogenesis and inflammatory process in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy.Methods:Four weeks after a single injection o...Objective:To investigate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on angiogenesis and inflammatory process in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy.Methods:Four weeks after a single injection of 50 mg/kg streptozotocin,rats were treated with 100 or 200 mg/kg/day Moringa oleifera leaf extract,1 mg/kg/day dapagliflozin,or a combination of Moringa oleifera leaf extract and dapagliflozin for further eight weeks.Renal function,kidney histology,and gene expression were evaluated at the end of the experiment.Results:Renal function of diabetic rats was significantly impaired as evidenced by increased blood urea nitrogen,albuminuria,24-h proteinuria,and high creatinine clearance which indicated glomerular hyperfiltration.In addition,diabetic rats showed an increase in gene expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor-A(VEGF-A),angiopoietin-2(Ang2),the Ang2/Ang1 ratio,tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1βand monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated a significant increase in the density of glycoprotein CD34.Moringa oleifera leaf extract markedly improved all renal dysfunction markers and modulated the upregulated expression of angiogenic factors and inflammatory genes.Conclusions:Moringa oleifera leaf extract could suppress abnormal angiogenesis and inflammatory processes possibly by downregulating gene expression of angiogenesis factors and proinflammatory cytokines.展开更多
Senile dementia（SD） is a syndrome characterized by progressive neurological deterioration. Treatment for the disease is still under investigation. Bamboo leaf extract（B-extract） has been known for its biological e...Senile dementia（SD） is a syndrome characterized by progressive neurological deterioration. Treatment for the disease is still under investigation. Bamboo leaf extract（B-extract） has been known for its biological efficacy in anti-oxidant and anti-cancer activities. However, study on B-extract for its protection against dementia is very limited. The effect of B-extract on a rat model with SD was examined. B-extract improved spatial learning ability of the dementia rats. The hippocampus of dementia model rats showed reduced levels of acetylcholine（ACh）, epinephrine（E）, norepinephrine（NE）, and dopamine（DA）, and increased activities of acetylcholine esterase（ACh E） and monoamine oxidase（MAO）. Treatment with B-extract 20 mg/（kg·d） for 7 weeks significantly inhibited the enzyme activity compared with untreated dementia rats, and raised the levels of ACh, E, and DA in the hippocampus. In addition, treatment with B-extract elevated the level of γ-aminobutyric acid（GABA）, but reduced the level of glutamate（Glu） in the brain. These data suggest that B-extract might be a potential drug in treating impairment of spatial memory in dementia rats by regulating the central neurotransmitter function.展开更多
The extract of crofton weed(Eupatorium adenophorum) inhibits seed germination and weed growth;however,the physiological mechanisms underlying the effect of crofton weed extract on the modulation of seedling growth and...The extract of crofton weed(Eupatorium adenophorum) inhibits seed germination and weed growth;however,the physiological mechanisms underlying the effect of crofton weed extract on the modulation of seedling growth and root system development remain largely unclear.In this study,we investigated the effects of the leaf extract of crofton weed(LECW) on primary root(PR) growth in maize seedlings.Treatment with LECW markedly inhibited seed germination and seedling growth in a dose-dependent manner.Physiological analysis indicated that the LECW induced reactive oxygen species(ROS) accumulation in root tips,thereby leading to cell swelling and deformation both in the root cap and elongation zone of root tips,finally leading to cell death in root border cells(RBCs) and PR growth inhibition.The LECW also inhibited pectin methyl esterase(PME) activity,thereby decreasing the RBC number.Taken together,our results indicated that the LECW inhibited PR growth by inducing ROS accumulation and subsequent cell death in RBCs.The present study provides a better understanding of how the LECW modifies root system development and provides insight for evaluating the toxicity of crofton weed extracts in plants.展开更多
To ensure the export quality of Eucommia ulmoides leaf extract(ELE)and facilitate E.ulmoides leaf inclusion in the directory of traditional Chinese health foods,an overall safety assessment of ELE was performed,includ...To ensure the export quality of Eucommia ulmoides leaf extract(ELE)and facilitate E.ulmoides leaf inclusion in the directory of traditional Chinese health foods,an overall safety assessment of ELE was performed,including genotoxicity and long-term toxicity,according to the national food safety standards of China.No variations in the reverse mutation number of the nominal bacterial strains were observed under ELE treatment in comparison with the solvent control.Additionally,the micronucleus rates of in vivo mammalian erythrocytes and in vitro mammalian cells under ELE treatment were equivalent to or significantly lower than those of the solvent control.The fold change in the trifluorothymidine resistance mutation frequency of the thymidine kinase gene under ELE treatment was less than three times in comparison with the solvent control,suggesting that ELE did not cause genotoxicity.Moreover,animal experiments showed that the growth performance of rats under ELE treatment was enhanced because the body weights of rats increased.No oxidative injury or inflammatory responses were induced and no histopathological lesions of tissues were detected under ELE treatment.In addition,plasma triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels significantly decreased,and plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels significantly increased with ELE treatment,suggesting that ELE was health-promoting.Furthermore,moderate to excellent antimicrobial activities,a favorable anticancer capacity,and superior antioxidant abilities of ELE were found,implying ELE possesses good bioactivities.Therefore,we affirmed ELE is safe to consume as a traditional Chinese health food.展开更多
