Modulatory effect of pigeon pea-wheat biscuits on lipid profile, lipid peroxidation level, α-glucosidase, and butyrylcholinesterase activities in type-2 diabetic patients.

This study examined the modulatory effect of pigeon pea-wheat biscuits on lipid profile, lipid peroxidation level, α-glucosidase, and butyrylcholinesterase activities in type-2 diabetic patients. Composite flours were formulated using pigeon pea (PP) and wheat flour (WF) in ratio 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100. Sixty diabetic patients (DP) were treated with biscuit samples and the effect of the biscuits on the serum lipid profile, α-glucosidase, and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activities were evaluated. The result revealed that total cholesterol ranged from [100-PP (13.94 ± 1.05 mg/dl)-REF (40.46 ± 3.09 mg/dl)]; triglyceride [100-PP (28.00 ± 1.14)-REF (115.00 ± 7.05)], low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) [100-PP (0.75 ± 0.30)-REF (13.30 ± 2.04)], high-density lipoprotein level(HDL-C) [REF (4.16 ± 0.49)-100-PP (7.59 ± 1.62)], LDL-C/HDL-C [100-PP (0.098 ± 0.01)-REF (8.72 ± 1.20)]. Alanine aminotransferase [CAB (3.10 ± 0.51 U/L)-REF (6.90 ± 0.84 U/L)]; aspartate aminotransferase [100-PP (9.50 ± 0.61 U/L)-REF (19.75 ± 1.50 U/L)]; alkaline phosphate (ALP) [CAB (26.99 ± 2.13 U/L)-BASELINE (UT) (92.40 ± 5.41 U/L]. α-glucosidase [100-PP (1.20 ± 0.07)-REF (0.37 ± 0.02)] and BChE [100-PP (1.12 ± 0.09)-REF (1.30 ± 0.01)] and Malondialdehyde [100-PP (0.33 ± 0.08)-REF (0.37 ± 0.04)]. 100-PP had an outstanding antihyperlipidemic potentials, not injurious to liver and might serve as good functional food that could help in preventing the risk of developing heart coronary disease, atherosclerosis, and stroke. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This study provides vital information on the possible effect of pigeon pea-wheat biscuits on the serum lipid profile and peroxidation levels, α-glucosidase and butyrylcholinesterase of diabetic patients. The biscuits produced had lowering effect on cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein but improved high-density lipoprotein. All the biscuits have good lipid profile which may lower the risk of developing coronary heart diseases and vascular heart diseases in diabetes. However, 100-PP biscuit had an outstanding antihyperlipidemia action on the serum lipid levels of the patients. Also, it had the highest α-glucosidase, MDA, and BChE inhibitory potential. ALT, AST, and ALP serum activities of the patient's serum were greatly improved after treatment with the biscuits. 100-PP could lower the risk of developing heart coronary disease, atherosclerosis, and stroke.

Egg case concentrate of Mantis religiosa abrogates the accumulation of cadmium in muscular and bone tissues of African catfish via activation of nitric oxide and myeloperoxidase activity.

The study examined the prophylactic effect of praying mantis egg case powder (PMECP) against the accumulation of cadmium (Cd) in key tissues of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Thirty African catfish were randomly distributed into six (n = 5) groups. Group I was treated with normal fish diet (NFD) only. Group II was exposed to Cd + NFD. Group III was exposed to Cd + NFD + EC50 PMECP. Group IV was exposed to Cd + NFD + EC50 PMECP + 10% EC50 PMECP. Group V was exposed to Cd + NFD + EC50 PMECP + 20% EC50 PMECP. Group VI was treated with EC50 PMECP + NFD for 14 days. Inhibitory concentration (IC50 ) of PMECP significantly scavenged free radicals in vitro with corresponding increase in the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO) level. PMECP also showed highest growth-rate pattern and downregulation of cavitation within the lamellae. Hence, PMECP may be a prophylactic agent against the Cd accumulation in African catfish. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Mantis religiosa egg case is widely used in Asian traditional medicine and some part of West Africa, as prevention against several diseases such as urinary disorders, infertility, impotence, and shingles. Our previous investigation showed that Mantis religiosa egg case flour could prevent hepatotoxicity, inhibit respiratory dysfunction, and interrupt oxidative damage in lungs. It is also commonly utilized for its high protein content and clear airways potential. The results of this study revealed empirical evidence concerning the possible usage of PMECP as natural, alternative, and/or complementary protein supplement with prophylactic potentials. Hence, this study underlines PMECP as prophylactic agent in abrogating the accumulation of cadmium as well as improving the protein content in African catfish.

