Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products

Permanent URI for this collection

https://repository.brieflands.com/handle/123456789/38079

In Collaboration with Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences (AJUMS)

News

Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products (JJNPP) is a peer-reviewed journal that serves as a multidisciplinary forum in all areas of pharmacy (pharmaceutics, industrial pharmacy, pharmacognosy, pharmacology, ethnopharmacology, toxicology, medicinal chemistry, clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical biotechnology, and other related subjects) related to natural products. The prime aim is to publish research articles with sufficient importance. In addition to research articles, papers presenting hypotheses and commentaries addressing current issues of immediate interest to other investigators are invited. Original articles and mini-reviews related to pharmaceutical sciences will be considered.

Peer Review Policy:

1) Double-Blind Peer Review System

2) Open Peer Review (since Aug 2019), Show List of All Published Reviewers' Comments

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 689

The Impacts of Hesperidin on Motor-Cognitive Disorders, Oxidative Damage, and Cholinergic Function in the Hippocampus of a Parkinson's Disease Rat Model
(Brieflands, 2024-12-11) Amer Abdollahnejad Banaderi; Maryam Rafiei Rad; Mohammad Edalatmanesh; Mohsen Forozanfar
Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) represents a neurodegenerative condition where oxidative stress significantly contributes to its underlying pathology. Antioxidant agents may reduce neuronal degeneration. Objectives: This research explores the impact of hesperidin (HES) on the hippocampus's antioxidant capacity and cholinergic function as well as its effects on memory enhancement and offer neuroprotective benefits in a rat PD model elicited by reserpine (RES). Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were assigned to five experimental groups: The control group, a group receiving HES vehicle (normal saline, NS) combined with RES vehicle (VR + NS), a group treated with RES (0.2 mg/kg for 13 days, intraperitoneally) along with NS (RES + NS), a group administered HES (100 mg/kg for 14 days, orally) plus RES vehicle (HES + VR), and finally the group receiving both RES and HES. Following treatment, assessments for catalepsy and memory were performed. The enzymatic activity within the hippocampus, specifically for catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), was measured employing the ELISA method. Simultaneously, the malondialdehyde (MDA) level was quantified employing the thiobarbituric acid assay, while we evaluated the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) using the Ellman method in the hippocampus. Neuronal density in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions was assessed using stereological techniques. Results: The results indicated a significant decrease in cataleptic behavior, AChE activity, and MDA levels, along with an increase in CAT, SOD, GPx, and neuronal density in both CA1 and CA3 regions, alongside enhancements in working and avoidance memory in the RES + HES group in relation to the RES + NS group. Also, HES inhibited the RES-elicited rise in AChE levels within the hippocampus. Conclusions: Hesperidin enhances the hippocampus's antioxidant function, regulates cholinergic activity, and offers neuroprotection against RES-elicited motor-cognitive impairments.
