1: J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 Jan 30; [Epub ahead of print]
Effects of aqueous extracts of medicinal plants on MNNG/treated rat hepatocytes
in primary cultures.
Khader M, Eckl PM, Bresgen N.
Division of Genetics, Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg,
Hellbrunnerstrasse 34, A/5020 Salzburg, Austria.
Aqueous extracts of Nigella sativa (Ranunculaceae) (Ns), Teucrium polium
(Labiatae) (Tp) and Trigonella foenum/graecum (Fabaceae) (Tf) have been
traditionally used to treat inflammations, liver disorders, and arthritis.
Experimentally, it has been demonstrated that these herbs possess antioxidant,
anti/inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties. To evaluate their in vitro
toxicological properties and potential antimutagenic effects aqueous extracts of
the three plants were tested in primary rat hepatocyte cultures against
N/methyl/N'/nitro/N/nitrosoguanidine. The extracts were applied before, during
and after application of MNNG to discriminate between different mechanisms of
action. Tp itself significantly increased apoptosis, but in the combined
treatment with MNNG significantly reduced it. Post/treatment with Ns or combined
treatment with Tf significantly reduced the percentages of necrotic cells. The
three plant extracts themselves significantly increased the frequency of
chromosomal aberrations. Summarizing, our results suggest that aqueous extracts
of the three herbs have neither cytoprotective nor antimutagenic activity,
instead there is evidence for a mutagenic potential.
PMID: 17324542 [PubMed / as supplied by publisher]
2: Br J Nutr. 2007 Mar;97(3):514/21.
Soluble dietary fibre fraction of Trigonella foenum/graecum (fenugreek) seed
improves glucose homeostasis in animal models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes by
delaying carbohydrate digestion and absorption, and enhancing insulin action.
Hannan JM, Ali L, Rokeya B, Khaleque J, Akhter M, Flatt PR, Abdel/Wahab YH.
PMID: 17313713 [PubMed / in process]
3: J Altern Complement Med. 2007 Jan;13(1):159/76.
Algorithm for complementary and alternative medicine practice and research in
type 2 diabetes.
Bradley R, Oberg EB, Calabrese C, Standish LJ.
Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA.
Objective: To develop a model to direct the prescription of nutritional and
botanical medicines in the treatment of type 2 diabetes for both clinical and
research purposes. Methods: Available literature on nutritional and botanical
medicines was reviewed and categorized as follows:
antioxidant/anti/inflammatory; insulin sensitizer; and beta/cell
protectant/insulin secretagogue. Literature describing laboratory assessment for
glycemic control, insulin resistance, and beta/cell reserve was also reviewed
and a clinical decision tree was developed. Results: Clinical algorithms were
created to guide the use of nutritional and botanic medicines using validated
laboratory measures of glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and beta/cell
reserve. Nutrient and botanic medicines with clinical trial research support
include coenzyme Q10, carnitine, alpha/lipoic acid, N/acetylcysteine, vitamin D,
vitamin C, vitamin E, chromium, vanadium, omega/3 fatty acids, cinnamon
(Cinnamomum cassia), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum), and gymnema (Gymnema
sylvestre). Conclusions: Clinical algorithms can direct supplementation in
clinical practice and provide research models for clinical investigation.
Algorithms also provide a framework for integration of future evidence as it
becomes available. Research funding to investigate potentially beneficial
practices in complementary medicine is critically important for optimal patient
care and safety.
PMID: 17309390 [PubMed / in process]
4: Phytochem Anal. 2007 Jan;18(1):70/6.
Influence of plant matrix on microwave/assisted extraction process. The case of
diosgenin extracted from fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum L.).
Kaufmann B, Rudaz S, Cherkaoui S, Veuthey JL, Christen P.
Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences EPGL, University of Geneva, 20 bd d'Yvoy, CH/1211 Geneva 4,
Switzerland.
A focused microwave/assisted extraction method was developed for the extraction
of diosgenin from fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum) seeds, air/dried and
fresh leaves and air/dried roots. Several experimental parameters were studied,
including extraction time, microwave power applied and percentage of 2/propanol
in the extraction mixture as well as their interactions, in order to optimize
the extraction efficiency. The two latter parameters were found to be the most
important. Response surface modelling was used to predict the extraction yield
of diosgenin in selected matrices. The analysis of diosgenin in crude extracts
was carried out by capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).
PMID: 17260700 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
5: Br J Nutr. 2006 Dec;96(6):1021/9.
Hypolipidaemic effect of chemically different mucilages in rats: a comparative
study.
Boban PT, Nambisan B, Sudhakaran PR.
Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus,
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 581, India.
Different classes of fibres differ in their potential to lower lipid levels. In
order to examine how chemically diverse fibres differ in their hypolipidaemic
activity, mucilages of varying chemical composition isolated from three
different sources were administered to experimental animals and the metabolism
of lipids and lipoproteins was studied. The mucilages used were a galactomannan
isolated from fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum) seeds, a glucomannan from
Dioscorea esculenta tubers and an arabinogalactan from Colocasia esculenta
tubers. Rats were fed these mucilages at a dose of 4 mg/100 g body weight per d
for 8 weeks and the changes in the levels of total cholesterol and
triacylglycerols in serum, liver and aorta were analysed. All these mucilages
decreased lipid levels both in serum and tissues. Among these mucilages,
glucomannan showed the most hypolipidaemic effect followed by galactomannan and
arabinogalactan. Further, hepatocytes were isolated from the livers of
mucilage/fed rats and the synthesis and secretion of lipoproteins were studied
using metabolic labelling. There was a decrease in the synthesis and secretion
of apoB/containing lipoproteins, mainly VLDL, by hepatocytes isolated from
mucilage/fed rats when compared to control (P<0.05). This was further confirmed
by pulse chase analysis. Among the different mucilages, mannose/rich glucomannan
showed the most effect followed by galactomannan, and mannose/free
arabinogalactan showed minimal effect. Comparison of relative viscosity and
water/holding capacity showed that mannan/rich mucilages like galactomannan and
glucomannan, which showed greater hypolipidaemic effect, had greater relative
viscosity and water/holding capacity. The present results suggested that the
hypolipidaemic effect of dietary fibre involves a decrease in hepatic production
of VLDL and further that it varies with the nature of the fibre.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 17181876 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
6: Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2006 Oct 13; [Epub ahead of print]
Uptake and translocation of metals in fenugreek grown on soil amended with
tannery sludge: Involvement of antioxidants.
Sinha S, Gupta AK, Bhatt K.
Ecotoxicology and Bioremediation Group, Environmental Sciences Division,
National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow/226 001, India.
Agricultural and industrial activities cause heavy metal pollution in the soil,
which adversely affect the plant growing therein. The plants of fenugreek
(Trigonella foenum/graecum L.) were grown in soil amended with different percent
of tannery sludge (TS) (10%, 25%, 35%, 50%, and 100% TS) in order to study the
effect on antioxidant levels due to translocation of metals (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr,
Pb). The accumulation of the metals was found more in shoots than roots, except
Fe and Cr. The level of metals in seeds of the plant increased with increase in
sludge amendments ratio except Mn, which decreased in roots, shoots, and seeds
of the plant. Chromium was found below detection limits in the seeds at 10% and
25% TS. Correlation coefficient (r) between total metal accumulation and
extractable metals showed that Zn (P<0.01), Cr (P<0.01), and Cu (P<0.05) are
significantly correlated, whereas, correlation with pH showed significant
positive relation with all the studied metals except Mn. Significant positive
correlation was recorded between metal accumulation (Fe, Zn, Cu) and electrical
conductivity, cation exchange capacity, and organic matter, however, Zn, Cr, and
Cu showed significant positive correlation with bulk density, nitrate, ammonia,
and available phosphorus. The analysis of the results showed that total
chlorophyll content showed significant (P< 0.5) increase in lower amendment of
sludge (up to 35% TS at 30d and 25% TS at 60d) as over their controls. In roots,
malondialdehyde, cysteine, non/protein thiol, proline, protein, ascorbic acid
contents increased up to 35% TS at 30d. Principal component analysis also showed
that strong association exists among malondialdehyde, nonprotein thiol, protein,
and cysteine contents in the plants grown on different amendments of TS. The
level of antioxidants increased which enabled the plant to cope up the stress
induced in the plants grown on lower amendments of TS, however, toxicity was
observed at higher amendments.
PMID: 17049375 [PubMed / as supplied by publisher]
7: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Sep 20;54(19):7391/8.
Influence of lupin (Lupinus luteus L. cv. 4492 and Lupinus angustifolius L. var.
zapaton) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum L.) germination on microbial
population and biogenic amines.
Martinez/Villaluenga C, Gulewicz P, Perez A, Frias J, Vidal/Valverde C.
Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, Madrid
28006, Spain.
Microbial population and bioactive amine profile and levels of two lupin species
(Lupinus luteus L. cv. 4492 and Lupinus angustifolius L. var. zapaton) and
fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum L.) seeds as affected by germination were
investigated. Microbial population increased considerably mainly in the first
stage of germination (2 days), then small changes in bacterial numbers were
observed up to 5 days to levels between 7.8 and 8.9 log colony/forming units/g.
Microorganisms belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family were dominant for the
legumes tested. Ungerminated legume seeds contained putrescine, cadaverine,
histamine, tyramine, spermidine, and spermine. Bioactive amine levels found in
fenugreek seeds were between 3/ and 4/fold higher than those found in lupin
seeds. The highest total amine levels were found in fenugreek seeds [162 mg/kg
of dry weight (dw)], followed by L. angustifolius var. zapaton seeds (84 mg/kg
of dw) and, finally, L. luteus cv. 4492 (46 mg/kg of dw) seeds. The
concentration of individual amines showed a gradual rising trend during the
germination period in all tested sprouts, reaching levels >3 times higher than
those found in ungerminated seeds. After 5 days of germination, the fenugreek
sprouts contained the highest amount of total bioactive amines. Tyramine was the
predominant amine in both lupin varieties, whereas cadaverine was the main
bioactive amine detected in fenugreek. The results of this work thus indicated
that microbial population and biogenic amine levels in the studied lupin and
fenugreek sprouts are not a risk for healthy consumers or for individuals with
restricted activity of detoxification enzymes.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16968110 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
8: J Egypt Soc Parasitol. 2006 Aug;36(2):397/404.
