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Abstract Mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue, and Zika, pose major public health challenges globally, affecting millions of people. The growing resistance of mosquito populations to synthetic insecticides underscores the critical need for effective and environmentally friendly larvicides. Although chemical pesticides can initially be effective, they often lead to negative environmental consequences and health hazards for non-target species, including humans. This study aimed to evaluate the larvicidal effects of Trachyspermum ammi essential oil and Delphinium speciosum extract on the larvae of three major mosquito species: Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi, and Culex quinquefasciatus. Mosquito larvae of Ae. aegypti, An. stephensi, and Cx. quinquefasciatus were reared under controlled laboratory conditions. The larvicidal activity of T. ammi essential oil and D. speciosum extract was evaluated through standard bioassays, using various concentrations of essential oils (10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 ppm) and extracts (160, 320, 640, 1280, and 2560 ppm) to determine the lethal concentration (LC50) values after 24 h of exposure. Fresh plant materials were collected, with the essential oil extracted via hydro-distillation, and the extract prepared using methanol solvent extraction. The chemical composition of T. ammi essential oil was examined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Additionally, the preliminary analysis of the chemical compounds in D. speciosum extract was carried out using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) techniques. The results indicated that the essential oil of T. ammi exhibited more effective larvicidal activity compared to the D. speciosum extract. Specifically, the essential oil demonstrated LC50 values of 18 ppm for Cx. quinquefasciatus and 19 ppm for Ae. aegypti. In contrast, the D. speciosum extract showed the strongest larvicidal effect against An. stephensi, with an LC50 of 517 ppm. Concentrations of 40 ppm of the essential oil and 1280 ppm of the extract resulted in 100% mortality across all three species. Both the essential oil of T. ammi and the D. speciosum extract exhibited concentration-dependent larvicidal activity, and these results were statistically significant (p

Background: Finding herbal herbicides with biodegradability and selectivity against weeds is an interesting and vital challenge for human health. The study was considered to analyze the phytochemical profile, phytotoxicity and biological activities of Rindera lanata together with a molecular docking perspective. The study was considered to analyze the phytochemical profile, phytotoxicity and biological activities of Rindera lanata together with a molecular docking perspective. Methods: Aerial parts of R. lanata were successively solvent extracted with the Soxhlet apparatus, followed by maceration. Different chromatography methods were employed to isolate and purify the major compounds of the plant. The compounds were assigned by spectroscopic methods, containing 1D and 2D NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance). Several in vitro antioxidant assays, together with an antimicrobial assay, alongside the allelopathic property on the germination of Cuscuta campestris seeds, were assessed upon the extracts. As a final point, molecular docking was conducted to evaluate the interactions among the identified compounds with 4-hydroxyphenyl pyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), glutamine synthetase (GS), and acetohydroxyacid synthetase (AHAS). Results: Phytochemical analysis of the extracts led to the identification of a new flavonoid 3, 5, 4’-tri-O-methylquercetin (1), apigenin (2), chrysoeriol (3), luteolin-7-O-glucoside (4) and rutin (5). It was exposed that ethyl acetate extract not only illustrated the highest antioxidant effect in all the in vitro assays but also exhibited the maximum antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus epidermidis. Effectively, it showed conventional allelopathic activity in preventing germination, seedling length and seedling weight growth of C. campestris seeds, as well as a concentration-dependent enhancement (p≤0.05). Docking analysis results indicated that rutin had a good affinity for HPPD, GS and AHAS enzymes, with docking score values of -11.454, -10.422 and -10.152 kJ/mol, respectively. Conclusion: The present study suggested that isolated flavonoids from R. lanata could be used as the lead compounds in the development of natural herbicides for strong bonds in the active region of HPPD, GS and AHAS enzymes.

