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Uvaria rufa Blume attenuates benign prostatic hyperplasia via inhibiting 5α-reductase and enhancing antioxidant status
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Traditional medicine has used Uvaria rufa Blume as an ethnomedicinal plant for treating fever, skin allergies, intestinal ulcers and prostate disorders including BPH. However, no scientific evidence supports the traditional use.
Aim of the study:
This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of U. rufa on BPH using in vitro and in vivo models.
Materials and methods:
In vitro studies screened the efficacy of a 5α-reductase (5αR) inhibition and antioxidant activity of petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol and aqueous extracts from the stem of U. rufa. Phytochemical screening was performed to determine the active compound using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Ethyl acetate extract (UR-EtOAc) of U. rufa was used to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy in vivo models. BPH was induced by subcutaneous injection of testosterone propionate (3mg/kg) to male rats for 30 days. After 30 days of oral administration of UR-EtOAc at doses of 10 and 20mg/kg and finasteride at a dose of 1mg/kg, the prostate weight, prostate index (PI), testosterone and androgen receptor (AR) levels, and histopathological alteration of prostate gland were determined. Also, oxidative status and toxicity indices were assessed.
Results:
UR-EtOAc exhibited the highest potency of inhibition of 5αR and possessed potent antioxidants rich in phenolics and flavonoids contents. The active compound analyzed by HPLC was β-sitosterol. In vivo results show a significant reduction in prostate weight, PI, and AR in all treated groups when compared to the BPH model group (P < 0.001). Also, the UR-EtOAc and finasteride treated groups had increased prostatic and serum testosterone levels when compared to the BPH model group. A histopathological investigation of the prostate glands supported the above results. UR-EtOAc elevated the antioxidant enzymes and reduced the malondialdehyde level in BPH-induced rats. Moreover, treatment of UR-EtOAc at all doses had no toxic effects on the vital organs and serum biochemical indices.
Conclusions:
UR-EtOAc from the stem of Uvaria rufa Blume appears to have the potential as a phytotherapeutic agent in the management of BPH, which provides the scientific evidence for traditional use.
... In comparison, asthma and anemia were treated with leaf infusion. Therefore, the process used in this trial to induce the benign prostatic hyperplasia model is that it increases serum testosterone levels that produce an exclusively exogenous induction of benign prostatic hyperplasia, [20,21], which indicates that the same effect occurs molecularly. By disease induction, this description shows us the precise and scientific effect of the production of exclusively exogenously induced benign prostatic hyperplasia, at the end the disease's process was also demonstrated once again [21]. ...
... Therefore, the process used in this trial to induce the benign prostatic hyperplasia model is that it increases serum testosterone levels that produce an exclusively exogenous induction of benign prostatic hyperplasia, [20,21], which indicates that the same effect occurs molecularly. By disease induction, this description shows us the precise and scientific effect of the production of exclusively exogenously induced benign prostatic hyperplasia, at the end the disease's process was also demonstrated once again [21]. ...
... Traditionally, all parts of this plant are used in treating several ailments. Infusion of leaves is used for treating fever while decoction of dried stem is commonly employed in treating haemorrhage, skin allergies, 1,2 intestinal ulcers and prostate disorders including BPH. 3 In addition, the root extract can also induce urine contractions (ecbolic) in pregnant women and the fruits which have sweet flavour are edible and can cure intestinal ulcers. 4 Literature search also revealed that both ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of U. rufa leaves found to have antioxidant properties, 5 while chloroform extract and fractions exhibited antituberculosis activity. ...
... . DHT is an active metabolite of testosterone and is the most potent androgen in men. DHT converted from testosterone by 5-α-reductase binds to the androgen receptor (AR) with high affinity [14]. The binding of DHT to AR induces the proliferation of prostate cells via growth factors [15,16]. ...
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common condition in elderly men that is characterized by an increase in the size of the prostate gland. Cinnamomum cassia and Rosa laevigata have been reported to treat the symptoms associated with BPH. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of HT080, an herbal extract of C. cassia and R. laevigata, on a testosterone propionate (TP)-induced BPH rat model. The rats received a daily subcutaneous injection of TP (3 mg/kg) for 4 weeks to induce BPH. Rats were divided into four groups: group 1 (sham), group 2 (BPH, TP alone), group 3 (Fina, TP + finasteride 1 mg/kg/day), and group 4 (HT080, TP + HT080 200 mg/kg/day). At the end of the experiment, all rats were sacrificed, and their prostate glands were removed, weighed, and subjected to histopathological examination and western blot analyses. Serum testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels were determined. In addition, serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferase levels were measured to evaluate the toxicity in the liver. The Hershberger bioassay was also conducted to investigate the effects of HT080 on androgenic and antiandrogenic activities. In the BPH model, the prostate weight, prostate index, prostate epithelial thickness, and serum testosterone and DHT levels in the HT080 group were significantly reduced compared to the BPH group. Histological studies showed that HT080 reduced prostatic hyperplasia. The protein expression of androgen receptor from the HT080 group was significantly reduced in comparison with the BPH group (p < 0.05). HT080 also induced apoptosis by regulating Bcl-2 and Bax expression. In addition, HT080 showed no toxicity in the liver and did not exhibit androgenic and antiandrogenic activities. Our finding revealed that HT080 can be a potential candidate for the treatment of BPH by regulating androgen receptor signaling and apoptosis.
... Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-malignant progressive, androgen dependent disease resulting in enlargement of the prostate gland, which affects 50% of the male once they reached their fifties and more than 80% of male over the age of eighties. [1,2] It is associated with proliferation of epithelial and stromal cell that occurs in the transition zone of the prostate gland. [3] Clinically BPH is identified by bladder outflow obstruction and urinary tract symptoms (LUTs) that includes urgency to urinate, frequent urination, sensation of incomplete bladder emptying and nocturia that lead to an increased risk of obstruction of the urethra, urinary retention and urinary tract infection. ...
... Although the molecular mechanism of BPH development has not been clearly elucidated, the general consensus is that increased steroid 5αreductase activity is a risk factor for abnormal prostate growth and BPH development (Sun et al., 2011). 5α-Reductase is membrane-bound enzyme in the oxidoreductase family that regulates steroid metabolism (particularly type 1 and type 2 5α-reductase) and irreversibly convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which has a higher affinity for androgen receptors (Buncharoen et al., 2016;Karnsomwan et al., 2017). When 5α-reductase is overexpressed, excessive DHT will dysregulate the hormone levels in the body, resulting in BPH, male pattern baldness, and acne (Metcalf et al., 1989). ...
Carotenoids from Lyciu m barbarum fruits have possessed pharmacological efficacy against eye diseases, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, the efficient extraction, rapid characterization and activities evaluation of Lycium carotenoids remains a challenge. To concentrate and characterize Lycium carotenoids, we have developed ultrasound-assisted extraction methods with different deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and analyzed carotenoids by ultra-performance convergence chromatography coupled with photo diode array detector and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPC²-PDA-Q-TOF-MSE). DESs containing choline chloride and malonic acid presented better extraction efficiency and were more environmentally friendly than other extraction methods. Carotenoids were more quickly profiled (in 11 min) by UPC² compared to by UPLC (in 35 min), with seventeen main peaks were characterized in the MS fragmentation patterns. The in vitro 5α-reductase inhibitory activity of DESs extracts, fractions and components were subsequently assessed, and the predominant component zeaxanthin dipalmitate (ZD) exhibited potent inhibitory activity. Our study provides a chemical and pharmacological basis for the further development of potential new drugs based on Lycium carotenoids.
... 5α-Reductase can convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which has more strong ability to bind androgen receptor [7]. When abnormal or excessive DHT competitively binds the androgen receptor, it will overstimulate differentiation and proliferation of cells, and could further cause BPH [8][9][10]. Whilst levels of testosterone decrease with age, the DHT and androgen receptors of the prostate are still high. ...