Efficacy of Trigonella foenum/graecum on third stage larvae and adult fecundity
of Anopheles pharoensis.
Abdel Halim AS.
Research Institute of Medical Entomology, The General Organization for
Institutes and Teaching Hospitals, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
The insecticidal activity of Trigonella foenum/graecunm (fenugreek) against the
larval maturation and adult emergency of An. pharoensis 3rd stage was evaluated
under controlled laboratory conditions. Concentrations of 100%, 70%, 50%, 25%,
5%, 2%, 1%, 0.9%, 0.7%, 0.5% & 0.3% showed 100% larval mortality rate. 0.2% &
0.1% caused mortality of 88.9% & 66.7% respectively. On the other hand, the
fecundity of emerged adults was zero % and 33.3%. However, one control larvae
died and the nine emerged adults were fertile. So, it was recommended to be use
in controlling larvae of An. pharoensis.
PMID: 16927858 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
9: Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2006 Jun;84(6):647/54.
In vivo effect of Trigonella foenum graecum on the expression of pyruvate
kinase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, and distribution of glucose
transporter (GLUT4) in alloxan/diabetic rats.
Mohammad S, Taha A, Akhtar K, Bamezai RN, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi 110067, India.
Plasma glucose levels are maintained by a precise balance between glucose
production and its use. Liver pyruvate kinase (PK) and phosphoenolpyruvate
carboxykinase (PEPCK), 2 key enzymes of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis,
respectively, play a crucial role in this glucose homeostasis along with
skeletal muscle glucose transporter (GLUT4). In the diabetic state, this balance
is disturbed owing to the absence of insulin, the principal factor controlling
this regulation. In the present study, alloxan/diabetic animals having high
glucose levels of more than 300 mmol/L have been taken and the administration of
Trigonella seed powder (TSP) to the diabetic animals was assessed for its effect
on the expression of PK and PEPCK in liver and GLUT4 distribution in skeletal
muscle of alloxan/diabetic rats. TSP treatment to the diabetic animals resulted
in a marked decrease in the plasma glucose levels. Trigonella treatment
partially restored the altered expression of PK and PEPCK. TSP treatment also
corrected the alterations in the distribution of GLUT4 in the skeletal muscle.
Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16900249 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
10: Food Chem Toxicol. 2006 Oct;44(10):1744/50. Epub 2006 Jun 3.
Aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum/graecum L. ameliorates additive urotoxicity
of buthionine sulfoximine and cyclophosphamide in mice.
Bhatia K, Kaur M, Atif F, Ali M, Rehman H, Rahman S, Raisuddin S.
Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard
University, New Delhi 110 062, India.
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a commonly used anti/cancer drug which causes toxicity
by its reactive metabolites such as acrolein and phosphoramide mustard. In the
present study modulation of toxicity caused by concomitant exposure to CP and
l/buthionine/SR/sulfoximine (BSO) by fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum L.)
extract was evaluated by measuring lipid peroxidation (LPO) and anti/oxidants in
urinary bladder in mice. Fenugreek, a common dietary and medicinal herb, showed
protective effect not only on LPO but also on the enzymatic anti/oxidants.
CP/treated animals exhibited a significant decrease in the activities of
glutathione S/transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione
peroxidase (GP) and catalase (CAT) when compared to the controls. Level of
reduced glutathione (GSH) was also reduced with an increase in LPO in CP/treated
animals. BSO treatment depicted an additive toxic effect in CP/treated animals.
Pre/treatment of herbal extract restored activities of all the enzymes and thus
showed an overall protective effect on additive effect of CP and BSO.
Restoration of GSH by extract treatment may play an important role in reversing
CP/induced apoptosis and free radical/mediated LPO in urinary bladder.
Fenugreek, known for its hypoglycemic, anti/inflammatory and immunomodulatory
activity, may be a promising protective medicinal herb for consideration in
complementary therapy in cancer patients under chemotherapeutic interventions.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16828947 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
11: J Biochem Mol Biol. 2006 May 31;39(3):278/83.
Cloning, characterization and antifungal activity of defensin Tfgd1 from
Trigonella foenum/graecum L.
Olli S, Kirti PB.
Department of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad,
India.
Defensins are small cysteine rich peptides with a molecular mass of 5/10 kDa and
some of them exhibit potent antifungal activity. We have cloned the coding
region of a cDNA of 225 bp cysteine rich defensin, named as Tfgd1, from the
legume Trigonella foenum/graecum. The amino acid sequence deduced from the
coding region comprised 74 amino acids, of which the N/terminal 27 amino acids
constituted the signal peptide and the mature peptide comprised 47 amino acids.
The protein is characterized by the presence of eight cysteine resisdues,
conserved in the various plant defensins forming four disulphide bridges, which
stabilize the mature peptide. The recombinant protein expressed in E coli
exhibited antifungal activity against the broad host range fungus, Rhizoctonia
solani and the peanut leaf spot fungus, Phaeoisariopsis personata.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16756756 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
12: Curr Med Chem. 2006;13(10):1203/18.
Antidiabetic agents from medicinal plants.
Jung M, Park M, Lee HC, Kang YH, Kang ES, Kim SK.
Department of Chemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul 120/749, Korea.
mjung@yonsei.ac.kr
Currently available therapeutic options for non/insulin/dependent diabetes
mellitus, such as dietary modification, oral hypoglycemics, and insulin, have
limitations of their own. Many natural products and herbal medicines have been
recommended for the treatment of diabetes. The present paper reviews medicinal
plants that have shown experimental or clinical antidiabetic activity and that
have been used in traditional systems of medicine; the review also covers
natural products (active natural components and crude extracts) isolated from
the medicinal plants and reported during 2001 to 2005. Many kinds of natural
products, such as terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, and some others,
have shown antidiabetic potential. Particularly, schulzeines A, B, and C,
radicamines A and B, 2,5/imino/1,2,5/trideoxy/L/glucitol,
beta/homofuconojirimycin, myrciacitrin IV, dehydrotrametenolic acid, corosolic
acid (Glucosol), 4/(alpha/rhamnopyranosyl)ellagic acid, and
1,2,3,4,6/pentagalloylglucose have shown significant antidiabetic activities.
Among active medicinal herbs, Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae),
Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. (Leguminoceae), and Trigonella foenum graecum L.
(Leguminosae) have been reported as beneficial for treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
Review
PMID: 16719780 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
13: Mol Cell Biochem. 2006 Sep;289(1/2):137/47. Epub 2006 May 23.
Long/term effect of Trigonella foenum graecum and its combination with sodium
orthovanadate in preventing histopathological and biochemical abnormalities in
diabetic rat ocular tissues.
Preet A, Siddiqui MR, Taha A, Badhai J, Hussain ME, Yadava PK, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, Applied Molecular Biology Laboratory,
School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
Trigonella foenum graecum seed powder (TSP) and Sodium Orthovanadate (SOV) have
been shown to demonstrate antidiabetic effects by stabilizing glucose
homeostasis and carbohydrate metabolism in experimental type/1 diabetes. However
their efficacy in controlling histopathological and biochemical abnormalities in
ocular tissues associated with diabetic retinopathy is not known. The purpose of
this study was to investigate the comparative efficacy of individual as well as
combination therapy of TSP and SOV in 8 weeks diabetic rat lens and retina.
Retinas and lenses were taken from control, alloxan/induced diabetic rats and
diabetic rats treated separately with insulin, 5%TSP, SOV (0.6 mg/ml) and a
combined dose of SOV (0.2 mg/ml) and 5%TSP for 60 days. Control and each
experimental group had six rats. Alterations in the activities of enzymes HK
(hexokinase), AR (aldose reductase), SDH (sorbitol dehydrogenase), G/6/PD
(glucose/6/phosphate dehydrogenase), GPx (glutathione peroxidase), GR
(glutathione reductase) and levels of metabolites like sorbitol, fructose,
glucose, MDA (malondialdehyde) and GSH (reduced glutathione) were measured in
the cytosolic fraction of lenses besides measuring blood glucose levels and
glycosylated haemoglobin. Histopathological abnormalities were studied in the
lens using photomicrography and retina using transmission electron microscopy.
Blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin levels and polyol pathway enzymes AR and
SDH increased significantly causing accumulation of sorbitol and fructose in the
diabetic lens and treatment with SOV and TSP significantly (p < 0.05) decreased
these to control levels. Similarly, SOV and TSP treatments modulated the
activities of HK, G/6/PD, GPx and GR in the rat lens to control values.
Ultrastructure of the diabetic retina revealed disintegration of the inner
nuclear layer cells with reduction in rough endoplasmic reticulum and swelling
of mitochondria in the bipolar cells; and these histopathological events were
effectively restored to control state by SOV and TSP treatments. In this study
SOV and TSP effectively controlled ocular histopathological and biochemical
abnormalities associated with experimental type/1 diabetes, and a combination
regimen of low dose of SOV with TSP demonstrated the most significant effect. In
conclusion, the potential of SOV and TSP alone or in low dose combination may be
considered as promising approaches for the prevention of diabetic retinopathy
and other ocular disorders.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16718375 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
14: Mol Cell Biochem. 2006 Apr;285(1/2):17/27. Epub 2006 Apr 19.
Low doses of vanadate and Trigonella synergistically regulate Na+/K + /ATPase
activity and GLUT4 translocation in alloxan/diabetic rats.
Siddiqui MR, Moorthy K, Taha A, Hussain ME, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
Oral administration of vanadate to diabetic animals have been shown to stabilize
the glucose homeostasis and restore altered metabolic pathways. However,
vanadate exerts these effects at relatively high doses with several toxic
effects. Low doses of vanadate are relatively safe but unable to elicit any
antidiabetic effects. The present study explored the prospect of using low doses
of vanadate with Trigonella foenum graecum, seed powder (TSP), another
antidiabetic agent, and to evaluate their antidiabetic effect in diabetic rats.