Shikonin Inhibits Oral Cancer Progression Through Suppression of Metastasis and Angiogenesis and Induction of Autophagy and Apoptosis
(Brieflands, 2024-11-30) Min Huan Wu; Chien Min Chen; Pei Ying Chou; Ching Chiung Wang; You Jen Tang
Background: Shikonin, a compound extracted from Lithospermum erythrorhizon, has demonstrated therapeutic effects on cancer; however, its effects on oral cancer remain unclear. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the therapeutic value of shikonin for the treatment of oral cancer. Methods: MTT, colony formation, and Transwell assays were employed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of shikonin on the proliferation and migration abilities of human oral cancer cell lines (SCC-4 and SAS). Apoptosis and cell viability were assessed using the TdT-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end-labeling (TUNEL) assay. To investigate the potential anticancer mechanisms of shikonin, RNA sequencing, quantitative PCR, and western blotting were performed to analyze changes in the expression levels of oral cancer cell-related genes and proteins (matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9), VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Beclin-1, autophagy-related genes (ATG5), and light chain-3 (LC-3)). Additionally, animal xenograft experiments were conducted to examine the in vivo antitumor effects of shikonin. Results: The findings revealed that the external application of shikonin specifically targeted oral cancer cells without affecting normal cells and led to a dose-dependent inhibition of their growth. Even at non-lethal doses, shikonin effectively suppressed the production of metalloproteinases, thereby inhibiting cancer cell migration and wound healing. Furthermore, shikonin treatment reduced levels of tumor progression factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A and VEGF-C, which are released during the early stages of cancer cell angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Meanwhile, higher doses of shikonin induced cell autophagy and activated proteins such as ATG-5, LC-3B, and Beclin-1. At lethal doses, shikonin further decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, released calcium ions, and triggered apoptotic pathways. However, the administration of a calcium ion chelator (BAPTA-AM) inhibited shikonin-induced apoptosis. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that shikonin induces autophagy and activates apoptotic pathways in oral cancer cells. Shikonin treatment significantly inhibited oral cancer growth and induced apoptosis in a rat model. In conclusion, shikonin effectively inhibited oral cancer cell growth, metastasis, and the expression of tumor progression-related proteins. Given the ease of drug delivery to the affected area in oral cancer, shikonin holds substantial potential for future applications that may improve patient recovery and enhance cure rates.
Isolation and Identification of Effective Probiotics on Staphylococcus epidermidis Strains Isolated from Urine Sample
(Brieflands, 2024-11-30) Ghazaleh Amini; Hassan Pourmoshtagh
Background: The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcusepidermidis strains underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic approaches. Probiotics, known for their ability to competitively exclude pathogens and modulate host immune responses, present promising potential in combating S. epidermidis infections. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics in inhibiting the growth of S.epidermidis. Methods: Staphylococcus epidermidis was isolated from urine samples of hospitalized patients in Isfahan, Iran. Probiotics were isolated from yogurt and milk. The antibacterial activity of these probiotics was assessed using agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Time-kill assays and acid tolerance tests were also conducted. Anti-biofilm effects were evaluated, and the potential inhibitory mechanisms were explored through chemical analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cytotoxicity was assessed via 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. Results: Two probiotic strains, Streptococcus lutetiensis OR496927.1 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum OR496928, were successfully isolated from dairy products. Both strains exhibited cytotoxic effects on S. epidermidis isolates, with S. lutetiensis demonstrating significant activity at 1/2 minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and L. plantarum at 1/4 MIC. L. plantarum thrived at pH 3, while S. lutetiensis exhibited growth at both pH 3 and 4. Both probiotics showed anti-biofilm activity, though L. plantarum demonstrated stronger effects overall. The strains produced lactic, formic, and acetic acids, which were key factors in their inhibitory effects. Toxicity was observed at a concentration of 50% after 24 hours, while cell viability remained unaffected at lower concentrations. Conclusions: The findings highlight the potential of probiotics to address antibiotic-resistant S. epidermidis infections. Further research is necessary to explore their therapeutic applications and optimize treatment strategies.
Gene Therapy in Cardiovascular Research
(Brieflands, 2012-10-07) Arpad Tosaki
This article does not have an abstract.
Biopharmaceutical Application of Microwave Technology and the Scalability Concerns
(Brieflands, 2022-01-05) Olalere Abayomi Olusegun; Gan Chee-Yuen
This article does not have an abstract.
