Protective Role of Pomegranate on kidney of Albino Rat Treated with Monosodium Glutamate

Background: Sodium mono glutamate (MSG), the sodium salt of glutamic acid, is a food flavoring agent that is widely used in many countries. Pomegranate is used as a traditional medication in numerous countries, it is planted in Asian countries, Mediterranean countries and the U.S.A. Aim of the work: The present study aimed to detect structural and functional changes in adult rat kidney tissue treated with sodium mono glutamate, and the possible protective effect of pomegranate on the kidney treated with MSG. Materials and Methods: This study was done by using 60 adult Wistar Albino rats of both sexes were divided into three equal groups: Group I (control group), Group II (sodium mono glutamate treated group), and Group III (combined MSG and pomegranate treated group) Doses were given once daily for 8 weeks every day. At the end of the treatment period, blood samples collected from each rat were used for measuring the values of urea and creatinine. Also animals of the different groups were sacrificed at the end of the experiment, quickly dissected and the kidneys were removed and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for the histological examination by light microscopy, other tissue sections were evaluated using a transmission electron microscope. Both were used to examine the effect of sodium mono glutamate on cortex of the kidneys of albino rats ,compared with control group and the combined MSG and pomegranate group. Results: There was a major rise in blood urea level and blood creatinine level in sodium mono glutamate treated group in contrast to the control group. There was a significant reduction in blood urea level and blood creatinine level in combined sodium mono glutamate and pomegranate treated group in comparison to MSG treated group. Examination of kidney tissue of rats treated with sodium mono glutamate (Group. II) showed damaging changes of its structure. The glomerulus had markedly widened blood capillaries with thickened filtration membrane. The epithelial tubular cells had marked degenerative changes. Examination of rats kidney tissue treated with sodium mono glutamate and pomegranate (Group III) revealed improvement of the lesions in the glomeruli and renal tubules. Conclusion: Pomegranate protected the kidneys and restricted the histological and functional alterations caused by sodium mono glutamate, and thus, there is an advantage of usage of pomegranate with sodium mono glutamate.

Therapeutic Potential of Pomegranate in SARS-CoV-2 and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

COVID-19 is a viral disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has rapidly spread across the world causing a global health crisis. Due to the paucity of therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2, there is an urgent need for the identification of safe and effective treatments for this global pandemic. Thus, existing anti-viral and immunosuppressive drugs, are being evaluated as potential candidates and also an extensive amount of research is being conducted to develop novel therapeutic agents against COVID-19. Since ancient times natural products have been used as a treatment for a variety of diseases and to aid in the synthetic drug development process. The phytochemical constituents of Pomegranate have been extensively investigated in the past decade for their anti-tumor activity. The purpose of this review is to elaborate on how the major phytochemicals of pomegranate such as delphinidin, cyanidin, ellagitannin, and punicalagin could be utilized as pharmacological agents to suppress SARS-CoV-2 cell entry, replication, and immunological sequences that give rise to ARDS, based on current knowledge of interactome between host cells and SARS-CoV-2. The SARS-CoV-2 uses various biological mechanisms to modulate immune reactions, uncontrolled gene expression, and cell invasion to improve their survival inside the human host cells similar to those observed in certain tumors. Existing evidence suggests that certain tumors and SARS-CoV-2 use similar biological pathways for human cell invasion. Therefore, this review utilizes the findings of existing tumor-related research which describe how pomegranate extract interacts with various biological pathways associated with tumor suppression as indirect evidence for its ability to act as a potential therapeutic agent against SARS-CoV-2.

Therapeutic potential of Punica granatum in wound healing: An overview

SUMMARY Objective: This review aim to report the results of the most recent research and applications of different extracts of P. granatum in the in vivo wound healing process. Methods: For the survey of articles in literature, a search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Science Citation Index Expanded (Web of Science) databases. Results: Punica granatum is a plant native to Iran and adjacent regions widely used worldwide as a food and medicinal source. Its healing property is closely linked to the presence of phenolic compounds, tannins and flavonoids, and its concentration in treatment formulations seems to be determinant for the acceleration of tissue repair, although few data on the standardization and stability of these formulations are available. Studies on experimental models were able to demonstrate the repair potential of P. granatum; however, human studies are still scarce. Conclusions: This contribution summarizes the use of P. granatum extracts in healing different types of lesions, emphasizing its effects on inflammatory, prolif-erative, and remodeling phases.