Abstract The genus Verbascum, belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae, has a significant center of diversity in Iran. Two of its species, V. erianthum and V. stachydiforme, originate in the Iranian-Turanian region, but no studies have been conducted on the induction of their hairy roots. This genus is a valuable source of biologically active compounds such as iridoid glycosides and flavonoids. Hairy root culture is a suitable technique for the production and accumulation of secondary metabolites. Three different studies were conducted to optimize the induction and establishment of hairy roots. In the first experiment, the influence of explant type (leaf and hypocotyl), six infection methods, and co-culture time (48 and 72 h) on the efficiency of hairy root induction was investigated. The results showed that the highest hairy root induction (68.18%) was observed in the leaf explants inoculated by direct infection with three wounds within 72 h co-culture time. In the second experiment, the effect of four Agrobacterium rhizogenes strains (ATCC 15834, A4, A7, and A13) and leaf age (14, 21, and 28 days) on transformation efficiency and some morphological traits examined in both species were studied. The high transformation efficiency of hairy root (80.55%) was detected in the 21-day-old leaf explant of V. erianthum species that was inoculated with the A13 strain. The transformed hairy root colons were confirmed by PCR using rolB gene-specific primers. To optimize hairy root growth and avoid tissue browning, hairy roots were cultured in various media containing different antioxidants and improver agents (including ascorbic acid, citric acid, and NAA). The results showed that the highest fresh growth index (20.42) and the lowest tissue browning (9%) as well as total phenol (8.51 mg GA/g DW), and total flavonoid content (4.42 mg QUE/g DW) were obtained in medium B5 with 1.5 mg/l NAA.

Phlomoides (L.) Moench belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It has recently undergone significant changes in taxonomy, with many species from Eremostachys and Phlomis added to the genus. The aforementioned species were studied in terms of morphological and phytochemical systematics. Species of Phlomoides are distinguished from Phlomis by their densely bearded upper corolla lip and nutlet. However, Eremostachys and Phlomoides have a lot in common morphologically. Plant chemosystematics present iridoids, phenylethanoids, and furanolabdanes as dominant constituents of Phlomoides species. Long-term traditional uses, such as bone fracture therapy, local analgesic, and wound healing actions, pique researchers' interest in these plants. The species and their secondary metabolites have been implicated in drug discovery by their anti-inflammatory and bone-development properties in vitro, in vivo, and clinically. A review of the taxonomic status based on phytochemical and morphological characteristics, as well as the clinical importance of the Phlomoides genus, is presented in the current study to provide a basis for further investigations.

Background: Pressure lesions are chronic wounds causing the development of infection and inflammation into deeper structures and finally necrosis. In Persian medicine, Alkanna orientalis (Boraginaceae) has been used for centuries as a naturally derived remedy for managing lesions. A cross-sectional pilot clinical trial was conducted to assess the wound healing effect of an ointment made of chloroform extract of roots of A. orientalis (CERAO). Methods: Sixty patients (36 men and 24 women) diagnosed with bedsore staging 1-2 entered the study for one year. They were divided into two groups of control and treatment with equal proportions. The control group received conventional treatment from the hospital, including irrigation serum, mupirocin, phenytoin ointments, and gauze dressing. After rinsing and cleansing with normal saline, in the intervention group, patients received a thin layer of CERAO once daily for four weeks. Clinical outcomes were measured at weeks 2 and 4. Results: Recovery assessment was carried out by measuring wound area, days of epithelia formation, and complete wound closure. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P-value

Purpose: Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is a member of the Asteraceae family and is traditionally used mainly due to its immunostimulatory properties. Various compounds including alkylamides and chicoric acid were reported as active ingredients of E. purpurea. Here, we aimed to prepare electrosprayed nanoparticles (NPs) containing hydroalcoholic extract of E. purpurea using Eudragit RS100 (EP-Eudragit RS100 NPs) to improve the immunomodulatory effects of the extract. Methods: The EP-Eudragit RS100 NPs with the different extract:polymer ratios and solution concentrations were prepared using the electrospray technique. The size and morphology of the NPs were evaluated using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). To evaluate the immune responses, male Wistar rats were administrated with the prepared EP-Eudragit RS100 NPs and plain extract in the final dose of 30 or 100 mg/kg. The blood samples of the animals were collected and the inflammatory factors and complete blood count (CBC) were investigated. Results: In vivo studies indicated that the plain extract and EP-Eudragit RS100 NPs (100 mg/kg) significantly increased the serum level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1-β (IL1-β) whereas the EP-Eudragit RS100 NPs (30 mg/kg) significantly increased the number of white blood cells (WBCs) compared to the control group. Lymphocytes’ count in all groups was increased significantly compared to the control group (P

