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Plant Extracts (plant + extract)
Selected AbstractsINVESTIGATION OF A COMPLEX PLANT EXTRACT FOR MILD TO MODERATE ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION IN A RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED, PARALLEL-ARM STUDYBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 11 2010Elie Ghannam Nemr No abstract is available for this article. [source] COMBINATION WITH PLANT EXTRACTS IMPROVES THE INHIBITORY ACTION OF DIVERGICIN M35 AGAINST LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENESJOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 1 2008ABDEL-MAJEED ZOUHIR ABSTRACT The susceptibility of 11 strains of Listeria monocytogenes to divergicin M35, a bacteriocin produced by Carnobacterium divergens strain M35, and to aqueous extracts of garlic, onion, oregano, red chili and black pepper at 30 and 10C, was evaluated using a microdilution assay. The susceptibility of divergicin-resistant strains to combinations of these agents was also evaluated. Three strains were resistant to divergicin M35 (>500 µg/mL) at 30C but were more susceptible at 10C. Garlic gave the most inhibitory plant extract, followed by onion, while oregano, red chili and black pepper extracts were less active at both temperatures. Garlic extract and divergicin M35 combined or with other extracts increased inhibitory activity against the divergicin-resistant strains. The garlic/divergicin combination was the most effective at inhibiting these strains and was bactericidal at both temperatures. Log-phase cells were the most susceptible to the garlic/divergicin combination. Stationary-phase cells were much more resistant at both incubation temperatures. Furthermore, the effect of the garlic/divergicin combination at inhibiting divergicin-resistant L. monocytogenes in a food system was also studied using cold-smoked salmon as a food model. Results indicated that this combination could efficiently reduce the viability of L. monocytogenes in smoked salmon stored at 10C. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS There is increasing popularity worldwide for chemical preservative-free, ready-to-eat and minimally processed seafood with low salt, fat and sugar content. Bacteriocins produced from lactic acid bacteria can have a potential application to prolong the shelf life of cold-smoked salmon. Also, plant and spice extracts have been shown to contain antibacterial substances with potential for application in foods. Thus, this research explores the combination of divergicin M35, a bacteriocin produced by Carnobacterium divergens strain M35, and aqueous extracts of garlic, onion, oregano, red chili and black pepper to inhibit Listeria monocytogenes and to prolong the shelf life of cold-smoked salmon. [source] Screening of Plant Extracts for Antioxidant Activity: a Comparative Study on Three Testing MethodsPHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS, Issue 1 2002Irina I. Koleva Abstract Three methods widely employed in the evaluation of antioxidant activity, namely 2,2,-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method, static headspace gas chromatography (HS-GC) and ,-carotene bleaching test (BCBT), have been compared with regard to their application in the screening of plant extracts. The strengths and limitations of each method have been illustrated by testing a number of extracts, of differing polarity, from plants of the genus Sideritis, and two known antioxidants (butylated hydroxytoluene and rosmarinic acid). The sample polarity was important for the exhibited activity in the BCBT and HS-GC methods but not for the DPPH method. The complex composition of the extracts and partition phenomena affected their activity in each assay. The value of the BCBT method appears to be limited to less polar samples. Although slow, the HS-GC method is preferable for assessing the antioxidant inhibitory properties on the formation of unwanted secondary volatile products. Being rapid, simple and independent of sample polarity, the DPPH method is very convenient for the quick screening of many samples for radical scavenging activity. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Modulation of activity of the adipocyte aquaglyceroporin channel by plant extractsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2007M.-M. Cals-Grierson Synopsis The plasma membrane protein, aquaglyceroporin-7 (AQP7) is exclusively expressed in adipocytes and appears to be a channel for glycerol entry and exit. It is possible that by facilitating the opening of these channels, the loss of intracellular glycerol could be encouraged and thus reduce the size of the lipid reservoir. Human preadipocytes and mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were induced to develop an adipocytic phenotype by culture in a semi-defined medium. After 7 days, the expression of AQP7 message had increased by 37-fold, a level which could be further up-regulated by troglitazone or retinoic acid or down-regulated by insulin. The mature adipocytes also expressed immunoreactive aquaporin (AQP) channel protein as assessed by immunocytochemistry and Western blot. The addition of adrenaline to the culture medium stimulated the release of glycerol (blockable by HgCl2). Plant extracts, with potential anti-cellulite properties, were tested for their effect on glycerol elimination. These included wild yam root (Dioscorea opposita), cocoa bean (Theobroma cacao), horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) seed and bark and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Of these, D. opposita appeared to induce a dose-dependent glycerol release. The results show that our assay can help to identify modulators of AQP7 channel expression and activation in adipocytes. Résumé Le canal aquaglyceroporine 7 (AQP7) est la voie principale d'entrée et sortie du glycérol dans les adipocytes. Nous avons émis l'hypothèse que la stimulation de ces canaux pourrait augmenter la perte de glycérol des vésicules de stockage des graisses dans les adipocytes et diminuer ainsi le volume des adipocytes. Des pré-adipocytes humains et des pré-adipocytes murins (lignée 3T3 - L1) ont été mis en culture et induits à développer un phénotype d'adipocyte mature différencié. L'expression de l'ARNm AQP7 est multipliée par 37 dans les cellules matures comparativement aux cellules immatures. Le taux d'expression peut être modulé par l'addition de troglitazone, d'acide rétinoique ou d'insuline. Les deux