Title of Invention

"AN IMPROVED PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF LIPID SOLUBLE EXTRACT FROM CURCUMA SPECIES"

Abstract The present invention relates to an improved process for the preparation of a lipid soluble extract from rhizomes and leaves of Curcuma species. It also recites a composition obtained from the lipid soluble extract of rhizomes and leaves of Curcuma species of Zingiberaceae family, useful for the treatment of neurocerebrovascular disorders, said composition comprising fraction A consisting of ar-turmerone of formula 1, and turmerone of formula 2, and/or along with fraction B consisting of curcumene and zingiberine, and/or fraction C consisting of germacrone, curcumerone, zedoarone, sedoarondiol, isozdedoaronidiol, curcumenone, and curlone, and/or pharmaceutically acceptable additives and a method of treating neurocerebrovascular disorders in animals including humans using said composition by administering therapeutically effective amount of lipid soluble extract.
Full Text Field of the present invention
The present invention relates to an improved process for the preparation of lipid soluble extract from Curcuma species in high yield from rhizomes and leaves of species of zingiberaceae family, particularly Curcuma species and also use of the said oil, its constituents, and novel derivatives of said constituents, for the treatment of Neurocerebrovascular disorders.
Background and prior art references
Neurocerebrovascular diseases like cerebrovascular infarction, stroke, ischemic attacks etc. are caused by an interruption of the blood supply resulting from disease of the arteries carrying blood to the brain.
Of the three general types of stroke,cerebral hemorrhage is caused by rupture of a blood vessel with bleeding into the brain (intra cerebral hemorrhage) or under its covering membrane, while cerebral thrombosis stems from obstruction of a cerebral blood vessel when a blood clot forms within the walls.
The clot may be caused by abnormal thickening of the blood, damage to the vessel wall from arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, inflammation of the arteries or inflammation of the veins.
If the blood supply is stopped completely or is reduced to less than one-fourth its normal level, softening of the brain (cerebral infarction) results, causing permanent brain damage.
Cerebral embolism is obstruction of a cerebral artery by a blood clot or a foreign body migrating from another part of the body's circulation like when a clot that has formed on the inside wall of one of the arteries in the neck travels up to the brain and blocks a major artery branch.
Trasient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are brief episodes of symptoms caused by temporary interruptions of the blood supply. Reversible ischemic neurological deficits( RINDs) are small cerebral infarction. Multiple cerebral infarction can lead to permanent confusion and memory loss. Ischemic stroke is a medical emergency. After TIAs or stroke occur, treatment may be

