Journal of Drug Vigilance and Alternative Therapies

From Biomarkers to Pharmacological Targets: Long Non-Coding RNAs in Disease Intervention and Drug Development

Akula Sushma Sri Valli — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The realm of molecular biology has witnessed a paradigm shift with the discovery and elucidation of the intricate world of long non-] coding RNAs (lncRNAs). LncRNAs have emerged as key players in the orchestration of cellular processes and, more importantly, as potential biomarkers and pharmacological targets for a myriad of diseases. In various diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular conditions, specific lncRNAs emerge as critical regulators impacting cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immune response. The review extends to the evolving field of lncRNA therapeutics, exploring strategies for effective delivery, overcoming absorption challenges, and addressing issues related to metabolism. This comprehensive review delves into the evolving landscape of lncRNAs, exploring their diverse roles in health and disease, and highlighting their promise as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in drug development.

Evaluation of Antiepileptic Activity of Prunus amygdalus Dry Fruit Suspension in Albino Mice

Ahmed Bin Osman, B. V. Kishore — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Epilepsy, a prevalent neurological disorder, poses a substantial global health burden affecting individuals of all ages. Despite the availability of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), a considerable proportion of patients face challenges in achieving adequate seizure control, prompting exploration into alternative therapies. This research focuses on evaluating the antiepileptic activity of Prunus amygdalus (PA) dry fruit suspension in albino mice following the induction of convulsions through maximum electric shock (MES) & isoniazidinduced tonic-clonic seizures, and strychnine-induced convulsive seizures. The study reveals that 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg doses of Prunus amygdalus suspension administered orally significantly reduces the frequency and amplitude of induced movements. The duration of convulsions was reduced significantly also for both clonic and tonic seizures as well. The antiepileptic activity of Prunus amygdalus is attributed to its impact on Na+ voltage-dependent channels or acting as an NMDA antagonist. The presence of alkaloids and flavonoids in PA suspension aligns with established evidence supporting their antiepileptic effects. This study offers insightful information into the development of plant-based alternatives for epilepsy management, paving the way for further investigations into the therapeutic potential of Prunus amygdalus in neurological disorders.

Antioxidant and Antihyperlipidemic Activities of Methanolic Extract of Rubia cordifolia Roots

Mohammed Hamed Ali, Uzma Taseen — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, poses a significant global health challenge with substantial implications for cardiovascular well-being. This study investigated the anti-hyperlipidemic potential of the methanolic root extract of Rubia cordifolia (MERC) using rat models induced with hyperlipidemia through a high-fat diet. Hyperlipidemia was induced by administering a highfat diet to rats for a duration of 4 weeks. MERC exhibited notable antioxidant activity in DPPH and reducing power assays. Treatment with MERC at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg orally significantly mitigated hyperlipidemia, evidenced by reduced levels of serum Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TG), LowDensity Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDLC), and an increase in serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDLC) compared to the vehicle control and the standard drug Atorvastatin. These findings underscore the substantial anti-hyperlipidemic activity of the methanolic root extract of Rubia cordifolia.

Investigating the Effects of Euterpe oleracea Fruit Extract on Dental Erosion

Sri Lekha Palukuri, Sucharitha Kotapati — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Dental erosion poses a significant challenge in oral healthcare, leading to enamel loss and subsequent tooth decay. Traditional approaches to managing dental erosion focus on prevention rather than treatment. However, emerging research suggests that natural compounds found in certain fruits may offer therapeutic benefits in mitigating dental erosion. Euterpe oleracea, commonly known as acai berry, is one such fruit known for its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of Euterpe oleracea fruit extract on dentin erosion. For five minutes, twelve healthy human premolars that had been removed were submerged in Coca-Cola (pH 2.7). With a 50gr/10s stress, the surface microhardness was assessed using a Knoop diamond. After that, the teeth were submerged in a solution of Euterpe oleracea fruit extract for a minute. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the remeasured microhardness values with the pretreatment values. The results were found to be statistically significant (P<0.001). Euterpe oleracea fruit extract increased the microhardness of eroded dentin and improved the eroded texture