Scientific Program

Conference Series Ltd invites all the participants across the globe to attend 2nd International Conference and Exhibition on Pharmacology and Ethnopharmacology Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Day :

  • Track 10: Nutraceuticals
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
  • Track 9: Neuropharmacology
    Track 10: Nutraceuticals
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
  • Track 2: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
    Track 5: Ecological Characteristics of Ethnobotanical Sources
    Track 6: Phytochemistry and Phytopharmaceuticals
    Track 9: Ethnopharmacology of Medicinal Plants
    Track 11: Emerging Technology in Natural Product Drug Development
    Track 12: Neuropharmacology
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton

Session Introduction

Shrinivas Bumrela

Sinhgad Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, India

Title: Diptercanthus patulus (Jacq) nees: Phytochemical and biological profile
Speaker
Biography:

Shrinivas Bumrela is currently working as the Head of Pharmaceutics Department, Sinhgad Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pune, India. He is a registered Indian Pharmacist having 14+ years of academic and research experience. He presented and published more than 35 research articles in national and international journals/conferences and received 07 best research poster awards. His research area of interest is phytopharmacology and guided 14 Post-graduate students for dissertation. His biography is included in Marquis Who’s Who in the World 28th Edition, 2011. He serves as a reviewer of various journals to name a few Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia and Asian Journal of Complementary and Alternative medicine.

Abstract:

The Dipteracanthus patulus (Jacq) nees (DP) is an undershrub belonging to the family acantheaceae. DP extracts were evaluated by reported in-vitro antioxidant methods; methanolic extract of DP leaves (MEDP) showed promising antioxidant activity (in-vitro). Bioautography on thin layer chromatography (TLC) using DPPH as a detection reagent for the identification of antioxidant compounds was also performed. MEDP extract was standardized by physicochemical properties, spectroscopy and chromatography studies. The marker compound of MEDP (β-carotene and β-sitosterol) was identified by HPTLC. Total phenolic content of MEDP was also analyzed by Folin-Ciocalteau (FC) colorimetric method and found to be 351.09±1.89 µg GAE per gram dry weight. MEDP was selected for further hepatoprotective activity evaluation against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and paracetamol (PCM) induced liver damage in rat models. The hepatoprotective activity was assessed by serum biomarkers and antioxidants viz. malondialdehyde (MDA) formation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSPx) and catalase (CAT) in liver homogenates along with histoarchitecture studies of rat liver. The hepatoprotective activity of MEDP observed in the present research can be correlated to their potent antioxidant property. Furthermore, the effect of MEDP (500 mg/kg) in CCl4 and PCM rat models with respect to serum pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and liver nitric oxide levels were determined. The elevated levels of TNF-α and IL-6 with toxicants were reduced to normal levels with MEDP treatment. In addition, MEDP (500 mg/kg b.w. p.o.) elicit anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan induced hind paw edema and cotton pellet granuloma rat models.

Speaker
Biography:

Ian James Martins has been a reviewer for various international journals and research grant agencies and is the Chief Editor for Scientific and Academic Publishing over the past 20 years. Research Gate’s analysis of his publication stats place the RG score higher than 93% of the international researchers. He received the Richard Kuhn Research Award-2015 in Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Abstract:

In Western countries age-related diets such as obesity and diabetes have become important risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Anti-obesity drug discovery programmes have been ineffective with drug withdrawals due to adverse effects that were never predicted from clinical trials and drug development. These drugs have not reduced neurodegneration associated with obesity. Removal of drugs such as fenfluramine, phentermine, sibutamtramine and orlistat were not related to improvements in medical complications related to obesity. Cholesterol lowering drugs such as statins have not delayed the programmed cell death pathways in the brain with cholesterol and amyloid beta dyshomeostasis linked to neurodegeneration. Nutritional therapy instead of drug therapy has appeared as a novel approach by activation of nutrient sensing genes associated with appetite regulation with the delay in the diseases of the liver and brain that are connected to AD. High fibre diets that contain phytosterols and short chain fatty acids regulate hepatic membrane cholesterol and amyloid beta homeostasis with beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis and on cholesterol homeostasis. High fibre diets and their contents of bacterial lipopolysaccharides, mycotoxin and xenobiotics have become important with improvement in drug effectiveness related to the amount of fibre diet consumed associated with the intact peripheral amyloid beta clearance pathway and reversal of NAFLD. High fibre diets may improve anti-obese drug therapy in insulin resistance and AD and their reduced contents of LPS, mycotoxin and xenobiotics may improve interactions between drug molecules and membrane and nuclear receptors that elicit therapeutic effects in NAFLD and Alzheimer’s disease.

Speaker
Biography:

Penduka D completed her PhD from the University of Fort Hare, South Africa and she is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Zululand, South Africa. She has published 9 papers in peer reviewed reputable journals, and currently has two papers accepted for publication in this year 2015. She is interested in Pharmacology.

Abstract:

The increase in the prevalence of multi-drug resistant bacteria has necessitated the search for new antimicrobials from alternative sources such as traditional medicinal plants. The agar well diffusion method was employed to determine the susceptibilities of four plant derived tritepenes namely, 3β-hydroxylanosta-9, 24-dien-21-oic acid (RA5), and methyl-3β-hydroxylanosta-9, 24-dien-21oate (RA3), a mixture of oleanolic acid and betulinic acid (SF1) and a mixture of 3β-acetonyloleanolic acid and 3β-acetonylbetulinic acid (SF2), against seven Escherichia coli, one Bacillus cereus, five Enterococcus and nine Vibrio bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined through the micro-broth dilution assay. The checkerboard method was used to determine the antibiotic-triterpene interactions while the cytosolic lactate dehydrogenase test was used to determine the membrane damaging potentials of the triterpenes. RA3, RA5, SF1 and SF2 had activities against 86.4%, 54.6%, 22.7% and 9.09% of the test bacteria respectively. SF1 had the lowest MIC values ranging 0.625-10 mg/ml with lower MIC values being noted against Gram negative bacteria in comparison to Gram positive bacteria; this trend was also noted among the activities of RA3 and RA5. MBC studies proved the triterpenes to be mostly bacteriostatic, while interactions with ciprofloxacin were ranging between indifference and antagonism. RA3 alone showed minimal membrane damaging potential with the levels of cytosolic lactate dehydrogenase released ranging from 1-36% against E.coli (DSM-8695) and V. vulnificus (AL 042).The results hereby show the potential that the test triterpenes have as antibacterial agents, especially against the Gram negative bacteria namely E.coli and Vibrio bacteria.

Speaker
Biography:

Maduike , C. O. Ezeibe is a professor of Veterinary medicine in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike-Nigeria. He holds DVM, M.Sc and Ph.D degrees from University of Nigeria, Nsukka . He is also a fellow of College of Veterinary Surgeons, Nigeria (FCVSN). Prof Ezeibe invented the Medicinal synthetic Aluminum – magnesium silicate (Nanoparticles) - a broad-spectrum antiviral medicine, a highly active antiretroviral medicine, a potential anticancer agent and a stabilizing agent for antimicrobials. For Ethnopharmacology 2016, Professor Ezeibe shall talk on : Stabilizing antimicrobials with the Medicinal synthetic Aluminum – magnesium silicate, to enhance their efficacy.

Abstract:

Development of resistance against drugs, by micro-organisms , has become a global medical challenge, both in veterinary medicine and in human practice. Antimicrobials, affected and those that can be affected, number in several thousands. To avoid drug-resistance, medications should clear, at least, 95% of infections-loads . When more than 5% of infections`-load is left after treatment, immune responses often fail to complete termination of such infections and infections that survive treatments, most times, develop resistance against drugs used for the treatment. To minimize side effects of drugs, lower doses (75%) of antimicrobials (Piparazine, Ampicillin, Chloroquine and Sulphadimidine) were used; to prolong bioavailability of the drugs in order to enhance their efficacy , they were stabilized with the Medicinal synthetic Aluminum-magnesium silicate (MSAMS) and to maximize immune responses of treated animals, the treatments were supported with immune stimulants. Recommended doses (100%) of Piparazine, Ampicillin and Chloroquine, when not stabilized with the MSAMS, cleared only 82.94%, 80.68% and 20% of Helignosomoides bakeri, Salmonella gallinarum and Plasmodium berghei infections. The 75% of doses of the MSAMS-stabilized Piparazine and the MSAMS-stabilized Ampicillin, cleared 96.82% and 97.84% of the respective infections. Supporting the lower doses of MSAMS-stabilized Chloroquine and MSAMS-stabilized Ampicillin with immune stimulants led to 100% clearance of P. berghei infection and 95.80% clearance of Ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli infection. It has therefore been concluded that enhancing efficacy of antimicrobials by prolonging their bioavailability with the MSAMS; minimizing side effects of drugs by using 75% of doses of MSAMS-stabilized antimicrobials for treatments and maximizing immune responses of patients by supportive treatment with immune stimulants, achieve enough clearance (≥95%) of infections so that drug-resistance is prevented and drugs made to regain effects against resistant infections. By making 75% of doses of the drugs more effective than the 100%, the MSAMS also reduces cost of drug formulations.

Speaker
Biography:

Girdhari Lal Gupta has completed his PhD in 2009. He is currently Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM’s NMIMS University, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. He has received Young Scientist Award from DST, Government of India in the year 2012. He has been nominated as CPCSEA member by Animal Welfare Division, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Government of India. He has published more than 10 papers in reputed journals and has been a reviewer for several journals of repute.

Abstract:

India’s Queen of herbs Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn., family Labiatae) have huge medicinal uses. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of Ocimum sanctum in alcohol abstinence syndrome, developed following long–term voluntary alcohol intake in rats. The hydro–alcoholic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves (HEOS) was first characterised for the presence of oleanolic acid (0.54% w/w), eugenol (0.39% w/w) and caryophyllene (0.02% w/w) and subsequently acute, sub–acute toxicity studies were also performed. For evaluation of the effects of HEOS in ethanol abstinence syndrome, healthy Wistar rats were enabled to voluntary drinking of 9% v/v alcohol for fifteen days. The behavior studies were conducted employing tail suspension test, forced swim test, light–dark model and elevated–plus maze test on day 16th, 17th & 18th and peak ethanol withdrawal syndrome were determined. HEOS (100, 300 and 500 mg/kg) and diazepam were administered orally on peak withdrawal symptoms. Expression of Gabra1, Gabra2, Gabra3, Gabra4, Gabra5 genes for GABAA receptor and Grin1, Grin2a, Grin2b genes for NMDA–glutamate receptor in the amygdala and hippocampus of the rats were also determined. The results revealed that no observed adverse effect level was higher than 2000 mg/kg, orally. HEOS exhibited significant protective effect at doses 300 & 500 mg/kg, but 100 mg/kg showed insignificant protection against alcohol abstinence syndrome like anxiety and depression. The increased expression of NMDA–glutamate receptor and decreased expression of GABAA receptor following ethanol abstinence were also reversed by HEOS. Thus, HEOS has protective role in the ethanol abstinence syndrome.

Speaker
Biography:

Abstract:

For several reasons no two individuals can be considered identical and hence individualization of therapy is the current trend in treating the patients. Influence of menstrual cycle on the pharmacokinetics of Doxycycline. Twelve healthy female volunteers have been included in the study after obtaining written informed consent. The age ranged from 16 to 25 years Experimental design: The volunteer selection and recruitment will be carried out after obtaining informed consent from each volunteer. The drug administration will be done to each volunteer at 7 a.m along with a glass of water after an overnight fasting on 3rd, 13th and 23rd day of menstrual cycle. These saliva samples will be stored under frozen conditions until HPLC analysis. Results: In the present study the changes in estrogen levelsduring ovulatory phase have not shown any influence onAUCo-t of Doxycycline. Only AUCo-t of doxycycline showed an increasing trend with increasing levels of estrogen in ovulatary phase, but not in other phases. Eventhough the FSH levels differed significantly among volunteers during different phases FSH does not seem to influence overall pharmacokinetic behavior of Doxycyline during different phases. The present study indicated only the trend that the hormone levels may influence the pharmacokinetic behavior of the Doxycycline. Conclusion : In the present study the changes in hormones have not shown any influence on pharmacokinetics significantly among volunteers during different phases.

Hany A. Omar

University of Sharjah, United Arab of Emirates

Title: Anti-prostate Cancer Activity of Pterostilbene
Speaker
Biography:

Hany A Omar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences (1998) and a Master’s degree in Pharmacology and Toxicology (2005) from Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt. He completed his PhD degrees in Molecular Biology at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (2010). His thesis was on preclinical investigation of novel small-molecule targeted agents for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. After Post-doctoral studies at The Ohio State University (2011), he led cancer cell molecular biology research in different places. He is now an Assistant Professor of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates & Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt. He has been a regular reviewer or ad hoc reviewer for several medical journals, different funding agency and several journal Editorial Board Members and senior Editors. He has published close to 40 scientific reports, including many in the most respected professional journals on molecular oncology and anti-cancer drugs.

Abstract:

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most challenging cancers with limited therapeutic options. Angiogenesis is a key mechanism required for the progression of advanced metastatic stage of PC. Interference with angiogenesis halts prostate tumor progression and metastases. Estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α) is upregulated in PC compared to normal tissues. ER-α is implicated in tumor angiogenesis through activating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) transcription. Pterostilbene (PT) is an active component of blueberries that exhibits anti-proliferative and antimetastatic effects in PC. The impact of PT on pro-angiogenic signals is not known. The current study tested the hypothesis that PT exhibits sensitizes prostate cancer (PC) cells to chemotherapy. We also examined the underlying mechanisms by which PT exhibits cytotoxic effects in PC with special emphasis on ER-α, Akt activity and angiogenesis signals. PT is cytotoxic against LNCaP, DU-145 and PC-3 with IC50 of 33.76, 41.17 and 58.9 µM. PT synergized doxorubicin in both LNCaP and PC-3 cells. Molecular docking indicated that PT interacts with ER-α active site with a comparable affinity to estradiol. Since, ER-α is implicated in the progression of PC. The effect of PT on PC migration and invasion was investigated and results showed significant reduction in both functions. PT suppressed ER-α expression, ER-α(Ser-167) and Akt(Ser473) phosphorylations in PC-3 cells. PT opposed the release of the pro-angiogenic growth factors VEGF, IGF-1 and TGF-β by 41.5, 36.5 and 28.8% (P<0.05). Our findings suggest that PT could serve as a promising antiangiogenic therapy/ adjuvant for the management of advanced stage PC

Speaker
Biography:

Tahira Bibi has completing her PhD from Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad in Botany (Ethnobotany). She is Assistant Professor in SBK Women’s University, Quetta. She has published 7 papers in reputed journals and submitted number of papers in reputed journals

Abstract:

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer in females worldwide. Breast cancer rates are much higher in developed nations compared to developing ones. This first report survey was commenced with an aim to document ethnic knowledge regarding the use of folk medicines for breast cancer in women among the local communities of northern Balochistan, Pakistan using quantitative ethnobotanical approaches. Materials & Methods: The information was collected through personal observations, interviews, rapid appraisal approach, open ended questionnaire, structured and semi-structured interviews were conducted to assemble information using Pre-Informed Consensus (PIC). Results were analyzed using quantitative indices of Use Value Citations (UVC) and Disease Consensus Index (DCI). Results: A total of 194 inhabitants of the northern Balochistan (80%) women, (13%) men and (7%) men traditional healers of different age groups were interviewed. The informants were divided into four different age groups. Most of the informants belonged to the age of above 55 years. The research led to the identification of 47 plant species, distributed over 30 families. The most frequently represented families are Asteraceae and Labiatae with four species each. The most common life forms of plants are trees and the most common parts of the plants used are their seeds (29%). Plants are often used as powder for the treatment of cancer (31%). The highest Use Value Citations (UVC) and Disease Consensus Index (DCI) were reported for the Ferula baluchistanica. Conclusions: This study has revealed significant information on various medicinal plants used for breast cancer of women by the local people of area. In present study 10 new species of plants and 2 animal species (Frog and Bat) and one mineral (Sulphur) have not been documented as anticancer until now. We found no references to possible chemical investigations in these species. The efficacy and safety of these new reported plants needs to be evaluated for phytochemical and pharmacological and toxicity studies.

  • Track 1: Pharmacology
    Track 2: Phytochemical Studies of Plants and Plant Extracts
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton

Session Introduction

Vicki Motz

Ohio Northern University, USA

Title: Mullein extract antibiosis confirms ethnobotanical use for respiratory infections
Speaker
Biography:

Vicki A Motz received her PhD from Boston University in 1986 and has been teaching Physiology and various aspects of Herbalism for over 30 years.She has generated 7 peer reviewed papers and 4 presentations since founding the ONU Ethnobotany Collaborative in 2009 with Christopher Bowers and David Kinder; to direct undergraduate student research with primary focus on validating ethnobotanical uses. The collaborative has mentored 26 student presentations at state, national and international levels.