surgical or medical.Surgery may be needed in some cases to remove any blockage of blood
vessels going to the brain.
Medication can prevent the formation of blood clots on the atheroscl-erotic plaques within the
vessel wall. Brain swelling commonly accompanies brain infarction or hemorrhage.No
satisfactory treatment is available.
Currently used drugs in peripheral vascular and cerebral disorders include ergot alkaloids,
aspirin, anti-coagulants etc. The latter are used following strokes to prevent further
cerebrovascular incidents but their use is contraindicated if the stroke was the result of
hemorrhage.
The use of TICLOPIDINE, a highly effective anti-platelet agent to treat stroke cases is
restricted in its long term use due to its adverse side-effects. Tissue plasminogen activator
(t-PA) used to treat clots in the coronary arteries (acute heart attack), is a natural clot
dissolving substance produced by the body which can blow open a blood clot in the brain that
causes the acute ischemic brain damage characteristic of a stroke.While t-PA can dissolve the
blood clot that causes a blood vessel blockage, there are other complications which occur
during ischemic stroke which must be addressed if permanent brain damage is to be
prevented. It is critically important to have nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide .scavengers in the
blood stream when t-PA is administered to reduce the free radical damage that will occur
when the blood flow is restricted and even more when the flow is resumed.
Nitric oxide(NO) and superoxides inflict damage on important biomolecules and their
increased production has been implicated in human diseases like cerebro-,cardiovascular,
inflammatory, neurological dysfunctions and cancer etc.[ Onoda M., Inano H.,Nitrc
oxide:Biology and Chemistry, 4(5),505-515 (2000)].
Most strokes culminate in a core area of ceil death (infarction) and the blood flow is so
drastically reduced that the cells usually can not recover.Brain cells die as a result of the
actions: calcium activated proteases (enzymes which digest cell proteins),lipases(enzymes
which digest cell membranes) and free radicals formed as a result of the ischemic cascade.
Without neuroprotective agents, nerve cells may be irreversibly damaged within several
minutes. Any disruption of blood flow to the brain causes massive tree radical damage that
induces much of the re-perfusion injury to brain cells, typical of strokes. When blood flow is
interrupted and subsequently restored (reperfused), tissues release iron that acts as a catalyst
for the formation of free radicals that often permanently damage brain cells. Protecting brain
cells from injury caused by blood flow disruption, therefore, is of prime importance. If an
ischemic stroke..is happening , the use of large .quantities of. antL-oxidants like melatonin,
vitamins and herbs like Ginkgo biloba have been suggested to provide some benefit.
Magnesium in an oral dose of 1500 mg. is a safe nutrient to relieve an arterial spasm, a
common problem in thrombotic strokes.
The ancient Indian system of medicine-Ayurveda-is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis
and cure of disease.The word "dis-ease"- a right translation of illness is viewed as a
dysfunction of the whole body and is attributed to the circulation and transformation of
ubiquitous humoral fluids.
Most of the Ayurvedic drugs are products of high repute which act on a number of
dysfunctions of the body involving various organs and aim at preventing problems or
restoring a normal situation, and try to recover the patient completely. Evolved over a long
period of time and experimentation, they are the results of a particular combination of certain
fundamental elements which determine their properties which in turn are responsible for the
chemical, biological or therapeutic effects of those substances. There is no substance when
correctly prepared which can not be used as remedy.
Ayurveda describes a number of beneficial effects of rhizomes and leaves of various species
belonging to zingiberaceae family, especially those of Curcuma longa L.syn.Curcuma
domestica Valeton, rhizomes and leaves popularly known as Turmeric or Haldi. Prominent
among these are the anti-bacterial, antirungal wound healing and the anti-inflammatory
actions which enabled turmeric paste to be used as a house hold remedy to treat wounds and
inflammation.
In recent years, its constituents-Curcumin and other curcuminoids have been found to exhibit
besides these activities, choleretic, cholagogic, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer,, inhibition of
leukotriene biosynthesis, 5-lipoxygenase, cyclo-oxygenase, lipid peroxidation, superoxide
and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging effects.
Turmeric -a highly reputed herb in Indian system of medicine-Ayurveda-is the rhizome of
Curcuma longa L.Syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton (Fam. Zingiberaceae) ,which grows
abundantly in India. It has long been used as a spice and a colouring agent in food as well as a
naturally occurring medicine. Its powder or extracts are recommended to treat wounds and
inflammation.
A major constituent Curcumin was developed as an anti-inflammatory agent [Srimal
R.C.,Khanna N.M.JDhawan B.N., Ind. J. Pharmacol.,3,10 (1971)]. Other therapeutic
properties of Curcumin, various curcuminoids and some other constituents of Curcuma
species include anti-bacterial, anti-fungal [Schraufstatter F., Brent H., Nature, 764,456(1949),
Arch.Dermatol..u.Syphilis,7&$,250 (1949);Lutomski.J.,KedziaB.,Debska W,Planta Med., 26,
9 (1974); Rao B.G.N., Joseph P., Reichst,Aromen Koerperflegem, 27,405-406(1971); Swada
T., Yamahara J., Shimazu S., Ohta T., Shoyakugaku Zasshi, 2 ,11-16(191), Prasad C. R., Sirsi
M., J.Sci. Ind. Res.,C. 15, 239-41( 1957); Schraufstatter E., Deutsh. S. Z. Naturforsch. 4,276
(1949 ) ; Chopra R. N., Gupta J. C., Chopra G. S.,Ind. J. Med. Res., 29, 769-72 (1941 )], antioxidant
[ Ramaswamy T. S., Banerjee B. N., Ann. Biochem. Exp. Med., 8 , 55 ( 1948 ) ;
Chipault J. R., Mizuno G. R., Lundberg W. O., Food Res., 10 , 209, (1956 )]; inhibition of
lipid per-Oxidation [Sharma S.C., Mukhtar H.., Sharma S. K., Krishnamurty C. R., Biochem.
Biopharmacol., 21 , 1210-14 ( 1972 ); Zu S., Tang. X. Lin Y., Zhougcuoyev., 22, 264-
5(1991); Sharma O. P., Biochem. Biopharmacol. 25 , 1811(1976 )]; active oxygen species
scavenging and prevention of increased free radical formation by Curcumin in the body
[Tennesen H.H.,Inter.J. Pharmacol.,50, 67-69(1989), Kunchandy E.., Rao M.N. A., Inter. J.
Pharmacol., 58, 237 (1990)]; inhibitory activity for iNOS induction by lipopolysaccharide in
the mammary gland and scavenging activity for NO radicals by Curcumin, [ Onoda M., Inano
H., Nitric Oxide : Biology and Chemistry, 4 ,505-515 ( 2000)], anti-inflammatory [ Arora
R.B., Basu N., Kapoor V., Jain A., Proc. Second Indo Soviet Symposium on Natural
Products, New Delhi,1970, p. 170., Ind. J.Med. Res., 59,10 (1971); Mukhopadhya A., Basu
N., Ghatak N., Singh K. P., Gujral P.D., Proc. Int. Union of Physiol. ScL, 77,241( 1974);
GhatakN.N., BasuN., Ind. J. Exp. Biol., 70,235 (1972), Chandra D., Gupta S.S., Ind. J. Med.
Res., 60, 138-142 (1972)]; anti-cancer [Soudamini K.K., Kuttan R., J. Ethnopharmacol.
27,227 (1989);Kuttan R. Bhanumatty P., Nirmala K., George M.C., Cancer Lett., 29, 197
(1985)]; antioxidant and antitumor promotor which induces apoptosis in human leukemia
cells[Rao M.L., Huang T.S., Lin J.K., Biochem. Biophysic. Acta,; inhibition of cell growth in Chinese hamster ovary cell culture and cytotoxicity to lymphocytes
and Dalton's lymphomaCells., [ Cancer Lett. (Ireland), 2P,197 (1985) via Chem. Abstr. 104,
61654 d (1986)], tumor protecting activity in mouse skin carcinogenesis induced by 7,12-
dimethyl benz (a) anthracene[Kyoto-Furiton Doigaku Zasshi, 96, 725 (1987)-via Chem.
Abstr., 707, 211555a (1987)], inhibition of HIV protease [ Suz Luz, Craik C.S.,Oritz T.,
Montanello P.R., Proc. 205 , ACS National Meeting, Denver, colarado, 28 March-2 april,
Amer. Chem. Soc. Med. Chem. Div.(1993), Take Y., Inoyya H., Nakamura S., Alauddin H.S.,
Kuba A., J.Antibiot.,42,107-118 (1989)], inhibition of lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase [
Tennesen. H.H., Int. J Pharmacol.,50.,67 (1989), inhibition of ADP-epinephrine and collagen
induced platelet aggregation, [ Srivastava R., Puri V., Srimal R.C., Dhawn B.N.; Arznei
Forsch.,55, 715-717(1986)]; protection against thrombotic challenge [ Srivastava R., Dixit M.,
Srimai R.C.,Dhawan B.N.,Thromb. Res.,40, 413-17(1985)]; reduction in ratio of total
cholesterol / phospholipids in hyperlipidemic rats and elivated HDL-cholesterol and total
cholesterol ratio[Ind. J.Physiol.Pharmacol.,32,299 (1988)]; anticoagulent activity [Chem.
Pharm. Bull.,35, 1499 (1985)]; inhibition of platelet aggregation, metabolic disorders and
hyperlipidemia [Lin Y.,U.S. Patent, 4842849; Chem. Abstr.,7//,160200 (1984); Khanna
N.M., Sarin J.P.S., Singh S., Pal R., Seth R.K., Nitya Nand S., Indian Patent 162441(1984)];
which makes it useful to prevent cardiovascular disorders like ischemic heart attacks,
myocardial infarction etc. In Indo-China region, Curcuma extracts are given at parturition on
account of their anticoagulent action. Ethyl p-methoxy cinnamate isolated from Curcuma
rhizomes essential oil exhibit antifungal activity[ Herba Hung., 28, 95(1989), via Chem.
Abstr. 191496J (1989)], while furanogermenone and (4S,5S) (+) germacrone 4,5-epoxide
also isolated from Curcuma rhizomes essential oil exhibits anti-inflammatory and preventive
effect against stress ulceration [Yalcugaku Zasshi, 106, 1137 (1986),Chem. Abstr..106,
95935c (1987); Zhongyao Tungbto, 10, 134 (1983),Chem. Abstr. 103, 115886d(1985)]. The
other reputed herb from Zingiberaceae family, Zingiber officinale Rosch, exhibits preventive
effects in heart attack or stroke[ Srivastava K.C., Prostaglandins Leukotrienes and
Medicines,75,227-235(1964)].
Objects of the present Invention:
The main object of the present invention is to use the lipid soluble extract from rhizomes and
leaves of Curcuma species, which belong to zingiberaceae family for the treatment of
Neurocerebrovascular disorder.
Another object of the present invention is to develop a method to produce lipid soluble extract
in high yield from rhizomes and leaves of Curcuma species, which belong to zingiberaceae
family.
Yet another object of the present invention is to separate individual components from the
Curcuma oil.
Still another object of the present invention is to develop analogs of the said constituents of
the Curcuma oil.
Still another object of the present invention is to detect the Neurocerebrovascular disorders of
the said analogs.
Still another object of the present invention is to identify active components in Curcuma
species for the treatment of neurocerebrovascular disorders.
Still another object of the present invention is to use active components of Curcuma species
for the treatment of ischemia.
Still another object of the present invention is to use active components of Curcuma species
for the treatment of stroke.
Still another object of the present invention is to use active components of Curcuma species
for the treatment of hemorrhage.
Still another object of the present invention is to use active components of Curcuma species
for the treatment of thrombosis.
Summary of the present invention
The present invention relates to the method of producing lipid soluble extract called Curcuma
oil in high yield. The source of said oil is rhizomes and leaves of species of zingiberaceae
family. The particularly species of the said family used to produce said oil is Curcuma
species. The said oil is used for the treatment of Neurocerebrovascular disorders. The novel
analogs of the constituents of said oil are developed and are also found to have use in the
treatment of Neurocerebrovascular disorder.
Detailed description of the present invention
Accordingly the present invention relates to an improved method of obtaining high yields of
the lipid soluble extract called Curcuma oil and its constituents from rhizomes and leaves of
species of Zingiberaceae family particularly Curcuma species.
A composition obtained from the lipid soluble extract of rhizomes and leaves of Curcuma
species of Zingiberaceae family, useful for the treatment of neurocerebrovascular disorders,
said composition comprising fraction A consisting of ar-turmerone of formula 1, and
turmerone of formula 2, and/or along with fraction B consisting of curcumene and
zingiberine, and/or fraction C consisting of germacrone, curcumerone, zedoarone,
sedoarondiol, isozdedoaronidiol, curcumenone, and curlone, and/or pharmaceutically
acceptable additives.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein curcuma species is Curcuma
domestica Valeton.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein ratio of fraction A, fraction B,
and fraction C is ranging between 1 to 3: 1 to3: Ito 3.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein additives are selected from a
group comprising melatonin, antioxidants, calcium channel antagonists, tissue plasminogen
activator (t-PA), and cell membrane stabilizing agents.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said composition inhibits nitric
oxide synthase (NOS) overproduction, prevention calcium overload in neurons, and
scavenging free radicals.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said composition