types de cellules (adipocytes matures humains et murins) possèdent une immunoreactivité spécifique de AQP, visualisée par immunocytochimie et par analyse en « Western blot ». Certains actifs susceptibles de moduler le passage de glycérol (et /ou d'augmenter le nombre des canaux actifs) ont étéévalués. L'épinéphrine à 1 ,M (contrôle positif) entraîne une libération maximale de glycérol. Cette réponse est bloquée par HgCl2 (fermeture des canaux AQP7). Plusieurs extraits végétaux ayant un potentiel anti-cellulite ont étéévalués: un extrait de la racine de l'igname sauvage (D. opposita), un extrait de cacao (T. cacao), des extraits du noyau et de l'écorce de marronnier (A. hippocastanum) et un extrait de tomate (S. lycopersicum; fruit). Parmi eux, D. opposita a provoqué une libération de glycérol de manière dose-dépendente. Ces résultats montrent que ce test peut être utile à la recherche cosmétique, pour identifier de nouveaux modulateurs des canaux AQP7 adipocytaires. [source] Antibacterial activity of plant extracts from northwestern ArgentinaJOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2007J.R. Soberón Abstract Aims:, To determine the antibacterial and cytotoxic activities of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of northwestern Argentinian plants used in folk medicine. To compare the mentioned activities with those of five commercial antibiotics. To identify the compounds responsible for the antibacterial activity. Methods and Results:, Plant extracts were prepared according to traditional uses in northwestern Argentina. Antibacterial activity was assayed by agar dilution in Petri dishes and broth dilution in 96-well plates. Lethal dose 50 (LD50) was determined by the Artemia salina assay. Phytochemical analysis was performed by sample adsorption on silica gel, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), bioautography and UV-visible spectra. The results showed that Tripodanthus acutifolius aqueous extracts have lower minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) (502 and 506 ,g of extracted material (EM) per ml for infusion and decoction, respectively) than cefotaxim MIC (640 ,g ml,1) against Acinetobacterfreundii (303). These data were lower than their LD50. Tripodanthus acutifolius tincture showed lower MIC (110 ,g of EM per ml) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) (220 ,g of EM per ml) than cefotaxim (MIC and MBC of 320 ,g ml,1) for Pseudomonasaeruginosa. This extract also showed a MIC/MBC of 110/220 ,g of EM per ml, lower than oxacillin (MIC/MBC of 160/220 ,g ml,1) for Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923). The cytotoxicity of all extracts were compared with that of commercial antibiotics. Rutin (3,3,,4,,5,7-pentahydroxyflavone 3- , -rhamnosilglucoside), iso -quercitrin (3,3,,4,,5,7-pentahydroxyflavone 3- , -glucoside) and a terpene would be partially responsible for the antibacterial activity of T. acutifolius infusion. Conclusions:,Tripodanthus acutifolius extracts had the ability to inhibit bacterial growth. The antibacterial activity differs with the applied extractive method, and it could be partially attributed to glycoflavonoids. This paper contributes to the knowledge of antibacterial capacity of plants from northwestern Argentina. Significance and Impact of the Study:, These antibacterial activities support further studies to discover new chemical structures that can contribute to alleviate or cure some illnesses. [source] COMBINATION WITH PLANT EXTRACTS IMPROVES THE INHIBITORY ACTION OF DIVERGICIN M35 AGAINST LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENESJOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 1 2008ABDEL-MAJEED ZOUHIR ABSTRACT The susceptibility of 11 strains of Listeria monocytogenes to divergicin M35, a bacteriocin produced by Carnobacterium divergens strain M35, and to aqueous extracts of garlic, onion, oregano, red chili and black pepper at 30 and 10C, was evaluated using a microdilution assay. The susceptibility of divergicin-resistant strains to combinations of these agents was also evaluated. Three strains were resistant to divergicin M35 (>500 µg/mL) at 30C but were more susceptible at 10C. Garlic gave the most inhibitory plant extract, followed by onion, while oregano, red chili and black pepper extracts were less active at both temperatures. Garlic extract and divergicin M35 combined or with other extracts increased inhibitory activity against the divergicin-resistant strains. The garlic/divergicin combination was the most effective at inhibiting these strains and was bactericidal at both temperatures. Log-phase cells were the most susceptible to the garlic/divergicin combination. Stationary-phase cells were much more resistant at both incubation temperatures. Furthermore, the effect of the garlic/divergicin combination at inhibiting divergicin-resistant L. monocytogenes in a food system was also studied using cold-smoked salmon as a food model. Results indicated that this combination could efficiently reduce the viability of L. monocytogenes in smoked salmon stored at 10C. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS There is increasing popularity worldwide for chemical preservative-free, ready-to-eat and minimally processed seafood with low salt, fat and sugar content. Bacteriocins produced from lactic acid bacteria can have a potential application to prolong the shelf life of cold-smoked salmon. Also, plant and spice extracts have been shown to contain antibacterial substances with potential for application in foods. Thus, this research explores the combination of divergicin M35, a bacteriocin produced by Carnobacterium divergens strain M35, and aqueous extracts of garlic, onion, oregano, red chili and black pepper to inhibit Listeria monocytogenes and to prolong the shelf life of cold-smoked salmon. [source] Screening for Alternative Antibiotics: An Investigation into the Antimicrobial Activities of Medicinal Food Plants of MauritiusJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 3 2010M.F. Mahomoodally ABSTRACT:, The present study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activities of 2 endemic medicinal plants; Faujasiopsis flexuosa,(Asteraceae) (FF) and Pittosporum senacia,(Pittosporaceae) (PS) and 2 exotic medicinal plants, Momordica charantia,(Cucurbitaceae) (MC) and Ocimum tenuiflorum,(Lamiaceae) (OT) that forms part of local pharmacopoeia of Mauritius and correlate any observed activity with its phytochemical profile. Aqueous and organic fractions