Rosemary and neem: an insight into their combined anti-dandruff and anti-hair loss efficacy.

Dandruff, a common scalp disorder characterized by flaking dead skin, is often treated with conventional topical products. However, limitations exist due to potential side effects and high costs. Therefore, searching for natural, cost-effective solutions for dandruff and hair loss is crucial. Rosemary herb and neem tree, both cultivated in Egypt, possess well-documented anti-inflammatory properties derived from their rich phenolic phytoconstituents. This study formulated a standardized combined extract of rosemary and neem (RN-E 2:1) into hair gel and leave-in tonic formats. This extract demonstrated superior efficacy against Malassezia furfur (a causative agent of dandruff) and Trichophyton rubrum (associated with scalp disorders) compared to the conventional antifungal agent, ketoconazole. The combined extract (RN-E 2:1) also exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, the suppression of iNOS expression is considered concentration-dependent. Quality control verified formulation stability, and ex-vivo studies confirmed effective ingredient penetration into the epidermis, the primary site of fungal presence. Remarkably, both formulations outperformed the standard treatment, minoxidil in hair growth trials. These findings highlight the potential of natural extracts for scalp and hair health.

Enhanced azadirachtin production in neem (Azadirachta indica) callus through NaCl elicitation: Insights into differential protein regulation via shotgun proteomics.

With their remarkable bioactivity and evolving commercial importance, plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) have gained significant research interest in recent years. Plant tissue culture serves as a credible tool to examine how abiotic stresses modulate the production of PSMs, enabling clear insights into plant stress responses and the prospects for controlled synthesis of bioactive compounds. Azadirachta indica, or neem has been recognized as a repository of secondary metabolites for centuries, particularly for the compound named azadirachtin, due to its bio-pesticidal and high antioxidant properties. Introducing salt stress as an elicitor makes it possible to enhance the synthesis of secondary metabolites, specifically azadirachtin. Thus, in this research, in vitro callus cultures of neem were micro-propagated and induced with salinity stress to explore their effects on the production of azadirachtin and identify potential proteins associated with salinity stress through comparative shotgun proteomics (LCMS/MS). To induce salinity stress, 2-month-old calli were subjected to various concentrations of NaCl (0.05-1.5%) for 4 weeks. The results showed that the callus cultures were able to adapt and survive in the salinity treatments, but displayed a reduction in fresh weight as the NaCl concentration increased. Notably, azadirachtin production was significantly enhanced in the salinity treatment compared to control, where 1.5% NaCl-treated calli produced the highest azadirachtin amount (10.847 ± 0.037 mg/g DW). The proteomics analysis showed that key proteins related to primary metabolism, such as defence, energy, cell structure, redox, transcriptional and photosynthesis, were predominantly differentially regulated (36 upregulated and 93 downregulated). While a few proteins were identified as being regulated in secondary metabolism, they were not directly involved in the synthesis of azadirachtin. In conjunction with azadirachtin elicitation, salinity stress treatment could therefore be successfully applied in commercial settings for the controlled synthesis of azadirachtin and other plant-based compounds. Further complementary omics approaches can be employed to enhance molecular-level modifications, to facilitate large-scale production of bioactive compounds in the future.

Botanical Briefs: Neem Oil (Azadirachta indica).

Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, has many uses as a natural remedy. We review and discuss the pharmacologic, biologic, and medicinal properties of neem in disease management. We also report a rare clinical case of a 77-year-old man who presented with a hypopigmented rash on the lower back, bilateral flanks, and buttocks after 6 months of repeated application of neem oil to treat persistent arthritis and lower back pain.

Synthesis and characterizations of conocarpus- and azadirachta-derived activated carbons as wastewater recycling material.

