Amir Ashraf - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Amir Ashraf
Antibiotics, 2021
Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which ... more Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which have broad applications in food, oil, biodegradation, cosmetic, agriculture, pesticide and medicine/pharmaceutical industries. This is due to their environmentally friendly, biocompatible, biodegradable, effectiveness to work under various environmental conditions and non-toxic nature. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-derived glycolipid biosurfactants can play a major role in preventing bacterial attachment, biofilm eradication and related infections in various clinical settings and industries. Hence, it is important to explore and identify the novel molecule/method for the treatment of biofilms of pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, a probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) strain was isolated from human breast milk. Firstly, its ability to produce biosurfactants, and its physicochemical and functional properties (critical micelle concentration (CMC), reduction in surface tens...
Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International, 2021
Objective: Cancer chemoprevention with phytochemicals such as “lutein” derived from the vegetable... more Objective: Cancer chemoprevention with phytochemicals such as “lutein” derived from the vegetable okra could prove beneficial. Therefore, the objective of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of “lutein” against the breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) and to establish the possible development of lutein based nutraceuticals. Methodology: A literature survey was performed using online data bases such as PubMed, Google scholar, and EMBASE, from 2000 to 2020 by using keywords such as “Lutein”, “Anticancer activity”, “Breast cancer cell lines”, and “MCF-7”. Studies reported lutein anticancer potentials against MCF-7 were included in the study. Results: Out of 28 studies, 7 research articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis data indicated that, a lutein concentration at ≥1 µM was able to reduce the MCF-7 cell viability of 59.837 with a 95% confidence interval (CI): 48.331 to 71.343. Additionally, a forest plot of the cumulative studies also indicated that impact of lutein...
Plants, 2022
Bacterial cells have the ability to form biofilm onto the surfaces of food matrixes and on food p... more Bacterial cells have the ability to form biofilm onto the surfaces of food matrixes and on food processing equipment, leading to a source of food contamination posing serious health implications. Therefore, our study aimed to determine the effect of Eruca sativa Miller (E. sativa) crude extract against biofilms of food-borne bacteria along with in silico approaches to investigate adhesion proteins responsible for biofilm activity against the identified phytochemicals. The antibacterial potential of crude extract was evaluated using agar well diffusion technique and combinations of light and scanning electron microscopy to assess the efficacy of crude extract against the developed biofilms. Our results showed that crude extract of E. sativa was active against all tested food-borne bacteria, exhibiting a rapid kinetics of killing bacteria in a time-dependent manner. MIC and MBC values of E. sativa crude extract were found to be ranging from 125 to 500 µg/mL and 250 to 1000 µg/mL respe...
Molecules, 2022
Eruca sativa Mill. (E. sativa) leaves recently grabbed the attention of scientific communities ar... more Eruca sativa Mill. (E. sativa) leaves recently grabbed the attention of scientific communities around the world due to its potent bioactivity. Therefore, the present study investigates the metabolite profiling of the ethanolic crude extract of E. sativa leaves using high resolution-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HR-LC/MS), including antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer potential against human colorectal carcinoma cell lines. In addition, computer-aided analysis was performed for determining the pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity prediction of the identified compounds. Our results show that E. sativa contains several bioactive compounds, such as vitamins, fatty acids, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids and phenols. Furthermore, the antibacterial assay of E. sativa extract showed inhibitory effects of the tested pathogenic bacterial strains. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were found to be IC50 ...
Molecules, 2021
Diabetes mellitus is a global threat affecting millions of people of different age groups. In rec... more Diabetes mellitus is a global threat affecting millions of people of different age groups. In recent years, the development of naturally derived anti-diabetic agents has gained popularity. Okra is a common vegetable containing important bioactive components such as abscisic acid (ABA). ABA, a phytohormone, has been shown to elicit potent anti-diabetic effects in mouse models. Keeping its anti-diabetic potential in mind, in silico study was performed to explore its role in inhibiting proteins relevant to diabetes mellitus- 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD1), aldose reductase, glucokinase, glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma), and Sirtuin family of NAD(+)-dependent protein deacetylases 6 (SIRT6). A comparative study of the ABA-protein docked complex with already known inhibitors of these proteins relevant to diabetes was compared to explore the inhibitory potential. Calculation of molecular bindi...
Science of The Total Environment, 2021
A rapid increase in world population is leading to the rise in global demand of food and agricult... more A rapid increase in world population is leading to the rise in global demand of food and agriculture (agri) products. Nanotechnology and its applications have emerged as one of the most pioneering and promising technology for transforming conventional food and agri industries, with the aim of sustainable farming, improving the food security, quality and safety which could revolutionize the food and agri industries. Current developments in nanotechnology have led to the new paths progressively and bringing the radical changes the way food is perceived throughout the farming, transportation, processing, packaging, storage, monitoring and consumption. This review brings the current updates on novel nanomaterials in food and agri industries. Emphasis is given on the importance of nanotechnological applications, offering complete food solutions from farm to fork; including nutraceutical and functional foods, improving bioavailability, efficiency, nutritional status, nano-additives, food texture, color, taste and packaging. Agricultural sector also witnessed several nano-based products, such as nano-fertilizer, nano-pesticide, nano growth promoters and many more for the development of sustainable farming and crop improvement. Despite of numerous advantages of nanotechnology, there are still toxicity challenges, safety concerns, which needs to be addressed and demands transformations in regulatory policies. Rapid development is projected to transform several foods and agri sectors, with rapid increase in market stake and investment. Government agencies, private research centers as well as academicians are also coming together to explore the benefits of nanotechnology to improve food scarcity in the coming years.
Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal, 2017
The aim of present study was to develop and validate a rapid, precise, simple and sensitive metho... more The aim of present study was to develop and validate a rapid, precise, simple and sensitive method for the detection and quantification of streptomycin (STR) and dihydrostreptomycin (Di-STR) residues in honey using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with electron spray ionization (ESI) tandem mass spectrometry. Separation of both the analytes were carried out by using BEH Hillic column 1.7 µm X 2.1 mm X 100 mm (Waters) and triple quadruple mass spectrometer in positive ESI mode. Two characteristics transitions of both the analytes were measured in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The method involved sample preparation in 2% acetic acid in water and acetonitrile followed by solid phase extraction and quantification by UPLC-MS/MS. The developed method was validated in accordance with European Commission Decision 2002/657/ EC. The validation parameters were established for STR and Di-STR as CCb (11.68 and 11.27 µg kg-1 respectively), CCb (13.36 and 12.55 µg kg-1 respectively) and average recovery was between 82-105%. The method presented showed adequate linearity with correlation coefficient above 0.994 for both analytes. Validation parameters were found to be satisfactory and within the European Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. Determination of STR and Di-STR confirms that, the validated method is suitable for routine analysis of commercially available honey samples. Finally, the validated method was applied for the determination of STR and Di-STR in 21 honey samples obtained from the local markets of New Delhi and Gurgaon, India.
Molecules, 2020
Cordyceps is a rare naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus usually found at high altitudes o... more Cordyceps is a rare naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus usually found at high altitudes on the Himalayan plateau and a well-known medicinal mushroom in traditional Chinese medicine. Cordyceps contains various bioactive components, out of which, cordycepin is considered most vital, due to its utmost therapeutic as well as nutraceutical potential. Moreover, the structure similarity of cordycepin with adenosine makes it an important bioactive component, with difference of only hydroxyl group, lacking in the 3′ position of its ribose moiety. Cordycepin is known for various nutraceutical and therapeutic potential, such as anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, anticancer, antiviral, hepato-protective, hypo-sexuality, cardiovascular diseases, antimalarial, anti-osteoporotic, anti-arthritic, cosmeceutical etc. which makes it a most valuable medicinal mushroom for helping in maintaining good health. In this revi...
RSC Advances, 2020
Inhibitory potential of ilimaquinone (marine sponge metabolite) against nine essential SARS-CoV-2... more Inhibitory potential of ilimaquinone (marine sponge metabolite) against nine essential SARS-CoV-2 target proteins, employing a molecular interaction and dynamics simulation approach.
Molecules, 2021
In this study, we investigated the bioactive potential (antibacterial and antioxidant), anticance... more In this study, we investigated the bioactive potential (antibacterial and antioxidant), anticancer activity and detailed phytochemical analysis of Selaginellarepanda (S. repanda) ethanolic crude extract for the very first time using different in vitro approaches. Furthermore, computer-aided prediction of pharmacokinetic properties and safety profile of the identified phytoconstituents were also employed in order to provide some useful insights for drug discovery. S. repanda, which is a rich source of potent natural bioactive compounds, showed promising antibacterial activity against the tested pathogenic bacteria (S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli and S. flexneri). The crude extract displayed favorable antioxidant activity against both 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC50 = 231.6 μg/mL) and H2O2 (IC50 = 288.3 μg/mL) molecules. S. repanda also showed favorable and effective anticancer activity against all three malignant cancer cells in a dose/time dependent manner. Higher acti...
Plants, 2020
SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) is in focus over all known human diseases, because it is destroyi... more SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) is in focus over all known human diseases, because it is destroying the world economy and social life, with increased mortality rate each day. To date, there is no specific medicine or vaccine available against this pandemic disease. However, the presence of medicinal plants and their bioactive molecules with antiviral properties might also be a successful strategy in order to develop therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, this review will summarize the available literature and other information/data sources related to antiviral medicinal plants, with possible ethnobotanical evidence in correlation with coronaviruses. The identification of novel antiviral compounds is of critical significance, and medicinal plant based natural compounds are a good source for such discoveries. In depth search and analysis revealed several medicinal plants with excellent efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV, which are well-known to act on ACE-2 recep...
Journal of Herbal Medicine, 2021
This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the ad... more This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the addition of a cover page and metadata, and formatting for readability, but it is not yet the definitive version of record. This version will undergo additional copyediting, typesetting and review before it is published in its final form, but we are providing this version to give early visibility of the article. Please note that, during the production process, errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.
