Séfirin DJIOGUE

Ameliorative effects of the “tenghõ’s” extract on cell proliferation, neuronal cell viability, and growth

Rudig Nikanor Tadah Djikem, Zuzana Bačová, Séfirin Djiogue, Tomáš Havránek, Kevine Kamga Silihe, Denisa Mihalj et 2 autre(s)

Neuroscience

• #traditional chinese medicine analysis
• #viability assay
• #cell growth
• #neuroscience

Amnesic properties of extra-virgin avocado oil (Persea americana Mill., Lauraceae) on anAlcl3/D-galactose Co-administration-induced model of Alzheimer’s disease in ovariectomized Wistar rats

Christelle Massop Wamba Ndé, Séfirin Djiogue, Franklin Zemo Gamo, Charline Florence Awounfack, Rudig Nikanor Djikem Tadah, Kevine Kamga Silihe et 1 autre(s)

Neuroscience

• #diet, metabolism, and disease
• #persea
• #lauraceae
• #ovariectomized rat

Crassocephalum crepidioides extracts reverses the effects of valproic acid in an in-utero mouse model of autistic disorders

Irène Alice Folefack, Séfirin Djiogue, Galba Jean Beppe, Nanou Gael Allah-Doum, Chiara N. Adjoffoin, Rudig Nikanor Tadah Djikem et 4 autre(s)

International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted or repetitive behaviours. This study investigates the potential of hydroethanolic extract of Crassocephalum crepidioides (HEE) to ameliorate ASD-related behaviours in a valproic acid (VPA)-induced mouse model of in utero ASD. VPA exposure disrupts neurodevelopmental processes, affecting synaptic function and neural connectivity which are also seen in Autism. Methods: Thirty pregnant female mice were used among which, six served as normal control group. the twenty-four remaining mice received valproic acid 600 mg/kg on gestational day 10 to day 12. Following parturition, offspring were treated daily from postnatal day 21 to 50. Behavioural assessments were conducted during the treatment period. Upon completion of behavioural testing, brains were collected for biochemical analysis of monoamine levels. Results: Compared to the VPA-exposed control group, HEE treatment at all tested doses significantly reduced (p<0.001) the time spent investigating an empty chamber in a social preference test, and significantly increased (p<0.001) the time spent interacting with a social stimulus (sentinel). Furthermore, HEE treatment significantly increased (p<0.001) brain tissue concentrations of monoamines. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Crassocephalum crepidioides extract may exert neuroprotective effects, improving both social behaviour and reducing repetitive behaviours in this VPA-induced mouse model of ASD. HEE has therapeutic potential by modulating neurotransmitter systems known to be disrupted in Autism.

• #autism spectrum disorder research
• #family and disability support research
• #genetics and neurodevelopmental disorders
• #medicine

Effects of Khaya anthotheca against behavioral disorders and oxidative stress induced by repeated variable stress

Zemo Gamo Franklin, Séfirin Djiogue, Mengue Ngadena Yolande Sandrine, Charline Florence Awounfack, Rudig Nikanor Djikem Tadah, Constant Anatole Pieme et 1 autre(s)

Exploration of Drug Science

Aim: Menopausal women are suffering from stress-related disorders, and in the previous studies, Khaya anthotheca (K. anthotheca) decoction exhibited estrogenic and anxiolytic properties. Taken together, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of K. anthotheca decoction on behavioral disorders and oxidative stress induced by repeated variable stress in ovariectomized Wistar rats. Methods: Forty-two female Wistar rats (10–12 weeks old; 145 ± 10 g) were used. They were ovariectomized (except those from the sham operated group). Fourteen days after ovariectomy, animals were randomly distributed into 7 groups (n = 6): sham operated and negative control groups receiving distilled water; two positive control groups receiving estradiol valerate and diazepam (1 mg/kg each), and three other groups receiving the tested doses of K. anthotheca extract (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg each). The treatment was applied every week. Anxiety, depression, and motor coordination were assessed throughout the experimental procedure. The anti-oxidative potential of the extract was evaluated in rat brain homogenate. Results: It was noted that K. anthotheca extract induced anxiolytic effects marked by an increase in the locomotory activity during open field, light/dark, and elevated plus maze tests. Besides, its anti-depressive effects were shown by a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the immobilization time during the forced swimming test. By improving the suspension time during grid and wire grip tests, the distance covered, and the number of switch directions during the beam walking test, the extract increased motor coordination. The antioxidant potential of the extract was marked by a significant decrease (p < 0.01) in malondialdehyde level and an increase (p < 0.05) in reduced glutathione level. Conclusions: These results provide valuable insights into the potential therapeutic application of the K. anthotheca extract; however, more studies are needed to elucidate mechanisms of action.