Alloxan diabetic rats were treated with insulin, vanadate, TSP and low doses of
vanadate with TSP for three weeks. The effect of these antidiabetic compounds
was examined on general physiological parameters, Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activity,
membrane lipid peroxidation and membrane fluidity in liver, kidney and heart
tissues. Expression of glucose transporter (GLUT4) protein was also examined by
immunoblotting method in experimental rat heart after three weeks of diabetes
induction. Diabetic rats showed high blood glucose levels. Activity of
Na(+)/K(+) ATPase decreased in diabetic liver and heart. However, kidney showed
a significant increase in Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activity. Diabetic rats exhibited an
increased level of lipid peroxidation and decreased membrane fluidity. GLUT4
distribution was also significantly lowered in heart of alloxan diabetic rats.
Treatment of diabetic rats with insulin, TSP, vanadate and a combined therapy of
lower dose of vanadate with TSP revived normoglycemia and restored the altered
level of Na(+)/K(+) ATPase, lipid peroxidation and membrane fluidity and also
induced the redistribution of GLUT4 transporter. TSP treatment alone is
partially effective in restoring the above diabetes/induced alterations.
Combined therapy of vanadate and TSP was the most effective in normalization of
altered membrane linked functions and GLUT4 distribution without any harmful
side effect.
Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16622606 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
15: J Egypt Soc Parasitol. 2006 Apr;36(1):329/34.
Efficacy of Trigonella foenum/graecum (fenugreek) on third stage larvae and
adult fecundity of Musca domestica.
Abdel Halim AS, Morsy TA.
Research Institute of Medical Entomology, The General Organization for
Institutes and Teaching Hospitals, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
The insecticidal efficacy of Trigonella foenum/graecum (fenugreek) on the 3rd
stage larvae of Musca domestica and adult fecundity was evaluated under
controlled laboratory conditions. The concentrations from 25% to 100% completely
killed the larvae. 5%, 2% and 1% caused mortality percent of 44.4, 33.3 and 22.2
respectively. Less concentration of fenugreek was not tried. On the other hand,
the fecundity of the emerged adults was 20%, Zero% and 28.6%. On the other hand,
only one control larva died and the nine emerged adults were fertile. So,
fenugreek at low concentration not only has a larvicidal action against house
fly larvae but also affected the adult fecundity.
PMID: 16605122 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
16: Alcohol Alcohol. 2006 May/Jun;41(3):267/73. Epub 2006 Mar 30.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seed extract prevents ethanol/induced
toxicity and apoptosis in Chang liver cells.
Kaviarasan S, Ramamurty N, Gunasekaran P, Varalakshmi E, Anuradha CV.
Department of Biochemistry, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu,
India.
The protective effect of a polyphenolic extract of fenugreek seeds (FPEt)
against ethanol (EtOH)/induced toxicity was investigated in human Chang liver
cells. Cells were incubated with either 30 mM EtOH alone or together in the
presence of seed extract for 24 h. Assays were performed in treated cells to
evaluate the ability of seeds to prevent the toxic effects of EtOH. EtOH
treatment suppressed the growth of Chang liver cells and induced cytotoxicity,
oxygen radical formation and mitochondrial dysfunction. Reduced glutathione
(GSH) concentration was decreased significantly (P < 0.05) while oxidized
glutathione (GSSG) concentration was significantly elevated in EtOH/treated
cells as compared with normal cells. Incubation of FPEt along with EtOH
significantly increased cell viability in a dose/dependent manner, caused a
reduction in lactate dehydrogenase leakage and normalized GSH/GSSG ratio. The
extract dose/dependently reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive substances
formation. Apoptosis was observed in EtOH/treated cells while FPEt reduced
apoptosis by decreasing the accumulation of sub/G1 phase cells. The
cytoprotective effects of FPEt were comparable with those of a positive control
silymarin, a known hepatoprotective agent. The findings suggest that the
polyphenolic compounds of fenugreek seeds can be considered cytoprotective
during EtOH/induced liver damage.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16574673 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
17: Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2005 Nov;56(7):473/81.
Antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of some leafy vegetables.
Bajpai M, Mishra A, Prakash D.
Nutraceutical Chemistry, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, India.
Some leafy vegetables were studied for their nutritional composition,
antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. The aerial parts of
Coriandrum sativum, Spinacia oleracea, Trigonella corniculata and Trigonella
foenum/graecum showed lower inhibitory concentration values (4.1/7.9 mg/ml),
efficiency concentration values (178/321 mg/mg DPPH) and higher values of
anti/radical power (0.31/0.51) as compared with their seeds. Thermal treatment
reduced the total phenolic contents, antioxidant and free radical scavenging
activities. The leaves of C. sativum were found with good amounts of caffeic
acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid and chlorogenic acid.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16503558 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
18: Int J Obes (Lond). 2006 Aug;30(8):1298/307. Epub 2006 Feb 14.
Alleviation of hepatic steatosis accompanied by modulation of plasma and liver
TNF/alpha levels by Trigonella foenum graecum (fenugreek) seeds in Zucker obese
(fa/fa) rats.
Raju J, Bird RP.
Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
OBJECTIVE: Oral supplements of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seeds (Fen)
have been shown to treat glucose and lipid homeostasis in several metabolic
disorders; however, its ability to alleviate obesity/associated pathologies is
not known. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Fen in
Zucker obese rats (Ob), an animal model of obesity and related disorders, such
as dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis. METHODS: Female Zucker (6/week/old) Ob
and lean (Ln) rats were randomly grouped (n = 8 rats/group) to receive either
basal or 5% Fen/supplemented AIN/93G diets for 8 weeks, and then were
euthanized. Histopathology and biochemical parameters in the liver together with
plasma biochemistry were assessed. RESULTS: Obese rats had significantly higher
(P < 0.05) body and liver weight, as well as plasma insulin, lactate,
cholesterol, triglyceride and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)/alpha compared to
their Ln counterparts. Fen significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the liver/weight of
Ob rats in comparison to Ob rats fed basal diet (Control), while no effect was
observed in the Ln rats. Fen treatment resulted in a lower P/value (P < 0.05).
In addition, Ob rats on Fen/supplemented diets had fasting plama cholesterol and
TNF/alpha levels, and significantly higher (P < 0.05) triglycerides in
comparison to the control rats. Hepatic triglyceride level was significantly
lower (P < 0.05) in Ob rats fed Fen supplemented diets in comparison to control.
The levels of bound and soluble liver TNF/alpha (26 and 17 kDa, respectively)
and TNF receptor/II (TNFR/II, 75 kDa) proteins were significantly lower (P <
0.05) in Ob than in Ln rats. Fen significantly lowered (P < 0.05) both the
soluble and bound forms of TNF/alpha protein while significantly elevating (P <
0.05) TNFR/II in the livers of Ob rats compared to Ob Controls. CONCLUSION:
These results demonstrate unequivocally that in a short/term preclinical
evaluation, dietary Fen supplementation reduced the triglyceride accumulation in
the liver, a hallmark feature of hepatic steatosis without affecting the plasma
insulin or glucose levels in Zucker obese rats and suggest that TNF/alpha may
play an important role in this process.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16477270 [PubMed / in process]
19: Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2005 Sep;30(18):1428/30.
[Study on chemical constituents in total saponin from Trigonella foenum/graecum]
[Article in Chinese]
Yang WX, Huang HY, Wang YJ, Jia ZY, Li LL.
Changji Medical School, Changji 831100, China. ywxyt@163.com
OBJECTIVE: To study the chemical constituents in the total saponin from
Trigonellf foenum/graecum. METHOD: The compounds were isolated by column
chromatography on macroporous resin and silica gel and elucidated by physical
and chemical evidences and spectroscopic analysis. RESULT: Two compounds were
obtained and identifiedas methyl/protodioscin and methyl/protodeltonin.
CONCLUSION: Methyl/protodioscin and methyl/protodeltonin were isolated from this
plant for the first time.
Publication Types:
English Abstract
PMID: 16381462 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
20: Oncogene. 2006 Mar 9;25(10):1463/73.
Diosgenin inhibits osteoclastogenesis, invasion, and proliferation through the
downregulation of Akt, I kappa B kinase activation and NF/kappa B/regulated gene
expression.
Shishodia S, Aggarwal BB.
Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Diosgenin, a steroidal saponin present in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)
and other plants, has been shown to suppress inflammation, inhibit
proliferation, and induce apoptosis in a variety of tumor cells, but through a
mechanism that is poorly understood. In the present study, we report that
diosgenin inhibits receptor/activated nuclear factor/kappaB ligand/induced
osteoclastogenesis, suppresses tumor necrosis factor (TNF)/induced invasion, and
blocks the proliferation of tumor cells, all activities known to be regulated by
NF/kappaB. Diosgenin suppressed TNF/induced NF/kappaB activation as determined
by DNA binding, activation of IkappaBalpha kinase, IkappaBalpha phosphorylation,
IkappaBalpha degradation, p65 phosphorylation, and p65 nuclear translocation
through inhibition of Akt activation. NF/kappaB/dependent reporter gene
expression was also abrogated by diosgenin. TNF/induced expression of
NF/kappaB/regulated gene products involved in cell proliferation (cyclin D1,
COX/2, c/myc), antiapoptosis (IAP1, Bcl/2, Bcl/X(L), Bfl/1/A1, TRAF1 and cFLIP),
and invasion (MMP/9) were also downregulated by the saponin. Diosgenin also
potentiated the apoptosis induced by TNF and chemotherapeutic agents. Overall,
our results suggest that diosgenin suppresses proliferation, inhibits invasion,
and suppresses osteoclastogenesis through inhibition of NF/kappaB/regulated gene
expression and enhances apoptosis induced by cytokines and chemotherapeutic
agents.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non/P.H.S.
PMID: 16331273 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
21: Phytother Res. 2005 Nov;19(11):977/83.
Antioxidant properties of germinated fenugreek seeds.
Dixit P, Ghaskadbi S, Mohan H, Devasagayam TP.
Department of Zoology, University of Pune, Ganeshkhind, India.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum) is used as a spice, vegetable and a
medicinal plant. Since antioxidant properties have been linked to health
benefits of natural products, such properties were studied in germinated
fenugreek seeds which are considered to be more beneficial than dried seeds.
