Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Volume 325 | May 2024 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2024.117914
aDepartment of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia UPM, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
bDepartment of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Brawijaya, Malang, East Java, 65141, Indonesia
cPAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, BE, 1410, Brunei
dDepartment of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia UPM, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
eDepartment of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
fLaboratory of Halal Science Research, Halal Products Research Institute, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Ethnopharmacological relevance
Traditional uses of Morus alba L. leaf extracts (MLE) have been reported for treating hyperglycaemia and diabetes. Phytochemical compounds in the leaves demonstrated the ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and β-cell secretory function, suggesting their potential value in reducing blood glucose and treating diabetes. However, the phytochemical constituents and safety of the herbal medicines need to be verified in each experimental field from different growing areas. Studies on the phytochemistry and toxicity of Morus alba leaves in Southeast Asia, especially in Brunei, have never been investigated.
Aim of the study
This study aimed to investigate the bioactivity and phytochemistry of Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract from Brunei Darussalam and its subacute toxic effects in the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) female mice.
Materials and methods
The phenolic yield and antioxidant of the extract were analysed. Meanwhile, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography were utilised to determine the phenolic compound of the MLE. In the subacute toxicity study, twenty-five female mice were randomly divided into five groups: the control group, which received oral gavage of 5% dimethyl sulfoxide solvent (DMSO), and the MLE treatment group, which received the extract at a dose of 125, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Physiology, haematology, biochemistry, and histology were evaluated during the study.
Results
Morus alba leaf depicted total phenolic 10.93 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry weight (DW), flavonoid 256.67 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g DW, and antioxidant bioactivity content of 602.03 IC50 μg/mL and 13.21 mg Fe2+/g DW. Twenty compounds in the Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract were identified, with chlorogenic acid (305.60 mg/100 g DW) as the primary compound. As for subacute toxicity in this study, neither mortality nor haematological changes were observed. On the other hand, administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg MLE resulted in mild hepatocellular injury, as indicated by a significant (p < 0.05) increase in liver enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The histopathological score showed mild hepatocellular necrosis in administering 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg of MLE. The parameters of renal injury were within normal limits, with the increase in eosinophilic cytoplasm observed in the histological scoring at 1000 mg/kg of MLE.
Conclusions
Morus alba leaf extract showed abundant polyphenols. In a study on subacute toxicity, MLE caused mild hepatotoxicity in mice. The toxic effect of the extract may be due to kaempferol and chlorogenic acid compounds. The 125 mg/kg MLE dose was safe with no adverse effects.
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Molecules
Volume 29 | April 2024 | https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092079
1 Herbal Research Group, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei
2PAP Rashidah Saádatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei
3 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei
4 UBD Botanical Research Centre, Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Various plant species from the Litsea genus have been claimed to be beneficial for pain relief. The PRISMA approach was adopted to identify studies that reported analgesic properties of plants from the Litsea genus. Out of 450 records returned, 19 primary studies revealed the analgesic potential of nine Litsea species including (1) Litsea cubeba, (2) Litsea elliptibacea, (3) Litsea japonica, (4) Litsea glutinosa, (5) Litsea glaucescens, (6) Litsea guatemalensis, (7) Litsea lancifolia, (8) Litsea liyuyingi and (9) Litsea monopetala. Six of the species, 1, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9, demonstrated peripheral antinociceptive properties as they inhibited acetic-acid-induced writhing in animal models. Species 1, 3, 4, 8 and 9 further showed effects via the central analgesic route at the spinal level by increasing the latencies of heat stimulated-nocifensive responses in the tail flick assay. The hot plate assay also revealed the efficacies of 4 and 9 at the supraspinal level. Species 6 was reported to ameliorate hyperalgesia induced via partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL). The antinociceptive effects of 1 and 3 were attributed to the regulatory effects of their bioactive compounds on inflammatory mediators. As for 2 and 5, their analgesic effect may be a result of their activity with the 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor (5-HT1AR) which disrupted the pain-stimulating actions of 5-HT. Antinociceptive activities were documented for various major compounds of the Litsea plants. Overall, the findings suggested Litsea species as good sources of antinociceptive compounds that can be further developed to complement or substitute prescription drugs for pain management.
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Open Veterinary Journal
Volume 14 | March 2024 | http://dx.doi.org/10.5455/OVJ.2024.v14.i3.1
Studies have reported that the phytochemical content of Mulberry (Morus alba Linn.) is influenced by the area where it grows. On the other hand, the study of the bioactivity and toxicity of mulberry leaves from Brunei Darussalam still needs to be completed. In particular, the investigation regarding the safe dose for Mulberry’s application from Brunei Darussalam has yet to be studied. Hence, toxicity information must be considered even though the community has used it for generations.
This study investigated Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract (MAE) to observe the acute toxicity in mice.
In particular, this study utilized 12 female Institute of Cancer Research mice, 8 weeks old, divided into 2 groups: the control group and the MAE group (2,000 mg/kg single dose). Physiology, hematology, biochemistry, and histology were analyzed during the study.
The examination result indicated no mortality and behavioral changes throughout the testing period. However, the mice developed mild anemia and leukopenia, followed by decreased numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes. In addition, the mice developed a mild hepatocellular injury, indicated by significant (p < 0.05) elevations of both alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST). The histopathological findings of the liver were also consistent with the increment of ALT and AST, indicating mild hepatocellular necrosis through the eosinophilic cytoplasm and pyknosis (p > 0.05).
It was evident that a single oral administration of MAE was not lethal for mice (LD50, which was higher than 2,000 mg/kg). However, the administration of high doses of MAE must be carefully considered.
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Journal of Research in Pharmacy
Volume 28 | January 2024 | http://dx.doi.org/10.29228/jrp.776
1PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City 47500, Malaysia
Morus alba L. has been used as traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and expectorant attributes. Their anti-cancer properties have been previously investigated in several cancer cells types. The phytochemical compounds present in this plant may be responsible for its pharmacological action. However, no studies have examined Brunei-grown M. alba’s extracts and its anti-cancer activity thus far. Wound-healing assay, proliferation assay, and apoptosis antibody array assay were performed to examine the ability of the leaves and root bark extracts of the plant to suppress migration and proliferation of leukaemia cancer cells. The wound-healing assay results suggested that both M. alba leaves and root bark extracts suppressed migration in a concentration-dependent manner, with M. alba root bark extract exhibiting more potent effects than leaves extract. Cell viability assessment or proliferation assay showed that M. alba root bark extract significantly decreased leukaemia cell viability. However, no effect on cell viability was observed with M. alba leaves extract-treated cells. Investigation using apoptosis antibody array suggested that M. alba root bark extract may induce apoptosis through a caspase-dependent manner, with proteins like Bax, Bad and caspase-3 found to be up-regulated upon treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that investigated M. alba locally obtained from Brunei Darussalam, with observation of promising therapeutic potential.
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Natural Product Sciences
Volume 28 | Aug 2022 | https://doi.org/10.20307/nps.2022.28.3.105
Norafiqah Yusof1 ; May P. Y. Goh2 ; Norhayati Ahmad1, 3, *
1 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Herbal Research Group, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
3 Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
*Correspinding Author
Email Address : norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Tinospora crispa (L.) is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat various ailments including diabetes. The stem has been widely studied for its antidiabetic properties, however the antidiabetic potential of its leaves has not been explored. This study investigates the antidiabetic properties of methanolic T. crispa stem and leaves extracts on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The stems and leaves were extracted using Soxhlet extraction with methanol as solvent. Crude extracts were administered at 500 mg/kg body weight (BW) (high dose) and 250 mg/kg BW (low dose) via oral route to alloxan induced diabetic rats. T. crispa stem and leaves extracts was found to significantly reduce blood glucose following a twelve-week treatment period. The highest mean difference in blood glucose level was exhibited by animals in the high dose treated stem and low dose leaf extracts. Both extracts showed approximately 75% percentage recovery from hyperglycaemia. The highest regenerative capacity was observed in animals treated with the low dose leaf extract.
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The Natural Products Journal
Volume 12 | July 2022 | https://doi.org/10.2174/2210315511666210204120431
May Poh Yik Goh 1 , Norhayati Ahmad 1,*, Hartini Yasin 2, Abdalla Jama 1
1 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science , Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science , Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
*Correspinding Author
Email Address : norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Background: Dillenia suffruticosa (Griff.) Mart. has been traditionally used to promote wound healing, relieve rheumatism, fever and some cancerous growths. The leaves of the local variety of D. suffruticosa lack scientific studies on its biological applications in the context of antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities.
Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the antioxidant, antibacterial and cytotoxic properties of the leaves of D. suffruticosa from Brunei Darussalam.
Methods: The leaves were extracted using 80% (v/v) methanol, 80% (v/v) ethanol and aqueous. The antioxidant capacities were determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminium chloride colorimetric assays were also used to evaluate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The antibacterial and cytotoxic activities of the extracts were determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion and MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) cell proliferation assays.
Results: The methanolic extract of the D. suffruticosa leaves displayed the highest antioxidant activity despite having comparable phenol content when extracted using the ethanol extraction solvent. The methanolic extract also demonstrated antibacterial activity on Staphylococcus aureus at a concentration of 50 mg/mL or above. The cytotoxicity of the methanolic extract was higher against the CaSki cell line than the A549 lung cancer cell line in the first 24 h but became more cytotoxic against A549 than CaSki at 48 h and 72 h.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the methanolic extract of the leaves of D. suffruticosa from Brunei Darussalam has significant antioxidant and antibacterial activity against S. aureus and moderate cytotoxicity against A549 and CaSki cell lines.