BACKGROUND：Ginkgo biloba leaf extract exhibits neuroprotective effects in spinal cord injury. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear. OBJECTIVE： To investigate inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） and ...BACKGROUND：Ginkgo biloba leaf extract exhibits neuroprotective effects in spinal cord injury. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear. OBJECTIVE： To investigate inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） and Bcl-2/Bax expression in the injured spinal cord, and to explore the neuroprotective mechanisms of ginkgo biloba leaf extract in rats with spinal cord injury. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized, controlled, cell molecular biology experiment was performed at Soochow University, China from March 2007 to March 2008. MATERIALS： A total of 120 healthy, adult Sprague Dawley rats were selected for this study. Rat models of moderate acute thoracic （T9） spinal cord injury were established using the modified Allen method. Shuxuening injection was obtained from Zhenbaodao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., China. Methylprednisolone was purchased from North China Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. METHODS： All rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups. Only the spinal cord was exposed in the sham operation group rats. In the trauma group, rats were not treated with drugs following spinal cord injury. Rats in the hormone group were intraperitoneally injected with 30 mg/kg methylprednisolone following spinal cord injury. Rats in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract group were intraperitoneally infused with a 1.0 mL/kg Shuxuening injection per day. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： At 1 hour, as well as 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days after spinal cord injury, iNOS- and Bcl-2/Bax-positive cells were quantified with immunohistochemistry. Pathological changes were detected using hematoxylineosin staining under an optical microscope. RESULTS： Spinal cord injury in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups was milder compared with the trauma group. Demyelination was significantly ameliorated and the necrotic cavity was obviously reduced in the injured spinal cord of rats in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups at each time point. iNOS expression was increased in the injured spinal cord, and reached a peak at 5 days. The number of iNOS-positive cells was lower in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups compared with the trauma group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. The number of iNOS-positive cells was lower in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract group compared with the hormone group at 7 and 14 days after spinal cord injury （P 〈 0.05）. Bcl-2 expression reached a peak at 3 days, and Bax expression reached a peak at 5 days following rat spinal cord injury. Bcl-2 expression was increased, but Bax expression was decreased in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups compared with the trauma group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. Bcl-2 expression was greater, but Bax expression was reduced in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract group compared with the hormone group at 7 and 14 days after spinal cord injury （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： Ginkgo biloba leaf extract exhibits neuroprotective effects by upregulating Bcl-2 expression, downregulating Bax expression, and significantly inhibiting high expressions of iNOS in the injured spinal cord. The neuroprotective effects of ginkgo biloba leaf extract are greater compared with methylprednisolone at 1 week after spinal cord injury.展开更多
Objective:To synthesize bio-inspired gold nanoparticles(AuNPs)using the leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda and evaluate the anti-cancer activity on human lung cancer cell line(A549).Methods:Synthesis of AuNPs was done ...Objective:To synthesize bio-inspired gold nanoparticles(AuNPs)using the leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda and evaluate the anti-cancer activity on human lung cancer cell line(A549).Methods:Synthesis of AuNPs was done using an aqueous leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda as a green route.The bio-synthesized AuNPs were confirmed and characterized by using various spectral studies such as UV-Vis spectrum,Scanning Electron Microscope with EDAX,Transmission Electron Microscope,Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscope analysis and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy.The cell viability was determined by MTT reduction assay.In addition,cytomorphology and the nuclear morphological study of A549 cell line was observed under fluorescence microscope.Results:UV-Vis spectrum showed surface plasmon resonance peak at 547 nm,scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope studies showed the monodispersed spherical shape and its average size in the range of 40.1 nm was noticed.Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscope analysis confirmed that the C=O group of amino acids of proteins had strong ability to bind with the surface of nanoparticle.Interestingly,our results also demonstrated inhibited proliferation of A549 cell line by MTT(IC50 value:80μg/mL).Cell morphology was observed and cell death was caused by apoptosis as revealed by propidium iodide staining.Conclusions:The current study proves the anticancer potential of bio-synthesized AuNPs.Thus,synthesized AuNPs can be used for the treatment of human lung cancer cell(A549)and it can be exploited for drug delivery in future.展开更多
