043819   PRABAVATHY D, PHOEBE M G L (Biotechnology Dep, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: prabagrp@gmail.com) : Cytotoxic activity of L-asparaginase isolated from endophytic aspergillus nomius of Justicia adhatoda on A549 cell lines. Int J Green Pharm 2020, 14(2), 195-201.

L-Asparaginase belonging to a group of amidase possesses a broad spectrum of antitumor activity. It catalyzes the hydrolysis of L-asparagine to ammonia and L-aspartic acid. In the present study, L-asparaginase producing endophytic fungi were isolated from Justicia adhatoda and cytotoxicity studied on A549 cell line. The screening modified Czapek-Dox media contained asparagine as the source and phenol red as the indicator. The positive zones were identified and sub cultured to obtain pure culture. A quantitative assay of asparaginase was carried out and the level of production was found to be 1.8916 (μmol/ml). The molecular weight of the enzyme was 66 kDa. MTT assay and dual staining with acridine orange/ethidium bromide were done to assess the type of cell death induced by the enzyme in A549 cells. The percentage of apoptotic cells after treatment showed a drastic increase in apoptotic cells (P < 0.001) to 62 % and 84 %, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to evaluate the cell cycle arrest phase induced by different concentration of partially purified sample (80 μg/ml and 160 μg/ml). Lower concentration (80 μg/ml) showed arrest at S phase with 19% cells accumulated. At higher concentration (160 μg/ml), it showed an increased cell population at S phase with 30 % with alterations in the other phase of cell cycle. The above observations show that the isolated asparaginase exhibited a marked cytotoxic activity against A549 cell lines. Further animal model studies, toxicity assays and pharmacological studies of this asparaginase from the endophyte would help to authenticate the use of this enzyme as an anticancer drug.

6 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

045446   KUNDU P, SHARMA P, MAHATO R, SAHA M, DAS S, GHOSH P (Biotechnology Dep, Techno India Univ, Kolkata, West Bengal) : A brief review for the development of bionanoparticles using some important Indian ethnomedicinal plants. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(6), 26-33.

Nanotechnology are often described as the manipulation of materials by certain conventional and/or natural processes so as to get materials with some specifications which will be utilized in various applications including the fields of drugs, chemistry, climate, electricity, agriculture, information, communication, heavy industry, and commodity. In recent years, the event of efficient green chemistry methods for synthesis of metal nanoparticles has become a serious focus of research to having several strong benefits of biological synthesis protocols over traditionally used physical and chemical methods. They need investigated so as to seek out an eco-friendly technique for production of well-characterized nanoparticles. Among these plants seem to be the simplest candidates and that they are suitable for largescale biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Nano-conjugates which are developed by green origin are more consistent, stable and therefore the rate of synthesis is quicker than within the case of microorganisms. Moreover, the nanoparticles are more various in shape and size as compared with those produced by other organisms. During this review, role of six different ethnomedicinally important plants: Phyllanthus amarus, Acalypha indica, Mentha spicata, Limonia acidissima, Centella asiatica, Murraya koenigii within the synthesis of metal nano-conjugates has been discussed. The prosperity of employing such plants and plant-derived compounds for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles make the researchers to find accurate yet nontoxic safe research mechanisms of metal ions uptake and thereafter their bio reduction by plants, and to know the possible mechanism of nano-conjugates synthesis.

3 illus, 102 ref

045437   ANUSIYA G, BHARATHI S, MUKESH PRAVEEN K, SAINANDHINI G, GOWTHAMA PRABU U (Biotechnology Dep, Kumaraguru Coll of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Extraction and molecular characterization of biological compounds from water hyacinth. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(5), 14-9.

Eichhornia crassipes is an invasive aquatic plant whose individual morphological parts like roots and shoots were studied using different solvent extracts namely, benzene water and ethanol. All the solvent extracts of the root and shoot portions of the fresh Eichhornia crassipes were screened for the presence of various phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, sterols, terpenoids, anthraquinones, and anthocyanins. The isolation and purification of the major bioactive compounds such as tannins and flavonoids were done by thin layer chromatography using the extract purified from column chromatography. The results from the Gas Chromatography showed the retention of many important phenolic and sterol based compounds, denoting their richness of bioactive compounds useful for pharmaceutical industries as drugs and environmental sectors thereby protecting the aquatic micro ecosystem.

1 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

041887   THIAGARAJAN K, MOHAN S, ROY T K, CHANDRASEKARAN R (Biotechnology Dep, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore - 632 014, Tamil Nadu, Email: drcrs70@gmail.com) : Antiproliferative effect of Acacia nilotica (L.) leaf extract rich in ethyl gallate against human carcinoma cell line KB. Indian J Pharmacol 2020, 52(6), 488-94.

The objective of this study is to analyze the antiproliferative activity of Acacia nilotica (L.) leaf ethanolic extract against cancer KB cells and to determine the mode of cancer cytotoxicity. In this study, high‑performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography‑mass spectrometry analysis were done to confirm the presence of ethyl gallate as a major bioactive phenolic in the leaf ethanolic extract of A. nilotica, further dose‑dependent (0–120 µg/mL) antiproliferative effect was investigated in human carcinoma cell line KB. 3‑(4,5‑dimethylthiazol‑2‑yl)‑2,5‑diphenyltetrazolium bromide, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential loss, DNA damage, and apoptosis were evaluated. A. nilotica leaf ethanolic extract (ANLEE) showed effective concentration (EC₅₀) of 40 µg/mL. Interference of growth was significantly (P < 0.05) high in KB cells treated with ANLEE when compared to untreated control, but less when compared to the reference drug paclitaxel. In addition, the in vivo acute toxicity study demonstrated the safe limit of administration of 2000 mg/kg body weight ANLEE by the histological analysis in rats. The results from the present study indicate that mitochondria and DNA of KB cells are severely affected leading to apoptosis. ANLEE is a prospective source for cancer therapy and therefore should be highlighted to explore on its wide range of safety in rats and efficacy against human carcinoma cell line KB.

9 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

045432   PARVEEN N, MOHSIN M, KHAN B D (Moalejat Dep, Sanskriti Univ, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh) : Unani concept and recent highlights of eczema as per unani medicine system and its management with Unani drugs. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(4), 36-9.

The word ‘eczema’ originates from the Greek for ‘boiling’ a reference to the tiny vesicles (bubbles) that are frequently found in the early acute stages of the disorder, but less often in its later chronic stages. ‘Dermatitis’ means inflammation of the skin and is therefore, strictly speaking, a broader term than eczema which is just one of several possible types of skin inflammation. Eczema is a form of dermatitis, a skin irritation characterized by red, flaky skin, sometimes with cracks or tiny blisters. It is extremely itchy, but scratching damages the fragile skin and exacerbates the problem, The fluctuating etiological ideas of this ailment are reflected by the various names for example, 'neurodermatitis', 'neurodermitis', 'endogenous skin inflammation' are are just few examples of current terms. Atopy is a strikingly a common finding in these patients. In Unani literature it is termed as Nar-e-Farsi. The causes of Nar-eFarsi described by Unani Scholars are: Mixing of Khilt-e-Safra into blood, indigestion, general weakness, nerve weakness, arthritis, gout, intestinal worms, incomplete evacuation, use of garlic, mustard, chilly, spicy food and extreme hot or cold. The treatment of Eczema also mentioned in the literatures of Unani as per the etiology. The Clinical trials and studies were carried out on Eczema which show extremely viable outcomes. This paper investigates the ongoing features of Eczema, alongside its etiological introduction and treatment according to Unani perspective.

40 ref

045431   AZAM M N K, MAHAMUD R A, HASAN A, JAHAN R, RAHMATULLAH M (Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka- 1207, Bangladesh) : Some home remedies used for treatment of COVID-19 in Bangladesh. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(4), 27-32.

Corona virus SARS-CoV-2, otherwise known as COVID-19 has since its outbreak in late December 2019, till as of June 23, 2020 has infected 9,162,375 people throughout the world and caused deaths of 473,087 persons. The Bangladesh statistics for COVID-19 are 122,660 infections and 1,582 deaths. Although the figures seem low for Bangladesh, it can surge anytime because of the high density of the population and limited practice of social distancing. Moreover, treatment of COVID-19 is costly and proper medical services not adequately available in rural areas of the country. As a result, many people who cannot afford to visit modern doctors rely on home remedies/folk medicine for treatment. In this article, we report several such cases of home remedies where the patient got cured with or without use of other types of treatment. Since most home remedies utilized plant(s), the possible significance of the phytochemicals in the plant(s) are discussed. Keywords: Corona virus, COVID-19, C3-lik.

6 illus, 23 ref

045430   HASAN A, MAHAMUD R A, BONDHON T A, JANNAT K, FARZANA B-N, JAHAN R, RAHMATULLAH M (Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Phytochemicals from Solanum surattense Burm.f. have high binding affinities for C-3 like main protease of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(4), 20-6.

Corona virus SARS-CoV-2, otherwise known as COVID-19 has created a pandemic, which since its outbreak in late December 2019, till as of June 20, 2020 has infected 8,766,741 people throughout the world and caused deaths of 462,706 persons. Any fully effective drugs or vaccines against the virus remain to be discovered. The objective of the present study was to evaluate through molecular docking studies a number of compounds present in the plant Solanum surattense regarding their ability to bind to the main protease of COVID-19 [C3-like protease or 3CLpro, (PDB ID: 6LU7)]. Molecular docking (blind) were done with the help of AutodockVina. We observed that of the thirteen phytochemicals studied, eight showed very strong binding affinities to 3CLpro and four showed moderate to strong binding affinities. Furthermore, the bindings were to the region to which the protease inhibitor N3 has been shown to bind. The high binding affinities of the phytochemicals to 3CLpro merit further studies of these compounds as potential inhibitors against COVID-19, since the protease is indispensable for viral replication.

