European Journal of Medicinal Plants
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Chief Editors: Dr. Marcello Iriti, Dr. Valentina Savo
ISSN: 2231-0894
Frequency: Quarterly
Language: English
Open Access Peer-reviewed journal
Web site: https://www.sciencedomain.org/journal-home.php?id=13
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Item 13C NMR Analysis: Terpenoids, Steroids and Carotenoid from Diospyros soubreana (Ebenaceae)(Science Domain International, 2018-12) Blanchard, Boué Guy; Faustin, Kabran Aka; Thierry, Yapi Acafou; Mathias, Assi Kouamé; Félix, Tomi; Félix, Tonzibo ZanahiPhytochemical investigations on bark of trunks and leaves of Diospyros soubreana (Ebenaceae) led to the isolation and characterisation of nine molecules: one monocyclic sesquiterpenoid lactone (1), five pentacyclic triterpenes (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), two sterols (7 and 8) and one carotenoid alcohol (9), all isolated for the first time from this species. The structural elucidation of these compounds was carried out by 13C NMR spectroscopy.Item Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activity After in vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion of Infusions of Mentha Species.(2013-07) Dinis, Pedro C; Falé, Pedro L; Madeira, Paulo J Amorim; Florêncio, M Helena; Serralheiro, Maria LAims: To study the acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of Mentha infusions before and after the gastrointestinal digestion and to correlate this activity with the chemical compounds present in these infusions. Place and Duration of Study: Fresh Mentha x piperita, M. spicata, M. pulegium were bought in a local supermarket. These plants were composed of leaves, stems and flowers for the identification, which was carried out in Plant Biotechnology Centre, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon. The chemical identification of the infusions and the enzymatic tests were carried out in the Center of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Faculty of Science University of Lisbon from September 2010 till June 2011. Methodology: The compounds present in the infusions were identified by LC-MS. The enzyme activity assay was carried out using a spectrophotometric method. The digestive simulation was accomplished using enzymatic juices prepared in the laboratory and Caco-2 cells lines simulating the intestine barrier. Results: All the Mentha infusions contained rosmarinic acid. M. spicata infusion contained also eriocitrin and eriodictyol. The IC50 values for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of the infusions, before digestion, stayed between 0.72 and 1.9 mg/mL. These activities are statistically different at p<.05. These activities can be explained by the presence of the phenolic compounds mentioned. Rosmarinic acid has an IC50 equal to 0.439 mg/mL (1.22 mM), eriocitrin and eriodictyol have IC50 equal to 0.439 mg/mL (0.29 mM) and 0.256 mg/mL (0.89 mM) respectively. The presence of these two flavonoids, eriocitrin and eriodictyol, can account for the higher activity detected for M. spicata. The gastric juice or the pancreatic juices used to simulate the gastrointestinal digestion did not originate any difference in the chemical composition of the infusions (analysed by HPLCDAD). This was also corroborated by the enzymatic tests. The Caco-2 cells did not originate any modification in the enzymatic activity of the infusions. The analysis of the cell homogenate revealed the presence of rosmarinic acid and the phenolic compounds, although in minor amount. Conclusion: Mentha infusions have the capacity to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, due to the presence of rosmarinic acid, eriocitrin and eriodictyol The composition of the Mentha herbal teas was not modified by the gastro-intestinal juices, or by the intestinal cell line.Item Acute and Sub-acute Toxicity Assessment of Euphorbia lateriflora (Schum and Thonn) in Wistar Albino Rats(Science Domain International, 2019-09) Olorunnisola, Olubukola Sinbad; Adetutu, Adewale; Owoade, Abiodun Olusoji; Ajayi, Folorunsho Ayodeji; Ajibade, Adedoyin Adetutu; Adegbola, PeterAims: The toxicity of ethanol whole plant extract of Euphorbia lateriflora was assessed in Albino Wistar rats. Methodology: The LD50 was at single dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight, the sub-acute dosage of the extract was administered orally at 250 and 500 mg/kg b.w.t twice daily for 7 days and the effect of the extract on liver, kidney, and haematological parameters was assessed and recorded during these periods. Results: The result of the oral acute toxicity study at single high dose of 5000 mg/kg/bwt shows that the LD50 of the extract is greater than 5000 mg/kg/bwt. After 7 days of oral administration, 500 mg/kg/bwt of the extract caused a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the packed cell volume. At 500 mg/kg/bwt, the extract caused a significant (p<0.05) increase in ALP, total protein and albumin and decrease in serum electrolytes (Na+, k+ and Cl-). Histopathological analysis revealed