The 5α-reductase converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and excess DHT could cause androgen-related diseases such as androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). To discover new 5α-reductase inhibitors, effective drug screening method with high throughput is thus essential. In this study, fully automated chip-based nanoelectrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (nano-ESI-MS) was innovatively utilized as a screening tool for 5α-reductase inhibitory assay in direct infusion mode, which simplified sample pretreatment and greatly improved experimental efficiency. The preliminary data indicated that curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound, exhibited notably 5α-reductase inhibition activity. Moreover, the obtained results of the chip-based nano-ESI-MS were well consistent with those of HPLC-MS, which suggested that the chip-based nano-ESI-MS could be treated as a rapid and high-throughput drugs screening strategy in pharmaceutical development.
Graphical abstract
... Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is characterized by the nonmalignant overgrowth of the prostatic tissue and stromal cells within the transitional zone and periurethral area [1,2]. Although testosterone levels decreased with age could benefit this pathology [3], the major factor is 5-alpha reductase (5-AR), which improves the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level [4]. ...
The effect of Rhodiola sachalinensis Boriss extract irradiated with 50 kGy gamma rays (HKC) on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was investigated. Seven-week-old male SD rats received a subcutaneous injection of 20 mg/kg of testosterone propionate (TP) to induce BPH. Then, the testosterone only group received testosterone, the testosterone + finasteride group received testosterone and finasteride (5 mg/kg), the testosterone + HKC group received testosterone and HKC extract (500 mg/kg). Prostate weight and the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in serum or prostate tissue were determined. The mRNA expressions of 5-alpha reductase (AR) in prostate tissue were also measured. Compared to the control group, prostate weight was significantly improved in the TP group and decreased in the HKC and finasteride-treated groups. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of 5-AR in the prostate was significantly reduced in the HKC and finasteride-treated groups. Similarly, the expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and cytokeratin, which are associated with prostatic enlargement in the HKC and finasteride groups, were much lower than in the TP group. HKC treatment showed similar efficacy to finasteride treatment on rats with testosterone-induced BPH. HKC may be explored as a potential new drug for BPH treatment.
... While, the extract is poured into the eye in order to reduce the ophthalmic inflammation (Scartezzini and Speroni, 2000;Rahman et al., 2005). Likewise, in Sabah and Sarawak, western part of the Malaysia several Annonacaeae species including Enicosanthellum pulchrum, Friesodielsia latifolia, Uvaria grandi, Uvaria rufa are in used a remedy for pedal edema (Nordin et al., 2014), generalized body pain (Araujo et al., 2017), antipyretic (Parmar et al., 1994), and anti-inflammatory (Buncharoen et al., 2016). ...
Inventories of tropical forests have listed Annonaceae as one of the most diverse plant families. For centuries, it is employed in traditional medicines to cure various pathological conditions including snakebite, analgesic, astringent, diarrhea, dysentery, arthritis pain, rheumatism, neuralgia, and weight loss etc. Phytochemical analysis of Annonaceae family have reported the occurrence of alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenes, diterpenes and diterpene flavone glycosides, sterols, lignans, and annonaceous acetogenin characteristically affiliated with Annonaceae sp. Numerous past studies have underlined the pleotropic pharmacological activities of the crude extracts and isolated compounds from Annonaceae species. This review is an effort to abridge the ethnobotany, morphology, phytochemistry, toxicity, and particularly focusing on the anti-inflammatory activity of the Annonaceae species.
A new C-benzylated flavone, uvariaruflavone (1), along with 13 known compounds (2-14) were isolated from the twig and leaf extracts of Uvaria rufa Blume. Their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic methods. Flavones (5-8) and cyclohexene (10) were isolated from U. rufa for the first time. Most of the isolated compounds were evaluated for their α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities. Of these, uvariaruflavone (1) showed the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 44.3 µM, while ferrudiol (12) displayed the highest α-amylase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 73.5 µM.
Lycium fruits have a high content of phenolics as bioactive constituents with various pharmacological effects, but there is a lack of comparative analysis and chemical profiling of phenolics in Lycium fruit varieties. An ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MSE) combined with chemometrics was developed to characterize the phenolics in fruits from four Lycium species, including Lycium barbarum L. (LBL), L. chinense Mill. (LCM), L. barbarum var. auranticarpum (LBA) and L. ruthenicun Murr. (LRM). 63 phenolics were identified according to reported tandem mass fragmentation patterns and the UNIFI scientific informatics platform. Nine phenolics (5, 18, 20, 29, 31, 37, 41, 43, 60) were common and predominant components among four types of Lycium fruit. The partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were analyzed on the basis of a matrix created from 653 sets of data, and 20 Lycium fruits were classified into four groups. Further analysis identified that phenolics profiles were characteristic for each Lycium species, and five markers (13, 29, 31, 35, 99) could be utilized for fruit identification. Subsequently, inhibitory activity against 5α-reductase of phenolic extracts of Lycium fruits showed that LBL extract was the relative better effective, followed by LCM, whereas LBA and LRM showed no activity, which might be associated with the high contents of marker compounds (29, 31, 35, 43, 71, 99) in LBL. These findings will provide guidance for the development of Lycium phenolics with beneficial properties for the prevention and treatment of Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The therapeutic efficacy of the contemporary anti-inflammatory drugs are well established; however, prolonged use of such can often lead to serious and life-threatening side effects. Natural product-based anti-inflammatory compounds with superior efficacy and minimum toxicity can serve as possible therapeutic alternatives in this scenario. Genus Uvaria is a part of Annonaceae family, while the majority of its species are widely distributed in tropical rain forest regions of South East Asia. Uvaria species have been used extensively used as traditional medicine for treating all sorts of inflammatory diseases including catarrhal inflammation, rheumatism, acute allergic reactions, hemorrhoids, inflammatory liver disease and inflamed joints. Phytochemical analysis of Uvaria species has revealed flavones, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, polyoxygenated cyclohexene and phenolic compounds as major phyto-constituents. This review is an attempt to highlight the anti-inflammatory activity of Uvaria species by conducting a critical appraisal of the published literature. The ethnopharmacological relevance of Uvaria species in the light of toxicological studies is also discussed herein. An extensive and relevant literature on anti-inflammatory activity of Uvaria species was collected from available books, journals and electronic databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Proquest and Ovid. Extracts and isolates of Uvaria species exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity through various mechanisms of action. 6,7-di-O-Methyl-baicalein, flexuvarol B, chrysin, (−)-zeylenol, 6-hydroxy-5,7-dimethoxy-flavone, and pinocembrin were the most potent anti-inflammatory compounds with comparable IC50 with positive controls. Therefore, it is suggested that further research should be carried out to determine the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicity of these therapeutically significant compounds, to convert the pre-clinical results into clinical data for drug development and design.
Human steroid 5 alpha-reductases (S5αRs) and NADPH irreversibly reduce testosterone to the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT). S5αR inhibitors are useful treatments for DHT-dependent diseases, including benign prostatic hyperplasia, androgenic alopecia and hair growth, and acne. There are three S5αR isozymes, and there is a need for safer and more isozyme selective inhibitors than finasteride and dutasteride currently licensed. In this study, we review the methods used to screen for S5αR inhibitory activity and describe studies that characterize the ability of herbal preparations and their constituents to inhibit S5αRs. We identified enormous variations between studies in IC50s for finasteride and dutasteride used as standards. Accordingly, we make several recommendations: Stable isozyme specific transfection systems need creating a standardized enzyme/microsome preparation and all three isozymes, as well as androgen receptor binding, should be tested; agreed reaction conditions, especially the substrate concentrations, and separation/quantitation method optimized for high throughput screening; systematic screening of herbal compounds and most extensive use of leads to develop more potent and isozyme specific inhibitors.
Background:
Phytotherapy is becoming a treatment option in management of diseases including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We have shown previously that methyl jasmonate (MeJA) ameliorated BPH, however the underlying mechanism of action remains unknown. This study was designed to investigate in mechanistic terms the protective role of MeJA in BPH.
Methods:
BPH was induced by daily injections of testosterone propionate (TP) (3mg/kg) for 28 days.
Results:
The weight and organo-somatic weight of prostate in BPH rats were 6.8 and 5.1 times higher than castrated-control group, respectively. Inflammatory markers; prostatic myeloperoxidase and total nitric oxide were significantly increased in BPH group. The activity of aniline hydroxylase (Phase I drug metabolizing enzyme) was significantly increased in BPH rats by 22%. In BPH group, immuno-histochemistry revealed strong expression of prostatic inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2 and Bcl2, while mild expression of p53 and Bax were seen. Serum triglyceride and total cholesterol were significantly increased, while HDL-c was decreased in BPH. Interestingly, MeJA and finasteride (singly or combination) attenuated inflammatory indices and induced apoptotic parameters in BPH rats.
