 Subjects -> ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE (Total: 106 journals)
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- Red Ginseng Is a Therapeutic Candidate for Chronic Doxorubicin-Induced
Cardiomyopathy in Mice
Abstract: Doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy (DICM) is associated with a poor prognosis, and effective therapeutic drug candidates have yet to be identified. Furthermore, whether basic animal models reflect the clinical pathogenesis of DICM should be carefully examined. Although the exact mechanisms underlying the development of DICM are complex and remain unclear, oxidative stress is strongly implicated as a contributing factor. Therefore, we investigated the effects of ginseng (the root of Panax ginseng: Gin), an inexpensive and safe drug with antioxidant properties. We previously conducted a meta-analysis that yielded results suggesting its efficacy in humans. However, this study did not examine the efficacy of ginseng in detail. Therefore, this study investigated the efficacy of red ginseng (steamed and dried ginseng cultivated for over six years; RGin) in a mouse model of chronic DICM to elucidate its potential therapeutic benefits. RGin prevented the decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction associated with doxorubicin (DXR) administration and prolonged survival in DBA/2 mice. In addition, RGin reduced DXR-induced cardiomyocyte damage. These findings highlight its potential as a therapeutic option for the treatment of DICM.
PubDate: Thu, 30 Nov 2023 07:35:01 +000
- Retracted: Needle-Warming Moxibustion plus Multirehabilitation Training to
Improve Quality of Life and Functional Mobility of Patients with
Rheumatoid Arthritis after Medication
PubDate: Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:13:10 +000
- Retracted: Application of Prescription Reviews for Traditional Chinese
Medicine to Improve Medical Disputes and Patient Satisfaction
PubDate: Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:13:09 +000
- Retracted: Antioxidant and Immunomodulatory Activities of Essential Oil
Isolated from Anti-Upper Respiratory Tract Infection Formulation and Their
Chemical Analysis
PubDate: Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:13:08 +000
- Retracted: Additional Acupuncture Confers a Favorable Long-Term Prognosis
for Elderly Hypertensive Patients with Carotid Atherosclerosis after
Atorvastatin Treatment
PubDate: Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:13:06 +000
- Retracted: Microorganism Determination of 10 Proprietary Chinese Medicines
for Children by Plate Culture or Membrane Filtration
PubDate: Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:13:05 +000
- Review of Medicinal Plants Traditionally Used to Treat Diarrhea by the
People in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia
Abstract: Background. Diarrheal illness is the second-most common cause of death in under-five children. Worldwide, it results in about 1.7 billion illnesses and 525,000 deaths among under-five children annually. It is the leading cause of malnutrition among under-five children. Different people use medicinal plants to treat diarrhea. The present study aimed to review the medicinal plants used to treat diarrhea by the people in the Amhara region and to diagnose whether the antidiarrheal activities of the medicinal plants have been confirmed by studies using animal models. Methods. The author searched 21 articles from worldwide databases up to December 2022 using Boolean operators (“AND” and “OR”) and the terms “ethnobotanical studies,” “ethnobiology,” “traditional medicine,” “ethnobotanical knowledge,” and “Amhara region.” Results. From the 21 studies reviewed, 50 plant species grouped into 28 families were reported to treat diarrhea by the people in the Amhara region. The top most used families were Lamiaceae (12%), Fabaceae (8%), Asteraceae, Cucurbitaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Poaceae (6% each). The modes of administration of the plant parts were orally 98.88% and topically 1.12%. The different extracts of 18 (or 36%) of the medicinal plants traditionally used to treat diarrhea by the people in the Amhara region have been proven experimentally in animal models. Conclusions. The people in the Amhara region use different medicinal plants to treat diarrhea. Most of them take the medicinal plants orally. The traditional claim that 60% of medicinal plants are antidiarrheal has been confirmed in in vitro studies.
