EVALUATION OF THE ANTI-MYCOBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF ALLIUM ASCALONICUM AND ALLIUM SATIVUM

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), the organism causing tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Plant-based drugs have been used worldwide in traditional medicines for the treatment of various diseases including tuberculosis. Medicinal plants are an important source of new antimicrobial agents and remain an attractive alternative strategy. The present study was performed to evaluate anti-MTB activity of two medicinal plants viz., Allium ascalonicum, and Allium sativum. Different concentrations of extracts of these plants were tested for their anti MTB activity against MTBH37Rv strain and the inhibitory activity was expressed as CFU inhibition, % inhibition and IC50. In our study Allium sativum showed higher anti TB activity however this bactericidal property was not signi?cantly different between each groups. The overall anti mycobacterial activity of these extracts might be attributed due to the presence of ?avonoids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, tannins and other phytoconstituents. The extract of the plant also exhibited promising antitubercular activity.

Reversal of Hypertension and Amelioration of Oxidative Stress by Persea americana and Allium sativum in Experimentally-Induced Hypertensive Wistar Rats

Aim: This study evaluated the antihypertensive and antioxidant effects of hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Persea americana and Allium sativum in experimentally-induced hypertensive Wistar rats. Study Design: Experimental Research. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ibadan (Animal House), between May 2019 and December 2019. Methodology: The experiment was carried out in 85 rats randomly divided into 17 groups. Group 1 were normotensive rats while hypertension was induced in groups 2-16 by unilateral nephrectomy and inclusion of NaCl (1%) in drinking water. Group 17 had abdominal incision without nephrectomy (sham). Treatment groups were administered P. americana or A. sativum extracts at 20 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg dose and standard antihypertensives; lisinopril or hydrochlorothiazide. Results: Results of the experiment showed treatment of hypertensive rats with 50 mg/kg of A. sativum hexane and P. americana methanol extract caused the most significant decrease in blood pressure compared to normotensive rats. Various extracts of these two plants elevated antioxidants levels (GPx, GST, GSH and SOD) in the brain, heart, kidney and liver significantly while H2O2 and MDA were significantly decreased compared to untreated hypertensive rats. NO, an important neurotransmitter for normal endothelial function was also restored in the extract-treated rat, as a deficiency contributes greatly to the development of hypertension. Conclusion: The study concluded that P. americana and A. sativum do not only lower blood pressure. The plants also inhibited generation of free radicals by enhancing the antioxidant system and mopped up generated free radicals demonstrated by decline in H2O2 and MDA levels. These plants have been shown in this study to contain potential drug candidates which can be proposed for treatment of hypertension.

Clinical evaluation of long-term indwelling of Allium ureteral stent in the treatment of ureteral stricture / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To evaluate the safety and efficacy of long-term indwelling of Allium ureteral stent in the treatment of ureteral stricture. 【Methods】 The clinical data of patients who underwent endoscopic Allium ureteral stent implantation for ureteral stricture in our hospital during Aug.2020 and Dec.2022 were retrospectively analyzed, and the surgical conditions and adverse events were recorded. The data of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal pelvis width under ultrasound were compared before surgery and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. 【Results】 A total of 52 patients with ureteral stricture of 1.1 (0.7, 2.0)cm were included. All operations were successful. The operation time was 82.5 (70, 114)min, intraoperative blood loss 20 (10, 20)mL, and postoperative hospitalization stay 1 (1, 2) day. During the follow-up of (13.2±7.8) months, 14 patients had stent displacement, 5 had stone obstruction of stent tubes, 7 had occasional hematuria after movement, 9 had intermittent lumbar and abdominal pain, and 1 had recurrent urinary tract infection. The serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and renal pelvis width of 1 month, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery were significantly decreased, while GFR was significantly increased. 【Conclusion】 Long-term indwelling of Allium ureteral stent is effective in the treatment of ureteral stricture, but the high incidence of stent displacement should arouse attention.

