Olufunmilayo Adeyemi | University of Lagos (original) (raw)
Papers by Olufunmilayo Adeyemi
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015
Introduction. Sansevieria liberica Gerome and Labroy (Agavaceae) is a perennial plant widely dist... more Introduction. Sansevieria liberica Gerome and Labroy (Agavaceae) is a perennial plant widely distributed in tropical Africa. Preparations of the plant are commonly used across Nigeria for the treatment of inflammatory conditions. Based on the fact that herbal medicine is a strong component of integrative medicine, this study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer activity of root extracts of Sansevieria liberica. Methods. Sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were used in this study. Results. SL-A002 (IC 50 23 g/mL with HeLa), SL-A003 (IC 50 22 g/mL with HCT-116), and SL-A004 (IC 50 23 and 18 g/mL with A549 and THP-1, resp.) demonstrated significant activity in the SRB cytotoxicity assay. Potency was highest with the following pairs of extract : cancer cell line: SL-A002 : HeLa (IC 50 23 g/mL), SL-A003 : HCT-116 (IC 50 22 g/mL), and SL-A004 : THP-1 (IC 50 18 g/mL). SL-A002 demonstrated significant dosedependent antitumor activity in the Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites model with peak effect produced at the dose of 120 mg/kg (i.p.) with inhibition of 89.36% compared to 97.96% for 5-FU (20 mg/kg i.p.). The inhibition of tumor growth by SL-A002 in the S-180 solid tumor model was 47.40% compared to a value of 50.18% for 5-FU. SL-A002 was also significantly active in the L1210 lymphoid leukemia model with 158.33% increase in mean survival time, the same value for 5-FU. Conclusions. The hydroethanolic extract of Sansevieria liberica, SL-A002, possesses significant anticancer activity to warrant further extensive study to identify, isolate, and characterize the specific bioactive molecules responsible for the observed antitumor activity and the precise mechanism(s) of action.
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 2014
Hypertension remains a major health problem worldwide considering the prevalence of morbidity and... more Hypertension remains a major health problem worldwide considering the prevalence of morbidity and mortality. Plants remain a reliable source of efficacious and better tolerated drugs and botanicals. This study was designed to investigate the effect of the chemo-profiled hydroethanolic leaf extract of Byrsocarpus coccineus in ethanol- and sucrose-induced hypertension. Groups of rats were treated orally (p.o.) with distilled water (10 ml/kg), ethanol (35%; 3 g/kg), sucrose (5-7%), and B. coccineus (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), and nifedipine together with ethanol and sucrose separately for 8 weeks. At the end of the treatment period, blood pressure and heart rate of rats were determined. Blood was collected for serum biochemical parameters and lipid profile assessment, and the liver, aorta, kidney, and heart were harvested for estimation of in vivo antioxidants and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results obtained in this study showed that B. coccineus at the various doses administered reduced the systolic, diastolic, and arterial blood pressure elevated by ethanol and sucrose. Also, the extract reversed the reduction in catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) induced by ethanol and sucrose. The level of MDA was reduced compared to the ethanol- and sucrose-induced hypertensive group. With respect to lipid profile, administration of B. coccineus at the various doses reduced the levels of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, and atherogenic indices, compared to the ethanol and sucrose groups. In conclusion the hydroethanolic leaf extract of B. coccineus exerted significant antihypertensive effect and this is probably related to the antioxidant property and improvement of lipid profile observed in this study.
Integrative Cancer Therapies, 2014
This study was designed to investigate the anticancer activity of extracts of the phytomedicine D... more This study was designed to investigate the anticancer activity of extracts of the phytomedicine DAS-77. The sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were employed. DAS-A001 (ethanol extract, IC 50 12 and 13 µg/mL with HCT-116 and PC3, respectively); DAS-A002 (hydroethanol extract, IC 50 <5 and 13 µg/mL with HCT-116 and PC3, respectively); DAS-A003 (aqueous extract, IC 50 <5 µg/mL with THP-1); and DAS-A004 (dichloromethane:methanol extract; IC 50 <5 and 17 µg/mL with HCT-116 and PC3, respectively) demonstrated significant activity in vitro. DAS-A002 and DAS-A003 (80-120 mg/kg) elicited significant (P < .05-.001) dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth in the S-180 ascites model. Peak effects were produced at the highest dose of 120 mg/kg with inhibition values of 87.50% and 89.23% for DAS-A002 and DAS-A003, respectively, compared with a value of 97.27% for 5-FU (20 mg/kg). As regards the S-180 solid tumor model, inhibition of tumor growth was found to be 52.56% and 37.95%, respectively, for DAS-A002 and DAS-A003. The effect of DAS-A002 was comparable and not significantly different (P > .05) from that of 5-FU (20 mg/kg; 50.18% inhibition). DAS-A003 but not DAS-A002 showed significant activity in the leukemia model with 177.78% increase in mean survival time relative to 211.11% for 5-FU. Findings in this study suggest that the hydroethanol and aqueous extracts of DAS-77 possess significant anticancer activity.
