Showing papers in "Iranian Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics in 2007"

In Vitro Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Bacopa monnieri Linn. Aerial Parts

Abstract: The ethanol extract of Bacopa monnieri Linn. (Schrophulariaceae) aerial parts (EBM) was investigated for any in vitro and in vivo antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. EBM was prepared and estimation of total phenolics was carried out. Further, the antioxidant activity of EBM was studied using four in vitro models. The amount of total phenolics was estimated to be 47.7 (g of pyrocatechol equivalent per mg of extract. The reducing power of the extract was found to be concentration dependant. The antioxidant activity, nitric oxide scavenging activity and superoxide radical scavenging activity was also concentration dependant with IC 50 value being 238.22 g/ml, 29.17 g/ml and 22.92 g/ml respectively. The activities were found to be comparable with the reference drugs. Different groups of animals (Wistar albino rats) were administered with paracetamol (500 mg/kg, p.o., once in a day for 7 days). EBM at the dose of 300 mg/kg/day and silymarin 25 mg/kg/day were administered to the paracetamol treated rats for seven days. The effects of EBM and silymarin on serum transaminases (SGOT, SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin (Direct and Total), cholesterol (HDL and Total) and total protein were measured in the paracetamol-induced hepatotoxic rats. Further, the effects of the extract on lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were estimated. EBM and silymarin produced significant (P < 0.05) hepatoprotective effect by decreasing the activity of serum enzymes, bilirubin, total cholesterol and in vivo lipid peroxidation and significantly (P < 0.05) increasing the levels of GSH, SOD, CAT and HDL cholesterol. EBM also showed antioxidant effects on FeCl 2 -ascorbate-induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenate. From these results, it was suggested that EBM could protect the liver cells from paracetamol-induced liver damage perhaps, by its antioxidative effect on hepatocytes, hence eliminating the deleterious effects of toxic metabolites from paracetamol.

Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Essential Oils of Crude Extracts of Sesame Radiatum against Some Common Pathogenic Micro-Organisms

Abstract: Concern about the rising prevalence of antibiotics-resistant strains of pathogenic microorganisms has been expressed in the last three decades However, intensive studies on extracts and biologically-active compounds isolated from medicinal plants have also doubled in the last decade As a result of paucity of knowledge and folkloric claim on the leaves effectiveness in infectious disease treatments, we aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of essential oils and lignans present in the crude Sesame radiatum leaves extracts Ethanolic, Methanolic and Aqueous extracts of Sesame radiatum leaves were studied for their in-vitro antimicrobial activity against both Gram positive and Gram negative micro-organisms and Yeast using Agar diffusion method The GC-MS phytochemical screening of methanolic extract showed the presence of carboxylic acids and phenolic groups in essential oils especially some of the most potent antioxidants like Sesamol, Sesamolin and Sesamin Both the methanolic and ethanolic extracts have broad spectrum antimicrobial effect against all the tested micro-organisms except Streptococcus pneumoniae, Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus respectively, while the aqueous extract exhibited no inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae except on Candida albicans The result confirmed the folkloric claims of the antimicrobial effectiveness of locally consumed Sesame leaves extracts especially against bacterial and common skin infection in many areas of the Country (Nigeria)

Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Some Plants Available in Malaysia

Abstract: The present study was carried out to determine the free radical scavenging properties of some plants found in Malaysia such as, Muntingia calabura; Bauhinia purpurea; Dicranopteris linearis; Melastoma malabathricum; Corchorus capsularis. The air-dried leaves of each plant (20 g) were soaked in distilled water (1:20; w/v) for 72 h at room temperature. The collected supernatants were tested for the free radical scavenging activity against the DPPH and superoxide anion radical scavenging assays. All extracts were found to show remarkable antioxidant activity in both assays with the percentage of inhibition (%) yielded 94–99% and 83–100%, respectively. Phytochemicals screening of all plants demonstrated the presence of flavonoids, saponins, triterpenes and steroids, but not alkaloids. Tannins was detected only in the leaves of M. calabura, D. linearis, M. malabathricum. The ability to scavenge free radicals indicates these plants could be used as a new source of antioxidant agents, and the activity seen could be attributed to the synergistic effect of various bioactive compounds present in these extracts, particularly of the flavonoids type. Further study has been designed in our laboratory to isolate and to identify the bioactive compounds responsible for the observed antioxidant activity.

In Vitro Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Alstonia scholaris Linn. R.Br.