of the leaves, fruits, and seeds of these plants were subjected to antimicrobial testing by the disc diffusion method against 8 clinical isolates of bacteria and 2 strains of fungus. It was found that MC, OT, and FF possessed antimicrobial properties against the test organisms. The MIC for MC ranged from 0.5 to 9 mg/mL and that of FF from 2 to 10 mg/mL and the lowest MIC value (0.5 mg/mL) was recorded for the unripe fruits of MC against E. coli. On the other hand, higher concentration of the unripe MC fruit extract of 9 mg/mL was needed to be effective against a resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus,(MRSA). The antimicrobial effect against MRSA was lost upon ripening of the fruits. The methanolic extract of both MC and FF showed highest MIC values compared to the corresponding aqueous extract, which indicates the low efficacy and the need of higher doses of the plant extract. Phytochemical screening of the plants showed the presence of at least tannins, phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which are known antimicrobial phyto-compounds. In conclusion, the observed antimicrobial properties would tend to further validate the medicinal properties of these commonly used endemic medicinal and food plants of Mauritius. [source] Hypoglycaemic effect of Calamintha officinalis Moench. in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic ratsJOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY: AN INTERNATI ONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE, Issue 6 2004A. Lemhadri The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a water extract from the aerial parts of Calamintha officinalis Moench., after either a single dose or daily oral administration for 15 days, on plasma blood glucose concentrations and basal insulin levels in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ diabetic rats). The results clearly demonstrated the hypoglycaemic effect of this plant extract in both normal and STZ diabetic rats. In addition, no changes were observed in basal plasma insulin concentrations after treatment with this plant in normal or STZ diabetic rats, indicating that the underlying mechanism of the plant's pharmacological action seems to be independent of insulin secretion. We conclude that the aqueous C. officinalis extract exhibits a significant hypoglycaemic effect in normal and STZ diabetic rats without affecting basal plasma insulin concentrations, and supports, therefore, its traditional use by the Moroccan population. [source] Identification of Critical Stage for Disease Development and Biocontrol of Alternaria Blight of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea)JOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2004P. D. Meena Abstract Fungicides mancozeb and carbendazim caused 100% reduction in mycelial growth of Alternaria brassicae over control in vitro while 1% (w/v) aqueous bulb extract of Allium sativum and leaf extract of Acacia nilotica caused significant reductions. In dual culture, GR isolate of Trichoderma viride performed the best among the test isolates of Trichoderma, causing 81%, 82% reduction in mycelial growth of A. brassicae over control. Performance of isolates SI-2, P and SI-1 of T. viride were at par (P < 0.01) with that of GR isolate. Spraying of A. brassicae at different ages of the mustard host plant identified 75 days after sowing (d.a.s.) as the most critical age of the mustard plant for development of Alternaria blight severity on the crop with 45 d.a.s. being the next most important one. Mancozeb was the best among all the treatments, resulting in the lowest disease severity on leaves of mustard at both Sewar and Ludhavai as also the lowest A-value (area under disease progress curve). Performance of bulb extract of A. sativum in checking the disease severity on leaves and pods was at par (P,<,0.05) with mancozeb. The GR isolate of T. viride was at par with mancozeb in checking blight severity on mustard leaves at Sewar while performance of the bioagent was significantly (P,<,0.05) inferior to the chemical fungicide at Ludhavai. Performance of the bioagent isolate GR of T. viride in checking the disease severity on pods was at par (P < 0.05) with mancozeb at both Sewar and Ludhavai, the treatment recording the lowest A-value on pods. While application of bulb extract of A. sativum resulted in highest seed yield at Sewar in 2001,2002, the bioagent isolate GR of T. viride did so at Ludhavai, both the treatments being at par (P < 0.05) with mancozeb and significantly higher than control. Application of bulb extract of A. sativum at 45 and 75 d.a.s. resulted in lowest blight severity on leaves and pods as also in highest seed yield among the different single and combination of treatments. Although disease severity in the treatment was at par (P < 0.05) with that in mancozeb, application of the plant extract at the two stages of crop growth resulted in significantly higher seed yield compared with the two applications of the chemical fungicide. However, application of the treatments singly only at 75 d.a.s., GR isolate of T. viride at 45 and 75 d.a.s., A. sativum 45 d.a.s. + T. viride 75 d.a.s., and T. viride 45 d.a.s. + A. sativum 75 d.a.s. resulted in seed yield at par (P < 0.05) with application of bulb extract of A. sativum at 45 and 75 d.a.s. [source] Treatment of vitiligo vulgaris with narrow-band UVB and oral Polypodium leucotomos extract: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled studyJOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 7 2007MA Middelkamp-Hup Abstract Background, The first choice treatment for vitiligo vulgaris is narrow-band UVB (NB-UVB), but no satisfactory treatment exists. Objectives, To investigate if Polypodium leucotomos, an antioxidative and immunomodulatory plant extract, improves NB-UVB-induced repigmentation. Methods, Fifty patients with vitiligo vulgaris randomly received 250 mg oral P. leucotomos or placebo three times daily, combined with NB-UVB twice weekly for 25,26 weeks. Results, Repigmentation was higher in the P. leucotomos group vs. placebo in the head and neck area (44% vs. 27%, P = 0.06). Small repigmentation increases (P = n.s.) were observed for the trunk (6% increased repigmentation), extremities (4%), and hands and feet (5%) in the P. leucotomos group vs. placebo. Patients attending more than 80% of required NB-UVB sessions showed increased repigmentation in the head and neck area in the P. leucotomos group vs. placebo (50% vs. 19%, P < 0.002); no