Carpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E.Br. extract as a skin preserving agent: From traditional medicine to scientific validation

ObjectiveCarpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E.Br. is a succulent perennial plant native to South Africa and grows invasively in the Mediterranean basin. It is commonly used for the treatment of various diseases, including skin wound healing and regeneration, for which experimental validation is lacking. We therefore evaluated the skin healing properties by testing a C. edulis aqueous leaf extract (CAE) on cell cultures and in enzymatic assays.MethodsMicro-morphological analysis of leaves was carried out using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. Phytochemical features and antioxidant activity of CAE were evaluated by reversed-phase liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry (RP-LC-DAD-ESI-MS), and in vitro cell-free assays. Biological activities were evaluated using keratinocytes and fibroblasts, as well as elastase, collagenase, and hyaluronidase.ResultsCAE showed high carbohydrates (28.59% ± 0.68%), total phenols ([101.9 ± 6.0] g gallic acid equivalents/kg dry extract [DE]), and flavonoids ([545.9 ± 26.0] g rutin equivalents/kg DE). RP-LC-DAD-ESI-MS revealed the predominant presence of hydroxycinnamic acids (51.96%), followed by tannins (14.82%) and flavonols (11.32%). The extract was not cytotoxic, had a strong and dose-dependent antioxidant activity, and inhibited collagenase (> 90% at 500 µg/mL) and hyaluronidase (100% at 1000 µg/mL). In cell culture experiments, CAE increased wound closure and collagen production, which was consistent with its high polyphenol content.ConclusionOur data support the use of the C. edulis for skin care and the treatment of skin problems. Moreover, use of C. edulis for skin care purposes could be an eco-friendly solution to reduce its invasiveness in the environment.     

Combined enzymatic hydrolysis and herbal extracts fortification to boost in vitro antioxidant activity of edible bird’s nest solution

Objective Edible bird’s nest (EBN) is a popular traditional tonic food in Chinese population for centuries. Malaysia is one of the main EBN suppliers in the world. This study aims to explore the best strategy to boost the antioxidant potential of EBN solution. Methods In this study, the raw EBN (4%, mass to volume ratio) was initially enzymatic hydrolyzed using papain enzyme to produce EBN hydrolysate (EBNH), then spray-dried into powdered form. Next, 4% (mass to volume ratio) of EBNH powder was dissolved in ginger extract (GE), mulberry leaf extract (MLE) and cinnamon twig extract (CTE) to detect the changes of antioxidant activities, respectively. Results Results obtained suggest that enzymatic hydrolysis significantly reduced the viscosity of 4% EBN solution from (68.12 ± 0.69) mPa.s to (7.84 ± 0.31) mPa.s. Besides, the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total soluble protein, DPPH scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were substantially increased following EBN hydrolysis using papain enzyme. In addition, fortification with GE, MLE and CTE had further improved the TPC, TFC, DPPH scavenging activity and FRAP of the EBNH solution. Among the samples, MLE-EBNH solution showed the most superior antioxidant potential at (86.39 ± 1.66)% of DPPH scavenging activity and (19.79 ± 2.96) mmol/L FeSO4 of FRAP. Conclusion This study proved that combined enzymatic hydrolysis and MLE fortification is the best strategy to produce EBN product with prominent in vitro antioxidant potential. This preliminary study provides new insight into the compatibility of EBN with different herbal extracts for future health food production.     

Evaluation of antioxidant,antiinflammatory, and gastroprotective properties of Rubus fruticosus L. fruit juice

