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Pleurotus ostreatus cv. Florida is one of the widely used edible mushroom. The polysaccharides from this mushrooms have been studied for antidiabetic potential; however, no efforts have been made to explore the potential of this mushroom to influence carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes viz. α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The present work was undertaken to investigate the inhibitory potential of Pleurotus ostreatus cv. Florida on enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Several concentrations of extracts were used to study inhibition of enzymatic activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. A dose dependent inhibitory effect on enzymes was observed. The current study, for the first time, uncovered α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of Pleurotus ostreatus cv. Florida. The study could be helpful to isolate and characterize compounds responsible for it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant, mineral, and animal products have been utilized as medications from the beginning of time to cure a variety of ailments. Use of medicinal herbs to modulate immune function has a rich history. Natural products serve as the foundation for contemporary pharmaceutical ingredients. Immunomodulation alters an individual's immune system by interfering with its normal processes. Immunomodulators derived from natural sources have been extensively studied in order to modify the immune system and prevent illness. Berberine is an alkaloid has been identified for its anti-inflammatory properties. In animal studies, Berberine was found to demonstrate analgesic properties. The current work is aimed to explore the in silico interactions of Berberine with various chemokines and inflammatory pathways. Berberine was docked with TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and NOs in this investigation. Docking study demonstrated notable interactions with these targets. The present research provides insight into the development of new compounds for immunomodulation and the management of inflammatory illnesses. More research on Berberine and related flavonoids is necessary to assess its safety. As a result, Berberine can be regarded as a candidate for the advancement of an immunomodulatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Byline: Shagun. Dubey, Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Divya. Bansal, Nazneen. Dubey Objective: To study the effect of the co-administration of phenytoin (PHT) and rutin in comparison with PHT and piracetam (PIM) on [...]

Byline: Neelofar. Khan, Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Nazneen. Dubey, Divya. Bansal Objectives: Wheat grass (Triticum aestivum) is a gift of nature given to mankind. A number of scientific research on wheatgrass establishes [...]

Byline: Shagun. Dubey, Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Divya. Bansal, Nazneen. Dubey Aim: The severity of adverse reactions due to antiepileptics is observed during initiation and early treatment in which impairment of cognitive [...]

Byline: Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Pooja. Vaishya, Sumeet. Jain, Vikas. Pandey, Divya. Bansal, Nazneen. Dubey Background: Amphotericin B (AmB) is among the gold standard antifungal agents used for the treatment of the [...]

Byline: Nisha. Sonkar, Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Priyanka. Yadav, Shagun. Dubey, Divya. Bansal, Nazneen. Dubey Objective: The current work was aimed to evaluate the nephroprotective potential of Butea monosperma. Materials and Methods: [...]

The contemporary scientific community has presently recognized flavonoids to be a unique class of therapeutic molecules due to their diverse therapeutic properties. Of these, catechin, also, has been explored for a number of pharmacological effects. The present review aims to document the therapeutic potential of catechin. Tea leave, catechu, and much more possess catechin as one of the active constituents. Today, catechin has been observed for its nutraceutical effect. The objective of this review is to examine the evidence of the effectiveness and pharmacological effects of catechin. Preclinical, as well as randomized controlled clinical trials pertaining to studies of catechin, are included in the study. Chemical properties of catechin and its structure-activity relationship about various biological activities have also been documented. The review revealed protective effects of catechin on functions and integrity of liver, kidney, heart, and agerelated memory impairment. Catechin demonstrated the antimicrobial, anticancer, antihypertensive, anticoagulant, and antiulcer effect. The present review highlights the current information and the health-promoting effects of catechin. Along with this, the chemotherapeutic potential of the same has also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Hesperidin, an important bioflavonoid, is abundantly found in various foodstuffs and can be regarded as an essential nutraceutical. Hesperidin has been acknowledged for its protective and beneficial effects on various aspects of biological system. Objectives: The present study was aimed to examine the effect of hesperidin on the regulation of the immune response in experimental animal models. Materials and Methods: The immunomodulatory effects of hesperidin were determined in rats using different experimental models including carbon clearance test, cyclophosphamide-induced neutropenia, neutrophil adhesion test, effect on serum immunoglobulin, neutrophil adhesion and indirect hemagglutination test. Hesperidin was administered orally at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/ kg p.o. Cyclophosphamide (30 mg/kg p.o.) was used as a standard immunosuppressant. Results: Hesperidin in all test doses demonstrated notable immunomodulatory responses in a sheep red blood cell challenge model. There was a refurbishment in the functioning of leucocytes in