PubDate: Sat, 25 Nov 2023 07:05:00 +000
- Evaluation of the Use, Reasons, and Satisfaction with the Complementary
Medicine among Patients Living with a Permanent Ostomy
Abstract: Patients living with a permanent ostomy encounter many physical, psychological, and social challenges due to the loss of function of a part of their body. Today, as the use of alternative therapies increases, some of these patients are seeking complementary medicine to relieve the symptoms and complications of their disease. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the use of, reasons for, and satisfaction with the complementary medicine among patients living with a permanent ostomy. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients living with a permanent ostomy who were referred to ostomy clinics in southeastern Iran. The census method was used for sampling. The research tool included a complementary medicine questionnaire. SPSS-25 was used for data analysis. The results showed that in physical methods, most of the participants used herbal medicines (83%), aromatherapy (79%), vitamin supplements (76%), and diet (66%). In mental methods, most of the participants used prayer/recourse/vow (91%) and music therapy (75%) (every day to several times a year). People with university education (), higher incomes (), and history of addiction () used more methods of complementary medicine. Fifty-three point four of the participants used herbal medicines to reduce physical complications, 46.6% used them to improve anxiety and stress induced by ostomy, and between 66 and 80% was completely satisfied with the use of various types of complementary medicine. The study results showed that the frequency of complementary medicine use among patients living with a permanent ostomy varied from a few days to several years. Considering the use of complementary medicine by these patients, educational programs, and interventions are necessary to increase the general awareness of ostomy patients about the types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and the effects of these methods.
PubDate: Tue, 21 Nov 2023 07:35:00 +000
- Antisickling and Antihemolytic Mechanism of Spirulina platensis
(Oscillatoriaceae): A Nutraceutical Commonly Used in Cameroon
Abstract: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a widespread genetic disease in Africa, associated with chronic hemolytic anaemia and vaso-occlusive and infectious complications. The most commonly used means of management and treatment such as blood transfusions and allografting are expensive and predispose patients to the risk of infections. This research study aimed at evaluating the antisickling and antihemolytic activities of aqueous extracts of Spirulina platensis from Cameroon for optimising the management of this disease using natural substances. The Spirulina platensis harvested in Nomayos-Yaounde was dried, crushed, and macerated for 24 h in distilled water and the filtrate was freeze dried. The determination of the inhibition rates of falciformation induced by 2% sodium metabisulfite (MBS) and the sickling reversibility rate was carried out at different concentrations (100, 200, 400, 800, and 1600 μg·mL−1) of the spirulina extract at different time intervals (2 h, 4 h, and 24 h). Aspirin, hypotonic solution, Triton X-100, and hydrogen peroxide were used as hemolytic inducers and the antihemolytic activity of the extract was studied at 800 μg·mL−1 and 1600 μg·mL−1 using the colorimetric method. The extraction yield was 14.015%. The maximum duration of induced falciformation was 2 h 30 min and the percentage of falciformation increased from 27.99 ± 3.15% (at the initial time) to 91.44 ± 3.70%, giving a falciformation induction rate of 69.3%. The falciformation inhibition rate after 2 h 30 min ranges from 15.10 ± 0.60% to 66.09 ± 4.69% for the concentration of 100 μg·mL−1 to 1600 μg·mL−1 of the spirulina extract. This rate of inhibition of falciformation was found to be dose-dependent. The best concentration of the extract was 1600 μg·mL−1. The reversibility rate of falciformation at 800 μg·mL−1 and 1600 μg·mL−1 varied from 37.54 ± 6.35% to 82.34 ± 5.63% as a function of time. 1600 μg·mL−1 was the most active concentration after 24 h. In addition, the extract improved the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio with an increase in the rates of 69.78 ± 8.81 and 69.78 ± 13.82 at 800 μg·mL−1 and 1600 μg·mL−1, respectively. According to each inducer at 800 μg·mL−1 and 1600 μg·mL−1, respectively, of the spirulina extract, the following rates of inhibition of hemolysis were found: 53.03 ± 9.46% and 96.67 ± 5.77% (aspirin); 80 ± 8.66% and 71.25% (hypotonic solution); 36.56 ± 9.53% and 45.67 ± 22.55% (Triton X-100); 24.26 ± 9.55% and 36.76 ± 1.27% (hydrogen peroxide). At the end of this study, the best antickling activities were obtained at the concentrations 800 μg·mL−1 and 1600 μg·mL−1. It also has antihemolytic properties on various hemolysis inducers at concentrations 800 μg·mL−1 and 1600 μg·mL−1 with inhibition rates varying from 36% to 96%.
