"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
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the anticancerous and antioxidant properties of Catharanthus pusillus (Murray) G. Don, a common weed found in Kerala, India, known for its applications in traditional medicine. Researchers conducted a comprehensive phytochemical analysis that revealed the presence of several beneficial compounds, including alkaloids, tannins, phenols, flavonoids, steroids, carbohydrates, and proteins. Given the herb's traditional uses for treating various ailments, the study aims to assess its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in cancer treatment and oxidative stress mitigation.
Antioxidant Activity
One of the critical findings of this research is the antioxidant activity associated with Catharanthus pusillus. The study employed three different methods to evaluate the plant's antioxidant potential: the DPPH assay, superoxide radical scavenging assay, and reducing power assay. In the DPPH assay, the methanolic extract demonstrated a concentration-dependent scavenging effect on DPPH free radicals, showing a maximum inhibition of 29.775% at a concentration of 20 µg/ml. Comparatively, ascorbic acid, a standard reference antioxidant, exhibited higher scavenging activity (61.35%) at the same concentration. The results suggest that while the plant extract's antioxidant activity is significant, it is lower than that of the standard.
Anticancer Activity
The study also assessed the anticancer effects of Catharanthus pusillus on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines using the MTT assay. The findings indicated that the methanolic extract exhibited notable cytotoxic effects, particularly with the percentage of cell inhibition increasing with higher concentrations of the extract. At 100 µg/ml, the extract resulted in a 46.24% cell inhibition rate, though this was lower than the standard treatment with Doxorubicin. These results suggest that Catharanthus pusillus possesses potential as a natural therapeutic agent against cancer, warranting further investigation into its active compounds.
Phytochemical Composition
The phytochemical composition of Catharanthus pusillus was thoroughly analyzed, showcasing the diversity of biologically active molecules present in the plant. The extracted phytochemicals, including alkaloids and flavonoids, are known for their health benefits and pharmacological activities. The study highlights the importance of understanding the specific compounds responsible for the observed biological activities, as this knowledge can facilitate the development of new and effective natural drugs in the field of pharmaceutical research.
Conclusion
In summary, the research emphasizes the promising antioxidant and anticancer activities of Catharanthus pusillus, reinforcing the herb's significance in traditional medicine. The results contribute valuable insights into the plant's potential as a natural source for therapeutic agents, encouraging further exploration and purification of its active compounds. As the demand for natural products rises, this study paves the way for future research aimed at unraveling the full pharmacological potential of Catharanthus pusillus, addressing crucial needs in contemporary medicine and drug development.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on Catharanthus pusillus?
The study investigates the anti-cancerous and antioxidant activities of the herbal extract from Catharanthus pusillus, a common weed in Kerala traditionally used in medicine.
What methods were used to evaluate antioxidant activity?
Three methods were employed: DPPH assay, super oxide radical scavenging assay, and reducing power assay to determine the antioxidant activities of the plant extracts.
How was the anticancer activity tested in the study?
Anticancer activity was assessed using the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line with the MTT assay to measure cell viability and inhibition rates.
What phytochemicals were found in Catharanthus pusillus?
Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, phenol, flavonoids, steroids, carbohydrates, and proteins in the whole plant extract.
What are some traditional uses of Catharanthus pusillus?
Traditionally, Catharanthus pusillus has been used to treat skin diseases, liver ailments, leprosy, dysentery, ulcers, asthma, and rheumatic diseases, among others.
Did Catharanthus pusillus show significant antioxidant activity?
Yes, the methanolic extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, particularly with higher concentrations, outperforming lower concentrations.
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:
In the context of the study, 'activity' refers to the biological effects demonstrated by the extracts of Catharanthus pusillus, specifically its antioxidant and anticancer properties. Assessing the activity of plant extracts is crucial for evaluating their potential therapeutic benefits and identifying compounds that can combat diseases like cancer.
2) Line:
The term 'line' refers to the MCF-7 cell line used in the study to investigate the anticancer effects of the extracts. Cell lines are essential tools in molecular biology and pharmacology for testing the efficacy and safety of new drugs, allowing researchers to draw relevant conclusions about a substance's potential applications.
3) Table:
Tables in the study present organized data regarding the results of various assays, such as DPPH and antioxidant activity tests. They allow for a clear, comparative understanding of the effects of different concentrations of plant extracts, enhancing the readability of the study and making it easier to interpret significant findings.
4) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic investigation conducted to evaluate the medicinal properties of Catharanthus pusillus, focusing on its anticancer and antioxidant activities. Studies like this are fundamental to herbal research, contributing to the knowledge base from which new treatments can arise and guiding future clinical applications.
5) Medicine:
Medicine in the paper pertains to traditional herbal remedies derived from plants like Catharanthus pusillus. The exploration of plant-based medicines highlights the importance of natural products in therapeutic settings, especially in regions where traditional knowledge serves as the foundation for healthcare and wellness practices.
6) Disease:
'Disease' is a term used to describe pathological conditions affecting human health. In the study, it emphasizes the role of Catharanthus pusillus in treating a variety of ailments, showcasing its relevance within both traditional and modern medical practices as a potential remedy against diseases, including cancer.
7) Cancer:
Cancer is a significant focus of the study as the research investigates the anticancer properties of the plant extracts. This highlights the urgency of discovering new, effective treatments for cancer, a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and positions natural products as a promising area of research in oncology.
8) India:
India serves as the geographical context for the study, underscoring the relevance of local flora in traditional and contemporary medicine. The use of Catharanthus pusillus in various medicinal practices in India illustrates the country's rich heritage of herbal medicine and its contribution to global pharmacognosy.
9) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, which underpins the research on Catharanthus pusillus. The field of botany is essential for understanding plant biology, ecology, and the potential uses of different plant species in medicine, nutrition, and sustainable practices, making it a cornerstone of this research.
10) Thiruvananthapuram (Thiruvanantha-puram, Tiru-anantapuram, Tiruvanantapuram, Tiruananta-puram):
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is significant as the location of the research, where Catharanthus pusillus was studied. The city's educational institutions, like University College, contribute to the academic environment supporting botanical and pharmaceutical research, fostering local knowledge and innovation.
11) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are biologically active compounds found in plants that have beneficial effects on health. The study analyzes phytochemical constituents in Catharanthus pusillus to elucidate their roles in antioxidant and anticancer activities, emphasizing the importance of these compounds in developing natural products for health applications.
12) Kerala:
Kerala, known for its biodiversity and traditional herbal medicine, is the study's geographic base. The state's rich ecosystem provides numerous plant species, including Catharanthus pusillus, which are utilized in local medicine, highlighting the region's contribution to botanical research and the significance of indigenous knowledge.
13) Drug:
Drugs refer to chemical substances used for treating diseases. The focus on extracting and analyzing compounds from Catharanthus pusillus aligns with the global search for new drug candidates, exploring the potential of natural products to develop effective treatments, particularly for conditions like cancer.
14) Human body:
The human body contextually pertains to the biological effects observed from the plant extracts. Understanding how herbal compounds interact within human physiology enhances the study's relevance, providing insights into their therapeutic advantages and roles in promoting health and treating diseases.
15) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition refers to the imbalances in nutrient intake that can lead to various health issues. The study briefly mentions traditional uses of Catharanthus pusillus for infantile malnutrition, illustrating the plant's potential role in addressing nutritional deficiencies and improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations.
16) Science (Scientific):
Scientific pertains to the methodical approach taken in the study of Catharanthus pusillus. Adhering to rigorous scientific methodologies ensures that findings on the plant's medicinal properties are credible, reproducible, and contribute meaningfully to the fields of botany, pharmacology, and healthcare.
17) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context represents the understanding gained through research on plant extracts and their applications. The study enhances the collective knowledge about Catharanthus pusillus, influencing future research directions and the potential integration of traditional remedies into modern medicinal practice.
18) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals with antioxidant properties commonly found in plants. The study may involve the analysis of these compounds within Catharanthus pusillus, as they play a crucial role in the plant's bioactivity and potential health benefits, particularly in cancer prevention.
19) Heating:
Heating is part of the extraction process used to obtain phytochemicals from Catharanthus pusillus. Understanding how temperature influences compound solubility and effectiveness during extraction is essential for optimizing methods to derive potent active ingredients for potential therapeutic use.
20) Leprosy:
Leprosy is one of several diseases mentioned that the extracts of Catharanthus pusillus have traditionally been used to treat. Including such conditions underscores the historical significance of the plant in local medicine and its potential efficacy in addressing various health challenges.
21) Species:
Species indicates the specific classification of Catharanthus pusillus within botany. Understanding taxonomical categorization is crucial for identifying plants, studying their characteristics, and exploring their potential utility in medicine and other fields, emphasizing the biodiversity present within the plant kingdom.
22) Family:
Family refers to the classification grouping of plants that includes Catharanthus pusillus within Apocynaceae. Knowledge of plant taxonomy is vital for recognizing relationships among species, enabling better understanding of shared traits and potential uses, particularly in pharmacological applications.
23) Powder:
'Powder' pertains to the form of the plant material after it has been dried and ground, making it suitable for extraction processes. The texture and form of plant materials can significantly affect the efficiency of phytochemical extraction, influencing the quality and yield of bioactive compounds.
24) Water:
Water is implied as a solvent in various extraction methods. Understanding the role of solvents, including water, is crucial in phytochemistry as it impacts the solubility of plant compounds and affects the efficacy of the extraction process in obtaining valuable bioactive extracts.
25) Ulcer:
Ulcer is referenced as one of the diseases that Catharanthus pusillus is traditionally used to treat. This highlights the plant's broad medicinal applications and the cultural context of using herbal remedies for alleviating specific health conditions, contributing to a better understanding of ethnomedicine.
26) Eagle:
The mention of 'Eagle' could refer to the scientific or common name association in local terminology or be part of a specific nomenclature associated with the study. This expresses the importance of recognizing local names or phrases in understanding plant usage and cultural significance.
27) Vela:
'Vela' is the Malayalam name for Catharanthus pusillus, reflecting the cultural significance of plant nomenclature and its relevance in traditional medicine within Kerala. Recognizing local names enriches the understanding of regional herbal practices and promotes preservation of indigenous knowledge.
28) Pune:
Pune is significant as it identifies the location from which the MCF-7 cell line was obtained for the study. This ties into broader networks of biological research and highlights collaboration between different institutions, contributing to advancements in research methodologies and applications.
29) Genu:
Genu likely relates to the taxonomical classification of plants. Understanding the genu, or genus, aids in understanding the characteristics shared among related species, including Catharanthus pusillus. This classification framework is essential for studies in ecology and plant pharmacology.
30) Pain:
Pain signifies one of the ailments that traditional uses of Catharanthus pusillus aimed to ameliorate. The study's focus on analgesic properties underlines the importance of exploring plant-derived solutions for pain management, fostering a deeper understanding of the therapeutic potentials of herbal treatments.
31) Worm:
Worm refers to the use of Catharanthus pusillus in treating parasitic infections, particularly helminthiasis. Highlighting such uses emphasizes the plant's diverse medicinal applications and the role of traditional remedies in addressing common health issues across various cultures.