In silico screening of Annona Muricata L. Leaf constituents and derivatives towards selected targets of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND@#Type 2 diabetes mellitus, or T2DM, is one of the world's most chronic health problems that is linked to numerous deaths and high health care expenses. 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1), protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and mono-ADP-ribosyl transferase sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) were among the novel proteins and focus targets of diabetes research. Annona muricata is a commonly used natural remedy for several illnesses, including type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, most of these traditional claims have received few molecular evaluations.@*OBJECTIVES@#This investigated the phytoconstituents and derivatives of the leaves of A. muricata by evaluating their binding profiles towards selected novel T2DM-related protein targets through in silico methods.@*METHODOLOGY@#This study screened the potential lead compounds from the leaves of A. muricata by evaluating the binding energies of the parent compounds and derivatives with the targets compared to the native ligands and known substrates through molecular docking simulations. Additionally, pharmacokinetic, physicochemical properties, and binding interactions were also assessed using several software programs and online databases.@*RESULTS@#Out of the 8 selected parent compounds of Annona muricata, a total of 672 derivatives were designed, tested, and compared against the controls for at least one of the three protein targets. Among these, 280 derivatives exhibited more negative binding energies than controls in each protein target.@*CONCLUSION@#The designed derivatives can be synthesized and further investigated for potential biological effects towards 11β-HSD1, PTP1B, and SIRT6 through in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Annona muricata Linn Stem Bark Protects against Uterine Proliferative Disorder Induced by Estradiol Benzoate in Female Rat

Aim: The opening of mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) pore is an important event in the execution of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Some bioactive compounds elicit their chemotherapeutic effects against tumor/cancer cells via the induction of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Annona muricata, a medicinal plant, is folklorically used in the treatment of tumors and cancers. This study therefore aimed at investigating the effect of methanol stem bark extract of Annona muricata (MEAM) on apoptosis via mPT pore and estradiol benzoate (EB)-induced proliferative disorder using female Wistar rats. Methodology: Mitochondria were isolated using differential centrifugation. The mPT pore opening, cytochrome c release and mitochondrial ATPase activity were determined spectrophotometrically. The levels of estrogen (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH), were determined using ELISA technique. Histological and histochemical assessments of the uterine sections were carried out using standard methods. Phytochemical constituents of MEAM were determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). Results: The in vitro results showed a significant induction of mPT pore opening, release of cytochrome c and enhancement of mitochondrial ATPase (mATPase) activity in a concentration-dependent manner. However, oral administration of MEAM did not induce rat uterine mPT pore opening, neither any significant release of cytochrome c nor enhancement of mATPase activity at the dosages used. Interestingly, MEAM reversed the EB-induced increase in E2, LH and FSH. The MEAM also improved the antioxidant milleu by reducing MDA level and increasing the SOD and GSH-Px activities in the treatment groups. Administration of EB induced endometrial hyperplasia in the model group which was mitigated by MEAM in the treatment group. The GC-MS analysis of MEAM revealed the presence of some important phytochemicals that are pharmacological relevant in cancer treatment. Conclusions: This study suggests that the methanol stem bark extract of Annona muricata contains bioactive compounds that protect against EB-induced uterine proliferative disorder in female Wistar rats.

Soursop (Annona muricata L.) Fruit Peels as Source of Phenolic Constituents and Annonacin with Biological Activities

Aims: In this study, chemical constituents and biological activities of the Annona muricata L. fruit peels were evaluated using methanol extract (MEAM) and hexane (HFAM), dichloromethane (DFAM), ethyl acetate (EFAM), and butanol (BFAM) fractions. Place and Duration of Study: All the experiments were done in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, 36026-900, Brazil, between January 2012 and July 2016. Methodology: Phytochemical screening (specific chemical reactions), total phenolic and flavonoid contents (Spectrophotometric methods) and chemical compounds were assessed (High performance liquid chromatography analysis). The antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), beta-carotene, and thiobarbituric acid assays. The inhibitory effect against digestive enzymes (lipase, ?-amylase and ?-glucosidase) was measured by spectrophotometric assays and and toxicity by the brine shrimp lethality bioassay. Results: Tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenes and steroids, saponins, and alkaloids were detected. EFAM had the highest values of total phenolic and flavonoids, while a similar compound to annonacin was found in MEAM by HPLC. EFAM was also more active in DPPH and FRAP assays, and HFAM was effective in inhibiting the linoleic acid oxidation and the malondialdehyde. MEAM and fractions blocked lipase, ?-amylase and ?-glucosidase, while HFAM and DFAM were toxic against Artemia salina. Conclusion: The results showed that the A. muricata fruit peels have important biological effects, which can bring great benefits to human and animal health.

