Pomegranate – a double edged sword for thrombolysis and oxidative stress

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Pomegranate – a double edged sword for thrombolysis and oxidative stress
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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Original source:

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Author:

Shalini H. Kumar and Pushpa A.


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Pomegranate – a double edged sword for thrombolysis and oxidative stress

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20164-6019

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Shalini H. Kumar and Pushpa A. focuses on the thrombolytic properties and antioxidant potential of the pomegranate fruit, Punica granatum. It addresses the risks associated with current thrombolytic agents, such as systemic bleeding and limited effectiveness, thus highlighting the necessity for alternative solutions that possess both clot-dissolving and antioxidant properties. This research utilized in vivo rat models to evaluate the efficacy of pomegranate extracts from both the aril and rind in inducing thrombolysis and mitigating oxidative stress.

Thrombolytic Efficiency of Pomegranate

The research demonstrated that extracts of pomegranate exhibited significant thrombolytic activity. In the study, male Swiss Albino rats were used to create thrombus formations through the injection of carrageenan, followed by treatment with pomegranate extracts. Results showed that the extracts effectively reduced clot size, confirming their potential as natural thrombolytic agents. Additionally, the study indicated that the fruit extracts did not induce adverse effects, maintaining a safer profile compared to conventional thrombolytic drugs like streptokinase, which can activate platelets and lead to complications.

Antioxidant Properties and Their Importance

Another critical finding was the antioxidant potential of pomegranate extracts, particularly in combating oxidative stress that arises during thrombosis and reperfusion. The study measured various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels in the liver and kidney tissues of treated rats. It was noted that pomegranate extracts enhanced the activity of essential antioxidants such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, thereby supporting cellular integrity and function during oxidative stress. This discovery illustrates the dual benefit of pomegranate as both a thrombolytic and an agent that can alleviate oxidative damage associated with ischemic conditions.

Histopathological Observations

The histopathological examination of vital organs, including the liver and heart, further validated the findings of the study. The analysis aimed to detect any cytotoxic effects resulting from the administration of pomegranate extracts. The results indicated no significant adverse changes in the morphology of the tissues involved, suggesting that the extracts maintained normal cellular architecture. This aspect of the study enhances the credibility of pomegranate as a safe therapeutic option, reinforcing its potential role in thrombolysis without the side effects commonly observed with synthetic drugs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research indicates that pomegranate serves as a promising natural agent with noteworthy thrombolytic and antioxidant benefits. Its multifaceted role in mitigating oxidative stress and promoting clot lysis positions it as a valuable alternative to current thrombolytic therapies. However, the authors emphasize the need for further investigations to fully understand the underlying mechanisms that govern these effects, which could pave the way for developing more effective and safe therapeutic strategies against thrombotic diseases.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the focus of the study on Punica granatum?

The study investigates the thrombolytic efficiency and antioxidant properties of Punica granatum, analyzing its effects in rat models following induced thrombosis.

How was the thrombus induced in the rats for testing?

Thrombus was induced in the rats using an injection of κ-carrageenan into the tail, followed by a ligation and subsequent infusion of the extracts to observe clot lysis.

What were the main findings regarding haematological parameters?

Results indicated that blood components like RBCs and platelets increased upon thrombus formation, but the extracts showed notable thrombolytic effects without significantly raising platelet counts compared to standard treatments.

What methods were used to assess antioxidant potential in the study?

Antioxidant activity was evaluated by measuring enzymic antioxidants like catalase and superoxide dismutase, as well as non-enzymic antioxidants such as vitamin C in liver and kidney tissues.

Did the study find any cytotoxic effects from Punica granatum extracts?

Histopathological examinations showed no significant cytotoxicity in liver, heart, or tail tissues of treated groups, confirming the extracts' safety and effectiveness.

What conclusions were drawn from the study on pomegranate's effects?

Pomegranate exhibited both antioxidant and thrombolytic properties, highlighting its potential as a beneficial dietary supplement in managing oxidative stress and thrombus-related conditions.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pomegranate – a double edged sword for thrombolysis and oxidative stress”. 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) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa refers to Dr. Pushpa A., a professor who co-authored the research article. Her insights and expertise are integral in studying the effects of Punica granatum, especially concerning its antioxidant and thrombolytic properties, emphasizing the significance of female scholars in scientific research.