• #menopause: health impacts and treatments
• #phytoestrogen effects and research
• #estrogen and related hormone effects
• #khaya

Graptophyllum pictum (Acanthaceae) relieves some hallmarks of endometriosis in an experimental model in Wistar rats

Perpetue Mbede Atsama, Séfirin Djiogue, Charline Florence Awounfack, Dieudonné Njamen

Reproduction and Fertility

Abstract: Current treatments for endometriosis are unsuitable for women who wish to conceive. To verify the supposed beneficial effects of Graptophyllum pictum (G. pictum) on reproductive diseases and inflammation, endometriosis was induced in female Wistar rats using a slightly modified protocol. After verification of successful transplantation (42 days), the animals were co-treated for 7 days with estradiol valerate (E2V; 0.5 mg/kg and the aqueous (GPC) or methanolic (GPM) extracts of G. pictum at doses of 50 and 275 mg/kg. Positive controls received aspirin (3 mg/kg) or letrozole (10 mg/kg). Normal and negative controls received vehicle (distilled water, 10 mL/kg). On day 7, animals were injected with oxytocin 30 min before sacrifice to evaluate some dysmenorrhea-like model parameters. Five animals per group were then sacrificed, and the remaining five animals were mated with males of proven fertility for 25 days. G. pictum extracts at all doses significantly (P < 0.001) increased the time of writhing latency and decreased its frequency and the volume of implant (P < 0.05) at the GPM 50 mg/kg dose. Levels of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and vascular angiogenic growth factor were reduced (P < 0.001) with all treatments. They also increased (P < 0.05) the serum superoxide dismutase and glutathione levels and decreased serum nitrite and malondialdehyde levels. In addition, the number of Graafian follicles (P < 0.05), fertility, and pregnancy rates were increased with the treatments. G. pictum extracts showed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and fertilizing effects in Wistar rats with endometriosis. Lay summary: Asymptomatic in some individuals, endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease that causes infertility and severe pelvic pain, especially during menstrual periods and sexual intercourse. Higher cesarean rates worldwide have led to more cases of endometriosis (scar endometriosis). The delay of diagnosis (between 2 and 13 years) leads to increased misdiagnosis among patients and healthcare costs. There is no cure, but current treatments aim to alleviate spasms and pain by inhibiting estrogen production, and they are therefore unsuitable for women wishing to conceive, since they affect ovulation. Hence, there is a need to seek medical treatments that do not prevent pregnancy. Apart from its ornamental worth, Graptophyllum pictum, also called caricature plant, is traditionally used to relieve pain and treat reproductive disorders. After abdominal auto-transplantation of uterine fragments in rats, water-based and alcohol-based extracts of G. pictum promoted fertility by improving menstrual pain, egg development, and reducing cell damage and inflammation, which contribute to the progression of endometriosis.

• #endometriosis research and treatment
• #reproductive system and pregnancy
• #menopause: health impacts and treatments
• #malondialdehyde

TeMac™ ameliorates memory impairment and cholinergic dysfunction in rats induced by scopolamine

Bruno Dupon Akamba Ambamba, Fils Armand Ella, Dany Joël Ngassa Ngoumen, Janvier Youovop, Guy Roussel Takuissu, Ruth Edwige Kemadjou Dibacto et 4 autre(s)

Metabolic Brain Disease

• #cholinesterase and neurodegenerative diseases
• #medicinal plants and neuroprotection
• #neuroscience and neuropharmacology research
• #memory impairment

Effects of diet and ovariectomy on Toxoplasma gondii brain infection: functional alterations and neuronal loss in rats

Nene Ahidjo, Paul F. Seke Etet, Leonard Ngarka, Frederic Maidawa Yaya, Ethel W Ndianteng, Aude L Eyenga Nna et 11 autre(s)

Brain Communications

Abstract Epidemiological evidence associates Toxoplasma gondii latent infection with the development of neuropsychiatric disorders, and various immunological and environmental factors play key pathophysiological roles through host immune response alterations. We investigated the cognitive and motor alterations occurring in the terminal stage of T. gondii infection in rats, and whether a low-protein diet, a high-fat diet or ovariectomy may accelerate their development, given the role of malnutrition and menopause on immunity and resistance to infection. In two sets of experiments, 2-month-old (157.5 ± 4.3 g, n = 42) male (n = 18) and female (n = 24) Wistar rats were infected with T. gondii (ATCC 40050). Open-field and elevated plus maze tests were performed in the terminal stage of infection first and then in the early stage in low-protein diet–fed, high-fat diet–fed and ovariectomized infected rats. Late-stage (90 days) infected and early-stage (17 days) low-protein diet–fed groups showed significant decreases in body weight (42.42%↓, P = 0.016 and 57.14%↓, P &amp;lt; 0.001 versus non-infected, respectively), increases in body temperature (P = 0.001 and P &amp;lt; 0.001, respectively), decreases in blood glucose levels (P = 0.006 and P = 0.020, respectively), signs of cognitive and motor impairment and lower neuron counts. The alterations observed in high-fat diet–fed and ovariectomized infected animals were milder. Low-protein diet feeding to T. gondii-infected rats accelerated the occurrence of the infection terminal stage. Thus, a diet low in proteins could transform a slow early-stage T. gondii infection into an active neurotoxoplasmosis with neuropsychiatric manifestations and possible neurodegeneration in rats.