Vaginal and Rectal Dosage Forms in Iranian Traditional Pharmacy
(Brieflands, 2015-05-01) Maryam Mosaffa Jahromi; Hajar Ghaemi; Mehdi Ajdary Tafti; Atefeh Arabzadeh; Suleiman Afsharypuor
Background: Various dosage forms have been introduced in Iranian Traditional Pharmaceutical Pharmacopoeias. One important category of these dosage forms because of local and systemic efficacy was intra vaginal and intra rectal dosage forms. Objectives: The aim of this study is the investigation about Iranian Traditional Pharmaceutical dosage forms of vaginal and rectal medications. Materials and Methods: A wide-ranging search in main Iranian Traditional Pharmacy text books and web engines performed to introduce vaginal and rectal dosage forms in Iranian Traditional Pharmacy. Results: Most common vaginal and rectal dosage forms mentioned in Iranian Traditional Pharmacy documents include vaginal or rectal fumigation (Bakhoor), vaginal or rectal cotton-load (Hamool), vaginal or rectal wick (Fateelah), vaginal pessary (Forzajah), vaginal or rectal suppository (Shiaf), vaginal or rectal enema (Hoghnah), penis fossa drop (Ghatoor) and vaginal or rectal oil (Dohn). All of them are applied for treatment of vaginal or rectal illnesses or systemic disorders. Conclusions: Evaluation of Iranian Traditional Dosage Forms like vaginal and rectal types could be an attractive topic of research and the current study can briefly represent the Iranian Traditional Pharmaceutical knowledge on vaginal and rectal drug delivery.
Protective Effect of Valsartan on Beleomycine-Induced Fibrosis
(Brieflands, 2017-02-28) Hoda Mojiri Forushani; Ali Asghar Hemmati; Ali Khodadadi; Mohammad-Ali Assarehzadegan; Mohammad Rashno
Background: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is among the world’s most prevalent and common respiratory system diseases. Several previous studies have revealed the contribution of angiotensin in the pathogenesis of PF; subsequently, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor antagonists (ARDs) have been proposed for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis using therapeutic approaches. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the anti-fibrotic effect of valsartan as an angiotensin receptor blocker. Methods: Rats were given a single intratracheal administration of bleomycin (7.5 IU/kg); valsartan (20, 40, 80 mg/kg/day) was administrated to the rats orally, starting seven days before the induction of lung fibrosis and continuing until the end of the study. The control group received a vehicle. Results: The rats that received valsartan exhibited decreased hydroxyprolin content and pulmonary index values. Pathological examination showed that valsartan could prevent inflammation and fibrotic scarring induced by bleomycin. Conclusions: Valsartan displayed an anti-fibrotic and protective effect against bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in an animal model.
Optimization of Calcium Alginate Hydrogel Bioencapsulation of Acinetobacter junii B6, a Lipopeptide Biosurfactant Producer
(Brieflands, 2023-05-31) Mohammadhossein Ahmadi Borhanabadi; Mohammad Amin Raeisi Estabragh; Gholamreza Dehghannoudeh; Ibrahim M Banat; Mandana Ohadi; Mohammad Hassan Moshafi
Background: Biosurfactants are derived from microbes, plants, and animals. Acinetobacter junii B6 is a lipopeptide biosurfactant producer previously investigated for its structure, physicochemical, and product aggregation properties. Objectives: In this study, we investigated and optimized the bioencapsulation of A. junii B6 in calcium alginate hydrogel. Methods: Acinetobacter junii B6 was encapsulated using calcium alginate hydrogel. The formulation of the hydrogel was optimized using a full factorial approach. Sodium alginate concentration, calcium chloride concentration, and hardening time were selected as the main factors, and surface tension was the response measure. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to study the bead's morphology. Results: Scanning electron microscope image showed rounded and smooth beads. The most biosurfactant production and reduced surface tension (35.98 mN/m) were observed at concentrations of 1% calcium chloride, (1%) sodium alginate, and 15 minutes of hardening time. Acinetobacter junii B6 can be encapsulated in alginate hydrogels producing biosurfactant at optimum experimental design. Conclusions: This represents a practical method for optimizing the bioencapsulation of A. junii B6 to produce biosurfactants.
