Nigella sativa L.seeds have been traditionally utilized in Chinese folk medicine for centuries to treat vitiligo.This study revealed that the ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa L.(HZC)enhances melanogenesis and mitig...Nigella sativa L.seeds have been traditionally utilized in Chinese folk medicine for centuries to treat vitiligo.This study revealed that the ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa L.(HZC)enhances melanogenesis and mitigates oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence and dysfunction in melanocytes.In accordance with established protocols,the ethanol fraction from Nigella sativa L.seeds was extracted,concentrated,and lyophilized to evaluate its herbal effects via 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT)assays,tyrosinase activity evaluation,measurement of cellular melanin contents,scratch assays,senescence-associatedβ-galactosidase(SA-β-gal)staining,enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA),and Western blot analysis for expression profiling of experimentally relevant proteins.The results indicated that HZC significantly enhanced tyrosinase activity and melanin content while notably increasing the protein expression levels of Tyr,Mitf,and gp100 in B16F10 cells.Furthermore,HZC effectively mitigated oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence,improved melanocyte condition,and rectified various functional impairments associated with melanocyte dysfunction.These findings suggest that HZC increases melanin synthesis in melanocytes through the activation of the MAPK,PKA,and Wnt signaling pathways.In addition,HZC attenuates oxidative damage induced by H2O2 therapy by activating the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2-antioxidant response element(Nrf2-ARE)pathway and enhancing the activity of downstream antioxidant enzymes,thus preventing premature senescence and dysfunction in melanocytes.展开更多
AIM： To evaluate the efficacy and safety of orbital decomposition （OD） surgery in combination with horse chestnut seed extract （HCSE）, as compared to OD atone, in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy ...AIM： To evaluate the efficacy and safety of orbital decomposition （OD） surgery in combination with horse chestnut seed extract （HCSE）, as compared to OD atone, in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy （TAO）. METHODS： Sixty-two orbits from 62 TAO patients were randomly assigned to OD or OD＋HCSE at 1：1 ratio （31 received OD alone, 31 received OD ＋HCSE）. Forty-two orbits from 21 healthy subjects were used as controls. Complete ophthalmic examination and color Doppler flow imaging （CDFI） were performed before surgery and 3mo post-surgery on all 62 orbits from the TAO patients. CDFI were also performed on the 42 control orbits, The effect of OD ＋HCSE and OD alone on TAO orbits was compared on several endpoints, including superior ophthalmic vein blood flow （SOVBF） parameters, subjective assessment, soft tissue involvement, lid retraction, diplopia, eye movement restriction, degree of exophthalmos, and intraocular pressure. The control orbits were used as reference for the SOVBF parameters. RESULTS： OD surgery with or without HCSE improved SOVBF, symptoms and soft tissue involvement, decreased degree of exophthalmos and intraocular pressure in orbits of TAO patients. The OD ＋HCSE combination led to significantly better improvement of SOVBF than OD alone. The differences between the reductions of SOVBF in the two groups are 1.26 cmls in max-volecity and 0.52 cm/s in min-voiecity （P〈0.0001）. CONCLUSION： SOVBF is significantly reduced in the orbits affected with TAO, indicating that congestion may be an important factor contributing to TAO pathogenesis. OD surgery improves the SOVBF, and combination of HCSE medication and OD surgery further improved venous return than OD surgery alone.展开更多
This study investigated the effects of grape seed extract(GSE)on fresh and cooked meat color and premature browning(PMB)in ground meat patties(85% beef and 15% pork back fat)packaged under high-oxygen modified atmosph...This study investigated the effects of grape seed extract(GSE)on fresh and cooked meat color and premature browning(PMB)in ground meat patties(85% beef and 15% pork back fat)packaged under high-oxygen modified atmospheres(HiOx-MAP).The GSE was added to patties at concentrations of 0,0.10,0.25,0.50 and 0.75 g kg^(-1).This study evaluated the surface color,pH,lipid oxidation,and total viable counts(TVC)of raw patties,and the internal color and pH of patties cooked to a temperature of 66 or 71℃ over 10-day storage at 4℃.Compared with the control(0 g kg^(-1) GSE),GSE improved the color stability(P<0.05)and significantly inhibited the lipid and myoglobin oxidation of raw patties from day 5 to 10,but GSE had no effect(P>0.05)on TVC.Patties containing 0.50 and 0.75 g kg^(-1) GSE cooked to 66℃ exhibited greater(P<0.05)interior redness than the control and reduced the PMB of cooked patties in the late storage stage.These results suggested that 0.50 and 0.75 g kg^(-1) GSE can improve fresh meat color and minimize PMB of HiOx-MAP patties.展开更多
Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of herbal formulation rich in standardized fenugreek seed extract(IND-2) add-on therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients who were on insulin treatment in prospect...Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of herbal formulation rich in standardized fenugreek seed extract(IND-2) add-on therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients who were on insulin treatment in prospective, single arm, open-label, uncontrolled, multicentre trial.Methods: T2DM patients(n=30) with aged 18-80 years who were stabilized on insulin treatment with fasting blood sugar(FBS) level between 100-140 mg/dL received IND-2 capsules(700 mg, thrice a day) for 16 weeks.The primary endpoints were an assessment of FBS at week 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 16.Secondary end-points include post-prandial blood sugar level, glycosylated Hb(HbA1c), reduction in the dose of insulin and number of hypoglycemic attacks, and improvement in lipid profile at various weeks.Safety and adverse events(AEs) were also assessed during the study.Results: Study was completed in twenty T2DM patients, and there was no significant reduction in FBS and post-prandial blood sugar level after addon therapy of IND-2.However, add-on therapy of IND-2 significantly reduced(P<0.01) the HbA1c values, requirements of insulin and hypoglycemic events as compared with baseline.Total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteincholesterol levels were significantly increased(P<0.01) after IND-2 add-on therapy.Body weight and safety outcomes did not differ significantly in IND-2 add-on therapy group at week 16.Additionally, add-on therapy of IND-2 did not produce any serious adverse events.Conclusions: The results of present investigation suggest that add-on therapy of IND-2 with insulin in T2DM patients improves glycaemic control through a decrease in levels of HbA1c and number of insulin doses needed per day without an increase in body weight and risk of hypoglycemia.Thus, IND-2 may provide a safe and well-tolerated add-on therapy option for the management of T2DM.展开更多
The skin is a major protective organ of the body. It is constantly exposed to the environment and is very resilient. But exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun results in the production of reactive oxygen spec...The skin is a major protective organ of the body. It is constantly exposed to the environment and is very resilient. But exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun results in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent inflammatory responses that can overwhelm the innate protective mechanisms of the skin. This results in damage and premature aging. Strategies to mitigate this premature photoaging might include avoidance of sunlight. However, some sunlight exposure is beneficial to health. One notable example of this is the production of vitamin D. A more practical approach to preventing adverse effects of UV light in the skin is antioxidant supplementation. Dietary antioxidants may help control ROS propagation following UV light exposure. To further evaluate the utility of antioxidants in protecting the skin, in vitro, in vivo and human studies of three well known dietary antioxidants are reviewed and discussed. The data clearly demonstrate that vitamin C, grape seed extract and citrus bioflavonoids have the potential to reduce the damaging effects of excess sun exposure via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating mechanisms. As such, regular ingestion of dietary antioxidants appears to be a useful strategy for protecting the skin against photoaging.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of Yuzhizi(Fructus Akebiae Quinatae) seed extract(FAQSE) on inhibiting the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) cells in vitro and to explore the anti-HCC action mechan...OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of Yuzhizi(Fructus Akebiae Quinatae) seed extract(FAQSE) on inhibiting the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) cells in vitro and to explore the anti-HCC action mechanism of FAQSE. METHODS: Human HCC Hep G2 and Huh7 cells were used to investigate the anti-HCC effect of FAQSE in vitro. 