PubDate: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 06:20:00 +000
- Bridging the Gap: Exploring the Preclinical Potential of Pereskia
grandifolia in Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease
Abstract: Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a complex condition characterized by steatosis and metabolic disturbances. Risk factors such as diabetes, cigarette smoking, and dyslipidaemia contribute to its development and progression. Effective and safe therapies for MAFLD are urgently needed. Pereskia grandifolia has shown potential as an alternative treatment, but its effectiveness against liver disease remains unexplored. This research aims to determine the hepatoprotective properties of P. grandifolia using a model of MAFLD. The study was carried out through various phases to assess the safety and efficacy of the ethanol-soluble fraction of P. grandifolia. Initially, an in vitro assay was performed to assess cell viability. This was followed by an acute toxicity test conducted in rats to determine the safety profile of the extract. Subsequently, the anti-inflammatory properties of P. grandifolia were examined in macrophages. For the MAFLD study, diabetic Wistar rats were made diabetic and exposed to a high fat diet and cigarette smoke, for 4 weeks. During the last 2 weeks, the rats were orally given either the vehicle (negative control group; C-), P. grandifolia (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg), or insulin in addition to simvastatin. A basal group of rats not exposed to these risk factors was also assessed. Blood samples were collected to measure cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, ALT, and AST levels. Liver was assessed for lipid and oxidative markers, and liver histopathology was examined. P. grandifolia showed no signs of toxicity. It demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting phagocytosis and macrophage spreading. The MAFLD model induced liver abnormalities, including increased AST, ALT, disrupted lipid profile, oxidative stress, and significant hepatic damage. However, P. grandifolia effectively reversed these changes, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent. These findings emphasize the significance of P. grandifolia in mitigating hepatic consequences associated with various risk factors.
PubDate: Thu, 09 Nov 2023 13:05:00 +000
- Metabolomics of Personalized Body Elements in Thai Traditional Medicine
Response to Herbal Medicine for Body Elements Balancing in Healthy
Volunteers
Abstract: Background. In Thai traditional medicine (TTM), the dominant body element called “Dhat Chao Ruean” (DCR) is an integral part in the diagnostic process of Thai traditional medicine. TTM practitioners usually use Thai herbal Benjakul formula (BKF) for adjusting and balancing the body elements. However, the effects of BKF on metabolism and individual response to it have not been studied yet. Methods. This study proposed to investigate the metabolic profiling in 24 volunteers categorized by their types of birth month DCR (bDCR) after the administration of BKF (450 mg, three tablets three times a day before meals) for seven days. Differences in metabolic profiling between bDCR groups were investigated by using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry for untargeted analysis, and in addition, the safety was assessed by testing the plasma biochemical level. Results. This study identified 57 biomarkers in positive ESI and 12 in negative ESI. Piperine was found in varying amount among the participants but it was the highest in the earth group. In addition, this study found that elemicin, phenylpropionic acid, ricinoleic acid, and β-sitosterol are important substances in a single herb of BKF. Regarding biochemical tests, the results indicated that BKF can decrease the lipid profile and it has no toxic effects on liver and kidney functions. Conclusion. The findings indicated that it is safe to use BKF which can help to improve health in chronic diseases by adjusting abnormality of the elements of the body. In addition, the information gathered from this study is valuable for further study in the field of Thai traditional medicine.
