Objectives: Camellia sinensis has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic properties and lowering the cholesterol. C. sinensis produces black, green, and oolong types of tea. Ocimum gratissimum is used as a spice and to treat various diseases, such as stomatitis, rheumatism, hemorrhoids, bronchitis, and inflammation. To analyse the anti-inflammatory activity and antimicrobial activity of aqua-alcoholic extract of C. sinensis and O. gratissimum (herbal formulation) against wound pathogens. Methods: To prepare the herbal formulation of aqua-alcoholic extract and its evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity was utilized the bovine serum albumin denaturation assay and egg albumin denaturation assay. To determine the efficacy of antimicrobial activity against wound pathogens was utilized agar well diffusion. To examine the statistical analysis for utilizing the two-way analysis of variance analysis in Tukey’s test. Results: The outcomes of the aqua-alcoholic extract in antimicrobial activity utilizing the agar well diffusion technique at various concentrations as 25, 50, and 100 μg/mL. The higher concentration as 100 μg/mL showed as 19, 16, and 20 mm in Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas sp., and Staphylococcus aureus. In 20 μg/mL of standard (gentamicin) as 18, 10, and 12 mm, and the control (aqua-alcohoic solvent) as 9, 9, and 10 mm. Anti-inflammatory activity revealed the inhibitory percentage as various concentrations (10–50 μg/mL) at 45–81% and the standard as diclofenac sodium in 47–84%. Statistical analysis details, specifying that all values are expressed as mean±standard deviation, with significance set at p<0.05. Conclusion: In herbal formulation of aqua-alcoholic extract was showed the excellent antimicrobial activity against wound infectious pathogens against wound infectious pathogens and their anti-inflammatory property also. The extract controls wound pathogens and reduces inflammation; it will be utilized for wound healing activity in animal models and clinical trials.
Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by the development of immature ovarian follicles and enlarged ovaries. It is caused because of the hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, genetics, lifestyle modifications, stress, and environmental contaminants, all of which are linked to the condition. In addition, recent research indicates that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota contributes significantly for the development of PCOS. Thus, the main purpose of this study is to find the therapeutic potential of postbiotics made from a blend mixture of three probiotics: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Akkermansia muciniphila, for the treatment of PCOS. Methods: Probiotics L. acidophilus, B. lactis, and A. muciniphila were used to create postbiotics. PCOS-related chicken theca cell lines were used to assess the postbiotic mixtures’ therapeutic potential. Antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyltetrazoliumbromide assay] were used to measure the cell growth and cytotoxic effects of the postbiotic mixture were also evaluated. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were calculated to confirm the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Results: The findings showed that abnormal chicken theca cell growth was decreased by exposure to the postbiotic combination. Antibacterial activity was also performed by the postbiotic formulation, with IC50 values of 711 μg/mL and 855 μg/mL with respect to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Conclusion: According to the research, postbiotics made from L. acidophilus, B. lactis, and A. muciniphila have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. PCOS symptoms may be effectively managed and mitigated by maintaining gut microbiota through postbiotic supplementation
Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of intravenous nalbuphine and intravenous tramadol in controlling post-spinal shivering in patients undergoing lower limb surgeries under spinal anesthesia. Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind comparative study of 80 patients undergoing lower limb surgeries under spinal anesthesia from February 2025 to January 2026. The patients who had Wrench Grade III or IV shivering were randomly divided into two groups of 40 patients each. Group N was given intravenous nalbuphine 0.05 mg/kg, and Group T was given intravenous tramadol 1 mg/kg. The main outcome measured was time to cessation of shivering. Secondary outcomes were recurrence of shivering, need for rescue medication and adverse effects. Results: Group T had a significantly shorter time to stop shivering than Group N (3.54±1.46 min vs. 4.58±1.52 min; p=0.02). Of the patients in Groups T and N, respectively, 92.5% and 87.5% were successfully controlled within 5 min, with 20% and 10% experiencing recurrence of shivering. There were more cases of nausea (17.5%) and vomiting (10%) reported in the tramadol group, and relatively more cases of sedation (10%) in the nalbuphine group. Conclusion: Both nalbuphine and tramadol were effective in controlling post-spinal shivering. Tramadol demonstrated a shorter mean time to cessation of shivering, whereas nalbuphine showed a comparatively better adverse effect profile with less nausea and vomiting. Both drugs ensured adequate hemodynamic stability and are suitable for clinical use.
Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Capsicum frutescens (HECF) and its effect on GABAergic neurotransmission in a maximal electroshock seizure (MES)-induced epileptic rat model. Methods: Wistar rats were treated with HECF (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) and the standard drug phenytoin (25 mg/kg, p.o.) for 21 days. Seizures were induced using MES (60 Hz, 150 mA, 0.2 s). Seizure phases were recorded, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in cortical brain homogenates were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography with o-phthaldialdehyde derivatization. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. Results: HECF significantly reduced seizure duration in flexion, extension, clonus, stupor, and recovery phases compared to disease control (p<0.001). GABA levels (μg/g tissue) were significantly increased in HECF-treated groups, with the 400 mg/kg dose showing a greater effect (p<0.0001). Histopathological analysis confirmed dose-dependent neuroprotection. Conclusion: HECF exhibits significant anticonvulsant activity, likely mediated through modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission, supporting its potential as an alternative therapeutic agent for epilepsy.
Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the nephroprotective potential of Zanthoxylum armatum bark extract Methanolic extract of Zanthoxylum armatum (MZA) against cisplatin (CP)-induced nephrotoxicity in experimental rats. Methods: Wistar albino rats, weighing between 150 and 200 g, were split into five groups: Normal saline, intraperitoneally CS 16 mg/kg once, and oral methanolic extract of Z. armatum bark at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg for 42 days. Analyses of serum creatinine, blood urea, blood urea nitrogen, lipid peroxidation (LPO), uric acid, renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and kidney histopathology were carried out. Results: Electrolyte imbalance, elevated renal biomarkers, decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, and increased LPO all showed that CS significantly impaired the kidneys and produced oxidative stress (p<0.001). Over 42 days, treatment with the methanolic extract considerably and dose-dependently reduced these changes, restoring renal function indicators, electrolyte balance, and antioxidant status, demonstrating the extract’s strong nephroprotective and antioxidant efficacy. Conclusion: These results substantiate the ethnomedical usage of Z. armatum bark extract by providing strong evidence that it functions as a powerful scavenger of free radicals and counteracts the harmful effects of CS in both histological and biochemical parameters.
Objective: This study aimed to document the ethnobotanical applications of Bombax costatum from the Nakambe region of Burkina Faso and to evaluate toxicity, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antioxidant properties of its hydroethanolic bark extract, along with its phytochemical composition. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was done with 52 traditional healers. To obtain the bark extract from B. costatum, the plant material was soaked using a hydroethanolic (80%) solvent. Following Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development guideline 423, mice were used to assess for acute oral toxicity (up to 3000 mg/kg). Behavioral tests were conducted at a dosage of 100 mg/kg, including the elevated plus maze for anxiety and the forced swim test for depression. We assessed antioxidant activity by measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation (LPO). The total amount of phenolic and flavonoid compounds was measured using spectrophotometric methods. Results: The survey showed that many people use B. costatum bark to help them sleep, stop hallucinations, and deal with dementia. The extract was almost non-toxic, as there were no deaths or damage to the mice organs up to 3000 mg/kg b.w. At 100 mg/kg, the extract caused a significant anxiolytic effect and shortened the time spent being immobile in the forced swim test (which is a sign of antidepressant-like activity). The extract increased SOD activity and stopped LPO. The total amount of phenolic compounds was 18.9±0.4 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 mg, and the total amount of flavonoids was 30.65±0.09 mg quercetin equivalent/100 mg. Conclusion: The hydroalcoholic extract from the bark of B. costatum exhibits low toxicity and significant neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antioxidant properties, supporting its traditional use.