6 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

045429   HASAN A, MAHAMUD R A, BONDHON T A, JANNAT K, FARZANA B-N, JAHAN R, RAHMATULLAH M (Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Molecular docking of quassinoid compounds javanicolides A-F and H with C3-like protease (or 3CLpro ) of SARS and SARS-C0V-2 (COVID-19) and VP8* domain of the outer capsid protein VP4 of rotavirus A. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(4), 14-9.

Corona virus SARS-CoV-2, otherwise known as COVID-19 has created a pandemic from which as of June 13, 2020 the virus has infected 7,778,242 people throughout 213 countries of the world and caused deaths of 429,014 persons. COVID-19 is not the only virus troubling humans. Prior to SARS-CoV-2, there was SARS and MERS. Also according to the World Health Organization (WHO), rotaviruses are the most common causes of diarrheal episodes in children under 5 years of age and about 215,000 children die each year from rotavirus infections. Thus far there has been no discovery of therapeutics like drugs or vaccines effective against COVID-19. Four oral live attenuated rotavirus vaccines are available, but are less efficacious in low income countries. COVID treatments are costly and place a heavy financial burden on the society and the infected individual. Drugs like Ivermectin and Remdesivir are effective against only a fraction of the COVID patients; the drugs are yet to undergo full clinical trials against COVID-19. Against this backdrop, it is of utmost importance to explore the plant kingdom for phytochemical(s), which may be effective against multiple types of viruses. In this study we report the high binding affinities of several javanicolides (quassinoid group of compounds) to SARS and SARSCoV-2 (COVID-19) C3-like protease (or 3CLpro), and VP8* domain of the outer capsid protein VP4 of rotavirus A. The results suggest that the javanicins can turn out to be lead compounds for developing effective therapeutics against SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and rotavirus A.

4 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

041874   NIKAM V S, PUNDE D S, BHANDARI R S (S. P. Pune Univ, Pune - 411 048, Maharashtra, Email: nikam_vandana@yahoo.com) : Silk fibroin nanofibers enhance cell adhesion of blood‑derived fibroblast‑like cells: A potential application for wound healing. Indian J Pharmacol 2020, 52(4), 306-12.

The aim of this study is to evaluate silk‑fibroin electrospun nanofibers and blood‑derived fibroblast‑like cells for cytotoxicity and cell adhesion. Silk fibroin (SF) has emerged as a favorable and potential bio‑material owing to its unique properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, the possibility of functional modifications, mechanical strength, and regenerative capability. Despite current advancements in tissue engineering technologies, delay wound healing and scar formation remain unresolved. Bioequivalent skin graft having human fibroblast and keratinocytes (Apligraft®) has proven to be beneficial, but the cost is a limiting factor. The blood born fibroblast‑like cells express several growth factors, extracellular matrix proteins, and these factors are crucial in the various steps of the wound‑healing process. SF is an idea polymer by the virtue of its multifaceted characteristics such as mechanical strength, biodegradability, improved cell attachment, biocompatibility, good elasticity, having application in biomedical, tissue engineering, and medicine. The objective of the present study is to evaluate SF as a biomaterial for making nanofibers scaffold and culturing blood‑derived fibroblast‑like cells on it for the potential application to wound site. Blood‑derived fibroblast‑like cells evaluated for cytotoxicity, collagen 1 expression, and cell adhesion on SF electrospun nanofibers. The silk nanofibers were fabricated by the electrospinning method using silk‑derived fibroin solution and analyzed for protein composition, viscosity, and further characterized using the Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. The SF nanofibers were nontoxic to the blood‑derived fibroblast‑like cells. It improved cell adhesion with collagen 1 expression. The composite scaffold of SF nanofibers with blood‑derived fibroblast‑like cells would be a potential healing patch for many types of wounds.

3 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

041873   ARORA M K, KISKU A, JANGRA A (Pharmacology Dep, KIET Group of Institutions, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ashok.jangra@kiet.edu) : Mangiferin ameliorates intracerebroventricular‑quinolinic acid‑induced cognitive deficits, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation in Wistar rats. Indian J Pharmacol 2020, 52(4), 296-305.

Mangiferin (MGF), a xanthonoid polyphenol, confers neuroprotection via combating oxidative stress and inflammation. The current investigation aimed to assess the neuroprotective potential of MGF on behavioral and neurochemical anomalies evoked by administration of quinolinic acid (QA) through intrastriatal injection in male Wistar rats and to reveal the associated mechanisms. QA (300 nm/4 μl saline) was administered intracerebroventricular in the striatum (unilaterally) once. Thereafter, MGF 20 and 40 mg/kg (peroral) was administered to the animals for 21 days. QA administration caused marked alteration in motor activity (rotatod), footprint analysis, and cognitive function (Morris water maze test, and novel object recognition test). Furthermore, oxido‑nitrosative stress (increased nitrite content, lipid peroxidation, with reduction of GSH), cholinergic dysfunction, and mitochondrial complex (I, II, and IV) dysfunction were observed in hippocampus and striatal region of QA‑treated rats in comparison to normal control. Pro inflammatory mediators (tumor necrosis factor‑alpha TNF‑α and interleukin‑1β) were noted to increase in the hippocampus and striatum of QA‑treated rats. In addition, we observed BDNF depletion in both the hippocampus and striatum of QA‑treated animals. MGF treatment significantly ameliorated memory and motor deficits in QA‑administered rats. Moreover, MGF treatment (40 mg/kg) restored the GSH level and reduced the MDA, nitrite level, and pro‑inflammatory cytokines in striatum and hippocampus. Furthermore, QA‑induced cholinergic dysfunction (AChE), BDNF depletion and mitochondrial impairment were found to be ameliorated by MGF treatment. The results suggest that MGF offers the neuroprotective potential that may be a promising pharmacological approach to ameliorate cognitive deficits associated with neurodegeneration.

4 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

043612   PATTANAYAK C, BEHERA B (Bioscience and Biotechnology Dep, Fakir Mohan Univ, Nuapadhi, Balasore, Odisha) : Study of growth and biochemical alteration in Clarias batrachus due to cadmium (Cd) toxicity effect. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 208-14.

Due to Cadmium pollution, Cd enters into all the food chains including animal human food chain via air, water, soil, and food contamination. Cadmium is highly toxic beyond its permissible limits of exposure and has acute and chronic effects on aquatic animal as well as terrestrial animals including human beings and environment. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate Cd toxicity, LC₅₀ and its impact on growth & the various biochemical parameters like glycogen, glucose, protein, lipid and amino acid content in nine different tissues of exposed catfish (Clarias batrachus) in laboratory conditions for 14 days to sub lethal and lethal concentrations of Cd. First, the acute toxicity experiment was conducted to evaluate LC₅₀ of Cadmium chloride (CdCl₂) on Clarias batrachus which was found to be 450 ppm for 96 hours. Clarias batrachus (average length of 8.5±0.5cm and average weight of 13.5±0.5g) was exposed to sub-lethal concentration (140 ppm) and lethal (450 ppm) concentrations of Cd for 14 days had been observed. All biochemical components were decreased in all the tissues except glucose which increased significantly in the lethal concentration. The growth of the control and Cd sub-lethal concentration treated catfish was nearly same, but retarded growth was observed in the lethal concentration of CdCl₂ treated fish. The sub-lethal concentration is host friendly. The exposed fish showed significant behavioural changes like rapid opercular movement and frequent gulping of air.The present result clearly indicate that the changes of these parameters due to lethal concentration of Cd may provide an early warning signal to us for their effects in fishes, aquatic animals, terrestrial animals and human beings by biomagnifications. Thus the discharge of effluents containing Cadmium into the water resources may be threats to aquatic fauna and flora as well as human beings.

2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

043611   ABIRAMI H, ILAMATHY P (Biotechnology Dep, Cauvery Coll for Women (Autonomous), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu) : Trace metal analysis of the leaves of Azima tetracantha lam. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 205-7.

Heavy metals, also known as trace metalss are naturally occurring elements which are required in trace concentrations for the development and life processes of an organism. The various applications of heavy metals in industrial, agricultural, domestic, medical and technological applications have led to their wide distribution in the environment. This has raised concerns over their potential effects on human health and environment. The toxicity of the heavy metals depends on the concentration, route of exposure, duration of exposure as well as the age, gender and genetic makeup of the individual who is getting exposed. Azima tetracantha Lam. is a medicinal plant commonly found in India which has many medicinal and therapeutic values. The various parts of the plant have been administered to treating pyrexia, dropsy, dyspepsia, chronic diarrhea, diabetes and arthritis. As the plant is meant for consumption, it is needed to assess the concentration of trace metals present or accumulated in the plant before exploiting the medicinal values of the plant and its parts. This article aims for the same and reveals the concentration of trace elements Iron, Copper, Nickel, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead and Zinc which are found to be the predominantly occurring heavy metals in the polluted environment.

