Cordia Dichotoma: A Comprehensive Review of its Phytoconstituents and Endophytic Fungal Metabolites and their Potential Anticancer Effects.

Cordia Dichotoma is a valuable medicinal plant belonging to the family Boraginaceae. It consists of several beneficial secondary metabolite components, including alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and tannins. Numerous studies have been conducted to assess the anticancer properties of Cordia Dichotoma on MCF-7, A-549, PC3, and HeLa cancer cell lines, primarily utilizing ethanolic extract, methanolic extract, and chloroform extract. The results of these studies have demonstrated significant effects. Furthermore, several studies have revealed the rich phytoconstituent content of Cordia Dichotoma with some significant components previously utilized by researchers to investigate the anticancer properties of specific compounds. This review discusses several of these components, including ß-sitosterol, α-amyrin, Quercitrin, Robinin, betulin, Taxifolin, and Hesperetin. Additionally, a recent study uncovered that the anticancer effect of metabolites from endophytic fungi residing on the Cordia Dichotoma plant is attributed to a property of the plant itself. This review focuses on the current state of anticancer research related to this plant and its components.

Antioxidative and neuroprotective potential of Acorus calamus linn. and Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. In Alzheimer's type dementia in rodent.

The goal of this research study was to see how plant extracts of Acorus calamus Linn. and Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. overcome scopolamine-induced Alzheimer's type dementia in mice by activating the cholinergic system, anti-oxidant and protection of neuronal death in the brain (hippocampus region). Scopolamine (1 mg/kg i.p.) reduced mice's routine in behavioral parameters such as Morris Water Maze (MWM), Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), and also the locomotor activity. It also decreases antioxidant levels such as Reduced glutathione (GSH) and also Superoxide dismutase (SOD) but also increases the level of Acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) in brain. Assessment of various behavioral, and biochemical parameters (AChE, SOD, GSH, and Nitrite level) were compared with each group. Acorus calamus (hydro-alcoholic 1:1) 600 mg/kg p.o. and the combination (Acorus calamus 600 mg/kg p.o. + Cordia dichotoma 750 mg/kg p.o.) group showed significant results as compared to Cordia dichotoma 750 mg/kg p.o.in behavioral as well as in biochemical parameters. Histological studies showed significant neuroprotection in the Acorus calamus-treated group and the combination-treated groups. In the future, the Acorus calamus and the combination are possibly helpful in the treatment of various cognitive disorders or it may be valuable to investigate the pharmacological potential of such plant extracts during the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.

Diversity, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Activity of Culturable Fungal Endophyte Communities in Cordia dichotoma.

Endophytic fungi are a significant source of secondary metabolites, which are chemical compounds with biological activities. The present study emphasizes the first-time isolation and identification of such fungi and their pharmacological activities from the medicinal plant Cordia dichotoma, which is native to Jammu, India. The Shannon Wiener diversity index revealed a wide range of fungal endophytes in root (1.992), stem (1.645), and leaf (1.46) tissues. A total of 19 endophytic fungi belonging to nine different genera were isolated from this plant and the majority belonged to the Ascomycota phylum. ITS rRNA gene sequencing was used to identify the fungal strains and they were submitted in NCBI GenBank. The most potent fungal isolate Cladosporium cladosporioides OP870014 had strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activity against MCF-7, HCT-116, and PC-3 cancer cell lines. The LC-MS and GC-MS analyses of the ethyl acetate extract of C. cladosporioides were examined to identify the bioactive metabolites. The major compounds of the crude extract derived from C. cladosporioides OP870014, according to GC-MS, are spiculisporic acid; dibutyl phthalate; phenylethyl alcohol; cyclohexanone, 2,3,3-trimethyl-2-3-methylbutyl; pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione,hexahydro-3-(phenylmethyl);2,5-piperazinedione,3,6-bis(2-methylpropyl); and heneicosane which possessed antimicrobial, anticancerous, and antioxidant activities. The findings revealed that C. dichotoma has the capacity to host a wide variety of fungal endophytes and that secondary metabolites from the endophytic fungus may be a source of alternative naturally occurring antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic compounds.