Abstract: The present work is carried out to study the antioxidant potential of ethanolic extract of Alstonia scholaris Linn. ( Apocynaceae ) using various in vitro tests including 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH . ) free radical scavenging, metal ion chelating, hydrogen peroxide scavenging, superoxide anion radical scavenging, and ferric thiocyanate reducing ability. Ethanolic extract of Alstonia scholaris had significant ( p <0.01) (DPPH . ) free radical scavenging (63%), metal ion chelating (74.88%), hydrogen peroxide scavenging (72.28%), superoxide anion radical scavenging (67.66%) and significant ( p <0.05) ferric thiocyanate reducing activities. These various antioxidant activities were compared to standard antioxidants such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT), l- ascorbic acid and a -tocopherol. These results indicate that ethanolic extract of Alstonia scholaris Linn. possess antioxidant property. The results observed were comparable to antioxidant properties of BHA, BHT, l- ascorbic acid and a -tocopherol.

Potential hepatoprotective effect and antioxidant role of methanol extract of oldenlandia umbellata in carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in wistar rats

Abstract: The present work examines the protective mechanisms of methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata (MEOU) in carbon tetrachloride intoxicated rats. Rats were treated with carbon tetrachloride at the dose of 1 ml/kg body weight intraperitonially once in every 72 hrs for 16 days. The hepatoprotective activity of methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata was evaluated by measuring levels of serum marker enzymes glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The serum levels of total protein and bilirubin were also estimated. The histological studies were also The present work examines the protective mechanisms of methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata (MEOU) in carbon tetrachloride intoxicated rats. Rats were treated with carbon tetrachloride at the dose of 1 ml/kg body weight intraperitonially once in every 72 hrs for 16 days. The hepatoprotective activity of methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata was evaluated by measuring levels of serum marker enzymes glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The serum levels of total protein and bilirubin were also estimated. The histological studies were also carried out to support the above parameters. Administration of MEOU (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly (p< 0.05) prevented CCl4-induced elevation of levels of serum GPT, GOT, ALP, and bilirubin. The total protein level was decreased due to hepatic damage induced by CCl4 and it was found to be increased in methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata treated group. Treatment of rats with CCl4 led to a marked increase in lipid peroxidation as measured by malondialdehyde (MDA). This was associated with a significant reduction of the hepatic antioxidant system e.g. reduced glutathione (GSH) and Catalase. These biochemical alterations resulting from CCl4 administration were significantly (p< 0.05) inhibited by pretreatment with methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata. The results are comparable with standard drug silymarin. A comparative histopathological study of liver exhibited almost normal architecture, as compared to CCl4 treated control group. These data suggest that the methanol extract of Oldenlandia umbellata may act as a hepatoprotective and antioxidant agent.

Safety of Aqueous Extract of Tinospora cordifolia (Tc) in Healthy Volunteers: A Double Blind Randomised Placebo Controlled Study

Abstract: It is a common misconception that ayurvedic medicines (traditional Indian system of medicine) are always safe. In fact, they also pose serious health risks either in the form of adverse reactions or in the form of drug interactions. Over 80% of our population takes ayurvedic medicines. The study was aimed to evaluate the safety profile of Tinospora cordifolia in healthy volunteers using a battery of haematological, and biochemical tests and open questionnaire method. Thirty healthy volunteers (males - 22 and females - 8) aged 18 - 30 years (mean 22.5 ± 0.28) who volunteered to participate were studied in a randomized, double - blind, placebo controlled design. The volunteers were provided with 21 days of medication (coded box) containing Tinospora cordifolia 500 mg or matching placebo. One tablet of Tinospora cordifolia of 500mg strength or placebo was taken once daily orally in the morning along with breakfast for 21 days. The safety assessment was done with the help of haematological and biochemical investigations which were assessed before and after the medication by unpaired t test. ‘Unpaired t test’ using SPSS computer software package. Analysis of the various lab values between the control and the test group before and after taking the drug/placebo by unpaired ‘t’ test shows no significant difference between the groups (p = > 0.05).Hence it can be concluded that Tinospora cordifolia is safe at a dose of 500mg per day for a period 21 days in healthy volunteers for the parameters studied.