Biomolecules, 2020
Epidermal fish mucus comprises of diverse bioactive metabolites which plays an immense role in de... more Epidermal fish mucus comprises of diverse bioactive metabolites which plays an immense role in defense mechanisms and other important cellular activities. Primarily, this study aims to screen the unexplored mucus extract of Puntius sophore (P. sophore) for its antagonistic potential against common pathogens, which are commonly implicated in foodborne and healthcare associated infections, with effects on their adhesion and biofilm formation. Profiling of the skin mucus was carried out by High Resolution-Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (HR-LCMS), followed by antibacterial activity and assessment of antibiofilm potency and efficacy on the development, formation, and texture of biofilms. Furthermore, bacterial cell damage, viability within the biofilm, checkerboard test, and cytotoxicity were also evaluated. As a result, P. sophore mucus extract was found to be effective against all tested strains. It also impedes the architecture of biofilm matrix by affecting the viability and...
Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 2019
Food preservation and safety is drawing more attention globally due to the increasing prevalence ... more Food preservation and safety is drawing more attention globally due to the increasing prevalence of food-borne diseases. The natural methods of food preservation are considered safer compared to methods using synthetic preservatives. The essential oils with natural preservative properties could be useful for food safety and preservation. The objective of this study was to analyze the chemical composition of commercially available Allium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum essential oils by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The antimicrobial activities of Allium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum essential oils were determined by agar well diffusion technique. The GC-MS analysis of Garlic essential oil (GEO) revealed that, Allyl methyl trisulfide (13.10%), Di-allyl sulfide (9.47%) and Di-allyl tetrasulfide (4.38%) were the major components, while methanolic extract of Fenugreek essential oil (FEO) showed limonene (12.92%), Silane trimethylphenyl (10.71%), carvone (4.57%) and Trigolline (0.38%) as major components. The results of our study showed a significant antimicrobial activity of GEO and FEO against the tested microbial strains, which indicates the presence of broadspectrum antimicrobial constituents in GEO and FEO. However, further studies are needed for individual bioactive components and safety aspects for their application in food preservation.
Bioscience Biotechnology Research Communications, 2019
Development of rancidity in pearl millet fl our even after a shorter period of storage time is th... more Development of rancidity in pearl millet fl our even after a shorter period of storage time is the major limitation for its acceptability by the consumers. So, our aim of this study was to improve the shelf life of pearl millet fl our obtained from two cultivars, (Ashana and Hreahry) using natural (ascorbic acid) and synthetic (butylated hydroxytoluene) antioxidant. Flour samples were evaluated for free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value and fat acidity for a time period of 0, 10, 30, 60 and 90 days. We found that, untreated samples had signifi cant increase in FFA compared to samples treated with ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene. Moreover, peroxide values in butylated hydroxytoluene treated samples were found to be low compared to untreated fl our as well as ascorbic acid treated fl ours for both the cultivars. From our results it was observed that, butylated hydroxytoluene and ascorbic acid treated samples were able to maintain shelf life for 30 days, respectively. However ascorbic acid being a natural antioxidant could be a potential source of preservation and it could provide an effective and natural way for improving the shelf life of pearl millet fl our.
Bioscience Biotechnology Research Communications, 2018
Milk is considered as one of the fi nest natural foods containing all the essential nutrients suc... more Milk is considered as one of the fi nest natural foods containing all the essential nutrients such as lactose, fat, protein, minerals and vitamins in balanced ratio rather than the other foods. The present study was aimed to compare the physicochemical and microbiological qualities of cow, camel and goat milk farmed in Khartoum states. Milk samples were collected from the villages of Khartoum, Sudan and analyzed for nutritional and mineral variations. Our proximate analysis showed that, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in total solid content, moisture and fat content of cow, camel and goat milk. However, we found significant differences (p > 0.05) in cow, camel and goat milk for protein content, ash content, total acidity content and pH. In addition to that, mineral analysis of entire samples revealed that level of potassium was highest followed by calcium and phosphorus. However, level of magnesium and zinc was found to be lowest in concentration. Microbiological investigation showed that, total viable count in cow, camel and goat was 3.5 10 3 , 7.5 10 3 and 4.5 10 3 , respectively. Moreover, total coliform count was found to be 9, 7 and 6 in cow, camel and goat respectively count indicates possible poor hygienic practices at farm level. In addition to that, Yeast and Mold, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella was not detected in the samples. This work provides updated information on the current physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of cow, camel and goat milk collected from the farms of Khartoum, Sudan. This can be of great importance in the fi elds of dairy, food technology and food analysis.
Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 2018
Milk and dairy products are one of the chief sources of nutrition for human beings particularly f... more Milk and dairy products are one of the chief sources of nutrition for human beings particularly for infant and children. Aflatoxin M 1 (AFM 1) a hydroxylated metabolite of aflatoxin B 1 found in milk and milk products causes serious health issues for human beings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of storage on the level of aflatoxin M 1 in milk and other dairy products sold at retail stores of Tripoli Province, Libya. Selected samples (Skimmed and cream milk, infant milk formula, butter, cheese, Cheddar, spread and slice) were evaluated by using specialized RIDASCREEN AFM 1 competitive enzyme linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Our investigation revealed that, the concentration of AFM 1 increased with the duration of storage. Furthermore, we found that the newly manufactured samples had very low concentration of AFM 1 and within the permitted range. Moreover, AFM 1 concentration in skimmed and cream milk having 6 month shelf life had 5.00 ngkg-1 and 5.03 ngkg-1 respectively. Furthermore, both the expired skimmed and cream milk had AFM 1 concentrations 121.8 ngkg-1 and 108.18 ngkg-1 , respectively. In addition to that, we found that the levels of AFM 1 in different dairy products varies with different shelf lives (12 and 1 month), such as cheddar (5.0 and 72.79 ngkg-1), Spread (5.30 and 60.03 ngkg-1), Slice (5.50 and 61.18 ngkg-1). Additionally, infant milk formula with shelf life of 24 months and expired samples had AFM 1 less than 5.00 ngkg-1 and 60.8 ngkg-1 , respectively. Based on our investigation, we found that the presence AFM 1 in milk and milk products at high concentration may cause serious illness to consumers' health and the consequent economic losses.
PeerJ, 2018
Natural products from the unique environments of sea water and oceans represent a largely unfamil... more Natural products from the unique environments of sea water and oceans represent a largely unfamiliar source for isolation of new microbes, which are potent producers of secondary bioactive metabolites. These unique life-forms from the marine ecosphere have served as an important source of drugs since ancient times and still offer a valuable resource for novel findings by providing remedial treatments. Therefore, it can be expected that many naturally bioactive marine microbial compounds with novel structures and bioactivities against those from terrestrial environments may be found among marine metabolites. Biofilms in aquatic environment possess serious problems to naval forces and oceanic industries around the globe. Current anti-biofilm or anti-biofouling technology is based on the use of toxic substances that can be harmful to their surrounding natural locales. Comprehensive research has been done to examine the bioactive potential of marine microbes. Results are remarkably vari...
CyTA - Journal of Food, 2017
Cordyceps militaris has been a keystone in combating myriad health problems with innumerable farr... more Cordyceps militaris has been a keystone in combating myriad health problems with innumerable farreaching therapeutic effects. The present study focuses on effect of fermentation conditions such as (pH, temperature and incubation time) and solid-state fermentation (SSF) using solid substrates (wheat, oat and rice) on production of cordycepin. Temperature, pH and incubation time was found to have a direct effect on cordycepin production. The best possible combination of temperature, pH and incubation time was found to be 25°C, 5.5 and 21 days, respectively, for maximum cordycepin production. SSF of solid substrate medium culture leads to the production of cordycepin. Among the solid substrates, rice medium had highest cordycepin production (814.60 mg/g) followed by oat and wheat medium (638.85 and 565.20 mg/g, respectively). This method provides an effective way for increasing the cordycepin production at a large scale. This study could have a wide application in other fermentation processes at industrial level.
Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2017
This study was designed to evaluate antimicrobial activity and chemical composition of four diffe... more This study was designed to evaluate antimicrobial activity and chemical composition of four different plant essential oils i.e. Ginger oil (GiO), Black seed oil (BSO), Oregano oil (OO) and Rose oil (RO) against different bacterial and fungal strains. Anti-microbial activities of selected essential oils were determined by the microbiological technique using Agar well diffusion assay. After in vitro study, most of the essential oils showed antimicrobial activity against all the selected pathogens. Among all the tested oils, GiO showed strong antimicrobial activity. GiO showed highest antimicrobial activity against Shigella (119.79%), Enteococcus hirae (110.61%) and Escherichia coli (106.02%), when compared with the tetracycline (50 lg/mL) activity. However, Antifungal activity of GiO was found to be present against Candida albicans and Aspergilluas flavus, when compared with clotrimazole (50 lg/mL) activity. Among all the selected bacteria, BSO showed maximum antimicrobial activity against the E. coli followed by Citrobacter freundii. Moreover, BSO had highest zone of inhibition against the C. ablicans (33.58%). OO indicated that, Shigella had the highest sensitivity (12.6 ± 0.58, 131.25%), followed by E. hirae (19.1 ± 0.61, 96.46%) and Salmonella typhi (15.2 ± 0.27, 83.06%) when compared with tetracycline activity. OO showed poor sensitivity against all the selected fungal strains. Furthermore, Gas Chromatography analysis revealed that, Gingerol (10.86%) was the chief chemical constituents found in GiO followed by a-Sesquiphellandrene (6.29%), Zingiberene (5.88%). While, BSO, OO and RO had higher percentage of p-Cymene (6.90%), Carvacrol (15.87%) and Citronellol (8.07%) respectively. The results exhibited that the essential oils used for this study was the richest source for antimicrobial activity which indicates the presence of broad spectrum antimicrobial compounds in these essential oils. Hence, essential oils and their components can be recommended for therapeutic purposes as source of an alternative medicine.