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Chemical Biology & Drug Design
Volume 100 | May 2022 | https://doi.org/10.1111/cbdd.14062
Said Moshawih 1,* , Hui Poh Goh 1, Nurolaini Kifli 1, Azam Che Idris 2, Hayati Yassin 2, Vijay Kotra 3, Khang Wen Goh 4, Kai Bin Liew 5 and Long Chiau Ming 1,*
1 PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
2 Faculty of Integrated Technologies, Universiti Brunei Darissalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
3 Faculty of Pharmacy, Quest International University, Perak, Malaysia
4 Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia
5 Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Cyberjaya, Cyberjaya, Malaysia
*Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Cheminformatics utilizing machine learning (ML) techniques have opened up a new horizon in drug discovery. This is owing to vast chemical space expansion with rocketing numbers of expected hits and lead compounds that match druggable macromolecular targets, in particular from natural compounds. Due to the natural products’ (NP) structural complexity, uniqueness, and diversity, they could occupy a bigger space in pharmaceuticals, allowing the industry to pursue more selective leads in the nanomolar range of binding affinity. ML is an essential part of each step of the drug design pipeline, such as target prediction, compound library preparation, and lead optimization. Notably, molecular mechanic and dynamic simulations, induced docking, and free energy perturbations are essential in predicting best binding poses, binding free energy values, and molecular mechanics force fields. Those applications have leveraged from artificial intelligence (AI), which decreases the computational costs required for such costly simulations. This review aimed to describe chemical space and compound libraries related to NPs. High-throughput screening utilized for fractionating NPs and high-throughput virtual screening and their strategies, and significance, are reviewed. Particular emphasis was given to AI approaches, ML tools, algorithms, and techniques, especially in drug discovery of macrocyclic compounds and approaches in computer-aided and ML-based drug discovery. Anthraquinone derivatives were discussed as a source of new lead compounds that can be developed using ML tools for diverse medicinal uses such as cancer, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders. Furthermore, the power of principal component analysis in understanding relevant protein conformations, and molecular modeling of protein–ligand interaction were also presented. Apart from being a concise reference for cheminformatics, this review is a useful text to understand the application of ML-based algorithms to molecular dynamics simulation and in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity prediction.
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MDPI | Molecules
Volume 27 | May 2022 | https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27113386
Abstract
Agarwood, popularly known as oudh or gaharu, is a fragrant resinous wood of highcommercial value, traded worldwide and primarily used for its distinctive fragrance in incense, perfumes, and medicine. This fragrant wood is created when Aquilaria trees are wounded and infected by fungi, producing resin as a defense mechanism. The depletion of natural agarwood caused by overharvesting amidst increasing demand has caused this fragrant defensive resin of endangered Aquilaria to become a rare and valuable commodity. Given that instances of natural infection are quite low, artificial induction, including biological inoculation, is being conducted to induce agarwood formation. A long-term investigation could unravel insights contributing toward Aquilaria being sustainably cultivated. This review will look at the different methods of induction, including physical, chemical, and biological, and compare the production, yield, and quality of such treatments with naturally formed agarwood. Pharmaceutical properties and medicinal benefits of fragrance-associated compounds such as chromones and terpenoids are also discussed.
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Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology
Volume 7 | May 2022 | https://doi.org/10.22146/jtbb.69913
Manjula Muthu Narayanan, Pooja Shivanand*, Norhayati Ahmad
Abstract
Conventional products have a role in addressing the thriving universal demands for biologically active substances. Since the South China Sea is a prodigious province of geostrategic and mercantile importance, it meets the basic needs of people who dwell there. The South China Sea is dominant in mangrove biodiversity which, represents 11.4% of the world’s 15.5 million hectares of mangrove forest. Mangroves are harbored by multifaceted fungal communities that represent the second colossal ecological breed of marine fungi. The symbiotic association between the plants and fungi stimulates the bioactive components such as alkaloid, depsipeptides, cyclic peptides, quinone, terpenes, lactones, terpenoid, flavonoid, phenolic acid, steroids. These components have multifaceted pharmacological activities likely, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, and antimicrobial. This review article attempts to present a piece of insightful information currently being explored on the biologically active components generated by mangrove endophytic fungi of the South China Sea..
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MDPI | Molecules
Volume 27 | March 2022 | https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27061948
Said Moshawih 1, Rabi’atul Nur Amalia Abdullah Juperi 1, Ganesh Sritheran Paneerselvam 2, Long Chiau Ming 1,*, Kai Bin Liew 3, Bey Hing Goh 4,5, Yaser Mohammed Al-Worafi 6,7, Chee-Yan Choo 8, Shobna Thuraisingam 9, Hui Poh Goh 1 and Nurolaini Kifli 1,*
Abstract
Common wheat (Triticum aestivum), one of the world’s most consumed cereal grains, is known for its uses in baking and cooking in addition to its medicinal uses. As this plant’s medical benefits are enormous and scattered, this narrative review was aimed at describing the pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, and the nutritional values of Triticum aestivum. It is a good source of dietary fiber, resistant starch, phenolic acids, alkylresorcinols, lignans, and diverse antioxidant compounds such as carotenoids, tocopherols and tocotrienols. These constituents provide Triticum aestivum with a wide range of pharmacological properties, including anticancer, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hypolipemic, antioxidant, laxative, and moisturizing effects. This review summarized the established benefits of wheat in human health, the mode of action, and different clinical, in vitro and in vivo studies for different varieties and cultivars. This review also gives an insight for future research into the better use of this plant as a functional food. More clinical trials, in vivo and in vitro studies are warranted to broaden the knowledge about the effect of Triticum aestivum on nutrition-related diseases prevention, and physical and mental well-being sustenance.
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MDPI | Molecules
Volume 27 | March 2022 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112568
Amal Widaad, Ihsan Nazurah Zulkipli and Mark I. R. Petalcorin *
PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei; amalwidaad54@gmail.com or 17h0176@ubd.edu.bn (A.W.); nazurah.zulkipli@ubd.edu.bn (I.N.Z.)
* Correspondence: mark.petalcorin@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Helminth infections continue to be a neglected global threat in tropical regions, and there have been growing cases of anthelmintic resistance reported towards the existing anthelmintic drugs. Thus, the search for a novel anthelmintic agent has been increasing, especially those derived from plants. Leucaena leucocephala (LL) is a leguminous plant that is known to have several pharmacological activities, including anthelmintic activity. It is widely known to contain a toxic compound called mimosine, which we believed could be a potential lead candidate that could exert a potent anthelmintic
effect. Hence, this study aimed to validate the presence of mimosine in LL extract and to investigate the anthelmintic effect of LL extract and mimosine on head thrashing, egg-laying, and pharyngeal pumping activities using the animal model Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Mimosine content in LL extract was confirmed through an HPLC analysis of spiking LL extract with different mimosine concentrations, whereby an increasing trend in peak heights was observed at a retention time of 0.9 min. LL extract and mimosine caused a significant dose-dependent increase in the percentage of
worm mortality, which produced LC50s of 73 mg/mL and 6.39 mg/mL, respectively. Exposure of C. elegans to different concentrations of LL extract and mimosine significantly decreased the head thrashing, egg-laying, and mean pump amplitude of pharyngeal pumping activity. We speculated that these behavioral changes are due to the inhibitory effect of LL extract and mimosine on an L-type calcium channel called EGL-19. Our findings provide evidential support for the potential
of LL extract and its active compound, mimosine, as novel anthelmintic candidates. However, the underlying mechanism of the anthelmintic action has yet to be elucidated.
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Elsevier | Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy
Volume 146 | February 2022 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112568
a PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
b Faculty of Pharmacy, Quest International University, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
c School of Pharmacy, KPJ Healthcare University College, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
d Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Cyberjaya, Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia
e Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory (BMEX) Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
f College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, PR China
*Correspondence to: PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam.
longchiauming@gmail.com
Abstract
Plums is one of the most cultivated stone fruits due to its fast growing popularity. It has various traditionally recognized health benefits. There are two main commercial types of plums: the European plum (Prunus domestica) and the Japanese plum (Prunus salicina), each having many varieties. Researchers are gathering further evidence of pharmacological effects for plums by scientifically studying its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties. A systematic review analysing the literature related to the effects of plums on prevention and treatment of cancer is warranted. This is the first review examining the cancer-related effects of plums. Antioxidation properties of the active constituents of plum were also compared. Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, Medxriv and Cochrane Library databases, from their date of inception until July 2021 were utilized. The risk of bias was assessed using CONSORT checklist. A total of 6639 studies were screened and eventually only 54 studies were included. Full-text review of included studies revealed that plum extracts were rich in antioxidants. Overall, most of the studies that fulfilled the eligibility criteria were in vitro and a few clinical studies involving in vivo work. Therefore, it would be beneficial to perform more studies on animals or humans, to confirm that the result obtained from these in vitro studies are able to be extrapolated in a wider range of applications. Further clinical and in vivo studies are warranted to validate plums as a functional food for treatment and prevention of cancer.