Objetivo: Relatar los resultados de investigaciones y aplicaciones más recientes de diferentes extractos de P. granatum en el proceso de cicatrización de heridas in vivo. Métodos: Para encuesta de artículos en la literatura, se realizó búsqueda en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct y Science Citation Index Expanded (Web of Science). Resultados: Punica granatum es una planta originaria de Irán y regiones adyacentes, ampliamente utilizada en todo el mundo como fuente alimenticia y medicinal. Su propiedad cicatrizante está íntimamente ligada a la presencia de compuestos fenólicos, taninos y flavonoides, y su concentración en las formulaciones de tratamiento parece ser determinante para aceleración de la reparación tisular, aunque se dispone de pocos datos sobre estandarización y estabilidad de estas formulaciones. Estudios sobre modelos experimentales pudieron demostrar el potencial de reparación de P. granatum; sin embargo, los estudios en humanos aún son escasos. Conclusiones: Este aporte resume el uso de extractos de P. granatum en la curación de diferentes tipos de lesiones, enfatizándose sus efectos en las fases inflamatoria, proliferativa y remodeladora.

Objetivo: Relatar os resultados de pesquisas mais recentes e aplicações de diferentes extratos de P. granatum no processo de cicatrização in vivo. Métodos: Para levantamento de artigos na literatura, realizou-se busca nas bases de dados PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct e Science Citation Index Expanded (Web of Science). Resultados: Punica granatum é uma planta nativa do Irã e das regiões adjacentes, amplamente utilizada em todo o mundo como alimento e fonte medicinal. A propriedade cicatrizante está intimamente ligada à presença de compostos fenólicos, taninos e flavo-noides, cuja concentração nas formulações de tratamento parece ser determinante para aceleração do reparo tecidual, embora poucos dados sobre a padronização e estabilidade dessas formulações estejam disponíveis. Estudos em modelos experimentais foram capazes de demonstrar o potencial de reparo de P. granatum. No entanto, estudos em humanos ainda são escassos. Conclusões: Esta contribuição resume o uso de extratos de P. granatum na cicatrização de diferentes tipos de lesões, enfatizando os efeitos nas fases inflamatória, proliferativa e remodelação.

Punica granatum L. Extract Antibiofilm Action against Acinetobacter baumannii Carbapenem-Resistant and Biocompatibility over Human Keratinocytes / Ação Antibiofime de Extrato dePunica granatum L Contra Acinetobacter baumannii Resistente a Carbapnêmicos e Biocompatibilidade em Queratinócitos Humanos

Acinetobacter baumannii is a multi-drug resistant microorganism. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm action of the pomegranate natural extract against eight strains of multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumanii and to assess the extract cytotoxicity in a culture of Human Keratinocytes (HaCat). Broth microdilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory and minimum microbicidal concentrations of the extracts. The extract antibiofilm action was analysed by the MTT colorimetric test. The cytotoxicity evaluation was performed by the MTT colorimetric test, which analysed the mitochondrial cellular action, after contact of the extract for 5 min. The results were statistically analysed by ANOVA and Tukey test with a significance level α≤ 0.05. Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) extract had antimicrobial action on all the 8 clinical strains of Acinetobacter baumannii evaluated. The extract showed a significant reduction in metabolic action in biofilm for all the strains, with results statistically different from growth control (p≤0.05%). P. granatum extract applied for 5 min on human keratinocytes (HaCat) promoted cell viability in all the tested concentrations. The pomegranate extract is effective in reducing the multidrug-resistant clinical strains of Acinetobacter baumanni and is biocompatible. (AU)

Acinetobacter baumannii é um microrganismo multirresistente. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ação antimicrobiana e antibiofilme do extrato natural de romã contra oito cepas de A. baumanii multirresistente e avaliar a citotoxicidade do extrato em uma cultura de queratinócitos humanos (HaCat). O método de microdiluição em caldo foi utilizado para determinar as concentrações inibitórias mínimas e microbicidas mínimas dos extratos. A ação antibiofilme do extrato foi analisada pelo teste colorimétrico MTT. A avaliação da citotoxicidade foi realizada pelo teste colorimétrico MTT, que analisou a ação celular mitocondrial, após contato do extrato por 5 min. Os resultados foram analisados ​​estatisticamente por ANOVA e teste de Tukey com nível de significância α≤ 0,05. O extrato de Punica granatum L. (romã) apresentou ação antimicrobiana em todas as 8 cepas clínicas avaliadas de A. baumannii. O extrato apresentou redução significativa na ação metabólica no biofilme para todas as linhagens, com resultados estatisticamente diferentes do controle de crescimento (p≤0,05%). O extrato de P. granatum aplicado por 5 min em queratinócitos humanos (HaCat) promoveu viabilidade celular em todas as concentrações testadas. O extrato de romã é eficaz na redução das cepas clínicas multirresistentes de Acinetobacter baumanni e é biocompatível. (AU)

Comparative evaluation of chelating efficacy of nano-chitosan, pomegranate extract, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on primary radicular dentin An in vitro study