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide(MTT) method was used to measure cell viability. Affymetrix microarray was adopted to detect the expression of transcriptome. The differentially expressed genes(DEGs) of each cell line were identified. For coDEGs of both cell lines, the gene ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) pathway were enriched using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery(DAVID), and the network analysis of protein-protein interaction(PPI) was mapped using the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins(STRING) and Cytoscape software. Some important genes in the PPI network of coDEGs were selected to verify by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: FAQSE decreased the viability of Hep G2 and Huh7 cells. There were 211 co-upregulated and 86 codownregualted genes in both cell lines after FAQSE treatment. The enriched GO terms of co-upregulated DEGs were primarily involved cell-cell adhesion, viral process, transcription initiation from RNA polymerase II promoter, positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter and actin cytoskeleton organization. The GO terms of co-downregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in the processes of SRP-dependent cotranslational protein targeting to membrane, viral transcription, nuclear-transcribed m RNA catabolic process, nonsense-mediated decay, translational initiation and r RNA processing. Main KEGG pathways of co-upregulated DEGs were endocytosis, glutathione metabolism, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, synaptic vesicle cycle and lysosome. The major KEGG pathways of co-downregulated DEGs were ribosome, biosynthesis of amino acids, arginine and proline metabolism, systemic lupus erythematosus and complement and coagulation cascades. The top 10 coDEGs with high hub nodes in STRING analysis were ribosomal protein S27a, transferrin, ribosomal protein S20, ribosomal protein L9, protein phosphatase 2 regulatory subunit B alpha, transthyretin, thioredoxin reductase 1, ribosomal protein L3, ribophorin I and ribosomal protein L24. Alpha-fetoprotein(AFP) was also co-downregulated and contained in the PPI network. The m RNA and protein expression of most verified genes was consistent with the results of co-DEGs analysis. And the AFP level was significantly reduced after FAQSE treatment. CONCLUSIONS: A series of genes and pathways of Hep G2 and Huh7 cells were changed after FAQSE treatment, which might be the targets of FAQSE against HCC and worthy of further study. AFP might be important one of them.展开更多
A female at 28 weeks gestation was referred to pediatric cardiology for a fetal arrhythmia. The echocardiogram revealed premature constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Her work up was unremarkable except for he...A female at 28 weeks gestation was referred to pediatric cardiology for a fetal arrhythmia. The echocardiogram revealed premature constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Her work up was unremarkable except for her use of an herbal supplement, grape seed extract, which is advertised as a potent anti-inflammatory medication, and has biochemical properties similar to other medications that have been shown to cause premature ductal constriction. The use of herbal remedies increases each year. Although the public is inundated with radio, television, and internet advertisements for these products, little unbiased information regarding the possible dangers of toxicity or adverse reactions exists. As physicians, we need to be aware of these products, and counsel our patients accordingly.展开更多
Objective:To determine the antimicrobial effects of grape seed on peri-implantitis microflora.Methods:The grape seed extract was tested against peri-implantitis microflora most commonly found in craniofacial implants ...Objective:To determine the antimicrobial effects of grape seed on peri-implantitis microflora.Methods:The grape seed extract was tested against peri-implantitis microflora most commonly found in craniofacial implants including reference strains of Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus),Escherichia coli(E.coli),Candida albicans(C.albicans)and clinical strains of S.aureus,Klebsiella pneumonia(K.pneumonia)and Candida parapsilosis(C.parapsilosis)by disk diffusion test.Minimum inhibitory concentrations(MIC)and minimum cidal concentrations(MCC)were determined using modified agar dilution millpore method.The extract was further combined with polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol,and was tested for antimicrobial effects.Results:Grape seed extract showed positive inhibitory effects with S.aureus at MIC of 0.625 mg/mL and MCC of1.25 mg/mL respectively.However the extracts showed minimal or no reactivity against strains of E.coli,K.pneumonia,C.parapsilosis and C.albicans.The use of grape seed extract in combination with polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol also showed dose dependent inhibitory effect on S.aureus.Conclusions:The results of the study showed that grape seed has potential antimicrobial effects which can be further studied and developed to be used in the treatment of infected skinabutment interface of craniofacial implants.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the potential efficacy of seed extracts of Annona squamosa and Annona muricata used as natural insecticides to control adult and larvae of the vectors Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus ...Objective:To evaluate the potential efficacy of seed extracts of Annona squamosa and Annona muricata used as natural insecticides to control adult and larvae of the vectors Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus under laboratory conditions.Methods:Aqueous and oil extracts of the two plants were prepared from dried seeds.Preliminary identifications of the chemical components of each seed extracts were performed using microreactional and GCP techniques.Larvae and adults of Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus were collected from the breeding sites in coastal and highlands regions of Madagascar.WHO standardized tests of susceptibility for larvae and imaginal stage of mosquitoes were realized to determine mortality and LC_(50) of mosquitoes.Results:Chemical identifications showed that these extracts contain alkaloids and flavonoids compounds that probably confer their biological insecticidal proprieties.CPG analysis showed also the presence of various fatty acids.On adult mosquitoes,significant insecticidal effects were observed with both aqueous and oil extracts of the two plant seeds compared to mortality induced by deltamethrin,an insecticide used as reference.Extracts of Annona muricata induced high mortality rate to both species of mosquito compared to extracts of Annona squamosa at all concentrations tested.The LC_(50) of seed extracts ranged from 1%to 5%for adults and 0.5%to 1%for larvae.Conclusions:The seed extracts of these two plants may be used as mosquito controlling agents and offer a new approach to a less costly,practical and environmentally friendly control of vector borne diseases.展开更多
Objective:To investigate anti-dyslipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,and 4-OH-Ile on HepG2 cell line.Methods:HepG2 cells were treated with hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosg...Objective:To investigate anti-dyslipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,and 4-OH-Ile on HepG2 cell line.Methods:HepG2 cells were treated with hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,4-OH-Ile,and orlistat.IC20 was calculated using the MTT method.The cells were then pretreated with IC20 concentrations for 24 and 48 h.Real time PCR was employed to measure expression of liver X receptor alpha(LXR a),sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 C(SREBP-1 C),acetyl-CoA carboxylase(ACC),fatty acid synthase(FAS),fibroblast growth factor 21(FGF21),peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma(PPAR γ),and lowdensity lipoprotein receptor(LDLR).Results:The results showed that LXR α(P=0.003,P<0.001).,SREBP-1 C(P<0.001,P<0.001),ACC(P=0.002,P=0.006),and FAS(P<0.001,P<0.001)were downregulated significantly,while FGF21(P<0.001,P<0.001),PPAR γ(P=0.004,P<0.001),and LDLR(P<0.001,P<0.001)were upregulated significantly in HepG2 cells treated with the IC20 of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,4-OH-Ile,and orlistat in 24 and 48 h,respectively.Conclusions:Hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,and 4-OH-Ile significantly modulate the expression of some important lipid metabolism related genes,which is similar to orlistat.Trigonella foenum.-graecum seed extract or its derivatives should be further investigated for their dyslipidemia effects and its complications.展开更多
Grape seed extracts (GSE) are very potent antioxidant and exhibit numerous interesting pharmacologic activities, including an antioxidant property, and has been suggested to be of use in treatment of several diseases....Grape seed extracts (GSE) are very potent antioxidant and exhibit numerous interesting pharmacologic activities, including an antioxidant property, and has been suggested to be of use in treatment of several diseases. The present study has been undertaken to investigate the protective and therapeutic effect of GSE against lead-induced neuro and hepatotoxicity in rat. Male albino rats were divided into six groups: the 1st group, rats were injected daily with saline vehicle and served as negative control, the 2nd group (positive control group), the rats were injected (i.p.) with subacute dose (100 mg/kg b·w/day) of lead acetate (LA). The 3rd group (protective group), the rats were injected (i.p.) with LA (100 mg/kg b·w/day) for 7 days after treatment with GSE (100 mg/kg b·w/day) for 3 weeks. The 4th, 5th and 6th groups (therapeutics groups), rats were injected (i.p.) with subacut dose (100 mg/kg b·w/day) of lead acetate for 7 days, then treated with GSE (100 mg/kg b·w/day) for one, two and three weeks, respectively. The level of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindol acetic acid (5-HIAA) were evaluated in brain regions (cerebellum, brainstem, striatum, cerebral cortex, hypothalamus and hippocampus). The result indicated that the administration of subacute dose of LA (100 mg/kg/day, i.p.) induce a significant decrease in NE, DA, 5-HT and 5-HIAA content in all tested brain regions. Also the obtained data showed significant increase in liver enzymes: serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in group 2 (positive control). There is an improvement in neurotransmitters content. Also the obtained data showed significant in- crease in liver enzymes of protective (G3) and therapeutics groups (G4, G5 and G6) which received GSE compared with animal group that received lead acetate (G2). This is may be the presence of proanthocyanidins and procyanidins which have antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. The result suggests that grape seed extract may prevent lead-induced neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.展开更多