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Science Direct | Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
Volume 29 | January 2022 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.08.097
May Poh Yik Goh a, Ajmal Faiz Kamaluddin a, Terence Jit Loong Tan b, Hartini Yasin b, Hussein Taha a, Abdalla Jama a, Norhayati Ahmad a, *
a Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
b Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
*Correspinding Author
Email Address : norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Litsea elliptica is traditionally believed to prevent and treat stomach ulcers, cancer, fever and headaches. This study investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of L. elliptica leaf extracts. The phytochemical content was determined via GCMS analysis and total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were analysed using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminium-chloride assays. Antioxidant activities were determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging and ferric-ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, whereas cytotoxicity was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and calcein/ethidium viability assays. The mechanism of cytotoxicity was investigated using Annexin V/propidium iodide. Modifications in the mitochondria were investigated using MitoTracker Red CMXRos. Ten and twenty-six compounds were characterized in the young-leaf and mixed-leaves extracts, respectively. The young-leaf methanolic extract demonstrated the highest antioxidant capacity of at least four-folds greater than the mixed-leaves and ethanolic extracts. The methanolic extract also had higher TPC and TFC values compared to the ethanolic extract. Although the mixed L. elliptica leaves had lower antioxidant capacities compared to the young leaves, the mixed leaves extract has demonstrated greater cytotoxicity against the A549 cancer cell line. Further investigation revealed that the L. elliptica leaves-induced cytotoxicity on A549 cells was possibly via the non-inflammatory mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway. Overall, our results showed the potential of the L. elliptica leaves possessing cytotoxic activities against carcinoma cells where the compounds present can be further investigated for its therapeutic application.
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MDPI | Molecules
Volume 27 | December 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27010209
1 PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam,
Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei; nisanjbh@gmail.com (N.N.M.); saeedmomo@hotmail.com (S.M.);
long.ming@ubd.edu.bn (L.C.M.); nurolaini.kifli@ubd.edu.bn (N.K.)
2 Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam 42300, Malaysia; hanish2984@uitm.edu.my
3 Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru 81310, Malaysia; junmeiloy@gmail.com
4 Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh;
moklesur2002@yahoo.com
5 College of Medical Sciences, Azal University for Human Development, Amran P.O. Box 447, Yemen;
yworafi@yahoo.com
6 College of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology of Fujairah,
Fujairah P.O. Box 2202, United Arab Emirates
7 Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory (BMEX) Research Group, School of Pharmacy,
Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; goh.bey.hing@monash.edu
8 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
9 Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 43400, Malaysia; shobnasima@gmail.com
* Correspondence: pohhui.goh@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Coriandrum sativum (C. sativum), belonging to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family, is widely recognized for its uses in culinary and traditional medicine. C. sativum contains various phytochemicals such as polyphenols, vitamins, and many phytosterols, which account for its properties including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and analgesic effects. The cardiovascular benefits of C. sativum have not been summarized before, hence this review aims to further evaluate and discuss its effectiveness in cardiovascular diseases, according to the recent literature. An electronic search for literature was carried out using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, preprint platforms, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Articles were gathered from the inception of the database until August 2021. Moreover, the traditional uses and phytochemistry of coriander were surveyed in the original resources and summarized. As a result, most of the studies that cover cardiovascular benefits and fulfilled the eligibility criteria were in vivo, while only a few were in vitro and clinical studies. In conclusion, C. sativum can be deemed a functional food due to its wide range of cardiovascular benefits such as antihypertensive, anti-atherogenic, antiarrhythmic, hypolipidemic as well as cardioprotective effects.
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Elsevier | Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy
Volume 143 | November 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112066
Syahirah Shahlehi, Mark I. R. Petalcorin
PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
* Corresponding author
E-mail address: mark.petalcorin@ubd.edu.bn (M.I.R. Petalcorin).
Abstract
Gynura procumbens (GP) is a herbal medicinal plant of South-East Asian origin, popularly recognised as ‘Sambung nyawa’. The plant has been used traditionally to treat various diseases including hypertension. The anti-hypertensive activity of this plant has also been scientifically proven both in vivo and in vitro yet the investigation on its mechanisms of actions remains limited. Our previous study has demonstrated the vasodilatory action of both aqueous and methanol GP extracts possibly via activation of the cholinergic pathway and that kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside is the active ingredient responsible in mediating this effect. Hence, in this study we further confirm the involvement of the cholinergic pathway by using several pharmacological interventions, focusing on the downstream mechanism of this pathway. Our results showed that in the presence of endothelium, GP extracts induced vasodilation via activation of the muscarinic M3 receptors. However, in the absence of endothelium, GP mediated vasodilation possibly via stimulation of other muscarinic receptors and/or involvement of nicotinic receptors, a speculation that needs further investigations. GP-induced relaxation was markedly inhibited by nitric oxide (NO) blocker, L-NAME, suggesting that GP elicited ACh endothelium-dependent relaxation by producing NO in rat aortic rings. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that the vasodilatory effect of GP extracts appears to be mediated via cholinergic pathway.
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Elsevier | Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy
Volume 143 | November 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112182
a Department of Biomedical Science, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Malaysia
b Faculty of Science, Sristy College of Tangail, 1900 Tangail, Bangladesh
c Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, 1902 Tangail, Bangladesh
d Center for Natural Products Research and Drug Discovery, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
e Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory (BMEX) Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
f College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
g Department of Industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Industrial Sciences & Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, 26300 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
h Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, 77 Satmasjid Road, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
i Health Med Science Research Limited, 3/1 Block F, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
j PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, BE1410 Brunei, Darussalam
* Corresponding author at: Department of Biomedical Science, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Malaysia.
** Corresponding author
E-mail addresses: mshossainbge@gmail.com, sanower.h@live.iium.edu.my (Md.S. Hossain), urbi.zannat@gmail.com (Z. Urbi), long.ming@ubd.edu.bn (L.C. Ming)
Abstract
Nigella sativa L. is one of the most extensively used traditional medicinal plants. This widely studied plant is known to display diverse pharmacological actions, including antimicrobial activities. Current literature has documented its multi-target mode of antimicrobial actions. N. sativa or its bioactive compounds, such as thymoquinone, can induce oxidative stress, cell apoptosis (by producing reactive oxygen species), increase membrane permeability, inhibit efflux pumps, and impose strong biocidal actions. Despite its well-documented antimicrobial efficacy in the experimental model, to the best of our knowledge its antimicrobial mechanisms highlighting the multi-targeting properties have yet to be well discussed. Is N. sativa or thymoquinone a valuable lead compound for therapeutic development for infectious diseases? Are N. sativa’s bioactive compounds potential antimicrobial agents or able to overcome antimicrobial resistance? This review aims to discuss the antimicrobial pharmacology of N. sativa-based treatments. Additionally, it provides a holistic overview of the ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, and phytochemistry of N. sativa.
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Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity
Volume 22 | October 2021| https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d221002
Yumni Haziqah Mohammad, Pooja Shivanand *, Faizah Metali, Hussein Taha, Nur Bazilah Afifah Matussin, Abdul Muizz Al-Azim Abdul-Halim, Abdul Zul’adly Mohaimin
Environmental and Life Sciences Program, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Jln. Tungku Link BE1410, Brunei Darussalam.
* email: pooja.shivanand@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Aquilaria is an important agarwood-producing tree, but naturally occurring agarwood is rare. Artificial induction method is the most commonly used to produce agarwood in a short time. Out of the 21 species of Aquilaria, Brunei Darussalam houses two species that produce high quality agarwood, namely Aquilaria beccariana and A. microcarpa. The aims of this study are to artificially induce agar wood formation using eight different induction treatments: six fungal inoculant treatments with two control treatments, and to isolate and identify fungal strains from naturally infected agarwood trees using DNA barcoding. Agarwood formation was observed at four different time intervals i.e. 1, 3, 6 and 9 months of post-inoculation. Results exhibited that the area and the total length of discoloration zone were significantly greater at 6 and 9 months of incubation period. Induction treatment did not significantly affect the area and the total length of discoloration. FTIR analysis revealed that two aromatic compounds (C –H and C –C stretching) were detected at the wavelength ranges of 3000 –2800 cm-1, and 1500 –1400 cm-1 respectively, and OH group was detected at 3600 –3400 cm-1.Nine fungal strains from Aspergillus, Fusarium, Mucor and Trichosporon were isolated and identified from a naturally infected agarwood, and the last two fungi (Mucor and Trichosporon) were never been previously reported.
Agarwood formation inAquilariabeccarianaand Aquilaria microcarpain response toinoculation of newly isolated fungifrom Brunei Darussalam.Biodiversitas 22:4131–4138.Aquilariais an important agarwood–producing tree, but naturally occurring agarwood is rare. Artificial induction methodis the most commonly used to produce agarwood in a short time. Out of the 21 speciesof Aquilaria, Brunei Darussalam houses two speciesthatproduce highquality agarwood, namely Aquilariabeccarianaand A. microcarpa.The aimsof this study areto artificially induceagarwoodformation using eight different induction treatments: six fungalinoculant treatments with two control treatments,andto isolate and identify fungal strains fromnaturally infected agarwood tree using DNA barcoding. Agarwoodform ation was observed at fourdifferent timeintervalsi.e. 1, 3, 6and 9 monthsofpost–inoculation.Results exhibited that the area and the total length of discoloration zone were significantly greater at 6 and 9 monthsofincubation period. Induction treatmentdid not significantly affect the area and the total length of discoloration. FTIR analysisrevealed that two aromatic compounds (C –H and C –C stretching) were detected atthewavelengthranges of3000 –2800 cm–1, and 1500 –1400 cm–1respectively,andOH groupwasdetected at 3600 –3400 cm–1.Nine fungal strains from Aspergillus, Fusarium, Mucor and Trichosporonwere isolated and identified from a naturally infected agarwood, andthe last two fungi (Mucor and Trichosporon)werenever been previouslyreported.