Stress affects the male reproductive system and can cause sub-fertility or infertility. Although Phyllanthus emblica L.(PE) extract has been shown to have high antioxidant capacity and protective properties in damaged...Stress affects the male reproductive system and can cause sub-fertility or infertility. Although Phyllanthus emblica L.(PE) extract has been shown to have high antioxidant capacity and protective properties in damaged tissue, the preventive effects of PE extract on testicular function from stress-related impairment have never been demonstrated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PE aqueous leaf extract on testicular impairment and protein marker changes in rats suffering from chronic stress. Adult male rats were divided into four groups: a control group, a chronic stress(CS) group, and two groups with CS that received different doses of PE extract(50 or 100 mg/kg body weight(BW)). In the treatment groups, the animals were given PE extract daily before stress induction for 42 consecutive days. Stress was induced through immobilization(4 h/d) followed by forced cold swimming(15 min/d). Sperm quality and the histology of the testes and caudal epididymis were examined, as were levels of serum corticosterone, testosterone, and malondialdehyde(MDA). The expressions of testicular steroidogenic acute regulatory(StAR) and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins were investigated using immuno-Western blot analysis, as these proteins are assumed to play important roles in spermatogenesis and androgen synthesis. The results showed that PE(50 mg/kg BW) significantly increased sperm concentration and testosterone levels, while decreasing corticosterone levels, MDA levels, sperm head abnormalities, and acrosome-reacted sperm in CS rats. In addition, PE at both doses was found to diminish testicular histopathology in the CS rats. We also found that 50 mg/kg BW of PE significantly improved StAR protein expression and altered the intensities of some tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in testis. We conclude that PE leaf extract at 50 mg/kg BW can prevent testicular damage in rats with CS.展开更多
文摘An experiment was conducted to observe the inhibitory effects of the leaf extracts derived from Albizia lebbeck （L.） Benth. On germination and growth behavior of some popular agricultural crops （receptor） of Bangladesh. Experiments were set on sterilized petridishes with a photoperiod of 24 h at room temperature of 27-30℃. The effects of the different concentrations of aqueous extracts were compared to distil water （control.）. The aqueous extracts of leaf caused significant inhibitory effect on germination, root and shoot elongation and development of lateral roots of receptor plants. Bioassays indicated that the inhibitory effect was proportional to the concentrations of the extracts and higher concentration （50%-100%） had the stronger inhibitory effect whereas the lower concentration （10%-25%） showed stimulatory effect in some cases. The study also revealed that, inhibitory effect was much pronounced in root and lateral root development rather than germination and shoot growth.
文摘The current study was carried out to determine the bioactivity of P. lentiscus leaf extracts as potential antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The plant extracts were examined for antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis using the agar well method (according to the guidelines of Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute). The antioxidant potential of 3 plant leaf extracts was determined by their ability to convert Fe<sup>3+</sup> to Fe<sup>2+</sup> and scavenge the DPPH free radical. At all concentrations studied, the methanolic leaf extract had higher total phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as stronger antioxidant and antibacterial inhibitory activity compared to aqueous extract. Our findings with P. aeruginosa were especially interesting, because this bacterium was inhibited by methanol extract than that of the reference antibiotics. The results also demonstrated a link between DPPH radical scavenging ability, reducing power, and total phenolic and flavonoid content of plant extracts (r > 0.97, R<sup>2</sup> > 0.95, P = 0.01). As a result, the methanolic leaf extract of the chosen plant might be employed as an effective antioxidant and antibacterial agent for the treatment of a variety of morbidities.
文摘The anti-hair loss mechanism of Aquilaria sinensis leaf extract(ASE)has been studied by using metabolomics and network pharmacology.Metabolomics was utilized to comprehensively identify the active constituents of ASE,and the network pharmacology was used to elucidate their anti-hair loss mechanism,which was verified by molecular docking technology.572 active compounds were identified from the ASE by metabolomics methods,where there are 1447 corresponding targets and 492 targets related to hair loss,totaling 88 targets.20 core active substances were identified by constructing a network between common targets and active substances,which include vanillic acid,chorionic acid,caffeic acid and apigenin.The five key targets of TNF,TP53,IL6,PPARG,and EGFR were screened out by the PPI network analysis on 88 common targets.The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the inflammation,hormone balance,cell growth,proliferation,apoptosis,and oxidative stress are involved.Molecular docking studies have confirmed the high binding affinity between core active compounds and key targets.The drug similarity assessment on these core compounds suggested that they have the potential to be used as potential hair loss treatment drugs.This study elucidates the complex molecular mechanism of ASE in treating hair loss,and provides a reference for the future applications in hair care products.