1 table, 18 ref

041685   RAJU S, ASHOK D, VINUTHNA C (Chemistry Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad - 500 007, Telangana, Email: ashokdou@gmail.com) : Comparative antimicrobial activity of phytofabricated ag and au nanoparticles from ledebouria hydrabadensis rhizome using various methods. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(5), 851-60.

The paper reports the comparative study, synthesis and evaluation of antimicrobial activity of silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanoparticles. These are phytofabricated from root bulb extract of medicinal plant Ledebouria hyderabadensis using various methods such as stirring, sonication and autoclave. Synthesized Ag and Au nanoparticles characterized by multiple instrumental techniques such as the UV-Visible spectroscopy, the maximum absorption peak noted at 436 nm and 556 nm indicate the formation of metallic colloidal Ag and Au nanoparticles respectively. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of Ag and Au nanoparticles indicates the phytochemicals proteins, alcohols and phenols present in the Ledebouria hyderabadensis rhizome extract involving in the reduction and stabilization by capping around the Ag and Au nanoparticles. The average particle size found to be below 50 nm in all the cases except Ag nanoparticles synthesized by the stirring method. The transmission electron microscopy images clearly indicating the nano-sized monoclinic, polyclinic, anisotropic, polydistributed, spherical shaped particles. These Ag and Au nanoparticles exhibited profound antimicrobial activity against harmful tested phytopathogenic fungi Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani and human pathogenic fungi Aspergillus flavus as well as against human harmful bacteria Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis used in this experimentt.

7 illus, 66 ref

041681   BAI S, GAO W, DENG Q, LIN X, ZHENG J, CHEN Y, TONG L (Southern Medical Univ, Guangzhou 510515,GuangDong, China, Email: duojiang8818171470@163.com) : Pristimerin inhibits adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosisa. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(5), 819-27.

To investigate the effect of pristimerin, an effective component of maple leaf, on the cell cycle and apoptosis of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells. Adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells were cultured in vitro, the effect of pristimerin on the proliferation of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells was analyzed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide method, and the effect of pristimerin on adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry. Hoechst 33258 staining experiment and flow cytometry were used to detect the effect of pristimerin on cell apoptosis of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells. The effect of pristimerin on mitochondrial membrane of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. Western Blotting was used to detect the effect of pristimerin on the expression of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes mitochondrial pathway regulators Bax, B-cell lymphoma 2 and Caspase-3. The results of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyl tetrazolium bromide experiments showed that pristimerin had a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells in a dose-dependent manner. The half inhibitory concentration of pristimerin on adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells was 2.97 μM. Cell cycle results showed that 1.5 µM and 3 µM pristimerin could significantly increase the number of cells in the Gap 0/Gap 1 phase (p0.05). The apoptosis rate of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells in the 1.5 μM group was 47.413±2.503 %, and the apoptosis rate of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells in the 3 μM group was 70.970 ±4.205 %, which were significantly higher than those in the control group (p0.05). Western Blotting results showed that compared with normal fibroblast like synoviocytes cells, the relative protein levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 , Pro-Caspase-3 and Cleave-Caspase-3 in adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cells were significantly increased (p0.05). The relative expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 , Pro-Caspase-3 and Cleave-Caspase-3 in pristimerin-1 μM and 3 μM groups was significantly lower than that of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes group (p<0.01), while the expression of Bax was higher than that of adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes group (p<0.05). Pristimerin can induce adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes apoptosis through the cell cycle arrest and regulate the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway to inhibit the adjuvant arthritis fibroblast like synoviocytes cell hyper proliferation and achieve Anti-rheumatoid arthritis synovial hyperplasiay.

6 illus, 11 ref

041667   POONGODI T, NAZEEMA T H, RANJINI B (Biochemistry Dep, Rathnavel Subramaniam Coll of Arts and Science, Coimbatore - 641 402, Email: poongodi.btw@gmail.com) : Enhanced anti-inflammatory effect of polyherbal formulation (MKA) comprising of three selected plants in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -induced raw 264.7 macrophage cell line. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(4), 692-7.

Antiinflammatory potential of Polyherbal formulation comprising of three selected plants Mimusops elengi L., Kedrostis foetidissima (Jacq.) Cogn. and Artemisia vulgaris L. MKA were studied in Lipopolysaccharide induced RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. Initially, the MTT cell viability assay was performed to assess the safety level of MKA for anti-inflammatory studies. The MKA was studied for its anti-inflammatory property in selected four different concentrations (25µg/ml, 50 µg/ml, 75 µg/ml and 100 µg/ml). It was observed that increase in MKA concentration decreased the nitrite release from Lipopolysaccharide induced macrophage cells. Microscopic analysis also revealed that MKA restored the normal cell morphology by reducing the cell damage caused by Lipopolysaccharide. The intracellular reactive oxygen species was detected by 2’-7’-Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate labelling and flow cytometry. It was found that, MKA decreased the intracellular Reactive oxygen species level in Lipopolysaccharide stimulated macrophages in a dose-dependent manner, which proved its enhanced anti-inflammatory effect.

6 illus, 23 ref

041664   SINGH S K, REDDY M S (Biotechnology Dep, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala - 147 004, Punjab, Email: sanjaybiosoft@gmail.com) : Homology modeling, docking, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity studies and prediction of deleterious non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nssnps) of thiamin phosphate synthase: A potential drug target in Plasmodium falciparum. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(4), 665-76.

The drug resistance in malarial parasites is increasingly emerging, hence it is essential to discover and develop alternative anti-malarial agents against both new and established drug targets. One of such possible drug targets is thiamine phosphate synthase because of its role and essentialness in the thiamine biosynthesis pathway. The present study aims to model the three-dimensional (3D) structure of thiamine phosphate synthase and to predict the potential inhibitors to derive therapeutic objectives for Plasmodium falciparum. The 3D structure was constructed using SWISS-MODEL and several computer-aided approaches were used for screening of drug-like compounds. In PyRx 0.8, molecular docking was conducted using AutoDock Vina. The absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion properties were predicted using admetSAR. Post-docking results were analyzed using LigPlot+ program. The 3D model of thiamine phosphate synthase was generated using thiamine phosphate pyrophosphorylase from Pyrococcus furiosus as a template. Out of 156 compounds screened, only those 98 compounds which followed the Lipinski’s rule of five were used for molecular docking. The best 25 docked ligands were further subjected to admetSAR for evaluation of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity properties. Among these, 3 compounds, 5b (ZINC000003953801), 5m (ZINC000001686969), and 5u (ZINC000002036738) showed good absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity properties. Impact of 14 nsSNPs on the PfThiE protein structure or function was also investigated. The predicted inhibitors in this study may be further oriented to the development of treatment through experimental therapeutic methods to suppress pathogenic action of P. falciparum.

7 illus, 5 tables, 30 ref

041658   PRATAP G K, RATHER S A, SHANTARAM M (Studies & Research in Biochemistry Dep, Mangalore Univ, Chikka Aluvara, Kodagu - 571 232, Email: manjula59@gmail.com) : Anticholinesterase activity and mass spectral analysis of Olea dioica roxb., an in vitro study. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(4), 601-11.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the total phenolic and flavonoid content, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory and antioxidant activity of Olea dioica. Some bioactive chemical constituents were characterized through GC-MS, LC-MS analyses. Methanol leaf extract of Olea dioica exhibited antioxidant property and acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity. Results showed that the plant extract could provide a significant source of secondary metabolites that could act as natural acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and antioxidants, which might be useful to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

7 illus, 6 tables, 41 ref

041646   SINGTO T, TASSANEEYAKUL W, PORASUPHATANA S (Pharmacognosy and Toxicology Div, Khon Kaen Univ, Khon Kaen, Thailand, Email: psupatra@kku.ac.th) : Protective effects of purple waxy corn on Aflatoxin B1- induced oxidative stress and micronucleus in HepG2 Cells. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(3), 506-13.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effects of purple waxy corn extract (Zea may L.) on aflatoxin B1-induced cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and micronuclei in HepG2 cells. Purple waxy corn extract contained phenolics (187.15-341.65 µg gallic acid/mg), flavonoids (0.55-21.35 µg quercetin/ mg) and anthocyanins (43.70-220.43 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside/l). Antioxidant activities of the extracts were measured using oxygen radical absorbance capacity (1410.70-2214.49 µM trolox/mg) and ferric reducing/ antioxidant power (292.38-612.38 µM trolox/mg) assays. There were significant correlations between phenolic, flavonoid and anthocyanin content and antioxidant activities (R=0.740-0.778) of purple waxy corn extract. Studies in HepG2 cells found that 0.5 and 1 mg/ml purple waxy corn extract increased cell viability in AFB1-treated HepG2 cells. Purple waxy corn extract reduced intracellular ROS production, increased GSH content and antioxidant enzyme GR, GPx and GST activities and micronucleus in aflatoxin B1-treated HepG2 cells. Therefore, purple waxy corn extract reduced aflatoxin B1 toxicity through induction of antioxidant activities and, thus, inhibited oxidative stress-induced DNA damage caused by aflatoxin B1s.

4 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

041642   AL-SHAR’I N A, MUSLEH S (Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy Dep, Jordan Univ of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan, Email: nashari@just.edu.jo) : Identification of CHK1 kinase inhibitors using structurebased pharmacophore modelling and molecular docking. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(3), 472-82.

