| 1. |
- El-Garawani, Islam, et al.
(författare)
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The Ameliorative Role of Acacia senegal Gum against the Oxidative Stress and Genotoxicity Induced by the Radiographic Contrast Medium (Ioxitalamate) in Albino Rats
- 2021
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Ingår i: Antioxidants. - : MDPI AG. - 2076-3921. ; 10:2
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Arabic gum (Acacia senegal, AG) is proven effective antioxidant and cytoprotective agent. The present study was designed to test this notion by investigating the possible role of AG against the radiographic contrast medium (Ioxitalamate, Telebrix-35®, TBX)-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity. Albino rats were divided into four groups and supplied with either; distilled water, daily 10% (w/v) AG, an intravenous dose of TBX (1600 mg I/kg b.wt) and co-administration of TBX and AG. Rats were sacrificed and blood samples were collected to assess the genotoxicity employing the peripheral blood leucocytes fluorescent double staining; namely the acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining and alkaline comet assay. Further, chromosomal analyses were done in bone marrow cells. Serum urea and creatinine levels, in addition to malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) levels in kidney tissues were measured. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrophotometry (LC-MS-MS) was performed to identify the chemical composition of AG extract. Kidney functions, single/double-stranded DNA damage, chromosomal aberrations, mitotic index, MDA and NO levels were significantly (p < 0.001) increased in TBX-treated group compared to the control and AG-treated one. Meanwhile, CAT and GSH activities were significantly diminished and the AG supplementation significantly (p < 0.001) ameliorated these effects compared with the control and AG-treated groups. Five compounds have been identified using GNPS networking including 7,3′,4′-Trihydroxyisoflavone, Noscapine, Tetrahydropapaveroline, Costunolide, Hesperidin. In conclusion, results of the present study suggest that AG exerted a protective role against TBX-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity which may be attributed to the active metabolites in the gum.
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| 2. |
- Reda, Eman H., et al.
(författare)
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Comparative Study on the Essential Oils from Five Wild Egyptian Centaurea Species : Effective Extraction Techniques, Antimicrobial Activity and In-Silico Analyses
- 2021
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Ingår i: Antibiotics. - : MDPI AG. - 2079-6382. ; 10:3
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The genus Centaurea is recognized in folk medicine for anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, antitussive, purgative, astringent, and tonic activities. To study the chemical determinant for antimicrobial activity essential oils (EOs), five Centaurea species were analyzed including: C. scoparia, C. calcitrapa, C. glomerata, C. lipii and C. alexandrina. Conventional hydro-distillation (HD) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), as new green technologies, were compared for the extraction of essential oils. GC/MS analysis identified 120 EOs including mostly terpenoid except from C. lipii and C. alexandrina in which nonterpenoids were the major constituents. Major terpenoids included spathulenol, caryophyllene oxide and alloaromadendrene oxide-2. To probe antibacterial activity, potential EO inhibitors of a bacterial type II DNA topoisomerase, DNA gyrase B were screened via an in silico molecular docking approach. Spathulenol and alloaromadendrene oxide-2 possessed the best binding affinity in the ATP- binding pocket of Gyrase B enzyme. Principal component analysis and agglomerative hierarchical clustering were used for sample classification and revealed that sesquiterpenes contributed the most for accessions classification. In vitro antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Aspergillus niger for all EOs were also evaluated. EOs from C. lipii, C. glomerata and C. calcitrapa exhibited significant MIC against S. aureus with an MIC value of 31.25 µg/mL.
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| 3. |
- Samak, Dalia H., et al.
(författare)
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Developmental toxicity of carbon nanoparticles during embryogenesis in chicken
- 2020
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Ingår i: Environmental Science and Pollution Research. - : Springer Nature. - 0944-1344 .- 1614-7499. ; 27:16, s. 19058-19072
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Nanoparticles (NPs) are very small particles present in a wide range of materials. There is a dearth of knowledge regarding their potential secondary effects on the health of living organisms and the environment. Increasing research attention, however, has been directed toward determining the effects on humans exposed to NPs in the environment. Although the majority of studies focus on adult animals or populations, embryos of various species are considered more susceptible to environmental effects and pollutants. Hence, research studies dealing mainly with the impacts of NPs on embryogenesis have emerged recently, as this has become a major concern. Chicken embryos occupy a special place among animal models used in toxicity and developmental investigations and have also contributed significantly to the fields of genetics, virology, immunology, cell biology, and cancer. Their rapid development and easy accessibility for experimental observance and manipulation are just a few of the advantages that have made them the vertebrate model of choice for more than two millennia. The early stages of chicken embryogenesis, which are characterized by rapid embryonic growth, provide a sensitive model for studying the possible toxic effects on organ development, body weight, and oxidative stress. The objective of this review was to evaluate the toxicity of various types of carbon black nanomaterials administered at the beginning of embryogenesis in a chicken embryo model. In addition, the effects of diamond and graphene NPs and carbon nanotubes are reviewed.