Glycemic Response in Diabetic Subjects to Biscuits Produced from Blends of Pigeon Pea and Wheat Flour.

This study evaluated the glycemic response to pigeon pea (PP) - wheat flour (WF) composite biscuits by diabetic patients. Biscuits were produced from flour made from the mixture of WF and PP flour in the proportion of 100:0 (100 - PP), 75:25 (75-PP), 50:50 (50-PP), 25:75 (25-PP), and 0:100 (WF), 4.5% ginger was used as flavor. Sensory evaluation revealed that 100-PP (6.54 ± 0.05) had highest acceptability and palatability attributes (p < 0.05). Glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) of the biscuits ranged from 100 - PP (41.36 ± 0.30) to CAB (79.89 ± 1.00) and 100-PP (10.57 ± 0.01) to CAB (30.70 ± 0.40), respectively. All the composite biscuits had low GI < 60 and GL < 20. Composite biscuit may suggest a cheap, adequate and safe supplementary diet for diabetic patients.

Co-administration of caffeine and caffeic acid alters some key enzymes linked with reproductive function in male rats.

This study assessed the effects of caffeine combined with caffeic acid on some biomarkers of male reproductive function using normal albino Wistar rats. Rats were divided into four groups (n = 6) and treated for seven successive days; group 1 represents the control rats; group 2 rats were treated with 50 mg/kg body weight (BW) of caffeine only; group 3 rats were treated with 50 mg/kg BW of caffeic acid, while the rats in group 4 were cotreated with an equal combination of caffeine and caffeic acid. The results revealed significant increase in reproductive hormone, testicular and epididymal nitric oxide levels of the rats. Moreover, decreased oxidative stress in the testes and epididymides of the treated rats was evidenced by significant increase in total and nonprotein thiol levels, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities. Similarly, decreased testicular cholesterol level with concomitant elevation in testicular steroidogenic enzyme activities, glycogen and zinc levels were observed in the treated rats. No morphological changes were observed as revealed by the photomicrographs from light microscopy in treated rats. Nevertheless, the combination therapy exhibited additive/synergistic effect on these biochemical indices than when they were administered singly. This study suggests the combination therapy of caffeine and caffeic acid at the dose tested for improving male reproductive function.

Effect of caffeine, caffeic acid and their various combinations on enzymes of cholinergic, monoaminergic and purinergic systems critical to neurodegeneration in rat brain-In vitro.

Caffeine and caffeic acid are two bioactive compounds that are present in plant foods and are major constituent of coffee, cocoa, tea, cola drinks and chocolate. Although not structurally related, caffeine and caffeic acid has been reported to elicit neuroprotective properties. However, their different proportional distribution in food sources and possible effect of such interactions are not often taken into consideration. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effect of caffeine, caffeic acid and their various combinations on activities of some enzymes [acetylcholinesterase (AChE), monoamine oxidase (MAO) ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPase), ecto-51-nucleotidase (E-NTDase) and Na+/K+ ATPase relevant to neurodegeneration in vitro in rat brain. The stock concentration of caffeine and caffiec acid and their various proportional combinations were prepared and their interactions with the activities of these enzymes were assessed (in vitro) in different brain structures. The Fe2+ and Cu2+ chelating abilities of the samples were also investigated. The results revealed that caffeine, caffeic acid and their various combinations exhibited inhibitory effect on activities of AChE, MAO, E-NTPase and E-NTDase, but stimulatory effect on Na+/K+ ATPase activity. The combinations also exhibited Fe2+ and Cu2+ chelating abilities. Considering the various combinations, a higher caffeine to caffeic acid ratio produced significantly highest enzyme modulatory effects; these were significantly lower to the effect of caffeine alone but significantly higher than the effect of caffeic acid alone. These findings may provide new insight into the effect of proportional combination of these bioactive compounds as obtained in many foods especially with respect to their neuroprotective effects.