• #toxoplasma gondii research studies
• #cytomegalovirus and herpesvirus research
• #biochemical effects in animals
• #toxoplasma gondii

Extra-virgin avocado (Persea americana Mill., Laucaceae) oil improves cognitive impairment in D-galactose-induced Alzheimer’s disease model on ovariectomized Wistar Rat

Christelle Massop Wamba Ndé, Séfirin Djiogue, Franklin Zemo Gamo, Charline Florence Awounfack, Pauline Donn, Lucía Cassani et 4 autre(s)

Biologia

• #antioxidants, aging, portulaca oleracea
• #sesame and sesamin research
• #diet, metabolism, and disease
• #persea

Impacts of Breed, Production System and Feeding Type on Nutritional, Organoleptic Characteristics and Oxidative Status on Beef Cattle in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study

Youmbi Kammogne Ivana Gilberte Cyrielle, Godwe Célestin, Nana Hugues Djeunga, Ndjengue Mindang Elisabeth Louise, Edoun Ebouel Ferdinand Lanvin, Jean M. Feugang et 1 autre(s)

American Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of breed, production system, and feeding type on meat quality, evaluating organoleptic and physicochemical traits and antioxidant status across selected local cattle breeds. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on sirloin and blood samples taken in slaughterhouses from the hot carcass of male cattle, divided according to breed, production system and type of feed. The nutritional, organoleptic characteristics and oxidative status was assessed. Findings: The results revealed that meat from Goudali breed raised in a sedentary system exhibited significantly lower tenderness (p&lt;.) and higher lipid (p&lt;.) and protein (p&lt;.) contents. Additionally, the meat displayed notably lower pH (p=.), reduced cortisol (p&lt;.), and lower catalase (p&lt;.), TAC (p&lt;.), and FRAP (p=.) activities. Consumers preferred the meat of the White Fulani breed due to its color (p&lt;.). In transhumant system, the meat was richer in dry matter (p=.), lipids (p&lt;.), and fibres (p=.), while the sedentary system resulted in more tender (p=.) and red-dark colored meat (p&lt;.), which consumers favored. Meat from cows under commercial feed were preferred by consumers (p&lt;.) compared to grass-fed cows, exhibiting significantly higher lipid (p&lt;.) and protein (p&lt;.) levels as well as intense color (p=.). However, meat from grass-fed cows had significantly higher fibre content (p&lt;.), tenderness (p&lt;.), better taste (p=.), juiciness (p=.), and higher catalase (p=.) and TAC (p&lt;.) activities. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: These findings underscore the importance of considering breed, production system, and feeding type when conserving, selecting, or improving beef breeds for both meat quantity and quality.

• #agriculture and rural development research
• #ruminant nutrition and digestive physiology
• #animal diversity and health studies
• #breed

Neurological disorders: The use of traditional medicine in Cameroon

Zemo Gamo Franklin, Séfirin Djiogue, Charline Florence Awounfack, Adjoffoin Chiara Nange, Dieudonné Njamen

Traditional Medicine and Modern Medicine

Neurological disorders constitute 6.3% of the global disease burden in the world. With a global death rate of 12%, these diseases are an important cause of mortality. The burden of neurological disorders is higher in developing countries than in developed countries. However, there is little literature on neurological diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, including Cameroon. Due to the inadequate access to modern medicine and physicians, the high cost, and the side effects of the modern drugs, patients renounced treatment. Traditional medicine is thus presented as an alternative. The World Health Organization reports that about 75–80% of the population of developing countries, mostly in Africa, consult traditional healers and use traditional medicine for their healthcare. In Cameroon, traditional medicines still remain a major source for preventing, diagnosing, and/or treating several household diseases, including neurological disorders. This review analyzes the prevalence of neurological disorders in Cameroon, the ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants used to manage nervous system disorders or symptoms, and the importance of pharmacological studies. Some studies done in hospitals located in two towns of Cameroon (Yaoundé and Douala) show that the main neurological disorders are headache and epilepsy. To manage these neurological disorders, many plants are used by traditional doctors and the population. In recent years, some researchers from different university laboratories of Cameroon have tried to elucidate the beneficial effects of plant extracts on neurological disorders, and more is still to be done to prove the pharmacological effects of traditional medicine on nervous system diseases.

• #complementary and alternative medicine studies
• #neurology and historical studies
• #ginkgo biloba and cashew applications
• #medicine

Protective abilities of Myrianthus arboreus (Cecropiaceae) extracts on Testosterone-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Male Wistar rats

Florette Motoum Tedjo, Séfirin Djiogue, Charline Florence Awounfack, Kevine Silihe Kamga, Jean Garba Kof, Benderline Christine Nana et 2 autre(s)

SM Journal of Urology

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the common disorders amongst the geriatric male population, affecting their quality of life. Since conventional drugs used for the treatment are sometimes accompanied by serious side effects, the search for alternative treatments remains urgent.