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| 4. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham, et al.
(författare)
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A Spotlight on the Egyptian Honeybee (Apis mellifera lamarckii)
- 2022
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Ingår i: Animals. - : MDPI AG. - 2076-2615. ; 12:20
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Egypt has an ongoing long history with beekeeping, which started with the ancient Egyptians making various reliefs and inscriptions of beekeeping on their tombs and temples. The Egyptian honeybee (Apis mellifera lamarckii) is an authentic Egyptian honeybee subspecies utilized in apiculture. A. m. lamarckii is a distinct honeybee subspecies that has a particular body color, size, and high levels of hygienic behavior. Additionally, it has distinctive characteristics; including the presence of the half-queens, an excessive number of swarm cells, high adaptability to climatic conditions, good resistance to specific bee diseases, including the Varro disorder, and continuous breeding during the whole year despite low productivity, using very little propolis, and tending to abscond readily. This review discusses the history of beekeeping in Egypt and its current situation in addition to its morphology, genetic analysis, and distinctive characters, and the defensive behaviors of native A. m. lamarckii subspecies.
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| 5. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham R., et al.
(författare)
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Recent insights into the biosynthesis and biological activities of natural xanthones
- 2010
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Ingår i: Current Medicinal Chemistry. - : Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.. - 0929-8673 .- 1875-533X. ; 17:9, s. 854-901
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of the complex biosynthetic pathways and diverse biological activities of naturally occurring xanthones. The biosynthesis section covers studies published from 1989 to 2008 on xanthone production in plants and fungi, while the bioactivity review presents tabulated activities of more than 250 xanthones described in studies published from 2001 to 2008, together with structural information and indications of their wide-ranging potential uses as pharmacological tools. A large number of relevant papers have been published on these subjects (128 cited here), illustrating the diversity of the xanthones and their possible uses.
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| 6. |
- Khalifa, Shaden A. M., et al.
(författare)
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Comprehensive Overview on Multiple Strategies Fighting COVID-19
- 2020
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Ingår i: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. - : MDPI AG. - 1661-7827 .- 1660-4601. ; 17:16
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Lately, myriad of novel viruses have emerged causing epidemics such as SARS, MERS, and SARS-CoV-2, leading to high mortality rates worldwide. Thus, these viruses represented a challenging threat to mankind, especially considering the miniscule data available at our disposal regarding these novel viruses. The entire world established coordinative relations in research projects regarding drug and vaccine development on the external range, whereas on the internal range, all countries declared it an emergency case through imposing different restrictions related to their border control, large gatherings, school attendance, and most social activities. Pandemic combating plans prioritized all sectors including normal people, medical staff politicians, and scientists collectively shouldered the burden. Through planning and learning the previous lessons from SARS and MERS, healthcare systems could succeed in combating the viral spread and implications of these new pandemics. Different management strategies including social distance, social awareness and isolation represented successful ways to slow down the spread of the pandemic. Furthermore, pre-preparedness of some countries for emergencies is crucial to minimize the consequences of the crisis.
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| 7. |
- Khalifa, Shaden A. M., et al.