Abstract:

Native to Europe and Asia, Common Mullein (Verbascusm thapsus L.) was introduced into North America in the 1700's. Oil extracts of mullein flowers were used by the Cherokee to treat earaches; and are used similarly by herbalists today. Mullein leaves have been smoked and mullein tea is consumed to treat respiratory issues by other Amerindians. Antibiosis is associated with several mullein constituents. Mullein flower and leaf samples were collected from 13 sites in the midwest and central Atlantic states. Flowers were transported in 91% isopropanol and air dried upon arrival in the lab; leaves were air dried. Sample voucher specimens were collected. Health of plants, insect type/degree of infestation, and topography of land were noted. Flowers and leaves were extracted in pH 4 phosphate buffer for 1 week and filtered. Buffer was evaporated, and samples reconstituted at 1 gm plant material/ml buffer. 100 µl aliquots were applied to 6 mm Whatman #3 dots and Kirby Bauer analysis performed on the following bacterial lawns: Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus mutans, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Notably, the most sensitive species to mullein were respiratory pathogens, validating ethnobotanic use in all geographic locations. In both flowers and leaves, zones of inhibition were significantly (p=0.0019) larger against S. pneumoniae than against all species, and greater against Klebsiella pneumoniae than non-respiratory gram negative species. Furthermore, antibiosis was greatest late in the season when plants were in full flower. LC analysis of extracts is ongoing as is soil analysis.

Speaker
Biography:

William H Witola completed his PhD at Hokkaido University, Japan, and Post-doctoral studies at University of Chicago Medical Center and University of Connecticut Medical Center. He is Assistant Professor of Parasitology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has published more than 38 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

We investigated dried red leaf extracts of S. bicolor for activity against Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites. S. bicolor red leaf extracts were obtained by bioassay-guided fractionation using ethanol and ethyl acetate as solvents. Analysis of the crude and fractionated extracts using Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS) showed that they contained significant amounts of apigeninidin, luteolinidin, 7-methoxyapigeninidin, 5-methoxyapigeninidin, 5-methoxyluteolinidin, 5-7-dimethoxyapigeninidin or 5-7-dimethoxyluteolinidin, based on mass per charge (m/z). When tested in vitro, the IC50 values of the inhibitory activity of the ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts against T. gondii’s growth were 2.3- and 4-fold, respectively, lower than their cytotoxic IC50 values in mammalian cells. Ethyl acetate extracts fractionated in chloroform-methanol and chloroform had IC50 values against T. gondii that were 56.1- and 3-fold lower than their respective cytotoxic IC50 values in mammalian cells. These anti-parasitic activities were found to be consistent with those of the respective pure 3-deoxyanthocyanidin compounds identified to be contained in the fractions in significant amounts. Further, we observed that, the position and number of methoxy groups possessed by the 3-deoyanthocyanidins influenced their anti-parasitic activity. Together, our findings indicate that S. bicolor red-leaf 3-deoxyanthocyanidins-rich extracts have potent in vitro inhibitory activity against the proliferative stage of T. gondii parasites.

B Andallu

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, India

Title: Phytoceuticals: A new era in ethnopharmacology
Speaker
Biography:

B Andallu completed her PhD from Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, A.P., India. She is the Head, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, recipient of awards and gold medals at national and international levels, authored and contributed chapters for books, published review and research articles, delivered talks and presented many research papers in national and international seminars/conferences, completed research projects, specialized in research on ‘Natural remedies for stress-induced diseases’, member of editorial board for reputed journals and life member in professional bodies and intersted in Pharmacology and Ethnopharmacology

Abstract:

Plants are an important source of biologically active substances and hence they have been used for medicinal purposes, since ancient times. The use of medicinal plants is usually based on traditional knowledge, from which their therapeutic properties are ratified in pharmacological studies. In the developing countries, the population relies basically on medicinal plants for primary health care, since modern medicines are expensive and not easily accessible. In recent years, even in the developed countries, herbal drugs gained popularity. Herbal medicines are always formed from a complex mixture of chemical compounds mainly secondary metabolites of plants termed as phytoceuticals’ as they are phytochemicals with pharmaceutical properties which provide health as well as medicinal benefits. There has been extensive research in the present years on oxidative stress in diseases associated with aging and the benefits of antioxidative phytoceuticals in the prevention of diseases and boosting of healthy aging. Phytoceuticals mainly from herbs and spices such as aniseeds, ajwain, coriander, mint, curry leaves etc. include isoprenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, carotenoids, phytoestrogens, alkaloids etc. exhibit antioxidant (ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, α-tocopherol, lycopene, glutathione, luteolin, etc.), anti-inflammatory (quercetin, capsaicin, curcumin, etc.), osteogenetic (genistein, diadzein, casein, inulin, etc.), hypolipidemic (MUFA, PUFA, resveratrol, saponins, tannins, beta-sitosterol, etc.) and anticarcinogenic (capsaicin, genistein, curcumin, ellagic acid, lutein, etc.) properties. Thus, phytoceuticals can act against oxidative stress-induced acute and chronic diseases viz. diabetes, arthritis and cancer and hence, these are powerful instruments in promoting optimal health, longevity and quality of life. Thus phytoceuticals hold great opportunities for pharmaceutical industries to bring out novel drugs and herbal supplements for future needs.

Speaker
Biography:

Esperanza Carcache de Blanco completed her PhD and Post-doctoral studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She was appointed as an Assistant Professor at the Ohio State University in 2005 where she currently serves as an Associate Professor. She has published more than 50 papers in reputed scientific journals.

Abstract:

Plants have been used ethnomedically for thousand years. Moreover, about 80% of the population in developed countries continue to use traditional medicine. These medicinal plants contain diverse secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, and tannins. The chemical diversity of these species constitutes the most obvious choice for the discovery of therapeutically effective new drugs intended at the treatment of different diseases states. Also, the health benefits associated with the phytochemicals are derived through several different mechanisms of action. Despite the worldwide use of these species, most of them have not been thoroughly studied to confirm their potential health benefits and exploration of the role of phytochemicals in human health, disease prevention, and treatment is still in its infancy. Hence, the importance of scrutinizing the composition and studying the mechanism of action of the active constituents of these plant species for the benefit of human health. The study of plants with historical ethnomedical uses, therefore, comprises a promising source for the discovery of new drug leads or new phytochemicals with great potential in the prevention and treatment of different diseases.

Speaker
Biography:

Ashutosh Sharma has completed his PhD from State University of Morelos, Mexico and Post-doctoral studies from National Autonomus University of Mexico (UNAM). Currently, he is the Biotechnology Program Director and Full Time Research Professor at Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Queretaro, Mexico, a world class university. He has published more than 16 papers in international reputed journals and is reviewer of several international journals as well. He is inventor of 1 patent, co-author of 1 book and co-author of 2 book chapter. He is the youngest high level Professor of the university. He has presented more than 30 scientific work in various countries like USA, Holland, Chile, Brazil, India, Canada, China and Mexico. He is member of various scientific organizations and comitees. He has recieved various awards, national and international scholarships during his career. He has fellowship of the prestigious national research system of Mexico, where he also serve as acredited evaluator for revising scientific project funded by National science and technology foundation of Mexico. Currently he directs thesis for 2 Master students and 1 PhD student.

Abstract:

Galphimia glauca has a long traditional use, and continues to be used in Mexico as a natural tranquilizer for the treatment of Central Nervous System disorders as well as for other illnesses. The genus Galphimia contains 26 different species but Identification of this particular species throughout Mexico is highly mistaken by local people and botanists from reputed universities. Aim of this study was to investigate it´s metabolic profile, confirm it´s ethno-botanical use and correct the mistaken identification of this species. Metabolic profiling was carried out by means of (1)H NMR spectroscopy and multivariate data analysis applied to crude extracts from wild plant specimens. HPLC analysis was performed to confirm and quantify the presence of galphimines. Two neuropharmacological in vivo assays on mice were employed to study anxiolytic (elevated plus maze test) and sedative (sodium pentobarbital-induced hypnosis model) activities in the extracts. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined by using the tetradecanoylphorbol acetate-induced mouse ear inflammation model (TPA). For DNA barcoding we employed matK, rpoC1 and rbcL DNA barcodes to indicate the different species. Furthermore to investigate the possible impact of the several different ecosystems where the seven populations were collected, thin layer chromatography was employed to create a partial chemical profile, which was then compared with the metabolic profiles obtained by (1)H-NMR and multivariate data analysis. The results confirm that only two out of seven populations showed anxiolytic and sedative effect. The galphimines are consistent good markers for CNS activity. Galloylquinic acid levels varied throughout the populations studied. As per our knowledge, this is the first study, which shows that these populations of Galphimia genus represent significant anti-inflammatory activity in all investigated populations that is not linked with galphimines. This study showed that the seven populations here analyzed contain at least three different species of the genus Galphimia, although each individual population is homogeneous. Interestingly our TLC analysis clearly showed that the active populations displayed a distinctively unique chemical profile. This work also showed that the use of DNA barcodes combined with chemical profile analysis is an excellent approach to solve the problems of quality control in the development of Galphimia-based medicines as well as for any breeding programs for this species.

Zhang Li

Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China

Title: Identification and mechanism study of novel anti-cancer components from Garcinia species
Speaker
Biography:

Soon We will Update

Abstract:

The Garcinia genus is an invaluable source of novel bioactive compounds. Of the 20 Garcinia spp. found across China, over 300 compounds including 90 novel xanthones and PPAPs from 15 such plants have been identified by our group. It is intriguing to find that xanthones and PPAPs possess discrete anti-cancer properties not limited to cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy and anti-metastasis. In this presentation, we will summarize our systematic work in the last 10 years including: (1) the bioassay-guided fractionation and identification of novel compounds from Garcinia plants; (2) the mechanism study of active compounds targeting multiple pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, and metastasis; (3) the evaluation of synergistic effects of combinations of various lead compounds with anti-cancer drugs. The understanding of synergistic effects of isolated active compounds can be an imperative approach for finding new efficient drugs in the treatment of cancer. Our studies provide scientific evidences supporting further research and development of the promising lead compounds identified from Garcinia species in China.

Speaker
Biography:

Yibin Feng is currently an Associate Professor cum Associate Director in School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong. He was awarded Bachelor degree in Chinese Medicine from Mainland China. He was awarded his PhD degree in Molecular Medicine from Hokkaido University School of Medicine and finished Post-doctoral research in the same University in Japan. His research interest focuses on clinical trial and experimental study for cancer, diabetes, hepatic and renal diseases by using recently developed techniques. He has published over 200 publications in these areas and serve as editor and reviewer for over 50 international journals.

Abstract:

Coptis has been used in Chinese medicine over two thousand years. Until Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) of China, composite formulae containing Coptis already reached 1500 recipes. They are for treating various diseases in terms of hot and dampness syndromes, which are kinds of infective and inflammatory diseases nowaday. The ethnopharmacological traits of Coptis have led to scientific research to unravel the chemistry and mechanism of its action in in vitro and in vivo models. Coptis and its composite formulae encompass a wide range of ingredients with a variety of bioactives responsible for their efficacy in prevention and treatment of various diseases such as infective, cardiovascular and diabetic diseases. Recently, we focus on effect of Coptis in cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Using molecular and cellular as well as OMICS technologies, we conducted series studies on anticancer effect of Coptis. Based on miRNAs chip array, we found miRNA-23a was upregulated by Coptis and berberine in HCC. We further demonstrated that overexpression of mir-23a could significantly potentiate the in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor effect of etoposide. We also investigated the involvement of microRNA-23a in p53-mediated inhibition of HCC by berberine. Discussion will be conducted on, is the anticancer effect of Coptis, destination for its two thousand years journey? And why Coptis can be panacea for multiple diseases?

Speaker
Biography:

Walber Toma has completed his PhD from University of Campinas (Unicamp) from Brazil. He is the Researcher of the Department of Ecology from Santa Cecília University (Unisanta) and also from the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in São Camilo University (São Camilo). In Santa Cecília University, he is the Main Researcher of a Laboratory of Natural Products that seeks ethnopharmacological informations from the South Coast populations of São Paulo state. He is also the Director of an specialization course in Clinical Pharmacology at Unisanta. He has published more than 30 papers on the following subjects: ethnopharmacology, gastroprotective activity of plant extracts, toxicology and ecotoxicology assays from natural products.

Abstract:

Terminalia catappa L. (Combretaceae) is a medicinal plant listed as a pharmacopeia vegetable from Caribbean to treat gastritis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the gastroprotective and healing effect of the Aqueous Fraction (FrAq) obtained from the leaves of Terminalia catappa and to determine the antiulcer mechanism of action in experimental rodent models and its activity to Helicobacter pylori. The FrAq was challenged by different necrotizing agents in rodent models, such as absolute ethanol and ischemia–reperfusion injury. The antiulcer mechanism of action of FrAq was assessed and the healing effects of the fraction after seven and 14 days of treatment was evaluated by matrix metalloproteinase activity (MMP-2 and MMP-9). The toxicological effect of subacute treatment with FrAq during 14 days of treatment was also analyzed. The anti-Helicobacter pylori activity was determined by microdilution. The phytochemical study of the fraction was analyzed by experiments with FIA-ESI-IT-MSn (Direct Flow Analysis-ionization Electrospray Ion Trap Tandem Mass Spectrometry) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to a Photodiode Array (PDA). The results after the oral treatment with FrAq (25 mg/kg) significantly decreased the number of ulcerative lesions induced by ethanol and ischemia/reperfusion injury. The action of FrAq was mediated by the activation of defensive mucosa-protective factors, such as increases in mucus production, the nitric oxide (NO) pathway and endogenous prostaglandins. Oral treatment with FrAq for seven and 14 days significantly reduced the lesion area (80% and 37%, respectively) compared to the negative control group. Analyses of MMP-9 and MMP-2 activity from gastric mucosa confirmed the accelerated gastric healing effect of FrAq. This extract also presented considerable activity against Helicobacter pylori. The mass spectrum and MS/MS of the aqueous fraction indicates the existence of many different phenolic compounds, including punicalagin, punicalin, and gallagic acid, among others. We concluded that FrAq from Terminalia catappa leaves has excellent preventive and curative effects on acute and chronic induced gastric ulcers and showed an important profile against Helicobacter pylori.

Speaker
Biography:

Kamaluddeen Garba earned is his MSc from Bayero University, Kano, where he is currently working as Lecturer. Before then, he had brief stint at multinational pharmaceutical companies where he held various marketing/sales roles. His burning interest in the academia made him join Bayero University, Kano 2012. His major area of interest is in the discovery of lead molecules from natural product that could translate to safer and efficacious agents to treat epilepsy. He has published articles in this area in international journals. He is strongly open to collaboration from partners in this field.

Abstract:

Preparation of Lannea barteri is used in the treatment of epilepsy, gastritis, childhood convulsions among other uses in northern Nigeria for many years. The popularity of its efficacy is well established among the Traditional Medical Practitioners. The present study aimed at screening the ethanol stem bark extract of Lannea barteri for possible anticonvulsant action. Anticonvulsant screening was carried out using Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), Strychnine (STN) and Picrotoxin (PTC) induced seizures in mice while Maximal Electroshock (MES) test was carried out in day old chicks. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts was performed on the extracts. The intraperitoneal median lethal dose (LD50) was carried out in mice. The intraperitoneal (i.p.) LD50 of the extract was estimated to be 567.70 mg/kg in mice. Lannea barteri (160 mg/kg) significantly (p≤0.05) delayed the mean onset of seizures induced by PTZ when compared with normal saline treated group. Similarly, the extract at 160 mg/kg significantly (p≤0.05) prolonged the latency of convulsion induced by STN. Lannea barteri (40 mg/kg) significantly (p≤0.05) delayed the mean onset of seizures induced by picrotoxin in mice. The extracts at all the doses tested showed no observable effect in decreasing the mean recovery time of convulsed chicks in MEST. Flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins and glycosides were found present in the stem bark extract. Our findings revealed that the ethanol stem bark extract of Lannea barteri contained bioactive constituents that may be useful in the management of petit mal epilepsy and supports the ethnomedical claim for the use of its stem bark in the management of epilepsy.

