Caralluma tuberculata exhibits analgesic and anti-arthritic potential by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuating oxidative stress.

Caralluma tuberculata N.E. Brown (Common name: Chongan), belonging to the family Asclepiadaceae is distributed widely in hilly areas of Dir, Swat, Kohat and in plain lands of Punjab, Pakistan. The plant has been used as a source of vegetable as well as home remedy for headache, muscle spasms and rheumatism. The present study was proposed to investigate the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potential of the aqueous methanolic extract of C. tuberculata (ICE). The dried shoots of plant were used to prepare aqueous methanolic extract (30:70) by 3 days thrice maceration and filtration followed by evaporation under reduced pressure. ICE was screened for the presence of phytochemicals using preliminary phytochemical analysis and HPLC. The antioxidant potential was evaluated through DPPH assay. Analgesic potential of ICE was studied using hot plate and tail immersion methods, and anti-inflammatory activity was performed using turpentine oil and carrageenan-induced inflammation models, in wistar albino rats. Formaldehyde-induced and Complete Freund's Adjuvant-induced arthritis models were used for the assessment of anti-arthritic activity of ICE and its effects on serum levels of PGE-2 as well as gene expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were studied. ICE displayed a dose-dependent (300-1000 mg/Kg p.o.) analgesic effect in hot plate (maximum retention time of 10.87 and 13 s) and tail immersion (response time of 11 and 13.64 s) tests at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg, respectively. The extract exhibited a significant decrease in paw inflammation of rats at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg as compared to the disease control group. ICE also exhibited a remarkable decline in arthritic score and a dose-dependent drop in serum levels of prostaglandin E2. There was a significant suppression in the expression of TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, NF-κB and cyclooxygenase enzyme in treatment groups. This study concludes that Caralluma tuberculata exhibits strong analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-arthritic activities thus upholding the vernacular use of the plant for pain and rheumatism.

Evaluation of Sida cordifolia L. for its potential against thrombosis in experimental models.

Thrombosis, the formation of blood clots due to platelet aggregation, vascular injury or hypercoagulability, leads to cardiovascular pathologies including myocardial or cerebral infarction. Antiplatelet and thrombolytic agents have promising effects in ameliorating thromboembolism and dissolving blood clots. However, the associated limitations generate the need to explore agents from natural origin. The aim of the study was to explore the potential of aqueous methanolic extract (Sc.Cr) of an indigenous plant, Sida cordifolia L., traditionally used for cardiovascular complaints. Sc.Cr was evaluated by clot lysis assay, acute pulmonary embolism, carrageenan-induced tail vein thrombosis and ferric chloride-induced carotid arterial thrombosis models. Hemostasis parameters were increased in a dose-dependent manner. Histological studies showed restoration with clear alveolar spaces and less red blood cell congestion. Significant reduction in infarcted length of thrombus, escalation in coagulation parameters with a profound decrease in platelet count (PC) were observed. Arterial occlusion time was increased with a reduction in weight of thrombus dose-dependently with significant augmentation in PT and APTT. Sc.Cr was also analyzed for phytochemical constituents and antioxidant potential. The results demonstrated the antithrombotic and thrombolytic potential of Sc.Cr using in vitro and in vivo experimental models.

Prophylactic and curative potential of peppermint oil against calcium oxalate kidney stones.

Mentha piperita L., a well-known traditional herb, constitutes essential oil as one of its important constituent, used for its flavor, aroma and therapeutic applications. Based on the antioxidant, antispasmodic and nephroprotective potential, the essential oil of Mentha piperita was evaluated for its preventive and curative effects against ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis. Peppermint oil (Mp.Eo) was evaluated for its antioxidant potential by DPPH method. Urolithiasis was developed in male rats by the administration of ammonium chloride and ethylene glycol in drinking water. Different doses of Mp.Eo (10, 30 and 50 mg/kg) and cystone, the standard antiurolithic drug (500 mg/kg), were given along with stone-inducing regimen in prophylactic model and after intoxication for the next fourteen days in curative model. Urine and serum were analyzed for various biochemical parameters. One representative kidney from each group was studied for changes in histological parameters. Mp.Eo was found to be effective against urolithiasis-associated changes including crystalluria, polyuria and acidic urine. Mp.Eo also neutralized the altered levels of urinary uric acid, magnesium, total protein, serum creatinine and serum BUN. The data obtained from the present study demonstrated the therapeutic importance of peppermint oil against urolithiasis.