(författare)
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Cyanobacteria-From the Oceans to the Potential Biotechnological and Biomedical Applications
- 2021
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Ingår i: Marine Drugs. - : MDPI AG. - 1660-3397. ; 19:5
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic prokaryotic organisms which represent a significant source of novel, bioactive, secondary metabolites, and they are also considered an abundant source of bioactive compounds/drugs, such as dolastatin, cryptophycin 1, curacin toyocamycin, phytoalexin, cyanovirin-N and phycocyanin. Some of these compounds have displayed promising results in successful Phase I, II, III and IV clinical trials. Additionally, the cyanobacterial compounds applied to medical research have demonstrated an exciting future with great potential to be developed into new medicines. Most of these compounds have exhibited strong pharmacological activities, including neurotoxicity, cytotoxicity and antiviral activity against HCMV, HSV-1, HHV-6 and HIV-1, so these metabolites could be promising candidates for COVID-19 treatment. Therefore, the effective large-scale production of natural marine products through synthesis is important for resolving the existing issues associated with chemical isolation, including small yields, and may be necessary to better investigate their biological activities. Herein, we highlight the total synthesized and stereochemical determinations of the cyanobacterial bioactive compounds. Furthermore, this review primarily focuses on the biotechnological applications of cyanobacteria, including applications as cosmetics, food supplements, and the nanobiotechnological applications of cyanobacterial bioactive compounds in potential medicinal applications for various human diseases are discussed.
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| 8. |
- Khalifa, Shaden A. M., et al.
(författare)
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Screening for natural and derived bio-active compounds in preclinical and clinical studies : One of the frontlines of fighting the coronaviruses pandemic
- 2021
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Ingår i: Phytomedicine. - : Elsevier BV. - 0944-7113 .- 1618-095X. ; 85
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Starting December 2019, mankind faced an unprecedented enemy, the COVID-19 virus. The world convened in international efforts, experiences and technologies in order to fight the emerging pandemic. Isolation, hygiene measure, diagnosis, and treatment are the most efficient ways of prevention and intervention nowadays. The health organizations and global care systems screened the available resources and offered recommendations of approved and proposed medications. However, the search for a specific selective therapy or vaccine against COVID-19 remains a challenge.Methods: A literature search was performed for the screening of natural and derived bio-active compounds which showed potent antiviral activity against coronaviruses using published articles, patents, clinical trials website (https://clinicaltrials.gov/) and web databases (PubMed, SCI Finder, Science Direct, and Google Scholar).Results: Through the screening for natural products with antiviral activities against different types of the human coronavirus, extracts of Lycoris radiata (L'Her.), Gentiana scabra Bunge, Dioscorea batatas Decne., Cassia tora L., Taxillus chinensis (DC.), Cibotium barometz L. and Echinacea purpurea L. showed a promising effect against SARSCoV. Out of the listed compound Lycorine, emetine dihydrochloride hydrate, pristimerin, harmine, conessine, berbamine, 4'-hydroxychalcone, papaverine, mycophenolic acid, mycophenolate mofetil, monensin sodium, cycloheximide, oligomycin and valinomycin show potent activity against human coronaviruses. Additionally, it is worth noting that some compounds have already moved into clinical trials for their activity against COVID-19 including fingolimod, methylprednisolone, chloroquine, tetrandrine and tocilizumab.Conclusion: Natural compounds and their derivatives could be used for developing potent therapeutics with significant activity against SARS-COV-2, providing a promising frontline in the fighting against COVID-19.
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| 9. |
- Zahra, Maram Hussein, et al.
(författare)
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Alpinia zerumbet (Pers.) : Food and Medicinal Plant with Potential In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Cancer Activities
- 2019
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Ingår i: Molecules. - : MDPI AG. - 1431-5157 .- 1420-3049. ; 24:13
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background/Aim: Plants play an important role in anti-cancer drug discovery, therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate the biological activity of Alpinia zerumbet (A. zerumbet) flowers. Methods: The phytochemical and biological criteria of A. zerumbet were in vitro investigated as well as in mouse xenograft model. Results: A. zerumbet extracts, specially CH2Cl2 and MeOH extracts, exhibited the highest potent anti-tumor activity against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells. The most active CH2Cl2 extract was subjected to bioassay-guided fractionation leading to isolatation of the naturally occurring 5,6-dehydrokawain (DK) which was characterized by IR, MS, H-1-NMR and C-13-NMR. A. zerumbet extracts, specially MeOH and CH2Cl2 extracts, exhibited significant inhibitory activity towards tumor volume (TV). Furthermore, A. zerumbet extracts declined the high level of malonaldehyde (MDA) as well as elevated the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in liver tissue homogenate. Moreover, DK showed anti-proliferative action on different human cancer cell lines. The recorded IC50 values against breast carcinoma (MCF-7), liver carcinoma (Hep-G2) and larynx carcinoma cells (HEP-2) were 3.08, 6.8, and 8.7 mu g/mL, respectively. Conclusion: Taken together, these findings open the door for further investigations in order to explore the potential medicinal properties of A. zerumbet.
