Effects of combined crude alkaloid-rich extracts from alligator pepper (Aframomum melegueta) and bastered melegueta (Aframomum danielli) on the enzymes crucial to erectile dysfunction-in vitro

Abstract

The effects of combined crude alkaloid‐rich extracts of alligator pepper (AP) and bastered melegueta (BM) on the enzymes [acetylcholinesterase (AChE), angiotensin‐1‐converting enzyme (ACE), phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE‐5), and arginase] crucial to erectile dysfunction were investigated—in vitro. Mixtures of the alkaloid‐rich extracts (100% AP, 75% AP + 25% BM, 50% AP + 50% BM, 25% AP + 75% BM, and 100% BM) prepared and their effects on AChE, ACE, PDE‐5, and arginase activities were determined. The highest inhibitory effect on AChE and ACE activities was observed in 100% AP while 100% BM had similar effect against PDE‐5 and arginase activities. All the extracts had strong antioxidant properties. Gas chromatography (GC) characterization of extracts revealed the presence of theophylline, sparteine, among others. Biological effects of the combined extracts from AP and BM could be part of the possible mechanism of actions in ED management as reported in folkloric medicine. Practical applications Spices have been widely used in Nigeria for food seasoning with numerous health benefits. However, the benefits of spices are under‐utilized in the management/treatment of erectile dysfunction. The results of this study suggest that the combination of alligator pepper and bastered melegueta seeds could be applied as functional foods and nutraceuticals for erectogenic purposes.

Moringa oleiferaseed oil or virgin coconut oil supplementation abrogates cerebral neurotoxicity induced by antineoplastic agent methotrexate by suppression of oxidative stress and neuro‐inflammation in rats

“…The brain activity of AChE is essential in detecting neurotoxicity. However, the considerable MTX‐induced increased AchE activity suggests a reduction in acetylcholine level (Okeke, Adefegha, Oyeleye, & Oboh, ). The increased level of AChE in brain might be one of the indicators for MTX‐induced cerebral neurotoxicity, although it is unclear the extent it may contribute to cholinergic signal disruption implicated in Alzheimer's disease (Verma et al, ).…”

Anti‐cholinesterase and antioxidant properties of alkaloid and phenolic‐rich extracts from pawpaw (Carica papaya) leaf: A comparative study

“…The chemical reagents used were as described by Okeke et al 15 and Adefegha et al 16 Water used was glass distilled.…”

“…For alkaloid extract ; the extraction of alkaloid from sample was as described by Oboh et al 17 and Okeke et al 15 …”

“…The lipid peroxidation assay was carried out as described by Okeke et al 15 Briefly, 100 µL of the brain supernatant was mixed with a reaction mixture containing 30 µL of 0.1 mol/L Tris–HCl buffer (pH 7.4), extracts and 30 µL of 250 µmol/L freshly prepared FeSO 4 (the procedure was also carried out using 7 mmol/L quinolinic acids). The volume was made up to 300 µL with distilled water before incubation at 37°C for 1 hour.…”

Commercialization of Aframomum spp. in Africa: a Systematic Review of Literature and Supporting Botanical Vouchers

“…In their native range around the African equator, however, many parts of Aframomum spp. are available on markets and their sale has been asserted as an important local income generator Menbere et al 2019;Ngansop et al 2019). The dried fruits and seeds are generally sold as a spice, while many other parts of the plants, such as the rhizomes and leaves, are used as traditional medicine for both humans and cattle (Quattrocchi 2012).…”