Antibiotics, 2021
Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which ... more Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which have broad applications in food, oil, biodegradation, cosmetic, agriculture, pesticide and medicine/pharmaceutical industries. This is due to their environmentally friendly, biocompatible, biodegradable, effectiveness to work under various environmental conditions and non-toxic nature. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-derived glycolipid biosurfactants can play a major role in preventing bacterial attachment, biofilm eradication and related infections in various clinical settings and industries. Hence, it is important to explore and identify the novel molecule/method for the treatment of biofilms of pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, a probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) strain was isolated from human breast milk. Firstly, its ability to produce biosurfactants, and its physicochemical and functional properties (critical micelle concentration (CMC), reduction in surface tens...
Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International, 2021
Objective: Cancer chemoprevention with phytochemicals such as “lutein” derived from the vegetable... more Objective: Cancer chemoprevention with phytochemicals such as “lutein” derived from the vegetable okra could prove beneficial. Therefore, the objective of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of “lutein” against the breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) and to establish the possible development of lutein based nutraceuticals. Methodology: A literature survey was performed using online data bases such as PubMed, Google scholar, and EMBASE, from 2000 to 2020 by using keywords such as “Lutein”, “Anticancer activity”, “Breast cancer cell lines”, and “MCF-7”. Studies reported lutein anticancer potentials against MCF-7 were included in the study. Results: Out of 28 studies, 7 research articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis data indicated that, a lutein concentration at ≥1 µM was able to reduce the MCF-7 cell viability of 59.837 with a 95% confidence interval (CI): 48.331 to 71.343. Additionally, a forest plot of the cumulative studies also indicated that impact of lutein...
Plants, 2022
Bacterial cells have the ability to form biofilm onto the surfaces of food matrixes and on food p... more Bacterial cells have the ability to form biofilm onto the surfaces of food matrixes and on food processing equipment, leading to a source of food contamination posing serious health implications. Therefore, our study aimed to determine the effect of Eruca sativa Miller (E. sativa) crude extract against biofilms of food-borne bacteria along with in silico approaches to investigate adhesion proteins responsible for biofilm activity against the identified phytochemicals. The antibacterial potential of crude extract was evaluated using agar well diffusion technique and combinations of light and scanning electron microscopy to assess the efficacy of crude extract against the developed biofilms. Our results showed that crude extract of E. sativa was active against all tested food-borne bacteria, exhibiting a rapid kinetics of killing bacteria in a time-dependent manner. MIC and MBC values of E. sativa crude extract were found to be ranging from 125 to 500 µg/mL and 250 to 1000 µg/mL respe...
Molecules, 2022
Eruca sativa Mill. (E. sativa) leaves recently grabbed the attention of scientific communities ar... more Eruca sativa Mill. (E. sativa) leaves recently grabbed the attention of scientific communities around the world due to its potent bioactivity. Therefore, the present study investigates the metabolite profiling of the ethanolic crude extract of E. sativa leaves using high resolution-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HR-LC/MS), including antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer potential against human colorectal carcinoma cell lines. In addition, computer-aided analysis was performed for determining the pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity prediction of the identified compounds. Our results show that E. sativa contains several bioactive compounds, such as vitamins, fatty acids, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids and phenols. Furthermore, the antibacterial assay of E. sativa extract showed inhibitory effects of the tested pathogenic bacterial strains. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were found to be IC50 ...
Molecules, 2021
Diabetes mellitus is a global threat affecting millions of people of different age groups. In rec... more Diabetes mellitus is a global threat affecting millions of people of different age groups. In recent years, the development of naturally derived anti-diabetic agents has gained popularity. Okra is a common vegetable containing important bioactive components such as abscisic acid (ABA). ABA, a phytohormone, has been shown to elicit potent anti-diabetic effects in mouse models. Keeping its anti-diabetic potential in mind, in silico study was performed to explore its role in inhibiting proteins relevant to diabetes mellitus- 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD1), aldose reductase, glucokinase, glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma), and Sirtuin family of NAD(+)-dependent protein deacetylases 6 (SIRT6). A comparative study of the ABA-protein docked complex with already known inhibitors of these proteins relevant to diabetes was compared to explore the inhibitory potential. Calculation of molecular bindi...
Science of The Total Environment, 2021
A rapid increase in world population is leading to the rise in global demand of food and agricult... more A rapid increase in world population is leading to the rise in global demand of food and agriculture (agri) products. Nanotechnology and its applications have emerged as one of the most pioneering and promising technology for transforming conventional food and agri industries, with the aim of sustainable farming, improving the food security, quality and safety which could revolutionize the food and agri industries. Current developments in nanotechnology have led to the new paths progressively and bringing the radical changes the way food is perceived throughout the farming, transportation, processing, packaging, storage, monitoring and consumption. This review brings the current updates on novel nanomaterials in food and agri industries. Emphasis is given on the importance of nanotechnological applications, offering complete food solutions from farm to fork; including nutraceutical and functional foods, improving bioavailability, efficiency, nutritional status, nano-additives, food texture, color, taste and packaging. Agricultural sector also witnessed several nano-based products, such as nano-fertilizer, nano-pesticide, nano growth promoters and many more for the development of sustainable farming and crop improvement. Despite of numerous advantages of nanotechnology, there are still toxicity challenges, safety concerns, which needs to be addressed and demands transformations in regulatory policies. Rapid development is projected to transform several foods and agri sectors, with rapid increase in market stake and investment. Government agencies, private research centers as well as academicians are also coming together to explore the benefits of nanotechnology to improve food scarcity in the coming years.
Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal, 2017
The aim of present study was to develop and validate a rapid, precise, simple and sensitive metho... more The aim of present study was to develop and validate a rapid, precise, simple and sensitive method for the detection and quantification of streptomycin (STR) and dihydrostreptomycin (Di-STR) residues in honey using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with electron spray ionization (ESI) tandem mass spectrometry. Separation of both the analytes were carried out by using BEH Hillic column 1.7 µm X 2.1 mm X 100 mm (Waters) and triple quadruple mass spectrometer in positive ESI mode. Two characteristics transitions of both the analytes were measured in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The method involved sample preparation in 2% acetic acid in water and acetonitrile followed by solid phase extraction and quantification by UPLC-MS/MS. The developed method was validated in accordance with European Commission Decision 2002/657/ EC. The validation parameters were established for STR and Di-STR as CCb (11.68 and 11.27 µg kg-1 respectively), CCb (13.36 and 12.55 µg kg-1 respectively) and average recovery was between 82-105%. The method presented showed adequate linearity with correlation coefficient above 0.994 for both analytes. Validation parameters were found to be satisfactory and within the European Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. Determination of STR and Di-STR confirms that, the validated method is suitable for routine analysis of commercially available honey samples. Finally, the validated method was applied for the determination of STR and Di-STR in 21 honey samples obtained from the local markets of New Delhi and Gurgaon, India.
Molecules, 2020
Cordyceps is a rare naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus usually found at high altitudes o... more Cordyceps is a rare naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus usually found at high altitudes on the Himalayan plateau and a well-known medicinal mushroom in traditional Chinese medicine. Cordyceps contains various bioactive components, out of which, cordycepin is considered most vital, due to its utmost therapeutic as well as nutraceutical potential. Moreover, the structure similarity of cordycepin with adenosine makes it an important bioactive component, with difference of only hydroxyl group, lacking in the 3′ position of its ribose moiety. Cordycepin is known for various nutraceutical and therapeutic potential, such as anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, anticancer, antiviral, hepato-protective, hypo-sexuality, cardiovascular diseases, antimalarial, anti-osteoporotic, anti-arthritic, cosmeceutical etc. which makes it a most valuable medicinal mushroom for helping in maintaining good health. In this revi...
RSC Advances, 2020
Inhibitory potential of ilimaquinone (marine sponge metabolite) against nine essential SARS-CoV-2... more Inhibitory potential of ilimaquinone (marine sponge metabolite) against nine essential SARS-CoV-2 target proteins, employing a molecular interaction and dynamics simulation approach.
Molecules, 2021
In this study, we investigated the bioactive potential (antibacterial and antioxidant), anticance... more In this study, we investigated the bioactive potential (antibacterial and antioxidant), anticancer activity and detailed phytochemical analysis of Selaginellarepanda (S. repanda) ethanolic crude extract for the very first time using different in vitro approaches. Furthermore, computer-aided prediction of pharmacokinetic properties and safety profile of the identified phytoconstituents were also employed in order to provide some useful insights for drug discovery. S. repanda, which is a rich source of potent natural bioactive compounds, showed promising antibacterial activity against the tested pathogenic bacteria (S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli and S. flexneri). The crude extract displayed favorable antioxidant activity against both 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC50 = 231.6 μg/mL) and H2O2 (IC50 = 288.3 μg/mL) molecules. S. repanda also showed favorable and effective anticancer activity against all three malignant cancer cells in a dose/time dependent manner. Higher acti...
Plants, 2020
SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) is in focus over all known human diseases, because it is destroyi... more SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) is in focus over all known human diseases, because it is destroying the world economy and social life, with increased mortality rate each day. To date, there is no specific medicine or vaccine available against this pandemic disease. However, the presence of medicinal plants and their bioactive molecules with antiviral properties might also be a successful strategy in order to develop therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, this review will summarize the available literature and other information/data sources related to antiviral medicinal plants, with possible ethnobotanical evidence in correlation with coronaviruses. The identification of novel antiviral compounds is of critical significance, and medicinal plant based natural compounds are a good source for such discoveries. In depth search and analysis revealed several medicinal plants with excellent efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV, which are well-known to act on ACE-2 recep...
Journal of Herbal Medicine, 2021
This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the ad... more This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the addition of a cover page and metadata, and formatting for readability, but it is not yet the definitive version of record. This version will undergo additional copyediting, typesetting and review before it is published in its final form, but we are providing this version to give early visibility of the article. Please note that, during the production process, errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.