Objective(s): The current study’s objectives were to obtain different extracts and essential oils of Symphytum kurdicum and Symphytum asperrimum and to determine the chemical composition, as well as to evaluate free radical scavenging activity (IC50) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and the effect of liposomal formulation on antimicrobial properties.Materials and Methods: Air-dried powdered aerial parts of S. kurdicum and S. asperrimum were used. The antioxidant and antibacterial properties, essential oil compositions, total phenol, and flavonoid contents of different fractions were determined by DPPH test, disk diffusion assay, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Folin-ciocalteu reagent, and colorimetric assay method, respectively. The film hydration method was used to fabricate nanoparticles.Results: GC-MS analysis indicated that hexafarnesyl acetone was a major essential oil component. n-butanol and ethyl acetate extracts of S. kurdicum had the highest anti-oxidant activity. Extracts of both plants showed antimicrobial activity. The extracts’ maximum inhibition zones against Staphylococcus epidermidis were established. A particle size analyzer detected the formulation size of 140 nm. The optimum formulation of liposomes contains the ratio of 75 mg lecithin, 25 mg cholesterol, and 50 mg herbal extract. Despite the nanoparticles’ appropriate particle size, the liposomal extract’s antimicrobial effect was lower than that of the free form.Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that extracts have significant antibacterial and anti-oxidant activities, attributed to their bioactive constituents.

Background: Cynodon dactylon is a herbal medicine of interest in Iranian traditional medicine, which is used in cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and heart failure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of total extract of C. dactylon rhizomes on myocardial infarction and on post myocardial infarction (MI) heart tissue injuries. Methods: Isoproterenol (100 mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously for two consecutive days for induction of MI in rats and C. dactylon extract was administered orally twice daily started before isoproterenol injection for 4 consecutive days. Results: Histopathological analysis showed a marked increase in myocardial necrosis in rats with MI (p

Background: Ruscus specie are used as traditional medicine, food, and foliage. The aim of this work is the determination of fatty acid composition of Ruscus hyrcanus as a native medicinal plant of Iran for the first time together with comparison of different esterification methods. Methods: Two different esterification methods were used for preparation of esterified fatty acids from different extracts of underground and aerial parts of the herb. GC/MS analysis were used for identification and quantification of fatty acids. Finally, the results were compared. Results: Findings showed that R. hyrcanus is rich in essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid (13-25%) and linolenic acid (23-44%). Also, oil samples contain remarkable amount of palmitic acid (19-57%). Conclusion: The results showed that R. hyrcanus could be considered as a source of essential fatty acids. Also, it could be concluded that a simple esterification method with methanolic KOH and 2 min vortex is suitable for fatty acid analysis of Ruscus species.

Background: The present study was aimed to introduce a rapid, simple and cost-effective method to detect adulterated lime juice products commercially available in the Iranian market. Methods: Twelve different brands of marketed lime juice products were randomly purchased from the local stores in Tabriz, Iran. Fresh lime juice, as a control, was prepared by squeezing lime fruits using a plain hand juicer. Ehrlich’s reagent was used for a colorimetric analysis; solid phase extraction-thin layer chromatography (SPE-TLC) technique was utilized for fingerprinting of methanol/water fractions of samples on the silica gel plates at two wavelengths of 366 and 254 nm, before and after spraying aluminum chloride reagent; and attenuated total reflectance-infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR) was used for further studies. Results: The obtained results from colorimetric analysis indicated appearance of orange-brown color indicating presence of limonoids in fresh lime juice and only five commercially available products. Regarding SPE-TLC fingerprinting, except for five products with identical or comparable TLC patterns to the fresh lime juice, other samples represented completely different TLC patterns, suggesting the presence of adulterants in these products. Therefore, the developed colorimetric and SPE-TLC techniques revealed some extents of adulteration in half of the studied products (58.3%). However, in the case of ATR-IR analysis, the obtained spectra were not illustrating enough to be applied for the detection of adulterated samples. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the described colorimetric method in combination with the developed SPE-TLC technique could be utilized for the preliminary screening of adulterated lime juice products.