PubDate: Sat, 04 Nov 2023 07:50:00 +000
- Acupuncture Combined with Voice Training Improved Voice Function in
Patients with Primary Muscular Tension Dysphonia (MTD): A Randomized,
Three-Armed, Open-Label Clinical Trial
Abstract: Objective. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with voice training for treating patients with primary muscular tension dysphonia (MTD) (Qi stagnation and blood stasis type in traditional Chinese medicine). Methods. A total of 108 patients with primary MTD (Qi stagnation and blood stasis type) were recruited in this study. The participants were randomly divided into 3 equal groups: a test group and two control groups (control groups 1 and 2). An additional 38 participants without primary MTD were recruited as the healthy group. Control group 1 received acupuncture sessions 3 times per week on alternate days on the Hegu (LI 4), Taichong (LR 3), Open Voice No. 1 point, and Open Voice No. 2 points. Control group 2 received a 40-minute voice training session once weekly. The test group received both treatments. The total treatment course for all groups was 30 days. The healthy participants did not receive any interventions. The physiological and functional voice improvements after treatment were compared between all 3 MTD groups and healthy participants. The Voice Handicap Index (VHI-10), the VHI-10 emotional score, the Chinese Medicine Symptom Score Scale (TCM), and the Grade Roughness Breathiness Asthenia Strain (GRBAS) were used to evaluate the changes in the voice after treatment. A laryngeal muscle blood oxygen monitoring was used to measure the blood oxygen saturation (SO2) of the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles, and a stroboscopic laryngoscopy was used to measure the dysphonia severity index (DSI). Acoustic voice analysis was used to measure the maximum phonation time (MPT), the jitter, and the shimmer. Result. The SO2 levels of the laryngeal muscle were significantly higher in the healthy subjects than in pretreatment MTD patients and were correlated with the VHI-10 and DSI scores. A significant improvement in the physiological and functional scores, the total VHI-10, the GRBAS score, the voice acoustic analysis indices, MPT, jitter, shimmer, and DSI, was noted after treatment in all 3 MTD groups (). However, the posttreatment scores in the test group were significantly higher compared to control group 2, whose score were superior than that in control group 1 (). Both the test group and control group 1 showed a significant increase in the SO2 levels of the laryngeal muscles after treatment, where the test group had a higher elevation than control group 1. No significant difference was noted in the posttreatment SO2 of the laryngeal muscles in control group 2 ().Conclusion. Acupuncture monotherapy or in combination with voice training can reduce the anxiety emotion, relieve MTD-associated systemic symptoms, and increase the SO2 levels of the laryngeal muscle. This combination is a promising approach for the treatment of MTD. This trial is registered with ChiCTR2200061469.
PubDate: Fri, 03 Nov 2023 05:05:01 +000
- Retracted: Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases with Plant
Phytochemicals: A Review
PubDate: Wed, 01 Nov 2023 07:10:07 +000
- A Systematic Review of Phytochemistry, Nutritional Composition, and
Pharmacologic Application of Species of the Genus Viola in Noncommunicable
Diseases (NCDs)
Abstract: Viola L. is the largest genus of the Violaceae family with more than 500 species across the globe. The present extensive literature survey revealed Viola species to be a group of important nutritional and medicinal plants used for the ethnomedicinal treatment of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, asthma, lung diseases, and fatigue. Many plant species of this genus have also received scientific validation of their pharmacological activities including neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, anticancer, antihypertensive, antidyslipidemic, analgesic, antipyretic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, and antioxidant. Viola is highly rich in different natural products some of which have been isolated and identified in the past few decades; these include flavonoids terpenoids and phenylpropanoids of different pharmacological activities. The pharmacokinetics and clinical studies on this genus are lacking, and the present review is aimed at summarizing the current understanding of the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, nutritional composition, and pharmacological profile of medicinal plants from the Viola genus to reveal its therapeutic potentials, gaps, and subsequently open a new window for future pharmacological research.
