Research consultancy

Research consultancy

ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF ANTI-ULCER AGENTS FROM THE EXTRACTS OF SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS

Objectives

1. Identify and collect medicinal plants with anti-ulcer agents used in treatment of peptic ulcers.
2. Testing the crude extracts for anti-ulcer activity

• Isolation and purification of the Bio-active compounds in the extracts

1. Structure elucidation of the Bioactive compound in the extract with anti-ulcer properties

What is required in the introduction

Definition of the disease

Causes of the disease

1. Prevalence , world wide, AFRICA and Uganda
2. Herbal treatment, world wide, Africa and Uganda

• Problem of the disease and treatment with synthetic drugs

LITERATURE REVIEW

History of the disease

• Causes
• Prevalence
• Treatment with synthetic drugs
• Medicinal plants understudy
• Classification
• phytochemicals
• Use medically

Trees for anti-ulcer

Tree one

Tree local name : Mwambala butonya

Botanical name: callistemon citrinus (Curtis) skeels

Tree two

Local name : ekifumufumu

Local name: leonatis leonorus

Tree three

Local name: EtwaTwa

Botanical name: Bothriodine longipes

Tree four

Local name: ssere

Botanical name: Bidens pilosa. L

THIRD OBJECTIVE

Invivo and invitro methods of treatment of the complication

Write all the different ways of invivo & invitro

Fourth objective

Isolation and purification of natural products

Background

Anti-ulcer agents are medications that are used to treat and prevent ulcers, which are sores that form on the lining of the stomach or upper part of the small intestine. There are several types of anti-ulcer agents, including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 receptor blockers, and mucosal protective agents. PPIs, such as omeprazole and lansoprazole, work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. H2 receptor blockers, such as ranitidine and famotidine, block the action of histamine, a substance that stimulates acid production. Mucosal protective agents, such as sucralfate, form a protective barrier on the lining of the stomach to prevent acid and enzymes from damaging the tissue (Sun et al, 2018).

The history of research on ulcers dates back to ancient times, where the condition was recognized as a painful and debilitating ailment. However, it was not until the 19th century that scientists began to understand the causes of ulcers and develop treatments for them. In the early 20th century, physicians believed that ulcers were caused by stress and lifestyle factors, such as diet and smoking. However, this theory was challenged in the 1950s when Australian physician Barry Marshall and pathologist Robin Warren discovered that a type of bacterium called Helicobacter pylori was present in the stomachs of most ulcer patients. Their discovery led to the development of antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection, which greatly improved the outcome of ulcer treatment (Drini, 2017).

In the 1980s and 1990s, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) were developed, which effectively reduce acid production in the stomach. This class of drugs revolutionized the treatment of ulcers and significantly improved the healing rate. Today, research continues to focus on understanding the underlying causes of ulcers, developing new treatments and improving the effectiveness of existing therapies. Advances in genetics and the use of endoscopy have also improved the ability to diagnose and monitor ulcers (Kavitt et al., 2019).

Ever since aspirin was shown to injure the human gastric mucosa aspirin and non-aspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been suggested as causes of peptic ulcers. Changes in the rates of perforation and bleeding in parallel with changing patterns of prescribing have reinforced this suspicion.`~Case-control and cohort studies from both Britain and the United States of patients with symptoms of gastric ulceration,9’5 haematemesis and melaena,’0 1316-25 perforations,’8 23-28 or death related to ulcers’82324 have shown increased risks in patients taking these drugs. Endoscopic surveys have also reported a high prevalence29133 and incidence’ 2 31 of gastric and duodenal ulceration in patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Ulcers, particularly those caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, are a significant public health concern globally. However, it is difficult to estimate the exact number of deaths caused by ulcers as it is often not the primary cause of death and can be a complication of other health conditions (Normal, 2015).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), H. pylori infection is responsible for about 90% of all peptic ulcers and is a leading cause of stomach cancer, which is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In addition, the complications of peptic ulcers such as bleeding, perforation and obstruction, can lead to hospitalization and death. Research has shown that the number of deaths caused by stomach cancer has been decreasing over time, however, the number of deaths caused by peptic ulcers and H. pylori infection is still significant. It is also important to note that peptic ulcer disease is more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, where access to diagnosis and treatment is often limited (Moss, 2017).

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacterium that can infect the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). H. pylori infection is one of the most common chronic bacterial infections in humans and is estimated to affect approximately half of the world’s population. The most common symptoms of H. pylori infection are stomach pain or discomfort, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. However, many people who are infected do not have any symptoms. H. pylori infection can also cause peptic ulcers, which are sores that form on the lining of the stomach or duodenum (Cho et al., 2021).

