This study scientifically evaluated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic potential of Garcinia cowa Roxb. leaf extracts, a plant widely used in Assamese traditional medicine but lacking strong pharmacological validation. Successive extracts were prepared using solvents of increasing polarity, and their total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified. The methanol extract showed the highest phenolic (0.317 ± 0.02 mg/mL) and flavonoid (0.208 ± 0.01 mg/mL) concentrations, which correlated with potent antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC₅₀ = 70.25 µg/mL), hydrogen peroxide (IC₅₀ = 24.80 µg/mL), and nitric oxide (IC₅₀ = 89.12 µg/mL) radical scavenging assays. In vivo evaluation using carrageenan-induced paw edema revealed notable anti-inflammatory activity. Antidiabetic assessment through α-glucosidase inhibition demonstrated significant enzyme inhibition by the methanol extract (IC₅₀ = 42.00 µg/mL), while studies in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats showed a marked reduction in blood glucose levels over 21 days (131.5 mg/dL on Day 21), approaching the efficacy of the standard drug Miglitol (110.32 mg/dL). Histopathological examination indicated preservation of pancreatic islet architecture in extract-treated groups, supporting its therapeutic potential. Acute toxicity studies established safety up to 5000 mg/kg, suggesting a wide margin of safety. Overall, the methanol extract of Garcinia cowa leaves exhibited strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities, scientifically supporting its ethnomedicinal use and indicating promise as a natural source for developing safe, effective plant-based therapeutics. Further work is required to isolate and characterize the responsible bioactive compounds.
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring innovative therapeutic approaches. Voglibose, an effective α-glucosidase inhibitor, has limitations, including low solubility and a short duration of action when taken as a tablet. Polymeric nanoparticles, particularly PLGA (Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid), offer promising platforms for sustained drug release and improved bioavailability. This study aimed to develop and evaluate PLGA-based nanoparticles for delivering voglibose, enhancing its therapeutic efficacy, and providing sustained release for up to 24 hours. Methods: PLGA nanoparticles loaded with voglibose were prepared using the double-emulsification solvent evaporation method. The formulations were optimized by varying the polymer-to-drug ratio and stabilizer concentration. Characterization included particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement, drug entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, and in vivo antidiabetic efficacy in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Results: Particle sizes ranged from 151.5 to 491.2 nm, with formulation PF8 demonstrating the smallest size and highest stability. Drug entrapment efficiency reached up to 83.3%, with PF8 emerging as the optimal formulation. In vitro studies showed sustained drug release for up to 24 hours, with PF8 achieving 91.5% cumulative release. Discussion: In vivo evaluations revealed significant reductions in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, with PF8 performing comparably to the standard voglibose tablet. Conclusion: PLGA-based nanoparticles successfully enhanced the bioavailability of voglibose and provided sustained release, highlighting their potential as a novel delivery system for anti-diabetic therapy. Further studies are needed to validate clinical applications and optimize formulation parameters.
Introduction/Objectives: This ethnopharmacological study documents the traditional medicinal knowledge of the Pnar and War tribes of the West Jaintia Hills District, Meghalaya, India. Methods: Field surveys were conducted in April 2023. A total of 12 traditional healers and community informants were interviewed using structured and semi-structured questionnaires. The study recorded medicinal plant species along with their local names, parts used, preparation methods, and therapeutic uses. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL%), and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), were calculated to assess the cultural importance and reliability of the documented plants. Results: The survey documented 34 medicinal plant species used in traditional healthcare practices. Information on plant parts utilized, modes of preparation, and therapeutic applications was systematically compiled. The calculated UV, FL%, and RFC values indicated the relative significance and usage patterns of the recorded species within the community. Discussion: The findings demonstrate the continued reliance of the Pnar and War communities on plant-based remedies for primary healthcare. The quantitative indices further highlight culturally important species and provide a structured basis for understanding local therapeutic preferences. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of preserving medicinal plant resources and indigenous knowledge systems. It also establishes a scientific foundation for future pharmacological validation and supports the potential integration of traditional remedies into sustainable healthcare frameworks.