PubDate: Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:50:00 +000
- Protective Effect of Alkaline Mineral Water on Calcium Oxalate-Induced
Kidney Injury in Mice
Abstract: Background. Kidney stone disease induces chronic renal insufficiency by crystal-induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury. It has been reported that the prevalence of kidney stone disease is increasing, accompanied by the high recurrence rate. Alkaline mineral water has been reported to possess beneficial effects to attenuate inflammation. Here, we explored the potential protective effects and underlying mechanisms of alkaline mineral water against calcium oxalate-induced kidney injury. Methods. We performed the mice kidney stone model by administering glyoxylate at 100 mg/kg once daily for 7 days. To assess the effects of alkaline mineral water on oxalate-induced kidney injury, mice drank different water (distilled water, natural mineral water at pH = 8.0, as well as natural mineral water at pH = 9.3) for 7 days, respectively, followed by glyoxylate exposure. After collection, crystal formation, kidney injury and cell apoptosis, fibrosis, oxidative stress, as well as inflammation were measured. Results. Our results showed that glyoxylate treatment led to kidney crystal formation and fibrosis, which can be attenuated by drinking alkaline mineral water. Furthermore, alkaline mineral water also reduced kidney injury and cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Conclusion. Alkaline mineral water supplement prevents progression of glyoxylate-induced kidney stones through alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation.
PubDate: Wed, 25 Oct 2023 04:05:00 +000
- Shoseiryuto Promotes the Formation of a Tight-Junction Barrier in Cultured
Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Abstract: Shoseiryuto (SST) (Xiao-Qing-Long-Tang in Chinese) is an effective treatment for respiratory diseases, such as bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis, but its effects on the bronchial tight-junction (TJ) barrier have not been clarified. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of SST on TJ-barrier function in human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells. The 16HBE cells were cultured in a culture medium without (control) and with SST in the absence and presence of bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in transwell chambers. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and sodium fluorescein (Na-F) permeability of the cultured-cell monolayer were measured as TJ integrity markers. In addition, immunofluorescence staining and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis were used to measure the expression of the TJ protein, occludin. SST increased TEER and decreased Na-F permeability of the 16HBE cell monolayers. Furthermore, SST increased both occludin mRNA and immunostained protein expressions, suggesting that SST has the effect of directly promoting epithelial TJ-barrier function. LPS decreased TEER, increased Na-F permeability, and decreased both occludin mRNA and protein expression. LPS-induced barrier dysfunction was completely blocked by pre/co- and posttreatment with SST. These results suggest that SST has protective and therapeutic effects against LPS-induced TJ-barrier damage. To our knowledge, these are the first results to demonstrate the protective and therapeutic effects conferred by TJ-barrier promoting, which may be a novel mechanism contributing to the efficacy of SST for respiratory diseases.
PubDate: Sat, 21 Oct 2023 07:05:00 +000
- Wild Mushrooms: Potential Natural Sources of Antioxidant and Anti-Quorum
Sensing Bioactive Compounds for Medical Applications
Abstract: Objective. This study was aimed at determining the antioxidant, anti-quorum sensing, and in vitro cytotoxic activities of five wild mushroom extracts. Methods. Wild mushrooms of Auricularia auricula-judae, Termitomyces umkowaani, Trametes elegans, Trametes versicolor, and Microporus xanthopus were collected from Arabuko-Sokoke and Kakamega National Forests, in Kenya. Specimens were identified and extracted using chloroform (CHL), 70% ethanol (Eth), and hot water (HW) solvents. Antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the extracts were determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Vero cell lines, respectively, while anti-quorum sensing activities were tested against Chromobacterium violaceum. All data were compared using relevant descriptive and inferential statistics at a significance level of ≤ 0.05. Results. A total of 35 wild mushrooms were collected, identified, and classified into 14 genera. Among screened mycochemicals, fatty acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and saponins were detected at higher concentrations. The highest free radical scavenging activities of A. auricula-judae, T. umkowaani, T. elegans, and T. versicolor were observed in 70% Eth extract with the percentage values of 76.40 ± 0.12%, 68.40 ± 0.01%, 62.40 ± 0.07%, and 66.40 ± 0.04%, respectively, whereas the HW extract of Microporus xanthopus showed free radical scavenging activity at 65.90 ± 0.02%. None of the extracts, at the tested concentrations (up to 1000 µg/mL), had shown cytotoxic activity against the Vero cell line. The HW extract of T. umkowaani and the 70% Eth extract of T. versicolor showed a statistically significant difference in the inhibitory activity of violacein production against C. violaceum at the concentration of 200 µg/mL. Conclusions. The antioxidant activity of wild mushrooms can help to tackle the diseases caused by free radicals. The anti-quorum sensing potential of wild mushrooms could also provide future alternatives to conventional drug therapies cost-effectively. Further detailed chemistry of the bioactive compounds and their possible mechanisms of action responsible for the observed antioxidant and anti-quorum sensing activities are needed.