In Vitro Anthelmintic Effect of Ferula assa-foetida Hydroalcoholic Extract Against Flukes of Fasciola hepatica and Dicrocoelium dendriticum
(Brieflands, 2023-02-28) Mohsen Arbabi; Atefeh Haddad; Monireh Esmaeli; Hossein Hooshyar; Mojtaba Sehat
Background: Dicrocoeliasis and fascioliasis are foodborne parasitic diseases of the biliary tract, resulting from Dicrocoelium dendriticum and Fasciola hepatica causing extensive financial losses and serious health problems in ruminants. Due to low-performance medications, drug delivery is a tremendous project to improve interventions available for these diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the anthelmintic properties of Ferula assa-foetida extract against F. hepatica and D. dendriticum using in vitro assay. Methods: The effects of diverse concentrations of F. assa-foetida extract (400 - 1000 µg/mL) for 12-24 hours were examined for the treatment of D. dendriticum and F. hepatica. The anthelmintic efficacies were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The MTT assay was carried out to evaluate the cell viability of all cells in culture media. Results: The SEM images of treated worms by F. assa-foetida extract (200 µg/mL) confirmed excessive damage, which included an entire lack of sensory papillae and destruction of distinguished network structures and tegument vesicles. Variables of duration and concentration presented a considerable effect on both the mortality rate and the anthelmintic properties of F. assa-foetida; accordingly, as the time and concentration increased, the mortality rate became higher. Based on the MTT assay, the toxicity of F. assa-foetida at 800 µg/mL concentration was 8.7%. Therefore, it can be argued that F. assa-foetida had anthelmintic properties. Conclusions: This is the first study that evaluated the impact of F. assa-foetida on liver flukes of D. dendriticum and F. hepatica. Therefore, it paved the way for further studies on the control of those trematodes. It is recommended to document and look into the indigenous understanding of viable medicinal plants to provide evidence for their use.
Cloning, Transformation and Expression of Human Interferon α2b Gene in Tobacco Plant (Nicotiana tabacum cv. xanthi)
(Brieflands, 2012-08-25) Shahrzad Ahangarzadeh; Mohammad Hosein Daneshvar; Hamid Rajabi-Memari; Hamid Galehdari; Khalil Alamisaied
Background: Molecular farming is the production of important recombinant proteins in transgenic organisms on an agricultural scale. Interferons are proteins with antiviral and antitumor activities and can be used for viral infections and cancers treatments. Objectives: This study reports the transformation of INF α2b gene in tobacco plant for the first time in Iran. Materials and Methods: Interferon α2b gene was amplified by PCR using specific primers containing appropriate restriction enzymes, plant highly expression sequence and Histidine tag sequence. Target sequence was cloned in plant expression vector pCAMBIA1304 and the construct named pCAMINFα. pCAMINFα was transferred to E. coli strain DH5α and plated on LB agar medium containing kanamycin 50 mgl-1. The colonies were confirmed by colony PCR and sequencing. The construct was transferred into Agrobacterium tumefaciens by freeze-thaw method and transformed colonies were confirmed by colony PCR. Tobacco plants (cultivar xanthi) were inoculated with A. tumefaciens strain LBA4404 by leaf disc method. Inoculated explants were cultured on MSII (MS + BAP 1mgl-1 + NAA 0.1 mgl-1) at 28°C and darkness for 48 hours. Then explants were transferred to selection medium containing cephotaxime (250 mgl-1) and hygromycin (15 mgl-1) in a 16/8 (day/night) h photoperiod in growth room with an irradiance of 5000 lux. Transgenic plants were regenerated and transferred to perlite. Genomic DNA was extracted from regenerated plants by Dellaporta method at 5-leaf step and transgenic lines were confirmed by PCR with specific primers. Expression of Interferon α2b gene was confirmed by dot blotting. Conclusions: Since no report of interferon alpha production in plants in Iran has been expressed yet, this research could create a field of producing this drug in tobacco, in Iran.
