NISCAIR Online Periodicals Repository Collection: IJEB Vol.49(09) [September 2011]

In vitro propagation and mass scale multiplication of a critically endangered epiphytic orchid, Gastrochilus calceolaris (Buch.-Ham ex J.E.Sm.) D.Don.

Title: In vitro propagation and mass scale multiplication of a critically endangered epiphytic orchid, Gastrochilus calceolaris (Buch.-Ham ex J.E.Sm.) D.Don.

Authors: Pathak, Promila; Piri, Hossein; Vij, S P; Mahant, K C; Chauhan, Shaveta

Abstract: In vitro asymbiotic seed germination potential of its immature seeds (36 weeks after pollination) of G. calceolaris was successfully tested on three different agar gelled nutrient media i.e. Murashige and Skoog (MS), Mitra et al. (M) and potato dextrose agar (PDA). Seeds germinated within 15.75±0.75 to 35.75±0.75 days in the three different media. The protocorms developed therefrom subsequently differentiated into first leaf and root primordia, and complete seedlings were obtained within 111.25±1.25 to 141.25±1.25 days on MS and M media. The protocorms, though failed to differentiate further on basal PDA medium, despite repeated subculturings, incorporation of peptone (P; 1gl^-1), yeast extract (YE; 2 gl^-1) and coconut water (CW; 20%) in the medium proved beneficial in inducing differentiation, in these germinating entities. Additional use of growth additives (P/YE/CW), in general, favoured better germination, protocorm formation and seedling development. The optimal nutritional combination during seed germination, protocorm growth and multiplication and seedling development was found to be CW (10%) enriched MS medium.

Page(s): 711-716

Protection against radiation clastogenecity in mouse bone marrow by Phyllanthus niruri

Title: Protection against radiation clastogenecity in mouse bone marrow by Phyllanthus niruri

Authors: Thakur, Indu; Devi, P Uma; Bigoniya, Papiya

Abstract: The effects of aqueous (PnAq) and alcoholic (PnAl) extract (50-250 mg/kg) of P. niruri on in vivo gamma radiation induced chromosome aberration and in vitro antioxidant activity (50-500 µg/ml) were studied. The antioxidant activity was studied by measuring inhibition of hydroxyl radicals generated by the fenton reaction along with pro-oxidant and iron chelating ability. PnAl showed highly significant in vitro free radical scavenging ability when compared to DMSO above 250 µg/ml concentration. PnAq showed significant pro-oxidant activity while PnAl was devoid of it at the tested concentrations. Exposure to gamma radiation (4 Gy) caused 29.10 % increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations. Administration of PnAl (250 mg/kg) showed highly significant decrease in chromosomal aberrations compared to radiation treated group. Radioprotective potential of alcoholic extract was found to be more effective than the aqueous extract. Qualitative phytochemical investigation of PnAq and PnAl revealed the presence of sugars, flavonoids, alkaloid, lignans, polyphenols, tannins, coumarins and saponins. Higher radioprotective effect of the alcoholic extract may be attributed to rich presence of antioxidant polyphenolic compounds.

Page(s): 704-710

Analgesic activity of the aqueous seed extract of Hunteria umbellata (K. Schum.) Hallier f. in rodents

Title: Analgesic activity of the aqueous seed extract of Hunteria umbellata (K. Schum.) Hallier f. in rodents

Authors: Adeyemi, Olufunmilayo Olaide; Adeneye, Adejuwon Adewale; Alabi, Tope Elizabeth

Abstract: The analgesic effect and possible mechanism(s) of action of 50-200 mg/kg of the aqueous seed extract of H. umbellata (HU) were investigated in different experimental models of analgesia using the tail flick, tail immersion, acetic acid-induced writhing tests and formalin-induced algesia. Oral pre-treatment with 50-200 mg/kg of HU caused significant and dose related analgesic effect in the treated rats in all the experimental models used. This analgesia was mediated via central and peripheral mechanisms. Overall, the results showed that HU possesses analgesic effect which lends support to its folkloric use in the local management of pain.

Page(s): 698-703

Effect of green tea (Camellia sinensis L.) extract on morphological and functional changes in adult male gonads of albino rats

Title: Effect of green tea (Camellia sinensis L.) extract on morphological and functional changes in adult male gonads of albino rats

Authors: Chandra, Amar K; Choudhury, Shyamosree Roy; De, Neela; Sarkar, Mahitosh

Abstract: Green tea, prepared from the steamed and dried leaves of the shrub Camellia sinensis, is known for its antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic effects. However, its effects on male gonadal functions have not been explored adequately and the present investigation has been undertaken to evaluate the effect of green tea extract on gonads of adult male albino rats. Results of in vivo studies showed that green tea extract (GTE) at mild (1.25 g%, ≡ 5 cups of tea/day), moderate (2.5 g%, ≡ 10 cups of tea/day) and high (5.0 g%, ≡ 20 cups of tea/day) doses, for a period of 26 days, altered morphology and histology of testis and accessory sex organs. A significant dose-dependent decrease in the sperm counts, inhibited activities of testicular ∆⁵3- and 17-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (∆⁵-3-HSD and 17-HSD respectively) and decreased serum testosterone level were noticed. Significant increase in serum LH level was observed after moderate and high doses; serum FSH level also increased but not significantly. Histopathological examination showed inhibition of spermatogenesis evidenced by preferential loss of matured and elongated spermatids. Results of this study showed that GTE at relatively high dose may cause impairment of both the morphological and normal functional status of testis in rodents and thus its consumption at relatively high doses raises concern on male reproductive function in spite of its other beneficial effects.

Page(s): 689-697