Conclusion:
MeJA protects against TP-induced BPH via mechanisms that involve anti-inflammation, induction of apoptosis and inhibition of phase I drug metabolizing enzyme.
Purpose: Oxidative stress has been shown to play an important role in the development of anaemia in malaria. Indeed, increase in total antioxidant status has been shown to be important in recovery from malaria. The antioxidant activities of four medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of malaria in southwestern Nigeria were determined. Methods: The ethanolic extracts of the leaves of Carica papaya Linn. [Caricaceae] , stem bark of Magnifera indica Linn. [Anacardiaceae], leaves of Psidium guajava Linn. [Myrtaceae] and the leaves of Vernonia amygdalina Del. [Compositae], were used in the present study. The plant parts commonly used in the locality in malaria therapy were employed in this study. The plants were screened for the presence of phytochemicals and, their effect on 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl radical (DPPH) was used
to determine their free radical scavenging activity. Results: Phytochemical screening of the plants showed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins and reducing sugars. M. indica did not contain cardiac glycosides and alkaloids while, P. guajava also showed the absence of alkaloids and anthraquinones. Anthraquinones was similarly
absent from V. amygdalina. Concentrations of the plant extracts required for 50% inhibition of DPPH radical scavenging effect (IC50) were recorded as 0.04 mg/ml, 0.313 mg/ml, 0.58 mg/ml, 2.30 mg/ml and 0.054 mg/ml for P. guajava, M. Indica, C. papaya, V. amygdalina and Vitamin C, respectively. Conclusion: All the plants showed potent inhibition of DPPH radical scavenging activity, P. guajava being the most potent. The free radical scavenging (antioxidant) activities of these plants probably contribute to the effectiveness of the above plants in malaria therapy.
Uvaria chamae is a well known medicinal plant in Nigerian traditional medicine for the management of many diseases, but investigations concerning its pharmacological characteristics are rare. In this study, we evaluate its venom neutralizing properties against Naja nigricollis venom in rats. Freshly collected Uvaria chamae leaves were air dried, powdered and extracted in methanol. To study the antivenom properties, albino rats were orally administered with a dose of 400 mg kg −1 body weight and one hour later, the venom was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 0.08 mg kg −1 body weight of rats. Albino rats (male) weighing between 180-200g were randomly divided into five (5) groups of three (3). Groups 1-5 received water, normal saline, venom, Uvaria chamae and venom, Uvaria chamae respectively. Blood clothing time, bleeding time, antipyretic activity, haemoglobin, RBC, WBC, creatine kinase, AST, ALP and ALT activities total protein antioxidant activity and some blood electrolytes, plasma urea and uric acid were measured. Our results showed that Uvaria chamae methanol extract neutralized some biological effects of Naja nigricollis venom. The venom increased the rectal temperature, enzyme activities, bleeding time and other blood parameters. The plant extract was able to reduce these parameters in the extract treated groups. Details of the results are discussed. From this study, it is clear that U. chamae leaf extract had antivenom activity in animal models. The above results indicate that the plant extract possess potent snake venom neutralizing capacity and could potentially be used for therapeutic purpose in case of snake bite envenomation.
The present investigation aimed to appreciate the diuretic and natriuretic activities from south Beninese10 leaves and roots plants aqueous extracts and their extemporary infusions in normal wistar rats. After orally administration of the different aqueous extract at dose 109.6 mg/kg, and extemporary infusion at 7.6 mL/kg (body weight) to Wistar rat, the volume of urine excreted was determined in stepped up test-tube and the quantity of ions (Na⁺, K⁺) by ionic spectrophotometrically measuring. Sarcocephalus Latifolius, Senna siamea and furosemide (as reference drug) showed, in Wistar rat treated, an important significant diuretic activities (≥ 150% and 173.60% respectively). A weak diuretic activity was obtained with Azadirachta Indica, Coconucifera and Mangifera Indica, the step one by Dialium Guineense and Momordica Charantia when the antidiuretic activity was observed from Acanthospermum Hispidum, Crateva Adansonii and Uvaria Chamea. Potassium excretion was significantly increased by Uvaria Chamea, Azadirachta Indica and Momordica Charantia while the seven others plants produced significant increases in sodium ([Na⁺]/[K⁺] ratio > 1) compared to that of furosemide (2.52). The results have showed that the urine of Wistar rathas a pH between 6.7 and 7.8 with an average of 7.2 ± 0.4. Sarcocephalus Latifolius and Senna siamea infusions were the best in terms of diuretic and natriuretic activities and provided quantitative basis for explaining their use in folk Beninese medicine. © 2015, Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research. All right reserved.
This work aims to study the chemical composition and to evaluate the antimicrobial activity, for the first time, of essential oil and non-volatile extracts of Artabotrys velutinus against Klebsiella pneumoniae 818E, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25933, three clinical strains of reference. The chemical analysis of essential oil of Artabotrys velutinus by GC and GC-MS showed that this oil rich in aromatic components (62.6%) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (29.9%) contains 30 compounds representing 98.9% of the oil. The major components of the essential oil were benzyl benzoate (61.2%) also called ascabiol with and E-β-caryophyllene (9.1%). The phytochemical screening of leaves powder of Artabotrys velutinus revealed the presence of saponins, catechin tannins, mucilages, flavonoids, alkaloid, anthocyanins, leuco-anthocyanins, reducing compounds, sterols and terpenes. The in vitro antibacterial activity of the extracts by agar diffusion method showed that only the ethanolic extract of the plant was more effective against E. coli with the highest inhibition zone of 13 mm at 100mg/mL and Minimal Inhibitory Concentration equal to 50 mg/mL. However, the activity of ethanolic extract of this plant was less active than those of reference antibiotics chloramphenicol and gentamycin which were very effective against the strains tested. In sum, essential oil of Artabotrys velutinus and its hydroethanolic extract present weakness antimicrobial activity contrary to its ethanolic extract which possesses moderate activity against clinical strains tested. This study suggests the used of ethanolic extract of Artabotrys velutinus in combination with others active extracts to fight against E. coli.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the hypoglycaemic properties and preliminary phytochemical screening of Uveria chamae. The hypoglycaemic properties of U. chamae was assessed on normoglycaemic rat that received single dose of the extract at 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight and blood glucose levels estimated at 2, 4, and 6 hours (single dose study). The hypoglycaemic property of the extract was also evaluated in normoglycemic rats by oral glucose tolerance test. Phytochemical screening of the extract for the presence of secondary metabolites was performed with standard methods. The extract showed a significant (p<0.05) reduction in blood glucose levels at 2 hours and 6 hours compared to control. The oral glucose tolerance test result also showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in blood glucose levels. The study showed that the extract, U. chamae has hypoglycaemic properties which may be accounted for by the presence of the phytochemicals.
This research is a descriptive and explorative study and is aimed at defining the composition and indication of Thai traditional herbal medicinal preparations which were derived from the ancient Thai medicinal of palm leaf scriptures, chapter no.3, and volume 1. The research investigated by the team of Mahasarakham University committee which consisted of pharmacist, biologists, interpreters and editors. The complete manuscripts contained 5 volumes in Thai Noi, Tham Esarn, khemer and Thai traditional languages. Each traditional medicinal herb diagnosed the symptoms of the patients and treats them with herbal preparations according to their local herbal medicinal knowledge and experiences in order to relieve various symptoms and diseases. These historic formulations were created over a period of hundreds of years before the advent of modern medicine.