Antibacterial and Wound Healing Activity of 2% Formulation of 2-Medpy-3-CN on Infected Burn Wounded Animal Model

@#Introduction: Humans have learned to recognize and process plants into medicinal forms through centuries. Burns can spread to other tissues, especially when infected with bacteria such as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The study aimed to assess the in vivo antibacterial and wound healing activity of 2% formulation of 2-Medpy-3-CN on infected burn wounded animal model. Methods: In vitro antibacterial activity of the Alsti was done by broth dilution and disc diffusion methods. Alsti 2% ointment was prepared for the infected burn wound treatment. A total of 18 rats are grouped into A, B, C, and D, the first three groups (A-C) were injured thermally, and Group D was used as healthy controls. The three test Groups were exposed to MRSA ATCC 43300 at 105 CFU/mL. Group A was treated with 2% Alsti, Group B with Silver sulfadiazine 1% (SSD), and Group C was untreated. Wounds healing was assessed by the healed area and microscopic identification of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained skin tissue. Results: Wound healing progresses with application of Alsti 2% ointment as observed through wound diameter and histopathological changes of the skin. Wound diameter decreases with treatments, while the contrary was observed in the non-treated group. Microscopic observation of the stained skin showed that epidermal development, and collagen formation progress with treatment days. Untreated wounds showed marked inflammation, progressive ulceration, and necrosis. Conclusion: Alsti 2% formulation showed antibacterial and wound healing activities, hence, can be used as alternative in burn wound infections.

Efficacy analysis of Allium ureteral stent in semisupine-lithotomy position for treatment of pelvic tumour-induced ureteral stricture / 中华泌尿外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of semisupine-lithotomy position placement of Allium ureteral stent to treat ureteral stricture caused by pelvic tumours.Methods:The clinical data of 29 patients who received Allium ureteral stent(URS) placement for ureteral stricture in Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University between April 2020 and March 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 3 males and 26 females, with the median age of 56(54, 61) years old. All patients had a pathology confirmation of carcinoma before the treatment, including 26 patients with gynaecological tumours, two with urinary system tumours, and one with rectal carcinoma. A preoperative imaging examination confirmed the diagnosis of ureteral stricture. There were 15 patients with unilateral and 14 with bilateral stenosis, median stenosis length was 3.6(2.0, 4.9)cm. Preoperative median urine white blood cell count was 62(21, 354) U/L, median serum creatinine (SCR) was 170.0(85.5, 273.5) μmol/L, and renal pelvis separation was (32.98±6.64) mm. The median time of long-term indwelling double J (D-J)ureteral stent before surgery was 12.0 (6.5, 35.5) months. Seven patients had mild hydronephrosis, 18 had moderate hydronephrosis, and four had severe hydronephrosis. In all patients, Allium URS were placed in the way of the semisupine-lithotomy position (Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia position). Anterograde flexible ureteroscope was inserted into the percutaneous nephrostomy channel, and the retrogradel rigid ureteroscope were advanced simultaneously, looking for location of strictures. Allium URS were inserted retrogradely with transureteroscope when the two ureteroscope were connected. Perioperative conditions and postoperative follow-up for the last examination of SCR, renal pelvis width under ultrasound, and plain abdominal film (KUB). Allium URS patency and complications, hydronephrosis and renal function were evaluated.Results:A total of 61 Allium URS were successfully placed. Seven patients were placed in stages, and 18 patients were placed in series with multiple stents. The mean follow-up period was (12.1±5.8) months. At last follow-up, median SCR was 124.0(81.5, 193.0)μmol/L and renal pelvis separation was(14.96±5.18)mm, which were significantly decreased compared with preoperative(all P<0.01). There were 24 cases of hydronephrosis disappeared and 5 cases of mild hydronephrosis in the last follow-up. Postoperative follow-up, urinary tract infection occurred in 3 patients after operation, such as hematuria and fever within one week, and the symptoms were relieved after anti-infective and symptomatic treatment. One case had mild urine leakage, and 4 patients had occasional low back pain, which may be related to the activity. One case occurred stent displacement due to stent migration to the bladder after eight months, the URS was replaced and a D-J stent was inserted .The patency rate was 96.6%(28/29). Conclusions:Allium URS was placed in the semisupine-lithotomy position for treating pelvic tumour-induced ureteral stricture, with low incidence of complications, high patency and good curative effect.

