Amphibian secretion is an important source of bioactive molecules that naturally protect the skin against noxious microorganisms. Collectively called antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), these molecules have a wide spectrum of action, targeting viruses, bacteria and fungi. Like many membrane and secreted proteins, AMPs have cleavable signal sequences that mediate and translocate the nascent polypeptide chains into the endoplasmic reticulum. Although it is accepted that the signal peptides (SPs) are simple and interchangeable, there is neither sequence nor structure that is conserved among all gene families. They derived from a common ancestor but developed different traits as they adapt to distinct environmental pressures. The aim of this study was to provide anoverview of the diversity of SPs of the frog, taking into account reported cDNA sequences and the evolutionary relationship among them. We analysed more than 2000 records that reported the relative abundance, diversity and evolutionary divergence based on the peptide signals of frog AMPs. We conclude that the physical properties of the sequence are more important than the specific peptidesin AMP SPs. Since there is significant overlapping among related genera, differences in secretion from different peptide types should be regulated by additional levels, such as posttranscriptional modifications or 5-UTR sequences.

https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007%2Fs12041-018-1018-5.pdf

Genetic analysis of signal peptides in amphibian antimicrobial secretions.

Validation of Anti-pyretic-Derived Natural Products and Their Potentials for Drug Discovery

Cough is a physiological reflex, experienced by every human, is an important protective and defensive mechanism whose action secures the removal of foreign materials and secretions from the airways (larynx, trachea and bronchi). In various circumstances, such as respiratory tract inflammation, viral infections, allergic rhinitis, or inhalation of various irritants, it is unintentionally stimulated and a cough suppressant may be needed to relieve the cough. The currently available cough suppressants (opiates, dextromethorphan, etc.) limit their use in humans due to significant side effects such as constipation, respiratory depression, drowsiness. Lauq Khayar Shambar (LKS) is used as an antitussive in Unani medicine for centuries and is also used to treat various upper respiratory tract ailments such as asthma, dyspnoea, catarrh, productive and dry cough, pharyngitis and laryngitis. So, this review aims to explore the role of LKS in the management of cough.

Lauq khayar shambar: a polyherbal unani formulation for the management of cough

The medicinal plants imparts chief role in protecting our health from various disease. It is nature’s gift to human being to live healthy life. Medicinal plants are believed to be much safer and proved as elixir in the treatment of various ailments. Medicinal plants used in Indian system of medicine from Rajasthan state have been surveyed and categorized systematically. The manuscript incorporated the therapeutic properties and nutritive values of medicinal plants of Rajasthan. The paper deals with 11 medicinal plants, thoroughly indexed along with their important traditional application for the cure of various ailments. This study also incorporates the ethno-botany and biological activities of these important plants.

Tejas Joshi

Papers

Therapeutic Properties and Nutritive Values of Some Fruit Bearing Medicinal Plants of Rajasthan State in India

Antibacterial activity of skin secretion of toad Bufo melanostictus and frog Rana cyanophylictitus