Alteration in the Antioxidant Potential of Aloe vera Due to Fungal Infection
Titel:
Alteration in the Antioxidant Potential of Aloe vera Due to Fungal Infection
Auteur:
Amruta Pritam Purushottam G. Kale
Verschenen in:
Plant pathology journal
Paginering:
Jaargang 6 (2007) nr. 2 pagina's 169-173
Jaar:
2007
Inhoud:
Under most pathological conditions there is generation of reactive oxygen species and other free radicals. These, in turn, alter the structure and functions of bimolecules, the accumulation of which is responsible for reversible or irreversible damage to the tissue. Ageing too involves identical oxidative damage to the cells and tissues. Though the cells have an inherent ability to counter the oxidative stress, a variety of herbs are employed in strengthening this. Aloe vera is one of these herbs capable of enhancing the antioxidant defenses of the subject and is commonly employed as general detoxifier and in the treatment of surface wounds skin infection, arthritis, asthma, liver disorders, kidney infection and many more ailments. Undesirable consequences may, however, result from use of herbs infected by certain fungi. Aloe vera infected with Alternaria alternata, a deuteromycete fungus which is known to cause allergy and asthma in man, was encountered. To ascertain the effect of infection of leaves of Aloe vera by Alternaria alternate, the current study was planned. The free radicals were generated using chemical system and the ability of the healthy plant, infected plant and fungal biomass in scavenging them was assayed. It was noted that the antioxidant potential of the herb diminished due to the infection by A. alternate. This emphasizes the need to screen the medicinal plants before they are used for therapeutic preparation.
Uitgever:
Asian Network for Scientific Information (provided by DOAJ)
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