Saffron Reduced Toxic Effects of its Constituent, Safranal, in Acute and Subacute Toxicities in Rats
(Brieflands, 2013-02-20) Toktam Ziaee; Bibi Marjan Razavi; Hossein Hosseinzadeh
Background:: Saffron and its constituents are widely used around the world as a spice and medicinal plant. Different constituents in medicinal herbs are thought to have the potential to induce useful and/or adverse effects. So, efforts have been made to find the best and most valuable tools to reduce their adverse effects. Objectives:: According to Iranian traditional medicine (ITM), it is believed that administration of whole herbs exhibits more activity and fewer side effects than isolated constituents. Since toxicological studies have indicated that safranal is more toxic than other active components in saffron stigma, thus this study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of co-administration of saffron extract and safranal in acute and sub-acute toxicities in rats. Materials and Methods:: In acute toxicity, rats received safranal (1.2 mL/kg, IP) plus saffron aqueous extract (25-100 mg/kg, IP). One and four days after the treatment, percentage of mortality was assessed. In subacute toxicity, rats were randomly divided into six groups. Group 1) safranal (0.2 mL/kg, IP), Groups 2, 3 and 4) safranal plus saffron aqueous extract (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, IP) Groups 5 and 6) Paraffin and normal saline, as solvents of safranal and saffron aqueous extract, respectively. Treatments were continued for 21 days. For sub-acute toxicity, the percentages of lethality as well as some biochemical parameters were evaluated. Results:: Our results showed that four days co-treatment of safranal and saffron significantly reduced mortality, so that the effect was more obvious in lower doses. Sub-acute toxicity studies showed that saffron could increase survival in rats so that no mortality was observed at dose of 10 mg/kg. Our data also indicated that the levels of triglyceride, BUN and ALT significantly increased after sub-acute interaperitoneal (IP) administration of safranal (0.2 mL/kg/day) and co-treatment of saffron aqueous extract (5 and 10 mg/kg) plus safranal significantly improved all toxic effects of safranal on biochemical parameters. Conclusions:: The co-administration of saffron aqueous extract and safranal reduced toxic effects of safranal in acute and sub-acute toxicities.
Role of Polysaccharides in Colon-Specific Drug Delivery
(Brieflands, 2015-08-01) Abbas Akhgari
This article does not have an abstract.
An Alternative Approach for Improved Entrapment Efficiency of Hydrophilic Drug Substance in PLGA Nanoparticles by Interfacial Polymer Deposition Following Solvent Displacement
(Brieflands, 2018-12-02) Sara Salatin; Jaleh Barar; Mohammad Barzegar-Jalali; Khosro Adibkia; Farhad Kiafar; Mitra Jelvehgari
Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-related and irreversible neurological disorder. The low efficacy of current therapeutic strategies is related to both poor drug potency and the presence of various obstacles in the delivery routes, such as blood-brain barrier (BBB) that limits the uptake of most drugs by the brain. Rivastigmine hydrogen tartrate (RHT) is used in mild to moderate forms of AD therapy. Objectives: The present study described the use of Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs), as effective delivery vehicles, to improve the therapeutic efficiency of RHT. Methods: RHT-loaded PLGA NPs were prepared using interfacial polymer deposition, following solvent displacement method with different ratios of polymer: Drug. The NPs were studied for entrapment efficiency, particle size, and surface morphology, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In vitro drug release from NPs was also assessed by a modified dissolution method. Results: The entrapment efficiency of RHT in NPs was found to be between 27.71 ± 6.86 and 45.70 ± 11.06 and the average size was about 75.14 to 173 nm. The zeta potential was negative (-2.28 to -10.5 mV), as determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The drug released from NP formulations was between 69.98% and 89% upon 24 hours, which indicated improved sustained drug release characteristics. Conclusions: These results suggested the potential usefulness of PLGA NPs for the delivery of RHT in a sustained and controlled manner.