PubDate: Thu, 19 Oct 2023 07:50:00 +000
- Retracted: Analysis of Relevant Factors Affecting the Pregnancy Rate of
Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer Cycle
PubDate: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:09:20 +000
- Retracted: Exploration of Potential Biomarkers and Immune Landscape for
Hepatoblastoma: Evidence from Machine Learning Algorithm
PubDate: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:09:19 +000
- Retracted: Clinical Data and Biocalculation Methods of GABRD Determine the
Clinical Characteristics and Immune Relevance of Colorectal Cancer
PubDate: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:09:17 +000
- Retracted: A Smart Solution for Cancer Patient Monitoring Based on
Internet of Medical Things Using Machine Learning Approach
PubDate: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:09:16 +000
- Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used against Human Diseases in
Zuway Dugda District, Ethiopia
Abstract: Introduction. In Ethiopia, traditional medicine has significantly contributed to the treatment of public health conditions. However, when contrasted with the ethnic diversity of Ethiopians, the number of medicinal plants that have been documented remains limited. As a result, the study aimed to record the medicinal plants used in the Zuway Dugda district communities. Methodology. An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by local people of Zuway Dugda district was carried out from February 2020 to November 2020. Semistructured interviews, a market survey, field observations, and group discussions were used to gather pertinent data. One hundred informants (83 males and 17 females) provided data. 76 informants were chosen at random, while 24 key informants were chosen on the basis of recommendations from local elders. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, preference ranking, paired comparison, and direct matrix ranking. Results. A total of 73 plant species, representing 62 genera and 40 families, were collected and identified. Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Solanaceae had the most species, with each family having 6 (8.22%) species, followed by Euphorbiaceae, which had 4 (5.48%) species. The wild harvest of approximately 49 medicinal plants (or 67.12%) was used. 31 plant species, or 42.47% herbs, were found to be the most commonly used life forms. The most frequently used plant parts were reported to be the leaves, which accounted for 55 species (41.35%) and then the roots 25(18.80%). Headache, toothache, depression, febrile illness, and fever had the lowest ICF values (0.33), while snake bite-related issues had the highest ICF values (0.93). The results of the preference ranking indicated that locals prefer to treat wounds with Asparagus africanus Lam. The community used Cordia africana Lam. the most, according to direct matrix ranking. Conclusions. It is essential to combine indigenous knowledge with scientific methods in order to extract the most benefit from medicinal plants. The results of the ICF and preference ranking could be used as a prelude to this. Since A. africanus was found to be the most effective wound-healing medicinal plant in the current study, further phytochemical and pharmacological research is recommended.
