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- Strategies for cancer therapy: targeting tumor microenvironment and
nanotechnology
Authors: Abeer H Abdel-Halim
Pages: 165 - 176
Abstract: Abeer H Abdel-Halim
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):165-176
Cancer is still a serious health problem globally. Conventional therapies have adverse effects, which affect human life quality. Tumor microenvironment (TME), also known as surrounding stroma, has a contributory role in cancer development. Understanding the interaction between TME and cancer progression is a challenge and helps to develop new therapeutic strategies that neutralize the tracks taken by cancer cells to grow, spread, and resist therapy. Therefore, targeting TME components may be effective in improving tumor therapy. Using nanotechnology for drug delivery is of great interest, where it overcomes some obstacles such as solubility and absorption of drugs and delivering them to the appropriate place of action. The main target of nanotechnology for drug delivery is the ability to differentiate between normal and cancer cells. It can be concluded that TME is an important complementary strategy for the development of anticancer drugs. Multitargeted therapy has better efficient potential than individual therapy against cancer.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):165-176
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_188_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- A review on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: public health
risk factors, prevention, and treatment
Authors: Sarah M.S Alsallameh, Alaa K Alhameedawi, Hussein M Abbas, Duaa Khalid, Suhair A Kadhim
Pages: 177 - 187
Abstract: Sarah M.S Alsallameh, Alaa K Alhameedawi, Hussein M Abbas, Duaa Khalid, Suhair A Kadhim
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):177-187
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 80 461 invasive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections and 11 285 related deaths occurred in 2011. In the United Kingdom, around 190 people passed away from MRSA disease in 2021. Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and Greece also have MRSA infections, along with the whole world. MRSA caused less than 2% of bacterial diseases in the United States in 1974, while the percentage rate increased up to 64% in 2004 only 10 years to increase the infection rate to 300%. In the United States, MRSA killed almost 18 000 more people in the United States in 2005 than the HIV. MRSA is classified as either community-acquired or health-related. Both are community-acquired MRSA or health-related MRSA, and both can be transmitted through skin contact. CA-MRSA, like severe pneumonia, septic conditions, and necrotizing fasciitis, can contaminate soft tissue, causing bubbles and skin abscesses. MRSA influences patients in medical clinic settings like nursing homes, medical clinics, and dialysis centers, as a rule, bringing about blood diseases, careful cut contamination, or pneumonia. The MRSA disease is exceptionally dangerous for newborn children, the elderly, and the debilitated.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):177-187
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_179_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Effects of Hypericum perforatum extract on 6-hydroxydopamine neurotoxicity
in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Baris Bitmez, Seda K Gultekin, Irem G Albayrak, Yigit Deveci, Yusuf Sicak, Emine Akalin, Adami F Pirhan, Ulas Gurer, Belkis A Arslan
Pages: 188 - 191
Abstract: Baris Bitmez, Seda K Gultekin, Irem G Albayrak, Yigit Deveci, Yusuf Sicak, Emine Akalin, Adami F Pirhan, Ulas Gurer, Belkis A Arslan
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):188-191
Background and objective Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease. In our study, PD model was created as a result of exposure to 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in SH-SY5Y cells, which is a human neuroblastoma cell line. The protective effect of Hypericum perforatum on PD was investigated.Materials and methods Phytochemical analysis of H. perforatum extract was performed. Then, SH-SY5Y cells were differentiated using retinoic acid and then administered 6-OHDA neurotoxin. To determine the protective effects of H. perforatum extract, we investigated the changes in the mRNA expression level of caspase-3, total oxidant status, and antioxidant levels in differentiated SH-SY5Y.Results and conclusion According to our results, H. perforatum extract contains glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, and carbohydrates as the major secondary metabolites. H. perforatum extract significantly reduced caspase-3 gene expression against 6-OHDA toxicity in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. It was found that total oxidant status level increased significantly in the 6-OHDA experimental group compared with the control and H. perforatum experimental groups. It was found that H. perforatum extract has an inhibitory effect on caspase-3 gene expression, which plays an important role in apoptosis. Therfore, H. perforatum extract has been shown to have a therapeutic potential against 6-OHDA toxicity.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):188-191