Inhibition of Aldose Reductase and Sorbitol Accumulation by Hydroalcoholic Extract of Propolis
(Brieflands, 2016-02-01) Mohammad Aberomand; Maliheh Parvank; Ghorban Mohammadzadeh; Zahra Ramezani
Background: Increased polyol pathway activity and subsequent occurrences, and particular sorbitol accumulation are noticed in the development of various secondary complications of diabetes. Aldose reductase (ALR2) or aldo-ketoreductase (AKR1B1) as the first and rate limiting enzyme of this pathway is a good target for new drugs for diabetes complications. A good inhibitor should inhibit aldehyde reductase (ALR1), the other member of this family lesser than ALR2. Bee propolis is a known substance in ancient medicine, but its effect on polyol pathway is unknown. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of propolis (HAEP) on partial purified bovine lens ALR2, also the effect of HAEP on sorbitol accumulation in human erythrocytes in high-glucose condition (ex vivo). Materials and Methods: Total protein was determined by lowery method. Bovine lens ALR2 was partially purified by gel filtration chromatography on sephadexTM G25. Bovine cortex kidney ALR1 was partially purified by diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) precipitation. The hydroalcoholic extract was obtained from frozen propolis. The enzyme activity and sorbitol accumulation in erythrocytes were determined spectroflourimetrically. Results: It was found that ethyl acetate (EthAc) fraction (the more potent fraction) of HAEP inhibited ALR2 by IC50 value of 1.12 mg/mL up to 50% and this fraction can inhibit ALR2 8.25-fold greater than ALR1. In addition, it was found that this fraction could decrease sorbitol accumulation in human erythrocytes under high-glucose condition. Conclusions: The obtained results indicated that propolis may be a good candidate for more studies to find new drugs for the treatment of secondary complications of diabetes.
The Effects of Doxorubicin, Ethanol Extract and Flavonoid-rich Fraction of Euphorbia Splendida Mobayen on the PARP Level, and APC Gene Expression in HT-29 Human Colon Cancer Cell Line
(Brieflands, 2020-08-31) Mojdeh Aein; Soudabeh Fallah; Fatemeh Ahmadpour; Sheyda Dabili; Asie Shojaii; Reza Fadaei
Background: Natural products derived from various sources are being used to develop chemotherapeutic drugs. Euphorbiaceae is widely used to treat different types of cancers. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second and third cause of cancer in women and men, respectively. CRC is strongly associated with the deregulation of the Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene and Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase (PPAR) protein. Objectives: The current study aimed to examine the effect of doxorubicin, ethanol extract, and the flavonoid-rich fraction of Euphorbia Splendida Mobayen on colon cancer HT-29 cell line death, APC gene expression, and PPAR concentration. Methods: Following treatment of cells by Euphorbia ethanol extract, Euphorbia flavonoid-rich fraction, and doxorubicin, cell viability assay was used to investigate the viability status of the HT-29 cell line. Total RNA was isolated from the cell line and converted into cDNA. The expression level of the APC gene was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PPAR) protein was detected by the ELIZA method. Results: We found that Euphorbia ethanol extract, Euphorbia flavonoid-rich fraction, and doxorubicin can stimulate dose-dependent cell death in the HT-29 cell line, increase ACP gene expression (P = 0.001, P = 0.041, P = 0.019), and decrease PARP level (P = 0.001, P = 0.001, P = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The findings indicated that doxorubicin, ethanol extract, and the flavonoid-rich fraction of Euphorbia Splendida Mobayen had cytotoxic effects on human colon cancer HT-29 cell line by possibly stimulating apoptosis.