cyclophosphamide- treated rats and an increased clearance of carbon particles. The antibodytiter in the hemagglutination test showed increased levels of immunoglobulin. Discussion and Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate that hesperidin possesses sufficient potential for modulating immune activity by cellular and humoral mediated mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inflammation was observed by a sequence of comprehensive, correlated prevalence which causes enrollment of macrophages along with by removal of foreign particles and instigation of tissue repair. Though, massive release of chemokine and cytokines from macrophages can cause the progression of auto-inflammation and auto-immune diseases. The control overproduction of these mediators without damaging macrophages seems to be a novel strategy to control inflammation. Plants have been an integral part of the health-care system since ancient times. Many modern-day pharmaceuticals find their origin from phytochemicals. Rutin, catechin, and hesperidin are well-recognized for analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic effects. Scientific reports rationalize their protective effect on humoral and cell-mediated immunity. The present study is focused to determine the immunomodulatory effect of rutin, catechin, and hesperidin on macrophage function. Rat peritoneal macrophages were harvested and cultured in the presence of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and hesperidin. MTT assay was performed to determine macrophage viability. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 were determined by ELISA kits whereas NO levels were determined by Griess method. The results of the present study revealed a decrease in levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and NO in LPS treated groups. In conclusion, LPS activated the macrophage by promoting the production of immune mediators, whereas rutin, catechin, and hesperidin treatment showed anti-inflammatory activities by suppressing the cytokine production in rat macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Natural products are greatly acknowledged for antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. Vanillin has been studied for radical scavenging effect. The aim of this study was to examine hepatoprotective effect of vanillin against isoniazid and rifampicin induced liver damage in rats. Methods: Wistar rats were used in present study. All the animals study protocols were duly approved by Institutional Animal Ethics Committee of the Institute. Hepatotoxicity was induced by administration of against isoniazid (50 mg/kg) and rifampicin (100 mg/kg) for 14 days. Vanillin was used in the dose of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight. At the end of study blood was collected and biochemical studies were performed to assess antioxidant status. Results: Oral administration of vanillin at test doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/ kg body weight) resulted in restoration of AST, ALT and ALP. There was a notable decrease in production of SOD and catalase. Conclusion: In the present study, vanillin demonstrated a notable hepatoprotective effect. The protective efficacy of vanillin is possibly because of radical scavenging and antioxidant property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study is focused to evaluate cardioprotective activity of ethanolic extract of Amaranthus cruentus. Methods: Amaranthus cruentus extract (Dose 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg) in isoprenaline induced myocardial infarction in rats. The ethanolic extract of Amaranthus cruentus was prepared and subjected to acute toxicity in albino rats. The extract was given orallyat two different doses 200mg/kg and 400mg/. Isoprenaline was administered subcutaneously (85mg/kg s.c.). Results: The histopathological examination revealed mild infarction and inflammation in isoprenaline treated rats. The ethanolic extract of Amaranthus cruentus showed significant cardio protective effect by decreasing the serum level of LDL and VLDL cholesterol levels. The biochemical parameters (AST, ALT and ALP) and HDL cholesterol levels were restored. Conclusion: The outcome of the present study suggested cardioprotective activity of Amaranthus cruentus extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Haphazard use of drugs is one of the key reasons for progression of liver diseases. Drugs such as paracetamol, isoniazid, rifampicin etc. cause hepatotoxicity. There is currently no single synthetic drug which is effective for the treatment of such conditions. Drugs from natural sources have been used by humans since before written records. Thus, plants serve to be an important source to explore hepatoprotectives. Objective: The current study was designed to assess the hepatoprotective activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract. Materials and Methods: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots were dried in shade, powdered and extracted with ethanol and phytochemical screening was performed. The extract phenolic and flavonoids contents were estimated. Hepatoprotective studies were performed using isoniazid- rifampicin induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Results: Results of the phytochemical studies demonstrated that the extract was rich in flavonoids, glycosides and polyphenolics. The extract also demonstrated excellent hepatoprotective activity against isoniazid- rifampicin induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Discussion and Conclusion: Results of study demonstrate that ethanol extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra is potent source of phytochemicals that are responsible to demonstrate hepatoprotective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Byline: Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Gopal. Rai Sir, We thank the readers for the queries raised for our article. [sup][1] Our replies to these queries are as follows: *Positive control group of [...]