Ethanol-induced male infertility: Effects of aqueous leaf extract of Tetracarpidium conophorum.

This study investigated the effects of Tetracarpidium conophorum leaf extract on infertility induced by ethanol in male rats. Thirty rats were randomly divided into six groups of five animals each: Group 1 (positive control) received 0.9% saline only; Group 2 (ethanol alone) were given only 30% ethanol orally at 7 ml/kg body weight per day, thrice in a week; groups 3, 4 and 5 were given ethanol and co-treated with 50, 500 and 1,000 mg/kg body weight of leaf extract, respectively, while Group 6 was given ethanol and co-treated with a fertility drug, clomiphene citrate. Ethanol treatment resulted in significant (p < .05) decrease in LDH activity, G-6PDH activity, glycogen content, 3ß and 17ß HSD activities and testicular and epididymal Zn and Se contents and furthermore decrease in testicular sperm count, viability and marked increment in total sperm abnormalities, rate of sperm analysis parameters and consequently decreased reproductive hormone levels. Interestingly, co-administration of ethanol with either T. conophorum extract or drug almost ameliorated the toxic assault imposed by ethanol on reproductive organs and improved seminal qualities of the rats.

Tetracarpidium conophorum ameliorates oxidative reproductive toxicity induced by ethanol in male rats.

BACKGROUND: Tetracarpidium conophorum (Mull. Arg.) Hutch. & Dalz is one of the many medicinal plants used for ages in folklore as male fertility enhancers. The current study evaluates the effect of the plant leaf extract on alcohol - induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. METHODS: Thirty rats were randomly divided into six groups of five animals each; Group 1 (positive control) received normal saline only; Group 2 (ethanol alone) were given only 30 % ethanol orally at 7 ml/kg body weight per day, thrice in a week; Group 3, 4, 5 were given ethanol and co-treated with 50 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg body weight of leaf extract respectively while Group 6 were given ethanol and co-treated with a fertility drug, clomiphene citrate. All the drugs were given daily and the experiment lasted for twenty one consecutive days. RESULTS: Alcohol ingestion resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in water, food intake and marked elevation of lipid peroxidation as assessed by the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the reproductive tissues. Precisely, MDA level was elevated in the testis, epididymis, seminal vesicle and prostate gland by 81 %, 63 %, 95 % and 91 %, respectively. Furthermore, levels of total protein, reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin C and activities of antioxidant enzymes in the reproductive tissues were significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced in ethanol-ingested rats. Interestingly, co-administration of T. conophorum with ethanol led to almost complete inhibition of lipid peroxidation thereby enhancing antioxidant status of the reproductive tissues. CONCLUSION: Overall, T. conophorum ameliorates oxidative reproductive toxicity induced by ethanol in male rats and its ameliorative effect comparable well with the fertility drug, clomiphene citrate.

Subchronic exposure to leachate activates key markers linked with neurological disorder in Wistar male rat.