Green synthesis of Multifunctional Zinc oxide Nanoparticles from Cordia myxa gum; and their Catalytic Reduction of Nitrophenol, Anticancer and Antimicrobial Activity.

In situ exfoliated natural polysaccharide Cordia myxa (CMX) is used to promote the utilization of zinc-oxide nanoparticles for eco-friendly catalytic hydrogenation of p-nitrophenol (p-NP) and microbial growth inhibition. Polysaccharide-mediated biosynthetic nanocomposite materials are interesting because they are cheap, green, and environmentally friendly. This study uses CMX gum as a bioreduction to produce multifunctional, environmentally friendly zinc-oxide nanocomposites (ZnO NPs). The process involves a low reaction time and temperature and utilizes CMX as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the CMX-ZnO nanocomposite were characterized. The biosynthetic CMX-ZnO NPs exhibited robust catalytic activity and recycling capacity for rapidly oxidizing hazardous p-NPs. The complete reduction of 4-NP to CMX-ZnO NPs in excess NaBH4 was achieved within 15 min, with recyclability and pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.2571 min-1. Additionally, human colon cancer (HCT116) and 3T3L1 cell lines were remarkably sensitive to the cytotoxic effects of ZnO nanoparticles. CMX-ZnO NPs exhibited potent antibacterial properties against human pathogenic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (Bacillus, Salmonella, E. coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) based on the zone of inhibition measured by the disc-diffusion method. The significant antibacterial activity of CMX-ZnO NPs can overcome the current limitations associated with removing water-soluble organic pollutants and microbiological contaminants for long-term environmental sustainability.

Cordia oncocalyx and oncocalyxones: From the phytochemistry to the anticancer action and therapeutic benefits against chronic diseases.

Cordia oncocalyx Allemão is an endemic economically underexploited plant from Brazilian semi-arid region. Herein, we carried out a well-defined bibliographic review about the pharmacological activities of oncocalyxones from C. oncocalyx and mechanisms responsible for the biomedical properties. MeSH terms were used in the scientific databases for a narrative exploration. Technological development and bioproducts were also examined. Cordia oncocalyx is a deciduous tree of sexual reproduction rich in terpenoid quinones. Among them, oncocalyxone A, a 1,4-benzoquinone, the main compound from heartwood ethanol extracts, revealed anti-inflammatory and anti-edematogenic actions induced by carrageenan and dextran and antinociceptive potential in mice provoked by acetic acid and formalin. Oncocalyxone A inhibits platelet aggregation via activation of the soluble guanylate cyclase enzyme and blocks glycation processes. In addition to the antimicrobial effects against protozoa, fungi and bacteria and relaxation of smooth muscles, oncocalyxone A reduces mean blood pressure and glycemia in diabetic rats, decreases glomerular filtration parameters and tubular transport of electrolytes, and presents in vitro antimitotic and cytotoxic action upon different types of cancers, including resistant lung carcinoma lines. It has low oral acute toxicity (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg) and activates cellular apoptosis through the production of free radicals and interactions with DNA. However, no patents were found, which also emphasizes that Brazil, as the cradle of the main articles on C. oncocalyx, is wasting time and money. Moreover, slight systemic deleterious effects in mammals stimulate the use of oncocalyxone A and related compounds as lead constituents of safer drugs against chronic diseases.

Current Trends and Future Prospects on the Therapeutic Potential of Cordia dichotoma G. Forst.-A Valuable Folk Medicine.