Vasorelaxant activities and the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of Gynura procumbens Merr. leaf extracts on rat thoracic aorta.

Previous studies have investigated the cardiovascular activity of Gynura procumbens Merr. single-solvent extracts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro vasorelaxant properties and the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of serial extracts and fractions of Gynura procumbens (GP). The leaves of GP were serially extracted with petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and water using the maceration method. Suspended aortic ring preparations were pre-contracted with phenylephrine (PE 1 µM), followed by cumulative addition of GP extracts (0.25-3 mg/mL). The petroleum ether extract (GPPE) was the most potent among the four extracts. Pre-incubation of endothelium-intact aorta with atropine (1 µM), indomethacin (10 µM), methylene blue (10 µM), propranolol (1 µM) and potassium channel blockers such as TEA (1 µM), glibenclamide (10 µM), 4-aminopyridine (1 µM) and barium chloride (10 mM) had no effect on GPPE-induced vasorelaxation. The vasorelaxant effect of GPPE was partly diminished by pretreatment of aortic rings preparations with L-NAME (10 µM) and even more so in endothelium-denuded aortic rings, indicating a minimal involvement of endothelium-dependent pathway in GPPE-induced vasorelaxation. The calcium-induced vasocontractions were antagonized significantly and concentration-dependently by GPPE in calcium free and high potassium medium. These results illustrate that Ca2+ antagonizing actions of GPPE in rat isolated aorta are comparable to that of verapamil and may be mainly responsible for its vasodilation effect. The antioxidant activity of GPPE supports its vasorelaxant effect by attenuating the production of deleterious free radicals and reactive oxygen species in the vasculature.

Antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic potential of Echinops echinatus in rat models of type I and type II diabetes.

Echinops echinatus is traditionally an important plant that finds its extensive use as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, nerve tonic, abortifacient, aphrodisiac, antiasthmatic, and antidiabetic agent. The current study investigates protection against the hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia in alloxan-induced (type I diabetes) and fructose-fed insulin resistance (type II diabetes) models of diabetes treated with aqueous methanolic root extract of E. echinatus (Ee.Cr). Albino rats were treated orally with Ee.Cr at doses 100, 300 and 500mg/kg. The fasting blood glucose was measured by glucometer, while standard kits were used to determine the levels of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL. The administration of Ee.Cr significantly (P<0.001) reduced the FBG concentration in a dose-dependent pattern in alloxan-induced and fructose-fed diabetic rats. The Ee.Cr also corrected the dyslipidemia associated with fructose and alloxan-induced diabetes by significantly (P<0.001) decreasing the concentration of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL and by increasing HDL concentration. Ee.Cr also significantly (P<0.001) improved the glucose tolerance in fructose-fed rats. We conclude that Ee.Cr has antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic effects in both insulin-dependent alloxan-induced diabetes and fructose-induced insulin resistance diabetes rat models.

Interdependent and independent multidimensional role of tumor microenvironment on hepatocellular carcinoma.

The novelty of an effective therapeutic targeting for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is based on improved understanding of each component of tumor microenvironment (TME) and its correspondent interactions at biological and molecular levels. In this context, new expansions for the treatment against TME and its communication with HCC are under exploration. Despite of the fact that blockage of growth factor receptors has become a treatment of choice in late phases of HCC in clinical practice, still a precise targeted treatment should address all the components of TME. Targeting one specific element out of cellular (cancer associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells, Kupffer cells and lymphocytes) or non-cellular (extracellular matrix, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, proteolytic enzymes) parts of TME may not be a successful remedy for the disease because of well-designed hindrances of each component and their functional alternativeness. Meanwhile there are some elements of TME like epithelial-mesenchymal transition and CAF, which are considerably important and need thorough investigations. Ascertaining the potential role of these elements, and a single or combinational drug therapy targeting these elements of TME simultaneously, may provide the appreciable considerations to eventually improve in clinical practices and may also minimize the chances of reoccurrence of HCC.

ANTIOXIDANT, ANTIBACTERIAL AND GUT MODULATING ACTIVITIES OF KALANCHOE LACINIATA.