Background: Irrigation is a crucial aspect of root canal treatment, and it is imperative to employ chelating agents to eliminate the smear layer during biomechanical preparation. They in turn react with mineral content of dentin, leading to decreased strength and increased susceptibility to fracture. Aims: This study aimed to assess and compare mineral loss and microhardness from primary root canal dentin following the usage of different irrigating solutions and determine the least detrimental irrigant among the tested solutions. Materials and Methods: Sixty-six primary anterior teeth were divided into three groups with 22 in each– Group I: 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) Group II: 0.2% Nano chitosan Group III: Pomegranate extract. The decoronated teeth were split longitudinally. Half of it was directly subjected to Vickers test, and the other half was immersed in a magnetic stirrer bath containing test solution to record the mineral loss from solution. Postmicrohardness values were recorded on the specimen and compared with initial values. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software (Version 20, SPSS, IBM, Armonk, NY, U. S. A). Results: Descriptive statistics were calculated, and the groups were compared using analysis of variance test and post hoc Tukey test. Pomegranate extract showed least effect on mineral content and microhardness compared to 17% EDTA and 0.2% nano chitosan. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Conclusion: Pomegranate aril extract showed better results with selected parameters.

Potencial efecto terapéutico de los polifenoles obtenidos de la cáscara de granada en la esteatosis hepática

RESUMEN Antecedentes: La enfermedad por hígado graso no alcohólico (EHGNA) tiene una elevada prevalencia a nivel mundial, y puede ir desde la esteatosis simple hasta hepatocarcinoma. Su origen es multifactorial, siendo la dieta poco saludable un factor clave en su patogenia y progresión. Los polifenoles son antioxidantes que han mostrado beneficios en el tratamiento de la EHGNA. Una fuente emergente de estos compuestos son los residuos agroindustriales, entre ellos, la cáscara de granada. La cáscara de granada tiene un alto contenido de polifenoles, específicamente de elagitaninos. Su extracto fenólico (extracto de cáscara de granada; ECG) ha mostrado efectos promisorios a nivel metabólico. Sin embargo, su uso presenta algunas limitantes que deben ser consideradas antes de recomendar su ingesta mediante alimentos funcionales o nutracéuticos para prevención o tratamiento de EHGNA. Objetivo: Discutir a partir de datos obtenidos en estudios in vitro y modelos animales, el potencial terapéutico de los polifenoles obtenidos de la cáscara de granada para prevención y tratamiento de la EHGNA. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en bases de datos PubMed y Web of Science (2015 a la fecha) de estudios en modelos de esteatosis hepática in vitro y en animales, además de ensayos clínicos relacionados. Conclusión: Existen datos promisorios sobre el uso del ECG en alteraciones metabólicas propias de la EHGNA y esteatosis hepática, principalmente a nivel de perfil lipídico. Se deben discutir las dosis y formas de administración, con el fin de mejorar su estabilidad y biodisponibilidad. Se requieren ensayos clínicos controlados que confirmen los efectos en humanos.

ABSTRACT Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a high prevalence worldwide and can range from simple steatosis to hepatocarcinoma. Its causes are multifactorial, with an unhealthy diet being a key factor in its pathogenesis and progression. Polyphenols are antioxidants that have shown benefits in treating NAFLD. An emerging source of these compounds is agro-industrial by-products, including pomegranate peels. Pomegranate peels are high in polyphenols, specifically ellagitannins. Its polyphenolic extract (PPE) has shown promising metabolic benefits. However, its use has some limitations that must be considered before recommending its intake through functional foods or nutraceuticals to prevent or treat NAFLD. Objective: This article aims to discuss, using results from in vitro studies and animal models, the therapeutic potential of polyphenols obtained from pomegranate peels to prevent and treat NAFLD. Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out in PubMed and Web of Science databases (2015 to date) of in vitro and animal model studies of hepatic steatosis, in addition to related clinical trials. Conclusion: There are promising data on the use of PPE in metabolic disorders typical of NAFLD and hepatic steatosis, mainly improving lipid profile. Doses and vehicles of administration should be discussed to improve stability and bioavailability. Controlled clinical trials are required to confirm the effects in humans.

Enrichment of Gluten-free Cakes with Grape Molasses and Bioactive Rich Ingredients

Abstract In this study, the sugar used in the gluten-free cake was substituted with 75% grape molasses. In addition, the gluten-free flour mixture used in the cake formulation was prepared as a combination of rice flour (75%), chickpea flour (15%)and carrot flour (10%). This mixture was replaced separately with 5% grape seed, pomegranate seed, flaxseed, poppy seed and turmeric to improve the nutritional composition of gluten-free cakes. Supplemented cakes contained higher ash, crude protein, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity values than gluten-free control sample. Cake samples containing pomegranate seed and flaxseed had higher contents of Ca, P and K than control cakes. In addition, flaxseed and poppy seed containing cakes were found richer in terms of Mn and Mg than control. Utilization of grape molasses together with grape seed, pomegranate seed, flaxseed, poppy seed and turmeric in formulation caused a reduction in volume index of cake samples. The hardness values of the gluten-free cakes were generally higher than that of the control. Cakes containing flaxseed and poppy seed scored higher in sensory analysis than other substituted samples. Based on these results, the use of grape molasses with flaxseed and poppy seed can be recommended for the production of gluten-free cakes with acceptable sensory properties and high total phenolic content and antioxidant activity.

