1: J Chem Ecol. 2007 Feb;33(2):239/50. Epub 2006 Dec 29.
Role of Catechol Structure in the Adsorption and Transformation Reactions of L:
/DOPA: in Soils.
Furubayashi A, Hiradate S, Fujii Y.
Biodiversity Division, National Institute for Agro/Environmental Sciences
(NIAES), 3/1/3 Kan/nondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305/8604, Japan,
furuba@affrc.go.jp.
3/(3',4'/Dihydroxyphenyl)/L: /alanine (L: /DOPA), which is synthesized in velvet
bean (Mucuna pruriens), inhibits plant growth. The concentration of L: /DOPA in
soil is reduced by adsorption and transformation reactions, which can result in
the reduction of its plant/growth/inhibitory activity. To determine which part
of the L: /DOPA structure is involved in the adsorption and soil transformation
reactions, we compared the kinetics of L/: DOPA disappearance in a volcanic ash
soil with that of L: /phenylalanine (3/phenyl/L: /alanine) and L: /tyrosine
(3/(4'/hydroxyphenyl)/L: /alanine), compounds that are similar in structure to
L: /DOPA but do not have a catechol (o/dihydroxybenzene) moiety. L:
/Phenylalanine and L: /tyrosine were not adsorbed and transformed in the soil at
equilibrium pH values between 4 and 7. These results suggest that the adsorption
and transformation reactions of L: /DOPA in the soil involve the catechol moiety
and not the amino and carboxylic acid groups, which are common to all three
compounds. Like L: /DOPA, (+)/catechin, another allelochemical that contains a
catechol moiety, underwent adsorption and soil transformation reactions. Thus,
we concluded that the concentrations of allelochemicals bearing a catechol
moiety in soils will decrease rapidly owing to adsorption and transformation
reactions, and this decrease will be faster in soils with a high pH value or
high adsorption ability. Owing to this decrease in concentration, allelopathic
phenomena may not occur.
PMID: 17195117 [PubMed / in process]
2: J Chem Ecol. 2007 Feb;33(2):265/75. Epub 2006 Dec 29.
L: /DOPA Increases Lignification Associated with Glycine max Root
Growth/Inhibition.
Soares AR, Ferrarese Mde L, Siqueira Rde C, Bohm FM, Ferrarese/Filho O.
Laboratory of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of
Maringa, Av. Colombo, 5790, 87020/900, Maringa, PR, Brazil, oferrarese@uem.br.
L: /3,4/dihydroxyphenylalanine (L: /DOPA), an allelochemical exuded from the
roots of velvet bean [Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. utilis], presents a highly
inhibitory action to plant growth. The effects of L: /DOPA on phenylalanine
ammonia/lyase (PAL, EC 4.3.1.5) and peroxidase (POD, EC 1.11.1.7) activities,
and phenolic compound and lignin content in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]
roots were investigated to determine the possible phytotoxic mechanism.
Three/day/old seedlings were cultivated in half/strength Hoagland nutrient
solution (pH 6.0), without or with 0.1 to 1.0 mM L: /DOPA in a growth chamber
(25 degrees C, 12/hr light to 12/hr darkness photoperiod, irradiance of 280
mumol m(/2) s(/1)) for 24 hr. In general, the length, fresh weight, and dry
weight of the roots decreased, whereas PAL and POD activities and phenolic
compound and lignin content increased after L: /DOPA treatments. Results showed
the susceptibility of soybean to L: /DOPA and reinforce the role of this
nonprotein amino acid as a strong allelochemical. The present findings also
suggest that L: /DOPA/induced inhibition in soybean roots may be because of a
cell wall stiffening process related to the formation of cross/linking between
cell wall polymers linked to lignin production.
PMID: 17195115 [PubMed / in process]
3: Glycoconj J. 2006 Nov;23(7/8):599/609.
Structural characterization of the N/glycans of gpMuc from Mucuna pruriens
seeds.
Patrizi LD, Rosati F, Guerranti R, Pagani R, Gerwig GJ, Kamerling JP.
Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Siena, via A. Moro 4, 53100,
Siena, Italy.
Mucuna pruriens seeds are used in some countries as a human prophylactic oral
anti/snake remedy. Aqueous extracts of M. pruriens seeds possess in vivo
activity against cobra and viper venoms, and protect mice against Echis
carinatus venom. It was recently demonstrated that the seed immunogen generating
the antibody that cross/reacts with the venom proteins is a multiform
glycoprotein (gpMuc), and the immunogenic properties of gpMuc seemed to mainly
reside in its glycan chains. In the present study, gpMuc was found to contain
only N/glycans. Part of the N/glycans could be released with peptide/(N
(4)/(N/acetyl/beta /glucosaminyl)asparagine amidase F (PNGase F/sensitive
N/glycans); the PNGase F/resistant N/glycans were PNGase A/sensitive. The
oligosaccharides released were analyzed by a combination of MALDI/TOF mass
spectrometry, HPLC profiling of 2/aminobenzamide/labelled derivatives and (1)H
NMR spectroscopy. The PNGase F/sensitive N/glycans comprised a mixture of
oligomannose/type structures ranging from Man(5)GlcNAc(2) to Man(9)GlcNAc(2),
and two xylosylated structures, Xyl(1)Man(3)GlcNAc(2) and Xyl(1)Man(4)GlcNAc(2).
The PNGase A/sensitive N/glycans, containing (alpha 1/3)/linked fucose, were
identified as Fuc(1)Xyl(1)Man(2)GlcNAc(2) and Fuc(1)Xyl(1)Man(3)GlcNAc(2). In
view of the determined N/glycan ensemble, the immunoreactivity of gpMuc was
ascribed to the presence of core (beta 1/2)/linked xylose/ and core alpha
(1/3)/linked fucose/modified N/glycan chains.
PMID: 17006651 [PubMed / in process]
4: Pest Manag Sci. 2006 Nov;62(11):1122/7.
Velvetbean (Mucuna pruriens) extracts: impact on Meloidogyne incognita survival
and on Lycopersicon esculentum and Lactuca sativa germination and growth.
Zasada IA, Klassen W, Meyer SL, Codallo M, Abdul/Baki AA.
USDA, ARS, Nematology Laboratory, Bldg 011A, Rm 165B, BARC/West, Beltsville, MD
20705/2350, USA. zasadai@ba.ars.usda.gov
Velvetbean (Mucuna spp.) is a summer annual that has been used as a cover crop
to reduce erosion, fix nitrogen and suppress weeds and plant/parasitic
nematodes. Crude aqueous extracts (1:15 dry weight plant/volume water) were made
from velvetbean plant parts, and various concentrations of the extracts were
evaluated in vitro for toxicities to different stages of Meloidogyne incognita
(Kofoid and White) Chitwood and for suppression of hypocotyl and root growth and
inhibition of germination of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) and lettuce
(Lactuca sativa L.). Germination was only affected by the full/strength extract
from leaf blades. Lettuce root growth was the most sensitive indicator of
allelopathic activity of the plant part extracts. Lettuce and tomato root growth
was more sensitive to the extract from main roots than to extracts of other
plant parts, with lethal concentration (LC50) values of 1.2 and 1.1%
respectively. Meloidogyne incognita egg hatch was less sensitive to extracts
from velvetbean than the juvenile (J2) stage. There was no difference among LC50
values of the extracts from different plant parts against the egg stage. Based
on LC50 values, the extract from fine roots was the least toxic to J2 (LC50
39.9%), and the extract from vines the most toxic (LC50 7.8%). The effects of
the extracts were nematicidal because LC50 values did not change when the
extracts were removed and replaced with water. Copyright (c) 2006 Society of
Chemical Industry.
PMID: 16953489 [PubMed / in process]
5: Int J Biol Macromol. 2007 Jan 30;40(2):119/25. Epub 2006 Jun 27.
The influence of kosmotropic and chaotropic salts on the functional properties
of Mucuna pruriens protein isolate.
Adebowale YA, Adebowale KO.
Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology,
Akure, Nigeria. adebowal@ictp.trieste.it
The influence of chaotropic and kosmotropic salts on Mucuna pruriens protein
isolates was investigated. Protein solubility profile indicated that solubility
was minimal at the isoelectric point of the protein isolate (4.0) while the
solubility was maximal at pH 10.0 in all salt solutions. Chaotropes (I(/),
ClO(4)(/) and SCN(/)) exhibit better protein solubility than the kosmotropes
(SO(4)(2/), Cl(/) and Br(/)). Increase in protein solubility follows the
Hofmeister series: NaSO(4)<NaCl<NaBr<NaI<NaClO(4)<NaSCN. Maximal water
absorption capacity was recorded at low concentration of all the salts (0.1M).
The water absorption capacity reduced as the concentration of the salts was
increased to 2.0M. Kosmotropic salts exhibited better water absorption capacity
than chaotropic salts. Both foaming capacity and stability were better in
chaotropic salts compared with kosmotopic salts. Maximal foam capacities and
stability were observed in protein solutions at 0.1M concentration. However the
foam capacity and stability decreased as the concentration was increased further
to 2.0M. The result indicates that emulsion activity index (EAI) and emulsion
stability index (ESI) was reduced as the concentration of salts in each protein
solution was increased. Protein solutions which contained NaSCN exhibited the
highest emulsifying properties while those in Na(2)SO(4) recorded the lowest
emulsifying properties. In addition, chaotropic salts had better emulsifying
properties compared with kosmotropic salts. Increase in emulsifying activity
follows the Hofmeister series. The least gelation concentration increased as the
concentration of the salts increased. However chaotropic salts exhibited better
gelation properties than kosmotropic salts.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16875729 [PubMed / in process]
6: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2005 Dec;60(4):201/18.