the expansion of fibrous spaces in the liver and thickening of the glomerular basement of the kidney in the group fed with 500 mg/kg/b.w.t of extracts. Conclusion: In conclusion, the dose and time-dependent selective organ toxicity effect of this extract suggested that the extract might be relatively unsafe for consumption at especially high concentrations.Item Acute and Subchronic Toxicities of the Aqueous Extract of the Hymenocardia acida (Euphorbiaceae) Roots in Rodents(Sciencedomain International, 2022-01) Koffi, S.; Soro, T. Y.; Emile Bégbin, K.; Abizi, G.; Ahebié, M. E.; John, Kouadio K.; Ernest, Zougrou N.; Kouakou, K.The roots of Hymenocardia acida are used in traditional African medicine to treat mainly erectile dysfunction. This study aims to evaluate the lethal and sub-lethal toxicities of the aqueous extract of Hymenocardia acida roots in in two rodents species, namely Mus musculus and Rattus norvegicus. The acute intraperitoneal and oral toxicities of the extract were determined by the method of Miller and Tainter. Subchronic oral toxicity with doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight was assessed according to the slightly modified OECD 408 method. The results showed that the 50% intraperitoneal lethal dose was 223.87 mg/kg body weight in mice. In addition, the 50% oral lethal dose in mice was greater than 12,000 mg/kg body weight. In the subchronic study, the extract induced a significant (P < .001) increase in white blood cell count at 1000 mg/kg body weight after 60 days of treatment. From the thirtieth day of treatment onwards, the extract induced a significant (P < .05) reduction in blood glucose levels at the 500 mg/kg body weight dose and a significant (P < .05) increase in blood glucose levels at the 1000 mg/kg body weight dose. Aqueous extract of Hymenocardia acida roots is toxic by the intraperitoneal route and exerts a non-specific immunity action at high doses. It was harmless to rats at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg of body weight.Item Adventitious Bud Formation and Plantlet Regeneration of Achyrocline satureoides-A Multipurpose Medicinal Plant.(2014-10) Kotik, D; Sansberro, P; Luna, CAdventitious bud regeneration was achieved from hypocotyls, cotyledons and leaf explants of Achyrocline satureioides. Organogenesis was induced from every explant cultured on Murashige and Skoog semisolid medium (plus sucrose 30g·L-1) containing different combinations of 6-benzyladenine (BA) and -naphtalenacetic acid (NAA) under 116mol·m2·s-1 photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), photoperiod 14 h and at 272ºC. The regeneration was similar for every tested explant and varied between 64 and 83%. The number of buds formed per regenerative explants was similar in every treatment (5-8 shoots/explant). In order to stimulate In vitro rooting, regenerative leaves were sub cultured from the best induction medium in MS lacking plant growth regulators for the same periods. Every plantlet raised In vitro was phenotypically normal and successfully hardened to ex vitro conditions. An experimental field plot with 60-day-old in vitro regenerated plants was established.Item Ageing Induced Hyperproduction of Reactive Oxygen Species and Dysbalance in Enzymatic Link of Antioxidant Defense System of Skin and Therapeutic Efficacy of Artichoke Extract(Science Domain International, 2019-04) Sukoyan, Galina V.; Gongadze, Nikoloz V.; Demina, Natalya B.; Golovach, Veronika V.; Tsivtsivadze, Edisher T.; Bakuridze, Alesha D.Skin aging is multitarget persistence processing that immediately involve hyperproduction of free radicals under influence of intrinsic and extrinsic factors and deterioration in intimal antioxidant defense system. The goal of the study was the evaluation of the anti-oxidant potential of artichoke standartizated extracts, 2%, as a protective strategy against skin age-associated oxidative damage caused by D-galactose (D-gal) in rats. 58 female Wistar rats included in the experimental design. D-gal-induced aging was reproduced in 36 animals of main group, and 12 rats included in control group. All animals in main group were randomized for 3 groups: I – animals with skin aging reproduced model receive saline, II – animals with skin aging rats receive artichoke extracts (with content of chloroagenic acid 2.0%) in a dose of intradermal injection 0.13 mg/kg and main III group - animals with skin aging receive 1.3 mg/kg artichoke extract twice at weeks during 4 weeks. Influence of artichoke extracts restores skin relative weight and leads to decreasing the rate of generation of superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation (LPx), increasing activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and reverse ratio SOD/(catalase+GPx) to the production of H2O2 from superoxide dismutation coupling with the decrease ratio of generated O2-/H2O2. Low-dose of intradermally microinjection of artichoke extracts, 2%, activated the enzymatic link in innate antioxidant defense system in D-gal-induced skin aging model and could be recommended for applications in cosmetics as antiaging mesotherapy.Item Alpha (?)