The linking of various environmental chemicals exposure to neurodegenerative disorders is current. This study was undertaken to elucidate the toxic effects and the underlying biochemical mechanism of leachate obtained from Elewi Odo municipal battery recycling site (EOMABRL) using key markers of neuronal damage in rat via an oral route. Analysis of the concentrations of heavy metals showed that lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, manganese, and iron were higher than the acceptable limits set by the regulatory authority-the World Health Organization. Whereas, copper, zinc, and cobalt were lower than permissible limits. EOMABRL was administered at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% concentrations to adult male rats for 60 days. An in vitro study was also carried out in the cerebellum to assess cholinesterase biochemistry assays. Following exposure, brain was collected to determine the antioxidant status. EOMABRL administration significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, and a sequential decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) level with a concomitant increase in the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level was observed, when compared with the control. The treated rat had a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the activities of acetycholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). Taken together, these findings conclude that some possible mechanisms by which EOMABRL elicits neuronal disorder in male rat could be through the activation of AChE and BuChE and induction of oxidative stress with necrosis of neuronal cells.

Depletion of cellular adenosine triphosphate and hepatocellular damage in rat after subchronic exposure to leachate from anthropogenic recycling site.

One of the major hazards arising from recycling sites is the generation of leachate containing mixed metal. This study evaluated the toxic effects of leachate obtained from Elewi Odo municipal auto-battery recycling site (EOMABRSL) on male liver functions using hepatic indices and biomarker of cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in rat via the oral route. Concentrations of heavy metals analysis showed that lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, manganese, and iron were 1.5-, 2-, 2.5-, 1.36-, 19.61-, and 8.89-folds, respectively, higher than acceptable limits set by regulatory authority World Health Organization. Copper, zinc, and cobalt were 5.9-, 300-, and 1.02-folds, respectively, lower than permissible limits. The EOMABRSL was administered at 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% concentrations to adult male rats for 60 days. Following exposure, plasma and livers were collected for several biochemistry assays. Exposure of animals to EOMABRSL resulted in 27.51, 28.14, 63.93, 28.42, and 40.16% increase in aspartate aminotransferase activity, whereas it elevated alanine aminotransferase activity by 5.35, 22.33, 88.68, 183.02, and 193.08%, respectively, when compared with the control. Similarly, γ-glutamyl transferase activity increased by 111.22, 114.19, 122.96, 573.14, and 437.02%, respectively, when compared with the control. EOMABRSL administration significantly decreased catalase activity and reduced glutathione level and superoxide dismutase with concomitant increase in malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels. Also, significant (p < 0.05) decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity (marker of cellular ATP) was observed. Taken together, the hepatotoxicity of EOMABRSL could be due to the depletion of LDH and induction of oxidative damage, which may suggest possible health hazards in subjects with occupational or environmental exposure.

Inhibition of key markers linked with spermatogenesis and cellular ATP by subchronic exposure to leachate in a rat model.

Few or no studies have measured the toxic effects of subchronic exposure to leachate using key markers linked with spermatogenesis and cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in an experimental rat model. This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxic effects of leachate obtained from the Elewi Odo municipal battery-recycling site (EOMABRL) on male reproductive function using testicular hormones and biomarker of cellular ATP. EOMABRL was administered at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% concentrations to adult male rats for 60 days. After exposure, serum was collected for hormonal biochemistry assays, and testes were collected to determine the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Exposure of animals to EOMABRL resulted in a 519.7, 285.7, 569.1, 606.1, and 1,793.2% increase in XO activity with a sequential decrease in LDH activity (marker of cellular ATP) by 44.1, 55.9, 61.4, 69.3, and 89.7%, respectively, compared with the control. Furthermore, EOMABRL caused a significant inhibitory effect on serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone levels. We conclude that some possible mechanisms by which EOMABRL elicits toxicity in male rat testes could be through inhibition of LDH activity and depletion of serum hormone levels.