cerebrovascular disorders are selected from a group comprising ischaemia, stroke, poststroke
injury, hemorrhage, reperrusion injury, thrombosis, vasoconstriction, nitric oxideinduced
free radical oxidative damage, infraction, inflammation, and Alzheimer's disease.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein fraction A of the composition
is most effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said disorders are treated using
the said composition is the form of various delivery systems selected from a group
comprising tablets, capsules, suppository, beads, and aerosols.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein an improved method of
obtaining high yield lipid soluble extract and its subsequent fractions comprising fraction A
consisting of ar-turmerone of formula 1, and turmerone of formula 2, fraction B consisting of
curcumene and zingiberine, and fraction C consisting of germacrone, curcumerone,
zedoarone, sedoarondiol, isozdedoaronidiol, curcumenone, and curlone, from rhizomes and
leaves of Curcuma species Zingiberaceae family, said method comprising steps of:
• powdering the rhizomes and leaves of the curcuma species in fine particles form,
• extracting with the said powder with polar organic solvent under continuous stirring or
sonication for about 24 hours at room temperature,
• repeating step (b) two to five times,
• removing solvent by distillation under reduced pressure and below about 45°C to
obtain residual concentrate,
• triturating the residual concentrate with non-polar solvents,
• removing solvent by distillation under reduced pressure and below 45°C,
• obtaining the said lipid soluble extract,
• fractionating the said extract by column chromatography,
• obtaining fraction A, fraction B, and fraction C, and
• fractionating each of fractions A, B, and C further using HPLC or GLC to obtain the
said constituents.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein fractioning the
extract on silica gel column.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein polar solvent is selected
from a group comprising alcohol and acetone.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein non-polar solvent is selected
from a group comprising light petroleum and toluene.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein wherein fractionating the
extract using n-hexane, n-hexane: ethyl acetate mixture of ratio 95:5, and ethyl acetate
successively.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein fraction A constitutes about
75% of the said extract.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein ar-turmerone constitutes
95% of the fraction A.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein pressure is ranging between
7 and 11 mmHg.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein concentration of the extract
is about 6%.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a method of treating
neurocerebrovascular disorders in animals including humans using composition of claim
1, by administering therapeutically effective amount of lipid soluble extract.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said method involves
inhibiting nitric oxide synthase (NOS) overproduction, prevention calcium overload in
neurons, and scavenging free radicals.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein wherein cerebrovascular
disorders are selected from a group comprising ischaemia, stroke, post-stroke injury,
hemorrhage, reperfusion injury, thrombosis, vasoconstriction, nitric oxide-induced free
radical oxidative damage, infraction, inflammation, and Alzheimer's disease.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein fraction A of the
composition is most effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said diseases are treated
using the said composition is the form of various delivery systems selected from a group
comprising tablets, capsules, suppository, beads, and aerosols.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, two novel compounds of formulae 3
and 4.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, a method of treating Ischaemia in
animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of
administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said method helps treat
severe brain ischaemia.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-1000 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said method prevents
overload of calcium ions in the mitochondria.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, a method of treating stroke in
animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of
administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein treating strokes selected
from a group comprising thrombotic, embolic, and focal.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10- In still another embodiment of the present invention, 1000 mg/day in
divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, a method of treating hemorrhage in
animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of
administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-500 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, a method of treating thrombosis in
animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of
administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein thrombosis is selected from
a group comprising cerebral, coronary, and deep vein.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-1000 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., andp.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said method brings
down the thrombus to one-fourth.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
hi still another embodiment of the present invention, A method of treating hypertension in
animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of
administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-1000 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said method brings
down the blood pressure by about 40%.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said method maintains
the blood pressure of normotensives.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In still "another embodiment of the present invention, a'method" of treating vasbconstrictidn"
in animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of
administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-1000 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, and nitric oxide-induced free radical
oxidative damage in animals including humans using composition of claim 1, said method
comprises step of administering therapeutically effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said method augments the
level of oxygen scavenging enzymes comprising superoxide dismutase (SOD), and
catalase.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein said method decreases the
level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TEARS).
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-1000 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, animals including humans using
composition of claim 1, said method comprises step of administering therapeutically
effective amount to the subject.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, said method involves treating various
kinds of edema selected from a group comprising brain and pulmonary edema.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the effective amount is
ranging between 10-1000 mg/day in divide dosage schedule.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said composition is
administered through various routes comprising i.p., and p.o.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fraction A is most
effective.
In an embodiment of the present invention powdering dry rhizomes and leaves into fine
particles.
In another embodiment of the present invention percolating said powder with organic
solvent at room temperature.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention stirring the contents continuously
during percolation.
In still another embodiment of the present invention removing the said organic solvent by
distillation under reduced pressure below 45°C.
In still another embodiment of the present invention repeating the above mentioned
percolation steps atleast 4-8 times.
In still another embodiment of the present invention collecting Curcuma oil as orange
yellow odoriferous liquid at 5 - 8% yield, and
In still another embodiment of the present invention separating said oil into its
constituents by using techniques like Chromatography and distillation under high vacuum.
In still another embodimenfof the'present invention' Curcuma species is -selected "from -a
group comprising Curcuma longa L.Syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton, and Curcuma
aromatica Salisb.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the organic solvent is non- polar
organic solvent selected from a group comprising light petroleum, and toluene.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the organic solvent is polar organic
solvent selected from a group comprising ethanol, and propanol.
In still another embodiment of the present invention non-polar organic solvents give
higher yield as compared to polar organic solvents.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the residual concentrate from polar
organic solvent extract is extracted with non-polar organic solvent.
In still another embodiment of the present invention Curcuma oil is separated into its
individual constituents comprising ar-d-turmerone (formula 1), turmerones of a and (3
(formula 2), zingiberine, curcumene, germacrone, curcumenone, and curlone.
In still another embodiment of the present invention kind of the Chromatography is
selected from a group comprising Column Chromatography preferably High Performance
Liquid Chromatography, and Gas- Liquid Chromatography.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the adsorbent for the
Chromatography is selected from a group comprising alumina, and silica gel.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the elution of the said constituents is
with organic solvent selected from a group comprising n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and nhexane
and ethyl acetate mixture in varying proportions.
In still another embodiment of the present invention molecular weight of the individual
constituents of Curcuma oil separated by chromatography is turmerones (a-,p-) - mol.wt.
218, ar-d-turmerone - mol.wt.216, zingiberine -mol.wt.204, and Curcumene -mol.wt.202.
In still another embodiment of the present invention retention time of the individual
constituents of Curcuma oil separated by chromatography is turmerones (a-,p-) - retention
time 9' -04", ar-d-turmerone - retention time 8'-08", zingiberine - retention time 5'-04",
and Curcumene - retention time 4-24".
Novel compound of the formula 3, an analog of compounds comprising ar-d-turmerone,
turmerone, and germacrone wherein, R represents an alkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkane, phenyl,
cycloalkene, or cycloalkadiene group, with substituents like alkyl, or alkoxy halo, in the
phenyl, cycloalkene, cycloalkadiene rings, or hetroaryl like pyridyl nitrogen heterocyclic
amine and substituted amines, and Rl represents alkyl or arylalkyl group.
Novel Compound of the formula 4, an analog of compounds comprising Procurcumenol,
zedoarondiol, and curcumenone.
Pharmaceutical composition useful for treatment of Neurocerebrovascular disorders, said
composition comprising effective amount of the lipid soluble extract called Curcuma oil, from
rhizomes and leaves of species of plant Zingiberaceae family particularly Curcuma species,
either as such or its individual constituents singly or in combination with each other or related
compounds comprising melatonin, and tissue plasminogen activatior (t-PA), optionally
associated with pharmaceutically acceptable additives.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used to treat, reduce, control and
prevent diseases conditions relating to increased production of nitric oxide (NO), injury due to
inflammation, increased calcium entry and free radical oxidative damage to important
biomolecules.
In still another embodiment of the present invention wherein, the additive is selected from a
group of nutrients comprising proteins, carbohydrates, sugar, talc, magnesium stearate,
cellulose, calcium carbonate, starch-gelatin paste,' and/or pharmaceutically acceptable carrier,
excipient, diluent, or solvent.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is administered orally, inhaled, or
implanted.
In still another embodiment of the present invention wherein, physical state of the said
composition for the oral route is in the form of capsule, tablet, syrup, concentrate, powder,
granule, aerosol, or beads.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is administered at dosage level ranging
between 5 to 5000 mg/day.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating animals or human
beings.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating hypertension.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating cerebral and
pulmonary edema which accompanies cerebral and myocardial infarction.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating reperfusion injury.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating cerebrovascular
diseases comprising strokes, and transient ischaemic attacks.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating all kind of strokes
