Rakesh Kumar Sahoo

Introduction and Aim: The study aimed to explore the hepatoprotective potential of the methanolic extract of Caesalpinia pulcherrima L. (MECP) using the paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity model in HepGⁿ cells. Methods: The MECP was analysed by GC-MS to identify its major components. In silico studies were performed using pro-inflammatory markers, including IL-6 and TNF-α. Pre-treated HepG2 cells (6.25-100 μg/mL) were exposed to paracetamol (40 mM, 12 h) after 24 hours. LDH, oxidative markers (SOD, GPx, GSH, MDA) were quantified, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) were measured after MECP treatment. Cellular morphology was analysed by fluorescence microscopy to assess the effect of MECP on cell growth. Results: GC-MS spectra showed the presence of 167 compounds in the MECP extract. An insilico study identified thymol and catechol as potent molecules with promising binding to IL-6 and TNF-α, supporting the traditional claim that C. pulcherrima is an anti-inflammatory compound effective in liver disorders. Paracetamol exposure significantly elevated LDH release, MDA levels, and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, while markedly reducing antioxidant defences, SOD, GPx, and GSH. Discussion: Pre-treatment with MECP showed restoration of the levels of these parameters toward normal in a dose-dependent manner. The 100 μg/mL MECP showed significant reductions in LDH, MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6. Microscopic characteristics confirmed cellular regeneration comparable to the control group. Thymol and catechol exhibited strong binding with IL-6 and TNF-α, suggesting their involvement in MECP’s hepatoprotective effect. Conclusion: These results support its traditional use in liver disorders and highlight its potential as a natural hepatoprotective agent.

Gliomas are the most prevailing intracranial tumors, which account for approximately 36% of the primary brain tumors of glial cells. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) possesses a higher degree of malignancy among different gliomas. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the brain against infections and toxic substances by preventing foreign molecules or unwanted cells from entering the brain parenchyma. Nano-carriers such as liposomes, nanoparticles, dendrimers, etc. boost the brain permeability of various anticancer drugs or other drugs. The favorable properties like small size, better solubility, and the modifiable surface of dendrimers have proven their broad applicability in the better management of GBM. However, in vitro and in vivo toxicities caused by dendrimers have been a significant concern. The presence of multiple functionalities on the surface of dendrimers enables the grafting of target ligand and/or therapeutic moieties. Surface engineering improves certain properties like targeting efficiency, pharmacokinetic profile, therapeutic effect, and toxicity reduction. This review will be focused on the role of different surface-modified dendrimers in the effective management of GBM.