Allium polyrhizum Turcz.ex Regel results of aboveground research / Монголын Анагаах Ухаан

Introduction@#Human beings have been using raw materials of plant and animal origin for the treatment of various diseases. Nowadays, in developed and developing countries, plant raw materials are widely used in traditional medicine, health care, and food supplements, and they are used as raw materials in pharmaceutical production, making up a large part of the world pharmaceutical market. Therefore, research activities are intensively carried out to determine the chemical composition and mineral content of plant-derived raw materials and explain the mechanism of action.@*Goal@#Allium polyrhizum Turcz.ex Regel determination of chemical compounds macro and micro elements and amino acids@*Material and Methods@#Allium polyrhizum Turcz.ex Regel was collected and prepared from Huvut shar Khoshun, Shili River Province, Institute of Mongolia medicine chemistry, Inner Mongolia university, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory Medicine Chemistry. then it was made into a type with 0.075 mm particle size by a grinding machine. @*Result@#Dete-rmining the elemental composition of plant raw materials is important for determining the therapeutic value and safety of the plant. Some elements in Allium polyrhizum Turcz.ex Regel were determined by X-ray fluorescence method.@*Conclusions@#</br>1. In this study, the content of 7 elements in the above-ground part of Allium polyrhizum Turcz was determined using the XRF analysis method. Of the macro and micro elements such as Ca, K, Mn, Fe, Na, Zn, and Mg, which are essential for the human body, potassium (K) 49.7 mg/kg, calcium (Ca) 45.7 mg/kg, and sodium (Na) 31.0 mg/kg are the most had a high concentration. </br>2. Among various amino acids involved in protein synthesis, glutamic acid 1.89 mg, aspartic acid 1.48 mg, and alanine 1.00 mg were identified.

Two new phenolic amides from Allium chinense / 中草药·英文版

OBJECTIVE@#To isolate the phenolic amides from the dried bulbs of Allium chinense and investigate their myocardium protective activities.@*METHODS@#The chemical constituents were isolated and purified by combining with silica gel column, Sephadex LH-20 column, HPLC and other chromatography techniques. Their structures were elucidated by NMR techniques and mass spectrometry. The isolated compounds were evaluated to determine their protective effect for myocardium cells in vitro.@*RESULTS@#Two new phenolic amides, namely, alichinemide I ( 1) and alichinemide II ( 2), and six konwn amides were isolated from the dried bulbs of A. chinense. The structures of compounds 3- 8 were identified as 3-indolcarbaldehyde ( 3), 1-(2-aminophenyl)urea ( 4), 2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxylic acid ( 5), N-trans-feruloyltyramine ( 6), N-trans-p-coumaroyltyramine ( 7), and N-(3,4-dimethoxyphenethyl) acetamide ( 8). Compound 3 (50 μmol/L) showed significant inhibitory effect on the damage of H9c2 myocardial cells induced by H2O2in vitro.@*CONCLUSION@#Compounds 1 and 2 were new phenolic amides. Compound 3 could be one of the potential myocardium protective constituents of A. chinense.

Research and application of leek roots in medicinal field / 中草药·英文版

Some Chinese herbs have been used to prevent and treat diseases, and are also used as common food ingredients. These Chinese herbs are potential resource for research and development of new drugs. Leek roots is a typical medicine of food and medicine continuum. It has a long history of medicinal applications and edible food in China. In this paper, the origin, biological active components, pharmacological action and clinical application of leek roots were introduced. We hope that this review will contribute to the development of leek roots for pharmaceutical research and clinical applications, as well as related health products.

Effect of Spice form and Extraction Period on Total Phenolic Content of Selected Ugandan Spices

Introduction: Spice consumption is one of the globally recognized healthy nutritional practices. Most spices contain phenolic compounds that may prevent or prolong the onset of non-communicable diseases. The harvesting, processing and preparation procedures of such spices may influence the phenolic amount extracted and eventual biological availability. Literature about how extraction period and spice form affects total phenolic content yield in water infusions is scanty. Aim: This study determined the effect of spice form and length of extraction time on the total phenolic content (TPC) yield of the selected Ugandan spices infused in water. Methods: Samples of Ocimum gratissimum, Allium sativum, Cymbopogon citratus and Zingiber officinale, were collected in triplicates from Kanungu, Bushenyi and Lugazi Districts, in Uganda. Fresh and dry samples of these spices were infused in hot water for four minutes and 40 minutes and sieved with Whatman paper, No. 1. Phenolic content was measured with a spectrophotometer at Makerere University, Biochemistry Department, following Folin-ciocalteu method, using gallic acid as the reference standard. Results were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8.0.1 software. Results: Higher TPC yield was generally observed in dry samples compared to the flesh ones and 40-minute extracts of both fresh and dry samples also had higher TPC content compared to the four minutes ones. The highest TPC yield was observed in Cymbopogon citratus (12.21±0.75 mg GAE/g) among the dry samples and Ocimum gratissimum (10.02±2.45 mg GAE/g) among the fresh samples, extracted for 40 minutes. Conclusion: Longer extraction time and sample dryness maximize TPC yield. Ocimum gratissimum and Cymbopogon citratus may benefit consumers by improving their antioxidant status.