Alternative food/feed perspectives of an underutilized legume Mucuna pruriens
var. utilis//a review.
Pugalenthi M, Vadivel V, Siddhuraju P.
Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Arts and Science College, Coimbatore,
641021, Tamil Nadu, India. pugalmuthiah@rediffmail.com
Mucuna pruriens var. utilis, an underutilized tropical legume has a nutritional
quality comparable to soya beans and other conventional legumes as it contains
similar proportions of protein, lipid, minerals, and other nutrients. The beans
have been traditionally used as a food in a number of countries, viz., India,
Philippines, Nigeria, Ghana, Brazil, and Malawi. Recently, the velvet beans are
exploited as a protein source in the diets of fish, poultry, pig, and cattle
after subjected to appropriate processing methods. Although the velvet beans
contain high levels of protein and carbohydrate, their utilization is limited
due to the presence of a number of antinutritional/antiphysiological compounds,
phenolics, tannins, L/Dopa, lectins, protease inhibitors, etc., which may reduce
the nutrient utilization. Unfortunately, even though many researchers all over
the world working on Mucuna, only scanty and conflicting information are
available regarding its utilization as a food/feed and no scientific gathering
to date has focused on the food/feed applications of Mucuna. Hence, the present
review has been emphasized on the nutritional potential of this underutilized,
nonconventional legume and current state of its utilization as food/feed for
both human beings and livestock throughout the world.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
Review
PMID: 16395632 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
7: Phytother Res. 2005 Dec;19(12):1057/60.
Antidiabetic oligocyclitols in seeds of Mucuna pruriens.
Donati D, Lampariello LR, Pagani R, Guerranti R, Cinci G, Marinello E.
Department of Chemistry, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
Using a combination of chromatographic and NMR techniques, the presence of
D/chiro/inositol and its two galacto/derivatives is demonstrated in Mucuna
pruriens seeds. The quantities detected explain the well/established
antiglycaemic effect of Mucuna pruriens seeds. Copyright 2005 John Wiley &
Sons, Ltd.
PMID: 16372373 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
8: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2005 Jun;60(2):69/75.
Nutritional and antinutritional characteristics of seven South Indian wild
legumes.
Vadivel V, Janardhanan K.
Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Spices Board, Myladumpara, Kailasanadu 685
553, Kerala, India. vadivelvds@rediffmail.com
Seeds from seven species of wild legumes of the South India were analyzed for
proximate composition, mineral profiles, amino acid profiles of total seed
protein, in vitro protein digestibility, and certain antinutritional factors to
assess their potential as alternative sources of protein crops. The major
findings of the study were as follows: crude protein ranged from 20.3 to 35.0%,
crude lipid 3.1/9.6%, crude fiber 5.9/12.1%, ash 2.7/5.1%, and carbohydrates
49.2/61.8%. Minerals viz., sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus,
iron, copper, zinc, and manganese occurred in the range 42.9/135.9,
556.2/1639.5, 304.5/572.2, 174.9/686.7, 98.4/947.8, 3.6/16.4, 0.2/1.2, 2.0/30.0,
and 1.0/3.9 mg/100 g seed flour, respectively. Profiles of amino acids of total
seed proteins detected in the present study revealed that levels of valine,
phenylalanine, tyrosine, isoleucine, and histidine of all the seven wild legume
seed samples, threonine of Canavalia ensiformis and C. gladiata, leucine of
Mucuna pruriens var. pruriens, and lysine of Cassia floribunda and C.
obtusifolia were found to be higher than FAO/WHO (1991) requirement pattern. The
in vitro protein digestibility of the legumes under study ranged from 63.39 to
83.32%. Antinutritional factors such as total free phenolics ranged from 0.41 to
5.96%, tannins from 0.04 to 0.60%, L/DOPA from 1.34 to 8.37% and trypsin
inhibitor activity from 13.48 to 65.43 TIU/mg protein. The detected
antinutritional factors probably have little nutritional significance if the
seeds are properly processed.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 16021834 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
9: Biol Sci Space. 2004 Nov;18(3):165/6.
Distribution of L/DOPA in the root of velvet bean plant (Mucuna pruriens L.) and
gravity.
Tomita/Yokotani K, Hashimoto H, Fujii Y, Nakamura T, Yamashita M.
University of Tsukuba.
Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens L.) has been found that the degree of suppression
on the lettuce root growth by velvet bean was less on the 3D/clinorotation. The
number and growth of adventitious root in velvet bean differed among the
clinostated and control group. L/DOPA (L/3,4/dihydroxyphenylalanine) is known to
be the major substance in the allelopathy of velvet bean plant, released from
its root. Since L/DOPA is a precursor of melanin pigment, and is easily
converted to melanin by oxidation, locality of L/DOPA production in the plant
body can be seen through pigmentation. The amount of L/DOPA was analyzed by HPLC
and LC/ESI/MS. The distribution of L/DOPA in the root was different among the
ground control condition and pseudo/microgravity.
PMID: 15858373 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
10: J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2004 Dec;75(12):1672/7.
Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and
pharmacological study.
Katzenschlager R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Ratnaraj N, Watt H, Timmermann
L, Van der Giessen R, Lees AJ.
National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK.
BACKGROUND: The seed powder of the leguminous plant, Mucuna pruriens has long
been used in traditional Ayurvedic Indian medicine for diseases including
parkinsonism. We have assessed the clinical effects and levodopa (L/dopa)
pharmacokinetics following two different doses of mucuna preparation and
compared them with standard L/dopa/carbidopa (LD/CD). METHODS: Eight Parkinson's
disease patients with a short duration L/dopa response and on period dyskinesias
completed a randomised, controlled, double blind crossover trial. Patients were
challenged with single doses of 200/50 mg LD/CD, and 15 and 30 g of mucuna
preparation in randomised order at weekly intervals. L/dopa pharmacokinetics
were determined, and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale and tapping speed
were obtained at baseline and repeatedly during the 4 h following drug
ingestion. Dyskinesias were assessed using modified AIMS and Goetz scales.
RESULTS: Compared with standard LD/CD, the 30 g mucuna preparation led to a
considerably faster onset of effect (34.6 v 68.5 min; p = 0.021), reflected in
shorter latencies to peak L/dopa plasma concentrations. Mean on time was 21.9%
(37 min) longer with 30 g mucuna than with LD/CD (p = 0.021); peak L/dopa plasma
concentrations were 110% higher and the area under the plasma concentration v
time curve (area under curve) was 165.3% larger (p = 0.012). No significant
differences in dyskinesias or tolerability occurred. CONCLUSIONS: The rapid
onset of action and longer on time without concomitant increase in dyskinesias
on mucuna seed powder formulation suggest that this natural source of L/dopa
might possess advantages over conventional L/dopa preparations in the long term
management of PD. Assessment of long term efficacy and tolerability in a
randomised, controlled study is warranted.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15548480 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
11: Phytother Res. 2004 Sep;18(9):706/12.
Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.
Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA.
Department of Neurology, Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX
76508, USA. bmanyam@swmail.sw.org
Mucuna pruriens possesses significantly higher antiparkinson activity compared
with levodopa in the 6/hydroxydopamine (6/OHDA) lesioned rat model of
Parkinson's disease. The present study evaluated the neurorestorative effect of
Mucuna pruriens cotyledon powder on the nigrostriatal tract of 6/OHDA lesioned
rats. Mucuna pruriens cotyledon powder significantly increased the brain
mitochondrial complex/I activity but did not affect the total monoamine oxidase
activity (in vitro). Unlike synthetic levodopa treatment, Mucuna pruriens
cotyledon powder treatment significantly restored the endogenous levodopa,
dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin content in the substantia nigra. Nicotine
adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and coenzyme Q/10, that are shown to have a
therapeutic benefit in Parkinson's disease, were present in the Mucuna pruriens
cotyledon powder. Earlier studies showed that Mucuna pruriens treatment controls
the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. This additional finding of a
neurorestorative benefit by Mucuna pruriens cotyledon powder on the degenerating
dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra may be due to increased complex/I
activity and the presence of NADH and coenzyme Q/10. Copyright (c) 2004 John
Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
PMID: 15478206 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
12: Phytochemistry. 2004 Sep;65(18):2565/7.
Alkaloidal constituents of Mucuna pruriens seeds.
Misra L, Wagner H.
Phytochemistry Division, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants,
PO//CIMAP, Lucknow 226 015, India. laxmisra@hotmail.com
The seeds of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. after chemical analysis afforded four
tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids which have been isolated for the first time
from M. pruriens. Out of them, two are new whose structures have been elucidated
by spectroscopic methods.
PMID: 15451318 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
13: Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2004 Oct 15;323(2):484/90.
Protection of Mucuna pruriens seeds against Echis carinatus venom is exerted
through a multiform glycoprotein whose oligosaccharide chains are functional in
this role.
Guerranti R, Aguiyi JC, Ogueli IG, Onorati G, Neri S, Rosati F, Del Buono F,
Lampariello R, Pagani R, Marinello E.
Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Scienze Endocrino/metaboliche e Biochimica,
Universita di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy. guerranti@unisi.it
In a previous paper we demonstrated that extracts of Mucuna pruriens seeds (MPE)
protect mice against Echis carinatus venom (EV) by an immunological mechanism.