BACKGROUND: Cordia dichotoma G. Forst (Boraginaceae), usually recognized as Clammy/ Indian cherry, is a familiar Ayurvedic, Unani, and modern herbal medicine used for diverse unrelated ailments since antiquity. It is rich in phytochemical constituents, has nutritional significance, and possesses enormous pharmacological properties. OBJECTIVE: This review has been established to highlight the importance of C. dichotoma G. Forst by providing comprehensive knowledge of its phytochemical, ethnobotanical, pharmacological, and toxicological aspects with a perception to foster pharmaceutical research to exploit its maximum potential as a therapeutic agent. METHODS: Literature research has been accomplished using Google Scholar and databases like Science Direct, WOS, PubMed, SciFinder, Scopus with updates until June 2022. RESULTS: The work is an update on C. dichotoma G. and it reviewed and analyzed its phytochemical, ethnobotanical, pharmacological and toxicological knowledge from early human communities to contemporary medicinal and pharmaceutical applications with comprehensive examination of myriad plausible applications in the present-day scientific milieu. The species depicted the presence of diverse phytochemical profiles, possibly justifying its bioactive potential. CONCLUSION: This review will help lay grounds to facilitate state-of-art research intended to acquire additional information about the plant. The study offers opportunities to explore bio-guided isolation strategies for isolating and purifying phytochemical constituents that are biologically effective including pharmacological and pharmaceutical aspects to better understand its clinical relevance. Exploring pure isolated phytoconstituents for their mode of action including estimation of their bioavailability and pharmacokinetic parameters would be of considerable interest in assessing the attained pharmacological effect. Clinical studies are required to validate the suitability of its traditional usage.

Ixodicidal effect of extracts from Cordia boissieri, Artemisia ludoviciana and Litchi chinensis on Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae).

The ixodicidal activity of the methanolic extracts of Artemisia ludoviciana (Astereceae), Cordia boissieri (Boraginaceae) and Litchi chinensis (Sapindaceae) against two field populations of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus from the state of Nuevo Leon (NL) and Veracruz (VER) was evaluated. The extract of L. chinensis in the concentration of 150 mg/ml showed efficacies of 100% and 99% against engorged females and mortalities of 98% and 99% against larvae. C. boissieri in the same concentration showed efficacies of 71% and 37% against engorged adults and mortalities of 33.04% and 10.33% against larvae and A. ludoviciana had efficacies of 94% and 83% in adults and mortalities of 89.39% and 89.21% against larvae in both populations respectively. The enzymatic activity of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Carboxylesterase (CaE), Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) was measured in both populations of ticks. As a result, a significant difference between both populations was shown, being the VER population the one that exhibited a higher enzymatic activity (p ≤ 0.05). It can be concluded that the methanolic extract of the seed of L. chinensis shows potential ixodicidal activity and can be used as an alternative source of tick control, however, prior characterization, toxicity and formulation studies are necessary.

Transformation of waste seed biomass of Cordia myxa into valuable bioenergy through membrane bioreactor using green nanoparticles of indium oxide.

Depletion of non-renewable fuel has obliged researchers to seek out sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. Membranes have proven to be an effective technique in biofuel production for reaction, purification, and separation, with the ability to use both porous and non-porous membranes. It is demonstrated that a membrane-based sustainable and green production can result in a high degree of process intensification, whereas the recovery and repurposing of catalysts and alcohol are anticipated to increase the process economics. Therefore, in this study sustainable biodiesel was synthesized from inedible seed oil (37 wt%) of Cordia myxa using a membrane reactor. Transesterification was catalyzed by heterogenous nano-catalyst of indium oxide prepared with leaf extract of Boerhavia diffusa. Highest biodiesel yield of 95 wt% was achieved at methanol to oil molar ratio of 7:1, catalyst load 0.8 wt%, temperature 82.5 °C and time 180 min In2O3 nanoparticles exhibited reusability up to five successive transesterification rounds. The production of methyl esters was confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. The predominant fatty acid methyl ester detected in the biodiesel was 5, 8-octadecenoic acid. Biodiesel fuel qualities were determined to be comparable to worldwide ASTM D-6571 and EN-14214 standards. Finally, it was concluded that membrane technology can result in a highly intensified reaction process while efficient recovery of both nano catalysts and methanol increases the economics of transesterification and lead to sustainable production.