Organic onion growth, yield and storage improved by foliar sprays of microalgae and fulvic acid as a natural biofertilizer

The use of microalgae as natural biofertilizer in horticulture has recently been reported, while the use of humic substances is widespread. However, the combined use of microalgae with humic substances applied to plant leaves is still unexploited. Thus, the objective of this work was to combine fulvic acid (FA) with the Scenedesmus subspicatus microalga biomass (SC) as a natural biofertilizer applied via leaf in two onion cultivars in organic system. Four experiments were conducted: i) bioassays to verify the bioactive effect of FA, SC and combinations using the Vigna radiata model plant; ii) greenhouse pot experiment with foliar applications of FA, SC and combination in two onion cultivars; iii) field experiment in organic system with foliar applications of FA, SC and combination in two onion cultivars; and iv) onion bulb storage experiment. The bioactive effect of SC, FA and their combinations was identified by promoting changes in root growth of V. radiata. In pots, treatments containing FA, SC and combination promoted increase in fresh and dry leaf mass. The foliar application of FA, SC and combination promoted an increase in field bulb productivity, reduced mass loss in stored bulbs and increased carbohydrate, amino acid and protein contents in onion bulbs.

Water quality assessment of the Demetrio stream: an affluent of the Gravataí River in the South of Brazil / Qualidade da água do arroio Demetrio: um afluente do rio Gravataí no sul do Brasil

The Gravataí River basin, one of the main water sources of the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, is among the ten most polluted rivers in Brazil. Water quality is monitored only through physico-chemical and microbiological parameters in Brazil, and in this context, considering the importance of the use of biomarkers in complementing the analysis of water, the present study aimed to evaluate the environmental quality of the main affluent of the Gravataí River, Demetrio stream, through physico-chemical, microbiological, and cytogenotoxic criteria, at the stream source (P1), whereas samples P2 and P3 were obtained from the upstream near the area with the highest urban density and the downstream near the meeting point with the Gravataí River, respectively. The results for copper concentration and color classified the Demetrio stream as Class 4 in general, that is, the water is suitable only for navigation and to landscape harmony. The main genotoxic alterations (micronuclei and nuclear buds) were observed in P2, in which were obtained the highest levels of copper, in addition to iron and manganese. Anthropic interventions were observed in P1 and P2; however, due to its low metal concentration, P3, near the Gravataí River, manifested an improvement in environmental quality.

A bacia do rio Gravataí, uma das principais fontes de água da região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, está entre os dez rios mais poluídos do Brasil. No Brasil a qualidade da água é monitorada apenas através de parâmetros físico-químicos e microbiológicos e, nesse contexto, considerando a importância do uso de biomarcadores para complementar a análise da água, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade ambiental do principal afluente do Rio Gravataí, o arroio Demétrio, através de critérios físico-químicos, microbiológicos e citogenotóxicos, na nascente do arroio (P1), a montante e próximo à área com maior densidade urbana (P2) e a jusante e próximo ao ponto de encontro com o rio Gravataí (P3). Os resultados para a cor da água e para a concentração de cobre classificaram o arroio Demétrio como Classe 4 em geral, ou seja, esta água é adequada apenas para navegação e harmonia da paisagem. As principais alterações genotóxicas (micronúcleos e brotos nucleares) foram observadas no P2, no qual foram obtidos os maiores teores de cobre, além de ferro e manganês. Intervenções antrópicas foram observadas em P1 e P2; no entanto, devido à sua baixa concentração de metais, o P3, próximo ao rio Gravataí, manifestou uma melhoria na qualidade ambiental.

Water quality assessment of the Demetrio stream: an affluent of the Gravataí River in the South of Brazil

Abstract The Gravataí River basin, one of the main water sources of the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, is among the ten most polluted rivers in Brazil. Water quality is monitored only through physico-chemical and microbiological parameters in Brazil, and in this context, considering the importance of the use of biomarkers in complementing the analysis of water, the present study aimed to evaluate the environmental quality of the main affluent of the Gravataí River, Demetrio stream, through physico-chemical, microbiological, and cytogenotoxic criteria, at the stream source (P1), whereas samples P2 and P3 were obtained from the upstream near the area with the highest urban density and the downstream near the meeting point with the Gravataí River, respectively. The results for copper concentration and color classified the Demetrio stream as Class 4 in general, that is, the water is suitable only for navigation and to landscape harmony. The main genotoxic alterations (micronuclei and nuclear buds) were observed in P2, in which were obtained the highest levels of copper, in addition to iron and manganese. Anthropic interventions were observed in P1 and P2; however, due to its low metal concentration, P3, near the Gravataí River, manifested an improvement in environmental quality.

