Hepatoprotective activity of Lactéol® forte and quercetin dihydrate against thioacetamide-induced hepatic cirrhosis in male albino rats.

Liver cirrhosis is a silent disease in humans and is experimentally induced by many drugs and toxins as thioacetamide (TAA) in particular, which is the typical model for experimental induction of hepatic fibrosis. Thus, the objective of the present study was to elucidate the possible protective effects of lactéol® forte (LF) and quercetin dihydrate (QD) against TAA-induced hepatic damage in male albino rats. Induction of hepatotoxicity was performed by TAA injection (200 mg/kg I/P, twice/ week) in rats. LF (1 × 109 CFU/rat 5 times/week) and QD (50 mg/kg 5 times/week) treated groups were administered concurrently with TAA injection (200 mg/kg I/P, twice/ week). The experimental treatments were conducted for 12 weeks. Hepatotoxicity was evaluated biochemically by measuring alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the serum and histopathologically with the scoring of histopathological changes besides histochemical assessment of collagen by Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical analysis for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Ki67 and caspase-3 expression in liver sections. Our results indicated that LF and QD attenuated some biochemical changes and histochemical markers in TAA-mediated hepatotoxicity in rats by amelioration of biochemical markers and collagen, α-SMA, Ki67 and caspase3 Immunoexpression. Additionally, LF and QD supplementation downregulated the proliferative, necrotic, fibroblastic changes, eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions, hyaline globules and Mallory-like bodies that were detected histopathologically in the TAA group. In conclusion, LF showed better hepatic protection than QD against TAA-induced hepatotoxicity in rats by inhibiting inflammatory reactions with the improvement of some serum hepatic transaminases, histopathological picture and immunohistochemical markers.

The therapeutic value of Myrtus communis L.: an updated review.

Myrtus communis L. (Family: Myrtaceae) is naturally found in the western part of Asia, Southern Europe, and North Africa. It has been reportedly applied in pharmaceutical industry, traditional medicine, cosmetics, spices, and food. Pubmed, Google scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus were utilized to seek out relevant content concerning the therapeutic potential of M. communis. Subsequently, we conducted a review to identity noteworthy updates pertaining to M. communis. Myrtle berries, leaves, seeds, and essential oils are natural sources of several nutrients and bioactive compounds with marked health effects. The chemical analysis showed that M. communis contained oils, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, coumarins, saponosides, tannins, quinines, and anthraquinones. A pharmacological investigation revealed that M. communis possessed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimutagenic, immunomodulatory, dermatological, cardiovascular, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal protective effects, among numerous other biological effects. This current review focused on the biochemical, pharmacological, therapeutic effects, and various biological activities of different parts of M. communis. It signifies that M. communis is a therapeutic plant with numerous applications in medicine and could be used as a drug isolate based on its safety and effectiveness.

Therapeutic Potential of Cornus Genus: Navigating Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Clinical Studies, and Advanced Delivery Approaches.

The genus Cornus (Cornaceae) plants are widely distributed in Europe, southwest Asia, North America, and the mountains of Central America, South America, and East Africa. Cornus plants exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidative, antiproliferative, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory activities. These plants are exploited to possess various phytoconstituents such as triterpenoids, iridoids, anthocyanins, tannins and flavonoids. Pharmacological research and clinical investigations on various Cornus species have advanced significantly in recent years. Over the past few decades, a significant amount of focus has also been made into developing new delivery systems for Cornus mas and Cornus officinalis. This review focuses on the morphological traits, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities and clinical studies on extracts and active constituents from plants of Cornus genus. The review also highlights recent novel delivery systems for Cornus mas and Cornus officinalis extracts to promote sustained and targeted delivery in diverse disorders. The overwhelming body of research supports the idea that plants from the genus Cornus have therapeutic potential and can be investigated in the future for treatingseveral ailments.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and epigenetic potential of curcumin in Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) constitutes a multifactorial neurodegenerative pathology characterized by cognitive deterioration, personality alterations, and behavioral shifts. The ongoing brain impairment process poses significant challenges for therapeutic interventions due to activating multiple neurotoxic pathways. Current pharmacological interventions have shown limited efficacy and are associated with significant side effects. Approaches focusing on the early interference with disease pathways, before activation of broad neurotoxic processes, could be promising to slow down symptomatic progression of the disease. Curcumin-an integral component of traditional medicine in numerous cultures worldwide-has garnered interest as a promising AD treatment. Current research indicates that curcumin may exhibit therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative pathologies, attributed to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, curcumin and its derivatives have demonstrated an ability to modulate cellular pathways via epigenetic mechanisms. This article aims to raise awareness of the neuroprotective properties of curcuminoids that could provide therapeutic benefits in AD. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the neuroprotective efficacy of curcumin against signaling pathways that could be involved in AD and summarizes recent evidence of the biological efficiency of curcumins in vivo.