In this paper we demonstrate that the MPE immunogen generating the antibody that
cross/reacts with the venom proteins is a multiform glycoprotein (gpMuc) whose
immunogenic properties mainly reside in its glycan/chains. The glycoprotein was
purified from the protein extract of M. pruriens seeds using Concanavalin A
affinity chromatography. Using 2/D gel electrophoresis it separated into seven
isoforms having MWs in the range from 20.3 to 28.7 kDa and pIs from 4.8 to 6.5.
N/terminal sequencing of these spots revealed close similarity since all of them
contained the consensus sequence DDREPV/DT found in soybean Kunitz/type trypsin
inhibitor. We suggest that gpMuc contains both N/ and O/glycans. Mild alkaline
treatment but not PNGase F led to loss of reactivity, indicating that O/glycans
are probably involved in the antigenicity of gpMuc. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Inc.
Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15369777 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
14: Nahrung. 2004 Apr;48(2):129/36.
Effect of acetylation and succinylation on solubility profile, water absorption
capacity, oil absorption capacity and emulsifying properties of mucuna bean
(Mucuna pruriens) protein concentrate.
Lawal OS, Adebowale KO.
Department of Chemical Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago/Iwoye,
Nigeria.
Mucuna protein concentrate was acylated with succinic and acetic anhydride. The
effects of acylation on solubility, water absorption capacity, oil absorption
capacity and emulsifying properties were investigated. The pH/dependent
solubility profile of unmodified mucuna protein concentrate (U/mpc) showed a
decrease in solubility with decrease in pH and resolubilisation at pH values
acidic to isoelectric pH (pH 4). Apart from pH 2, both acetylated mucuna protein
concentrates (A/mpc) and succinylated mucuna protein concentrate (S/mpc) had
improved solubility over the unmodified derivative. Acylation increased the
water absorption capacity (WAC) at all levels of ionic strength (0.1/1.0 M). WAC
of the protein samples increased with increase in ionic strength up to 0.2 M
after which a decline occurred with increase in ionic strength from 0.4/1.0 M.
When protein solutions were prepared in salts of various ions, increase in WAC
followed the Hofmeister series in the order: NaSCN < NaClO4 < NaI < NaBr < NaCl
< Na2SO. Acetylation improved the oil absorption capacity while the lipophilic
tendency reduced the following succinylation. Emulsifying capacity increased
with increase in concentration up to 2, 4 and 5% w/v for U/mpc, A/mpc and S/mpc,
respectively, after which an increase in concentration reduced the emulsifying
capacity. Both acetylation and succinylation significantly (P < 0.05) improved
the emulsifying capacity at pH 4/10. Initial increase in ionic strength up to
0.4 M for U/mpc and 0.4 M for A/mpc and S/mpc increased the emulsion capacity
progressively. Further increase in ionic strength reduced emulsion capacity
(EC). Contrary to the effect of various salts on WAC, increase in EC generally
follows the series Na2SO4 < NaCl < NaBr < NaI < NaClO4 < NaSCN. At all levels of
ionic strength studied, S/mpc had a better emulsifying activity (EA) than both
A/mpc and U/mpc. EA and emulsifying stability (ES) were pH/dependent. Maximum EA
and ES were recorded at pH 10. ES of protein derivatives were higher than those
of U/mpc in the range of pH 4/10 but lower at pH 2. Studies revealed that both
A/mpc and S/mpc had better ES and EA than the unmodified derivative when protein
solutions were prepared in salts of various anions.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15146970 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
15: Phytother Res. 2004 Feb;18(2):97/101.
Effect of antiparkinson drug HP/200 (Mucuna pruriens) on the central
monoaminergic neurotransmitters.
Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA.
Department of Neurology, Scott & White Clinic and Texas A & M University System
Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA.
bmanyam@swmail.sw.org
HP/200, which contains Mucuna pruriens endocarp, has been shown to be effective
in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Mucuna pruriens endocarp has also been
shown to be more effective compared to synthetic levodopa in an animal model of
Parkinson's disease. The present study was designed to elucidate the long/term
effect of Mucuna pruriens endocarp in HP/200 on monoaminergic neurotransmitters
and its metabolite in various regions of the rat brain. HP/200 at a dose of 2.5,
5.0 or 10.0 g/kg/day was mixed with rat chow and fed daily ad lib to
Sprague/Dawley rats (n = 6 for each group) for 52 weeks. Controls (n = 6)
received no drug. Random assignment was made for doses and control. The rats
were sacrificed at the end of 52 weeks and the neurotransmitters were analyzed
in the cortex, hippocampus, substantia nigra and striatum. Oral administration
of Mucuna pruriens endocarp in the form of HP/200 had a significant effect on
dopamine content in the cortex with no significant effect on levodopa,
norepinephrine or dopamine, serotonin, and their metabolites/ HVA, DOPAC and
5/HIAA in the nigrostriatal tract. The failure of Mucuna pruriens endocarp to
significantly affect dopamine metabolism in the striatonigral tract along with
its ability to improve Parkinsonian symptoms in the 6/hydorxydopamine animal
model and humans may suggest that its antiparkinson effect may be due to
components other than levodopa or that it has an levodopa enhancing effect.
Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 15022157 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
16: Trop Anim Health Prod. 2004 Feb;36(2):145/56.
Preference of sheep for three forms of mucuna forage and the effect of
supplementation with mucuna forage on the performance of sheep.
Adjorlolo LK, Amaning/Kwarteng K, Fianu FK.
Agricultural Research Station, University of Ghana, PO Box 38, Legon/Accra,
Ghana, West Africa. kofiadjorlolo@yahoo.co.uk
Assessment of the preference of sheep for fresh, dried or ensiled forms of
mucuna (Mucuna pruriens var utilis) forage was followed by investigations into
the effect of supplementing straw/based diets with the forage. Four sheep were
offered fresh, dried and ensiled forms of the forage in a cafeteria style to
assess their preference. In the second experiment, 20 sheep were randomly
assigned to four dietary treatments, namely, alkali/treated straw only (M0),
treated straw supplemented with mucuna forage at 0.3% (M10), 0.6% (M20) or 0.75%
(M25) of body weight (approximately 10%, 20% and 25%, respectively, of the total
dry matter intake). The daily feed intakes were determined and the sheep were
weighed weekly for 10 weeks. The sheep showed a marked preference for fresh
mucuna forage over either the dried or ensiled forms. The total dry matter
intake increased by 15% and 21%, respectively, with M20 and M25. All the groups
lost weight over the feeding period. However, only M0 gave weight losses during
the second half of the feeding period. The feed conversion efficiency followed a
trend similar to that for weight gains. M20 had the greatest effect on growth
and feed conversion efficiency.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 14998313 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
17: Parasitol Res. 2004 Mar;92(5):361/6. Epub 2004 Jan 21.
Effects of crude extracts of Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae) and Carica papaya
(Caricaceae) against the protozoan fish parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis.
Ekanem AP, Obiekezie A, Kloas W, Knopf K.
Institute of Oceanography, University of Calabar, P.M.B. 1115, Calabar, Nigeria.
The ciliate Ichthyophthirius multifiliis is among the most pathogenic parasites
of fish maintained in captivity. In the present study, the effects of the crude
methanolic extract of leaves of Mucuna pruriens and the petroleum/ether extract
of seeds of Carica papaya against I. multifiliis were investigated under in vivo
and in vitro conditions. Goldfish (Carassius auratus auratus) infected with the
parasites were immersed for 72 h in baths with M. pruriens extract, and for 96 h
in baths with C. papaya extract. There was a 90% reduction in numbers of I.
multifiliis on fish after treatment in baths of each plant extract at 200 mg
l(/1 )compared to untreated controls. Consequently, parasite/induced fish
mortality was reduced significantly. A complete interruption of trophont
recruitment was achieved by immersion in the M. pruriens extract. In vitro tests
led to a 100% mortality of I. multifiliis in 150 mg/l M. pruriens extract, and
in 200 mg/l of C. papaya extract after 6 h. Although the active constituents of
the medicinal plant extracts are still unknown, we have demonstrated that they
have potential for effective control of I. multifiliis.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 14735356 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
18: Biol Sci Space. 2003 Oct;17(3):212/3.
Volatile allelopathy in velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens [correction ofpruiens] L.)
and gravity.
Tomita/Yokotani K, Fujii Y, Yoshida S, Hashimoto H, Yamashita M.
Institute of Applied Biochemistry, University of Tsukuba.
Allelopathy caused by volatile compounds was studied with velvet bean (Mucuna
prueiens L.). Preparatory experiment was conducted to identify the relationship
between action of volatiles and gravity. The experimental protocol was defined
and tested to study on volatile allelopathy of velvet bean. Root growth of
lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) seedlings was inhibited by volatile gas from velvet
bean seedlings planted in Agripot. In this study, it was shown that ten/day
velvet bean seedling could exhibit the volatile allelopathic ability. Growth
chambers for volatile experiment were designed. Velvet bean seed can germinate
in a 3/ml small vial.
PMID: 14676381 [PubMed / in process]
19: Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2003 Aug;9 Suppl 2:S105/9.
Epidemiology and treatment of Parkinson's disease in India.
Singhal B, Lalkaka J, Sankhla C.