The Effect of Prunus cerasus (Sour Cherry) Kernel Seed Extract on QT Interval of Heart and its Histopathology in Biliary Cirrhosis Induced by Bile Duct Ligation in Rats
(Brieflands, 2015-11-01) Heibatullah Kalantari; Masoumeh Mombeyni; Mahin Dianat; Mohammad Badavi; Mehdi Goudarzi
Background: QT prolongation is a problem that increases the ventricular arrhythmias in the cirrhotic patients. Sour cherry seed extract has been reported to have potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Objectives: This study aimed to find the effect of Prunus cerasus (sour cherry) kernel seed extract on QT interval of heart and its histopathological parameters in rats with biliary cirrhosis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL). Materials and Methods: Thirty-two male Sprague Dawley rats (200 - 250 g) were divided into 4 groups; negative control, cirrhotic, and 2 cirrhotic groups treated with sour cherry kernel extract in doses of 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg orally for 4 weeks. In all groups before BDL and 4 weeks after surgery animals were anesthetized and their electrocardiograms were recorded. After the required period of BDL, liver was isolated and immersed in 10% formalin solution and stained by hematoxylin and eosin for histological studies. Results: Results were analyzed by using Student t-test and one-way ANOVA. P < 0.05 was considered as significant level. The QT interval was calculated using the Bazettʼs formula and corrected QT (QTc) was obtained. Four weeks after BDL, the QTc and amount of total and direct bilirubin in cirrhotic group were found as 213.6 ± 6.8 ms, 10.5 ± 1.02 mg/dL, and 7.9 ± 0.7 mg/dL, respectively. These values significantly increased compared to the negative control group (119.9 ± 6.2 ms, 0.11 ± 0.00102 mg/dL, and 0.1 ± 0.0002 mg/dL) (P < 0.001). Histopathological parameters were reduced in cirrhotic groups treated with extract compared to control cirrhotic group. Conclusions: These results revealed that cirrhosis produce prolonged QT interval and sour cherry extract has an ameliorating effect on QT prolongation probably via its antiarrhythmic property.
Phytochemical Properties and Antibacterial Effects of Salvia multicaulis Vahl., Euphorbia microsciadia Boiss., and Reseda lutea on Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumanii
(Brieflands, 2019-06-26) Majid Asadi-Samani; Mansoor Khaledi; Fatemeh Khaledi; Saeed Samarghandian; Abolfazl Gholipour
Background: Plants have long served as a rich source of drugs. Given some microorganisms’ acquisition of resistance to the current antibiotics, there is a need for discovering new drugs. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate the phytochemical properties and antibacterial effects of Salvia multicaulis Vahl., Euphorbia microsciadia Boiss., and Reseda lutea against Acinetobacter baumanii and Staphylococcus aureus. Methods: In this experimental study, hydroalcoholic (ethanol 70%) plant extracts were prepared by maceration. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were determined by CLSI broth microdilution and Müller-Hinton agar assay for each sample, respectively. Total phenolic content was measured by Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric assay and expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent and total flavonoid content by aluminum chloride colorimetric method and in terms of rutin equivalent. Results: Findings showed that 1, 4, and 1 mg/mL were derived as MICs and 4, 16, and 8 mg/mL as MBCs for S. multicaulis Vahl., E. microsciadia Boiss., and R. lutea, respectively, against S. aureus; 2, 8, and 2 mg/mL were derived as MICs and 16, 32, and 16 mg/mL as MBCs for S. multicaulis Vahl. R. lutea, and E. microsciadia Boiss., respectively, against A. baumanii. In addition, E. microsciadia Boiss. and S. multicaulis Vahl. were found to contain the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content, respectively. Conclusions: The studied plants that were collected from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province can be used to produce antibiotics due to their phenols and flavonoids and exert antibacterial effects on the studied bacteria.