comprising thromotic, embolic, focal and recurrent.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating subarachnoid and
cerebral hemorrhage.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating neurological
dysfunction.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating thrombosis infraction
comprising cerebral, coronary, and deep vein.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating cancer.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating Alzheimer's disease
wounds.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used .for treating Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is used for treating migraine.
In still another embodiment of the present invention is administered again in case, of relapse
conditions.
A method of treating a subject for Neurocerebrovascular disorder conditions, said method
comprising administering to the subject effective amount of the lipid soluble extract called
Curcuma oil, from rhizomes and leaves of species of plant Zingiberaceae family particularly
Curcuma species, either as such or its individual constituents singly or in combination with
each other or related compounds comprising melatonin, and tissue plasminogen activatior (t-
PA), optionally associated with phannaceutically acceptable additives.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, is used for treating animals or human
beings.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the additive is selected from a group of
nutrients comprising proteins, carbohydrates, sugar, talc, magnesium stearate, cellulose,
calcium carbonate, starch-gelatin paste, and/or pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient,
diluent or solvent.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is administered orally,
inhaled, or implanted.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the physical state of said composition for
the oral route is in the form of capsule, tablet, syrup, concentrate, powder, granule, aerosol, or
beads.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is administered at a
dosage level ranging between 5 to 5000 mg/day.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
hypertension.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
cerebral, and pulmonary edema which accompanies cerebral, and myocardial infarction.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating poststroke
injury.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
reperfusion injury.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
cerebrovascular diseases comprising strokes, and transient ischaemic attacks.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating all
kind of strokes comprising thromotic, embolic, focal, and recurrent.
hi still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
subarachnoid, and cerebral hemorrhage.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
neurological dysfunction.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
thrombosis infraction comprising cerebral, coronary, and deep vein.
hi still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
cancer.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
Alzheimer's disease wounds
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is used for treating
migraine.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the composition is administered again in
case of relapse conditions.
In an embodiment of the present 'invention, - obtain/prepare--therapeutically effective
medicaments from extracts of Curcuma species rhizomes and leaves which belong to
Zingiberaceae family.
In another embodiment of the present invention, more particularly, the lipid soluble
extract/fraction of Curcuma longa L. syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton, commonly known as
turmeric or Haldi.
In another embodiment of the present invention, in pharmaceutically acceptable formulations
/ delivery systems such as tablets, capsules, suppository, beads, aerosols, etc. for the treatment
and prevention of human diseases in which increased production of Nitric Oxide (NO) and
free radical oxidative damage are implicated.
In another embodiment of the present invention, such diseases are neurocerebrovascular
disorders like transient ischaemic attacks (ischaemic, hemorrhagic, focal recurrent etc.)
thrombosis (cerebral, coronary ,deep vein), infarction, stroke (thrombotic, embolic, focal etc.),
Alzheimer's disease, inflammat-ory, neurological dysfunctions, wounds , carcinogenesis,
tumor progression etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the superoxide and nitric oxide (NO)
scavenging property of the lipid soluble extract / fraction of Curcuma species rhizomes
(Family: Zingieraceae) especially Curcuma longa L. Syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton,
hereinafter referred to as Curcuma oil either as such or its various constituents singly or in
combination with each other which makes them therapeutically effective to control various
degenerative diseases, more particularly a drug which is nitric Oxide (NO) and superoxide
scavenger with anti-inflammatory activity to combat brain and pulmonary edema / swelling
which accompanies brain and myocardial infarction.
In another embodiment of the present invention, Keeping these biological profiles in view and
as a follow-up of the holistic view of Ayurveda of human diseases, the lipid soluble extract /
material of Curcuma species rhizomes and leaves (Zingiberaceae family) hereinafter referred
to as Curcuma oil and obtained from Curcuma longa L.syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton,
rhizomes and leaves, either as such or its major active constituents, ar-d-turmerone (formula
1), turmerones (a-,p-,formula 2) either singly .or ^.combination with each other with and with
the other minor constituents are found to be significantly beneficial and possess powerful
Nitric oxide(NO) and free radical / superoxide scavenging activity.
In another embodiment of the present invention, said lipid soluble extract exhibit/possess
potent free radical scavenging/ antioxidant activity which enables them to protect
mitochondrial impairment protecting downstream target and they inhibit overproduction of
nitric oxide synthase (NOS), avoid injury due to inflammation and reduce calcium entry so
that the resultant calcium overload in the neurons does not occur.
In another embodiment of the present invention, another important advantage is that if there is
any blockage, the above three parameters which are the major cause of reperfusion injury are
taken care of by these medicaments and the collaterals from the "Circle of Willis" are able to
help in the blood flow and thereby enable the drug to reach the site of injury.
In another embodiment of the present invention, cases where severe brain ischaemia has
occurred, administration of Curcuma oil either as such or its individual constituents such as
ar-d-turmerone, turmerones etc. singly or in combination with each other with and without
other related compounds of the type of formula 3 or 4 and /or other therapeutically beneficial
agents such as melatonin, other antioxidants, calcium channel antagonists, tissue plasminogen
activator (t-PA) and cell membrane stabilizing agents can provide effective protection against
cerebral and even coronary damage.
In another embodiment of the present invention, since stroke is one of the main causes of the
mortality among hypertensive patients, our finding also underline the importance of the
Curcuma oil either as such or its individual constituents either alone or in combination with
each other as an effective anti-hypertensive drug with antioxidant and neuro protective
activities.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the lipid soluble extract of rhizomes and
leaves of Curcuma species of the family zingiberaceae especially Curcuma longa L..syn.
Curcuma domestica Valeton hereinbefore referred to as Curcuma oil which is a pale yellow to
orange yellow odoriferous oily liquid whose major constituents are: ar-d-turmerone(formula
1), turmerones (a-,p-, formula 2)[Tap Chi Hoa Hoc:25,18(1987) ; Chem.Abstr.,/0S,137682s
(1988)] besides other minor constituents such as zingiberine, curcumene, curlone, curculone,
curzenone, ct-,p- curcumenolides ,curcumenone, curdione,germacrone, linalool ,camphor,
bomeol, zingiberol etc. [Essenze Deriv.Agrum, 54, 117(1984); Chem Abstr.,703, 128791*
(1985)] inhibits increased production of nitric oxide (NO) and is a free radical scavenger/
antioxidant which can penetrate the blood brain barrier and provide effective therapeutic
protection by combating nitric oxide(NO)and superoxide/free radical induced neuronal injury
/ damage in human diseases such as neurocerebrovascular dysfunctions, all types of strokes,
thrombosis ( cerebral, coronary, deep vein), infarction, inflammatory and neurological
disorders .certain types of cancer, wounds, Alzheimers disease and other nitric oxide
neurotoxicity, hyperbaric oxygen exposure etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, high yields.of the lipid soluble material is
obtained from Curcuma species rhizomes and leaves (Family: Zingiberaceae), particularly
Curcuma longa L. syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton, hereinafter referred to as Curcuma oil
and isolation of its various constituents.
In another embodiment of the present invention, more particularly this invention relates to
nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide scavenging activity and prevention of any changes in
cerebral blood flow dynamics by Curcuma oil itself or by its constituents singly or in
combination with one another which enables their use as medicaments for the treatment and
prevention of neurocerebrovascular disorders and related and unrelated dysfunctions such as
ischemic attacks, all types of stroke, thrombosis, infarction, migraine, Alzheimer's disease,
inflammatory and neurological dysfunctions, carcinogensis, tumor progression wounds and
even HTV/AIDS.
Novel compound of the formula 3, an analog of compounds comprising ar-d-turmerone,
turmerone, and germacrone wherein, R represents an alkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkane, phenyl,
cycloalkene, or cycloalkadiene group, with substituents like alkyl, or alkoxy halo, in the
phenyl, cycloalkene, cycloalkadiene rings, or hetroaryl like pyridyl nitrogen heterocyclic
amine and substituted amines, and Rl represents alkyl or arylalkyl group.
Novel Compound of the formula 4, an analog of compounds comprising Procurcumenol,
zedoarondioi, and curcumenone.
Brief description of the accompany drawings
Fig.l shows prevention of infarction from focal ischaemic rat after using curcuma oil;
Fig.2 shows past occlusion complete prevention of infarction in forebrain after using fraction
A;
Fig.3 shows past occlusion complete prevention of infarction in forebrain after using fraction
B;
Fig.4 shows Calcium transients in mitochondria (340/380 ratio);
Fig.5 shows change in SOD levels in mitochondria after using fraction A and fraction B;
Fig.6 shows Catalase levels in mitochondria after using fraction A and fraction B;
Fig.7 shows Malondialdehyde levels in mitochondria after using fraction A;
Fig.8 shows change in percent relaxation to NE induced contraction; and
Fig.9 shows change in SNP levels in mitochondria after using fraction A.
In another embodiment of the present invention, provides a method of obtaining the lipid
soluble extract / fraction of rhizomes and leaves of various species belonging to zingiberaceae
family, especially Curcuma oil from Curcuma- species- in good yield by extraction of
powdered rhizomes / leaves of Curcuma longa L. Syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton or
Curcuma aromatica Salisb or Curcuma zedoaria Roxb. etc. with an organic solvent like
alcohol, acetone, ethyl acetate etc. but preferably a non-polar organic solvent like lightpetroleum
or toluene under constant stirring and removing the solvent from such extracts by
distillation under reduced pressure below 45° C.
In another embodiment of the present invention, in the case of extraction by a polar organic
solvent such as ethanol, the residual alcoholic concentrate after removal of the solvent is
exhaustively extracted with a non-polar organic solvent like light-petroleum, toluene etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, distillation of solvent from such extracts
under reduced pressure below 45° C yields a pale yellow to orange yellow odoriferous liquid
in 5 to 6 per cent yields.
In another embodiment of the present invention, fractionation of this oil by column
chromatography over a suitable adsorbent and elution by an appropriate organic solvent or by
HPLC or GLC or distillation in vacuum yields the individual constituents such as ar-dturmerone
(formula 1), turmerones (o>,|3-, formula 2) as major constituents (about 70 percent
as determined by GC-MS) besides other minor constituents like zingiberine, curcumene,
zedeorone, germacrone, curlone, curdione etc. all identified by GC-MS etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, an improved method of obtaining the lipid
soluble extract / material of rhizomes and leaves of various species of Zingiberaceae family
especially Curcuma species such as Curcuma longa L.Syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton or
Curcuma aromatica Salisb. etc. in high yields by exhaustive extraction of finely powdered
rhizomes or leaves with an appropriate organic solvent .under continoUs gradual stirring or by