significant differences were seen in the other body areas. Patients with skin types 2 and 3 showed more repigmentation in the head and neck area in the P. leucotomos group vs. placebo (47% vs. 21%, P = 0.01), and no significant differences were seen in the other body areas. No conclusions could be drawn on skin types 4 and 5 due to low patient numbers. Conclusion, There is a clear trend towards an increase in repigmentation of vitiligo vulgaris affecting the head and neck area when NB-UVB phototherapy is combined with oral P. leucotomos. This effect may be more pronounced in light skin types. [source] A critical review of the pharmacology of the plant extract of Pygeum africanum in the treatment of LUTS,NEUROUROLOGY AND URODYNAMICS, Issue 4 2007Alan D. Edgar Abstract Despite an unremitting increase in the number of patients presenting symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), the viable treatment options remain relatively limited when compared to other disorders of aging. This has spurred an interest in so-called alternative medicines, many of which continue to be used in spite of the more recent emergence of rationally targeted therapies. Nonetheless, in the case of plant extracts, the vast majority of these have not been subjected to the same rigorous pre-clinical pharmacological testing and large-scale clinical trials now required by health authorities. Furthermore, demonstration of their clinical efficacy in BPH has been hindered by trials of limited duration with a high placebo response. Beginning with a preliminary demonstration of in vitro inhibition of growth factor-mediated fibroblast proliferation with Pygeum africanum extract, a detailed series of in vitro and in vivo studies on prostate growth and bladder function were undertaken. These studies, reviewed herein, have permitted the identification of putative molecular targets of Pygeum africanum extract affecting both growth factor-mediated prostate growth as well as specific parameters of bladder function. These results, corroborated in part by short-term clinical efficacy, set the stage for a large-scale clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of Pygeum africanum extract in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms. Neurourol. Urodynam. 26:458,463, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Statistical modelling of insect behavioural responses in relation to the chemical composition of test extractsPHYSIOLOGICAL ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 4 2001Alan Hern Abstract. The use of generalized linear models (GLM) for relating changes in insect behaviour to changes in the chemical composition of a plant extract is presented and applied to data from an experimental study of the olfactory response of Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) to apple volatiles. The volatiles were collected from healthy apples, artificially damaged apples or apples infested with C. pomonella larvae (either instar I, IV or V). These treatments produced a blend of 23 major components and the chemical composition of the blends differed substantially amongst the treatments. A statistically significant relationship was found between the concentration of hexyl hexanoate and 2-methylbutyl acetate in each extract and the number of moths moving upwind. Statistically significant models were developed which suggested that a relationship exists between the concentration of Z,E -,-farnesene, hexyl hexanoate and 2-methylbutyl acetate and the number and duration of movements made by the moths. Subsequently Y-tube assays were carried out to validate the predictions made with respect to the orientation of mated female C. pomonella. The results of these assays confirm hexyl hexanoate as an attractant. There were indications that 2-methylbutyl acetate acted as a repellent although differences were not statistically significant. Previous bioassays have shown that C. pomonella displays a statistically significant negative linear dose,response to ,-farnesene (Hern & Dorn, 1999). The statistical methods employed are very flexible and fairly easy to implement, offering the potential to screen plant extracts for bioactive compounds with a minimum of biological constraints. Their general applicability has yet to be demonstrated and as such these analyses only offer evidence of statistical relationships; the results must be validated by additional bioassays before conclusions can be drawn. [source] The effect of Anethum graveolens L. (dill) on corticosteroid induced diabetes mellitus: involvement of thyroid hormonesPHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 12 2008Sunanda Panda Abstract An investigation was made to evaluate the role of Anethum graveolens L. (dill) leaf extract in the regulation of corticosteroid-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus in female rats. In dexamethasone-treated animals (1 mg/kg for 22 days) an increase in serum concentration of insulin and glucose and in hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO) was observed. However, there was a decrease in serum concentration of thyroid hormones and in the endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in liver. In animals treated with an equivalent amount of dexamethasone for a similar period (22 days) when received the leaf extract (100 mg/kg b.wt/d.) for last 15 days a decrease in the concentration of both serum glucose and insulin was observed, indicating the potential of the plant extract in the regulation of corticosteroid-induced diabetes. Dexamethasone-induced alterations in the levels of thyroid hormones as well as in hepatic LPO, SOD, CAT and GSH were also reversed by the plant extract. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Free radical scavenging capacity and protective effect of Bacopa monniera L. on DNA damagePHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 8 2003Alessandra Russo Abstract Bacopa monniera L. (family Scrophulariaceae) (BM) is an Ayurvedic medicine, clinically used for memory enhancing, epilepsy, insomnia and as a mild sedative. In this work, the free radical scavenging capacity of a methanol extract of BM and the effect on DNA cleavage induced by H2O2 UV-photolysis was investigated. In addition, we examined whether this plant extract is capable of reducing the hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity and DNA damage in human non-immortalized ,broblasts. It showed a dose-dependent free radical scavenging capacity and a protective effect on DNA cleavage. These results were con,rmed by a signi,cant protective effect on H2O2 , induced cytoxicity and DNA damage in human non-immortalized ,broblasts. The antioxidant capacity of BM may explain, at least in part, the reported antistress, immunomodulatory, cognition-facilitating, antiin,ammatory and antiaging effects produced by it in experimental animals and in clinical situations and may justify further investigation of its other bene,cial properties. Moreover, this experimental evidence suggests that because of its antioxidant activity, this Ayurvedic drug may be useful in the treatment of human pathologies in which free radical production plays a key role. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Glutathione S-transferases and malondialdehyde in the liver of NOD mice on short-term treatment with plant mixture extract P-9801091PHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 4 2003R. Petlevski Abstract Changes in the concentration of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were assessed in the liver of normal and diabetic NOD mice with and without treatment with the plant extract P-9801091. The plant extract P-9801091 is an antihyperglycaemic preparation containing Myrtilli folium (Vaccinium myrtillus L.), Taraxaci radix (Taraxacum of,cinale Web.), Cichorii radix (Cichorium intybus L.), Juniperi fructus (Juniperus communis L.) , Centaurii herba (Centaurium umbellatum Gilib.), Phaseoli pericarpium (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), Millefolii herba (Achillea millefolium L.), Mori folium (Morus nigra L.), Valerianae radix (Valeriana of,cinalis L.) and Urticae herba et radix (Urtica dioica L). Hyperglycaemia in diabetes mellitus is responsible for the development of oxidative stress (via glucose auto-oxidation and protein glycation), which is characterized by increased lipid peroxide production (MDA is a lipid peroxidation end product) and/or decreased antioxidative defence (GST in the liver is predominantly an , enzyme, which has antioxidative activity). The catalytic concentration of GSTs in the liver was signi,cantly reduced in diabetic NOD mice compared with normal NOD mice (p < 0.01), while the concentration of MDA showed a rising tendency (not signi,cant). The results showed that statistically signi,cant changes in antioxidative defence occurred in the experimental model of short-term diabetes mellitus. A 7-day treatment with P-9801091 plant extract at a dose of 20 mg/kg body mass led to a signi,cant increase in the catalytic concentration of GSTs in the liver of diabetic NOD mice (p < 0.01) and a decrease in MDA concentration (not signi,cant), which could be explained by its antihyperglycaemic effect. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Stimulation of protein biosynthesis in rat hepatocytes by extracts of Momordica charantiaPHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 2 2001O. O. Oyedapo Abstract The in vivo effect of the administration of extracts of Momordica charantia on certain biochemical parameters of Sprague-Dawley rats was investigated. It was observed that there was an increase in muscle and liver protein levels, while there was a reduction in the levels of brain protein, muscle and liver glycogen. The activities of plasma L -alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase were reduced. The L -aspartate transaminase and adenosine triphosphatase activities were slightly elevated in whole plant extract treated rats while the L -aspartate transaminase was unaffected by the ethanol extract but reduced the adenosine triphosphatase activity. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Plant extract contact toxicities to various developmental stages of Colorado potato beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)ANNALS OF APPLIED BIOLOGY, Issue 2 2006A. Gökçe Abstract The contact toxicities of methanol extracts from the nine plant species Hedera helix, Artemisia vulgaris, Xanthium strumarium, Humulus lupulus, Sambucus nigra, Chenopodium album, Salvia officinalis, Lolium temulentum and Verbascum songaricum were tested on the developmental stages of Colorado potato beetle (CPB) (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). About 2 mL of plant extract, 40% (w/w), was applied to the first instar to fourth instar larvae and adult beetles using a Potter spray tower. Most of the tested plant extracts caused relatively low mortality in all the beetle instars. Among the plant extracts, H. lupulus extract was the most toxic to all stages of the insect, except for the adult beetles. Larval mortality ranged from 40% in the fourth instars to 84% in the third instars. In a second series of experiments, dose,response bioassays using H. lupulus extract produced lethal concentration 50 (LC50) values ranging from 10%, 12%, 17% to 46% (w/w) active ingredient (plant material) for instars 1,4, respectively. This increasing mortality trend, however, did not extend to the adult stage where even the maximum dose of 40% plant material did not provide sufficient mortality to allow estimation of a LC50. These results demonstrated that the extract from H. lupulus has potential as an active ingredient in biological pesticides developed to manage larval instars of the CPB. The potential uses of this plant extract may be in conventional and organic pest management or as part of a mixture of plant extracts or conventional insecticides. Before extracts can be considered as biological control agents, their impact on natural enemies should be assessed. [source] Development and validation of a simple thin layer chromatographic method for the analysis of artemisinin in Artemisia annua L. plant extractsBIOMEDICAL CHROMATOGRAPHY, Issue 5 2008Els Marchand Abstract Owing to the development of parasite resistance to standard antimalarial treatments like chloroquine and sulfadoxine,pyrimethamine, the demand for Artemisia annua, a key ingredient for new and highly effective antimalarial drugs, is huge. Therefore selective and precise methods to determine the content of artemisinin in dry plant material and in raw impure extracts are needed. In this work a method is described for the clear separation and extraction of artemisinin from other plant components in the Artemisia annua L. plant by thin-layer chromatography (TLC). To obtain optimal extraction and recovery efficiency, several parameters were evaluted, including choice of extraction solvent, TLC plate type and sensitivity between UV and visible light. Method validation was performed on both the dry plant material and non-purified plant extracts. Toluene presented the highest extraction efficiency compared with petroleum ether, hexane and methanol. Reversed-phase plates showed more concentrated spots than normal-phase plates, while the sensitivity of the analysis in UV was comparable to that in visible light but less precise. The impure plant extracts were analyzed by both TLC and HPLC-UV at 215 nm and both methods met the requirements for linearity, selectivity, precision and accuracy. Hence, the proposed TLC method can easily be used for both qualitative and quantitative control of the raw plant extract in areas where advanced methods are scarce. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Antimicrobial activity of endemic Crataegus tanacetifolia (Lam.) Pers and observation of the inhibition effect on bacterial cellsCELL BIOCHEMISTRY AND FUNCTION, Issue 8 2008Mehlika Benli Abstract Up to now an increasing number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria have been reported and thus new natural therapeutic agents are needed in order to eradicate these pathogens. Through the discovery of plants such as Crataegus tanacetifolia (Lam.) Pers that have antimicrobial activity, it will be possible to discover new natural drugs serving as chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of nosocomial pathogens and take these antibiotic-resistant bacteria under control. The objective of the present study was to determine antimicrobial activity and the activity mechanism of C. tanacetifolia plant extract. The leaves of C. tanacetifolia, which is an endemic plant, were extracted using methanol and tested against 10 bacterial and 4 yeast strains by using a drop method. It was observed that the plant extract had antibacterial effects on Bacillus subtilis, Shigella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes among the microorganisms that were tested. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) results obtained at the end of an incubation of 24,h were found to be ,6.16,mg,ml,1 for B. subtilis, <394,mg,ml,1 for Shigella, and ,3.08,mg,ml,1 for L. monocytogenes and S. aureus and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were found as ,24.63,mg,ml,1 for B. subtilis, ,394,mg,ml,1 for Shigella, ,6.16,mg,ml,1 for L. monocytogenes, and ,98.5,mg,ml,1 for S. aureus. According to the MBC results, it was found that the plant extract had bactericidal effects and in order to explain the activity mechanism and cell deformation of bacterial strains treated with plant extract, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used. The results of SEM showed that the treated cells appeared shrunken and there was degradation of the cell walls. This study, in which the antibacterial effect of C. tanacetifolia was demonstrated, will be a base for further investigations on advanced purification and effect mechanism of action of its active compounds. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Sesquiterpene lactone dermatitis in the young: is atopy a risk factor?CONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 1 2008Evy Paulsen Screening for Compositae contact allergy has documented fairly high prevalence in adults, and recent studies indicate that the allergy may be more common in children than previously believed. However, detailed information on sensitization in this age group is sparse. The objective of this study was to present another 2 cases in children and review the literature. Screening with sesquiterpene lactone (SL) mix has shown prevalence of 0.5% and 1.8% in 2 studies, while screening with 2 different Compositae mixes detected 4.2% and 2.6% positives among children and adolescents. All individual case reports describe sensitization in atopic children, and the largest screening study showed a prevalence of Compositae mix sensitization that was significantly higher in children with atopic dermatitis compared with non-atopics. Compositae sensitization should be considered in children with a family or personal history of atopy, summer-related, or -exacerbated dermatitis of any kind, and a history of plant exposure. Screening with SL mix is recommended but should be supplemented with plant extracts based on exposure history. Compositae weeds, especially dandelions, seem to be important sensitizers in children. [source] P59 Patch test results to plant extracts and chemicalsCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 3 2004Kristiina Alanko Objective and methods:, We review patch test results from two special patch test series for plant allergens, ,plant extracts' and ,allergenic plant chemicals', provided by Prof. Hausen (Germany) and tested in 1992,2003. The standard series contained Sesquiterpene-lactone mix (SL mix) since 1993 (3/1998,10/1999 excluded) and Compositae mix since 3/1998. We present the cases where either SL mix or Compositae mix gave an allergic reaction and where, in addition, the series of plant extracts was tested. Results:, SL mix and Compositae mix were tested to 900 patients. Among them, plant extracts were tested in 122 and plant chemicals in 104 cases. 30 patients had an allergic reaction to Compositae mix and 17 to SL mix as well. In the plant extract series, there were more than 5 allergic reactions to feverfew(21), true chamomile(21), arnica(18), chrysanthemum(18), laurel bay leaf(13), tansy(12), gaillardia(9), yarrow(8) and pot marigold(7). In the plant chemical series, there were 9 allergic reactions to parthenolide and single reactions to primin, chlorophorin and Mansonone A. Conclusions:, Compositae mix gave a positive test reaction always together with SL mix, which gave a positive reaction in only part of these cases. The concentration of Compositae mix was lowered from 6% to 3% in 1/1999 because of cases of active sensitisation. The lower concentration seems to be reliable for detecting allergy, although it still causes active sensitisation. [source] Determination of melatonin in wine and plant extracts by capillary electrochromatography with immobilized carboxylic multi-walled carbon nanotubes as stationary phaseELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 13 2010Patricia W. Stege Abstract The finding of melatonin, the often called "hormone of darkness" in plants opens an interesting perspective associated to the plethora of health benefits related to the moderate consumption of red wine. In this study, the implementation of a new method for the determination of melatonin in complex