Antibacterial, preliminary phytochemical and pharmacognostical screening on the leaves of vicoa indica (l.) dc

Abstract: The aim of the present research was focused on the antibacterial, preliminary phytochemical and pharmacognostical properties of Vicoa indica (L.)DC. via in vitro approach. The aqueous and organic solvent (hexane, chloroform and methanol) extracts from the leaves of Vicoa indica (Asteraceae) were tested against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio cholerae, Bacillus subtilis and Streptococcus pneumoniae by agar cup plate method. The results showed promising antibacterial activity against the bacteria tested. Among these, hexane and aqueous extracts were found to have a more potent inhibitory effect comparing with the other extracts. Hexane and aqueous extracts showed several degrees of antibacterial properties against E. coli, K. pneumoniae and S. typhi. The chloroform extract expresses the maximum zone of inhibition against K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. pneumoniae, S. typhi and B. subtilis; showing effectiveness of this extract for the treatment of infectious diseases. The methanol extracts exhibit excellent activity against E. coli, K. pneumoniae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which prove the potentiality of the plant extract for the treatment of various infections. This study includes preliminary phytochemical and pharmacognostic investigations on the taxon.

Exploration of antimicrobial potential of methanol and water extract of seeds of swietenia macrophylla (family: meliaceae), to substantiate folklore claim

Abstract: The antimicrobial efficacy of methanol and water extracts of seeds of the plant Swietenia macrophylla (Family: Meliaceae) was evaluated against selected pathogenic bacterial strains (Bacillus cereus MTCC 430, Klebsiella penumoniae MTCC 109, Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 424, Escherichia coli MTCC 443, Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 96, Salmonella typhimurium MTCC 98, Micrococcus luteus MTCC 106) and fungal stains (Candida albicans MTCC 183, Cryptococcus albidus MTCC 2661, Aspergillus niger MTCC 16404, Aspergillus flavus MTCC 1973). The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by disc diffusion and micro dilution assay methods. Streptomycin and gentamicin were used as standard antibacterial drugs whilst fluconazole was used as standard antifungal drug. Results of both assays ensured that the seeds possess significant antimicrobial activity in terms of antibacterial and antifungal activity. Results are comparable to that of standard drugs selected. It is also evident from results that methanol extract showed better activity than that of water extract.

Effects of Methanolic Extract of Oxystelma esculentum on Diuresis and Urinary Electrolytes Excretion in Rats

Abstract: The diuretic activity of methanol extract of Oxystelma esculentum aerial parts (MEOE) was studied in male Wister albino rats at 5h and 24h intervals. The animals were divided into 5 groups: control, urea, furosemide, 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg MEOE. The MEOE was administered intraperitoneally (i.p) and all animals were pretreated with saline before commencing the experiment. The urine volume (in mL) and electrolytes excretion (Na + , K + , Ca 2+ and Cl ) at 5h and 24h duration were measured. The urine output increased significantly in urea, furosemide and both MEOE groups (p<0.001). MEOE increased the urine volume and electrolytes balance in a dose dependent manner. The results indicate that MEOE is an effective hypernatramic, hyperkalaemic, hypercalcemic and hyperchloremic diuretic, which supports the traditional claim about the Oxystelma esculentum being used as a diuretic.

Hepatoprotective efficacy of propolis extract: a biochemical and histopathological approach

Abstract: Hepatoprotective efficacy of propolis extract (honeybee hive product, 200 mg/kg, p.o.) was studied against carbon-tetrachloride-(CCl 4, 0.15 ml/kg, i.p.) induced biochemical and histopathological changes. Silymarin, a known hepatoprotective drug was used as a positive control. Subchronic exposure to CCl 4 for 3 weeks (5 days a week) caused sharp elevation in the activity of liver enzymes i.e. , serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase. CCl 4 administration significantly decreased blood glucose level and increased serum proteins. Tissue biochemistry revealed significant reduction in total protein and glycogen contents, alkaline phosphates activity and adenosine triphosphatase along with significant increase in acid phosphatase activity both in liver and kidney. CCl 4 -induced oxidative stress was measured by estimating reduced glutathione level and amount of TBARS formed as an index of lipid peroxidation. Hepatorenal glutathione level showed marked depletion whereas lipid peroxidation was enhanced significantly. Posttreatment of propolis extract after toxicant administration reversed for five days alterations in blood and tissue biochemical variables including liver function test and markers of oxidative stress, which was similar to silymarin-treated positive control. Histopathological studies of liver and kidney showed improved cellular architecture after propolis therapy and confirmed its hepatoprotective efficacy. In conclusion, propolis extract is a natural product with hepatoprotective properties.