Does vitamin D protect or treat Parkinson's disease? A narrative review.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative brain disease (NBD) developed due to dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra (SN). Vitamin D (VD), VD receptor (VDR), and VD metabolites are highly expressed in the human brain and play a critical role in maintaining different brain functions. VDRs are highly expressed in the SN that regulates the activity of dopaminergic neurons and synaptic plasticity. VD exerts protective and therapeutic effects against the development of PD by modulating dopaminergic neurons of SN. VD reduces oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in PD because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Different studies revealed the protective effect of VD in the management of PD. However, the potential therapeutic effect of VD in well-established PD remains controversial. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate VD's preventive and therapeutic roles in PD. In conclusion, VD deficiency is associated with increased PD risk, but VD supplementation in well-established PD plays little role.

Addressing cancer care inequities in sub-Saharan Africa: current challenges and proposed solutions.

INTRODUCTION: Cancer is a significant public health challenge globally, with nearly 2000 lives lost daily in Africa alone. Without adequate measures, mortality rates are likely to increase. The major challenge for cancer care in Africa is equity and prioritization, as cancer is not receiving adequate attention from policy-makers and strategic stakeholders in the healthcare space. This neglect is affecting the three primary tiers of cancer care: prevention, diagnosis, and treatment/management. To promote cancer care equity, addressing issues of equity and prioritization is crucial to ensure that everyone has an equal chance at cancer prevention, early detection, and appropriate care and follow-up treatment. METHODOLOGY: Using available literature, we provide an overview of the current state of cancer care in Africa and recommendations to close the gap. RESULTS: We highlight several factors that contribute to cancer care inequity in Africa, including inadequate funding for cancer research, poor cancer education or awareness, inadequate screening or diagnostic facilities, lack of a well-organized and effective cancer registry system and access to care, shortage of specialized medical staff, high costs for screening, vaccination, and treatment, lack of technical capacity, poor vaccination response, and/or late presentation of patients for cancer screening. We also provide recommendations to address some of these obstacles to achieving cancer care equity. Our recommendations are divided into national-level initiatives and capacity-based initiatives, including cancer health promotion and awareness by healthcare professionals during every hospital visit, encouraging screening and vaccine uptake, ensuring operational regional and national cancer registries, improving healthcare budgeting for staff, equipment, and facilities, building expertise through specialty training, funding for cancer research, providing insurance coverage for cancer care, and implementing mobile health technology for telemedicine diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Addressing challenges to cancer equity holistically would improve the likelihood of longer survival for cancer patients, lower the risk factors for groups that are already at risk, and ensure equitable access to cancer care on the continent. This study identifies the existing stance that African nations have on equity in cancer care, outlines the current constraints, and provides suggestions that could make the biggest difference in attaining equity in cancer care.

Morus alba: a comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological review.

Morus alba is a fast-growing shrub or medium-sized tree with a straight, cylindrical trunk. Medicinally, whole plants, leaves, fruits, branches, and roots have been employed. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical components and pharmacologic and mechanism of action of the Morus alba. This was reviewed to assess important updates about Morus alba. The fruits of Morus alba have traditionally been used as an analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, hypotensive, hypoglycemia, purgative, restorative, sedative tonic, and blood stimulant. Various plant parts were used as a cooling, sedating, diuretic, tonic, and astringent agent to treat nerve disorders. The plant contained tannins, steroids, phytosterols, sitosterol, glycosides, alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, and amino acids, as well as saponins, triterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids, benzofuran derivatives, anthocyanins, anthraquinones, glycosides, vitamins, and minerals. Previous pharmacological research identified antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunological, analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidant, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, dermatological, neurological, muscular, and protecting effects. This study looked at Morus alba's traditional uses, chemical components, and pharmacological effects.