sonication at ordinary room temperature followed by removal of the solvent from the extract
by distillation under reduced pressure below 45 ° C.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the organic solvent is a non- polar organic
solvent such as light petroleum, toluene etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention," the organic-solvent used is a polar organic
solvent such as ethanol, propanol etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the residual concentrate after removal of the
solvent from the polar organic solvent extract is exhaustively extracted with a non-polar
organic solvent such as light- petroleum, toluene etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the organic solvent is removed from the
extracts by distillation under reduced pressure below 45 ° C.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the continues' stirring is done either
manually or by a mechanical stirrer or by an electric motor.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the lipid soluble extract /material of rhizomes
or leaves of said species, which, is a pale yellow to orange-yellow odoriferous oily liquid, is
separated into its individual constituents such as ar-d-turmerone (formula 1), turmerones
(a,p-formula 2), zingiberine, curcumene, germacrone, curcumenone, curlone etc. by
chromatography (column, HPLC, GLC etc.) or distillation under high vacuum.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the individual constituents of the Curcuma
oil are obtained by column chromatography over a suitable adsorbent such as alumina, silica
gel etc. and elution by appropriate organic solvents such as n-hexane, njiexane : ethyl acetate
mixture (in varying proportions), ethyl acetate etc..
In another embodiment of the present invention, the individual constituents of Curcuma oil
are obtained by HPLC or GLC, e.g. turmerones ( oc-,P-), mol.wt. 218, retention time 9' -04",
ar-d-turmerone (mol.wt.216), retention time 8'-08", zingiberine (mol.wt.204) retention time
5'-04", Curcumene (mol.wt.202),. retention time 4'-24".
In another embodiment of the present invention, the individual constituents of Curcuma oil,
such as ar-d-turmerone(formula 1), turmerones(formula 2), zinziberine, curcumene,
curcumenone, germacrone etc.are obtained by distillation of Curcuma oil in vacuum, e.g. ard-
turmerone, b.p. 155-160 °C / 9mm Hg through ar-d-turmerone rich fraction ,b.p. 140-160 °
C /10mm Hg which is about 70 % of the whole Curcuma oil
In another embodiment of the present invention, Nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide scavenging
(anti-oxidant) property of the said lipid soluble extracts individual constituents such as ar-dturmerone
(fig.l), termerones (fig.2), germacrone, curcumenone, zingiberine, curcu-meneetc
either as such or it individual constituents.
In another embodiment of the present invention, compounds of the formula 3 as analogs of ard-
turmerone or turmerone, germacrone etc. when R represents an alkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkane,
phenyl, cycloalk-ene or cycloalkadiene with substituents like alkyl, alkoxy halo-etc.in the
phenyl or cycloalkene or cycloalkadiene rings, hetroaryl like pyridyl nitrogen heterocyclic,
amine or substituted amine etc. and Rl = alkyl, arylalkyl etc. as nitric oxide (NO),
superoxide/free radicals scavengers to combat / prevent nitric oxide (NO), superoxide / free
radical oxidative damage to important bio molecules.
In another embodiment of the present invention, compounds of the type- formula 4 as analogs
of Procurcumenol, zedoarondiol, curcum-enone etc.-the other minor constituents of the lipid
soluble extract of the Curcuma species which incorporate in their molecular architecture the
salient features of ar-d-turmerone and turmerone(a-,p-) molecules in a rigid frame work as
therapeutically beneficial medicaments for the treatment and prevention of all types of stroke,
thrombosis, infarction, neurological dysfunctions etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, therapeutically beneficial effects of Curcuma
oil as such or its individual constituents singly or in combination with each other or of related
compounds, reduce, control or prevent human diseases in which increased production of nitric
oxide (NO) and free radical oxidative damage to important biomolecules is implicated such as
all types of stroke (thrombotic, embolic, focal, ischaemic), thrombosis (cerebral, coronary,
deep vein) infarction, neurological dysfunctions etc.
In another embodiment of the present invention, method of treating post-stroke injury in
mammals which comprises administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of
Curcuma oil either as such or its individual constituents singly or in combination with each
other or related compounds.
In another embodiment of the present invention, method of treating patients of Subarachnoid
and cerebral hemorrhagic stroke after 5 to 7 hours of the stroke by administering to a subject
in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of Curcuma oil either as such (whole) or its
individual constituents singly or in combination with each other or related compounds.
In another embodiment of the present invention, method of treating reperfusion injury in
mammals that comprises administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of
Curcuma oil (whole-as such) or its individual constituents singly or in combination with each
other or related compounds.
In another embodiment of the present invention, method of treating cerebrovascular diseases
like all types of stroke (thrombotic, embolic, focal, recurrent), transient ischaemic attacks etc.
by administering to a subject hi need thereof an effective amount of Curcuma oil (whole-as
such) or its individual constituents singly or in combination with each other or related
compounds.
In another embodiment of the present invention, method of treating ischaemic diseases and
prevent dangerous blood clot formation by administering to a subject in need thereof an
effective amount of Curcuma oil (whole) or its individual constituents singly or in
combination with each other or related compounds.
hi another embodiment of the present invention, method for treating hypertension in
mammals that comprises administering to a subject/ patient in need thereof an effective
amount of Curcuma oil (whole) or its individual constituents singly or in combination with
each other or related compounds.
hi another embodiment of the present invention, method to combat cerebral and pulmonary
edema which accompanies cerebral and myocardial infarction by administering to a subject in
need thereof medicaments like Curcuma oil (whole) or its individual constituents singly or in
combination with each other or related compounds, which are nitric oxide (NO) and
superoxide/free radicals scavengers with anti-inflammatory activity.
hi another embodiment of the present invention, therapeutically beneficial effects of the SAID
lipid soluble extracts, either as such or its individual constituents like ar-d-turmerone,
turmerones, germacrone, zinziberine, curcumene, curlone etc. singly or in combination with
each other with and without other therapeutic-ally useful agents such as melatonin, tissue
plasminogen activator (t-PA) administered orally, parentally (individual pure constituents) or
in any other appropriate pharmaceutically acceptable delivery system such as tablets,
capsules, beads, suppositories aerosols, implants etc in an effective amount (for Stroke. 10 -
500 mg / daily in divided doses and for other Ailments. 10 -1000 mg/ daily in divided
doses),to provide a highly effective cure/treatment for human diseases wherein nitric oxide
(NO) and free radical oxidative damage are implicated such as all type of stroke, thrombosis,
infarction and neurological dysfunctions and which may also be of therapeutic use in certain
type of cancer such as leukemia, Alzheimer's disease wounds and even HTV./ AIDS.
Examples
The following examples broadly illustrate the invention without in anyway limiting the nature
and scope of the invention:
Example 1
This example describes the method of obtaining Curcuma oil and its constituents in high
yields and preparation of its dosage formulations. Improved extraction procedure of Curcuma
oil and its constituents from Curcuma longs L. syn. Curcuma domestica Valeton or other
Curcuma species rhizomes.
The usual extractive procedure employs three or four percolations of dry powdered Curcuma
rhizomes with an organic solvent like light petroleum, toluene, alcohol etc. and distillation of
the solvent from the percolates. In case of alcoholic extracts, after solvent removal the
residual concentrate is triturated with a non-polar organic solvent like light petroleum
followed by removal of the solvent by distillation to yield Curcuma oil in 1 to 1.5 percent
yields.
Hot extraction (Soxhlet) leads to loss of essential volatile constituents. When these procedures
were changed to extraction of the dry powdered Curcuma rhizomes with appropriate organic
solvents such as light petroleum, acetone, alcohol etc. with continous stirring by mechanical
stirrers driven by electric motors or manually or agitation with sonicator followed by
removal of the solvent from the extracts by distillation under reduced pressure below 45° C
the yield and quality of the Curcuma oil increased appreciably.
In a typical procedure, dry finely powdered Curcuma longa L. rhizomes (1 kg) were
successively percolated with n-hexane (3 liters) in a stainless steel or glass percolator / vessel
fitted with a tap near the bottom to drain out the percolate, and the contents were stirred
under slow motion continuously for 24 hours each time by a mechanical stirrer driven by an
electric motor. The orange-yellow percolate was drained out and the procedure repeated four
to five times. Solvent was distilled off from the percolates under reduced pressure below 45
0 C to yield an orange yellow odoriferous liquid (51 gms = 5.1% yield).
Likewise, initial extraction of finely powdered Curcuma longa L rhizomes (1 kg) with
acetone or alcohol (5x 3 liters) under continuous stirring for 24 hours each time followed by
removal of the solvent from the percolates by distillation under reduced pressure below 45°C
and exhaustive trituration of the residual concentrate with n-hexane or toluene (6x500 ml)
followed by removal of the solvent by distillation under reduced pressure below 45°C
yielded an orange yellow odoriferous liquid (60 gm.=6% yield).
Column chromatography of this orange yellow odoriferous liquid (20.0 gm.) over a silica gel
column, using n-hexane, n-hexane: ethyl acetate (in varying proportions) mixture and ethyl
acetate successively gave ar-d-turmerone (formula 1, 55%) and turmerones (a-,p- formula 2,
20%) as major constituents (fraction- A.) followed by curcumene(10%) & zingiberine
(fraction- B) and other minor constituents -germacrone, curcumerone, zedoarone,
zedoarondiol, isozdedoarondiol, curcumenone, curlone etc. (fraction C) whose activity was
low..
Distillation of Curcuma oil (20.0 gms.) under reduced pressure (140-160°C / 9mm Hg)
yielded ar-d-turmerone rich major fraction I (formula 1, 15.0 gms) alongwith other
turmerones (a-,p-, formula 2) and other minor constituents (4.2 gms, fraction II) Fraction I
Ar-d-turmerone a-turmerone, ab A and R= Me
P-Turmerone, R= =CH2
had refractive index (no30) 1.4990, specific optical rotation (L)25+19.6. Curcuma oil itself or
its individual constituents obtained by chromatography or distillation under high vacuum are
used singly or in combination with each other with and without other therapeutically
beneficial compounds to prepare appropriate clinically effective formulations.
The solid dosage form may be obtained by maceration of Curcuma oil as such or its
individual constituents singly or in combination with each other particularly ar-d-turmerone,
cc-,p- turmerones with starch and microcrystalline cellulose in suitable proportions in a mixer
till the mixture becomes a free flowable powder which may be filled in capsules or converted
into tablets as per therapeutically desired specifications.
In a typical example, Curcuma oil (10.0 gm.) was dissolved in ethanol (100ml). Starch
(S.Ogm) and microcrystalline cellulose (85.0 gm) were added to this solution. The contents
were mixed thoroughly and solvent was removed by drying below 45°C. The resulting
product was passed through 40-mesh size sieve to obtain free flowing granules. These
granules were then compressed into tablets of appropriate dosage requirements, e.g. each
tablet weighing SOOmg.contain 50mg of Curcuma oil.
EXAMPLE 2
Focal cerebral ischaemiai
Male Sprague Dawley rats of 270-375 gm weight from CDRI Animal House were used for
this study. Rats were housed in a 12-hr, light / dark cycle and water was given ad libitum.
Animals were fasted overnight and anaesthetized with pentobarbitone sodium, 30mg/kg.
Rectal temperature was monitored. Transient ischaemia / reperfusion was performed using an
intravascular filament to occlude the middle cerebral artery unilaterally [Longa
Z.E.,Weinstein P.R., Carlson S., Cummins R.; Reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion
without craniectomy in rats : Stroke ,20, 84-91(1989) ] for 2 hours followed by reperfusion
for the remainder of 36 hours. Animals were assigned randomly to the following groups of
n=5 rats (1) Control: Sham operated. (2.) Ischaemic / reflow- no treatment. (3.) Ischaemic
/reflow-treated group:( i) Curcuma oil (weight/ml., 0. 86gm.), 683.65 mg./kg., given i.p. and