Byline: Shagun. Dubey, Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Abhishek. Shrivastava, Divya. Bansal, Nazneen. Dubey Sir, Peptic ulcers are one of the major health problems observed by people all around the globe. Ulcers occur [...]

Byline: Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Gopal. Rai Background: Edible mushrooms have been used as flavorful foods and as health nutritional supplements for several centuries. A number of bioactive molecules have been identified [...]

Byline: Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Santosh. Bhadoriya, Priya. Pardhi, Gopal. Rai Sir, Helminth infections affect large human populations in the tropical region and lead to undernourishment, anemia and pneumonia like conditions. [sup][1] [...]

Byline: Aditya. Ganeshpurkar, Santosh. Bhadoriya, Priya. Pardhi, Alok. Jain, Gopal. Rai Objectives : The aim of the present work was to evaluate the in vitro effect of Pleurotus florida extract [...]

Introduction: Amaranthus cruentus (Amaranthaceae) is one of the popularly grown leafy vegetables in the Indian subcontinent. The leaves of the plant are rich in polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, saponins and betalains. The plant is also rich in protein, calcium, iron, as well as vitamins A, E, C and folic acid. The present work was undertaken to evaluate the anti-anemic effects of Amaranthus cruentus. Methods: An ethanol extract of Amaranthus cruentus was prepared and the of folic acid, ascorbic acid, iron, polyphenol and flavonoid contents were estimated. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was determined according to OECD guideline-423 at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg. Cyclophosphamide (0.3 mg/kg, i.p.) was used to induce anemia in rats. After anemia induction, animals were treated with standard preparation (Ferritop Syrup) and the extract. Results: Amaranthus cruentus extract significantly aided to restore the levels of RBCs, WBCs, hemoglobin and increased hematocrit levels. Conclusion: Thus, it was concluded that Amaranthus cruentus is a rich source of phytochemicals that demonstrate hematopoietic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern scientific society has presently recognized flavonoids to be a unique class of therapeutic molecules due to their varied therapeutic properties. Of these, hesperidin, found along with vitamin C, has been explored for a number of pharmacological effects. Citrus and oranges possess hesperidin as one of the active constituents. Today, hesperidin has been well recognized for its beneficial effects on health. The present review highlights the current information and healthpromoting effects of hesperidin. The review uncovers protective effects of hesperidin on functions and integrity of liver, kidney, heart, and age related memory impairment. Hesperidin demonstrated the antimicrobial, anticancer, antihypertensive and antiulcer effect. The present review focus on current information of hesperidin and its active metabolite hesperetin. Along with this, the chemotherapeutic potential of the same has also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forms eternal era, plant, mineral and animal products are used as drugs for the treatment of various diseases. The use of medicinal plants for immunomodulation has a long history. The modern medicinal compounds find their leads in natural products. Immunomodulation amends the immune system of an individual by prying with its usual functions. Discovery of immunomodulators from natural sources has been comprehensively made to modulate the immune system to prevent diseases. Hesperidin has been investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Hesperidin demonstrated analgesic effects in experimental animals. The present study is focused on exploring the in silico interaction of hesperidin with some chemokines and inflammatory targets. In this study, hesperidin was docked with TNF-a, IL-ip, IL-6, and NOs. Docking studies revealed the excellent interaction of hesperidin with these targets. The result of this work provided an insight into the discovery of novel molecules for immunomodulation and treatment of inflammatory disorders. Additional studies on hesperidin and associated flavonoids are necessary to establish its safety. Hesperidin, can, therefore, can be considered as a candidate for development of an immunomodulatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of plant products as immunomodulator has a long history. For eternal era, plant, mineral and animal products are used as drugs for the treatment of various diseases. The present-day synthetic compounds find their leads in natural products. The process of immunomodulation amends the immune system of an individual by prying with its usual functions. Research of immunomodulators from natural sources has been extensively studied for modulation of immune system along with protection and prevention of diseases. Catechin, a flavonoid has been investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Analgesic effects have been