Metabolic syndrome comprises insulin resistance, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia, increasing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It is a major contributor to global mortality. Approximately 28–31
Nanoparticles are emerging as powerful tools for addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), offering innovative strategies that surpass the limitations of conventional antibiotics. Their unique physicochemical properties such as high surface area, tunable size, and adaptable surface chemistry enable effective and selective interactions with microbial cells. Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, including zinc, titanium, gold, and silver, have demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against a broad range of pathogens, including multidrug-resistant species.These nanoparticles operate through multiple mechanisms, such as membrane disruption, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, enzyme inhibition, and nucleic acid damage, which collectively reduce the likelihood of microbial resistance. Their broad applicability has led to advancements in antimicrobial coatings, wound dressings, water purification, personal protective equipment, and environmental disinfection technologies.Despite their promise, challenges remain regarding toxicity, environmental accumulation, stability, and large-scale manufacturing. Additionally, standardized safety protocols and regulatory guidelines are still evolving. Continued interdisciplinary research is essential to enhance biocompatibility, reduce ecological risks, and enable scalable production.Takentogether, nanoparticles represent a promising frontier for strengthening global antimicrobial strategies, provided that scientific, environmental, and regulatory challenges are addressed systematically.
Objective Green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) using the aqueous extract of fruit waste, investigating their antioxidants, antimicrobial, anticancer, and wound healing properties.Significance This study presents an eco-friendly synthesis of ZnO NPs that repurpose organic fruit waste, contributing to sustainable practices in nanomaterial production. The potential applications of ZnO NPs as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer agents, as well as their role in wound healing are explored.Methods ZnO NPs were synthesized using the aqueous extract of fruit waste, and were characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and SEM-EDX. Antioxidant activity was measured using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Cytotoxicity was assessed on A549 lung carcinoma cells, and antimicrobial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A gel formulation containing chitosan (CS) and Aloe vera (CS-AV)/ZnO NPs was evaluated for wound healing in an infected wound model.Results The synthesized ZnO NPs exhibited nanoscale size, good colloidal stability, and polygonal morphology. They demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, dose-dependent cytotoxicity against A549 cells, and significant antibacterial effects. Incorporation of ZnO NPs into the CS-AV gel markedly enhanced wound healing, achieving complete wound closure by Day 21. Histopathological analysis further confirmed improved tissue regeneration, as evidenced by reduced inflammation, increased fibrosis, and well-developed collagen formation.Conclusion Fruit waste-derived ZnO NPs offer promising antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and wound healing properties.
Food spoilage and foodborne diseases are significant global challenges. In reaction to consumer demand for “clean label” products and the toxicity of synthetic preservatives, a paradigm shift has occurred in favor of natural preservatives. Citrus essential oils (CEOs), extracted from the peels of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, bergamots, and mandarins, have been identified as highly effective natural preservatives. The oils, rich in limonene (60–90
: Dillenia indica, commonly known as Elephant Apple, is a significant medicinal plant found in Assam, North-East India. This evergreen shrub or small to medium-sized tree possesses not only tasty components but also a plethora of beneficial therapeutic characteristics. This review article aims to explore the potential use of Dillenia indica in the treatment of diabetes and other diseases, as well as discuss various patents associated with this plant. The study focuses on identifying different formulations derived from various parts of Dillenia indica. These formulations encompass a range of dosage forms, including mucoadhesive buccal dosage forms, buccal patches, microbeads, emulgel, and mucoadhesive nasal gel. Each of these dosage forms offers unique advantages and applications. Mucoadhesive buccal dosage forms are designed to adhere to the oral mucosa, allowing for controlled drug release and enhanced absorption. Buccal patches provide a convenient and localized delivery system for specific therapeutic agents. Microbeads offer a versatile approach for encapsulating drugs and facilitating their controlled release. Emulgels combine the benefits of both emulsions and gels, providing improved drug delivery and stability. Mucoadhesive nasal gels offer a non-invasive route for drug administration, allowing for rapid absorption through the nasal mucosa. By exploring these different formulations, researchers aim to harness the therapeutic potential of Dillenia indica in a variety of diseases, including diabetes. The study also highlights the importance of patents associated with Dillenia indica, indicating the growing interest in its medicinal properties and potential commercial applications. Dillenia indica holds promise as a valuable medicinal plant, with its diverse therapeutic characteristics and tasty components. The study discussed various formulations derived from different parts of the plant, showcasing their potential applications in the treatment of diseases. Further research and development in this field may lead to the discovery of novel treatments and contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical science.
Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin action, insulin secretion, or both. Despite the availability of synthetic antidiabetic drugs, plant-derived compounds continue to attract attention for their multi-targeted and safer therapeutic potential. This study investigates the antidiabetic effects of Garcinia cowa Roxb. using a network pharmacology approach integrated with molecular docking, dynamics simulation, and experimental validation. A total of 45 bioactive compounds from Garcinia cowa were screened using in silico ADME filters, revealing favorable drug-like properties. These compounds were found to target 855 diabetes-associated genes, and a subset of 144 intersecting targets was identified. Network pharmacology and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis highlighted hub genes involved in insulin signaling, inflammation, and glucose regulation. Enrichment analysis revealed critical pathways such as PI3K-Akt, MAPK, insulin signaling, and AGE-RAGE, suggesting the mechanisms by which Garcinia cowa may combat diabetes. Among the top-ranking compounds, 16-Dihydroxyxanthone exhibited strong binding and conformational stability with ESR1—a diabetes-associated gene target during 500 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Quercetin, another major compound, showed potent inhibitory activity against carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes: α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 55.2 ± 2.0 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 43.8 ± 1.8 μg/mL), outperforming the standard drug acarbose. It also moderately inhibited HMG-CoA reductase (IC₅₀ = 120.4 ± 3.2 μg/mL), indicating broader metabolic benefits. These findings suggest that Garcinia cowa holds potential as a multi-target therapeutic source for diabetes management. The study demonstrates how traditional medicinal plants, supported by modern computational and experimental tools, can contribute meaningfully to diabetes research and drug discovery.
Paper-based electrochemical biosensors have emerged as a revolutionary technology in healthcare diagnostics due to their affordability, portability, ease of use, and environmental sustainability. These biosensors utilize paper as the primary material, capitalizing on its unique properties such as high porosity, flexibility, and capillary action, which make it an ideal candidate for low-cost, functional, and reliable diagnostic devices. The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of paper-based biosensors make them especially suitable for point-of-care (POC) applications, particularly in resource-limited settings where traditional diagnostic tools may be inaccessible. Their lightweight nature and ease of operation allow non-specialized users to perform diagnostic tests without the need for complex laboratory equipment, making them suitable for emergency, field, and remote applications. Technological advancements in paper-based biosensors have significantly enhanced their capabilities. Integration with microfluidic systems has improved fluid handling and reagent storage, resulting in enhanced sensor performance, including greater sensitivity and specificity for target biomarkers. The use of nanomaterials in electrode fabrication, such as reduced graphene oxide and gold nanoparticles, has further elevated their sensitivity, allowing for the precise detection of low-concentration biomarkers. Moreover, the development of multiplexed sensor arrays has enabled the simultaneous detection of multiple biomarkers from a single sample, facilitating comprehensive and rapid diagnostics in clinical settings. These biosensors have found applications in diagnosing a wide range of diseases, including infectious diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders. They are also effective in genetic analysis and metabolic monitoring, such as tracking glucose, lactate, and uric acid levels, which are crucial for managing chronic conditions like diabetes and kidney diseases. In this review, the latest advancements in paper-based electrochemical biosensors are explored, with a focus on their applications, technological innovations, challenges, and future directions.
The advent of three-dimensional (3D) printing has transformed modern dentistry by introducing innovative approaches that enhance customization, precision, and efficiency in clinical and educational settings. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent developments and emerging trends in 3D printing applications within dentistry. It explores key domains, including Applications in Orthodontics, Applications in Crown Production, Applications in Implants and Surgical Guides, 3D Printing Applications in Dentures, and Applications in Dental Models and Educational Tools. In orthodontics, 3D printing facilitates the production of patient-specific aligners, brackets, and retainers, improving treatment accuracy and reducing turnaround times. In crown production, the integration of computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) with additive manufacturing allows for the fabrication of highly precise and esthetic prosthetic crowns with rapid chairside delivery. One of the most impactful uses is seen in implants and surgical guides, where 3D printing supports the creation of customized surgical templates and implant components, thus enhancing procedural outcomes and reducing surgical risks. 3D printing has revolutionized denture fabrication by enabling the production of complete and partial dentures with improved fit, material efficiency, and reduced laboratory time. In dental education, the technology is increasingly employed to produce anatomical models, simulated teeth, and other educational tools that improve student training and diagnostic planning. The novelty of this review lies in its integrative perspective linking technical advancements with practical dental applications and highlighting material innovations such as nanocomposites and biocompatible polymers. It also discussed future prospects such as AI-driven design optimization and the role of smart materials in expanding clinical applicability. By presenting a structured overview across multiple specialties, this paper offers valuable insights into how 3D printing is reshaping the future of dental care and education.