Phytochemical screening of Cordia glabrata (MART.) A.DC. extracts and its potential antioxidant, photoprotective, antimicrobial and antiviral activities / Triagem fitoquímica de extratos de Cordia glabrata (MART.) A.DC. e sua potencial atividade antioxidante, fotoprotetora, antimicrobiana e antiviral

Abstract Species of the genus Cordia have shown biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antiviral, and antifungal activities. The species Cordia glabrata (MART) A.DC. Has no information concerning its phytochemical profile and possible biological activities. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate this profile in ethanolic extracts of young, adult and senescent leaves, as well as their antioxidant, photoprotective, antimicrobial, and virucidal potentials. Phytochemical analysis was performed by TLC (thin-layer chromatography) and showed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, and terpenes. The evaluation by UPLC-MS/MS (Ultra performance liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometer) evidenced the presence of caffeic (3.89 mgL-1), p-cumaric (6.13 mgL-1), and ferulic (0.58 mgL-1) acids, whilst, in GC/MS (Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) analysis there was a greater amount of palmitic (51.17%), stearic (20.34%), linoleic (9.62%), and miristic (8.16%) fatty acids. The DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS+ (2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) radicals were used to verify the potential antioxidant activity, observing a better activity for the leaf extract in the adult phenological stage: 54.63 ± 1.06 µgmL-1 (DPPH) and 44.21 ± 1.69 mM (ABTS). The potential photoprotective activity of the extracts was determined by spectrophotometry and the in vitro values of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) in young and adult leaves (5.47 and 5.41, respectively) showed values close to the minimum SPF of 6.0 required by ANVISA (Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency). It was not observed an antimicrobial activity for Staphylococcus aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 2000 μgmL-1, however the anti-herpetic assay against the Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) showed a potent virucidal activity at the tested concentrations with CV50 value <0.195 μgmL-1 and a Selectivity Index (SI = CC50 / CV50) greater than 448. The results obtained in this study suggest that extracts of leaves of C. glabrata in their adult phenological stage have potential antioxidant, photoprotective and virucidal activity, considering in vitro test results.

Resumo Espécies do gênero Cordia apresentam atividades biológicas, como anti-inflamatória, analgésica, antioxidante, antiviral e antifúngica. Para a espécie Cordia glabrata (MART) A.DC., ainda não existem informações sobre seu perfil fitoquímico e possíveis atividades biológicas, deste modo, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar este perfil em extratos etanólicos de folhas jovens, adultas e senescentes, bem como o potencial antioxidante, fotoprotetor, antimicrobiano e virucida. A análise fitoquímica foi realizada por CCD (Cromatografia em Camada Delgada), mostrando a presença de flavonóides, taninos e terpenos. Na avaliação por CLAE EM/EM (Cromatografia Líquida de Ultra Eficiência acoplada a Espectrometria de Massas) foi evidenciado a presença dos ácidos caféico (3,89 mgL-1), p-cumárico (6,13 mgL-1) e ferúlico (0,58 mgL-1), paralelamente, na CG/EM (Cromatografia Gasosa acoplada a Espectrometria de Massas) verificou-se maior quantidade dos ácidos graxos palmítico (51,17%), esteárico (20,34%), linoléico (9,62%) e mirístico (8,16%). Os radicais DPPH (2,2-Difenil-1-picrilhidrazil) e ABTS+ (2′-Azino-bis (ácido 3-etilbenzotiazolina-6-sulfônico)) foram utilizados para verificar o potencial antioxidante, observando-se uma atividade superior para o extrato da folha em sua fase fenológica adulta: 54,63 ± 1,06 µgmL-1 (DPPH) e 44,21 ± 1,69 mM (ABTS+). A potencial atividade fotoprotetora dos extratos foi determinada espectrofotometricamente e os valores in vitro de FPS (Fator de Proteção Solar) em folhas jovens e adultas (5,47 e 5,41 respectivamente) apresentaram valores próximos ao FPS mínimo de 6,0 exigido pela ANVISA (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária). Não foi observada atividade antimicrobiana para Staphylococcus aureus sendo a concentração inibitória mínima de 2000 μgmL-1, no entanto o ensaio anti-herpético contra o vírus Herpes simplex tipo 2 (HSV-2) mostrou uma potente atividade virucida nas concentrações testadas com um valor de CV50 <0,195 μgmL-1 e um Índice de Seletividade (IS = CC50 / CV50) maior que 448. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo sugerem que extratos de folhas de C. glabrata em seu estágio fenológico adulto apresentam potencial antioxidante, fotoprotetora e virucida, considerando os resultados de testes in vitro.