Effect of treatment with sunflower oil and in combination with pomegranate and plum sauce on the chemical, microbiological and sensory properties of marinated Carp fillets (Cyprinus carpio) / Efeito do tratamento com óleo de girassol e em combinação com molho de romã e ameixa nas propiedades químicas, microbiológicas e sensoriais de filetes de carpa marinados (Cyprinus carpio)

ABSTRACT: The effect of sunflower oil (SO), sunflower oil-pomegranate sauce (PS1) and sunflower oil-plum sauce (PS2) on shelf life of marinated carp fillets was investigated in terms of sensory evaluation, chemical (peroxide value (POV), thiobarbituric acid (TBA), free fatty acids (FFA), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and pH), and microbiological properties (Total viable count (TVC), Escherichia coli, Total coliform, Staphylococci/Micrococci, Salmonella spp.) during 30 days of storage. Proximate composition, which includes total crude protein%, fat%, moisture% and ash% of fresh carp fillets before marination process was analyzed and found 18.69±0.86, 4.08±0.19, 74.33±0.63 and 2.17±0.45, respectively. Sensory evaluation analysis showed that total appearance, odor-taste and texture scores decreased during storage. TVB-N significantly increased in all group after 1 month of storage (P<0.05). At the end of storage, the lowest TBA value (1.38 mg MA/kg carp fillet) was determined in the PS1 group. During storage, the highest POV value was observed in the control group (8.49 mEq O2/kg) compared to other groups. Initial TVC of 1.5 log CFU/g, 1.7 log CFU/g and 1.8 log CFU/g increased to 3.7 log CFU/g, 2.9 log CFU/g and 3.2 log CFU/g in SO, PS1 and PS2 groups, respectively. Results showed that the shelf life of marinated carp fillets treated with sunflower oil and in combination with pomegranate and plum sauce was more than 1 month.

RESUMO: O efeito do óleo de girassol (SO), molho de óleo de girassol-romã (PS1) e molho de óleo de girassol-ameixa (PS2) na vida útil de filetes de carpa marinados foi investigado em termos sensorial, químico (valor de peróxido (PV), ácido tiobarbitúrico) (TBA), ácidos graxos livres (AGL), nitrogênio básico volátil total (TVB-N) e pH) e propriedades microbiológicas (contagem viável total (TVC), Escherichia coli, coliforme total, estafilococos/Micrococos, Salmonella spp.). Durante 30 dias de armazenamento. A composição aproximada, que inclui % de proteína bruta total, % de gordura, % de umidade e % de cinzas de filés de carpa frescos antes do processo de marinação foi analisada e encontrada 18,69 ± 0,86, 4,08 ± 0,19, 74,33 ± 0,63 e 2,17 ± 0,45, respectivamente. A análise sensorial mostrou que os escores totais de aparência, odor e sabor diminuíram durante o armazenamento. TVB-N aumentou significativamente (P <0,05) em todos os grupos após 1 mês de armazenamento. No final do armazenamento, o menor valor de TBA (1,38 mg MA / kg de filé de carpa) foi determinado no grupo PS1. Durante o armazenamento, o maior valor de POV foi observado no grupo controle (8,49 mEq O2/kg) em comparação com outros grupos. O TVC inicial de 1,5 log CFU/g, 1,7 log UFC/g, 1,8 log CFU/g aumentou para 3,7 log CFU/g, 2,9 log CFU/g, 3,2 log CFU/g nos grupos SO, PS1 e PS2, respectivamente. Os resultados mostraram que a vida útil dos filés de carpa marinados tratados com óleo de girassol e em combinação com molho de romã e ameixa era superior a um mês.

Physio-chemical Properties of Fresh, Clarified and Commercial Brands Pomegranate Juice