Medical Research Center, Bombay Hospital 12, Marine Lines, Mumbai 400 020,
India. bssingl@vsnl.com
Parkinson's disease (PD) has a low prevalence in India except in the small Parsi
community where Bharucha et al. found a high prevalence. Although early onset PD
and familial cases have been described from India, no genetic mutations have as
yet been identified. PD has been known in India since ancient days and the
powder of Mucuna Pruriens seeds was used for its treatment. The present day
management of PD in India is similar to that in the other countries.
Unfortunately, lack of awareness, limitation of human resources and cost factors
deny the benefits of therapy to many patients.
Publication Types:
Review
PMID: 12915075 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
20: Biol Sci Space. 2003 Jun;17(1):14/7.
Reduced allelopathic inhibition of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) growth caused by
velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) under 3D/clinorotation.
Tomita/Yokotani K, Fujii Y, Hashimoto H, Yamashita M.
Institute of Applied Biochemistry, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki,
Japan. kaboka@sakura.cc.tsukuba.ac.jp
Allelopathy between Mucuna pruriens (velvet bean) and Lactuca sativa (lettuce)
was studied under 3D/clinorotation. Growth of both roots and shoots of lettuce
seedlings was suppressed by the presence of velvet bean. The degree of
suppression was less on the clinostat compared to the normal static earth
gravity. L/DOPA (L/3, 4/dihydroxyphenylalanine) is known to be a major substance
in allelopathy of velvet bean. Amount of L/DOPA diffused out from a sintered
filter paper into agar medium was compared between clinorotation and control
group, and found no significant difference. It was concluded that some factors
related to release, transport, and sensing phenomena of allelopathic substances
may be responsible to the new findings in this study.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12897456 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
21: Biol Sci Space. 2003 Jun;17(1):6/13.
Allelopathy in the natural and agricultural ecosystems and isolation of potent
allelochemicals from Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) and Hairy vetch (Vicia
villosa).
Fujii Y.
Chemical Ecology Unit, National Institute for Agro/Environmental Sciences,
Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan. yfujii@affrc.go.jp
We have studied on allelopathy of plants and developed methods to identify the
effective substances in root exudates, leaf leacheate, and volatile chemicals
emitted from plants. We found traditional cover plants that show allelopathic
activity are useful for weed control. It could eliminate the use of synthetic
chemicals for this purpose. Allelopathy is a natural power of plants to protect
themselves by producing natural organic chemicals. Some endemic plants in Asia,
already known by farmers in the region, as either cover crops used in
intercropping, hedgerow, or agroforestry, were found to possess strong
allelopathic abilities. Our group identified several allelochemicals from these
plants. These allelopathic cover crops, mostly leguminous plants, provide
protein rich food, and grow easily without artificial fertilizers, herbicides,
insecticides and fungicides. In this regards, these allelopathic cover crops
could save food shortage in rural area, and are useful for environmental
conservation. Screenings of allelopathic plants by specific bioassays and field
tests have been conducted. Hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) and Velvet bean (Mucuna
pruriens) are two promising species for the practical application of
allelopathy. An amino acid, L/DOPA, unusual in plants, plays an important role
as allelochemical in Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens). Hairy vetch is the most
promising cover plant for the weed control in orchard, vegetable and rice
production and even for landscape amendment in abandoned field in Japan. We have
isolated "cyanamide", a well known nitrogen fertilizer, from Hairy vetch. This
is the first finding of naturally produced cyanamide in the world.
PMID: 12897455 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
22: ScientificWorldJournal. 2001 Nov 10;1 Suppl 2:17/21.
Symbiotic performance of herbaceous legumes in tropical cover cropping systems.
Ibewiro B, Onuh M, Sanginga N, Bernard V, Merckx R.
Laboratory of Soil Fertility and Soil Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven,
Heverlee, Belgium. bibewiro@cdfa.gov
Increasing use of herbaceous legumes such as mucuna ( Mucuna pruriens var.
utilis [Wright] Bruck) and lablab ( Lablab purpureus [L.] Sweet) in the derived
savannas of West Africa can be attributed to their potential to fix atmospheric
nitrogen (N2). The effects of management practices on N2 fixation in mucuna and
lablab were examined using 15N isotope dilution technique. Dry matter yield of
both legumes at 12 weeks was two to five times more in in situ mulch (IM) than
live mulch (LM) systems. Land Equivalent Ratios, however, showed 8 to 30% more
efficient utilization of resources required for biomass production under LM than
IM systems. Live mulching reduced nodule numbers in the legumes by one third
compared to values in the IM systems. Similarly, nodule mass was reduced by 34
to 58% under LM compared to the IM systems. The proportion of fixed N2 in the
legumes was 18% higher in LM than IM systems. Except for inoculated mucuna, the
amounts of N fixed by both legumes were greater in IM than LM systems. Rhizobia
inoculation of the legumes did not significantly increase N2 fixation compared
to uninoculated plots. Application of N fertilizer reduced N2 fixed in the
legumes by 36 to 51% compared to inoculated or uninoculated systems. The
implications of cover cropping, N fertilization, and rhizobia inoculation on N
contributions of legumes into tropical low/input systems were discussed.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
PMID: 12805778 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
23: Plant Physiol. 2003 Apr;131(4):1727/36.
Natural abundance carbon isotope composition of isoprene reflects incomplete
coupling between isoprene synthesis and photosynthetic carbon flow.
Affek HP, Yakir D.
Department of Environmental Sciences and Energy Research, Weizmann Institute of
Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
Isoprene emission from leaves is dynamically coupled to photosynthesis through
the use of primary and recent photosynthate in the chloroplast. However, natural
abundance carbon isotope composition (delta(13)C) measurements in myrtle (Myrtus
communis), buckthorn (Rhamnus alaternus), and velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens)
showed that only 72% to 91% of the variations in the delta(13)C values of fixed
carbon were reflected in the delta(13)C values of concurrently emitted isoprene.
The results indicated that 9% to 28% carbon was contributed from alternative,
slow turnover, carbon source(s). This contribution increased when photosynthesis
was inhibited by CO(2)/free air. The observed variations in the delta(13)C of
isoprene under ambient and CO(2)/free air were consistent with contributions to
isoprene synthesis in the chloroplast from pyruvate associated with cytosolic
Glc metabolism. Irrespective of alternative carbon source(s), isoprene was
depleted in (13)C relative to mean photosynthetically fixed carbon by 4 per
thousand to 11 per thousand. Variable (13)C discrimination, its increase by
partially inhibiting isoprene synthesis with fosmidomicin, and the associated
accumulation of pyruvate suggested that the main isotopic discrimination step
was the deoxyxylulose/5/phosphate synthase reaction.
PMID: 12692331 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
24: Indian J Exp Biol. 2002 Mar;40(3):273/6.
Amelioration of experimental diabetic neuropathy and gastropathy in rats
following oral administration of plant (Eugenia jambolana, Mucuna pruriens and
Tinospora cordifolia) extracts.
Grover JK, Rathi SS, Vats V.
Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari
Nagar, New Delhi 110029, India. jkgrover@hotmail.com
Extract of M. charantia (200 mg/kg), E. jambolana (200 mg/kg), M. pruriens (200
mg/kg) and T. cordifolia (400 mg/kg) was administered for 50 days in STZ induced
diabetic mice, the plasma glucose concentration was reduced by 24.4, 20.84, 7.45
and 9.07% respectively. Tail flick latency (TFL) and gastric transit percentage
were significantly higher in diabetic controls versus normal controls. M.
charantia and E. jambolana modified it favorably while M. pruriens and T.
cordifolia did not exert any favorable change.
PMID: 12635695 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
25: Phytother Res. 2002 Dec;16(8):774/7.
Prevention of experimental diabetic cataract by Indian Ayurvedic plant extracts.
Rathi SS, Grover JK, Vikrant V, Biswas NR.
Department of Pharmacology, Dr Rajendra Prasad Center of Ophthalmic Sciences,
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi / 110029,
India.
The efficacy of Momordica charantia (MC), Eugenia jambolana (EJ), Tinospora
cordifolia (TC) and Mucuna pruriens (MP) was assessed in the prevention of
murine alloxan dibetic cataract. Alloxan (120 mg/kg) was used as the
diabetogenic agent. While controls and diabetic controls did not receive any
plant extract, treated rats received lyophilized aqueous extract of MC and EJ
(200 mg/kg p.o.), alcohol extract of TC (400 mg/kg) and MP (200 mg/kg p.o.)
every day until 4 months. Serum glucose concentration was assessed and cataracts
examined with both the naked eye and through a slit lamp. Of the eight animals
in the diabetic control group, four developed cortical cataract (stage IV) by
day 90 while the remaining four developed it by day 100. The incidence rate of
cataract in MC, EJ, TC and MP treated groups at 120 days was only 0, 0, 1 and 2.
Oral feeding of MC, EJ, TC and MP extracts for 1 month produced a fall of
64.33%, 55.62%, 38.01% and 40.17%, respectively, in the serum glucose levels in
comparison with the 48 h level. After 2 months of treatment, the respective
values were 66.96%, 59.85%, 40.41% and 45.63%. MC and EJ prevented the
development of cataract while the protective effect was less with TC and MP
along with a significant reduction of plasma glucose levels (p < 0.001).
Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PMID: 12458487 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
26: Phytother Res. 2002 Sep;16(6):534/8.
Effect of the alcohol extract of the seeds of Mucuna pruriens on free radicals
and oxidative stress in albino rats.