Comparison of the Eight-Hour With the 22-Hour Infusion of 5-Fluorouracil, in the FOLFOX Chemotherapy of Colon Cancer: A Retrospective Study
(Brieflands, 2016-05-01) Hodjatollah Shahbazian; Sasan Razmjoo; Shoale Arvandi; Seyed Mohammad Hosseini; Mehran Hoseinzadeh; Ahmad Ahmadzadeh Deilamani; Fatemeh Mohammadian
Background: The optimal protocol for administration of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in chemotherapy of colorectal cancer is unknown. Objectives: We compared treatment outcomes of short-time infusion of 5-FU (8-hour infusion) with 22-hour infusion, in chemotherapy management of colorectal cancer. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on colon cancer patients, who have been treated for at least 24 weeks with the FOLFOX regimen (5-FU, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin). Patients who had received infusion of 5-FU, either over 8 hours (5-FU 8h) or over 22 hours (5-FU 22h) were selected. The study endpoints were 3 and 5 years disease free survival and overall survival. Results: A total of 58 patients, in the 5-FU 8h, and 50 patients, in the 5-FU 22h groups, were studied. Based on the intention-to-treat analysis, there was a lower overall mortality (44% vs. 22.4%, P = 0.023) and lower overall relapse (46% vs. 18.9%, P = 0.004), as well as a higher 3 years disease free survival (81% vs. 58%, P = 0.011) in the 5-FU 8h, compared with 5-FU 22h group. The Log Rank test showed a difference between the two groups, for disease free survival (P = 0.008), as well as overall survival (P = 0.014), confirmed by Cox Regression analysis: hazard ratio [95% CI] = 0.365 [0.160 to 0.833] and 0.286 [0.100 to 0.817], respectively. Conclusions: We found better outcomes for the colon cancer patients, who had received infusion of 5-FU 8h, compared with 5-FU 22h, in the FOLFOX chemotherapy. These findings should be tested in prospective clinical trials.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil of Tanacetum persicum
(Brieflands, 2017-08-31) Forough Mahdian; Mohaddese Mahboubi; Ebrahim Rahimi; Maryam Moslehi Shad
Background: Tanacetum persicum (Boiss.) Mozaff is a plant with a long history in Iranian traditional medicine as an antiseptic medicinal plant. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of T. persicum essential oil and analyze its chemical composition. Methods: In this study, the chemical composition of the aerial part essential oil of T. persicum was analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy apparatuses. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella enterica by disc diffusion and micro-broth dilution assays. Results: The antioxidant activity of the essential oil was compared with ascorbic acid against ABTS free radicals. Borneol (33.5%), bornyl acetate (12.8%), and linalool (9.1%) were the main components of the essential oil of T. persicum. S. aureus, which has a high inhibition zone diameter (mm) and low minimal inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration values, showed the most sensitivity to essential oil, followed by S. enterica and H. pylori. The antioxidant activity of the essential oil was the same as that of ascorbic acid (IC50 = 20 ppm). Conclusions: The essential oil of T. persicum is a good source of borneol and a valuable antioxidant and antimicrobial agent.
Formulation and Evaluation of Liposomes for Transdermal Delivery of Celecoxib
(Brieflands, 2015-02-01) Eskandar Moghimipour; Anayatollah Salami; Mahsa Monjezi
Background: Celecoxib is a selective cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitor recommended orally to treat arthritis and osteoarthritis. It is a highly lipophilic, poorly soluble drug with oral bioavailability of around 40%. Long term oral administration of celecoxib causes serious gastrointestinal side effects. Objectives: The current study aimed to assess the skin permeation of celecoxib by a transdermally applied liposomal formulation. Materials and Methods: Liposomes were prepared by thin film method using soya lecithin and cholesterol. Physicochemical characteristics of the liposomes such as, particle size, drug encapsulation efficiency were determined. Also, drug release and in vitro skin permeability through rat skin were evaluated using Franz diffusion cells. Results: The results showed that the maximum drug encapsulation efficiency was 43.24%. Drug release profile showed that 81.25% of the drugs released in the first 24 hours of the experiment. Fluxes (Jss), permeability coefficient (P), diffusivity coefficient (D) parameters of the optimum liposomal formulation were significantly higher than those of saturated aqueous solution of celecoxib. The decrease of lecithin increased values. Particle sizes of the formulations ranged from 0.117 to 1.123 µm. Jss, Dapp and P parameters in L - 8 formulations were 29.18, 60.95, and 3.21 times higher than those of saturated water solution of celecoxib, respectively. The results of vesicles characterization indicated the potential application of celecoxib loaded liposome as carrier system. Conclusions: In conclusion, the components such as lecithin and cholesterol, and vortex time in liposomal formulations have an essential role in the physicochemical properties and celecoxib permeability through rat skin.

Browse

Recent Submissions