Objective: The current study aimed to develop and optimize an aceclofenac (ACF)-loaded transferosomal gel for transdermal drug delivery using a Box–Behnken design (BBD), thereby enhancing bioavailability and reducing systemic side effects. Methods: Using different ratios of Span 80 and phosphatidylcholine (PDC), transferosomes were developed using the rotary thin-film hydration method and optimized with BBD. The independent variables in transferosome preparation were the amount of Span 80 and PDC. The dependent variables were entrapment efficiency (EE), drug release (DR), and drug content (DC). Drug and excipient compatibility were determined using differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The prepared transferosomes were characterized for DC, particle size distribution, EE, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), in vitro DR and morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The optimized ACF transferosomal formulation was incorporated into a gel and evaluated for pH, spreadability, viscosity, ex vivo skin permeation, and stability. Results: The optimized formulation had a spherical shape, a vesicular size of 157±27.16 nm, a PDI of 0.26±0.058, and an EE of 89.69±4.2%. The optimized transferosomal gel showed an ex vivo permeation of 3900±57.21 μg/cm2 over 24 h through the skin of albino Wistar rats. SEM demonstrated the smooth surface. The DR kinetics adhered to a zero-order model, showing a sustained release pattern and confirming improved transdermal penetration of ACF through transferosome technology. Conclusion: Transferosomes are effective nanoscale carriers for ACF, significantly enhancing the transdermal penetration of ACF through transferosome technology as confirmed by ex vivo skin permeation studies.
Objective: The current study explores the possibility of utilizing chicken egg yolk antibodies raised against standard H. pylori and assessment of its in-vitro and in-vivo efficacy. Methods: Heat killed, whole cell antigen of standard H. pylori (ATCC 43504) was immunized in white leghorn chickens. Anti-HP IgY antibodies extracted from yolk was assayed for protein, total IgY, purity, stability at various temperature and pH, in-vitro growth inhibition against clarithromycin resistant H. pylori and neutralization potential against experimental infection in Sprague Dawley rats. Results: Protein and total IgY concentration of anti-HP IgY antibodies from egg yolk was found to be 42.05 and 19.80 mg/ml, respectively. Purity, as determined by SDS-PAGE was >90%. The peak antibody titre (1:64000) of specific IgY, estimated by indirect ELISA, was observed on 77th day post-immunization. Stability of IgY was good at lower temperature (4°C, 28°C and 37°C) and at pH range of 3-11. In-vitro, anti-HP IgY incubated with H. pylori at resulted in inhibiting 85% of bacterial growth in the liquid medium. The oral administration of anti-HP IgY antibodies was found to be partially effective in the prevention of H. pylori infection after a month of treatment in Sprague Dawley rats. Conclusion: This study provides a platform for the control of H. pylori induced gastritis and duodenal ulcer using IgY antibodies. This could prevent the colonization of H. pylori and possibly eradicate the disease. This study also provides an insight into the possible ways of applying anti-H. pylori IgY in human clinical studies. It will be a significant and effective step towards use of chicken antibodies as an affordable and alternative treatment against human gastrointestinal infections.
Objectives: A sensitive, specific, robust, and reliable liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated in mouse plasma for a novel Secretory Phospholipase A2(SPLA2) Inhibitor, compound-9(O), and followed by its application to a Pharmacokinetic (PK) study. Methods: A sensitive and robust LC–MS/MS bioanalytical method was developed and validated for the quantification of compound-9(O) in biological matrices. Chromatographic separation was achieved using an isocratic mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid in 2 mM ammonium formate prepared in typeI water and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile in the ratio of 20:80 (v/v). Separation was performed on a Kinetex® Biphenyl column (100×4.6 mm, 2.6 μm, 100 Å). Sample preparation was carried out using a protein precipitation technique with acetonitrile. Results: Intra- and inter-run accuracy ranged from 96.67% to 112.88% and 96.33% to 108.5%, respectively. The intra- and inter-day precision values were 1.46–6.95% and 0.96–8.54%, respectively. All stability assessments were within acceptance criteria. Conclusions: The validated LC-MS/MS bioanalytical method showed excellent specificity and selectivity, with satisfactory linearity over the validated concentration range from 1.00 to 1000 ng/mL. Accuracy, precision, ruggedness, and stability met the acceptance criteria as per ICH M10 guidelines, confirming the robustness of the method. Owing to its simplicity, reliability, and reproducibility, the validated method is well suited for routine analysis and can be effectively applied in PK, acute, subchronic, and chronic toxicokinetic studies.
Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children worldwide, and adjunctive therapies such as zinc supplementation and probiotics have been investigated to improve clinical outcomes. This systematic review evaluated the efficacy and safety of combined zinc supplementation and probiotic therapy in children with AGE compared with standard treatment, zinc alone, probiotics alone, or placebo. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting clinical outcomes were included. Primary outcomes included diarrhea duration, stool frequency, clinical recovery, resolution of dehydration, and hospitalization, while adverse events were assessed as secondary outcomes. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 and Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions tools. Twenty-one studies involving 2,283 children met the inclusion criteria. Combined zinc and probiotic therapy significantly reduced diarrhea duration in 12 studies, stool frequency in 6 studies, and length of hospital stay in 5 studies compared with control interventions. Reported adverse events were infrequent and generally mild, with no serious treatment-related safety concerns. Overall, the available evidence suggests that combined zinc and probiotic therapy may improve recovery in pediatric AGE by reducing diarrhea duration, stool frequency, and hospitalization while maintaining a favorable safety profile, although heterogeneity among studies warrants further high-quality RCTs.
Objectives: The research aims to develop and optimize transdermal cream containing curcumin, using Shata-Dhauta-Ghrita (SDG) as a traditional lipid base and α-bisbolol as natural permeation enhancer in order to enhance skin absorption and deliver anticancer activities. Methods: The formulation was assessed for its drug-excipient compatibility to ensure no chemical interactions between curcumin and the selected excipients. To assess transdermal drug transport Ex vivo skin permeation studies were conducted using excised pig skin. In vitro diffusion conducted to evaluate release data. To determine the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of the formulation MTT cell line assays were also carried out. Results: In drug excipient compatibility assay, it was found that curcumin assay value in sample was more than 90% and compatible with all excipients. In vitro diffusion showed that optimized batch (F4) has sustained drug release profile and fitted to Hixson–Crowell model (R² = 0.9722), while ex vivo pig skin permeation followed first-order kinetics (R² = 0.9894), indicating concentration-dependent absorption. Further evaluation of the optimized formulation (F4) using SSE and AIC demonstrated that the Hixson–Crowell model best fit for the drug release profile, with the lowest AIC value (−57.04). Skin histopathology demonstrated optimized formulation F4 intact dermal architecture with mild stratum corneum changes, indicating safe permeation. Complementary cell line assays validated the non-toxic nature and effectiveness of the formulation. Conclusion: Overall, the SDG-based transdermal cream using α-Bisbolol as permeation enhancer exhibited favourable release, permeation, and formulation characteristics, supporting its potential as a promising carrier for curcumin in treating cutaneous cancers.
Objectives: Pharmacogenomic variability in the host affects the metabolism of anticancer drugs and treatment outcomes. This study examined the relationship between CYP3A41B and CYP3A53 polymorphisms and breast cancer susceptibility, response to treatment, survival, and toxicity in Indian patients with advanced breast cancer. Methods: A case–control study was carried out among 312 patients with advanced breast cancer and 320 healthy controls. Genotyping for CYP3A41B (rs2740574) and CYP3A53 (rs776746) was done by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine disease susceptibility. Kaplan–Meier and multivariate Cox regression models were used to analyze progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Gene-gene interaction, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and net reclassification improvement (NRI) were also done. Results: The variant genotypes of CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 were significantly associated with an increased risk of breast cancer (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.68 and 1.72, respectively; p≤0.003). Carriers of the variant genotypes showed lower objective response rates and shorter PFS and OS (hazard ratio [HR] range 1.58–1.81; p<0.01). CYP3A5*3/*3 was an independent predictor of poor survival in multivariate analysis (HR 1.67; p<0.001). Severe chemotherapy-induced toxicity was significantly higher in the variant carriers (adjusted OR>2.0; p≤0.005). Addition of genotype information improved the prognostic accuracy (C-index 0.68 vs. 0.74; NRI 0.21; p=0.003). Conclusion: The CYP3A41B and CYP3A53 polymorphisms significantly affect the risk of breast cancer, treatment efficacy, survival, and toxicity in Indian patients with advanced breast cancer. Integration of pharmacogenomics may improve the precision oncology approach and treatment outcomes.