Tripathi YB, Upadhyay AK.
Biochemistry Section, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Medical
Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi/221005, India.
In vitro and in vivo studies were made with an alcohol extract of the seeds of
Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae) to investigate its antioxidant property. In vitro
studies were carried out in rat liver homogenate to investigate the chemical
interaction of various phytochemicals with different species of free radicals.
The effect was also checked on iron/induced lipid peroxidation, oxidation of GSH
content, and its interaction with hydroxyl and superoxide radicals. There was no
change on the rate of aerial oxidation of GSH content but it significantly
inhibited FeSO(4) induced lipid peroxidation. It also inhibited the specific
chemical reactions induced by superoxides and hydroxyl radicals. The removal of
these species was through direct chemical interaction. An in vivo study on
albino rats for 30 days showed no toxic effect up to a dose of 600 mg/kg body
weight, on oral administration. There was no change in the level of TBA/reactive
substances, reduced glutathione content and SOD activity in the liver. The
activity of serum GOT, GPT and alkaline phosphatase was also unchanged. Thus it
could be concluded that the alcohol extract of the seeds of M. pruriens has an
antilipid peroxidation property, which is mediated through the removal of
superoxides and hydroxyl radicals. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 12237810 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
27: Phytother Res. 2002 May;16(3):236/43.
The effect of Momordica charantia and Mucuna pruriens in experimental diabetes
and their effect on key metabolic enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
Rathi SS, Grover JK, Vats V.
Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari
Nagar, New Delhi.
The Indian traditional system of medicine prescribed traditional plant
therapies. Two such plants, i.e. Momordica charantia (MC) and Mucuna pruriens
(MP), earlier shown to reduce hyperglycaemia, were assessed for their anti
hyperglycaemic effect on varying degrees of hyperglycaemia and diabetic
complications. Alcohol and aqueous extracts of MC (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/day)
and only an alcohol extract of MP (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day) were evaluated in
a pilot study (plasma glucose >180 mg/dL, 21 days), a chronic study in
alloxanized rats (plasma glucose >280mg/dL, 120 days) and streptozotocin (STZ)
mice (plasma glucose >400 mg/dL, 60 days). In the pilot study, the maximum
antihyperglycaemic effect occurred with an aqueous extract of MC at week 3 and
an alcohol extract of MP at week 6 at a dose of 200 mg/kg/day. In chronic
alloxanized rats, the selected dose of MC led to a significant fall of 64.33%,
66.96%, 69.7% and 70.53% in plasma glucose levels at 1, 2, 3 and 4 months,
respectively. MP showed a decrease of 40.71%, 45.63%, 50.33% and 51.01% at the
same time period. In chronic STZ diabetic mice, MC led to a mean reduction of
15.37%, 18.68% and 22.86% in plasma glucose levels on days 40, 50 and 60 of
sampling while MP had no significant effect. The alteration in hepatic and
skeletal muscle glycogen content and hepatic glucokinase, hexokinase,
glucose/6/phosphate and phosphofructokinase levels in diabetic mice were
partially restored by MC but not by MP. The mechanism of action of MC and MP is
discussed.
PMID: 12164268 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
28: J Ethnopharmacol. 2002 Jun;81(1):81/100.
Medicinal plants of India with anti/diabetic potential.
Grover JK, Yadav S, Vats V.
Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari
Nagar, New Delhi/110049, India. jkgrover@hotmail.com
Since ancient times, plants have been an exemplary source of medicine. Ayurveda
and other Indian literature mention the use of plants in treatment of various
human ailments. India has about 45000 plant species and among them, several
thousands have been claimed to possess medicinal properties. Research conducted
in last few decades on plants mentioned in ancient literature or used
traditionally for diabetes have shown anti/diabetic property. The present paper
reviews 45 such plants and their products (active, natural principles and crude
extracts) that have been mentioned/used in the Indian traditional system of
medicine and have shown experimental or clinical anti/diabetic activity. Indian
plants which are most effective and the most commonly studied in relation to
diabetes and their complications are: Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Aloe vera,
Cajanus cajan, Coccinia indica, Caesalpinia bonducella, Ficus bengalenesis,
Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica charantia, Ocimum sanctum, Pterocarpus marsupium,
Swertia chirayita, Syzigium cumini, Tinospora cordifolia and Trigonella foenum
graecum. Among these we have evaluated M. charantia, Eugenia jambolana, Mucuna
pruriens, T. cordifolia, T. foenum graecum, O. sanctum, P. marsupium, Murraya
koeingii and Brassica juncea. All plants have shown varying degree of
hypoglycemic and anti/hyperglycemic activity.
Publication Types:
Review
PMID: 12020931 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
29: J Biol Chem. 2002 May 10;277(19):17072/8. Epub 2002 Feb 26.
Proteins from Mucuna pruriens and enzymes from Echis carinatus venom:
characterization and cross/reactions.
Guerranti R, Aguiyi JC, Neri S, Leoncini R, Pagani R, Marinello E.
Institute of Biochemistry and Enzymology, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2,
53100 Siena, Italy.
Mucuna pruriens seeds have been widely used against snakebite in traditional
medicine. The antivenin property of a water extract of seeds was assessed in
vivo in mice. The serum of mice treated with extract was tested for its
immunological properties. Two proteins of Echis carinatus venom with apparent
molecular masses of 25 and 16 kDa were detected by Western blot analysis carried
out using IgG of mice immunized with extract or its partially purified protein
fractions. By enzymatic in/gel digestion and electrospray ionization/mass
spectrometry/mass spectrometry analysis of immunoreactive venom proteins,
phospholipase A(2,) the most toxic enzyme of snake venom, was identified. These
results demonstrate that the observed antivenin activity has an immune
mechanism. Antibodies of mice treated with non/lethal doses of venom reacted
against some proteins of M. pruriens extract. Proteins of E. carinatus venom and
M. pruriens extract have at least one epitope in common as confirmed by
immunodiffusion assay.
PMID: 11867642 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
30: Phytother Res. 2001 Dec;15(8):712/4.
Blood chemistry of rats pretreated with Mucuna pruriens seed aqueous extract
MP101UJ after Echis carinatus venom challenge.
Aguiyi JC, Guerranti R, Pagani R, Marinello E.
Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy University of Jos, Jos,
Nigeria. Aguiyi@unisi.it
The effect of a lethal Echis carinatus venom on serum enzyme levels and blood
plasma coagulation parameters in rats pretreated with Mucuna pruriens seed
aqueous extract MP101UJ (21 mg/kg body wt) 24 h and 3 wk before i.p venom
injection (0.50 mg/kg rat) and rats injected with venom alone (0.50 mg/kg body
wt) was investigated. The enzyme levels and coagulation parameter levels were
measured 4 h after venom administration. The results showed that the increased
enzymes lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT),
creatinine kinase (CK) and changed coagulation parameters D/Dimer and Quick
levels due to the venom effect were inhibited by M. pruriens seed aqueous
extract MP101UJ in pretreated rats. Rats pretreated with a single dose (21 mg/kg
and multiple doses 21 mg/kg rat) of extract MP101UJ maintained the normal enzyme
levels and showed an anticoagulant effect as evidenced by the high PTT level
which was also observed in venom treated animals. D/Dimer and Quick values were
normal. However, the extract MP101UJ appeared to significantly inhibit the
lethal venom induced myotoxic, cytotoxic and coagulation activities in
experimental animals. Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 11746865 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
31: J Ethnopharmacol. 2001 Aug;76(3):233/8.
Traditional Indian anti/diabetic plants attenuate progression of renal damage in
streptozotocin induced diabetic mice.
Grover JK, Vats V, Rathi SS, Dawar R.
Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari
Nagar, 110049, New Delhi, India
The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of daily oral feeding
Momordica charantia (MC) (200 mg/kg), Eugenia jambolana (EJ) (200 mg/kg), Mucuna
pruriens (MP) (200 mg/kg) and Tinospora cordifolia (TC) extracts for 40 days on
blood glucose concentrations and kidney functions in streptozotocin
(STZ)/diabetic rats. Plasma glucose levels, body weight, urine volume and
urinary albumin levels were monitored on every 10th day over a 40/day period
while plasma creatinine levels were assessed at the beginning and end of
experiment. Renal hypertrophy was assessed as the ratio between the kidney
weight and total body weight. Plasma glucose concentrations in STZ/diabetic mice
were reduced by the administration of extracts of MC, EJ, TC and MP by 24.4,
20.84, 7.45 and 9.07%, respectively (P<0.005 for MC, EJ, MP and P<0.05 for TC).
Urine volume was significantly higher (P<0.005) in diabetic controls and MC, EJ,
MP and TC treatment prevented polyuria (P<0.001, 0.0001, 0.01 and 0.001,
respectively). After 10 days of STZ administration urinary albumin levels (UAE)
were over 6 fold higher in diabetic controls as compared to normal controls.
Treatment with MC, EJ, MP and TC significantly prevented the rise in UAE levels
from day 0 to 40 in comparison to diabetic controls (P<0.0001, 0.0001, 0.05,
0.05, respectively). Renal hypertrophy was significantly higher in diabetic
controls as compared to non/diabetic controls. MC and EJ partially but
significantly (P<0.05) prevented renal hypertrophy as compared to diabetic
controls. TC and MP failed to modify renal hypertrophy. Results indicate that
these plant drugs should be studied further.