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Hindawi | Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Volume 2021 | October 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/5570939
Nazurah Hamizah Salleh,1 Ihsan Nazurah Zulkipli,1 Hartini Mohd Yasin,2 Fairuzeta Ja’afar,2 Norhayati Ahmad,3,4 Wan Amir Nizam Wan Ahmad,5 and Siti Rohaiza Ahmad 1
1 PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
3 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
4 Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
5 School of Health Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Malaysia
Correspondence should be addressed to Siti Rohaiza Ahmad; rohaiza.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Traditionally, there are some medicinal plants believed to treat diabetes, as they have been proven in research studies to possess antidiabetic properties, such as improved insulin sensitivity and hypoglycemic activities, due to their high level of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and glycosides. We conducted a systematic review to identify potential medicinal plants used during human clinical trials in the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries on prediabetic or type 2 diabetic individuals and to potentially identify any bioactive compounds involved in effectively treating symptoms of diabetes such as lowering of blood glucose. A total of 1209 reference titles were retrieved from four selected databases (Science Direct, Scopus, Springer Link, and PubMed) and only three met the inclusion criteria. Upon evaluation of the selected articles, four medicinal plants were identified: turmeric (Curcuma longa), garlic (Allium sativum L.), bitter melon (Momordica charantia), and Rosella flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). Of these, only the bitter melon study did not show any significant change in the blood glucose of participants after intervention. This review demonstrates the limitations in published articles of human clinical trials for medicinal plants’ intervention for diabetes. Upon further investigations on the four identified medicinal plants included in the animal studies, the findings showed positive effects in the management of diabetes, such as hyperglycemia. Hence, further testing and standardization of the methods in the studies can be suggested for human clinical trials for reliable data collections such as methods of extract preparation, duration of intervention, and conditions set for the study design.
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Sage | Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine
Volume 26 | October 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X211043741
1 Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2 Health Med Science Research Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh
3 Alpro Academy, Sri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
4 Powerlife, Sri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
5 School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, Penang, Malaysia
6 PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
Corresponding Authors:
Siok Yee Chan, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia,
11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia.
Email: sychan@usm.my;
Md. Moklesur Rahman Sarker, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, 77 Satmasjid Road, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh.
Email: moklesur2002@yahoo.com;
Long Chiau Ming, PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei
Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link Gadong BE1410, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam.
Email: longchiauming@gmail.com
Abstract
Citrus grandis or Citrus maxima, widely recognized as Pomelo is widely cultivated in many countries because of their large amounts of functional, nutraceutical and biological activities. In traditional medicine, various parts of this plant including leaf, pulp and peel are used for generations as they are scientifically proven to have therapeutic potentials and safe for human use. The main objective of this study was to review the different therapeutic applications of Citrus grandis and the phytochemicals associated with its medicinal values. In this article different pharmacological properties like antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiepileptic, stomach tonic, cardiac stimulant, cytotoxic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and anti-diabetic activities of the plant are highlighted. The enrichment of the fruit with flavonoids, polyphenols, coumarins, limonoids, acridone alkaloids, essential oils and vitamins mainly helps in exhibiting the pharmacological activities within the body. The vitamins enriched fruit is rich in nutritional value and also has minerals like calcium, phosphorous, sodium and potassium, which helps in maintaining the proper health and growth of the bones as well as the electrolyte balance of the body. To conclude, various potential therapeutic effects of Citrus grandis have been demonstrated in recent literature. Further studies on various parts of fruit, including pulp, peel, leaf, seed and it essential oil could unveil additional pharmacological activities which can be beneficial to the mankind.
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Elsevier | Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering
Volume 9 | August 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2021.105481
a Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
b Environmental & Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
c Institut für Chemie, Technische Universit¨at Berlin, Straße des 17, Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany
* Corresponding author.
E-mail address: mmansoobkhan@yahoo.com (M.M. Khan).
Abstract
A cost-effective phytogenic fabrication of zinc oxide (ZnO) and copper-doped zinc oxide (Cu-doped ZnO) using aqueous leaf extract of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. was successfully demonstrated. The structural, morphological and optical studies have been carried out using various techniques. XPS, XRD analysis and FT-IR spectroscopic studies confirmed the successful synthesis, crystalline nature and purity of synthesized ZnO and Cu-doped ZnO. UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectra showed reduction of band gap energies from 3.11 to 2.54 eV as Cu doping increases from 0% to 5%. SEM images revealed the synthesized ZnO and Cu-doped ZnO are irregular and spherical shaped, respectively. Antibacterial property of the synthesized materials were evaluated against Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram negative Escherichia coli using different concentrations. This investigation revealed that the synthesized materials were able to inhibit the activity of Staphylococcus aureus better than Escherichia coli under both dark and visible light conditions with the highest inhibition of 9.33 ± 0.58 mm under light irradiation. The synthesized materials were also found to effectively scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals in the dark and an enhancement of the scavenging activity was observed under visible light irradiation.
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MDPI | Cosmetics
Volume 8 | August 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics8030079
1 Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia,
Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia;
camille.mahendra@monash.edu (C.K.M.); cayvern.kishen@gmail.com (C.K.M.);
thet.thet.htar@monash.edu (T.T.H.); alice.chuah@monash.edu (L.-H.C.)
2 Clinical School Johor Bahru, Jeffrey Cheah School ofMedicine and Health Sciences,Monash UniversityMalaysia,
Johor Bahru 80100, Johor, Malaysia; loh.teng.hern@monash.edu
3 Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group, Microbiome and Bioresource Research Strength Jeffrey
Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University, Bandar Sunway,
Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; ser.hooileng@monash.edu
4 Medical Health and Translational Research Group, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia;
Priyia.Pusparajah@monash.edu
5 School of Biosciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia;
weihsum.yap@taylors.edu.my
6 Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health and Medical
Sciences (FHMS), Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
7 Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia,
Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; Patrick.Tang@monash.edu
8 Advanced Engineering Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway,
Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
9 Tropical Medicine and Biology Platform, School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway,
Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
10 Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam,
Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei; longchiauming@gmail.com
11 Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway,
Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
12 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
13 Health andWell-Being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) Platform,Monash UniversityMalaysia,
Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
* Correspondence: yoonyeny@sunway.edu.my (Y.-Y.Y.); goh.bey.hing@monash.edu (B.H.G.)
Abstract
There are many extrinsic factors that can contribute to the premature aging of the skin. In recent years, the demand for natural cosmetic from the general population has noticeable grow. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the bioproperties of sky fruit (Swietenia macrophylla) seed extract that could help to inhibit premature skin aging. Firstly, the extract and its fractions were tested on HaCaT cells for their wound healing properties. The presence of sky fruit’s extract and its fractions on scratch wound significantly improved cellular proliferation, migration, and closure of the wound. These effects were distinctly observed following the treatment with S. macrophylla hexane fraction (SMHF) and S. macrophylla water fraction (SMWF). Our continuous research study revealed that SMWF had antioxidant properties, which might be one of the factors contributing to its emerging wound healing properties because antioxidants are known to act as suppressors of the inflammatory pathway and aid the transition towards cell proliferation. In addition, all samples had critical wavelengths that indicated that they were able to absorb the whole UVB range and some parts of the UVA wavelength. This suggested that S. macrophylla might contain potential photoprotective bioactive compounds, which could be developed into anti-UVB photoprotective sunscreens. Thus, this warrants further studies focusing on isolation and identifications of the bioactive compounds responsible for both its photoprotective and wound healing properties. A deeper study on mechanisms of the pathways that were affected by these compounds should be conducted as well to better understand this natural product and develop it into a potential cosmeceutical ingredient.
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Elsevier | Journal of Herbal Medicine
Volume 28 | August 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hermed.2021.100447
Li Pei Ang a, Pit Wei Ng b, Yen Loong Lean a,**, Vijay Kotra a, Nurolaini Kifli c, Hui Poh Goh c, Kah Seng Lee d, Md. Moklesur R. Sarker e,f, Yaser Mohammed Al-Worafi g, Long Chiau Ming c,*
a Faculty of Pharmacy, Quest International University Perak, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
b Department of Pharmacy, National University Hospital, Singapore
c PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
d Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia
e Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, Dhaka 1, Bangladesh
f Health Med Science, Dhaka, Bangladesh
g College of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology of Fujairah, Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
* Corresponding author at: PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE1410, Brunei Darussalam.
** Corresponding author at: Faculty of Pharmacy, Quest International University Perak, Plaza Teh Teng Seng, 227, Jalan Raja Permaisuri Bainun, 30250, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
E-mail addresses: yenloong.lean@qiup.edu.my (Y.L. Lean), long.ming@ubd.edu.bn (L.C. Ming).
Abstract
Herbal products are used globally for their perceived health benefits, and as a complement to alternative therapy to Western medicines. Herbal products can be beneficial, although they can also be harmful in several circumstances. Aristolochic acids (AA) are a compound that is abundant in Aristolochia plants. Previous studies have reported that AAs exert several therapeutic effects and have been commonly used to treat a variety of illnesses, such as eczema, pneumonia, stroke, hepatitis, snakebites, arthritis, gout and coronary artery diseases. AAs, thus, are widely used in traditional and local medicines and herbal products. Unfortunately, the intake of AAs has been linked to kidney failure, as well as cancers of the urinary tract. A direct association between use of AAs and hepatocellular carcinomas has been established. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), AAs are classified into Group 1, which indicates there is sufficient evidence that they cause cancer in humans. Given uncontrolled adulteration of herbal products, along with a decreasing trend in clinical investigations into products containing AAs, adverse events due to exposure to Aristolochia herbs should be given much more attention. Even though the latest evidence has concretely proven that exposure to AAs is widespread throughout countries and regions such as China, South Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe and North America, the public awareness and attention given by physicians and native healers is not very encouraging. The toxicity and adverse drug events associated with AAs should be investigated thoroughly. Further law enforcement to restrict the sale and use of products containing AAs is warranted.