Background : Juice can be considered as an important and functional ingredient in food products. Pomegranate(Punica granatum L.) juice (PJ) consumption has been increased recently due to scientific evidence increase onits high content of health beneficial compounds. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the physio-chemicalproperties of fresh, clarified and commercial pomegranate juice (commercial PJ). Materials and Methods : Fourcommercially available (labeled A, B, C and D), and one homemade (Clarified) and fresh pomegranate juice wereevaluated for their physicochemical properties including total ash, pH value, titratable acidity (TA), total sugars(T.S), total soluble solids (T.S.S) and fruit percentage. Antioxidant properties such as anthocyanin, antioxidantactivity (A.A) and total phenolic compound (TPC) were examined. Results : T.S.S and T.S at (P ≤ 0.05) weresignificantly higher in clarified PJ than those of all commercials and fresh juice by 19.3% and 16.9%,respectively. The control fresh PJ recorded the highest significant content of pH value (4.17 %) and lowest contentof T.A% (6.4%) compared with commercial PJ sample B (32 %). TPC of commercial PJ samples B and C had81.99 mg GAE/ml juice and 55.57 mg GAE/ml juice, respectively. The highest percentages of A.A were shown inthe control fresh and clarified PJ sample as 84.5 % and 75.1%, respectively. Commercial PJ sample B recordedthe highest content of anthocyanin (36.24 mg /100 ml) followed by commercial PJ samples C and D. The resultsascertained that natural fresh PJ sample recorded the highest fruit percentage in juice (33.62%) followed bycommercial PJ sample B and clarified PJ. Conclusion : The clarified PJ sample had the highest contents of T.S.Sand total sugars than the control fresh PJ and all commercial PJ sample. Also, it was established that the controlfresh PJ sample had a high antioxidant activity, fruit percentage and pH value, and low acidity. The commercialPJ sample B also contained a high percentage of total phenolic compounds and high percentage of totalanthocyanin.

The Effectiveness of Red Pomegranate (Punica granatum Linn) Extract Mouthwash Against the Number of Oral Bacteria Colony

@#Introduction: The percentage of Indonesian population experiencing oral and dental diseases based on the 2007 and 2013 RISKESDAS data, rise from 23.2% to 25.9%. People need to maintain healthy teeth and mouth by brushing their teeth and using mouthwash. Chlorhexidine is mouthwash that has been proven to be effective in reducing the number of plaque microorganisms attached to teeth and oral mucosa, but its long-term use can cause tooth stain, allergies, tissue desquamation and resistance. Red pomegranate can be used as an alternative because it contains flavonoids and tannins which are thought to have antibacterial ability. Therefore, this study aims to prove that red pomegranate extract mouthwash can reduce the number of oral bacteria colonies. Methods: 25 subjects were divided into 5 groups, namely K1: gargle aquades; K2: Chlorhexidine mouth rinse; K3, K4, K5 each rinse with 0.02%, 0.2% and 2% red pomegranate extract mouthwash. Saliva is collected before and after gargling, then planted in Petri dish using BHIA media with a spread plate method. Calculation of the amount of bacterial colony done 24 hours after the media was incubated. Counting the number of bacterial colonies using a colony counter. Data were analyzed by Anova and LSD tests. Result: There were significant difference between all group on decreased of number of oral bacteria colony (p= 0.00). Conclusion: Red pomegranate extract mouthwash effective decreased of number of oral bacteria colony and the most effective was 2% concentration.

Effect of different extraction parts of pomegranate flower on insulin resistance and its mechanism / 中国药理学通报

Aim To study the effect of different extracts from pomegranate flower on improving insulin resistance. Methods The rat model of type 2 diabetes was established by high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin (35 mg · kg-1). Metformin and pomegranate flower extracts were extracted by gavage for four weeks, and serum insulin content and other biochemical indexes were determined. The effects of extracts from different parts of pomegranate flower on glucose intake and related protein expression in insulin-resistant 3T3-L1 adipocyte were assessed. Results After four weeks of administration, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, lipid level, oxidative damage degree and insulin resistance index of type 2 diabetic rats decreased, while insulin sensitivity index increased. Different extracts of pomegranate flowers increased the glucose intake of insulin-resistant 3T3-L1 adipocytes to varying degrees, increased the protein expression of pakt, PI3K and Glut4, and water extracts could increase the expression of PPAR7 protein. Conclusions The extracted parts of pomegranate flower can improve the insulin resistance of 3T3-L1 adipocytes in type 2 diabetic rats and insulin resistance model by activating the Akt/PI3K signaling pathway. Water extracts can also improve insulin sensitivity by activating the PPARγ receptor.