PMID: 11448544 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
32: J Agric Food Chem. 2001 Jun;49(6):3058/67.
Effect of various domestic processing methods on antinutrients and in vitro
protein and starch digestibility of two indigenous varieties of Indian tribal
pulse, Mucuna pruriens Var. utilis.
Siddhuraju P, Becker K.
Department of Animal Nutrition and Aquaculture, Institute for Animal Production
in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Hohenheim (480), D/70593 Stuttgart,
Germany.
The effect of various domestic processing methods on antinutrients and starch
fractions and in vitro protein and starch digestibilities of white and black
varieties of Mucuna pruriens var. utilis was studied. Cooking or autoclaving of
both raw seeds and presoaked seeds in different solutions (water, tamarind
extract, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced
the content of total phenolics, phytic acid, trypsin inhibitor and chymotrypsin
inhibitor activities, and L/dopa compared to soaking or dry heating techniques.
The germination processes (24 and 48 h) were also effective in the reduction of
various antinutrients, although this reduction appeared to be more pronounced in
a prolonged period of germination (72 h). Water soaking followed by dehusking
was found to be ineffective in the reduction of trypsin and chymotrypsin
inhibitor activities in both varieties. All of the treatments were effective in
significantly (p < 0.05) reducing the resistant starch content in the presently
investigated samples. Cooking as well as autoclaving brought about a more
significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the digestibility of protein and starch
compared to germination and dry heat treatment. Moreover, among the different
processing techniques, soaking in sodium bicarbonate solution followed by
cooking (29.6/34.8%) or autoclaving (33.0/37.2%) seemed to be the best method
for improving starch digestibility.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 11410009 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
33: J Agric Food Chem. 2000 Dec;48(12):6048/60.
Studies on the nutritional composition and antinutritional factors of three
different germplasm seed materials of an under/utilized tropical legume, Mucuna
pruriens var. utilis.
Siddhuraju P, Becker K, Makkar HP.
Department of Animal Nutrition and Aquaculture, Institute for Animal Production
in the Tropics and Subtropics (480), University of Hohenheim, D/70593 Stuttgart,
Germany.
Two different germplasms of a white variety and one germplasm of a black variety
of Mucuna pruriens var. utilis were evaluated for their physicochemical
properties as well as their nutritional and antinutritional characteristics. All
germplasms had higher grain weight, density, hydration, and swelling capacity
than other common legumes. The dehulled samples contained 303.2/335.5 g(/1)
protein and 46.1/53.5 g x kg(/1) lipid, and these values were higher than the
respective whole seeds. The levels of macro/ and microelements in both whole and
dehulled seeds were comparable to those in common pulses. All germplasms had a
high dietary fiber content (18/19.5%), made up of mainly insoluble dietary fiber
(DF). Seed lipids were high in unsaturated fatty acids (64.7/66.9%),
specifically linoleic acid (48/49%). Whole and dehulled seeds of the white
variety from Salem were particularly rich in sulfur/containing amino acids with
significantly higher levels of in vitro protein digestibility than the other two
germplasms. All germplasms had high levels of total phenols and phytate,
trypsin, and chymotrypsin inhibitor activities, but were low in tannins,
saponins, and alpha/amylase inhibitor activity. Only weak hemagglutinating
activity against cow erythrocytes and no hemagglutinating activity against human
erythrocytes (O) was observed in all the samples. Dehulled seeds were higher in
total starch, including resistant starch and oligosaccharides (with verbascose
as the major fraction) than the respective whole seeds. Both whole and dehulled
samples of the white variety of Salem germplasm showed significantly lower
concentrations of L/dopa, nonmethylated, and methylated tetrahydroisoquinolines
than the respective whole and dehulled samples of other germplasms. In general,
dehulling didn't affect the overall nutritional status in any of the presently
investigated samples.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 11312778 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
34: J Ethnopharmacol. 2001 May;75(2/3):175/80.
Effects of Mucuna pruriens extract on activation of prothrombin by Echis
carinatus venom.
Guerranti R, Aguiyi JC, Errico E, Pagani R, Marinello E.
Institute of Biochemistry and Enzymology, University of Siena, Via A. Moro,
53100, Siena, Italy. guerranti@unisi.it
Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC has long been used as a medicinal plant by traditional
healers. The validity of the claims made for this plant has also been tested
scientifically. Some of its properties are probably linked to high
concentrations of dopa since it is useful in the treatment of Parkinson's
disease. The antisnake properties of an extract of Mucuna pruriens' seeds
(MP101UJ) in vivo were recently demonstrated and one is now investigating its
biochemical mechanism. Echis carinatus venom (EV) contains a mixture of proteins
that affect the coagulative cascade, causing severe bleeding and haemorrhage.
Here the effect of an extract of MP101UJ in prothrombin activation by EV in
vitro by clotting and chromogenic assay is studied. An increase in procoagulant
activity was found. This could explain the protective effect in vivo.
PMID: 11297847 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
35: Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2000 Jul;51(4):279/87.
Nutritional and anti/nutritional composition of velvet bean: an under/utilized
food legume in south India.
Vadivel V, Janardhanan K.
Department of Botany, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India.
Four accessions of the under/utilized legume, velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens var.
utilis (Wall. ex Wight) Bak. ex Burck), collected from three different locations
of Western Ghats, South India were analysed for proximate composition, mineral
profiles, the protein fractions, amino acid profiles of total seed protein, in
vitro protein digestibility and certain anti/nutritional factors to determine
their potential as an alternative source to alleviate
protein/energy/malnutrition among the people of South India. The major findings
of the study were as follows: crude protein ranged from 20.2/29.3%, crude lipid
6.3/7.4%, total dietary fibre 8.7/10.5%, ash 3.3/5.5% and carbohydrates
49.9/61.2%. The energy level of the seed (1562/1597 kJ 100 g/1 DM) was
comparable with commonly consumed Indian pulses. Mineral profiles, viz. sodium,
potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc and manganese
ranged from 43.1/150.1, 778.1/1846.0, 393.4/717.7, 174.9/387.6, 98.4/592.1,
10.8/15.0, 0.9/2.2, 5.0/10.9, 3.9/4.3 mg 100(/1) seed flour, respectively. The
data on seed protein fractions revealed that the globulins constitute the major
bulk of the seed protein as in most legumes. Profiles of amino acids of total
seed proteins detected in the present study revealed that they contain
relatively higher levels of all essential amino acids except threonine, leucine
and lysine in black/coloured seed coat accessions and phenylalanine and tyrosine
in white/coloured seed coat accession compared with the FAO/WHO (1991)
requirement pattern. The in vitro protein digestibility of the legumes under
study ranged from 72.4/76.9%. Anti/nutritional substances like total free
phenolics, tannins, L/DOPA, trypsin inhibitor activity and
phytohaemagglutinating activity also were investigated. The detected
anti/nutritional factors probably have little nutritional significance if the
beans are properly processed.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 11027039 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
36: J Neurol Sci. 2000 Jun 15;176(2):124/7.
Comment in:
J Neurol Sci. 2001 Feb 15;184(1):89/92.
Association of L/DOPA with recovery following Ayurveda medication in Parkinson's
disease.
Nagashayana N, Sankarankutty P, Nampoothiri MR, Mohan PK, Mohanakumar KP.
Department of Kayachikitsa, Govt. Ayurveda College, / 695 001,
Thiruvananthapuram, India.
Ayurveda, the Indian system of traditional medicine, uses a concoction of
several spices, herbs and minerals for the treatment of diseases. In a clinical
prospective study we have evaluated the efficacy of Ayurveda treatment (a
concoction in cow's milk of powdered Mucuna pruriens and Hyoscyamus reticulatus
seeds and Withania somnifera and Sida cordifolia roots) in 18 clinically
diagnosed (with a mean Hoen and Yahr value of 2.22) parkinsonian patients. As
per Ayurveda principles, 13 patients underwent both cleansing (for 28 days) and
palliative therapy (56 days), 5 patients underwent palliative therapy alone (84
days). Only the former group showed significant improvement in activities of
daily living (ADL) and on motor examination as per UPDRS rating.
Symptomatically, they exhibited better response in tremor, bradykinesia,
stiffness and cramps as compared to the latter group. Excessive salivation
worsened in both the groups. Analyses of powdered samples in milk, as
administered in patients, revealed about 200 mg of L/DOPA per dose. The study
establishes the necessity of cleansing therapy in Ayurveda medication prior to
palliative therapy. It also reveals contribution of L/DOPA in the recovery as
observed in Parkinson' disease following Ayurveda medication.
PMID: 10930594 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
37: Poult Sci. 1999 Jun;78(6):866/72.
Evaluation of raw and heated velvet beans (Mucuna pruriens) as feed ingredients
for broilers.
Del Carmen J, Gernat AG, Myhrman R, Carew LB.
Departamento de Zootecnia, Escuela Agricola Panamericana, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.
Velvet bean plants (Mucuna pruriens) are used widely outside the U.S. as a cover
crop. The beans (VB), high in protein, contain toxic substances that possibly
can be destroyed by heating. Few data are available on the use of VB in poultry
nutrition. We examined the effects of raw and dry/roasted VB on broiler
performance in two experiments. In Experiment 1, 10, 20, and 30% raw VB were
substituted into nutritionally balanced rations fed 0 to 42 d of age. Raw VB
caused progressive reductions in growth; at 42 d of age, broilers fed 30% VB
weighed 39% of controls. Feed intake declined significantly only with 30% VB.