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_180_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Statistical optimization for polyhydroxybutyrate production by locally
isolated Bacillus safensis using sugarcane molasses under nutritional
stressed conditions
Authors: Sanaa K Gomaa, Heba A El-Refai, Reda F Allam, Mona S Shafei, Hanan M Ahmed, Rania A Zaki
Pages: 192 - 201
Abstract: Sanaa K Gomaa, Heba A El-Refai, Reda F Allam, Mona S Shafei, Hanan M Ahmed, Rania A Zaki
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):192-201
Background and objective Biodegradable polymers, such as polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHAs), have recently been recognized as polyesters owing to their properties as biodegradable thermoplastics.Materials and methods The main objective of this study was to isolate an efficient polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) producer from soil collected from different rhizospheric areas in Egypt. The potent strain was identified using 16 s rRNA sequence analysis. Plackett–Burman and central composite sequential designs were used to investigate cultural variables influencing PHB production (central composite sequential design).Results and conclusion Of a total of nine different isolates, three were found to be PHB positive based on the color using Nile Red stain. The potent strain was identified as Bacillus safensis (NR_113945.1). Using one factor at a time experiments, sugar molasses and ammonium sulfate, respectively, were the best carbon and nitrogen sources, whereas the best inoculum was 10 ml/100 ml of fermentation medium. Cultural variables influencing PHB production were studied using Plackett–Burman and central composite sequential designs. Accordingly, the most influential factors on PHB production were sugarcane concentration, inoculum size, and KH2PO4. Under the optimized conditions, a PHB content (93% cell dry weight) of 1.17 folds was attained. Furthermore, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H-NMR results confirmed the produced polymer as PHB. These results give insight into the use of locally isolated bacteria (B. safensis (NR_113945.1) utilizing inexpensive substrate such as sugarcane molasses for PHB production.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):192-201
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_51_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Biosynthesis and FPLC purification of antibacterial peptide from the
biotherapeutic agent Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Eslam S Abd-Elwahed, Amr A El-Waseif, Dina A Maany
Pages: 202 - 208
Abstract: Eslam S Abd-Elwahed, Amr A El-Waseif, Dina A Maany
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):202-208
Background Probiotics are microorganisms that play an essential role in microbial intestinal balance and in health care.Objective To isolate a probiotic that can be used to produce antimicrobial peptides potentially used as inhibitors against pathogenic bacteria.Materials and methods The research protocol was carried out through isolation of samples from different dairy product and screening for the most potent probiotic exhibiting antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Escherichia coli ATCC 8739 according to the guidelines of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute using the disc diffusion method. The molecular identification of this probiotic strain was done by 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing, and the phylogenetic tree was obtained. The purification process and characterization of the antibacterial peptide were done by (NH4)2SO4 and performing fast protein liquid chromatography.Results and discussion Bacterial probiotic strains obtained from different samples were screened for the best antimicrobial activity, where isolate number 9 from 18 isolates showed the highest antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. Therefore, it was chosen for molecular identification. The molecular identification process revealed that isolate number 9 was Enterococcus faecium. Results of antibiotics sensitivity indicated that S. aureus is more sensitive to antibiotics than E. coli. The fast protein liquid chromatography purification and characterization process of the peptide produced from the probiotic E. faecium showed that the active fraction was precipitated at 60% saturation of (NH4)2SO4. Moreover, single absorbance peaks confirmed the presence of the peptide ‘enterocin.’