-amylase Inhibitory Property of Anthocleista nobilis Leaf Extract(Sciencedomain International, 2022-05) Dabie, K.; Adulley, F.; Ababio, B. A.; Yamoah, E. P.; Owusuaa, E.Aims: Alpha (?)-amylase inhibitors from plants are preferable for type 2 diabetes treatment because of their relative potency and safety. This study examined, in vitro, the inhibitory effect of Anthocleista nobilis leaf extract on starch hydrolysis catalyzed by ? -amylase (extracted from moated sorghum). Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry (School of Biological Sciences) and Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Ghana, between June 2021 and August 2021. Methodology: Leaves of A. nobilis were air-dried, pulverized, and macerated in 70% aqueous ethanol for 72 hrs. The filtrate was concentrated and reconstituted in 0.02M Sodium phosphate buffer (pH 6.9) for further analysis including Phytoconstituents screening. In vitro analysis of ? -amylase activity as well as inhibitory effect of A. nobilis extract on ? -amylase was performed. The Lineweaver-Burk plot was employed in the inhibition analysis to determine the inhibition type, maximum initial reaction rate (Vmax), as well as the Michaelis constant (KM). Results: The percentage inhibition of ?-amylase ranged from 25.0 ± 0.46% - 85.7 ± 2.17% for 0.1mg/mL and 0.9mg/mL of the A. nobilis leaf extract respectively. The mode of ?-amylase inhibition was found from the Lineweaver-Burk plot as mixed noncompetitive. The KM and Vmax were determined as 0.2043 mM and 0.1282 mM/min respectively. In contrast, KM for the control were 0.1537mM and Vmax of 0.09750 mM/min. The inhibition property of A. nobilis could be attributed to its phytochemicals such as flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids that were present. Conclusion: Anthocleista Nobilis leaf extract contains certain naturally occurring anti-diabetic compounds and could be explored for treating type 2 diabetic patients. These findings, however, need further work to validate the exact bioactive constituents responsible for the inhibitory effect.Item Ameliorative Effect of Aqueous Extracts of Seeds of Delonix regia (Hook) Raf on the Liver, Kidney and Spleen of High-fat Diet Streptozotocin-induced Diabetes in Female Wistar Rats(Science Domain International, 2018-10) Onyegeme-Okerenta, Blessing M.; Ogboye, Philip O.; Monago-Ighorodje, ComfortBackground: Plants have been relied upon by people for treatment, control and management of diabetes. The local residents around University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, use cooked Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. Seeds as food supplement for the management of diabetes. Aim: Based on the available evidence on this plant species, this study was carried out to evaluate the ameliorative potentials of aqueous cooked and uncooked seed extracts of Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. On the liver, kidney and spleen of high-fat diet streptozotocin-induced diabetes in female Wistar rats. Methods: Forty-eight rats were grouped into eight. Group 1 served as normal control and was fed with normal diet. The diabetic state was achieved by feeding the rats with high-fat diet which contained 20% sucrose, 20% lard and 60% grower mash for six weeks, followed by 40 mg/kg body weight of a single dose intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Seven days after induction of diabetes, rats in group 2 did not receive any treatment and were designated as the negative control. Rats in groups 3 (Positive control) and 4 (Second positive control) received metformin 100mg/kg and metformin/vildagliptin 50/25 mg/kg body weight respectively as standard drugs while groups 5 to 8 designated (A1), (A2) (B1) and (B2) respectively, were induced and treated daily with 150 and 300 mg/kg body weight orally cooked seeds (A1), (A2) and uncooked seeds (B1), (B2) extracts for six weeks. Blood was obtained through cardiac puncture after the rats were anaesthetised and sacrificed. Histopathology of the liver, kidney and spleen were studied. Results: Both extracts significantly (p<0.05) decreased the bilirubin, potassium, bicarbonate concentrations, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine transaminase (ALT) activities as well as granulocyte count in dose and time-dependent manner when compared to group 2 respectively. Photomicrographs of the spleen of diabetic untreated rats showed significant hemosiderin pigment deposition compared to the splenic architecture of the normal rats. Treatment with Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf extracts prevented hemosiderin pigment deposition in groups 5 to 8. Conclusion: This study, therefore, provides useful resources about the ameliorative potentials of seed extracts of Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. on streptozotocin-induced diabetes in female Wistar rats.Item The Ameliorative Effect of Ashwagandha- Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal on park25 Induced Neurodegeneration in Drosophila melanogaster Parkinson’s Disease Model(Sciencedomain International, 2023-06) Murthy, M. N.; Chandana, V.; Nisarga, H. D.; Shyamala, B. V.Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a perennial shrub belonging to the family Solanaceae. Ashwagandha has been used for over 3000 years in traditional Indian Ayurveda for treatment of various neurological, and stress disorders. The root of Ashwagandha (ASH) is regarded as a tonic, aphrodisiac, narcotic, diuretic, anthelmintic, astringent, thermogenic and stimulant. Ashwagandha with other herbal decoctions was recognized to treat Kampavatha (Parkinson’s Disease) since 18th century. With this wide array of ethnopharmacological relevance, Ashwagandha has been recognized as one of the prominent complementary and alternative medicine to treat many neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). There is a prominent increase in the cases of AD and PD all over the world and it demands the requirement of complementary and alternative herbal remedies with no/minimal side effects. Many genetic factors are responsible for the onset and progression of PD. Loss-of-function mutations in the parkin gene are a major cause of early onset of autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism (AR-JP). Drosophila park25 loss of function mutants exhibit significantly increased number of mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contacts and a significantly decreased number of dopaminergic neurons in the adult brain which is the main cause of PD condition. Several studies have demonstrated the ability of Ashwagandha in imparting neuroprotection, improved locomotory ability, memory and learning abilities. The challenge lies in scrutinizing the mechanism and the pathways involved in the neuroprotective properties of this well-known herb. Here in our study, we test the possible neuroprotective effect of Ashwagandha on park25 mutants of Drosophila using lifespan analysis and climbing disability as a disease marker. Parkinson’s mimicking flies were administered with aqueous extraction of Ashwagandha-root mixed with the fly food and subjected to negative geotaxis assay. We observed that there is a prominent increase in the climbing ability in park25 treated flies compared to its age-matched untreated flies. This is the first report showing that, aqueous extraction of Ashwagandha-root extract was able to ameliorate the disease phenotype in the park25 Drosophila Parkinson’s disease model.Item Ameliorative Effects of the Methanolic Extract of the Rind of Citrullus lanatus on Lead Acetate Induced Toxicity on Semen Parameters and Reproductive Hormones of Male Albino Wistar Rats.(2014-09) Kolawole, T A; Dapper, D V; Ojeka, S OAims: The present study investigated the effects of the methanolic extract of the rind of Citrullus lanatus on lead acetate induced toxicity on semen parameters, reproductive hormone assay and testicular histology in male albino Wistar rats. Study Design: Controlled experimental study using randomly assigned laboratory animals. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Human Physiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, PMB 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria and Department of Physiology, Madonna University, Elele Campus, Rivers State, Nigeria between January 2013 and February 2014. Methodology: Twenty male rats were assigned into four groups: Group A to D of five rats each. Group A served as control and received 2ml/kg bw of 10% extract vehicle; Group B received 200mg/kg bw of the methanolic extract of the rind of Citrullus lanatus; Group C received 2.25mg/kg bw of lead acetate; and Group Dwere co-administered with 2.25 mg/kg bw lead acetate and 200 mg/kg bw of the methanolic extract of the rind of Citrullus lanatus. The drugs and extracts were administered orally to the rats for 35days. On day 36, blood samples were collected from anaesthetized rats by cardiac puncture for reproductive hormone assay and the testes harvested for determination of semen parameters and histological studies. Semen parameters: count, motility, viability, and morphology were determined and assay for plasma levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and testosterone done. Results: Results obtained showed that, compared to control rats, administration of the methanolic extract of the rind Citrullus lanatus significantly enhanced sperm count and all reproductive hormone levels (P<0.05); and also caused non-significant increases in sperm motility, percentage of spermatocytes with normal morphology and percentage of live spermatocytes, but decreased percentage of dead spermatocytes (P>0.05). Treatment with lead acetate caused a significant reduction in levels of all reproductive hormones and significant diminution of sperm motility, morphology, viability; with increases in percentage of dead spermatocytes (P<0.05). Expectedly, co-administration of the methanolic extract of the rind of Citrullus lanatus with lead acetate ameliorated the deleterious effects of lead acetate resulting in significant increases in sperm count and all reproductive hormones (P<0.05) and non-significant increases in motility, morphology and live spermatocytes (P>0.05): however, the percentage of spermatocytes with abnormal heads were significantly increased. The results suggest that the methanolic extract of the rind of Citrullus lanatus exerts a possible ameliorative effect on lead acetate induced toxicity on some reproductive parameters in male albino Wistar rats. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the methanolic extract of the rind of Citrullus lanatus exerts a possible beneficial effect on male reproductive parameters in albino Wistar rats and validates anecdotal reports of the beneficial effect of watermelon consumption from our environment. We however, recommend further studies in this regard.Item Ameliorative Potentials of Aqueous and Hydro-Ethanol Extracts of Citrullus colocynthis L Fruit on Hyperglycemia and Some Serum Biochemical Parameters on Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats(Science Domain International, 2018-12) Leng, Marlyse Solange; Imran, Mahamat Bahar; Oumbe, Valère Soh; Gouado, Inocent; Ndjouenkeu, RobertAims: This study was carry out to determine the dose effect of aqueous and hydro-ethanol C. colocynthis fruit extracts on some properties and serum biochemical parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Study Design: Random trial. Place and Duration of Study: University of Douala-Cameroon. Faculty of Science. Laboratory of Biochemistry, between April 2017 and June 2017. Methodology: Forty two albino male rats (Rattus norvegicus var. albinus), aged 2 to 3 months and weighing 150- 200 g were used in this study. Animals were randomly distributed into 7 experimental groups of six rats each. One group was used as healthy control and diabetes was induced in the 6 others groups by intraperitoneal injection with alloxan monohydrate into tail veins. Five diabetic groups received oral glibenclamide (3mg/kg), 50 and 100 mg/kg bw of aqueous or hydro-ethanol fruit extract of Citrullus colocynthis respectively The remaining group was assigned as diabetic control rats. Body weight and serum biochemical parameters (glucose, lipids, transaminases and creatinine) were recorded weekly during 3 weeks. Results: Diabetes induction of with alloxan significantly (p = .05) increases blood glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, transaminases (AST, ALT) and creatinine blood level. Treatment of rats with hydro-ethanol extract (100 mg/kg.bw) steadily reduces (80.44%) glycemia but cause a significant increase of the liver relative mass, AST (138.38 IU/l) and ALT (152.35 IU/l) blood levels (p = .05). Administration of 50 mg/kg bw hydro-ethanol and aqueous extracts significantly reduce the glucose (22-46.44%), triglycerides, total cholesterol, transaminases and creatinine blood levels (72 to 85 %) (p = .05). Conclusion: The administration of glibenclamide (3mg/kg), 50 and 100 mg/kg bw aqueous extracts and 50 mg/kg bw hydro ethanol extracts significantly reversed the damage associated with Alloxan induced diabetes close to the normal. The dose of 100 mg/kg bw hydro ethanol extracts should be avoided because of it toxic effects.Item Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Effect of the Aqueous Extract of Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Hutch Fruits.(2014-08) Gisèle, Atsang A Kiki; Désiré, Dzeufiet Djomeni Paul; Simplice, Foyet Harquin; Théophile, Dimo; Pierre, KamtchouingAims: Dichrostachys glomerata is a plant found in the humid areas of Africa and widely used for the treatment of many ailments including rheumatism and snake bite. The present study has been undertaken to assess the analgesic and the anti-inflammatory properties of aqueous extract Dichrostachys glomerata fruit. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaounde I, Cameroon. Between January 2012 and October 2012. Methodology: Pain was induced in mice by the intraperitoneal administration of 1% acetic acid, hot plate, formalin and tail immersion test. Carrageenan and serotonin (1%) were used to induce inflammation in rat paws. Results: Dichrostachys glomerata significantly inhibited pain induced by acetic acid with a percentage inhibition of 19.4, 69.8, 33.7 and 24.3% respectively at the doses of 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg. An acute pretreatment of mice with extract significantly increased reaction time in the hot plate test with a percentage inhibition more than 68%. Formalin induced pain was also significantly inhibited after treatment of rat with the plant extract at the doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg for the neurogenic phase with percentage of inhibition of 56.14 and 61.46% respectively. The extract significantly reduced oedema induced by carrageenan injection with a PI of 72.57 and 79.85% at the doses of 200 and 25 mg/kg respectively. In contrast, a pi of 65.03% was obtained with the plant extract at the dose of 50 mg/kg on serotonin-induced oedema. Conclusion: The Results obtained showed that D. glomerata aqueous extract have both analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and could be a potential source of new oral anti-inflammatory and/ or analgesic drug.Item Analysis of Genetic Variation among Populations of Withania somnifera (L.) in South India based on RAPD Markers.