Relationship between the toxicity of raw Annona muricata leaves extract and 7,12-dimethylbenzathracene (DMBA) with histopathological changes in wistar rats / Relación entre la toxicidad del extracto de hojas crudas de Annona muricata y el 7,12-dimetilbenz antraceno (DMBA) con cambios histopatológicos en ratas Wistar

Abstract Aims: To identify the histopathological alterations in organs of Wistar rats to evaluate toxic effects of use of Annonamuricata Raw Leaf Extract (AMRLE) alone or in association with DMBA. Settings and Design: Sixty female Wistar rats were used, separated into groups and treated with a single dose of 65 mg/kg of DMBA and/or with 50; 100 and 200 mg/kg of AMRLE. Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) and 1% methylene blue stains were used in the histopathological analysis and quantification of Aberrant Crypts (ACs) and Aberrant Crypt Focus (ACF). Fischer and Kruskal Wallis tests were used in the statistical analysis. Results: The administration of 65 mg/kg of DMBA and/or 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of AMRLE did not influence weight development. Some histopathological alterations (hepatic steatosis; inflammatory foci in the liver, kidney and lung; pulmonary lymphoid hyperplasia, ectasia and hyperplasia in mammary gland epithelium) and the development of ACs and ACF in the intestinal colon were observed in all groups, except in the group negative control, with no statistical difference between analysed groups. Conclusions: Histopathological alterations and the formation of ACs and ACF did not show a statistically significant difference between the groups analysed. However, although AMRLE has antioxidant effects due to the presence of phenolic components, there was still the formation of some pathological processes that may be related to the isolated toxic action of DMBA and/or associated with other components of AMRLE, since these changes were not seen in the negative control group.

Resumen Objetivos: Identificar las alteraciones histopatológicas en órganos de ratas Wistar para evaluar los efectos tóxicos del uso del Extracto de Hoja Cruda de Annona muricata (AMRLE) solo o en asociación con DMBA. Configuración y diseño: Se utilizaron sesenta ratas hembras Wistar, se separaron en grupos y se trataron con una dosis única de 65 mg/kg de DMBA y/o con 50, 100 y 200 mg/kg de AMRLE. Se utilizaron tinciones de hematoxilina-eosina (HE) y azul de metileno al 1% en el análisis histopatológico y la cuantificación de criptas aberrantes (CA) y focus de criptas aberrantes (FCA). En el análisis estadístico se utilizaron las pruebas de Fischer y Kruskal Wallis. Resultados: La administración de 65 mg/kg de DMBA y/o 50, 100 y 200 mg/kg de AMRLE no influyó en el desarrollo del peso. Se observaron algunas alteraciones histopatológicas (esteatosis hepática; focus inflamatórios en el hígado, riñón y pulmón; hiperplasia, ectasia en epitelio de la glándula mamaria e hiperplasia linfoide pulmonar) y el desarrollo de CA y FCA en el colon intestinal en todos los grupos, excepto en el grupo control negativo, sin diferencias estadísticas entre los grupos analizados. Conclusiones: Las alteraciones histopatológicas y la formación de CA y FCA no mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los grupos analizados. Sin embargo, aunque AMRLE tiene efectos antioxidantes debido a la presencia de componentes fenólicos, aún existe la formación de algunos procesos patológicos que pueden estar relacionados con la acción tóxica aislada del DMBA y/o asociados con otros componentes de AMRLE, ya que estos cambios no fueron observados en el grupo control negativo.

Cytotoxic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Annona Muricata against a human cell line of gastric adenocarcinoma / Efecto citotóxico del extracto hidroalcoholico de la Annona Muricata frente a la línea celular humana de adenocarcinoma gástrico

Background: Therapeutic advances against cancer have not been as successful as expected and have adverse effects that patients rarely tolerate. A study in Peru identified favorable anticancer effects of Annona muricata (AM), a medicinal plant known as soursop, in C-678 mouse gastric adenocarcinoma. However, to date, no results have been reported in human cells. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the cytotoxic effect of AM extract against a human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS). Methodology: Experimental in vitro analytical study using a hydroalcoholic extract of AM (AMOH) leaves collected in the Amazonas. Chemical functional groups were identified by phytochemical screening. To obtain the cytotoxic effect, different dilutions of extract were added to the plates containing the cell lines and the data were extrapolated to GraphPad employing an observation card. Finally, the cytotoxic effect was expressed as the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and nonlinear regression analysis was performed to determine the growth inhibition of cancer cells. Results: Phytochemical screening showed the presence of reducing carbohydrates, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, triterpenes, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, proteins, cardiac glycosides, and anthocyanins. A calibration curve with gallic acid was used to determine the total phenol content and, quercetin was used to identify the flavonoid content. The AGS cell line showed cytotoxic activity with AMOH with an IC50 at 24 hours of 45.81 µg/mL and 19.05 µg/mL at 48 hours. Conclusion: Several chemical functional groups of AM were identified. In addition, the AMOH showed a cytotoxic effect against the AGS cell line