2) Animal:
In the study, animals, specifically male Swiss albino rats, were used for investigating thrombolytic effects. Utilizing animal models is crucial for preliminary studies since they can provide insight into biological processes and potential treatments before clinical applications in humans can be evaluated.

3) Blood:
Blood plays a vital role in assessing the physiological and pathological responses during thrombus formation and subsequent lysis. The study emphasizes blood parameters to evaluate the effectiveness of Punica granatum in inducing thrombolysis, highlighting blood's relevance in medical research and treatment evaluation.

4) Punica granatum:
Punica granatum, commonly known as pomegranate, is the subject of the study due to its recognized antioxidant and potential thrombolytic properties. The research investigates its efficacy in clot lysis, addressing the search for alternative therapies to traditional thrombolytic agents that may have adverse effects.

5) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a response following tissue injury or thrombosis, which can exacerbate conditions like myocardial infarction. The study discusses changes in inflammatory markers and the role of antioxidant therapies in mitigating inflammation, underlining the connection between inflammation and thrombolytic therapies.

6) Pomegranate:
Pomegranate is explored as a natural source for antioxidant and thrombolytic activities in the study. Its consumption has been linked to various health benefits, including potential cardiovascular advantages, making it a subject of interest for researchers seeking safer alternatives to standard thrombolytic agents.

7) Study (Studying):
The study represents a systematic investigation into the thrombolytic and antioxidant properties of Punica granatum. It underscores the importance of experimental research in developing alternative therapies for conditions related to thrombosis, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific theory and practical application in medicine.

8) Activity:
Activity in this context refers to the biological effects and functions of compounds extracted from Punica granatum. The study analyzes enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities, emphasizing the importance of understanding how these activities contribute to thrombolytic effects and overall health.

9) Observation:
Observation in wildlife studies is crucial for interpreting results related to health effects and drug efficacy. The research document includes various observational results about the histological changes in rat organs, illustrating how these observations validate the experimental hypotheses concerning Punica granatum's effectiveness.

10) Table:
Tables in scientific studies organize data for easy comprehension. In this research, tables summarize vital metrics, allowing for concise comparisons of haematological and histopathological findings. They serve to present results systematically, facilitating better understanding and communication of research outcomes.

11) Drug:
Drug refers to pharmaceutical agents used for therapeutic purposes. The study contrasts the effects of Punica granatum extracts with synthetic thrombolytic drugs like streptokinase, investigating the potential of pomegranate extracts as safer therapeutic alternatives with fewer side effects compared to traditional options.

12) India:
India is important as the location where the study was conducted, specifically in Tamil Nadu. The region is significant for its biodiversity, including medicinal plants like pomegranate, contributing to the wealth of natural resources that can be researched for their health benefits.

13) Death:
Death signifies the severe consequences that can arise from thrombotic events like myocardial infarction or stroke. The research emphasizes the urgency of developing effective thrombolytic therapies to mitigate the risk of death related to cardiovascular diseases and improve patient outcomes.

14) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu is the Indian state where the research was conducted. It plays a crucial role due to its rich agricultural heritage, providing access to pomegranate and other medicinal plants, essential for exploring natural therapies for health issues like cardiovascular diseases.

15) Education:
Education embodies the systematic pursuit of knowledge that informs research practices and methodologies. The study reflects academic efforts to generate new understanding and applications concerning Punica granatum, demonstrating the importance of scientific inquiry within educational frameworks.

16) Disease:
Disease, particularly cardiovascular ailments, is the primary context of the research. The study addresses the role of thrombolytic agents in treating such conditions, emphasizing the necessity of exploring natural sources like pomegranate to combat diseases associated with thrombus formation.

17) Science (Scientific):
Science is represented through the systematic approach to research presented in the article. It illustrates the application of scientific principles to investigate the medical benefits of pomegranate, incorporating methodologies that lend credibility and depth to findings in health-related studies.

18) Tamil:
Tamil refers to the ethnic group and language predominant in Tamil Nadu, India. Understanding cultural background is crucial in research as it helps in considering the implications of findings in local health practices and the promotion of traditional knowledge in modern healthcare.