Water being the most important fluid supporting the life as well as industry is getting sparse and polluted day by day. Activated carbon (AC) can be utilized in various applications of significant environmental impact and sustainable living such as carbon dioxide sensing and capturing, air purification, and water recycling. However, in the wake of the recent corona pandemic which resulted in global lockdown and took the entire world by shock, a cost-effective and simple synthesis of such a useful material remains dire need of time. Therefore, this paper describes a simple and cost-effective synthesis of activated carbon (AC) of high porosity and surface area derived from the pruning of conocarpus and azadirachta trees. In reference to the study under consideration, alongside numerous others, a furnace was employed to synthesize activated carbon. However, our approach utilized a more conventional methodology wherein the environmental parameters were not optimized. In furnace-based procedures, factors such as temperature, pressure, and humidity are meticulously regulated, contrasting with the conventional methodologies where such parameters lack optimal control. Consequently, employing a furnace does not constitute a cost-effective approach for the physical activation of organic samples thus proving a furnace is not imperative for physical activation. The synthesis was carried out by physical activation in the form of carbonization followed by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide (KOH). The influence of activated carbon from each pruning over filtration of water containing industrial dye was investigated. Activation temperature and impregnation ratio of 600-800 °C and 1:5 were selected respectively. X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD) for all AC samples indicted the appearance of broad peaks at 2θ value of 20-30° which confirms the presence of carbon in the sample. The physical morphology arrangement by SEM analysis showed uneven arrangement of pores of conocarpus which indicated higher iodine number and hence higher adsorption capacity of 442.13 mg/g.

Alternative first-line malaria treatment.

Malaria is a disease affecting millions of people, especially in Africa, Asia, and South America, and has become a substantial economic burden. Because malaria is contracted through the bite of a mosquito vector, it is very challenging to prevent. Bed nets and insect repellents are used in some homes; others do not have or use them even when available. Thus, treatment measures are crucial to controlling this disease. Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) is currently the first-line treatment for malaria. ACT has been used for decades, but recently, there has been evidence of potential resistance. This threat of resistance has led to the search for possible alternatives to ACT. In sub-Saharan Africa, Azadirachta indica, or simply neem, is a plant used to treat a variety of ailments, including malaria. Neem is effective against one of the more deadly malaria parasites Plasmodium falciparum. Reports show that neem inhibits microgametogenesis of P. falciparum and interferes with the parasite's ookinete development. Although there is substantial in vitro research on the biological activity of A. indica (neem), there is limited in vivo research. Herein, we discuss the in vivo effects of neem on malaria parasites. With A. indica, the future of malaria treatment is promising, especially for high-risk patients, but further research and clinical trials are required to confirm its biological activity.

Résumé Le paludisme est une maladie qui touche des millions de personnes, notamment en Afrique, en Asie et en Amérique du Sud, et est devenu un problème économique majeur fardeau. Le paludisme étant contracté par la piqûre d'un moustique vecteur, il est très difficile à prévenir. Moustiquaires et insectifuges sont utilisés dans certaines maisons ; d'autres ne les possèdent pas ou ne les utilisent pas même lorsqu'ils sont disponibles. Les mesures thérapeutiques sont donc cruciales pour contrôler cette maladie. La thérapie combinée à base d'artémisinine (ACT) constitue actuellement le traitement de première intention contre le paludisme. L'ACT est utilisé depuis des décennies, mais récemment, il y a eu des preuves d'une résistance potentielle. Cette menace de résistance a conduit à la recherche d'alternatives possibles à l'ACT. En Afrique subsaharienne, Azadirachta indica, ou simplement neem, est une plante utilisée pour traiter diverses maladies, dont le paludisme. Le Neem est efficace contre l'un des des parasites du paludisme plus mortels, Plasmodium falciparum. Des rapports montrent que le neem inhibe la microgamétogenèse de P. falciparum et interfere avec le développement de l'ookinète du parasite. Bien qu'il existe d'importantes recherches in vitro sur l'activité biologique d'A. indica (neem), il existe la recherche in vivo est limitée. Nous discutons ici des effets in vivo du neem sur les parasites du paludisme. Avec A. indica, l'avenir du traitement du paludisme est prometteur, en particulier pour les patients à haut risque, mais des recherches et des essais cliniques supplémentaires sont nécessaires pour confirmer son activité biologique. Mots-clés: Azadirachta indica, paludisme, neem, Plasmodium falciparum.