Resumo A bacia do rio Gravataí, uma das principais fontes de água da região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, está entre os dez rios mais poluídos do Brasil. No Brasil a qualidade da água é monitorada apenas através de parâmetros físico-químicos e microbiológicos e, nesse contexto, considerando a importância do uso de biomarcadores para complementar a análise da água, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade ambiental do principal afluente do Rio Gravataí, o arroio Demétrio, através de critérios físico-químicos, microbiológicos e citogenotóxicos, na nascente do arroio (P1), a montante e próximo à área com maior densidade urbana (P2) e a jusante e próximo ao ponto de encontro com o rio Gravataí (P3). Os resultados para a cor da água e para a concentração de cobre classificaram o arroio Demétrio como Classe 4 em geral, ou seja, esta água é adequada apenas para navegação e harmonia da paisagem. As principais alterações genotóxicas (micronúcleos e brotos nucleares) foram observadas no P2, no qual foram obtidos os maiores teores de cobre, além de ferro e manganês. Intervenções antrópicas foram observadas em P1 e P2; no entanto, devido à sua baixa concentração de metais, o P3, próximo ao rio Gravataí, manifestou uma melhoria na qualidade ambiental.

Water quality assessment of the Demetrio stream: an affluent of the Gravataí River in the South of Brazil / Qualidade da água do arroio Demetrio: um afluente do rio Gravataí no sul do Brasil

The Gravataí River basin, one of the main water sources of the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, is among the ten most polluted rivers in Brazil. Water quality is monitored only through physico-chemical and microbiological parameters in Brazil, and in this context, considering the importance of the use of biomarkers in complementing the analysis of water, the present study aimed to evaluate the environmental quality of the main affluent of the Gravataí River, Demetrio stream, through physico-chemical, microbiological, and cytogenotoxic criteria, at the stream source (P1), whereas samples P2 and P3 were obtained from the upstream near the area with the highest urban density and the downstream near the meeting point with the Gravataí River, respectively. The results for copper concentration and color classified the Demetrio stream as Class 4 in general, that is, the water is suitable only for navigation and to landscape harmony. The main genotoxic alterations (micronuclei and nuclear buds) were observed in P2, in which were obtained the highest levels of copper, in addition to iron and manganese. Anthropic interventions were observed in P1 and P2; however, due to its low metal concentration, P3, near the Gravataí River, manifested an improvement in environmental quality.

A bacia do rio Gravataí, uma das principais fontes de água da região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, está entre os dez rios mais poluídos do Brasil. No Brasil a qualidade da água é monitorada apenas através de parâmetros físico-químicos e microbiológicos e, nesse contexto, considerando a importância do uso de biomarcadores para complementar a análise da água, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade ambiental do principal afluente do Rio Gravataí, o arroio Demétrio, através de critérios físico-químicos, microbiológicos e citogenotóxicos, na nascente do arroio (P1), a montante e próximo à área com maior densidade urbana (P2) e a jusante e próximo ao ponto de encontro com o rio Gravataí (P3). Os resultados para a cor da água e para a concentração de cobre classificaram o arroio Demétrio como Classe 4 em geral, ou seja, esta água é adequada apenas para navegação e harmonia da paisagem. As principais alterações genotóxicas (micronúcleos e brotos nucleares) foram observadas no P2, no qual foram obtidos os maiores teores de cobre, além de ferro e manganês. Intervenções antrópicas foram observadas em P1 e P2; no entanto, devido à sua baixa concentração de metais, o P3, próximo ao rio Gravataí, manifestou uma melhoria na qualidade ambiental.