Calcium Antagonistic Activity of Biophytum petersianum on Vascular Smooth Muscles of Wistar Rat

Abstract: The whole plant of Biophytum petersianum was extracted with a mixture of water – alcohol (1:1) to evaluate its relaxant effect on aorta rings. In isolated Wistar rat tissue, the hydro-ethanolic extract (0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/ml) non-competitively antagonized calcium chloride and high-K + -induced aorta contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the inhibition of noradrenaline–induced contractions in the presence of extract (1 mg/ml) suggests that the extract has an effect on mobilization of intracellular calcium. These results indicate that hypotensive effect of Biophytum petersianum may result from inhibition of calcium influx via both voltage-and receptor-operated calcium channels.

Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Effects of Eupatorium ayapana against Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Abstract: The present study was carried out to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effect of the methanol extract of Eupatorium ayapana (MEEA) (Family- Asteraceae) leaves in Wistar albino rats. The different groups of animals were administered with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) at 72 h interval. The MEEA at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg and silymarin 25 mg/kg were administered to the CCl4 treated rats. The effect of MEEA and silymarin on serum transaminase (SGOT, SGPT), serum alkaline phosphates (SALP), bilirubin, uric acid and total protein were measured in the CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Further, the effects of the extract on lipid peroxidation (LPO), enzymatic antioxidant such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) catalase (CAT), and nonenzymatic antioxidant like glutathione (GSH) were estimated. MEEA and silymarin produced significant (P < 0.05) hepatoprotective effect by decreasing the activity of serum enzymes, bilirubin, uric acid, and lipid peroxidation and significantly (P < 0.05) increased the levels of SOD, CAT, GSH and protein in a dose dependent manner. From these results, it was suggested that MEEA possesses potent hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties.

Detection of Ureaplasma Urealyticum in Clinical Samples from Infertile Women by Polymerase Chain Reaction

Abstract: Genital Ureaplasma urealyticum infection is considered to be a sexually transmitted infection. The bacterium has been found to be involved in PID, chorioamnionitis, urethritis, respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia in newborn, abortion and infertility. U. urealyticum infections not only jeopardize fertility but also pose a risk for infertility treatment and resulting pregnancies. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of U. urealyticum in specimens from infertile women by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). 377 endocervical swab samples were taken from infertile women. Mycoplasma genus and U. urealyticum were detected by means of the polymerase chain reaction with specific primers. Mycoplasma genus DNA was detected in specimens from 141(37.4%) of 377 patients. Of these 141 patients 85(22.5% of total specimens) were PCR positive with urease gene primers for U. urealyticum. The isolation rate of U. urealyticum in young women (<30 age) was higher than the others. Because of the potential adverse effects of U. urealyticum on the success rate of highly specialized infertility treatment, and its causal roles in several maternal complications of pregnancy and in neonatal morbidity and mortality, the rapid detection of U. urealyticum by PCR in infertile women could be important and necessary. The increased sensitivity and shorter time requirement of PCR support its further development for the diagnosis of U. urealyticum infections.

Spasmolytic Activity of Piper Nigrum Fruit Aqueous Extract on Rat Non-Pregnant Uterus

Abstract: Black pepper (Piper nigrum) from Piperaceae and its main ingredient (piperine) reduces the gastric emptying in rats. In Iranian traditional medicine, black pepper is used to relieve menorrhalgia in women. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of black pepper fruit aqueous extract on rat nonpregnant uterus contractions and the mechanism(s) of its action. To prepare the extract, black pepper powder was added to boiling distilled water and then, solvent was evaporated. Uterus was dissected from non-pregnant adult rat (Wistar) and in De Jalon solution the tissue contractions were recorded isometrically under 1 g tension. The extract (0.125-2 mg/ml) reduced the uterus contractions induced by KCl (60 mM) and oxytocin (10 mU/ml) dose dependently (p<0.0001). The spasmolytic effect of extract on the KCl-induced contractions was not reduced by L-NAME (100 µM), phentolamine (1 µM) and naloxone (1 µM). However, propranolol (1 µM) reduced the extract activity (p<0.01–p<0.0001). In Ca 2+ -free De Jalon solution with high potassium (60 mM), extract (0.0312-0.25 mg/ml) reduced the contractions induced by cumulative concentrations of CaCl2 (0.1-0.5 mM) dose dependently (p<0.05– p<0.0001). Our results suggest that the spasmolytic effect of the extract on rat uterus was mediated via voltage dependent calcium channels and β-adrenoceptors could also be involved in this action. Our results may support the use of black pepper in traditional medicine to relief the menorrhalgia.