1. pylori is usually acquired during childhood and can be transmitted through contaminated food or water, or through close contact with an infected person. H. pylori infection can be treated with antibiotics, along with medications that reduce acid production in the stomach. The most common treatment regimen involves a combination of two antibiotics (such as clarithromycin and amoxicillin) and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for 7-14 days. It’s important to note that H. pylori infection can also increase the risk of developing stomach cancer and lymphoma of the stomach. So, it is important to get tested and treated if you have symptoms of H. pylori infection or have a known risk factor (Kotilea, Bontems, & Touati, 2019).

There are several types of drugs that are currently used to treat ulcers, including: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce acid production in the stomach and are often prescribed to treat and prevent peptic ulcers. Examples of PPIs include omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole. H2 receptor blockers: These drugs block the action of histamine, a substance that stimulates acid production in the stomach. They are typically used to treat and prevent ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and to relieve symptoms of acid reflux. Examples of H2 receptor blockers include ranitidine, famotidine, and cimetidine. Antibiotics: For the treatment of ulcers caused by H. pylori infection, antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, and tetracycline are commonly used. The most common treatment regimen is a combination of two antibiotics and a PPI for 7-14 days. Mucosal protective agents: These drugs form a protective barrier on the lining of the stomach and duodenum to prevent acid and enzymes from damaging the tissue. Examples of mucosal protective agents include sucralfate and misoprostol. Antacids: These medications neutralize the acid in the stomach, which can provide relief from the symptoms of ulcers. Examples of antacids include aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and calcium carbonate. It’s important to note that these medications are prescribed based on the underlying cause of the ulcer and the patient’s individual condition, and it is best to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment (Mehta, 2016).

Many plants and tree species have been used traditionally to treat ulcers and stomach disorders, and some have been found to have anti-ulcer properties in scientific research. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a plant that has been used for centuries to treat stomach ulcers. Studies have shown that compounds in licorice called glycyrrhizin and flavonoids have anti-ulcer properties. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is a succulent plant that has been traditionally used to treat stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders. Studies have found that compounds in aloe vera, such as aloin and emodin, have anti-ulcer properties. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a plant in the ginger family that is commonly used as a spice and has been used traditionally to treat stomach ulcers. Studies have shown that compounds in turmeric called curcuminoids have anti-ulcer properties. Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) is a tree that produces resin that has been used for centuries to treat stomach ulcers and other inflammatory conditions. Studies have shown that compounds in Boswellia resin called boswellic acids have anti-ulcer properties. Gastrodia (Gastrodia elata) is a plant that has been traditionally used to treat stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders. Studies have found that compounds in Gastrodia called gastrodin have anti-ulcer properties. It’s important to note that these plants and tree have been studied for their anti-ulcer properties but it’s not recommended to use them as a replacement for the treatment prescribed by a healthcare professional (Kumar, Singh, & Painuly, 2022). And also, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of action and potential side effects of these natural remedies.

Anti-ulcer drugs, also known as ulcer healing agents or gastric ulcer healing agents, are introduced into the body through various routes of administration, depending on the type of drug and the condition being treated. Oral administration: This is the most common route of administration for anti-ulcer drugs. Tablets, capsules, and liquids are taken by mouth and dissolve in the stomach, where the active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream. Examples of oral anti-ulcer drugs include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 receptor blockers, and mucosal protective agents. Intravenous (IV) administration: This route of administration is used for patients who are unable to take medication by mouth, such as those who are unconscious or have difficulty swallowing. Anti-ulcer drugs are given through a vein and are absorbed into the bloodstream immediately. Rectal administration: Some anti-ulcer drugs, such as misoprostol, are available in suppository form and can be inserted into the rectum. This route of administration is used for patients who are unable to take medication by mouth or have a stomach obstruction. Topical administration: Some anti-ulcer drugs in the form of creams or gels can be applied directly to the ulcer site. This route of administration is used for patients who have a localized ulcer that is not amenable to oral or IV therapy. It’s important to note that the route of administration, dosage, and duration of treatment will vary depending on the type of drug and the individual patient’s condition. It’s always recommended to follow the instructions of a healthcare professional (Jha et al., 2011).

Ulcers, particularly those caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, are a significant public health concern worldwide. However, it is difficult to estimate the exact number of deaths caused by ulcers as it is often not the primary cause of death and can be a complication of other health conditions.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), H. pylori infection is responsible for about 90% of all peptic ulcers and is a leading cause of stomach cancer, which is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In addition, the complications of peptic ulcers such as bleeding, perforation and obstruction, can lead to hospitalization and death.Research has shown that the number of deaths caused by stomach cancer has been decreasing over time, however, the number of deaths caused by peptic ulcers and H. pylori infection is still significant. It is also important to note that peptic ulcer disease is more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, where access to diagnosis and treatment is often limited. It’s difficult to provide an exact number of deaths caused by ulcers worldwide, but it’s estimated that stomach cancer caused by H. pylori infection is responsible for about 1.4 million deaths annually

Anti-ulcer tress

Anti-ulcer trees refer to trees or plants that have been found to have properties that can help prevent or treat stomach ulcers. Some examples of anti-ulcer trees include:

Aloe vera: This plant has been used for centuries to treat stomach issues, and it’s been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties.