Speaker
Biography:

Tavs Atavwoda Abere obtained his BPharm, MSc and PhD Degrees in Pharmacognosy from the University of Benin, Benin City. He is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City and a resource person for the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MPCD) of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN). He has published more than 30 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

Scoparia dulcis Linn (Scrophulariaceae) together with other medicinal plants serve as antisickling remedies in Africa. This study was aimed at investigating the antisickling activity of the leaves of the plant as well as establishing the toxicological profile. Chemical tests were employed in phytochemical investigations. Evaluation of the antisickling activity involved the inhibition of sodium metabisulphite-induced sickling of the HbSS red blood cells obtained from confirmed sickle cell patients who were not in crises. Concentrations of the crude extract and its fractions were tested with normal saline and p-hydroxybenzoic acid serving as controls. Acute toxicological evaluation was carried out in mice while 30-day assessment was done in rats. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids and saponins. Percentage sickling inhibitions of the aqueous methanol extracts of S. dulcis were significant all through the period of assay p < 0. 05 compared to normal saline, but not significant with PHBA. The fractions had less activity compared to the crude extracts. The LD 50 of the extract in mice was above 8000 mg/kg body weight when administered orally. Toxicological evaluations at 250 and 500 mg/kg showed mild congestion in virtually all the target organs. The antisickling results confirmed traditional usage of Scoparia dulcis in the management of Sickle cell disorders and a candidate for further investigations.

Xu Min

Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong

Title: The impact of Rhizoma Chuanxiong in fetal bone development
Speaker
Biography:

Xu Min, Assistant Professor in the School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University. His researches including the safety assessment of Chinese medicine, the systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials, the study of anti-drugs, and study of metabolic bone diseases, etc.

Abstract:

Rhizoma Chuanxiong (CX) has been ranked as one of the top 20 herbs applied commonly for anti-miscarriages among Chinese pregnant women. However, CX should be used with caution during pregnancy as its property of “invigorating blood circulation and removing blood stagnation”. This study aims to assess the impacts of CX aqueous extract in fetal bone development referred to the WHO, FDA and OECD guidelines. CX aqueous extract was prepared and pregnant mice were orally treated at 32 g/kg/day (CX group) from the gestation day (GD) 6 to 16, or treated with distilled water as the negative controls (NC group). All mice were sacrificed to assess maternal and fetal parameters on the GD18. The expressions of biomarkers related to the fetal bone development including PICP, ICTP, B-ALP, BGP, Gdf-5, BMPs, BMP-6, BMP-8, BMP-11 in fetal tissue samples were measured with ELISA analyses. The results showed that live fetus/litter, mean fetal BW in the CX group were significantly lower than NC group (p < 0.05); the resorption site/litter, post-implantation loss/litter and percentage of abnormal skeletal variation were significantly higher than NC group (p < 0.05); meanwhile the expressions of PICP, osteocalcin, BMPs, BMP-6, BMP-11 in the CX group were significantly lower than NC group (p < 0.05). It indicated that high-dosage and long-term use of CX might result in fetal bone malformations coupled with a significant down-regulation of biomarkers related to bone formation during osteogenesis. (This project was supported by the HKBU-FRG2/14-15/109, HKBU-UGC matching grant 40-48-095 and NSFGD 2014A030313414)

Speaker
Biography:

François Simard has completed his PhD from Université du Québec à Chicoutimi at laboratoire d’analyse et de sépatation des essences végétales (LASEVE) working on the isolation and caracterization of natural products from the boreal forest of Canada. His work has led to the publication of 6 journal articles and 1 book chapter. He is pursuing Postdoctoral studies at Université du Québec à Chicoutimi

Abstract:

North America Aboriginals applied preperation of buds from Populus balsamifera on frost-bitten members, sores and inflamed wounds. Our group has undertaken a phytochemical investigation of buds from P. balsamifera after an ethnaolic extract showed a strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus. The investigation led to the isolation of a unique series of 22 antibacterial flavonoids, named balsacones, which are dihydrochalcone or flavan core substituted by up to four hydroxycinnamyl chains. Flavan core balsacones were isolated as racemic mixtures and some of them were purified using chiral chromatography. The absolute configuration of isolated enantiomers was determined using X-ray diffraction analyses and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data. Racemic mixtures of balsacones were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against clinical isolates of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Several of the tested balsacones were potent anti-MRSA agents showing MIC values in the low micromolar range. Structure-activity relationships study highlighted some important parameters involved in the antibacterial activity of balsacones such as the presence of a cinnamyl chain at position C-3 and a cinnamoyl chain at position C-8 of the flavan skeleton. These results suggest that balsacones could represent a potential novel class of naturally occurring anti-MRSA agents.

Speaker
Biography:

Bingxin Ma is a PhD student from Wuhan University. The research mainly focuses on the quality control and pharmacological activity of traditional Chinese medicine. She has published 11 papers in reputed journals and the total impact factors are 31.042.

Abstract:

In China, Coptis chinensis (C. chinensis) planting areas are mainly concentrated in the habitat of Tujia National Minority.Traditionally, C. chinensis inflorescence is made as tea drink among local indigenous people. Nowadays, some pharmacological activities of C. chinensis have been verified, such as antioxidative, anti-phototoxicity, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects. C.chinensis inflorescence extract (CE) is rich in phenolics, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins and isoquinoline alkaloids. The antioxidant activity was accomplished both in vitro and in vivo. For in vitro assay, CE could scavenge free radical and inhibit lipid peroxidation. For in vivo assay, the effects were accomplished in mice. The protective effect of CE against UVB-induced damage was also measured. The indicators of LOOH, CD, 4-HNE, GSH and MDA were used to prove such effect in mitochondria model. The skin of mice could also be treated with CE against the damage caused by UVB irradition. For hyperglycaemia, CE could inhibit the α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, increase glucose consumption in 3T3-L1 preadipocyte and ameliorate streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice by reducing the blood glucose level and increasing the insulin content. The hepatoprotective of CE was verified in HepG2 by increasing cell viability and reducing ALT and AST acivities. The main mechanism is phosphorylation of MAPKs and activation of Keap1, Nrf2 and phase II detoxification enzymes. The acute and subacute toxicity was measured to prove the primary safety of CE. Above studies not only provide scientific foundation for using C. chinensis inflorescence, but also broaden its application.

Speaker
Biography:

Arunabha Ray, MD, PhD, is Chair, Department of Pharmacology at the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, and Faculty of Medicine, University of Delhi. He has 37 years teaching and research experience in basic and clinical pharmacology and toxicology and has been the recipient of several awards and honors for research excellence. He has more than 150 research publications, is author of several text and reference book chapters, editor of 04 books in his areas of expertise, and author of a Textbook in Pharmacology.

Abstract:

Herbal drugs are rapidly emerging as viable therapeutic alternatives/adjuncts in various pathophysiological states, and, such medicinal plant derived agents form the basis of therapy in traditional systems of medicine. In recent years several novel strategies have been proposed in the area of herbal drug research and development and interactions between traditional and modern systems of medicine are being promoted. Reverse pharmacology is a concept that attempts to validate herbal drug action and is viewed as an alternative mode of drug development by using a trans-disciplinary and multi-targeted approach. Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by airflow obstruction, airway inflammation, persistent airway hyper-responsiveness and airway remodeling. Pharmacotherapy, which is the cornerstone of management, is associated with efficacy and safety issues, and there is search for viable alternatives from botanical sources. UNIM-352 is a polyherbal agent with reported clinical benefits in bronchial asthma and we adopted a reverse pharmacology approach to elucidate its mechanism of action in preclinical experimental models. In ovalbumin immunized rats, UNIM-352 modulated markers of airway inflammation (TNF-α, NF-κB, HDAC, TGF-β and IgE) in both blood and BAL fluid, which were comparable with prednisolone. Further, UNIM-352 treated groups markedly reduced the number of eosinophil and neutrophil cells in both body fluids. UNIM-352 treatment also showed reductions degree of epithelial hyperplasia, goblet cell function and collagen formation in lung tissue– suggestive of an anti-remodeling role. The results suggest anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-remodeling mechanisms of UNIM-352 may contribute to its observed beneficial effects of this herbal agent in bronchial asthma, and highlights the importance of reverse pharmacology in herbal drug research.

Speaker
Biography:

Yan Zhou has completed his PhD in 2004 from Chengdu Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Post-doctoral studies from Chinese University of Hong Kong School of Chinese Medicine. She is awarded the outstanding technical talent of CAS in 2010, is now the Director of core laboratory, Professor and of Chengdu Institute of Biology, CAS. She has been engaged in the discovery of bioactive components of Chinese herbal plants and quality control of traditional Chinese medicines by HPLC-MS. She has published more than 100 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

The safety, quality and efficacy of medicinal plants or herbal medicines are assured by chemical analysis. It is essential to identify and measure the bioactive constituents of medicinal plants to ensure the reliability and repeatability of clinical research and enhance quality control from the pharmacologically beneficial and/or hazardous perspectives. The application of the high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry in the quality control of Chinese medicines was discussed based on the recent research progress achieved in our group. Focus was put on the innovative strategies and methodologies for the holistic chemical profiling of Chinese medicines by LC-MS, as well as their application in authentication of raw materials, evaluation of post-harvest handling, exploration of new resources of certain bioactive components and detection of toxic components.

Speaker
Biography:

Tavs Atavwoda Abere obtained his BPharm, MSc and PhD Degrees in Pharmacognosy from the University of Benin, Benin City. He is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City and a resource person for the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MPCD) of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN). He has published more than 30 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

The present investigation entitled “Standardization of extraction techniques of picroside-I and picroside-II from “Kutki” (Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth.)” was carried out in the department of forest products, Dr. Y. S. Parmar university of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (India) during 2012-2014. The fresh roots and rhizomes of Picrorhiza kurroa were collected from Rohtang area of Himachal Pradesh. The freshly harvested material was ground into uniform powdered form after washing with water to remove the adhering materials and drying in shade. This powdered air dried roots and rhizomes of Picrorhiza kurroa was used for standardization of extraction methods of picroside-I and picroside-II. Four different extraction methods viz. soxhlet, extraction by refluxing, microwave assisted extraction and sonication assisted extraction were tested for extraction of picroside-I and picroside-II from the rhizome of Picrorhiza kurroa. Sonication assisted extraction for 36 minutes with methanol as solvent yielded 44.269 per cent extract with 6.825 per cent picroside-I and 5.291 per cent picroside-II content, which was better in comparison to other methods in terms of time consumption and yield.

  • Track 3: Latest Trends in Ethnopharmacology
    Track 7: Natural Products in Clinical Pharmacology
    Track 8: Traditional Herbals in Treatment of Cancer
    Track 13: Cardiovascular Pharmacology
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Biography:

will update soon

Abstract:

This research work presents the surface thermodynamics approach to M-TB/HIV-Human sputum interactions. This involved the use of the Hamaker coefficient concept as a surface energetics tool in determining the interaction processes, with the surface interfacial energies explained using van der Waals concept of particle interactions. The Lifshitz derivation for van der Waals forces was applied as an alternative to the contact angle approach which has been widely used in other biological systems. The methodology involved taking sputum samples from twenty infected persons and from twenty uninfected persons for absorbance measurement using a digital Ultraviolet visible Spectrophotometer. The variables required for the computations with the Lifshitz formula were derived from the absorbance data. The Matlab software tools were used in the mathematical analysis of the data produced from the experiments (absorbance values). The Hamaker constants and the combined Hamaker coefficients were obtained using the values of the dielectric constant together with the Lifshitz Equation. The absolute combined Hamaker coefficients A132abs and A131abs on both infected and uninfected sputum samples gave the values of A132abs = 0.21631x10-21Joule for M-TB infected sputum and Ã132abs = 0.18825x10-21Joule for M-TB/HIV infected sputum. The significance of this result is the positive value of the absolute combined Hamaker coefficient which suggests the existence of net positive van der waals forces demonstrating an attraction between the bacteria and the macrophage. This however, implies that infection can occur. It was also shown that in the presence of HIV, the interaction energy is reduced by 13% conforming adverse effects observed in HIV patients suffering from tuberculosis.

Biography:

Yohanes Buang has completed his PhD from Saga University, Japan, and Postdoctoral studies from Institute Polytechnic de Grenoble, France. He is a Researcher and Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science and Engineering Nusa Cendana University, Kupang Indonesia. He has published more than 15 papers in various reputed journals and has been serving as a consultant reviewer of reputed journal, such as Journal of Biochemical Pharmacology.

Abstract:

Increasingly interested of society in use and creation of herbal medicines has encouraged scientists/researchers to establish an ideal method to produce the best quality and quantity of pharmaceutical extracts. To have highest the antioxidative extracts, the method used must be at optimum conditions. Hence, the best method is not only able to provide highest quantity and quality of the isolated pharmaceutical extracts but also it has to be easy to do, simple, fast, and cheap. The characterization of solvents in maceration technique, in present study, involved various variables influencing quantity and quality of the pharmaceutical extracts, such as solvent’s optimum acidity-alkalinity (pH), temperature, concentration, and contact time. The shifting polarity of the solvent by combinations of water with ethanol (70:30) and (50:50) were also performed to completely record the best solvent system in application of maceration technology. Among those three solvents threated within Myrmecodia pendens, as a model of natural product, the results showed that water solvent system with conditions of alkalinity pH, optimum temperature, concentration, and contact time is the best system to perform the maceration in order to have the highest isolated antioxidative activated extracts. The optimum conditions of the water solvent are at the alkalinity pH 9 up, 30 mg/mL of concentration, 40 min of contact time, 100oC of temperature, and no ethanol used to replace parts of the water solvent. The present study strongly recommended the best conditions of solvent system to isolate the pharmaceutical extracts of natural products in application of the maceration technology.

Speaker
Biography:

Beshay N Zordoky has completed his PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences and his Post-doctoral training in Cardiovascular Research from University of Alberta, Canada. He is currently an Assistant Professor in the department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, USA. He has published 28 papers inpeer-reviewed journals, one book chapter, and more than 30 abstracts. He has been serving as a reviewer and an Editorial Board Member of a number of reputable journals. His research interests include cardio-oncology, cardiovascular pharmacology, and drug metabolism.

Abstract:

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) is a very effective anticancer medication that is commonly used to treat both hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Nevertheless, DOX is known to have cardiotoxic effects that may lead to cardiac dysfunction and heart failure. In experimental studies, female animals have been shown to be protected against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity; however, the evidence of this sexual dimorphism is inconclusive in clinical studies. Therefore, we sought to investigate whether the genetic background could influence the sexual dimorphism of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Methods: Male and female Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and Spontaneous Hypertensive Heart Failure (SHHF) rats were used in this study. DOX was administered in 8 doses of 2 mg/kg/week; thereafter, the rats were followed for an additional 12 weeks. Cardiac function was assessed by trans-thoracic echocardiography, systolic blood pressure was measured by the tail cuff method, and heart and kidney tissues were collected for histopathology. Results: Female sex protected against DOX-induced weight loss and increase in blood pressure in the WKY rats, whereas it protected against DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction and the elevation of cardiac troponin in SHHF rats. In both strains, female sex was protective against DOX-induced nephrotoxicity. There was a strong correlation between DOX-induced renal pathology and DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of studying the interaction between sex and genetic background to determine the risk of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. In addition, our findings suggest that DOX-induced nephrotoxicity plays a role in DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction.

Speaker
Biography:

Yu-Sheng Liu has completed his MD at the age of 35 years from Shandong University School of Medicine. He is attending physian of clinical genernal cardiology, specializing in heart failure and echocardiology. He has published more than 6 papers in SCI journals and has been serving as an editorial board member of repute.He is intersted in Pharmacology and Ethnopharmacology

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE Sitagliptin as one of DPP-Ⅳ inhibitors plays its biological role via improving the serum levels of GLP-1. Hence, we sought to determine the effects of sitagliptin on myocardial inflammation, collagen metabolism, lipids content and myocardial apoptosis in diabetic rats. METHODS The type 2 diabetic models were induced by small dosage streptozotocin on the basis of high-fat diet. The characteristics of the diabetic rats were evaluated by ECG, echocardiography and blood analysis. Cardiac inflammation, fibrosis, cardiomyocyte density, lipids accumulation, and RIP3 related to apoptosis were detected by histopathologic analysis, RT-PCR and Western-blot analysis to evaluate the effects of sitagliptin on myocardial remodeling of left ventricle. RESULTS Myocardial hypertrophy or apoptosis, inflammation, lipids accumulation, myocardial fibrosis, elevated collagen contents, RIP3 overexpression, and left ventricular dysfunction were detected in diabetic rats. Furthermore, sitagliptin could down-regulate the overexpression of RIP3 and alleviate cellular apoptosis in the myocardial tissues. Sitagliptin could significantly improve left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), +dp/dt max, reduce the E/E'ratio, left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP), -dp/dt max and Tau in diabetic rats. CONCLUSIONS Sitagliptin might exert a myocardial protective effect by inhibiting apoptosis, inflammation, lipids accumulation and myocardial fibrosis, implicating its potential role for the improvement of left ventricular function.

