"Anticancer and antioxidant studies on Catharanthus pusillus extract."
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: “anticancerous and antioxidant investigations on the herbal extract of catharanthus pusillus (murray) g. don”.
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Anju Chandran and Oommen P. Saj
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: “anticancerous and antioxidant investigations on the herbal extract of catharanthus pusillus (murray) g. don”.
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20164-5502
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Catharanthus pusillus (Murray) G. Don, a member of the Apocynaceae family, is a perennial herb prevalent in Kerala, India. Traditionally, it is utilized for various medicinal purposes, including treatment for skin diseases, ulcers, and respiratory ailments. Phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of several active compounds such as alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids, which have been suggested to exhibit anti-cancer and pain-relieving properties. This study focuses on the antioxidant and anti-cancer activities of the herbal extract derived from C. pusillus, contributing to the broader knowledge surrounding the therapeutic potential of plant-based remedies.
Antioxidant Activity
The antioxidant properties of C. pusillus were evaluated using three distinct assays: DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl) assay, superoxide radical scavenging assay, and reducing power assay. In the DPPH assay, various concentrations of the methanolic extract demonstrated a concentration-dependent scavenging ability, with the extract showing 29.775% inhibition at 20 µg/ml. While this indicates potent antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid (the standard) exhibited even higher inhibition of 61.35% at the same concentration. The superoxide scavenging assay also reflected similar trends, whereby the extract's activity improved at higher concentrations, showing an impressive 75.895% inhibition at 20 µg/ml.
Anticancer Activity
The anticancer potential of the C. pusillus extract was assessed using the MTT assay on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. The results illustrated that the extract effectively inhibited cancer cell growth in a concentration-dependent manner. At higher concentrations (100 µg/ml), the extract achieved a cell inhibition percentage of 46.24%, with the lowest inhibition (1.06%) observed at the lowest test concentration (6.25 µg/ml). While the extract displayed promising cytotoxic activity, its effectiveness was lower when compared to the standard drug Doxorubicin, underscoring the need for further investigation into the extract's active components.
Phytochemical Composition
Phytochemical analysis revealed that C. pusillus is rich in several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, carbohydrates, and proteins. This diverse array of second metabolites contributes to its diverse medicinal properties, including antioxidant and anticancer activities. The current study emphasized the importance of isolating specific compounds from the crude extract to accurately assess their individual contributions to the observed biological activities. Understanding these compounds could pave the way for developing new pharmaceutical solutions.
Conclusion
The findings from this study indicate that the methanolic extract of Catharanthus pusillus possesses significant antioxidant and anticancer properties, thereby reinforcing the value of natural plant products in traditional medicine. The potent free radical scavenging and cytotoxic activities observed suggest that further purification and characterization of the active compounds within the extract could yield new, effective treatments for cancer and other ailments. Given the increasing global interest in herbal medicines, continued research into C. pusillus may unveil further therapeutic potentials, meeting the growing demand for natural healthcare solutions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Catharanthus pusillus and its common uses?
Catharanthus pusillus is a weed in Kerala, traditionally used to treat various ailments, including skin and liver diseases, leprosy, and respiratory issues. It shows antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
What methods were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity?
The antioxidant activity of Catharanthus pusillus was evaluated using DPPH assay, superoxide radical scavenging activity, and reducing power assay, with concentrations varying from 1.25 to 20 µg/ml.
What were the findings regarding DPPH scavenging activity?
The methanol extract of Catharanthus pusillus showed a concentration-dependent decrease in DPPH absorption, indicating its antioxidant activity. The highest scavenging effect was noted at 20 µg/ml.
How was the anticancer activity determined in the study?
The anticancer activity was assessed using the MTT assay on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines, examining cell viability at different extract concentrations and comparing results with Doxorubicin.
What were the results of the anticancer activity assessment?
Catharanthus pusillus demonstrated a potent cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 cells, with increased extract concentrations leading to greater cell inhibition, though less effective than the standard drug Doxorubicin.
What further research could be conducted based on this study?
Future research could focus on isolating and purifying compounds from Catharanthus pusillus to identify specific anticancer agents and test them against various cancer cell lines.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “"Anticancer and antioxidant studies on Catharanthus pusillus extract."”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
Activity refers to the functional engagement of the extract in biological processes, such as its antioxidant and anticancer properties. It is a measure of the ability of the extract to perform as a therapeutic agent, thereby indicating potential applications in the treatment and management of diseases like cancer.
2) Line:
Line indicates the cellular context of the study, specifically referring to the MCF-7 cell line, which is a human breast cancer cell line. It serves as a model for evaluating the effects of plant extracts on cancer cells, thus providing insights into their potential for anticancer therapies.
3) Table:
Table represents a systematic organization of data in the research, showcasing results of antioxidant and anticancer assays. Tables enable clear communication of findings, comparison of different concentrations of the plant extract, and statistical analysis, which are essential in validating the study's conclusions and implications.
4) Study (Studying):
Study denotes a formal investigation aimed at understanding the properties and potentials of Catharanthus pusillus. It encompasses methods employed, results obtained, and discussions about the extract's biochemical effects, thus contributing to the growing body of research on herbal medicine and its efficacy in healthcare.
5) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the knowledge and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. The research on Catharanthus pusillus highlights its traditional uses in herbal medicine, thus emphasizing the importance of integrating natural remedies with modern medical practices for comprehensive healthcare solutions.
6) Disease:
Disease refers to pathological conditions that affect health and well-being. The study explores the potential of herbal extracts like Catharanthus pusillus in treating various ailments, particularly cancer, highlighting the significance of natural products in developing effective therapeutic strategies against diseases.
