Background: Plants of the genus Achillea are widely used in both traditional and modern medicine and are known to be rich in biologically active secondary metabolites. Numerous phytochemical and histochemical studies have been con ducted on Achillea millefolium L.; however, Achillea asiatica Serg., which is widely distributed in Mongolia, remains comparatively underexplored. Therefore, investigating the distribution of biologically active compounds, the content of polyphenolic compounds, and the optimal extraction conditions of this species is of significant scientific and practical importance. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify biologically active compounds in Achillea asiatica Serg. using histochemical methods, to determine the content of polyphenolic compounds and optimal extraction conditions, and to evaluate the total and internal absorption coefficients of the plant raw material. Materials and Methods: The aerial parts of Achillea asiatica Serg. were collected in August 2025 from Erdene soum, Tuv province, Mongolia. Histochemical analysis was performed on transverse stem sections and flower petals using potassium dichromate, ferric chloride (III), methylene blue, Lugol’s iodine, and Dragendorff’s reagent, followed by ob servation under a light microscope. The total polyphenolic content was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and expressed as gallic acid equivalents. Extraction experiments were conducted using powdered plant material sieved to par ticle sizes of 1, 2, and 3 mm and extracted with 20–80% ethanol. In addition, the total and internal absorption coefficients of the plant material were determined according to standard procedures. Results: Histochemical analysis revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavo noids), and starch, while alkaloids were not detected. Polyphenolic compounds were observed in both stems and flow ers, with more pronounced accumulation in the vascular tissues. The highest total polyphenolic content (0.421%) was obtained from the 1 mm particle-size fraction extracted with 70–80% ethanol. Using 60% ethanol, the total absorption coefficient of the plant material was determined to be 5.74, and the internal absorption coefficient was 1.885. Conclution Achillea asiatica Serg. is rich in polyphenolic compounds, and their anatomical distribution is closely as sociated with the plant’s protective and biological functions. The use of 1 mm particle-size material and 70–80% ethanol was identified as the most suitable condition for extracting polyphenolic compounds. These findings provide a scientific basis for the standardization of Achillea asiatica Serg. as a medicinal and phytopharmaceutical raw material and support its further pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigation.

Background: Plants rich in essential oils belong to more than 50 families, including Asteraceae, Rutaceae, and Lamiaceae. These plants are widely used in food, traditional and modern medicine, perfumery, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Approximately 3,000 types of essential oils have been identified, of which more than 300 are utilized for industrial and commercial purposes. Essential oils exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities and are therefore widely applied in medical research. In Mongolia, the extreme climate, distinct ecological regions, and the prevalence of pastoral livestock husbandry provide a scientific basis for investigating essential oil–containing plants, their chemical composition, and biological activities. Among them, Juniperus Sabina L. is of particular theoretical and practical interest. Aim: To determine the non-toxic dose of essential oil extracted from Juniper Sabina L. on neural cells. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at the Institute of Bio-Medicine, MNUMS. Ethical approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of MNUMS (Meeting date: November 21, 2025; Protocol No. 2025-26/0301). BV2 microglial and N2a neuronal cell lines were cultured under standard conditions at 37°C in a 5% CO₂ incubator. Cells were maintained in appropriate culture media, and their growth and morphology were monitored microscopically before experimentation. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. BV2 microglial cells were seeded into 96-well plates at a density of 2×10⁴ cells/well and incubated for 24 hours. Essential oil was added at concentrations ranging from 50–500 µg/mL and incubated for an additional 24 hours. After treatment, MTT reagent was added and incubated for 3 hours. The resulting formazan crystals were dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and absorbance was measured at 630 nm. Cell viability was calculated based on absorbance values to determine the non-toxic concentration of the essential oil. Result: The cytotoxic effects of the essential oil were evaluated in BV2 microglial and N2a neuronal cells using the MTT assay. In N2a neuronal cells, concentrations of 50, 100, 200, and 300 µg/mL did not significantly affect cell viability, whereas 400 and 500 µg/mL reduced cell viability, indicating cytotoxic effects. Conclusion According to MTT assay results, the essential oil of Juniperus sabina showed no cytotoxic effect on N2a neuronal cells at concentrations of 50, 100, 200, and 300 µg/mL, while cytotoxic effects were observed at 400 and 500 µg/mL. In BV2 microglial cells, concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL were non-toxic, whereas concentrations above 300 µg/mL exhibited cytotoxic effects.