Antecedente: Los avances terapéuticos frente al cáncer no han tenido el éxito esperado y presentan efectos adversos pocas veces tolerados por el paciente. Un estudio en Perú identificó el efecto anticancerígeno de la Annona muricata (AM), planta medicinal conocida como guanábana, en adenocarcinoma gástrico de ratón C-678 con resultados favorables, sin embargo, no se ha encontrado evidencia previa en células humanas. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el efecto citotóxico del extracto de AM frente a la línea celular de adenocarcinoma gástrico humano (AGS). Materiales y métodos: Estudio experimental in vitro tipo analítico con extracto hidroalcohólico de hojas de AM (AMOH) recolectadas en Amazonas. Mediante screening fitoquímico se identificaron los grupos funcionales químicos. Para obtener el efecto citotóxico, se añadieron diferentes diluciones de extracto a las placas que contienen las líneas celulares y mediante una ficha de observación los datos fueron extrapolados a GraphPad. Finalmente se expresó como la concentración inhibitoria media máxima (IC50) y se hizo un análisis de regresión no lineal con la finalidad de encontrar la cantidad de inhibición de crecimiento de células oncológicas. Resultados: En el screening fitoquímico se pudo identificar la presencia de carbohidratos reductores, alcaloides, fenoles, taninos, tritérpenos y esteroides, saponinas, flavonoides, proteínas, glicósidos cardiotónicos y antocianinas. Para identificar el contenido total de fenoles se utilizó la curva de calibración con ácido gálico el cual nos comprobó la presencia de una buena cantidad de estos metabolitos. Adicionalmente se utilizó quercetina para identificar el contenido de flavonoides, obteniendo resultados favorables ya que se hizo evidente su presencia. La línea celular AGS mostró una actividad citotóxica frente al AMOH con un IC50 a las 24 horas de 45.81ug/mL y 19.05ug/mL a las 48 horas. Conclusión: Se identifica a los grupos funcionales de la AM. Además, AMOH demostró un efecto citotóxico contra la línea celular AGS

Efecto antibacteriano del extracto etanólico de Annona muricata sobre microorganismos de importancia clínica / Antibacterial effects of Annona muricata ethanolic extract on clinically important microorganisms

El incremento de cepas patógenas resistentes a fármacos convencionales ha limitado las opciones de tratamiento médico. Ante ello surge la necesidad de buscar alternativas terapéuticas. Muchas especies vegetales poseen enorme potencial antimicrobiano que puede ser de gran utilidad. Objetivo: determinar el efecto antibacteriano in vitro del extracto etanólico de Annona muricata L. sobre Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus B - hemolíticos y Escherichia coli. Métodos: se evaluaron 135 unidades experimentales conformadas por 3 cepas de Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus B-hemolíticos y Escherichia coli, además de 5 concentraciones del extracto y 3 repeticiones del experimento. Para determinar el efecto antibacteriano in vitro se emplearon los métodos de disco difusión en agar y macrodilución en caldo. Se utilizó el extracto etanólico a concentraciones de 125, 250, 500, 750, 1000 mg/ml y solución salina fisiológica estéril como control negativo. Resultados: el extracto inhibió el crecimiento in vitro de Staphylococcus aureus y Streptococcus B-hemolíticos. La mayor inhibición se observó a 1 000 mg/ml con halos inhibitorios de 14,6 mm y 12,33 mm de diámetro, respectivamente. Para Escherichia coli no se observó la formación de halos inhibitorios. Las cepas de Streptococcus B-hemolíticos y Staphylococcus aureus presentaron una concentración mínima inhibitoria de 250 y 500 mg/ml, respectivamente. Conclusión: el efecto antibacteriano in vitro fue directamente proporcional a cada concentración empleada sobre Staphylococcus aureus y Streptococcus B-hemolíticos. En el caso Escherichia coli no se observó inhibición de crecimiento.

The increase in pathogenic strains resistant to conventional drugs has limited medical treatment options. Given this, the need to seek therapeutic alternatives arises. Many plant species have enormous antimicrobial potential that can be very useful. Objective: to determine in vitro the antibacterial effect of the ethanolic extract of Annona muricata L. on Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus B - hemolytic and Escherichia coli. Methods: 135 experimental units were evaluated, consisting of 3 strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus B-hemolytic and Escherichia coli, in addition to 5 concentrations of the extract and 3 repetitions of the experiment. To determine the antibacterial effect in vitro, the agar diffusion disk and broth macrodilution methods were used. The ethanolic extract was used at concentrations of 125, 250, 500, 750, 1000 mg / ml and sterile physiological saline solution as negative control. Results: the extract inhibited in vitro growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus B-hemolytic. The greatest inhibition was observed at 1000 mg / ml with inhibitory halos of 14.6 mm and 12.33 mm in diameter, respectively. For Escherichia coli the formation of inhibitory halos was not observed. The Streptococcus B-hemolytic and Staphylococcus aureus strains presented a minimum inhibitory concentration of 250 and 500 mg / ml, respectively. Conclusion: the in vitro antibacterial effect was directly proportional to each concentration used on the Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus B-hemolytic. In the case of Escherichia coli, no growth inhibition was observed.

Development, Characterization and Microbiological Evaluation of Silver Nanoparticles, Obtained by Green Synthesis, from the Extract of Annona muricata L

Abstract Green synthesis is an efficient method, frequently applied in nanobiotechnology, as it does not use toxic reagents or solvents. Biological organisms, including medicinal plants, have been used successfully for manufacturing of different types of metallic nanoparticles. The aim of this work was to synthesize, characterize and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) obtained from the extract of the pulp, seed and leaves of Annona muricata L. The particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, as well as morphological aspects of AgNPs were evaluated. With the data obtained from the analyses, we concluded that the nanoparticles were successfully obtained by a simple and green method using the aqueous extract of the pulp, seeds and leaves of A. muricata. AgNPs obtained by A. muricata pulp extract without exposure to artificial light showed lowest average of hydrodynamic diameter and smallest size at field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). In addition, these nanoparticles showed the best polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential of - 29.6, which indicates good stability. AgNPs obtained from the extract of the pulp, seed and leaves showed antimicrobial activity, against strains of gram positive and gram negative bacteria, and antifungal activity, compared to the pure extract.