Preclinical, epidemiological and prior clinical trial data suggest that green tea catechins (GTCs) may reduce prostate cancer (PCa) risk. We conducted a placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial of Polyphenon E® (PolyE), a proprietary mixture of GTCs, containing 400 mg (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) per day, in 97 men with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) and/or atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP). The primary study endpoint was a comparison of the cumulative one-year PCa rates on the two study arms. No differences in the number of PCa cases were observed: 5/49 (PolyE) versus 9/48 (placebo), P=0.25. A secondary endpoint comparing the cumulative rate of PCa plus ASAP among men with HGPIN without ASAP at baseline, revealed a decrease in this composite endpoint: 3/26 (PolyE) versus 10/25 (placebo), P<0.024. This finding was driven by a decrease in ASAP diagnoses on the Poly E (0/26) compared to the placebo arm (5/25). A decrease in serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) was observed on the PolyE arm [-0.87 ng/ml (95%CI: -1.66, -0.09)]. Adverse events related to the study agent did not significantly differ between the two study groups. Daily intake of a standardized, decaffeinated catechin mixture containing 400 mg EGCG per day for 1 year accumulated in plasma and was well tolerated but did not reduce the likelihood of PCa in men with baseline HGPIN or ASAP.
Copyright © 2015, American Association for Cancer Research.
Pueraria mirifica (PM) extract contains phytoestrogen daidzein and genistein. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of PM extract, daidzein and genistein on a testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia in rats. Testosterone was administered at 3 mg kg−1 to rats followed by the PM extract, daidzein and genistein for a period of 30 days with finasteride as positive control. The testosterone level was increased, indicating inhibition of 5α-reductase converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. This was confirmed by prostate-specific antigen level that significantly decreased when treated with PM extract, daidzein and genistein. The PM extract, daidzein and genistein reduced the increase in the prostate/body weight ratio in testosterone-induced rats. This gives indication that PM extract, daidzein and genistein possessed protective activity for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The analysis of histoarchitechture of the prostate has also shown that there was a significant improvement in prostatic cells of the testosterone-induced rats when treated with PM extract, daidzein and genistein.
The oxidative stress imposed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in many chronic and degenerative diseases. As an important category of phytochemicals, phenolic compounds universally exist in plants, and have been considered to have high antioxidant ability and free radical scavenging capacity, with the mechanism of inhibiting the enzymes responsible for ROS production and reducing highly oxidized ROS. Therefore, phenolic compounds have attracted increasing attention as potential agents for preventing and treating many oxidative stress-related diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, ageing, diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes current knowledge of natural polyphenols, including resource, bioactivities, bioavailability and potential toxicity.
Background:
Several parameters including inflammatory mediators, hormones, dietary factors, inflammatory genes, and oxidative stress (OS) have been considered to play a role in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Prostate tissue damage and OS may lead to compensatory cellular proliferation with resulting hyperplastic growth.
Methods:
We searched MEDLINE for articles in English published up to March 2014 using the key words 'oxidative stress', 'antioxidants' and 'benign prostatic hyperplasia'.
Results:
Prostatic inflammation can cause the generation of free radicals. The extent of oxidative damage can be exacerbated by a decreased efficiency of antioxidant defense mechanisms. The balance between OS and the antioxidant component also has a role in developing prostate disease. Several works show the role of oxidant products and of depletion of antioxidant substances in BPH patients. It is accepted that free radicals play a role in carcinogenesis and that BPH should be considered a premalignant condition which may evolve into prostate cancer. High OS parameters and low antioxidant activity are more prominent in prostate cancer patients compared with BPH and controls.
Conclusions:
Further studies are needed to clarify the potential role of antioxidants in BPH also in view of preventing the progression to prostate cancer.
Bioassay-guided chromatographic purification of the crude -methanolic extract of the Philippine
medicinal plant Uvaria rufa resulted in the isolation and identification of a mixture 1:1 the flavonols
kaempferol (1) and quercitrin (2) on the basis of spectroscopic evidences (UV, IR, and NMR) and comparison
with literature data. Microplate Alamar Blue assay showed moderately strong antitubercular activity for these
flavonol derivatives.
Background:
Annona muricata L. has been reported to possess antitumor and antiproliferative properties. Not much work has been done on its effect on BPH-1 cell lines, and no in vivo studies targeting the prostate organ exist. The study determined the effect of A muricata on human BPH-1 cells and prostate organ.
Methods:
The MTT assay was performed on BPH-1 cells using the aqueous leaf extract of A muricata. Cells (1 × 10(5) per well) were challenged with 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg/mL extract for 24, 48, and 72 hours. Cell proliferation and morphology were examined microscopically. BPH-1 cells (1 × 10(4) per well) were seeded into 6-well plates and incubated for 48 hours with 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg/mL A muricata extract. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was performed using mRNA extracted from the cells. Possible target genes, Bax and Bcl-2, were examined. Twenty F344 male rats (≈200 g) were gavaged 30 mg/mL (10 rats) and 300 mg/mL (10 rats) and fed ad libitum alongside 10 control rats. Rats were sacrificed after 60 days. The prostate, seminal vesicles, and testes were harvested for histological examination.
Results:
Annona muricata demonstrated antiproliferative effects with an IC50 of 1.36 mg/mL. Best results were obtained after 48 hours, with near cell extinction at 72 hours. Bax gene was upregulated, while Bcl-2 was downregulated. Normal histological architecture was observed for all testes. Seminal vesicle was significantly reduced in test groups (P < .05) and demonstrated marked atrophy with increased cellularity and the acinii, empty of secretion. Prostate of test groups were reduced with epithelial lining showing pyknotic nucleus, condensation, and marginalization of the nuclear material, characteristic of apoptosis of the glandular epithelium. Furthermore, scanty prostatic secretion with flattening of acinar epithelial lining occurred.
Conclusion:
Annona muricata has antiproliferative effects on BPH-1 cells and reduces prostate size, possibly through apoptosis.
Root barks and leaves of Uvaria chamae used traditionally in the treatment of diarrhea, cough and urinary tract infections (UTI), were extracted by maceration in ethanol and boiling water. The extracts were tested by agar diffusion method, for activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Bacillus subtilis isolated from hospital patients. The agar diffusion method was used to determine the extracts' antibacterial potentials at different concentrations of 50 mg ml -1 , 100 mg ml -1 , 150 mg ml -1 , 200 mg ml -1 and 250 mg ml -1 . The results indicated that the extracts did not inhibit the growth of B. subtilis while the other isolates were inhibited to varying degrees. The largest zone of growth inhibition for the ethanol root bark extract was recorded with S. aureus with a zone diameter of 16.6 mm at 250 mg ml -1 while for the ethanol leave extract the largest zone of inhibition was 15.1 mm on E. coli at 250 mg ml -1 concentration. Sa. typhi was not inhibited by the 100 mg ml -1 and 50 mg ml -1 concentration of the ethanol extracts while P. aeruginosa was not inhibited by the 100 and 50 mg ml-1 concentrations of the leave extracts. The water extracts did not inhibit the growth of the test isolates at 150 – 50 mg ml -1 concentrations. However, the ethanol extracts were more inhibitory on the isolates than the water extracts. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the ethanol root bark extracts on E. coli, Staph aureus, P. aeruginosa and Sa. typhi were 72.44 mg ml -1 , 50.19 mg ml -1 , 45.71 mg ml -1 and 131.83 mg ml -1 respectively while the MIC of the ethanol leaves extracts were 61.66 mg ml -1 , 79.43 mg ml -1 , 125.89 mg ml -1 , and 105.93 mg ml -1 respectively. The MIC of the water extracts ranged from 120.23 mg ml -1 observed on S. aureus to 131.83 mg ml -1 observed on E. coli. The observed antibacterial effects were believed to be due to the presence of alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids identified in the extracts. The results apparently justify their use in traditional medicine especially in the treatment of UTI and diarrhea, and are of significance in the health care delivery system. [The Journal of American Science. 2007;3(3):68-73]. (ISSN: 1545-1003). INTRODUCTION Uvaria chamae belongs to the family Annonaceae (Irvine, 1961). It is a small tree that grows to about 4.5m high. It is commonly found in the savanna and rain forest regions of Nigeria and other African countries. It is called "Mmimi ohia", "Kas kaifi" and "Akisan" amongst the Ibos, Hausas and Yorubas respectively (Adetunji, 1999). The fruits are yellow when ripe and have a sweet pulp which is widely eaten. The fruit carpels are in finger-like clusters. All parts of the plant are fragrant. The root barks, stem barks and leaves have a wide spread medicinal use. In Nigeria a decoction of the stem is used on the treatment of diarrhea (Igoli et al., 2005). Personal interaction with traditional medicinal practitioners indicated that they use the various parts of the plant in the treatment of cough, various stomach problems and urinary tract infections. They also apply the saps from the roots, stem and leaves to wounds and sores for quick and proper healing of wounds. The use of this plant and its extracts in treatment of infections is very popular amongst the traditional medical practitioners of South Eastern Nigeria, even when the acclaimed antimicrobial effects have not been established. This work is therefore undertaken to authenticate the plant's antimicrobial potentials.
Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activities of the methanolic extract of Piper betle leaves (MPBL).
Materials and Methods: MPBL was evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity using carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model. Analgesic activity of MPBL was evaluated by hot plate, writhing, and formalin tests. Total phenolic and flavonoids content, total antioxidant activity, scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, peroxynitrate (ONOO) as well as inhibition of total ROS generation, and assessment of reducing power were used to evaluate antioxidant potential of MPBL.
Results: The extract of MPBL, at the dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg, produced a significant (p<0.05) increase in pain threshold in hot plate method whereas significantly (p<0.05) reduced the writhing caused by acetic acid and the number of licks induced by formalin in a dose-dependent manner. The same ranges of doses of MPBL caused significant (p<0.05) inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema after 4 h in a dose-dependent manner. In DPPH, ONOO-, and total ROS scavenging method, MPBL showed good antioxidant potentiality with the IC50 value of 16.33±1.02, 25.16±0.61 , and 41.72±0.48 µg/ml, respectively with a significant (p<0.05) good reducing power.
Conclusion: The findings of the study suggested that MPBL has strong analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, conforming the traditional use of this plant for inflammatory pain alleviation to its antioxidant potentiality.
Phytosterols are a group of steroids alcohols which had been regarded as a functional factor. An unknown compound in phytosterol samples and phytosterol standard samples was detected by HPLC using symmetry C18 column. The quan- tity of the compound was increased with the enrichment of β-sitosterol. After being collected and analyzed by GC-MS and compared with standard diagram from Wiley and Nist standard chart library, it proved to be γ-sitosterol, a 24β epimer of β-sitosterol.
A questionnaire-guided ethno-medical survey of the Igede speaking communities of Benue state (Nigeria) was conducted. 90 plant species from 45 families were identified covering 109 recipes against 35 ailments, including internal, external infections and parasitic diseases as well as poisons, pesticides, cuisine and for veterinary purposes. Ageratum conyzoides was the only plant used in HIV/AIDS disease. Mode of preparation, dosage regimen, plant(s) and part(s) used are reported. The importance of this kind of documentation in research and bio-conservation are discussed.
Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is a major cause of lower urinary tract symptoms, with an increased volume of transitional zone and associated with increased stromal cells. It is known that androgen/androgen receptor (AR) signaling plays a key role in development of BPH, and that blockade of this signaling decreases BPH volume and can relieve lower urinary tract symptoms, but the mechanisms of androgen/AR signaling in BPH development remain unclear, and the effectiveness of current drugs for treating BPH is still limited. The detailed mechanisms of androgen/AR signaling need to be clarified, and new therapies are needed for better treatment of BPH patients. This review focuses on roles of AR in epithelial and stromal cells in BPH development. In epithelial cells, AR may contribute to BPH development via epithelial cell-stromal cell interaction with alterations of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, leading to proliferation of stromal cells. Data from several mouse models with selective knockout of AR in stromal smooth-muscle cells and/or fibroblasts indicate that the AR in stromal cells can also promote BPH development. In prostatic inflammation, AR roles in infiltrating macrophages and epithelial and stromal cells have been linked to BPH development, which has led to discovery of new therapeutic targets. For example, targeting AR with the novel AR degradation enhancer ASC-J9 offers a potential therapeutic approach against BPH development.
Context:
Pisonia aculeata leaves (Nyctagenaceae), a Folk medicinal plant used in the treatment of several inflammation, pain, and oxidative stress associated diseases.
Objective:
To evaluate anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant potential of crude methanol extract of P. aculeata leaves (MEPA).
Materials and methods:
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of MEPA (250 and 500 mg/kg) were evaluated using writhing, formalin, hot plate, tail flick, carrageenan-induced paw edema test, and membrane stabilizing activity. Free radical scavenging activity, total phenolic and flavonoid contents of MEPA were also determined using standard methods.
Results:
Oral administration of MEPA showed significant (p < 0.001) inhibition of paw edema, pronounced at 4 h and 5 h after carrageenan injection, and at 200 µg/mL exerts 77.67 and 38.51% protective effect against hypotonic solution and heat induced hemolysis, respectively. MEPA (250 and 500 mg/kg) produced 35.21 and 79.14% inhibition of acetic acid-induced writhing. Furthermore, MEPA (500 mg/kg) inhibited 49.19% early and 73.14% late phase of formalin-induced hypernociception. In contrast, a lower dose of MEPA did not prevent hot plate induced nociception, while in the tail immersion method, pronounced analgesic activity was observed between 1 and 4 h postdosing. The extract possesses significant in vitro antioxidant activity and a lipid peroxidation inhibition effect. Total phenolic and total flavonoid content in MEPA were 87.99 ± 0.87 mg GAE/g and 58.98 ± 0.01 mg QE/g, respectively.
Discussion and conclusion:
Our findings confirmed the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Pisonia aculeata leaves. Contents of flavonoids and phenolic compounds in extract could be correlated with its observed biological activities.
Reactive oxygen species and other free radicals are known to be the mediators of phenotypic and genotypic changes that lead from mutation to neoplasia. There are some primary antioxidants such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and reduced glutathione, which protect against callular and molecular damage caused by the reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs). The present study was conducted to determine the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), as an index of lipid peroxidation, along with the GPx, GSTs activities and level of reduced glutathione in 45 prostate cancer (PC) patients, 55 benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) patients as compared to the controls. Significant higher levels of MDA and GSTs activities in the serum, (P<0.005) and significant lower levels of reduced GSH concentration and GPx activity in blood haemolysates (P<0.05) of PC and BPH patients were observed as compared to the controls. The relatively higher GSTs activity and low level of reduced GSH may be due to the response of increased reactive oxygen metabolites production in the blood. The higher MDA and lower GPx activities may be inadequate to detoxify high levels of H(2)O(2) into H(2)O leading to the formation of the(*)OH radical followed by MDA. This result hypothesizes that oxidant-antioxidant imbalance may be one of the major factor responsible for the development of prostate cancer and benign prostate hyperplasia.
In benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) there will be a sudden impact on overall quality of life of patient. This disease occurs normally at the age of 40 or above and also is associated with sexual dysfunction. Thus, there is a need of update on current medications of this disease. The presented review provides information on medications available for BPH. Phytotherapies with some improvements in BPH are also included. Relevant articles were identified through a search of the English-language literature indexed on MEDLINE, PUBMED, Sciencedirect and the proceedings of scientific meetings. The search terms were BPH, medications for BPH, drugs for BPH, combination therapies for BPH, Phytotherapies for BPH, Ayurveda and BPH, BPH treatments in Ayurveda. Medications including watchful waitings, Alpha one adrenoreceptor blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, combination therapies including tamsulosin-dutasteride, doxazosin-finasteride, terazosin-finasteride, tolterodine-tamsulosin and rofecoxib-finasteride were found. Herbal remedies such as Cernilton, Saxifraga stolonifera, Zi-Shen Pill (ZSP), Orbignya speciosa, Phellodendron amurense, Ganoderma lucidum, Serenoa Repens, pumpkin extract and Lepidium meyenii (Red Maca) have some improvements on BPH are included. Other than these discussions on Ayurvedic medications, TURP and minimally invasive therapies (MITs) are also included. Recent advancements in terms of newly synthesized molecules are also discussed. Specific alpha one adrenoreceptor blockers such as tamsulosin and alfuzosin will remain preferred choice of urologists for symptom relief. Medications with combination therapies are still needs more investigation to establish as preference in initial stage for fast symptom relief reduced prostate growth and obviously reduce need for BPH-related surgery. Due to lack of proper evidence Phytotherapies are not gaining much advantage. MITs and TURP are expensive and are rarely supported by healthcare systems.