Obesity is a growing global health concern that contributes to numerous metabolic, cardiovascular, and functional health problems. Despite the availability of various treatment options, achieving sustained weight loss remains challenging for many individuals. Liraglutide has emerged as an effective pharmacological therapy that supports weight reduction by decreasing appetite and improving metabolic regulation. At the same time, physiotherapy plays an important role in encouraging physical activity, improving mobility, maintaining muscle strength, and enhancing overall physical function. This review examines the current evidence on the use of liraglutide and physiotherapy in obesity management and discusses the potential value of combining these interventions. Existing studies suggest that liraglutide primarily targets the metabolic drivers of obesity, whereas physiotherapy addresses physical limitations and promotes long-term lifestyle modification. Together, these approaches may provide a more comprehensive strategy for managing obesity than either intervention alone. However, evidence directly evaluating their combined effectiveness remains limited. Further clinical research is needed to determine the long-term benefits, safety, and practical application of this integrated approach in routine obesity care.
Objective: Epilepsy is a long-term nervous system disorder manifested by repeated seizures without an identifiable cause due to abnormal neuronal discharges within the brain. The present study aimed to evaluate the pattern, frequency, duration, comorbidities, and antiepileptic drug utilization among pediatric patients diagnosed with seizure disorders in a tertiary care hospital of South India. Methods: The present study adopted a prospective observational design over 6 months in 100 pediatric patients diagnosed with seizure disorders, selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Demographic data, seizure characteristics, and antiepileptic drug prescriptions were collected and analyzed. Results: Among the 100 participants, females constituted 58% and males 42%, indicating a higher prevalence of seizures in females. Focal seizures were the predominant type, accounting for 54% of cases. Regarding frequency, 44% of children experienced two seizure episodes, and 62% exhibited mild seizures. The most frequently prescribed antiepileptic drugs were clobazam (n=63) and lorazepam (n=63), followed by levetiracetam (n=39). Conclusion: The study highlights that focal seizures are the predominant type of seizure among pediatric patients and are primarily managed with benzodiazepines such as clobazam and lorazepam. Understanding seizure patterns and drug utilization can help optimize treatment strategies and improve clinical outcomes in pediatric epilepsy management.
Maternal hypothyroidism, a prevalent endocrine disorder during pregnancy, negatively affects fetal neurodevelopment and has ensuing neurobehavioral effects. Neuronal migration, proliferation, synaptogenesis, myelination, and neurotransmitter modulation all depend on thyroid hormones (THs) (triiodothyronine and thyroxine), especially from the start stages of pregnancy when the fetal thyroid axis is still developing. By interfering with neurotrophic signaling, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and epigenetic changes, maternal TH insufficiency has been connected to cognitive impairment, motor impairments, and behavioral abnormalities in offspring. Potential neuroprotective dietary therapies include omega-3 fatty acids (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and Vitamin D (Vit-D). Through Vit-D receptor-mediated pathways, Vit-D modifies neurogenesis, lowers inflammation, and strengthens antioxidant defenses. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin receptor kinase B signaling, synaptic plasticity, and the integrity of neuronal membranes are all supported by n-3 PUFAs, especially docosahexaenoic acid. Pre-clinical research shows that these nutrients lessen oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and defective neurotrophic signaling, which in turn reduces thyroid deficiency-induced neurodevelopmental harm. However, because of variations in dosage, timing, baseline nutritional status, and evaluation techniques, clinical evidence is still inconclusive. The neuroprotective functions of Vit-D and omega-3 in maternal hypothyroidism-induced neurobehavioral changes are integrated in this review, which also identifies potential avenues for further research