The checkpoint kinase, CHK1 plays an important role in repairing DNA damage induced by genotoxic agents for cancer treatment, which renders the cells resistant to such treatment modalities. Therefore, its inhibition appeared as a highly attractive strategy to re-sensitize cancer cells to the DNA damaging chemo and radiotherapies. In this study, a structure-based drug design approach was employed to identify potential ATP competitive CHK1 inhibitors. To this end, 3 crystal structures of CHK1 in complex with ATP competitive inhibitors were utilized to generate structure-based pharmacophore models that were subsequently used for virtual screening of commercial databases. Retrieved hits were filtered, then they were docked into the binding site of the enzyme and the free binding energies of the top-ranked docked hits were calculated. Based on the in silico results, 10 compounds were selected and their CHK1 inhibitory potential was evaluated in vitro. Noteworthy, in this exploratory study compounds 7 and 9 showed moderate but significant inhibition of the catalytic activity of the CHK1 enzyme. These two compounds were identified as promising hits worthy of further optimization towards designing better leads with druglike properties as potential competitive CHK1 inhibitors.

7 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

041638   SARANGI M K, RAO M E B, PARCHA V, UPADHYAY A (Bijupatnaik Univ of Technology, Odisha - 769 004, Email: manojsarangi2007@rediffmail.com) : Development and characterization of colon-targeting 5-fluorouracil multiparticulate beads. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(3), 435-48.

This investigation is related to the development and optimization of multiparticulate beads of fenugreek seed mucilage-sodium alginate containing 5-flurouracil through ionotropic gelation technique using 3² full factorial design generated with Design-Expert® Version11 software. The beads were developed using CaCl² as the crosslinking agent. The effect of ratio of fenugreek seed mucilage and sodium alginate blend and concentration of CaCl² on the drug encapsulation efficiency, bead size and percent cumulative drug release in 6 h was optimized by 3² factorial design. The beads were also characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and thermal analysis. The percent drug encapsulation efficiency of all these beads was within the range of 43.91 to 85.39 % with an in vitro drug release of 33.92 to 39.23 % in 6 h. The optimized batches of beads were coated with Eudragit S100 (5, 10 and 15 % w/v) to facilitate colon targeting in a prominent way. The in vitro drug release from the coated beads (P3) in various colonic fluids followed zero-order pattern with erosion mechanism in 18 h. The average size of these beads was within the range of 895 to 1021 µm. The optimized fenugreek seed mucilage-alginate beads containing 5-flurouracil showed significant drug permeability over a prolonged period in an ex vivo permeability study through goat colon. The results indicated successful colon targeting of 5-flurouracil multiparticulate beads developed using polymeric blends containing sodium alginate and fenugreek seed mucilage in an appropriate ratio.

5 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

041637   ANBURAJ J, TAMILSELVI E, SWAPNA S, AMUTHAVALLI K (Biotechnology Dep, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore - 641 021, Email: tami24684@gmail.com) : β-Amyrin modulates p38 mapk and jnk pathway to inhibit cell proliferation and induce ros-mediated apoptosis in hela cells. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(3), 420-8.

It is aimed to investigate the effect of β-amyrin on p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and Jun N-terminal kinase pathways and apoptosis in HeLa cells. HeLa treated cells were divided into 6 groups, group IHeLa untreated cells as control, group II- dimethyl sulfoxide serve as vehicle control, group III- cisplatin as standard drug, group IV- β-amyrin-treated HeLa cells, group V- cells were pretreated with 100 μm N-acetyl-L-cystein for 1 hour and then treated with cisplatin and group VI- cells were pretreated with 100 μm N-acetyl-L-cystein for 1 hour and then treated with β-amyrin. The antiproliferative effect was measured using the MTT assay. Genotoxic effects were studied using micronucleus assay. Total reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and caspase 3 level were determined on a spectrofluorimeter and colorimeter. Protein expression was analyzed by immunoblotting. β-Amyrin (10-200 μm) and cisplatin (0.01-100 μm) had an inhibitory effect on the proliferation of cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner, with the IC50 values at 100 μm and 10 μm for β-amyrin and cisplatin, respectively. Western blot analysis revealed expressions of apoptotic pathway related proteins, Bcl-2, caspase-3, caspase-9, phospho-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and phospho-Jun N-terminal kinase, growth arrest and deoxyribonucleic acid-damage-inducible, beta in all groups. Genotoxic effects were observed after treatment with β-amyrin as well as with cisplatin. It was observed that HeLa cells showed significant elevation of total reactive oxygen species after β-amyrin treatment. Protein expression analysis showed that the β-amyrin upregulated phospho-p38 mitogenactivated protein kinase, phospho-Jun N-terminal kinase and growth arrest and deoxyribonucleic aciddamage-inducible, beta on HeLa cells. Increased phospho-Jun N-terminal kinase directly activated caspases and decreased Bcl-2 in HeLa cells. These results indicated that β-amyrin induced the apoptosis through reactive oxygen species-mediated mechanism by activating p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and Jun N-terminal kinase through transcriptional factor, GADD45β. In turn, activated Jun N-terminal kinase directly activated caspase-9 and caspase-3 and destined the HeLa cells to apoptosis.

6 illus, 54 ref

041634   GUPTA P, MAZUMDER R, PADHI S (Pharmaceutics Dep, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida - 201 306, Uttar Pradesh, Email: priyagupta191995@gmail.com) : Glycerosomes: Advanced liposomal drug delivery system. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(3), 385-97.

Although liposomes have proved to be versatile in the field of drug delivery, there are still some issues that need to be addressed mainly problems related to entrapment, penetration, fluidity and stability. Glycerosomes represent a novel drug delivery systems composed of phospholipids, water and glycerol in varying amounts. Glycerosomes are upgraded versions of liposomes meant for topical and transdermal drug delivery. In these preparations, glycerol acts as an edge activator and penetration enhancer. These drug delivery systems manifest improved stability, fluidity, entrapment and penetration in comparison to conventional liposomes. Increasing the concentration of glycerol by 10, 20 or 30 % leads to a drastic increase in glycerosome stability. This article is a detailed review of glycerosomes focusing on methods of preparation, evaluation, applications, advantages and disadvantages based on studies reported so far. In this review article, how the structure of liposomes can be modified by the addition of glycerol and how this modified structure can be used to address the problems related to liposomes is discussed. The influence of increasing glycerol concentration on the nature of glycerosomes that lead to an increase in both entrapment and encapsulation of a drug while causing slower drug release is discussed.

1 table, 75 ref

041632   SHAH R, SHAH S A, SHAH S, FAISAL S, ULLAH F (Biotechnology Dep, Bacha Khan Univ, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, Email: sajjadbiotec@gmail.com) : Green synthesis and antibacterial activity of gold nanoparticles of Digera muricata. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(2), 374-8.

The current research work was about a suitable eco-friendly process to produce gold nanoparticles using ethanol extract of Digera muricata. Completion of synthesis, size and morphology of nanoparticles and various functional groups present were confirmed using various techniques. Formation and physical appearance of gold nanoparticles was confirmed through the presence of dark purple colour. Ultraviolet/ Vis spectra give a sharp narrow peak at the λmax specified for gold nanoparticle. Scanning electron microscopy indicated nanoparticles were spherical in shape, fully dispersed in reaction medium with 40±5 nm size. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that synthesized nanoparticles were crystalline with an average particle size of 33 nm. The presence of bio-organic compound was detected by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Antibacterial potential of the synthesized gold nanoparticles of Digera muricata extract was evaluated in comparison to crude ethanol extract. The gold nanoparticles exhibited greater antibacterial potential as compared to crude ethanol extract of Digera muricata against different drug-resistant bacteria including Vibrio cholera, Staphylococcus pyrogen, Klebsiella, Citrobacter and Enterobacter. The results indicated that the gold nanoparticles could be used as a promising antibacterial agents.

6 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

041631   TURKOGLU M, PEKMEZCI E, KILIC S (Dermatology Dep, Istanbul Medipol Univ, Istanbul, 34214, Turkey, Email: erkinpekmezci@gmail.com) : Green tea extract exerts anabolic effects on extracellular matrix of the skin. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(2), 368-73.

An in vitro trial was carried out to reveal the effects of an extract of Camellia sinensis (green tea extract) on the major extracellular matrix components of human skin. After preparing the green tea extract its phytochemical contents were analysed and its effects on gene expression of hyaluronan synthase 2, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and elastase in a human dermal fibroblast cell line were determined. Cell proliferation assay was performed using XTT reagent. Ribonucleic acid isolations were realized by using TRI reagent. Expressions of the relevant enzymes and a control enzyme glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase were determined using RT-qPCR analysis. Green tea extract caused statistically significant upregulation of hyaluronan synthase-2 gene expression compared to untreated control cells. Also, as a positive outcome, the treatment resulted in significant downregulations of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and elastase gene expressions. Green tea extract was found to have substantial anabolic effects on hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin. The results obtained in this study might partially explain the molecular basis of the health benefits and antiaging effects of Camellia sinensis on skin.

2 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

041629   HALIM S, PRASAD R S, DHOBI M (Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research Univ, New Delhi - 110 017, Email: mahaveer.pharma@gmail.com) : Quality control standardization and comparative anthelmintic activity of different extracts from Evolvulus alsinoides l. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(2), 356-61.