RECK and TIMP-2 mediate inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 by Annona muricata

Up-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 plays a significant role in promoting cancer progression by degradingthe components of the extracellular matrix, thereby enhancing the migration of tumor cells. Although the antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of Annona muricata is well established, its effect on MMP-2 and MMP-9, amajor target in several types of cancers, has not been studied. Powdered samples of various parts of A.muricata like fruit, stem, seed, and twig extracted using aqueous methanol showed significant dose-dependentinhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in a highly metastatic fibrosarcoma cell line, HT1080. Additionally, theseextracts also up-regulated the expression of several endogenous inhibitors of MMP-2 and MMP-9 likeREversion-inducing Cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK) and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2). Furthermore, primary cells developed from tumor tissues obtained from patients notexposed to chemotherapy, also exhibited similar results. Remarkably, the inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9observed was tumor specific, with the A. muricata fruit extract showing only 2% inhibition in cells obtainedfrom normal tissues, when compared to 60% inhibition observed in cells obtained from tumor samples. Thepresent study elucidates a novel mechanism by which A. muricata extracts selectively exhibit their anti-canceractivity in tumor cells by down-regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 that are important biomarkers in cancer.

Nutrient and Bioactive Components of Annona muricata and Fagara zanthoxyloide of South-Southern Nigeria

Introduction:Prediabetes is associated with dysglycemia, endothelial dysfunction,obesity and inflammation, placing them at an increased risk of cardiovascular events.Aims: The present study aimed to investigate the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with prediabetes by estimation of serum interleukin-6, myeloperoxidase and urine microalbumin and their correlation with fasting plasma glucose and anthropometric measurements.Study Design:Cross sectional study.Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted at Department of Biochemistry, Kasturba Medical College Hospitals, Mangaluru between 2014 and 2015.Methodology:Eighty subjects were categorised into prediabetes and healthy controls based on their fasting plasma glucose values. Anthropometric data (weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference and waist-to-hip ratio from all subjects were recorded. Interleukin-6 & myeloperoxidase were estimated in serum sample whereas microalbumin was estimated in random urine sample Results:The mean anthropometric measurements and cardiovascular disease risk markers (interleukin-6, myeloperoxidase and urine microalbumin) were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in prediabetes group. Myeloperoxidase had significant correlation with fasting plasma glucose (r-0.388) in the prediabetes group. Interleukin-6 and myeloperoxidase also showed a positive correlation with body mass index (r -0.339, r -0.327), waist circumference (r -484, r -0.493) and waist-to-hip ratio (r -0.430, r -0.493) while urine microalbumin did not correlate with fasting plasma glucose and anthropometric measurements in prediabetes group.Conclusion:This study suggests that prediabetes is associated with central adiposity and have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Actividad cicatrizante de seis extractos hidroalcohólicos de plantas en heridas incisas de Rattus norvegicus albinus / Healing activity of six hydroalcoholic extracts of plants in incised wounds of Rattus norvegicus albinus

Introducción: En la medicina militar, los agentes cicatrizantes naturales frente a heridas por incisión son relevantes en el tratamiento de los militares. Objetivo: Evaluar la actividad cicatrizante de los extractos hidroalcohólicos de Peperomia congona Sodiro (congona), Annona muricata L. (guanábana), Urtica urens L. (ortiga),Ormosia coccinea (Aubl) Jacks (huayruro), Opuntia ficus-indica L. Mill. (tuna) y Musa acuminata Colla (plátano bellaco) en heridas incisas de Rattus norvegicus albinus (rata albina). Métodos: Estudio analítico experimental de tipo prospectivo y longitudinal. Se realizó el análisis fitoquímico preliminar de los 6 extractos. Se emplearon 80 ratas albinas machos, aleatorizadas y distribuidas en 8 grupos (n = 10). Se realizó una aplicación dermal durante 10 días consecutivos posteriores a la generación de heridas incisas que se realizaron en el dorso. Grupo I (cloruro de sodio al 0,9 por ciento). Grupo II (gel cicatrizante comercial). Del Grupo III al VIII fueron tratados con extracto hidroalcohólico de congona, guanábana, ortiga, huairuro, tuna y plátano bellaco respectivamente. La evolución de la cicatrización fue seguida en los días 1, 5 y 11 y medida en milímetros. Resultados: Se detectó la presencia de alcaloides, compuestos fenólicos y flavonoides en los 6 extractos; además de cumarinas en congona, taninos en guanábana, ortiga, tuna y huayruro, y quinonas en guanábana y plátano bellaco. Se comprobó la actividad cicatrizante en los extractos de guanábana (69,77 por ciento), tuna (66,27 por ciento), plátano bellaco (64,38 por ciento), ortiga (56,73 por ciento), congona (55,74 por ciento) y huayruro (54,50 por ciento), comparados con un gel comercial (72,21 por ciento). Conclusiones: El extracto hidroalcohólico de las hojas de Annona muricata L. (guanábana) presentó la mayor actividad cicatrizante en heridas incisas de ratas albinas machos(AU)