Different fractions of the germinated seeds were used to determine their
antioxidant potential at different levels. The assays employed were ferric
reducing antioxidant power, radical scavenging by 1,1/diphenyl/2/picrylhydrazyl,
ferrylmyoglobin/2,2'/azobis/3/ethylbenzthiazoline/6/sulfonic acid, pulse
radiolysis, oxygen radical absorbance capacity and inhibition of lipid
peroxidation in mitochondrial preparations from rat liver. An aqueous fraction
of fenugreek exhibited the highest antioxidant activity compared with other
fractions. As the quantity of phenolic and flavonoid compounds can be related to
antioxidant activity, the contents from these extracts were measured. HPLC
analysis was carried out to detect polyphenols, flavonoids and other components.
This study reveals significant antioxidant activity in germinated fenugreek
seeds which may be due partly to the presence of flavonoids and polyphenols.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16317656 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
22: Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 2006 Jan 15;16(2):293/6. Epub 2005 Oct 21.
4/hydroxyisoleucine an unusual amino acid as antidyslipidemic and
antihyperglycemic agent.
Narender T, Puri A, Shweta, Khaliq T, Saxena R, Bhatia G, Chandra R.
Division of Medicinal and Process Chemistry, Central Drug Research Institute,
Lucknow, India. tnarender@rediffmail.com
Trigonella foenum/graecum, commonly known as fenugreek, is an annual herbaceous
plant. From the seeds of T. foenum/graecum an unusual amino acid,
4/hydroxyisoleucine 5, has been isolated, which significantly decreased the
plasma triglyceride levels by 33% (P<0.002), total cholesterol (TC) by 22%
(P<0.02), and free fatty acids by 14%, accompanied by an increase in HDL/C/TC
ratio by 39% in the dyslipidemic hamster model.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16246556 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
23: J Biosci. 2005 Sep;30(4):483/90.
Amelioration of altered antioxidant status and membrane linked functions by
vanadium and Trigonella in alloxan diabetic rat brains.
Siddiqui MR, Taha A, Moorthy K, Hussain ME, Basir SF, Baquer NZ.
School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110 067, India.
Trigonella foenum graecum seed powder (TSP) and sodium orthovanadate (SOV) have
been reported to have antidiabetic effects. However, SOV exerts hypoglycemic
effects at relatively high doses with several toxic effects. We used low doses
of vanadate in combination with TSP and evaluated their antidiabetic effects on
anti/oxidant enzymes and membrane/linked functions in diabetic rat brains. In
rats, diabetes was induced by alloxan monohydrate (15 mg/100 g body wt.) and
they were treated with 2 IU insulin, 0.6 mg/ml SOV, 5% TSP and a combination of
0.2 mg/ml SOV with 5% TSP for 21 days. Blood glucose levels, activity of
superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Na+/K+
ATPase, membrane lipid peroxidation and fluidity were determined in different
fractions of whole brain after 21 days of treatment. Diabetic rats showed high
blood glucose (P less than 0.001), decreased activities of SOD, catalase and
Na+/K+ ATPase (P less than 0.01, P less than 0.001 and P less than 0.01),
increased levels of GPx and MDA (P less than 0.01 and P less than 0.001) and
decreased membrane fluidity (P less than 0.01). Treatment with different
antidiabetic compounds restored the above/altered parameters. Combined dose of
Trigonella and vanadate was found to be the most effective treatment in
normalizing these alterations. Lower doses of vanadate could be used in
combination with TSP to effectively counter diabetic alterations without any
toxic effects.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16184010 [PubMed / in process]
24: Mol Cell Biochem. 2005 Oct;278(1/2):21/31.
Restoration of ultrastructural and biochemical changes in alloxan/induced
diabetic rat sciatic nerve on treatment with Na3VO4 and Trigonella//a promising
antidiabetic agent.
Preet A, Gupta BL, Siddiqui MR, Yadava PK, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi, India.
Vanadium has been reported to have broad pharmacological activity both in vitro
and in vivo. Vanadium compound, sodium orthovanadate, Na3VO4, is well known for
its hypoglycaemic effects. However, Na3VO4 exerts these effects at relatively
high doses (0.6 mg/ml) and exhibit several toxic effects. In the present study
lower doses of Na3VO4 (0.2 mg/ml) are combined with Trigonella foenum graecum
seed powder (TSP), another hypoglycaemic agent, to reduce its toxicity without
compromising its antidiabetic potential. The efficacy of the lower doses of
Na3VO4 has been investigated in restoring the altered glucose metabolism and
histological structure in the sciatic nerves in 21 and 60 days alloxan diabetic
rats. A portion of the glucose was found to be channelled from the normal
glycolytic route to polyol pathway, evident by the reduced hexokinase activity
and increased polyol pathway enzymes aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase
activity causing accumulation of sorbitol and fructose in diabetic conditions.
Ultrastructural observation of the sciatic nerve showed extensive demylination
and axonal loss after eight weeks of diabetes induction. Blood glucose levels
increased in diabetic rats were normalized with the lower dose of vanadium and
Trigonella treatment. The treatment of the diabetic rats with vanadium and
Trigonella prevented the activation of the polyol pathway and sugar
accumulations. The sciatic nerves were also protected against the structural
abnormalities found in diabetes with Trigonella foenum graecum as well as
Na3VO4. Results suggest that lower doses of Na3VO4 may be used in combination
with TSP as an efficient antidiabetic agent to effectively control the long/term
complications of diabetes in tissues like peripheral nerve.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16180085 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
25: J Med Food. 2005 Fall;8(3):382/5.
Supplementation of fenugreek leaves reduces oxidative stress in
streptozotocin/induced diabetic rats.
Annida B, Stanely Mainzen Prince P.
Department of Biochemistry, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu,
India. psmprince@rediffmail.com
Trigonella foenum/graecum, commonly known as fenugreek, is a traditional
medicinal plant of the Leguminoseae family in India. The antioxidant effect of
fenugreek leaves was evaluated in the streptozotocin/induced diabetic rat model.
The antioxidant effect was evaluated by estimating thiobarbituric acid/reactive
substances and reduced glutathione and measuring the activities of catalase and
superoxide dismutase in liver, heart, and kidney in diabetic rats. Fenugreek
leaf powder supplementation significantly lowered lipid peroxidation and
significantly increased the antioxidant system in diabetic rats. The effect at a
dose of 1 g/kg of body weight of fenugreek leaf powder was similar to that of
glibenclamide. Insulin restores all the parameters to near normal values. Thus,
fenugreek leaf powder reduces oxidative stress in experimental diabetes.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
PMID: 16176151 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
26: Se Pu. 2005 Mar;23(2):216.
[Separation and identification of diosgenin in Trigonella foenum/graecum L. and
its compound preparation by gradient thin/layer chromatography]
[Article in Chinese]
Lu X, Zhao H, Zhang C, Tang S.
lxypre@163.com
PMID: 16013580 [PubMed / in process]
27: Cell Biol Int. 2005 Aug;29(8):687/94.
Chemopreventive activities of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek) against
breast cancer.
Amin A, Alkaabi A, Al/Falasi S, Daoud SA.
Biology Department, UAE University, Al/Ain, United Arab Emirates.
a.amin@uaeu.ac.ae
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Conventional therapies
cause serious side effects and, at best, merely extend the patient's lifespan by
a few years. Cancer control may therefore benefit from the potential that
resides in alternative therapies. There is thus an increasing demand to utilize
alternative concepts or approaches to the prevention of cancer. In this report,
we show a potential protective effect of Fenugreek seeds against
7,12/dimethylbenz(alpha)anthracene (DMBA)/induced breast cancer in rats. At 200
mg/kg b.wt., Fenugreek seeds' extract significantly inhibited the DMBA/induced
mammary hyperplasia and decreased its incidence. Epidemiological studies also
implicate apoptosis as a mechanism that might mediate the Fenugreek's
anti/breast cancer protective effects. To our knowledge, this is the first study
that suggests significant chemopreventive effects of Fenugreek seeds against
breast cancer.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15936223 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
28: J Biosci. 2005 Mar;30(2):221/30.
Efficacy of lower doses of vanadium in restoring altered glucose metabolism and
antioxidant status in diabetic rat lenses.
Preet A, Gupta BL, Yadava PK, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory and Applied Molecular Biology Laboratory,
School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110 067, India.
Vanadium compounds are potent in controlling elevated blood glucose levels in
experimentally induced diabetes. However the toxicity associated with vanadium
limits its role as therapeutic agent for diabetic treatment. A vanadium compound
sodium orthovanadate (SOV) was given to alloxan/induced diabetic Wistar rats in
lower doses in combination with Trigonella foenum graecum, a well/known
hypoglycemic agent used in traditional Indian medicines. The effect of this
combination was studied on lens morphology and glucose metabolism in diabetic
rats. Lens, an insulin/independent tissue, was found severely affected in
diabetes showing visual signs of cataract. Alterations in the activities of
glucose metabolizing enzymes (hexokinase, aldose reductase, sorbitol
dehydrogenase, glucose/6/phosphate dehydrogenase) and antioxidant enzymes
(glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase) besides the levels of related
metabolites, [sorbitol, fructose, glucose, thiobarbituric acid reactive species
(TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH)] were observed in the lenses from diabetic
rats and diabetic rats treated with insulin (2 IU/day), SOV (0.6 mg/ml), T. f.
graecum seed powder (TSP, 5%) and TSP (5%) in combination with lowered dose of
vanadium SOV (0.2 mg/ml), for a period of 3 weeks. The activity of the enzymes,
hexokinase, aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase was significantly
increased whereas the activity of glucose/6/phosphate dehydrogenase, glutathione
peroxidase and glutathione reductase decreased significantly in lenses from 3
week diabetic rats. Significant increase in accumulation of metabolites,
sorbitol, fructose, glucose was found in diabetic lenses. TBARS measure of
peroxidation increased whereas the levels of antioxidant GSH decreased
significantly in diabetic condition. Insulin restored the levels of altered
enzyme activities and metabolites almost to control levels. Sodium orthovanadate
(0.6 mg/ml) and Trigonella administered separately to diabetic animals could
partially reverse the diabetic changes, metabolic and morphological, while
vanadate in lowered dose in combination with Trigonella was found to be the most
effective in restoring the altered lens metabolism and morphological appearance
in diabetes. It may be concluded that vanadate at lowered doses administered in
combination with Trigonella was the most effective in controlling the altered
glucose metabolism and antioxidant status in diabetic lenses, these being
significant factors involved in the development of diabetic complications, that
reflects in the reduced lens opacity.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15886458 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
29: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Apr 20;53(8):2838/42.