Population explosion is a major problem it is raising tremendously; this may affect the economic growth: so family planning has been promoted through several methods of contraception. a wide variety of synthetic contraceptive agents are available, but these cannot be used continuously due to their side effects. Thus, present study was to evaluate the effect of 70% hydroalcoholic extract (HAAH) of leaves of Artabotrys hexapetalus (Linn. f) on fertility of male wistar rats and female Sprague dawley rats and rabbits. Male wistar rats were orally administered with hydroalcoholic extract of the leaves of Artabotrys hexapetalus (Linn. f) (200, 400, 600mg/kg. p.o, for 45 days), effect of extract on reproductive organs, sperm count, serum testosterone, testicular cholesterol and alkaline phosphates levels were evaluated and changes in testicular histology was compared with the control rats. Progestogenic activity assay was performed by pregnancy maintenance test in female Sprague dawley rats. Progestogenic activity the number of viable fetus seen at the time of autopsy (on the 20th day) and the net success index was compared with control rats and HAAH treated rats. Clauberg Assay was performed to investigate the probable progestational or antiprogestational mechanism of antifertility in immature female rabbits. Progestational activity assessed by ability to produce endometrial proliferation by HAAH and anti- progestational activity is assessed ability to inhibit proliferation induced by the treatment with norethisterone and HAAH. The treatment caused decrease in weight of testis, seminal vesicles, epididymis and sperm count, serum testosterone testicular cholesterol and alkaline phosphates level and the histological examination of testis revealed that decrease in the diameter of seminiferous tubule sever hypercellularity of leydig cells. Pregnancy maintenance was assessed and it is non- progestogenic. Clauberg assay (endometrial proliferation) in immature it does not shown either progestational or anti-progestational activities.
Isolation of compounds from methanol extract of the stem bark of Uvaria rufa has been conducted by using radial chromatography. Their structures were elucidated by UV, IR, NMR and mass spectroscopy, and by comparison with the literature. Seven compounds were isolated namely benzyl benzoate (1), caryophyllene oxide (2), glutinol (3), 5-hydroxy-7-methoxyflavone (4), 5-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavone (5), 2,5-dihydroxy-7-methoxyflavanone (6) and 5,7-dihydroxyflavanone (7). Separation of the caryophyllene oxide (2), glutinol (3) and 5,7-dihydroxyflavanone (7) from Uvaria rufa has never been reported.
Prolonged hyperglycemia in diabetic patients leads to the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in their body tissues, which contribute to the development and progression of diabetic complications and aging. Preliminary screening of the ethyl acetate extract of the leaves of Uvaria rufa Blume (family Annonaceae) indicated its AGEs inhibitory activity. Fractionation of the extract yielded five flavonol glycosides including rutin (1) isoquercitrin (2), kaempferol 3-O-β-D-galactopyranoside (3), astragalin (4), and isoquercitrin-6-acetate (5). Isoquercitrin and its 6-acetate derivative were comparable with the positive control, quercetin, in their ability to inhibit the formation of AGEs in the bovine serum albumin (BSA)-glucose assay, having the 50% inhibitory concentrations (ICs50) of 8.4, 6.9 and 10.9 μM, respectively.
Glutathione (GSH) plays several important roles in the protection of cells against oxidative damage, particularly following exposure to xenobiotics. Ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA) is a potent depletor of GSH and also enhances tissue lipid peroxidation. In this study, we show the effect of Fe-NTA treatment on hepatic GSH and some of the glutathione metabolizing enzymes, oxidant generation and liver damage. The level of hepatic GSH and the activities of glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase all decrease following Fe-NTA administration. In these parameters the maximum decrease occurred at 12 h following Fe-NTA treatment. In contrast, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase was increased at this time. Not surprisingly, the increase in the activity of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase and decreases in GSH, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase and glutathione S-transferase were found to be dependent on the ...
Background:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is characterized by increased tissue mass in the transition zone of the prostate, which leads to obstruction of urine outflow and significant morbidity in the majority of older men. Plasma markers of oxidative stress are increased in men with BPH but it is unclear whether oxidative stress and/or oxidative DNA damage are causal in the pathogenesis of BPH.
Methods:
Levels of 8-OH deoxyguanosine (8-OH dG), a marker of oxidative stress, were measured in prostate tissues from normal transition zone and BPH by ELISA. 8-OH dG was also detected in tissues by immunohistochemistry and staining quantitated by image analysis. Nox4 promotes the formation of reactive oxygen species. We therefore created and characterized transgenic mice with prostate specific expression of Nox4 under the control of the prostate specific ARR2PB promoter.
Results:
Human BPH tissues contained significantly higher levels of 8-OH dG than control transition zone tissues and the levels of 8-OH dG were correlated with prostate weight. Cells with 8-OH dG staining were predominantly in the epithelium and were present in a patchy distribution. The total fraction of epithelial staining with 8-OH dG was significantly increased in BPH tissues by image analysis. The ARR2PB-Nox4 mice had increased oxidative DNA damage in the prostate, increased prostate weight, increased epithelial proliferation, and histological changes including epithelial proliferation, stromal thickening, and fibrosis when compared to wild type controls.
Conclusions:
Oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage are important in the pathogenesis of BPH. Prostate. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A protein determination method which involves the binding of Coomassie Brilliant Blue G-250 to protein is described. The binding of the dye to protein causes a shift in the absorption maximum of the dye from 465 to 595 nm, and it is the increase in absorption at 595 nm which is monitored. This assay is very reproducible and rapid with the dye binding process virtually complete in approximately 2 min with good color stability for 1 hr. There is little or no interference from cations such as sodium or potassium nor from carbohydrates such as sucrose. A small amount of color is developed in the presence of strongly alkaline buffering agents, but the assay may be run accurately by the use of proper buffer controls. The only components found to give excessive interfering color in the assay are relatively large amounts of detergents such as sodium dodecyl sulfate, Triton X-100, and commercial glassware detergents. Interference by small amounts of detergent may be eliminated by the use of proper controls.
Introduction: Hepatoprotective activity of crude aqueous extract of Uvaria afzelii (UV) root was investigated and compared with a standard hepatoprotective drug (silymarin) in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five adult Wistar rats were randomly assigned into a control Group (A) and four treatment Groups (B-E) each containing five rats ( n = 5/group). Animals in each group were allowed access to 200 g/day growers' mash and water ad libitum. Rats in the treatment groups were administered with intraperitoneal injection of 1 ml/kg body weight of 30% carbon tetrachloride (CCL 4 )/olive oil mixture every 72 h interval during the 15 days experimental period. Rats in Group B were not pretreated while Groups C, D and E rats were pretreated daily with 50 mg/kg body weight of silymarin, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight of crude aqueous extract of UV root respectively. On the 15th day of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed and blood samples were collected to assay for serum liver enzymes; aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as well as total protein (TP).The liver tissues were also excised and fixed in 10% buffered formal saline for routine histological examination. Result: The result obtained showed that UV root extract significantly ( P P 4 /olive oil and not significant ( P 4 /olive oil only showed vacuolation (presence of fat droplets), portal vein congestion, and moderate tissue separation. These observations were reduced in the liver of rats pretreated with UV root extract and silymarin. Conclusion: These findings indicate that root extract of UV possess hepatoprotective activity against Ingested hepatotoxic insults.
To assess the status of oxidative stress in benign prostate hyperplasia, a very common disease in older men which constitutes a public health problem in Jijel, prostate tissues were obtained by transvesical adenomectomy from 10 men with benign prostate hyperplasia. We measured the cytosolic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) and cytosolic enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase. The development of benign prostate hyperplasia is accompanied by impaired oxidative status by increasing levels of MDA, depletion of GSH concentrations and a decrease in the activity of all the antioxidant enzymes studied. These results have allowed us to understand a part of the aetiology of benign prostate hyperplasia related to oxidative stress.
© 2015 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.
OBJECTIVE:
To assess the degree of postoperative storage symptoms after Greenlight laser photoselective vaporization of prostate (PVP) and Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) for management of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and its predictors.
METHODS:
A retrospective review was performed for patients who underwent HoLEP or PVP for non-catheter dependent patients with BPH. Patients were followed-up at 1, 3, 6, and 12-months and then annually by international prostate symptoms score (IPSS), quality of life index, peak flow rate, residual urine volume and prostatic specific antigen (PSA). Moderate or severe storage symptoms were defined as IPSS storage subscore≥9.