7) Cancer:
Cancer is a medical term for a collection of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The focus on the anticancer properties of Catharanthus pusillus signifies an exploration of alternative therapies within herbal medicine, aiming to address challenges in cancer treatment through natural sources.
8) India:
India is the geographic origin of Catharanthus pusillus and a country rich in traditional medicinal practices. Researching local plant species within the Indian context showcases the potential for discovering new treatments and advancing knowledge regarding indigenous herbal remedies in modern medicine.
9) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, including their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. The study connects plant biology with practical applications in medicine, highlighting the role of phytochemicals derived from plants in developing effective therapeutic agents against diseases.
10) Thiruvananthapuram (Thiruvanantha-puram, Tiru-anantapuram, Tiruvanantapuram, Tiruananta-puram):
Thiruvananthapuram is a city in India where the research was conducted. It serves as a center for academic and scientific inquiry, particularly in botany and herbal medicine, contributing to local knowledge about plant-based treatments and fostering collaboration in scientific research.
11) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical pertains to the bioactive compounds derived from plants that influence health. Their exploration in the context of Catharanthus pusillus underscores the importance of understanding these compounds for their potential therapeutic effects, including antioxidant and anticancer activities that can enhance human health.
12) Kerala:
Kerala is a state in India known for its biodiversity and rich heritage of traditional medicine. The study's focus on a locally sourced herb emphasizes the value of regional flora in providing natural remedies and advancing research in phytotherapy and sustainable healthcare solutions.
13) Drug:
Drug refers to a substance used for medical treatment. The investigation of Catharanthus pusillus' extracts highlights the potential of natural products as alternative drugs, contributing to the pharmaceutical field's efforts to discover new treatments derived from indigenous herbal sources.
14) Human body:
The human body is the biological system being targeted for treatment through the studied extracts. Understanding how herbal compounds interact with human physiology is crucial for developing effective therapies, showcasing the relevance of natural medicine in contemporary healthcare.
15) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition describes a range of conditions caused by insufficient or imbalanced nutrient intake, affecting health and wellbeing. The study illustrates the traditional uses of Catharanthus pusillus as a remedy for various health issues, including malnutrition, which can enhance understanding of beneficial plants in diet.
16) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the systematic and empirical approach used to investigate natural phenomena. The research on Catharanthus pusillus exemplifies the contribution of scientific methods to validating traditional knowledge, thereby bridging the gap between conventional practices and modern pharmacology.
17) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the awareness and understanding of traditional medicinal practices, herbs, and their therapeutic applications. The study on Catharanthus pusillus signifies the importance of documenting and preserving this knowledge for future use in healthcare and pharmacological research.
18) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid refers to a class of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant properties. The study suggests that flavonoids present in Catharanthus pusillus may contribute to its biological activity, emphasizing the need to explore these compounds for potential health benefits and therapeutic applications.
19) Heating:
Heating is a process used in the extraction methodology of the study, facilitating the release of phytochemicals from plant materials. This step reinforces the importance of extraction techniques in obtaining effective plant extracts, which are critical for evaluating their therapeutic properties.
20) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease historically treated with herbal remedies. The mention of its traditional use underscores the cultural significance of Catharanthus pusillus in addressing various ailments, warranting further exploration of its potential in fighting historical and modern diseases.
21) Species:
Species refers to a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Understanding the species Catharanthus pusillus is crucial for recognizing its unique properties and contributions to biodiversity, as well as its significance in the field of herbal medicine.
22) Family:
Family denotes the taxonomic rank in biological classification. Catharanthus pusillus belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Recognizing its family provides context for understanding the plant's characteristics, relationships, and the potential medicinal properties shared among related species.
23) Powder:
Powder refers to the ground form of the plant material used in the extraction process. Fine powder increases the surface area for solvents during extraction, thus enhancing the yield of phytochemicals, which is essential for conducting effective biological assays in the study.
24) Water:
Water is a crucial solvent in various biological and chemical processes. In the context of plant extraction and studies, its use highlights the significance of solvent choice in isolating beneficial compounds from plants, as well as its role in biological assays.
25) Ulcer:
Ulcer refers to a sore on the skin or a mucous membrane. Traditional uses of Catharanthus pusillus in treating ulcers illustrate the plant's role in folk medicine, emphasizing the importance of exploring herbal remedies for common health issues in current medical research.
26) Eagle:
Eagle in this context could refer to the brand name of a device (EPPENDORF) mentioned for cell culture, which indicates the use of advanced technology in scientific research. Such advancements are essential for accurately assessing biological activity and enhancing the credibility of the study.
27) Vela:
Vela pertains to the common name 'Chupa vela' for Catharanthus pusillus in Malayalam. This highlights the cultural significance of the plant and its recognition within local communities, emphasizing the need to integrate indigenous knowledge into scientific research and pharmacological applications.
28) Pune:
Pune is a city in India where MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines were sourced from. This underlines the collaboration between research institutions and illustrates the logistics involved in obtaining specific biological materials for scientific investigations into medicinal plants.
29) Genu:
Genu may refer to the genus level in plant taxonomy, which is significant for classifying groups of related species sharing common characteristics. A clearer understanding of genus relationships aids in exploring potential therapeutic properties across related plants, enhancing research in herbal medicine.
30) Pain:
Pain represents a significant health issue that many seek to alleviate through various treatments. The study indicates the traditional use of Catharanthus pusillus in relieving pain, highlighting the importance of investigating herbal remedies within the broader context of pain management strategies.
31) Worm:
Worm denotes parasitic organisms that can cause various diseases. The mention of Catharanthus pusillus in treating worm-related ailments illustrates its multifold uses in traditional medicine, advocating for research into its potential antiparasitic properties and holistic health applications.