The juice of R. fruticosus (RFJ) fruits grown in Sicily was analysed for polyphenol compounds and tested to evaluate in vitro antioxidant and in vivo antiinflammatory and gastroprotective effects. RFJ, containing mainly anthocyanins, such as cyanidin derivatives, significant amounts of phenolic acids, and smaller amounts of flavonoids, showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical) (4,147.194 ± 17.199 mg trolox equivalent [TE]/100 ml), TE antioxidant capacity (8,312.444 ± 43.055 mg TE/100 ml), ferric reducing antioxidant power (2,177.830 ± 21.015 mg TE/100 ml), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (95,377.674 ± 616.194 μmol TE/100 ml juice), and β‐carotene bleaching (72% ± 4.58) assay. In vivo studies showed that RFJ inhibit significantly the carrageenan‐induced paw oedema (63–71%) in rats and possess antiinflammatory effects particularly significant in association with phenylbutazone (94–96%). In addition, RFJ pretreatment was able to prevent the ethanol‐induced ulcerogenic effect in rats. All in vivo results were corroborated by histopathological observations and are in good agreement with antioxidant activity, confirming the relationships between biological effects observed and radical scavenging properties of RFJ.     

The in-vivo assessment of Turkish propolis and its nano form on testicular damage induced by cisplatin

ObjectiveChemotherapeutic drugs, such as cisplatin (CP), which are associated with oxidative stress and apoptosis, may adversely affect the reproductive system. This study tests whether administration of propolis and nano-propolis (NP) can alleviate oxidative stress and apoptosis in rats with testicular damage induced by CP.MethodsIn this study, polymeric nanoparticles including propolis were synthesized with a green sonication method and characterized using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, and wet scanning transmission electron microscopy techniques. In total, 56 rats were divided into the following seven groups: control, CP, propolis, NP-10, CP + propolis, CP + NP-10, and CP + NP-30. Propolis (100 mg/kg), NP-10 (10 mg/kg), and NP-30 (30 mg/kg) treatments were administered by gavage daily for 21 d, and CP (3 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally in a single dose. After the experiment, oxidative stress parameters, namely, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT), and apoptotic pathways including B cell leukemia/lymphoma-2 protein (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) were measured in testicular tissues. Furthermore, sperm quality and weights of the testis, epididymis, right cauda epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate were evaluated.ResultsPropolis and NP (especially NP-30) were able to preserve oxidative balance (decreased MDA levels and increased GSH, CAT, and GPx activities) and activate apoptotic pathways (decreased Bax and increased Bcl-2) in the testes of CP-treated rats. Sperm motility in the control, CP, and CP + NP-30 groups were 60%, 48.75%, and 78%, respectively (P < 0.001). Especially, NP-30 application completely corrected the deterioration in sperm features induced by CP.ConclusionThe results show that propolis and NP treatments mitigated the side effects of CP on spermatogenic activity, antioxidant situation, and apoptosis in rats.     

Effects of Citrullus colocynthis L. in a rat model of diabetic neuropathy

ObjectiveThis study investigated the biochemical, histopathological and physiological effects of Citrullus colocynthis on peripheral neuropathy in rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes.MethodsSeventy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were included in the present study. Diabetes was induced in 60 rats, with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (65 mg/kg). After 4 weeks, the diabetic rats were assessed for neuropathy. Then, the diabetic rats with neuropathy were randomly divided into 6 groups for a 4-week treatment with gabapentin, oral administration of C. colocynthis fruit pulp powder (100 and 300 mg/kg per day), topical preparations as oil-based solution and ointment, or placebo. Changes in metabolic, physiological, biochemical and histological parameters were considered as treatment outcomes.ResultsMetabolic outcomes (body weight and blood glucose level) were improved in the C. colocynthis-treated groups as compared to placebo. Tail-flick and hot-plate tests also had lower latency in the C. colocynthis-treated groups. Measurement of oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and catalase) showed the antioxidant effect of C. colocynthis. Histological evaluation of the sciatic nerve showed that C. colocynthis decreased the number of demyelinated and degenerated nerve fibers. Among the C. colocynthis-treated groups, the one receiving 100 mg/kg power per day orally had the best treatment outcomes.ConclusionThe present study showed that C. colocynthis fruit, through its antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities, has a positive effect in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy.     