Assessment of phytochemicals, antioxidants and in-silico molecular dynamic simulation of plant derived potential inhibitory activity of Thalictrum foliolosum DC. and Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. against jaundice.

Medicinal plants have been exploited for therapeutic purposes since the dawn of civilization and have long been acknowledged essential to human health. The purpose of this research is to examine the scientific evidence for using the therapeutic herbal plants Thalictrum foliolosum DC. and Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. to treat hepatitis illness. The fundamental explanation for the therapeutic relevance of these plants is phytochemicals, which were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively in three separate extracts with different solvent properties (methanol-polar, chloroform-non-polar, and aqueous-polar as one of the bases of traditional use). Flavonoids, phenols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids were all evaluated for their presence in plant extracts, and it was observed that methanolic extract had the highest content of phytochemicals among different extracts whereas, the aqueous extract showed least amount of phytochemicals. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of these plants was also evaluated and methanolic extract was revealed with potential antioxidant activity, as also evidenced by the lowest half inhibitory concentration (IC50) values in the DPPH, ABTS, and high %inhibition in µM Fe equivalent of FRAP assays. Following that, the dominant phytochemicals were investigated using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography from the selected plants. Furthermore, default docking algorithms were used to appraise the dominant phytoconstituents for their in-silico investigation, in which rutin was found with the highest binding affinity (8.2 kcal/mol) and interaction with receptor which is further involved in causing jaundice. The receptor is infact an enzyme that is sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase Leptospira interrogans (PDB: 5EBB) which is holded back in its position by rutin and do not interact with Leptospira inferrogans spp which causes jaundice. Overall, the study suggested that these herbs have significant therapeutic properties, and their in-silico analysis strongly recommends further clinical investigations to get insight into the mechanisms of action in curing variety of diseases.

Hepatoprotective effect of Cordia rothii extract against CCl4-induced oxidative stress via Nrf2-NFκB pathways.

Cordia rothii Roem. & Schult. possesses various beneficial effects and is traditionally used in folk medicine against liver diseases but its molecular mechanism remains unclear. Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Cordia rothii methanolic fraction (CRMF) were investigated in CCl4-induced liver injury. Antioxidant effects were evaluated using DPPH assay, ferric thiocyanate (FTC) assay, and HepG2 cells. A qualitative analysis of phytochemicals was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The hepatoprotective effects of CRMF were assessed against CCl4-induced liver damage in rats. Our results showed that CRMF significantly increased cell viability against CCl4-induced HepG2 cells. The in vivo results showed that CRMF significantly reduced the level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, hepatic antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and increased glutathione level. Normal hepatocyte integrity and microstructures were observed in histopathological results. Furthermore, the mRNA level of inflammatory mediators including interleukon (IL)-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB), IL-10 and nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (NrF2) were reverted in CRMF pretreatment groups. Thus, CRMF exhibited strong antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities, which may involve Nrf2-NFκB pathways.

Phytochemistry, and pharmacological efficacy of Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. (Lashuda): A therapeutic medicinal plant of Himachal Pradesh.