Objective: This work was designed to determine the productive effect of grape seed proanthocynadine extract (GSPE) and Vitamin E against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced myocardial toxicity in 50 male. Wister rates were divi...Objective: This work was designed to determine the productive effect of grape seed proanthocynadine extract (GSPE) and Vitamin E against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced myocardial toxicity in 50 male. Wister rates were divided in five groups. The 1st group was untreated and served as a control. The 2nd group was treated with DOX only, the 3rd group was pretreated with GSPE, the 4th group was pretreated with Vitamin E, and the 5th group was pretreated with GSPE and Vitamin E. DOX was administered by single i.p (Intraperitonial) injection of 15 mg/kg/body weight to induce cardio toxicity and Vitamin E was administered at a dose of 400 IU/kg/bodyweight/day, p.o (per oral) for 10 days prior to DOX administration [1]. GSPE was given at a dose of 150 mg/kg/bodyweight/ day, p.o (per oral) for 10 days before treatment with DOX. After 2 weeks experimental period, blood samples and heart tissues were taken from all groups. The general observations, mortality, histopathology, biomarker enzymes like Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Antioxidants such as Glutathione (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were monitored after 2 weeks of the last dose. Results: Administration of DOX caused cardiomyopathy associated with an antioxidant deficiency. Pretreatment with GSPE and Vitamin E significantly (P < 0.01) protected the myocardium from the toxic effects of DOX by reducing the elevated level of biomarkers and diagnostic enzymes like LDH, CPK, AST, and ALT to normal levels. GSPE and Vitamin E increased the GSH, SOD and CAT levels and decreased the MDA levels in cardiac tissue. Conclusion: These results suggest a cardioprotective effect of GSPE and Vitamin E due to its antioxidant properties.展开更多
Bioassay method was used to study the biological activity of different polar solvent extracts of False ragweed seed. Specially, water extracts of False ragweed has an effect on plant germination and root length. The s...Bioassay method was used to study the biological activity of different polar solvent extracts of False ragweed seed. Specially, water extracts of False ragweed has an effect on plant germination and root length. The study found that False ragweed seed extracts had different degrees of inhibition on many plant seed germinations, and inhibited the germination of cucumber seeds best, the maximum inhibition rate was 79.5%, for cabbage, sorghum and maize seed germination inhibition rate was more than 30%. False ragweed seed extracts also had strong inhibition on cucumber and many other plant root length, and inhibited the root length of cucumber best followed by red beans. The result showed that False ragweed seed extracts contained some materials that could inhibit germination and growth of some plants.展开更多
Endophyte infected tall fescue (E+) is the base diet for nearly all beef cattle in the southern USA. It has been linked to a variety of toxicological conditions due to the presence of large numbers of ergot alkaloids....Endophyte infected tall fescue (E+) is the base diet for nearly all beef cattle in the southern USA. It has been linked to a variety of toxicological conditions due to the presence of large numbers of ergot alkaloids. This study was designed to investigate the effects of E+ seed extract and selected ergot alkaloids on the detoxification pathway by cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) enzyme system. Tests were performed using the P450- Glo CYP3A4 enzyme activity kit (Promega, WI), according to the manufacturer’s manual. Luminescence was measured using a single tube TD20/20 luminometer. Endophyte infected tall fescue seed was extracted with 50/50 methanol/25 mM ammonium carbonate, cleaned and concentrated on Strata-X reversed phase column (Phenomenex). The extracts were evaluated on an HPLC, and then tested using a serial dilution method. Commercially available ergonovine (EN), ergocorine (ER), bromocryptine (BC) and ergocryptine (EC) were tested individually using 0 to 44 nM concentrations. Seed extract of E+ produced a significant (P P < 0.05) dose dependent manner with EC being most potent, followed by ER, BC, and then EN (70%, 40%, 30% and 10% at 44 nM concentration). The similarity of the inhibition curves of seed extract to that of the commercially available ergot alkaloids suggests a related mode of action and that the use of such ergot alkaloids and CYP3A4 assay is a good model to study the toxicity of tall fescue. Furthermore, it provides the foundation to identify the individual toxic components of purified endophyte infected tall fescue extract.展开更多
Methanol extracts of the dried leaves and seeds of Amaranthus viridis were collected and used for phytochemicals and antibacterial analysis. By detecting the MIC and zone inhibition, the antibacterial activity was det...Methanol extracts of the dried leaves and seeds of Amaranthus viridis were collected and used for phytochemicals and antibacterial analysis. By detecting the MIC and zone inhibition, the antibacterial activity was determined against different bacterial and fungal strains. The extract yields from the leaves and seeds ranged 5.5-6.1 and 2.42%-3.72% w/w, respectively. Phytochemical investigation of this plant determines that tanins (6.07%-5.96%), saponins (53%-32%), alkaloids (13.14% - 11.42%), protiens (16.76%-24.51%) and glycosides (63.2%-32.3%) were rich in leaves. The extracts also contained appreciable levels of total phenolic contents (2.81-3.61 GAE, g/100 g), total flavanoid contents (18.4-5.42 QE, g/100 g) and DPPH free radical scavenging activity, showing IC50 (83.45-75.95 μg/mL) along with reducing power was calculated. The MIC of extracts ranged 178 - 645 μg/mL. The results of this study suggest the possibility of using the methanolic extracts in treating the diseases caused by the test organisms.展开更多
Nigella sativa L. (Black seed), is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for many purposes. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of nigella sativa L. (NS) on ...Nigella sativa L. (Black seed), is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for many purposes. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of nigella sativa L. (NS) on performance of Forced Swimming Test (FST), blood biochemical parameters related to fatigue and thyroid functions. Therefore, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Creatine Kinase (CK), Lactic Dehydrogenase (LDH), and Total Protein (TP), triiodothyronine T3, thyroxin T4 and TSH tests were investigated. Thirty five male adult mice were randomly divided into five groups: three NS-fed groups, one fluoxetine treated group and one control group. Three NS experimental groups received hydro-alcoholic extract of NS at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg orally for two weeks. Immobility time decreased in all NS groups compared with control group. Administration of NS significantly increased the concentration of T3 and T4 of the treatment groups. On the contrary, the amount of BUN, CK, LDH, TP and TSH decreased. In conclusion, black seed extract at the experimented doses showed anti-depressant, anti-fatigue and hyperthyroid effects.展开更多
Objective To investigate the bone-protective potential of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.seed hydroalcoholic extract(NNHE)in an ovariectomized(OVX)rat model by modulating the estrogen receptor/osteoprotegerin/receptor activa...Objective To investigate the bone-protective potential of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.seed hydroalcoholic extract(NNHE)in an ovariectomized(OVX)rat model by modulating the estrogen receptor/osteoprotegerin/receptor activator of nuclear factor(NF)-κB(ER/OPG/RANKL)signaling pathway.Methods Network pharmacology was employed with the databases of PubChem,BindingDB,DisGeNET,Gene Ontology(GO),and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG),along with Cytoscape 3.10.2 for identifying the targets and pathways of NNHE relevant to OP.A total of 48 specific pathogen-free(SPF)grade female Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups(n=8 per group):sham control,OVX control,OVX+NNHE[100,200,400 mg/(kg·d)],and OVX+alendronate[3 mg/(kg·week)].The treatment lasted for 16 weeks.Post-treatment assessment included bone parameters(weight,thickness,density,volume,and length),serum biochemical markers[parathyroid hormone(PTH),estrogen,OPG,RANKL,tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase(TRAP),osteocalcin(OC),calcitonin(CT),calcium(Ca),phosphorus(P),and alkaline phosphatase(ALP)],pro-inflammatory cytokines[tumour necrosis factor(TNF)-α,NF-κB,interleukin(IL)-1β,and IL-6],lipid profiles[total cholesterol(TC),triglycerides(TG),low density lipoprotein(LDL),and high density lipoprotein(HDL)],oxidative stress markers[superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),glutathione peroxidase(GSH),and malondialdehyde(MDA)],and histopathological analyses of femur,uterus,and vaginal tissues.Results Network pharmacology analysis revealed 61 overlapping targets between NNHE and osteoporosis-related genes,including signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3),NF-κB subunit 1(NFKB1),dopamine receptor D2(DRD2),matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9),and caspase-3.GO and KEGG enrichment suggested involvement in the ER/OPG/RANKL signaling pathway.In vivo studies demonstrated that NNHE treatment(400 mg/kg)significantly reduced OVX-induced body weight gain and exhibited estrogenic activity in the vaginal cornification assay.NNHE at 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly increased serum estrogen levels compared with OVX control group,while uterine weight remained unaffected.NNHE significantly improved the lipid profile compared with OVX group,with TC,TG,and LDL decreased,while HDL levels were increased at 200 and 400 mg/kg.Bone metabolism markers were significantly improved compared with OVX group,with serum Ca and P levels restored at all NNHE doses and ALP activity reduced.NNHE effectively modulated bone turnover markers compared with OVX group by reducing levels of OC,TRAP,and PTH,and increasing level of CT.In addition,NNHE decreased RANKL level while increasing OPG level at 200 and 400 mg/kg.Bone mineral density(BMD)was significantly enhanced compared with OVX group.Serum oxidative stress was significantly mitigated compared with OVX group through increased levels of antioxidant enzymes(SOD,CAT,and GSH)and reduced MDA,with the most pronounced effects observed at 400 mg/kg.Pro-inflammatory cytokines(TNF-α,IL-6,IL-1β,and NF-κB)were significantly reduced in all NNHE treatment groups compared with OVX group.Histopathological analysis confirmed restoration of trabecular bone structure and normalization of reproductive tissue morphology in OVX rats after NNHE treatment.Conclusion NNHE demonstrated significant protective effects against OVX-induced osteoporosis through ER/OPG/RANKL signaling pathway modulation,oxidative stress,and inflammation suppression,resulting in improved BMD and structural integrity.These findings indicate that NNHE may represent a promising therapeutic candidate for postmenopausal osteoporosis management and merits further clinical investigation.展开更多