19) Nadu:
Nadu, translating to 'land' in Tamil, refers to the region of Tamil Nadu within India. This geographical context is essential for understanding the indigenous practices regarding the use of local flora and the potential relevance of such studies to local health outcomes.

20) Toxicity:
Toxicity relates to the potential harmful effects of substances, crucial in evaluating any therapeutic agents. The study assesses the toxicity of Punica granatum extracts to ensure safety in therapeutic applications, emphasizing the significance of safety assessments in pharmacological research.

21) Water:
Water is used in the preparation of extracts for the study, highlighting its role as a solvent in biochemical assays. The quality of water used for extracting active compounds can significantly influence the results and efficacy of the extracts being tested.

22) Edema (Oedema):
Edema involves the swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation, significant in assessing inflammatory responses within the study. The impact of treatments on edema in various tissues was examined, providing insights into the efficacy of thrombolytic strategies and their influence on inflammatory processes.

23) Male:
Male refers to the gender of the experimental rats used in the study. The choice of male rats is often made to control variables in biological experiments, as hormonal differences between genders can influence research outcomes and the efficacy of treatments tested.

24) Discussion:
Discussion sections in research allow authors to interpret results, compare findings with existing literature, and propose implications. In this study, the discussion emphasizes the importance of the findings relating to pomegranate's potential benefits, bridging experimental data with clinical relevance.

25) Substance:
Substance refers to the specific compounds being investigated, in this case, the aqueous extracts of Punica granatum. Understanding the properties and effects of these substances is central to assessing their therapeutic potential and safety in pharmacological applications.

26) Container:
Container refers to items used to store samples, such as formalin for specimen preservation in histopathology. The selection of appropriate containers in laboratory settings is crucial to prevent contamination, ensuring the reliability of results during experimentation.

27) Bleeding:
Bleeding highlights a significant risk associated with thrombolytic therapies. The study addresses this concern by exploring pomegranate extracts as potential alternatives, aiming to reduce the risks of adverse effects like systemic bleeding commonly seen with conventional thrombolytics.

28) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygienic conditions are vital for maintaining the health of experimental animals to prevent confounding factors in research. The controlled environment mentioned in the study ensured that the rats remained healthy, contributing to the reliability of experimental outcomes.

29) Kappa:
Kappa refers to kappa carrageenan, a polysaccharide used to induce thrombosis in the study. Its application is critical in evaluating the clot lysis capabilities of Punica granatum extracts, establishing a model to investigate the therapeutic potential of the fruit.

30) Simha:
Sinha refers to a researcher who has contributed to methodologies involving the enzyme catalase within the study. Citing established methods in research not only adds credibility but also supports replicability and validation of findings in scientific literature.

31) Kumar:
Kumar refers to Shalini H. Kumar, the researcher who co-authored the study. Her involvement illustrates collaboration in scientific research, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and different academic backgrounds in addressing complex health issues.

32) Diet:
Diet signifies the nutritional regimen of the experimental animals. Proper diet is crucial for ensuring the health of rats used in the study, influencing the validity of findings related to the effects of Punica granatum extracts administered in the trials.

33) Hair:
Hair refers to physiological characteristics observed during histopathological examinations in the study. It serves as a metric for assessing tissue health, and examining hair follicles and associated vascular structures aids in understanding the broader impact of treatments on systemic health.

34) Wall:
Wall refers to the vascular walls affected by thrombus formation during cardiovascular events. Studying these walls helps in understanding the mechanics of clot formation and the effectiveness of treatments like those derived from Punica granatum in thrombolysis.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Pomegranate – a double edged sword for thrombolysis and oxidative stress’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Punica granatum, Oxidative stress, Thrombolytic agent, Lipid peroxidation, Histopathological examination, In vivo studies, Acute myocardial infarction, Thrombolytic potential, Experimental animal, Venous thromboembolism, Thrombus formation, Enzymic antioxidants, Carrageenan induced tail thrombosis model, Antioxidant therapies, Non-enzymic antioxidants, Ischemia and reperfusion, Reocclusion, Haematological parameter.

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