Planta Medica, 2007
In our search for plants useful in the treatment of diarrhoea, we investigated the ethyl acetate ... more In our search for plants useful in the treatment of diarrhoea, we investigated the ethyl acetate extract of Baphia nitida (BN) using intestinal transit, enteropooling and gastric emptying tests in mice and rats. In the castor oil intestinal transit test, BN produced a significant (P < 0.05) dose dependent decrease in propulsion with peristaltic index (PI) values of 56.85 ± 6.76, 36.84 ± 3.04 and 31.98 ± 2.60%, respectively at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg vs. 89.33 ± 6.28% for control. The effect at 400 mg/kg was significantly lower than that of morphine, 10 mg/kg, s.c. (20.29 ± 3.78%), and was antagonized by isosorbide dinitrate, IDN (150 mg/kg, p.o.) but not by yohimbine (1 mg/kg, s.c.). This effect was not potentiated by atropine (1 mg/kg, s.c.). In the castor oil-induced diarrhoea test, BN produced a significant increase in onset of diarrhoea (103.40 ± 8.74, 138.80 ± 17.04 and 174.8 ± 29.04 min, 100 to 400 mg/kg, vs. 47.60 ± 8.76 min for control and 226.10 ± 12.57 min for morphine). The severity of diarrhoea (diarrhoea score) was dose dependently reduced (19.00 ± 2.26, 17.04 ± 1.89, 15.00 ± 2.05, 100 to 400 mg/kg, vs. 31.40 ± 2.11 for control and 7.7 ± 2.2 for morphine). This effect was not antagonized by IDN or yohimbine. The effect on severity was, however, potentiated by atropine. BN also reduced the number and weight of wet stools but did not have any significant effect on intestinal fluid accumulation and gastric emptying. Results obtained suggest that the ethyl acetate extract of Baphia nitida is endowed with antidiarrhoeal activity possibly mediated by interference with the l-arginine nitric oxide pathway and synergistic with antagonistic action on muscarinic receptors.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2006
Based on its use in traditional African medicine, the antidiarrhoeal activity of the aqueous leaf... more Based on its use in traditional African medicine, the antidiarrhoeal activity of the aqueous leaf extract of Byrsocarpus coccineus, Connaraceae, was evaluated on normal and castor oil-induced intestinal transit, castor oil-induced diarrhoea, enteropooling and gastric emptying. The extract (50, 100, 200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) produced a significant (P<0.05) dose dependent decrease in propulsion in the castor oil-induced intestinal transit in
Phytomedicine, 2002
The aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum was investigated for its effects on rat passive cutaneous a... more The aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum was investigated for its effects on rat passive cutaneous anaphylactic reaction, rat peritoneal mast cell degranulation and allergic bronchoconstriction in the guinea pig. The extract demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in area of dye leakage. The extract, administered for five days, inhibited mast cell degranulation of normal and passively sensitized rats induced by dextran and antigen. Allergic bronchoconstriction in actively sensitized guinea pigs was inhibited by the extract. The effects of the extract observed were comparable to those of sodium cromoglycate. These results substantiate the efficacy of the extract in the treatment of asthma, in traditional medicine.
Journal of Herbal Medicine, 2013
ABSTRACT Ethnobotanical records suggest that plants are the sleeping giants of the pharmaceutical... more ABSTRACT Ethnobotanical records suggest that plants are the sleeping giants of the pharmaceutical industry and are a potential natural source of antimicrobial drugs which will provide novel or lead compounds that may be employed in controlling some infections globally. DAS-77® is a phytomedicine prepared by a traditional medicine practitioner and it is claimed to be effective in the treatment of piles, dysentery, cholera, menstrual pain, stomach disorder, ulcer, constipation, diarrhoea and sexually transmitted infections. This study was therefore aimed at scientifically evaluating the antimicrobial activity of DAS-77®. The antimicrobial activity of the aqueous extract was determined using the agar-well diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin and tetracycline were 50 μg/ml and 62.5 μg/ml, respectively, for both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, while that of the extract was 100 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml respectively. However, the extract did not show any inhibitory effect against Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study showed that the extract was more active against the gram-negative bacteria than the gram-positive. However, the extract was active against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, which may provide scientific bases for the local usage of the plant in the treatment of various ailments, especially dysentery and diarrhoea. Further development of this extract to produce an antimicrobial preparation from a natural source will contribute greatly towards the delivery of effective healthcare. Further pharmacological evaluation and toxicological studies are recommended.