The main objective of this investigation was to perform physicochemical and phytochemical standardization and to evaluate the anthelmintic activity of different extracts of the whole plant of Evolvulus alsinoides. Quality control standardization of the whole plant was carried out following the World Health Organization guidelines. Further, 6 different extracts of Evolvulus alsinoides were prepared with n-hexane, petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone, ethanol and water. High performance thin layer chromatography analysis was performed to quantify the content of luteolin in these extracts. In vitro anthelmintic activity was screened on Indian adult earthworm due to its similarities to intestinal roundworms of humans. Doses of 100 mg/ml of each dried extract were mixed with PBS and earthworms were placed in them. Paralysis and/or death of earthworms were taken as a criterion for anthelmintic activity. Most of the physicochemical parameters were found to be within the prescribed limits of World Health Organization guidelines, while, the plant material did not show the presence of any aflatoxins. Ethanol extract of Evolvulus alsinoides showed potent anthelmintic activity and the maximum amount of luteolin was also found to be present in the ethanol extract compared to other extracts. Thus, the potent anthelmintic activity of ethanol extract of Evolvulus alsinoides could possibly be attributed to the presence of luteolin.

1 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

041621   GAIKWAD S N, LONARE M C, TAJNE M R (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur Univ, Nagpur, Maharashtra - 440 033, Email: sanj410@gmail.com) : Enhancing solubility and bioavailability of artemether and lumefantrine through a self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(2), 282-90.

In the present study artemether and lumefantrine self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system formulations were prepared using combination of these drugs with Capmul medical countermeasure, oleic acid and Tween 80. The particle size and zeta potential of these formulations was found to be 15.2 nm and −22.8 mV. The solubility and in vitro dissolution performance of both drugs in self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system formulations was improved significantly as compared to pure drugs and marketed product and the in vivo studies confirmed it. In vivo studies in rats revealed that there was an increase in bioavailability of self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system formulations compared to pure drugs with the area under the curve of artemether from formulation was 598.89±114.33 in comparison to that of pure artemether 190.82±36.57 and the area under the curve for lumefantrine from the formulations was 190.82±36.57 in comparison to that of the pure lumefantrine 68.71±18.63. The C_max was enhanced for artemether from 13.11±2.22 to 110.31±40.88 and for lumefantrine from 2.39±1.61 to 18.22±2.32.

8 illus, 6 tables, 27 ref

041611   ABURJAI T A, MANSI K, AZZAM H, ALQUDAH D A, ALSHAER W, ABUIRJEI M (Al al-bayt Univ, Mafraq, Jordan, Email: aburjai@ju.edu.jo) : Chemical compositions and anticancer potential of essential oil from greenhouse-cultivated Ocimum basilicum leaves. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(1), 178-83.

In the current study, the compositions of the essential oil obtained from leaves of Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’ grown in Jordan in a greenhouse was analysed. The antitumor activity of the essential oil was examined against three different cancer cell lines including MDA-MB-231, MCF7 and U-87 MG. The hydrodistillation method was used to extract the essential oil from Ocimum basilicum and the chemical components were analyzed and identified using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. The dry weight yield of essential oil was 0.50 % (w/w). Thirty-one components representing 97.80 % of the essential oil were identified. The main chemical components revealed the presence of linalool, eugenol, eucalyptol, hinesol, trans-α-bergamotene and γ-cadinene as the major constituents. In conclusion, the essential oil extracted from greenhouse cultivated Ocimum basilicum European chemotype showed potent antitumor activity.

3 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

041601   KIM J S, KOPPULA S, YUM M J, SHIN G M, CHAE Y J, KOPALLI S R, SONG M D (Biotechnology Dep, Konkuk Univ, Chungbuk, 27478, Republic of Korea, Email: minds@kku.ac.kr) : Aster tataricus Linn., suppresses hepatic stellate cell activation and protects against thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Indian J Pharm Sci 2020, 82(1), 104-113.

Aster tataricus Linn., (Asteraceae), an oriental and nutrient-potential herb is used in Asian countries for various health benefits. The present study focused on the protective effects of Aster tataricus against liver fibrosis in cellular and an experimental rat model. Cell cytotoxicity, cell cycle and apoptosis functions were analyzed using hepatic stellate cell lines following MTT assay, flow cytometry, and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining methods. For in vivo evaluation, thioacetamide-induced hepatofibrosis rat model was established. Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups of 10 each (control, thioacetamide, thioacetamide with Aster tataricus extract 100 and 500 mg/kg and silymarin 50 mg/kg groups, respectively). Fibrosis was induced by thioacetamide treatment (200 mg/kg, ip) 3 times per week for 13 weeks except for the control group. Aster tataricus extract (100 and 500 mg/kg), and silymarin was administrated orally to each group 6 times a week from week 7 to 13 and various fibrosis-related parameters were estimated using real-time polymerase chain reaction using TRIzol Plus RNA purification Kit and a spectrophotometer. Results indicated that hepatic stellate cells treated with Aster tataricus extract (0.5 mg/ml) and silymarin (0.05 mg/ml) significantly (p<0.05) induced apoptosis (19.04 and 24.82 %, respectively) compared to the control group (9.78 %). Moreover, rat primary hepatic stellate cells showed morphological changes and degradation of collagen and fibronectin when treated with 0.5 mg/kg of Aster tataricus extract. In vivo evaluation Aster tataricus extract at concentrations of 100 and 500 mg/mlattenuated the increased serum levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and hydroxyproline and restored the decreased glutathione levels significantly in thioacetamide induced fibrotic rats (p<0.05). The altered histopathology in thioacetamide-induced liver tissues and changes in fibrosis-related gene expression (TGF-β, α-SMA and Col1α1) were also restored by Aster tataricus extract treatment. In conclusion, Aster tataricus can be developed as a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of liver fibrosis.

7 illus, 1 table, 56 ref

045229   PATHAK B, BORAH D, KHATANIAR A, BHUYAN P K, BURAGOHAIN A K (Biotechnology Dep, The Assam Royal Global Univ, Guwahati- 781 035) : Characterization of bioaerosols in Northeast India in terms of culturable biological entities along with inhalable, thoracic and alveolar particles. J Earth Syst Sci 2020, 129(1), 10.1007/s12040-020-01406-z.

Effort was made to analyse the biological components along with inhalable, thoracic and alveolic particles in aerosol samples collected from nine distinct locations of Northeast India during post-monsoon season (October–November) for the very first time. Microscopic analysis reveals the presence of 70–90 % of non-biological particles followed respectively by pollens (9–18 %), animal debris (1–12 %) and fungal spores (1–6 %). The concentration of bacteria in air sample ranges from 45.5 to 645.84 CFU/m³. All the bacterial isolates showed sensitivity against broad (Chloramphenicol and Ampicillin) and narrow (Vancomycin and Erythromycin) spectrum antibiotics which indicates lesser threat to human health. Moreover, the concentration of microbial content in the bioaerosol samples are less compared to some of the reported values in other parts of India. The predominant microbial genera in the collected bioaerosol samples were identified as Gram positive Diplobacilli sp. followed by Diplococci sp. Pollens of 10–20 µm diameter, which are mostly considered as potential allergens, contribute only up to 20 % of total pollen content in the bioaerosol sample collected from various locations indicating healthier air.

69 ref

041579   GAONKAR V P, HULLATTI K, MANNUR V (Pharmacognosy Dep, KLE Coll of Pharmacy, Belagavi - 590 010, Karnataka, Email: kkhullatti@gmail.com) : Standardization of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. seeds: A quality by design approach. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(4), 1072-9.

To standardize Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Seeds by developing QbD based HPLC method for identification and quantification of trigonelline in T. foenum graecum L. seeds, along with evaluation of various quality control parameters. The Analytical Target Profile and Critical Quality Attributes were determined followed by optimization of HPLC method by using 2² factorial design for designing the experiments for selected independent factors. Method Operable Design Region was developed for finding out the optimized chromatographic conditions. Further quality control parameters such as macroscopic and microscopic characters, physicochemical and phytochemical characterization including determination of toxic elements were carried out on the herb. By application of QbD approach the optimized mobile phase was identified as water with 0.01 % Hydrochloric acid and Methanol in the ratio of 70:30, with the flow rate of 1 mL/ min and UV detection at 263 nm. The linear model was established in the range of 2-10µg/mL with R² value 0.998. The retention time of Trigonelline was found to be 2.877 min and the amount of Trigonelline in T. foenum-graecum L. Seeds was found to be 0.58 %. The inter-day and intra-day precision were less than 2 %, with accuracies between 96.6-110 % of the true values. The quality control parameters showed the results within specified limits and the seeds showed absence of toxic elements in it. From the above finding we can conclude that the application of QbD approach for standardization of herbal drug can serve as an important tool for development of herbal drugs with desired quality.

5 illus, 7 tables, 19 ref

041574   RAMACHANDRAN S, SRAVANTHI S, MANTHENA S R, LIZA U, AMALA M (Pharmacology Dep, GIET School of Pharmacy, Rajahmundry - 533 296, Andhra Pradesh, Email: ramsnetin@yahoo.com) : Influence of ketogenic diet and phenytoin sodium on isoniazid induced epilepsy in wistar rats. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(4), 1024-30.