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| 10. |
- Abd El-Wahed, Aida, et al.
(författare)
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Wasp Venom Biochemical Components and Their Potential in Biological Applications and Nanotechnological Interventions
- 2021
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Ingår i: Toxins. - : MDPI AG. - 2072-6651. ; 13:3
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Wasps, members of the order Hymenoptera, are distributed in different parts of the world, including Brazil, Thailand, Japan, Korea, and Argentina. The lifestyles of the wasps are solitary and social. Social wasps use venom as a defensive measure to protect their colonies, whereas solitary wasps use their venom to capture prey. Chemically, wasp venom possesses a wide variety of enzymes, proteins, peptides, volatile compounds, and bioactive constituents, which include phospholipase A2, antigen 5, mastoparan, and decoralin. The bioactive constituents have anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the limited quantities of wasp venom and the scarcity of advanced strategies for the synthesis of wasp venom’s bioactive compounds remain a challenge facing the effective usage of wasp venom. Solid-phase peptide synthesis is currently used to prepare wasp venom peptides and their analogs such as mastoparan, anoplin, decoralin, polybia-CP, and polydim-I. The goal of the current review is to highlight the medicinal value of the wasp venom compounds, as well as limitations and possibilities. Wasp venom could be a potential and novel natural source to develop innovative pharmaceuticals and new agents for drug discovery.
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| 11. |
- Ahmed, A. Ahmed, et al.
(författare)
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Eudesmane derivatives from Laggera crispata and Pluchea carolonesis
- 1998
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Ingår i: Phytochemistry. - : Elsevier. - 0031-9422 .- 1873-3700. ; 49:8, s. 2421-2424
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Investigation of the aerial parts of Laggera crispata and Pluchea carolonesis afforded in addition to several known compounds, three new eudesmane derivatives, 3β,4α-dihydroxy-7-epi-eudesm-11(13)-ene, 3α-(2′,3′-dihydroxy-2′-methylbutanoyl)-4,11-dihydroxy-6,7-dehydroeudesman-8-one and 3α-(3′-chloro-2′-hydroxy-2′-methylbutanoyl)cuauhtemone. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods
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| 12. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham, et al.
(författare)
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Chemistry and the Potential Antiviral, Anticancer, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Cardiotonic Steroids Derived from Toads
- 2022
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Ingår i: Molecules. - : MDPI AG. - 1431-5157 .- 1420-3049. ; 27:19
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Cardiotonic steroids (CTS) were first documented by ancient Egyptians more than 3000 years ago. Cardiotonic steroids are a group of steroid hormones that circulate in the blood of amphibians and toads and can also be extracted from natural products such as plants, herbs, and marines. It is well known that cardiotonic steroids reveal effects against congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation; therefore, the term cardiotonic has been coined. Cardiotonic steroids are divided into two distinct groups: cardenolides (plant-derived) and bufadienolides (mainly of animal origin). Cardenolides have an unsaturated five-membered lactone ring attached to the steroid nucleus at position 17; bufadienolides have a doubly unsaturated six-membered lactone ring. Cancer is a leading cause of mortality in humans all over the world. In 2040, the global cancer load is expected to be 28.4 million cases, which would be a 47% increase from 2020. Moreover, viruses and inflammations also have a very nebative impact on human health and lead to mortality. In the current review, we focus on the chemistry, antiviral and anti-cancer activities of cardiotonic steroids from the naturally derived (toads) venom to combat these chronic devastating health problems. The databases of different research engines (Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Sci-Finder) were screened using different combinations of the following terms: cardiotonic steroids, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer, toad venom, bufadienolides, and poison chemical composition. Various cardiotonic steroids were isolated from diverse toad species and exhibited superior anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral activities in in vivo and in vitro models such as marinobufagenin, gammabufotalin, resibufogenin, and bufalin. These steroids are especially difficult to identify. However, several compounds and their bioactivities were identified by using different molecular and biotechnological techniques. Biotechnology is a new tool to fully or partially generate upscaled quantities of natural products, which are otherwise only available at trace amounts in organisms.
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| 13. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham R., et al.
