Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants

Mostly the geopolymers have been synthesized by using NaOH/Na2SiO3 or KOH/K2SiO3 as activators, which, respectively, provides sodium and potassium counter-cations to the geopolymeric framework. A few experimental studies comparatively accounted better compressive strength of K-geopolymer against Na-geopolymer. However, the detailed comparative account of the fundamental chemical species (silicates, aluminates and aluminosilicates) and their initial key reactions (deprotonation and dimerization) with both of the experimentally relevant counter-cations, i.e., sodium and potassium, is lacking in the literature. Therefore, in this computational research work, we have obtained and compared the DFT optimized geometries of silicate, aluminate monomers and their dimers possessing both the experimentally relevant counter-cations (Na+ and K+). The initial reactions of the geopolymerization process, i.e., deprotonation and dimerization, with both the counter-cations at experimentally relevant pH 11 have also been compared.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and typically processed from primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs). Recent discoveries highlight that certain pri-miRNAs also encode miRNA-encoded peptides (miPEPs), which influence miRNA function. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying miPEP activity, including the specific domains or essential amino acid residues required for their function, remain largely unexplored. In this study, we elucidated that the pri-miR858a-derived peptide, miPEP858a, directly interacts with the promoter of the MIR858 gene in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Notably, the C-terminal region of miPEP858a, composed of 14 amino acid residues, is critical for its functionality. Through DNA–protein interaction assays, including yeast 1-hybrid, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP-qPCR), electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and promoter–reporter analyses, we demonstrated that miPEP858a binds to a specific region within the MIR858 promoter. Exogenous application of a synthetic peptide corresponding to the C-terminal region of miPEP858a resulted in enhanced MIR858 expression, leading to phenotypic changes similar to those observed with the full-length miPEP858a. Moreover, the truncated C-terminal peptide was able to complement mutant plants lacking endogenous miPEP858a, emphasizing its role in regulating miR858a expression and downstream target genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and plant development. These findings suggest that the full-length miPEP858a may not be necessary for its biological function, with the C-terminal region being sufficient to modulate miRNA expression. This discovery reveals opportunities for identifying functional domains in other miPEPs, potentially reducing peptide synthesis costs, and offering a more efficient strategy for enhancing agronomic traits in crop plants without the need for complex biotechnological interventions.

The eleven combinations of four isolates, S. maltophilia, P. hibiscicola, P. aeruginosa, and P. monteilii, were prepared and screened for chlorpyrifos (CP) degradation. Among these combinations, four highly CP degrading consortia were identified: D: S. maltophilia, P. hibiscicola, P. monteilii, E: P. hibiscicola, P. aeruginosa, P. monteilii, F: S. maltophilia, P. hibiscicola, and G: S. maltophilia, P. aeruginosa. These combinations were found to be mutually compatible, exhibiting no lysis or inhibition zones. Their application significantly decreased in CP content from 37.6 to 68.6% as compared to control. Consortia-treated soil also displayed reduced bio-concentration factor and translocation of CP in W. somnifera. A significant increase in biomass (40–71.2%), protein content (38–66.6%), chlorophyll (24.7–52.3%), and secondary metabolite of W. somnifera was observed after the application of consortia. The activities of soil enzymes (alkaline phosphatase, dehydrogenase, and N-acetyl glucosaminidase), availability of nutrients, and soil microbial biomass carbon were also enhanced by the inoculation of consortia in soil. Overall, the results indicated that the consortium of S. maltophilia and P. aeruginosa exhibited the highest potential for CP degradation and plant growth promotion compared to the others. This consortium could be effectively utilized for the rapid degradation of CP in agricultural soil vis-a-vis improvement in the productivity of the plants.