Objective:Coix lacryma-jobi,a highly regarded Asian herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine,is recognized for its dual benefits in promoting overall health and treating various diseases.While it exhibits mode...Objective:Coix lacryma-jobi,a highly regarded Asian herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine,is recognized for its dual benefits in promoting overall health and treating various diseases.While it exhibits moderate anticancer efficacy when used alone,this study investigated the enhanced anticancer potential of raw and cooked Coix lacryma-jobi var.lacryma-jobi(CL)seed extracts in combination with sorafenib against HCT116 and HepG2 cancer cell lines.The combination of sorafenib with other anticancer agents,including natural extracts,has garnered significant attention as a promising strategy for developing more effective cancer therapies.Methods:Dry powders of raw(R)and cooked(C)CL seeds,obtained from a local commercial source in Thailand,were extracted and fractionated using ethanol(E),dichloromethane(D),ethyl acetate(A),and water(W)to produce eight fractions:CLRE,CLCE,CLRD,CLCD,CLRA,CLCA,CLRW,and CLCW.The coixol content in raw and cooked seed extracts was quantified and expressed asμg of coixol per gram of extract.The cytotoxic effects of these fractions were evaluated against HCT116 and HepG2 cells using the MTT assay.Fractions demonstrating the most significant cytotoxic responses were combined with sorafenib to evaluate their synergistic effects.Apoptosis induction and mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP)were assessed,and the underlying mechanism of apoptosis was explored by analyzing reactive oxygen species(ROS)generation and antioxidant protein expression levels.Additionally,the combination treatment's effect on the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin(mTOR)pathway was investigated.Results:One gram of CLCE and CLCD extracts contained higher coixol levels(7.02μg and 9.69μg,respectively)compared to CLRE and CLRD(2.66μg and 5.96μg,respectively).Coixol content in CLRA,CLRW,and CLCW fractions was undetectable under the study conditions.All extract fractions exhibited IC_(50)values exceeding 1 mg/mL after 24-and 48-hour incubations with HCT116 and HepG2 cells,indicating limited cytotoxicity when used independently.CLRD and CLCD fractions were selected for combination studies at a concentration of 1 mg/mL,combined with sub-IC_(50)concentrations of sorafenib to minimize its side effects.This combination significantly increased cytotoxicity,inducing apoptosis in HCT116 and HepG2 cells by elevating ROS levels and reducing the expression of superoxide dismutase 2 and catalase.Furthermore,the combination treatment downregulated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway,indicating a targeted anticancer mechanism.Conclusion:The combination of CLCD with sorafenib demonstrates significant potential as a strategy for future anticancer therapies.This CL seed extract,cultivated and commercially available in Thailand,shows promise as a natural supplement to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy in upcoming clinical anticancer applications.展开更多
Background and objective:In northern China's cold regions,the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)exceeds 50%,significantly higher than the national and global rates.MASLD ...Background and objective:In northern China's cold regions,the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)exceeds 50%,significantly higher than the national and global rates.MASLD is an important risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases,including coronary heart disease,stroke,and tumors,with no specific therapeutic drugs currently available.The ethanol extract of cassia seed(CSEE)has shown promise in lowering blood lipids and improving hepatic steatosis,but its mechanism in treating MASLD remains underexplored.This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of CSEE.Methods:MASLD models were established in male Wistar rats and golden hamsters using a high fat diet(HFD).CSEE(10,50,250 mg/kg)was administered via gavage for six weeks.Serum levels of total cholesterol(TC),triglyceride(TG),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),and alanine aminotransferase(ALT),as well as liver TC and TG,were measured using biochemical kits.Histopathological changes in the liver were evaluated using Oil Red O staining,Hematoxylin-eosin(H&E)staining,and transmission electron microscopy(TEM).HepG2 cell viability was assessed using the cell counting kit-8(CCK8)and Calcein-AM/PI staining.Network pharmacology was used to analyze drug-disease targets,and western blotting was used to confirm these predictions.Results:CSEE treatment significantly reduced serum levels of TC,TG,LDL-C,ALT,and AST,and improved liver weight,liver index,and hepatic lipid deposition in rats and golden hamsters.In addition,CSEE alleviated free fatty acid(FFA)-induced lipid deposition in HepG2 cells.Molecular biology experiments demonstrated that CSEE increased the protein levels of p-AMPK,p-ACC,PPARα,CPT1A,PI3K P110 and p-AKT,while decreasing the protein levels of SREBP1,FASN,C/EBPα,and PPARγ,thus improving hepatic lipid metabolism and reducing lipid deposition.The beneficial effects of CSEE were reversed by small molecule inhibitors of the signaling pathways in vitro.Conclusion:CSEE improves liver lipid metabolism and reduces lipid droplet deposition in Wistar rats and golden hamsters with MASLD by activating hepatic AMPK,PPARα,and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.展开更多
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of baobab seed washing and origin on the chemical composition of the oil extracted by pressing. Six (6) oil samples were obtained from seeds of three (3) geogra...The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of baobab seed washing and origin on the chemical composition of the oil extracted by pressing. Six (6) oil samples were obtained from seeds of three (3) geographical origins. The identification and quantification of fatty acids and the polyphenolic profile were carried out by GC-MS and HPLC-UV, respectively. Analysis of fatty acid methyl esters allowed the identification and quantification of 18 fatty acids. Oils from unwashed seeds were richer in palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:0), oleic (C18:1) and arachidic (C20:0) acids. In addition, HPLC-UV analysis at 279 nm shows that oils from unwashed seeds are richer in tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol and caffeic acid. With regard to the polyphenolic profile, gallic acid and quercetin were not detected in these baobab oils. Principal component analysis of fatty acid and phenolic compound content showed that oils from unwashed seeds would best preserve their chemical and associated potential bioactive characteristics.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.81973410 and 82473537)the Independent Research Fund of Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory (Nos.2022YKZY002 and 2022YKZY004)。
文摘Nigella sativa L.seeds have been traditionally utilized in Chinese folk medicine for centuries to treat vitiligo.This study revealed that the ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa L.(HZC)enhances melanogenesis and mitigates oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence and dysfunction in melanocytes.In accordance with established protocols,the ethanol fraction from Nigella sativa L.seeds was extracted,concentrated,and lyophilized to evaluate its herbal effects via 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT)assays,tyrosinase activity evaluation,measurement of cellular melanin contents,scratch assays,senescence-associatedβ-galactosidase(SA-β-gal)staining,enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA),and Western blot analysis for expression profiling of experimentally relevant proteins.The results indicated that HZC significantly enhanced tyrosinase activity and melanin content while notably increasing the protein expression levels of Tyr,Mitf,and gp100 in B16F10 cells.Furthermore,HZC effectively mitigated oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence,improved melanocyte condition,and rectified various functional impairments associated with melanocyte dysfunction.These findings suggest that HZC increases melanin synthesis in melanocytes through the activation of the MAPK,PKA,and Wnt signaling pathways.In addition,HZC attenuates oxidative damage induced by H2O2 therapy by activating the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2-antioxidant response element(Nrf2-ARE)pathway and enhancing the activity of downstream antioxidant enzymes,thus preventing premature senescence and dysfunction in melanocytes.