Purpose: Cucurbita maxima Duchense (C. maxima) has been widely used in China and Mexico as a hypoglycemic plant for controlling blood glucose in diabetic patients. Furthermore, in northwest of Iran, this plant is used traditionally for controlling of diabetes. We examined the effect of C. maxima pulp besides insulin on control of hyperglycemia in diabetic patients admitted to Intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: Twenty critically ill patients who were admitted to the ICU were enrolled in this study. 5g lyophilized powder of C. maxima was administrated every 12 hours for 3 days. Moreover, blood glucose level and insulin dose were measured every 1-4 hours during 3 days before administration and 3days at the time of C. maxima administration. Results: The average of glucose level in 3 days before C. maxima administration was 214.9 ± 55.7 mg/dl, while in 3 days during C. maxima administration it was decreased to 178.4 ± 36.1 mg/dl (P

Purpose: Zygophyllum fabago L. (Z. fabago) is a widespread perennial herb which is used as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine of Iran, Turkey and China. The present study was a survey on phytochemical constituents and biological activities of this plant. Methods: Methanolic extract of the roots was fractionated over a C-18 pre-packed cartridge (Sep-pak) and chromatographic separation was performed on a reversed-phase preparative HPLC. Structural elucidation of the isolated compounds was carried out using UV, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectral analyses. Furthermore, the chemical compositions of the essential oil of the aerial parts were identified by GC-MS analysis. Antiproliferative and antioxidant activities of all extracts from aerials were determined by MTT and DPPH assays, respectively. Results: Phytochemical investigation on the plant roots led to the isolation and identification of two the 60% methanol-water Sep-pak fraction, a prenylated flavone glycoside, 6-C-prenyl-7-O-[ β -D-4'''-O-acetyl-glucopyranosyl-(1'''→2'')-β-D-glucopyranosyl] apigenin, which was named as a Zygocaperoside and also, other flavonoid, was named as the Isorhamnetin -3-O glucoside. None of the extracts showed antiproliferative effect against cancerous cells. However, among the extracts, methanolic extract indicated antioxidant activity. Moreover, essential oils of flowers and leaves of plant have high amounts of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and diterpenoides. Conclusion: The results of present study introduce Z. fabago roots as a new source of flavonoid glycosides and suggest it as an appropriate candidate for further pharmacological studies.

Phytochemical analysis of the methanolic and dichloromethane extracts of the aerial parts of Scutellaria pinnatifida led to the isolation of a phenylpropanoid, 1-o-feruloyl-ß-D-glucose [1], two known flavonoids including luteolin-7-o-glucoside (2) and apigenin-7-o-glucoside (3), three known phenylethanoid glycosides composed of phlomisethanoside (4), syringalide A (5), and verbascoside (6), and oleic acid (7). Isolation and structural elucidation of compounds were accomplished by HPLC and spectroscopic methods (UV, 1H- NMR, 13C-NMR). The extracts were also evaluated for their radical scavenging activity and insecticidal property by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay and contact toxicity method, respectively. Among the extracts, the methanol extract showed the most potent free radical scavenging activity with a RC50 value of 0.044 ± 0.350 mg/mL which could be attributed to the presence of the isolated phenolic compounds. In the case of insecticidal activity, the n-hexane extract displayed the most potent activity and caused 10%, 15%, and 40% mortality to Oryzaephilus mercator at the concentration of 5, 10, and 15 mg/mL after 4 h of exposure.

Purpose:Psylliumseeds are used in traditional herbal medicine to treat various disorders. Moreover, as a soluble fiber, psyllium has potential to stimulate bacterial growth in digestive system. We aimed to substitute alkali-extractable polysaccharides of psyllium for alginate in beads with second coat of poly-l-lysine to coat Lactobacillus acidophilus. Methods:Beads were prepared using extrusion technique. Poly-l-lysine as second coat was incorporated on optimum alginate/psyllium beads using immersion technique. Beads were characterized in terms of size, encapsulation efficiency, integrity and bacterial survival in harsh conditions. Results:Beads with narrow size distribution ranging from 1.85 ± 0.05 to 2.40 ± 0.18 mm with encapsulation efficiency higher than 96% were achieved. Psyllium concentrations in beads did not produce constant trend in bead sizes. Surface topography by SEM showed that substitution of psyllium enhanced integrity of obtained beads. Psyllium successfully protected the bacteria against acidic condition and lyophilization equal to alginate in the beads. Better survivability with beads of alginate/psyllium-poly-l-lysine was achieved with around 2 log rise in bacterial count in acid condition compared to the corresponding single coat beads. Conclusion:Alginate/psyllium (1:2) beads with narrow size distribution and high encapsulation efficiency of the bacteria have been achieved. Presence of psyllium produced a much smoother and integrated surface texture for the beads with sufficient protection of the bacteria against acidic condition as much as alginate. Considering the health benefits of psyllium and its prebiotic activity, psyllium can be beneficially replaced in part for alginate in probiotic coating.