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):202-208
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_143_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Atorvastatin calcium formulation development followed by pharmacokinetic
with in vitro and in vivo correlation (IVIVC) with employing soluplus and
hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose with optimization
Authors: Ch Taraka Ramarao, Palepu Pavani
Pages: 209 - 222
Abstract: Ch Taraka Ramarao, Palepu Pavani
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):209-222
Objectives The goal of this study was to evaluate different proportions of solid dispersions and formulations by employing various carriers in order to improve solubility of poorly soluble atorvastatin calcium.Materials and methods Solid dispersions can be created using the Solvent Evaporation technique. In comparison to pure drug, (Hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose) HPMC (1:1) indicated as (Solid dispersion) SD1, HPMC E5 (1:2), HPMC E5 (1:4), HPMC (1:1.5) designated as SD2, SD3, SD4, drug caffeine (1:0.5) and caffeine (1:1), denoted as SD5, SD6. The Design Expert software used to 2 level factorial design, the three independent components of X1: are ratios of solid dispersion equivalent (drug:HPMC:soluplus), X2:Superdisintegrant (Primellose), and X3:Surfactant (Sodium lauryl sulphate) was used to do analysis of variance (ANOVA), 3D surface plots, counter plots, optimization, and desirability. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to investigate drug-excipient compatibility. Marketed tablets (uncoated tablets manufactured by ‘Revat Laboratories limited) with optimized tablet composition were used in the comparative trials (A2) and Pharmacokinetics.Results and discussion The solid dispersion approach greatly increased the amount of atorvastatin calcium released. The values of f1 and f2 were determined to be 1.89 and 77.78, respectively, and the dissolution profiles of the optimized formulation (A2) and the market tablet were found to be significance. The optimized formula did better on the desirability level (0.975), indicating that it was a good fit. To determine dose bioavailability and to see if there is an in-vitro-in-vivo link.Conclusion The formulations were successfully developed using factorial design, and can be further used for oral delivery of antilipidemic agents is atorvastatin calcium. The model’s predictability and validity were demonstrated when the experimental values matched the expected values. The in vitro-in vivo correlation was good in pharmacokinetic experiments, indicating a significant improvement.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):209-222
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_43_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Study of prevalence of parasitic intestinal infections in a tertiary care
center in Central India serving a rural population: a retrospective
analysis
Authors: Priyanka P Chaubey, Suvarna V Sande, Ashwini A Mankar
Pages: 223 - 228
Abstract: Priyanka P Chaubey, Suvarna V Sande, Ashwini A Mankar
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):223-228
Backgrouud Intestinal parasitic infections is a globally prevalent condition with variable morbidities like bleeding, iron-deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemia, intestinal obstruction, fat malabsorption, hepatosplenomegaly, and mortality. It is also responsible for retardation in growth and poor mental development in growing children, which is the worst attacked age group. Its prevalence varies from geographical regions like tropical and subtropical and also varies from populations like in urban, suburban, and rural. Periodic monitoring of prevalence to set control programs for that locality is needed.Aim To study the prevalence of various parasitic intestinal infections in a rural population in Central India.Materials and methods This descriptive and retrospective study was done in a 350-bed tertiary care hospital located in Central India serving a rural population. We have extensively studied all stool samples collected and reported between August 2019 and May 2022.Results A total of 1120 stool samples were reported during our study period, of which 518 were of females and 602 were of males. Of these 1120 stool samples, 91 samples showed the presence of parasite. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in our study population is 8.13%, whereas the prevalence of the same in males and females is 8.63 and 7.53%, respectively.Conclusion We have found no association or effect of sex on intestinal parasitic infections in our study population. The prevalence of the same was lower in our rural population compared with various other studies, indicating good hygiene level in the society. The prevalence was highest in 21–40-year age group. Age group had a significant association with intestinal parasitic infections in our study population.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):223-228