Background: Skin diseases are highly prevalent worldwide. Although plant-derived medicinal materials continue to be used among Mongolians for the traditional and household management of dermatological conditions, studies that systematically quantify their frequency of use, informant consensus, and cultural significance remain limited. Aim: To determine the traditional knowledge, patterns of use, and cultural significance of plant-derived medicinal materials used for dermatological conditions among residents of Ulaanbaatar using quantitative ethnobotanical indices. Materials and Methods: Information was collected on the diversity of plant species used for dermatological conditions, modes and frequency of use, perceived effectiveness, adverse effects, and methods of preparation and processing. The collected data were evaluated using quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including the Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Fidelity Level (FL), Relative Popularity Level (RPL), Rank Order Priority (ROP), Cultural Importance Index (CII), Jaccard Index (JI), and Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (SDI). Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel 2016. The study was conducted with the approval of the Research Ethics Review Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (Approval Protocol No. 25-06/03-03 and Ethical Opinion Protocol No. 26/03-B02). Result: A total of 73 plant species belonging to 36 families were documented, with species from the Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Apiaceae, and Liliaceae families being predominant. Regarding modes of use, 29.6% of the remedies were prepared as infusions or decoctions and applied as washes or topical applications, 18.9% involved the direct application of plant juice, and 18.1% were applied as mashed plant material or poultices. Aloe barbadensis showed the highest ethnobotanical importance, with UV= 0.19, RFC=0.128, CII=0.19, RPL=1.00, and ROP=100. Nugaraa altan tovch, Gobi thyme, yashilduu sea buckthorn, and greater plantain were also highly ranked. The Informant Consensus Factor was highest for thermal burns (ICF=0.82), followed by open wounds (ICF=0.77) and pustular acne (ICF=0.76). Eighteen species overlapped with the 126 medicinal materials recorded in traditional medicinal prescriptions, yielding a Jaccard Index of JI=10%. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was H′=3.4184, with an evenness value of E=0.7967. Among the informants, 40.8% reported a reduction in symptoms, while 61.9% reported no adverse effects associated with the use of plant-derived medicinal materials. Conclusion 1. Among residents of Ulaanbaatar, information was documented on the use of 73 plant species belonging to 36 families for skin diseases. Knowledge of these plants was transmitted mainly within families, and topical methods of use, including washing with herbal infusions, rinsing, and direct application of expressed plant juice, were predominant. 2. According to the quantitative ethnobotanical indices, Aloe vera showed the highest values for use, citation frequency, and cultural importance. Matricaria chamomilla L., Thymus gobicus Tschern., Hippophae rhamnoides L., and Plantago major L. also ranked highly. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values were observed for thermal burns, open skin wounds, and acne vulgaris.

Background: Panzerina lanata (L.) is widely distributed across various ecosystems in the mountain, steppe, and Gobi regions of Mongolia and has traditionally been used in folk medicine to alleviate joint and muscle inflammation, reduce liver heat, lower blood pressure, promote diuresis, and treat edema and tumors. Its similar applications in Mongolian and Chinese traditional medicine suggest considerable therapeutic potential and biological activity. Studies conducted since 2019 have reported that P.lanata (L.) is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant-active constituents; however, studies on the microscopic and histochemical characteristics of the species growing under Mongolian conditions remain limited, providing the rationale for this study. Aim: To characterize the microscopic features of Panzerina lanata (L.), determine the distribution of starch, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds using histochemical methods, and evaluate the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: For microscopic analysis, plant materials were softened by soaking for 24 h in a 1:1:1 water–ethanol–glycerin mixture (Strich–Fleming solution), followed by preparation of manual transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems, roots, and petals. A 10% chloral hydrate solution was used for clearing. Histochemical analyses were performed using potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), ferric chloride (FeCl₃), Lugol’s solution (I₂/KI), thymol (C₁₀H₁₄O) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), methylene blue (C₁₆H₁₈ClN₃S), and Dragendorff’s reagent. The prepared sections were cleared with glycerin and examined under an Olympus light microscope at ×40 and ×100 magnifications, with images documented using a 12-MP camera. Result: Microscopic examination of the roots, stems, and petals revealed that the root stele exhibited a polyarchy arrangement, with clearly differentiated xylem, phloem, and cambial tissues in both transverse and longitudinal sections. Scalariform tracheary elements in the xylem contributed to water and mineral transport and mechanical support. The stem xylem contained both spiral and scalariform tracheary elements. The petals consisted of cells with double walls and single nuclei, while the floral seed tissue was composed of meristematic tissue associated with continuous cell division, growth, and tissue differentiation. Histochemical analysis of transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems and roots, as well as petal sections, revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavonoids), and starch. Conclusion Microscopic, histochemical, and phytochemical analyses of Panzerina lanata (L.) revealed the presence of biologically active compounds, indicating its potential for use in the quality evaluation of medicinal plant raw materials.