(författare)
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Anti-schistosomiasis triterpene glycoside from the Egyptian medicinal plant Asparagus stipularis
- 2011
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Ingår i: REV BRAS FARMACOGN. - : SOC BRASILEIRA FARMACOGNOSIA. - 0102-695X. ; 22:2, s. 314-318
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Bioassay-guided isolation using an in vitro assay testing for anti-schistosomiasis yielded a novel triterpene saponin, asparagalin A, from the n-butanol extract of the roots of Asparagus stipularis Forssk., Asparagaceae. The structure was elucidated by spectroscopic analysis and chemical transformations. Administration of asparagalin A resulted in a retardation of worm growth and locomotion at the first day and showed a significant activity of egg-laying suppression at 200 mu g/mL concentration.
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| 14. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham R., et al.
(författare)
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Naturally occurring xanthones; latest investigations : isolation, structure elucidation and chemosystematic significance
- 2009
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Ingår i: Current Medicinal Chemistry. - : Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.. - 0929-8673 .- 1875-533X. ; 16:20, s. 2581-2626
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this review, an updated literature survey covering the reports of naturally occurring xanthones in the period of 2005-2008 is presented. In some 143 studies, the isolation of 264 different xanthones from 36 plant species (representing 15 genera in 6 families of higher plants), 7 species of fungi, and 1 lichen species were reported. Of these, 122 compounds were isolated for the first time from nature. We discuss plant origin, the way of separation, and spectral analysis done for structure elucidation, along with a brief discussion of the chemosystematic significance.
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| 15. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham R., et al.
(författare)
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Plant extracts and compounds for combating schistosomiasis
- 2023
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Ingår i: Phytochemistry Reviews. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1568-7767 .- 1572-980X. ; 22:6, s. 1691-1806
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Schistosomiasis is a vector-borne water-based disease caused by Schistosoma blood flukes. It mostly affects people in low-income regions, 90% of reported cases being in developing countries. Schistosoma has a complex lifecycle, alternately infecting mammalian hosts and snails. The snails hosting the parasite are the most viable targets. Selective preparations for reducing the parasite pool in snails and infected water are required as current molluscicides are also nontoxic to other organisms, including fish, and thus affect food supplies in infected areas. Plants (e.g. Annona crassiflora Mart., A. muricata L., and A. montana Macfad.) are attractive potential sources as alternative molluscicides and novel entity to treat the disease owned to their diverse biologically potent compounds including; saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and tannins. Additionally, they can be locally cultivated, providing income for farmers and reducing treatment costs. Here, we review plants, plant extracts and isolated compounds that have shown activities against the host snails or Schistosoma in various parts of its life cycle. Plants have a lot of potential and will continue to contribute feasible, effective medicines and/or pesticides; more research is warranted to fully explore their future applications.
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| 16. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham R., et al.
(författare)
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Plant extracts and compounds for combating schistosomiasis
- 2023
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Ingår i: Phytochemistry Reviews. - : Springer. - 1568-7767 .- 1572-980X. ; 22:6, s. 1691-1806
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Schistosomiasis is a vector-borne water-based disease caused by Schistosoma blood flukes. It mostly affects people in low-income regions, 90% of reported cases being in developing countries. Schistosoma has a complex lifecycle, alternately infecting mammalian hosts and snails. The snails hosting the parasite are the most viable targets. Selective preparations for reducing the parasite pool in snails and infected water are required as current molluscicides are also nontoxic to other organisms, including fish, and thus affect food supplies in infected areas. Plants (e.g. Annona crassiflora Mart., A. muricata L., and A. montana Macfad.) are attractive potential sources as alternative molluscicides and novel entity to treat the disease owned to their diverse biologically potent compounds including; saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and tannins. Additionally, they can be locally cultivated, providing income for farmers and reducing treatment costs. Here, we review plants, plant extracts and isolated compounds that have shown activities against the host snails or Schistosoma in various parts of its life cycle. Plants have a lot of potential and will continue to contribute feasible, effective medicines and/or pesticides; more research is warranted to fully explore their future applications.
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| 17. |
- El-Shabasy, Rehan, et al.