Effect of Chromatographic Fractions of Ethanolic Extract of Crotalaria Juncea (L.) Seeds on Ovarian Follicular Kinetics and Estrous Cycle in Albino Rats

Abstract: Inspite of considerable development in contraceptive technology, search for female antifertility agent in plants continues to be a potential area of investigation. The ethanol extract of Crotalaria juncea seeds which showed promising antiovulatory activity in female albino rats was examined for the isolation of its active fractions. Two fractions were obtained using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) of the extract. Both fractions were subjected for testing their antiovulatory activity and estrous cycle in rats. After preliminary trials, the fraction I (200mg/kg body weights) showed maximum antiovulatory activity when administered orally to the rats for 30 days. Decreased number of healthy follicles (Class I – ClassVI) and corpora lutea and increased number of regressing follicles (Stage IA, Stage IB, Stage IIA, Stage IIB) were observed in the ovary after 30 days treatment. The treatment had increased the cholesterol level and acid and alkaline phosphatase activity and decreased protein and glycogen contents of the ovary. Estrous cycle was affected as a significant increase in estrus and metaestrus phases and decrease in diestrus and proestrus phases in the treated groups during experimental period of 30 days were observed. These results suggest that a fraction of ethanolic extract of crotalaria juncea might be used as a contraceptive in the females.

Mefenamic Acid Attenuates Intracerebroventricular Streptozotocin-Induced Cognitive Deficits in the Rat: A Behavioral Analysis

Abstract: Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of streptozotocin (STZ) in rats is followed by long-term and progressive deficits in learning, memory, and cognitive performance in rats which is somewhat similar to sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (SAD). Epidemiological studies suggest that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) could delay or slow the clinical expression of SAD. Therefore, the beneficial effect of mefenamic acid (MA) was investigated on ICV STZ-induced learning, memory, and cognitive impairment in male rats. For this purpose, rats were injected bilaterally with ICV STZ, on days 1 and 3 (3 mg/kg). The STZ-injected rats received MA (30 mg/kg/day, i.p.) starting from day 5 post-surgery for two weeks. The learning and memory performance was assessed using passive avoidance paradigm, and for spatial cognition evaluation, radial eight-arm maze (RAM) task was used. It was found out that MA-treated STZinjected rats showed higher correct choices and lower errors in RAM than vehicle-treated STZ-injected rats. In addition, MA administration significantly attenuated compared to and memory impairment in STZinjected group in passive avoidance test. These results demonstrate MA efficacy against cognitive deficits as well as learning and memory impairment caused by ICV injection of STZ in rats and its potential in the treatment of some neurodegenerative disorders including SAD.

Exploring the Effect of Cytisus Scoparius on Markers of Oxidative Stress in Rats

Abstract: Antioxidant activity of aerial part of Cytisus scoparius, Link (Family – Leguminosae) was studied both by in vitro and in vivo models. Different concentrations of different extracts of chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and hydroalcoholic extracts of plant were investigated for in vitro antioxidant activity using the thiocyanate method. The hydroalcoholic extract exhibited highest inhibitory activity on peroxidation, over other organic extracts and IC50 value (30.2 µg/ml) of the hydroalcoholic extract was found to be less than the standard, α-tocopherol (IC50 value of 66.1µg/ml). The hydroalcoholic extract was further evaluated for in vivo antioxidant activity, such as ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH). A significant (p < 0.05) rise in FRAP level was observed in the hydroalcoholic extract. The extract showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction of TBARS and increase in SOD enzyme level in liver and kidney. The extract treatment at higher dose only caused a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the level of the catalase in liver and kidney. However, there was no significant effect on TBARS, SOD, and CAT in the heart. In reduced glutathione, the extract did not cause significant changes in liver, heart and kidney. These results suggested that hydroalcoholic extract of Cytisus scoparius had significant antioxidant activity, which supports the claim about the plant to be used as antioxidant in Indian system of medicine.

Antioxidant Effect of Terminalia Chebula Aqueous Extract on Age-Related Oxidative Stress in Heart

Abstract: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated via normal metabolic processes or as the products of exogenous insults. They are capable of damaging essential biomolecules and accelerating cancer, cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, the antioxidant role of Terminalia chebula aqueous extract was evaluated against age-related oxidative stress in heart tissues of young and aged rats. Young and aged rats were treated with T. chebula aqueous extract at a dose of 200mg/kg body weight in 1.5ml sterile water orally for 4 weeks. Control young and aged rats were received sterile water only. In aged rats, the increased content of malondialdehyde (MDA) was observed. The antioxidants, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin C and E levels were decreased in heart tissues of aged control rats. Administration of T. chebula to aged rats prevented the depletion of SOD, CAT, GPx activities and GSH, vitamin C and E contents. Also, the level of MDA content was decreased in heart tissues. The results of the present study show that T. chebula aqueous extract modulates the activities of antioxidants and lipid peroxidation through the management of oxidant/antioxidant imbalance in rat heart tissues.