The current research was set up to estimate the influence of ketogenic diet in combination with phenytoin sodium on isoniazid induced epilepsy in rats. In this work 30 rats were used with weight range of 150-200gms were selected and divided into five groups. Group -1(Positive control), Group – II (Negative control), Group – III (Standard), Group – IV (Ketogenic diet), Group – V (Ketogenic diet + Standard). The doses of isoniazid, phenytoin sodium, ketogenic diet were selected and the work was executed for a period of 30 days. At the end of the study animals were sacrificed to collect brain for estimating GABA levels in different groups. Results indicated that, there is a notable rise in levels of GABA which helps in reducing seizure latency when the ketogenic diet was added to that of standard drug. The change in levels of GABA when compared to the ketogenic diet alone and standard suggest that ketogenic diet along with standard drug may produce antiepileptic activity by increasing the levels of GABA in isoniazid induced epilepsy in rats.

5 tables, 21 ref

041568   BANSAL K, BAJPAI M (GLA Univ, Mathura - 281 406, Uttar Pradesh, Email: meenakshi.bajpai@gla.ac.in) : Formulation and evaluation of Phanera variegata linn. mucilage as a pharmaceutical binder in solid dosage form. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(4), 971-82.

The present study is aimed to isolate, evaluate the mucilage obtained from the leaves of Kachnar (Phanera variegata) and to compare the binding efficacy of the isolated mucilage with acacia gum. : Extraction and isolation of mucilages from the leaves of Phanera variegata were carried out by the maceration method. The isolated mucilage was analyzed for phytochemical, microbial andvarious physico-chemical properties for acceptability as a novel excipient for the formulation of tablets. Uncoated paracetamol tablets of different batches (F1–F4) were prepared by preparing granules (different concentrations) of isolated mucilage (3 %, 5 %, 10 % and 15 % w/v respectively) using wet granulation technique.The formulated tablets were evaluated: pre-compression (Micromeritics properties) and post-compression parameters (size, hardness, friability, weight uniformity, content uniformity, disintegration and in vitro dissolution profile.) For comparison purposes, acacia gum was used as a binder and different batches of tablets (A1 – A4) were prepared similarly and evaluated for pre-compression and postcompression parameters. The formulated tablets using isolated mucilage had a good appearance, on increasing the concentration of binder hardness of tablets were also increased, all the formulations fall within the limit for friability and disintegration according to official standards, in vitro dissolution profile of optimized formulation F2 showed 98.28 % drug release within 20 min. According to the observation, isolated mucilage can opt as an alternative natural excipient (binding agent) for the formulation of uncoated tablets. Phanera variegata is a novel plant with less or almost no reported data.

5 illus, 6 tables, 46 ref

041539   CHINTAMANI R, SALUNKHE K, KHARAT K, SINGH R P, DIWATE S (Pharmaceutics Dep, Institute of Pharmacy, Pune, Maharashtra, Email: ravichintamani@gmail.com) : Extraction, identification and screening of Brassica oleracea var. italica plenck (Broccoli) floret to be an alternative for nanoparticle formulations. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(3), 724-31.

Plant or plant extract act as a source of several abundant natural compounds such as flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, steroids, tannins, saponins and other nutritional compounds. The extract not only acts as reducing and stabilizing agents due to presences of various secondary metabolites for the bio reduction reaction but, also shows added pharmacological potential. Among others, a cruciferous vegetable like Broccoli is assumed to affect the growth of numerous forms of cancers since it contains multiple chemical constituents such as, Selenium, Sulphoraphene, Glucosinolate and Diindolylmethane which shows anticancer activity. The study involves extraction of florets of Brassica oleraceae var. italica which is done by cold maceration process by using different solvents like water, ethanol, methanol and methanol: water (6:4) followed by phytochemical screening. Broccoli plant was collected from local farmer and Extraction of aerial part (Florets) was done by cold maceration by using various solvents such as water, Et: OH, Water: EtOH (6:4 ratio). The optimization of the extract with solvent selection was done by the observation of color, nature and also by the calculation of percentage yield, solubility concentration and phytochemical screening tests. Further, the optimized extract was subjected to calculate the total phenolic and flavonoids concentration. The study involves collection of Broccoli from Local farmer. The plant was identified and authenticated as Brassica oleraceae var. italica. (Family: Brassicaceae) from Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, Pune by Ms. Priyanka A. Ingale, Scientist B (Voucher specimen No. RBC-3, BSI/WRC/IDEN. CER./2016/667). Extraction of florets of Brassica oleraceae var. italica which was done by cold maceration process by using different solvents likes water, ethanol, methanol and methanol: water (6:4) followed by phytochemical screening. The present study reflects that the extract of Brassica oleraceae var. italica Plenck shows major presence of phenolic and flavonoids as per phytochemical screening to be an alternative for the nanoparticle formulation.

3 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

046604   RADHA, JANJUA S, SRIVASTAVA S, NEGI V (Shoolini Univ of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan- 173 229, Email: radhuchauhan7002@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary of Himachal Pradesh, India. Med Plants 2020, 12(4), 666-73.

An ethnobotanical study was performed to collect the data on the usage of ethnomedicinal plants in Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary of Himachal Pradesh, India. The Sanctuary area has a high number of endemic species and the social status of the ethnomedicinal plants is important for public health and the preservation of traditional wealth information. This study documented the ethnomedicinal plants presently used with recorded traditional information treated diseases. A total of 40 ethnomedicinal plants belonging to 25 families (herbs 21, shrubs 8, ferns 5, trees 4 and climbers 2) were reported by 67 local informants of the sanctuary area. Asteraceae family was recorded as highest (15 %) in all the reported medicinal plant species. The interview with local people confirmed the utilization of medicinal plants in the treatment of several diseases, including snake bites, cough, cold, fever, infectious diseases and other health disorders. Informants reported that the most common plant part used was the leaves. This study provides documentation of medicinal plants used in Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh. Local people still relied on use of ethnomedicinal plants, and want to preserve the natural traditional wealth of medicinal plants in the area. The indigenous knowledge regarding the use of plants of this region is also rapidly declining in new generation. Therefore, the proper documentation of these medicinal plants in study area world be a necessary step in conservation of our traditional knowledge.

1 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

041492   BOLMAL U B, SUBHOD R P, GADAD A P, PATILL A S (Pharmaceutics Dep, KLES Coll of Pharmacy, Belagavi - 590 010, Karnataka, Email: udaybolmal@yahoo.co.in) : Formulation and evaluation of carbamazepine tablets using biosurfactant in ternary solid dispersion system. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(2), 302-9.

The present study is aimed to develop and evaluate Carbamazepine tablets using ternary solid dispersed product. Carbamazepine belongs to BCS class II having low solubility. Ternary system was formulated with biosurfactant and water-soluble polymers to enhance dissolution rate and bioavailability. Binary and ternary solid dispersion was prepared using hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) K-100, Polyvinyl pyrolidine (PVP) K-30 and Poly ethylene glycol (PEG) 6000 as a polymer and biosurfactant respectively by solvent evaporation method and evaluated for drug content uniformity and in-vitro dissolution study. Carbamazepine tablet were prepared by incorporation of ternary solid dispersed product along with other excipients by direct compression technique. Prepared formulations were evaluated for pre-compression and post-compression parameters. Oral toxicity study of biosurfactant was performed using female wistar rats. In-vitro dissolution profile of optimized tablet formulation OF1 and OF2 showed 75.14 % and 71.26 % release in 1.2 pH respectively and similarly at 6.8 pH buffer 64.33 % and 58.96 % respectively. Pre-compression and postcompression values of formulated tablets were within the specified acceptable limits. In-vivo dissolution study of optimized formulation OF1 showed an increase in dissolution rate in accordance with pure drug. Oral toxicity study of biosurfactant was safe at 2000 mg per kg body weight of rat. Short term stability of the optimized formulation was stable without deviations at room temperature. Addition of biosurfactant in ternary solid dispersion system proved to be promising excipient in formulation of carbamazepine tablet for enhanced dissolution rate, dose reduction and bioavailability.

3 illus, 5 tables, 10 ref

041474   JAIN A, JAMES N, SHANTHI V, RAMANATHAN K (Biotechnology Dep, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, Email: kramanathan@vit.ac.in) : Design of alk inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer – a fragment based approach. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(1), 114-24.

The increasing cases of non-small cell lung cancer pose a relentless threat to human health. Therefore, using fragment-based drug discovery as the modus operandi, the present study aimed to design small molecule inhibitors for Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and for its secondary mutation (F1174L). A total of 12 ALK inhibitors (both FDA and clinical) reported in the literature was utilised in the present study to design the novel and potent ALK inhibitors. Fragment script and BREED of Schrödinger suite was used to generate novel structural combinations. GLIDE algorithm was employed to identify the fragments with high binding affinity to the native and mutant forms of ALK. Screened out fragments were subjected to ADMET analysis. Additionally, the impact of F1174L mutation in the stability of ALK protein was assessed using SDM and I-Mutant tools. RING algorithm was employed to compare the pattern of intramolecular interaction between the native and F1174L ALK protein. A novel hybrid molecule LF16 was identified with better binding, superior CNS activity, higher drug score and low toxicity. Annihilation of intramolecular interactions with Ile 1179, Ile 1170 and Phe1098 were found to be the cause of the destabilizing effect of the mutant protein. Of note, these residues were found to play important roles in the formation of F-core as well as in stabilizing αC-helix, which is important for maintaining the inactive form of ALK. Moreover, We believe that these results could foster the designing and development of novel ALK inhibitors towards the management of crizotinib resistance in the near future.