Azadirachta indica (AI)leaf extract coated ZnO-AInanocore-shell particles for enhanced antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA).

With the rise in microbial resistance to traditional antibiotics and disinfectants, there is a pressing need for the development of novel and effective antibacterial agents. Two major approaches being adopted worldwide to overcome antimicrobial resistance are the use of plant leaf extracts and metallic nanoparticles (NPs). However, there are no reports on the antibacterial potential of NPs coated with plant extracts, which may lead to novel ways of treating infections. This study presents an innovative approach to engineer antibacterial NPs by leveraging the inherent antibacterial properties of zinc oxide NPs (ZnO NPs) in combination withAzadirachta indica(AI) leaf extract, resulting in enhanced antibacterial efficacy. ZnO NPs were synthesised by the precipitation method and subsequently coated withAIleaf extract to produce ZnO-AInanocore-shell structures. The structural and morphological characteristics of the bare and leaf extract coated ZnO NPs were analysed by x-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The presence of anAIleaf extract coating on ZnO NPs and subsequent formation of ZnO-AInanocore-shell structures was verified through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and photoluminescence techniques. The antibacterial efficacy of both ZnO NPs and ZnO-AInanocore-shell particles was evaluated against methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureususing a zone of inhibition assay. The results showed an NP concentration-dependent increase in the diameter of the inhibition zone, with ZnO-AInanocore-shell particles exhibiting superior antibacterial properties, owing to the combined effect of ZnO NPs and the poly phenols present inAIleaf extract. These findings suggest that ZnO-AInanocore-shell structures hold promise for the development of novel antibacterial creams and hydrogels for various biomedical applications.

Detection of azadirachtin from neem kernels using a paper-based sandwich sensor.

In this work, a microfluidic paper-based analytical device (µPAD) was developed to detect the biopesticide azadirachtin (Aza) through a colorimetric assay. High precision estimation of Aza is classically carried out using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which requires highly skilled personnel. Acidified vanillin is a commonly used colorimetric indicator in thin layer chromatography for detection of various phytochemicals. However, the assay involves concentrated acid, which limits the choice of paper substrates for paper-based sensors and raises safety concerns. In this work, we show how the assay can be extended from the liquid phase to a paper substrate. Glass microfiber (GMF) filter paper was found to be suitable paper as it was acid resistant; besides, its hydrophilicity enabled smooth flow of reagents. A microfluidic paper-based sensor (µPAD) was developed by sandwiching 5 mm sized GMF dots between two parafilm sheets. We demonstrate the use of colorimetric assay on the µPAD for on-site detection of Aza in neem kernels. The magenta color developed upon the reaction of acidified vanillin with Aza was captured using a smart-phone and analysed using RGB levels in the image. Calibration was established using neem kernel extract of known concentration. Linearity was seen in the concentration range of 5 to 25 mg L-1 Aza. A limit of detection of 2.3 mg L-1 was obtained using this method. The colorimetric assay showed a relative recovery of >85% when compared with the values obtained from HPLC. The stability of the reagents on the GMF sensor was investigated to understand the storage conditions and shelf life of the reagents and sensor. The present work demonstrates the development of a portable sensor for on-site detection of phytochemicals that can be an integral part of the agricultural supply chain.

A review of pre- and post-surface-modified neem (Azadirachta indica) biomass adsorbent: Surface functionalization mechanism and application.