Cordia dichotoma, Indian cherry is one of the traditional medicinal plant well-known for its medicinal properties against variety of diseases primarily hepatocellular disorders. C. dichotoma is moderate size tree that may be found throughout the Himachal Pradesh and commonly called as lashuda. The objective of the present study is to emphasize the phytochemical and pharmacological study with hepatocurative assessment of C. dichotoma to strengthen not only traditional knowledge but also to validate scientific value of its medicinal potential. Furthermore, comprehensive literature information of C. dichotoma has been compiled from the variety of sources, including scientific databases like PubMed and Google Scholar and pertinent publications and books. The information provided in this study covers the years from 1956 to 2021 and KingDraw chemical structure editor software was used to depict the chemical structures of various secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, proteins carbohydrate and phenolic compounds extracted from the different parts of the C. dichotoma. Although, flavonoids and phenolic compounds are the most prominent phytoconstituents predominantly detected in C. dichotoma, which are known for great antioxidant potential and also they are renowned for their various pharmacological and therapeutic efficiency against various chronic diseases. Overall, the studies included in this review implies that the plant and its extracts have significant therapeutic benefits not only for hepatic but also for a variety of diseases. While further research is required to fully understand the processes underlying C. dichotoma application in various pharmacological activities.

The effects of the ethanol extract of Cordia myxa leaves on the cognitive function in mice.

BACKGROUND: Cordia myxa L. (Boraginaceae) is widely distributed in tropical regions and it's fruits, leaves and stem bark have been utilized in folk medicine for treating trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. A population-based study showed that T. cruzi infection is associated with cognitive impairments. Therefore, if C. myxa has ameliorating activities on cognitive function, it would be useful for both T. cruzi infection and cognitive impairments. METHODS: In this study, we evaluated the effects of an ethanol extract of leaves of C. myxa (ELCM) on memory impairments and sensorimotor gating deficits in mice. The phosphorylation level of protein was observed by the Western blot analysis. RESULTS: The administration of ELCM significantly attenuated scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction in mice, as measured by passive avoidance test and novel object recognition test. Additionally, in the acoustic startle response test, we observed that the administration of ELCM ameliorated MK-801-induced prepulse inhibition deficits. We found that these behavioral outcomes were related with increased levels of phosphorylation phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3ß) in the cortex and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus by western blot analysis. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that ELCM would be a potential candidate for treating cognitive dysfunction and sensorimotor gating deficits observed in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases.

Phytochemical Investigation of Cordia africana Lam. Stem Bark: Molecular Simulation Approach.

BACKGROUND: The current work planned to evaluate Cordia africana Lam. stem bark, a traditionally used herb in curing of different ailments in Africa such as gastritis and wound infections, based on phytochemical and antibacterial studies of two pathogenic microorganisms: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Helicobacter pylori. METHODS: High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiling was used for qualitative and quantitative investigation of the ethanol extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the ethanolic extract and isolated compounds was estimated using the broth microdilution method and evidenced by molecular dynamics simulations. RESULTS: Four compounds were isolated and identified for the first time: α-amyrin, ß-sitosterol, rosmarinic acid (RA) and methyl rosmarinate (MR). HPLC analysis illustrated that MR was the dominant phenolic acid. MR showed the best bacterial inhibitory activity against MRSA and H. pylori with MIC 7.81 ± 1.7 µg/mL and 31.25 ± 0.6, respectively, when compared to clarithromycin and vancomycin, respectively. CONCLUSION: The antibacterial activity of the stem bark of Cordia africana Lam. was evidenced against MRSA and H. pylori. Computational modeling of the studied enzyme-ligands systems reveals that RA and MR can potentially inhibit both MRSA peptidoglycan transpeptidases and H. pylori urease, thereby creating a pathway via the use of a double target approach in antibacterial treatment.

Incorporation of Cordia glabrata (Mart.) A.DC. extract in microemulsions and their potential antioxidant, photoprotective and virucidal activities.