文摘The purpose of this research work is to determine the removal efficiency of Cu^(2+)and Pb^(2+)ions using polyvinyl alcohol/neem leaf extract/chitosan(PVA/NLE/CS)composite films as adsorbent materials from an aqueous medium,with respect to pH,contact time,and adsorbent dosage.The synthesized composite material was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared(FTIR)spectroscopy,thermogravimetric analysis-Derivative Thermogravimetry(TGA-DTG),X-ray diffraction(XRD),X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),and scanning electron microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy(SEM-EDX).The antibacterial activity and swelling response of the material were studied using suitable methodologies.The FTIR study confirmed the interactions among PVA,chitosan,and neem leaf extract.The TGA data reveal the excellent thermal stability of the developed composite films.The SEM micrograph indicates a homogeneous phase morphology with good compatibility among chitosan,the monomer,and the leaf extract.The antibacterial study revealed that the prepared PVA/NLE/CS films exhibit improved antibacterial activity against bacterial growth.It was found that at pH 6.0,the adsorption capacity for both toxic metal ions is maximum,and decreases with a further rise in pH.At this pH,the adsorption capacity of PVA/NLE/CS films increases with a gradual increase in adsorbent dosage,and at a specific pH,the adsorption capacity for Cu^(2+)is greater than that for Pb^(2+).The adsorption efficiency is a function of contact time and was found to be maximal at 180 min.Hence,the developed composite material is effective for the removal of metal ions from wastewater.
文摘BACKGROUND The investigation of plant-based therapeutic agents in medicinal plants has revealed their presence in the extracts and provides the vision to formulate novel techniques for drug therapy.Vitex negundo(V.negundo),a perennial herb belonging to the Varbanaceae family,is extensively used in conventional medication.AIM To determine the existence of therapeutic components in leaf and callus extracts from wild V.negundo plants using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GCMS).METHODS In this study,we conducted GC-MS on wild plant leaf extracts and correlated the presence of constituents with those in callus extracts.Various growth regulators such as 6-benzylaminopurine(BAP),2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid(2,4-D),α-naphthylacetic acid(NAA),and di-phenylurea(DPU)were added to plant leaves and in-vitro callus and grown on MS medium.RESULTS The results clearly indicated that the addition of BAP(2.0 mg/L),2,4-D(0.2 mg/mL),DPU(2.0 mg/L)and 2,4-D(0.2 mg/mL)in MS medium resulted in rapid callus development.The plant profile of Vitex extracts by GC-MS analysis showed that 24,10,and 14 bioactive constituents were detected in the methanolic extract of leaf,green callus and the methanolic extract of white loose callus,respectively.CONCLUSION Octadecadienoic acid,hexadecanoic acid and methyl ester were the major constituents in the leaf and callus methanolic extract.Octadecadienoic acid was the most common constituent in all samples.The maximum concentration of octadecadienoic acid in leaves,green callus and white loose callus was 21.93%,47.79%and 40.38%,respectively.These findings demonstrate that the concentration of octadecadienoic acid doubles in-vitro compared to in-vivo.In addition to octadecadienoic acid;butyric acid,benzene,1-methoxy-4-(1-propenyl),dospan,tridecanedialdehyde,methylcyclohexenylbutanol,chlorpyrifos,n-secondary terpene diester,anflunine and other important active compounds were also detected.All these components were only available in callus formed in-vitro.This study showed that the callus contained additional botanical characteristics compared with wild plants.Due to the presence of numerous bioactive compounds,the medical use of Vitex for various diseases has been accepted and the plant is considered an important source of therapeutics for research and development.
文摘Objective:To determine the phytochemical and larvicidal activity of Tragia involucrata(T.involucrata)leaf extracts against fourth instar larvae of Ae.aegypti.Methods:Phytochemical analysis of hexane leaf extract was performed and larvicidal activity was determined against Ae.aegypti at concentrations of 50,100,150,200 and 250 mg/L.Larval mortality was assessed after 24 h.Results:The hexane extracts of T.involucrata was found to be higher mortality against the larvae of Ae.aegypti with a LC_(50) value of 153.51 mg/L.Conclusions:These results suggested that the leaf extracts of T.involucrata showed potential to be used as an ideal ecofriendly approach for the control of the Ae.aegypti.
文摘Aim: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in researching and developing new antimicrobial agents from various sources to combat microbial resistance. The study was aimed at determining the phytochemical constituents and in vitro antibacterial activity of methanol and aqueous extracts of Psidium guajava leaves and stem bark on Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus sp. in Ugbokolo, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical screening of the plant materials for various bioactive components was conducted between July and December, 2019 using standard laboratory techniques. The extracts were purified using column chromatography. The identity of the test isolates were confirmed using morphological characteristics, gram stain, motility and appropriate biochemical tests such as indole, catalase, coagulase, triple sugar iron agar. The susceptibility of the isolates to each bioactive component was determined using the agar well diffusion method. The broth dilution method was employed for the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extracts. Results: The result of the study showed the presence of phenol, tannins, flavonoids and saponins as bioactive compounds. The antibacterial susceptibility of the isolates to aqueous and methanol extracts of leaf and stem bark of Psidium guajava varied significantly (P Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible isolate at 200 mg/ml concentration with average zone of inhibition of 13.05 mm for leaf extract and 15.34 mm for stem bark extract. Proteus sp. is the least susceptible with average zone of inhibition of 8.88 mm for the leaf extract and 12.36 mm for the stem bark extract respectively. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration of aqueous and methanol extract of P. guajava leaf and stem bark showed that dilutions of various concentrations of aqueous and methanol extracts can inhibit and/or kill the isolates. Lower MIC (3.125 mg/ml) was shown by methanol extract than aqueous extract. MBC of methanol extract ranges between 6.25 - 25.0 mg/ml. Statistical analysis of the result showed methanol extract is more effective than aqueous extract while the stem bark of the plant showed higher efficacy than the leaf. Conclusion: The findings of the study imply that the extract of Psidium guajava has shown promising properties against tested microorganisms. Further study of the extract is therefore recommended.