Purpose: Lycopene belongs to the carotenoids that shows good pharmacological properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer. However, as a result of very low aqueous solubility, it has a limited systemic absorption, following oral administration. Methods: Here, we prepared a stable lycopene-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles using Precirol® ATO5, Compritol 888 ATO and myristic acid by hot homogenization method with some modification. The size and morphological characteristics of nanoparticles were evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Moreover, zeta potential and dispersity index (DI) were measured using zeta sizer. In addition, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), drug loading (DL) and cumulative drug release were quantified. Results: The results showed that the size and DI of particles was generally smaller in the case of SLNs prepared with precirol when compared to SLNs prepared with compritol. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and particle size analyses showed spherical SLNs (125 ± 3.89 nm), monodispersed distribution, and zeta potential of −10.06 ± 0.08 mV. High EE (98.4 ± 0.5 %) and DL (44.8 ± 0.46 mg/g) were achieved in the case of nanoparticles prepared by precirol. The stability study of the lycopene-SLNs in aqueous medium (4 °C) was showed that after 2 months there is no significant differences seen in size and DI compared with the fresh formulation. Conclusion: Conclusively, in this investigation we prepared a stable lycopene-SLNs with good physicochemical characteristic which candidate it for the future in vivo trials in nutraceutical industries.

Objective(s): Chemoresistance remains the main causes of treatment failure and mortality in cancer patients. There is an urgent need to investigate novel approaches to improve current therapeutic modalities and increase cancer patients' survival. Induction of drug efflux due to overexpression of P-glycoproteins is considered as an important leading cause of multidrug resistance. In this study, we investigated the role of combination treatments of docetaxel and vinblastine in overcoming P-glycoprotein mediated inhibition of apoptosis and induction of cell proliferation in human non-small cell lung carcinoma cells. Materials and Methods:Cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed using MTT assay and DAPI staining, respectively. P-glycoprotein expression was evaluated in gene and protein levels by Real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Results: Combination treatment of the cells with docetaxel and vinblastine decreased the IC50 values for docetaxel from (30±3.1) to (15±2.6) nM and for vinblastine from (30±5.9) to (5±5.6) nM (P≤0.05). P-glycoprotein mRNA expression level showed a significant up-regulation in the cells incubated with each drug alone (P≤0.001). Incubation of the cells with combined concentrations of both agents neutralized P-glycoprotein overexpression (P≤0.05). Adding verapamil, a P-glycoprotein inhibitor caused a further increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells when the cells were treated with both agents. Conclusion:Our results suggest that combination therapy along with P-glycoprotein inhibition can be considered as a novel approach to improve the efficacy of chemotherapeutics in cancer patients with high P-glycoprotein expression.

Introduction: Dorema glabrum (Apiaceae) is a rare and monocarpic species distributed in Transcaucasia and North West of Iran. We aimed to explore anticancer potency of bioactive compounds from the seeds of Dorma glabrum. Methods: Methanol extract was subjected to phytochemical investigation using normal phase Sep-pak and reversed-phase HPLC, and cytotoxic effect of isolated compounds on CAOV-4 cell line was evaluated. Furthermore, Annexin V/PI staining and comet assay were used to study genotoxicity of compounds. Results: Diglucosyl caffeoyl ester (1), Glucopyranosylcaffeic acid (2) and skimmin (3), were identified. MTT cytotoxicity assay showed growth inhibition of CAOV-4 cells due to treatment with compunds (1), (2) and (3) with an IC50 of 99.7, 87.3 and 70.03 µg/ml at 48 h, respectively. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining showed occurrence of early/late apoptosis in the (1)-treated cells, while (2)-and (3)-treated cells necrosis/late apoptosis was dominant event. Single/double strands DNA breakages were observed by comet assay in all treatments. Conclusion: This work provides sufficient information about anti-cancer properties of the diglucosyl caffeoyl ester from the seeds of D. glabrum.