Pharmacologia, 2012
Water decoction made from the seed of Hunteria umbellata is widely used in the traditional manage... more Water decoction made from the seed of Hunteria umbellata is widely used in the traditional management of diabetes mellitus by Nigerian herbalists, particularly, in the southwest region of the country. Recently, a new bisindole alkaloid, erinidine, was isolated but its antihyperglycemic profile remains largely un-investigated scientifically. This forms the basis for the current study which is primarily designed at investigating the antihyperglycemic profile of erinidine and other fractions in both in vitro and in vivo models of diabetes mellitus. In the present study, erinidine was isolated and purified using the earlier described methods and its antihyperglycemic potentials tested in in vitro models such as dipeptidylpeptidase (IV), glycogen phosphorylase, HIT-T15 cell insulin secretion, glucose uptake activity, aldose reductase assays and α-glucosidase inhibition assay testings. In addition, 50 mg/kg of erinidine and that of other fractions were evaluated in in vivo models of normal and chemically-induced hyperglycemic rats. Results showed that erinidine was a light yellow, amorphous solid with UV (CHCl 3 ) λ max 256 nm, HRESIMS m/z 382.1881 [(M+H) + ] (calculated for C 22 H 26 N 4 O 2 , 382.1876) and melting point of 230 ºC. The in vitro study showed the antihyperglycemic action of erinidine to be weakly mediated via α-glucosidase inhibition mechanism as the results for other in vitro tests such as dipeptidylpeptidase (IV), glycogen phosphorylase, HIT-T15 cell insulin secretion, glucose uptake activity and aldose reductase assays were all negative. However, the in vivo results showed 50 mg/kg erinidine given per os to normal and alloxan-induced hyperglycemic rats to significantly (p<0.05, p<0.001) attenuate an increase in their post-absorptive blood glucose concentrations after 3 g/kg glucose loading in the rats, suggesting its antihyperglycemic mechanism to be via α-glucosidase inhibition. This result, although, further corroborated the in vitro findings but also suggests that erinidine needs to be biotransformed in vivo for its inhibitory activity on intestinal glucose absorption to become evident. Thus, the present study suggests erinidine to be the possible antihyperglycemic agent in Hunteria umbellata seed extract mediating its antihyperglycemic action via intestinal glucose uptake inhibition.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2014
The leaf of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae) is used in traditional African medicine in the t... more The leaf of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae) is used in traditional African medicine in the treatment of various neurological and psychiatric disorders including depression. Previous studies have shown its potent antidepressant-like effect in the forced swimming test (FST). Hence, this study sought to investigate the involvement of monoaminergic systems in the antidepressant-like effect elicited by hydroethanolic leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia (HeAC) in the FST. HeAC (25-400mg/kg, p.o.) was administered 1h before the FST. To investigate the contribution of monoaminergic systems to antidepressant-like effect, receptors antagonists were injected 15min before oral administration of HeAC (200mg/kg) to mice and 1h thereafter, subjected to FST. HeAC (200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) produced dose dependent and significant (P&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) antidepressant-like effect, in the FST, without accompanying changes in spontaneous locomotor activities in the open-field test. The anti-immobility effect of HeAC (200mg/kg) in the FST was prevented by pretreatment of mice with SCH 23390 (0.05mg/kg, s.c., a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist), sulpiride (50mg/kg, i.p., a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist), prazosin (1mg/kg, i.p., an α1-adrenoceptor antagonist), yohimbine (1mg/kg, i.p., an α2-adrenoceptor antagonist), and GR 127993 (5-HT1B receptor antagonist). Similarly, 3 days intraperitoneal injection of p-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA, 150mg/kg, i.p., an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis) prevented the antidepressant-like effect elicited by HeAC. The combination of subeffective doses of imipramine (5mg/kg, p.o.) or fluoxetine (5mg/kg, p.o.), with HeAC (25mg/kg, p.o., subeffective dose) produced a synergistic antidepressant-like effect in the FST. The hydroethanolic extract of Alchornea cordifolia possesses antidepressant-like effect mediated through interaction with dopamine (D1 and D2), noradrenergic (α1 and α2 adrenoceptors), and serotonergic (5HT1B receptors) systems. Also, the potentiation of the anti-immobility effect of conventional antidepressants (fluoxetine and imipramine) by Alchornea cordifolia suggest potential therapeutic effect in depression.
Lancet, 2011
Ethnopharmacological relevanceCnestis ferruginea Vahl ex DC (Connaraceae) is a shrub widely used ... more Ethnopharmacological relevanceCnestis ferruginea Vahl ex DC (Connaraceae) is a shrub widely used in traditional African Medicine (TAM) for the treatment of various painful and inflammatory conditions.