P.O. (ii) . Fraction- A(weight /ml.,0. 88gm.), 569. 56 mg/kg., given , i.p. and P.O. (iii).
Fraction -B. (weight /ml.,0. 91gm.) 938.86mg / kg., given, i.p. and P.O. The animals
were sacrificed & brains were removed and quickly frozen. Eight coronal section of of 2mm
thickness from each brain were cut and stained with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride at 37°
C for 30min. and post fixed by formalin. Each brain slice was photographed. The area of
infarct hi each slice was evaluated in a double blind manner. From groups (1,2,'&3) rats n=3 ,
brain was removed and processed for mitochondrial Ca 2+ estimation .
Experimental Protocol:
Isolation of forebrain mitochondria:
Mitochondria were isolated from the rat forebrain according to the method of Lai and Clark
[Lai. J.C.K., Clark J.P., Preparation of synaptic and non-synaptic mitochondria from
mammalian brain: Method Enzymol.," 55, 51-60(1979)] with slight modifications. Rat
forebrain was immediately removed after decapitation and immersed in ice- cold isolation
medium or Phosphate Buffered Saline. Brains were minced and rinsed to remove all the traces
of blood. The tissue was homogenized (10% w/v) in an appropriate medium using a
motorized Teflon homogenizer and immediately centrifuged at 1800g for 10 min. The
supernatant was decanted and the pellet rehomogenized and centrifuged at 1800 g for 10 min.
Supernatants from the first and the second spins were added together and centrifuged at
17,000 g for 20 minutes. The resultant pellet was resuspended in specific mediums and
centrifuged at 17000 g. for 5 minutes.
Determination of mitochondrial content:
Calcium content of mitochondria isolated from forebrain was estimated according to the
method of Zaidan E. and Sims N.R. [The calcium content of mitochondria from brain sub
regions following short term fore brain ischaemia and recirculation in the rat; J. Neurochem.,
(53,1812-1819(1994)], with slight modifications , In brief, mitochondria (0. 3 mg. protein) in
succinate mediun were loaded with Fura-2AM (0-5uM) and incubated for 30 min. at 37°C
with constant shaking . The mitochondria were then washed twice in succinate medium and
re-suspended in the same medium.
The ratio of Fura-2 fluorescence at exciting wavelength of 340 and 380 nm with emission at
510 nm was determined using a Shimadzu RF 5000 Spectrofluorometer. Mitochondrial
Calcium([Ca 2+]m), is presented as tracings of the 340/380 fluorescence ratio[Macleod K.T
and Harding S.E.; Effect of phorbolester in contraction, intracellular pH and intracellular Ca2+
in isolated mammalian ventricular myocytes. J. Physiol. (London) ,444,481-498 (1991)].
Result: Infarct from focal ischaemic rat in pretreated group was completely prevented as seen
in Fig. 1 & 2. In the group where test compound / agent was given post occlusion of middle
cerebral artery, six out of seven brain sections shows complete prevention (Fig.3), whereas in
one about 20% of the area showed up as infarcted. Mitochondria isolated from forebrain from
animals made sham, ischaemc and treated with the test compound group (i) showed the
intracellular calcium levels close to normal (Fig.4).
Example 3
Collagenase-induced infra-cerebral hemorrhage:
Adult male rats (250-350 gm.) from the CDRI-Animal House were used in the following
experiments. The rats were anaesthetized with pentobarbitone sodium (30 mg/kg, i.p.) and
placed in a stereotaxic frame (for rats, Narashige, Japan). Rosenberg etal's method
[Rosenberg G.A. Mun-Bryce S., Mary B.S. and Kornfeld M., Collagenase-induced
intracerebral hemorrhage in rats: Stroke, 21, 801-807 (1990)] was followed. An incision was
made in the scalp and a 23- guage needle was implanted into the caudate nucleus and the
putamen (at the coordinates of A5.8, L3.0, HI). ( A stereotaxic atlas of the rat brain, eds.R.
M. Elliot, Gardener Lindzey and Kenneth , MacCorquodale. Meredith Publishing Company,
1967). Rats(n=10) were injected with collagenase (0.01 IU in 2(il of saline) and for sham with
2 ul of normal saline. After infusion, the needle was removed and the wound was sutured. The
animals were allowed to recover from anesthesia, kept in a warm place and allowed access to
food and water. Eighteen hours later, the animals were evaluated for neurological deficit by
measuring scoring of abnormal possture and hemiplegia according to Yamamoto et.al. [
Yamamoto A.Tamura, Kirino T., Shimizu M and Sano K. Behavioral changes after focal
cerebral ischaemia by left middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. Brain Research ,452, 323-
328.(1988)]. Later rats were reanaesthetized with pentobarbitone sodium, 30-mg/kg i.p. and
brain was removed. Rats were assigned randomly into three groups. Group 1, received,saline.
Collagenase (0.01 IU in 2jo,l saline) treated Groups 2 & 3 received fraction A (683. 65mg/kg)
after 5 and 7 hours of collagenase treatment by the oral route.
Antioxidant estimations
Mitochondria were isolated as described in example 2.For antioxidant estimations, the
mitochondria were rinsed and suspended in phosphate buffer. For the other estimations
mitochondria were resuspended in a medium containing sucrose 250 mM, KPkPCU 6 mM and
succinate 6mM, pH 7.2. The isolation procedure was carried out at 4°C.
Antioxidants:
The oxygen scavenging enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and
thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were estimated in mitochondria isolated from forebrain
of experimental animals.
SOD: SOD activity was measured by the inhibition of NADH, PMS, NET and absorbance
monitored at 560 nm. Enzyme activity is expressed in U/min/mg protein. [Nishikini M., Rao
N.A., Yagi K., The occurrence of superoxide anion in the reaction of reduced PMS and
molecular oxygen. Biochem Biophysi. Res. Commun., 46, 849- 854 (1972)].
CAT: CAT activity was assayed by measuring the UV absorbance change of H2O2 at 240 nm
according to Aebi [Aebi H., In Methods of Enzymatic Analysis (Third edition) ed. H.U.
Bergmeyer Academic Press, New York and London, Vol.2 pp 673-684. (1974)]
Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TEARS):
Mitochondrial TEARS levels were measured as an index of malondialdehyde and hence lipid
peroxidation by the method of Okhawa et. el.[0khawa H., Ohishi N., Yagi K., Assay of lipid
peroxides in animal tissues by thiobarbituric acid reaction: Anal. Biochem., 95, 351 (1979)] at
532 nm. Functional deficit was estimated according to Bederson [Bederson I.E., Pitts, L.H.
Tsiji M., Nishimura M.C. Davis R.L., Barkowisk H., Rat MCAO: Evaluation of model and
development of a neurologic examination, Stroke, 17, 472 (1986)] and water contents were
estimated. Both the parameters were found to be significantly reduced as compared to
untreated group.
Protein Assay
Mitochondrial protein was determined by the method of Lowry et.al. [Lowry O.K.,
Rosbrough N.J., Farr. A.L., Randall K.J.; Protein measurement with folin phenol reagent: J.
Biol. Chem., 193, 265 (1951)] using bovine serum albumin(BSA) as standard.
Result: The test compound (fraction A) given 5 hours after collagenase treatment significantly
reduced the edema. Neurological deficit at 5 & 7 hours of treatment were scored as grade 4
in untreated group and grade 0-2 in treated group. Mortality in untreated group was 3 out of 5
and in treated group 1 out of 5.
SOD: SOD value in 5 hours was almost normal while in case of test compound (fraction A)
given after 7 hours post collagenase treatment the SOD levels were augmented (Fig. 5).
Catalase: This enzyme is reported to be presenfin minute amount in brain (Fig. 6)
TBARS: At 5 hours post collagenase treatment, the values were close to that of collagenase
treated animals, while at 7 hours the values were decreased significantly as compared to the
normal group indicating the anti-oxidant property of the test compound-fraction A (Fig.7).
Mitochondria were isolated as described in Example 2.
Example 4
Adult male rats (250-3 50gm.) from the C.D.R.I. Animal house were anaesthetized with
30mg./ kg. Pentobarbitone sodium. Jugular veins of the rats were exposed. Five drops of 10 %
formalin in 65 % methanol was dropped on the vein. Six hours were allowed for thrombus
formation which was then graded according to its presence or absence.[Blake O. R., Ashwin
J.G.Jaques L.B.,; An assay for the antithrombotic
activityofanticoagulants:J.Clin.Pathol.,72,118 (1959)]. Fraction A (ar-d-turmerone and
turmerones) was given 200jj,l.i.p./300gm.rat in the treated group,while the untreated (control)
group received equivalent amount of saline (i.p).
Result: The thrombus in the untreated group was 2.8mg. and in the treated group it was
0.75mg. showing an increase of 373.33 % in untreated versus treated group.
Example 5
Rats were made hypertensive according to Goldblatt et. al.[ Goldblatt H., Lynch J., Hanezal
R.F., Serville W.W.: Studies on experimental hypertension,: The production of persistent
elevation of systolic blood pressure by means of renal ischaemia J Exp Med ;59:347-379
(1934)]. Eight weeks later the hypertensive rats had an average initial blood pressure of 200
mm/Hg. After Curcuma oil , 683.65mg./kg. was administered intraperitoneally the blood
pressure fell to 115 mm /Hg in 15 min. and stayed at that level for more than 60 min.
ResultiThe compound lowers the blood pressure significantly in hypertensive rats and not in
the normotensive rats. It reduces blood pressure without bradycardia due to P- adrenergic
receptor antagonism or reflex tachycardia common to vasodilator [Nichols A.J,Gallai
M.Ruffolo R.P Jr. Studies on the mechanism of arterial vasodilation produced by the noval
antihypertensive agent. Carvediolol. Fundam. Clin. Pharmacol., 5:25-38 (1991) ].
Example 6
Abdominal aorta was mounted according to Wolfgang et. al. [Wolfgang Auch-Schwelk,
Zvonimir S.Katusic and Paul M.Vanhoutte : contractions to oxygen derived free radicals are
augmented in aorta of the spontaneously hypertensive rats., Hypertension ,13, 859-
864(1989)]. Aortic rings were contracted with norepinephrine 10"8 to 10"5 M.The contracted
vessels were relaxed by acetylcholine or Curcuma oil, added in a stepwise manner.
Acetylcholine was added in a concentration of 10"7 to 10"5 M. For Curcuma oil, the final
contraction achieved was 0.861mg in a 8ml bath (Fig. 8). Protein Kinase C activator, Phorbol
12-Myristate 13- Acetate (PMA) (10"7 M ) induced contraction in the intact and denuded
aortic strip preparation. Pretreatment with Curcuma, oil ,0.881 mg. completely inhibited PMA
induced contraction. It inhibits protein kinase C [Kaczmarck L. K.; The role of Protein Kinase
C in regulation of ion channels and neurotransmitter release: Trends in Neurosciences, 10, 30-
34 (1987); Jin-Moo Lee, Grabb M.C., Zipfel G.J., Choi D. W., J. Clin. Invest., 106, (6), 723-
731(2000).
Result: Curcuma oil and acetylcholine caused complete relaxation in norepinephrine induced
contraction showing a significant vasorelaxant effect.
Example 7
Nitric oxide was first characterized in the central nervous system at the intracellular messenger
mediating the increase in cGMP levels mat follows activation of glutamate receptors (Garthwaite J,
Charles S.L. and Chess-Williams R. Endothelium derived relaxing factor release on activation of
NMDA receptors suggest a role as intracellular messenger in the brain. Nature 336, 385-388 (1988).
Simultaneous generation of NO and superoxide radicals favours the production of a toxic reaction
product peroxynitrite anion (Beckman JS, Beckman TW, Chen J, Marshal PA and Freeman BA).
Apparent hydroxyl radical production by peroxynitriye: implication for endothelial injury for nitric
oxide and superoxide. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 87, 1620 (1990). Once near or inside a cell
peroxynitrite can damage or deplete a number of vital components, DNA by strand scission, lipid by
lipid peroxidation aconitase and antioxidant availability (Cuzzocrea S, Riley. DP, Caputi AP and
Salvemini D. Antioxidant therapy: a new pharmacological approach ion shock, inflammation and
ischemia/reperfusion injury. Pharmacol. Rev. 53: 135-159, (2001). To test the nitric oxide scavenging
property of the test agent invitro testing was carried out using an NO donor sodium nitroprusside.
Nitric oxide (NO) scavenging by test compounds/agents:
Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) generates Nitric oxide (NO) [Sreejayan and Rao M.N.A: Nitric
oxide scavenging by curcuminoids, J.Pharm. Pharmacol.,4P, 105-107(1997)]. fraction -A,
86.14mg was mixed in phosphate-buffer saline at different concentration of SNP ( 5-40 mM)
Griess reagent in 1:1 ratio was mixed with the test compound (fraction -A). The absorbance of
the above chromophore buffer formed with SNP, test compound (fraction -A) and Griess
reagent was read at 546 nm and refer to the absorbance of standard solution of potassium
nitrite treated in the same way with Griess reagent ( Green L.C, Wagner D.A.,Glogowski J,
Skipper P.L., Wishnolc J,S.,Tannenbaum S.R., Analysis of nitrate, nitrite and IS N in
biological fluids; Anal. Biochem. 126 , 131(1982). Marcocci L., Maguire JJ, Droy-Lefaix
M.T., Packer L.: The nitric oxide scavenging property of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761,
Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 201,148 (1994).
Results :SNP generates nitric oxide and test compound (fraction A) scavenges the nitric oxide
thus generated. The result indicated the test compound (fraction A) hi focal ischaemia to be a
scavenger of nitric oxide (Fig. 9).