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Pharmaceutical Sciences Asia
Volume 48 | June 2021 | DOI: 10.29090/psa.2021.06.21.047
Amal Hazirah Matusin1, May Poh Yik Goh1, Norhayati Ahmad1,2*
1 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
2 Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
*Corresponding author:
Norhayati Ahmad: norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
In this study, dual-doping of zinc oxide (ZnO) with magnesium (Mg) and copper (Cu) were successfully performed using aqueous leaf extract of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. The surface morphological, structural and optical properties of ZnO and Mg/Cu-dual doped ZnO were examined using various techniques. The particle size and optical band gap energy of the synthesized ZnO were reduced when Mg/Cu dopants were introduced. The presence of phytochemicals which played an important role in stabilizing and capping of the phytogenic synthesized ZnO were also confirmed. Furthermore, the effect of light on antibacterial and radical scavenging activities of ZnO and Mg/Cu-dual doped ZnO were examined. It was observed that the synthesized materials exhibited good antibacterial activities towards Staphylococcus aureus compared to Escherichia coli in the absence and presence of light. The phytogenic synthesized ZnO and Mg/Cu-dual doped ZnO were also found to exhibit good 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radicals scavenging activity under visible light irradiation.
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Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing
Volume 128 | June 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mssp.2021.105761
a Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
b Environmental & Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
c Center for Research Facilities, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongbuk, 38541, South Korea
* Corresponding author.
E-mail addresses: mmansoobkhan@yahoo.com, mansoob.khan@ubd.edu.bn (M.M. Khan).
Abstract
Aidia borneensis or locally known as “sambah bagangan” is consumed as herbal tea in Brunei Darussalam and has been claimed to provide several health benefits. Our study was conducted to determine antidiabetic and protective effects of the methanolic extracts of A. borneensis followed by a histopathological evaluation of the pancreatic islets regeneration in response to the treatments. The study was conducted on male Wistar rats, aged 8-10 weeks where diabetes was induced via a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan at 120 mg/kg body weight (b.w.). The rats were then treated with a low dose (LD) of 250 mg/kg b.w. or a high dose (HD) of 500 mg/kg b.w. of the A. borneensis extract pre- or post-alloxan administration followed by evaluation of blood glucose levels and histological evaluation of the pancreatic islets over a 12-week experimental period. The intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test for the treated animals was also carried out. Our results report a significant reduction in the blood glucose concentration and increase in ratio of islets to tissue size observed in diabetic rats from both low dose and high dose treated groups compared to the control animals (p<0.05). Improvement of islet morphology was evident in the treated animals. Similar patterns of increased islet to tissue size ratios were also observed in the protective group which received pre-treatment of the extracts prior to diabetes induction. Overall, the present study shows that methanolic extract of the A. borneensis leaf exhibited apparent antidiabetic and protective effects on alloxan-induced diabetic rats.
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Frontiers in Immunology
Volume 12 | June 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2021.697663
Izzah Bungsu, Nurolaini Kifli , Siti Rohaiza Ahmad, Hazim Ghani and Anne Catherine Cunningham*
Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB), Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
*Correspondence: Anne Catherine Cunningham | E-mail address: anne.cunningham@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
The prevalence of chronic inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), autoimmunity and cancer have increased in recent years. Herbal-based compounds such as flavonoids have been demonstrated to contribute to the modulation of these diseases although understanding their mechanism of action remains limited. Flavonoids are able to interact with cellular immune components in a distinct way and influence immune responses at a molecular level. In this mini review, we highlight recent progress in our understanding of the modulation of immune responses by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-dependent transcription factor whose activity can be regulated by diverse molecules including flavonoids. We focus on the role of AhR in integrating signals from flavonoids to modulate inflammatory responses using in vitro and experimental animal models. We also summarize the limitations of these studies. Medicinal herbs have been widely used to treat inflammatory disorders and may offer a valuable therapeutic strategy to treat aberrant inflammatory responses by modulation of the AhR pathway.
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Molecules
Volume 26 | April 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26072000
Camille Keisha Mahendra 1 , Syafiq Asnawi Zainal Abidin 2, Thet Thet Htar 1 , Lay-Hong Chuah 1, Shafi Ullah Khan 1,3 , Long Chiau Ming 4 , Siah Ying Tang 5,6,7 , Priyia Pusparajah 8,* and Bey Hing Goh 1,9,10,*
1 Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia,
Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; camille.mahendra@monash.edu (C.K.M.);
thet.thet.htar@monash.edu (T.T.H.); alice.chuah@monash.edu (L.-H.C.); shafi.khan1@monash.edu (S.U.K.)
2 Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) Platform, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and
Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia;
syafiq.asnawi@monash.edu
3 Department of Pharmacy, Abasyn University, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan
4 PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam,
Gadong BE1410, Brunei; longchiauming@gmail.com
5 Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia,
Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; patrick.tang@monash.edu
6 Advanced Engineering Platform, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia,
Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
7 Tropical Medicine and Biology Platform, School of Science, Monash University Malaysia,
Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
8 Medical Health and Translational Research Group, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
9 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
10 Health and Well-Being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) Platform,
Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
* Correspondence: priyia.pusparajah@monash.edu (P.P.); goh.bey.hing@monash.edu (B.H.G.)
Abstract
In this day and age, the expectation of cosmetic products to effectively slow down skin photoaging is constantly increasing. However, the detrimental effects of UVB on the skin are not easy to tackle as UVB dysregulates a wide range of molecular changes on the cellular level. In our research, irradiated keratinocyte cells not only experienced a compromise in their redox system, but processes from RNA translation to protein synthesis and folding were also affected. Aside from this, proteins involved in various other processes like DNA repair and maintenance, glycolysis, cell growth, proliferation, and migration were affected while the cells approached imminent cell death. Additionally, the collagen degradation pathway was also activated by UVB irradiation through the upregulation of inflammatory and collagen degrading markers. Nevertheless, with the treatment of Swietenia macrophylla (S. macrophylla) seed extract and fractions, the dysregulation of many genes and proteins by UVB was reversed. The reversal effects were particularly promising with the S. macrophylla hexane fraction (SMHF) and S. macrophylla ethyl acetate fraction (SMEAF). SMHF was able to oppose the detrimental effects of UVB in several different processes such as the redox system, DNA repair and maintenance, RNA transcription to translation, protein maintenance and synthesis, cell growth, migration and proliferation, and cell glycolysis, while SMEAF successfully suppressed markers related to skin inflammation, collagen degradation, and cell apoptosis. Thus, in summary, our research not only provided a deeper insight into the molecular changes within irradiated keratinocytes, but also serves as a model platform for future cosmetic research to build upon. Subsequently, both SMHF and SMEAF also displayed potential photoprotective properties that warrant further fractionation and in vivo clinical trials to investigate and obtain potential novel bioactive compounds against photoaging.
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Life
Volume 11 | April 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3390/life11040348
1 Department of Biomedical Science, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University
Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Pahang, Malaysia
2 Department of Industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Industrial Sciences & Technology,
Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Kuantan 26300, Pahang, Malaysia; urbi.zannat@gmail.com
3 Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Muhammadiyah
Surakarta, Surakarta 57102, Indonesia; hk170@ums.ac.id
4 Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Life Science, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University,
Santosh 1902, Tangail, Bangladesh; ramisa0799@gmail.com
5 Department of Agriculture, Higher Institute of Overall Occupations-Sooq Al Khamees Imsahil,
Tripoli 1300, Libya; ahmedtripoli87@gmail.com (A.M.Q.); akrmalazreq@gmail.com (A.M.M.A.)
6 PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam,
Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei; long.ming@ubd.edu.bn
7 Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; ester.pagano@unina.it
8 Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy
* Correspondence mshossainbge@gmail.com (S.H.); rafcapas@unina.it (R.C.); Tel.: +60-116-9609649 (S.H.); +39-081-678664 (R.C.)
Abstract
Infectious disease (ID) is one of the top-most serious threats to human health globally, further aggravated by antimicrobial resistance and lack of novel immunization options. Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees and its metabolites have been long used to treat IDs. Andrographolide, derived from A. paniculata, can inhibit invasive microbes virulence factors and regulate the host immunity. Controlled clinical trials revealed that A. paniculata treatment is safe and efficacious for acute respiratory tract infections like common cold and sinusitis. Hence, A. paniculata, mainly andrographolide, could be considered as an excellent candidate for antimicrobial drug development. Considering the importance, medicinal values, and significant role as antimicrobial agents, this study critically evaluated the antimicrobial therapeutic potency of A. paniculata and its metabolites, focusing on the mechanism of action in inhibiting invasive microbes and biofilm formation. A critical evaluation of the secondary metabolites with the aim of identifying pure compounds that possess antimicrobial functions has further added significant values to this study. Notwithstanding that A. paniculata is a promising source of antimicrobial agents and safe treatment for IDs, further empirical research is warranted.