Ameliorative Effects of Pine Bark Extract on Spermatotoxicity by α‐Chlorohydrin in Rats

We investigated the protective effects of pine bark extract (Pycnogenol®, PYC, Horphag Research Ltd., Route de Belis, France) against α‐chlorohydrin (ACH)‐induced spermatotoxicity in rats. Rats were orally administered ACH (30 mg/kg/day) with or without PYC (20 mg/kg/day) for 7 days. Administration of ACH significantly decreased sperm motility. α‐Chlorohydrin also caused histopathological alterations and apoptotic changes in caput epididymides. An increased malondialdehyde concentration and decreased glutathione content, as well as catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities were also found. In contrast, PYC treatment significantly prevented ACH‐induced spermatotoxicity, including decreased sperm motility, histopathological lesions, and apoptotic changes in the caput epididymis. Pycnogenol® also had an antioxidant benefit by decreasing malondialdehyde and increasing levels of the antioxidant glutathione and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and peroxidase in epididymal tissues. These results indicate that PYC treatment attenuated ACH‐induced spermatotoxicity through antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Antiglycation and antioxidant activities of the crude extract and saponin fraction of Tribulus terrestris before and after microcapsule release

Objective: The present study investigated antiglycation and antioxidant activities of crude dry extract and saponin fraction of Tribulus terrestris. It also developed a method of microencapsulation and evaluated antiglycation and antioxidant activities of crude dry extract and saponin fraction before and after microcapsule release.Methods: Antiglycation activity was determined by relative electrophoretic mobility(REM), free amino groups and inhibition of advanced glycation end-product(AGE) forma...     

Antihyperglycemic and hepatoprotective properties of miracle fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum) compared to aspartame in alloxan-induced diabetic mice

ObjectiveThis study was undertaken to investigate the antihyperglycemic potential of miracle fruit (MF) as well as its hepatic safety as compared to aspartame in alloxan-induced diabetic mice.MethodsMF extracts were prepared and screened for their phytochemical composition using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents and antioxidant potential were also determined. Additionally, MF was evaluated for its sensory attributes. For in vivo work, MF ethanol extract at high (MFH: 500 mg/kg body weight [BW]) and low (MFL: 250 mg/kg BW) doses as well as aspartame were injected intraperitoneally into alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Blood glucose levels were determined following acute and subchronic treatment. At the end of the study, animals were sacrificed, serum was collected for biochemical analysis and liver tissues were obtained for histopathological examination.ResultsMF ethanol extract contained more flavonoids and tannins, and had higher 1,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity (79.61%) compared to MF aqueous extract (P < 0.05). HPLC analysis of MF ethanol extract also revealed the presence of 10 antioxidants with quercetin comprising the major polyphenol. Additionally, sensory analysis of MF showed that its intake is effective in masking undesirable sourness. Subchronic administration of MFH proved amelioration of hyperglycemia in mice as compared to aspartame. Moreover, aspartame treatment significantly elevated (P < 0.05) the level of alanine aminotransferase and had destructive effects on the liver histopathology; however, hepatic architecture was restored by low and high doses of MF.ConclusionMF is an effective antihyperglycemic with hepatoprotective properties that can be used as a healthier alternative sweetening agent in place of aspartame for sour beverages.     

Salvadora persica extract attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced hepatorenal damage by modulating oxidative stress,inflammation and apoptosis in rats

Objective: Salvadora persica(SP) is used as a food additive and is a common ingredient in folk medicine.This study investigates the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and beneficial effects of SP against cyclophosphamide(CYP) toxicity in rats.Methods: In a 10-day study, 32 male rats were equally allocated into 4 groups(8 rats/group) as follows:the normal control(NC group), normal rats that only received oral aqueous extract of SP(100 mg/[kg·d];SP group), animals treated with intraperitoneal CYP inj...     