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_151_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Involvement of host iron-withholding strategy on Streptococcus pyogenes
strain KSU-1 growth and pathogenicity
Authors: Manal M Alkhulaifi, Ali A Al-Salamah, Eman W Elgammal, Abdelnasser S.S Ibrahim
Pages: 229 - 236
Abstract: Manal M Alkhulaifi, Ali A Al-Salamah, Eman W Elgammal, Abdelnasser S.S Ibrahim
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):229-236
Background and objectives Streptococcus pyogenes is a highly adaptable human pathogen that can cause a wide spectrum of infections ranging from mild to a life-threating systemic infection. This study discussed the effectiveness of iron-depriving strategy on growth, survival, and virulence of S. pyogenes.Materials and methods Some comparisons between different iron-saturated and iron-depleted forms of the main human iron reservoirs (hemoglobin, hemin, transferrin, lactoferrin, and human milk) were tested for their effect on growth and pathogenicity of S. pyogenes.Results and conclusion Although the iron-saturated forms enhanced the growth and survival, the iron-free forms had a bacteriostatic/bactericidal activity against the microbe, and these results were emphasized by the in vivo study. Finally, the bacterial surface proteins as virulence factors were secreted upon iron depletion as indicated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. This study proved that iron-depletion environment increased the resistance and virulence factors of S. pyogenes. Moreover, these results can give an insight about the interaction between the host and pathogen, which can lead to designing of new antimicrobial agents or vaccine that may target these pathways.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):229-236
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_165_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Cancer micro-environment immune modulation by Egyptian cobra (Naja haje)
crud venom
Authors: Hosni A Neweigy, Mona S Gouida, Mohamed S El Nagger, Mohamed L Salem
Pages: 237 - 250
Abstract: Hosni A Neweigy, Mona S Gouida, Mohamed S El Nagger, Mohamed L Salem
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):237-250
Background Cancer can control immune system suppression mechanisms by activating regulatory T cells; myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and increasing the expression of co-inhibitor proteins. Snake venoms showed anticancer activity by targeting specific molecular pathways.Objective Here, we investigate the immunomodulatory effects of Egyptian cobra (Naja haje) venom different doses compared with cisplatin in healthy and cancer murine models.Materials and methods Female Balb/c mice aged 2–3 months, are separated into three general groups (control groups, solid (subcutaneous) tumors, and soft (ehrlich ascites) tumors. Mice were inoculated with ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells about 2×106 and 1.5×106 cells subcutaneously and intraperitoneal for 28 and 10 days, respectively.Results MDSCs decreased nonsignificantly in control groups treated with cisplatin, 1/10, 1/30 LD50 also, in ascites tumor group treated with 1/30 LD50 (P=0.055). While it increased non-significantly in healthy control treated with 1/20 LD50, all treated solid tumor groups and in ascites tumor groups treated with cisplatin and 1/20 LD50, on the other hand, Regulatory T cells in control groups decreased significantly in groups treated with cisplatin and 1/30 LD50 on the other hand it increased nonsignificantly in groups treated with 1/20 and 1/10 LD50. In solid tumor groups, T regs increased with no statistical significance in all treated solid tumor groups also, in ascites tumor groups treated with 1/20 LD50 and cisplatin.Conclusion Low doses of (Naja haje) crud venom reduce MDSCs and T reg in the microenvironment of tumor while higher doses increase them, further investigation will be needed.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):237-250
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_156_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Angiopoietin-like protein 5: a potential culprit of cardio-metabolic risk
in Egyptian obese children
Authors: Mai S ElShiekh, Ghada M El-Kassas, Maged A El Wakeel, Dina A Zaki, Hanan Atta, Dina Y Mostafa, Salwa R El-Zayat, Ghadir M Elsawy
Pages: 251 - 258
Abstract: Mai S ElShiekh, Ghada M El-Kassas, Maged A El Wakeel, Dina A Zaki, Hanan Atta, Dina Y Mostafa, Salwa R El-Zayat, Ghadir M Elsawy
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):251-258