• #urinary bladder and prostate research
• #phytoestrogen effects and research
• #hormonal and reproductive studies
• #hyperplasia

Antiamnesic and Neuroprotective Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Ziziphus jujuba Mill. (Rhamnaceae) on Scopolamine-Induced Cognitive Impairments in Rats

Etienne Djeuzong, Antoine Kavaye Kandeda, Séfirin Djiogue, Lewale Stéphanie, Danide Nguedia, Florence Tsofack Ngueguim et 3 autre(s)

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Background. Alzheimer's disease is a neurological condition that affects about 44 million people worldwide. The available treatments target symptoms rather than the underlying causes. Ziziphus jujuba (Rhamnaceae) is widely used in traditional Cameroonian medicine to treat diabetes, pain, infections, and dementia. Previous studies reported that Z. jujuba aqueous macerate improves working memory impairment, but no study on the antiamnesic effect of a concoction of Z. jujuba in rats has been performed. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the antiamnesic and neuroprotective effects of an aqueous extract of Z. jujuba on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairments in rats. Methods. Learning and memory impairments were induced in rats by administering scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) to 58 rats for 15 days. Rats that developed learning and memory impairments in Morris water maze and Y-maze paradigms were divided into 7 groups (8 rats each) and treated daily for 15 days as follows: the normal control group received distilled water (10 ml/kg, p.o.), the negative control group received distilled water (10 ml/kg, p.o.), positive control groups either received donepezil (1.2 mg/kg, p.o.) or tacrine (10 mg/kg, p.o.), and the three test groups were given the extract (29, 57, and 114 mg/kg, p.o.). At the end of treatments, learning and memory impairments were determined using the same paradigms. Animals were then euthanized, and biochemical parameters of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis were analyzed in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Results. On the 4th day of the acquisition phase in the Morris water maze, Z. jujuba (29 and 114 mg/kg) reduced ( <a:math xmlns:a="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" id="M1"> <a:mi>p</a:mi> <a:mo>&lt;</a:mo> <a:mn>0.001</a:mn> </a:math> ) the latency to reach the platform, while in the retention phase, Z. jujuba (57 and 114 mg/kg) decreased ( <c:math xmlns:c="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" id="M2"> <c:mi>p</c:mi> <c:mo>&lt;</c:mo> <c:mn>0.001</c:mn> </c:math> ) the time to reach the platform and increased the time in the target quadrant ( <e:math xmlns:e="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" id="M3"> <e:mi>p</e:mi> <e:mo>&lt;</e:mo> <e:mn>0.05</e:mn> </e:math> ) compared to control. Surprisingly, the extract failed to affect spontaneous alternations in the Y-maze. Furthermore, the extract (29, 57, and 114 mg/kg) reversed ( <g:math xmlns:g="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" id="M4"> <g:mi>p</g:mi> <g:mo>&lt;</g:mo> <g:mn>0.001</g:mn> </g:math> ) scopolamine-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. This was supported by the reduction of neuronal alterations in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Conclusions. Compared to donepezil, a standard drug against Alzheimer’s disease, these findings suggest that Z. jujuba extract possesses antiamnesic and neuroprotective effects, and these effects are mediated in part through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities. These findings help to explain its use in treating psychiatric disorders in Cameroon’s folk medicine.

• #ziziphus jujuba studies and applications
• #natural compound pharmacology studies
• #magnolia and illicium research
• #ziziphus jujuba

Neuroprotective Effects of Khaya Anthotheca (Welw.) C.DC (Meliaceae) Decoction on Neurodegeneration Induced by Estrogen Depletion in Rats

Zemo Gamo Franklin, Séfirin Djiogue, Seke Etet Paul Faustin, Pieme Constant Anatole, Babiker Ali Yousif, Awounfack Charline Florence et 2 autre(s)

Journal of Experimental Pathology

The cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala are among the brain regions where estrogens may act to improve cognition, memory and mood. In these regions, estrogens have many beneficial effects, including neuroprotection, neurogenesis, as well as neurotrophic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects

• #phytochemical compounds biological activities
• #neuroprotection
• #neurodegeneration
• #meliaceae

PACHYSTELA BREVIPES (BAK.) ENGL (SAPOTACEAE) STERM BARK DECOCTION EXHIBITED ESTROGENIC EFFECTS IN OVARIECTOMIZED WISTAR RAT

Zemo Gamo Franklin, Ateba Sylvin Benjamin, Ketcha Wanda Germain Jean Magloire, Séfirin Djiogue, Dieudonné Njamen

International Journal of Engineering Applied Sciences and Technology

Pachystela brevipes (Bak.) Engl (Sapotaceae) is a plant used in West region of Cameroon to improve conception and alleviate vaginal dryness in elderly women. Thus, this study was designed to evaluate the potential estrogenic of the decoction of stem bark of P. brevipes (175, 350 and 700 mg/kg BW) using a 3-day uterotrophic assay in ovariectomized rats. P. brevipes extract had no effect uterine wet weight while, significantly (p < 0.05) increased uterine (at 350 and 700 mg/kg) and vaginal (at 700 mg/kg) epithelial thickness. Moreover, this extract induced an E2V-like effect on mammary gland by increased the diameter of alveoli and induced eosinophil secretion at all tested doses. These results suggest that P. brevipes extract is endowed with estrogenic properties and could justify its traditional used.