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Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science
Volume 11 | March 2021 | http://dx.doi.org/10.7324/JAPS.2021.110315
Amal Hazirah Afiqah Matusin, Nurul Izzati Abd Ghani, Norhayati Ahmad*
Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
*Corresponding Author
Norhayati Ahmad, Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science,
Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
E-mail: norhayati.ahmad @ ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Dillenia excelsa is a relatively understudied plant with limited reports on its biological activities apart from its traditional use. Our aim was to investigate the blood glucose lowering effects and pancreatic islet regeneration in alloxan-induced Wistar rats following treatment with D. excelsa plant extract. Alloxan ablation of the pancreatic islets leads to a significant size reduction and loss of morphology of the islets. In this study, alloxan-induced diabetic animals were treated with D. excelsa extract at 250 and 500 mg/kg b.w. for a 12-week period. In another group, animals were treated with the plant extract for a period of 5 weeks prior to alloxan-induced damage to determine the protective effects of D. excelsa. An increase in the islet to tissue ratio was observed in alloxan-induced rats treated with 500 mg/ kg b.w. of extract at weeks 8 and 12 relative to control animals which was accompanied by a significant reduction in blood glucose levels. D. excelsa was also able to effectively prevent adverse damage of the pancreatic islets following a pretreatment period with the extract for a period of 5 weeks. Our findings indicate that the methanol extract of D. excelsa is capable of lowering blood glucose levels where one of the mechanisms of recovery is via the regeneration of pancreatic islets.
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SAGE | Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine
Volume 26 | March 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X21996662
Abstract
The management of the global pandemic outbreak due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been challenging with no exact dedicated treatment nor established vaccines at the beginning of the pandemic. Nonetheless, the situation seems to be better controlled with the recent COVID-19 vaccines roll-out globally as active immunisation to prevent COVID-19. The extensive usage and trials done in recent outbreak in China has shown the effectiveness of traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) in improving the wellbeing of COVID-19 patients. Therefore, COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment guidelines has listed a number of recommended concoctions meant for COVID-19 patients. Licorice, more commonly known as Gancao in Chinese Pinyin, is known as one of the most frequently used ingredients in TCM prescriptions for treatment of epidemic diseases. Interestingly, it is deemed as food ingredient as well, where it is normally used in Western cuisines’ desserts and sweets. The surprising fact that licorice appeared in the top 10 main ingredients used in TCM prescriptions in COVID-19 has drawn great attention from researchers in revealing its biological potential in overcoming this disease. To date, there are no comprehensive review on licorice and its benefits when used in COVID-19. Thus, in this current review, the possible benefits, mechanism of actions, safety and limitations of licorice were explored in hope to provide a quick reference guide for its preclinical and clinical experimental set-up in this very critical moment of pandemic.
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Springer | Chemical Papers
Volume 75 | March 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1007/s11696-021-01553-7
Ashmalina Rahman, Mohammad Hilni Harunsani, Ai Ling Tan, Norhayati Ahmad, and Mohammad Mansoob Khan*
Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
*E-mail: mansoob.khan@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
The use of different plant materials for the green synthesis of metal oxides is considered as an environmentally friendly method, since it does not involve the use of toxic chemicals and harsh conditions. In this study, zinc oxide (ZnO) particles were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. Synthesized ZnO particles were characterized using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Antioxidant activities of the as-prepared ZnO were evaluated using 2-2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH·) assay, with varying ZnO concentration. The synthesized ZnO was found to effectively scavenge DPPH·. Antibacterial studies using agar disc diffusion method showed that the synthesized ZnO particles with concentration of 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/mL showed antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, whereas no antibacterial activities were observed against Escherichia coli. Hence, phytogenically synthesized ZnO could be a potential candidate for different biological applications.
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Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity
Article | Open Access
Volume 22 | February 2021 | https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d220211
1Environmental and Life Sciences Program, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Jln. Tungku Link BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2Food Science and Technology Department, School of Applied Sciences and Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Brunei. Jln. Tungku Link BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
*email: hussein.taha@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Medicinal plants have been widely used but their pharmacological properties are yet to be fully explored. This study was aimed to determine the phytochemicals and their antimicrobial activity of four selected medicinal plants: Melastoma malabathricum, Merremia borneensis, Pandanus amaryllifolius, and Senna alata from Brunei Darussalam. Phytochemical constituents were evaluated by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and antimicrobial screening was carried out using agar well diffusion method. A number of phytochemicals were identified in the plant extracts, of which the following compounds were present in higher amounts (>10 %): coumaran, hentriacontane, hexatriacontane, 3-hydroxy benzyl alcohol, α-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, catechol, squalene, and α-tocopherol-β-D-mannoside. A concentration-dependent antimicrobial activity was observed in some extracts against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Results of this study showed medicinal potential of the four selected plants.
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Bioprocess and Biosystems Engineering
Research Article | Non-open Access
Volume 44 | February 2021 | https://doi.org/10.1007/s00449-020-02496-1
Ashmalina Rahman1, Mohammad Hilni Harunsani1, Ai Ling Tan1, Norhayati Ahmad2, Mirabbos Hojamberdiev3, Mohammad Mansoob Khan1
1 Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
3 Institut Für Chemie, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17, Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany
* Corresponding Author
Mohammad Mansoob Khan
mmansoobkhan@yahoo.com; mansoob.khan@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Aqueous leaf extract of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. was successfully used to synthesize zinc oxide (ZnO) and magnesium-doped ZnO (Mg-doped ZnO) particles and acted as capping and stabilizing agent. UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectra showed that optical band gap energy of ZnO has narrowed from 3.11 to 3.08 eV and 3.03 eV when doped with 1% Mg and 5% Mg, respectively. Powder X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies confirmed the purity and crystalline nature of the synthesized materials. FT-IR spectroscopy revealed the presence of phytochemicals coated on the surface of synthesized materials. The synthesized materials were found to effectively scavenge DPPH radicals in the presence of visible light in comparison to the dark. The antibacterial properties of the synthesized materials were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The obtained results revealed that Staphylococcus aureus seemed to be more sensitive to the green synthesized ZnO and Mg-doped ZnO than Escherichia coli.
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Frontiers in Pharmacology
Mini Review Article | Open Access
Volume 11 | February 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.552453
Chee Kei Kong 1,2, Liang Ee Low 3,4, Wei Sheng Siew 5, Wei-Hsum Yap 5, Kooi-Yeong Khaw 1, Long Chiau Ming 6, Andrei Mocan 7,8, Bey-Hing Goh 1,9,10 and Poh Hui Goh 6*
1 Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory (BMEX) Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
2 Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3 Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
4 Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of the Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
5 School of Biosciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
6 PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
7 Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
8 Laboratory of Chromatography, Institute of Advanced Horticulture Research of Transylvania, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
9 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
10 Health and Well-Being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
*Correspondence: Poh Hui Goh pohhui.goh@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Snowdrop is an iconic early spring flowering plant of the genus Galanthus (Amaryllidaceae). Galanthus species (Galanthus spp.) are economically important plants as ornaments. Galanthus spp has gained significance scientific and commercial interest due to the discovery of Galanthamine as symptomatic treatment drug for Alzhiermer disease. This review aims to discuss the bioactivities of Galanthus spp including anticholinesterase, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer potential of the extracts and chemical constituents of Galanthus spp. This review highlights that Galanthus spp. as the exciting sources for drug discovery and nutraceutical development.
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F1000Research
Research Article | Open Access
Volume 9 | August 2020 | https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.21310.2
Nurul Ashifah Shafie, Nur Atiqah Suhaili , Hussein Taha, Norhayati Ahmad
Environmental and Life Sciences Programme, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, BE1410, Brunei
Corresponding author: Norhayati Ahmad (norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn)
Abstract
Background: Vitex pinnata is a popular ethnomedicinal plant but scientific studies to validate its pharmacological properties are lacking for this plant. This study aims to determine the antioxidant, antimicrobial and wound healing properties of the methanolic extract of the leaves and the hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions.
Methods: The leaves of Vitex pinnata underwent methanol extraction and the methanol extract was fractionated with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate solvents. The antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by disc diffusion assay against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For the wound healing studies, the methanolic extracts of V. pinnata were used to prepare ointments with compositions of 10% (w/w) and 50% (w/w), which were evaluated for wound healing activity in an excision wound model in Wistar rats.
Results: All the extracts showed antioxidant activities, with the ethyl acetate extract having the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, followed by the methanol, chloroform and hexane extracts. Similarly, their quercetin equivalent concentrations were 33.1, 31, 20.3 and 4.5 mg/mL, respectively. Except for the methanol extract, the disc diffusion assay showed that the extracts demonstrated species specific antibacterial activities, with the ethyl acetate extract showing antibacterial activities against all four tested strains. The wound healing activity of the high dose treated group (50% [w/w]) shows significant increase of wound contraction when compared to the control group.
Conclusion: In the current study, the ethyl acetate extract showed activity for all tested bacteria and also had the highest DPPH activity. The methanolic extracts of V. pinnata leaves show modest wound healing activity in an excision wound model.
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BioNanoScience
Research Article | Non-open Access
Volume 10 | July 2020 | https://doi.org/10.1007/s12668-020-00775-5
Abstract
Zinc oxide (ZnO) and Cu-doped ZnO nanoparticles (1% and 5%; Cu-doped ZnO NPs) were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis. Crystalline ZnO and Cu-doped ZnO NPs with hexagonal wurtzite structure were obtained without any impurities as confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction. The optical properties, morphology, elemental composition, and surface analysis of all the samples were studied using UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. Antibacterial activities of the ZnO and Cu-doped ZnO were performed by screening test at the highest concentration (500 mg/mL) against two gram-positive bacterial strains (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and two gram-negative bacterial strains (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli). Antibacterial activities were observed only against gram-positive bacteria. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged from < 25 to 50 mg/mL.
