Natural Products Journal, The - Volume 14, Issue 7, 2024

Background: The pesticide paraquat is hazardous to both humans and animals. Lung damage is a common complication of paraquat poisoning. Objective: This research analyzes the preventive properties of Origanum Vulgare leaf extract against paraquat-induced acute pulmonary toxicity and oxidative stress. Methods: In this experiment, the rats were assigned to five distinct groups. Group 1 served as the control, group 2 got only 25 mg/kg bw paraquat, and groups 3, 4, and 5 received paraquat and Origanum vulgare leaf extract at dosages of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg bw, respectively. In rats, inflammation- related indicators and oxidative stress were analyzed after therapy. Results: Compared with the control group, the levels of the serum PC, MDA, and inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β remarkably rose (p < 0.05) and the pulmonary contents of the SOD, CAT, and vitamin C greatly decreased (p < 0.05) in the paraquat-only group. Origanum vulgare leaf extract administration after paraquat exposure resulted in a substantial increase in lung SOD, CAT, and vitamin C levels as well as a significant reduction in MDA, PC, and lung inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) gene expression relative to the paraquat-only group. Conclusion: Origanum Vulgare leaf extract might be supplied to lessen the toxicity of paraquat, based on the findings of this research, which indicated that Origanum Vulgare leaf extract has antioxidant- enhancing properties and can improve the antioxidant defense system.

Background: Filamentous fungi in the genus Aspergillus are well known for their important roles in production of bioactive secondary metabolites with diversely chemical structures and potential application in pharmaceutical industry. Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the phenolic bisabolane sesquiterpene (PBS) derivatives from an Arctic marine-derived fungus Aspergillus sydowii MNP-2. Methods: In this study, antimicrobial activities were carried out according to the broth microdilution assay, nitric oxide (NO) production in mouse macrophages (RAW264.7) and BV2 microglial cells was used to detect the inhibitory effect of compounds in inflammatory reactions, and in vitro inhibitory cell proliferation activity was determined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Results: In this work, chemical investigation of an Arctic marine-derived strain A. sydowii MNP-2 led to the isolation of 11 PBSs (1-11) using various chromatographic methods. Their chemical structures were unambiguously determined by ¹H NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry analyses as well as comparison with literature data. It is noteworthy that compounds 1, 7 and 11 were firstly obtained from A. sydowii. Antimicrobial assay showed that these chemicals had no potent inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans with MIC values > 16 μg/mL. Additionally, the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- induced inflammation in mouse macrophages (RAW264.7) and BV2 microglial cells were all below 10% for compounds 4-6 and 8, indicating almost negligible anti-inflammatory efficacy. Among the tested compounds 4-6 and 8 for tumor-cell proliferation inhibition activities, compound 5 demonstrated the strongest inhibitory effect against human acute promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-6) with a 44.76% inhibition rate. Conclusion: In the present study, 11 PBS derivatives were purified and characterized from the solidand liquid-state fermentations of the Arctic marine-derived fungus A. sydowii MNP-2. Unfortunately, none of these metabolites had significant antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, or tumor-cell proliferation inhibition activities.

Background: Hibiscus sabdariffa (sorrel) is a member of the hibiscus genus and Malvaceae family. An important attribute is its therapeutic characteristic, which has been validated by research that shows some success in treating several diseases. Objective: Owing to limited information and research deficits, this study aimed to investigate the physiologic effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on biological systems and the advances made in the last century. Methods: PubMed Central search for “Hibiscus sabdariffa OR sorrel” was conducted from November 2021 to March 2022, covering articles from 1921 to 2020. The results were documented in Microsoft Excel 2016 and grouped based on physiological systems. Results: Sorrel research publications mushroomed in the last decade. Studies from 1921-2010 reported on the endocrine and cardiovascular systems, while additional biological systems (nervous, urinary, gastrointestinal, integumentary, hematopoietic, reproductive, and skeletal) were later investigated. Sorrel positively treated diabetes, hypertension, and a multitude of other illnesses due to its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory potential, chiefly via its anthocyanins. Hypertension was mostly reported, predominantly from Nigeria (Africa), and toxicity exceeded 2000 mg/kg b.w. Conclusion: Sorrel has multifaceted uses, mostly involving hypertension treatment. Despite increased publications and advances in research, all areas of physiology still require sorrel research, especially in the Caribbean, which lacked publication, amidst Jamaica being known for the consumption of sorrel drink.