Speaker
Biography:

Hsing-Yu Chen is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctor and internal specialist in the department of TCM, division of Chinese internal medicine and pediatrics, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH). He is interested in analyzing utilization patterns and effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by using the National insurance database in Taiwan. The studied subjects include discovering herbal medicine network and core herbal treatments for menopause, pre-menstrual syndrome, primary dysmenorrhea, eczema, asthma, and breast cancer by using social network analysis and data mining on TCM prescription database.

Abstract:

Menstrual disorder occurs in women during their reproductive age with a quite negative impact on their daily lives. Chinese herb medicine (CHM) is commonly used for menstrual disorder and the goal of this study is to investigate the prescription patterns of CHM for menstrual disorder by using a nationwide database. Prescriptions of CHM were obtained from two million beneficiaries randomly sampled from the National Health Insurance Research Database, a nationwide database in Taiwan. Take premenstrual syndrome (PMS) as an example for analyzing TCM use in menstrual disorder. The ICD-9 code 625.4 was used to identify patients with PMS. Association rule mining and social network analysis were used to explore both the combinations and the core treatments for PMS. During 1998-2011, a total of 14,312 CHM prescriptions for PMS were provided. Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San (JWXYS) was the CHM which had the highest prevalence (37.5% of all prescriptions) and also the core of prescription network for PMS. For combination of two CHM, JWXYS with Cyperus rotundus L. was prescribed most frequently, 7.7% of all prescriptions, followed by JWXYS with Leonurus heterophyllus Sweet, 5.9%, and Cyperus rotundus L. with Leonurus heterophyllus Sweet, 5.6%. JWXYS-centered CHM combinations were most commonly prescribed for PMS. This is the first pharmaco-epidemiological study to review CHM treatments for PMS. Association rule mining and social network analysis could also use to analyze other menstrual disorder. The results of this study provide valuable references for further clinical trials and bench studies.

Speaker
Biography:

Yi-Hsuan Lin is a Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctor and internal specialist in the department of TCM, division of Chinese internal medicine and pediatrics, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH). She completed training course of Chinese and western internal medicine and thus has both certificates of western medicine internal specialists and TCM doctor. She is interested in TCM dermatology. She also has license of specialty in TCM Dermatology. She focuses her research in allergic skin disease including chronic urticaria and atopic dermatitis

Abstract:

Urticaria is a common skin disease that has a high impact on a patient’s daily life. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been frequently used for treatment of skin manifestations in addition to Western medicine. The aim of this study is to analyze a nationwide prescription database to explore the most commonly used CHM for urticaria. A nationwide CHM prescription database was used, and data from ambulatory visits of patients with a single diagnosis of urticaria (ICD-9 code: 708) were identified for the study. Association rule mining was applied to explore the core formula and popular combinations of CHM for urticaria. A total of 33,355 ambulatory visits made by 12,498 patients were included in this study. On average, 6.18 CHMs were used per prescription. Xiao Feng San (XFS) and Cryptotympana pustulata Fabricius were the most commonly used herbal formula (HF) and single herb (SH), found in 49.44% and 24.67% of all prescriptions, respectively. XFS with Cryptotympana pustulata Fabricius were used most frequently in a two-combination CHM (9.95%). XFS was the core formula for urticaria since it was included in nearly all combinations prescribed for the treatment of urticaria. Based on this result, we further design clinical trial and mast cell studies for urticaria to explore the efficacy and mechanism of CHM in urticaria.

Speaker
Biography:

Prof. Sherif Wagih Mansour has completed his PhD at the age of 34 years from Zagazig University School of Medicine. He is the head of physiology dpt.. He has published more than 25 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an editorial board member of repute

Abstract:

To clarify the modulatory effects of daily consumption of pomegranate extract (PE), olive oil (OO) and Nagilla sativa oil (NSO) on antioxidant activity, sperm quality and pituitary-testicular axis of adult male wistar rats. Methods: Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were divided into four equal groups, eight rats each. Using rat gastric tube, 1.0 ml distilled water, 1.0 ml PE, 0.4 ml NSO and 0.4 ml OO were orally adminsterd daily for 6 weeks in the first, second, third and fourth roups, respectively. Reproductive organs, body weight, sperm criteria, testosterone, FSH, LH, inhibin-B, lipid peroxidationand antioxidant enzyme activities were invesigated. At the end of the study protocole, analyses occurred at the same time. Data were analysed by ANOVA test and P < 0.05 was considererd to be a significant value. Results: In all studied groups, malonaldhyde level was significantly decreased accompanied with an increase in glutathione peroxidase and glutathione. Rats treated with PE showed an increase in catalase activities accompanied with an increase in sperm concentration which also was observed in NSO group. In PE treated group, sperm motility was also increased accompanied with decreased abnormal sperm rate. NSO, OO and PE treated gtoups showes an insignificant effect on testosterone, inhibin-B, FSH and LH in comparison with control group. Conclusions: These results show that administration of PE, NSO and OO could modify sperm characteristics and antioxidant activity of adult male wistar rats.

Speaker
Biography:

Rodolfo de Moraes Peixoto is a veterinarian, Master of Animal Science (2008-2009) and PhD in Animal Science Tropical by Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (2011-2014). The Doctorate was completed with 31 years old. Since 2009, he is a lecturer and researcher at the Federal Institute of Sertão Pernambucano (IF Sertão-PE). He has 30 articles published in scientific journals in the area of preventive veterinary medicine. His doctoral thesis received an honorable mention and another highlight at a conference in Brazil. Since 2014, he is coordinator of the ethics committee in the use of animals in research of the IF Sertão-PE.

Abstract:

The aim of the present study was to assess the in vivo potential of therapy based on Hymenaea martiana Hayne extract in mastitis cases among goats that were experimentally induced with strains of Staphylococcus aureus. The phytochemical characterization of the plant extract was performed using HPLC-DAD. Ten female goats were experimentally infected with a clinical strain of S. aureus. One group was treated with a commercial antimicrobial and another with ointment from natural plant extract. The diagnosis of mastitis was performed using a bacterial culture, SCC, CFU/mL and CMT. Three milk samples were subjected to chromatography to survey the constituents present in the ointment prepared with the plant extract. The results of the HPLC confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds in the chloroform and ethyl acetate. Concerning SCC and CFU/ml, the analysis of variance performed between the experimental periods confirmed that there was a higher score at the time of the first collection after infection in all of the experimental groups. After treatment with ointment containing the extract of H. martiana and commercial antimicrobials, these variables returned to values indicative of an absence of intra-mammary infection, based on the international standards for raw goat’s milk. In the present study, milk collected on the 32nd day post treatment with ointment containing the extract of H. martiana exhibited a significant reduction in CFU/ML, when compared with the control group. Antibacterial activity may be related to the classes of secondary metabolites found.

Speaker
Biography:

A John D E Britto has completed 30 years of teaching and 25 years of research in the field of molecular biology, phytochemistry and ethnopharmacology. He has published papers in these areas of research in national and international journals and carried out major research projects funded by Government of India.

Abstract:

Studies were performed to select the superior genotypes based on intra-specific variations, caused by phytogeographical, climatic and edaphic parameters of three anti cancer drug yielding mangrove plants such as Acanthus ilicifolius L., Calophyllum inophyllum L. and Excoecaria agallocha L. using ISSR (Inter Simple Sequence Repeats) markers and phytochemical analysis such as preliminary phytochemical tests, TLC, HPTLC, HPLC and antioxidant tests. The plants were collected from five different geographical locations of the East Coast of south India. Genetic heterozygosity, Nei’s gene diversity, Shannon’s information index and Percentage of polymorphism between the populations were calculated using POPGENE software. Cluster analysis was performed using UPGMA algorithm. AMOVA and correlations between genetic diversity and soil factors were analyzed. Combining the molecular and phytochemical variations superior genotypes were selected. Conservation constraints and methods of efficient exploitation of the species are discussed.

Speaker
Biography:

Abdul Jabbar Shahis from COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Pakistan

Abstract:

Eruca sativa Mill., (Cruciferae) commonly known as “Rocket” (roquette) or “Arugula” and locally as “Taramera”. Traditionally, Eruca sativa has nutritional values due to the isothiocyanates (eg., euricin) and also been used as a traditional medicine for the management of cardiovascular disorders, particularly hypertension. The aim of the study was to investigate the blood pressure lowering effect of and potential vascular mechanisms of the extract and fractions of Eurca sativa and euricin in hypertensive and normotensive rats and isolated aorta. In in-vivo blood pressure study in normotensive and hypertensive rats under anaesthesia, crude extract of Eruca sativa (Es.Cr) and its nHexane (Es.nHexane), chloroform (Es.Chlor), ethyl acetate (Es.EtAc) and aqueous (Es.Aq) fractions caused a fall in mean arterial pressure (MAP) with more potency in hypertensive rats than normotensive rats. Erucin also caused a fall in MAP in both hypertensive and normotensive rats. In isolated rat aortic rings, crude extract and all fractions induced an endothelium-dependent relaxation mediated by L-NAME sensitive nitric oxide (NO) pathway, while erucin also caused a partial endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation mediated by nitric oxide. When tested against high K+-induced contractions in rat aorta preparations, crude extract and all fractions caused inhibition of the induced contractions. In isolated rabbit aorta, crude extract and all fractions exhibited phentolamine sensitive contractile effect on basal tension, except Es.Chlor. Es.Cr caused relaxation of high K+ (80 mM)-induced and phenylephrine (1 µM) pre-contractions, similar to verapamil, with EC50 values of 5.52 (3.8-7.2) and 7.4 mg/mL (5.8-9), respectively. Erucin also inhibited high K+ (80 mM) and phenylephrine (1 µM) pre-contractions, with EC50 values of 1.1 (0.3–2.0) and 1.8 µg/mL (1.0-2.8), respectively. Among the fractions tested, Es.nHexane, Es.EtAc, and Es.Aq were found more potent against high K+ than PE precontractions except Es.Chlor was equipotent against both PE and high K+. Es.Cr, erucin and all fractions shifted Ca++ concentration–response curves (CRCs) to the right similar to verapamil confirming calcium channel blocking (CCB) activity. The results of this study indicated that crude extract and its fractions possess antihypertensive, vasorelaxant and vasocontractile effects. Vasorelaxant effect mediated by calcium channel blocking and L-NAME sensitive NO mediated endothelium dependent effects. The vasoconstractile effects are mediated partially by α-adrenoceptor stimulation. This combination may provide pharmacological basis of medicinal use of Eruca sativain the treatment of hypertension. This study provides a evidence that medicinal plant extracts posses’ combination of constituents and collectively they act as regulator of body functions while a single compound isolated from same plant may not necessarily represent the pharmacological/biological activities of the parent plant

Speaker
Biography:

Laila Jafri has completed her PhD in April 2015 and has published 3 papers and 4 papers are submitted in well reputed journals.

Abstract:

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are incretin hormones that potentiate insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. Selective GLP-1 and GIP secretagogue are in development as novel treatments for type 2 diabetes. Here, recent reports indicate that H. nepalensis (crude extract and fractions) and its isolated compound lupeol stimulates secretion of GLP-1 and GIP in pGIP/neo STC-1cells. Lupeol stimulated GLP-1 and GIP secretion from STC-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Futhermore, proglucagon, GIP and prohormone convertase 3 genes regulating GLP-1 and GIP biosynthesis were analyzed by RT-PCR. Lupeol also promoted proglucagon, GIP and prohormone convertase 3 mRNA expression. The present results first time demonstrated that H. nepalensis (crude extract and fractions) and its isolated compound lupeol showed its modulation on both incretine hormones via promoting their secretion and biosynthesis.

Speaker
Biography:

Rahman has completed his PhD at the age of 31 years from Chonbuk National University and postdoctoral studies from Chonbuk National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Dept of Pharmacology and toxicology. He is the Research Scientist of KNOTUS (Ex. Korean Animal Medical Science Institute). He has published 6 papers in reputed journals; more than 10 papers are inpreparation stage and has been serving as an editorial board member of Journal of Veterinary Science and Animal Welfare.

Abstract:

The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacies of crude yam (Dioscorea batatas) powder (PY), water extract of yam (EY), and allantoin (the active constituent of yam) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats with respect to glucose, insulin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), C-peptide, glycated hemoglobin (HbAlc), lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress. For this purpose, 50 rats were divided into five groups: normal control (NC), diabetic control (STZ), and STZ plus treatment groups (STZ + PY, STZ + EY, and STZ + allantoin). After treatment for one-month, there was a decrease in blood glucose: 385 ± 7 in STZ, 231 ± 3 in STZ + PY, 214 ± 11 in STZ + EY, and 243 ± 6 mg/dL in STZ + allantoin, respectively which were significant statistical differences (p < 0.001) compared to STZ. With groups in the same order, there were significant decreases (p < 0.001) in HbAlc, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. There were also significant increases (p < 0.001) in insulin, GLP-1, and C-peptide. The treatment effectively ameliorated antioxidant stress as shown by a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in malondialdehyde together with increases (p < 0.01) in superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione. The results indicate that yam and allantoin have antidiabetic effects by modulating antioxidant activities, lipid profiles and by promoting the release of GLP-1, thereby improving the function of β-cells maintaining normal insulin and glucose levels

Speaker
Biography:

Andrea C Perez is a Professor and Researcher in Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Her main research field is Natural Products to treat inflammation, pain, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Abstract:

Pyrostegia venusta is used in traditional Brazilian medicine as a general tonic to treat any inflammatory disease. Several studies have demonstrated that medicinal plants constitute a therapeutic approach for the treatment of obesity-related metabolic and inflammatory disarrangement. Accordingly, we investigated the effects of hydroethanolic extract of Pyrostegia venusta flowers (PvHE) supplementation for the treatment of inflammatory and metabolic dysfunction induced by high-refined-carbohydrate (HC) diet. Material and methods: The BALB/c mice were fed chow or HC diet for 8 weeks. Part of these animals was fed with HC diet supplemented with PvHE on the 9th week until the 12th week. At the end of the dietary intervention, animals were sacrificed. We observed that PvHE decreased adiposity and adipocyte area; improved glucose intolerance; reduced serum triacylglycerol levels and systemic inflammatory cells; and also reduced some inflammatory mediators levels in adipose tissue and liver. Conclusion: The results showed that PvHE has beneficial effects and may treat inflammatory and metabolic dysfunction induced by HC diet, that are associated to a negative modulation of the inflammatory process at systemic and local levels.

Speaker
Biography:

we will update soon

Abstract:

Mechanism of most herbal drugs used for diabetes mellitus treatment has not been well defined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two doses of cyclohexanic extract of walnut leaf onhomocysteine, lipids profil (total cholesterol, TG, HDL-c, LDL-c, VLDL) and indices of oxidative stress (SOD, GPx, CAT, MDA) in diabetic rats. Twenty-eight male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups, group I: control (received sesame oil as vehicle), group II: diabetic (received sesame oil), group III and IV: diabetic treated by 150 and 250 mg/kg bodyweight (BW) per day extract of walnut leaf, respectively. All groups were treated for 28 days via oral gavage. Diabetes was induced by single IP injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg BW). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) level and body weight were measured before injection, 3 days after injection, and on days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 of treatment. At the end of day 28, blood samples were collected via heart puncture and the sera were used for estimation of the above mentioned parameters. The results showed decrease in glucose level, TC, TG, LDL-c, VLDL-c, homocysteine, and MDA level and increase in the level of HDL-c in a dose-dependent manner at the end of 28 days (P<0.05). The activity of antioxidant enzymes increased in treated group compared with diabetic control (P<0.05). The results demonstrate that cyclohexane extract of walnut leaf has an overall beneficial effect on body weight, fasting blood glucose, lipids profile, antioxidant enzymes activity and homocysteine in an experimental model.

Speaker
Biography:

Biljana Božin has completed her PhD in the area of Biochemistry and pharmacology of medicinal plants at University of Novi Sad. She is an associate professor and teaches several courses in the field of medicinal plants (Pharmacognosy, Phytotherapy, Herb-drug interactions, Toxicology of medicinal plants, etc.). She is Head of Department of Pharmacy at Faculty of Medicine, and published more than 25 papers in reputed international journals and. Also, she is an editorial board member of the journal Biologica Serbica (previously Review of Research, Faculty of Sciences – Biology Series).