In contemporary wastewater treatment industry, advanced oxidation techniques, membrane filtration, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis are used to treat chemically loaded wastewater. All these methods required highly toxic oxidizing chemicals, high capital investment in membrane/filter materials, and the installation of sophisticated equipment. Wastewater treatment through an adsorption process using biomass-based adsorbent is economical, user-friendly, and sustainable. Neem tree waste has been explored as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. The chemical components in the neem biomass include carbohydrates, fat, fiber, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which support the functionalization of neem biomass. Moreover, adsorbent preparation from renewable resources is not only cost-effective and environmentally friendly but also helps in waste management for sustainable growth. Contemporary researchers explored the pre- and post-surface-modified neem biomass adsorbents in scavenging the pollutants from contaminated water. This review extensively explores the activation process of neem biomass, physical and chemical methods of surface modification mechanism, and the factors affecting surface modification. The pollutant removal through pre and post-surface-modified neem biomass adsorbents was also summarized. Furthermore, it also provides a comprehensive summary of the factors that affect the adsorption performance of the neem biomass-derived adsorbents against dyes, metal ions, and other emerging pollutants. Understanding the surface-modification mechanisms and the adsorption efficiency factor of adsorbents will help in harnessing their potential for more efficiently combatting environmental pollution and making strides toward a greener and more sustainable future.

Elucidating the structural, catalytic, and antibacterial traits of Ficus carica and Azadirachta indica leaf extract-mediated synthesis of the Ag/CuO/rGO nanocomposite.

The present exploration demonstrates the efficient, sustainable, cost-effective, and environment-friendly green approach for the synthesis of silver (Ag)-doped copper oxide (CuO) embedded with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite using the green one-pot method and the green deposition method. Leaf extracts of Ficus carica and Azadirachta indica were used for both methods as reducing and capping agents. The effect of methodology and plant extract was analyzed through different characterization techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The lowest band gap of 3.0 eV was observed for the Ag/CuO/rGO prepared by the green one-pot method using F. carica. The reduction of graphene oxide (GO) and the formation of metal oxide was confirmed through functional group detection using FT-IR. Calculation of thermodynamic parameters showed that all reactions involved were nonspontaneous and endothermic which shows the stability of nanocomposites. XRD studies revealed the crystallinity, phase purity and small average crystallite size of 32.67 nm. SEM images disclosed that the morphology of the nanocomposites was spherical with agglomeration and rough texture. The particle size of the nanocomposites calculated through HRTEM was found in agreement with the XRD results. The numerous properties of the synthesized nanocomposites enhanced their potential against the degradation of methylene blue, rhodamine B, and ciprofloxacin. The highest percentage degradation of Ag/CuO/rGO was found to be 97%, synthesized using the green one-pot method with F. carica against ciprofloxacin, which might be due to the lowest band gap, delayed electron-hole pair recombination, and large surface area available. The nanocomposites were also tested against the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Facile synthesis of Ag/CuO/rGO nanocomposite using a green one-pot method and the green deposition method. The lowest band gap of 3.0 eV was observed for nanocomposite prepared by a green one-pot method using Ficus carica. Least average crystallite size of 32.67 nm was found for nanocomposite prepared by a green one-pot method using F. carica. Highest antibacterial and catalytic activity (97%) was obtained against ciprofloxacin with nanocomposite prepared through green one-pot method using F. carica. A mechanism of green synthesis is proposed.

Utilization of marine and agro-waste materials as an economical and active food packaging: Antimicrobial, mechanical and biodegradation studies of O-Carboxymethyl chitosan/pectin/neem composite films.