文摘Abstract： In the present study, we established an ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry （UPLC-QTOF-MSE） method to simultaneously quantify 33 components in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts （GBEs）, including 17 flavonol glycosides, five terpene trilactones （TTLs）, four polyphenols and seven carboxylic acids. This optimized method was successfully applied to analyze the explicit compositions of GBE samples collected from different places. Furthermore, the data were processed through unsupervised principal component analysis （PCA） and supervised orthogonal partial least squared discrimination analysis （OPLS-DA） to evaluate the quality and compare the differences between the samples according to the contents of the 33 chemical constituents. Bilobalide, protocatechuic acid, shikimic acid, quinic acid, ginkgolide B, ginkgolide J, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside, quercetin-3-O-ct-L-rhamnopyranocyl-2＂-（6＇＂-p-coumaroyl）-β-D-glucoside and rutin were recognized as characteristic chemical markers that contributed most to control the quality of GBEs. Based on the fact that GBEs should be standardized with the characteristic components as quality control chemical markers, it is most important to maintain the quality of GBEs stable and reliable, and this method also provided a good strategy to further rectify and standardize the GBEs market.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82170481,82570069)Anhui Natural Science Foundation(2008085J39 and 2108085MH314)+1 种基金Anhui Province Innovation Team of Authentic Medicinal Materials Development and High Value Utilization(2022AH010080)Suzhou University Joint Cultivation Postgraduate Research Innovation Fund Project(2023KYCX04)。
文摘Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a respiratory condition characterized by several symptoms.The pathogenesis of COPD is complex and involves multiple factors.A fantastic drug from traditional Chinese medicine,Isodon Suzhouensis(ISZ)is a perennial herb belonging to the Labiaceae family.It has the functions of resolving phlegm,removing stasis,promoting blood circulation and eliminating qi stagnation.ISZ has been found to possess great potential against COPD.Present study is focused on identifying micro RNA(mi RNA)biomarkers for COPD and determining the role of ISZ leaf extract in regulating the disease through mi RNA expression in serum exosomes.The Sprague Dawley(SD)rats were randomly divided into control group,COPD group and COPD+ISZ group.After the establishment of the model,the rats were sacrificed,and the results were compared with the control group.Then the total RNA of rat serum was extracted and identified by nanoparticle tracker.Finally,high-throughput screening and sequencing were performed to screen mi RNAs with significant differential expression.Then,different databases were used to figure out the possible target genes,and their functions were assessed by employing Gene Ontology(GO)as well as Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)analyses.The sequencing results were then further verified by q RT-PCR.The results pointed out that these 17 differentially expressed mi RNAs may have the potential of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers against COPD.Interestingly,it was also found that ISZ leaf extract may regulate the occurrence of COPD by affecting the expression of mi RNAs.This study identified the biomarkers of COPD and clarified the mechanism of the treatment of COPD by ISZ leaf extract,which is helpful to improve the level of early diagnosis and treatment of COPD.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Gansu Province,No.1107RJZK243a grant from Gansu Provincial Education Committee,No.1128B-01
文摘Olive leaves have an antioxidant capacity, and olive leaf extract can protect the blood, spleen and hippocampus in lead-poisoned mice. However, little is known about the effects of olive leaf extract on lead-induced brain injury. This study was designed to determine whether olive leaf extract can inhibit lead-induced brain injury, and whether this effect is associated with antioxidant capacity. First, we established a mouse model of lead poisoning by continuous intragastric administration of lead acetate for 30 days. Two hours after successful model establishment, lead-poisoned mice were given olive leaf extract at doses of 250, 500 or 1 000 mg/kg daily by intragastric administration for 50 days. Under the transmission electron microscope, olive leaf extract attenuated neuronal and capillary injury and reduced damage to organelles and the matrix around the capillaries in the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex in the lead-poisoned mice. Olive leaf extract at a dose of 1 000 mg/kg had the greatest protective effect. Spectrophotometry showed that olive leaf extract significantly in- creased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, alkaline phosphatase and acid phes- phatase, while it reduced malondialdehyde content, in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining revealed that olive leaf extract dose-dependently decreased Bax protein expression in the cerebral cortex of lead-poisoned mice. Our findings indicate that olive leaf extract can inhibit lead-induced brain injury by increasing antioxidant capacity and reducing apop- tosis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81472977)foundation from the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education InstitutionsGraduate Student Practice and Innovation Project of Jiangsu Province Ordinary University (SJZZ 15_0117)