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 2014
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and sustained focus is on the discovery and developm... more Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and sustained focus is on the discovery and development of newer and better tolerated anticancer drugs especially from plants. The sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were used to investigate the anticancer activity of root extracts of Aristolochia ringens Vahl. (Aristolochiaceae;
Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 2014
Hepatotoxicity is a significantly increasing health problem worldwide, and the extent of the prob... more Hepatotoxicity is a significantly increasing health problem worldwide, and the extent of the problem has stimulated interest in the search for hepatotherapeutic agents from plants. This study investigated the hepatoprotective and in vivo antioxidant activities of the hydroethanolic extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves in antitubercular and alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity assays in rats. In each of the models used, seven groups were allotted. The different groups received normal saline (10 mL·kg(-1), p.o.); hepatotoxicant (isoniazid-rifampicin, INH-RIF, 100 mg·kg(-1), i.p. or 20% ethanol 5 g·kg(-1), p.o.) and normal saline (10 mL·kg(-1), p.o.); hepatotoxicant and extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg·kg(-1) p.o.; hepatotoxicant and silymarin 50 mg·kg(-1) p.o.; and extract at 400 mg·kg(-1) p.o. On the 21(st) day of treatment, blood was collected for assessment of serum biochemical parameters and harvested liver samples were assessed for antioxidants. The hepatotoxicants significantly (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05-0.001) increased the levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, and malondialdehyde (MDA); and reduced the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione GSH compared to control. M. pruriens significantly reversed (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05-0.001) the elevation in the level of ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin caused by the hepatotoxicants. The extract (200 and 400 mg·kg(-1)) significantly reversed (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) the diminution in the level of in vivo antioxidants and increased the level of MDA produced by INH-RIF. M. pruriens (100-400 mg·kg(-1)) elicited significant reduction (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001) in the level of MDA compared to the alcohol group. Silymarin also reversed the deleterious effects of the hepatotoxicants. The hydroethanolic extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves possesses hepatoprotective activity with enhancement of in vivo antioxidants as a possible mechanism of action.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2001
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum were evaluat... more The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum were evaluated in mice and rats using the carrageenan- and dextran-induced paw oedema, acetic acid-induced writhing, cold water tail flick and formalin pain tests. The extract (100–400 mg/kg) and acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg) produced a significant (P<0.05) inhibition of the second phase response in the formalin pain model,
Planta Medica, 2008
This study was conducted to determine the safety profile of Byrsocarpus coccineus (Connaraceae) b... more This study was conducted to determine the safety profile of Byrsocarpus coccineus (Connaraceae) by carrying out the acute and subchronic toxicological assessment of its aqueous leaf extract. In the acute toxicity test, mice were administered orally with the extract up to 10 g/kg and intraperitoneally at doses of 50 -800 mg/kg. Animals were then observed for behavioural changes, signs of toxicity, and mortality within 24 h. Surviving mice were monitored for 7 days for signs of delayed toxicity. In the subchronic toxicity test, rats were daily treated with the extract at doses of 40, 200, and 1000 mg/kg orally, for 30 days and 60 days. Control animals received distilled water and all animals were weighed at 7 days interval. At the end of the test periods, haematological, biochemical, and urinary parameters were determined in blood, serum, and urine samples respectively and vital organs macroscopically examined and weighed. In the acute toxicity test, the extract was practically non-toxic showing no mortality and visible signs of delayed toxicity. The LD 50 , given intraperitoneally, was estimated to be 158.4 mg/kg. Administered for 30 days, the extract did not produce any significant (P < 0.05) effect on haematological and biochemical parameters and vital organs. In the 60 day study, the extract elicited significant (P < 0.05) increases in platelet and WBC count and reductions in levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), total cholesterol, HDL, triglycerides, and total protein. The weight of the kidneys, spleen, epididymis, and testes were not significantly affected but significant changes were observed in the weight of the liver (↑), heart (↓), and lungs (↑). Generally, B. coccineus did not significantly affect body weight and urinary parameters. Results obtained in this study suggest that the aqueous leaf extract of B. coccineus is safe when administered orally with potential beneficial effects as immunostimulant, hepatoprotective, and hypocholestrolemic agent, when administered over a long period of time.
Planta Medica, 2008
Dry seeds of the plant, Hunteria umbellata K. Schum (family: Apocynaceae), are highly valued in A... more Dry seeds of the plant, Hunteria umbellata K. Schum (family: Apocynaceae), are highly valued in African traditional medicine in the treatment of various human diseases, including diabetes mellitus and obesity. In the present study, the hypoglycaemic and weight loss effects of 50 -200 mg/kg of the aqueous seed extract of Hunteria umbellata (HU) were investigated in normal and drug-induced hyperglycaemic rats. In addition, the acute oral toxicity using the preliminary and the main tests of the Up-and-Down Procedure according to OECD/OCDE Test Guidelines on Acute Oral Toxicity was conducted. Phytochemical analysis of the aqueous seed extract was also carried out. Results showed that HU caused progressive and significant (p<0.05, p<0.01 and p<0.001) dose-related reduction in the blood glucose concentrations in normal and drug-induced hyperglycaemic rats, an effect, which was more than that of glibenclamide and mediated via inhibition of intestinal glucose uptake and adrenergic homeostatic mechanisms. HU also caused significant (p<0.05 and p<0.01) dose-dependent reduction in the average body weight of treated rats when compared to untreated rats. The acute oral toxicity study showed that the plant extract had an LD50 of 1020 mg/kg and as such slightly toxic. Results of the phytochemical analysis of HU revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and glycosides. Thus, the data generated in the present study has a strong positive correlation with its folkloric use in the treatment of suspected type 2 diabetic patients, although its use should be with great caution.