PubDate: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:35:04 +000
- Optimizing the Fermentation Conditions of Cudrania tricuspidata Fruit
Using Bacillus amyloliquefaciens for Anti-Inflammatory Activity and
GC-MS-Based Volatile Component Characteristics
Abstract: The aim of this study is to optimize the performance conditions used for maximum anti-inflammatory activity and to clarify in vitroanti-inflammatory properties of fermented C. tricuspidata fruit. Based on the single-factor experiment and Box–Behnken design, the optimized fermentation conditions of C. tricuspidata fruit for maximum anti-inflammatory activity were 3.8 d fermentation period, 8.4% (v/w) inoculation concentration, and 29.2°C fermentation temperature. Under optimal conditions, anti-inflammatory activity-based nitric oxide of fermented C. tricuspidata fruit reached 93.9%. Moreover, this study provides a theoretical basis and experimental data containing β-hexosaminidase and reactive oxygen species for the medical use and industrialization of C. tricuspidata fruit fermentation. Interestingly, the results of GC-MS analysis confirmed that fermented C. tricuspidata fruits detect volatile components different from unfermented C. tricuspidata fruits. We suggested that this volatile component may have been involved in the anti-inflammatory reaction, but scientific verification of this is needed later. Therefore, an in-depth study of volatile components detected from fermented C. tricuspidata fruits will need to be conducted later.
PubDate: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:35:04 +000
- Deciphering the Molecular Mechanism of Escin against Neuropathic Pain: A
Network Pharmacology Study
Abstract: Background. Escin is the main active component in Aesculus hippocastanum. It has been demonstrated that escin has anti-inflammatory properties. This study combined the methods of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics to explore the molecular mechanism of escin against neuropathic pain (NP). Methods. The Swiss Target Prediction and the Pharm Mapper database were employed for predicting the targets of escin. Also, the candidate targets of NP were gathered via the databases including Therapeutic Targets, DisGeNet, GeneCards, DrugBank, and OMIM. Subsequently, the network of protein-protein interaction was screened for the key targets by the software Cytoscape 3.8.0. Then, the intersection of these targets was analysed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment. Additionally, we further investigated the ligand-target interactions by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Results. In total, 94 escin targets were predicted by network pharmacology. Among them, SRC, MMP9, PTGS2, and MAPK1 were the core candidate targets. Subsequently, the analysis of GO and KEGG enrichment revealed that escin affected NP by regulating protein kinase C, MAP kinase, TRP channels, the T-cell receptors signaling pathway, and the TNF signaling pathway. The results of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation confirmed that escin not only had a strong binding activity with the four core target proteins but also stably combined in 50 ns. Conclusions. Our study revealed that escin acts on the core targets SRC, MMP9, PTGS2, MAPK1, and associated enrichment pathways to alleviate neuronal inflammation and regulate the immune response, thus exerting anti-NP efficacy. This study provided innovative ideas and methods for the promising treatment of escin in relieving NP.
PubDate: Mon, 16 Oct 2023 07:35:00 +000
- Extracts of Selected South African Medicinal Plants Mitigate Virulence
Factors in Multidrug-Resistant Strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae
Abstract: The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae remains a global health threat due to its alarming rates of becoming resistant to antibiotics. Therefore, identifying plant-based treatment options to target this pathogen’s virulence factors is a priority. This study examined the antivirulence activities of twelve plant extracts obtained from three South African medicinal plants (Lippia javanica, Carpobrotus dimidiatus, and Helichrysum populifolium) against carbapenem-resistant (CBR) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) positive K. pneumoniae strains. The plant extracts (ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, methanol, and water) were validated for their inhibitory activities against bacterial growth and virulence factors such as biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, curli expression, and hypermucoviscosity. The potent extract on K. pneumoniae biofilm was observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), while exopolysaccharide topography and surface parameters were observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Chemical profiling of the potent extract in vitro was analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Results revealed a noteworthy minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value for the C. dimidiatus dichloromethane extract at 0.78 mg/mL on CBR- K. pneumoniae. L. javanica (ethyl acetate) showed the highest cell attachment inhibition (67.25%) for CBR- K. pneumoniae. SEM correlated the in-vitro findings, evidenced by a significant alteration of the biofilm architecture. The highest EPS reduction of 34.18% was also noted for L. javanica (ethyl acetate) and correlated by noticeable changes observed using AFM. L. javanica (ethyl acetate) further reduced hypermucoviscosity to the least length mucoid string (1 mm-2 mm) at 1.00 mg/mL on both strains. C. dimidiatus (aqueous) showed biofilm inhibition of 45.91% for the ESBL-positive K. pneumoniae and inhibited curli expression at 0.50 mg/mL in both K. pneumoniae strains as observed for H. populifolium (aqueous) extract. Chemical profiling of L. javanica (ethyl acetate), C. dimidiatus (aqueous), and H. populifolium (aqueous) identified diterpene (10.29%), hydroxy-dimethoxyflavone (10.24%), and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (13.41%), respectively, as dominant compounds. Overall, the ethyl acetate extract of L. javanica revealed potent antivirulence properties against the studied MDR K. pneumoniae strains. Hence, it is a promising medicinal plant that can be investigated further to develop alternative therapy for managing K. pneumoniae-associated infections.