Kalanchoe laciniata (L.) DC. (Crassulaceae) is a widely distributed plant in Africa and Asia. Traditionally, various communities use this plant for the treatment of a variety of ailments such as gut prob- lems, allergic conditions and wounds. The current study was designed to explore the antibacterial, antioxidant and gut modulating activities of K. laciniata in order to provide scientific rationale for its traditional uses. Phytochemical compounds were assessed through screening 70% crude methanolic extract of K. laciniata. Its gut modulatory activity was evaluated by in vitro tissue experiments on rabbit jejunum which yielded maximal spasmogenic response of 28.4 ± 4.6% (n = 4) at 3 mg/mL, while spasmolytic response was recorded with EC50 value of 3.2 mg/mL (2.8-3.5, 95% CI, n = 5). In antibacterial assays crude extract was found effective against Stapllococcus aurus and Bacillus subtilis, with MIC value of 5 and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. The testing of the methanolic crude extract for antioxidants resulted in total phenolic contents of 27.8 ± 1.8 mg GAE/g DW and 22.7 ± 2.1 mg AAE/g DW total antioxidant activity. It also scavenged 17.3 ± 3.0% of DPPH free radical when compared with quercitin.

ANTIDIABETIC AND ANTIDYSLIPIDEMIC EFFECTS OF HELIOTROPIUM STRIGOSUM IN RAT MODELS OF TYPE I AND TYPE II DIABETES.

Heliotropiumz stnigosum Wilid. (Boraginaceae) is used traditionally as a laxative, diuretic, and as a treatment for snake bites and stings of nettles. Recent investigations have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of H. sorigosum. However, antihyperglycemic and antidyslipidemic activity of H. strigosum has not been investigated to date and we aimed to explore these activities of the crude aqueous methanolic extract of thEaerial parts of H. strigosum (Hs.Cr). Hs.Cr was administered orally at doses of 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg in alloxan-induced diabetic rats (type I diabetes) and fructose-fed rats (type II diabetes). The fasting blood glucose (FBG) concentration was assessed by glucometer, while semum total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL were estimated by using standard kits. The FBG concentration significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in dose-dependent pattern in both alloxan-induced diabetic and fructose-fed rats on Hs.Cr administration. The percentage glucose reductions in alloxanized rats with glibenclamide, Hs.Cr 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg were obeserved to be 67, 36, 56 and 62%, respectively. In fructose-fed rats, the percentage glucose redutions associated with metformin, Hs.Cr 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg were 23, 5, 11 and 12%, respectively. The extract also corrected the dyslipidemia associated with fructose and alloxan-induced diabetes by significantly (p < 0.00 1) decreasing the concentration of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL and by increasing HDL concentration. Our data demonstrate that the H. stigosum has antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic effects, thus encouraging further studies.

Diuretic activity of aqueous extract of Nigella sativa in albino rats.

The study aims to evaluate the diuretic effect and acute toxicity of a crude aqueous extract of Nigella sativa using animal models. To evaluate the diuretic activity of the plant, Albino rats were divided into five groups. The control group received normal saline (10 mL/kg), the reference group received furosemide (10 mg/kg) and the test groups were administered different doses (i.e., 10, 30 and 50 mg/kg) of the crude extract by intra-peritoneal route, respectively. Graph Pad Prism was used for the statistical analysis and p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. We observed significant diuretic, kaliuretic and natriuretic effects in the treated groups in a dose dependent manner. However, urinary pH remained unchanged during the course of the study. The diuretic index values showed good diuretic activity of the crude extract. The Lipschitz values demonstrated that the crude extract, at the dose of 50 mg/kg, showed 46% diuretic activity compared with furosemide. With regard to the acute toxicity study, no lethal effects were observed among Albino mice even at the higher dose of 5000 mg/kg. The extract of Nigella sativa, at the dose of 50 mg/kg, significantly increased the urinary volume and modified the concentration of urinary electrolytes, and there was observed no signs of acute toxicity associated with the crude extract. Further studies are encouraged to isolate the pure phytochemical responsible for diuresis.

Possible mechanism of cardiac depressant activity of Berberis orthobotrys roots in isolated rabbit heart.

Berberis orhob, otrvs Bien. ex Aitch. (B.o.) has been reported to have antihypertensive effect in different experimental models. The aim of present study was to evaluate the possible antihypertensive mechanism. Aqueous methanolic extract of B.o. roots and its various fractions namely (ethyl acetate, n-butanol or aqueous) in different concentrations (10 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, I pg/mL, 10 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL ) were evaluated in isolated perfused rabbit heart to assess their effect on force of contraction, HR and perfusion pressure. The crude extract of B.o. and its fractions exhibited a significant decrease in heart rate, contractility and perfusion pressure of isolated rabbit heart, however, butanolic fraction produced more prominent effect and was selected for further study. The effects of butanol fraction were not blocked by atropine (10' M) in isolated perfused heart. However, butanol fraction significantly blocked the effects of adrenaline (10' M). It is therefore conceivable that cardiac depressant activity of B.o. butanol fraction might be due to the presence of certain 3-blocking agents which might be responsible for antihypertensive effect However, further experiments are required to isolate the active compound(s) and elucidate exact mechanism of action.