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015
Introduction. Sansevieria liberica Gerome and Labroy (Agavaceae) is a perennial plant widely dist... more Introduction. Sansevieria liberica Gerome and Labroy (Agavaceae) is a perennial plant widely distributed in tropical Africa. Preparations of the plant are commonly used across Nigeria for the treatment of inflammatory conditions. Based on the fact that herbal medicine is a strong component of integrative medicine, this study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer activity of root extracts of Sansevieria liberica. Methods. Sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were used in this study. Results. SL-A002 (IC 50 23 g/mL with HeLa), SL-A003 (IC 50 22 g/mL with HCT-116), and SL-A004 (IC 50 23 and 18 g/mL with A549 and THP-1, resp.) demonstrated significant activity in the SRB cytotoxicity assay. Potency was highest with the following pairs of extract : cancer cell line: SL-A002 : HeLa (IC 50 23 g/mL), SL-A003 : HCT-116 (IC 50 22 g/mL), and SL-A004 : THP-1 (IC 50 18 g/mL). SL-A002 demonstrated significant dosedependent antitumor activity in the Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites model with peak effect produced at the dose of 120 mg/kg (i.p.) with inhibition of 89.36% compared to 97.96% for 5-FU (20 mg/kg i.p.). The inhibition of tumor growth by SL-A002 in the S-180 solid tumor model was 47.40% compared to a value of 50.18% for 5-FU. SL-A002 was also significantly active in the L1210 lymphoid leukemia model with 158.33% increase in mean survival time, the same value for 5-FU. Conclusions. The hydroethanolic extract of Sansevieria liberica, SL-A002, possesses significant anticancer activity to warrant further extensive study to identify, isolate, and characterize the specific bioactive molecules responsible for the observed antitumor activity and the precise mechanism(s) of action.
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 2014
Hypertension remains a major health problem worldwide considering the prevalence of morbidity and... more Hypertension remains a major health problem worldwide considering the prevalence of morbidity and mortality. Plants remain a reliable source of efficacious and better tolerated drugs and botanicals. This study was designed to investigate the effect of the chemo-profiled hydroethanolic leaf extract of Byrsocarpus coccineus in ethanol- and sucrose-induced hypertension. Groups of rats were treated orally (p.o.) with distilled water (10 ml/kg), ethanol (35%; 3 g/kg), sucrose (5-7%), and B. coccineus (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), and nifedipine together with ethanol and sucrose separately for 8 weeks. At the end of the treatment period, blood pressure and heart rate of rats were determined. Blood was collected for serum biochemical parameters and lipid profile assessment, and the liver, aorta, kidney, and heart were harvested for estimation of in vivo antioxidants and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results obtained in this study showed that B. coccineus at the various doses administered reduced the systolic, diastolic, and arterial blood pressure elevated by ethanol and sucrose. Also, the extract reversed the reduction in catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) induced by ethanol and sucrose. The level of MDA was reduced compared to the ethanol- and sucrose-induced hypertensive group. With respect to lipid profile, administration of B. coccineus at the various doses reduced the levels of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, and atherogenic indices, compared to the ethanol and sucrose groups. In conclusion the hydroethanolic leaf extract of B. coccineus exerted significant antihypertensive effect and this is probably related to the antioxidant property and improvement of lipid profile observed in this study.
Integrative Cancer Therapies, 2014
This study was designed to investigate the anticancer activity of extracts of the phytomedicine D... more This study was designed to investigate the anticancer activity of extracts of the phytomedicine DAS-77. The sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were employed. DAS-A001 (ethanol extract, IC 50 12 and 13 µg/mL with HCT-116 and PC3, respectively); DAS-A002 (hydroethanol extract, IC 50 <5 and 13 µg/mL with HCT-116 and PC3, respectively); DAS-A003 (aqueous extract, IC 50 <5 µg/mL with THP-1); and DAS-A004 (dichloromethane:methanol extract; IC 50 <5 and 17 µg/mL with HCT-116 and PC3, respectively) demonstrated significant activity in vitro. DAS-A002 and DAS-A003 (80-120 mg/kg) elicited significant (P < .05-.001) dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth in the S-180 ascites model. Peak effects were produced at the highest dose of 120 mg/kg with inhibition values of 87.50% and 89.23% for DAS-A002 and DAS-A003, respectively, compared with a value of 97.27% for 5-FU (20 mg/kg). As regards the S-180 solid tumor model, inhibition of tumor growth was found to be 52.56% and 37.95%, respectively, for DAS-A002 and DAS-A003. The effect of DAS-A002 was comparable and not significantly different (P > .05) from that of 5-FU (20 mg/kg; 50.18% inhibition). DAS-A003 but not DAS-A002 showed significant activity in the leukemia model with 177.78% increase in mean survival time relative to 211.11% for 5-FU. Findings in this study suggest that the hydroethanol and aqueous extracts of DAS-77 possess significant anticancer activity.