山核桃叶总黄酮苷元及其主要单体成分球松素查尔酮的抗氧化活性

目的: 测定山核桃叶总黄酮苷元(TFA)及其主要单体成分——球松素查尔酮(PSC)的抗氧化活性。 方法: 采用柱层析法分离、富集山核桃叶中的总黄酮苷元及单体化合物球松素查尔酮;测定总黄酮苷元中总酚含量,通过1,1-二苯基-2-三硝基苯肼(DPPH)自由基实验、铁离子还原/抗氧化能力(FRAP)测定法、抗脂质过氧化(LPO)实验、抗蛋白氧化羰基(PCO)生成实验,对TFA和PSC进行体外抗氧化活性研究。 结果: 富集的山核桃叶总黄酮苷元中总酚含量用没食子酸当量(GAE)表示为(283.75±10.82)mg·g^-1;TFA和PSC 对DPPH自由基清除的抑制浓度(IC₅₀)分别为(20.05±1.74),(11.66±0.61) mg·L^-1,抑制脂质过氧化的IC₅₀分别为(74.62±5.39),(24.38±1.24) mg·L^-1,抑制蛋白过氧化的IC₅₀分别为(174.29±11.26),(86.74±7.89) mg·L^-1;TFA和PSC均具有较强的抗氧化能力;除了对铁离子还原力外,其他各项指标化合物PSC均显著强于TFA。 结论: 山核桃叶中含有较高含量的黄酮苷元,其富集的总黄酮苷元具有较强的抗氧化活性,已知成分大于50%,而球松素查尔酮是其主要药效物质,值得进一步开发应用。     

Effects of a combination of Japanese Raisin Tree Seed and Flower of Lobed Kudzuvine against acute alcohol-induced liver injury in mice

ObjectiveThe Flower of Lobed Kudzuvine [Pueraria lobata (Willd.)Ohwi; Gehua in Chinese; GH] and Japanese Raisin Tree Seed (Hovenia dulcis Thunnb.; Zhijuzi in Chinese; ZJZ) are herbs that have been used in China for the treatment of alcohol intoxication and liver diseases. We aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of a combination of these in mice with acute alcohol-induced liver injury, and to elucidate the mechanisms involved.MethodsMale ICR mice were randomly allocated to six groups: a control group, an alcohol-administered group, and groups that were administered alcohol and one of silibinin, the GH, the ZJZ or a GH-ZJZ combination (at a ratio of 2:1). Animals were orally administered 56% alcohol (Er Guo-tou white spirit, 0.12 mL/10 g/d) for 10 days and at the end of this period, hepatic biochemical indicators, antioxidant parameters, alcohol metabolic enzymes, and histopathologic changes were evaluated. Moreover, the expression of the signaling molecules KEAP1, NRF2, and AQP9 were measured by qRT-PCR and western blotting.ResultsCompared with the model group, GH-ZJZ (2:1) had lower serum ALT (12.15 ± 0.39, P = .003), AST (104.07 ± 1.03, P = .001), and ALP (148.09 ± 2.55, P = .010) activities, and lower TC (1.97 ± 0.05, P = .001) and TG (1.54 ± 0.07, P = .002) concentrations. GH-ZJZ (2:1) also significantly increased the hepatic activities of SOD and GSH (4.24 ± 0.25 and 1.57 ± 0.06, respectively; both P < .01), reduced the ROS and MDA concentrations (97.50 ± 3.00 and 2.39 ± 0.19, respectively; both P < .01), and upregulated Nrf2 expression (P < .01). GH-ZJZ (2:1) significantly reduced the expression of KEAP1 and AQP9 in the liver, compared with alcohol-administered mice (P < .01). Importantly, the GH-ZJZ combination caused a more marked improvement in acute liver injury than GH or ZJZ alone.ConclusionWe have demonstrated protective effects of GH-ZJZ (2:1) against acute alcohol-induced hepatic injury, and shown that these effects may be associated with improvements in lipid and alcohol metabolism, antioxidant capacity, and lipid peroxidation.     