The present work deals with the eco-friendly preparation of highly degradable food packaging films consisting of O-CMC (O-Carboxymethyl Chitosan) and pectin, incorporated with neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves powder and extract. This study aimed to investigate the tensile properties, antimicrobial activity, biodegradability, and thermal behavior of the composite films. The results of tensile strength and elongation at break, showed that the incorporation of neem leaves powder improved the tensile properties (7.11 MPa) of the composite films compared to the neat O-CMC and pectin films (3.02 MPa). The antimicrobial activity of the films was evaluated against a panel of microorganisms including both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria as well as fungi. The composite films exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity with a zone of inhibition (12-17.6 mm) against the tested microorganisms. The opacity of the composite films ranges from 1.14 to 4.40 mm-1 and the addition of fiber causes a decrease in opacity value. Biodegradability studies were conducted by Soil burial method and the films demonstrated complete biodegradability within 75 days. The results of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of composite films show that they are thermally stable and might be used in food packaging.

Investigation on the physico-chemical properties of soil and mineralization of three selected tropical tree leaf litter.

Plant leaf litter has a major role in the structure and function of soil ecosystems as it is associated with nutrient release and cycling. The present study is aimed to understand how well the decomposing leaf litter kept soil organic carbon and nitrogen levels stable during an incubation experiment that was carried out in a lab setting under controlled conditions and the results were compared to those from a natural plantation. In natural site soil samples, Anacardium. occidentale showed a higher value of organic carbon at surface (1.14%) and subsurface (0.93%) and Azadirachta. indica exhibited a higher value of total nitrogen at surface (0.28%) and subsurface sample (0.14%). In the incubation experiment, Acacia auriculiformis had the highest organic carbon content initially (5.26%), whereas A. occidentale had the highest nitrogen level on 30th day (0.67%). The overall carbon-nitrogen ratio showed a varied tendency, which may be due to dynamic changes in the complex decomposition cycle. The higher rate of mass loss and decay was observed in A. indica leaf litter, the range of the decay constant is 1.26-2.22. The morphological and chemical changes of soil sample and the vermicast were substantained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).

Limonoids from neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) are potential anticancer drug candidates.

Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.), a versatile evergreen tree recognized for its ethnopharmacological value, is a rich source of limonoids of the triterpenoid class, endowed with potent medicinal properties. Extracts of neem have been documented to display anticancer effects in diverse malignant cell lines as well as in preclinical animal models that has largely been attributed to the constituent limonoids. Of late, neem limonoids have become the cynosure of research attention as potential candidate agents for cancer prevention and therapy. Among the various limonoids found in neem, azadirachtin, epoxyazadiradione, gedunin, and nimbolide, have been extensively investigated for anticancer activity. Azadirachtin, a potent biodegradable pesticide, exhibits profound antiproliferative effects by preventing mitotic spindle formation and cell division. The antiproliferative activity of gedunin has been demonstrated to be mediated primarily via inhibition of heat shock protein90 and its client proteins. Epoxyazadiradione inhibits pro-inflammatory and kinase-driven signaling pathways to block tumorigenesis. Nimbolide, the most potent cytotoxic neem limonoid, inhibits the growth of cancer cells by regulating the phosphorylation of keystone kinases that drive oncogenic signaling besides modulating the epigenome. There is overwhelming evidence to indicate that neem limonoids exert anticancer effects by preventing the acquisition of hallmark traits of cancer, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis evasion, inflammation, invasion, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. Neem limonoids are value additions to the armamentarium of natural compounds that target aberrant oncogenic signaling to inhibit cancer development and progression.

ZnO nanoparticles mediated by Azadirachta indica as nano fertilizer: Improvement in physiological and biochemical indices of Zea mays grown in Cr-contaminated soil.