Toxicity Test of Plant Derived Molluscicides with Attractant Food Pellets against Snail, Lymnaea Acuminata

Abstract: Use of molluscicides in the attractant food pellet (AFP) is an effective method of snail control. Different concentrations of these molluscicides viz. Azadirachta indica bark powder, Allium sativum bulb powder, Polianthes tuberosa bulb powder, Annona squamosa seed powder, their active components azadirachtin, allicin, hecogenin, acetogenin; herbal molluscicide pestoban and a synthetic molluscicide, snail kill in the attractant food pellets containing starch and agar were tested for molluscicidal activity for 144h against the snail, Lymnaea acuminata . Active components of all the plant derived molluscicides were more toxic to L. acuminata than crude forms. The stability of bait formulations was studied by storing the pellets up to 4 weeks. Storage of molluscicide baits caused reduction in toxicity compared to synthetic agent.

Evaluation of Anti-Arthritic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Sudard, a Poly Herbal Formulation

Abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic multi-system disease of unknown cause. It affects the people in their prime of life, predominantly between the ages of 20-50 years with unpredictable course. Sudard is used in the ayurvedic system of medicine for the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteo-arthritis, frozen shoulder, sciatica, ankylosing spondylitis and chronic backache. Our study was aimed to evaluate efficacy of sudard using different animal models such as formalin (2% v/v) induced acute inflammation, carrageen (1% v/v) induced polyarthritis, adjuvant induced arthritis, subacute inflammation by sponge implantation technique and analgesic activity by Eddy’s hot plate method. The results indicate that the formulation sudard possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and analgesic activities in the experimental animal models.

Protective effect of vitamin a on methotrexate induced micronuclei

Abstract: Methotrexate is an antineopalstic agent widely used in low dose to treat patients with rheumatoid arthritis. It is known to induce micronuclei at multiple doses in rats. The present study investigates the effect of vitamin A on methotrexate-induced micronuclei in rat bone marrow erythrocytes. Male wistar rats were (n=5) injected with 0, 8, 16 and 20mg/kg methotrexate (single i.p dose). A group of rats received 5000 IU of vitamin A (i.p) for 4 successive days. Another group of rats received a combination of vitamin A (5000 IU of vitamin A for 4 successive days) and single dose of methotrexate (20mg/kg dose). Samples were collected at 24 hours after last methotrexate exposure in to 5% bovine albumin. Smears were obtained and stained with May-Grunwald and Giemsa. Thousand polychromatic erythrocytes were counted per animal for the presence of micronuclei and PCE% was also calculated. The percentage of micronuclei increased with increase in the dose of methotrexate (percentage of PCE decreased with increase in the dose of methotrexate). Combination of methotrexate and vitamin A therapy showed a significant decrease in micronuclei percentage and an increase in PCE% compared to rats treated with methotrexate alone. Hence the results of this study suggest that vitamin A protects against methotrexate induced genetic damage.

Effect of Honey on CYP3A4 Enzyme and P-Glycoprotein Activity in Healthy Human Volunteers

Abstract: The activity of cytochrome p450 isozyme 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is modulated by grapefruit juice and herbal drugs. CYP3A4 is the major phase I drug metabolizing enzyme and P-gp is an ATP-dependent drug efflux pump that regulates the intestinal absorption of orally administered drugs. Honey is commonly consumed as a dietary supplement. However, its influence on human CYP3A4 and P-gp activity is not yet well documented. Therefore, we investigated the influence of a 10-day honey administration on CYP3A4 and P-gp activity in healthy volunteers using carbamazepine and digoxin as their probe drugs respectively. A within-group pharmacokinetic study was done in 12 healthy volunteers. They were administered single oral dose of carbamazepine (200 mg) and digoxin (0.5 mg) before and after 10 days of honey (10 ml twice daily) intake. Blood samples (5ml) were collected at 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after drug administration. Concentration of carbamazepine and digoxin in plasma was measured by HPLC and RIA method respectively. T en days of honey administration did not significantly alter the C max , T max and AUC (0-t) of carbamazepine (probe drug for CYP3A4) and digoxin (probe drug for P-gp). Our results suggest that honey may not significantly modulate the CYP3A4 enzyme and P-glycoprotein activity. The coadministration of honey with drugs may not result in significant drug interactions.