Pharmacological evaluation of antihypertensive effect of aerial parts of Thymus linearis benth.

Traditionally Thymus linearis Benth. have been used for treatment of various diseases including hypertension. The present study was conducted to evaluate the hypotensive and antihypertensive effect of aqueous methanolic extract of aerial parts of Thymus linearis Benth. in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Acute and subchronic studies were also conducted. The aqueous methanolic extract produced a significant decrease in SBP, DBP, MBP and heart rate of both normotensive and hypertensive rats. LDv, of the extract was found to be 3000 mg/kg. The extract also exhibited a reduction in serum ALT, AST, ALP, cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL levels, while a significant increase in HDL level was observed. It is conceivable therefore, that Thymus linearis Benth. contains certain active compound(s) that are possibly responsible for the observed antihypertensive activity. Moreover, these findings further authenticate the traditional use of this plant in folklore medicine.

Diuretic activity of Boswellia serrata Roxb. oleo gum extract in albino rats.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of crude aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata Roxb. oleo gum on urinary electrolytes, pH and diuretic activity in normal albino rats. Moreover, acute toxicity of the gum extract was assessed using mice. Albino rats were divided into five groups. Control group received normal saline (10 mg/kg), reference group received furosemide (10 mg/kg) and test groups were given different doses of crude extract (10, 30 and 50 mg/kg) by intra-peritoneal route, respectively. The Graph Pad Prism was used for the statistical analysis and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Significant diuretic, kaliuretic and natriuretic effects were observed in the treated groups in a dose dependent manner. Diuretic index showed good diuretic activity of the crude extract. Lipschitz values indicated that the crude extract, at the dose of 50 mg/kg, showed 44 % diuretic activity compared to the reference drug. No lethal effects were observed among albino mice even at the higher dose of 3000 mg/kg. It is concluded that aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata oleo gum, at the dose of 50 mg/kg showed significant effects on urinary volume and concentration of urinary electrolytes with no signs of toxicity.

Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential of Methanolic Extract of Neurada procumbens Linn. in Mice.

Neurada procumbens Linn. possesses a wide range of phytochemical and bioactive entities such as flavonoids and polyphenols that decrease the oxidative stress and enhance synaptic plasticity, resulting in accelerated healing processes. Almost all parts of the plant have been used in the traditional system of medicine for various disorders including its use as an anticonvulsant, sexual tonic, and anti-rheumatic agent. This study is designed to evaluate the anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of the methanolic crude extract of N. procumbens (Np.Cr) based on its use in traditional medicine and presence of the phytochemical constituents. Aqueous methanolic extract of Np.Cr was prepared under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator, and different chemical constituents were identified by phytochemical screening. Light/dark exploration, elevated plus maze (EPM), and hole board tests were used to assess the anxiolytic activity, while forced swim and tail suspension tests were used to assess the antidepressant potential of the crude extract. Treatment groups treated individually with 3 different doses; i.e., 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of Np.Cr, showed a dose-dependent increase in time spent in light compartment and in open arms as well as increased number of head poking by the experimental animals. Np.Cr showed significant antidepressant potential (P < .05) as evident from marked decrease in behavioral despair. Findings of the present study assure that N. procumbens possess significant anxiolytic and antidepressant potential with the demands of further investigations to identify the active compound(s) responsible for these pharmacological effects.

Evaluation of Caralluma edulis for its Potential Against Obesity, Atherosclerosis and Hypertension.

Obesity, a chronic metabolic condition, is an increase in fat mass and blood lipid levels mainly causing atherosclerosis and hypertension, which further lead to cardiovascular complications. The objective of the study was to investigate the crude extract of Caralluma edulis (CE.Cr) for its potential against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and its related complications. Hyperlipidemia was induced in Wistar albino rats with HFD (1% cholesterol + 0.5% cholic acid) for 28 days. Treatment groups were administered with different doses of CE.Cr (100, 300 and 500 mg/Kg, p.o.) and the standard group received atorvastatin. At the end of study, sera were analyzed for biochemical markers and the aorta was dissected for microscopic examination. Antioxidant potential was evaluated and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was performed. The hypotensive potential of CE.Cr was evaluated through an invasive technique. HPLC analysis of CE.Cr showed the presence of chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, apigenin and naringenin. Histological examination of the aorta section showed anti-atherosclerotic effects which were also evident from decrease in serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins levels. CE.Cr decreased mean arterial blood pressure and evoked significant hypotensive effects. The crude extract of C. edulis showed anti-obesity, antihypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic and antioxidant potential.