Planta Medica, 2007
In our search for plants useful in the treatment of diarrhoea, we investigated the ethyl acetate ... more In our search for plants useful in the treatment of diarrhoea, we investigated the ethyl acetate extract of Baphia nitida (BN) using intestinal transit, enteropooling and gastric emptying tests in mice and rats. In the castor oil intestinal transit test, BN produced a significant (P < 0.05) dose dependent decrease in propulsion with peristaltic index (PI) values of 56.85 ± 6.76, 36.84 ± 3.04 and 31.98 ± 2.60%, respectively at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg vs. 89.33 ± 6.28% for control. The effect at 400 mg/kg was significantly lower than that of morphine, 10 mg/kg, s.c. (20.29 ± 3.78%), and was antagonized by isosorbide dinitrate, IDN (150 mg/kg, p.o.) but not by yohimbine (1 mg/kg, s.c.). This effect was not potentiated by atropine (1 mg/kg, s.c.). In the castor oil-induced diarrhoea test, BN produced a significant increase in onset of diarrhoea (103.40 ± 8.74, 138.80 ± 17.04 and 174.8 ± 29.04 min, 100 to 400 mg/kg, vs. 47.60 ± 8.76 min for control and 226.10 ± 12.57 min for morphine). The severity of diarrhoea (diarrhoea score) was dose dependently reduced (19.00 ± 2.26, 17.04 ± 1.89, 15.00 ± 2.05, 100 to 400 mg/kg, vs. 31.40 ± 2.11 for control and 7.7 ± 2.2 for morphine). This effect was not antagonized by IDN or yohimbine. The effect on severity was, however, potentiated by atropine. BN also reduced the number and weight of wet stools but did not have any significant effect on intestinal fluid accumulation and gastric emptying. Results obtained suggest that the ethyl acetate extract of Baphia nitida is endowed with antidiarrhoeal activity possibly mediated by interference with the l-arginine nitric oxide pathway and synergistic with antagonistic action on muscarinic receptors.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2006
Based on its use in traditional African medicine, the antidiarrhoeal activity of the aqueous leaf... more Based on its use in traditional African medicine, the antidiarrhoeal activity of the aqueous leaf extract of Byrsocarpus coccineus, Connaraceae, was evaluated on normal and castor oil-induced intestinal transit, castor oil-induced diarrhoea, enteropooling and gastric emptying. The extract (50, 100, 200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) produced a significant (P<0.05) dose dependent decrease in propulsion in the castor oil-induced intestinal transit in
Phytomedicine, 2002
The aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum was investigated for its effects on rat passive cutaneous a... more The aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum was investigated for its effects on rat passive cutaneous anaphylactic reaction, rat peritoneal mast cell degranulation and allergic bronchoconstriction in the guinea pig. The extract demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in area of dye leakage. The extract, administered for five days, inhibited mast cell degranulation of normal and passively sensitized rats induced by dextran and antigen. Allergic bronchoconstriction in actively sensitized guinea pigs was inhibited by the extract. The effects of the extract observed were comparable to those of sodium cromoglycate. These results substantiate the efficacy of the extract in the treatment of asthma, in traditional medicine.
Journal of Herbal Medicine, 2013
ABSTRACT Ethnobotanical records suggest that plants are the sleeping giants of the pharmaceutical... more ABSTRACT Ethnobotanical records suggest that plants are the sleeping giants of the pharmaceutical industry and are a potential natural source of antimicrobial drugs which will provide novel or lead compounds that may be employed in controlling some infections globally. DAS-77® is a phytomedicine prepared by a traditional medicine practitioner and it is claimed to be effective in the treatment of piles, dysentery, cholera, menstrual pain, stomach disorder, ulcer, constipation, diarrhoea and sexually transmitted infections. This study was therefore aimed at scientifically evaluating the antimicrobial activity of DAS-77®. The antimicrobial activity of the aqueous extract was determined using the agar-well diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin and tetracycline were 50 μg/ml and 62.5 μg/ml, respectively, for both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, while that of the extract was 100 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml respectively. However, the extract did not show any inhibitory effect against Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study showed that the extract was more active against the gram-negative bacteria than the gram-positive. However, the extract was active against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, which may provide scientific bases for the local usage of the plant in the treatment of various ailments, especially dysentery and diarrhoea. Further development of this extract to produce an antimicrobial preparation from a natural source will contribute greatly towards the delivery of effective healthcare. Further pharmacological evaluation and toxicological studies are recommended.