文摘Myocardial infarction triggers massive biochemical changes, even cardiac cell death. Endoplasmic reticulum stress is involved in the pathology of myocardial infarction-mediated apoptosis. In the present study, myocardial cell line H9c2 cells were treated with cobalt chloride（CoCl_2） to induce hypoxia. Isoproterenol was used for two successive days to induce myocardial infarction in SD rats. The cardioprotective effect of olive leaf extract（OLE） and its main constituent hydroxytyrosol and the underlying mechanisms were evaluated. The results showed that hydroxytyrosol markedly protected H9c2 cells against CoCl2-induced apoptosis. Hydroxytyrosol could reduce the mRNA and protein expression of GRP78 and CHOP induced by CoCl2 in vitro. In vivo, the decreased ejection fraction and fractional shortening, increased heart weight/body ratio, the formation of infarction, disordered cardiac muscle fibers and infiltration of inflammatory cells induced by isoproterenol could be significantly ameliorated by pretreatment with OLE for a month. Similarly, OLE could also reverse the increase of GRP78 and CHOP expression induced by isoproterenol. Therefore, OLE and hydroxytyrosol exert a cardioprotective effect through endoplasmic reticulum stress, which could be a new target for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
基金The Key Generic Technology Research Project of High-Quality Agricultural Development of Hebei Province(Grant No.20327121D)Biomedical Development and Transformation Research Project of Hebei Province(Grant No.2020TXZH05)Science and Technology Research Project of Higher Education Institutions of Hebei Province(Grant No.2019188)。
文摘Since ancient times,mulberry leaf has a prominent intestinal regulatory effect,and the close relationship between intestinal diseases and other diseases has attracted more and more attention.This article reviewed the relevant articles on the mulberry leaf in recent years and summarized the research progress of mulberry leaf‘s biological activities and their effects on human intestinal regulation and the corresponding mechanisms.Multiple components in the mulberry leaf can individually or synergistically affect the human intestine,directly and indirectly promote the digestion,absorption,and transport function of the small intestine,adjust the balance of the flora,enhance the barrier function of the intestinal mucosa,improve the immunity of the part,and facilitate the intestine recovery from illness.
基金Supported by the Project of Governor Talent Foundation ofGuizhou Province (No .2001016)
文摘Objective： To examine the protective effect of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract （GbE） on learning and memory deficit induced by aluminum chloride （AlCl3）, and explore its mechanisms. Methods： The rat models with learning and memory deficit were induced by administering via gastrogavage and drinking of AlCl3 solution. And the model rats were treated with GbE at the dose of 50, 100, 200 mg/kg every day for 2 months accompanied with drinking of AlCl3 solution, respectively. Their abilities of spatial learning and memory were tested by Morris water maze, and the acetylcholinesterase （ACHE） activity in serum was assayed with chemical method, the AChE expression in hippocampus was observed by immunohistochemistry assay, and then quantitative analysis was done by BI 2000 image analysis system. Results： Learning and memory deficit of rats could be induced by AlCl3 solution （P〈0.01）, and AChE expressions in rats hippocampus were increased （P〈0.01）; GbE ameliorated learning and memory deficit and reduced AChE expression in rats hippocampus in a dose-dependent manner, while GbE significantly increased serum AChE activity at the dose of 200 mg/kg each day （P〈0.05）. Conclusion： GbE can ameliorate learning and memory deficit induced by AlCl3, which may be due to its inhibition of the AChE expression in hippocampus.
基金supported by the Cardiovascular Research Group,Khon Kaen University and the Faculty of Medicine,Khon Kaen University,Thailand(grant number IN63355).
文摘Objective:To investigate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on angiogenesis and inflammatory process in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy.Methods:Four weeks after a single injection of 50 mg/kg streptozotocin,rats were treated with 100 or 200 mg/kg/day Moringa oleifera leaf extract,1 mg/kg/day dapagliflozin,or a combination of Moringa oleifera leaf extract and dapagliflozin for further eight weeks.Renal function,kidney histology,and gene expression were evaluated at the end of the experiment.Results:Renal function of diabetic rats was significantly impaired as evidenced by increased blood urea nitrogen,albuminuria,24-h proteinuria,and high creatinine clearance which indicated glomerular hyperfiltration.In addition,diabetic rats showed an increase in gene expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor-A(VEGF-A),angiopoietin-2(Ang2),the Ang2/Ang1 ratio,tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1βand monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated a significant increase in the density of glycoprotein CD34.Moringa oleifera leaf extract markedly improved all renal dysfunction markers and modulated the upregulated expression of angiogenic factors and inflammatory genes.Conclusions:Moringa oleifera leaf extract could suppress abnormal angiogenesis and inflammatory processes possibly by downregulating gene expression of angiogenesis factors and proinflammatory cytokines.