A review of the bioactive components and pharmacological properties of Lavandula species.

Lavandula species is a flowering plant that is common in Europe and across the Mediterranean. Lavender has many health benefits for humans. In addition to its use in herbal medicine, it is widely used in the fields of cosmetics, perfumes, foods, and aromatherapy. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical ingredients, the pharmacologic effects of the ingredients, and the mechanism of action of the Lavandula species identified. These materials were reviewed in order to have access to important updates about the Lavandula species. Lavender as referred to in English contains essential oils, anthocyanins, phytosterols, sugars, minerals, coumaric acid, glycolic acid, valeric acid, ursolic acid, herniarins, coumarins, and tannins. It has been used to treat colic and chest ailments, worrisome headaches, and biliousness, and in cleaning wounds. It has antifungal, antibacterial, neurologic, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, anti-diabetic, and analgesic effects among others. Lavandula species has prospects for various biological applications, especially with its dermatological application. Advances in drug development would enable characterization of various bioactive constituents; thus, its development and application can have a more positive impact on humanity. Here, we highlighted updated information on the history, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Lavandula species.

Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update.

Medicinal plants have a long track record of use in history, and one of them is Commiphora myrrh which is commonly found in the southern part of Arabia, the northeastern part of Africa, in Somalia, and Kenya. Relevant literatures were accessed via Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to give updated information on the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological action of Commiphora myrrh. It has been used traditionally for treating wounds, mouth ulcers, aches, fractures, stomach disorders, microbial infections, and inflammatory diseases. It is used as an antiseptic, astringent, anthelmintic, carminative, emmenagogue, and as an expectorant. Phytochemical studies have shown that it contains terpenoids (monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and volatile/essential oil), diterpenoids, triterpenoids, and steroids. Its essential oil has applications in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and perfumery. Research has shown that it exerts various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, analgesic, anti-parasitic, and recently, it was found to work against respiratory infections like COVID-19. With the advancement in drug development, hopefully, its rich phytochemical components can be explored for drug development as an insecticide due to its great anti-parasitic activity. Also, its interactions with drugs can be fully elucidated.This review highlights an updated information on the history, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Commiphora myrrh. Graphical summary of the phytochemical and pharmacological update of Commiphora myrrh.

The phytochemical profiling, pharmacological activities, and safety of malva sylvestris: a review.

Malva sylvestris is a plant commonly found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The leaves and flowers of this plant have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as cough, cold, diarrhoea, and constipation. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical profiling and pharmacologic activities of Malva sylvestris. The techniques used in phytochemical profiling and the pharmacologic activity of each compound were extracted from the included studies, including in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. The phytochemical analysis of Malva sylvestris revealed that the leaves and flowers are the most commonly used parts of the plant and contain various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, mucilages, terpenoids, phenol derivatives, coumarins, sterols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. These phytochemicals are responsible for the many pharmacological activities of Malva sylvestris, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, laxative, antiproliferative and antioxidant properties. This review has presented an overview of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities and the cytotoxic effects of Malva sylvestris on different types of cancer cells. It has also summarised the work on developing copper oxide nanoparticles using Malva sylvestris leaf extract and its potential use in food and medicine. This review aims to highlight the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and safety of Malva sylvestris.

The emergence of metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) as a phytomedicine: A two-facet role in plant growth, nano-toxicity and anti-phyto-microbial activity.

Anti-microbial resistance (AMR) has recently emerged as an area of high interest owing to the rapid surge of AMR phenotypes. Metal oxide NPs (MeONPs) have been identified as novel phytomedicine and have recently peaked a lot of interest due to their potential applications in combating phytopathogens, besides enhancing plant growth and yields. Numerous MeONPs (Ti2O, MgO, CuO, Ag2O, SiO2, ZnO, and CaO) have been synthesized and tested to validate their antimicrobial roles without causing toxicity to the cells. This review discusses the application of the MeONPs with special emphasis on anti-microbial activities in agriculture and enlists how cellular toxicity caused through reactive oxygen species (ROS) production affects plant growth, morphology, and viability. This review further highlights the two-facet role of silver and copper oxide NPs including their anti-microbial applications and toxicities. Furthermore, the factor modulating nanotoxicity and immunomodulation for cytokine production has also been discussed. Thus, this article will not only provide the researchers with the potential bottlenecks but also emphasizes a comprehensive outline of breakthroughs in the applicability of MeONPs in agriculture.