Objectives: Cisplatin-induced oxidative stress leads to significant disruption of iron homeostasis, primarily mediated through the ferritin–hepcidin axis. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytoprotective and iron-modulatory effects of the hydroethanolic extract of Musa paradisiaca against cisplatin-induced iron dysregulation and oxidative damage. Methods: In vitro experiments were performed using RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Cytotoxicity of different extracts (aqueous, ethanolic, and hydroethanolic) was assessed using the (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging assays. Hematocompatibility was determined using an ex vivo hemolysis assay on human red blood cells. Extracellular iron levels were quantified using a colorimetric iron assay kit. Gene expression analysis of ferritin light chain (FtL), ferritin heavy chain (FtH), mitochondrial ferritin (FtMt), and hepcidin was performed using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Among the tested extracts, the hydroethanolic extract demonstrated the most favorable biological profile, exhibiting the lowest cytotoxicity and the highest antioxidant activity. Cisplatin treatment significantly increased extracellular iron levels (~12.5-fold, p<0.001), induced hemolysis (24.6±2.8%, p<0.01), and upregulated iron regulatory genes, indicating severe disruption of iron homeostasis. Co-treatment with the hydroethanolic extract significantly reduced hemolysis to 8.7±1.5% (p<0.01 vs. cisplatin alone), decreased extracellular iron levels (p<0.001), and normalized the expression of ferritin (FtL, FtH, FtMt) and hepcidin toward near-basal levels (p<0.05–0.001). These findings indicate that the hydroethanolic extract effectively attenuates oxidative stress and contributes to the restoration of cellular iron homeostasis. Conclusion: The hydroethanolic extract of M. paradisiaca provides significant cytoprotection against cisplatin-induced oxidative damage by modulating the ferritin–hepcidin axis, reducing iron-mediated toxicity, and enhancing antioxidant defense. This study highlights its potential as a natural adjunct therapeutic strategy for mitigating chemotherapy-associated toxicity.
Objectives: Rutin, a flavonol glycoside derived from Ruta chalepensis, has shown antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties in in vitro models of Parkinson’s disease (PD); however, its neuroprotective mechanisms in vivo remain inadequately characterised. The present study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic effects of rutin in a rotenone-induced rat model of PD. Methods: Male albino Wistar rats were administered rotenone (2.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) for 28 days to induce Parkinsonian features. Rutin was administered orally at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg to determine the optimal neuroprotective concentration. Motor performance was assessed using behavioral tests, followed by estimation of striatal dopamine levels, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzyme activities, and expression of dopaminergic and apoptotic proteins. Results: Rotenone administration resulted in significant motor impairment, striatal dopamine depletion, increased oxidative stress, reduced expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine transporter, and vesicular monoamine transporter-2, elevated α-synuclein levels, and activation of apoptotic signaling characterised by increased Bax, cytochrome c, and caspases-3, -8, and -9, along with decreased Bcl-2 expression. Rutin treatment produced a dose-dependent improvement in motor function, with 10 mg/kg identified as the most effective dose. Co-treatment with rutin (10 mg/kg) significantly restored antioxidant enzyme activities, normalized dopaminergic protein expression, reduced α-synuclein accumulation, and suppressed apoptotic pathways. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that rutin confers significant neuroprotection against rotenone-induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration by attenuating oxidative stress and apoptosis in vivo. Rutin may represent a promising candidate for disease-modifying therapy in PD, warranting further investigation of its mitochondrial and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Objective: Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) cannulation pain remains a major challenge in the care of hemodialysis (HD) patients. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of three non-pharmacological interventions – lidocaine spray, cold packs, and flashlight distraction – in reducing AVF cannulation pain in Iraqi HD patients. Methods: A prospective within-subject controlled trial was conducted at Al-Kadhmia Hospital in Baghdad. Thirty-five male HD patients with AVFs participated in a 4-week within-subject design study. Week 1 served as the control with no intervention, while lidocaine spray, cold packs, and a flashlight were applied, respectively, in weeks 2, 3, and 4 before cannulation. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) after each session. Results: A significant difference was observed between the four conditions (F[3,102]=23.687, p<0.001). Mean VAS scores were highest in the control group (6.11±1.05), followed by flashlight (5.71±0.86), cold packs (5.11±1.05), and lidocaine (5.00±1.14). All three interventions significantly reduced pain compared with control (p<0.001), with lidocaine demonstrating the greatest reduction. Conclusion: Lidocaine spray, cold packs, and a flashlight can significantly reduce cannulation pain in HD patients, with lidocaine being the most effective. These findings support incorporating simple, low-cost interventions into HD care to enhance patient comfort.