Enhancing pharmaceutical potential and oral bioavailability of Allium cepa nanosuspension in male albino rats using response surface methodology

Objective: To enhance the pharmaceutical potential and oral bioavailability of quercetin contents of Allium cepa peel extract by novel nanosuspension technology. Methods: Nanoprecipitation approach was successfully used for the formulation of nanosuspension. To obtain pharmaceutical-grade nanosuspension with minimum particle size and polydispersity index, sodium lauryl sulphate was selected as a stabilizer. Important formulation parameters were statistically optimized by the response surface methodology approach. The optimized nanosuspension was subjected to stability and in vitro dissolution testing and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and zeta sizer. To evaluate the preeminence of nanosuspension over coarse suspension, comparative bioavailability studies were carried out in male albino rats. The pharmaceutical potential of developed nanosuspension was evaluated by antioxidant, antimicrobial, and toxicity studies. Results: The optimized nanosuspension showed an average particle size of 275.5 nm with a polydispersity index and zeta potential value of 0.415 and -48.8 mV, respectively. Atomic force microscopy revealed that the average particle size of nanosuspension was below 100 nm. The formulated nanosuspension showed better stability under refrigerated conditions. Nanosuspension showed an improved dissolution rate and a 2.14-fold greater plasma concentration of quercetin than coarse suspension. Moreover, the formulated nanosuspension exhibited enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial potential and was non-toxic. Conclusions: Optimization of nanosuspension effectively improves the pharmaceutical potential and oral bioavailability of Allium cepa extract.

Persea americana Mill.: Evaluation of cytogenotoxicity and phytochemical prospection of leaf extracts

Abstract Persea americana Mill., belonging to the family Lauraceae, is noteworthy for the large amount of ethnopharmacological information in its regard, attributing to it many and varied medicinal properties. The tea and alcoholic extracts made from its leaves are used in folk medicine to treat various ailments. This study was designed to analyze the cytogenotoxicity and underlying chemistry of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of avocado leaves, using the Allium cepa and micronucleus tests. The results obtained by applying the experimental models demonstrate that the extracts did not have a genotoxic effect at any of the concentrations analyzed, and even demonstrated a certain protective effect, possibly due to the presence of flavonoids and phenols, both of which are antioxidant substances. However, the extracts did present a cytotoxic effect. There were numerous karyorrhectic cells and those with nuclear alterations related to cell death. At the highest concentrations, it was possible to observe cytoplasmic alterations and binucleated cells. The extracts also caused a significant reduction in the number of cells undergoing division. These effects can be a response to the phytochemical agents present in the extracts. The results suggest that the extracts contain bioactive components that deserve further studies related to cancer therapies.

Cytotoxic effect of Vernonanthura polyanthes leaves aqueous extracts / Efeito citotóxico do extrato aquoso de folhas de Vernonanthura polyanthes

Abstract Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularly known as assa-peixe, is a medicinal plant that has been widely used by Brazilian Cerrado population for treatment of diseases without a detailed evaluation of their effectiveness, toxicity, and proper dosage. Thus, more studies investigating the safety of V. polyanthes aqueous extract before the use are needed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract using the Artemia salina and Allium cepa assays. For the A. salina assay, three groups of 10 larvae were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at the concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/ml. For the A. cepa assay, 5 onion bulbs were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at 10, 20, and 40 mg/ml, and then submitted to macroscopic and microscopic analysis. As result it was identified a toxicity and cytotoxicity of V. polyanthes dependent on the extract concentration. The A. salina assay suggests that the concentration of 24 mg/ml of the V. polyanthes extract is able to kill 50% of naupllis; while the A. cepa assay suggests that V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract is toxic at concentrations higher than 20 mg/ml; however the cytotoxic effect in A. cepa root cells was observed at 40 mg/ml of the extract. It is important to say that the V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract concentration commonly used in popular medicine is 20 mg/ml. Thus, the popular concentration used is very close to toxicity limit in A. salina model (24 mg/ml) and is the concentration which showed toxic effect in A. cepa root cells (20 mg/ml). No genotoxic activity of V. polyantes leaves aqueous extract was observed in the conditions used in this study. Because of the antiproliferative action and no genotoxic activity, V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract may present compounds with potential use for human medicine. However more detailed studies need to be performed to confirm this potential.