(författare)
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A green synthetic approach using chili plant supported Ag/Ag2O@P25 heterostructure with enhanced photocatalytic properties under solar irradiation
- 2019
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Ingår i: Optik (Stuttgart). - : ELSEVIER GMBH. - 0030-4026 .- 1618-1336. ; 192
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- As the environmental pollution is a global, catastrophic occurrence, green synthesis of different catalysts has long been pursued. Herein, Capsicum annuum L (chili) extract-based catalysts were used for the fabrication of Ag/Ag2O nanoparticles (NPs) without harsh conditions. The prepared Ag/Ag2O NPs were uniform with an average size of 11.4 nm. The Ag/Ag2O was smoothly coupled with P25 to produce Ag/Ag2O@P25 photocatalyst which had effective electron-hole pair separation and active sites for high photocatalytic activity. The catalyst degraded 98.7% of the model pollutant methylene blue (MB) and catalytic conversion of 100% 2,4-dinitroaniline (2,4-DNA) within 60 s were realized under energy saving solar-light illumination, matching the rules of "green chemistry". In addition, the prepared photocatalyst exhibited superior stability and reusability, and the hot filtration test proved the heterogeneity of the catalyst.
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| 18. |
- Khalifa, Shaden A. M., et al.
(författare)
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Frankincense of Boswellia sacra: Traditional and modern applied uses, pharmacological activities, and clinical trials
- 2023
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Ingår i: Industrial crops and products (Print). - : Elsevier. - 0926-6690 .- 1872-633X. ; 203
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Since Boswellia sacra (Burseraceae) was studied in the 19th century, it has been known for its economic and cultural values. It is cultivated mainly in the southwest regions of Oman and some regions of Yemen, and is a natural source of frankincense, "Luban" in Arabic, around the world. Frankincense, the aromatic resin of B. sacra, is used widely both for traditional purposes and for the treatment of various ailments; e.g., dental infections, tumors, dysentery, vomiting, and fevers. Recently, many reports provided evidence for the potential biological activities of B. sacra, its synonym Boswellia carteri, and their constituent chemical compounds. These activities include cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-diabetes, immunomodulatory, and anticoagulant effects. B. sacra was also tested for effects against gastric, hepatic, neurological, and skin disorders in vitro and in vivo. Clinical trials revealed good effects against carcinomas and gliomas, as well as against bladder and brain tumors. Its uses as a plant-based agent in nanotechnology displayed promising results. More efforts should be directed to further investigate these safe, plant-based bio-preservatives, and best practices should be outlined to protect these trees from extinction.
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| 19. |
- Mahmoud, Shaymaa, et al.
(författare)
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Curcumin-Injected Musca domestica Larval Hemolymph : Cecropin Upregulation and Potential Anticancer Effect
- 2022
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Ingår i: Molecules. - : MDPI AG. - 1431-5157 .- 1420-3049. ; 27:5
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Over recent decades, much attention has been given to imply the natural products in cancer therapy alone or in combination with other established procedures. Insects have a rich history in traditional medicine across the globe, which holds promise for the future of natural product drug discovery. Cecropins, peptides produced by insects, are components of a defense system against infections and are well known to exert antimicrobial and antitumor capabilities. The present study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the role of curcumin in enhancing the anticancer effect of Musca domestica larval hemolymph. Third larval instars of M. domestica were injected with curcumin and the hemolymph was picked at 4, 8, and 24 h post-curcumin injection. M. domestica cecropin A (MdCecA) was evaluated in control and injected larval hemolymphs. The cytotoxicity on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) and normal Vero cells was assessed to be comparable to control larval hemolymph. Curcumin-injected larval hemolymphs exhibited significant cytotoxicity with respect to the uninjected ones against MCF-7; however, Vero cells showed no cytotoxicity. The IC50 was 106 ± 2.9 and 388 ± 9.2 μg/mL for the hemolymphs of injected larvae at 4 and 8 h, respectively, while the control larval hemolymph revealed the IC50 of >500 μg/mL. For mechanistic anticancer evaluation, concentrations of 30, 60, and 100 μg/mL of curcumin-injected larval hemolymphs were examined. A significant G2/M cell cycle arrest was observed, confirming the anti-proliferative properties of hemolymphs over the tested concentrations. The MdCecA transcripts were significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated at 4 and 8 h post-injection, while a significant downregulation was observed after 24 h. Cecropin quantification by LC–MS revealed that MdCecA peptides have the highest expression in the hemolymph of the treated larvae at 8 h relative to the control group. The upregulation of cecropin expression at mRNA and protein levels may be attributed to the curcumin stimulation and linked to the increased cytotoxicity toward the cancer cell line. In conclusion, the results suggest that the apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects of M. domestica hemolymph on MCF-7 cells following the curcumin injection can be used as a natural candidate in future pharmaceutical industries.