We claim:
1. An improved process for the preparation of lipid soluble extract from Curcuma species in high yield, wherein the said process comprising the steps of:
[a] powdering the rhizomes and leaves of the Curcuma species to obtain a powder;
[b] extracting the powder with a polar organic solvent selected from the group consisting of alcohol and acetone under continuous stirring or sonication for 20-24 hours at room temperature;
[c] repeating step (b) two to five times to obtain an extract;
[d] removing the polar organic solvent from the extract of step [c] by distillation under reduced pressure and below 45 degree C to obtain a concentrate;
[e] triturating the concentrate of step [d] with a non-polar solvent selected from the group consisting of light petroleum and toluene;
[f] removing the non-polar solvent of step [e] by distillation under reduced pressure and below 45 degree C to obtain the lipid soluble extract;
[g] fractionating the lipid soluble extract using silica gel column chromatography using n-hexane, n-hexane:ethyl acetate mixture in a ratio of 95:5, and ethyl acetate as eluents which are used successively to obtain fraction A wherein it constitutes 75% by weight of lipid soluble extract, fraction B, and fraction C;
[h] fractionating each of fractions A, fraction B, and fraction C further using HPLC or GLC to obtain the constituents of fractions A, B and C wherein the constituents of fraction A are selected from the group consisting of ar-d-turmerone of formula 1 and alpha and beta turmerone of formula 2; constituents of fraction B are selected from the group consisting of curcumene and zingiberine and constituents of fraction are selected from the group consisting of germacrone, curcumerone, zedoarone, sedoarondiol, isozdedoaronidiol and curlone.