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Malaysian Applied Biology
Research Article | Open Access
Volume 49 | June 2020 https://jms.mabjournal.com/index.php/mab/article/view/1663
1 Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
3 Herbal Drug Discovery Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
4 Rimba Ilmu, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
5 Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, National University of Lesotho, P.O Roma 180, Kingdom of Lesotho, South Africa
*E-mail: haniti.hamid@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Dillenia suffruticosa or ‘Simpur bini’ is known to have ethnomedicinal properties and had been used traditionally to heal wounds, relieve fever and rheumatism. There has been limited studies carried out on this species, therefore, this study aims to evaluate the phytochemical contents, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of aqueous extract, methanol extract and its fractions obtained from the leaves of D. suffruticosa. The dried leaves were extracted using methanol before successive solvent partitioning was carried out on the extract using hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and diethyl ether. In addition to
this, aqueous decoction was conducted. The antioxidant activities were determined using Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) free radical scavenging methods. Phytochemical screening had shown that most of the extracts and fractions contained alkaloids, steroids, phenolics, flavonoids and saponins. The diethyl ether and ethyl acetate fractions showed higher TPC and TFC values. The diethyl ether and ethyl acetate fractions also showed higher antioxidant activities determined via DPPH assay. Antibacterial activities determined using disc diffusion assay showed the methanol extract and its fractions had antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with the diethyl ether fraction having comparable activity with the standard antibiotic streptomycin. However, inhibition against Bacillus subtilis was only observed in hexane, chloroform and diethyl ether fractions. No inhibition was observed against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study identified the diethyl ethyl and ethyl acetate fractions of D. suffruticosa leaves as potential sources of bioactive compounds. Further investigations on the bioassay-guided isolation of bioactive compounds of this species may lead to the discovery of new pharmaceutical or effective antimicrobial agents.
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Springer | Bioprocess and Biosystems Engineering
Research Paper | Non-open Access
Volume 43 | April 2020 | https://doi.org/10.1007/s00449-020-02343-3
Mohammad Mansoob Khan1*, Mohammad Hilni Harunsani1, Ai Ling Tan1, Mirabbos Hojamberdiev2, Syafiqah Azamay3, Norhayati Ahmad3
1 Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Fachgebiet Keramische Werkstoffe/Chair of Advanced Ceramic Materials, Institut für Chemie, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17, Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
Abstract
Zinc oxide (ZnO) is considered as a potential antimicrobial agent. This work aims to investigate the properties of ZnO and Mn-doped ZnO (1% and 5%) fabricated using aqueous leaf extract of Melastoma malabathricum via green synthesis and its antibacterial activities. The synthesized ZnO and Mn-doped ZnO were characterized using different techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The synthesized ZnO and Mn-doped ZnO were tested for its antibacterial properties on two Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and two Gram-positive bacteria: Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. The results showed positive antibacterial effects for B. subtilis and S. aureus only. Among the three materials tested, 1% Mn-doped ZnO exhibited the highest antibacterial activity for B. subtilis with the minimum inhibitory concentration being 50 mg/mL.
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Journal of Applied Biology and Biotechnology
Short Communication | Open Access
Volume 7 | October 2019 | http://dx.doi.org/10.7324/JABB.2019.70515
1 Environmental and Life Sciences Programme, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
2 Food Science and Technology Department, School of Applied Sciences and Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Gadong, Brunei
3 Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
*Corresponding Author
Hussein Taha, Environmental and Life Sciences Programme, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei. E-mail: hussein.taha@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Pharmacological evaluation of Aidia borneensis has not been widely reported yet. This study aimed to evaluate its phytochemical constituents and its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Phytochemical compositions of Soxhlet-extracted methanol extract and ultrasonic-extracted aqueous extract were determined by gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were evaluated by the agar-well diffusion method, and antioxidant activities were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay. Methanol extract was predominantly characterized by coumaran (21.12%) and palmitic acid (6.34%), and aqueous extract by catechol (15.48%) and coumaran (9.13%). Concentrationdependent antibacterial activities of methanol extract were observed against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, whereas aqueous extract only showed a growthinhibiting effect against E. coli. Methanol extract also exhibited antifungal activities against Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae but not against Aspergillus brasiliensis. No antifungal activity was shown by the aqueous extract. Aqueous extract revealed significantly higher radical scavenging activity, hence, low IC50 value (6.0 µg/ml), compared to methanol extract (14.6 µg/ml) and the reference standard, Trolox (9.1 µg/ml). This study provides scientific support on the medicinal properties of A. borneensis in terms of its phytochemical constituents and its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
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Frontiers in Pharmacology
Review | Open Access
Volume 10 | October 2019 | https://dx.doi.org/10.3389%2Ffphar.2019.01223
Farzana Khan 1,2, Md. Moklesur Rahman Sarker 1,2*, Long Chiau Ming 3,4, Isa Naina Mohamed 5*, Chao Zhao 6, Bassem Y. Sheikh 7, Hiew Fei Tsong 8 and Mohammad A. Rashid 9
1 Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh,
2 Pharmacology and Toxicology Research Division, Health Med Science Research Ltd., Dhaka, Bangladesh,
3 PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei,
4 Division of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia,
5 Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (The National University of Malaysia), Cheras, Malaysia,
6 College of Food Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China,
7 Faculty of Medicine, Taibah University, Almadinah Almunawwarah, Saudi Arabia,
8 Alpro Pharmacy and Powerlife, Port Dickson, Malaysia,
9 Phytochemical Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
*Correspondence:
Md. Moklesur Rahman Sarker moklesur2002@yahoo.com, dr.moklesur2014@gmail.com; Isa Naina Mohamed isanaina@yahoo.co.uk
Abstract
Gymnema sylvestre is a plant included in Apocynaceae family and is located in many regions of Asia, Africa and Australia. This plant is widely used as a traditional therapy for different purposes. Even now it is being used as a dietary supplement due to its numerous therapeutic uses. It is known to have blood glucose lowering potential and, thus, is widely used in traditional and Ayurvedic systems of medicine. It renders glucose lowering activity due to the presence of phytochemicals, such as gurmarin, gymnemic acid as well as gymnemasaponins. Gymnema sylvestre is also known to have antioxidant, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, gastro and hepatoprotective, anticancer and lipid-lowering activities. This review discusses in details on different pharmacological and clinical potentials of Gymnema sylvestre and its chemical constituents associated with its therapeutic potentials.
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South African Journal of Botany
Article | Open Access
Volume 121 | March 2019 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2018.10.013
a Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
b Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
⁎Corresponding author at: No. 1 Spg.204-9-24, Kg. Sg. Akar, Jln. Muara BC3915, Brunei Darussalam. E-mail addresses:udhl_2003@yahoo.com (A.S. Kamariah), linda.lim@ubd.edu.bn (L.B.L. Lim), norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn (N. Ahmad).
1 Permanent Address: Department of Pharmacy, Noakhali Science and Technology, University, Bangladesh
Abstract
Etlingera species are widely used traditionally as cooking herbs for their medicinal properties and also used as cosmetics by different ethnic communities in Borneo. This study investigated the bioactive potential of methanolic extracts of leaves, stems and rhizomes of Etlingera fimbriobracteata. Standard methods were applied to detect the presence of phytochemicals and to determine the phenolic content in methanolic extracts of leaves, stems and rhizomes of E. fimbriobracteata. Plant extracts were subjected to antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS, reducing power assay, ferric-reducing antioxidant power and total antioxidant capacity) and antimicrobial (disc diffusion) evaluations. Antidiabetic (for 4 weeks using Wistar rats) and anticancer (MTT assay) activities were also determined for leaves extract of E. fimbriobracteata. Phytochemicals screening revealed the presence of steroids, cardiac glycosides and saponins. Leaves extract showed the highest amount of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity than those of stems and rhizomes. A significant correlation (p < 0.01) was observed between the phenolic compounds (TPC, TFC, and TFlC) and antioxidant activity. The plant extracts showed weak inhibition against Gram-positive bacteria but resistance against Gram-negative bacteria and selected fungi. Leaves extract did not show any significant reduction in the blood sugar level of treated rats. However, it showed moderate activity against the human cervical cancer cell line (CasKi) with IC50 value of 106.21 μg/mL. The antioxidant and anticancer activities of leaves extract of E. fimbriobracteata indicate its potential usage in the treatment of free radical induced diseases and cancer.
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Food Research
Article | Open Access
Volume 2 | February 2018 | https://doi.org/10.26656/fr.2017.2(1).109
1 Metussin, N., 2 Mohamed, H., 2 Ahmad, N., 1* Yasin, H.M. and 1 Usman, A.
1 Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Negara Brunei Darussalam
2Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Negara Brunei Darussalam
*Corresponding author.
Email: hartini.yasin@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
We investigated the total antioxidant capacity of Aidia borneensis leaf infusion, a Bornean endemic plant, which is traditionally consumed as a home-remedy beverage in Brunei Darussalam. The antioxidant capacity of the infusion of A. borneensis leaves was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging ability. We found that the infusion shows a relatively high antioxidant capacity, and it was attributed to its high phenolic, flavonoid, and flavanol contents which were evaluated by Folin–Ciocalteu reagent, colorimetric assay, and aluminum chloride colorimetric method, respectively. By comparing its total antioxidant capacity, we estimated that the infusion of A. borneensis leaves is in the middle rank among twelve different commercially available Camellia sinensis teas. Our findings would have significant implications on A. borneensis products from Brunei Darussalam and on the feasibility of establishing this new beverage among the commercially available conventional C. sinensis and herbal teas.