• #phytoestrogen effects and research
• #phytochemicals and antioxidant activities
• #natural product bioactivities and synthesis
• #ovariectomized rat

Underexplored Medicinal Plants from Sub-Saharan Africa 1st Edition - Plants with Therapeutic Potential for Human Health. Namrita Lall (Ed.), Published and Printed by Academic Press, Elsevier. Paperback with 358 pages, ISBN: 978-0-128-16814-1 (eBook ISBN: 978-0-128-16821-9). https://www.elsevier.com/books/underexplored-medicinal-plants-from-sub-saharan-africa/lall/978-0-12-816814-1

A. K. Srivastava, Séfirin Djiogue

South African Journal of Botany

• #seed and plant biochemistry
• #ethnobotanical and medicinal plants studies
• #traditional medicine
• #medicine

Royal Jelly Induced Anxiolytic Effects and Prevent Hot Flushes in a Menopausal Model on Wistar Rat

Séfirin Djiogue

Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research

Djiogue Sefirin*1, Adjoffoin Chiara Nange1, Motoum Tedjo Florette1, Zemo Gamo Franklin1,2, Awounfack Charline Florence1, Kamtchouing Pierre1 and Njamen Dieudonné1 Author Affiliations 1Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, Cameroon 2Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Letters and Social Sciences, Cameroon Received: July 09, 2019 | Published: July 19, 2019 Corresponding author: Sefirin Djiogue, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaounde I, P.O. Box 8069, Yaounde-Cameroon DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2019.19.003356 Also View In:

• #bee products chemical analysis
• #nigella sativa pharmacological applications
• #biofield effects and biophysics
• #physiology

Effects of hydroquinone-containing creams on capillary glycemia before and after serial hand washings in Africans

Siméon Pierre Choukem, Derrick Tembi Efie, Séfirin Djiogue, François Folefack Kaze, Yannick Mboue-Djieka, Thadée Boudjeko et 3 autre(s)

PLoS ONE

BACKGROUND: Hydroquinone-containing creams cause false increases in capillary glycemia. However, the magnitude of this false increase, and the means to reverse it have not been investigated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the technical and clinical impact of hydroquinone-containing creams on capillary glycemia and investigate the efficacy of hand washing and other common practices, in reversing cream effects. METHODS: We included 91 participants in a quasi-experimental study in Buea, Cameroon. After determining the hydroquinone content of a cream, Caro Light, we used two glucometers with different enzymatic systems (Accu-Chek Active and OneTouch Ultra 2) to measure fasting glycemia after: initial hand washing (reference), application of 1 ml of hydroquinone-containing cream, finger swabbing with wet gauze, sanitizer application and a series of three hand washings following cream application. Reference glycemia was compared to those obtained after various interventions. Statistical significance was assessed by paired sample t-test, clinical significance by total error allowable (TEa), and clinical impact by Parke's error grid analysis. RESULTS: The mean differences in capillary glycemia (Intervention-reference) measured by Accu-Chek Active in mg/dl were 28, 27, 38, 16, 4, and -2 after cream application, finger swabbing, sanitizer application, one, two, and three hand washings respectively. Corresponding values for OneTouch Ultra2 were 41, 44, 64, 22, 5 and -5. These differences, except after two and three hand washings were both statistically (p < 0.0001) and clinically significant (TEa). After cream application, Accu-Check had 9.9% of values in Parke's Zones C-E, while OneTouch had 18.7%. CONCLUSION: Hydroquinone-containing creams cause significant false increase in capillary glycemia irrespective of the enzymatic system of the glucometer used, and can lead to potentially wrong clinical decisions. A minimum of two hand washings is required prior to capillary glucose measurement.

• #food composition and properties
• #complementary and alternative medicine studies
• #diabetes, cardiovascular risks, and lipoproteins
• #medicine

Memory and exploratory behavior impairment in ovariectomized Wistar rats

Séfirin Djiogue, Armando Blondel Djiyou Djeuda, Paul F. Seke Etet, Germain Jean Magloire Ketcha Wanda, Rudig Nikanor Djikem Tadah, Dieudonné Njamen

Behavioral and Brain Functions

BACKGROUND: Estrogen deficiency is linked to changes in several physiological processes, but the extent to which it associates with cognitive changes in menopause context is controversial. RATIONALE: We evaluated the impact of ovariectomy on memory processes and normal exploratory behavior in Wistar rats. METHODS: Young adult rats (4-6 months) were either ovariectomized (OVX group) (N = 10), sham operated (N = 10), or untouched (naïve controls) (N = 8). Afterwards, they were monitored for 12 weeks during which their cognitive functions were evaluated at first week (S1), second (S2), every 3 weeks (S5, S8) and then at week 12 (S12) using: (i) object recognition test to evaluate the short-term and long-term non-spatial memory; (ii) the object placement test to assess the spatial memory; and (iii) normal exploratory behavior components like locomotor and vertical activities in an open field arena. RESULTS: Marked changes in ovariectomized rats were observed in long-term non-spatial memory (~ 40% change vs. naïve and sham, P < 0.001) and spatial memory (~ 30% change, P < 0.05) from S2. Instead, from S5 the exploratory behavior was affected, with decreases in line crossing and rearing episode numbers (~ 40% change, P < 0.01), and in the time spent in the center of open field arena (~ 60% change, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings support the involvement of sex hormones in cognitive functions in female rats and suggest that controversy on the importance of cognitive affections in menopause context may emerge from differences between short-term and long-term memory processes.