Pharmacologia, 2012
Water decoction made from the seed of Hunteria umbellata is widely used in the traditional manage... more Water decoction made from the seed of Hunteria umbellata is widely used in the traditional management of diabetes mellitus by Nigerian herbalists, particularly, in the southwest region of the country. Recently, a new bisindole alkaloid, erinidine, was isolated but its antihyperglycemic profile remains largely un-investigated scientifically. This forms the basis for the current study which is primarily designed at investigating the antihyperglycemic profile of erinidine and other fractions in both in vitro and in vivo models of diabetes mellitus. In the present study, erinidine was isolated and purified using the earlier described methods and its antihyperglycemic potentials tested in in vitro models such as dipeptidylpeptidase (IV), glycogen phosphorylase, HIT-T15 cell insulin secretion, glucose uptake activity, aldose reductase assays and α-glucosidase inhibition assay testings. In addition, 50 mg/kg of erinidine and that of other fractions were evaluated in in vivo models of normal and chemically-induced hyperglycemic rats. Results showed that erinidine was a light yellow, amorphous solid with UV (CHCl 3 ) λ max 256 nm, HRESIMS m/z 382.1881 [(M+H) + ] (calculated for C 22 H 26 N 4 O 2 , 382.1876) and melting point of 230 ºC. The in vitro study showed the antihyperglycemic action of erinidine to be weakly mediated via α-glucosidase inhibition mechanism as the results for other in vitro tests such as dipeptidylpeptidase (IV), glycogen phosphorylase, HIT-T15 cell insulin secretion, glucose uptake activity and aldose reductase assays were all negative. However, the in vivo results showed 50 mg/kg erinidine given per os to normal and alloxan-induced hyperglycemic rats to significantly (p<0.05, p<0.001) attenuate an increase in their post-absorptive blood glucose concentrations after 3 g/kg glucose loading in the rats, suggesting its antihyperglycemic mechanism to be via α-glucosidase inhibition. This result, although, further corroborated the in vitro findings but also suggests that erinidine needs to be biotransformed in vivo for its inhibitory activity on intestinal glucose absorption to become evident. Thus, the present study suggests erinidine to be the possible antihyperglycemic agent in Hunteria umbellata seed extract mediating its antihyperglycemic action via intestinal glucose uptake inhibition.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2014
The leaf of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae) is used in traditional African medicine in the t... more The leaf of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae) is used in traditional African medicine in the treatment of various neurological and psychiatric disorders including depression. Previous studies have shown its potent antidepressant-like effect in the forced swimming test (FST). Hence, this study sought to investigate the involvement of monoaminergic systems in the antidepressant-like effect elicited by hydroethanolic leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia (HeAC) in the FST. HeAC (25-400mg/kg, p.o.) was administered 1h before the FST. To investigate the contribution of monoaminergic systems to antidepressant-like effect, receptors antagonists were injected 15min before oral administration of HeAC (200mg/kg) to mice and 1h thereafter, subjected to FST. HeAC (200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) produced dose dependent and significant (P&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001) antidepressant-like effect, in the FST, without accompanying changes in spontaneous locomotor activities in the open-field test. The anti-immobility effect of HeAC (200mg/kg) in the FST was prevented by pretreatment of mice with SCH 23390 (0.05mg/kg, s.c., a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist), sulpiride (50mg/kg, i.p., a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist), prazosin (1mg/kg, i.p., an α1-adrenoceptor antagonist), yohimbine (1mg/kg, i.p., an α2-adrenoceptor antagonist), and GR 127993 (5-HT1B receptor antagonist). Similarly, 3 days intraperitoneal injection of p-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA, 150mg/kg, i.p., an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis) prevented the antidepressant-like effect elicited by HeAC. The combination of subeffective doses of imipramine (5mg/kg, p.o.) or fluoxetine (5mg/kg, p.o.), with HeAC (25mg/kg, p.o., subeffective dose) produced a synergistic antidepressant-like effect in the FST. The hydroethanolic extract of Alchornea cordifolia possesses antidepressant-like effect mediated through interaction with dopamine (D1 and D2), noradrenergic (α1 and α2 adrenoceptors), and serotonergic (5HT1B receptors) systems. Also, the potentiation of the anti-immobility effect of conventional antidepressants (fluoxetine and imipramine) by Alchornea cordifolia suggest potential therapeutic effect in depression.
Lancet, 2011
Ethnopharmacological relevanceCnestis ferruginea Vahl ex DC (Connaraceae) is a shrub widely used ... more Ethnopharmacological relevanceCnestis ferruginea Vahl ex DC (Connaraceae) is a shrub widely used in traditional African Medicine (TAM) for the treatment of various painful and inflammatory conditions.