Annona squamosa L. is widely cultivated for its edible fruits in India. After the fruit pulp is removed, the peel that remains is a municipal waste. The purpose of the study was to examine the chemical and biological activity profiles of A. squamosa fruit waste’s hydrodistilled essential oil (ASEO) and supercritical carbon dioxide extract (ASSFE). GC-FID, GC-MS, NMR, and HRMS techniques were employed to analyse the extracts, and in-vitro models were used to assess their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and dermal irritation activity. In all, 105 components were identified. The main components of the ASEO were spathulenol (27.5%), α-pinene (13.6%), β-pinene (8.2%), and limonene (5.0%). Nonetheless, the main components of ASSFE were palmitic acid (10.5%), oleic acid (7.2%), linoleic acid (4.3%), and kaurenoic acid (3.9%). The ASEO showed strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, and modest antioxidant activity without causing skin irritation. The findings of this study may help to maximise the medicinal potential of A. squamosa fruit waste. Graphical Abstract

Aims This study explores the therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa L. and its key bioactive compound, thymoquinone (TQ). Background Pancreatic cancer presents a significant health challenge due to its aggressiveness and limited treatment options. N. sativa and its component TQ have demonstrated anticancer properties in other cancers, warranting exploration in pancreatic cancer models. Objective To assess the antiproliferative, apoptotic, and anti-invasive effects of N. sativa extracts and TQ on pancreatic cancer cells, with a focus on modulating the NRF2/HO-1 and TNF-α signaling pathways. Method MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines were treated with essential and fixed oils, methanol extracts (from Türkiye and Syria), and TQ. Cell viability, apoptosis, and invasiveness were assessed via XTT, Annexin V, and Matrigel assays, respectively. Gene expression and cytokine levels were evaluated using RTqPCR and ELISA. HPLC was conducted to confirm TQ concentrations in extracts. Result The methanol extract of Türkiye-originated N. sativa seeds (TM) exhibited the highest cytotoxic effect, reducing cell viability in MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 at 0.05 mg/mL, while TQ significantly decreased viability at 20 µM. TM reduced MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 invasiveness (42±1.23 and 35±0.73, respectively) and contained a higher concentration of TQ (7.9168 ± 0.0561%) compared to the Syria-originated extract (SM). Result The methanol extract of Türkiye-originated N. sativa seeds (TM) exhibited the highest cytotoxic effect, reducing cell viability in MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 at 0.05 mg/mL, while TQ significantly decreased viability at 20 μM. TM reduced MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 invasiveness (42±1.23 and 35±0.73, respectively) and contained a higher concentration of TQ (7.9168 ± 0.0561%) compared to the Syria-originated extract (SM). Conclusion The findings suggest that TM and TQ exhibit strong anticancer potential by modulating key signaling pathways in pancreatic cancer cells, supporting their potential for further development as therapeutic agents in pancreatic cancer treatment.

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammation disorder affecting the joints, it has a complex pathophysiology including inflammatory cells (macrophages, CD4 + T and B-cells), oxidative markers (ROS, NO, MDA, GSH, and catalase). Inflammation promoting cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, IL6, IL-17, and CRP create a feedback loop and irreversibly damage joints. NSAIDs and DMARDs treatments have adverse effects demanding for safer treatment options. Purpose The study aimed to validate the anti-arthritic efficacy of Cassia fistula fruit pulp extracts (aqueous, hydro-ethanolic, and ethanolic). Methods Extracts were prepared and chemically characterized through LC–MS. Chrysophanol and rhein present in extracts were evaluated for anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant potential on LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cell line. Extracts were evaluated for in-vivo anti-inflammatory (cytokine estimation), anti-oxidant potential (estimating oxidative stress markers) and micro-structural changes (histopathology of knee and ankle) in collagen-induced arthritis. Results In-vitro study revealed significant anti-inflammatory potential against IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and ROS determination showed strong anti-oxidant potential of chrysophanol and rhein at 10 μM. In-vivo studies revealed that ethanolic extract significantly inhibited IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17 production and reduced NO, MDA and augmented GSH, catalase levels significantly. Combined efficacy of ethanolic extract against inflammation, and oxidative stress thus, significantly reduced cellular infiltration, bone, cartilage damage and improved joint space in knee and ankle joints assessed through histopathology. Improved joint micro-structure ameliorated paw swelling, paw volume and disease score significantly. Thus, ethanolic extract of C. fistula fruit pulp may be an alternate or complementary treatment for managing RA. Graphical Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has grown widely into diverse areas of research over the last decade. Publications distributed over the years disclose that biochemistry and analytical chemistry are incorporating AI to the utmost level. Enormous complex data sets are produced by analytical instruments comprising a treasure of information which is very helpful to analytical chemists in characterization. Despite this, we lack capabilities in data analysis and algorithms, which restricts our aptitude to discover and employ this data entirely. Machine learning and AI are being instigated to deal with this current challenge by accelerating several other applications in analytical chemistry. A critical valuation of illustrative reports amalgamating AI with analytical chemistry, spectroscopies, and several sensors has been discussed widely. This comprehensive review evaluates the AI advancement in data interpretation, the assistance of AI in analyte identification and quantification in proteomics and metabolomics, AI databases for primary and secondary metabolites information, regulatory and ethical guidelines in analytical chemistry incorporating AI, machine learning applications in drug discovery, agriculture, cosmetic, and food and separation techniques. In summary, this current review puts forward a thorough examination concerning the advancements of AI in different domains of chemistry and strives to facilitate comprehension of its forthcoming trajectories.