food matrices by CEC with immobilized carboxylic multi-walled carbon nanotubes as stationary phase is demonstrated. The results indicated high electrochromatographic resolution, good capillary efficiencies and improved sensitivity respect to those obtained with conventional capillaries. In addition, it was demonstrated highly reproducible results between runs, days and columns. The LOD for melatonin was 0.01,ng/mL. The method was successfully applied to the determination of melatonin in red and white wine, grape skin and plant extracts of Salvia officinalis L. [source] Urtica dioica agglutinin: Separation, identification, and quantitation of individual isolectins by capillary electrophoresis and capillary electrophoresis,mass spectrometryELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 9 2005Markus Ganzera Abstract With benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) being a major health problem in ageing men, alternative therapeutic approaches (e.g., with phytopharmaceuticals) are of great interest. Based on pharmacological evidences, one of the most promising options in that respect are the lectins found in Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) roots. In this study the qualitative and quantitative analysis of individual isolectins in U. dioica extracts is described, which is the first report on using capillary electrophoresis (CE) for the analysis of lectins in plant material at all. By utilizing a 200 mM sodium acetate buffer (pH 3.75) a baseline separation and determination of four closely related isolectins was feasible within 20 min in the aqueous plant extracts. The individual compounds were identified based on reference compounds as well as data obtained from CE-mass spectrometry (MS) experiments. After modifying the optimized CE conditions to 100 mM ammonium formate buffer with pH 3.75 and a voltage of 15 kV, the isolectins were clearly assignable in positive electrospray ionization (ESI) mode. The quantitative results obtained by CE (the total lectin content varied from 0 to 0.42% in the samples) were accurate (recovery rates of spiked samples between 92.5 and 96.2%), precise (relative standard deviation < 5%) and in good agreement to those obtained by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). As for peak resolution, assignable compounds and required separation time the newly developed CE method was clearly advantageous over the determination achieved by LC. [source] Capillary electrophoresis-laser induced fluorescence-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry: A case studyELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 7-8 2005Carolin Huhn Abstract The simultaneous hyphenation of capillary electrophoresis (CE) with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) as a novel combined detection system for CE is presented. ,-Carbolines were chosen as model analytes with a forensic background. Nonaqueous CE as well as conventional CE with an aqueous buffer system are compared concerning efficiency and obtainable detection limits. The distance between the optical detection window and the sprayer tip was minimized by placing the optical cell directly in front of the electrospray interface. Similar separation efficiencies for both detection modes could thus be obtained. No significant peak-broadening induced by the MS interface was observed. The high fluorescence quantum yield and the high proton affinity of the model analytes investigated resulted in limits of detection in the fg (nmol/L) range for both detection methods. The analysis of confiscated ayahuasca samples and ethanolic plant extracts revealed complementary selectivities for LIF and MS detection. Thus, it is possible to improve peak identification of the solutes investigated by the use of these two detection principles. [source] Analysis of the glucosinolate pattern of Arabidopsis thaliana seeds by capillary zone electrophoresis coupled to electrospray ionization-mass spectrometryELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 7-8 2005Gerhard Bringmann Abstract An easy and rapid method for the analysis of intact, non-desulfated glucosinolates by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) coupled to electrospray ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS) is described. Surprisingly, an electrolyte and a sheath liquid based on formic acid provided the best results. In this strongly acidic system, the glucosinolates were separated and detected as anions, resulting in an excellent selectivity. Thus, crude plant extracts could be analyzed without any interference of matrix constituents. The sensitivity together with mass accuracy and true isotopic pattern of the TOF-MS allowed identification of a broad series of glucosinolates in Arabidopsis thaliana seeds. [source] Aryl hydrocarbon bioaccessibility to small mammals from arctic plants using in vitro techniquesENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 3 2007Sarah A. Armstrong Abstract Through their diet, herbivores inhabiting contaminated sites may be chronically exposed to a variety of aryl hydrocarbons (e.g., dioxins and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs]). However, little is known about how differences in morphology and physiology among plant species alter the environmental accumulation of aryl hydrocarbons or their release and subsequent activity in the gastrointestinal tract of herbivores after ingestion. In the present study, the activity of aryl hydrocarbons during digestion was examined using six Arctic plant species growing in impacted and reference sites near Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada. The plant species studied were black spruce (Picea mariana), labrador tea (Ledum groenlandicum), bog birch (Betula glandulosa), green alder (Alnus crispa), water sedge (Carex aquatilis), and little-tree willow (Salix arbusculoides). Plants were digested using a simulator of the upper digestive tract, and aryl hydrocarbon release was evaluated using an aryl hydrocarbon-receptor assay. Bioaccessible aryl hydrocarbon activity varied among the plant species tested. The species with the greatest activity was green alder, and the species with the least activity was black spruce. Further investigation revealed that digested plant extracts may antagonize the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and prevent bioactivation of the aryl compound benzo[a]pyrene. Thus, PAH risk from the ingestion of vegetation varies among plant species and may depend