Background Obesity has recently been identified as a risk factor for coronavirus disease-19. There is a significant correlation between obesity rates with metabolic syndrome and coronavirus disease-19 in children worldwide. Owing to the high expression in adipose tissue, angiopoietin-like protein 5 (ANGPTL5) might be assumed to have a broad range of physiological processes in lipid, glucose homeostasis, and inflammatory responses.Objective To examine the association between childhood obesity and plasma ANGPTL5 levels in an attempt to demonstrate the probable relationships of plasma levels of ANGPTL5 with unacylated ghrelin and obestatin and its relevance to metabolic parameters in obese versus normal-weight children and adolescents.Patients and methods A total of 90 children between 5 and 15 years of age were randomly enrolled in this cross-sectional case–control study. They were classified into obese patients (n=45) and nonobese controls (n=45). BMI for age was calculated following WHO guidelines. Serum levels of ANGPTL5, obestatin, and unacylated ghrelin were measured and correlated with the anthropometric measurements and biochemical markers of metabolic syndrome.Results A highly significant positive correlation was observed between the serum level of ANGPTL5 and the weight z score. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between ANGPTL5 and the investigated diabetic parameters (glucose, insulin, and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein was detected. The increased weight in children was associated with a higher level of ANGPTL5 in parallel with the observed elevated insulin resistance.Conclusion ANGPTL5 might be considered a promising sensitive assessment biomarker to be applied for early diagnosis and prognosis of obese children with a high risk of cardio-metabolic diseases.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):251-258
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_168_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Prospective of healthcare professionals regarding pharmacogenomics
Authors: Anuradha T Deshkar, Sonali Rode
Pages: 259 - 264
Abstract: Anuradha T Deshkar, Sonali Rode
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):259-264
Background and objective Pharmacogenomics is an emerging branch and its application in clinical practice will improve healthcare delivery in India. For the promotion and adaptation of pharmacogenomics, we need baseline data from healthcare professionals (HCPs). So, this study was planned to know the prospective of HCPs in India regarding pharmacogenomics.Patients and methods The printed copies of the pretested and validated, single-response or multiple-response self-administered questionnaire, were distributed to the HCPs. There was a total of 19 questions to access knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding pharmacogenomics. Data obtained were entered in Microsoft Excel 2013 spreadsheet for statistical analysis and percentages were calculated for concerned responses.Results Out of 134 responses, 126 responses were found to be eligible for analysis. Seventy-eight (61.9%) participants scored more than or equal to 5 to show above-average knowledge. Ninety (71.4%) participants showed a favorable attitude with a score of more than or equal to 3, while 91 (72.2%) participants scored more than or equal to 3 to show favorable practices regarding pharmacogenomics. Hundred and seven (84.9%) participants believed that pharmacogenomics will lead to more effective pharmacotherapy.Conclusion Participants showed above-average knowledge; favorable attitude, and practice behavior regarding pharmacogenomics. The survey indicates that conducting Information, Education, and Communication activities may help to increase awareness and knowledge, and to promote the adoption and utilization of pharmacogenomics in clinical practice, which will lead to better pharmacological treatment of disease with maximum efficacy and minimum side effects.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):259-264
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_175_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Staphylococcus aureus virulence genes and methicillin-resistant gene
detection and antimicrobial resistance profiles isolated from different
infection sites
Authors: Rafal Ismael, Alaa K Alhameedawi, Rajaa S Abbas, Sarah M.S Alsallameh, Halah Amer, Müge Firat, Maryam Karkhane
Pages: 265 - 271
Abstract: Rafal Ismael, Alaa K Alhameedawi, Rajaa S Abbas, Sarah M.S Alsallameh, Halah Amer, Müge Firat, Maryam Karkhane
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):265-271