文摘AIM： To evaluate the efficacy and safety of orbital decomposition （OD） surgery in combination with horse chestnut seed extract （HCSE）, as compared to OD atone, in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy （TAO）. METHODS： Sixty-two orbits from 62 TAO patients were randomly assigned to OD or OD＋HCSE at 1：1 ratio （31 received OD alone, 31 received OD ＋HCSE）. Forty-two orbits from 21 healthy subjects were used as controls. Complete ophthalmic examination and color Doppler flow imaging （CDFI） were performed before surgery and 3mo post-surgery on all 62 orbits from the TAO patients. CDFI were also performed on the 42 control orbits, The effect of OD ＋HCSE and OD alone on TAO orbits was compared on several endpoints, including superior ophthalmic vein blood flow （SOVBF） parameters, subjective assessment, soft tissue involvement, lid retraction, diplopia, eye movement restriction, degree of exophthalmos, and intraocular pressure. The control orbits were used as reference for the SOVBF parameters. RESULTS： OD surgery with or without HCSE improved SOVBF, symptoms and soft tissue involvement, decreased degree of exophthalmos and intraocular pressure in orbits of TAO patients. The OD ＋HCSE combination led to significantly better improvement of SOVBF than OD alone. The differences between the reductions of SOVBF in the two groups are 1.26 cmls in max-volecity and 0.52 cm/s in min-voiecity （P〈0.0001）. CONCLUSION： SOVBF is significantly reduced in the orbits affected with TAO, indicating that congestion may be an important factor contributing to TAO pathogenesis. OD surgery improves the SOVBF, and combination of HCSE medication and OD surgery further improved venous return than OD surgery alone.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31871731)the Key Technology Research and Development Program of Shandong,China(2019GNC106050)+1 种基金the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(CARS-37)the Key Technology Research and Development Program of Binzhou City,China(2019ZDYF010)。
文摘This study investigated the effects of grape seed extract(GSE)on fresh and cooked meat color and premature browning(PMB)in ground meat patties(85% beef and 15% pork back fat)packaged under high-oxygen modified atmospheres(HiOx-MAP).The GSE was added to patties at concentrations of 0,0.10,0.25,0.50 and 0.75 g kg^(-1).This study evaluated the surface color,pH,lipid oxidation,and total viable counts(TVC)of raw patties,and the internal color and pH of patties cooked to a temperature of 66 or 71℃ over 10-day storage at 4℃.Compared with the control(0 g kg^(-1) GSE),GSE improved the color stability(P<0.05)and significantly inhibited the lipid and myoglobin oxidation of raw patties from day 5 to 10,but GSE had no effect(P>0.05)on TVC.Patties containing 0.50 and 0.75 g kg^(-1) GSE cooked to 66℃ exhibited greater(P<0.05)interior redness than the control and reduced the PMB of cooked patties in the late storage stage.These results suggested that 0.50 and 0.75 g kg^(-1) GSE can improve fresh meat color and minimize PMB of HiOx-MAP patties.
文摘Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of herbal formulation rich in standardized fenugreek seed extract(IND-2) add-on therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients who were on insulin treatment in prospective, single arm, open-label, uncontrolled, multicentre trial.Methods: T2DM patients(n=30) with aged 18-80 years who were stabilized on insulin treatment with fasting blood sugar(FBS) level between 100-140 mg/dL received IND-2 capsules(700 mg, thrice a day) for 16 weeks.The primary endpoints were an assessment of FBS at week 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 16.Secondary end-points include post-prandial blood sugar level, glycosylated Hb(HbA1c), reduction in the dose of insulin and number of hypoglycemic attacks, and improvement in lipid profile at various weeks.Safety and adverse events(AEs) were also assessed during the study.Results: Study was completed in twenty T2DM patients, and there was no significant reduction in FBS and post-prandial blood sugar level after addon therapy of IND-2.However, add-on therapy of IND-2 significantly reduced(P<0.01) the HbA1c values, requirements of insulin and hypoglycemic events as compared with baseline.Total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteincholesterol levels were significantly increased(P<0.01) after IND-2 add-on therapy.Body weight and safety outcomes did not differ significantly in IND-2 add-on therapy group at week 16.Additionally, add-on therapy of IND-2 did not produce any serious adverse events.Conclusions: The results of present investigation suggest that add-on therapy of IND-2 with insulin in T2DM patients improves glycaemic control through a decrease in levels of HbA1c and number of insulin doses needed per day without an increase in body weight and risk of hypoglycemia.Thus, IND-2 may provide a safe and well-tolerated add-on therapy option for the management of T2DM.
文摘The skin is a major protective organ of the body. It is constantly exposed to the environment and is very resilient. But exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun results in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent inflammatory responses that can overwhelm the innate protective mechanisms of the skin. This results in damage and premature aging. Strategies to mitigate this premature photoaging might include avoidance of sunlight. However, some sunlight exposure is beneficial to health. One notable example of this is the production of vitamin D. A more practical approach to preventing adverse effects of UV light in the skin is antioxidant supplementation. Dietary antioxidants may help control ROS propagation following UV light exposure. To further evaluate the utility of antioxidants in protecting the skin, in vitro, in vivo and human studies of three well known dietary antioxidants are reviewed and discussed. The data clearly demonstrate that vitamin C, grape seed extract and citrus bioflavonoids have the potential to reduce the damaging effects of excess sun exposure via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating mechanisms. As such, regular ingestion of dietary antioxidants appears to be a useful strategy for protecting the skin against photoaging.