Introduction: In military medicine, natural healing agents against incision wounds are relevant in the treatment of the military. Objective: To evaluate the healing activity of the hydroalcoholic extracts of Peperomia congona Sodiro (congona), Annona muricata L. (guanabana), Urtica urens L. (ortiga), Ormosia coccinea (Aubl) Jacks (huairuro), Opuntia ficus-indica L. Mill. (tuna) and Musa acuminata Colla (platano bellaco) in incised wounds of Rattus norvegicus albinus (albino rat). Methods: Experimental analytical study of prospective and longitudinal type. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the 6 extracts was carried out. We used 80 male albino rats, randomized and distributed in 8 groups (n = 10). A dermal application was made during 10 consecutive days after the generation of incised wounds that were made on the back. Group I (0.9 percent sodium chloride). Group II (commercial healing gel). From Group III to VIII they were treated with hydroalcoholic extract of congona, guanábana, ortiga, huairuro, tuna and platano bellaco respectively. The evolution of healing was followed on days 1, 5 and 11 and measured in millimeters. Results: The presence of alkaloids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids was detected in the 6 extracts; in addition to coumarins in congona, tannins in guanábana, nettle, tuna and huayruro, quinonas in guanábana and plantain bellaco. The healing activity was verified in the extracts of guanabana (69.77 percent), tuna (66.27 percent), platano bellaco (64.38 percent), ortiga (56.73 percent), congona (55.74 percent) and huayruro (54.50 percent), compared with a commercial gel (72.21 percent). Conclusions: The hydroalcoholic extract of the leaves of Annona muricata L. (guanábana) showed the highest healing activity in incised wounds of male albino rats(AU)

Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles from Ethanolic Extracts of Leaves of Annona muricata: A Green Nanobiotechnology Approach

Introduction: The biological green synthesis of nanoparticles via nanobiotechnology processes have a significant potential to boost nanoparticles production without the use of harsh, toxic, and expensive chemicals commonly used in conventional physical and chemical processes. Annona muricata, a tropical plant belonging to family Annonaceae is one of the most used plants in folk medicine because of its many medicinal uses and therefore presents a strong candidate for use in green synthesis. Aims: The aim of this study was to optimize a method for the synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) from ethanolic extracts of leaves of Annona muricata as well as to characterize the green synthesized AgNPs. Methodology: AgNPs were synthesized from Annona muricata leaves using AgNO3 solution. The AgNPs were characterized using spectroscopy and microscopy techniques. Results: The formed AgNPs had an absorption maximum at 429 nm using UV–Visible spectroscopy and were stable under different pH, temperature, and storage conditions. Fourier transform infrared analysis revealed the different functional groups responsible for the synthesis and stabilization of the AgNPs. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed a spherical nature of the synthesized AgNPs. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analysis showed presence of Ag, O, and Cl with Ag having the highest composition at 60%. X-Ray Diffraction and Dynamic Light Scattering revealed a crystalline nature of AgNPs with an average size of 87.36 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.16 respectively. Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis further confirmed the crystalline and spherical nature of the AgNPs. Conclusion: In this article, an efficient, eco-friendly and low-cost method for the synthesis and recovery of stable AgNPs using Annona muricata leaves ethanolic extracts as both a reducing and capping agent has been reported for the first time. The synthesized AgNPs could be promising candidates for many biomedical, clinical, engineering, and polymer applications.

Quality Evaluation of Tea Brewed from Blends of Soursop (Annona muricata) and Moringa (Moringa oleifera) Leaves

Tea is commonly made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. Production of similar drinks from other plant leaves with potential health benefits would help to prevent diseases. This study examined the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of tea made from blends of dried moringa (Moringa oleifera) and soursop (Annona muricata) leaves. Mature, fresh and green leaves from both plants were washed in water and sun-dried for 10 h. The dried leaves were milled and sieved to obtain the tea powders. Blends of soursop: Moringa tea were formulated as follows: A: 100% Soursop, B: 100% Moringa, and soursop: Moringa blends as C:50:50%; D: 60:40% and E: 40:60%. Ten grams of each blend of tea powder was brewed in 100 ml of hot water (90°C) for 10 min and cooled to room temperature (28 ±- 2°C) before analysis. From the result, 50:50 soursop-moringa tea gave the highest levels of vitamins C and A. Mineral levels were significantly different among the samples (p<0.05) with higher values recorded for calcium (2117.10 mg/100 ml), sodium (146.02 mg/100 ml), magnesium (362.03 mg/100 ml), phosphorous (241 mg/100 ml), zinc (7.13 mg/100 ml) and potassium (1207.20 mg/100 ml) in 50:50 soursop-moringa tea. The pH differed significantly (p<0.05) in all the tea samples and ranged from 7.28–7.81. Total solids gave values ranging from 3.47 mg/l-3.82 mg/l (p˂0.05) and total sugars 1.12–3.07% (p<0.05). The amount of tannin was significantly higher (p<0.05) in all tea blends compared to other antinutrients analyzed in this study and ranged from 8.95-9.84%. Assessment of the antioxidant capacity by Diphenol-2,2picrylhydroxyl (DPPH) and Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) showed significant differences (p<0.05) among the tea samples with the 50:50 soursop: Moringa blend having the highest antioxidant activity with values up to 89.04% and 531.44 (µM/L) in each case. Overall the soursop-moringa tea blends exhibited good chemical composition and antioxidant activity, with 50:50 formulation showing the best nutritional quality attributes.