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| 20. |
- Algethami, Jari S., et al.
(författare)
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Bee Pollen : Clinical Trials and Patent Applications
- 2022
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Ingår i: Nutrients. - : MDPI AG. - 2072-6643. ; 14:14
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Bee pollen is a natural cocktail of floral nectar, flower pollen, enzymes, and salivary secretions produced by honeybees. Bee pollen is one of the bee products most enriched in proteins, polysaccharides, polyphenols, lipids, minerals, and vitamins. It has a significant health and medicinal impact and provides protection against many diseases, including diabetes, cancer, infectious, and cardiovascular. Bee pollen is commonly promoted as a cost-effective functional food. In particular, bee pollen has been applied in clinical trials for allergies and prostate illnesses, with a few investigations on cancer and skin problems. However, it is involved in several patents and health recipes to combat chronic health problems. This review aimed to highlight the clinical trials and patents involving bee pollen for different cases and to present the role of bee pollen as a supplementary food and a potential product in cosmetic applications.
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| 21. |
- Ali, Sara E., et al.
(författare)
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Profiling Metabolites and Biological Activities of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum Linn.) Juice and Its Product Molasses via a Multiplex Metabolomics Approach
- 2019
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Ingår i: Molecules. - : MDPI. - 1431-5157 .- 1420-3049. ; 24:5
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is an important perennial grass in the Poaceae family cultivated worldwide due to its economical and medicinal value. In this study, a combined approach using mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was employed for the large-scale metabolite profiling of sugarcane juice and its by-product molasses. The polyphenols were analysed via UPLC-UV-ESI-MS, whereas the primary metabolites such as sugars and organic and amino acids were profiled using NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). UPLC/MS was more effective than NMR spectroscopy or GC/MS for determining differences among the metabolite compositions of the products. Under the optimized conditions, UPLC/MS led to the identification of 42 metabolites, including nine flavonoids, nine fatty acids, and two sterols. C/O Flavone glycosides were the main subclass detected, with tricin-7-O-deoxyhexosyl glucuronide being detected in sugarcane and molasses for the first time. Based on GC/MS analysis, disaccharides were the predominant species in the sugarcane juice and molasses, with sucrose accounting for 66% and 59%, respectively, by mass of all identified metabolites. The phenolic profiles of sugarcane and molasses were further investigated in relation to their in vitro antioxidant activities using free radical scavenging assays such as 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical-scavenging ability (DPPH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). In view of its higher total phenolic content (TPC) (196 +/- 2.1 mg GAE/100 g extract) compared to that of sugarcane juice (93 +/- 2.9 mg GAE/100 g extract), molasses exhibited a substantially higher antioxidant effect. Interestingly, both extracts were also found to inhibit alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes, suggesting a possible antihyperglycaemic effect. These findings suggest molasses may be a new source of natural antioxidants for functional foods.
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| 22. |
- El-Garawani, Islam M., et al.
(författare)
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Angiotensinogen Gene Missense Polymorphisms (rs699 and rs4762) : The Association of End-Stage Renal Failure Risk with Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension in Egyptians
- 2021
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Ingår i: Genes. - : MDPI. - 2073-4425. ; 12:3
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension are common chronic diseases mainly associated with the development and progression of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) leading to morbidity and mortality. Gene polymorphisms linked to the renin–angiotensin (AGT)–aldosterone system (RAAS) were broadly inspected in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN) and hypertension. This study aimed to investigate the association of AGT gene polymorphisms (rs699 and rs4762) with ESRD in T2DM hypertensive Egyptian patients. Genotyping of rs699 and rs4762 was conducted using the tetra-primers amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS-PCR). The allelic distribution analysis was performed on 103 healthy control subjects, 97 non-ESRD patients, and 104 patients with ESRD. The allelic frequencies of AGT gene polymorphisms (rs4762 and rs699) in all study participants were assessed. For the non-ESRD group, the frequencies of the alleles of AGT-rs4762 (χ2 = 31.88, p < 0.001, OR = 5.17, CI 95%: 2.81–9.51) and AGT-rs699 (χ2 = 4.85, p = 0.027, OR = 1.56, CI 95%: 1.05–2.33) were significantly associated with the non-ESRD group. However, for the ESRD group, the T allele was significantly higher than that in the controls (χ2 = 24.97, p < 0.001, odds ratio (OR) = 4.35, CI 95%: 2.36–8.02). Moreover, AGT (rs699) genotypes showed no significant difference between the ESRD group and controls. In conclusion, AGT gene polymorphisms rs699 and rs4762 were associated with non-ESRD versus controls, without any significant risk observed in all patient groups. However, the AGT (rs4762) variant showed a significant risk in the ESRD group in comparison to controls in Egyptians.