RESULTS:
Out of 1673 laser procedures, a total of 1100 procedures met the inclusion criteria including 809 HoLEPs and 291 PVPs. HoLEP group had significantly preoperative larger prostates and longer operative time. In HoLEP group postoperative IPSS was significantly better than in PVP group at all follow up points (P<0.05). Storage subscore was significantly higher after PVP and did not improve until 6-months postoperatively where it became comparable with that of HoLEP group. Number of patients with IPSS-storage score≥9 were significantly higher in PVP group at 1 and 3-months follow-up (37.3% vs. 15.1%, p<0.001) and (26.4% vs. 17.5%, p=0.004), respectively. XPS-180W was associated with the lowest storage symptoms among the three Greenlight generations at all follow-up visits. In multivariate analysis, baseline IPSS-storage subscore≥9, prolonged operative time>100 minutes and lower percent of postoperative PSA reduction significantly predicted less improvement of postoperative storage symptoms regardless of the laser procedure.
CONCLUSION:
Storage urinary symptoms significantly improved more after HoLEP compared to PVP, irrespective of the generation of Greenlight laser used. Recovery from storage urinary symptoms after prostate vaporization is time-dependent and baseline degree of storage symptoms, prolonged operative time and lower percent of postoperative PSA reduction negatively predicts postoperative improvement regardless of the laser procedure.
Chemical investigation of the aerial parts of Uvaria rufa (Dunal) Blume collected from Vietnam yielded one new lignan glycoside, ufaside (1), along with six known compounds, oxoanolobine (2), ergosta-4,6,8(14),22-tetraen-3-one (3), catechin (4), epicatechin (5), daucosterol (6) and glutin-5-en-3-one (7). Their chemical structures were determined by using NMR, HR-MS spectroscopic analyses and in comparison with the reported data. A cytotoxic analysis of U. rufa herb extracts was performed for the first time using nine human cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, LNCaP, MKN7, SW480, KB, LU-1, HepG2 and HL-60) derived from different tumour types. Of these seven constituents, compounds 2 and 3 displayed moderate cytotoxicity against the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (LU-1) with IC50 values of 9.22 ± 1.02 μg/mL and 10.21 ± 1.16 μg/mL, respectively.
In Qinghai Province, the Brassica campestris L. pollen preparation Qianlie Kang Pule’an Tablets (QKPT) is traditionally used for BPH therapy. However, in QKPT the content of supposedly active phytosterols is relatively low at 2.59%, necessitating high doses for successful therapy. Therefore, a phytosterol enriched (4.54%) refined extract of B. campestris pollen (PE) was developed and compared with QKPT in a BPH rat model. Six groups of rats (n = 8 each), namely sham operated distilled water control, castrated distilled water control, castrated QKPT 2.0 g/kg, castrated PE 0.1 g/kg, castrated PE 0.2 g/kg, and castrated PE 0.4 g/kg were intragastrically treated with the respective daily doses. Testosterone propionate (0.3 mg/day) was administered to all castrated rats, while the sham operated group received placebo injections. After 30 days, the animals were sacrificed and prostates as well as seminal vesicles excised and weighted in order to calculate prostate volume index (PVI) as well as prostate index (PI) and seminal vesicle index (SVI), defined as organ weight in g per 100 g body weight. Compared with sham-operated controls, PI (p < 0.01), PVI (p < 0.01), and SVI (p < 0.01) were all significantly increased in all castrated, testosterone treated rats. After treatment with PE at 0.4 and 0.2 g/kg or QKPT at 2.0 g/kg per day, both indices were significantly reduced (P < 0.01) as compared to the castrated distilled water control. For PE at 0.1 g/kg per day only PI was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). At the highest PE concentration of 0.4 g/kg per day both PI and SVI were also significantly reduced when compared to the QKPT group (p < 0.05). Both PE and QKPT demonstrated curative effects against BPH in the applied animal model. In its highest dose at 0.4 g/kg per day, PE was clearly superior to QKPT.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Abacopteris penangiana (Hook.) Ching (AP) is a member of parathelypteris glanduligera and used in folk medicine for the treatment of blood circulation and blood stasis, edema and inflammation as recorded in the ″Chinese Materia Medica″.
Aim of the study:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of total flavanol glycosides (TFA) from AP and its acid hydrolysate (AHT) on testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in rats by measuring the levels of inflammatory responses, oxidative stress and prostate cell proliferation.
Materials and methods:
BPH was induced in rats by subcutaneous injection of testosterone after castration. Seventy rats were divided into seven groups. After oral administration of AHT and TFA (100 or 200mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks, the prostate index (PI), 5a-reductase (5α-R) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were determined. Then the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were determined. In addition, the relative inflammatory factors, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8) and interleukin 17 (IL-17) were measured. Finally, the prostatic expression of nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) and phosphoinositide3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt were determined by immunohistochemistry. The prostatic expression of Bcl-2 was determined by western blot analysis.
Results:
The results showed that AHT and TFA decreased serum DHT and 5α-R activities compared with model group, as well as the PI and histopathological examination findings. In addition, oral treatment of AHT and TFA can significantly increase the activities of SOD, GPx and CAT while the level of MDA was significantly decreased compared with the model group. Moreover, AHT and TFA remarkably decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines in prostatic tissue. Further investigation demonstrated that AHT and TFA treatment down-regulated the protein expressions of p-Akt, NF-κB and Bcl-2.
Conclusions:
These results suggest that AHT and TFA have anti-BPH properties via anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-proliferative effects. Hence, AP represents a potential herb for the treatment of BPH.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Croton membranaceus leaf extracts are used in the Bahamas to aromatize tobacco. In Nigeria it is used to improve digestion and in Ghana, the root extract is used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Despite claims of efficacy no data exists to support this. The aim of this study was to determine if Croton membranaceus aqueous root extract (CMARE) could attenuate the development of BPH in an animal model.
Materials and methods:
Fifty (50) adult male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-250g were randomly divided into 5 groups. Group 1 served as the control and received normal saline p.o. Groups 2-5 were castrated and injected with 5mg/kg b.wt. testosterone propionate subcutaneously for 28 days. Group 2 (model group) had no further treatment. Group 3 was simultaneously given 0.5mg/kg b.wt. finasteride p.o. throughout. Groups 4 and 5 received 30mg/kg b.wt. [low dose (LD)] and 300mg/kg b.wt. [high dose (HD)] CMARE, respectively, for 28 days. Rats were sacrificed at the end of the study and all prostate organs harvested. Wet weights, volumes and prostatic index (PI) were determined. Tissues were histologically examined. Serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels were determined.
Results:
Prostate volume of the control group was 0.67±0.23cm(3). The model, finasteride, CMARE LD and HD groups had the following volumes: 0.92±0.12, 0.84±0.16, 0.79±0.16 and 0.80±0.19cm(3), respectively. Only the model group showed significant statistical differences with the control (p=0.007). PI for control, model, finasteride, LD and HD groups was as follows: 0.19±0.04, 0.30±0.04, 0.25±0.04, 0.21±0.05 and 0.22±0.05. No statistical differences between the control PI and the CMARE treated groups were observed. Histologically, the model group had massive growth of columnar stromal and epithelial cells. CMARE and finasteride attenuated this growth with a resultant thin layer of stromal and epithelial cells similar to the control. PSA levels were significantly lower in the treatment groups.
Conclusion:
CMARE reduces stromal and epithelial cell growth, and subsequently shrinks enlarged prostate. This is the first scientific proof validating the anecdotal evidence of CMARE efficacy in the management of BPH.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Schisandra chinensis has been commonly used as a traditional herbal medicine to treat various diseases including body weakness, dysentery, impotence, enuresis and frequent urination in many countries including Korea, China and Russia. Benign prostate hyperplasia is a common disease for the elderly men and it induces lower urinary tract symptoms which hinder general activity and quality of life. We evaluated the therapeutic potential of Schisandra chinensis extract (SCE) in benign prostate hyperplasia using human prostate tissue.