Abstract:

Ethnopharmacology of Balkan Peninsula – Miths and Facts (E-BaMiF): Ethnopharmacology of Balkan Peninsula is transmitted through generations, dates from 6th to 2nd centuries BC and originates from Illyrian tribes, Dacians, Thracians and Phrygian. Although originates from ancient times, the use of different medicinal plants is transmitted through generations and even today is widespread in certain regions of the Balkans. Most of them are used for therapeutic purposes, but their use in sacred and magical purposes is also widespread. Herbs are used either in fresh, raw or dried condition. Different herbal parts, depending on period of vegetation season, sometimes even in winter, are still the basis for preparation of traditional infusions, decocts, tinctures and especially original balms known as "mehlems" - fresh cuted herbal parts mixed with lukewarm resin, raw cow butter or honey. Majority of herbs is being used for treatment of illnesses of respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and genital system, for treatment of skin conditions, as well as for nervous system and heart diseases. Among them, most popular are basil, St. John’s wort, yarrow, thyme, chamomile, mints, gentian, immortelle, catnip, rue, germander... But, among them, several poisonous plants could be also found (some of poisonous and hallucinogenic mushrooms, european birthwort, coltsfoot, aconite, different plants with cardiac glycosides, etc). No significant differences are noticed in the frequencies and specific uses of medicinal plants among different ethnical groups. However, longer ethnotherapeutic tradition possess inhabitants of sub- and Mediterranean areas, as well as those of the mountain areas of Balkan Peninsula.

  • Track 8: Traditional Herbals in Treatment of Cancer
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
  • Track 3: Latest trends in Ethnopharmacology
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Speaker
Biography:

Dr. Jayesh Parmar completed his PhD in Pharmacy Administration from University of Louisiana at Monroe. Currently, he works as an Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, School of Pharmacy. Dr. Parmar has been a course director of five courses at School of Pharmacy and at the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Program. He has served in more than 25 committees at UMES and outside UMES. Currently, he serves as Board of Directors at Maryland Public Health Association. He has published several articles in the field of academia and public health, and has acquired several public health federal grants.

Abstract:

The purpose of this report is to present a review of the medical uses, efficacy, and adverse effects of the three approved cannabis-based medications and ingested marijuana. Literature were reviewed, analyzed, and organized to identify the strength of evidence in medical use, efficacy, and adverse effects of the approved cannabis-based medications and medical marijuana. Dronabinol’s (Marinol) most common medical uses include weight gain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), and neuropathic pain. Nabiximol’s (Sativex) common medical uses include spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuropathic pain. Nabilone’s (Cesamet) common medical uses include CINV and neuropathic pain. Smoked marijuana’s common medical uses include neuropathic pain and glaulegacoma. Orally ingested marijuana’s common medical uses include improving sleep, reducing neuropathic pain, and seizure control in MS. The reported adverse effects cannabis-based medications and marijuana show a major trend in Central Nervous System (CNS) related adverse effects along with cardiovascular and respiratory- related adverse effects. Marijuana shares similar medical uses with the approved cannabis-based medications dronabinol (Marinol), nabiximols (Sativex), and nabilone (Cesamet), but the efficacy of marijuana for these medical uses has not been fully determined due to limited and conflicting literature. Medical marijuana also has similar adverse effects as the FDA-approved cannabis-based medications mainly consisting of CNS related adverse effects but also including cardiovascular and respiratory related adverse effects. Finally, insufficient higher-order evidence to support the widespread use of medical marijuana was found, but a limited amount of moderate-level evidence supports its use in pain and seizure management

Speaker
Biography:

Bingxin Ma is a PhD student from Wuhan University. The research mainly focuses on the quality control and pharmacological activity of traditional Chinese medicine. She has published 11 papers in reputed journals and the total impact factors are 31.042.

Abstract:

In China, Coptis chinensis (C.chinensis) planting areas are mainly concentrated in the habitat of Tujia National Minority.Traditionally, C. chinensis inflorescence is made as tea drink among local indigenous people. Nowadays, some pharmacological activities of C. chinensis have been verified, such as antioxidative, anti-phototoxicity, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects. C.chinensis inflorescence extract (CE) is rich in phenolics, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins and isoquinoline alkaloids. The antioxidant activity was accomplished both in vitro and in vivo. For in vitro assay, CE could scavenge free radical and inhibit lipid peroxidation. For in vivo assay, the effects were accomplished in mice. The protective effect of CE against UVB-induced damage was also measured. The indicators of LOOH, CD, 4-HNE, GSH and MDA were used to prove such effect in mitochondria model. The skin of mice could also be treated with CE against the damage caused by UVB irradition. For hyperglycaemia, CE could inhibit the α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, increase glucose consumption in 3T3-L1 preadipocyte and ameliorate streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice by reducing the blood glucose level and increasing the insulin content. The hepatoprotective of CE was verified in HepG2 by increasing cell viability and reducing ALT and AST acivities. The main mechanism is phosphorylation of MAPKs and activation of Keap1, Nrf2 and phase II detoxification enzymes. The acute and subacute toxicity was measured to prove the primary safety of CE. Above studies not only provide scientific foundation for using C. Chinensis inflorescence, but also broaden its application.

Speaker
Biography:

Mohammed Hmamouchi has obtained PhD in Phytochemistry (1986, Laval University in Canada). After his graduation, he gets research and teaching positions in the faculty of medicine and pharmacy in Rabat. In 1999, he has published his first main book; it is the fruit of several years of research and reflection, on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Morocco. In 2004 he was appointed by Moroccan government to develop and implement national policies on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. He oversaw build and equipment. He leads, as a Director, of a First National Institute on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (African and Arab). In 2011 he became President of the Arab Federation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. He was also the focal point of different international conventions and agreements, and coordinator of national and international MAP networks (Tempus: European Union Projects). He managed several research projects, contracts and cooperation agreement. He assisted business creation, cooperatives for the production of MAP and product development opportunities. He has worked with many international institutions and companies in over 30 countries. He is a member of several professional bodies and has received many grants and awards. In 2013 he became Advisor to the Minister of Higher Teacher Education, Scientific Research. Dr. Hmamouchi continuing to do research, to be invited to give plenary lectures at the Congress (Guest Speakers) and also to make expertise.

Abstract:

African and Arab areas represent a unique hotspot of biological and cultural diversity in world, which allows for interesting cross-cultural, ethnobotanical, phytochemical, pharmacological studies and valorization. The aims of this presentation are threefold: to document the state of traditional knowledge related to local plants uses from different communities in African and Arab areas; to introduce phytochemical and pharmacological studies; to discuss the correlation between chemical compositions and pharmacological activities. During twenty years ago, a comparative ethnobotanical, phytochemical and pharmacological study conducted by our laboratory. The relevance of this presentation is to demonstrate how from using ethnobotanical, phytochemical studies in combination with the pharmacological screening we can develop new products with higher added value. The research work in progress there concern the study of 136 indigenous plant species, 148 extracts, 96 Essential oils and 30 identified products. The plants which have been selected and studied constitute the most obvious choose for develop effective new drugs. After inventory the traditional knowledge and examined the historical interactions, we present the correlation between chemical compositions an pharmacological activities of many extracts and compounds. Regional Information System has also been briefly developed. It that includes: Scientific plant name and authority, vernacular names, chemical data, distribution, habitat, description, conservation status, indigenous knowledge including references to literature sources of the potential utilization as Medicines, Social uses, Food, Food additives, Animal food, Bee plants, Invertebrate foods, Poisons, Environmental uses, Gene sources , Fuels... The research work in progress there concern the study of 136 indigenous plant species, 148 extracts, 96 Essential oils and 30 identified products. The plants which have been selected and studied constitute the most obvious choose for develop effective new drugs. This can be illustrated by the results of the study on phytochemical and bioassays investigations (in vitro and in vivo test systems), provide the reader with insight into what is currently possible in the study of bioactive plant material. These results indicate that a large number of secondary metabolic compounds provide protection against agents bacterial , veridical, fungicidal, parasitical, insecticidal, mosquito larvae, dermatophyt , for plants diseases , treatments for cancer. They exhibit a number of protective functions for human. The conclusion can thus be drawn that the new bioactive products found can be to improve human and animal health in the pharmaceutical, medical, cosmetic, agricultural and food industries, because the drugs plants are readily available, less expensive, safe and effective and rarely have side effects. So our program is one of the leading using a multi-disciplinary approach to bioprospect to find these new bioactive natural products.

Speaker
Biography:

Idayat A Oyetoro is a Graduate of Forestry and Wildlife Management from the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. She has completed her Master’s degree in Pharmacognosy at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, where she worked on wound healing activities of Vitellaria paradoxa C. F. Gaertn. and Erythrophleum suaveolens (Guill. & Perr.) Brenan in rats. She is among 20 Nigerian women that won 2015 AWARD (African Women in Agricultural Research and Development) Fellowship.

Abstract:

Vitellaria paradoxa C. F. Gaertn. is an important medicinal plant in Nigerian ethnomedicine. It has been applied for the treatment of various illnesses, which include: inflammation, rheumatism, gangrenous sores and wounds. A wound may be caused as a result of a fall, a surgical procedure, an infectious disease or an underlying pathological condition

Sonia Peter

Barbados Community College,Barbados

Title: Medicinal and Cooling Teas of Barbados
Speaker
Biography:

Sonia Peter has been an educator in Chemical Sciences for over 34 years. She entered the world of Natural Products Research in 1994 and completed her PhD in 1997. She recently published the book Seed-Under-The Leaf, a short treatise on the practice of ethnopharmacology in Barbados, and a chapter in the special edition ‘African Ethnobotany in the Americas’. In addition she has been published in peer reviewed journals, conference proceedings and periodicals. Her current academic post is Head of the Departments of Chemistry and Environmental Science at the Barbados Community College.

Abstract:

Barbados is the most Easterly island of the Caribbean Archipelago. The tradition of plant use for medicinal remedies has its origins in the self-help practices of the Africans, Amerindians and Europeans whose lives were intertwined in the early history of the island that was dominated by sugar cane agriculture and the transatlantic slave trade. This complex oral tradition has been passed on and a survey conducted in 2007, in the rural communities on the island, unearthed 93 plants that are still employed in traditional medicine. The survey was conducted to assess the current knowledge base and encompassed 8 of 11 parishes, 35 rural communities and over 400 participants. Survey results showed that the males and females with some knowledge of the use of plants for medicinal purposes represented 28.5% and 35.9 %, respectively, of the sample population. Custodians of the knowledge base proved to be the females in the communities, 45 years and older. Plant families sought for therapeutic agents included Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Boraginaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Lilliaceae, Papavaraceae and Piperaceae. The leaf proved to be the best medicine matrix and extraction invariably involved boiling or steeping in hot water. In the practice of brewing teas for medicine, hypertension and diabetes prove to be two conditions for which a variety of plants are sourced for natural products. In addition, the therapeutic regimen involves a strategy for good health revolving around the minimization of strain on the body by the elimination of toxins and heat stress. This was evident in the number of plants applied in medicinal teas for detoxification (33) and specifically in cooling teas (37). Denuding of the land by the years of sustained sugar cane agriculture and subsequent development has resulted in accessibility to plants being shifted from forested areas to roadsides and pastures and the selection of medicinal source from trees to herbs. Phytochemical investigation of a selection of the plants used for cooling teas has revealed a high antioxidant profile which is known to offer protection from degenerative diseases. The plants selected for analysis were shown to be high in polyphenolic compounds which possess bioactive properties including antioxidative, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-thrombogenic. This protective profile silently embodied in the tradition may have contributed to Barbados having one of the highest populations of centenarians per capita.

  • Day-3 Young Researchers Forum
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton

Session Introduction

Luana Rossato

University of Santa Maria, Brazil

Title: Activity of essential oils against microorganisms
Speaker
Biography:

Luana Rossato completed her Master’s degree at the University Santa Maria- Brazil in 2013. Currently she is a PhD student at University of São Paulo-Brazil. She has experience in essential oils, plant extracts and their activity against microorganisms. She has more than 10 papers on susceptibility tests.

Abstract:

Essential oils (EO) are classified as GRAS (generally regarded as safe), show antibacterial proprieties and resistance has not been reported after prolonged exposure. Then, the investigation of their antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungi agents is justifiable. In the present study, the antifungal activity of essential oils obtained from Origanum vulgare (oregano), Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon), Lippia graveolens (Mexican oregano), Thymus vulgaris (thyme), Salvia officinalis (sage), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Ocimum basilicum (basil) and Zingiber officinale (ginger) were assessed against Candida glabrata isolates. One group contained 30 fluconazole-susceptible C. glabrata isolates, and the second group contained fluconazole-resistant isolates derived from the first group after the in vitro induction of fluconazole-resistance, for a total of 60 tested isolates. The broth microdilution methodology was used. Concentrations of 50 mg/mL, 100 mg/mL, 200 mg/mL, 400 mg/mL, 800 mg/mL, 1600 mg/mL and 3200 mg/mL of the essential oils were used, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined. Thyme, sage, rosemary, basil and ginger essential oils showed no antifungal activity at the tested concentrations. Antimicrobial activity less than or equal to 3200 mg/mL was observed for oregano, Mexican oregano and cinnamon essential oils. Both the oregano and Mexican oregano essential oils showed high levels of antifungal activity against the fluconazole-susceptible C. glabrata group, whereas the cinnamon essential oil showed the best antifungal activity against the fluconazole-resistant C. glabrata isolates.

Speaker
Biography:

Konda Swathi has completed her Post-doctoral studies from Kakatiya University and PhD from the same University. She has published more than 25 papers in reputed journals and presented above 25 research papers in international and national conferences.

Abstract:

Isatin is an endogeneous compound isolated in 1998 and reported1 to possess a wide range of central nervous system. activities. Surendranath pandya et al. reported the synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of some novel n-methyl/acetyl, 5-(un)-substituted isatin-3-semicarbazones. In the last few years, Isatin derivatives have been discovered which show potential hypnotic, antibacterial and MAO inhibitory activity. It is evident from the literature survey that Isatin derivatives dialkylamino alkyl derivatives showing more promising central nervous system and anticonvulsant activities. In the present work, some new 5-[2(3)-dialkylamino alkoxy] Indole 2, 3-diones were prepared from 5-hydroxy isatin. The structures of the products were characterized by IR, NMR, MASS Spectral studies. All the compounds were evaluated for anticonvulsant effect by MTT Assay Method. Some of these compounds showed good Anticonvulsantr activity compared with standard compounds. The compounds were mostly synthesized by conventional methods and described in experimental selection and also by the methods established in our laboratory. A new series of five 5-[2(3)-dialkyl amino alkoxy] Indole 2,3 dione derivatives were synthesized by reacting 5-hydroxyindole 2,3 dione with 2-N,N di alkylamino alkyl halides.Evaluation of these compounds as anticonvulsant activity revealed that the compounds (IIIa,IIIb) with a dimethyl and diethyl amino ethyl chain derivatives was found to be relatively superior in anticonvulsantactivity and other compounds(IIIc, IIId, IIIe) are next in the order of activity.All the compounds showed less neurotoxicity compared to Diazepam.

Speaker
Biography:

Sadaf Kayani is a PhD scholar at Plant Systematics and Biodiversity Lab, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad-Pakistan since 2013 under the supervision Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad. Her research work is focused on Ethnobotany and pharmacological study of medicinal plants of Northern Pakistan. She has completed her MPhil in Plant sciences from Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad-Pakistan. She has published 4 papers in reputed journal that is Journal of Ethnopharmology and was awarded by higher education Pakistan (HEC) with International research support initiated program (IRSIP), with which she visited Minnesota University USA for six months for her research work.

Abstract:

The alpine and sub alpine area of Northern Pakistan are the hot spots for medicinal and endemic flora. Key goal of this study has been contributed to evaluate the traditional knowledge and provide important information both qualitative and quantitative on endemic medicinal plants of Northern Pakistan. A survey was performed, total of 197 informants were interviewed by using semi structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed by quantitative ethno-botanical indices such as Informant Consensus Factor, Use Value, Relative Importance, Cultural Significance Index and some other. The traditional medicinal uses of 69 endemic plant species belonging to 49 families were reported from the indigenous people to treat 17 categories of various diseases. The most common used family was Ranunculaceae (18% species), mostly consumed plant parts were leaves (34%), dominant life form was perennial herbs (68%). Decoction (32%) was the major mode of preparation while oral (54%) was most frequently used method of administration. Relative Frequency Citation ranges between 0.06 and 0.29. Consensus Index of Potentilla curviseta and Spiraea hazarica (29), being highest. Family Balsaminaceae dominated with highest FIV (81%). According to results of Fidelity Level calculations, nine endemic plant species yielded 100% FL. The research area is not fully explored this is the first attempt on the particular subject and will serve as a baseline for future phytochemical study. The endemic plants wealth is vanishing due to overexploitation, urbanization, and unsustainable harvesting. Sustainable utilization of endemic medicinal plants and organized cultivation technique is recommended to save this endemic wealth of Northern Pakistan.

Speaker
Biography:

S Takaidza is currently doing her first year of PhD in Biotechnology and works as a Research Technician at Vaal University of Technology, where she completed her MTech in Biotechnology in 2012. She graduated in 2005, with a BSc in Microbiology from University of Limpopo, South Africa. Her first degree was a BSc in Science with Education at Bindura University of Science and Technology, Zimbabwe.