(2013-04) Udayakumar, R; Kasthurirengan, S; Mariashibu, T S; Sudhakar, B; Ganapathi, A; Kim, E J; Jang, K M; Choi, C W; Kim, S CAim: The present study was carried out to analyze the genetic variations among 20 different populations of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal collected from different habitats (locations) by RAPD analysis. Methodology: DNA was isolated from the fresh leaf samples collected from the field by Bernatsky and Tankley method. Isolated genomic DNA was purified by phenol: chloroform: isoamyl alcohol (25:24:1) extraction mixture and then amplified by MJ themal cycler. Amplified DNA products were quantified and then subjected to RAPD analysis by the method of Williams et al. Results: Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was used to analyze the genetic variation and relationship among 20 populations of Withania somnifera collected from different part of South India, including the states of Tamilnadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra and supplemented by two commercial varieties from Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Out of 40 primers, 11 selected primers produced 96 consistent RAPD markers ranging in size from 0.2 kb to 4.0 kb; out of which 75 were polymorphic. Similarity indices were estimated using the Dice coefficient of similarity and cluster analyses were carried out on the similarity estimates using the unweighted pairgroup method to produce a dendrogram using arithmetic average (UPGMA) in the NTSYSpc-verson 1.80 software. The similarity coefficient ranges from 0.53 to 0.98, suggesting that the pronounced genetic variations exist among populations of W. somnifera in South India. The cluster analysis indicates that the 20 populations of W. somnifera were divided into five major groups, regardless of geographical locations. Conclusion: The RAPD analysis indicates existence of genetic variations in natural populations and it may influence and produce changes in phytochemical constituents of W. somnifera populations.Item Analysis of Phytochemical and Antibacterial Activity of Carissa spinarum Linn Crude Extracts.(2014-08) Rubaka, Clarence; Ndakidemi, Patrick; Malebo, Hamisi; Shahada, FrancisAims: To screen for the antibacterial activity of Carissa spinarum L. crude extracts against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The phytochemicals that are responsible for the bioactivity were also screened. Study Design: In vitro assay of antibacterial properties. Place and Duration of Study: Samples were collected from Samunge village at Loliondo in Ngorongoro district located in northern Tanzania. Extraction and phytochemical analyses were conducted at the Department of Traditional Medicine of the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Antimicrobial bioassay was carried out at Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the University of Dar-es-Salaam between March 2013 and June 2013. Methodology: Disk diffusion test was used to determine antimicrobial activity of the plant extracts. Chemical tests were used to determine the group of phytochemicals present in the sample extracts. Results: Sensitivity testing results indicated that S. aureus was found to be more sensitive than E. coli. Carissa spinarum L. methanolic extracts were the most active constituents and demonstrated the zone of inhibition values of 11.66±0.42 mm and 13.33±1.53 mm in diameter against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. The highest percentage values of relative inhibition zone diameter of 57.24% (E. coli) and 70.17% (S. aureus) were demonstrated by C. spinarum L. root methanolic extracts. In contrast, C. spinarum L. bark extracts did not show any antibacterial activity against the two bacterial species. Plant extracts demonstrated the minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 312 to 5000 μg/ml. Phytochemical screening of crude extracts revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and sterols. The presence of these phytochemicals in the extracts was linked with observed antibacterial activity. Conclusion: This study has revealed that the antibacterial activity of different extracts of C. spinarum L. was attributed to the presence of several phytochemicals. The study findings suggest likelihood of designing and developing potentially active antibacterial agents from C. spinarum L.Item Analysis of the Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential of the Fractions Obtained From the Ethyl Acetate Partition of the Leaves of Diplopterys Pubipetala(Sciencedomain International, 2022-05) Almeida, C. A.; Franca, F. D.; Chaves, M. M.; Santos, K. T.; Santos, M. C. F.; Menezes, E. V.; Araujo, S. de S.; Araujo, C. L. A.; Royo, V. de A.Aims: The objective of this work was to analyze the anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and antioxidant activity of the fractions of