Determination of major carotenoids in a few Indian leafy vegetables by
high/performance liquid chromatography.
Lakshminarayana R, Raju M, Krishnakantha TP, Baskaran V.
Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research
Institute, Mysore 570 020, India.
Leafy vegetables [Basella rubra L., Peucedanum sowa Roxb., Moringa oleifera
Lam., Trigonella foenum/graecum L., Spinacia oleracea L., Sesbania grandiflora
(L.) Poir., and Raphanus sativus L.] that are commonly used by the rural
population in India were evaluated in terms of their main carotenoid pattern.
The extracted carotenoids were purified by open column chromatography (OCC) on a
neutral alumina column to verify their identity by their characteristic
UV/visible absorption spectra. Reverse/phase high/performance liquid
chromatography (HPLC) on a C18 column with UV/visible photodiode array detection
under isocratic conditions was used for quantification of isolated carotenoids.
Acetonitrile/methanol/dichloromethane (60:20:20 v/v/v) containing 0.1% ammonium
acetate was used as a mobile phase. The major carotenoids identified by both
methods were lutein, beta/carotene, violaxanthin, neoxanthin, and zeaxanthin.
Among the carotenoids identified, lutein and beta/carotene levels were found to
be higher in these leafy vegetables. Results show that P. sowa and S. oleracea
are rich sources of lutein (77/92 mg/100 g of dry wt) and beta/carotene (36/44
mg/100 g of dry wt) compared with other leafy vegetables. The purity of
carotenoids eluted by OCC was clarified by HPLC, and they were found to be 92%
+// 3% for neoxanthin, 94% +// 2% for violaxanthin, 97% +//2% for lutein and
zeaxanthin, and 90% +// 3% for beta/carotene. It could be recommended to use P.
sowa and S. oleracea as rich sources of lutein and beta/carotene for health
benefits. The OCC method proposed is relatively simple and provides purified
carotenoids for feeding trials.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15826027 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
30: Biol Trace Elem Res. 2005 Mar;103(3):277/90.
Characterization of hypoglycemiant plants by total reflection X/ray fluorescence
spectrometry.
Zucchi OL, Moreira S, de Jesus EF, Neto HS, Salvador MJ.
Faculdade de Ciencias Farmaceuticas de Ribeirao Preto, Depto. Fisica e Quimica,
Universidade de Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil. olzucchi@fcfrp.usp.br
In this work, synchrotron radiation total reflection X/ray fluorescence
spectrometry (SRTXRF) was used to determine trace elements in eight
hypoglycemiant plants (Trigonella foenum graecum, Panax ginseng, Pfaffia
paniculata, Myrcia speciosa, Zea mays, Harpagophytum procumbens, Syzygium
jambolona, and Bauhinia forficate). The elements P, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn,
Rb, and Sr were detected in all medicinal plants investigated, whereas Si, S,
Sc, V, Cr, Co, Ni, Se, Nb, Mo, Sn, Sb, Ba, Hg, and Pb were detected only in some
of the samples. The concentration of elements in hypoglycemiant plants varied
from 0.15 microg/g of Co to 3.0 x 10(4) microg/g of K and the mean of
experimental limit of detection for these elements were 0.14 and 3.6 microg/g,
respectively.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15784959 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
31: Indian J Med Sci. 2005 Feb;59(2):64/9.
Effect of fenugreek, onion and garlic on blood glucose and histopathology of
pancreas of alloxan/induced diabetic rats.
Jelodar GA, Maleki M, Motadayen MH, Sirus S.
Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University,
Shiraz 71345, Iran. jelodar@shirazu.ac.ir
BACKGROUND: Many traditional treatments have been recommended in the alternative
system of medicine for treatment of diabetes mellitus; however, the mechanism of
most of the herbals used has not been defined. AIMS: This study was carried out
to clarify the effect of fenugreek, garlic and onion, recommended in Persian
folklore medicine as beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, on blood glucose
and their possible effect on pancreatic tissue. METHODS AND MATERIAL: Diabetes
mellitus was induced in 20 out of 25 adult male albino rats, using
intraperitoneal injection of 185 mg/kg BW alloxan. The diabetic rats were
divided into four groups, three of which were fed a diet containing 12.5% BW
Allium sativum (garlic), Allium cepa (onion) or Trigonella foenum/graecum
(fenugreek) for 15 days. The fourth group (positive control) received an
ordinary diet. The remaining non/diabetic rats (negative control group) received
neither alloxan nor the mentioned plants. Following consumption of plants, blood
glucose was measured every day and on the last day the pancreas were removed and
stained with H&E and Gomeri aldehyde fuchsin (GAF). Morphology of the pancreatic
sections and the following morphometric factors were studied: volume density of
B cells, volume density of islets, percent of B cells, number of islets per
square millimeter, average area of islets and average volume density of B cell
in whole pancreas. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: One/way Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) test and Duncan's multiple range tests were used to evaluate the data.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that only garlic was
able to reduce blood glucose significantly compared with the control group
(P<0.05). In the control positive group all the mentioned morphometric factors
were significantly changed in comparison with the control negative (normal
health) group, but the same did not show significant change between treated and
untreated diabetics.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
PMID: 15738612 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
32: Amino Acids. 2005 Feb;28(1):71/6. Epub 2004 Dec 2.
The addition of fenugreek extract (Trigonella foenum/graecum) to glucose feeding
increases muscle glycogen resynthesis after exercise.
Ruby BC, Gaskill SE, Slivka D, Harger SG.
Department of Health and Human Performance, The University of Montana, Missoula,
Montana 59812/1825, USA. brent.ruby@mso.umt.edu
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of ingesting an oral
supplement containing 4/Hydroxyisoleucine (4/OH/Ile, isolated from fenugreek
seeds [Trigonella foenum/graecum]) with a glucose beverage on rates of
post/exercise muscle glycogen resynthesis in trained male cyclists. Following an
overnight fast (12 hr), subjects completed a 90/minute glycogen depletion ride
after which a muscle biopsy was obtained from the vastus lateralis. Immediately
and 2 hours after the muscle biopsy, subjects ingested either an oral dose of
dextrose (Glu) (1.8 g.kg BW(/1)) or 4/OH/Ile supplement (Glu+4/OH/Ile, including
2.0 mg.kg(/1) 4/OH/Ile with the same oral dose of dextrose) with a second muscle
biopsy 4 hours after exercise. Post exercise muscle glycogen concentration was
similar for both trials. Overall, there was a significant increase in glucose
and insulin concentrations from time 0 throughout the majority of the 4/hour
recovery period, with no significant differences between the two trials at any
time point. Although muscle glycogen concentration significantly increased from
immediately post exercise to 4 hr of recovery for both trials, the net rate of
muscle glycogen resynthesis was 63% greater during Glu+4/OH/Ile (10.6+//3.3 vs.
6.5+//2.6 g.kg wet wt.(/1).hr.(/1) for the Glu+4/OH/Ile and Glu trials,
respectively). These data demonstrate that when the fenugreek extract supplement
(4/OH/Ile) is added to a high oral dose of dextrose, rates of post/exercise
glycogen resynthesis are enhanced above dextrose alone.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15719265 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
33: Mol Cell Biochem. 2004 Nov;266(1/2):151/9.
Trigonella foenum graecum seed powder protects against histopathological
abnormalities in tissues of diabetic rats.
Thakran S, Siddiqui MR, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi, India.
Trigonella foenum graecum is a well/known hypoglycemic agent used in traditional
Indian medicines. It was previously reported that oral administration of its
seed powder for 3 weeks to alloxan diabetic rats stabilized glucose homeostasis
and free radical metabolism in liver and kidney. In the present study, we
further investigated the effects of 3 weeks alloxan induced diabetes on the
histological structure and function of liver and kidney and the protective
effect of T. foenum graecum seed powder (TSP) oral administration to the
diabetic rats utilizing enzyme analysis and light and transmission electron
microscopy. The activity of the enzyme, glutamate dehydrogenase was
significantly higher whereas the activity of D/beta/hydroxybutyrate
dehydrogenase enzyme was significantly lower in liver and kidney of
alloxan/induced diabetic rats. Histopathological studies showed liver
degenerative and early nephropathic changes in diabetic rats. Ultrastructure of
the diabetic liver revealed a reduction in the rough endoplasmic reticulum and
swelling of mitochondria in the hepatocytes. TSP treatment to the diabetic rats
effectively prevented the alteration in the activities of the two enzymes and
partially prevented the structural abnormalities thus suggesting a protective
effect of TSP on the liver and kidney of the diabetic rats. The role of TSP in
reversing the diabetic state at the cellular level besides the metabolic
normalization further proves its potential as an antidiabetic agent.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15646037 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
34: J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Nov;95(1):13/7.
Spinal serotonergic system is partially involved in antinociception induced by
Trigonella foenum/graecum (TFG) leaf extract.
Parvizpur A, Ahmadiani A, Kamalinejad M.
Department of Pharmacology, Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine,
Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19835/355, Tehran, IR,
Iran.