Background One of the most significant pathogenic bacteria is Staphylococcus aureus, and both adults and children are susceptible to this bacterium from the front of the nose. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 80,461 invasive methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections and 11 285 related deaths occurred in 2011. In the UK, around 190 people passed away from MRSA disease in 2021. Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and Greece also have MRSA infections, along with the whole world. MRSA caused less than 2% of bacterial diseases in the United States in 1974, while the percentage rate jumped to 64% in 2004 only 10 years to increase the infection rate by 300%.Objective This study aimed to detect medication susceptibility patterns, staphylococcal enterotoxins A to C, toxic shock syndrome toxin-1, and methicillin-resistant genes.Materials and methods Ninety-eight S. aureus strains were isolated from different infection sites from Salah Al-Din Teaching Hospital. There have only been a few studies conducted on the epidemiology and virulence genes of S. aureus in Salah Al-Din city, Iraq.Results and conclusion The rates of drug resistance among S. aureus strains to routinely used antibiotics were found to be extremely high. In this study, the expression of toxic shock syndrome toxin, sec B, and sec C genes in S. aureus strains was not detected, unlike in previous studies. While all the strains were sec A gene positive, another gene found in bacterial cells that enables them to be resistant to antibiotics like methicillin and other vancomycin drugs is mecA.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):265-271
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_187_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Induction of genetic variability with gamma radiation and detection of DNA
polymorphisms among radiomutants using sequence-related amplified
polymorphism markers in Gaillardia pulchella Foug. plants
Authors: Mohamed A El-Khateeb, Hossam A Ashour, Rawia A Eid, Heba A Mahfouze, Nahed G Abd Elaziz, Ragab M.S Radwan
Pages: 272 - 284
Abstract: Mohamed A El-Khateeb, Hossam A Ashour, Rawia A Eid, Heba A Mahfouze, Nahed G Abd Elaziz, Ragab M.S Radwan
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):272-284
Background Developing novel ornamental varieties with improved floral characterization is the main aim of floriculture. Biotechnological techniques linked to classical breeding methods have been applied for modifying flower color.Objective This investigation was carried out in the nursery of the Ornamental Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt, during two successive generations, 2019/2020 and 2020/2021, to assess the effects of gamma irradiation (γ) on vegetative growth, flowering parameters, abnormalities, and induced changes at the DNA level between two mutative generations (MG1 and MG2) of Gaillardia pulchella Foug. plants.Materials and methods Seeds of G. pulchella (local red) were irradiated at Atomic Energy Commission-united irradiation-Gamma, The Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt, by six doses of γ-irradiation (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 Gy), using Gamma-1 type cobalt60, at a dose rate of 1.107 KGy/h.Results and conclusion The results revealed that low gamma doses (10 and 20 Gy) had significant effects on vegetative growth, that is, plant height and the number of branches, as compared with the control, giving the tallest plants with the highest number of branches. The high doses (50 and 60 Gy) delayed flowering compared with untreated plants and other gamma doses. In contrast, low doses induced early flowering and increased the number of flowers. All doses of gamma rays induced mutants in leaf morphology, inflorescence color, shape, and deformation; the largest number of these mutants was obtained from a high dose of 60 Gy. On the contrary, sequence-related amplified polymorphism analysis produced 32 loci, of which 12 (37.50%) were polymorphic. Jaccard’s coefficients of dissimilarity ranged from 0.69 to 0.96. In a dendrogram constructed depending on genetic identity coefficients, the mutants were classified into three major groups: the first group (I) was composed of 10-, 20-, 30-, and 40-Gy mutants. The second group (II) included 50- and 60-Gy mutants. The third group (III) contained only the control. Therefore, it was concluded that treatment of G. pulchella seeds with gamma rays led to the induction of a sufficient number of mutations. In addition, the sequence-related amplified polymorphism marker is considered to be an important tool in the identification of mutants. Consequently, these mutants can be used in breeding programs to improve G. pulchella plants.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):272-284
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_190_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Phytochemicals and biological activities of caraway
(Carumcarvi L.) essential oil
Authors: Mohamed F.A El-Rady, Nagwa M.H Rasmy, Nessrien M Yasin, Hanea A Fahmy, Ahmed Amer
Pages: 285 - 293
Abstract: Mohamed F.A El-Rady, Nagwa M.H Rasmy, Nessrien M Yasin, Hanea A Fahmy, Ahmed Amer
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):285-293
