Transcriptional alterations in Caenorhabditis elegans following exposure to an anthelmintic fraction of the plant Picria fel-terrae Lour.

Background: Natural compounds from plants are known to provide a source of anthelmintic molecules. In previous studies, we have shown that plant extracts from the plant Picria fel-terrae Lour. and particular fractions thereof have activity against the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, causing quite pronounced stress responses in this nematode.

Metabolic profiling and in vitro assessment of anthelmintic fractions of Picria fel-terrae Lour.

Anthelmintic resistance is widespread in gastrointestinal nematode populations, such that there is a consistent need to search for new anthelmintics. However, the cost of screening for new compounds is high and has a very low success rate. Using the knowledge of traditional healers from Borneo Rainforests (Sarawak, Malaysia), we have previously shown that some traditional medicinal plants are a rich source of potential new anthelmintic drug candidates.

Anthelmintic activity of selected ethno-medicinal plant extracts on parasitic stages of Haemonchus contortus.

Background: Parasitic roundworms (nematodes) cause substantial morbidity and mortality in livestock animals globally, and considerable productivity losses to farmers. The control of these nematodes has relied largely on the use of a limited number of anthelmintics. However, resistance to many of these these anthelmintics is now widespread, and, therefore, there is a need to find new drugs to ensure sustained and effective treatment and control into the future.

Cryopreservation of transgenic mouse lines.

Cryopreservation will, if used appropriately, lower maintenance costs while creating embryo or germline banks from which transgenic lines can be restored. To maximize the likelihood of restoring a transgenic line, it is best to establish that the gametes or zygotes of that strain do survive cryopreservation before all of the animals have been culled. Furthermore, it is advisable to store more than one type of material (e.