The current investigation aimed at evaluating the impact of Azadirachta indica-mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles (Ai-ZnONPs) on the growth and biochemical characteristics of maize (sweet glutinous 3000) under exposure to 50 mg kg-1Ai-ZnONPs with Cr (VI) concentrations of 50 and 100 mg kg-1. The results indicate that plants exposed to Cr (VI) only experienced a decline in growth parameters. Conversely, the inclusion of Ai-ZnONPs caused a noteworthy increase in physiological traits. Specifically, shoot and root fresh weight increased by 28.02% and 16.51%, and 63.11% and 97.91%, respectively, when compared to Cr-50 and 100 treatments. Additionally, the SPAD chlorophyll of the shoot increased by 91.08% and 15.38% compared to Cr-50 and 100 treatments, respectively. Moreover, the antioxidant enzyme traits of plant shoot and root, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD 7.44% and 2.70%, and 4.45% and 3.53%), catalase (CAT 1.18% and 3.20%, and 5.03% and 5.78%), and peroxidase (POD 0.31% and 5.55%, and 4.72% and 3.61%), exhibited significant increases in Cr 50 and 100 treatments, respectively. The addition of Ai-ZnONPs to the soil also enhanced soil nutrient status and reduced Cr (VI) concentrations by 40.69% and 19.82% compared to Cr-50 and 100 treated soils. These findings suggest that Ai-ZnONPs can trigger the activation of biochemical pathways that enable biomass accumulation in meristematic cells. Further investigations are required to elucidate the mechanisms involved in growth promotion.

Plant mediated fabrication of silver nanoparticles, process optimization, and impact on tomato plant.

Nanotechnology is one of the fastest-growing markets, but developing eco-friendly products, their maximum production, stability, and higher yield is a challenge. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized using an easily available resource, leaves extract of the Neem (Azadirachta indica) plant, as a reducing and capping agent, determined their effect on germination and growth of tomato plants. The maximum production of silver nanoparticles was noted at 70 °C after 3 h of reaction time while treating the 10 ml leaf extract of Neem plant with 10 ml of 1 mM silver nitrate. The impact of the extract preparation method and solvent type on the plant mediated fabrication of silver nanoparticles was also investigated. The UV-spectrophotometric analysis confirmed the synthesis of silver nanoparticles and showed an absorption spectrum within Δ420-440 nm range. The size of the fabricated silver nanoparticles was 22-30 nm. The functional groups such as ethylene, amide, carbonyl, methoxy, alcohol, and phenol attached to stabilize the nanoparticles were observed using the FTIR technique. SEM, EDX, and XRD analyses were performed to study the physiochemical characteristics of synthesized nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles increased the germination rate of tomato seeds up to 70% while decreasing the mean germination time compared to the control. Silver nanoparticles applied at varying concentrations significantly increased the shoot length (25 to 80%), root length (10 to 60%), and fresh biomass (10 to 80%) biomass of the tomato plant. The production of total chlorophyll, carotenoid, flavonoids, soluble sugar, and protein was significantly increased in tomato plants treated with 5 and 10 ppm silver nanoparticles compared to the control. Green synthesized silver nanoparticles are cost-effective and nontoxic and can be applied in agriculture, biomedical, and other fields.

Antibacterial study of carbopol-mastic gum/silver nanoparticle-based topical gels with carvacrol/neem bark extract in vitro.

BACKGROUND: Resistance to antimicrobial drugs as a result of prolonged use usually results in clinical failure, especially in wound infections. Development of effective antimicrobial therapeutics for the management of infected wounds from a natural source with improved therapeutic effects is a pressing need. OBJECTIVE: In this study, carbopol-mastic gum-based topical gels were loaded with silver nanoparticles in combination with either neem bark extract or carvacrol oil. The effect of combining silver nanoparticles with neem bark extract or the essential oil carvacrol in the prepared gel formulations was investigated on selected bacterial strains. METHOD: The prepared gels were characterised by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, followed by antimicrobial analysis against selected strains of bacteria. RESULTS: There was no interaction between the loaded natural extract or essential oil and the polymer used for the preparation of the formulations, which was visible from the FTIR spectra of the formulations. The gels were selective and effective against selected strains of bacteria. However, the combination of the silver nanoparticles with essential oil or natural extract in some of the gel formulations rendered the formulation ineffective against some of the bacterial strains. CONCLUSION: The gel formulations were effective against bacterial strains such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis which are the common causes of wound infections. Incorporation of silver nanoparticles into the topical formulations with natural extracts is usually a good approach to overcome antibiotic-resistant infections. However, the combination of antibacterial agents must be managed carefully.