Abstract:

Medicinal plants are known to produce a wide variety of bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. Phytochemicals such as phenolics, vitamins and terpenoids are known to have free radical scavenging (antioxidant) properties. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals or reactive oxygen species and can be extremely important in inhibiting oxidative mechanisms that lead to degenerative diseases. Although almost all organisms possess antioxidant and repair systems to protect them against oxidative damage, the systems are insufficient to prevent it entirely. Therefore attention has been drawn to plant produced antioxidants which can counter free radical induced oxidative stress and overcome side effects of synthetic antioxidants. The aim of this study was to assess the phytochemicals, total content of phenolics and antioxidant activity of crude extracts from selected species in the genus Tulbaghia. Standard methods according to Harbone (1956) were used for preliminary phytochemical analysis. The total phenolic content of the plant extracts was determined using the folinciocalteu method whereas the total flavonoids were determined using the aluminium chloride colorimetric method. DPPH and ABTS assays were used to assess the antioxidant activity.Phytochemical screening of selected Tulbaghia species demonstrated the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, terpenoids, saponins and steroids. The amount of total phenols and flavonoids varied in the different plant extracts ranging from 63.65 to 85.45 miligrams gallic acid equivalent per gram of sample (mg GAE/g) of fresh material and 58 to 90.36 milligrams quercetin equivalent per gram of sample (mg QE/g) of fresh material respectively. The crude plant extracts exhibited low antioxidant activity. There is therefore further need to isolate and examine individual compounds from Tulbaghia species for antioxidant activity as some compounds work best as single entities.

Speaker
Biography:

Samuel Eguasi Inkabi completed his Bachelor’s from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology-Ghana. Currently, he is a Master’s student at Linköping University, Sweden, studying Experimental and Medical Bioscience. He has co-authored a paper in a reputed journal and is currently on a project with a renowned Swedish Clinical disease investigator scientist at Linköping University, Sweden.

Abstract:

Cancer, a major public health issue with more than 12,000 Ghanaians dying from cancer each year as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Cancer is an abnormal growth and proliferation of cells, caused by a complex, poorly understood interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Cancer treatment is usually a combination of a number of different modalities including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. However, they produce side effects that prevent their extensive usage. Current phytochemical research on 50% aqueous ethanolic extract of Ficus pumila leaves and stem of Ghanaian cultivars has shown the presence of tannins, saponins, general glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids (leaves) and sterols (stem), making it a potential candidate for antioxidant and anticancer analysis which serve as the objective of this study. Antioxidant activity was tested using DPPH scavenging activity by measuring the absorbance of the extracts of Ficus pumila Linn. and comparing it with a standard drug BHT. Total phenolic content was also determined and compared with the standard Gallic acid. The anticancer activity was also determined using MTT assay and compared with the standard drug curcumin. The extracts and the standard curcumin were also tested on normal PNT2 cells to determine its effect. The leaves [IC50 values of 130.97μg/ml, 56.31μg/ml and >1000μg/ml (Jurkat cells, HL-60 cells and CEM cells respectively)] and stem [IC50 values of 204.37μg/ml, 124.41 μg/ml and >1000 μg/ml (Jurkat cells, HL-60 cells and CEM cells respectively)] extracts of Ficus pumila Linn. all showed a positive activity with the leaves showing a higher activity. The extracts also promoted the growth of the normal cells whiles the standard curcumin damaged the normal cells. The antiproliferation activity of the Ficus pumila Linn. leave extract can be attributed to the high phenolic content and antioxidant activity

Speaker
Biography:

Nolutho Mkhumbeni is a PhD candidate at the Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa. She is an accredited Medical Technologist and currently works as a Lecturer in Biomedical Technology at the Vaal University of Technology, South Africa.

Abstract:

Medicinal plants have been used to treat diseases for centuries. Africa is rich in natural medicinal resources and it has been estimated that over 60% of Africans make use of medicinal plants that they obtain from traditional healers. The genus Eucomis is endemic to southern Africa and is part of the Hyacinthaceae family. The genus is one of the most widely used ethnomedicines by the Xhosa and the Zulu people of the Eastern Cape and Kwazulu Natal provinces of South Africa respectively. Of the ten species within the genus, Eucomis autumnalis (Mill.) Chitt. subspecies autumnalis, is the most commonly used herbal remedy for postoperative recovery and the treatment of bone fractures. Its vernacular name is Umathunga, literally meaning ‘to sew (bone) together’. Medicinal plants may provide a safe and cost effective alternative treatment for bone fracture, decreasing the time it takes for the patient to return to full activity. This will benefit the patient and the economy, especially in developing countries. No studies have been found investigating the potential osteoinductive activity of E. autumnalis in C2C12 cells, a mouse myoblast cell line. The main aim of this study is to scientifically investigate the effect that E. autumnalis has on bone regeneration. ELISA was used to assess the BMP-2 and ALP production and RT-PCR was used to determine expression levels of target genes involved in bone formation.

Speaker
Biography:

Said Hassan is a PhD Scholar at Center of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar Pakistan. Prior to his PhD studies he did BSc (Hon.) and MSc (Hon.) in Agriculture Chemistry. His main field of interest is natural products and has published 15 research articles.

Abstract:

Experimental based evidence suggests that most of the medicinal plants possess a wide-ranging pharmacological and biological activities that may possibly protect tissues against O2-induced damages. The objectives of the current study are: first, to investigate the effects of Monotheca buxifolia and Bosea amherstiana on H2O2 induced DNA damage in human lymphocytes and second, to determine its effect on oxidative enzymes. Cells were treated at concentration of 100 µg/mL with both plants. Alkaline Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis/comet assay were used for DNA damage analysis. Activities of antioxidant enzymes TBARS, SOD, CAT and POD were assayed on treatment with the extracts. Both plants species possess the protective role against H2O2-induced lymphocytes DNA. Significantly decrease occur in status of antioxidant enzymes. This study indicate that both plants have potential in preventing oxidative damages/stress related diseases and would be suitably used as supplements in combination with conventional drug for the treatment of cancer like diseases.

Speaker
Biography:

Maryam Akram Butt is a student of PhD from Quaid I Azam University Islamabad, Pakistan. She has published one paper in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

Abstract:

The alpine and sub alpine area of Northern Pakistan are the hot spots for medicinal and endemic flora. Key goal of this study has been contributed to evaluate the traditional knowledge and provide important information both qualitative and quantitative on endemic medicinal plants of Northern Pakistan. A survey was performed, total of 197 informants were interviewed by using semi structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed by quantitative ethno-botanical indices such as Informant Consensus Factor, Use Value, Relative Importance, Cultural Significance Index and some other. The traditional medicinal uses of 69 endemic plant species belonging to 49 families were reported from the indigenous people to treat 17 categories of various diseases. The most common used family was Ranunculaceae (18% species), mostly consumed plant parts were leaves (34%), dominant life form was perennial herbs (68%). Decoction (32%) was the major mode of preparation while oral (54%) was most frequently used method of administration. Relative Frequency Citation ranges between 0.06 and 0.29. Consensus Index of Potentilla curviseta and Spiraea hazarica (29), being highest. Family Balsaminaceae dominated with highest FIV (81%). According to results of Fidelity Level calculations, nine endemic plant species yielded 100% FL. The research area is not fully explored this is the first attempt on the particular subject and will serve as a baseline for future phytochemical study. The endemic plants wealth is vanishing due to overexploitation, urbanization, and unsustainable harvesting. Sustainable utilization of endemic medicinal plants and organized cultivation technique is recommended to save this endemic wealth of Northern Pakistan.

  • Young Researchers Forum
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton

Session Introduction

Noor Mohammed

University of Birmingham School of Bioscience, UK

Title: Regucalcin protects HepG2 cells from doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and autophagy
Biography:

Noor Mohammed has completed her Master degree (MSc) in Histology on March 2010 from University of Duhok (Kurdistan Region Government of Iraq) and has published her master thesis as two papers in local university journal. She worked as an Assistant Lecturer in biology department, University of Duhok since 2010, and then she started her PhD on September 2013 focusing on the mechanism effect of chemotherapy drugs on liver and kidney cell line

Abstract:

Regucalcin (RGN) is a cytosolic Ca2+-binding protein that was discovered in 1978 and is known to be a multi-functional protein involved in number of cellular processes including – calcium homeostasis by regulating Ca²+ binding protein activity such as Ca2+-ATPases, calmodulin kinase and PKC. This protein is mostly found in liver and kidney tissues. Furthermore, RGN also plays a defence role in Ca2+-mediated stress protection and apoptosis. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent anti-cancer drug that is used either in isolation or in combination with other drugs for treating variety of cancers. Several studies have shown that DOX induces p53 activation leading to apoptosis in both normal and tumour endothelial cardiomyocytes cells; by causing cytochrome c release from the mitochondria, resulting in caspase 3 activation and induction of apoptosis. Moreover, this drug has the ability to damage DNA by producing reactive oxygen species. A major problem of DOX treatment is that it is highly cardio- and hepato-toxic. In the current study we have investigated the molecular mechanisms of DOX-induced hepatic cell death and show that DOX can induce cell death in human HepG2 liver cells through a number of different mechanisms including; apoptosis, DNA damage and autophagy. However, necrosis does not appear to be involved in this process. Furthermore, over-expression of RGN in HepG2 cells was found to protect against the toxicity by DOX. Therefore increased expression of RGN in the liver could be a mechanism for protection against DOX-induced toxicity.

Noor Mohammed

University of Birmingham School of Biosciences, United Kingdom

Title: Regucalcin protects HepG2 cells from doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and autophagy
Speaker
Biography:

Noor Mohammed has completed her Master’s degree (MSc) in Histology in March 2010 from University of Duhok (Kurdistan Region Government of Iraq) and has published her Master’s thesis as two papers in local university journal. She worked as an Assistant Lecturer in Biology Department, University of Duhok since 2010 then started her PhD in September 2013 focusing on the mechanism effect of chemotherapy drugs on liver and kidney cell line.

Abstract:

Regucalcin (RGN) is a cytosolic Ca2+-binding protein that was discovered in 1978 and is known to be a multi-functional protein involved in number of cellular processes including – calcium homeostasis by regulating Ca²+ binding protein activity such as Ca2+-ATPases, calmodulin kinase and PKC. This protein is mostly found in liver and kidney tissues. Furthermore, RGN also plays a defence role in Ca2+-mediated stress protection and apoptosis. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent anti-cancer drug that is used either in isolation or in combination with other drugs for treating variety of cancers. Several studies have shown that DOX induces p53 activation leading to apoptosis in both normal and tumour endothelial cardiomyocytes cells; by causing cytochrome c release from the mitochondria, resulting in caspase 3 activation and induction of apoptosis. Moreover, this drug has the ability to damage DNA by producing reactive oxygen species. A major problem of DOX treatment is that it is highly cardio- and hepato-toxic. In the current study we have investigated the molecular mechanisms of DOX-induced hepatic cell death and show that DOX can induce cell death in human HepG2 liver cells through a number of different mechanisms including; apoptosis, DNA damage and autophagy. However, necrosis does not appear to be involved in this process. Furthermore, over-expression of RGN in HepG2 cells was found to protect against the toxicity by DOX. Therefore increased expression of RGN in the liver could be a mechanism for protection against DOX-induced toxicity

Speaker
Biography:

Alexis St-Gelais is a current PhD candidate at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, and has received numerous scholarships to pursue his studies. He is also the co-founder and scientific Director of Laboratoire PhytoChemia, a respected essential oil quality control laboratory. His research interests include bioactive natural products, the study of volatile compounds, and chemotype determination.

Abstract:

Dirca palustris L. is a shrub that is endemic in the eastern part of North America, where it is commonly known as eastern leatherwood. It thrives under the canopy of the Canadian maple forests, and is the only native member of the Thymelaeaceae of the country. Its crushed bark was reportedly employed by the Iroquois to treat cancer. The plant also induces vomiting and vesication, and is a potent laxative. The highly cytotoxic dichloromethane extract from the ligneous parts of the plant was thus fractionated using a bioassay-guided strategy. Among other results, one of the active subfractions yielded several minority sulfur-containing compounds. They were characterized by NMR, HRMS, FTIR and UV spectroscopy, and named dirchromones and dircoxepines. Not only were they the first mention of organic sulfur compounds in the Thymelaeaceae, they also featured an original structure, unrelated to other known sulfur-bearing molecules in plants such as glucosinolates and cysteine-derived sulfoxides. The substitution pattern of dirchromones and the occurrence of dircoxepines can be explained by a common tentative metabolic relationship, although the origin of the parent compound remains unclear. Additionally, isolated dirchromones show a significant polarity-dependent cytotoxicity, with increasing activity and selectivity towards DLD-1 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells as the calculated logP increases.

Speaker
Biography:

Godwin U Ebiloma is a Graduate of Kogi State University and Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria, and is in his final year of PhD at the University of Glasgow, where he is studying Infection and Immunity. He is also a Biochemistry Lecturer at Kogi State University. He has published more than 15 papers in reputed journals. He is a visiting researcher at Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, and the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Tokyo. He is interested in parasite biochemistry and drug discovery.

Abstract:

African trypanosomiasis is a disease caused by infection of humans and animals with parasites called trypanosomes, usually through the bite of infected tsetse flies. Unfortunately, the current drugs are ineffective due to drug resistance and efforts towards new drug development are inadequate. Using in vitro models of Trypanosoma brucei, we used a multiple approach towards the identification of new lead compounds and evaluate their potency. The result shows that both crude extracts and their isolated active compounds have no detectable toxicity on Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK) cells, whereas promising activity was found against three strains of Trypanosoma brucei used in this study: (1) Wild type strain Trypanosoma brucei (s427-WT). (2) A resistant strain, B48 which was derived from a TbAT1-KO strain after increasing exposure to pentamidine and lacks both the TbAT1/P2 transporter and the high affinity pentamidine transporter (HAPT). (3) The pentamidine/melarsoprol-resistant Aquaporin 2+3 knockout TbAQP2+3-KO, which was obtained by the knockout of the aquaporin genes specifically implicated for resistance to pentamidine and melarsoprol. The isolated compounds were very active against all the trypanosomes strains tested. EC50 values for the isolated compounds were from 0.15 µg/ml. Fluorescence microscopic assessment of DNA configuration revealed cell cycle defects after ten hours of incubation with the natural compounds: DNA synthesis could not be initiated, leading to a dramatic reduction of cells in the S phase. Considering the high level of selectivity over human cell lines, these compounds could serve as lead compounds towards the identification of more efficient anti-trypanosome drugs

Speaker
Biography:

Nayan G Patel has completed his Post-Graduate in Pharmacology from Anand Pharmacy College, Anand, Gujarat and pursuing his PhD in Dharmsinh Desai University. He is serving as an Assistant Professor at Faculty of Pharmacy, Dharmsinh Desai University, Nadiad, Gujarat since last two years and six months. The area of his interest is silver nanoparticles and its implications in various diseases. He also has a very good hands on pre-clinical animal studies with more than 10 types of research completed by him. He has published 4 papers in reputed journals and two still under communication. He is the recipent for grant of Rs. 50 lakhs from Department of Biotechnology, India this year for his proof of concept on research proposal related to use of silver nanoparticles in burns.

Abstract:

A simple, rapid and precise high-performance thin-layer chromatographic method was developed for quantitative estimation of luteolin and apigenin in Premna mucronata Roxb., family Verbenaceae. Separation was performed on silica gel 60 F254 HPTLC plates using Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Formic acid (6:4:0.3) as mobile phase for elution of markers from extract. The determination was carried out in fluorescence mode using densitometric absorbance-reflection mode at 366 nm for both luteolin and apigenin. The methanolic extract of Premna mucronata was found to contain 10.2 mg/g% luteolin and 0.165 mg/g% of apigenin. The method was validated in terms of linearity, LOD and LOQ, accuracy, precision and specificity. The calibration curve was found to be linear between 200-1000 ng/band for luteolin and 50-250 ng/band for apigenin. For luteolin and apigenin, the limit of detection was found to be 508.13 ng/band and 7.97 ng/band while the limit of quantitation was found to be 1539.78 ng/band and 24.155 ng/band, respectively. This developed validated method is capable of quantifying and resolving luteolin and apigenin in its plant raw-material.

Speaker
Biography:

Chinwe Nwakaego Dike is the Chief Executive Officer of Medic Affairs Limited. For 16 years she has been practicing as a Community Pharmacist. She is a graduate of the University of Nigeria Nsukka with Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm). She recently concluded a Master’s program in Public Health from the University of Lagos with thesis on “Knowledge and practices of Pharmaceutical waste management among Community Pharmacists in Lagos metropolis”. She is a Fellow of West African Post-graduate college of Pharmacists and member of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN). She has a passion for public health advocacy and frequently volunteers her services to charity and Non-Governmental Organisations.