Avaliação sensorial e intenção de compra de doce em massa de graviola / Sensory evaluation and intention to purchase of candy in graviola mass

Objetivou-se desenvolver e avaliar sensorialmente doces em massa de graviola com substituição parcial da sacarose por xarope de glicose. As formulações de doces foram elaboradas variando a concentração de xarope de glicose em substituição a sacarose. A análise sensorial foi aprovada pelo comitê de ética em pesquisa da Universidade Estadual da Paraíba. Os doces apresentaram cor, aroma e sabor característicos do fruto. Percebeu-se que a aceitação sensorial apresentou semelhança significativas entre as formulações e boa impressão global, ficando com média que remete a “gostei moderadamente”. Todas as formulações alcançaram valores satisfatórios para a avaliação sensorial, sendo a formulação com substituição parcial de 19,70% a que apresentou maior aceitação.

Annona muricata Linn leaves or Curcuma longa Linn Rhizomes Ameliorates Oxidative Stress Associated with Hypertension in Uninephrectomized Wistar Rats Daily Loaded with Sodium Chloride

Aims: Oxidative stress sequel to hypertension exacerbates the clinical condition and accelerates associated organopathies, therefore prevention is important. Traditionally in Nigeria, hypertension is treated with Annona muricata L. leaves or Curcuma longa L. rhizomes, two medicinal plants with antioxidant properties. Study Design: This study assessed the effect of these plants on hypertension-induced oxidative stress in uninephrectomized Wistar rats daily loaded with 1% sodium chloride. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Experimental Animal House, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, between August and November 2017. Methodology: Hypertensive rats were treated with methanol extracts of the plants for 42days. Two other groups of hypertensive rats were treated with lisinopril or chlorothiazide. Blood pressure was monitored by non-invasive tail plethysmography using an electro-sphygmomanometer. Oxidative stress markers were determined in blood and tissue (heart, kidney and liver); GPX, GST, GSH, SOD, MDA and NO. Results: Treatment of uninephrectomized rats with A. muricata or C. longa significantly (p<0.0001) decreased blood pressure and MDA, while elevating enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense mechanisms of GST, GSH, GPx and SOD, comparable to normotensive rats. NO, the ubiquitous molecule required for basal vascular tone, myocardial contractility regulation and platelet adhesion prevention, was restored in the extract-treated rats. However, hypertensive untreated rats showed evidence of oxidative damages with significant increase in MDA, especially in the heart and liver, with decreases in the antioxidant defense system. Conclusion: Results of this study justified the traditional use of A. muricata or C. longa for management of hypertension in Nigeria and showed that the extracts ameliorated oxidative damage that accompanied hypertension, thus also preventing complications of hypertension.

Body Weight and Platelet Count Changes in Zidovudine Administered Wistar Albino Rats Treated with Ethanolic Extracts of Annona muricata and Fagara zanthoxyloide

Zidovudine administration either in single or fixed-dose combination usually results in a decrease in body weight and in some cases thrombocytopenia. The present study investigated the body weight and platelet count changes observed in zidovudine pre-administered Wistar albino rats on treatment with ethanolic extracts of the leaves Annona muricata (AM) and roots of Fagara zanthoxyloide (FZ). Plants samples were collected from Alakahia community, Rivers state and Opoo community, Ogun state; while Wistar albino rats were grouped into normal control, negative control (receiving zidovudine at 100 g/ml/Kg bw), AM and FZ extract treatment (at 4.5 and 3.8 g/ml/Kg B.W respectively) groups with analysis performed bi-weekly. All tests were performed using standard procedures with all reagents of analytic grade. Phytochemical screening of the extracts showed significantly high amounts of alkaloids (10.47- 21.15 mg / 100 g), phenols (10.60-15.22 mg / 100 g) and tannins (14.23 - 50.19 mg / 100 g). The investigation into their proximate compositions also showed high fat (5.78 ± 0.02) in FZ, moisture (10.47 ± 0.05) in AM and fibre (7.37 ± 0.03) in FZ. The amino acid phenylalanine (5.10-6.01 g / 100 g), isoleucine (4.44-5.20 g / 100 g), lysine (4.03 -5.31 g / 100 g) was observed to be available in the extracts. In the normal control group body weight increased by 20.75 g at week 6 while administration of Zidovudine, resulted in a decreased in bodyweight by 1.14 g in week 2 and 3.32 g in week 6. Extract treatment caused a significant increase (p?0.05) in body weight by 17.95g (AM) and 18.23g (FZ) at week 6. Platelet count was also observed to significantly decrease (p?0.05) by 33.42% in the negative control group when compared to the normal control. This was observed to significant increases in extract treatment by 49.56% (AM) and 51.32% (FZ). The results thus suggest a possible beneficial effect of the extracts of AM and FZ in checkmating the weight and platelet loss observed as a side effect of zidovudine therapy as well as the possible use in haemorrhagic conditions to reduce bleeding without thromboembolism.