Numerous photoprotective techniques have been employed to successfully shield against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Current photoprotective techniques have limitations due to the amount of topical application, insufficient physical protection, and adverse responses to topical agents. A newer option that offers a promising defense against solar radiation is systemic agents, the well-researched Polypodium leucotomos is significant in this category, and several studies have found to be effective 128;•oral sunscreen. Polypodium leucotomos (PL) extract has gained significant attention as a potential therapeutic agent in the field of dermatology, particularly in the photoprotection and management of various dermatological conditions. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanism, safety, and efficacy of Polypodium leucotomos extract in relation to photoprotection and dermatological conditions. Our primary aim is to review Polypodium leucotomos' photoprotective results from studies that are currently available, and our secondary goal is to describe Polypodium leucotomos' applications in different dermatological conditions. Articles discussing Polypodium leucotomos uses in photoprotection and dermatologic conditions are searched and downloaded from publicly available databases such as PubMed, JSTOR, PLOS, Science Direct, DOAJ, Google Scholar, and Web of Science and evaluate the outcomes of the Polypodium leucotomos effect. Firstly, we delve into the mechanisms underlying the photoprotective properties of PL extract. Extensive research has demonstrated that PL extract exerts its protective effects through multiple pathways, including antioxidant activity, DNA repair stimulation, immunomodulation, and inhibition of inflammatory mediators. These mechanisms collectively contribute to the prevention of photodamage, such as sunburn, DNA damage, and photoaging. Furthermore, we explore the safety profile of PL extract, emphasizing its remarkable tolerability and minimal adverse effects reported in clinical studies. The absence of systemic absorption and its compatibility with other treatments make PL extract a promising option for long-term use in photoprotection and dermatological care. A promising alternative to traditional photoprotection may be Polypodium leucotomos. Additional thorough clinical trials are necessary to ascertain its role and effectiveness more accurately. The efficacy of PL extract in managing various dermatological conditions is also discussed. Multiple studies have demonstrated its beneficial effects in conditions such as vitiligo, melasma, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of PL extract have shown promise in reducing disease severity, improving skin symptoms, and enhancing the quality of life for patients. Additionally, the abstract highlights the potential future directions and areas of research for PL extract. Investigating its combination therapy with other photoprotective agents, exploring optimal dosage regimens, and further elucidating the molecular mechanisms are areas that warrant attention. In conclusion, this abstract provides an insightful overview of the mechanisms, safety, and efficacy of PL extract in photoprotection and dermatological conditions. The remarkable properties of PL extract, combined with its favorable safety profile, position it as a promising therapeutic intervention in dermatology. Further research and clinical trials are needed to fully exploit its potential and establish its place in the management of various skin conditions.

Background: Psoriasis is a persistent immune system disorder that influences the skin, leading to red, flaky patches that can be painful and irritated. Objective: Traditional treatments for psoriasis, such as topical creams and oral medications, may be effective but also have potential side effects. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat skin conditions, and advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of herbal nanoformulations that offer several advantages over traditional herbal remedies, such as efficacy, safety, and targeted delivery. Methods: The studies and reviews published under the title were looked up in several databases (including PubMed, Elsevier, and Google Scholar). Results: Several herbal nanoformulations, including those containing curcumin, aloe vera, and neem, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory impacts, which will be useful within the treatment of psoriasis. However, more study is required to decide the efficacy and safety of these details, as well as the optimal dosing, duration of treatment, and potential side effects. Conclusion: Overall, herbal nanoformulations represent a promising area of research for the treatment of psoriasis, and may offer a safe and effective alternative or adjunct therapy to conventional treatments. This review article summarizes the present state of information for the herbal nanoformulations role in the treatment of psoriasis and their future perspectives.

Introduction: This paper aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile and bioactivities of 22 plant species used in the traditional medicine of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The utilization of plants in traditional medicine in Bosnia and Herzegovina holds significant importance, not only as a reflection of cultural heritage but also as a sustainable and time-tested approach to healthcare, fostering a harmonious connection between nature and well-being. Method: The comprehensive analyses encompassed the determination of total phenolic and flavonoid content, alongside assessing antioxidant activity using DPPH and FRAP assays. Additionally, antimicrobial activity was tested against S. aureus. ssp. aureus, MRSA, P. aeruginosa, S. abony and C. albicans. Many of the analyzed plant extracts showed a high phenolic content (C. avellana, V. myrtillus) and antioxidant activity (C. avellana, V. myrtillus, B. pendula, S. officinale, E. angustifolium, J. globifera ssp. hirta). Result: The majority of extracts showed good antimicrobial activity against S. aureus ssp. aureus and MRSA. The E. angustifolium extract was effective against all tested bacterial strains, with MIC values ranging from 1.25-10 mg/mL. The research identified significant levels of secondary metabolites and plant species with potent antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: The study also revealed significant correlations among various phytochemical parameters and bioactivities.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common type of leukemia. However, the understanding of AML remains insufficient. The pathological progression of AML is closely related to chromosome abnormalities and genetic mutations. Gene mutation is an important factor in the pathogenesis of AML and a potential cause of drug resistance. Recent studies have shown that gene mutations in AML can cause metabolic changes. Metabolites, as downstream products of human physiological activities, can amplify physiological and disease-related signals. Therefore, the analysis of metabolite markers related to gene mutations can be used for early prediction of the occurrence of the disease. This review describes the types and significance of AML gene mutations and analyzes the characteristics of metabolic changes related to gene mutations.