Background and aim Caraway is a famous medicinal plant in various pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities of this plant’s essential oil (EO).Materials and methods Caraway EO was obtained from dried caraway seeds using the hydrodistillation process. The composition of caraway EO was inspected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses. The antioxidant activity of caraway EO was determined by three different in vitro antioxidant assays: 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2’-azino-bis3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+) scavenging activity and reducing power. The agar well diffusion method was used to assess the antimicrobial action. The cytotoxic activity was evaluated using the MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethyl thiazol-2yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay, and the data were expressed as the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50).Results and conclusion Carvone was the major compound of caraway EO, followed by limonene. Estimation of the antioxidant activity using DPPH• scavenging activity, ABTS•+ scavenging activity, and reducing power assays revealed effective efficacy [IC50=32.46±0.75, 2.44±0.44, and 17.65±0.70 µg/ml, respectively, compared with 11.55±0.53, 1.50±0.29, and 23.19±0.78 µg/ml for standard control (butylated hydroxyanisole), respectively]. Strong anticancer activity was detected against all types of cancer cells, especially the colon cell line (HCT-116) and liver cell line (HepG-2). These results suggest that caraway EO can be used as a preservative food agent in food industries as well as in the field of pharmacy, as it presents promising anticancer properties.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):285-293
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_154_22
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Physicochemical characterization of exopolysaccharides conjugated to
phenolic compounds: a novel acidic exopolysaccharide containing tartaric
acid derived from Rhodotorula taiwanensis
Authors: Mohamed A Moselhy, Dalia M Mohamed, F. Abdelzaher, Abeer E Mahmoud, H.K. Abd El-Maksoud, Ferial M Rashad
Pages: 294 - 310
Abstract: Mohamed A Moselhy, Dalia M Mohamed, F. Abdelzaher, Abeer E Mahmoud, H.K. Abd El-Maksoud, Ferial M Rashad
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):294-310
Background Polysaccharides that are derived from different sources, in particular those from microorganisms, constitute a hot topic in contemporary research thanks to their high-value applications in different biotechnological sectors.Objective Considering limited existing studies concerning yeasts, the current study was designed to search for promising exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing yeasts from samples obtained from different biological sources, adopting the strategies of isolation and screening.Materials and methods The present study focused on isolation and screening of EPS-producing yeasts from samples obtained from different biological sources, namely, soil rhizosphere, rotten fruits, local beverages, dairy products, and mixture pickles; identification of the selected promising yeast isolates phenotypically and genetically; extraction and chemical composition of crude exopolysaccharides (C-EPSs) in terms of their contents of carbohydrate, protein, and phenolics; and physicochemical characterization of the partially purified exopolysaccharides (PP-EPSs) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier transformation infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis.Results and conclusion The most potent isolates that provided the highest yields (2.5 and 2.25 g/l) were identified phenotypically and genetically as Rhodotorula mucilaginosa A1 and Rhodotorula taiwanensis G1. The chemical compositions of C-EPSs of both strains differed in terms of their contents of carbohydrate, protein, and phenolic components. HPLC analysis of the phenolic compounds of C-EPSA1 revealed the presence of eight different constituents, of which quercetin followed by kaempferol, hesperetin, and gallic acid represented 99.81%. However, C-EPSG1 contained only seven, in a much smaller quantity. HPLC analysis demonstrated that both PP-EPSs were acidic heteropolysaccharides; PP-EPSA1 consisted mainly of 69.52% fructose and 30.48% uronic acids. PP-EPSG1 is probably unique; it showed remarkable differences as it contained tartaric acid (1.22%) besides glucose (50.04%), fructose (39.65%), and uronic acid (9.09%). Spectral analyses of both PP-EPSs confirmed their polysaccharide nature through the presence of characteristic functional groups and glycosidic linkage regions. PP-EPSs were semicrystalline in nature, similar in porosity and surface smoothness, and showed resistance to high temperatures. Elemental analysis indicated the participation of both PP-EPSs in five elements (O, C, N, S, and P) in close proportions; PP-EPSA1 contained Ca as an additional element.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):294-310
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_10_23
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- Response of growth, productivity, and active constituents of Hyssopus