The genus Curculigo is a perennial herb with wide range of therapeutic activities. This genus Curculigo belongs to the family Hypoxidaceae, found widely distributed in the Indo-Asian countries. Since the ancient time usage of Curculigo is practiced traditionally for tonics and treatment of various diseases, not the least it is used as a natural dye and its leaves are used for binding of foods and stuffs. To sum up the divergent of Genus Curculigo in pharmacological aspect, data of literature review published since 1996 till 2024 were collected from PubMed, Scopus, and research gate. Many important phytochemicals were isolated from this genus. Out of the 28 types of Curculigo species, Curculigo orchioides, Curculigo capitulata, Curculigo pilosa, Curculigo latifolia, Curculigo breviscapa, Curculigo sinensis, Curculigo crassifolia, Curculigo glabrescens are most widely known and out of which curculigo orchioides is the most exploited medicinal herb and is already listed in the endangered species because of its wide range of therapeutic potential as compared to other Curculigo species. Curculigo orchioides content phenolic compounds, chlorophenol compounds, monosaccharides and polysaccharides, cyclic peptides, and terpenoids. Wide range of pharmacological activities such as antiosteoporosis, anti-carcinogen, anti-microbial, immunostimulatory, aphrodisiacs, anti-diabetic, anti-hepatitis anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmatic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, anti-dementia, anti-depressant are seen in the extract of Curculigo orchioides. More than 61 known compounds have been isolated which is as much as more than 91 compounds. Most of the phenolic compounds and norlignan compounds were isolated from the rhizomes extract. Other Curculigo species also possess the same activity as covered by Curculigo orchioides. This review will serve as an insight in guiding the researchers for further investigation, isolation and development of more useful components from this genus.
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has emerged as a transformative technology in healthcare, enabling the fabrication of complex, patient-specific constructs with unparalleled precision. This technology employs a layer-by-layer approach, revolutionizing traditional medical practices by offering innovative solutions in personalized medicine, regenerative therapies, and surgical interventions. In bone tissue engineering, 3D printing addresses critical challenges such as mechanical compatibility and cellular integration. Techniques like Selective Laser Melting and extrusion-based printing facilitate the creation of porous scaffolds that mimic native bone structures, significantly enhancing bone regeneration. In prosthetics and orthopedics, 3D printing enables the production of anatomically precise implants, improving patient outcomes and expediting recovery times. Dentistry has significantly benefited from 3D printing, revolutionizing procedures such as root canal therapy, orthodontics, and dental crown fabrication, enhancing precision, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Custom 3D models in surgical planning improve preoperative strategies in complex fields like neurosurgery and orthopedics, offering greater accuracy and reducing surgical risks. Bioprinting, a specialized branch of 3D printing, holds great promise for fabricating functional tissues and organs using techniques like biomimicry, autonomous self-assembly, and modular microtissue approaches. The process involves three stages: pre-processing (bioink preparation and CAD design), processing (advanced printing), and post-processing (maturation and functional testing).Additionally, 3D printing has advanced pharmaceutical applications, enabling the production of personalized medications such as polypills with controlled release mechanisms, improving therapeutic efficacy and adherence. Despite its transformative potential, several challenges persist, including material biocompatibility, regulatory barriers, and high costs. Interdisciplinary research and technological innovation are crucial to overcoming these obstacles and unlocking the full potential of 3D printing in healthcare. As the field evolves, it promises to redefine medical science by providing personalized, efficient, and cost-effective solutions, bridging gaps in current practices, and enhancing patient care on a global scale.