Purpose: Naturally occurring substances as novel drugs in cancer therapy, at all times, represent a challenge to science since medicinal plants are proving to be brilliant sources of new chemopreventive agents. Methods: In the present study, methanol extract from aerial parts of Marrubium crassidens was assessed for its antiproliferative activity in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 through MTT bioassay using cell viability and cytotoxicity indices. The antioxidant property of M. crassidens extract together with its phenolic and flavonoids content were evaluated, as well. Results: According to data obtained in the study, M. crassidens exhibited antiproliferative activity with a gradual rise in cytotoxicty effect setting out on 240μg/mL concentration of the extract. Moreover, the RC50 value for antioxidant activity of the extract was determined as 40μg/mL and values for the total phenolic and flavonoids were calculated as 512.64mg gallic acid equivalent and 212.73mg quercetin equivalent per 100g of dry plant material. Conclusion: Generally, the observed antiproliferative and antioxidant properties of M. crassidens could be certified to the high amounts of phenolic and flavonoid content detected in the extract.

Introduction: Lignans and flavonoids are widely distributed phenolics in the plant kingdom. Aryltetralin type lignans (podophyllotoxin derivatives) as the major secondary metabolites of Linum species play an important role in the production of chemotherapy drugs. In the present study, lignans and flavonoid glycosides from aerial parts of Linum mucronatum subsp. orientale were isolated and identified. Methods: The phytochemical investigation has been carried out on Hexane, DCM and MeOH extracts of the plant. Separation of chemical constituents was done using different chromatography (CC, prep-TLC, GC/MS and HPLC) methods. The major compounds of dichloromethane (DCM) and methanol extracts were isolated and their structures were elucidated using co-chromatography in the presence of known lignans, HPLC and NMR techniques. Results: Our results showed that podophyllotoxin and 6-MeO-α- peltatin, as new compound, are the major lignans of the DCM extract of L. mucronatum subsp. orientale. Two new flavonoid glycosides were also elucidated in the methanolic extract. Conclusion: The DCM and methanol extracts of L. mucronatum were found to contain aryltetralin-type lignans and flavonoids. The occurrence of 6-MeO-α- peltatin and flavonoids in L. mucronatum has been reported for the first time.

Purpose: Two plant essential oils (EOs), including those from Heracleum transcaucasicum and Heracleum anisactiss (Umbeliferae) were studied to detect the chemical constituents and evaluated for their antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: The EOs of H. transcaucasicum and H.anisactis (Apiacae) were obtained by hydrodistillation from aerial parts of the plants. The chemical analyses of the EOs were performed by GC/Mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Myristicin was found to be the principal constituent in both EOs. The susceptibility tests of EOs were performed by agar disc diffusion technique against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Results: Eight components comprising 99.97% of the total essential oil of H. transcaucasicum and a total of three compounds accounting for 98.5% of the total oil composition of aerial parts of H. anisactis were identified, of which myristicin was the main compound in both EOs. The EOs of H. transcaucasicum and H. anisactis showed weak antibacterial property against Gram-positive strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis with no measurable effect on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusion: Our GC-MS study revealed myristicin to be the major constituent of H. transcaucasicum and H.anisactis aerial parts. In spite of all the information available on the antibacterial properties of plants essential oils, we were not able to find significant antibacterial activity for both EOs.