Study on the Inhibitory Mechanism of Pomegranate Peel Polyphenols on Human Prostate Cancer PC 3 Cells Ba- sed on Apoptosis and Autophagy Pathway / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE：To st udy the inhibitory mechanism of pomegranate peel polyphenols （PPP）on the proliferation of human prostate cancer PC 3 cells based on autophagy and apoptosis pathway. METHODS ：CCK-8 assay was used to investigate the effects of PPP with different concentrations （25-300 μg/mL）on PC 3 cell activity after culturing for 24，48，72 h，so as to screen the drug concentration and treatment time. PC 3 cells were divided into control group （complete culture medium ），PPP low- ，medium- and high-concentration groups. After treated for 48 h，flow cytometry and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining were used to detect cell cycle distribution and apoptosis of PC 3 cells. Western blotting assay was used to detect the expression of apoptosis-related protein as Bax ，Bcl-2，as well as the expression of autophagy-related proteins as LC 3，Beclin-1，p62，Atg12 and Atg 16. RESULTS ：The culturing time was chosen as 48 h. IC 50 of PPP was 110 μg/mL，and 50，100，200 μg/mL were chosen as low，medium，high concentrations of PPP. Compared with control group ，the percentage of PC 3 cells at phase G 0/G1 decreased significantly in PPP low- and medium-concentration groups while increased significantly at phase S ；that of PC 3 cells at phase G 0/G1 increased significantly in PPP high-concentration group ； while that of PC 3 cells at phase G 2/M decreased significantly in PPP medium- and high-concentration groups （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. The apoptosis rate of PC 3 cells was increased significantly in PPP groups （P＜ 0.05 or P＜0.01）. Compared with control group ，protein expression of anti-apoptosis protein Bcl- 2 and autophagy-related promoting protein p 62 were decreased in PPP groups to different extents ，while protein expression of promoting-apoptosis protein Bax as wells as autophagy-related protein LC 3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ ration and protein expression of Beclin- 1，Atg5，Atg12 and Atg 16 were increased to different extents ；there was statistical significance in above indexes in PPP high-concentration group and some of above indexes in PPP low- and medium-concentration groups （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. CONCLUSIONS ：PPP can inhibit the proliferation of human prostate cancer PC 3 cells，mechanism of which may be related to inducing autophagy and promoting apoptosis.

Antibacterial activities of combination of ethanol extract of Delima fruit (Punica granatum L.) and Sereh stem (Cymbopogon citratus) on Staphylococcus aureus

Background: Pomegranates contain chemical saponins and flavonoids while lemongrass stems have flavonoid chemical compounds. Substances that can inhibit the linking of bacteria are saponins and flavonoids. The most common microorganism found in ulcus diabetikum (ulcer diabetes) is Staphylococcus aureus. The purpose of this study was to determine the antibacterial activity of a combination of pomegranate ethanol extract and ethanol extract of lemongrass stems against S. aureus bacteria.Methods: This study used an experimental design with a complete randomized design study divided into 5 groups: groups 1 (75:25), 2 (50:50), 3 (25:75), positive control (tetracycline) and negative control. Manufacture of pomegranate peel extract and lemongrass stems was done by maceration method for further rotary, after the extract was obtained tested for antibacterial activity by diffusion method using a cylinder. With the test used analysis of variance one way.Results: The results of this study showed that the combination of pomegranate ethanol extract and citronella stem ethanol extract showed activity against S. aureus with a ratio of 15 ul:5 ul, 15 ul:15 ul, 5 ul:15 ul with inhibitory diameter of respectively 13 mm, 11 mm, 8 mm. Whereas for positive control with chloramphenicol, the inhibition area is 9 mm.Conclusions: Statistically the combination of pomegranate ethanol extract and lemongrass stems has antibacterial power which uses p=0.005 and p<0.05. The combination of pomegranate ethanol extract and lemongrass stems has very strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus due to inhibition zones of 10-20 mm.

Molecular characterization of PgUFGT gene and R2R3-PgMYB transcription factor involved in flavonoid biosynthesis in four tissues of wild pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)

The diversity on fruit colouration in plants directly depends on the flavonoids that explain the development of different pigmentation patterns. Anthocyanins are the major class of flavonoid pigments that are synthesized through flavonoid biosynthetic pathway. In the present study, two genes: PgUFGT gene and R2R3-PgMYB gene, involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis were analysed in four tissues of wild pomegranate. The structural genes, UDP-glucose: flavonoid-3-O-glucosyl transferase (PgUFGT; GenBank accession number: MK058491) and its myeloblastosis transcription factor (R2R3-PgMYB; GenBank accession number: MK092063) were isolated and their expression pattern were studied. Molecular modelling indicated that the main secondary structures of PgUFGT and R2R3-PgMYB genes are α-helix and random coil. In addition, expression profiling of PgUFGTand R2R3-PgMYB by quantitative-real time PCR indicated a positive correlation between anthocyanin content and their expression in leaves, flowers, green and red fruits of wild pomegranate. Among all the tissues, the red fruit exhibited high transcripts levels of PgUFGT as well as R2R3-PgMYB transcription factor. An extensive homology with UFGTs from other plants was revealed on comparative and bioinformatic analyses. Present study reveals that PgUFGT plays a predominant role in anthocyanin content in wild pomegranate fruits. Further, it is strongly suggested that R2R3-PgMYB transcription factor regulates the anthocyanin biosynthesis in wild pomegranate via expression of PgUFGT gene. This is the first study which provides an insight on expression profile of PgUFGT and R2R3-PgMYB that are involved in colour development and fruit ripening in wild pomegranate.