Phenolic compounds from sandpaper (ficus exasperata) leaf inhibits angiotensin 1 converting enzyme in high cholesterol diet fed rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Sandpaper [Ficus exasperata Vahl (Moraceae)] leaf has been reportedly used in folklore for the management/treatment of cardiovascular diseases with little/or no scientific basis for their action. This study sought to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of sandpaper leaf on angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) activity in hypercholesterolemia as well as the effect of their phenolic extract on this enzyme in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The phenolic extract was prepared, then, the inhibitory effect of the leaf extract on ACE was determined in vitro. Thereafter, the effect of dietary supplementation of sandpaper leaf on angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) activity in high cholesterol diet fed rats for 14 days was evaluated as well as some biochemical parameters. RESULTS: The result revealed that under in vitro condition, the phenolic extract inhibited ACE (IC50=14.7µg/mL) in a dose-dependent manner (0-10µg/mL). Feeding high cholesterol diets to rats caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in the ACE activity. However, there was a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the ACE activity as a result of supplementation with the sand paper leaves. Furthermore, there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in the plasma lipid profile with a concomitant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content in rat liver and heart tissues. However, supplementing the diet with sandpaper leaf (either 10% or 20%) caused a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels (LDL-C), and in MDA content in the tissues. Conversely, supplementation caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level when compared with the control diet. Reversed phase HPLC analysis of the extract revealed Quercitrin (43.7mg/g), chlorogenic acid (42.8mg/g) and caffeic acid (33.9mg/g) as the major phenolics in the leaf. CONCLUSION: The inhibition of ACE activity and prevention of hypercholesterolemia by sandpaper leaf could be part of the possible mechanism underlying its anti-hypertensive property which could lay credence to its use in folk medicine. However, these activities may be directly/indirectly attributed to the polyphenolics present.

HPLC-DAD Analysis and In-Vitro Property of Polyphenols Extracts from (Solanum Aethiopium) Fruits on α -Amylase, α -Glucosidase and Angiotensin - 1- Converting Enzyme Activities.

AIM: Garden egg (Solanum aethiopium) is an edible fruits vegetable with  different species.This study investigated characterisation and the effect of the phenolics extracts from S. aethiopium species with enzymes linked with type -2-diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and hypertension [Angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE)]. METHODS: Fresh samples of the 5 species of the garden egg namely, [Solanum gilo (PW), Solanum torvum (TWS), Solanum kumba (PGR), Solanum incanum (GSB), and Solanum indicum (WSB)] were oven-dried at 50°C and milled into flour. The aqueous extracts were prepared (1:50 w/v). The phenolic contents (total phenol and total flavonoid), vitamin C and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), the antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated. The ability of the extracts to inhibit diabetes enzymes in rat pancreas as well as the inhibition of angiotensin-1-converting (ACE) enzyme in lungs homogenates in vitro were investigated. Furthermore, the fruits polyphenols were identified and quantified using HPLC-DAD. RESULTS: The phenolic contents ranged from 2.70-3.76 mgGAE/g, while there were no significant (P>0.05) differences in their flavonoid content and ability to reduce Fe(3+) to Fe(2+). The vitamin C contents of the species ranged from 4.01-6.52 mg/ml. The extracts scavenged DPPH in a dose dependent manner with the IC50 values ranging from 3.23-4.20 mg/ml. Furthermore, the extracts showed strong inhibition of α-glucosidase, mild inhibition of α-amylase and strong inhibition of ACE activities. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the inhibition of the key enzymes relevant to type-2 diabetes and hypertension could be part of the mechanisms by which garden egg manage/prevent the degenerative conditions.

Exposure to leachate from municipal battery recycling site: implication as key inhibitor of steroidogenic enzymes and risk factor of prostate damage in rats.

Few or no studies have measured the effect of short- and long-term exposure to industrial leachate. Mature male Wistar strain albino rats (175-220 g) underwent sub-chronic exposure to leachate from the Elewi Odo municipal battery recycling site (EOMABRL) via oral administration for a period of 60 days at different doses (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) per kilogram of body weight to evaluate the toxic effects of the leachate on male reproductive function using steroidogenic enzymes and biomarkers of prostate damage. Control groups were treated equally but were given distilled water instead of the leachate. After the treatment periods, results showed that the treatment induced systemic toxicity at the doses tested by causing a significant (p<0.05) loss in absolute body weight and decline in growth rate. There was a marked significant decrease (p<0.05) in testicular activities of Δ(5)-3ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 17ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Conversely, the activity of prostatic acid phosphatase, a key marker enzyme for prostrate damage was significantly (p<0.05) elevated in the treated rats. Similarly, the administration of EOMABRL significantly (p<0.05) exacerbated the activity of total acid phosphatase with concomitant increase in the activity of prostatic alkaline phosphatase. These findings conclude that exposure to leachate from a battery recycling site induces sub-chronic testicular toxicity by inhibiting key steroidogenic enzymes and activating key markers linked with prostate damage/cancer in rats.

Inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities by ethanolic extract of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin) leaf.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the inhibitory effect of Telfairia occidentalis Hook f. (Curcubitaceae) (T. occidentalis) leaf on key enzyme linked to type-2 diabetes (α - amylase and α - glucosidase) as well as assess the effect of blanching (a commonly practiced food processing technique) of the vegetable on these key enzymes. METHODS: Fresh leaves of T. occidentalis were blanched in hot water for 10 minutes, and the extracts of both the fresh and blanched vegetables were prepared and used for subsequent analysis. The inhibitory effect of the extract on α - amylase and α - glucosidase activities as well as some antioxidant parameter was determined in vitro. RESULTS: The result revealed that unprocessed T. occidentalis leaf reduce Fe(3+) to Fe(2+) and also inhibited α - amylase and α - glucosidase activities in a dose dependent manner. However, blanching of the leafy vegetables caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in the antioxidant properties but decrease their ability to inhibit α - amylase and α - glucosidase activities. CONCLUSIONS: This antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibition could be part of the mechanism by which they are used in the treatment/prevention of type-2 diabetes. However, the blanched vegetable reduces their ability to inhibit both α - amylase and α - glucosidase activity in vitro.

Characterization of the antioxidant properties of phenolic extracts from some citrus peels.

This study sought to determine the distribution of free and bound phenolics in some Nigerian citrus peels [orange (Citrus sinensis), grapefruit (Citrus paradisii) and shaddock (Citrus maxima)] and characterize the antioxidant properties. The free phenolics were extracted with 80% acetone, while the bound phenolics were extracted from the alkaline and acid hydrolyzed residue with ethyl acetate. Free phenolic extracts had significantly higher (P < 0.05) DPPH* scavenging ability than the bound phenolic extracts, except in orange peels where the bound phenolic extracts had significantly higher (P < 0.05) DPPH* scavenging ability. Bound phenolics from orange peels had the highest ABTS* scavenging ability (6.09 mmol./TEAC g) and ferric reducing antioxidant properties (FRAP) (71.99 mg/GAE 100 g), while bound phenolics from shaddock peels had the least ABTS* scavenging ability (1.35 mmol./TEAC g) and FRAP (2.58 mg/GAE 100 g) . Bound phenolics from grapefruit peels had the highest OH* scavenging ability (EC50 = 3.8 mg/ml), while bound phenolics from shaddock peels had the least (EC50 = 16.1 mg/ml). The phenolics chelated Fe(2+) and inhibited malondialdehyde production in rat's pancreas in a dose-dependent manner. The additive and/or synergistic action of the free and bound phenolics could have contributed to the observed medicinal properties of the peels; therefore, the high antioxidant properties of the free and bound phenolic extracts from orange peels could be harness in the formulation of nutraceuticals and food preservatives.

Characterization of the antioxidant properties of hydrophilic and lipophilic extracts of Jute (Corchorus olitorius) leaf.