• #menopause: health impacts and treatments
• #estrogen and related hormone effects
• #cancer-related cognitive impairment studies
• #ovariectomized rat

Myrianthus arboreus P. Beauv (Cecropiaceae) Extracts Accelerates Sexual Maturation, and Increases Fertility Index and Gestational Rate in Female Wistar Rats

Charline Florence Awounfack, Marie Alfrede Mvondo, Stéphane Zingue, Sylvin Benjamin Ateba, Séfirin Djiogue, Rosette Megnekou et 2 autre(s)

Medicines

Background: Despite the wide use of leaves of Myrianthus arboreus (Cecropiaceae) in several African countries including Cameroon as food and against amenorrhea and female infertility, it has never been tested for this purpose. Methods: Using immature female Wistar rats, the impact of M. arboreus on the sexual maturation parameters (vaginal opening, ovarian relative weight and follicle maturation, gonadotropins and ovarian hormones serum levels) and fertility index has been evaluated through a 30-day oral administration of aqueous and methanol extracts of leaves at the doses of 20, 110 and 200 g/kg/day. Results: Aqueous extract increased the ovarian relative weight (p &lt; 0.001), progesterone (p &lt; 0.001) and gonadotropins (p &lt; 0.001) serum levels, and induced the maturation of ovarian follicles. The methanol extract additionally induced an early vaginal opening (p &lt; 0.001), uterine growth (p &lt; 0.01) and increased estradiol (p &lt; 0.001) serum levels. The fertility index generally increased following treatments, while the gestation rate remained almost unaffected except at the highest tested dose of M. arboreus extracts where lowest values were observed. Conclusion: Globally, M. arboreus induced an early puberty onset and an increased fertility rate validating at least in part its traditional use for female infertility.

• #reproductive health and technologies
• #ovarian function and disorders
• #sperm and testicular function
• #biology

Fourteen Days Post-Ovariectomy Estrogens Decline Is Associated with Anxiogenic Effects on Wistar Rats

Zemo Gamo Franklin, Séfirin Djiogue, Ketcha Wanda Germain Jean Magloire, Seke Etet Paul Faustin, Yonkeu Tatchou Floriane Gaëlle, Djikem Tadah Rudig Nikanor et 2 autre(s)

Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology

On study of the effects of estrogen deficiency on anxiety disorder by using ovariectomised animals, one discrepancy was the difference in behavioral testing delay following ovariectomy and the paradigms used. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the anxiogenic effects of fourteen-day estrogen decline subsequent to ovariectomy on Wistar rats using EPM (elevated plus-maze) and open field tests. As results, fourteen days of estrogens decline has induced an increase of anxiety-related behaviour by a reduction of the percentage of the number of entries into the open arm (p < 0.01) and an increase of the percentage of the number of entries into the closed arm (p < 0.01) during the elevated plus-maze test. This anxiety-like behaviour was confirmed on the open field test by a reduction of time spent in the centre of the arena (p < 0.05) as well as a reduction of crossing (p < 0.05) and an increase of the weight of faecal boli (p < 0.05) and grooming (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, the administration of diazepam or estradiol valerate (1 mg/kg BW each) has corrected the anxious-like behaviour in both tests paradigms. These results suggest that fourteen days of estrogens decline was associated with an anxiety-related behaviour. This experimental model can constitute an excellent tool for the study of anxiolytic substances in menopause-related anxiety.

• #estrogen and related hormone effects
• #stress responses and cortisol
• #hormonal regulation and hypertension
• #anxiogenic

Evaluation of the estrogenic properties of aqueous extracts of &lt;em&gt;Tragia benthamii&lt;/em&gt; Baker (Euphorbiaceae) and &lt;em&gt;Graptophyllum pictum&lt;/em&gt; (Acanthaceae) and their ability to alleviate some menopausal symptoms induced by ovariectomy in Wistar rats

Germain Jean Magloire Ketcha Wanda, Séfirin Djiogue, Sosthène Onésiphore Djoussi Njimfo, Charline Florence Awounfack, Dieudonné Njamen