observed for catechin in experimental animals. The present study is focused on exploring the in silico interaction of catechin with some chemokines and inflammatory targets. In this study, catechin was docked with tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a), interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). Docking studies revealed the interaction of catechin with these targets. The result of present study provides insight for the discovery of novel molecules for immunomodulation and treatment of inflammatory disorders. Findings from the present study show that catechin interact with several chemokines and inflammatory mediators. Further studies quantitative structure activity relationship and quantitative structure property relationship on catechin and associated flavonoids are necessary to develop and establish studies which may serve a stepping stone for the development of novel and safe immunomodulator. Catechin, can, therefore, can be considered as a candidate for development of an immunomodulatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tamarindus is a monotypic genus and belongs to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae of the family Leguminosae (Fabaceae), Tamarindus indica L., commonly known as Tamarind tree is one of the most important multipurpose tropical fruit tree species in the India, Sudan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and entire subcontinent. Methods: Hydroethanolic seed coat extract of Tamarindus indica (HETI) was assessed for presence of phytoconstituents and selection of optimum dose through acute and sub acute toxicity study. The single and multidose (14 days) study were conducted to evaluate antidiabetic potential of HETI in alloxan induced rats via determine of blood glucose level, body weight, hematological profile, extra-pancreatic glucose utilization of isolated rat hemi-diaphragm as well as histopathology of rat pancreas. Results: Phytochemical analysis of HETI showed the presence of polyphenol like flavonoids. Single and multidose of HETI significantly (p < 0.05; p < 0.001) reduced blood glucose level in normoglycaemic, glucose loaded and alloxan induced hyperglycaemic animals. HETI exerts the protective effect on pancreatic β-cells as per results obtained from histopathology of animals. Moreover, HETI increased glucose uptake in isolated rat hemi-diaphragm and prevents decrease in body weight along with recovery of altered hematological parameters. Conclusions: The study revealed that HETI have potent hypoglycaemic action by virtue of its phytoconstituents and it can be used as a herbal medicine for diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preclinical models of immunomodulatory studies are indispensable part in the process of drug discovery and development. Still, they are mimeo of human immunostimulation/suppression provided heterogeneity of latter. This review discusses various preclinical models of immunomodulatory studies viz. cell lines for immunomodulatory studies, murine models include humoral antibody (HA) response, delayed type hypersensitivity response, macrophage phagocytosis by carbon clearance method, effect on total leucocytes count, leucocyte mobilization studies, mice lethality test Fish models include phagocytosis by fish blood lymphocytes, specific and non-specific response in fish and intestinal bacterial colonization; whereas pathogen infestation model includes immunomodulation against Eimeria vermiformis . A portfolio of these biological models has to be utilized strategically as the specific stage of process of drug discovery. During selection of such model it has to be kept in mind that the model must be physiologically relevant. At the same time, it should be able to aid in prediction of human response. Never the less, apart from being ‘physiologically relevant’, the decisive ‘proof’ regarding safety and efficacy of test drugs lies human studies. Still, sensible construal and envision of data resulting from these models to humans, and a conformingly more prominence placed on medical research during early stage of clinical trials, are therefore indispensable to mend on the clinical study rates for discovery of novel immunomodulatory agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet and dietary intake can persuade the development, safeguard and proper functioning of immune system. Ruin, an important bioflavonoid, is abundantly found in various foodstuffs. Rutin has been acknowledged for its protective and beneficial effects on various aspects of the biological system. The present study was aimed to examine the effect of rutin on the regulation of the immune response in experimental animal models. Effect of rutin of cellular immunity was determined by delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, carbon clearance assay, leucocyte mobilization test, and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression, whereas humoral immunity was analyzed by the haemagglutinating antibody (HA) titre assay. Rutin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) evoked