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is native to North Africa and the Canary Islands. It is known for its medicinal properties, and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including skin irritations, burns, and stomach issues.

The gel inside the leaves of the aloe vera plant contains compounds that are thought to have anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties. Research has shown that aloe vera gel can help to protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, which may help to prevent or treat stomach ulcers.

Aloe vera gel can be applied topically to the skin for treating burns, cuts and other skin irritations. It can also be consumed in juice or capsule form, but it is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before consuming as it can interact with certain medications and have some side effects.

Some studies have shown that Aloe vera gel may also have a beneficial effect in controlling blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, and some studies suggest that it may have anti-cancer properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.

It is important to note that not all Aloe products are the same and the quality of the product can vary significantly, so it is important to purchase from a reputable source and check that it is standardized to ensure consistency and purity.

Aloe-vera

Aloe-vera chemical composition

The Aloe vera plant has been known and used for centuries for its health, beauty, medicinal and skin care properties. The name Aloe vera derives from the Arabic word “Alloeh” meaning “shining bitter substance,” while “vera” in Latin means “true.” 2000 years ago, the Greek scientists regarded Aloe vera as the universal panacea. The Egyptians called Aloe “the plant of immortality.” Today, the Aloe vera plant has been used for various purposes in dermatology.

Aloe vera has been used for medicinal purposes in several cultures for millennia: Greece, Egypt, India, Mexico, Japan and China. Egyptian queens Nefertiti and Cleopatra used it as part of their regular beauty regimes. Alexander the Great, and Christopher Columbus used it to treat soldiers’ wounds. The first reference to Aloe vera in English was a translation by John Goodyew in A.D. 1655 of Dioscorides’ Medical treatise De Materia Medica. By the early 1800s, Aloe vera was in use as a laxative in the United States, but in the mid-1930s, a turning point occurred when it was successfully used to treat chronic and severe radiation dermatitis.

The botanical name of Aloe vera is Aloe barbadensis miller. It belongs to Asphodelaceae (Liliaceae) family, and is a shrubby or arborescent, perennial, xerophytic, succulent, pea- green color plant. It grows mainly in the dry regions of Africa, Asia, Europe and America. In India, it is found in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

The plant has triangular, fleshy leaves with serrated edges, yellow tubular flowers and fruits that contain numerous seeds. Each leaf is composed of three layers: 1) An inner clear gel that contains 99% water and rest is made of glucomannans, amino acids, lipids, sterols and vitamins. 2) The middle layer of latex which is the bitter yellow sap and contains anthraquinones and glycosides. 3) The outer thick layer of 15–20 cells called as rind which has protective function and synthesizes carbohydrates and proteins. Inside the rind are vascular bundles responsible for transportation of substances such as water (xylem) and starch (phloem).³

Active components with its properties: Aloe vera contains 75 potentially active constituents: vitamins, enzymes, minerals, sugars, lignin, saponins, salicylic acids and amino acids.

Vitamins: It contains vitamins A (beta-carotene), C and E, which are antioxidants. It also contains vitamin B12, folic acid, and choline.

Enzymes: It contains 8 enzymes: aliiase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase, and peroxidase. Bradykinase helps to reduce excessive inflammation when applied to the skin topically, while others help in the breakdown of sugars and fats.

Minerals: It provides calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc. They are essential for the proper functioning of various enzyme systems in different metabolic pathways and few are antioxidants.

Sugars: It provides monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) and polysaccharides: (glucomannans/polymannose). These are derived from the mucilage layer of the plant and are known as mucopolysaccharides. The most prominent monosaccharide is mannose-6-phosphate, and the most common polysaccharides are called glucomannans [beta-(1,4)-acetylated mannan]. Acemannan, a prominent glucomannan has also been found. Recently, a glycoprotein with antiallergic properties, called alprogen and novel anti-inflammatory compound, C-glucosyl chromone, has been isolated from Aloe vera gel.

Anthraquinones: It provides 12 anthraquinones, which are phenolic compounds traditionally known as laxatives. Aloin and emodin act as analgesics, antibacterials and antivirals.

Fatty acids: It provides 4 plant steroids; cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol and lupeol. All these have anti-inflammatory action and lupeol also possesses antiseptic and analgesic properties.

Hormones: Auxins and gibberellins that help in wound healing and have anti-inflammatory action.