基金Supported by the grants from Shanghai Municipal Commission of Education:Study on the Synergistic Effect and Action Mechanism of Yuzhizi (Fructus Akebiae Quinatae) Seed Extract on Sorafenib (No. 2019LK065)Shanghai Municipal Commission of Health and Family Planning [No. ZY (2018-2020)-CCCX-2001-01]。
文摘OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of Yuzhizi(Fructus Akebiae Quinatae) seed extract(FAQSE) on inhibiting the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) cells in vitro and to explore the anti-HCC action mechanism of FAQSE. METHODS: Human HCC Hep G2 and Huh7 cells were used to investigate the anti-HCC effect of FAQSE in vitro. 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide(MTT) method was used to measure cell viability. Affymetrix microarray was adopted to detect the expression of transcriptome. The differentially expressed genes(DEGs) of each cell line were identified. For coDEGs of both cell lines, the gene ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) pathway were enriched using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery(DAVID), and the network analysis of protein-protein interaction(PPI) was mapped using the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins(STRING) and Cytoscape software. Some important genes in the PPI network of coDEGs were selected to verify by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: FAQSE decreased the viability of Hep G2 and Huh7 cells. There were 211 co-upregulated and 86 codownregualted genes in both cell lines after FAQSE treatment. The enriched GO terms of co-upregulated DEGs were primarily involved cell-cell adhesion, viral process, transcription initiation from RNA polymerase II promoter, positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter and actin cytoskeleton organization. The GO terms of co-downregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in the processes of SRP-dependent cotranslational protein targeting to membrane, viral transcription, nuclear-transcribed m RNA catabolic process, nonsense-mediated decay, translational initiation and r RNA processing. Main KEGG pathways of co-upregulated DEGs were endocytosis, glutathione metabolism, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, synaptic vesicle cycle and lysosome. The major KEGG pathways of co-downregulated DEGs were ribosome, biosynthesis of amino acids, arginine and proline metabolism, systemic lupus erythematosus and complement and coagulation cascades. The top 10 coDEGs with high hub nodes in STRING analysis were ribosomal protein S27a, transferrin, ribosomal protein S20, ribosomal protein L9, protein phosphatase 2 regulatory subunit B alpha, transthyretin, thioredoxin reductase 1, ribosomal protein L3, ribophorin I and ribosomal protein L24. Alpha-fetoprotein(AFP) was also co-downregulated and contained in the PPI network. The m RNA and protein expression of most verified genes was consistent with the results of co-DEGs analysis. And the AFP level was significantly reduced after FAQSE treatment. CONCLUSIONS: A series of genes and pathways of Hep G2 and Huh7 cells were changed after FAQSE treatment, which might be the targets of FAQSE against HCC and worthy of further study. AFP might be important one of them.
文摘A female at 28 weeks gestation was referred to pediatric cardiology for a fetal arrhythmia. The echocardiogram revealed premature constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Her work up was unremarkable except for her use of an herbal supplement, grape seed extract, which is advertised as a potent anti-inflammatory medication, and has biochemical properties similar to other medications that have been shown to cause premature ductal constriction. The use of herbal remedies increases each year. Although the public is inundated with radio, television, and internet advertisements for these products, little unbiased information regarding the possible dangers of toxicity or adverse reactions exists. As physicians, we need to be aware of these products, and counsel our patients accordingly.
文摘Objective:To determine the antimicrobial effects of grape seed on peri-implantitis microflora.Methods:The grape seed extract was tested against peri-implantitis microflora most commonly found in craniofacial implants including reference strains of Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus),Escherichia coli(E.coli),Candida albicans(C.albicans)and clinical strains of S.aureus,Klebsiella pneumonia(K.pneumonia)and Candida parapsilosis(C.parapsilosis)by disk diffusion test.Minimum inhibitory concentrations(MIC)and minimum cidal concentrations(MCC)were determined using modified agar dilution millpore method.The extract was further combined with polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol,and was tested for antimicrobial effects.Results:Grape seed extract showed positive inhibitory effects with S.aureus at MIC of 0.625 mg/mL and MCC of1.25 mg/mL respectively.However the extracts showed minimal or no reactivity against strains of E.coli,K.pneumonia,C.parapsilosis and C.albicans.The use of grape seed extract in combination with polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol also showed dose dependent inhibitory effect on S.aureus.Conclusions:The results of the study showed that grape seed has potential antimicrobial effects which can be further studied and developed to be used in the treatment of infected skinabutment interface of craniofacial implants.
基金Supported by the grants FRB-CD-AOOI-07-012 and CMIRA Coopera 2011 from Region Rhne-Alpes 11MIF-MAVINGUI-10851
文摘Objective:To evaluate the potential efficacy of seed extracts of Annona squamosa and Annona muricata used as natural insecticides to control adult and larvae of the vectors Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus under laboratory conditions.Methods:Aqueous and oil extracts of the two plants were prepared from dried seeds.Preliminary identifications of the chemical components of each seed extracts were performed using microreactional and GCP techniques.Larvae and adults of Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus were collected from the breeding sites in coastal and highlands regions of Madagascar.WHO standardized tests of susceptibility for larvae and imaginal stage of mosquitoes were realized to determine mortality and LC_(50) of mosquitoes.Results:Chemical identifications showed that these extracts contain alkaloids and flavonoids compounds that probably confer their biological insecticidal proprieties.CPG analysis showed also the presence of various fatty acids.On adult mosquitoes,significant insecticidal effects were observed with both aqueous and oil extracts of the two plant seeds compared to mortality induced by deltamethrin,an insecticide used as reference.Extracts of Annona muricata induced high mortality rate to both species of mosquito compared to extracts of Annona squamosa at all concentrations tested.The LC_(50) of seed extracts ranged from 1%to 5%for adults and 0.5%to 1%for larvae.Conclusions:The seed extracts of these two plants may be used as mosquito controlling agents and offer a new approach to a less costly,practical and environmentally friendly control of vector borne diseases.
基金supported by the RUMS by the grant number 20.1094
文摘Objective:To investigate anti-dyslipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,and 4-OH-Ile on HepG2 cell line.Methods:HepG2 cells were treated with hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,4-OH-Ile,and orlistat.IC20 was calculated using the MTT method.The cells were then pretreated with IC20 concentrations for 24 and 48 h.Real time PCR was employed to measure expression of liver X receptor alpha(LXR a),sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 C(SREBP-1 C),acetyl-CoA carboxylase(ACC),fatty acid synthase(FAS),fibroblast growth factor 21(FGF21),peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma(PPAR γ),and lowdensity lipoprotein receptor(LDLR).Results:The results showed that LXR α(P=0.003,P<0.001).,SREBP-1 C(P<0.001,P<0.001),ACC(P=0.002,P=0.006),and FAS(P<0.001,P<0.001)were downregulated significantly,while FGF21(P<0.001,P<0.001),PPAR γ(P=0.004,P<0.001),and LDLR(P<0.001,P<0.001)were upregulated significantly in HepG2 cells treated with the IC20 of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,4-OH-Ile,and orlistat in 24 and 48 h,respectively.Conclusions:Hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts,diosgenin,and 4-OH-Ile significantly modulate the expression of some important lipid metabolism related genes,which is similar to orlistat.Trigonella foenum.-graecum seed extract or its derivatives should be further investigated for their dyslipidemia effects and its complications.