ethyl acetate from the leaves of D. pubipetala. Methodology: Liquid-liquid partitioning was performed, the ethyl acetate partition was eluted in classical liquid chromatography, followed by thin layer chromatography. Antioxidant activity was performed by the DPPH photochlorimetric method and the levels of interleukin (IL?6), tumor necrosis factor ? (TNF??), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and nitric oxide (NO) were identified in supernatants of cell cultures. Results: Fractions F4, F5 and F10 showed antioxidant activity. The F10 fraction indicated efficient anti-inflammatory activity by the production of IL-10 and nitric oxides. Fractions F4, F5 and F9 stimulated the production of IL-6 and TNF-?. Conclusion: These results indicate a possible synergistic action of the extract and the partition of ethyl acetate, since after fractionation the potential presented in previous studies was lower.Item Anatomical Changes during Rooting of Mangroves - Avicennia officinalis and Excoecaria agallocha.(2014-12) Govindan, T; Kathiresan, KMangrove forests continue to disappear all over the world due to a number of reasons. This is the study made to screen the anatomical and biochemical changes during the rooting process. Two important mangrove species have been examined based on their salt relationship natures: Avicennia officinalis subsp. australasica (salt excreting plant) and Excoecaria agallocha L (salt accumulating plant). The plants were treated with different root promoting hormones like IBA, IAA and NAA at different concentrations for three minutes each. After 45 days of the growth period root growth and anatomical changes were observed. The roots originated from the deeper zone of the secondary xylem after several anatomical variations in the hormone treated plants. This is the first trial which may help to determine the mass propagation of these commercial and medicinally important mangroves.Item Andrographis Echioides Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Study Using DNA Barcoding Technique(Sciencedomain International, 2022-08) Hande, P.; Kumar, B. S. A.; Jha, V.; Bhosale, A.; Gangurde, S.With the advancement in various molecular diagnostic tools, DNA Barcoding has emerged as a gold standard molecular diagnostic tool across the globe. Since ancient times, medicinal plants have been widely used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for treating a variety of ailments. Plants of the genus Andrographis have been extensively used for treating different types of ailments. In this study, rarely studied medicinal plant species were isolated, sequenced at the genetic level and studied for their evolutionary characteristics using phylogenetic analysis. In the present study, the identity of A. echioides was confirmed by targeting different barcoding genes such as ribulose-bisphosphate carboxylase, internal transcribed spacer, RNA polymerase-beta subunit, maturase K, and photosystem II protein D1 genes using a phylogenetic approach. After successful isolation and amplification of genomic DNA, specific primers were utilised for sequencing of each barcoding gene, followed by nucleotide BLAST analysis to determine the sequence percent identity of each gene with that from other plant species. The best homologs were then utilised for conducting phylogenetic analysis which confirmed the identity of the plant as Andrographis echioides.Item Andrographis paniculata as Promising Novel Protective Therapy of Oxidative Stress in Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats(Sciencedomain International, 2023-05) Kokelu, A. N.; Ani, J. E.; Ubong, Ime A.; Abiola, S. T.; Alagbonsi, A. I.; Okesina, B. K.; Niyodusenga, A.This research investigated the effect of Andrographis paniculata (AP) on oxidative stress following indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. A total of 20 male albino Wistar rats (150-180g) used for this study were grouped into four (n=5): 1, Negative Control; 2, Positive Control and 3, test group treated with normal chow, 20mg/kg indomethacin, 20 mg/kg indomethacin plus omeprazole at 20mg/kg and 20mg/kg indomethacin plus AP at 16.7 mg/kg respectively. After treatment period, estimation of oxidative stress parameters was carried out on the animals. The LD50 of aqueous extract of AP was 50mg/kg bw. Body weight change was significantly reduced in omeprazole treated group compared to all other groups while extract treated group had significantly increased body weight change. There was a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) level of ulcer untreated group compared to other groups. The two treated groups had significantly reduced MDA compared to ulcer untreated group. There was a significant decrease in the levels of GPx and SOD of ulcer untreated group compared to control. Meanwhile, these were significantly increased in extract and omeprazole treated groups compared to ulcer untreated group. Catalase was significantly increased in all three groups when compared to control but its level was significantly increased in extract treated group compared to ulcer