Materials and methods:
Schisandra chinensis fruit was collected and extracted with ethanol. Human prostate tissues were obtained from 14 prostate cancer patients. Macroscopically normal tissue was excised from the transition zone and the periurethral regions. Isolated prostate tissue strips were mounted in an organ-bath system, and the relaxation effect of SCE was evaluated by cumulative addition to prostate strips pre-contracted with 10(-5)M norepinephrine. The effect of tamsulosin was compared, and the additive effect was evaluated. Electrophysiological studies using cultured human prostate smooth muscle cells (HPrSMC) were conducted.
Results:
Cumulative dosing of SCE induced concentration-dependent relaxation in contracted prostate tissue (n=18, P<0.05). Simultaneous dosing of SCE and tamsulosin showed an additive relaxation effect. The relaxation effect of SCE was abolished by inhibition of K+ channels by pre-treatment with tetraethylammonium. In HPrSMC, extracellular application of 100 μg/mL SCE significantly increased outward currents, and this effect was significantly attenuated by treatment with 100 nM Iberiotoxin.
Conclusions:
SCE showed a dose dependent relaxation effect on human prostate tissue as well as an additive effect with tamsulosin. The relaxation effects of SCE on HPrSMC were, in part, due to the activation of K+ channels.
The prostate gland depends on androgen stimulation for its development and growth. However, testosterone is not the major androgen responsible for growth of the prostate. Testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the enzyme Δ4, 3 ketosteroid, 5α-reductase in prostatic stromal and basal cells. DHT is primarily responsible for prostate development and the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Inhibitors of 5α-reductase reduce prostate size by 20% to 30%. This reduction in glandular tissue is achieved by the induction of apoptosis, which is histologically manifested by ductal atrophy. Inhibition also diminishes the number of blood vessels in the prostate because of a reduction in vascular-derived endothelial growth factor. 5α-Reductase occurs as 2 isozymes, type 1 and type 2, with the prostate expressing predominantly the type-2 isozyme, and the liver and skin expressing primarily the type-1 isozyme. Patients have been identified with deficiencies in the type-2 5α-reductase, but not type 1. Knockout mice with the type-2 5α-reductase demonstrate a phenotype similar to that seen in men with 5α-reductase deficiency. Type-1 5α-reductase knockout male mice are phenotypically normal. Enzymatic activity for 5α-reductase or immunohistochemical detection has been noted in other genitourinary tissues, such as the epididymis, testes, gubernaculum, and corporal cavernosal tissue. Preputial skin predominately expresses the type-1 5α-reductase, whereas stromal cells in the seminal vesicle also express type-2 isozyme. However, epithelial cells in the epididymis, but not surrounding stroma, express type-1 5α-reductase. In addition to influencing prostatic growth, 5α-reductase also influences the expression of neuronal nitric-oxide synthase in the corpus cavernosum. The contribution of DHT in the serum, which is partially derived from type-1 5α-reductase in the liver and the small amount of type-1 5α-reductase in the prostate, may play a role in maintaining prostatic enlargement. Thus, in an effort to increase efficacy of treatment for BPH, clinical trials are under way using new drugs, such as GI-198745 (Glaxo-Wellcome, Research Triangle Park, NC), PNU 157706 (Pharmacia & Upjohn, Peapack, NJ), FR146687 (Fujisawa, Osaka, Japan), and LY 320236 (Lilly, Indianapolis, IN), which inhibit both the type-1 and type-2 5α-reductase.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can be found in 88% of autopsies in men ≥80 years, with compatible symptomatology reported in nearly 50% of men aged ≥50 years in the general population. Despite such a common occurrence, little is known with any certainty about the epidemiology of BPH (for which “prostatism” is a commonly, and wrongly, used synonym). Knowledge of risk factors is sparse: analytic epidemiologic studies of BPH are difficult to conduct. It is essential to establish an epidemiologic definition of BPH for these reasons. Both BPH and prostatism are the problems that seem set to increase in absolute terms. They are clearly identified as priority areas for research into their causes and treatment. However, it is clear that there is a great need for more epidemiologic information, particularly regarding prostatism, whose occurrence is unknown in many parts of the world.
Licorice, the roots and rhizomes of several Glycyrrhiza species (Leguminosae), is an important natural sweetening agent and a widely used herbal medicine. In this work, six flavonoids, 5-(1,1-dimethylallyl)-3,4,4'-trihydroxy-2-methoxychalcone (1), licochalcone B (2), licochalcone A (3), echinatin (4), glycycoumarin (5) and glyurallin B (6), were isolated from the extracts of licorice (Glycyrrhiza inflata and Glycyrrhiza uralensis). Their structures were elucidated using various spectroscopic methods. To our knowledge, compound 1 was isolated from natural plants for the first time. All the isolates were tested by antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assays. Compounds 2, 4 and 5 showed strong scavenging activity toward the ABTS(+) radical, and compounds 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 exhibited potent inhibition of lipid peroxidation in rat liver microsomes compared with the reference controls. Compounds 1-4 dose-dependently inhibited LPS induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, compounds 1-5 were demonstrated to inhibit the production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in LPS-induced macrophage cells. Moreover, the contents of the six compounds, in different Glycyrrhiza species, were quantified by HPLC-MS.
Alkaloids, tannins, saponins, steroid, terpenoid, flavonoids, phlobatannin and cardic glycoside distribution in ten medicinal plants belonging to different families were assessed and compared. The medicinal plants investigated were Cleome nutidosperma, Emilia coccinea, Euphorbia heterophylla, Physalis angulata, Richardia bransitensis, Scopania dulcis, Sida acuta, Spigelia anthelmia, Stachytarpheta cayennensis and Tridax procumbens. All the plants were found to contain alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids except for the absence of tannins in S. acuta and flavonoids in S. cayennsis respectively. The significance of the plants in traditional medicine and the importance of the distribution of these chemical constituents were discussed with respect to the role of these plants in ethnomedicine in Nigeria.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Semen vaccariae, the seeds of Vaccaria Segatalis, is a famous traditional herb for the treatment of stranguria disease, e.g. benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The present study investigated the effect of crude polysaccharide from Semen vaccariae (SVCP) on BPH in mice in order to further understand the efficacy substance of this medicinal plant.
Materials and methods:
Sixty healthy adult male Kunming mice were randomly divided into five groups with 12 mice for each group: sham-operated group, BPH model group; BPH model group treated with Pule'an at a dose of 1.20 g/kg; BPH model group treated with SVCP at dose levels of 1.67 g/kg and 0.42 g/kg. The drugs were administered orally once a day consecutively for 12 days. The BPH in mice was created by subcutaneous injection of testosterone propionate for 5 mg/(kgd) to the uncastrated mice once a day consecutively for 12 days. The inhibitory effects on BPH of SVCP were evaluated by prostatic index, testicular index and histopathologic examination.
Results:
Comparing with BPH model group, BPH mice fed with SVCP exhibited significant differences in both the prostatic index and testicular index. On the aspect of histopathology, the SVCP treated BPH mice exhibited similar histological aspects observed in the mice of sham group while the BPH mice exhibited typical features of prostate glandular hyperplasia.
Conclusions:
SVCP exhibited a significant inhibitory activity on BPH by reducing the prostatic index, testicular index, and ameliorating the pathomorphology. The results indicated that the polysaccharide should be the main efficacy substance of Semen vaccariae and may contribute, in a large part, to Semen vaccariae's traditional medicinal use for the treatment of stranguria disease.
Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the assay of catalases and peroxidases are: (1) catalase assay by disappearance of peroxide; (2) method for crude cell extracts; (3) direct spectrophotometric assay of catalase and peroxidase in cells and tissues; and (4) peroxidase assay by spectrophotometric measurements of the disappearance of hydrogen donor or the appearance of their colored oxidation products. Two methods are described for the catalase assay by disappearance of peroxide are: ultraviolet spectrophotometry and permanganate titration. Ultraviolet spectrophotometryis a method devised, on the basis of the absorption curves for peroxide solutions, for determining the activity of catalase by direct measurements of the decrease of light absorption in the region 230 to 250 mμ caused by the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide by catalase. In the case of method for crude cell extracts, oxygen evolution caused by the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide is measured with the conventional manometric technique. Peroxidase assay by spectrophotometric measurements of the disappearance of hydrogen donor or the appearance of their colored oxidation products includes the guaiacol test and the pyrogallol test.