It has been reported that Trigonella foenum/graecum (TFG) extract exerts
analgesic, anti/inflammatory and anti/pyretic effects in different experimental
models. The major objective of this paper was to investigate the site and
mechanism of the analgesia induced by Trigonella foenum/graecum extract. We
studied the analgesic effects of different doses of Trigonella foenum/graecum
extract after i.p., i.t. and i.c.v. administration in formalin test, using male
NMRI rats (200/250 g). Trigonella foenum/graecum extract showed analgesic
effects in i.p. (1 g/kg) and i.t. (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/rat) (P < 0.05 in all
groups) but not in i.c.v. (1 and 3 mg/rat) administrations. Based on the
similarities between the effects of Trigonella foenum/graecum extract with those
of nonsteroidal anti/inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the role of 5/HT system in
analgesic effects of NSAIDs, we tried to investigate the role of spinal 5/HT
system in analgesic effects of Trigonella foenum/graecum extract. After
lesioning of spinal 5/HT system by 5,7/dihydroxytryptamine (5,7/DHT), it was
shown that the analgesic effect of Trigonella foenum/graecum extract (0.5 and 3
mg/rat) in the second phase of formalin test, was abolished completely and
reduced relatively after using a low/dose (0.5 mg/rat) and a high/dose (3
mg/rat), respectively (P < 0.05). So, the antinociception partially remained (P
< 0.05) after using the latter dose. Meanwhile, administration of naloxone
(2mg/kg, i.p.) had no effect on the Trigonella foenum/graecum extract (1 g/kg,
i.p.) analgesia. In conclusion, this study confirms the central action of
Trigonella foenum/graecum extract and that spinal 5/HT system is partially
involved in the analgesia induced by it in the second phase of formalin test and
also indicates for co/existence of other analgesic mechanism(s).
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
PMID: 15374601 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
35: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2004 Aug;13(8):1392/8.
Diosgenin, a steroid saponin of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek), inhibits
azoxymethane/induced aberrant crypt foci formation in F344 rats and induces
apoptosis in HT/29 human colon cancer cells.
Raju J, Patlolla JM, Swamy MV, Rao CV.
Division of Nutritional Carcinogenesis, Institute for Cancer Prevention,
American Health Foundation Cancer Center, 1 Dana Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA.
Trigonella foenum graecum (fenugreek) is traditionally used to treat disorders
such as diabetes, high cholesterol, wounds, inflammation, and gastrointestinal
ailments. Recent studies suggest that fenugreek and its active constituents may
possess anticarcinogenic potential. We evaluated the preventive efficacy of
dietary fenugreek seed and its major steroidal saponin constituent, diosgenin,
on azoxymethane/induced rat colon carcinogenesis during initiation and promotion
stages. Preneoplastic colonic lesions or aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were chosen
as end points. In addition, we assessed the mechanism of tumor growth inhibition
of diosgenin in HT/29 human colon cancer cells. To evaluate the effect of the
test agent during the initiation and postinitiation stages, 7/week/old male F344
rats were fed experimental diets containing 0% or 1% fenugreek seed powder (FSP)
or 0.05% or 0.1% diosgenin for 1 week and were injected with azoxymethane (15
mg/kg body weight). Effects during the promotional stage were studied by feeding
1% FSP or 0.1% diosgenin 4 weeks after the azoxymethane injections. Rats were
sacrificed 8 weeks after azoxymethane injection, and their colons were evaluated
for ACF. We found that, by comparison with control, continuous feeding of 1% FSP
and 0.05% and 0.1% diosgenin suppressed total colonic ACF up to 32%, 24%, and
42%, respectively (P < or = 0.001 to 0.0001). Dietary FSP at 1% and diosgenin at
0.1% fed only during the promotional stage also inhibited total ACF up to 33% (P
< or = 0.001) and 39% (P < or = 0.0001), respectively. Importantly, continuous
feeding of 1% FSP or 0.05% or 0.1% diosgenin reduced the number of multicrypt
foci by 38%, 20%, and 36% by comparison with the control assay (P < or = 0.001).
In addition, 1% FSP or 0.1% diosgenin fed during the promotional stage caused a
significant reduction (P < or = 0.001) of multicrypt foci compared with control.
Dietary diosgenin at 0.1% and 0.05% inhibited total colonic ACF and multicrypt
foci formation in a dose/dependent manner. Results from the in vitro experiments
indicated that diosgenin inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in the HT/29
human colon cancer cell line in a dose/dependent manner. Furthermore, diosgenin
induced apoptosis in HT/29 cells at least in part by inhibition of bcl/2 and by
induction of caspase/3 protein expression. On the basis of these findings, the
fenugreek constituent diosgenin seems to have potential as a novel colon cancer
preventive agent.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
PMID: 15298963 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
36: J Biosci. 2004 Mar;29(1):81/91.
Effects of sodium/orthovanadate and Trigonella foenum/graecum seeds on hepatic
and renal lipogenic enzymes and lipid profile during alloxan diabetes.
Yadav UC, Moorthy K, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi 110 067, India. nzbaquer@hotmail.com
Sodium/orthovanadate (SOV) and seed powder of Trigonella foenum graecum Linn.
(common name: fenugreek, family: Fabaceae) (TSP) besides being potential
hypoglycemic agents have also been shown to ameliorate altered lipid metabolism
during diabetes. This study evaluates the short/term effect of oral
administration of SOV and TSP separately and in concert (for 21 days) on total
lipid profile and lipogenic enzymes in tissues of alloxan diabetic rats.
Diabetic rats showed 4/fold increase in blood glucose. The level of total
lipids, triglycerides and total cholesterol in blood serum increased
significantly during diabetes. During diabetes the level of total lipids
increased significantly (P < 0.001) in liver and in kidney by 48% and 55%,
respectively, compared to control. Triglycerides level increased by 32% (P <
0.01) in liver and by 51% (P < 0.005) in kidney, respectively, compared to
control. Total cholesterol level also increased significantly in both liver and
kidney (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). The activities of NADP/linked
enzymes; namely glucose/6/phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), malic enzyme (ME),
isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH), and the activities of lipogenic enzymes namely
ATP/citrate lyase (ATP/CL) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) were decreased
significantly in liver and increased in kidney during diabetes as compared to
control. SOV and TSP administration to diabetic animals prevented the
development of hyperglycemia and alteration in lipid profile in plasma and
tissues and maintained it near normal. Maximum prevention was observed in the
combined treatment with lower dose of SOV (0.2%) after 21 days. We are
presenting for the first time effectiveness of combined treatment of SOV and TSP
in amelioration of altered lipid metabolism during experimental type/I diabetes.
PMID: 15286407 [PubMed / in process]
37: BMC Plant Biol. 2004 Jul 30;4:13.
Assessment of genetic diversity in Trigonella foenum/graecum and Trigonella
caerulea using ISSR and RAPD markers.
Dangi RS, Lagu MD, Choudhary LB, Ranjekar PK, Gupta VS.
Plant Molecular Biology Group, Division of Biochemical Sciences, National
Chemical Laboratory, Pune 411008, Maharashtra State, India.
rakheesharma@yahoo.com
BACKGROUND: Various species of genus Trigonella are important from medical and
culinary aspect. Among these, Trigonella foenum/graecum is commonly grown as a
vegetable. This anti/diabetic herb can lower blood glucose and cholesterol
levels. Another species, Trigonella caerulea is used as food in the form of
young seedlings. This herb is also used in cheese making. However, little is
known about the genetic variation present in these species. In this report we
describe the use of ISSR and RAPD markers to study genetic diversity in both,
Trigonella foenum/graecum and Trigonella caerulea. RESULTS: Seventeen accessions
of Trigonella foenum/graecum and nine accessions of Trigonella caerulea
representing various countries were analyzed using ISSR and RAPD markers.
Genetic diversity parameters (average number of alleles per polymorphic locus,
percent polymorphism, average heterozygosity and marker index) were calculated
for ISSR, RAPD and ISSR+RAPD approaches in both the species. Dendrograms were
constructed using UPGMA algorithm based on the similarity index values for both
Trigonella foenum/graecum and Trigonella caerulea. The UPGMA analysis showed
that plants from different geographical regions were distributed in different
groups in both the species. In Trigonella foenum/graecum accessions from
Pakistan and Afghanistan were grouped together in one cluster but accessions
from India and Nepal were grouped together in another cluster. However, in both
the species accessions from Turkey did not group together and fell in different
clusters. CONCLUSIONS: Based on genetic similarity indices, higher diversity was
observed in Trigonella caerulea as compared to Trigonella foenum/graecum. The
genetic similarity matrices generated by ISSR and RAPD markers in both species
were highly correlated (r = 0.78 at p = 0.001 for Trigonella foenum/graecum and
r = 0.98 at p = 0.001 for Trigonella caerulea) indicating congruence between
these two systems. Implications of these observations in the analysis of genetic
diversity and in supporting the possible Center of Origin and/or Diversity for
Trigonella are discussed.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15285785 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
38: J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Aug;93(2/3):289/94.
Anti/cataract activity of Pterocarpus marsupium bark and Trigonella
foenum/graecum seeds extract in alloxan diabetic rats.
Vats V, Yadav SP, Biswas NR, Grover JK.
Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, 4th Floor,
Teaching Block, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi 110029, India.
Long/term complications are frequently encountered in diabetes mellitus and are
difficult to treat. This study was undertaken to assess the effect of three
antidiabetic plants on the development of cataract in rats. An aqueous extract
of Pterocarpus marsupium Linn bark (PM, Hindi name: Vijaysar) (1 g kg(/1)
day(/1)), Ocimum sanctum Linn leaves (OS, Hindi name, Tulsi) (200 mg kg(/1)
day(/1)) and alcoholic extract of Trigonella foenum/graecum Linn seeds (FG,
Hindi name, Methi) (2 g kg(/1) day(/1)) were given to alloxan (120 mg kg(/1))
diabetic rats until the development of cataract. Serum glucose and body weight
were monitored at regular intervals while cataract was examined through naked
eye as well as slit lamp at 75, 100 and 115 days after alloxan administration.
Administration of all the three plant extracts exerted a favorable effect on
body weight and blood glucose, the effects were best with PM followed by FG and
OS. On the course of cataract development, PM followed by FG exerted
anti/cataract effect evident from decreased opacity index while OS failed to
produce any anti/cataract effect in spite of significant antihyperglycemic
activity.
PMID: 15234767 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
39: Phytother Res. 2004 Apr;18(4):280/4.
Protective effects of selected medicinal plants against protein degradation,
lipid peroxidation and deformability loss of oxidatively stressed human
erythrocytes.
Suboh SM, Bilto YY, Aburjai TA.