Effects of three different doses of a fruit extract of Terminalia chebula on metabolic components of metabolic syndrome,in a rat model

There is documented evidence of the use of Terminalia chebula for various ailments in the Ayurvedic literature. The extract has been shown to possess glucose lowering activity and to improve insulin sensitivity in animal models of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The present study was carried out to study the dose response relationship of this extract in a rat model of metabolic syndrome. Six groups of rats were fed a high fructose diet (HFD) for a period of 20 days to induce metabolic syndrome. Three doses of fruit extract of T. chebula 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg were administered orally and pioglitazone 2.7 mg/kg was used as a positive control. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 20 and 40 from the tail vein. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured using the tail cuff method and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was done on the day of blood collection. Administration of HFD for 20 days significantly increased fasting blood glucose (FBG), SBP and the area under the curve of OGTT. On day 40 the FBG in the 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg group was 97.33 ± 5.82 (NS), 86.83 ± 5.08 (p = 0.038) and 85.67 ± 6.74 (p = 0.15), respectively. These results show that the fruit extract of T. chebula exerts a significant and dose‐dependent glucose lowering effect in the rat model of metabolic syndrome. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Effect of exogenous ATP on Momordica charantia Linn. (Cucurbitaceae) induced inhibition of D-glucose, L-tyrosine and fluid transport across rat everted intestinal sacs in vitro

Momordica charantia (MC) is a common oriental vegetable with known antidiabetic, laxative and antimicrobial properties. This study investigates the effects of aqueous fruit extract of MC on the transport of d-glucose, l-tyrosine and fluid across rat-everted intestine in vitro. Everted intestinal sacs from rats were mounted in an organ bath containing Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate buffer. Graded concentrations (1.5-12mg/ml) of MC fruit extract were incubated in the mucosal solution with and without exogenous ATP in the mucosal bathing fluid. The serosal appearance and mucosal disappearance of d-glucose, l-tyrosine and the fluid absorptive capacity of the intestine were significantly inhibited (p<0.05) with increasing graded concentrations of MC. The concentration of d-glucose accumulated or metabolized by the enterocytes in the intestinal tissues were significantly higher (p<0.05) when incubated with MC. Increasing graded concentrations of exogenous ATP (25-200 microM) were incubated with 3.0mg/ml MC to confirm inhibition of the ATP-dependent active transport of d-glucose, l-tyrosine and fluid across rat enterocytes. It was found that increasing concentrations of mucosal ATP from 25 to 100 microM significantly (p<0.05) reverses the MC-depression of the d-glucose, l-tyrosine and fluid uptake across rat everted intestinal sacs. It is hypothesized that bioactive phytochemicals such as saponins in MC fruit extract inhibits the active transport of d-glucose, l-tyrosine and fluid across rat intestine by inhibiting the production of ATP responsible for the active transport of these molecules. It is likely that MC can be a potential alternative drug therapy of postprandial hyperglycaemia via inhibition of glucose uptake across the small intestine.     

Investigation of the nutraceutical potential of monofloral Indian mustard bee pollen

OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to investigate the nutraceutical potential of monofl oral Indian mustard bee pollen(MIMBP). METHODS: The nutritional value of MIMBP was examined in terms of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and energy value. Its chemical composition in terms of total polyphenol and fl avonoid content was determined. MIMBP was screened for free fl avonoid aglycones by developing and validating a high-performance liquid chromatography-photo diode array(HPLC-PDA) method. MIMBP was analyzed for in vitro antioxidant effect in terms of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) radical-scavenging activity.RESULTS: MIMBP was found to be comprised of proteins((182.2±5.9) g/kg), fats((137.7±6.8) g/kg) and carbohydrates((560.6±17.4) g/kg), which result in its high energy value((17 616.7±78.6) kJ/kg). MIMBP was found to contain polyphenols((18 286.1±374.0) mg gallic acid equivalent/kg) and fl avonoids((1 223.5±53.1) mg quercetin equivalent/kg). The HPLC-PDA analysis revealed the presence of kaempferol((65.4±0.5) mg/kg) and quercetin((51.4±0.4) mg/kg) in MIMBP, which can be used as markers for determining the quality of bee pollen. The MIMBP extract showed DPPH free radical-scavenging activity with a half maximal inhibitory concentration of 54.79 μg/mL. CONCLUSION: The MIMBP was found to be a rich source of nutrients providing high caloric value, which makes it a candidate for a potential nutraceutical agent. The study also illustrated the high antioxidant content of MIMBP, especially in the principle polyphenols and fl avonoids, which suggests its potential role in the prevention of free radical-implicated diseases. The DPPH-scavenging effect of MIMBP further confi rmed its antioxidant potential. Additionally, we developed a simple, specifi c and accurate HPLC-PDA method for the identifi cation and quantifi cation of free fl avonoid aglycones. This can be applied in future screenings of the quality of pollen collected by honeybees.     