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 2014
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and sustained focus is on the discovery and developm... more Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and sustained focus is on the discovery and development of newer and better tolerated anticancer drugs especially from plants. The sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were used to investigate the anticancer activity of root extracts of Aristolochia ringens Vahl. (Aristolochiaceae;
Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 2014
Hepatotoxicity is a significantly increasing health problem worldwide, and the extent of the prob... more Hepatotoxicity is a significantly increasing health problem worldwide, and the extent of the problem has stimulated interest in the search for hepatotherapeutic agents from plants. This study investigated the hepatoprotective and in vivo antioxidant activities of the hydroethanolic extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves in antitubercular and alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity assays in rats. In each of the models used, seven groups were allotted. The different groups received normal saline (10 mL·kg(-1), p.o.); hepatotoxicant (isoniazid-rifampicin, INH-RIF, 100 mg·kg(-1), i.p. or 20% ethanol 5 g·kg(-1), p.o.) and normal saline (10 mL·kg(-1), p.o.); hepatotoxicant and extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg·kg(-1) p.o.; hepatotoxicant and silymarin 50 mg·kg(-1) p.o.; and extract at 400 mg·kg(-1) p.o. On the 21(st) day of treatment, blood was collected for assessment of serum biochemical parameters and harvested liver samples were assessed for antioxidants. The hepatotoxicants significantly (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05-0.001) increased the levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, and malondialdehyde (MDA); and reduced the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione GSH compared to control. M. pruriens significantly reversed (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05-0.001) the elevation in the level of ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin caused by the hepatotoxicants. The extract (200 and 400 mg·kg(-1)) significantly reversed (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) the diminution in the level of in vivo antioxidants and increased the level of MDA produced by INH-RIF. M. pruriens (100-400 mg·kg(-1)) elicited significant reduction (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001) in the level of MDA compared to the alcohol group. Silymarin also reversed the deleterious effects of the hepatotoxicants. The hydroethanolic extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves possesses hepatoprotective activity with enhancement of in vivo antioxidants as a possible mechanism of action.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2001
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum were evaluat... more The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum were evaluated in mice and rats using the carrageenan- and dextran-induced paw oedema, acetic acid-induced writhing, cold water tail flick and formalin pain tests. The extract (100–400 mg/kg) and acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg) produced a significant (P<0.05) inhibition of the second phase response in the formalin pain model,
Planta Medica, 2008
This study was conducted to determine the safety profile of Byrsocarpus coccineus (Connaraceae) b... more This study was conducted to determine the safety profile of Byrsocarpus coccineus (Connaraceae) by carrying out the acute and subchronic toxicological assessment of its aqueous leaf extract. In the acute toxicity test, mice were administered orally with the extract up to 10 g/kg and intraperitoneally at doses of 50 -800 mg/kg. Animals were then observed for behavioural changes, signs of toxicity, and mortality within 24 h. Surviving mice were monitored for 7 days for signs of delayed toxicity. In the subchronic toxicity test, rats were daily treated with the extract at doses of 40, 200, and 1000 mg/kg orally, for 30 days and 60 days. Control animals received distilled water and all animals were weighed at 7 days interval. At the end of the test periods, haematological, biochemical, and urinary parameters were determined in blood, serum, and urine samples respectively and vital organs macroscopically examined and weighed. In the acute toxicity test, the extract was practically non-toxic showing no mortality and visible signs of delayed toxicity. The LD 50 , given intraperitoneally, was estimated to be 158.4 mg/kg. Administered for 30 days, the extract did not produce any significant (P < 0.05) effect on haematological and biochemical parameters and vital organs. In the 60 day study, the extract elicited significant (P < 0.05) increases in platelet and WBC count and reductions in levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), total cholesterol, HDL, triglycerides, and total protein. The weight of the kidneys, spleen, epididymis, and testes were not significantly affected but significant changes were observed in the weight of the liver (↑), heart (↓), and lungs (↑). Generally, B. coccineus did not significantly affect body weight and urinary parameters. Results obtained in this study suggest that the aqueous leaf extract of B. coccineus is safe when administered orally with potential beneficial effects as immunostimulant, hepatoprotective, and hypocholestrolemic agent, when administered over a long period of time.
Planta Medica, 2008
Dry seeds of the plant, Hunteria umbellata K. Schum (family: Apocynaceae), are highly valued in A... more Dry seeds of the plant, Hunteria umbellata K. Schum (family: Apocynaceae), are highly valued in African traditional medicine in the treatment of various human diseases, including diabetes mellitus and obesity. In the present study, the hypoglycaemic and weight loss effects of 50 -200 mg/kg of the aqueous seed extract of Hunteria umbellata (HU) were investigated in normal and drug-induced hyperglycaemic rats. In addition, the acute oral toxicity using the preliminary and the main tests of the Up-and-Down Procedure according to OECD/OCDE Test Guidelines on Acute Oral Toxicity was conducted. Phytochemical analysis of the aqueous seed extract was also carried out. Results showed that HU caused progressive and significant (p<0.05, p<0.01 and p<0.001) dose-related reduction in the blood glucose concentrations in normal and drug-induced hyperglycaemic rats, an effect, which was more than that of glibenclamide and mediated via inhibition of intestinal glucose uptake and adrenergic homeostatic mechanisms. HU also caused significant (p<0.05 and p<0.01) dose-dependent reduction in the average body weight of treated rats when compared to untreated rats. The acute oral toxicity study showed that the plant extract had an LD50 of 1020 mg/kg and as such slightly toxic. Results of the phytochemical analysis of HU revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and glycosides. Thus, the data generated in the present study has a strong positive correlation with its folkloric use in the treatment of suspected type 2 diabetic patients, although its use should be with great caution.