In vitro Analysis of Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae and Comparative Study of Protein Profiling under Biotic Stress

Bacterial blight of pomegranate caused by X. axonopodis pv. Punicae (XAP) assumed epidemic form and resulted in economic burden on farmers. In the current study the pathogen infected samples were collected and the isolated XAP was identity and confirmed through the morphological, biochemical characterization and Pathogenicity test. Bacterium was reisolated from infected plant to prove Koch’s postulates. Efficacy of different chemicals and oils were tested by disc diffusion assay and turbidometrically. Bronopol 3000 ppm (25.6±1.6 mm) and Clove oil (18.0±0.7 mm) formed highest zone of inhibition Turbidometri showed the highest O.D. (0.908 nm) by Copper oxy chloride and Neem oil showed maximum inhibition of growth with O.D. (0.842 nm). Biotic stress (pathogen) induced protein response was studies by using SDS-PAGE method after protein extraction from XAP, healthy P. granatum L. and infected P. granatum L. The protein band pattern showed the unique band no. 2 (Mol.Wt.66000 Da) in infected P. granatum L. as compared to the banding pattern of XAP and healthy P. granatum L. The over expressed protein due to biotic stress could be useful as a marker for detection of the disease at the early stage and for control of the diseases after knowing the biochemical significance of the protein.

The Impact of Pomegranate Peel-fortified Cupcakes on Weight Loss

Pomegranate peel is considered as an antioxidant and a nutritive by-product. It is easily available after the production of pomegranatejuice. The purposes of the current research were to use the powder of pomegranate peel (PPP) as an antioxidant and a fibre-rich source tomake a nutritious cupcake based on 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% PPP and investigate its effect on the weight loss of rats fed by a high-fat diet(HFD). In total, 42 female albino adult rats were included and divided into 7 groups (each group contained 6 rats). A basal diet was fed toGroup 1 (G1) (negative control), a HFD was given to (G2), a HFD+ control cupcake was given to (G3), (G4) received a HFD + 5% PPPfortified cupcake, (G5) was fed a HFD + 10% PPP-fortified cupcake, (G6) was fed a HFD + 15% PPP-fortified cupcake and (G7) was feda HFD + 20% PPP-fortified cupcake. Food consumption, food efficiency, and body weight gain (g), the serum lipid profile and liverfunction were monitored. The results revealed a significant decline (p>0.05) in the weight gain of rats in G7 followed by G6, G5 and G4and compared to G2 and G3. VLDL-C, LDL-C, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and liver enzymes (AST, ALT) were decreased by increasingthe amount of PPP in the cupcake; whereas, HDL-C was increased significantly. In conclusion, pomegranate peel powder-fortifiedcupcakes can help with weight loss and avoid the risk of obesity, which could be incorporated into a range of foods.

Effect of natural polyphenols on diabetes mellitus (type-2) with myocardial infarction: a double-blind placebo controlled trial

Background: Diabetes Mellitus Type-2(T2D); is a leading disease in world wide. T2D is a clinical syndrome characterized by hyperglycaemia. Hyperglycemias are caused by an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin and due to insulin resistance. Diabetic patients are highly prone to Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and leads to Cardio vascular complications. Several medicines have been recommended to cure T2D; and still discovery of newer drugs are in process. Now a day, the focus of researches in diabetes includes discovery of newer anti-diabetic agents as well as isolating the active compounds from herbal sources. One such herbal source is pomegranate. Pomegranate is polyphenols and antioxidants rich fruit; which has potency to cure T2D and ROS.Methods: A Pomegranate Extract of Whole Fruit (PEWF) was prepared as tablet of 300mg to investigate its effects in patients with T2D. Total 40 participants of either gender with nested cases of T2D with Myocardial Infarction (MI) were included in study. All participants were assigned in two groups (20 each). One group was under “Add On” therapy of PEWF and matching placebos of same colour, shape and size were used as comparator agent for second group (300mg BD for 1 month).Results: Levels of biochemical markers related to T2D were compared to analysed pre and post drug effects by Z test, chi square test and by coefficient of variations. Results highlighted that those participants who were under “add-on” therapy of PEWF showed highly prognostic significance. Thus, PEWF should be consumed in diet as food supplementation.Conclusions: In conclusion, polyphenols and antioxidants rich fruit supplements should be taken in diet for healthy living.

Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activities of Commercial Pomegranate and Date Concentrates / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

@#The aim of this study was to determine the polyphenol content and antioxidant activities in commercialized date and pomegranate concentrates that are available in local market. A total of seven samples comprised of two brands of date concentrates (D1 and D2) and five brands of pomegranate concentrates (P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5) have been analyzed for their polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. The Folin-Ciocalteu assay was used to determine the polyphenol content (TPC) of the samples while 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays were used to determine the antioxidant activity. The results showed the commercialized date concentrate D2 contained the highest TPC (1243.00 ± 67.00 mg GAE/100 ml) and antioxidant activity using FRAP assay (2.67 ± 0.01 mmol TE/100 ml). Date concentrate D1 showed the highest antioxidant activity using DPPH assay (0.39 ± 0.02 mmol TE/100 ml). The pomegranate concentrate P5 showed the highest reading for TPC (3260.10 ± 428.70 mg GAE/100 ml), DPPH (1.61 ± 0.05 mmol TE/100 ml) and FRAP assays (20.98 ± 0.42 mmol TE/100 ml). As a conclusion, the studied commercial date and pomegranate concentrates available in the local market contained high polyphenol and antioxidant contents although the content levels were different from one brand to another. Further study is needed to identify the causes of this distinction. The results of this study could help the consumers to make a better selection of commercialized date and pomegranate concentrates that are available in local market in term of polyphenol content and antioxidant activity.

Pollen/Fruit Syndrome: Clinical Relevance of the Cypress Pollen Allergenic Gibberellin-Regulated Protein

A pollen/food-associated syndrome (PFAS) has been described between peach and cypress pollen. Cross-reactive allergens were characterized which belong to the Gibberellin-regulated protein (GRP) family, BP14 in cypress pollen and Pru p 7 in peach. GRP are small cationic protein with anti-microbial properties. A patient suffering from a peach/cypress syndrome was explored clinically and biologically using 2 types of immunoglobulin E (IgE) multiarray microchip, immunoblots and a basophil activation test to assess the clinical relevance of various extracts and purified allergens from fruits or cypress pollen. In addition to PR10 sensitization, the patient showed specific IgE to Pru p 7, BP14 and allergen from pomegranate. These last 3 allergens and allergenic sources are able to induce ex vivo basophil activation characterized by the monitoring of the expression of CD63 and CD203c, both cell surface markers correlated with a basophil mediator release. Up to 100% of cells expressed CD203c at 50 ng/mL of BP14 protein. In contrast, snakin-1, a GRP from potato sharing 82% sequence identity with Pru p 7 did not activate patient's basophils. These results strongly suggest that, like Pru p 7, BP14 is a clinically relevant allergenic GRP from pollen. Allergen members of this newly described protein family are good candidates for PFAS where no cross-reactive allergens have been characterized.

The Protective Effect of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) against Oxidative Stress and Nephropathy Induced by Diabetes in Male Rats: A Biochemical, Molecular and Histopathological Study

Aims: Diabetes mellitus is a significant health problem worldwide and type II diabetes is one of the main health problems facing Saudi society, which is often caused by obesity and increased cholesterol in the blood. Due to the seriousness of diabetes and its complications, the present study was designed to examine the renoprotective effect of pomegranate in diabetes induced oxidative stress and kidney injury. Study Design: Adult male Albino rats (200–250 g) were used in this study. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (45 mg/kg) followed by treatment for 8 weeks. The animals were randomly divided into four groups (each group, n = 10): normal control (NC); non-diabetic animals fed on commercial diet, diabetic group (DG); diabetic animals fed on commercial diet, pomegranate treated group (PTG); diabetic animals fed on experimental diet contains 20% dried pomegranate, and drug treated group (MTG); diabetic animals fed on commercial diet and treated with metformin (500 mg/kg). Methodology: At the end of the experimental study (8 weeks) blood glucose levels, lipid peroxidation, biochemical analysis of oxidative stress parameters and biomarkers of kidney damage were determined. The mRNA expression level of oxidative stress defense genes (SOD, CAT ,GR and GPx), as well as the NADPH oxidase (subunits p22phox and p47phox) and the inflammatory factors regulator gene, NF-κB were also evaluated in kidney homogenates using semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Furthermore, histopathological evaluation of kidney was also studied. Results: Treatment with pomegranate significantly ameliorated the elevated oxidative stress levels in STZ induced diabetic rats resulting in decreased lipid peroxidation and NO concentration, and increased endogenous antioxidant enzymes levels (SOD and GSH). Biomarkers of kidney damage (urea and creatinine) and blood glucose levels were significantly normalized in pomegranate treated group compared to the diabetic group. At the molecular level, a significant enhancement of gene expression of the antioxidant enzyme (SOD, CAT, GR and GPx) was observed in pomegranate treated group compared to the diabetic group. In contrast, significant down-regulation of the NADPH oxidase subunits (p22phox and p47phox) as well as the inflammatory factors regulator gene, NF-κB was recorded. Moreover, the histopathological examinations confirmed the protective effects of pomegranate by normalizing the kidney damage. Conclusion: This study validates pomegranate as a promising candidate in preventing diabetes associated complications such as nephropathy through its antioxidant activity and its effects on the activity and regulation of oxidative stress defense gene expression.