中药抗衰灵抗衰老作用的药理学研究

 给幼龄及中老龄果蝇、小鼠、大鼠服用抗衰老药物抗衰灵，服药期15～90d不等。观察发现：（1）服药组果蝇寿命较对照组延寿幅度增加37％左右，最高寿命延长7～14d；（2）抗衰灵能提高果蝇和老龄小鼠的交配率；（3）抗衰灵能增强果蝇和小鼠的抗饥饿能力；（4）抗衰灵有提高大鼠胸腺和脾脏中cAMP含量的作用。     

Antioxidant status following postprandial challenge of two different doses of tocopherols and tocotrienols

ObjectiveTocotrienols (T3s) have been hypothesized to have greater antioxidant capacity than tocopherols (Ts) due to differences in biokinetics that affect their absorption and function. The present trial compares the antioxidant effectiveness following postprandial challenge of two different doses of α-T or palm T3-rich fraction (TRF) treatments and evaluates their dose-response effects on antioxidant status.MethodsTen healthy volunteers were given four different doses of vitamin E formulations (268 mg α-T, 537 mg α-T, 263 mg TRF or 526 mg TRF) in a cross-over postprandial trial. Blood was sampled at 0, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 8 hours after meal consumption and plasma antioxidant status including total glutathione, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde (MDA), ferric reducing antioxidant potential and trolox-equivalent antioxidant capacity, was analyzed.ResultsSupplementation with the different doses of either α-T or TRF did not significantly improve overall antioxidant status. There was no significant difference in overall antioxidant status among treatments at the different doses compared. However, a significant dose-response effect was observed for plasma MDA throughout the 8-hour postprandial period. MDA was significantly lower after the 537 mg α-T treatment, compared to the 268 mg α-T treatment; it was also lower after the 526 mg TRF treatment compared to the 263 mg TRF treatment (P < 0.05).ConclusionT3 and α-T demonstrated similar antioxidant capacity, despite markedly lower levels of T3 in blood and lipoproteins, compared to α-T.     

匙羹藤果水提液降血糖作用及其作用机制

目的:研究匙羹藤果水提液的降血糖作用,并探讨其相关的作用机制。方法:采用改良寇氏法对急性毒性进行研究,以四氧嘧啶致高血糖的糖尿病小鼠和大鼠为模型,以二甲双胍作为阳性药,以葡萄糖过氧化物酶法(GOD-POD)测定小鼠和大鼠血糖,观察匙羹果水提液高、中、低剂量组的降血糖作用,分别按照SOD活性试剂盒,总胆固醇试剂盒(COD-CE-PAP法),甘油三酯试剂盒(GPO-PAP法)检测法,GOD-POD法测定高血糖小鼠用药前后的SOD活性,高血糖大鼠给药前后总胆固醇、甘油三酯,正常小鼠糖耐量等指标,比较用药前后高血糖大鼠胰胰腺组织的病理状态,探讨匙羹藤果水提液降血糖的作用机制。结果:匙羹藤果水提液的半数致死浓度(LD50)为66.65 g·kg~(-1),水提液能明显降低四氧嘧啶致高血糖小鼠和大鼠血糖,与正常组比较,模型组的血糖有显著性差异(P0.01);与模型组比较,各给药组的血糖有显著性差异(P0.01),提高糖尿病小鼠SOD活性,降低糖尿病大鼠甘油三酯,修复糖尿病大鼠的胰腺和增加其胰岛数量,同时不影响正常小鼠的糖代谢。结论:匙羹藤果水提液具有较好的降血糖作用,其作用机制与提高机体的抗氧化能力、调节脂代谢和糖代谢有关,为明确匙羹藤果降血糖的药效物质基础提供了科学依据。     