The Effect of Magnesium Sulfate Therapy on Bleeding Time in Women with Threatened Preterm Labor

Abstract: Magnesium sulfate is widely used in obstetrics and is drug of choice in two important complications of pregnancy, preeclampsia and preterm labor. The antagonistic effects of magnesium sulfate on calcium ion and on platelet aggregation may lead to changes in bleeding time. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of magnesium sulfate on bleeding time in women with threatened preterm labor. A group of 40 patients with signs of preterm labor were treated with magnesium sulfate (4 grams in 200 ml D.W.5% in 20 minutes followed by maintenance dose of 2 grams per hour infusion) and template bleeding time (with IVY method), platelet count and mean arterial pressure were obtained before and 2 hours after magnesium sulfate infusion. The data were analyzed using paired t-test. The mean bleeding time before and after treatment were 161.1+50.6 and 169+61.8 seconds respectively and the mean platelet count was 179,925 and 185,250 respectively. The mean arterial pressure was 86.9+9 mmHg before treatment compared to 81.9+8.3 mmHg after treatment. According to the data presented in this study, there was no significant difference in bleeding time and platelet count before and after treatment with magnesium sulfate whereas the mean arterial pressure was significantly different (p<0.001) before and after treatment with magnesium sulfate.

Nimodipine Protects PC12 Cells against Oxygen- Glucose Deprivation

Abstract: The protective effect of an L-type calcium channel blocker, nimodipine, on cell injury induced by oxygenglucose deprivation (OGD) in PC12 cells was investigated. PC12 cells were exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (30 minutes and 60 minutes respectively) in the presence or absence of nimodipine (10μM/L) in three different time schedules (pre-24h, pre-3h and concurrently). Cellular viability was assessed by MTT assay. OGD-induced cell injury was significantly attenuated by nimodipine in all three treatment schedules. Application of MK801 (10μM/L), an antagonist of NMDA glutamate receptors also inhibited PC12 cell death induced by OGD. Our study suggests that nimodipine has protective effects against OGD-induced neurotoxicity..

Influence of n-phthaloyl gaba on the circadian rhythms of lipid peroxidation and antioxidants in wistar rats under constant light

Abstract: N-Phthaloyl GABA was administrated daily (50mg/Kg body weight-i.p) to Wistar rats for 21 days and circadian rhythms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and antioxidants such as reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were studied under constant light (LL) conditions. Delayed acrophase of TBARS and advanced acrophase of antioxidants (GSH, CAT and SOD) were found in experimental groups as compared with control rats. LL-exposed rats showed increased mesor of TBARS and decreased mesor of antioxidants. Administrations of GABA reversed all the changes to the near normal. Since GABA is being involved in conveying dark information to clock, exogenous administration of P-GABA might reduce the photic information received by the clock. The exact mechanism is still unclear and further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism(s) involved.

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Cytotoxic Activities of Garcinia Eugenifolia and Calophyllum Enervosum

Abstract: Chemical investigation of Garcinia eugenifolia and Calophyllum enervosum yielded six compounds. One of these was found to be a novel compound identified as enervosanone. Five known compounds cambogin, epicatechin, osajaxanthone, rubraxanthone and isocowanol, were also isolated. These compounds were tested for their bioactivity as antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicagents. Antimicrobial assay was performed using disc diffusion method. The antioxidative activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method by electron spin resonance. The cytotoxicity was measured by the MTT assay against MCF7 cell line. Enervosanone and rubraxanthone were active against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus with MIC value of 26.82, 26.82, 26.82, 26.82 and 60.97, 30.48, 60.97, 60.97 mM, respectively. Rubraxanthone and epicatechin exhibited antioxidant activities with IC50 of 0.89 mM and 2.6 mM, respectively. The cytotoxicity assay on MCF7 cell line showed that enervosanone was found to be active in inhibiting cell proliferation of MCF7 with IC50 of 1.07 mM.