Abstract:

The fate of pharmaceutical waste becomes a growing concern as volumes of pharmaceuticals dispensed increases annually. Not only does pharmaceutical waste pose an environmental risk, it potentially poses a public health risk as well when it is not properly managed. The general objective of this study is to assess the knowledge and practices of Pharmaceutical waste management among Community Pharmacists in Lagos Metropolis. The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional study among Community Pharmacists practicing in different parts of Lagos Metropolis. The data was collected using pre-tested, structured, self and interviewer administered questionnaire. Stratified sampling method was used for selection of study subjects. Data was analyzed using Epi-Info statistical software version 7.1.5.2. Knowledge and practice responses were scored and graded as poor (˂50%) and good (≥50%). Mean age of the respondents was 44.5 ± 9.2 years. Majority of the respondents had good knowledge (78.2%), good reported practices (90.4%) but poor observed practices (66.9%) of pharmaceutical waste management. In the triangulation of knowledge, reported practices and observed practices of pharmaceutical waste management, the major challenge was in the observed practice component. There is therefore the need for the enforcement of pharmaceutical waste management practices by the relevant authorities.

  • Track 2: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Speaker
Biography:

Abstract:

The oxidative damage and pharmacokinetics of pendimethalin were studied in male rat. Rats were divided into four groups. To conduct the pharmacokinetic study, the 1st group received a single oral dose of 109 mg pendimethalin /kg body weight and the 2nd group received a single oral dose of corn oil and served as control. To conduct the oxidative damage study, the 3rd group received four oral doses of 109.4 mg/kg b.wt every other day and the 4th group received corn oil as the same manner and served as control. Rats of 1st and 2nd groups were killed after 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 120, and 168 h. Pendimethalin was readily absorbed and subsequently distributed throughout the body. The peak concentrations of the herbicide were reached in serum, liver and kidney at 12 h and in brain at 24 h following administration. The compound begins to decline in all tissues as time passed. Pendimethalin was disappeared biexponentially from serum, liver, kidneys and brain. The terminal half-life t½ of pendimethalin was 14.0, 15.0, 2.5, and 29.0 h for the serum, liver, brain and kidneys, respectively. At termination of 168 h, the urinary and fecal cumulative excretion rose to 23.81 and 71.21%, respectively. Rats of 3rd and 4th groups were killed 24 h after the last dose. Exposure of rats to pendimethalin caused a significant increase in tissue MDA, LDH and ALP levels as compared to controls. The activities of catalase (CAT) in serum, liver and kidney were significantly increased, while brain CAT activity was significantly decreased due to pendimethalin treatment. Our results indicated that there was no tendency for pendimethalin to retain in rat tissue. The results also showed that pendimethalin exposure had profound influence on the oxidative stress markers and enzyme activities of the exposed male rat and these enzymes can be used as biomarkers in determining pendimethalin toxicity.

  • Track 5: Ecological Characteristics of Ethnobotanical Sources
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Speaker
Biography:

Hoa Tran has completed her PhD at the age of 40 years from Hanoi State University and postdoctoral studies from Université des Sciences et Techniques de Lille, 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq, F59655 France. She is the director of Center for Biodiversity and Bioafety, Institute of Agricultural Genetics, Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Science, Hanoi, Vietnam. She has published more than 20 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

Xerospermum noronhianum (Blume) Blume, locally known as ké (leech’s longan) is a multipurpose fruit tree species of high economic importance, native to the limestone forests of Vietnam. This species along with lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn) belong to the Sapindaceae family. The fruits of X. noronhianum are edible, with a sweet and pleasant taste, resembling those of Nephellium lappaceum, another Sapindaceae species that yields the commercially important Rambutan tropical fruit. The fruit of X. noronhianum is too small to be of any commercial value, but the species is a source of medicines against diarrhea, stomach pains and Alzheimer disease. Recently, ké has emerged as a high-priority species for domestication in Vietnam after a national survey and ranking of non-timber forest products. Information on the level of genetic variation and the extent of genetic diversity within and between natural and managed populations is needed to develop strategies for domestication and to define units of in situ conservation as natural gene pools or forest gene banks for this species. Microsatellites (SSRs) provide an ideal tool to investigate genetic variation pattern. However, given the time-consuming and expensive process of isolating SSRs, it is advantageous to utilize primer sequences already identified in other closely related species. We investigated the transferability of 14 lychee (L. chinensis) Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) loci to ké (X. noronhianum).Ten primer pairs were found to be transferable (71.4%), whereas seven revealed polymorphisms (70%). The average number of alleles per locus has dropped from 6.1 for lychee to 4.7 for ké. The loci were polymorphic in 110 individuals from 5 populations in Vietnam, with 2 to 10 alleles per locus and observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.14 to 0.76. The relatively high frequency of cross-transferability observed in this study is rather unexpected as ké belongs to the Sapindoideae subfamily, while lychee, pulasan, and longan belong to subfamily Nepheleae and are, therefore, more closely related. However, this study showed that the SSR markers developed in lychee are a good source of molecular markers for X. noronhianum.

Speaker
Biography:

Yu Zepu graduated from Kunming Medical University at 1986. He is the dean of school of basic medical sciences of Yunnan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He has published more than 50 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an editorial board member of repute

Abstract:

Yajieshaba(YJSB), prepared by Xishuangbanna Hospital of Dai Indigenous Medicine(Xishuangbanna, China), has a long history of clinical use. YJSB is commonly used in clinical detoxification by Dai doctors, but the detoxification mechanism is not clear. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to explore the mechanistic effects of Yajieshaba(YJSB) on enhanced liver detoxification, which provide the pharmacological experimental basis for clinically safe use. The effects of YJSB on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were assayed in five acute chemical liver injury models [ carbon tetrachloride (CCL4), D-galactorsamine(D-Glan), 4-acetamidophenol (AAP), thioacetamide (TAA) and 1-naphthyl isothiocyanate(ANIT)]. Sleep latency and sleep time of pentobarbital sodium were tested in control mice and CCl4 model mice after oral YJSB administration. The effects of YJSB on drug metabolism enzymes of liver microsomes were tested in control rats and CCl4 model rats. The levels of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) and Cyt b5 in liver microsomes were assyed using the method by Omura and Sato, and activities of erythromycin N-demethylase (ERD) and aminopyrine N-demethyl (ADM) were evaluated by Nash colorimetry. Probe substrate-based high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods were established for CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. The results showed that the level of serum ALT was reduced by YJSB at 3.51g/kg in the five models as follows: CCl4>D-Glan, AAP, ANIT>TAA. YJSB treatment did not reduce the level of serum AST. YJSB at 3.51g/kg prolonged the sleep latency in control mice and shortened the sleep time of control mice and CCl4 model mice. For control rats, YJSB at 2.43g/kg increased the levels of CYP450 and Cyt b5 and induced the activities of ERD and ADM; for liver injuries induced by CCl4 in rats, YJSB at 2.43g/kg increase the levels of CYP450 and Cyt b5. These results suggest that YJSB at 2.43 g/kg induces CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. In summary, these results demonstrate that YJSB enhances liver detoxification and the mechanisms may be partially related to CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 induction.

Speaker
Biography:

we will update soon

Abstract:

This study examined opportunities to maximize farm income through introduction of high value Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) in North western parts of Pakistan. The hypothesis is that establishment of ex situ experimental production plots will lead to the development of skills in horticultural production and marketing among people in the valley and help rebuild commercial connections between this region and the rest of Pakistan. The project involves a substantial agricultural extension component with farmers in three villages. The project has covered a range of interventions such as local awareness campaigns, capacity-building training, and community mobilization for conservation of threatened species, formation of MAPs Producer Associations who are directly linked to big buyers for maximizing their net income. Moreover, the project has also established four demonstration plots of the selected high value MAPs for economic analysis/feasibility (in terms of cost comparisons/opportunity cost between cultivation of cereal/cash crops and the selected high value MAPs and regular monitoring and evaluation of the adoption by farmers of improved agricultural practices. Additional emphasis has been placed on developing reliable marketing channels. The study has incorporated evaluation of its performance in introducing standardized new production technology and appropriate post-harvest management, which represent the prime ‘engines of growth’ for the local economy. These strategic economic development areas are entirely based upon, and closely interlinked, with the management and conservation practices of high value MAPs, and intact landscapes.

  • Track 1: Pharmacology
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Speaker
Biography:

Ming Xiang is a Professor of Tongji Pharmaceutical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. She is a qualified Professor with track record not only within the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation, the mechanism of regulation and induction of antigen-specific immune tolerance by Treg and DC for the therapy of autoimmune disease, but also the effect and mechanism of new immunosuppressive agents. She has published over 20 papers in peer-reviewed journals, obtained 2 patents and an academic award and hosted several NSFC projects.

Abstract:

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Urtica dentata Hand (UDH), the root of Laportea bulbifera (Sieb. et. Zucc.) Wedd, has been traditionally used in traditional Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory and immuno-regulatory agent for rheumatoid arthritis and some other autoimmune diseases treatment. And the coumarins are the major components of UDH. Aim of the study: To investigate the effect of total coumarins (TC) isolated from UDH on the development of autoimmune diabetes. Materials and methods: Eight-week-old non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice were randomly divided into four groups: control group, low-dose (37.5 mg/kg), middle-dose (75 mg/kg), and high-dose (150 mg/kg) TC-treatment groups. NOD mice were then given with a suspension of TC or saline by intragastric (i.g.) administration every other day. After 4 weeks of treatment, 8 mice at 12-weeks of age per group were randomly selected to be sacrificed to perform intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test, examine histopathological insulitis, spleen T lymphocyte proliferation, the percentage of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory cell (Treg), dendritic cell (DC) surface molecules, toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 expression and signal pathways involved. The remaining 10 mice per group were kept until 26 weeks of age to assess the incidence of diabetes. We also studied the direct effect of TC on DC and CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs in vitro. Results: Treatment with TC for 4 weeks significantly inhibited insulitis, increased pancreatic islet number, delayed the onset and decreased the development of diabetes by 26 weeks of age in NOD mice, compared with the untreated control mice. TC suppressed spleen T lymphocyte proliferation, induced Th2-biased cytokine response, the generation of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs and Foxp3 mRNA expression. And TC-treated DCs were characterized as low expression of MHC class II and CD86 molecules. TLR4 gene and protein expressions in the spleen, thymus and pancreas were downregulated in TC-treated groups. The key molecules in the downstream signaling cascades of TLR4, including myeloid differentiation factor (MyD) 88, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, IL-1β, Toll-IL-1 receptor domain-containing adaptor inducing interferon-β (TRIF), TRIF-related adaptor molecule (TRAM), interferon regulatory factor (IRF)-3 and IFN-β, all decreased significantly in TC groups, suggesting that TC inhibits both MyD88-dependent and -independent pathways of TLR4. At the cellular level, however, TLR4 protein expression in DCs, but not in Tregs, was downregulated by TC. And TC strengthened the role of DC, not Treg, in negative immune regulation in vitro. In contrast, anti-TLR4 antibody could block the effect of TC on DCs immune function. Conclusion: These results suggest that TC extracted from UDH prevent the development of autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice via suppression of the TLR4-signaling pathways. TC maintain the DCs in an immature tolerogenic state, at least in part, mediated by down-regulating TLR4-signaling pathways in DCs, then enhance Treg differentiation, shift toward Th2 and suppress T lymphocyte proliferation.

Speaker
Biography:

Ahmed Abdelfatah aveterinary doctor , graduated from benha university, faculty of veterinary medicine at 2011 with GPA B+ and now working at pharmacology department , National Research Center (NRC) from 2012 – till now preparing master at pharmacology especially insulin resistance and diabetes , and also an active member at national project funded by NRC about diabetes treatment therapy , Moreover Ahmed Abdelfatah took fullbright brize for youg researcher for innovative idea about hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract:

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of trigonelline (TRIG) on the hepatic complications associated with in high fat high fructose-induced insulin resistance in rats. Insulin resistance was induced by adding high-fat diet (60 kcal/100 kcal saturated fat) and 10% fructose in the drinking water to rats for 8 weeks. Insulin resistant rats were orally treated with either TRIG (50 and 100 mg/kg), sitagliptin (SITA; 10 mg/kg) or the combination TRIG (50 mg/kg) with SITA (10 mg/kg) for 14 consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last dose of the drugs, the 18 hours fasting rats were weighed; blood, liver and pancreas samples were isolated. Sera were separated for determination of serum levels of glucose and insulin; for calculating the homeostatic model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Liver homogenates were used for assessment of hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers and inflammatory cytokines.. Moreover, hepatic tissues were examined using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) micro-spectroscopy technique for assessment of any molecular changes. Results of the present study revealed that HFHF treated rats was associated with a marked increase in the fasting serum levels of glucose and insulin thus, an increased HOMA-IR. Insulin resistant rats was also associated with a marked increase in the hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers; measured as malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) and the inflammatory cytokine; α-tumor necrosis factor (α-TNF). Oral treatment of insulin resistant rats with TRIG and its combination with SITA significantly decreased HOMA-IR, hepatic MDA, GSH and α-TNF. TRIG and its combination with SITA succeeded to ameliorate the histopathological, cytometery and molecular alteration induced by HFHF. From all the previous results, it can be concluded that TRIG has a beneficial effect on the hepatic complications associated with HFHF-induced insulin resistance in rats due to its hypoglycemic effect and antioxidant potential.

Speaker
Biography:

Werner Schuetze has finished law schhool at the university of Freiburg in germany before he studied medicine and became a Dr. med in 1981. He is a children and youth psychiatrist as well as for adults, studied family therapy and was educated in psychodynamic therapy as well as treatment of severe psychic traumas. As a head of a psychiatric department in Nauen/ Brandenburg/Germany he implemented the finnish Open Dialogue Approach in his hospital. After retirement, he is working as a trainer and supervisor in the education of Open Dialogue and connected projects in Germany, Poland, Italy and US.

Abstract:

Open Dialogue is a post modern approach to severe crises in mental illness and has been developed in Finland since the early 80ties of the last century. Y. Alanen from the University of Turku together with his team created the Need Adapted Treatment, which later has been further developed mainly by Jaakko Seikkula and the team of the Keropoudas Hospital in Tornio in Western Lappland. It promotes an early intervention by involving the family and the network of a patient at once, uses best practices of systemic therapies, integrates other professions and peers, uses low dose medication and shared decision making within the network. It is a very comprehensive change in organizational aspects of the treatment system going along with it. It needs a different way of financing and reduces inpatient treatment in the long run. And that is where the risks are: Medication is not at the core interest any more, we prefer a low dose, intervall treatment as short as possible. We also know, that the relation to the psychiatrist has in influence on the dose needed.Outpatient treatment is vastly in favor, hospitals would have to close beds, doctors and psychologists are no longer the all knowing persons, everybody is an expert of his own life. People interested in this approach gather in the annual meeting of “The International Network For The Treatment of Psychosis”, founded in 1996. Participants come mainly from scandinavian countries and Finland, Germany, Poland, Lithuania and nowadays from the UK and ths US

Speaker
Biography:

Manzoor Hussain has Presently working as Professor and Chairman, Department of Botany, Hazara University. Engaged in teaching and research from the last 28 years. Supervised a number of M. Phil and Ph. D students. Author of chapter in book. He has published more than 50 papers in reputed journals. Remained consultant in various international organizations viz. CIDA, UNDP, PMAP, Co-opted member and observer ABS Law Project Biodiversity Working Group IUCN. Have vast adminstratative experience.

Abstract:

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the major killer ailments in the world. In the remote areas of high altitude of Hazara Division, Northern Pakistan inhabitants largely depend on medicinal plants for curing cardio vascular diseases and income generation. This study has been conducted to record the ethno-pharmacological uses of medicinal plants for cardio vascular diseases management in different regions of Hazara. To best of our knowledge it is first ethno-pharmacological study on cardio-vascular diseases in high altitudes of Hazara. The study aims to report, compare uses, and highlight the ethno-pharmacological significance of medicinal plants for treatment of cardio vascular diseases. Ethnomedicinal information was collected by using semi-structured interviews from 217 informants. A total of 95 species belonging to 51 families were collected and assessed ethno-pharmacologically. The dominant family was Asteraceae, most prevailing life form was herbs (54) than trees (21) while, the commonly used plant parts were leaves. The ethnomedicinal Knowledge was quantitatively analyzed using various indices such as Use value, Fidelity level, Diseases consensus index, Relative Frequency of citation etc. The high altitude areas of Hazara are rich in medicinal plants wealth but ethno-botanical knowledge is decreasing day by day due to high emigration rates resulting from after effects of wars during the last few decades. The continued over-exploitation and changing environmental conditions may lead to the extinction of these species within a few years. Historically developed ethno-botanical heritage should be preserved and promoted on global level for analyzing phytochemical, pharmaceutical and other biological activities for future drug discovery.