基金Project supported by the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(No.LY14H090002)the National Undergraduate Training Programs for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of China(No.201313021016)
文摘Senile dementia（SD） is a syndrome characterized by progressive neurological deterioration. Treatment for the disease is still under investigation. Bamboo leaf extract（B-extract） has been known for its biological efficacy in anti-oxidant and anti-cancer activities. However, study on B-extract for its protection against dementia is very limited. The effect of B-extract on a rat model with SD was examined. B-extract improved spatial learning ability of the dementia rats. The hippocampus of dementia model rats showed reduced levels of acetylcholine（ACh）, epinephrine（E）, norepinephrine（NE）, and dopamine（DA）, and increased activities of acetylcholine esterase（ACh E） and monoamine oxidase（MAO）. Treatment with B-extract 20 mg/（kg·d） for 7 weeks significantly inhibited the enzyme activity compared with untreated dementia rats, and raised the levels of ACh, E, and DA in the hippocampus. In addition, treatment with B-extract elevated the level of γ-aminobutyric acid（GABA）, but reduced the level of glutamate（Glu） in the brain. These data suggest that B-extract might be a potential drug in treating impairment of spatial memory in dementia rats by regulating the central neurotransmitter function.
基金the Key Project of Science and Technology of Shanxi Province(20150311016-5)the Science and Technology innovation Foundation of Shanxi Agricultural University(2017ZZ09)。
文摘The extract of crofton weed(Eupatorium adenophorum) inhibits seed germination and weed growth;however,the physiological mechanisms underlying the effect of crofton weed extract on the modulation of seedling growth and root system development remain largely unclear.In this study,we investigated the effects of the leaf extract of crofton weed(LECW) on primary root(PR) growth in maize seedlings.Treatment with LECW markedly inhibited seed germination and seedling growth in a dose-dependent manner.Physiological analysis indicated that the LECW induced reactive oxygen species(ROS) accumulation in root tips,thereby leading to cell swelling and deformation both in the root cap and elongation zone of root tips,finally leading to cell death in root border cells(RBCs) and PR growth inhibition.The LECW also inhibited pectin methyl esterase(PME) activity,thereby decreasing the RBC number.Taken together,our results indicated that the LECW inhibited PR growth by inducing ROS accumulation and subsequent cell death in RBCs.The present study provides a better understanding of how the LECW modifies root system development and provides insight for evaluating the toxicity of crofton weed extracts in plants.
基金This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.42107020)the Scientific Research Start Funds,Hunan Institute of Technology(No.HQ20014)。
文摘To ensure the export quality of Eucommia ulmoides leaf extract(ELE)and facilitate E.ulmoides leaf inclusion in the directory of traditional Chinese health foods,an overall safety assessment of ELE was performed,including genotoxicity and long-term toxicity,according to the national food safety standards of China.No variations in the reverse mutation number of the nominal bacterial strains were observed under ELE treatment in comparison with the solvent control.Additionally,the micronucleus rates of in vivo mammalian erythrocytes and in vitro mammalian cells under ELE treatment were equivalent to or significantly lower than those of the solvent control.The fold change in the trifluorothymidine resistance mutation frequency of the thymidine kinase gene under ELE treatment was less than three times in comparison with the solvent control,suggesting that ELE did not cause genotoxicity.Moreover,animal experiments showed that the growth performance of rats under ELE treatment was enhanced because the body weights of rats increased.No oxidative injury or inflammatory responses were induced and no histopathological lesions of tissues were detected under ELE treatment.In addition,plasma triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels significantly decreased,and plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels significantly increased with ELE treatment,suggesting that ELE was health-promoting.Furthermore,moderate to excellent antimicrobial activities,a favorable anticancer capacity,and superior antioxidant abilities of ELE were found,implying ELE possesses good bioactivities.Therefore,we affirmed ELE is safe to consume as a traditional Chinese health food.