Department of Biological Sciences, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
The effects of seven medicinal plants including Artemisia herba/alba, Ferula
hermonis, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Nigella sativa, Teucrium polium, Trigonella
foenum/graecum, and Allium sativum on protein degradation, lipid peroxidation,
erythrocyte deformability and osmotic fragility of erythrocytes exposed in vitro
to 10 mM H(2)O(2) for 60 min at 37 degrees C have been examined. Preincubation
of erythrocytes with Nigella sativa and Allium sativum protected erythrocytes
against protein degradation, loss of deformability and increased osmotic
fragility caused by H(2)O(2), while the other plants failed to protect
erythrocytes against these damages. Artemisia herba/alba did not protect
erythrocytes against lipid peroxidation, while Trigonella foenum/graecum
unexpectedly increased lipid peroxidation of erythrocytes exposed to H(2)O(2).
Ferula hermonis, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Nigella sativa, Teucrium polium and Allium
sativum protected erythrocytes against lipid peroxidation. The results indicate
the importance of oxidatively damaged cellular proteins in compromising the
rheologic behaviour of the erythrocytes, and that the medicinal plants which
have anti/protein/oxidant activity (e.g. Nigella sativa and Allium sativum)
could be rheologically useful, particularly in pathological conditions related
to free radicals. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15162361 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
40: Clin Chim Acta. 2004 Apr;342(1/2):105/14.
Lower doses of vanadate in combination with trigonella restore altered
carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant status in alloxan/diabetic rats.
Mohamad S, Taha A, Bamezai RN, Basir SF, Baquer NZ.
School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110 067, India.
BACKGROUND: Vanadate treatment to diabetic rats has been reported to correct the
altered carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant status. However, vanadate exerts
these effects at relatively high doses and several toxic effects are produced.
We used low doses of vanadate in combination with Trigonella foenum graecum seed
powder (TSP) and evaluated their effect on the enzyme changes in diabetic rats.
METHODS: Alloxan/diabetic rats were treated separately with insulin, vanadate
(0.6 mg/ml), TSP and a combined dose of Vanadate (0.2 mg/ml) and TSP for 21
days. At the end of the experimental period, blood glucose levels and activities
of pyruvate kinase (PK), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), glutathione
peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and
catalase (CAT) were measured in cytosolic fraction in the liver and kidney.
RESULTS: Blood glucose levels increased markedly in diabetic rats. Treatment
with antidiabetic compounds resulted in the reduction of glucose levels. Rats
treated with combined dose of vanadate and trigonella had glucose levels
comparable to control ones. Similar results were obtained with the activities of
PK, PEPCK, SOD, GPx, GR, and CAT in liver and kidney of diabetic rats. Combined
dose of vanadate and Trigonella was found to be most effective in correcting
these alterations. CONCLUSIONS: Lower doses of vanadate could be used in
combination with TSP to effectively counter diabetic alterations without any
toxic side effects.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15026271 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
41: Phytomedicine. 2003 Nov;10(8):665/8.
The combined effects of Trigonella and Allium extracts in the regulation of
hyperthyroidism in rats.
Tahiliani P, Kar A.
Thyroid Research Unit, School of Life Sciences, UTD, Devi Ahilya University,
Takshashila Campus, Indore, India.
The combined effects of Trigonella foenum/graecum and Allium sativum extracts
were evaluated for their ameliorative potential in the L/thyroxine/induced
hyperthyroidic rat model to contribute to an understanding of interaction
between the two extracts. The investigation was carried out using two different
doses. A comparison was made with the response of individual plant extracts at
the previously studied effective dose in adult Wistar rats rendered
hyperthyroidic by daily injections of L/thyroxine (300 microg/kg body wt.,
s.c.). Propylthiouracil (PTU), an antithyroid drug, was used as a reference
compound. Alterations in serum triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), glucose,
hepatic glucose/6/phosphatase (G/6/Pase) and oxygen consumption were studied as
end parameters. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) activities, lipid
peroxidation (LPO) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were examined to reveal any
toxic effects of the drugs. The combined effects of Trigonella and Allium at 200
and 500 mg/kg body wt. respectively, were equipotent as compared to the
individual extracts in lowering the serum concentrations of T3 and T4 in
hyperthyroidic rats. Our findings reveal that some plant extracts in combination
may not always prove to be synergistic. It is therefore suggested that
Trigonella foenum/graecum and Allium sativum extracts may be used individually
and not together in the regulation of hyperthyroidism.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 14692727 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
42: Ukr Biokhim Zh. 2002 May/Jun;74(3):109/12.
[Carbohydrate specificity of lectins from plants of the genus horsetail]
[Article in Ukrainian]
Antoniuk VO, Dubits'kyi OL.
Institut Cell Biology, NAS of Ukraine, Lviv.
Carbohydrate specificity of partially purified lectins from 4 species of plants:
horse/tail genus Equisetum (Equisetum arvense L., E. sylvaticum L., E. hyemale
L. and E. tempatelia Ehrh.) has been studies. The obtained lectins have similar
carbohydrate specificity. Among the tested carbohydrates the best inhibitor of
activity is phenyl/2/acetamido/alpha/D/glucosaminopyranoside. Lectins poorly
interact with yeasty mannan and galactomannan Trigonella foenum graecum seeds.
Among glycoproteins the best inhibitor of activity is ovomucoid.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract
PMID: 12916246 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
43: Phytother Res. 2003 Aug;17(7):737/43.
Protective effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seeds in experimental
ethanol toxicity.
Thirunavukkarasu V, Anuradha CV, Viswanathan P.
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalai
Nagar, Tamil Nadu, India.
The study investigates the effect of aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds
(Trigonella foenum graecum) on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in
experimental ethanol toxicity in rats. The ability of the seed extract to
prevent iron/induced lipid peroxidation in vitro was also investigated. Ethanol
feeding for 60 days resulted in significant increases in the activities of serum
aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase. The
levels of serum lipid hydroperoxides and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances
in liver and brain were also significantly elevated. Significantly lower
activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase,
glutathione S/transferase and glutathione reductase were observed in liver and
brain accompanied by depletion in glutathione, ascorbic acid and
alpha/tocopherol concentrations. Activity of Ca(2+) ATPase in brain was
significantly lowered. Simultaneous administration of aqueous extract of
fenugreek seeds with ethanol prevented the enzymatic leakage and the rise in
lipid peroxidation and enhanced the antioxidant potential. The seeds exhibited
appreciable antioxidant property in vitro which was comparable with that of
reduced glutathione and alpha/tocopherol. Further, histopathological examination
of liver and brain revealed that, aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds could offer
a significant protection against ethanol toxicity. Copyright 2003 John Wiley &
Sons, Ltd.
PMID: 12916070 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
44: J Ethnopharmacol. 2003 Sep;88(1):73/7.
Effect of soluble dietary fibre fraction of Trigonella foenum graecum on
glycemic, insulinemic, lipidemic and platelet aggregation status of Type 2
diabetic model rats.
Hannan JM, Rokeya B, Faruque O, Nahar N, Mosihuzzaman M, Azad Khan AK, Ali L.
Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and
Metabolic Disorders, 1000 Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The soluble dietary fibre (SDF) fraction of Trigonella foenum graecum (Tf/sdf)
has previously been shown to reduce postprandial elevation in blood glucose
level of Type 2 model diabetic rats by delaying the digestion of sucrose. The
Tf/sdf has now been investigated for its chronic effect on serum fructosamine,
insulin and lipid levels, and on platelet aggregation in Type 2 diabetic rats.
Tf/sdf was administered orally twice daily at a dose of 0.5 g kg(/1) for 28
days. It lowered the serum fructosamine level (P<0.05) with no significant
change in the insulin level as compared with the control. Atherogenic lipids,
i.e. triglycerides, cholesterol and LDL/cholesterol were found to decrease
significantly in Tf/sdf fed rats (P<0.01). HDL/cholesterol showed an opposite
trend (P=0.024), but serum non/esterified fatty acid (NEFA) values paralleled
the atherogenic lipids (P=0.001). No significant effect on platelet aggregation
(%) was found although there was a tendency to lower the aggregation (P=0.069).
It is concluded that Tf/sdf has a beneficial effect on dyslipidemia and has a
tendency to inhibit platelet aggregation in Type 2 model diabetic rats.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12902054 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
45: Mol Cell Biochem. 2003 May;247(1/2):45/53.
Oral administration of orthovanadate and Trigonella foenum graecum seed power
restore the activities of mitochondrial enzymes in tissues of alloxan/induced
diabetic rats.
Thakran S, Salimuddin, Baquer NZ.
Hormone and Drug Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi, India.
The effect of oral administration of sodium orthovanadate (SOV) and Trigonella
foenum graecum seed powder (TSP), a medicinal plant used extensively in Asia, on
the mitochondrial metabolism in the alloxan diabetic rats has been investigated.
Rats were injected with alloxan monohydrate (20 mg/100 g body wt) or vehicle
(Na/acetate buffer), the former were treated with either 2 IU insulin i.p., 0.6
mg/ml SOV ad libitum, 5% TSP ad libitum, and a combination of 0.2% SOV and 5%
TSP ad libitum for 21 days. Selected rate/limiting enzymes of the tricarboxylic
acid cycle, hydrogen shuttle system, ketone body metabolism, amino acid
metabolism and urea cycle were measured in the mitochondrial and cytosolic
fractions of liver, kidney and brain tissues of the experimental rats. Majority
of the mitochondrial enzymes in the tissues of the diabetic rats had
significantly higher activities compared to the control rats. Similarly, the
activities of mitochondrial and cytosolic aminotransferases and arginase were
significantly higher in liver and kidney tissues of the diabetic rats. The
separate administrations of SOV and TSP to diabetic rats were able to restore
the activities of these enzymes to control values. The lower dose of SOV (0.2%)
administered in combination with TSP to diabetic rats lowered the enzyme
activities more significantly than when given in a higher dose (0.6%)
separately. This is the first report of the effective combined action of oral
SOV and TSP in ameliorating the altered mitochondrial enzyme activities during
experimental type/1 diabetes. Our novel combined oral administration of SOV and
TSP to diabetic rats thus conclusively proves as a possible method to minimize
potential vanadate toxicity without compromising its positive effects in the
therapy of experimental type/1 diabetes.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12841630 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
46: J Fam Pract. 2003 Jun;52(6):468/78.