a significant increase in antibody titre in the haemagglutination test, increased immunoglobulin levels, and enhanced the delayed type hypersensitivity reaction induced by sheep red blood cells. It also significantly restored the functioning of leucocytes in cyclophosphamide treated rats and augmented phagocytic index in the carbon clearance assay. The outcomes from the present study indicate that rutin possesses sufficient potential for increasing immune activity by cellular and humoral mediated mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contemporary scientific community has presently recognized flavonoids to be a unique class of therapeutic molecules due to their diverse therapeutic properties. Of these, rutin, also known as vitamin P or rutoside, has been explored for a number of pharmacological effects. Tea leaves, apples, and many more possess rutin as one of the active constituents. Today, rutin has been observed for its nutraceutical effect. The present review highlights current information and health-promoting effects of rutin. Along with this, safety pharmacology issues and SAR of the same have also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus cruentus (Amaranthaceae) is one of the popularly grown leafy vegetables in the Indian subcontinent. Leaves of the plant are rich in polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, saponins, and betalains. The plant also contains rich amounts of protein, calcium, iron, vitamins A, E, and C, and folic acid. The present work was undertaken to evaluate the antianemic effect of Amaranthus cruentus. Ethanol extract of Amaranthus cruentus was prepared. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was determined by Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Guideline 423. Doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg were used in the present study. Phenylhydrazine (60 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection for three consecutive days) was used to induce anemia in rats. After anemia induction, animals were treated with standard preparation and extract. Amaranthus cruentus extract significantly aided in restoring the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells (WBCs), and hemoglobin. There was also an increase in hematocrit. Thus, it can be concluded that Amaranthus cruentus is a rich source of phytochemicals that are responsible for demonstrating hematopoietic effects. Isolation and structure elucidation of constituents, responsible for antianemic activity, is necessary to affirm the aforementioned effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nephropathy is one of the progressive complications prevailed all around the world that is observed which arises due to detrimental effects of metabolites created due to various metabolic and physiological reactions. Gentamicin is one of the drug that may cause nephrotoxicity. Objectives: Phytoremedies are being considered as to play deterrent role in the treatment of disease. T. dioica is widely distributed in Asian subcontinent and consumed as food. The present work is aimed to study nephroprotective activity of T. dioica. Subjects and Methods: Dried T. dioica fruits were extracted with methanol and the extract was subjected to phytochemical analysis. Acute toxicity was determined as per OECD guidelines. Gentamicin (80 mg/Kg) was used to induce nephrotoxicity. The extract was given orally. Kidney weight was determined and estimation of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, uric acid, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, lipid peroxidation, urinary electrolytes was performed. Results and Discussion: Decrement in serum urea and creatinine along with reduction in uric acid was observed. Similarly, restoration of antioxidant enzymes and normalization of urinary electrolytes and kidney weight was observed. Observations from present study divulged that T. dioica, which is a good source of antioxidant phytochemicals, is accountable for nephroprotective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of death worldwide. Targeted delivery of drug to the carcinoma cell can be achieved by conjugation of ligand on the carrier system. Methods and materials: In this study, oxaliplatin-loaded hepatoma-targeted liposome were designed and prepared using galactosylated distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine. The liposomes were prepared by cast film method and coupled with lactobionic acid (LA-LP) using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide as a coupling agent. The coupling was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. They were further characterized for various parameters such as vesicle shape and surface morphology, size, entrapment efficiency andin vitrorelease pattern. Results and discussion: The vesicle size of the uncoupled liposome (256 nm) was found to be less than LA-LP (310 nm). The uptake of LA-LP and uncoupled liposomes by BEL7402 HCC cell lines was visualized using fluorescence microscopy that revealed the dependence of liposomal recognition and higher uptake of the LA-LP. Organ distribution studies provided evidence that coupling of lactobionic acid on liposomal surface significantly enhanced the tumor uptake of drug, which is reflected by recovery of higher percentage of drug from tumor as compared to uncoupled liposomes or free drug. Conclusion: These studies suggest them as effective vectors for HCC targeting. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: The purpose of the present study was to formulate and characterize Nizatidine-encapsulated microballoons for enhancing bioavailability and increasing the residence time of drug in the gastrointestinal tract. Methods: Microballoons were prepared using emulsion solvent diffusion method using Eudragit S-100 and HPMC as the polymer. The formulation process was optimized for polymer ratio, drug: polymer ratio, emulsifier concentration, stirring speed, stirring time. Optimized formulation was subjected to scanning electron microscopy, drug entrapment, buoyancy studies, in-vitro drug release and in-vivo floating efficiency (X-ray) study . In-vivo antiulcer activity was assessed by ethanol-induced ulcer in murine model. Results: The microballoons were smooth and spherical in shape and were porous in nature due to hollow core. A sustained release of drug was observed for 12 h. Examination of the sequential X-ray images taken during the study clearly indicated that the optimized formulation remained buoyant and uniformly distributed in the gastric contents for a period of 12 h. In ethanol-induced ulcer model, drug-loaded Microballoon-treated group showed significant ( p < 0.01) ulcer protection index as compared to free drug-treated group. Conclusion: Nizatidine-loaded floating microballoons may serve as a useful drug delivery system for prolonging the gastric residence time and effective treatment of gastric ulcers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acetic acid ulcerative colitis (UC) is an experimental condition created due to intra-rectal administration of acetic acid which causes inflammation and ulceration in the lining of colon and rectum. In such condition, the colon cannot absorb liquid from the stools, resulting in larger volume of watery stools. Mesalazine is mainly used for the treatment of UC but suffers from the drawback of having poor bioavailability. UC is also characterized by alteration in colonic microflora. The present work was focused on delivering mesalazine along with probiotic, which would facilitate to refurbish customary growth of microflora. Mesalazine and probiotic were encapsulated in pectin beads with an aim to protect the drug from gastric environment and target to colonic region. Methods: Pectin beads were prepared, formulation process was optimized for polymer concentration, drug concentration, cross-linking agent concentration. Formulation was characterized for surface morphology, in vitro drug release studies, determination of viable cell count, in vivo ulcer protective studies and stability studies. Results: Average particle diameter of beads was ∼1.44-1.72 mm. Drug entrapment efficiency was found to be optimal (78-79%). A sustained release of drug was observed for 5 h; nearly 60% of drug was released at the end of 10 h. Microbiological studies of probiotic showed best cell viability. In acetic acid induced UC model, Mesalazine-probiotic beads-treated group showed significant ( p < 0.01) ulcer protection index with respect to free drug-treated group. Conclusion: In conclusion, mesalazine-probiotic loaded beads may serve as a useful colon specific drug delivery system for treatment of colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Imbalance in cellular metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids is observed in diabetes mellitus. Pancreatic α-amylase and α-glucosidases are responsible for the conversion of polysaccharides into glucose that enters in the blood stream. Triphala has shown antidiabetic effects (type 2) in human subjects. However, its effects on glycolytic enzymes and protein glycation have not been studied. Aim: To evaluate glycolytic enzyme inhibitory and antiglycation potential of Triphala. Materials and Methods: Triphala Churna was extracted with cold water and subjected to phytochemical analysis. Studies on α amylase and α glucosidase inhibition were performed, and its antiglycation potential was determined. Results: Triphala extract showed prominent α-amylase inhibitory potential (48.66% at concentration 250 μg/ml). Percent α-glucosidase inhibition increased with increasing concentration of the extract (6.32-40.64%). Extract showed remarkable results for antiglycation potential. Triphala extract showed glycation inhibition by inhibiting fructosamine; fructosamine inhibition was found to be 37.74%, protein carbonyls were inhibited up to 15.23% whereas protein thiols were inhibited up to 84.81%. Conclusion: Triphala showed glycolytic enzyme inhibitory and antiglycation potential. Hence, it can be effectively used in the diabetes management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]