Corchorus olitorius (jute) is a native plant of tropical Africa and Asia, and has since spread to Australia, South America and some parts of Europe. Its leafy vegetable is popularly used in soup preparation and folk medicine for the treatment of fever, chronic cystitis, cold and tumours. A comparative study of the antioxidant properties of hydrophilic extract (HE) and lipophilic extract (LE) constituents of the leafy vegetable has been assessed. HE and LE of the leaf were prepared using water and hexane, respectively and their antioxidant properties were determined. HE had a significantly higher (P<0.05) 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging ability (aqueous, 9.6-84.4%; hexane, 2.0-20.4%), reducing power (aqueous, 0.67 mmol ascorbic acid equivalent/g; hexane, 0.49 mmol ascorbic acid equivalent/g) and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (aqueous, 2.3 mmol/g; hexane, 1.1 mmol/g) than LE; conversely, LE had a significantly higher (P<0.05) OH. scavenging activity (44.5-46.2%) than HE (11.6-32.3%), while there was no significant difference (P>0.05) in their Fe(II) chelating ability (HE, 57.7-66.7%; LE, 56.4-61.1%). The higher 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging ability, reducing power and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity of the hydrophilic extract may be due to its significantly higher (P<0.05) total phenol (630.8 mg/100 g), total flavonoid (227.8 mg/100 g) and non-flavonoid polyphenols (403.0 mg/100 g), and its high ascorbic acid content (32.6 mg/100 g). While the higher OH. scavenging ability of LE may be due to its high total carotenoid content (42.5 mg/100 g). Therefore, the additive/synergistic antioxidant activities of the hydrophilic and lipophilic constituents may contribute to the medicinal properties of C. olitorius leaf.

Antioxidant and inhibitory effects of aqueous extracts of Salvia officinalis leaves on pro-oxidant-induced lipid peroxidation in brain and liver in vitro.

The present study sought to determine the antioxidant activity and protective ability of water-extractable phytochemicals from Salvia officinalis leaves (strongly aromatic leaves used in flavoring cooked foods) on lipid peroxidation induced by some pro-oxidants in rat brain and liver homogenates in vitro. Aqueous extracts of the leaves were prepared, and the ability of the extract to inhibit 25 microM FeSO(4)- and 7 microM sodium nitroprusside-induced lipid peroxidation in isolated rat brain and liver was determined. Subsequently, the ascorbic acid content, total phenol content, reducing power, Fe(II) chelating, and .OH radical scavenging ability of the extracts were determined as indices of antioxidant activity. The results of the study revealed that the extract inhibited malondialdehyde (MDA) production in basal and pro-oxidant-induced lipid peroxidation in the brain and liver in a dose-dependent manner. The percentage induction of lipid peroxidation by Fe(II) and sodium nitroprusside was higher in the brain than the liver; however, the level of inhibition of MDA production in the brain was significantly (P < .05) higher than the liver. The ascorbic acid (10.3 +/- 2.5 mg/g) and total phenol (7.6 +/- 1.2 mg/g) contents of the leaves were high; likewise, the aqueous extract had high reducing power and Fe(II) chelating ability but low .OH radical scavenging ability. This antioxidant and protective effect of this leaf could be harnessed in the management and prevention of degenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress.

Hot Pepper (Capsicum spp.) protects brain from sodium nitroprusside- and quinolinic acid-induced oxidative stress in vitro.

One practical way through which free radical-mediated neurodegenerative diseases could be prevented is through the consumption of food rich in antioxidants. The ability of aqueous extracts of ripe and unripe Capsicum annum, Tepin (CAT) and Capsicum chinese, Habanero (CCH) to prevent lipid peroxidation induced by sodium nitroprusside and quinolinic acid in rat brain in vitro is assessed in this study. The aqueous extract of the peppers were prepared (1 g/20 mL). Incubating rat brain homogenates with pro-oxidant (7 microM sodium nitroprusside [222.5%] and 1 mM quinolinic acid [217.4%]) caused a significant increase (P < .05) in lipid peroxidation in rat brain homogenates. However, the aqueous extract of the peppers (4.2-16.8 mg/mL) caused a significant decrease (P < .05) in the lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. However, unripe CAT (92.5-55.2%) caused the highest inhibition of sodium nitroprusside-induced lipid peroxidation, while unripe CCH caused the least inhibition (161.0-102.1%). Furthermore, unripe CAT and CCH peppers had a significantly higher (P < .05) inhibitory effect on quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in rat brain than the ripe pepper (CAT and CCH). Therefore, the protection of the brain tissues by hot pepper depends on the total phenol content in sodium nitroprusside-induced lipid peroxidation, while ripening would reduce the protective properties of hot pepper against quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation. However, unripe CAT has the highest protective properties against sodium nitroprusside- and quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in rat brain.