Biomolecules, 2020
Epidermal fish mucus comprises of diverse bioactive metabolites which plays an immense role in de... more Epidermal fish mucus comprises of diverse bioactive metabolites which plays an immense role in defense mechanisms and other important cellular activities. Primarily, this study aims to screen the unexplored mucus extract of Puntius sophore (P. sophore) for its antagonistic potential against common pathogens, which are commonly implicated in foodborne and healthcare associated infections, with effects on their adhesion and biofilm formation. Profiling of the skin mucus was carried out by High Resolution-Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (HR-LCMS), followed by antibacterial activity and assessment of antibiofilm potency and efficacy on the development, formation, and texture of biofilms. Furthermore, bacterial cell damage, viability within the biofilm, checkerboard test, and cytotoxicity were also evaluated. As a result, P. sophore mucus extract was found to be effective against all tested strains. It also impedes the architecture of biofilm matrix by affecting the viability and...
Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 2019
Food preservation and safety is drawing more attention globally due to the increasing prevalence ... more Food preservation and safety is drawing more attention globally due to the increasing prevalence of food-borne diseases. The natural methods of food preservation are considered safer compared to methods using synthetic preservatives. The essential oils with natural preservative properties could be useful for food safety and preservation. The objective of this study was to analyze the chemical composition of commercially available Allium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum essential oils by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The antimicrobial activities of Allium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum essential oils were determined by agar well diffusion technique. The GC-MS analysis of Garlic essential oil (GEO) revealed that, Allyl methyl trisulfide (13.10%), Di-allyl sulfide (9.47%) and Di-allyl tetrasulfide (4.38%) were the major components, while methanolic extract of Fenugreek essential oil (FEO) showed limonene (12.92%), Silane trimethylphenyl (10.71%), carvone (4.57%) and Trigolline (0.38%) as major components. The results of our study showed a significant antimicrobial activity of GEO and FEO against the tested microbial strains, which indicates the presence of broadspectrum antimicrobial constituents in GEO and FEO. However, further studies are needed for individual bioactive components and safety aspects for their application in food preservation.
Bioscience Biotechnology Research Communications, 2019
Development of rancidity in pearl millet fl our even after a shorter period of storage time is th... more Development of rancidity in pearl millet fl our even after a shorter period of storage time is the major limitation for its acceptability by the consumers. So, our aim of this study was to improve the shelf life of pearl millet fl our obtained from two cultivars, (Ashana and Hreahry) using natural (ascorbic acid) and synthetic (butylated hydroxytoluene) antioxidant. Flour samples were evaluated for free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value and fat acidity for a time period of 0, 10, 30, 60 and 90 days. We found that, untreated samples had signifi cant increase in FFA compared to samples treated with ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene. Moreover, peroxide values in butylated hydroxytoluene treated samples were found to be low compared to untreated fl our as well as ascorbic acid treated fl ours for both the cultivars. From our results it was observed that, butylated hydroxytoluene and ascorbic acid treated samples were able to maintain shelf life for 30 days, respectively. However ascorbic acid being a natural antioxidant could be a potential source of preservation and it could provide an effective and natural way for improving the shelf life of pearl millet fl our.
Bioscience Biotechnology Research Communications, 2018
Milk is considered as one of the fi nest natural foods containing all the essential nutrients suc... more Milk is considered as one of the fi nest natural foods containing all the essential nutrients such as lactose, fat, protein, minerals and vitamins in balanced ratio rather than the other foods. The present study was aimed to compare the physicochemical and microbiological qualities of cow, camel and goat milk farmed in Khartoum states. Milk samples were collected from the villages of Khartoum, Sudan and analyzed for nutritional and mineral variations. Our proximate analysis showed that, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in total solid content, moisture and fat content of cow, camel and goat milk. However, we found significant differences (p > 0.05) in cow, camel and goat milk for protein content, ash content, total acidity content and pH. In addition to that, mineral analysis of entire samples revealed that level of potassium was highest followed by calcium and phosphorus. However, level of magnesium and zinc was found to be lowest in concentration. Microbiological investigation showed that, total viable count in cow, camel and goat was 3.5 10 3 , 7.5 10 3 and 4.5 10 3 , respectively. Moreover, total coliform count was found to be 9, 7 and 6 in cow, camel and goat respectively count indicates possible poor hygienic practices at farm level. In addition to that, Yeast and Mold, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella was not detected in the samples. This work provides updated information on the current physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of cow, camel and goat milk collected from the farms of Khartoum, Sudan. This can be of great importance in the fi elds of dairy, food technology and food analysis.
Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 2018
Milk and dairy products are one of the chief sources of nutrition for human beings particularly f... more Milk and dairy products are one of the chief sources of nutrition for human beings particularly for infant and children. Aflatoxin M 1 (AFM 1) a hydroxylated metabolite of aflatoxin B 1 found in milk and milk products causes serious health issues for human beings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of storage on the level of aflatoxin M 1 in milk and other dairy products sold at retail stores of Tripoli Province, Libya. Selected samples (Skimmed and cream milk, infant milk formula, butter, cheese, Cheddar, spread and slice) were evaluated by using specialized RIDASCREEN AFM 1 competitive enzyme linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Our investigation revealed that, the concentration of AFM 1 increased with the duration of storage. Furthermore, we found that the newly manufactured samples had very low concentration of AFM 1 and within the permitted range. Moreover, AFM 1 concentration in skimmed and cream milk having 6 month shelf life had 5.00 ngkg-1 and 5.03 ngkg-1 respectively. Furthermore, both the expired skimmed and cream milk had AFM 1 concentrations 121.8 ngkg-1 and 108.18 ngkg-1 , respectively. In addition to that, we found that the levels of AFM 1 in different dairy products varies with different shelf lives (12 and 1 month), such as cheddar (5.0 and 72.79 ngkg-1), Spread (5.30 and 60.03 ngkg-1), Slice (5.50 and 61.18 ngkg-1). Additionally, infant milk formula with shelf life of 24 months and expired samples had AFM 1 less than 5.00 ngkg-1 and 60.8 ngkg-1 , respectively. Based on our investigation, we found that the presence AFM 1 in milk and milk products at high concentration may cause serious illness to consumers' health and the consequent economic losses.
PeerJ, 2018
Natural products from the unique environments of sea water and oceans represent a largely unfamil... more Natural products from the unique environments of sea water and oceans represent a largely unfamiliar source for isolation of new microbes, which are potent producers of secondary bioactive metabolites. These unique life-forms from the marine ecosphere have served as an important source of drugs since ancient times and still offer a valuable resource for novel findings by providing remedial treatments. Therefore, it can be expected that many naturally bioactive marine microbial compounds with novel structures and bioactivities against those from terrestrial environments may be found among marine metabolites. Biofilms in aquatic environment possess serious problems to naval forces and oceanic industries around the globe. Current anti-biofilm or anti-biofouling technology is based on the use of toxic substances that can be harmful to their surrounding natural locales. Comprehensive research has been done to examine the bioactive potential of marine microbes. Results are remarkably vari...
CyTA - Journal of Food, 2017
Cordyceps militaris has been a keystone in combating myriad health problems with innumerable farr... more Cordyceps militaris has been a keystone in combating myriad health problems with innumerable farreaching therapeutic effects. The present study focuses on effect of fermentation conditions such as (pH, temperature and incubation time) and solid-state fermentation (SSF) using solid substrates (wheat, oat and rice) on production of cordycepin. Temperature, pH and incubation time was found to have a direct effect on cordycepin production. The best possible combination of temperature, pH and incubation time was found to be 25°C, 5.5 and 21 days, respectively, for maximum cordycepin production. SSF of solid substrate medium culture leads to the production of cordycepin. Among the solid substrates, rice medium had highest cordycepin production (814.60 mg/g) followed by oat and wheat medium (638.85 and 565.20 mg/g, respectively). This method provides an effective way for increasing the cordycepin production at a large scale. This study could have a wide application in other fermentation processes at industrial level.
Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2017
This study was designed to evaluate antimicrobial activity and chemical composition of four diffe... more This study was designed to evaluate antimicrobial activity and chemical composition of four different plant essential oils i.e. Ginger oil (GiO), Black seed oil (BSO), Oregano oil (OO) and Rose oil (RO) against different bacterial and fungal strains. Anti-microbial activities of selected essential oils were determined by the microbiological technique using Agar well diffusion assay. After in vitro study, most of the essential oils showed antimicrobial activity against all the selected pathogens. Among all the tested oils, GiO showed strong antimicrobial activity. GiO showed highest antimicrobial activity against Shigella (119.79%), Enteococcus hirae (110.61%) and Escherichia coli (106.02%), when compared with the tetracycline (50 lg/mL) activity. However, Antifungal activity of GiO was found to be present against Candida albicans and Aspergilluas flavus, when compared with clotrimazole (50 lg/mL) activity. Among all the selected bacteria, BSO showed maximum antimicrobial activity against the E. coli followed by Citrobacter freundii. Moreover, BSO had highest zone of inhibition against the C. ablicans (33.58%). OO indicated that, Shigella had the highest sensitivity (12.6 ± 0.58, 131.25%), followed by E. hirae (19.1 ± 0.61, 96.46%) and Salmonella typhi (15.2 ± 0.27, 83.06%) when compared with tetracycline activity. OO showed poor sensitivity against all the selected fungal strains. Furthermore, Gas Chromatography analysis revealed that, Gingerol (10.86%) was the chief chemical constituents found in GiO followed by a-Sesquiphellandrene (6.29%), Zingiberene (5.88%). While, BSO, OO and RO had higher percentage of p-Cymene (6.90%), Carvacrol (15.87%) and Citronellol (8.07%) respectively. The results exhibited that the essential oils used for this study was the richest source for antimicrobial activity which indicates the presence of broad spectrum antimicrobial compounds in these essential oils. Hence, essential oils and their components can be recommended for therapeutic purposes as source of an alternative medicine.