The Association Between the Risk of Breast Cancer and Epigallocatechin- 3-Gallate Intake: A Literature Review of a Potential Chemopreventive Agent.

According to the latest epidemiological data, breast cancer has recently been the most frequently diagnosed malignancy. To date, a body of evidence has established the involvement of multiple - and frequently interrelated - genetic and environmental factors in the pathogenesis of the disease. Emerging research on cancer prevention has highlighted the deterrence potential of interventions targeting environmental risk factors, particularly diet. In this aspect, the current review reveals the latest scientific results regarding epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) - a catechin most commonly found in green tea, as a potential chemopreventive dietary agent against breast cancer. in vitro studies on EGCG have demonstrated its effect on cell cycle progression and its potential to suppress several intracellular signaling pathways involved in breast cancer pathogenesis. In addition, EGCG possesses specific apoptosis-inducing characteristics that seem to enhance its role as a regulator of cell survival. Preclinical data seem to support using EGCG as an effective adjunct to EGFR-targeting treatments. The authors' appraisal of the literature suggests that although preclinical evidence has documented the anticarcinogenic features of EGCG, limited large-scale epidemiological studies are investigating the consumption of EGCG - containing nutrients in the prevention and management of breast cancer risk. This literature review aims to liaise between preclinical and epidemiological research, surveying the existing evidence and unraveling relevant knowledge gaps.

COVID-19 and L-arginine Supplementations: Yet to Find the Missed Key.

Current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is regarded as a primary respiratory and vascular disease leading to acute lung injury (ALI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and endothelial dysfunction (ED) in severe cases. The causative virus of COVID-19 is SARS-CoV-2, which binds angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for its entry. It has been shown that ED is linked to various COVID-19 complications since endothelial cells are regarded as the chief barrier against SARS-CoV- 2 invasion. SARS-CoV-2-indued ED leads to endotheliitis and thrombosis due to endothelial nitric oxide (NO) inhibition with subsequent vasoconstriction and tissue hypoxia. Loss of vasodilator NO and anti-thrombin factor from endothelial SARS-CoV-2 infection contribute to the progression of vascular dysfunction and coagulopathy. Therefore, NO restoration improves pulmonary function and hinders viral replication during respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19. L-arginine is a semiessential amino acid that has antiviral and immunomodulatory effects as well as improves the biosynthesis of NO in endothelial cells. L-arginine may reduce the risk of ALI through inhibition of generation of peroxynitrite and suppression of the release of proinflammatory cytokines from alveolar macrophages. Of interest, restoration of NO by L-arginine may attenuate SARS-CoV-2 infection through different mechanisms, including reduction binding of SARS-CoV-2 to ACE2, inhibition of transmembrane protease serine-type 2 (TMPRSS2), critical for the activation of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and cellular entry, inhibition proliferation and replication of SARS-CoV-2, and prevention of SARS-CoV-2-induced coagulopathy. In conclusion, through antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, L-arginine and released NO have mutual and interrelated actions against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Infrared Radiation in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review.

Infrared radiation (IR) is a promising complementary treatment for musculoskeletal conditions and chronic pain. By means of a systematic review, we evaluated the contribution of IR to the management of these ailments. PubMed-MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library-Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched until 20 December 2021. The literature search yielded 233 relevant records. Following the screening of titles and abstracts, 42 full-texts were evaluated. As per inclusion/exclusion criteria, 13 publications were entered into the qualitative assessment. These studies described the effects of IR in humans: three studies focused on osteoarthritis, four studies on fibromyalgia, and six encompassed a wider range of diseases (ankylosing spondylitis, recovery from sports injuries, myofascial pain syndrome). Based on the findings of our systematic review, we noted a decrease in pain levels, as evaluated by the visual analog scale (VAS), in patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders treated with IR. In addition, IR use led to a decrease in Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FiQ) scores in subjects diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Nevertheless, IR has failed to facilitate muscle recovery following athletic injuries.