Herbs for serum cholesterol reduction: a systematic view.
Thompson Coon JS, Ernst E.
Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter and
Plymouth, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, United Kingdom.
jo.thompson/coon@pms.ac.uk
OBJECTIVES: To systematically review the clinical evidence for herbal medicinal
products in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. STUDY DESIGN: A systematic
review of randomized clinical trials of herbal medicinal products used to lower
serum cholesterol. Systematic literature searches were conducted in 6 electronic
data/bases. The reference lists of all papers and our files were searched for
more relevant publications. Experts in the field and manufacturers of identified
herbal medicinal products were contacted for published and unpublished data. No
language restrictions were imposed. OUTCOMES MEASURED: All randomized clinical
trials of serum cholesterol reduction, in which mono/preparations of herbal
medicinal products were administered as supplements to human subjects, were
included. RESULTS: Twenty/five randomized clinical trials involving 11 herbal
medicinal products were identified. Guggul (Commiphora mukul), fenugreek
(Trigonella foenum/graecum), red yeast rice, and artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
have been most extensively studied and have demonstrated reductions in total
serum cholesterol levels of between10% and 33%. The methodological quality as
assessed by the Jadad score was less than 3 (maximum, 5) for 13 of the 25
trials. CONCLUSIONS: Many herbal medicinal products have potential
hypocholesterolemic activity and encouraging safety profiles. However, only a
limited amount of clinical research exists to support their efficacy. Further
research is warranted to establish the value of these extracts in the treatment
of hypercholesterolemia.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
Review
PMID: 12791229 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
47: Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2002 Mar;27(3):194/6.
[Determination of trigonelline in Trigonella foenum/graecum by HPLC]
[Article in Chinese]
Zhao HQ, Qu Y, Wang XY, Zhang HJ, Li FM, Masao H.
Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Pharmaceutical College, Shenyang 110015,
Liaoning, China.
OBJECTIVE: A HPLC method is established to determine the content of trigonelline
in Trigonella foenum/graecum. METHOD: The medicinal material was extracted by
petholeum ether/ethanol. Asahipak NH2P/50 column was used, mobilephase consisted
of acetonitrile/water(75:25) and detection wavelength was set at UV 265 nm.
RESULT: The standard curve was linear in the range of 3.68/73.60 micrograms.mL/1
with the correlation coefficient of 0.9999. The average recovery rate and RSD
were 97.4% and 1.83% (n = 6) respectively. CONCLUSION: It provides scientific
indexes for quality control of T. foenum/graecum.
Publication Types:
English Abstract
PMID: 12774399 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
48: Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2002 Apr;27(4):277/9.
[Studies on chemical constituents from the seed of Trigonella foenum/graecum]
[Article in Chinese]
Shang MY, Cai SQ, Lin WH, Wang MC, Park JH.
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, China.
my/shang@263.net
OBJECTIVE: To study the chemical constituents from the seed of Trigonella
foenum/graecum. METHOD: The compounds were isolated with silica gel
chromatography and their structures were identified by physical, chemical
properties and spectral analysis. RESULT: Seven compounds were isolated and
identified as N,N'/dicarbazyl, glycerol monopalmitate, stearic acid,
beta/sitosteryl glucopyranoside, ethyl/alpha/D/glucopyranoside,
D/3/O/methyl/chiroinsitol and sucrose. CONCLUSION: All the compounds were
obtained from this plant for the first time and N,N'/dicarbazyl is a new natural
product.
Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12774372 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
49: Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2002 Oct;46(4):457/62.
Mechanism of action of a hypoglycemic principle isolated from fenugreek seeds.
Puri D, Prabhu KM, Murthy PS.
Department of Biochemistry, University College of Medical Sciences, Dilshad
Gardan, Delhi/110 095.
Mechanism of action of an orally active hypoglycemic principle isolated from
water extract of seeds of Trigonella foenum graecum (fenugreek) was investigated
in alloxan induced subdiabetic and overtly diabetic rabbits of different
severities. The active principle was orally administered to the subdiabetic and
mild diabetic rabbits (five in each group) at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight for
15 days. The treatment produced significant attenuation of the glucose tolerance
curve and improvement in the glucose induced insulin response, suggesting that
the hypoglycemic effect may be mediated through stimulating insulin synthesis
and/or secretion from the beta pancreatic cells of Langerhans. Prolonged
administration of the same dose of the active principle for 30 days to the
severely diabetic rabbits (n = 5) lowered fasting blood glucose significantly,
but could elevate the fasting serum insulin level to a much lower extent, which
suggests an extra/pancreatic mode of action for the active principle. The effect
may also be by increasing the sensitivity of tissues to available insulin. The
hypoglycemic effect was observed to be slow but sustained, without any risk of
developing severe hypoglycemia.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
PMID: 12683221 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
50: Phytother Res. 2003 Mar;17(3):294/6.
Mitigation of thyroxine/induced hyperglycaemia by two plant extracts.
Tahiliani P, Kar A.
Thyroid Research Unit, School of Life Sciences, D. A. University, Khandwa Road,
Indore / 452 017MP, India.
Extracts of Trigonella foenum/graecum (TFG) seed and Allium sativum (AS) bulb
were evaluated for their efficacy to ameliorate l/thyroxine (l/T4) induced
hyperglycaemia in rats. Simultaneously, the serum cholesterol concentration, a
supporting parameter for thyroid function, was also estimated. Thyroxine
treatment in rats (300 microg/kg b. wt./day) increased the levels of both the
thyroid hormones, namely thyroxine (T4) and tri/iodothyronine (T3) with a
concomitant elevation in serum glucose concentration and a reduction in serum
cholesterol level. Administration of TFG (220 mg/kg/day) and AS (500 mg/kg/day)
extracts in hyperthyroid animals decreased the serum glucose concentration as
well as the serum thyroid hormones. For comparison, propyl thiouracil (PTU), an
antithyroid compound, was used as the standard at a daily dose of 10 mg/kg. The
reductions in serum glucose and thyroid hormone concentrations in the plant
extract treated groups were comparable to that in PTU treated animals. Our
findings indicate that TFG seed and AS bulb extracts may prove to be effective
in the treatment of thyroxine/induced hyperglycaemia. Copyright 2003 John Wiley
& Sons, Ltd.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12672166 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
51: Plant Physiol. 2003 Mar;131(3):1487/95.
Tobacco transgenic lines that express fenugreek galactomannan
galactosyltransferase constitutively have structurally altered galactomannans in
their seed endosperm cell walls.
Reid JS, Edwards ME, Dickson CA, Scott C, Gidley MJ.
Department of Biological Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA,
United Kingdom. j.s.g.reid@stir.ac.uk
Galactomannans [(1//>6)/alpha/D/galactose (Gal)/substituted
(1//>4)/beta/D/mannans] are major cell wall storage polysaccharides in the
endosperms of some seeds, notably the legumes. Their biosynthesis in developing
legume seeds involves the functional interaction of two membrane/bound
glycosyltransferases, mannan synthase (MS) and galactomannan
galactosyltransferase (GMGT). MS catalyzes the elongation of the mannan
backbone, whereas GMGT action determines the distribution and amount of Gal
substitution. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum/graecum) forms a galactomannan with a
very high degree of Gal substitution (Man/Gal = 1.1), and its GMGT has been
characterized. We now report that the endosperm cell walls of the tobacco
(Nicotiana tabacum) seed are rich in a galactomannan with a very low degree of
Gal substitution (Man/Gal about 20) and that its depositional time course is
closely correlated with membrane/bound MS and GMGT activities. Furthermore, we
demonstrate that seeds from transgenic tobacco lines that express fenugreek GMGT
constitutively in membrane/bound form have endosperm galactomannans with
increased average degrees of Gal substitution (Man/Gal about 10 in T(1)
generation seeds and about 7.5 in T(2) generation seeds). Membrane/bound enzyme
systems from transgenic seed endosperms form galactomannans in vitro that are
more highly Gal substituted than those formed by controls under identical
conditions. To our knowledge, this is the first report of structural
manipulation of a plant cell wall polysaccharide in transgenic plants via a
biosynthetic membrane/bound glycosyltransferase.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12644698 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
52: Int Immunopharmacol. 2003 Feb;3(2):257/65.
Immunomodulatory effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) extract in
mice.
Bin/Hafeez B, Haque R, Parvez S, Pandey S, Sayeed I, Raisuddin S.
Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard
University, New Delhi 110 062, India.
Immunomodulatory activity of aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum graecum L., a
widely used medicinal and dietary herb, was evaluated in male Swiss albino mice.
Mice were treated with three doses of extract (50, 100 and 250 mg/kg body weight
per os) for 10 days. Body weight, relative organ weight, cellularity of lymphoid
organs, delayed type of hypersensitivity (DTH) response, plaque/forming cell
(PFC) assay, haemagglutination titre (HT), quantitative haemolysis of SRBC (QHS)
assay, phagocytosis, and lymphoproliferation were studied in various groups of
animals. At doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, a significant increase (p < 0.05) in
relative organ weight of thymus was observed but there was no effect on kidney
and spleen weights. Liver weight also increased significantly at doses of 100
and 250 mg/kg. However, no elevation in the levels of liver function test (LFT)
enzymes was observed. As regards lymphoid organ cellularity, spleen recorded no
significant increase at any dose, whereas cellularities of thymus and bone
marrow were significantly increased. T. foenum graecum extract elicited a
significant (p < 0.001) increase in the DTH response at doses of 50 and 100
mg/kg, but the change at higher dose of 250 mg/kg was not statistically
significant. Humoral immunity as measured by PFC showed an elevated response at
a dose of 100 mg/kg, but at 50 and 250 mg/kg, no significant effect was
observed. In the HT test, plant extract also showed modulatory effect at all the
doses. Plant extract elicited a significant increase in phagocytic index and
phagocytic capacity of macrophages. Stimulatory response of plant extract was
also observed in lymphoproliferation assay but the response was weak. Overall,
T. foenum graecum showed a stimulatory effect on immune functions in mice. As it
is used for a variety of medicinal purposes, its immunostimulatory effect, as
reported in this study, strengthens the rationale of its use in several
Ayurvedic and Unani drugs. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science B.V.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12586606 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]</
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