Effect of Annona muricata Leaves Extract on Colon Antioxidant Status and Ketone Bodies in Blood and Urine of Cycas-treated Rats

The effect of Annona muricatamethanol leaf extract (AMELE) on colon antioxidant status and ketone bodies in blood and urine of cycas treated rats was investigated. Seventy male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into seven groups of ten experimental animals in a study that lasted for twenty-eight days. After 28 days, using standard methods, serum and urinary ketone bodies were assayed. Malondialdehyde (MDA), antioxidants enzymes in the colon and histopathological analysis were assayed. The results showed ketogenic diet had significant (p<0.05) increase in serum and urinary ketone body levels compared to other groups on normal feed. Annona muricataextract enhanced cellular consumption and uptake of ketone bodies whereas cycas reduced cellular consumption of ketone bodies. Annona muricatagiven either with ketogenic diet or cycas or with both ketogenic diet and cycas led to higher tissue levels of antioxidant enzymes. Tissue MDA levels were significantly (p<0.05)increased in all cycas treated groups compared to the control group with the highest levels seen in the two groups placed on normal feed and cycas. Lactate dehydrogenase activities were significantly (p<0.05) increases in all the groups placed on ketogenic diet compared to the groups placed on normal feed. Histopathological analysis revealed normal rat colon tissues in all the groups except 43% of the group 2 animals. This therefore indicates that cycas-induced oxidative stress and tissue injury may be mitigated by the combined administration of Annona muricataextract and ketogenic diet.

Formation of soursop seedlings irrigated using waters with different salinity levels and nitrogen fertilization / Formação de mudas de gravioleira irrigadas com águas de distintas salinidades e adubação nitrogenada

Using saline waters in agriculture has become common in many regions worldwide, but some techniques have been developed to enable the use of these waters in order not to harm the crop. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the growth of soursop seedlings, cv. 'Morada Nova', under interaction between salt stress and nitrogen (N) fertilization. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in randomized block design, in 5 x 4 factorial scheme, with 4 replicates, formed by the combination of five levels of irrigation water electrical conductivity - ECw (0.3; 1.1; 1.9; 2.4 and 3.5 dS m-¹) and four N doses (70, 100, 130 and 160%). The dose relative to 100% corresponded to 100 mg of N dm-³ of soil. The interaction between N doses and water salinity levels did not affect the seedling production stage of soursop, cv. 'Morada Nova'. The growth of 'Morada Nova' soursop seedlings subjected to different water salinity levels was less affected in the initial stage (45 days after treatment application). Water with ECw of 2.0 dS m-¹ can be used to produce soursop seedlings, because it leads to an acceptable mean growth reduction of 10%. N doses higher than 70 mg dm-³ do not either attenuate salt stress or promote higher growth of soursop seedlings, cv. 'Morada Nova'.

O uso de águas salinas na agricultura tornou-se um fato corriqueiro em diversas regiões do mundo. Contudo algumas técnicas têm sido desenvolvidas para viabilizar o uso dessas águas de modo a não prejudicar a cultura. Neste sentido, objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento de mudas de gravioleira cv. Morada Nova sob interação entre a salinidade da água de irrigação e adubação nitrogenada. Desenvolvida em casa de vegetação em delineamento de blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 5 x 4, com quatro repetições, constituído pela combinação de cinco condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação CEa (0.3; 1.1; 1.9; 2.4 e 3.5 dS m-¹) e quatro doses (70, 100, 130 e 160% de nitrogênio). Sendo a dose referente a 100%, correspondente a 100 mg de N por dm-³ de solo. A interação entre os fatores doses de nitrogênio e níveis de salinidade da água não afetaram a fase de produção de mudas de gravioleira cv. Morada Nova. O crescimento das mudas de gravioleira cv. Morada Nova, submetidas a diferentes níveis de salinidade da água foi menos comprometido pela salinidade na fase inicial (45 Dias após aplicação dos tratamentos). Na produção de mudas de gravioleira pode-se usar água de CEa de até 2.0 dS m-¹ pois proporciona redução média aceitável de 10% no crescimento. Doses de nitrogênio superior a 70 mg de N dm-³ de solo não atenuam o estresse salino nem promovem maior crescimento de mudas de gravioleira cv. Morada Nova.

Physical-chemical characterization of powder soursop obtained by foam-mat drying / Caracterização físico-química de pó de graviola obtido por secagem em leito de espuma

The development and improvement of fruit processing technologies in powder form is a alternative to add value to the product and increase the income of the producers, being required the knowledge of physicalchemical properties of the product. The aim of this study was to determine the physical-chemical properties of soursop powder obtained by foam-mat drying. To the foam formation, albumin was added to the pulp at concentration of 7.43% in mass and subjected in mixer for 15 min; then, it was spread onto trays forming a thin layer about 5.0 mm thick, and the drying conditions were: 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 °C, 5.6 m s-1 and 60%. Moisture content, water activity, titratable total acidity and hydrogenic potential of soursop powder indicate good stability of the product obtained by foam-mat drying, without the need of addition of preservatives for its conservation. Reducing sugars increased with increasing drying temperature due to the concentration of the compounds caused by moisture content reduction. In addition, the color was the physical-chemical property that presented greater sensitivity to drying, mainly by darkening index. Temperatures lower than 60 °C indicate higher preservation of initial characteristics for soursop powder. Besides that, bulk density, true density, porosity and repose angle increased subtly with drying temperature.