untreated and omeprazole treated groups. From this study, AP has proved to protect against oxidative stress implicated in the pathogenesis of ulcer. If this result is applicable to humans, further research and use of AP in ameliorating debilitating consequences of peptic ulcer should be encouraged.Item Annona muricata Linn leaves or Curcuma longa Linn Rhizomes Ameliorates Oxidative Stress Associated with Hypertension in Uninephrectomized Wistar Rats Daily Loaded with Sodium Chloride(Science Domain International, 2019-03) Oridupa, Olayinka A.; Falade, Folusho B.; Oyagbemi, Ademola A.; Abegunde, Bukola A.; Ekwem, Precious C.; Badmus, Adedoyin; Omobowale, Temidayo O.Aims: Oxidative stress sequel to hypertension exacerbates the clinical condition and accelerates associated organopathies, therefore prevention is important. Traditionally in Nigeria, hypertension is treated with Annona muricata L. leaves or Curcuma longa L. rhizomes, two medicinal plants with antioxidant properties. Study Design: This study assessed the effect of these plants on hypertension-induced oxidative stress in uninephrectomized Wistar rats daily loaded with 1% sodium chloride. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Experimental Animal House, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, between August and November 2017. Methodology: Hypertensive rats were treated with methanol extracts of the plants for 42days. Two other groups of hypertensive rats were treated with lisinopril or chlorothiazide. Blood pressure was monitored by non-invasive tail plethysmography using an electro-sphygmomanometer. Oxidative stress markers were determined in blood and tissue (heart, kidney and liver); GPX, GST, GSH, SOD, MDA and NO. Results: Treatment of uninephrectomized rats with A. muricata or C. longa significantly (p<0.0001) decreased blood pressure and MDA, while elevating enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense mechanisms of GST, GSH, GPx and SOD, comparable to normotensive rats. NO, the ubiquitous molecule required for basal vascular tone, myocardial contractility regulation and platelet adhesion prevention, was restored in the extract-treated rats. However, hypertensive untreated rats showed evidence of oxidative damages with significant increase in MDA, especially in the heart and liver, with decreases in the antioxidant defense system. Conclusion: Results of this study justified the traditional use of A. muricata or C. longa for management of hypertension in Nigeria and showed that the extracts ameliorated oxidative damage that accompanied hypertension, thus also preventing complications of hypertension.Item Annona muricata Linn Stem Bark Protects against Uterine Proliferative Disorder Induced by Estradiol Benzoate in Female Rat(Sciencedomain International, 2022-09) Olowofolahan, A. O.; Dare, H. M.; Adeoye, Y. D.; Olorunsogo, O. O.Aim: The opening of mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) pore is an important event in the execution of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Some bioactive compounds elicit their chemotherapeutic effects against tumor/cancer cells via the induction of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Annona muricata, a medicinal plant, is folklorically used in the treatment of tumors and cancers. This study therefore aimed at investigating the effect of methanol stem bark extract of Annona muricata (MEAM) on apoptosis via mPT pore and estradiol benzoate (EB)-induced proliferative disorder using female Wistar rats. Methodology: Mitochondria were isolated using differential centrifugation. The mPT pore opening, cytochrome c release and mitochondrial ATPase activity were determined spectrophotometrically. The levels of estrogen (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH), were determined using ELISA technique. Histological and histochemical assessments of the uterine sections were carried out using standard methods. Phytochemical constituents of MEAM were determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). Results: The in vitro results showed a significant induction of mPT pore opening, release of cytochrome c and enhancement of mitochondrial ATPase (mATPase) activity in a concentration-dependent manner. However, oral administration of MEAM did not induce rat uterine mPT pore opening, neither any significant release of cytochrome c nor enhancement of mATPase activity at the dosages used. Interestingly, MEAM reversed the EB-induced increase in E2, LH and FSH. The MEAM also improved the antioxidant milleu by reducing MDA level and increasing the SOD and GSH-Px activities in the treatment groups. Administration of EB induced endometrial hyperplasia in the model group which was mitigated by MEAM in the treatment group. The GC-MS analysis of MEAM revealed the presence of some important phytochemicals that are pharmacological relevant in cancer treatment. Conclusions: This study suggests that the methanol stem bark extract of Annona muricata contains bioactive compounds that protect against EB-induced uterine proliferative disorder in female Wistar rats.