Others: It provides 20 of the 22 human required amino acids and 7 of the 8 essential amino acids. It also contains salicylic acid that possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Lignin, an inert substance, when included in topical preparations, enhances penetrative effect of the other ingredients into the skin. Saponins that are the soapy substances form about 3% of the gel and have cleansing and antiseptic properties.

Licorice: The root of this plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat stomach ulcers and other digestive issues. It’s been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties.

Licorice root has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including stomach ulcers. The root of the licorice plant contains compounds called flavonoids and glycyrrhizin, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties.

Research suggests that licorice root may help to protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, which can help to prevent or treat stomach ulcers. Studies have shown that licorice root extract can help to reduce the size of stomach ulcers and speed up the healing process.

There are a few ways to use licorice root for treating stomach ulcers:

Licorice root powder can be added to water or tea and consumed as a beverage.

Licorice root extract can be found in capsules or tablets and can be taken orally.

Licorice root tea bags can also be used to make a tea.

It is important to note that long-term use of licorice root in high doses can lead to side effects such as high blood pressure and low potassium levels. Therefore, it is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before consuming licorice root, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications.

Additionally, some licorice products are processed to remove glycyrrhizin which is the compound responsible for the side effects, those are considered safe to consume in moderate amount and for short periods of time.

Mastic tree: This tree is native to the Mediterranean region, and its resin has been used for centuries to treat stomach ulcers. It’s been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties.

Indian Gooseberry: Also known as Amla, it has been found to have antiulcerogenic properties.

These are just a few examples, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of these and other anti-ulcer trees. It’s important to note that while these plants may have some potential benefits, they should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Consult with a medical professional before using any plant or tree for treating ulcers or other health conditions.

Literature

There are several different types of extraction methods used to obtain plant phytochemicals, including:

1. Solvent extraction: This is the most commonly used method to extract phytochemicals from plants. The plant material is soaked in a solvent, such as ethanol, methanol, or hexane, which dissolves the desired compounds. The solvent is then evaporated to leave behind the extract.
2. Steam distillation: This method is used to extract essential oils from plants. The plant material is heated with steam, which causes the essential oils to vaporize. The steam and essential oil vapor are then condensed and collected.
3. Supercritical fluid extraction: This method uses supercritical fluids, such as carbon dioxide, to extract phytochemicals from plants. This method is considered to be less harsh than other methods and can produce high-purity extracts.
4. Cold pressing: This method is mainly used to extract essential oils from citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons. The fruits are mechanically pressed to release the essential oils.
5. Microwave-assisted extraction: This method uses microwave energy to extract phytochemicals from plants. It is considered to be a faster and more efficient method compared to traditional methods.
6. Enzyme-assisted extraction: This method uses enzymes to break down plant material and release the phytochemicals. It is considered to be a gentler method and can produce high-quality extracts.

It is worth noting that the choice of extraction method depends on the type of phytochemical and the plant material being used.

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REFERENCES

Sun, J., Sun, H., Cui, M., Sun, Z., Li, W., Wei, J., & Zhou, S. (2018). The use of anti-ulcer agents and the risk of chronic kidney disease: a meta-analysis. International Urology and Nephrology, 50(10), 1835-1843.

Drini, M. (2017). Peptic ulcer disease and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Australian prescriber, 40(3), 91.

Kavitt, R. T., Lipowska, A. M., Anyane-Yeboa, A., & Gralnek, I. M. (2019). Diagnosis and treatment of peptic ulcer disease. The American journal of medicine, 132(4), 447-456.

Normal, H. (2015). Helicobacter pylori infection.

Moss, S. F. (2017). The clinical evidence linking Helicobacter pylori to gastric cancer. Cellular and molecular gastroenterology and hepatology, 3(2), 183-191.

Cho, J., Prashar, A., Jones, N. L., & Moss, S. F. (2021). Helicobacter pylori infection. Gastroenterology Clinics, 50(2), 261-282.

Kotilea, K., Bontems, P., & Touati, E. (2019). Epidemiology, diagnosis and risk factors of Helicobacter pylori infection. Helicobacter pylori in Human Diseases, 17-33.

Kumar, R., Singh, A., & Painuly, N. (2022). Investigation of in-vitro anti-oxidant & anti-ulcer activity of polyherbal medicinal plants. Journal of Pharmaceutical Negative Results, 2077-2088.

Mehta, D. (2016). Ulcer-review on types, anti-ulcer drugs, anti-ulcer medicinal plants, anti-ulcer drug market, diagnostics and current global clinical trials status. Invent Rapid Pharm Pract, 2, 1-8.

Jha, S. K., Karki, R., Venkatesh, D. P., & Geethalakshami, A. (2011). Formulation development & characterization of microemulsion drug delivery systems containing antiulcer drug. International Journal of Drug Development and Research, 3(4), 0-0.