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| 23. |
- El-Kemary, Maged, et al.
(författare)
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Calendula officinalis-mediated biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and their Electrochemical and Optical Characterization
- 2016
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Ingår i: International Journal of Electrochemical Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 1452-3981. ; 11:12, s. 10795-10805
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The metal nanoparticles synthesis is highly explored field of nanotechnology. The biological methods seem to be more effective. A simple and elegant method is adopted to prepare Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in a single step using Calendula officinalis extract (COE) as reducing and stabilizing agent. The plant extract is mixed with AgNO3 to get biosynthesized AgNPs. The biosynthesized AgNPs were both optically and electrochemically characterized by UV-Vis, Infrared spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Fluorescence spectroscopy, Zeta potential and Cyclic Voltammetry. The results showed Calendula officinalis extract is a useful bioreductant for the synthesis of AgNPs. This study infers that the size of biosynthesized AgNPs ranges from 30 to 50 nm. The surface plasmon resonance peak in the UV-Vis absorption spectra shows maximum absorption at 435 nm. Fluorescence spectra of silver nanoparticles, which show an emission peak at 468 nm have also been studied. Zeta potential analysis ensured the biosynthesized AgNPs are highly stable. Using this environmentally friendly method of biological AgNPs production supplies rates of biosynthesis facile in comparison with other chemical and engineered routes. The employment of traditional medicine in biosynthesis protocols can potentially open new doors in various human health and well-being implications such as cosmetics, foods and medicine.
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| 24. |
- El-Kemary, Maged, et al.
(författare)
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Spectral characterisation of the silver nanoparticles biosynthesised using Ambrosia maritima plant
- 2016
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Ingår i: Micro & Nano Letters. - : Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). - 1750-0443. ; 11:6, s. 311-314
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesised by reducing silver nitrate (AgNO3) using Ambrosia maritima aqueous leaves extract. The biosynthesised AgNPs were characterised by transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and zeta potential analyser. The nanoparticles were generally found to be spherical in shape with average size of 30 nm and were stable at zeta potential of -26.29 mV. The data collected by cyclic voltammetry, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer and spectrofluorophotometer proved the characteristic electrochemical and optical properties of the biosynthesised AgNPs. The metallic nanoparticles showed an anodic peak at 0.4 mV, a surface plasmon resonance peak at 437 nm and a fluorescence emission peak at the wavelength of 467 nm. In conclusion, AgNPs biosynthesised using A. maritima proved to be compatible and feasible to be studied further in in vitro and in vivo systems. Overall, the biosynthesised AgNPs can be used as a tool applied in a broad range of industrial and medical applications.
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| 25. |
- El-Seedi, Hesham, et al.
(författare)
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Bee Stressors from an Immunological Perspective and Strategies to Improve Bee Health
- 2022
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Ingår i: Veterinary Sciences. - : MDPI AG. - 2306-7381. ; 9:5
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Honeybees are the most prevalent insect pollinator species; they pollinate a wide range of crops. Colony collapse disorder (CCD), which is caused by a variety of biotic and abiotic factors, incurs high economic/ecological loss. Despite extensive research to identify and study the various ecological stressors such as microbial infections, exposure to pesticides, loss of habitat, and improper beekeeping practices that are claimed to cause these declines, the deep understanding of the observed losses of these important insects is still missing. Honeybees have an innate immune system, which includes physical barriers and cellular and humeral responses to defend against pathogens and parasites. Exposure to various stressors may affect this system and the health of individual bees and colonies. This review summarizes and discusses the composition of the honeybee immune system and the consequences of exposure to stressors, individually or in combinations, on honeybee immune competence. In addition, we discuss the relationship between bee nutrition and immunity. Nutrition and phytochemicals were highlighted as the factors with a high impact on honeybee immunity.
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