officinalis to irrigation and salicylic acid foliar application
Authors: Rasha Fouad, Hend Fouad, Shaimaa I.M Elsayed, Saber F Hendawy, Elsayed A Omer
Pages: 311 - 323
Abstract: Rasha Fouad, Hend Fouad, Shaimaa I.M Elsayed, Saber F Hendawy, Elsayed A Omer
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):311-323
Background As hyssop was recently introduced for cultivation in Egypt, it is recommended to know its optimal agronomic management practices, especially the irrigation management.Objective This work demonstrates the effect of the number of irrigation times per week and foliar spraying of different concentrations of salicylic acid and the interaction between them on the hyssop planted in sandy soil and under the drip irrigation system.Materials and methods In the 2-year experiment, three irrigation treatments, that is, once, twice, and three times per week, were applied with three concentrations of salicylic acid (0, 100, and 200 ppm). The growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant activity, total phenolics, proline content, essential oil percentage, and yield along with the main constituents of the essential oil were studied in hyssop herb to find out the relationship between these characteristics and the applied treatments.Results and conclusion It was observed that increasing the number of irrigation times from once to twice and three times per week increased growth, yield, essential oil percentage (%), content (ml/plant), and yield (l/ha) significantly in both seasons, except essential oil (%) from plants irrigated twice per week in the first season, which increased insignificantly. The essential oil showed the main compounds as 3-pinanone, cis in most treatments, except plants irrigated twice and three times per week and sprayed with tap water, where the main component was trans-3-pinanone (38.70 and 32.94 %, respectively). 3-pinanone, cis relative percent ranged from 40.81 to 63.47% in plants irrigated once per week and from 16.78 to 58.49 % in plants irrigated at twice per week, and then from 30.17 to 47.56 % in plants irrigated three times per week. Oxygenated compounds increased under water deficit (once per week) and decreased with increasing salicylic acid concentration. It may be concluded that hyssop plants that were irrigated twice per week and sprayed with 100 ppm salicylic acid produced the highest yield of both herb and essential oil.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):311-323
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_2_23
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
- The pharmacological impact of Astragalus membranaceus against coccidial
and bacterial infection in vitro
Authors: Reem M Ramadan, Fady S Youssef, Ehab A Fouad, Ahmed Orabi, Marwa M Khalifa
Pages: 324 - 335
Abstract: Reem M Ramadan, Fady S Youssef, Ehab A Fouad, Ahmed Orabi, Marwa M Khalifa
Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):324-335
Background Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) are a novel macromolecule extracted from the herbal plant Astragali radix with potential biological activity such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, and immunomodulatory properties.Objectives The present research emphasizes on some of the biological characteristics of this product including its phytochemical screening, its effective LD50, its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticoccidial, and antimicrobial activities in vitro.Materials and methods Phytochemical screening of the tested extract proved that it contained alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycoside components. Testing its efficacy as bactericidal versus Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida and Staphylococcus aureus its value as a coccidiocidal drug against five chicken Eimeria species oocysts and its effect on the level of DNA genotoxic damage using comet assay proved high significant efficacy (P≤0.05) in the form of marked inhibition zone of bacteria, considerable sporulation inhibition percentage in oocysts as well as high genotoxic damages in the DNA.Result and conclusion The study proved the presence of a direct relationship between the increase in APS concentrations and exposure time and the rate of sporulation inhibition and DNA damage in oocysts subjected to various doses of APS. This DNA damage was determined by marked variations in tail’s length (µm), the percentage of DNA in the tail segment, and tail’s moment were used to demonstrate this relationship (µm). In conclusion, APS proved to be a potential herbal to have anticoccidial and antibacterial attributes in controlling both infections in chickens.
Citation: Egyptian Pharmaceutical Journal 2023 22(2):324-335
PubDate: Tue,27 Jun 2023
DOI: 10.4103/epj.epj_3_23
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 2 (2023)
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