Anti-tumor Activity of Tylophora Asthmatica
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Anti-tumor Activity of Tylophora Asthmatica
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Jancy Stephen, P.L. Vijayammal
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Anti-tumor Activity of Tylophora Asthmatica
Year: 2000
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Tylophora asthmatica, a small twining plant from the family Asclepiadaceae, is prevalent in Eastern India and has been traditionally utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for various ailments, including dysentery and catarrh. This study investigates the anti-tumor properties of T. asthmatica, focusing on its potential to inhibit the growth of Dalton's Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) and Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cells. The research involved preparing different extracts of the plant and assessing their cytotoxic effects on tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo, with the aim of evaluating the extract's potential as a therapeutic agent against cancer.
Cytotoxicity and Anti-Tumor Activity of PE Extract
A notable finding from the study is the cytotoxic effect of petroleum ether (PE) extract from T. asthmatica on DLA and EAC cells. In vitro experiments revealed that concentrations of 17.5 µg and 50 µg of PE extract resulted in 25% and 100% cell death in DLA cells, respectively, while corresponding levels for EAC cells were 7% and 100%. Furthermore, in vivo studies indicated that mice treated with a preventive dose of the extract exhibited significantly prolonged survival, living for months without tumor development. Conversely, mice receiving a curative dose had their tumor growth arrested, ultimately increasing their lifespan to an average of 50 days compared to the control group.
Conclusion
The findings of this study support the hypothesis that Tylophora asthmatica possesses substantial anti-tumor effects, especially demonstrated through its PE extract. With the extract showing notable cytotoxicity against tumor cells and significant life span extension in treated mice, it establishes a foundation for further research into the therapeutic applications of this plant. Moreover, the results encourage the exploration of T. asthmatica's active components as potential chemotherapeutic agents in cancer treatment, highlighting the value of traditional medicinal plants in contemporary medical research.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Tylophora asthmatica and its traditional uses?
Tylophora asthmatica, known commonly for its medicinal properties, belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine primarily for treating dysentery and respiratory ailments.
How was the PE extract of Tylophora asthmatica prepared?
The PE extract was prepared by extracting 50g of powdered whole plant using petroleum ether in a Soxhlet apparatus. The extract was then evaporated, dissolved in PBS, and tested for cytotoxicity.
What were the results of the in vitro cytotoxicity study?
In the study, 50µg of PE extract caused 100% cell death in DLA cells. The LD50 value determined for DLA and EAC cells was approximately 22.5µg and 30µg respectively.
What was the impact of PE extract on tumor-bearing mice?
Tumor-bearing mice treated with the PE extract showed significant tumor growth arrest and increased life span. The average life span increased to 50 days in treated animals compared to 25 days in untreated controls.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anti-tumor Activity of Tylophora Asthmatica”. 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) Drug:
The keyword 'Drug' refers to the PE extract derived from Tylophora asthmatica, which demonstrates antitumor activity. This extract is the primary focus of the study, showcasing its potential therapeutic properties against cancer cells. The preparation and dosing of the drug are crucial for evaluating its effectiveness in clinical applications.
2) Activity:
The term 'Activity' in this context relates to the biological effects exerted by the PE extract of Tylophora asthmatica against tumor cells. It signifies the performance of the drug in eliciting a response, including cytotoxicity and tumor growth inhibition, which is central to understanding its antitumor capabilities.
3) Amala (Amalā):
Amala, typically referencing the Amala Research Institute, may indicate a context of ethnopharmacology and traditional medicine. It aligns with the study's focus on plant-based remedies, suggesting a foundation in rigorous scientific research into the therapeutic potentials of indigenous plants, particularly in cancer treatment.
4) Water:
Water serves as a solvent in the preparation of the aqueous extract of Tylophora asthmatica. Its role is critical for extracting active compounds from the plant material, which are then evaluated for cytotoxic properties. The use of water illustrates the approach of employing natural resources in drug preparation.
5) Diet:
The keyword 'Diet' denotes the standard pellet diet provided to the mice during the experimentation. Ensuring a consistent and nutritious diet is vital for maintaining the health of the experimental subjects and for obtaining reliable data on the drug’s effects without the interference of nutritional variance.
6) Discussion:
The term 'Discussion' refers to the section where findings from the in vitro and in vivo studies are interpreted. It analyzes the implications of the results, compares them with existing literature, and offers insights into the mechanisms of action of Tylophora asthmatica, contributing to understanding its antitumor effects.
7) Substance:
Here, 'Substance' likely refers to the various chemical compounds extracted from Tylophora asthmatica, such as alkaloids and neutral compounds. These substances can exhibit different biological activities; their identification helps to ascertain the therapeutic potential and the safety profile of the plant in treating cancer.
8) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' incorporates the context of therapeutic use of Tylophora asthmatica. It encapsulates the aim of the research, which is to explore the antitumor properties of the plant as a possible medicinal treatment for cancer, linking traditional medicine with modern therapeutic strategies.
9) Nirmala (Nirmalā):
Nirmala might refer to one of the contributors of the research study. This name could signify an individual involved either in conducting the experiments or analyzing the data, thus representing the collaboration in scientific studies necessary for advancing knowledge in cancer research and herbal medicine.
10) Science (Scientific):
'Science' represents the systematic study and analysis of Tylophora asthmatica's antitumor effects. It underscores the methodology, experimental designs, and scientific rigor applied in the research, aiming to validate traditional knowledge through empirical evidence, particularly within the fields of biochemistry and pharmacology.
11) Girija (Giri-ja):
Girija is likely a researcher or contributor involved in the study. Much like 'Nirmala,' this name represents the collaborative efforts in research, indicating the human element behind scientific inquiry. It highlights the significance of teamwork in exploring the efficacy of natural compounds in cancer treatment.
12) Cancer:
The term 'Cancer' is the central focus of the research, as the effects of Tylophora asthmatica are evaluated against tumor cells. Understanding how the plant's extracts can combat cancer highlights the urgency and importance of finding effective and natural therapeutic solutions to treat this pervasive disease.
13) Latta (Laṭṭā):
Latha refers to a contributor, possibly a researcher within the context of this study. This name exemplifies the collaborative nature of scientific research, reflecting the importance of teamwork among professionals to investigate and validate the medicinal properties of Tylophora asthmatica in combatting cancer.
14) Giri:
Giri is likely another researcher associated with the study, similar in importance to Nirmala and Girija. This name contributes to painting a picture of a dedicated team working diligently on the research, emphasizing how individuals from diverse backgrounds collaborate to enhance understanding of medical plants.
15) Salt (Salty):
'Salt' in this context may refer indirectly to potassium chloride, which is mentioned among the chemical constituents of Tylophora asthmatica. Salts are crucial for various biological functions, and their presence in plant extracts may contribute to the overall efficacy and effects of the medicinal properties being studied.