Objective(s): In regard to the high incidence of asthma and the side-effects of the drugs used, finding novel treatments for this disease is necessary. Our previous studies demonstrated the preventive effect of Nigella sativa extract on ovalbumin-induced asthma. In addition, water-soluble substances of N. sativa extract and methanol fraction of this plant were responsible for the relaxant effect of this plant on tracheal chains of guinea pigs. Therefore, for the first time, in the present study, in order to identify main constituents of the methanolic extract, the relaxant effects of five different methanolic fractions (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) of N. sativa on tracheal chains of guinea pigs were examined. Materials and Methods: The relaxant effects of four cumulative concentrations of each fraction (0.8, 1.2, 1.6, and 2.0 g%) in comparison with saline as negative control and four cumulative concentrations of theophylline (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mM) were examined by their relaxant effects on precontracted tracheal chains of guinea pig by 60 mM KCl (group 1) and 10 μM methacholine (group 2). Results: In group 1, all concentrations of only theophylline showed significant relaxant effects but all concentrations of these methanolic fractions showed significant contractile effects compared with that of saline (P

Purpose: This research paper presents antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Pedicularis sibthorpii and Pedicularis wilhelmsiana which grow in Azerbaijan/Iran with claimed a lot of therapeutic effects. Methods: DPPH assay and agar well diffusion method were carried out to determine antioxidant and antimicrobial activities respectively. Results: Methanolic extract showed better antioxidant activity compared to other crude extracts (n-hexane and dichloromethane). Methanolic extracts of both Pedicularis sibthorpii and Pedicularis wilhelmsiana were found to have antibacterial activity especially against gram positive strains of S. ureus, S.epidermidis. No antifungal activity was observed in the tested extracts. Conclusion: Existence of some phenolic compounds in methanolic extracts, such as phenylethanoids and flavonoids (found in other species of Pedicularis), which cause both antioxidant and antibacterial activities, is probable. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the methanolic extracts supports further studies related to phytochemical investigation and bioassay of different fractions to isolate pure compounds of plants.

Introduction: The potential health risks and toxicity of synthetic antioxidants resulted in an upsurge of interest in phytochemicals as new sources of natural antioxidants. Phenolics of Astragalus L. (Fabaceae) possess antioxidant properties and have been shown to have a protective effect against several degenerative diseases. The objective of this study was to determine total phenolics and antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts from different parts of A. compactus Lam. at different phenological phases and to investigate the correlations between antioxidation and the contents of the total phenolics. Methods: Total phenolic content (TPC) was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteau reagent and the antioxidant capacity was evaluated with the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test. Results: Generally, the TPC in leaves was higher than that of the roots and flowers. TPC in leaves, roots and flowers of the species varied from 5.01-8.25, 4.29-7.89 and 4.19 μg GAE/mg DW, respectively. In addition, roots and leaves at fructification stage possessed higher TPC than vegetative and flowering stages. Therefore, the leaf extracts at fructification phase showed the highest TPC that accompanied with best antioxidant activity. In the root extracts, fructification stage was also characterized by the highest antioxidant activity. Conclusion: A positive relationship between antioxidant activity and TPC showed that phenolics were the dominant antioxidant components in the species. Results obtained suggest that A. compactus methanolic extracts may serve as potential sources of natural phenolic antioxidants and that the fructification phase could be considered as the best stage for the harvesting of this plant.

Introduction: Pedicularis sibthorpii and P. wilhelmsiana are endemic species mainly found in North-West of Iran. Plants of genus Pedicularis produce some important polyphenols and flavonoids. In the present work, total phenol and flavonoid contents of the mentioned species as well as their antioxidant capacity have been evaluated. Methods: Methanol extract of samples was fractionated by SPE method using an ODS cartridge and their 1H-NMR spectra were recorded. Total phenols and flavonoids of methanol extracts were determined using Folin- Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods. For determining antioxidant activity of the extracts and fractions, bleaching of purple colour methanol solution of 1, 1-diphenylpycryl hydrazyl (DPPH) was measured by spectrophotometric assay. Results: Total phenols of Pedicularis sibthorpii and P. wilhelmsiana were in the range of 8-30 mg g-1 and 9-20 mg g-1, respectively. The 40% and 60% fractions of P.sibthorpii and the 20%, 40% and 60% fractions of P. wilhelmsiana showed higher amounts of phenolic compounds. The total flavonoid contents of P. sibthorpii and P. wilhelmsiana were in the range of 0-215 mg g-1 and 0-177 mg g-1, respectively, whereas the 40% and 60% fractions showed higher flavonoid amounts. Antioxidant activity of P. sibthorpii and P. wilhelmsiana were in the range of 0.01-0.7 mg mL-1 and 0.01-1.02 mg mL-1. In the same manner, the 20% and 40% fractions of P. sibthorpii and the 40% and 60% fractions of P. wilhelmsiana had lower RC50 than that of other fractions. Conclusion: Fractions with lower RC50 had higher contents of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The results of NMR spectra are parallel with these findings and show that it is worth to do phytochemical studies on this.