7 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

041467   MASTIHOLIMATH V S, RAJENDRA B A, MANNUR V S, DANDAGI P M, GADAD A P, KHANAL P (Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance Dep, KLE Coll of Pharmacy, Belagavi, Karnataka, Email: ankivb99@gmail.com) : Formulation and evaluation of cefixime nanosuspension for the enhancement of oral bioavailability by solvent-antisolvent method and its suitable method development. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(1), 56-67.

The objective of the present study was to develop and evaluate cefixime nanosuspension to enhance its oral bioavailability. The method used was solvent/ antisolvent method in which methanol and Millipore water was used as solvent and antisolvent respectively. The surfactants used for the preparation were PVP K30 and HPMC K100 which was found to be compatible in the formulation. Compatibility of the drug and drug with its excipients was found out by FTIR studies. Characterization of the optimized Cefixime Nanosuspension was carried out by particle size analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Zeta Potential, Drug content, in-vitro drug release studies, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM). The antimicrobial activity of cefixime nanosuspension was done by Disk diffusion method against E. coli performed in nutrient agar with different concentrations of the formulation. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was determined by calculating Zone of inhibition. A method was developed forcefixime nanosuspension and validated by High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The optimizedcefixime nanosuspension was validated for Identification, Linearity, Specificity, Precision and Recovery. The Recovery of cefixime nanosuspension was found to be 95.57 %.

25 illus, 9 tables, 27 ref

046556   PATEL I C, RATHOD D, HAKIM M, PRAJAPATI R, SOLANKI A, PANIGRAHI J (Biotechnology Dep, Shri A.N. Patel P.G. Institute of Science and Research, Anand, Gujarat, Email: jitenp2001@gmail.com) : Impact of seasonal variation on ‘daidzein’ accumulation in callus and in vivo parts of Pueraria tuberosa (Willd.) DC. Med Plants 2020, 12 (2), 236-42.

Daidzein-natural isoflavones found in Pueraria tuberosa (Willd.) DC. (Fabaceae) which is a potent medicinal plant. It acts as signal carriers and responds to the pathogenic attacks and reduces pain during menopause, osteoporosis and also antidiabetic in nature. In the present work, in vitro callus development from tuber explants during both rainy and summer seasons was conducted. Further, a simple unambiguous and rapid high-performance thin-layer chromatography method was established for quantitative estimation of daidzein in callus and in vivo parts to assess the impact of seasonal change on valuable phytochemical accumulation. Maximum callusing (90 %) was obtained on MS medium fortified with a combination of 6 N-Benzylamino purine (2 mg/l) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2 mg/l) during the summer season from the tuber explant. During the HPTLC method validation, the linearity range obtained was 100-1000 ng/spot with a regression value (r) value of 0.99845. All the parts were found to contain a significant amount of daidzein. The maximum daidzein (2112.567 ± 0.35 ng/g) content was obtained from a young tuber bark followed by callus (171.903 ± 0.33 ng/g) during the summer season compared to rainy season parts and callus. Thus, it can be concluded that in vitro callus is an alternative source of daidzein without destroying the natural plant and the developed HPTLC method could be used for quality control analysis and recommended for daidzein quantification for different herbal formulation and drug preparation.

5 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

046548   RICHA, PRABHUJI S K, WAJIH S A, SRIVASTAVA G K, TIWARI R K (Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Centre, Gorakhpur- 273 001, Email: shaktiprabhuji@rediffmail.com) : Concept of herbal biofertilizer for cultivation of medicinal plants with high quantity and quality secondary metabolites. Med Plants 2020, 12(2), 169-72.

The biofertilizer prepared from biodegradable house-hold wastes has been found to be high quality nutrient supplier to crop plants. Such biofertilizers with addition of dried and powdered leaves of certain medicinal plants have been transformed into herbal biofertilizers which have also been shown to have additional quality to control soil-borne pathogens. The medicinal plants, cultivated using the chemical fertilizers and pesticides, have shown to reduce of quality of alkaloids and phytochemicals. Therefore, there is a potential need to use herbal based biofertilizers for medicinal plant cultivation for harvesting high quality pharmacentical ingredients in high quantity.

3 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

046545   KUMAR N, KHURANA S M P, PANDEY V N (Amity Univ, Manesar- 122 413, Email: narendra.microbiology@rediffmail.com) : Antifungal activity of essential oil of Tinospora cordifolia against storage fungi of wheat. Med Plants 2020, 12(1), 150-7.

Sixteen fungal species belonging to Alternaria, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Trichoderma and Trichothecium genera were found to be associated in stored wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grains and Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, A. ochraceus and A. terreus were identified to be associated with wheat storage. The essential oil isolated from leaf of Tinospora cordifolia showed absolute inhibitory activity (MIC) of 100 per cent against all the test fungi at 400 ppm concentration except Aspergillus candidus and Fusraium moniliform where MIC was reported at 800 and 600 ppm, respectively. The detailed investigation of the Tinospora oil was made with the major dominant fungi, Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger, where MIC was recorded as 400 ppm. No adverse effect in the antifungal activity of the oil was recorded against the two test fungi after autoclaving. No adverse effect was also observed for a storage period of 120 days on fungal inhibitory activity of the oil (400 ppm). The comparative study showed that Tinospora oil was more effective than standard commercial pesticides such as copper oxychloride and carbendazim. The results of our study suggests that Tinospora leaf oil can be exploited effectively in the management of seed-borne pathogenic fungi and prevent bio-deterioration of wheat grains during storage.

6 tables, 43 ref

046537   ANAND M, SHARMA S, MONGA P (Amity Univ, Gurgaon, Haryana, Email: manandtiet@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of Tylophora indica (Burm. f.) Merrill and development of an efficient micropropagation system for its therapeautic use. Med Plants 2020, 12(1), 82-9.

Infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms are the leading cause of human mortality worldwide. Emergence of multidrug resistance in these pathogens and negative effects of available antibiotics have necessitated the search for new potent antimicrobial agents of plant origin. Tylophora indica commonly known as “Antamool” or “Asthama herb” is a valuable medicinal plant traditionally used as a folk remedy for the treatment of a variety of diseases and disorders. An efficient and reproducible in vitro protocol was established for the mass cloning of this valuable plant through de novo adventitious shoot formation directly from the leaf explant. The antimicrobial activity of different solvent extracts of leaves of both native and in vitro plants was tested against bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli) and fungal strains (Aspergillius niger, Penicillium chrysogenum) using agar well diffusion method. The leaf extracts prepared by Rao and Book’s method and methanolic leaf extracts exhibited a significant microbial inhibition at all tested concentrations (25, 50, 100 µg/ml), whereas very less activity was observed with acetone extract. Likewise the methanolic root extract of in vitro plants exhibited significant antioxidant activity. The highest free radical scavenging activity i.e. 75 % was seen at 1000 µg/ml concentration depicting strong antioxidant effect. The present study suggests that T. indica may prove to be a potential natural source of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents which needs to be further explored.

3 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

041364   MOHAMADIYAN M, ZOHOOR S, DAVODIROKNABADI A (Design and Clothing Dep, Imam Javad Univ Coll, Yazd, Iran, Email: s_textile@yahoo.com) : Enhancing electro conductivity, antibacterial and UV blocking of cotton fabric by using graphene/zirconium dioxide nano composite. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2020, 45(2), 207-10.

Nano composite of graphene/zirconium dioxide has been produced and then coated on the surface of cotton fabric. Scanning electron microscope and transmittance electron microscope of sample prove the existence of nano zirconium dioxide distribution on the surface of cotton fabric. Results show that the electrical conductivity of treated sample has increased in comparison with sample without graphene/zirconium dioxide. It is also observed that the use of graphene/zirconium dioxide composite increases UV blocking of fabric. Furthermore, the nanocomposites are found to have antibacterial property against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria according to AATCC test method.

5 illus, 24 ref

046499   JETHRA G, CHOUDHARY S, SHARMA V (Biotechnology Dep, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali Vidyapith- 304 022, Email: vinaysharma30@yahoo.co.uk) : Identification and characterization of microsatellite markers in fenugreek: An inter-family amplification. Legum Res 2020, 43(5), 611-6.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is one of the most important and primitive medicinal plants belonging to family fabaceae and is recognized as one of the most prominent seed spices. Development, identification and classification of entirely new set of SSRs are a very expensive and time consuming process for a crop like fenugreek. Instead, a novel set of SSRs can be achieved with ease in less expense by transferring the microsatellite loci of the related species in fenugreek. SSR’s of two major crops, carrot and celery belonging to apiaceae family are available in public domain for cross-species and inter-family investigation. In the present study, we examined transferability of 100 carrot SSR loci in fenugreek of which 19 % of SSR’s amplified, where 5 primers were monomorphic. 14 SSRs were polymorphic in nature and the bands ranged between 2 to 5. GSSR-87, GSSR-92, GSSR-136 and BSSR-8 showed monomorphic bands and were specific for fenugreek genotypes and can be regarded as a dominant tool for fenugreek breeding and genetic studies. However, GSSR-81 and GSSR-96 were most polymorphic in nature and can be utilized further to distinguish fenugreek from other seed spices. The analysis, revealed optimum level of cross-species transferability (>35.2 %) in fenugreek, where no SSR resource is available till date, initiating cross transferability testing from the enriched SSR database of carrot.