O desenvolvimento e aperfeiçoamento de tecnologias de processamentos de frutos na forma de pó é uma alternativa para agregar valor ao produto e aumentar a renda dos produtores, sendo necessário para isso o conhecimento das propriedades físico-químicas do produto. Assim objetivou-se determinar as propriedades físicoquímicas do pó de graviola obtido pelo método de secagem em leito de espuma. Para a formação da espuma foi adicionada, à polpa, albumina, na concentração de 7,43% em massa e submetida à agitação em batedeira doméstica, durante 15 min; em seguida, esta foi espalhada sobre bandejas formando uma camada fina de cerca de 5,0 mm de espessura cujas condições de secagem foram: de 40, 50, 60, 70 e 80 °C, 5,6 m s-1 e 60%. O teor de água, atividade de água, acidez total titulável e o potencial hidrogeniônico do pó de graviola indicam boa estabilidade do produto obtido pelo método de secagem em leito de espuma, não necessitando portanto, da adição de conservantes para sua conservação. Os açúcares aumentaram com o incremento da temperatura de secagem devido a concentração dos compostos provocada pela redução do teor de água. Adicionalmente, a cor foi a propriedade físico-química que apresentou maior sensibilidade à secagem, principalmente pelo índice de escurecimento. Temperaturas menores que 60 °C indicam maior preservação das características iniciais para o pó de graviola. Além disso, a massa específica aparente e unitária, a porosidade e o ângulo de repouso aumentaram sutilmente com a temperatura de secagem.

Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of a Traditional Mayan Herbal Preparation Used as Antihypertensive Agent

Aims: To evaluate preparation herbal mixed of Pouteria campechiana, Chrysophyllum cainito, Citrus limonum and Annona muricata (PCCA) on vasorelaxant and hypotensive effect on rat model and toxicological data after acute oral administration to give scientific support to the use ethnomedical and to explore their potential damaging on oral intake. Study Design: Experimental. Place and Duration of Study: Sample female and male Wistar rats. Pharmacology laboratory of Chemistry School and Department of Clinical and Epidemiological Research of Medicine School, Autonomous University of Yucatán. Between October 2014 and July 2016. Methodology: An ethanolic extract of PCCA was prepared at a ratio of 1:1:1:1 of each plant plus individual extracts were prepared. Vasorelaxant effect was assessed (3.03 to 100 μg/mL), hypotensive effect ((100, 200, 300 mg/Kg) and median lethal dose (LD50) by oral acute toxicity method (OECD 423 guide). Results: PCCA extract induced a significant vasorelaxation (medium effective concentration (EC50)=463.43 μg/mL) in a concentration-dependent manner in aorta’s endothelium-intact rings and this effect was partially endothelium-dependent. Acute oral administration of 200 and 300 mg/kg of PCCA exhibited significant decrease in systolic blood pressure in normotensive rats. PCCA did not show clinical toxicity of acute oral administration. Only 2000 mg/kg show histopathological inflammatory responses on gut and liver. Conclusion: PCCA induces a significant cardiovascular effect and was not toxic for rodents. The results support the popular use of some Mayan Medicinal plants as antihypertensive agents; however, clinical studies are necessary.

Toxicity of soursop extracts to diamondback moth / Toxicidade de extratos de graviola sobre a traça-das-crucíferas

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three solvent extractors (water, ethanol and hexane) of grounded seeds of soursop, Annona muricata L. (Annonaceae), in the mortality, biology and oviposition of Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). The results showed that the LC50 and LC99 were 0.0133 and 0.084%, 0.025% and 0.196%, 2.33 and 35.22% for the ethanolic, hexanic and aqueous extracts, respectively. The organic extracts affected only the larval phase and reduced viability in more than 60%, but did not affect pupal stage of the remaining larvae. Furthermore, the ethanolic extract at lethal concentraction also affected negatively the embryonic phase. The results lead to the conclusion that the ethanolic extract of soursop grounded seeds is a viable alternative to control diamondback moth on vegetables.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito de extratos de sementes de graviola, Annona muricata L. (Annonaceae) obtidos com diferentes solventes sobre Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). Foram estimadas as concentrações letais de três solventes extratores (água, hexano e etanol) e seus efeitos na biologia e oviposição. Os valores estimados das concentrações letais foram de 0,013 e 0,084%; 0,025 e 0,196%; 2,33 e 35,22%, para as CL50 e CL99 do extrato etanólico, hexânico e aquoso, respectivamente. Os extratos orgânicos afetaram apenas a fase larval e reduziu a viabilidade em mais de 60%, mas não afetou a fase pupal das lagartas remanescentes. Além disso, o extrato etanólico na concentração letal se mostrou eficiente afetando negativamente a fase embrionária. Conclui-se que o extrato etanólico da graviola é uma alternativa viável no controle da traça.