Objectives: The objective of the study is to analyze the chemical composition of the methanolic extract of Amomum agastyamalayanum, an endemic species to the Western Ghats of South India, and to evaluate its antioxidant potential. Methods: The chemical constituents were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and high-resolution liquid chromatography (HR-LC)/MS. Quantitative estimation of major phytocomponents, including phenolics, terpenoids, and flavonoids, was done. Antioxidant activity was assessed using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, superoxide radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Results: GC/MS and HR-LC/MS analyses revealed the presence of several bioactive components. The extract was found to be rich in terpenes such as 5β-cholestan-3-one ethylene acetal, 1-hexacosene, β-guaiene, caryophyllene, aromadendrene, α-cedrene oxide, and rosifoliol. The methanolic extract showed high phytochemical content, with phenolics (88.41±3.06 mg gallic acid equivalents [GAE]/g dry weight [DW]), terpenoids (106.67±3.83 mg linalool/g DW), and flavonoids (94.05±6.37 mg QE/g DW) as the major constituents. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 47.26±1.00 μg/mL for DPPH, 40.66±3.53 μg/mL for superoxide radical scavenging, and 27.72±2.37 μg/mL for lipid peroxidation inhibition. FRAP was significant, showing a reducing capacity equivalent to 7.12±0.48 μmoL/mL FeSO4·7H2O at 10 μg/mL. Conclusion: The methanolic extract of A. agastyamalayanum is rich in bioactive phytochemicals and exhibits potent antioxidant activity, highlighting its potential as a natural source of antioxidant compounds for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.
Objectives: To identify Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-relevant molecular targets of cadambine and its derivatives from Neolamarckia cadamba using a predictive network pharmacology framework and to evaluate their drug-likeness, permeability, and safety through in silico ADMET profiling. Methods: Disease genes were obtained from GeneCards, whereas compound targets for cadambine, 3-dihydrocadambine, and 3β-isodihydrocadambine were predicted through SwissTargetPrediction. Overlapping targets were analyzed using STRING and Cytoscape for protein–protein interactions and node centrality. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment provided functional insights. SwissADME and ProTox 3.0 assessed physiochemical, permeability, and toxicity profiles. In recent years, network pharmacology has matured into a robust, systems-level methodology that integrates polypharmacology, systems biology, bioinformatics, and network modeling to elucidate complex disease mechanisms and multitarget drug actions. Contemporary studies published in 2024–2025 demonstrate the application of network pharmacology to AD contexts, combining target prediction with gene-disease association data and pathway enrichment to reveal multi-pathway therapeutic hypotheses and actionable biological insights. Results: Key hub targets included caspase-3, epidermal growth factor receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, matrix metalloproteinase-9/matrix metalloproteinase-2, solute carrier family 2 member 1, and adenosine receptors, linked to apoptosis, neuroinflammation, and metabolism. GO/KEGG analysis revealed neuronal membrane localization and G protein-coupled receptor signaling. ADMET predicted low blood– brain barrier permeability, low acute toxicity (LD₅₀ ~3000 mg/kg), and possible immuno- and respiratory toxicity. In vitro assays demonstrated dose-dependent enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activities, supporting a general neuroprotective phenotype. Conclusion: Cadambine and its derivatives exhibit multitarget potential relevant to AD through network-level modulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory, and signaling pathways. These findings support further target-specific validation and formulation-based strategies to improve central nervous system delivery.