2. A process as claimed in claim 1, wherein ar-d-tumerone constitutes 95% of the fraction A.
3. A process as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure in steps (d) and (f) ranges between 7 and 11 mmHg.
4. A composition prepared from the fractions of lipid soluble extract of rhizomes and leaves of Curcuma species as obtained by the process of claim 1, wherein the said composition comprising faction A consisting of ar-d-tumerone of formula 1,
(Formula Removed)

and alpha and beta tumerone of formula 2, wherein in alpha tumerone R = CH3 and in beta tumerone R = CH2
(Formula Removed)

along with fraction B consisting of curcumene and zingiberine and fraction C consisting of germacrone, curcumerone, zedoarone, sedoarondiol, isozdedoaronidiol, curcumenone and curlone and/or pharmaceutically acceptable additives, wherein the ratio of fraction A, fraction B and fraction C ranges between 1 to 3 : 1 to 3 : 1 to 3.
5. A composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein curcuma species is Curcuma domestica
valeton.

6. A composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein the additives are selected from the group comprising of melatonin, antioxidants, calcium channel antagonists, tissue plasminogen activator [t-PA] and cell membrane stabilizing agents.



Documents:

2838-DELNP-2004-Abstract-(03-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Abstract-(12-01-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-abstract.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Claims-(03-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Claims-(11-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Claims-(12-01-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-claims.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(03-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(07-08-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(11-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(12-01-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-correspondence-others.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Description (Complete)-(03-02-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-description (complete).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-drawings.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Form-1-(03-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Form-1-(12-01-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-form-1.pdf

2838-delnp-2004-form-18.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Form-2-(03-02-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Form-2-(12-01-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-form-2.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Form-3-(07-08-2009).pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Form-3-(12-01-2009).pdf

2838-delnp-2004-form-3.pdf

2838-delnp-2004-form-5.pdf

2838-DELNP-2004-Petition-137-(12-01-2009).pdf


Patent Number 229247
Indian Patent Application Number 2838/DELNP/2004
PG Journal Number 09/2009
Publication Date 27-Feb-2009
Grant Date 16-Feb-2009
Date of Filing 22-Sep-2004
Name of Patentee COUNCIL OF SCIENTIFIC AND INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH
Applicant Address RAFI MARG, NEW DELHI-110 001, INDIA.
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 KHANNA NANDOO MAL CENTRAL DRUG RESEARCH INSTITUTE CHATTAR MANZIL PALACE, POST BOX NO.173 LUCKNOW
2 SINGH SATYAWAN CENTRAL DRUG RESEARCH INSTITUTE CHATTAR MANZIL PALACE, POST BOX NO.173 LUCKNOW
3 PAL RRAGHWENDRA CENTRAL DRUG RESEARCH INSTITUTE CHATTAR MANZIL PALACE, POST BOX NO.173 LUCKNOW
4 RAY MADHUR CENTRAL DRUG RESEARCH INSTITUTE CHATTAR MANZIL PALACE, POST BOX NO.173 LUCKNOW
PCT International Classification Number A61K 35/78
PCT International Application Number PCT/IB02/05366
PCT International Filing date 2002-12-14
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 NA