on antagonists present in the vegetation. [source] Comparison of conventional and ultrasound-assisted extraction of carvone and limonene from caraway seedsFLAVOUR AND FRAGRANCE JOURNAL, Issue 3 2004Smain Chemat Abstract Extraction experiments with hexane were carried out at atmospheric pressure in Soxhlet, conventional and ultrasound extractions of ,aked caraway seeds, and detailed results are given for two major plant extract components, carvone and limonene. The results indicate that carvone yield and plant extract quality are better in ultrasound extraction compared to those given by conventional methodology. Extraction rates of carvone and limonene reported that ultrasound-assisted extraction was 1.3,2 times more rapid, depending on temperature, than a conventional system, according to the rate constant obtained during the initial 10 minutes of extraction. Moreover, the SEM micrographs provided more evidence for the mechanical effects of ultrasound, mainly appearing on cell walls and shown by the destruction of cells, faulitating the release of their contents, in contrast to conventional maceration or extraction, which involve diffusion of plant extracts across glandular walls and causing cell rupture over longer time periods. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Abstracts: The effects of licorice leaf extract on ceramide and hyaluronan synthesisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 5 2010Akinori Kiso pp.267,273 Both water-holding and permeability barrier function in the stratum corneum (SC) are essential for keeping skin moisture. Intercellular lipids in SC, which are composed mainly of cholesterol, fatty acids, and ceramides, play a crucial role for maintaining the function in SC. The object of our study is to find active ingredients from plant extracts for enhancing the abilities of skin hydration and barrier repair by focusing on the synthesis of ceramides. As a result, we found that licorice leaf extract is a promising ingredient showing not only an increase of mRNA expression levels of serine palmytoyltransferase (SPT) and sphingomyelinase related to ceramide biosynthesis in keratinocytes but also syntheses of ceramides in a 3D skin model and in human skin. Furthermore, licorice leaf extract showed an increase of mRNA expression levels of HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) related to cholesterol biosynthesis and an increase of hyaluronan (HA) production in in vitro tests. One of the principles isolated from licorice leaf extract, 6-prenyl-naringenin, was thought to be one of the active components. These results suggested that licorice leaf extract may be a useful ingredient for skin care due to the synthesis of intercellular lipids and HA [source] Abstracts: The effects of Coptis japonica root extract and its key component, berberine, on human subcutaneous adipocytesINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 5 2010Keiko Yashiki(Tohi) pp.274,280 An increase of subcutaneous fat presses lymph vessels and blood vessels in skin tissues, and results in not only causing skin troubles such as skin sagging and swelling but also forming cellulite that makes bodylines worse. To expand further application of plant extracts to cosmetics, we focused on inhibitory effects of subcutaneous preadipocytes differentiation and facilitating lipolysis in adipocytes. In this study, in a screening test of a number of plant extracts, Coptis japonica root extract and its key component, berberine, showed potent inhibition of triglyceride accumulation and subcutaneous preadipocytes differentiation. Furthermore, Coptis japonica root extract and berberine down-regulated the mRNA expression level of several differentiation factors derived from subcutaneous preadipocytes. Coptis japonica root extract and berberine in subcutaneous adipocytes facilitated lipolysis in mature adipocytes. Our study suggested that Coptis japonica root extract and its key component, berberine, is expected to be useful for slimming and related skin troubles such as skin sagging, swelling, cellulite, and so on. [source] Studying the anti-tyrosinase effect of Arbutus andrachne L. extractsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 4 2008R. A. Issa Synopsis Arbutus andrachne L. is widely distributed in Jordan. Tyrosinase is the key enzyme in the biosynthesis of melanin. This preliminary study was carried out to assess the possible anti-tyrosinase activity of A. andrachne extracts. Arbutin, hydroquinone and kojic acid were selected as inhibitor standards. Five different extracts (chloroform, butanol, ethanol, methanol and water) were prepared from A. andrachne stems and their activities were compared with the selected tyrosinase inhibitors. IC50 was measured for both, standard and plant extracts. Among the different extracts, the methanolic extract exhibited the highest anttyrosinase activity with an IC50 value (1 mg mL,1). Furthermore, 9 mg A. andrachne methanolic extract showed 97.49% inhibition of tyrosinase activity. Arbutin, hydroquinone, ,-sitosterol and ursolic acid were identified in the different extracts of A. andrachne by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and isolated by preparative TLC from the methanolic and chloroform stem extracts, respectively. Résumé Arbutus andrachne L. est largement répandu en Jordanie. La tyrosinase est un enzyme clé dans la biosynthèse de la mélanine. Cette étude préliminaire est menée dans le but de juger de la possible activité anti-tyrosinase des extraits d'A. andrachne L. L'arbutine, l'hydroquinone et l'acide kojique ont été sélectionnés comme inhibiteurs de référence. Cinq extraits différents (chloroforme, butanol, éthanol, méthanol et eau) ont été préparés à partir de tiges d'A. andrachne L. et leurs activités ont été comparées à celles des inhibiteurs de tyrosinase sélectionnés. L'IC50 a été mesurée à la fois pour les références et les extraits de plantes. Parmi les différents extraits, l'extrait méthanolique montre l'activité anti-tyrosinase la plus élevée avec une valeur d'IC50 de 1 mg mL,1. De plus, 9 mg d'extrait méthanolique d'A. andrachne L. possède une activité inhibitrice de la tyrosinase de 97.49%. L'arbutine, l'hydroquinone, le ,-sitostérol et l'acide ursolique ont été identifiés dans les différents extraits par chromatographie sur couches minces et isolés par chromatographie préparative, respectivement à partir des extraits méthanoliques et chloroformiques de tiges. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||