  • Track 6:Phytochemistry & Phtopharmaceuticals
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Speaker
Biography:

Maria Luísa Serralheiro has completed her PhD from Lisbon University. She is Assistant Professor with Habilitation, at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. She teaches Chemistry and Biochemistry and also has been doing research in the area of Applied Biochemistry for 35 years. She has published more than 55 papers in reputed journals and has been supervising more than 24 Master theses and PhD theses. She is responsible for several disciplines in Chemistry and Biochemistry master Course as well as in the Biochemistry undergraduate program. She received a prize from “Food & Nutrition Award” in 2014.

Abstract:

Aqueous extracts from plants have been consumed throughout history for the prevention or amelioration of several diseases namely, atherosclerosis and Alzheimer. Now-a-days, a part of the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects have been disclosed. The effect of infusions containing mainly rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid and other caffeic acid derivatives were analysed on what concerns their effect on the prevention of age-related diseases like atherosclerosis and Alzheimer Disease (AD). As these diseases are multifactorial-caused the main selected topics will be the inhibitory activity of these compounds or extracts on enzymes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, HMGR) and in the AD treatment (acetylcholinesterase, AChE). The effect of these caffeic acid derivatives on the absorption of cholesterol from the diet at membrane-transporter proteins is also a matter of concern and will be envisaged. Several infusions from different herbs either collected in the fields or bought in the supermarket, in Portugal, were studied. A small number of volunteers consumed several of these infusions in order to get some insight into the effect in decreasing cholesterol blood level and, eventually, reducing atherosclerosis. The results obtained seemed worthwhile of setting up a bigger experimentation plan. The permeation of phenolic compounds has been evaluated and studies with laboratory animals indicated that these compounds can reach the brain and act as AChE inhibitors. The presence of different phenolic compounds in these mixtures influence the permeation of each other. This is also another important point to be addressed, paving the way to permeation studies with chemically defined extracts when bioavailability is concerned

Speaker
Biography:

His area of interests: Pharmacology and Toxicology • Biochemistry of Lipids • Oxidative Stress • Metabolism of Chronic Infectious Diseases • Biotechnology

Abstract:

Protium is the main genus of the Burseraceae family and one of the most common genera in South America, with an important species named “breu”. Gum and oil-resins of this species are used by local population as a tonic and stimulant, as well as for the treatment of ulcers and inflammation. The present study aims to isolate and investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of triterpenes compounds isolated from oil-resin of Protium paniculatum. The pentacyclic triterpenes αβ-amyrin, αβ-amyrin acetylated, αβ-amyrone and brein/maniladiol did not alter the viability of murine J774 macrophages (IC50 > 20 µg/mL), with the exception of mixture brein/maniladiol which showed moderate cytotoxic activity. Also it was observed that compounds at 10 µg/mL inhibited more than 80% production of NO•, although only αβ-amyrin was able to inhibit the production of TNF-α (52.03 ± 2.4%). The compounds inhibited the production of IL-6 and induced the production of IL-10 in murine J774 macrophages stimulated by LPS. αβ-amyrone inhibited the expression of COX-2 and also inhibited the formation of paw or ear edema in rats and mice, having a quick and immediate effect. This study may provide the basis for future investigations on the therapeutic role of αβ-amyrone in treating inflammation.

Speaker
Biography:

Aline Oliveira da Conceição is a professor at Biological Science Department from Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz. She has completed her PhD in 2010 from Université de Quebec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada. She has advised 27 undergraduate and graduate students developing research on biological activity of medicinal plants. She has published around 20 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as a peer reviewer for national and international journals.

Abstract:

The Brazilian biodiversity and medicinal plants potential is worldwide known. In the latest years our research group has been studying some of medicinal northeast plants biological potential, giving special attention to Genipa americana L. (Rubiaceae), a fruit tree and a traditional medicine. Popularly known as “Jenipapo” (Brazil) this plant is native from Brazil and Central America. In Brazil is found in the tropical savanna and in several forest formations throughout Brazil, including the northeast area. All aereal parts of Genipa americana are used in traditional medicine besides its usage as liquor during the Saint John’s party and source of ink to tattoo the body. In vitro studies from fruits ethanolic extract presented a significant antiproliferative state related to inhibition and reactivation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK in trophoblast-like cells. Antibacterial and antimicotic activity study from fruits, stems, and leaves ethanolic extracts demonstrated a specific antibacterial action against E. coli and Staphylococcus species. Cell viability testes from ethanolic extracts from leaves, fruits, and stems showed low cytotoxicity to Vero cells. Also, this plant showed to be an important source of metabolites against animal herpesvirus. Taking together, G. americana biological activity is promising as scientific proved medicinal plant with low toxicity, encouraging in vivo tests.

Speaker
Biography:

Ragunathan Muthuswamy is research scholar of Tamilnadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai. He was working as Faculty of Pharmacognosy in School of Pharmacy, Gondar University, Ethiopia from 2004 to 2008. Currently he is doing his PhD on Antinociceptive medicinal plants. He has published more than 11 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

Elaeocarpus tectorius (Lour.) Poir, Synonym: Elaeocarpus oblongus auct. non Gaertn. Elaeocarpaceae, is a tree, found throughout Western Ghats, South India. The present study indented to establish the pharmacognostical and physicochemical quality control parameters of E.oblongus fruits to avoid confusion in taxonomic identification. Physicochemical evaluation of fruit was carried out according to the guidelines of WHO/QCMMP and Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia. The elemental analysis was done by using Perkin Elmer 5000 an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Non glandular unicellular trichomes found to be distinguished character of powder analysis. It was quantified to be 700 μm long and 400 μm thick at the base. Lerachysclereids were found plenty in powder. The rosettes type of calcium oxalate crystals were 15 μm in diameter. Cells of the endosperm showing darkly stained globular bodies and the cotyledon is 170 μm thick. Physio-chemical parameters such as total ash and acid-insoluble ash (2.66% w/w, 0.66% w/w, respectively), extractive values (aqueous 31.068% w/w and alcoholic 30.94% w/w), foreign organic matter (0.5% w/w) and loss on drying (12% w/w) were estimated. Qualitative analysis showed the presence of Fructose, Glucose, Flavanoids and Tannins and Sterols and Phenolic compounds and fatty acids in the fruit. The quantity of elements (μg/g) in the fruit pulp powder was estimated by elemental analysis. The result shows Mn-53.5 and Zn – 46.2 were the major contents, whereas Pd- 14.3, Cu- 7.5 and Cr- 4.9 were minor contents. This study provided the pharmacognostical profile used to differentiate the other similar looking fruit from other ones of this genus.

  • Track 7 : Natural Products in Clinical Pharmacology
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton

Session Introduction

Tariro Mawoza

University of Zimbabwe Medical School, Zimbabwe

Title: Spasmogenic effects of Sclerocarya birrea stem bark aqueous extract on rat isolated uterine horns
Speaker
Biography:

Tariro Mawoza is a Pharmacist and PhD student at the University of Zimbabwe. Her PhD is in ethnopharmacology. She has published 6 papers in reputable journals and is trying to establish herself as a Researcher.

Abstract:

Sclerocarya birrea is used as a traditional remedy for allegedly treating dysmenorrhoea and a host of other ailments. This study investigated the pharmacological effects of S. birrea extract (SBE) uterine horns from Wistar rats. One kilogramme of S. birrea fresh stem bark was air-dried at room temperature (26±1°C) for two weeks, milled and macerated in 2.5 litres of distilled water for 48 hours and filtered. A rotary evaporator was used to concentrate the aqueous extract and freeze-drying gave 6.13% yield of the extract. Rat isolated uterine horns were mounted in 25-ml Iworx tissue organ-baths containing De Jalon’s physiological solution, and exposed to SBE (25, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400mg/ml/kg). The effects of SBE and atropine, oxytocin, verapamil indomethacin, acetylcholine, serotonin, cimetidine and histamine on the isolated uterine horns were recorded using LabScribe2 software. S. birrea produced significant (p<0.05) concentration-dependent contractions of the uterine muscles reaching a maximum at the 300mg/ml dose. SBE mimicked and potentiated the contractile effects of oxytocin (0.5-5μU/ml) and acetylcholine (0.1-3μg/ml). Pre-incubation of tissues with atropine (1-3μg/ml), non-significantly (p>0.05) inhibited SBE-induced contractions on uterine muscles. Verapamil (2μg/ml), indomethacin and -p-tosyl-l-phenylalanine-chloromethyl-ketone (TPCK) inhibited the contractile effects of SBE suggesting possible calcium mediated mechanism of action for SBE and possible COX-enzyme inhibition. Pre-incubating tissues with histamine (10-8-10-5M) resulted in relaxation of the uterus, while cimetidine potentiated the contractile effects of SBE. Serotonin potentiated the contractile effects of SBE. These results indicate that SBE causes contraction on uterine smooth muscles possibly through its effects on oxytocin, acetylcholine and serotonin receptors. As a result SBE should not be used by patients suffering from dysmenorrhoea as it can worsen it or pregnant patients as it can result in miscarriage/abortion.

Speaker
Biography:

Yohanes Buang has completed his PhD from Saga University, Japan, and Post-doctoral studies from Institute Polytechnic de Grenoble, France. He is a Researcher and Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science and Engineering Nusa Cendana University, Kupang Indonesia. He has published more than 15 papers in various reputed journals and has been serving as a consultant reviewer of reputed journal, such as Journal of Biochemical Pharmacology.

Abstract:

Increasingly interested of society in use and creation of herbal medicines has encouraged scientists/researchers to establish an ideal method to produce the best quality and quantity of pharmaceutical extracts. To have highest the antioxidative extracts, the method used must be at optimum conditions. Hence, the best method is not only able to provide highest quantity and quality of the isolated pharmaceutical extracts but also it has to be easy to do, simple, fast, and cheap. The characterization of solvents in maceration technique, in present study, involved various variables influencing quantity and quality of the pharmaceutical extracts, such as solvent’s optimum acidity-alkalinity (pH), temperature, concentration, and contact time. The shifting polarity of the solvent by combinations of water with ethanol (70:30) and (50:50) were also performed to completely record the best solvent system in application of maceration technology. Among those three solvents threated within Myrmecodia pendens, as a model of natural product, the results showed that water solvent system with conditions of alkalinity pH, optimum temperature, concentration, and contact time, is the best system to perform the maceration in order to have the highest isolated antioxidative activated extracts. The optimum conditions of the water solvent are at the alkalinity pH 9 up, 30 mg/mL of concentration, 40 min of contact time, 100 oC of temperature, and no ethanol used to replace parts of the water solvent. The present study strongly recommended the best conditions of solvent system to isolate the pharmaceutical extracts of natural products in application of the maceration technology.

Speaker
Biography:

we will update soon

Abstract:

Ethnopharmacology of Balkan Peninsula – Miths and Facts (E-BaMiF): Ethnopharmacology of Balkan Peninsula is transmitted through generations, dates from 6th to 2nd centuries BC and originates from Illyrian tribes, Dacians, Thracians and Phrygian. Although originates from ancient times, the use of different medicinal plants is transmitted through generations and even today is widespread in certain regions of the Balkans. Most of them are used for therapeutic purposes, but their use in sacred and magical purposes is also widespread. Herbs are used either in fresh, raw or dried condition. Different herbal parts, depending on period of vegetation season, sometimes even in winter, are still the basis for preparation of traditional infusions, decocts, tinctures and especially original balms known as "mehlems" - fresh cuted herbal parts mixed with lukewarm resin, raw cow butter or honey. Majority of herbs is being used for treatment of illnesses of respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and genital system, for treatment of skin conditions, as well as for nervous system and heart diseases. Among them, most popular are basil, St. John’s wort, yarrow, thyme, chamomile, mints, gentian, immortelle, catnip, rue, germander... But, among them, several poisonous plants could be also found (some of poisonous and hallucinogenic mushrooms, european birthwort, coltsfoot, aconite, different plants with cardiac glycosides, etc). No significant differences are noticed in the frequencies and specific uses of medicinal plants among different ethnical groups. However, longer ethnotherapeutic tradition possess inhabitants of sub- and Mediterranean areas, as well as those of the mountain areas of Balkan Peninsula.

Speaker
Biography:

Rama Swamy Nanna has completed PhD from Kakatiya University and Post-Doctorial studies from Vrije University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. He is the Coordinator, UGC-SAP-DRS program, Department of Biotechnology. He has published 121 research papers in reputed national and international journals and he has received a number of awards and honours for his outstanding research contributions in the field of Plant Biotechnology.

Abstract:

Medicinal plants are being used in herbal remedies and healthcare preparations since the beginning of the survival of manhood. Apart from being the source of medicine, they are also being used as food and fodder and other valuable compounds that are playing a healthy role in human existence and also contributing to the uplifting nation’s economy and social and cultural benefits. The species Senna alata L. Roxb, commonly known as Ringworm Senna or Candle Brush Tree or Seven Golden Candle Sticks is an important medicinal and ornamental plant belonging to Fabaceae family. A set of pharmacological parameters of aqueous leaf extracts of the species was investigated using various animal models. Anti-diabetic activity of aqueous leaf extracts of S. alata has been carried out using alloxan induced diabetes in rats and the hyperlipedemic profile associated with diabetes was also tested. A decrease in all the parameters (fasting glucose levels and post treatment blood glucose levels) associated with diabetes were decreased upon administration of the test drug (200 mg/kg) for 2 weeks. The anti-hyperglycemic effect of S. alata on post treated blood glucose levels in the diabetic rats was assessed on 1st, 7th and 15th day. There was also a decrease in the hyper lipidemic profile associated with diabetes, i.e., total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels in the test group in comparison with the diabetic control group on the 15th day in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Antidepressant activity of aqueous leaf extracts of S. alata was carried out using forced swim test and tail suspension test. Anti-anxiety activity of aqueous leaf extracts of S. alata has also been studied by elevated plus maze test in rats. Anti-angiogenesis activity of aqueous and methanolic leaf extracts of S. alata was also carried out separately by chicken CAM assay. According to our observations the bioactive molecules present in the leaf extracts of S. alata showed ethno-medicinal properties

Speaker
Biography:

Dr Aravind B.S completed his MD (Ayurvedic Medicine) from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences and a Diploma in Nutrition & Health from Karnataka State Open University, Mysuru. He currently works as an Assistant Professor of Physiology at JSS Ayurveda Medical College & Hospital. He is the Executive Chairman of a Multidisciplinary Research Organization “Ayurveda Interdisciplinary Research Minds Association” which aims at promoting interdisciplinary research works in the field of Ayurvedic medicine and promote evidence based approaches for practice and research involving herbal medicines. He has published many papers in reputed international journals and also serving as an editorial board member of repute.

Abstract:

Dyspepsia is becoming a common health problem for which an individual seeks medical help. The approach to the management of dyspepsia is complex with high treatment costs and possible adverse effects. A prospective pilot study was designed to assess the effectiveness of the fruit juice of Ash Gourd (Benincasa hispida) on twenty dyspeptic subjects, who were followed up for 45 days. Measures of retrosternal pain, post prandial fullness, bloating, sour belching, nausea, vomiting and changes in bowel habits were taken at three times periods (baseline, 30 days and 45 days). Statistically significant improvement were seen in several parameters, including pain (p<0.001), retro-sternal burning (p<0.001), nausea (p<0.001), belching (p<0.001) and bowel habits (p<0.05), which are considered as the classical symptoms of dyspepsia. Bloating, though not a common symptom also improved (p<0.001) over time. The trial drug is an effective remedy for uninvestigated dyspepsia. Randomized controlled trials are further needed to confirm the pharmaco-dynamics of the trial drug for anti-ulcer, acid suppression, H2 receptor antagonistic, anti-cholinergic properties.

Speaker
Biography:

we will update soon

Abstract:

The phytochemical constituents, acute toxicity, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the aqueousl extract of Curcuma longa L. (AEC) rhizome was investigated. Phytochemical constituents present in AEC were found to be alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, saponins and terpenes. The aqueous extract of the plant was found to be relatively less-toxic with an intraperitoneal and oral acute toxicity (LD50) of greater than 2000 and 5000 mg/kg respectively. AEC produced significant (p < 0.05) and dose-dependent antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. AEC (1000 mg/kg) exhibited a maximum percentage inhibition (72.25%) in acetic acid-induced writhing response and at 90 min produced an increase pain threshold by 64.14% % in the hotplate test. The results demonstrate that the aqueous extract of Cucuma longa rhizome possessed significant anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive acivities, contains some pharmacologically active substances, which might be responsible for the established anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities in the plant extract and was relatively less-toxic.