Enzyme-based biosensors have emerged as a transformative technology, leveraging the specificity and catalytic efficiency of enzymes across various domains, including medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial processes. These biosensors integrate biological recognition elements with advanced transduction mechanisms to provide highly sensitive, selective, and portable solutions for real-time analysis. This review explores the key components, detection mechanisms, applications, and future trends in enzyme-based biosensors. Artificial enzymes, such as nanozymes, play a crucial role in enhancing enzyme-based biosensors by mimicking natural enzyme activity while offering improved stability, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. Their integration can significantly boost sensor performance by increasing the catalytic efficiency and durability. Additionally, lab-on-a-chip and microfluidic devices enable the miniaturization of biosensors, allowing for the development of compact, portable devices that require minimal sample volumes for complex diagnostic tests. The functionality of enzyme-based biosensors is built on three essential components: enzymes as biocatalysts, transducers, and immobilization techniques. Enzymes serve as the biological recognition elements, catalyzing specific reactions with target molecules to produce detectable signals. Transducers, including electrochemical, optical, thermal, and mass-sensitive types, convert these biochemical reactions into measurable outputs. Effective immobilization strategies, such as physical adsorption, covalent bonding, and entrapment, enhance the enzyme stability and reusability, enabling consistent performance. In medical diagnostics, they are widely used for glucose monitoring, cholesterol detection, and biomarker identification. Environmental monitoring benefits from these biosensors by detecting pollutants like pesticides, heavy metals, and nerve agents. The food industry employs them for quality control and contamination monitoring. Their advantages include high sensitivity, rapid response times, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to field applications. Enzyme-based biosensors face challenges such as enzyme instability, interference from biological matrices, and limited operational lifespans. Addressing these issues involves innovations like the use of synthetic enzymes, advanced immobilization techniques, and the integration of nanomaterials, such as graphene and carbon nanotubes. These advancements enhance the enzyme stability, improve sensitivity, and reduce detection limits, making the technology more robust and scalable.
Cissus quadrangularis, a perennial plant from the Vitaceae family, is widely recognized for its extensive use in traditional medicine across tropical and subtropical regions. This review explores the phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of Cissus quadrangularis, focusing on its application in herbal formulations. The plant exhibits a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, and phenolic glycosides, found in various parts such as the stem, leaves, fruits, and roots. These phytochemicals contribute to its broad pharmacological activities, which include anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and bone-healing properties. Significant attention is paid to the plant's potential in managing bone-related disorders such as osteoporosis and fractures, owing to its anabolic and mineral absorption-enhancing effects. Moreover, Cissus quadrangularis demonstrates promising anti-obesity effects, as evidenced by its ability to reduce body weight, waist circumference, and blood cholesterol levels. Its antiulcer activity is attributed to the enhancement of mucosal defense mechanisms and the reduction of gastric secretions. The review also highlights the plant's analgesic and antiinflammatory properties, showing substantial efficacy in various experimental models. Its antidiabetic potential is confirmed through studies on alloxan and streptozotocin-induced diabetic models. Additionally, the antioxidant capacity of Cissus quadrangularis, facilitated by its secondary metabolites, supports its use in combating oxidative stress-related conditions. Furthermore, the plant's central nervous system activities, including anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant effects, are discussed. The antimicrobial and anti-helmintic properties of the plant underline its therapeutic versatility. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate the molecular mechanisms, structure-activity relationships, and potential synergistic effects of the plant's components, paving the way for its integration into modern pharmacological applications.
Fungal infections, caused by a diverse kingdom of eukaryotic organisms, pose significant challenges to global health due to the increasing incidence of drug-resistant strains. These infections range from superficial to life-threatening systemic diseases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The emergence of drug-resistant pathogens like Candida auris has intensified the need for novel antifungal therapies. This comprehensive review explores the pathogenesis of various fungal diseases, the current landscape of antifungal agents, and the mechanisms underlying drug resistance. We discuss the latest advancements in antifungal drug development, including innovative agents in clinical trials, and emphasize the importance of enhancing diagnostic techniques to combat these resilient pathogens. The review aims to provide insights into future directions for effective antifungal strategies, addressing both therapeutic challenges and opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.