Biogenic synthesis of highly fluorescent carbon dots using Azadirachta indica leaves: An eco-friendly approach with enhanced photocatalytic degradation efficiency towards Malachite green.

A simpler and efficient method has been developed for the green synthesis of highly fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) from Azadirachta Indica leaves. The surface morphology of developed CDs has shown the existence of spherical particles in the size range of 3-8 nm with superior biocompatibility and high quantum yield value i.e. 42.3%. The particles exhibited a highly fluorescent and crystalline nature along with a bandgap value of 4.02 eV. The prepared CDs served as a factorial design for the sensing and degradation of Malachite green among other dyes. The main perspective of the current finding is that the designed catalyst exhibits excellent sensing results towards Malachite green with a limit of detection i.e. 0.144 µM in the concentration range of 0-50 µM. Moreover, the UV triggered results of photocatalysis illustrated a good dye removal efficacy by developed CDs with an average of 90.73, 98.25, 52 and 6.13% degradation in Methylene blue (MB), Malachite green (MG), Rhodamine 6G (Rh 6G) and Methyl orange (MO) upon 70 min of irradiation with mercury lamp. Additionally, the proton NMR, FTIR and FESEM results of the recycled samples also confirm the complete degradation of MG dye with the application of N-CDs.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles mediated Azadirachta indica extract and study of their characterization, molecular docking, and antibacterial activity.

The green production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produces AgNPs with minimum influence on the environment by using plant components such as alkaloids, carbohydrates, lipids, enzymes, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polyphenols as reducing agents. In the present investigation, Azadirachta indica leaf extract was used to form AgNPs from a 1 mM silver nitrate solution. The plan proved to be incredibly straightforward, cost-effective, and effective. The production of the nanoparticles was observed visually, where the colorless fluid turns into a brown-colored solution. Further research was carried out using x-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in addition to UV-visible spectroscopy. The size range of AgNPs determined by TEM was 10-30 nm. When the diffusion technique was employed to demonstrate the antibacterial effect of AgNPs on various pathogens, the zones of inhibition for Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Escherichia coli, when 50 g of AgNPs were used were 16, 12, and 17 mm, respectively. By examining the leakage of reducing sugars and proteins, the mechanism by which nanoparticle antibacterial properties were explored, showed that AgNPs were capable of lowering membrane permeability.

ISSR markers endorsed genetically stable plants regeneration of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) through indirect organogenesis using different explants.

BACKGROUND: Various parts of neem (Azadirachta indica) have high demand in several industries. However, the inadequate supply of sources hampers the commercialization of different neem products. In this scenario, the current research was undertaken to produce genetically stable plants through indirect organogenesis. METHODS AND RESULTS: Several explants like shoot tips, internodal segments, and leaves, were cultivated on MS media with different growth regulators. Maximum callus formation was achieved using 1.5 mg/L NAA, 0.5 mg/L 2,4-D and 0.2 mg/L both for Kn and BAP in combination with shoot tip (93.67%). These calli showed an organogenic potentiality on MS medium having coconut water (15%) without growth regulators. This medium along with 0.5 mg/L Kn and 0.1 mg/L both for BAP and NAA yielded the maximum adventitious shoot production with shoot tip-derived callus (95.24%). These calli further produced the most buds per shoot (6.38) and highest average shoot length (5.46 cm) with 0.5 mg/L both for BAP and Kn and 0.1 mg/L NAA in combination after the fifth subculture. The 1/3 strength of MS media was found to be best along with 0.5 mg/L IBA and 0.1 mg/L Kn in combination to generate maximum root response (92.86%), roots per shoot (5.86) and longest average root length (3.84 cm). The mean plant survival after initial hardening was 83.33% which increased to 89.47% after secondary hardening. The lack of variation in ISSR markers among the regenerated trees is evidence of clonal fidelity between hardened plants. CONCLUSIONS: This protocol will accelerate the propagation of neem for utilization of its sources.