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Pharmacognosy Reviews
Review Article | Open Access
Volume 11 | June 2017 | https://dx.doi.org/10.4103%2Fphrev.phrev_55_16
1Herbal Drug Discovery Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
Abstract
The rhizomes of Alpinia officinarum Hance have been used conventionally for the treatment of various ailments, triggering a wide interest from the scientific research community on this ethnomedicinal plant. This review summarizes the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the extracts and fractions from A. officinarum, a plant species of the Zingiberaceae family. Different parts of the plant – leaves, roots, rhizomes, and aerial parts – have been extracted in various solvents – methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, hexane, dichloromethane, aqueous, chloroform, and petroleum ether, using various techniques – Soxhlet extraction, maceration, ultrasonication, and soaking, whereas fractionation of the plant extracts involves the solvent–solvent partition method. The extracts, fractions, and isolated compounds have been studied for their biological activities – antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiproliferative, inhibition of enzymes, as well as the inhibition of nitric oxide production. More findings on A. officinarum are certainly important to further develop potential bioactive drug compounds.
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Elsevier | Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine
Review Article | Open Access
Volume 7 | February 2017 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apjtb.2016.11.026
1 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Herbal Drug Discovery Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
3 Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
*Corresponding author: Norhayati Ahmad, Environmental and Life Sciences,
Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong
BE1410, Brunei Darussalam.
Tel: +673 2463001, ext. 1385
E-mail: norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
The aim of the current study is to review the medicinal properties of the plants found in Brunei Darussalam namely Litsea elliptica, Dillenia suffruticosa, Dillenia excelsa, Aidia racemosa, Vitex pinnata and Senna alata. The known phytochemical constituents of these plants and their ability to bring about a range of biological activities are included in this review. These plants have been used traditionally for a multitude of diseases and illnesses. There is a lot of untapped potential in these medicinal plants which could cure multiple diseases.
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Research Journal of Phytochemistry
Article | Open Access
Volume 11 | December 2016 | https://dx.doi.org/10.3923/rjphyto.2017.35.41
M.N. Diris, A.M. Basri, F. Metali, N. Ahmad and H. Taha
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Scientia Bruneiana – Special Issue
Article | Open Access
Volume 15 | December 2016 | https://doi.org/10.46537/scibru.v15i0.18
Abstract
Senna alata is an important ethnomedicinal plant and is often used traditionally to treat skin diseases. Hence, it can be a potential attractive ingredient for natural skincare products. In this study, we determined the potential of producing antimicrobial soaps by using S. alata leaf extract, either aqueous crude extract or essential oil, as the key ingredient and also virgin coconut oil as the base. Although S. alata essential oil is not feasible yet to be considered for soap production due to its poor extraction yield, the aqueous leaf crude extract had shown promising potential. Our antimicrobial assays showed the aqueous extract exhibited antifungal activity but did not show any antibacterial activity under the conditions tested. Similarly, the prototypes of S. alata soap containing the aqueous extract also showed an antifungal activity against Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Therefore, the potential use of S. alata for antimicrobial soaps warrants further consideration and studies.
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Elsevier | Industrial Crops and Products
Article | Open Access
Volume 84 | June 2016 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2015.12.034
aEnvironmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam
bDepartment of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskisehir 26470, Turkey
cChemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei DarussalamdBadebio Ltd., Technopark of Anadolu University, Eskisehir 26470, Turkey
Abstract
Essential oils from the leaves, aerial stems, basal stems, and rhizomes of Etlingera fimbriobracteata (K.Schum.) R.M.Sm. were analyzed using a gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). β-Pinene (67.8%) and 1,8-cineole (37.2%) were the main components of the oils from leaves and aerial stems, respectively, whereas decanal was the main component of basal stems and rhizomes (27.5% and 34.4%, respectively). The antioxidant activities of the oils were evaluated using several in vitro assays; the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radical scavenging assays, the reducing power ability (RPA) assay, and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. In all the tests, essential oils from different plant parts showed very poor antioxidant activity compared with those of the reference standards, ascorbic acid (AA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). However, all the oils exhibited moderate to potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against all tested strains except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays, the inhibition zones and MIC values of the essential oils were in the range of 8–87.7 mm and 2.4–625 μg/mL, respectively. Because of their strong antimicrobial activity, the essential oils of E. fimbriobracteata could be a potential alternative to conventional antimicrobials in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
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International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Original Article | Open Access
Volume 7 | October 2015 | https://innovareacademics.in/journals/index.php/ijpps/article/view/6203
Nurazimatul Quddsyiah H. Maidin, Norhayati Ahmad *
Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darussalam
*Email: norhayati.ahmad@ubd.edu.bn
Abstract
Objective: The present study was carried out to evaluate if Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) exerts any protective or regenerative effects on pancreatic β cells in Alloxan induced diabetic rats and to observe and determine the morphology of islets of animals from different treatment groups.
Methods: Twenty six adults male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 served as a control and received no treatment. Group 2 served as a diabetic control where they received 120 mg/kg body weight Alloxan at week 1. Group 3 was administered with Alloxan at 120 mg/kg body weight followed by VCO treatment for 10 w. Group 5 was administered with 0.8 ml VCO for 13 w prior to being administered with Alloxan 8 w after VCO treatment.
Blood glucose readings and body weight were monitored weekly during the treatment period. IPGTT was carried out prior to animal sacrifice. Histological analysis was carried out on the pancreas of animals in VCO treated and control groups.
Results: VCO treated rats were able to reduce hyperglycaemia in diabetic individuals. Histological analysis indicates that VCO was able to regenerate damaged islets of diabetic rats and was also able to prolong their survival despite being hyperglycaemic.
Conclusion: VCO has potential protective and regenerative effects towards diabetic rats and further research should be evaluated to develop a probable mechanism of action.
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International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Research
Research Article | Open Access
Volume 7 | October 2015 | http://impactfactor.org/PDF/IJPPR/7/IJPPR,Vol7,Issue6,Article16.pdf
Ismail N A 1, Kamariah A S 1*, Lim L B L 2, Ahmad N 1
1 Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Tungku Link Road, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
2 Chemical Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Tungku Link Road, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
Abstract
Pitcher plants (Nepenthes spp.) have a variety of medicinal uses, from simple management of infections to treatment of diabetes. The present study was conducted to evaluate the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of methanolic extracts of the leaves of Nepenthes bicalcarata. The screening for various phytochemicals was conducted using a standard procedure. Pharmacological investigation involved the determination of the antioxidant, antimicrobial, toxicity and antidiabetic activities of the extracts. Antioxidant activity determination was carried out using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radical scavenging assays, and the total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using colorimetric methods. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the disk-diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by a two-fold agar dilution method. Toxicity was assessed using a brine-shrimp lethality test (BSLT). Antidiabetic activity was evaluated using alloxan (120 mg/kg body weight) induced diabetic Wistar male rats orally treated on alternate days for 8 weeks at an extract dose of 300 mg/kg body weight. The phytochemical screening led to the detection of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, anthraquinones, terpenoids, steroids and phlobatannins. The FRAP, DPPH and ABTS antioxidant assays indicated the extracts had a moderate activity of 87.1 ± 2.50 mg Trolox Equivalent/g dry-weight, and IC50 values of 12.52 ± 0.49 µg/mL and 16.13 ± 0.33 µg/mL, respectively. The total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were 50.5 ± 0.7 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent/g and 6.63 ± 0.17 mg Quercetin Equivalent (QE)/g, respectively. Antimicrobial
tests revealed that the leaf extract was active against selected gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and B. spizizenii) and a few fungi (Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae), with MIC values ranging from 256 to 1024 µg/mL. An LC50 value of 73.3 µg/mL was obtained from the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test. These findings indicate that methanolic extracts of N. bicalcarata leaves have various phytopharmacological activities and thus it would be useful to isolate the compounds responsible for these bioactivities in the future.
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International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Research
Research Article | Open Access
Volume 7 | August 2015 | http://impactfactor.org/PDF/IJPPR/7/IJPPR,Vol7,Issue5,Article1.pdf
Shahid-Ud-Daula AFM 1,3 , Kamariah AS 1*, Lim LBL 2, Ahmad N 1
1Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam.
2Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei Darussalam.
3Department of Pharmacy, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Bangladesh.
*Author for Correspondence
Abstract
Etlingera coccinea (Blume) S. Sakai & Nagam has been used by various indigenous communities in parts of Asia as a traditional remedy for food poisoning, stomach ache, and gastric problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of methanolic extracts of leaves, stems, and rhizomes of E. coccinea, to support its use as a treatment for food poisoning. Another aim was to screen the major phytochemical constituents of these extracts and evaluate their antioxidant activity, which may be significant for other potential uses of this plant. The disc-diffusion method was used to assay antimicrobial activities. Phytochemicals including anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides, saponins, and steroids were detected using chemical analyses. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total flavonol content (TFlC) were estimated using spectrophotometric methods. The antioxidant activity (AOA) of extracts was evaluated using five methods: the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the 2,2-azino-bis-(3- ethylenebenzothiozoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging assay, the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, the reducing power activity (RPA) assay, and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assay. The disc-diffusion assay showed that none of the extracts from different plant parts of E. coccinea had antibacterial (Gram-positive and Gramnegative) or antifungal activities. The TPC, TFC, TFlC, and AOA of the extracts could be ranked, from strongest to weakest, as follows: leaves > stems > rhizomes. There were significant correlations between the AOA and TPC, TFC, and TFlC. The results of the antimicrobial activity assays do not validate the use of E. coccinea as a remedy for food poisoning. However, the high content of flavonoids and flavonols, and strong antioxidant activity of the leaf extract suggest that this plant has significant potential for use in food and pharmaceutical industries.
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