Resumo Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularmente conhecida como assa-peixe, é uma planta medicinal amplamente utilizada pela população brasileira do Cerrado para o tratamento doenças, sem uma avaliação detalhada de sua eficácia, toxicidade e dosagem adequada. Dessa forma, são necessários estudos para investigar a segurança do uso do extrato aquoso de V. polyanthes. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a toxicidade, citotoxicidade e genotoxicidade do extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes utilizando os ensaios de Artemia salina e Allium cepa. Para o ensaio de A. salina, três grupos de 10 larvas foram expostos ao extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes nas concentrações de 5, 10, 20, 40 e 80 mg/ml. Para o ensaio de A. cepa, 5 bulbos de cebola foram expostas ao extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes nas concentrações de 10, 20 e 40 mg/ml, e então submetidos a análise macroscópica e microscópica. O ensaio de A. salina sugere que a concentração de 24 mg/ml do extrato de V. polyanthes é capaz de matar 50% dos náuplios; enquanto o ensaio de A. cepa sugere que o extrato aquoso das folhas de V. polyanthes é tóxico em concentrações superiores a 20 mg/ml. O efeito citotóxico nas células da raiz de A. cepa foi observado apenas na concentração de 40 mg/ml. É importante dizer que a concentração de extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes comumente usada na medicina popular é de 20 mg/ml. Assim, a concentração popular utilizada está muito próxima do limite de toxicidade no modelo de A. salina (24 mg/ml) e é a mesma concentração que apresentou efeito tóxico nas células da raiz de A. cepa (20 mg/ml). Não foi observada atividade genotóxica do extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyantes nas condições utilizadas neste trabalho. Por causa da ação antiproliferativa e ausência de atividade genotóxica, o extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes pode ser uma boa fonte natural de compostos antitumorais e pode apresentar potencial para uso na medicina. No entanto, estudos mais detalhados precisam ser realizados para confirmar esse potencial.

A REVIEW ARTICLE ON THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF GARLIC

Garlic or Lashun is the member Liliaceae family, is use as spice in food cooking as well as medicine to treat various ailments. Garlic is also acting as a flavoring agent for the cooking, and however it has also been used as a drug from very ancient and modern times in all over the world, it is used to inhibit and cure the vast range of ailments and disorders. Allicin found in the garlic is the chemically active substance of fresh garlic extract, possess the capacity of readily permeable through phospholipid membranes which contributes to its possible pharmacological activity and also contain sulfur compounds, which are believed to bring some of the health benefits. Currently, garlic is broadly used for different diseases related with the systemic circulation and heart, which includes atherosclerosis, HDL, LDL & heart attack, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Garlic is also reported to treat the lung cancer, and various other cancers such as colon cancer& skin diseases too, it also has hypolipidemic, immunomodulator, aphrodisiac, & Antifungal actions. This article reviews the importance of garlic (Allium sativum), and, their active constituents to show whether or not can be further used as potential natural sources for the development of any novel drug formulations.

Control de larvas de Aedes aegypti con extractos de Allium sativum y Annona muricata como larvicidas / Control of larvae Aedes aegypti with extracts of Allium sativum and Annona muricata as larvicides

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar el efecto larvicida en éter de petróleo de los extractos de Allium sativum (ajo) y Annona muricata (guanábana) sobre larvas en IV estadio de Aedes aegypti en condiciones de laboratorio. Métodos Se realizaron diferentes bioensayos (tratamientos) en 6 concentraciones para Annona muricata y 7 concentraciones de Allium sativum, con cuatro repeticiones y un control. Se tuvo lecturas de mortalidad a las 2, 12, 24, 36 y 48 horas. Se validaron los datos obtenidos estadísticamente (corrección de Abbott y Análisis ANOVA). Además, se determinaron las concentraciones y tiempos letales para ambos extractos con un análisis Probit. Resultados Se obtuvo que, en un periodo de 48 horas, el tratamiento de 500 ppm del extracto de Annona muricata logró una mortalidad del 97%, mientras que el tratamiento de 2000 ppm con Allium sativum logró alcanzar una mortalidad del 85%. El tiempo letal 50 (50% de mortalidad) para Annona muricata, se obtuvo en el tratamiento de 200 ppm antes de 24 horas, para el caso de Allium sativum fue en el tratamiento de 1200 ppm antes de 48 horas. Para el tiempo letal 90 (90% de mortalidad) para Annona muricata, se obtuvo en el tratamiento de 400 ppm antes de 40 horas. Para el caso de Allium sativum, el tiempo letal 90 no fue posible obtenerlo experimentalmente. Se determinó por medio de un modelo matemático lineal, que dio como resultado 51 horas. Conclusión Ambas especies poseen efecto larvicida. Sin embargo, el extracto más eficiente y efectivo como larvicida es el de Annona muricata, lo que permite dar una alternativa natural, viable, económica y biodegradable para el control de larvas de esta especie.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the larvicidal effect in petroleum ether of the extracts of Allium sativum (garlic) and Annona muricata (soursop) on larvae in stage IV of Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. Methods Different bioassays (treatments) were performed in 6 factors for Annona muricata and 7 concentrations of Allium sativum, with four replications and one control. Mortality readings were taken at 2, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours. The data obtained statistically (Abbott correction and ANOVA analysis) were validated, in addition, the concentrations and lethal times for both extracts were determined with a Probit analysis. Results It was obtained that, in a 48 hour period, the treatment of 500 ppm of the extract of Annona muricata resulted in a mortality of 97%, while the treatment of 2000 ppm with Allium sativum reached a mortality of 85%. The lethal time 50 (50% mortality) for Annona muricata, was obtained in the treatment of 200 ppm within 24 hours, in the case of Allium sativum it was in the treatment of 1200 ppm before 48 hours. For the lethal time 90 for Annona muricata, obtain the treatment of 400 ppm before 40 hours, for the case of Allium sativum, the lethal time 90 (90% mortality) could not be obtained experimentally, it was determined by means of a linear mathematical model, resulting in 51 hours. Conclusion Both species affected larvicidal effect. However, the most efficient and effective extract as a larvicide is that of Annona muricata, which allows giving a natural, viable, economical and biodegradable alternative for the control of larvae of this species.