文摘Grape seed extracts (GSE) are very potent antioxidant and exhibit numerous interesting pharmacologic activities, including an antioxidant property, and has been suggested to be of use in treatment of several diseases. The present study has been undertaken to investigate the protective and therapeutic effect of GSE against lead-induced neuro and hepatotoxicity in rat. Male albino rats were divided into six groups: the 1st group, rats were injected daily with saline vehicle and served as negative control, the 2nd group (positive control group), the rats were injected (i.p.) with subacute dose (100 mg/kg b·w/day) of lead acetate (LA). The 3rd group (protective group), the rats were injected (i.p.) with LA (100 mg/kg b·w/day) for 7 days after treatment with GSE (100 mg/kg b·w/day) for 3 weeks. The 4th, 5th and 6th groups (therapeutics groups), rats were injected (i.p.) with subacut dose (100 mg/kg b·w/day) of lead acetate for 7 days, then treated with GSE (100 mg/kg b·w/day) for one, two and three weeks, respectively. The level of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindol acetic acid (5-HIAA) were evaluated in brain regions (cerebellum, brainstem, striatum, cerebral cortex, hypothalamus and hippocampus). The result indicated that the administration of subacute dose of LA (100 mg/kg/day, i.p.) induce a significant decrease in NE, DA, 5-HT and 5-HIAA content in all tested brain regions. Also the obtained data showed significant increase in liver enzymes: serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in group 2 (positive control). There is an improvement in neurotransmitters content. Also the obtained data showed significant in- crease in liver enzymes of protective (G3) and therapeutics groups (G4, G5 and G6) which received GSE compared with animal group that received lead acetate (G2). This is may be the presence of proanthocyanidins and procyanidins which have antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. The result suggests that grape seed extract may prevent lead-induced neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.
文摘Objective: This work was designed to determine the productive effect of grape seed proanthocynadine extract (GSPE) and Vitamin E against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced myocardial toxicity in 50 male. Wister rates were divided in five groups. The 1st group was untreated and served as a control. The 2nd group was treated with DOX only, the 3rd group was pretreated with GSPE, the 4th group was pretreated with Vitamin E, and the 5th group was pretreated with GSPE and Vitamin E. DOX was administered by single i.p (Intraperitonial) injection of 15 mg/kg/body weight to induce cardio toxicity and Vitamin E was administered at a dose of 400 IU/kg/bodyweight/day, p.o (per oral) for 10 days prior to DOX administration [1]. GSPE was given at a dose of 150 mg/kg/bodyweight/ day, p.o (per oral) for 10 days before treatment with DOX. After 2 weeks experimental period, blood samples and heart tissues were taken from all groups. The general observations, mortality, histopathology, biomarker enzymes like Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Antioxidants such as Glutathione (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were monitored after 2 weeks of the last dose. Results: Administration of DOX caused cardiomyopathy associated with an antioxidant deficiency. Pretreatment with GSPE and Vitamin E significantly (P < 0.01) protected the myocardium from the toxic effects of DOX by reducing the elevated level of biomarkers and diagnostic enzymes like LDH, CPK, AST, and ALT to normal levels. GSPE and Vitamin E increased the GSH, SOD and CAT levels and decreased the MDA levels in cardiac tissue. Conclusion: These results suggest a cardioprotective effect of GSPE and Vitamin E due to its antioxidant properties.
基金Supported by Study of Biological,Ecological Environment Security of Herbicide-resistant Genetically Modified Soybeans (LBH-Q05034)Youth Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China (QC2010123)
文摘Bioassay method was used to study the biological activity of different polar solvent extracts of False ragweed seed. Specially, water extracts of False ragweed has an effect on plant germination and root length. The study found that False ragweed seed extracts had different degrees of inhibition on many plant seed germinations, and inhibited the germination of cucumber seeds best, the maximum inhibition rate was 79.5%, for cabbage, sorghum and maize seed germination inhibition rate was more than 30%. False ragweed seed extracts also had strong inhibition on cucumber and many other plant root length, and inhibited the root length of cucumber best followed by red beans. The result showed that False ragweed seed extracts contained some materials that could inhibit germination and growth of some plants.
文摘Endophyte infected tall fescue (E+) is the base diet for nearly all beef cattle in the southern USA. It has been linked to a variety of toxicological conditions due to the presence of large numbers of ergot alkaloids. This study was designed to investigate the effects of E+ seed extract and selected ergot alkaloids on the detoxification pathway by cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) enzyme system. Tests were performed using the P450- Glo CYP3A4 enzyme activity kit (Promega, WI), according to the manufacturer’s manual. Luminescence was measured using a single tube TD20/20 luminometer. Endophyte infected tall fescue seed was extracted with 50/50 methanol/25 mM ammonium carbonate, cleaned and concentrated on Strata-X reversed phase column (Phenomenex). The extracts were evaluated on an HPLC, and then tested using a serial dilution method. Commercially available ergonovine (EN), ergocorine (ER), bromocryptine (BC) and ergocryptine (EC) were tested individually using 0 to 44 nM concentrations. Seed extract of E+ produced a significant (P P < 0.05) dose dependent manner with EC being most potent, followed by ER, BC, and then EN (70%, 40%, 30% and 10% at 44 nM concentration). The similarity of the inhibition curves of seed extract to that of the commercially available ergot alkaloids suggests a related mode of action and that the use of such ergot alkaloids and CYP3A4 assay is a good model to study the toxicity of tall fescue. Furthermore, it provides the foundation to identify the individual toxic components of purified endophyte infected tall fescue extract.
文摘Methanol extracts of the dried leaves and seeds of Amaranthus viridis were collected and used for phytochemicals and antibacterial analysis. By detecting the MIC and zone inhibition, the antibacterial activity was determined against different bacterial and fungal strains. The extract yields from the leaves and seeds ranged 5.5-6.1 and 2.42%-3.72% w/w, respectively. Phytochemical investigation of this plant determines that tanins (6.07%-5.96%), saponins (53%-32%), alkaloids (13.14% - 11.42%), protiens (16.76%-24.51%) and glycosides (63.2%-32.3%) were rich in leaves. The extracts also contained appreciable levels of total phenolic contents (2.81-3.61 GAE, g/100 g), total flavanoid contents (18.4-5.42 QE, g/100 g) and DPPH free radical scavenging activity, showing IC50 (83.45-75.95 μg/mL) along with reducing power was calculated. The MIC of extracts ranged 178 - 645 μg/mL. The results of this study suggest the possibility of using the methanolic extracts in treating the diseases caused by the test organisms.
文摘Nigella sativa L. (Black seed), is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for many purposes. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of nigella sativa L. (NS) on performance of Forced Swimming Test (FST), blood biochemical parameters related to fatigue and thyroid functions. Therefore, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Creatine Kinase (CK), Lactic Dehydrogenase (LDH), and Total Protein (TP), triiodothyronine T3, thyroxin T4 and TSH tests were investigated. Thirty five male adult mice were randomly divided into five groups: three NS-fed groups, one fluoxetine treated group and one control group. Three NS experimental groups received hydro-alcoholic extract of NS at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg orally for two weeks. Immobility time decreased in all NS groups compared with control group. Administration of NS significantly increased the concentration of T3 and T4 of the treatment groups. On the contrary, the amount of BUN, CK, LDH, TP and TSH decreased. In conclusion, black seed extract at the experimented doses showed anti-depressant, anti-fatigue and hyperthyroid effects.