International Journal of Phytomedicine

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Tragia benthamii&lt;/em&gt; Baker (Euphorbiaceae) and &lt;em&gt;Graptophyllum pictum&lt;/em&gt; Linn (Acanthaceae) are two Cameroonian medicinal plants traditionally used against female reproductive tract disorders, during and after the reproductive period, and as an abortifacient. Since there were no scientific data supporting the above claims and pharmacological studies characterizing their estrogenic properties, we therefore aimed to evaluate their ability to induce estrogen-like effects on primary estrogens targets, uterine, vagina and mammary gland; as well as their ability to alleviate hot flushes in ovariectomized adult rats. For this purpose, we applied a 3-day uterotrophic assay to determine the estrogenic effects of each extract and the mixture of both plants as used by traditional practitioners. The extracts were administered orally for 3 days to the 10 to 12 weeks aged ovariectomized rats. The results obtained showed that the aqueous extract of&lt;em&gt; T. benthamii &lt;/em&gt;at the dose of 500 mg / kg BW, the aqueous extract of &lt;em&gt;G. pictum&lt;/em&gt; at all the tested doses as well as the aqueous extract of the mixture at 275 mg / kg body weight induced a significant increase (p ˂ 0.01) of the uterine epithelium thickness. In addition, the aqueous extract of &lt;em&gt;T. benthamii&lt;/em&gt; at the dose of 500 mg / kg BW, as well as the aqueous extract of the mixture at the doses of 50 and 275 mg / kg induced acinar development and eosinophil secretions. These results are proof of estrogen-like effects of &lt;em&gt;T. benthamii&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;G. pictum&lt;/em&gt; and therefore justify the traditional use of these plants. This suggests the presence in these plants, of secondary metabolites with estrogenic properties, can induce cell proliferation, and to correct disorders of post-oophorectomy œstrogénopénia in the Wistar rats and therefore menopausal disorders.&lt;/p&gt;

• #phytochemistry and bioactive compounds
• #ovariectomized rat
• #euphorbiaceae
• #aqueous extract

Oleocanthal Modulates Estradiol-Induced Gene Expression Involving Estrogen Receptor α

Annekathrin M. Keiler, Séfirin Djiogue, Tino Ehrhardt, Oliver Zierau, Léandros Skaltsounis, Maria Halabalaki et 1 autre(s)

Planta Medica

Oleocanthal is a bioactive compound from olive oil. It has attracted considerable attention as it is anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and has been shown to possess neuroprotective properties in vitro and in vivo. Delineated from its polyphenolic structure, the aim of this study was to characterize oleocanthal towards estrogenic properties. This might contribute to partly explain the beneficial effects described for the Mediterranean diet. Estrogenic properties of oleocanthal were assessed by different methods: a) stimulation of reporter gene activity in MVLN or RNDA cells either expressing estrogen receptor α or β, b) stimulation of luciferase reporter gene activity in U2OS osteosarcoma cells expressing estrogen receptor α or β, and c) elucidation of the impact on estradiol-induced gene expression in U2OS cells transduced with both estrogen receptors. Depending on the cell line origin, oleocanthal inhibited luciferase activity (MVLN, U2OS-estrogen receptor β) or weakly induced reporter gene activity at 10 µM in U2OS-estrogen receptor α cells. However, oleocanthal inhibited stimulation of luciferase activity by estradiol from both estrogen receptors. Oleocanthal, if given alone, did not stimulate gene expression in U2OS cells, but it significantly modulated the response of estradiol. Oleocanthal enhanced the effect of estradiol on the regulation of those genes, which are believed to be regulated through heterodimeric estrogen receptors. As the estrogenic response pattern of oleocanthal is rather unique, we compared the results obtained with oleacein. Oleocanthal binds to both estrogen receptors inducing estradiol-agonistic or antiagonistic effects depending on the cell line. Regarding regulation of gene expression in U2OS-estrogen receptor α/β cells, oleocanthal and oleacein enhanced estradiol-mediated regulation of heterodimer-regulated genes.

• #cholesterol and lipid metabolism
• #garlic and onion studies
• #estrogen and related hormone effects
• #estrogen receptor

Phytotherapy and Womenʼs Reproductive Health: The Cameroonian Perspective

Dieudonné Njamen, Marie Alfrede Mvondo, Séfirin Djiogue, Germain Jean Magloire Ketcha Wanda, Chantal Magne Nde, Günter Vollmer

Planta Medica

Approximately 80 % of the population in Africa use traditional medicinal plants to improve their state of health. The reason of such a wide use of medicinal plants has been mainly attributed to their accessibility and affordability. Expectation of little if any side effects, of a "natural" and therefore safe treatment regimen, as well as traditional beliefs additionally contribute to their popularity. Several of these plants are used by women to relieve problems related to their reproductive health, during or after their reproductive life, during pregnancy, or following parturition. The African pharmacopoeia thus provides plants used for preventing and/or treating gynecological infections, dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruations, oligomenorrhea or protracted menstruation, and infertility. Such plants may then be used as antimicrobians, emmenagogues, or as suppressors of uterine flow. African medicinal plants are also used during pregnancy for prenatal care, against fetal malposition or malpresentation, retained dead fetus, and against threatened abortion. Some others are used as anti-fertilizing drugs for birth control. Such plants may exert various activities, namely, anti-implantation or early abortifacient, anti-zygotic, blastocytotoxic, and anti-ovulatory effects. Some herbs could also act as sexual drive suppressors or as a post-coital contraceptive by reducing the fertility index. A number of these plants have already been subject to scientific investigations and many of their properties have been assessed as estrogenic, oxytocic, or anti-implantation. Taking into account the diversity of the African pharmacopoeia, we are still at an early stage in the phytochemical and pharmacological characterization of these medicinal plants that affect the female reproductive system, in order to determine, through in vitro and in vivo studies, their pharmacological properties and their active principles.