Revolutionizing the effect of Azadirachta indica extracts on edema induced changes in C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 in albino rats: in silico and in vivo approach.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to determine the in vivo and in silico anti-inflammatory effect of Azadirachta indica (A. indica) in carrageenan-induced rats and its blood biomarkers. A. indica (Neem) is a widely used medicinal plant across the world, especially in Pakistan. Neem leaves have been traditionally used for the synthesis of drugs and treatment of a wide variety of diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, sixty albino rats (160-200 g) were divided into 4 groups: control (group I), standard (group II), ethanolic and aqueous (group III and IV) at doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg. RESULTS: Ethanolic and aqueous extracts showed maximum inhibition in paw size at the 5th hour (400 mg/kg). Similarly, biomarkers measured, including Interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein, exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity at the highest dose of 400 mg/kg in both experimental groups but were more distinct in the group treated with ethanolic extracts. Correlation between C-reactive protein (CRP) and inter-leukin-6 (IL-6) showed positive correlation in group III, while negative in group IV. Similarly, positive and negative correlations were observed between CRP biomarkers and paw size in group III and IV, and the same results were also shown in the case of IL-6 and paw size. In molecular docking, the binding energy value of protein CRP and IL-1ß with the identified ligands quercetin and nimbosterol showed (-8.2 kcal/mol and -7.7 kcal/mol) the best binding affinity as compared to standard drug diclofenac with -7.0 kcal/mol binding energy respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, in silico and in vivo analysis revealed that the extracts of A. indica leaves can be used as an effective drug to manage inflammation.

Nimbin (N1) and analog N3 from the neem seeds suppress the migration of osteosarcoma MG-63 cells and arrest the cells in a quiescent state mediated via activation of the caspase-modulated apoptotic pathway.

BACKGROUND: Natural products are considered effective sources for new therapeutic research and development. The numerous therapeutic properties of natural substances in traditional medicine compel us to investigate the anti-cancer properties of Nimbin (N1) and its semi-natural analog Nimbic acid (N3) from Azadirachta indica against MG-63 Osteosarcoma cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The therapeutic efficacy of N1 and N3 were screened for their toxicity and cytotoxic activity using L6 myotubes, zebrafish larvae and MG-63 osteosarcoma cells. The mitochondrial membrane potential was evaluated using the Rhodamine 123 stain. Further, the nuclear and cellular damage was distinguished using Hoechst and Acridine orange/EtBr stain. The mechanism of cell cycle progression, cellular proliferation and caspase cascade activation was screened using scratch assay, flow cytometry, and mRNA expression analysis. RESULTS: The Nimbin and analogue N3 were found to be non-toxic to normal L6 cells (Rat skeletal muscles), exhibited cytotoxicity in MG-63 cells, and were exposed to be an active inhibitor of cell proliferation and migration. Analogs N1 and N3 induced negative mitochondrial membrane potential when stained with Rhodamine 123, leading to nuclear damage and apoptosis stimulation using AO/EtBr and Hoechst. Further, N1 and N3 induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase in flow cytometry using PI staining and induced apoptosis by activating the caspase cascade and upregulated Caspase 3 and caspase 9. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrated cytotoxic activity against MG-63 osteosarcoma cells while being non-toxic to normal L6 cells. These compounds inhibited cell proliferation and migration, induced mitochondrial dysfunction, nuclear damage, and apoptosis stimulation. Furthermore, N1 and N3 caused cell cycle arrest and activated the caspase cascade, ultimately leading to apoptosis. These findings indicate that N1 and N3 hold promise as potential candidates used alone or combined with existing drugs for further investigation and development as anti-cancer agents.