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium falciparum, presents significant challenges for treatment due to the parasite’s complex life cycle and increasing multi-drug resistance. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are the current standard treatment, resistance development necessitates the exploration of new therapeutic targets. Recent evidence suggests that targeting oxidative stress to arrest blood stage ring to schizont growth progression in Plasmodium could offer a novel approach to combat drug-resistant malaria. Phytomolecules have been recognized for their potential to modulate oxidative stress with artemisinin derivatives. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of formononetin (FMT), a natural isoflavonoid, alone and in combination with artesunate (ART) against multidrug-resistant P. falciparum (K1) strain and to decipher the underlying mechanism of action. The study presents compelling evidence demonstrating the anti-plasmodial action of FMT alone (IC50 value 212µM) and synergistic interaction (FICI 0.13) with ART at a 1:1 ratio against the K1 strain of P. falciparum. The combination treatment affected the progression of P. falciparum from the ring stage to the schizont and showed the effect at asexual erythrocytic stages. Moreover, the combination resulted in a notable increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, both independently and in combination with ART. In combination with ART, FMT effectively modulated the total glutathione (GSH) level. Moreover, FMT and ART demonstrated the ability to induce apoptosis-like death of parasites, as evidenced by the Lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde-MDA) and DNA fragmentation (TUNEL) levels. These results indicate that FMT could potentially ameliorate the growth of multidrug-resistant malaria parasites, enhance the effects of ART, and be suitable for developing anti-plasmodial agents from a cheap and sustainable source.

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), a vital medicinal plant, faces significant losses due to fungal diseases such as root rot, wilt, and leaf spot caused by Fusarium annulatum and Alternaria alstroemeriae . To manage these pathogens, metabolites of Cordyceps militaris were extracted and tested for antifungal efficacy using the poison food technique. Results showed the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values against F. annulatum and A. alstroemeriae were 15 mg/mL and 20 mg/mL, respectively, with cidal effects observed at 20 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL. In silico investigations revealed that cordycepin, a metabolite, exhibited strong binding affinity to the fungal chitin synthetase protein. These findings suggest that C. militaris metabolites could be used as a potential alternative to synthetic fungicides.

Bacosides are triterpenoidal saponins with numerous pharmacological benefits. One of the significant drawbacks is the low availability of these bacosides. The bacoside pathway is not well elucidated, and there is no prior report of a metabolic engineering approach in this plant. In this study, we have over-expressed the active isoform of Bacopa monnieri squalene synthase (BmSQS1-OE) and silenced the B. monnieri G10H (BmG10H-1-KD), the competitive metabolic pathway, to divert the flux towards triterpene biosynthesis. Absolute quantification of bacosides in these BmSQS1(OE)-BmG10H1(KD) lines has identified improved content of bacoside A3, bacopaside II, and bacoside A. Moreover, the engineered plant extract was also found to have better efficacy on locomotor activity, neuromuscular coordination, and social interaction in a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced rat model of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Immunohistochemistry of the brain tissues indicates that an extract of enhanced bacoside contents reduces 6-OHDA-induced dopaminergic depletion, implying a potential utility in neurological disorders. Key points • The engineered Bacopa monnieri extract has improved amounts of various bacoside. • The engineered Bacopa extract has shown enhanced effectiveness in a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced rat model of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