Etude préliminaire de l'effet de l'ail (Allium sativum L) chez des malades atteints du SARS-CoV-2 / Preliminary study of the effect of garlic (Allium sativum L) in patients with SARS-CoV-2

Introduction : En peu de temps, une flambée épidémique localisée de COVID 19 s'est transformée en une pandémie mondiale avec un taux brut de létalité supérieur à 3 %. L'objectif de notre travail était d'observer l'effet de l'ail (Allium sativum L.) chez les malades atteints du coronavirus COVID 19. Matériel et Méthodes : Il s'agit d'une étude d'intervention avant et après menée chez des personnes déclarées PCR positive ayant développées des formes plus ou moins sévères de la maladie et ont mal réagi au schéma thérapeutique reçu à domicile. La dose administrée est de 6 caïeux moyens (24g) d'ail écrasés trois fois par jour pendant trois jours. Résultats : une amélioration de l'état général avec disparition de la plupart des symptômes (fièvre, céphalées, asthénie, agueusie, anosmie et diarrhées) a été observée dès le deuxième jour du traitement chez tous les patients. Conclusion : Les résultats obtenus après utilisation de l'ail chez les malades atteints du SARS-CoV-2 nous encouragent à lancer une étude en milieu hospitalier sur un échantillon plus important afin de renforcer les résultats de cette étude préliminaire par des tests statistiques appropriés.

Introduction: In a short time, a localized outbreak of COVID 19 has evolved into a global pandemic with a crude case fatality rate of over 3%. The objective of our work was to observe the effect of garlic (Allium sativum L.) in patients with the COVID 19 coronavirus. Material and Methods: This is an intervention study before and after carried out in people declared PCR positive who have developed more or less severe forms of the disease and have reacted badly to the treatment regimen received at home. The administered dose is 6 medium cloves (24g) of crushed garlic three times a day for three days. Results: An improvement in the general condition with resolution of most of the symptoms (fever, headache, asthenia, ageusia, anosmia and diarrhea) was observed from the second day of treatment in all patients. Conclusion: The results obtained after using garlic in patients with SARS-CoV-2 encourage us to initiate a study in a hospital setting on a larger sample in order to strengthen the results of this preliminary study with appropriate statistical tests.

Lipid - Lowering Effect of a Mixture of Allium cepa bulb and Camellia sinensis Leaf Extracts in Rats fed on High fat Diet

The burden of hyperlipidemia is on the rise globally especially in many low-income countries like Uganda. Management of this metabolic disorder mainly involves dietary and behavioral therapies, which are often met with poor results as they require time and discipline from the patients. The chemotherapeutic options available are expensive, have many side effects and are rarely available to the average citizen. Thus, an alternative effective remedy which is readily available and cheap is needed to combat the problem of hyperlipidemia. This study sought to establish the effect of the mixture of Allium cepa extract and Camellia sinensis extract on the serum lipid profile of the male Wistar rats. Allium cepa and Camellia sinensis mixture in a ratio of 3:7 had the highest antioxidant activity. It reduced body weight, total cholesterol, triacylglycerides, LDL-cholesterol and increased HDL, and in addition it had no toxicity to the liver of the animal models used. It has thus been recommended as a potential therapy for hyperlipidemia and its associated complication of liver toxicity. A pharmaco-kinetic study regarding the interaction of antioxidants for combinations of Allium cepa and Camellia sinensis extracts in different ratios should be conducted to understand the cause of synergism and antagonism.