Extracts of species from the Cordia genus have been reported with potential biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antiparasitic. The aim of this study was to develop microemulsions containing ethanolic extracts of C. glabrata leaves and to evaluate their stability and biological activities. The five developed microemulsions presented physicochemical stability and presented Newtonian behavior when submitted to rheological analysis. The diameter values of the globules ranged between 225.74 and 273.33 nm and the zeta potential of the formulations remained between -22.40 and -25.08. All phenolic acids of the extract, quantified by HPLC, showed consistency after being microemulsified. The EC50 values for the antioxidant activity by the DPPH scavenging method ranged between 38.13 and 45.54 µgmL-1, and between 34.46 and 39.60 mM for the ABTS+ scavenging method. The virucidal activity presented a CV50 <0.195 µgmL-1 and a selectivity index greater than 20. The photoprotection results ranged between 2.14 to 2.84. The study revealed stable microemulsions and potentiation of the antioxidant effect in the microemulsified extracts.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Crude Stem Bark Extracts and Solvent Fractions of Cordia africana against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Rats.

Cordia africana Lam (Boraginaceae) is widely used in Ethiopian folk medicine for the treatment of different types of liver disorders. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of an aqueous (CAAE), 80% methanol extracts of C. africana stem bark (CAME), and the solvent fractions of the methanol extract against acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury in rats. Acute toxicity test and APAP-induced lethality test were done on mice of either sex, while APAP dose selection test was done on female rats. Male rats were used for hepatoprotective experiments and the liver injury was induced using 2 g/kg APAP given orally. Serum levels of the liver enzymes and total bilirubin (TB), as well as lipid profiles, were determined. Histopathological examination of the liver tissues was also conducted to confirm the findings of biochemical analysis. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) sodium pentobarbital (SPB)-induced sleeping duration was also used to determine the protective effect of the test substances. Oral administration of APAP resulted in a significant increase in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), TB, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), and triglycerides (TGs) and decrease in serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Administration of the standard drug, silymarin 100 mg/kg, extracts at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg and fractions at the dose of 400 mg/kg reversed the serum levels of all parameters to normal. CAME exerted a significant dose-dependent hepatoprotective effect in terms of ALT and AST, while CAAE significant dose-dependent hepatoprotective effect was in terms of AST, ALP, and TGs. The protective effect of the extracts and fractions was also confirmed by histopathological investigations and SPB-induced sleeping time. From the results of the present study, it can be concluded that C. africana stem bark aqueous, 80% methanol crude extracts, and solvent fractions of the methanol extract showed hepatoprotective effects.

Anticancer Activity of Cordia dichotoma against a Panel of Human Cancer Cell Lines and Their Phytochemical Profiling via HPLC and GCMS.

The current study was conducted to examine the in vitro anticancer potential of Cordia dichotoma (bark, leaves, pulp and seed). The plant material was collected from UT of J&K and methodical bioassays were carried out on ten human cancer cell lines (Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7), M.D. Anderson-Metastatic Breast (MDA-MB-231), Neuroblastoma-2a (N2A), SH-SY5Y, U-251, HCT-116, SW-620, A-549, MIA PaCa-2, Panc-1) from five different origins (breast, CNS, colon, lung, pancreas) respectively. Methanolic extracts were produced and fractions were then obtained from the extracts and evaluated for cytotoxicity. Mechanistic assays, HPLC, and GCMS profiling were performed on the highest active fraction. The Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay determined the in vitro cytotoxicity. The findings revealed that the bark portion had in vitro cytotoxicity against the A-549 human lung cancer cell line. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that the plant's bark has anticancer properties and induced chromatin condensation, confirmed cell death via ROS generation, and significantly decreased colony formation in A-549 cell line from lung origin in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, HPLC and GCMS investigations indicated the presence of a number of bioactive molecules such as gallic acid (144,969.86) uV*sec, caffeic acid (104.26) uV*sec, ferulic acid (472.87) uV*sec, vanillic acid (13,775.39) uV*sec, palmitic acid (18.34%), cis vaccenic acid (28.81%), etc. and one of the compounds was reported for the first time from the bark. As a result of its promising efficacy, it may become an essential cancer chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic medication for patients with lung carcinoma.