文摘Objective To investigate the bone-protective potential of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.seed hydroalcoholic extract(NNHE)in an ovariectomized(OVX)rat model by modulating the estrogen receptor/osteoprotegerin/receptor activator of nuclear factor(NF)-κB(ER/OPG/RANKL)signaling pathway.Methods Network pharmacology was employed with the databases of PubChem,BindingDB,DisGeNET,Gene Ontology(GO),and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG),along with Cytoscape 3.10.2 for identifying the targets and pathways of NNHE relevant to OP.A total of 48 specific pathogen-free(SPF)grade female Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups(n=8 per group):sham control,OVX control,OVX+NNHE[100,200,400 mg/(kg·d)],and OVX+alendronate[3 mg/(kg·week)].The treatment lasted for 16 weeks.Post-treatment assessment included bone parameters(weight,thickness,density,volume,and length),serum biochemical markers[parathyroid hormone(PTH),estrogen,OPG,RANKL,tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase(TRAP),osteocalcin(OC),calcitonin(CT),calcium(Ca),phosphorus(P),and alkaline phosphatase(ALP)],pro-inflammatory cytokines[tumour necrosis factor(TNF)-α,NF-κB,interleukin(IL)-1β,and IL-6],lipid profiles[total cholesterol(TC),triglycerides(TG),low density lipoprotein(LDL),and high density lipoprotein(HDL)],oxidative stress markers[superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),glutathione peroxidase(GSH),and malondialdehyde(MDA)],and histopathological analyses of femur,uterus,and vaginal tissues.Results Network pharmacology analysis revealed 61 overlapping targets between NNHE and osteoporosis-related genes,including signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3),NF-κB subunit 1(NFKB1),dopamine receptor D2(DRD2),matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9),and caspase-3.GO and KEGG enrichment suggested involvement in the ER/OPG/RANKL signaling pathway.In vivo studies demonstrated that NNHE treatment(400 mg/kg)significantly reduced OVX-induced body weight gain and exhibited estrogenic activity in the vaginal cornification assay.NNHE at 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly increased serum estrogen levels compared with OVX control group,while uterine weight remained unaffected.NNHE significantly improved the lipid profile compared with OVX group,with TC,TG,and LDL decreased,while HDL levels were increased at 200 and 400 mg/kg.Bone metabolism markers were significantly improved compared with OVX group,with serum Ca and P levels restored at all NNHE doses and ALP activity reduced.NNHE effectively modulated bone turnover markers compared with OVX group by reducing levels of OC,TRAP,and PTH,and increasing level of CT.In addition,NNHE decreased RANKL level while increasing OPG level at 200 and 400 mg/kg.Bone mineral density(BMD)was significantly enhanced compared with OVX group.Serum oxidative stress was significantly mitigated compared with OVX group through increased levels of antioxidant enzymes(SOD,CAT,and GSH)and reduced MDA,with the most pronounced effects observed at 400 mg/kg.Pro-inflammatory cytokines(TNF-α,IL-6,IL-1β,and NF-κB)were significantly reduced in all NNHE treatment groups compared with OVX group.Histopathological analysis confirmed restoration of trabecular bone structure and normalization of reproductive tissue morphology in OVX rats after NNHE treatment.Conclusion NNHE demonstrated significant protective effects against OVX-induced osteoporosis through ER/OPG/RANKL signaling pathway modulation,oxidative stress,and inflammation suppression,resulting in improved BMD and structural integrity.These findings indicate that NNHE may represent a promising therapeutic candidate for postmenopausal osteoporosis management and merits further clinical investigation.
基金supported by the National Science Research and Innovation Fund(NSRF)of Thailand(No.R2565B045)the Global and Frontier Research University Fund,(No.R2567C003),Naresuan University,Thailand。
文摘Objective:Coix lacryma-jobi,a highly regarded Asian herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine,is recognized for its dual benefits in promoting overall health and treating various diseases.While it exhibits moderate anticancer efficacy when used alone,this study investigated the enhanced anticancer potential of raw and cooked Coix lacryma-jobi var.lacryma-jobi(CL)seed extracts in combination with sorafenib against HCT116 and HepG2 cancer cell lines.The combination of sorafenib with other anticancer agents,including natural extracts,has garnered significant attention as a promising strategy for developing more effective cancer therapies.Methods:Dry powders of raw(R)and cooked(C)CL seeds,obtained from a local commercial source in Thailand,were extracted and fractionated using ethanol(E),dichloromethane(D),ethyl acetate(A),and water(W)to produce eight fractions:CLRE,CLCE,CLRD,CLCD,CLRA,CLCA,CLRW,and CLCW.The coixol content in raw and cooked seed extracts was quantified and expressed asμg of coixol per gram of extract.The cytotoxic effects of these fractions were evaluated against HCT116 and HepG2 cells using the MTT assay.Fractions demonstrating the most significant cytotoxic responses were combined with sorafenib to evaluate their synergistic effects.Apoptosis induction and mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP)were assessed,and the underlying mechanism of apoptosis was explored by analyzing reactive oxygen species(ROS)generation and antioxidant protein expression levels.Additionally,the combination treatment's effect on the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin(mTOR)pathway was investigated.Results:One gram of CLCE and CLCD extracts contained higher coixol levels(7.02μg and 9.69μg,respectively)compared to CLRE and CLRD(2.66μg and 5.96μg,respectively).Coixol content in CLRA,CLRW,and CLCW fractions was undetectable under the study conditions.All extract fractions exhibited IC_(50)values exceeding 1 mg/mL after 24-and 48-hour incubations with HCT116 and HepG2 cells,indicating limited cytotoxicity when used independently.CLRD and CLCD fractions were selected for combination studies at a concentration of 1 mg/mL,combined with sub-IC_(50)concentrations of sorafenib to minimize its side effects.This combination significantly increased cytotoxicity,inducing apoptosis in HCT116 and HepG2 cells by elevating ROS levels and reducing the expression of superoxide dismutase 2 and catalase.Furthermore,the combination treatment downregulated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway,indicating a targeted anticancer mechanism.Conclusion:The combination of CLCD with sorafenib demonstrates significant potential as a strategy for future anticancer therapies.This CL seed extract,cultivated and commercially available in Thailand,shows promise as a natural supplement to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy in upcoming clinical anticancer applications.
基金The animal protocols were approved by the Ethics Committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University(SYDW2019-258).
文摘Background and objective:In northern China's cold regions,the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)exceeds 50%,significantly higher than the national and global rates.MASLD is an important risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases,including coronary heart disease,stroke,and tumors,with no specific therapeutic drugs currently available.The ethanol extract of cassia seed(CSEE)has shown promise in lowering blood lipids and improving hepatic steatosis,but its mechanism in treating MASLD remains underexplored.This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of CSEE.Methods:MASLD models were established in male Wistar rats and golden hamsters using a high fat diet(HFD).CSEE(10,50,250 mg/kg)was administered via gavage for six weeks.Serum levels of total cholesterol(TC),triglyceride(TG),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),and alanine aminotransferase(ALT),as well as liver TC and TG,were measured using biochemical kits.Histopathological changes in the liver were evaluated using Oil Red O staining,Hematoxylin-eosin(H&E)staining,and transmission electron microscopy(TEM).HepG2 cell viability was assessed using the cell counting kit-8(CCK8)and Calcein-AM/PI staining.Network pharmacology was used to analyze drug-disease targets,and western blotting was used to confirm these predictions.Results:CSEE treatment significantly reduced serum levels of TC,TG,LDL-C,ALT,and AST,and improved liver weight,liver index,and hepatic lipid deposition in rats and golden hamsters.In addition,CSEE alleviated free fatty acid(FFA)-induced lipid deposition in HepG2 cells.Molecular biology experiments demonstrated that CSEE increased the protein levels of p-AMPK,p-ACC,PPARα,CPT1A,PI3K P110 and p-AKT,while decreasing the protein levels of SREBP1,FASN,C/EBPα,and PPARγ,thus improving hepatic lipid metabolism and reducing lipid deposition.The beneficial effects of CSEE were reversed by small molecule inhibitors of the signaling pathways in vitro.Conclusion:CSEE improves liver lipid metabolism and reduces lipid droplet deposition in Wistar rats and golden hamsters with MASLD by activating hepatic AMPK,PPARα,and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
文摘The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of baobab seed washing and origin on the chemical composition of the oil extracted by pressing. Six (6) oil samples were obtained from seeds of three (3) geographical origins. The identification and quantification of fatty acids and the polyphenolic profile were carried out by GC-MS and HPLC-UV, respectively. Analysis of fatty acid methyl esters allowed the identification and quantification of 18 fatty acids. Oils from unwashed seeds were richer in palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:0), oleic (C18:1) and arachidic (C20:0) acids. In addition, HPLC-UV analysis at 279 nm shows that oils from unwashed seeds are richer in tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol and caffeic acid. With regard to the polyphenolic profile, gallic acid and quercetin were not detected in these baobab oils. Principal component analysis of fatty acid and phenolic compound content showed that oils from unwashed seeds would best preserve their chemical and associated potential bioactive characteristics.