The World Health Organization gave great attention to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, especially its zoonotic impact. Dromedary camels in Arabian countries are of great importance, as well as awareness of production and health. Little was known about the occurrence of M. tuberculosis among Arabian camels. Out of 88 samples were collected from necropsied male camels aged 5–6.5 years after the slaughter process resident in Cairo abattoir. Isolation of Mycobacteria was achieved on Middle Brook 7H10 agar with special supplements, and then the suspected colonies were assessed by their specific aspects. Lungs and lymph nodes were processed for histopathology. Molecular characterization was carried out by both conventional amplification (Mycobacterium bovis mpb70, M. tuberculosis- Pan Mycobacterium 16S rRNA) tracked by sanger sequencing; and bacterial 16S rRNA V3–V4 hypervariable region was amplified then it was followed by Mi-seq Ilumina. Moringa oliefera’s oil was analyzed by GC–MS. The antimycobacterial potential of M. oliefera was conducted by In vitro tetrazolium microplate assay (TEMA). In silico docking mode of action and prediction were studied. Mycobacterium was isolated from 9.4% (3/32) of the lung samples and 2.4% (1/41) of the recovered lymph node samples. The isolated strains had ideal culture characteristics of Mycobacterium. Sanger sequencing identified the M. tuberculosis variant bovis DRC-EG-CAMEL PQ036932. Mi-seq Illumina revealed abundant sequence readings belonging to ancestral Actinobacteria and Micromonosporaceae. In vitro testing showed that the Moringa oleifera methanol leaf extract had antimicrobial activity with MIC ranging from 7.8 to 32 µg/ml, and the seed oil showed inhibitory effects at 50% (v/v) (P value < 0.05). In silico docking of ferulic acid against M. tuberculosis variant bovis ribosomal protein S1 showed an affinity score of − 5.95 kcal/mol with one hydrogen bond. While squalene lipoprotein LprF exhibited a professional affinity score of − 6.11 kcal/mol with seventeen hydrophobic π-interactions. Mycobacterium tuberculosis variant bovis is measured to prevail in the Arabian camels. However, this study provided a detailed examination of Mycobacterium in camels, offering practical solutions to combat this pathogen and mitigate the effects of infection or zoonotic impacts on other animals and humans. Sanger sequencing is more recommended for Mycobacterium identification. Moringa oliefera’s potential anti-mycobacterial effect through either leaves or oil might be achieved for humans and animals as a different strategy for medicinal plants’ role. It might be a new insight into the struggle and the adverse effects of tuberculosis. In the upcoming research, therapeutic compounds could be separated from M. oliefera.

The exploration of seed priming techniques represents a critical avenue for enhancing agricultural productivity, particularly in leguminous cover crops like Mucuna pruriens L. DC. var. utilis is commonly known as the velvet bean. This spineless green manure legume has significant potential for sustainable agricultural systems, offering multiple ecosystem services including soil fertility improvement, erosion control, and nitrogen fixation. Over 2022–2023, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of diverse seed treatments on the germination dynamics and seedling growth of trichomeless (spineless) Mucuna pruriens. The experiment was designed in an RCBD with three replications, occurred under shaded conditions. Various treatments were applied, including scarification, soaking in hot and normal water, H2SO4, KNO3 + HNO3, GA3, and thiourea. The results indicated that H2SO4 treatment significantly enhanced the germination rate (57.14% ± 2.49%) and reduced the mortality rate (42.86% ± 2.49%) compared with the other treatments. Additionally, the H2SO4 treatment exhibited higher values for VI I (2.91 ± 0.21) and VI II (51.18 ± 4.41) than the other treatments. Furthermore, the application of H2SO4 resulted in a greater seedling drying weight (0.90 ± 0.04 g) in comparison to other treatments, with GA3 showing similar trend at 0.82 ± 0.02 g. The observed PCA plot indicates that PC-1 and PC-2 collectively explained 96.17% of the total variation. These findings highlight the effectiveness of H2SO4 in promoting favorable germination and seedling growth characteristics in spineless Mucuna pruriens.

