Promotion of cellular differentiation and DNA repair potential in brain cancer cells by Shankhpushpi, (Clitoria ternatea L.) with rasayana properties in vitro.

Background: Brain ageing is accompanied by the diminution of neuronal plasticity, which is correlated with the inability to respond to loss of memory, various stress-induced stimuli, and increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders. In the recent past, plant based herbal medicines are of interest over synthetic drugs for therapeutic purposes due to lower side effects. The Indian traditional medicine Ayurveda describes several herbal remedies, such as rasayana (elixirs for rejuvenation), to treat many age-related diseases.

Withaferin A inhibits Chikungunya virus nsP2 protease and shows antiviral activity in the cell culture and mouse model of virus infection.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-transmitted alphavirus causing fever, myalgia, and debilitating joint swelling and pain, which in many patients becomes chronic. The frequent epidemics of CHIKV across the world pose a significant public health burden necessitating the development of effective antiviral therapeutics. A cellular imaging-based high-content screening of natural compounds identified withaferin A (WFA), a steroidal lactone isolated from the plant Withania somnifera, as a potent antiviral against CHIKV.

Molecular Insights into the Inhibition of Lipid Accumulation in Hepatocytes by Unique Extracts of Ashwagandha.

We investigated the effect of purified withanolides and extracts derived from Ashwagandha on steatosis, the abnormal accumulation of fat that can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Collaborator of ARF (CARF, also known as CDKN2AIP, a protein that regulates hepatic lipid metabolism, fat buildup, and liver damage) was used as an indicator. Six withanolides (Withaferin A, Withanone, Withanolide B, Withanoside IV, Withanoside V, and Withanostraminolide-12 deoxy) reversed the decrease in CARF caused by exposure to free fatty acids (FFAs) in liver-derived cells (HepG2 hepatocytes).

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on HTAsiaLink network members.

Objectives: This study investigates the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on HTAsiaLink members at the organizational level and provides recommendations for mitigating similar challenges in the future.

Methods: A survey was disseminated among HTAsiaLink members to assess the COVID-19 impact in three areas: (i) inputs, (ii) process, and (iii) outputs of the Health Technology Assessment organizations' (HTAOs) research operations and HTA process in general.

Results: Survey results showed that most HTAOs hired more staff and secured similar or higher funding levels during COVID-19.