藤梨根甲醇提取物的抗氧化活性及物质基础初步研究

目的研究藤梨根甲醇提取物的抗氧化活性,并初步分析其活性化学成分。方法以清除1,1-二苯基-2-三硝基苯肼(DPPH)和2,2-联氮-二-(3-乙基-苯并噻唑-6-磺酸)二铵盐(ABTS)自由基能力为指标,测定藤梨根甲醇提取物的体外抗氧化活性;采用高效液相色谱-质谱联用技术对藤梨根甲醇提取物化学成分进行分析。结果藤梨根甲醇提取物对DPPH、ABTS自由基具有良好的清除作用,半数有效浓度(EC50)分别为(26.275±1.464)mg/mL和(29.826±1.309)mg/mL;通过紫外光谱和质谱分析,初步鉴定了19个化学成分。结论藤梨根甲醇提取物具有很好的体外抗氧化活性,其主要活性成分为多羟基和不饱和双键的成分。     

Review of Stimulating Technologies of Acupuncture Points in Patients

Objectives: This study estimated the antioxidant effects of the moxi with ginger tar (MGT), i.e., the chemical combustion products produced by moxibustion with ginger during combustion.Methods: We investigated the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents, the SOD (superoxide dismutase) scavenging activity, and the ABTS (2.2-azino-bis-3-erthylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) & DPPH (2,2-dipheny1-1-picryl-hydrazyl) radical's scavenging ability of MGT.Results: The total polyphenol content of MGT was 7.8 ± 0.09 mg/g in 10 mg/ml, the SOD activity was 42.51 ± 3.39% in 200 ug/ml, the DPPH radical scavenging effect of MGT was 83.24 ± 0.01% in 200 ug/ml and the ABTS radical scavenging effect was 41.88 ± 0.16% in 200 ug/ml.Conclusions: In this study, the effects of moxi with ginger could be induced by not only heating stimuli on acupoints but also chemical stimuli produced during combustion of moxibustion. An advanced study of the biological mechanism of moxibustion with MGT based on the meridian and considering skin aging and inflammation will be required.Key Words: moxi with ginger slice; MGT; antioxidant effects     

Effect of Rubia cordifolia extract on acetaminophen and CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity

The hepatoprotective activity of an aqueous-methanol extract of Rubia cordifolia (Rubiaceae) was investigated against acetaminophen and CCl₄-induced hepatic damage. Acetaminophen produced 100% mortality at a dose of 1 g/kg in mice while pretreatment of animals with plant extract (500 mg/kg) reduced the death rate to 30%. Acetaminophen at a dose of 640 mg/kg produced liver damage in rats as manifested by the rise in serum levels of GOT and GPT to 1447±182 and 899±201 IU/L (n = 10) respectively, compared with respective control values of 97±10 and 36±11. Pretreatment of rats with plant extract (500 mg/kg) lowered significantly (p <0.005) the respective serum GOT and GPT levels to 161±48 and 73±29. Similarly, hepatotoxic dose of CCl₄ (1.5 mL/kg; orally) raised the serum transaminases (GOT and GPT) levels to 422±102 and 354±74 IU/L (n = 10) respectively compared with respective control values of 99±15 and 29±08 IU/L. The same dose of plant extract (500 mg/kg) was able to prevent significantly (p <0.01) the CCl₄-induced rise in serum enzymes and the estimated values of GOT and GPT were 95±09 and 33±07 IU/L, respectively. Moreover, it prevented CCl₄-induced prolongation in pentobarbital sleeping time confirming the hepatoprotective effects of the extract.