Rho of Plants (ROP)-GTPase Regulatory Proteins (RGRPs) have been shown to control plant morphogenesis, development and immunity; however, their role in specialized metabolism remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that specific RGRPs control monoterpene indole alkaloid (MIA) biosynthesis by interacting with distinct ROPs in Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus). Among the five Guanine nucleotide Exchange Factors (GEFs), four GTPase-Activating Proteins (GAPs), and two GDP Dissociation Inhibitors (GDIs) identified in the C. roseus genome, only CrGEF1, CrGAP1, and CrGDI2 specifically interacted with CrROP3 and CrROP5. These RGRPs displayed distinct cytosolic and/or membrane localization patterns, with their transcripts predominantly expressed in aerial tissues. Functional studies revealed that CrGEF1 acts as a positive regulator of MIA biosynthesis, as silencing its gene led to a reduction in MIA production, while overexpression enhanced MIA levels. Conversely, CrGAP1 and CrGDI2 function as negative regulators, with silencing resulting in increased MIA production and overexpression causing reduced MIA levels. Notably, terminal truncated forms of these RGRPs showed interaction with CrROP3 or CrROP5 but failed to influence MIA biosynthesis, underscoring the importance of these domains in their regulatory functions. Overall, our findings uncover a mechanism by which distinct RGRPs coordinate with specific ROPs to regulate transcription factors and fine-tune MIA biosynthesis in C. roseus.

Cyperus rotundus, a troublesome weed, poses significant challenges to crop production due to its competitive interference and resistance to various chemical herbicides. This study was designed with the objective of exploring the bioherbicidal properties of different essential oils from medicinal and aromatic plants in controlling Cyperus rotundus as a sustainable approach to weed management. The investigation has been conducted at CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Centre Bengaluru India. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD), and the data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Among 11 essential oils from MAPs tested at 5% (v/v) spray concentration, the essential oils of lemongrass, cinnamon and Pimenta exhibited the growth inhibition of Cyperus. Application of 3% Pimenta oil induced significant mortality of 85.14% compared to lemongrass (71.35%) and cinnamon (58.45%). Additionally, Pimenta (3%) oil-treated rhizomes exhibited significantly lower germination rates (32.50%) and mean germination rates (0.120 per day) compared to lemongrass (45%, 0.129 per day respectively) and cinnamon (56.25%, 0.134 per day respectively). Evaluation of bioactive compounds revealed that eugenol from Pimenta oil induced a significant mean death percentage of 78.00%, followed by eugenol from cinnamon (71.67%) outperforming citral from lemongrass (51.67%). Furthermore, leaf anatomical analysis indicated the disruptions in cuticular wax, shrinkage of epidermal and hinge cells, and inward rolling of the leaf blade essential oil-treated plants evidencing the bio herbicidal efficacy of essential oils. Overall, the findings suggest that 3% Pimenta essential oil shows potential in controlling Cyperus rotundus with minimal or no adverse environmental effects.

Background Gut immunity plays a critical role in overall health by balancing tolerance to food antigens and microbiota while defending against pathogens. Inflammation and infection in the gut can disrupt this balance, leading to disease. Andrographis paniculata , a plant used in traditional medicine, is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, making it a promising candidate for treating gut-related conditions. Methods A. paniculata ethanolic extract (ApEtOH) was prepared by ethanol extraction of leaves, and bioactive compounds were identified using HPLC. Anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated in vitro using a Caco-2/RAW264.7 co-culture inflammation model via ELISA. Gene expression of chemokines in Caco-2 cells infected with Salmonella Typhimurium was assessed via quantitative real-time PCR. For in vivo studies, BALB/c mice were treated with ApEtOH at different doses, and the effects on bacterial load, immune response, and inflammation were assessed. Results ApEtOH significantly downregulated the chemokines RANTES, MCP-1, and ENA-78, reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in vitro . In vivo studies demonstrated reduced bacterial colonization in the spleen, lower systemic markers of infection, and restoration of intestinal homeostasis. ApEtOH normalized serum IgA, increased IgG, and decreased TNF-α and IL-10 levels. It also increased the expression of mucin (Muc-2) and lysozyme (Lyz-1), which are critical for epithelial integrity and antimicrobial defense. Conclusion ApEtOH shows significant therapeutic potential for gut health by reducing bacterial colonization, modulating inflammation, and enhancing both innate and adaptive immunity. It may be a promising natural remedy for microbial induced gastrointestinal diseases and restoration of gut homeostasis.