Feed efficiency decreased significantly with 20 and 30% VB. In Experiment 2, 10%
raw VB and 10, 20, and 30% heated VB were fed 0 to 42 d. With 10% raw VB,
broilers grew significantly slower but feed intake was unchanged. Inclusion of
10% heated VB allowed better growth than raw VB, and by 42 d of age, growth was
not significantly different from that of controls. At 20 and 30%, heated VB
promoted much better growth and efficiency than raw VB in Experiment 1, but
values were significantly lower than those of controls. With 30% heated VB,
broilers grew to 66% of control, a marked improvement over raw VB. Carcass yield
was unaffected. Trypsin inhibitor activity but not L/3,4/dihydroxyphenylalanine
(L/DOPA) in VB was destroyed by heating. We conclude that dry heating of VB
partially destroys its growth/inhibiting factor(s), allowing successful use of
10% heated VB in broiler rations. Higher levels of heated VB reduced broiler
performance, although results were much better than those of raw VB.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 10438131 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
38: Adv Neurol. 1999;80:565/74.
Traditional and complementary therapies in Parkinson's disease.
Manyam BV, Sanchez/Ramos JR.
Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Clinic, Southern Illinois University
School of Medicine, Springfield, USA.
Parkinson's disease has existed in different parts of the world since ancient
times. The first clear description is found in the ancient Indian medical system
of Ayurveda under the name Kampavata. Traditional therapies in the form of
herbal preparations containing anticholinergics, levodopa, and monoamine oxidase
inhibitors were used in the treatment of PD in India, China, and the Amazon
basin. Scientific reevaluation of these therapies may be valuable, as shown in
the case of Mucuna pruriens and Banisteria caapi. Complementary therapies such
as massage therapy, biofeedback, and acupuncture may have beneficial effects for
patients and deserve further study.
Publication Types:
Review
PMID: 10410773 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
39: Int J Food Sci Nutr. 1996 May;47(3):263/72.
Effect of different post/harvest treatments on antinutritional factors in seeds
of the tribal pulse, Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.
Vijayakumari K, Siddhuraju P, Janardhanan K.
Department of Botany, Bharathiar University, Tamil Nadu, India.
The effect of soaking, cooking and autoclaving on the levels of certain
antinutritional factors present in the tribal pulse, Mucuna pruriens, were
studied. The amount of reduction of total free phenolics was found to be greater
in sodium bicarbonate solution (56%) compared to distilled water (47%);
subjected to cooking and autoclaving these were further reduced to 49%.
Autoclaving (45 min) significantly reduced the tannin content (71%).
Insignificant reduction in content of L/DOPA was observed in all the processes.
Distilled water soaking was found to be ineffective in eliminating lectin
activity; whereas very significant reduction was noticed against all the human
blood groups ABO without any specificity in samples subjected to cooking and
autoclaving. Soaking in distilled water was more effective (27% reduction) than
sodium bicarbonate solution (17% reduction) in lowering the contents of phytic
acid. Cooking for 90 min and autoclaving for 45 min resulted in eliminating
phytic acid to the extent of 18% and 44%, respectively. Loss of HCN was greater
under autoclaving (75%) than the other processes studied. Of the three
oligosaccharides analysed, soaking effected maximum reduction in the level of
stachyose followed by verbascose and raffinose. Autoclaving effected greater
reduction (59/81%) compared to ordinary cooking (40/60% reduction). Of all the
different treatments studied, autoclaving seemed to be the best method in
eliminating the investigated antinutrients more efficiently except L/DOPA.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 8735780 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
40: J Altern Complement Med. 1995 Fall;1(3):249/55.
An alternative medicine treatment for Parkinson's disease: results of a
multicenter clinical trial. HP/200 in Parkinson's Disease Study Group.
[No authors listed]
The natural occurrence of antiparkinsonian drugs in plants//anticholinergics in
Datura stramonium, levodopa in Mucuna pruriens and Vicia faba, dopamine agonist
activity in Claviceps purpura, and MAO inhibitor activity in Banisteria
caapi/are known. Our study examined the efficacy and tolerability of HP/200,
derived from Mucuna prurient, in patients with Parkinson's disease. Sixty
patients with Parkinson's disease (46 male and 14 female) with a mean (+// SD)
age of 59 +// 9 years were treated in an open study for 12 weeks. Of these, 26
patients were taking synthetic levodopa/carbidopa formulations before treatment
with HP/200, and the remaining 34 were levodopa naive. HP/200, a powder
(supplied as a 7.5 g sachet), was mixed with water and given orally. The Unified
Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) was used at baseline and periodically
during the 12/week evaluation. Statistically significant reductions in Hoehn and
Yahr stage and UPDRS scores were seen from baseline to the end of the 12/week
treatment (p < 0.0001, t/test). The group mean (+// SD) dose for optimal control
of symptoms was 6 +// 3 sachets. Adverse effects were mild and were mainly
gastrointestinal in nature. No adverse effects were seen in clinical laboratory
reports. HP/200, developed from an alternative medicine source, Ayurveda, was
found to be an effective treatment for patients with Parkinson's disease.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 9395621 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
41: J Ethnopharmacol. 1994 Oct;44(2):99/108.
The effect on blood clotting of some west African plants used against snakebite.
Houghton PJ, Skari KP.
Chelsea Department of Pharmacy, King's College London, UK.
Aqueous extracts of the bark of Schumanniophyton magnificum and the leaves of
Mucuna pruriens var. utilis, Strophanthus gratus and Strophanthus hispidus show
a dose related ability to prolong the time taken to clot for blood treated with
a standardised dose of the venom of Echis carinatus. Strophanthus hispidus was
shown to be the most potent of the plants tested. The dose/response profiles
obtained showed that the increased clotting time was due to different processes
for the different plant extracts.
PMID: 7853871 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
42: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 1994 Jul;46(1):53/61.
Nutritive value of the foods cultivated and consumed by the tribals of south
India.
Rajyalakshmi P, Geervani P.
Department of Foods and Nutrition, Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University,
Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India.
Twenty five foods cultivated and consumed by the tribals of Andhra Pradesh,
India, comprising cereals/millets, legumes, tubers and miscellaneous foods
collected seasonally from 20 tribal villages were analysed for proximate
composition, vitamins and minerals. The major findings of the study were as
follows: Protein content of cereals/millets ranged from 6.8 to 11.8 g per 100 g
and that of legumes from 20 to 23.8 g per 100 g. The uncommon legume, judumulu
(Vigna sp.) grown by the tribals had the protein content of 22 g per 100 g. A
wild legume, Mucuna pruriens, had the highest protein content of 27.9 g per 100
g. Mineral contents of the foods showed greater variations. Two varieties of
ragi and horsegram grown in the area had an iron contents of 38 mgs per 100 g.
Among the wild tubers analysed, Diascorea hispida and D. bulbifera had about 134
Kcal per 100 g. In vitro starch digestibility (IVSD) analysed in the raw tubers
ranged from 8.7 to 11.5 percent and caryota palm pith had IVSD 5.9 percent.
Among the miscellaneous foods analysed, rajkeera seed (Amaranthus paniculatus)
had protein content of 22 g per 100 g. Amylase inhibitor units of the wild
tubers varied from 80 to 400 A/U and that of caryota palm pith was 712 A/U.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non/U.S. Gov't
PMID: 7971787 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
43: Pharm World Sci. 1993 Dec 17;15(6):263/8.
Mucuna pruriens: improvement of the biotechnological production of the
anti/Parkinson drug L/dopa by plant cell selection.
Pras N, Woerdenbag HJ, Batterman S, Visser JF, Van Uden W.
Department of Pharmacognosy, University Centre for Pharmacy, Groningen
University, The Netherlands.
Routinely grown cell suspension cultures of Mucuna pruriens L. (Fabaceae) were
able to endogenously accumulate the anti/Parkinson drug L/dihydroxyphenylalanine
(L/dopa) in the range between 0.2 and 2% on a dry weight (DW) basis. The green
colour that developed in light/exposed cultures, appeared to be a suitable
marker to select cells with an increased L/dopa biosynthesis and/or
phenoloxidase activity. For this purpose, saccharose concentrations from 0 to 4%
(w/v), and light intensities of 1,000 and 2,000 lux, were involved in the
selection procedure. After 6 months, photomixotrophic callus cultures with a
rapid growth and a high L/dopa content of 0.9% (DW) were obtained on 2%
saccharose and under 1,000 lux. The cell suspensions, derived from these calli,
accumulated up to 6% (DW) L/dopa, which was the highest stable content ever
measured in cultures of M. pruriens. An L/dopa yield of approximately 1.2 g/l
was calculated after 6 days of growth. In contrast, compared wtih the
standard/grown parent cell line, the phenoloxidase activity, and consequently
the bioconversion capacity as measured after entrapment in calcium alginate, of
these high/producing cultures was approximately threefold lower.
PMID: 8298586 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
44: Plant Physiol. 1992 Mar;98(3):1175/1180.
Relationships among Isoprene Emission Rate, Photosynthesis, and Isoprene
Synthase Activity as Influenced by Temperature.
Monson RK, Jaeger CH, Adams WW, Driggers EM, Silver GM, Fall R.
Department of Environmental, Population, and Organismic Biology, University of
Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309/0334.