• #african botany and ecology studies
• #ethnobotanical and medicinal plants studies
• #medicinal plants
• #medicine

Natural phenolics and nuclear receptors (ER &amp; PPAR): Isolation, structure determination and biological evaluation

Maria Halabalaki, Séfirin Djiogue, Job Tchoumtchoua, NE Arapogianni, A Paschali, Xanthippi Alexi et 4 autre(s)

Planta Medica

Plants originated mainly from Mediterranean region as well as from other higly deverse hot-spots all over the world have been phytochemically explored in the context of our continuing study towards the discovery of novel, active natural products presenting high affinity to nuclear reseptors. In particular estrogen receptor (ER) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) were the target-reseptors under investigation. Our study is mainly focused to the identification of secondary metabolites which present the capability to activate both isoforms of estrogen receptor (ERα& ERβ) [1] as well as the two isoforms of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ& PPARδ) [2]. Numerous of secondary metabolites belonging mostly to simple phenolics, to flavonoids and specifically to flavones, flavonols and methylether derivatives thereof and isoflavonoids mainly isoflavones, prenylated isoflavones and 2-arylbenzofurans have been identified using a bioguided approach or LC-MS-based methodologies. The structure elucidation of the isolated compounds was performed via HRMSn and 1 & 2D NMR [3], [4], [5], [6]. The biological evaluation was focused on the determination of the relative binding activity (RBA values) of the purified compounds to ERα and ERβ and/or PPARγ and PPARδ as well as on the exploration of the biological michanism of action using e-screen, reporter gene and analysis of gene expression assays. Determination of their proliferative and/or cytotoxic properties was also performed. A series of novel natural compounds belonging mostly to 2-arylbenzofurans and prenylated isoflavones were identified whereas a numerous thereof found to present significant estrogenic, antiestrogenic, SERM and/or antidiabetic activity [7], [8], [9]. References: 1. Miksicek, RJ, (1993) Mol. Pharmac. 44: 37–43. 2. Knouff, C. and Auwerx, J. (2004) Endoc. Rev. 25: 899–918. 3. Halabalaki, M et al., (2000)J. Nat. Prod. 63 (8): 1672–1674. 4. Halabalaki, M et al., (2006) Planta Medica 72, (6) 488–493. 5. Halabalaki, M et al., (2008)J. Nat. Prod. 71 (11): 1934–1937. 6.Djiogue, S. et al. (2009)J. Nat. Prod. 72 (9): 1603–1607. 7. Katsanou, SE (2007)J. Ster. Biochem. Mol. Biol. 104 (3–5): 228–36. 8. Dontas I, (2006) Maturitas 53 (2): 234–242. 9. Arapogiani N-E (2007), 45th Int. Meeting & Ann. Meeting of GA, Graz, Austria.

• #bioactive natural compounds
• #phytochemicals and antioxidant activities
• #estrogen and related hormone effects
• #isoflavones

Phytochemical investigation and biological evaluation of the secondary metabolites isolated from Erythrina poeppigiana – Fabaceae

Séfirin Djiogue, Maria Halabalaki, D Njamen, Μichael N. Alexis, Z. Tanee Fomum, AL Skaltsounis

Planta Medica

In most developing countries, the traditional medicine based on preparations from medicinal plants still stays one of the main appeals. Many Erythrina species for example are used in the traditional system of medicine in Cameroon for the treatment of menopause related illnesses. Additionally, the Leguminosae family is well known for its great content in isoflavonoids which have been shown to exhibit numerous biological activities including estrogenic/anti-estrogenic activity (so called phytoestrogens) [1]. In our endeavour, aiming to discover novel active natural products based on the long-established empirical traditional knowledge, phytochemical investigation of Erythrina poeppigiana (Fabaceae), a Leguminosae species growing in humid and sub-humid tropical lowland is undertake. After a qualitative evaluation of DCM and MeOH extracts using TLC and HPLC-PDA, further investigation was performed on both extracts leading to isolation and structure determination of a number of secondary metabolites using several chromatographic (VCC, CC, FCPC, HPLC) and spectroscopic (UV, MS, 1&2D NMR) techniques, respectively. At this stage of the work, 10 isoflavonoids (5 novel compounds), one pterocarpan and 3 simple phenolic ester were isolated from the DCM extract and 4 Erythrina alkaloids from the MeOH extract. The ability of the isolated compounds derived from the DCM extract to bind to the estrogen receptor (ER α & ER β ) was estimated. Most of them found to be potent ligands. References: [1] Veitch, N.C. (2007) Nat. Prod. Rep. 24:417–464.

• #bioactive natural compounds
• #natural antidiabetic agents studies
• #biological and pharmacological studies of plants
• #erythrina