Plants make structurally diverse triterpenoids for their physiological needs, which have shown numerous therapeutic applications. Arjuna tree ( Terminalia arjuna ) produces bioactive oleanane (β‐amyrin‐derived) triterpenoids arjunic acid, arjungenin, and arjunolic acid, and the respective C28‐ O ‐glucopyranosyl esters arjunetin, arjunglucoside I, and arjunglucoside II. Arjunic acid and arjunetin are the major oleananes in bark, while arjunolic acid and arjunglucoside II are found in minor levels. Although arjungenin was detected at a considerable level, arjunglucoside I was found only at a trace level, suggesting selective biosynthesis and/or accumulation of triterpenoid glucosyl esters in bark. However, the enzyme contributing to triterpenoid C28‐ O ‐glucosylation was not characterized. We mined RNA‐sequencing data and identified UDP‐glucosyltransferase (UGT) transcripts that were enriched in the bark transcriptome. Further, biochemical screening of UGTs identified UGT73FB1, which catalyzed triterpenoid C28‐ O ‐glucosylation in a scaffold‐selective manner. Recombinant UGT73FB1 produced in Escherichia coli or Nicotiana benthamiana formed arjunic acid and arjunolic acid C28‐ O ‐glucopyranosyl esters arjunetin and arjunglucoside II, but not arjungenin C28‐ O ‐glucopyranosyl ester (arjunglucoside I). Interestingly, UGT73FB1 showed better activity using oleananes than ursanes (α‐amyrin‐derived), but it did not show C28‐ O ‐glucosylation activity using various lupane triterpenoids (lupeol‐derived). Overall, the spatial patterns of UGT73FB1 transcript expression and triterpenoid accumulation and scaffold‐selective activity of UGT73FB1 suggested a major role of UGT73FB1 in the biosynthesis of C28‐ O ‐glucopyranosyl esters in arjuna. Moreover, UGT73FB1 co‐expression with β‐amyrin synthase and triterpenoid C2, C23, and C28 hydroxylases/oxidases led to complete reconstruction of the arjunglucoside II pathway in N. benthamiana , suggesting the utility of arjuna enzymes for the biosynthesis of rare triterpenoid glucopyranosyl esters in heterologous hosts.

We investigated Ag–TiO2 nanocomposites (NCs) synthesized using leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica and Mangifera indica for topical applications. The Ag–TiO2 NCs were first characterized by their spherical shapes, with sizes ranging from 20–26 nm to 5–6 nm, and a zeta potential value between −27 and −23 mV. DLS analysis revealed average particle sizes of 671 nm and 573 nm for Ag–TiO2 NCs synthesized from A. indica and M. indica, respectively. The MICs of the nanocomposites were determined via dilution in both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria to determine the optimal concentration for dermal applications. The cytotoxicity assay (MTT) of ATN and ATM compounds at MICs of 312.5 μg mL⁻¹, 625 μg mL⁻¹, and 1250 μg mL⁻¹ showed that they were nontoxic to fibroblast cells. Further assessments of acute and subacute dermal safety were conducted on Charles Foster rats with NCs applied at 625 μg mL⁻¹, 3125 μg mL⁻¹, and 6250 μg mL⁻¹ concentrations. Observations were made for any signs of dermal toxicity using behavioural and physical indices. In acute dermal toxicity, the NCs were applied once, and in subacute dermal toxicity, NCs were applied once daily for 28 days and observed for any sign of dermal toxicity using observation indices like behavioural changes, edema scores, and erythema scores. Post-experiment analyses of body weight, serum biochemistry, oxidative stress, and hematological profiles revealed that the nanocomposites exhibited significant antimicrobial activity. Notably, the safety evaluations indicated no adverse changes, suggesting these NCs are well-tolerated for dermal applications and show great promise for future topical applications.

Uraria picta is a medicinally important leguminous plant widely recognized in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties, particularly in tissue regeneration, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory applications. In order to identify better genotypes to facilitate breeding and realize its planned cultivation, a systematic study was conducted to investigate the changes in adaptation responsiveness of its 24 diverse genotypes over 4 years. The regression coefficient (bi) and s 2 di values were non-significant for numerous genotypes. One of the 24 genotypes studied, UP-50, was shown to be an appropriate and stable genotype for all variables except rhoifolin in roots, where genotype UP-47 was the highest yielder over all 4 years and conditions. The present findings show that the parameters influencing stability performance differ by genotype. To breed stable genotypes, it is important to consider all three stability indices (x, bi, and s 2 di). The genotypes UP-50, UP-49, and UP-47 were shown to be suitable for use in U. picta breeding programs to produce more steady lines with improved performance.