Cordiasecosides G-J, 9,10-Seco-29-norcycloartane glycosides isolated from Cordia lutea and their antibacterial activities.

Four undescribed secocycloartane monoglycosides (1-4) were isolated from an ethanolic extract of the dry flowers of Cordia lutea Lam. Their structural assignment is based on NMR and MS analysis. Their stereochemistry is confirmed by molecular modelling studies using DFT-NMR calculations done for compound 3. In vitro antibacterial activity of the four compounds was moderate on Helicobacter pylori (MIC = 15.6 µg/mL), and much weaker on Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Escherichia coli (MIC >125 µg/mL). Toxicity evaluated against RAW 264.7 cells was weak (IC50 values ranging from 24 to 41 µM i.e. 15 to 24 µg/mL), but in the same range as anti-Helicobacter activity.

Pharmacognostic and phytochemical study of the flowers of Cordia sebestena L.

The present study shows the pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies on the flowers of Cordia sebestena L. belongs to the family Boraginaceae. C. sebestena L. is found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions of the American, Asian and African continents. Though it is an important plant, until date no pharmacognostic work is found on its parts such as flowers. Various organoleptic characters were recorded by macroscopic study. Microscopic study of the flowers were also conducted which shows the presence of fibers, calcium oxalate crystals and multiple types of trichomes, along with fluorescence analysis. The present study also deals with the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis of C. sebestena L. FT-IR spectra revealed the presence of C-H, C=C, C-N, C-O and aromatic groups. Chemical composition of the hexane extract of the flowers of C. sebestena L. was detected through GC-MS and spectrum achieved through GC-MS were correlated with the database of National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) which comprise of beyond 62000 outlines of the mass spectrum. GC-MS analysis of n-hexane extract shown the existence of Retinoic acid, lupeol, ß-sitosterol, stigmasterol, hexadecanoic acid along with fatty acids, esters, alkaloids and alcohols. These pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies can be valuable towards giving reliable proof of the quality of the plant which can benefit health professionals and herbal medicine manufacturers.

Sperm quality and testicular histopathology of Wistar albino male rats treated with hydroethanolic extract of Cordia dichotoma fruits.

CONTEXT: Cordia dichotoma Forst. (Boraginaceae) has potent pharmacological impact. Meanwhile, its effect on fertility is unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the effect of Cordia fresh fruits hydroethanolic extract on fertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 120 Wistar albino male rats were divided into four groups (n = 30). The first group was negative control, and the second, third, and fourth groups received 125, 250, and 500 mg extract/kg bodyweight for 56 days. After 56 days, Cordia force-feeding stopped, and all groups were kept under laboratory conditions for another month to study the recovering effect. RESULTS: After day 56, extract at 500 mg/kg significantly reduced sperm total count, motility%, and alive%, to 47.60 ± 2.27 × 106 sperm/mL, 43.33% ± 1.49, and 63.67% ± 1.19, respectively, abnormalities% increased considerably (26.67% ± 0.54), compared to the negative control. Also, significant depletion on follicle-stimulating hormone (2.66 ± 0.21 mIU/L), luteinizing hormone (1.07 ± 0.06 mIU/L), and testosterone (2.69 ± 0.13 nmol/L) level was recorded, compared to the negative control. Cordia negative effect showed on histopathological studies of testes, prostate, and seminal vesicles. Fortunately, these adverse effects of Cordia recovered remarkably after stopping administration for one month. CONCLUSIONS: Cordia antifertility effect may be due to its hypocholesterolemic effect, where cholesterol, the steroid cycle precursor, was significantly reduced. This study can be incorporated in clinical research after being repeated on another small experimental animal, their offspring, and one large experimental animal, then going to a clinical study that we plan to do in the future.