Effect of Sodium Valproate on Ouabain-Induced Arrhythmia in Isolated Guinea-Pig Atria

Abstract: Sodium valproate (SV), an antiepileptic drug has several mechanism of action. It inhibits voltage-sensitive Na + channels and reduces intracellular Na + accumulation. These actions are similar to that of both phenytoin and carbamazepine. We have investigated the direct cardiac action of SV and its effects on ouabaininduced arrhythmia in isolated guinea-pig atria. The guinea-pig atrium was dissected out and suspended in modified Krebs solution under physiologic conditions. Drug was added into the solution. The changes in rate and contractions were measured using a physiograph. SV (100-300 µg/ml) caused a dosedependent decrease in contractile force of isolated guinea-pig atria (9-120%, p<0.001), but no change on the rate of contractions. Ouabain alone (1.2 µg/ml) produced arrhythmia at 10 min and asystole at 21 min. Pretreatment with SV (200 µg/ml) significantly increased time of onset of arrhythmia to 29 min and asystole to more than 38 min. SV may have a direct cardiac effect to reduce the membrane conductance through ion channels which may decrease ouabain toxicity in isolated guinea-pig atria.

Beneficial Effects of Statins on Experimental Amnesia

Abstract: The present study was undertaken to investigate the beneficial effects of widely-prescribed lipid lowering drugs, pitavastatin, atorvastatin and simvastatin 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme-A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors in cognitive dysfunctions of mice. Intra-cerebroventricular (ICV)-Streptozocin-(STZ)and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced amnesia served as interoceptive memory models where as, Morris watermaze served as an exteroceptive model in the present study. A total of 13 groups, comprising seven mice in each group were used in this investigation. Day 4 Escape latency time (ELT) recorded during acquisition trials conducted from day 1 to day 4, in water-maze was taken as an index of acquisition, where as mean time spent in target quadrant during retrieval trial on day 5, was taken as an index of retrieval (memory). ICV-STZ-(3 mg kg -1 i.p.), and HFD-treated (for 90 days) mice showed an impairment of acquisition as well as retention on water maze task as reflected by significant increase in ELT on day 4 and decrease in time spent in target quadrant on day 5. Pitavastatin (5 mg kg -1 ), atorvastatin (5 mg kg -1 ) and simvastatin (5 mg kg -1 ) significantly attenuated ICV-STZ- and HFD-induced amnesia. These results highlight the ameliorative role of statins in experimental amnesia with possible involvement of their cholesterol-dependent as well as cholesterol independent actions.

Sodium Orthovanadate Treatment Reverses Protracted Methionine Administration Induced Schizophrenia Like Behavior in Rats

Abstract: Suppression of Akt (Protein kinase B) has been implicated in schizophrenia, the effect of which has been documented to be reversed by tyrosine phosphatase inhibition. Present study has been designed to study the effect of sodium orthovanadate, a tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, on protracted methionine administration induced schizophrenia-like behavior in rats. Schizophrenia-like behavior was assessed in number of circuits of cage (locomotor activity), number of climbs of sides (climbing), number of rears, face washing, scratching and chewing (stereotypy). Methionine administration (1.7g/kg/d, p.o.) for a period of 30 days elicited schizophrenia-like behavior in rats as assessed in terms of the measures of locomotor activity, climbing and stereotypy. However, sodium orthovanadate (15, 30 & 60 mg/kg, i.p.) coadministration from day 15 to day 30 markedly reduced this methionine induced increase in locomotor activity (from 40 ± 5.45 to 22 ± 2.82), climbing (from 57 ± 4.05 to 22 ± 2.12) as well as stereotypy (from 159 ± 6.9 to 59 ± 3.9). Sodium orthovanadate treatment induced reversal of protracted methionine administration induced schizophrenia like behavior in rats reflecting that inhibition of tyrosine phosphatase might be a useful approach in the therapeutics of schizophrenia.

Trend of Memory Recovery after Benzodiazepine Overdose

Abstract: Because of difference in the toxicokinetic and pharmacokinetic characteristics of drugs and with respect to the high rate of benzodiazepine abuse in suicidal attempts, the trend of possible anterograde amnesia after recovery from benzodiazepine overdose were evaluated in Iranian patients. This was a prospective descriptive/analytic clinical trial, which was conducted, in Noor general teaching hospital. Patients 18-50 years old, who attempted suicide with long acting benzodiazepines, were tested for memory at 3 times: immediately after waking up (time 0, t0), 12 (time 12, t12) and 24 hours (time 24, t24) after time 0. Memory was assessed using the Wechsler Memory Scale. The mean of memory score was 44.6±7.1 immediately after waking up (t0). This score was 76.9±3.5 and 93.3±8.18 in t12 and t24 respectively. The difference between the means of memory scores of t0 and t12 was statistically significant and this was the same between t12 and t24. There was a statistically significant relationship between memory score and drug dosage. It is concluded the memory status following waking up in benzodiazepine overdose is different in the course of recovery and ascending in an approximately linear way.