PubDate: Sat, 14 Oct 2023 07:20:01 +000
- Antioxidant Potential of Ethiopian Medicinal Plants and Their
Phytochemicals: A Review of Pharmacological Evaluation
Abstract: Background. Free radicals are very reactive molecules produced during oxidation events that in turn initiate a chain reaction resulting in cellular damage. Many degenerative diseases in humans, including cancer and central nervous system damage, are caused by free radicals. Scientific evidence indicates that active compounds from natural products can protect cells from free radical damage. As a result, the aim of this review is to provide evidence of the use of diverse Ethiopian medicinal plants with antioxidant properties that have been scientifically validated in order to draw attention and foster further investigations in this area. Methods. The keywords antioxidant, radical scavenging activities, reactive oxygen species, natural product, Ethiopian Medicinal plants, and 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay (DPPH) were used to identify relevant data in the major electronic scientific databases, including Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Medline, and Science domain. All articles with descriptions that were accessed until November 2022 were included in the search strategy. Results. A total of 54 plant species from 33 families were identified, along with 46 compounds isolated. More scientific studies have been conducted on plant species from the Brassicaceae (19%), Asphodelaceae (12%), and Asteraceae (12%) families. The most used solvent and extraction method for plant samples are methanol (68%) and maceration (88%). The most examined plant parts were the leaves (42%). Plant extracts (56%) as well as isolated compounds (61%) exhibited significant antioxidant potential. The most effective plant extracts from Ethiopian flora were Bersama abyssinica, Solanecio gigas, Echinops kebericho, Verbascum sinaiticum, Apium leptophyllum, and Crinum abyssinicum. The best oxidative phytochemicals were Rutin (7), Flavan-3-ol-7-O-glucoside (8), Myricitrin (13), Myricetin-3-O-arabinopyranoside (14), 7-O-Methylaloeresin A (15), 3-Hydroxyisoagatholactone (17), β-Sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucoside (22), Microdontin A/B (24), and Caffeic acid (39). Conclusion. Many crude extracts and compounds exhibited significant antioxidant activity, making them excellent candidates for the development of novel drugs. However, there is a paucity of research into the mechanisms of action as well as clinical evidence supporting some of these isolated compounds. To fully authenticate and then commercialize, further investigation and systematic analysis of these antioxidant-rich species are required.
PubDate: Thu, 12 Oct 2023 09:35:00 +000
- Retracted: Jujuboside A Ameliorates Myocardial Apoptosis and Inflammation
in Rats with Coronary Heart Disease by Inhibiting PPAR-α Signaling
Pathway
PubDate: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:13:06 +000
- Retracted: Poricoic Acid A Inhibits the NF-κB/MAPK Pathway to Alleviate
Renal Fibrosis in Rats with Cardiorenal Syndrome
PubDate: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:13:04 +000
- Retracted: Efficacy of Chinese Medicine Injection for Cardiotoxic Injury
of Anthracycline Chemotherapy Drugs: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized
Controlled Trials
PubDate: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:13:03 +000
- Retracted: Role of Aromatherapy as a Natural Complementary and Alternative
Therapy in Cardiovascular Disease: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
PubDate: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:13:01 +000
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