What are the current approaches to DNA barcoding of wild plants with potential medicinal properties?5 answersCurrent approaches to DNA barcoding of wild plants with potential medicinal properties involve utilizing multiple DNA regions for accurate identification. Studies have shown success in identifying medicinal plants through DNA barcoding, combining morphological observation with genetic analysis for precise results. The use of multi-barcode sequencing, such as rbcL and ITS2 loci, has demonstrated high detection efficiencies in detecting plant species in herbal products, aiding in pharmacovigilance. DNA barcoding addresses challenges of misidentification in the herbal market by uniquely identifying plant species, although the lack of a universal DNA barcode marker in plants necessitates the exploration of various genomic regions for barcoding. Implementing a multi-locus or tiered approach with recommended DNA barcodes like rbcL, matK, ITS1, and ITS2 enhances species identification and discrimination for medicinal plant characterization. These advancements in DNA barcoding, including meta-barcoding, offer rapid and accurate authentication of herbal drugs, ensuring quality control and consumer safety.
What are the methods for profiling mouse immune cells?4 answersMethods for profiling mouse immune cells include high-parameter flow cytometry using CyTOF technology for comprehensive single-cell immune phenotyping, multicolor flow cytometry for characterizing immune cell subsets in humanized mice transplanted with patient-derived tissues, and shotgun mass spectrometry for lipidome profiling in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Additionally, single-cell RNA-seq methods like 10x Genomics 5′ v1 and 3′ v3 have been shown to provide high mRNA detection sensitivity and fewer dropout events, facilitating the identification of differentially-expressed genes in immune cell mixtures. These techniques enable in-depth analysis of immune cell populations, aiding in the understanding of immune responses in various contexts such as infectious diseases, cancer, and aging.
What are the anti inflammatory testing method for plant extract compare each one?4 answersDifferent methods are used to test the anti-inflammatory activity of plant extracts. In vitro models include the inhibition of protein denaturation and proteinase activity, as well as the Red Blood Cell (RBC) membrane stabilization method. In vivo models involve the carrageenan-induced paw edema method. Other commonly used methods include the formalin or acetic acid-induced writhing test and hot plate methods to evaluate anti-nociceptive potentials. Adjuvant-induced and collagen-induced arthritis models are also used but less frequently. A comparative assessment of in vivo animal models and in vitro enzyme models has been made to assist in the choice of assay method based on sensitivity, reliability, duration of test, ethical, and cost considerations. It is suggested to use a double positive reference model using both steroid and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs simultaneously.
What are some of the drugs that are derived from plants?4 answersPlants have been a valuable source of drugs, including anticancer and antibacterial agents. Some of the anticancer drugs derived from plants include podophyllotoxin (teniposide and etoposide), taxanes (docetaxel and paclitaxel), and vinca alkaloids (vinorelbine, vincristine, vindesine, and vinblastine). In the field of antibacterial drugs, plants offer a wide variety of secondary metabolites with potential antimicrobial activity. However, only a small percentage of these compounds have been examined under clinical trials, and currently, plants contribute only 3% to the repertoire of FDA-approved antibacterial drugs. Additionally, plant-derived compounds have shown promise as immunomodulators, with examples such as Tinospora cordifolia, Andrographis paniculata, Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, Terminalia chebula, and Piper longum displaying significant immunomodulatory potential.
Evaluation methods of herbal cosmetics ?5 answersEvaluation methods of herbal cosmetics include a wide range of techniques. These methods involve the use of chemical analysis to assess the quality and composition of herbal products. Various analytical methods such as HPTLC, MS, NMR, and chemometric tools like PCA and PDA are used for quality evaluation. Additionally, the evaluation of herbal cosmetics involves testing for parameters such as pH, viscosity, spreadability, dilution, dye solubility, and antibacterial activity. Physiochemical and irritancy tests are also conducted to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the products. The evaluation process includes assessing macroscopical properties, stability, and antimicrobial properties. These evaluation methods help in determining the quality, efficacy, and safety of herbal cosmetics, ensuring that they provide desirable physiological properties and are suitable for use on the skin.
What are the potential applications of plant-based vaccines beyond COVID-19?5 answersPlant-based vaccines have potential applications beyond COVID-19. They can be used for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Plant-made vaccines have been shown to trigger significant immune responses in model animals, producing antibodies against the aberrant proteins associated with these diseases. Additionally, plant-based vaccines offer advantages such as high scalability, no risk of contamination with human pathogens, cold chain-free production, and lower production costs. Furthermore, plant-based vaccines can be used for livestock diseases, which not only cause economic losses but also have zoonotic potential. Plant-based vaccines have the potential to control these diseases in livestock, ensuring human health. Overall, plant-based vaccines have a wide range of applications beyond COVID-19, including neurodegenerative diseases and livestock diseases.