Isoprene emissions from the leaves of velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens L. var
utilis) plants exhibited temperature response patterns that were dependent on
the plant's growth temperature. Plants grown in a warm regimen (34/28 degrees C,
day/night) exhibited a temperature optimum for emissions of 45 degrees C,
whereas those grown in a cooler regimen (26/20 degrees C, day/night) exhibited
an optimum of 40 degrees C. Several previous studies have provided evidence of a
linkage between isoprene emissions and photosynthesis, and more recent studies
have demonstrated that isoprene emissions are linked to the activity of isoprene
synthase in plant leaves. To further explore this linkage within the context of
the temperature dependence of isoprene emissions, we determined the relative
temperature dependencies of photosynthetic electron transport, CO(2)
assimilation, and isoprene synthase activity. When measured over a broad range
of temperatures, the temperature dependence of isoprene emission rate was not
closely correlated with either the electron transport rate or the CO(2)
assimilation rate. The temperature optima for electron transport rate and CO(2)
assimilation rate were 5 to 10 degrees C lower than that for the isoprene
emission rate. The dependence of isoprene emissions on photon flux density was
also affected by measurement temperature in a pattern independent of those
exhibited for electron transport rate and CO(2) assimilation rate. Thus, despite
no change in the electron transport rate or CO(2) assimilation rate at 26 and 34
degrees C, the isoprene emission rate changed markedly. The quantum yield of
isoprene emissions was stimulated by a temperature increase from 26 to 34
degrees C, whereas the quantum yield for CO(2) assimilation was inhibited. In
greenhouse/grown aspen leaves (Populus tremuloides Michaux.), the high
temperature threshold for inhibition of isoprene emissions was closely
correlated with the high temperature/induced decrease in the in vitro activity
of isoprene synthase. When taken together, the results indicate that although
there may be a linkage between isoprene emission rate and photosynthesis, the
temperature dependence of isoprene emission is not determined solely by the
rates of CO(2) assimilation or electron transport. Rather, we propose that
regulation is accomplished primarily through the enzyme isoprene synthase.
PMID: 16668743 [PubMed / as supplied by publisher]
45: Lancet. 1990 Nov 3;336(8723):1129.
Outbreak of acute toxic psychosis attributed to Mucuna pruriens.
Infante ME, Perez AM, Simao MR, Manda F, Baquete EF, Fernandes AM, Cliff JL.
Publication Types:
Letter
PMID: 1978001 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
46: J Pak Med Assoc. 1990 Jul;40(7):147/50.
Antidiabetic evaluation of Mucuna pruriens, Linn seeds.
Akhtar MS, Qureshi AQ, Iqbal J.
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Agriculture,
Faisalabad.
Effects of powdered Mucuna pruriens seeds on blood glucose levels were
investigated in normal and alloxan/diabetic rabbits. In normal group 0.5, 1 and
2 g/kg of M. pruriens pulv significantly decreased the blood glucose levels
while in alloxan/diabetic rabbits only 1 and 2 g/kg body weight caused a
significant fall. The reference drug, acetohexamide in 500 mg/kg dose
significantly reduced the blood glucose levels but in normal rabbits only. High
levels of trace elements like manganese, zinc, and others were found in these
seeds. Therefore, it is conceivable that M. pruriens seeds contain hypoglycaemic
principles, may be both organic and mineral, which seem to act indirectly by
stimulating the release of insulin and/or by a direct insulin/like action.
Publication Types:
Comparative Study
PMID: 2125657 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
47: Mov Disord. 1990;5(1):47/8.
Paralysis agitans and levodopa in "Ayurveda": ancient Indian medical treatise.
Manyam BV.
Division of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine,
Springfield 62794/9230.
Neurologic diseases (Vata rogas, Sanskrit) and the pharmacologic treatment of
them were described in the ancient Indian medical system//Ayurveda. This article
explores paralysis agitans, which was described under the name Kampavata. Mucuna
pruriens (Atmagupta, Sanskrit), which contains levodopa, was used in the
treatment of Kampavata. Existence of paralysis agitans prior to the industrial
revolution is not just of historical interest, but would also suggest that under
the hypothesis of exposure to environmental toxins as a possible cause of
paralysis agitans, natural organic compounds with worldwide distribution should
also be considered.
Publication Types:
Historical Article
PMID: 2404203 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
48: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 1990 Jan;40(1):83/93.
Oligosaccharides in several Philippine indigenous food legumes: determination,
localization and removal.
Revilleza MJ, Mendoza EM, Raymundo LC.
Institute of Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, University of the
Philippines, Los Banos.
The oligosaccharide profile of raw mature seeds of seven different legumes
indigenous to the Philippines was measured in 70% ethanol extracts of the seeds
by thin layer chromatography using HPTLC plates and quantified by a
densitometer. Based on the results, the legumes could be ranked according to
decreasing oligosaccharide content or flatulence potential as follows:
Sam/samping (Clitoria ternatea) greater than hyacinth bean (Dolichos lablab)
greater than sabawel (Mucuna pruriens) greater than lima bean (Phaseolus
lunatus) greater than swordbean (Canavalia gladiata) greater than rice bean
(Vigna umbellata) greater than jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis). Sam/samping had
4.79% total oligosaccharides and hyacinth bean or batao, 3.66%. A jack bean
accession had 1.79% oligosaccharides. Simple processing methods were tested to
detoxify the oligosaccharides. Soaking the batao seeds had no effect while
boiling even resulted in a net 23/31% increase in the levels of raffinose,
stachyose and verbascose. On the other hand, two min of dry roasting resulted in
complete removal of oligosaccharides whereas germination resulted in about
30/40% decrease after 1 and 2 days, respectively.
Publication Types:
In Vitro
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non/P.H.S.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
PMID: 2345736 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
49: Phytochemistry. 1990;29(5):1551/4.
Cyclodextrin/facilitated bioconversion of 17 beta/estradiol by a phenoloxidase
from Mucuna pruriens cell cultures.
Woerdenbag HJ, Pras N, Frijlink HW, Lerk CF, Malingre TM.
Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
After complexation with beta/cyclodextrin, the phenolic steroid 17
beta/estradiol could be ortho/hydroxylated into a catechol, mainly
4/hydroxyestradiol, by a phenoloxidase from in vitro grown cells of Mucuna
pruriens. By complexation with beta/cyclodextrin the solubility of the steroid
increased from almost insoluble to 660 microM. The bioconversion efficiency
after 72 hr increased in the following order: freely suspended cells (0%),
immobilized cells (1%), cell homogenate (6%), phenoloxidase preparation (40%).
Mushroom tyrosinase converted 17 beta/estradiol, as a complex with
beta/cyclodextrin, solely into 2/hydroxyestradiol, with a maximal yield of 30%
after 6/8 hr. Uncomplexed 17 beta/estradiol was not converted at all in any of
these systems.
PMID: 1367429 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
50: Appl Environ Microbiol. 1989 Feb;55(2):531/2.
Effect of temperature on aflatoxin production in Mucuna pruriens seeds.
Roy AK, Chourasia HK.
Medicinal Plants Research Laboratory, University Department of Botany, Bhagalpur
University, India.
This paper describes the effect of temperature on the level of aflatoxin
production in Mucuna pruriens seeds. The highest level of aflatoxin B1 (1.75
micrograms/g) was detected in the samples incubated at 25 degrees C for three
weeks. At 20, 30, and 35 degrees C, aflatoxin levels were 0.30 to 0.56, 0.37 to
1.20, and 0.26 to 0.65 micrograms/g, respectively. The lowest concentration of
aflatoxin B1 (0.10 to 0.29 microgram/g) was produced at 15 degrees C.
PMID: 2719482 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
51: Planta Med. 1987 Oct;53(5):503.
Lecithin from Mucuna pruriens.
Panikkar KR, Majella VL, Pillai PM.
Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar P.O. 680 553, Trichur, Kerala, India.
PMID: 17269085 [PubMed / in process]
52: JAMA. 1986 Jan 17;255(3):313.
Leads from the MMWR. Mucuna pruriens/associated pruritus//New Jersey.
[No authors listed]
PMID: 2867234 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
53: MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 1985 Dec 6;34(48):732/4.
Mucuna pruriens/associated pruritus//New Jersey.
Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
PMID: 2866441 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
54: Neurol India. 1978 Dec;26(4):179/82.
Activity of bromoergocryptine, Mucuna pruriens and L/dopa in the control of
hyperprolactinaemia.
Vaidya RA, Aloorkar SD, Sheth AR, Pandya SK.
PMID: 572921 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
55: Indian J Med Res. 1968 Dec;56(12):1808/12.
Blood sugar and total cholesterol lowering effect of Glycine soja (Sieb and
Zucc.), Mucuna pruriens (D.C.) and Dolichos biflorus (Linn.) seed diets in
normal fasting albino rats.
Pant MC, Uddin I, Bhardwaj UR, Tewari RD.
PMID: 5732448 [PubMed / indexed for MEDLINE]
56: AMA Arch Derm. 1955 Nov;72(5):399/406.
Studies on cowhage (Mucuna pruriens) and its pruritogenic proteinase, mucunain.
SHELLEY WB, ARTHUR RP.
PMID: 13257913 [PubMed / OLDMEDLINE]
57: Biochem J. 1937 Dec;31(12):2149/52.
Isolation of l/3:4/dihydroxyphenylalanine from the seeds of Mucuna pruriens.
Damodaran M, Ramaswamy R.
The University Biochemical Laboratory, Chepauk, Madras.
PMID: 16746556 [PubMed]