3 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

046459   YADAV R, JAIN V, VAISHALI, HEGDE V S, YADAV N, KUMAR R (Biotechnology Dep, S.V.P. Univ of Agricultural and Technology, Meerut- 250 110, Email: rajendrak64@yahoo.co.in) : Bio-physico-chemical response of drought tolerant chickpeas to nickel. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 345-52.

Experiments were conducted to evaluate response of two genetically different drought tolerant varieties of Cicer arietinum L. namely PUSA 1103, Desi variety and PUSA 1105, Kabuli variety to the basal applications of nickel chloride doses viz; 0, 0.62, 3.12, 12.5, 62.5 and 125 µg g^-1. Significant increase in the growth was observed at 0.62 and 3.12 µg g^-1 nickel chloride doses. Addition of nickel dose above this level reduced the leaf area, plant growth, root length and yield of the plants. Fruiting stage showed more severe toxicity symptoms in comparison to the vegetative stages. Protein contents in seeds and chlorophyll contents along with nitrate reductase activity increased significantly in the leaves at the lower nickel doses. Peroxidase and superoxide-dismutase activities increased in a concomitant manner with increasing nickel concentrations. Increased concentrations of the soil applied nickel demonstrated an increase in the content of nickel higher in shoots also followed by roots. Accumulation of nickel and grain yield was higher in Desi chickpea variety PUSA 1103, indicating for its potential utilization in crop improvement strategies to breed new chickpea genotypes for nickel and drought resistance.

4 illus, 2 tables, 43 ref

046432   ASARE A T, MENSAH T A, TAGOE S M A, ASANTE D K A (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Dep, Cape Coast Univ, Cape Coast, Ghana, Email: theoabonyi88@gmail.com) : Identification of new sources of rust resistance in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) germplasm using simple sequence repeat markers. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 185-9.

The demand for resistance cowpea to rust infection has currently increased due to considerable yield losses caused by the fungal pathogen. The study assessed available cowpea genotypes for rust resistance using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Out of 100 cowpea genotypes screened, 97 % showed the presence of the markers whilst 3 % showed absence of the markers. Among the cowpea were 72 % resistance, 16 % moderate resistance and 9 % low resistance to rust. The markers revealed a mean high allele frequency (0.86) and low gene diversity (0.24) and polymorphism information content (0.21) among the cowpea genotypes. The markers co-inherited with a mean regression value greater than 0.1. There was no clear pattern of clustering among the cowpea genotypes. The cowpea genotypes with rust resistance traits could serve as good sources of germplasm for cultivation or resilient genes with rust target in breeding programmes to improve the crop.

2 illus, 4 tables, 26 ref

046423   JETHRA G , CHOUDHARY S, SHARMA V (Biotechnology Dep, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali Vidyapith- 304 022, Email: vinaysharma30@yahoo.co.uk) : Identification and characterization of microsatellite markers in fenugreek: An inter-family amplification. Legum Res 2020, 43(1), 611-6.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is one of the most important and primitive medicinal plants belonging to family fabaceae and is recognized as one of the most prominent seed spices. Development, identification and classification of entirely new set of SSRs are a very expensive and time consuming process for a crop like fenugreek. Instead, a novel set of SSRs can be achieved with ease in less expense by transferring the microsatellite loci of the related species in fenugreek. SSR’s of two major crops, carrot and celery belonging to apiaceae family are available in public domain for cross-species and inter-family investigation. In the present study, we examined transferability of 100 carrot SSR loci in fenugreek of which 19 % of SSR’s amplified, where 5 primers were monomorphic. 14 SSRs were polymorphic in nature and the bands ranged between 2 to 5. GSSR-87, GSSR-92, GSSR-136 and BSSR-8 showed monomorphic bands and were specific for fenugreek genotypes and can be regarded as a dominant tool for fenugreek breeding and genetic studies. However, GSSR-81 and GSSR-96 were most polymorphic in nature and can be utilized further to distinguish fenugreek from other seed spices. The analysis, revealed optimum level of cross-species transferability (>35.2 %) in fenugreek, where no SSR resource is available till date, initiating cross transferability testing from the enriched SSR database of carrot.

3 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

042940   DAS P, CHOUDHURI T (Biotechnology Dep, Siksha-Bhavana, West Bengal - 731 235, Email: tathagata.choudhuri@visva-bharati.ac.in) : Decoding the global outbreak of COVID-19: the nature is behind the scene. Indian J Virol 2020, 31(2), 106–12.

The sudden emergence of SARS-CoV-2 causing the global pandemic is a major public health concern. Though the virus is considered as a novel entity, it is not a completely new member. It is just a new version of previously emerged human SARS corona virus. The rapid evolving nature by changing host body environment and extreme environmental stability, collectively makes SARSCoV-2 into an extremely virulent genetic variant. The evolution of the virus has been occurred by the continuous process of molecular genetic manipulation, through mutation, deletion and genetic recombinationevents. Different host body environment acts as the supportive system for the pathogen which creates extreme selective pressure. By the process of genetic evolution the pathogen developes new characters. Then the new version of the virus has been naturally selected by susceptible human host and adapt itself inside the host body causing deadly effect. Moreover, extreme environmental stability helps in the process of viral survival outside the host and its transmission. Thus both the host body or internal environment and the external environment performs equally as a source, responsible for shaping the genetic evolution of the SARSCoV-2 towards theCOVID-19 disease fitness in nature in a pandemic form.

1 illus, 35 ref

042930   KRISHNA C M, KOLLA J N, ASHA S, REDDY T S K (Biotechnology Dep, VFSTR (Deemed to be Univ), Guntur, A.P., Email: sai848@gmail.com) : In vitro anti-HIV-1 activity of ethyl gallate. Indian J Virol 2020, 31(1), 22–7.

In recent years, the exploration for potential inhibitors of HIV has been increased due to the development of drug resistant HIV strains in infected people undergoing antiretroviral agents treatment. In this report, we studied the anti-HIV properties of ethyl gallate (EG) against a panel of HIV-1 strains in in vitro conditions. Different clinical isolates and laboratory strains of HIV-1 were tested for their sensitivity with EG. We found that EG exhibited non-toxic nature over a wide range of cell lines from different tissue origin. Serum proteins have little to no impact on the antiviral activity of EG. In the present study, EG was found to be a promising anti-HIV agent.

3 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

041060   JAIN L K, RAM M, PAREWA H P (Agriculture Univ, Jodhpur - 306 902, Rajasthan, Email: jainlokesh74@gmail.com) : Chemical weed control in wheat (Triticum aestivum) and its residual effects on greengram (Vigna radiata). Indian J Agron 2020, 65(2), 231-4.

A field experiment was conducted from winter (rabi) 2013–14 to rainy season (kharif) 2015 on sandy-loam soil, to assess the comparative efficacy of different chemical herbicides and their combinations for effective weed control in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and their residual effect on succeeding greengram [Vigna radiate (L.) R. Wilczek] crop at Instructional Farm, Sumerpur, Rajasthan. The experiment comprised 9 treatments and the herbicides were applied at 30–35 days after sowing (DAS) as prescribed. The application of sulfosulfuron + metsulfuron methyl @ 32 g/ha recorded significantly lower weed dry matter and weed index along with highest weed-control index (76.73 %). This herbicides combination also resulted in the highest grain yield of wheat (3.82 t/ha) along with highest net return and maximum benefit to cost ratio of the system in the tune of 3.4 : 1 as compared to weedy check. The herbicides failed to influence a significant increase on seed yield of succeeding greengram during kharif seasons in both years. Uncontrolled weed growth throughout the crop growth period caused an average yield reduction of 57 % in wheat crop (2.5 t/ha).

2 tables, 13 ref

041026   CHHETRI B, SINHA A C (Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Coochbehar, West Bengal - 736 165, Email: yonib2050@gmail.com) : Advantage of maize (Zea mays)-based intercropping system to different nutrientmanagement practices. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 25-32.

A field experiment was conducted during (pre-kharif) (February–May) seasons of 2014 and 2015 at the Instructional Farm, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, to evaluate the effect of maize (Zea mays L.) intercropped with cowpea [Vigna unguiculata L.) and nutrient-management practices on yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake and competition indices. Among the cropping system, sole crop resulted in the highest yield attributes, grain yield (3,913 kg/ha), stover yield (6,565 kg/ha), harvest index (37.21 %), uptake of nitrogen (101.36 kg/ha), phosphorus (19.80 kg/ha) and potassium (110.90 kg/ha). However, growing of maize as an intercrop with cowpea in a 2 : 2 row ratio resulted in the highest grain yield (3,249 kg/ha), stover yield (5,707 kg/ha) and harvest index (36.19 %) than 2 : 4 row ratio combination. Among the nutrient-management practices, 75 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) + Azotobacter + vermicompost (VC) @ 5.0 t/ha resulted in the highest yield attributes, grain yield (3,684 kg/ha), stover yield (6,207 kg/ha), harvest index (37.14 %) and NPK uptake. However, productivity system in terms of maize-equivalent yield (MEY), land-equivalent ratio (LER), relative crowding coefficient (RCC), competition index (CI), aggressivity, competition ratio (CR), land-equivalent coefficient (LEC), area time-equivalent ratio (ATER) and monetary advantage was found to be higher in 2 : 2 row ratio, followed by 2 : 4 row ratio combination. Thus, maize intercrop with cowpea in 2 : 2 row ratio combination and supplied with 75 % RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + vermicompost (VC) @ 5.0 t/ha (N₃) improved the productivity of sole crop as well as intercrop system.

3 tables, 37 ref