Isolation, characterization and in vitro antioxidant activity screening of pure compound from black pepper (Piper nigrum).

The present study's aims of isolation, characterization and in vitro antioxidant activity screening of pure compound from Black pepper (Piper nigrum) were investigated. Nowadays, scientific exploration of medicinal plants from natural sources has become the prime concern globally. All the crude drugs that have been isolated from natural plant origin (herbs, root, stem, bark, fruit and flower) have great significance in drug discovery as well as a lead compound to demonstrate great synergistic effect on pharmacology. For this research work, methanol was selected as a mother solvent, and the crude methanolic extract of black pepper was partitioned in between the solvent chloroform and di-ethyl-ether. A crystal fraction has been eradicated from the chloroform extract of black pepper (Piper nigrum). The crystal compound (C1) was isolated and purified by using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and recrystallization technique. The purified crystal compound (C1) isolated from black pepper possesses a strong in vitro antioxidant activity. The IC50 value of crystal compound (C1) was 4.1 µg/ml where the standard one had 3.2 µg/ml. Physical, phytochemical and chromatographical characterization of pure crystal compound (C1) has been explored, and from the analysis of all characteristics, it was found that, crystal compound (C1) might have resembling features of the standard Piperine of black pepper. The overall research work was really remarkable and introduced a convenient way of isolating pure compound from the natural source which will be a great referential resource in isolating crude drugs for future analysis.

Annona muricata Linn and Khaya grandifoliola C.DC. Reduce Oxidative Stress In Vitro and Ameliorate Plasmodium berghei-Induced Parasitemia and Cytokines in BALB/c Mice.

BACKGROUND: Annona muricata and Khaya grandifoliola are ethnomedicinally used for the treatment of malaria and have been experimentally shown to have an anti-plasmodial effect, but the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. This study investigated the effect of the ethanol extracts of their leaves on parasitemia, radical scavenging and cytokines in Plasmodium berghei ANKA-infected BALB/c mice. METHODS: BALB/c mice were infected with P. berghei and treated with chloroquine, A. muricata or K. grandifoliola extract for 4 days. The percentage of parasitemia and the level of cytokine expression were determined after treatment. Trace element, phytochemical and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging properties assays were done to study the antioxidant effects of AN and KG in vitro. RESULTS: P. berghei consistently increased parasitemia in BALB/c mice. The tested doses (100-, 200-, and 400 mg/kg) of A. muricata and K. grandifoliola attenuated the P. berghei-induced elevation of parasitemia and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-5, and IL-6) in vivo during the experimental period, though not as much as chloroquine. Moreover, both extracts scavenged the DPPH and NO radicals, though A. muricata had more anti-oxidant effect than K. grandifoliola in-vitro. CONCLUSION: The ethanol extracts of A. muricata and K. grandifoliola reduce parasitemia in P. berghei-treated mice BALB/c by scavenging free radicals and reducing cytokines, though the extracts were not as effective as chloroquine.

Relationship between CNS and Immunology: Correlation with Psychology.

BACKGROUND: Higher animals, especially the human beings have the privilege of employing advanced central nervous system (CNS) as well as the evolved immune system to ward off various onslaughts throughout their life. Alterations in inflammatory and neural regulatory pathways lead to several disorders that are now becoming the cause of concern across the world. Deregulation in bidirectional network, particularly in aging population, leads to several neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia as a one of the major characteristics. OBJECTIVE: Interestingly, research updates have signified the role of abrupt immune regulation in several brain diseases, establishing a link between altered immune system and CNS related diseases. In the later period of life, the altered immune response in the pathogenesis of major psychiatric disorders, has become more visible. In the present manuscript, we present a synopsis on the linkage of CNS and immune system with respect to psychology, with the aim to further understand the biological machinery of psychoneuroimmunological disorders. The immune system of human being plays an important role in keeping pathogen onslaughts on bay. CONCLUSION: Our manuscript concludes a close relationship between emotion and psychology to diseases and immunology, proclaiming the need of providing enhanced attention on mechanistic aspect of psychoneuroimmunological disorders.