文摘BACKGROUND：Ginkgo biloba leaf extract exhibits neuroprotective effects in spinal cord injury. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear. OBJECTIVE： To investigate inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） and Bcl-2/Bax expression in the injured spinal cord, and to explore the neuroprotective mechanisms of ginkgo biloba leaf extract in rats with spinal cord injury. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized, controlled, cell molecular biology experiment was performed at Soochow University, China from March 2007 to March 2008. MATERIALS： A total of 120 healthy, adult Sprague Dawley rats were selected for this study. Rat models of moderate acute thoracic （T9） spinal cord injury were established using the modified Allen method. Shuxuening injection was obtained from Zhenbaodao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., China. Methylprednisolone was purchased from North China Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. METHODS： All rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups. Only the spinal cord was exposed in the sham operation group rats. In the trauma group, rats were not treated with drugs following spinal cord injury. Rats in the hormone group were intraperitoneally injected with 30 mg/kg methylprednisolone following spinal cord injury. Rats in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract group were intraperitoneally infused with a 1.0 mL/kg Shuxuening injection per day. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： At 1 hour, as well as 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days after spinal cord injury, iNOS- and Bcl-2/Bax-positive cells were quantified with immunohistochemistry. Pathological changes were detected using hematoxylineosin staining under an optical microscope. RESULTS： Spinal cord injury in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups was milder compared with the trauma group. Demyelination was significantly ameliorated and the necrotic cavity was obviously reduced in the injured spinal cord of rats in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups at each time point. iNOS expression was increased in the injured spinal cord, and reached a peak at 5 days. The number of iNOS-positive cells was lower in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups compared with the trauma group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. The number of iNOS-positive cells was lower in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract group compared with the hormone group at 7 and 14 days after spinal cord injury （P 〈 0.05）. Bcl-2 expression reached a peak at 3 days, and Bax expression reached a peak at 5 days following rat spinal cord injury. Bcl-2 expression was increased, but Bax expression was decreased in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract and hormone groups compared with the trauma group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. Bcl-2 expression was greater, but Bax expression was reduced in the ginkgo biloba leaf extract group compared with the hormone group at 7 and 14 days after spinal cord injury （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： Ginkgo biloba leaf extract exhibits neuroprotective effects by upregulating Bcl-2 expression, downregulating Bax expression, and significantly inhibiting high expressions of iNOS in the injured spinal cord. The neuroprotective effects of ginkgo biloba leaf extract are greater compared with methylprednisolone at 1 week after spinal cord injury.
文摘Objective:To synthesize bio-inspired gold nanoparticles(AuNPs)using the leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda and evaluate the anti-cancer activity on human lung cancer cell line(A549).Methods:Synthesis of AuNPs was done using an aqueous leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda as a green route.The bio-synthesized AuNPs were confirmed and characterized by using various spectral studies such as UV-Vis spectrum,Scanning Electron Microscope with EDAX,Transmission Electron Microscope,Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscope analysis and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy.The cell viability was determined by MTT reduction assay.In addition,cytomorphology and the nuclear morphological study of A549 cell line was observed under fluorescence microscope.Results:UV-Vis spectrum showed surface plasmon resonance peak at 547 nm,scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope studies showed the monodispersed spherical shape and its average size in the range of 40.1 nm was noticed.Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscope analysis confirmed that the C=O group of amino acids of proteins had strong ability to bind with the surface of nanoparticle.Interestingly,our results also demonstrated inhibited proliferation of A549 cell line by MTT(IC50 value:80μg/mL).Cell morphology was observed and cell death was caused by apoptosis as revealed by propidium iodide staining.Conclusions:The current study proves the anticancer potential of bio-synthesized AuNPs.Thus,synthesized AuNPs can be used for the treatment of human lung cancer cell(A549)and it can be exploited for drug delivery in future.
基金Project supported by the Faculty of Medicine,Khon Kaen University,Khon Kaen,Thailand(No.IN61105)
文摘Stress affects the male reproductive system and can cause sub-fertility or infertility. Although Phyllanthus emblica L.(PE) extract has been shown to have high antioxidant capacity and protective properties in damaged tissue, the preventive effects of PE extract on testicular function from stress-related impairment have never been demonstrated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PE aqueous leaf extract on testicular impairment and protein marker changes in rats suffering from chronic stress. Adult male rats were divided into four groups: a control group, a chronic stress(CS) group, and two groups with CS that received different doses of PE extract(50 or 100 mg/kg body weight(BW)). In the treatment groups, the animals were given PE extract daily before stress induction for 42 consecutive days. Stress was induced through immobilization(4 h/d) followed by forced cold swimming(15 min/d). Sperm quality and the histology of the testes and caudal epididymis were examined, as were levels of serum corticosterone, testosterone, and malondialdehyde(MDA). The expressions of testicular steroidogenic acute regulatory(StAR) and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins were investigated using immuno-Western blot analysis, as these proteins are assumed to play important roles in spermatogenesis and androgen synthesis. The results showed that PE(50 mg/kg BW) significantly increased sperm concentration and testosterone levels, while decreasing corticosterone levels, MDA levels, sperm head abnormalities, and acrosome-reacted sperm in CS rats. In addition, PE at both doses was found to diminish testicular histopathology in the CS rats. We also found that 50 mg/kg BW of PE significantly improved StAR protein expression and altered the intensities of some tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in testis. We conclude that PE leaf extract at 50 mg/kg BW can prevent testicular damage in rats with CS.