Characterization of Sesuvium sesuvioides Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Validation of Its In Vivo Anti-hyperthyroidism Effect via Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers.

Sesuvium sesuvioides was used to treat inflammation, arthritis, gout, and thyroid dysfunction. The current study evaluated the antihyperthyroidism effect of S. sesuvioides to consolidate its traditional use. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of S. sesuvioides methanol extract revealed the presence of phenolics such as gallic acid (0.73 ppm/mg), benzoic acid (11.22 ppm/mg), p-coumaric acid (3.12 ppm/mg), ferulic acid (5.47 ppm/mg), cinnamic acid (3.54 ppm/mg), and sinapic acid (3.17 ppm/mg). In vivo hyperthyroidism was induced using thyroxine in vivo, which increased T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (tetraiodothyronine), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels. However, it reduced thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH). S. sesuvioides methanol extract alleviated thyroxine-induced intoxication in a dose-dependent manner. At a 750 mg/kg (SsCr3) dose, it reduced T3, T4, MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α by 61.23, 41.29, 45.17, 44.66, and 62.03%, respectively, and elevated TSH, SOD, and GSH by 365.52, 94.45, and 95.12%, respectively, relative to the diseased group. Further confirmation was done by histopathological examination, which showed normal thyroid histology where follicles were filled with colloids with more cytoplasmic concentrations. This activity is undoubtedly correlated to the richness of the extract by phenolic acids, as revealed by HPLC. In silico ADME/TOPKAT prediction performed on the secondary metabolites identified in S. sesuvioides methanol extract revealed acceptable pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity potential. Thus, S. sesuvioides could serve as a promising source for alleviating hyperthyroidism, which could be further incorporated into pharmaceutical preparations.

LC-ESI-MS analysis, antioxidant, anti-diabetic and molecular docking studies on Corchorus depressus (L.) C.Chr.

The present study encompasses the ethnomedicinal consumption of Corchorus depressus (L.) C.Chr. (C. depressus) for diabetes. Samples were subjected to LC-ESI-MS analyses. The n-hexane, methanolic and water extracts were screened for α-glucosidase inhibition and in vivo anti-diabetic studies. Further, antioxidant (DPPH) and anti-inflammatory study was performed via luminol-enhanced chemi-luminescence assay. The identified compounds were docked against the target enzymes of diabetes. The n-hexane fraction (CD-J1) showed IC50 of 8.4 ± 0.1 µg/mL against α-glucosidase enzyme. The sub fractions CD-12 and CD-13 of CD-J1 obtained after flash column chromatography displayed further reduced IC50 values of 4.3 ± 0.1 and 6.3 ± 0.1, respectively, as compared with standard drug acarbose (IC50 values of 37.5 ± 0.2 µg/mL). Simultaneously, dereplication of most active sub-fraction CD-12 by LC-ESI-MS led to the identification of strophanthidin and some other active metabolites responsible for anti-diabetic activity. Molecular docking of strophanthidin with α-glucosidase and α-amylase revealed high affinity for these target enzymes.

COVID-19 and severity of liver diseases: Possible crosstalk and clinical implications.

COVID-19-infected individuals and those who recovered from the infection have been demonstrated to have elevated liver enzymes or abnormal liver biochemistries, particularly with preexisting liver diseases, liver metabolic disorders, viral hepatitis, and other hepatic comorbidities. However, possible crosstalk and intricate interplay between COVID-19 and liver disease severity are still elusive, and the available data are murky and confined. Similarly, the syndemic of other blood-borne infectious diseases, chemical-induced liver injuries, and chronic hepatic diseases continued to take lives while showing signs of worsening due to the COVID-19 crisis. Moreover, the pandemic is not over yet and is transitioning to becoming an epidemic in recent years; hence, monitoring liver function tests (LFTs) and assessing hepatic consequences of COVID-19 in patients with or without liver illnesses would be of paramount interest. This pragmatic review explores the correlations between COVID-19 and liver disease severity based on abnormal liver biochemistries and other possible mechanisms in individuals of all ages from the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic to the post-pandemic period. The review also alludes to clinical perspectives of such interactions to curb overlapping hepatic diseases in people who recovered from the infection or living with long COVID-19.