Introduction: Dorema glabrum is an endangered species that grow in Transcaucasia and North West of Iran. The plant has extensive uses e.g. as an herbal remedy or food additive in these regions. The chemical composition of hydrodistilled oil of D. glabrum growing in Iran was analyzed by GC-MS for the first time. Methods: The essential oil of air-dried roots was obtained by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger type apparatus. The oil was subjected to GC-MS analysis and its free radical scavenging properties were determined by DPPH method. Results: Thirty four constituents were identified that represented 81.6% of the total oil. The main compounds were delta-Cadinene (12.77%), beta-bisabolene (7.48%), alpha-Fenchyl acetate (6.32%), Copaene (5.68%) and Cubenol (5.42%). The essential oil had weak free radical scavenging properties with the RC50 value of 2.24 mg/mL. Conclusion: Present work is the first report on chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from D. glabrum roots. GC-MS Analysis showed that the oil was rich in sesquiterpenes. It deems that weak free radical scavenging activity of the oil is due to absence of potent antioxidant compounds.

Introduction: We report the synthesis of novel 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives containing biphenyl-2'-tetrazole moieties. We hypothesized that merging the key structural elements present in an AT1 receptor antagonist with key structural elements in 1,4-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers would yield novel analogs with potential dual activity for both receptors. This strategy led to the design and synthesis of dialkyl 1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-4-[2-n-alkyl-1-[2΄-(1H-tetrazole-5-yl) biphenyl -4-yl] methyl] imidazole-4(or 5)-yl]- 3, 5-pyridinedicarboxylate analogs. Methods: These compounds were obtained by two methods starting from biphenyltetrazolyl-4-(or 5)-imidazolecarboxaldehyde intermediates employing in classical Hantzsch condensation reaction. In the first method, triphenylmethyl protecting group of 4- or 5-carboxaldehyde intermediate was first removed in acidic media and then classical Hantzsch reaction was employed in order to obtain the final products. In the second method, without further deprotection process, protected 4- or 5-carboxaldehyde intermediate directly was used in Hantzsch reaction. Results: The second method was more efficient than the first method since the deprotection and ring closure reaction occurs simultaneously in one pot. Conclusion: Eight novel dihydropridines analogs were synthesized using classic Hantzsch condensation reaction. Chemical structures of the compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, infrared and mass spectroscopy.

ABSTRACT- Purpose. A physically sound derivation for reciprocal power time (RPT) model for kinetic of drug release is given. In order to enhance ibuprofen dissolution, its solid dispersions (SDs) prepared by cogrinding technique using crospovidone (CP), microcrystalline cellulose (MC) and oleaster powder (OP) as a novel carrier and the model applied to the drug release data. Methods. The drug cogrounds with the carriers were prepared and subjected to the dissolution studies. For elucidation of observed in vitro differences, FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction patterns, DSC thermograms and laser particle size measurement were conducted. Results. All drug release data fitted very well to newly derived RPT model. The efficiency of the carriers for dissolution enhancement was in the order of: CP>OP>MC. The corresponding release kinetic parameter derived from the model, t50% (time required for 50% dissolution) for the carrier to drug ratio 2:1 were 2.7, 10.2 and 12.6 min, respectively. The efficiency of novel carrier, OP, was between CP and MC. FT-IR showed no interaction between the carriers and drug. The DSC thermograms and X-ray diffraction patterns revealed a slight reduced crystallinty in the SDs. Also grinding reduced mean particle size of drug from 150.7 to 44.4 µm. Conclusion. An improved derivation for RPT model was provided which the parameter of the model, t50%, unlike to previous derivations was related to the most important property of the drug i.e. its solubility. The model described very well drug release kinetics from the solid dispersions. Cogrinding was an effective technique in enhancing dissolution rate of ibuprofen. Elaeagnus angostifolia fruit powder was suggested as a novel potential hydrophilic carrier in preparing solid dispersion of ibuprofen.