Biochemical changes in micro-fungi fermented cassava flour produced from low- and medium-cyanide variety of cassava tubers.

Comparative studies were carried out on the ability of pure strain of Rhizopus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisae to alter the nutritional quality of cassava flour produced from low- and medium-cyanide variety of cassava tuber. Low- and medium-cyanide variety of cassava tubers were collected from International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria. These tubers were washed, peeled, grated and aseptically inoculated with pure strains of Rhizopus oryzae and Saccharomyce cerevisae in nutrient solution respectively, before allowing them to ferment aerobically for 3 days. The fermented mash was subsequently dried and milled into cassava flour. Subsequently, the proximate, mineral and the antinutrinet composition of the cassava flour were determined. The results of the study revealed that the unfermented flour from low-cyanide cassava variety had higher protein, fibre, ash, fat, Ca, Na and K; while those produced from medium-cyanide variety, had higher antinutrinet (tannin, cyanide & phytate), Zn, Mg and Fe content. However, solid substrate fermentation of the cassava mash using Rhizopus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisae respectively caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the protein and fat content. The nutrient enrichment was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in flour produced from low-cyanide cassava variety. In addition, Saccharomyces cerevisae fermentation brought about a higher increase in the nutrient content than Rhizopus oryzae fermentation. Conversely, fermentation of the cassava caused a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the antinutrient content of the flour; although, the level of decrease was more in the flour produced from low-cyanide variety than medium-cyanide variety. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the ability of the fungi to decrease the antinutrient (except phytate) of the cassava flour. Furthermore, micro-fungi fermentation did not cause a significant change (P > 0.05) in mineral content (except Mg and K) of the fermented cassava flour. In conclusion, unfermented cassava flour produced from low-cyanide cassava tubers had high nutrient composition and low antinutrient content and more susceptible to micro-fungi nutrient enrichment and detoxification than medium-cyanide variety. Furthermore, Saccharomyces cerevisae was more efficient in the nutrient enrichment of the cassava flour than Rhizopus oryzae.

Coagulants modulate the antioxidant properties & hypocholesterolemic effect of tofu (curdled soymilk).

The recent increase in Soymilk and tofu (coagulated soymilk) consumption especially in Western Country is due to the recognition of the health benefits of soy foods; consumption of soybean would prevent heart diseases. In Nigeria Calcium salt, alum and steep water from pap production are usually used as coagulant in tofu production. The effect of those coagulants on the antioxidant properties of tofu and serum cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) level of albino rats fed tofu for 14 days is been assessed. The result of the study revealed that there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the tofu yield (17.6-18.3%), however steep water coagulated tofu had a significantly higher (P < 0.05) total phenol (12.0 g/kg) content, reducing power (0.6 OD700) and DPPH free radical scavenging ability (69.1%) than tofu produced using other coagulants. Furthermore, feeding albino rats with tofu and water ad libitum for 14 days caused a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the serum cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins when compared with the control, while there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the average daily feed intake of the rats. Conversely, there was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the serum high-density lipoproteins when compared with the control. However, rats fed steep water coagulated tofu had the lowest serum level of cholesterol and LDL level followed by those fed CaCl2 and alum coagulated tofu respectively, while those fed with calcium chloride coagulated tofu had the highest serum HDL level, and closely followed by those fed steep water coagulated tofu. It was therefore concluded that of all the coagulant, steep water appeared to be the most promising coagulant with regard to the production of tofu with higher antioxidant and hypocholesterolemic effect.