SARS-CoV-2 Detection and COVID-19 Diagnosis: A Bird's Eye View.

The battle against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) associated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is continued worldwide by administering firsttime emergency authorized novel mRNA-based and conventional vector-antigen-based anti- COVID-19 vaccines to prevent further transmission of the virus as well as to reduce the severe respiratory complications of the infection in infected individuals. However; the emergence of numerous SARS-CoV-2 variants is of concern, and the identification of certain breakthrough and reinfection cases in vaccinated individuals as well as new cases soaring in some low-to-middle income countries (LMICs) and even in some resource-replete nations have raised concerns that only vaccine jabs would not be sufficient to control and vanquishing the pandemic. Lack of screening for asymptomatic COVID-19-infected subjects and inefficient management of diagnosed COVID-19 infections also pose some concerns and the need to fill the gaps among policies and strategies to reduce the pandemic in hospitals, healthcare services, and the general community. For this purpose, the development and deployment of rapid screening and diagnostic procedures are prerequisites in premises with high infection rates as well as to screen mass unaffected COVID-19 populations. Novel methods of variant identification and genome surveillance studies would be an asset to minimize virus transmission and infection severity. The proposition of this pragmatic review explores current paradigms for the screening of SARS-CoV-2 variants, identification, and diagnosis of COVID-19 infection, and insights into the late-stage development of new methods to better understand virus super spread variants and genome surveillance studies to predict pandemic trajectories.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Mentha piperita Against Urolithiasis: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study.

Background: Mentha piperita L. (peppermint) is one of the most widely consumed medicinal herbs that has gained attention from food and pharmaceutical industries due to its distinct aroma and taste. Purpose: Present study was aimed to rationalize the traditional use of peppermint in urolithiasis and to explore its possible underlying mechanism. Research Design: The aqueous methanolic crude extract of Mentha piperita (Mp.Cr) was assessed for phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity. In vitro crystallization assays were performed to determine the inhibitory effects of Mp.Cr against crystal nucleation, aggregation and growth. In vivo urolithiasis model was developed in rats by the administration of ammonium chloride and ethylene glycol in drinking water. The antiurolithic effects of Mp.Cr were evaluated by analyzing kidney homogenate, biochemical and histological parameters. Results: HPLC analysis showed the presence of epicatechin, quercetin, gallic acid, syringic acid, kaempferol, caffeic acid and coumaric acid. The maximum quantity of quercetin equivalent flavonoid and gallic acid equivalent phenolic content was found to be 63.73 ± .24 mg QE/g and 43.76 ± .6 mg GAE/g of Mp.Cr, respectively. Mp.Cr significantly normalized urinary and serum biochemistry, similar to the standard cystone treatment. Conclusions: The current study validated the preventive and curative potential of Mp.Cr against urolithiasis and justified its traditional use in kidney stone disease.

Pharmacological Role of Capparis decidua (Forssk.) Edgew in Preventing Cyclophosphamide-induced Myelosuppression and Modulating Innate and Adaptive Immune Response.

Background: Capparis decidua (Forssk.) Edgew is reported to be practiced in the traditional system of medicine for the management of various immunological pathologies. Purpose: The current study was designed to evaluate the modulatory effects of C decidua on different immune responses. Research Design: C decidua was extracted in 70% methanol and the crude extract (Cd.Cr) was analyzed by FTIR and GCMS. In vivo models were employed to assess the actions of Cd.Cr on cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression, innate and adaptive immune responses. Results: GCMS and FTIR analysis indicated the presence of flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids and lipids. Cd.Cr evoked a significant and dose-dependent increase in percent neutrophil adhesion (15.97 ± .81, 27.47 ± .79 and 38.35 ± 1.08) and the phagocytic index (3.1 ± .04, 3.96 ± .06 and 5.28 ± .13) at the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg. Cd.Cr also potentiated haemagglutinating antibody titre, immunoglobulins and cytokines (interferon-γ and interleukin-2) production for 4 weeks, after exposure to sheep erythrocytes, and delayed type hypersensitivity reaction significantly (P < .05). The restoration of hematological profile and antioxidant enzyme activities, by Cd.Cr, indicated the prevention of cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression and oxidative stress. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that C decidua holds immunomodulatory activity by thus possesses therapeutic potential for the management of immunological diseases.