Background: Cisplatin is a widely used platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent, but its gonadotoxic effects can damage ovarian tissue, oocytes, and developing follicles and may lead to primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are being investigated as a potential regenerative treatment because of their paracrine, anti-apoptotic, and tissue-repair effects. Aim: To evaluate the effect of ADSC therapy on estrous cyclicity, body weight, and ovarian follicular morphology in a mouse model of cisplatin-induced POI. Materials and Methods: Thirty 6-week-old female BALB/c mice were included. Six mice received saline as controls, while 24 mice received cisplatin 2 mg/kg intraperitoneally once daily for 10 days to induce POI. After POI induction, cisplatin-exposed animals were continued as an untreated POI group (n=15) or an ADSC-treatment group (n=9). The ADSC group received 1×10⁶ cells suspended in 0.2 mL medium via the tail vein. Body weight and vaginal cytology were monitored daily, and estrous stages were classified as proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus. Ovaries were collected for histologic evaluation at the end of the study. Result: After cisplatin exposure, mean estrous cycle length increased from 3.97 days in controls to 6.4 days in the POI group (p<0.05). During the post-treatment evaluation, mean cycle length was 5.65 days in untreated POI mice (n=4) and 4.5 days in ADSC-treated mice (n=7), representing a statistically significant improvement after ADSC therapy (p=0.013). Cisplatin caused significant body-weight loss, reaching a mean of 18.0 g on day 6 after completion of cisplatin administration (p<0.01). Histologically, untreated POI ovaries showed follicular atrophy and prominent degenerative changes, whereas ADSC-treated ovaries showed more morphologically preserved primary, secondary, and antral follicles and relatively fewer degenerative changes. Exploratory manual counting in three representative whole-ovary sections per group showed total intact/growing follicle counts of 15.00±2.65 in controls, 6.00±2.00 in POI, and 8.67±2.89 in ADSC-treated ovaries. Conclusion ADSC treatment was associated with partial restoration of estrous cyclicity and ovarian follicular development in a cisplatin-induced POI mouse model. These findings support further investigation of ADSC-based regenerative therapy for chemotherapy-associated ovarian injury.

Background: Globally, research on identifying bioactive compounds from medicinal plants and characterizing their in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities is progressing rapidly. Plants native to Mongolia have adapted to unique, extreme continental climatic conditions, accumulating distinct phytochemicals, and have historically been utilized in traditional medicine and dietary practices. Establishing the non-cytotoxic safety threshold of these wild and cultivated plant extracts in RBL-2H3 mast cells a universally accepted model for type I hypersensitivity and inflammation is a vital prerequisite. Determining these baseline non-toxic dose ranges provides the essential scientific foundation for subsequent cellular allergy models, animal studies, and the elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying their therapeutic efficacy. Aim: To determine the cytotoxicity profile and establish the non-cytotoxic dose ranges of extracts from four selected Mongolian plant species (wild and cultivated) in RBL-2H3 cells. Materials and Methods: Plant samples including lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), strawberry (Fragaria orientalis), black radish (Raphanus sativus), and blue-berried honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) were standardly collected, authenticated, and cataloged as herbarium specimens at the Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Mongolian Academy of Sciences. A total of 12 distinct extracts were prepared from plant leaves, stems, and fruits using water and ethanol extraction, followed by concentration via rotary evaporation and freeze-drying. Rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells were maintained in EMEM growth medium and utilized during the exponential growth phase. Cell viability and non-cytotoxic concentration thresholds were evaluated using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay. Result: Ethanolic extracts of strawberry leaves, black radish, and honeysuckle leaves (≥6.25 µg/mL), as well as aqueous extracts of honeysuckle fruits (≥6.25 µg/mL) and stems (≥25 µg/mL), exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity. Conversely, aqueous extracts of lingonberry leaves (≤200 µg/mL), strawberry leaves (≥100 µg/mL), and black radish (≤200 µg/mL), alongside ethanolic extracts of lingonberry leaves (≥50 µg/mL), demonstrated non-cytotoxic profiles. Furthermore, ethanolic extracts of honeysuckle stems (≤300 µg/mL) and fruits (≥12.5 µg/mL), as well as the aqueous extract of honeysuckle leaves (≤50 µg/mL), significantly enhanced RBL-2H3 cell viability. Conclusion The tested plant extracts influenced RBL-2H3 cell viability in a solvent polarity and plant organ dependent manner. Ethanolic extracts of strawberry leaves, black radish, and honeysuckle leaves, along with aqueous extracts of honeysuckle fruits and stems, demonstrated relatively high cytotoxicity, reducing cell viability by >40% starting at concentrations of 12.5, 25, and 50 µg/mL. In contrast, aqueous extracts of strawberry leaves and black radish, as well as both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of lingonberry leaves, maintained low cytotoxicity at concentrations below 200 µg/mL. Notably, ethanolic extracts of honeysuckle stems and fruits (>12.5 µg/mL) and its aqueous leaf extract (<100 µg/mL) enhanced cell viability, exhibiting significant cell proliferation promoting activity.

Background: Identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection, risk stratification, and prognosis of CVD in the context of CKD is, therefore, of critical importance. Cystatin C has emerged as a potential biomarker capable of reflecting both cardiac injury and renal impairment, particularly in patients with arterial hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum cystatin C levels, left ventricular hypertrophy, and chronic kidney disease in individuals with hypertension. Objective: To assess serum cystatin C concentrations in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease secondary to arterial hypertension. Materials and Methods: A case-control analytical study was conducted, enrolling 44 patients aged 45 years or older with both left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease due to arterial hypertension alongside a control group of apparently healthy individuals. Serum cystatin C levels were measured using immunoturbidimetric assay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Group comparisons were made using independent-sample t-tests, while multivariate regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were employed to explore associations and the predictive value of cystatin C. Results: The mean serum cystatin C concentration in the case group was 1.6±0.1 mg/L, significantly higher than in the control group (0.88±0.03 mg/L, p<0.05). Similarly, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was markedly reduced in the case group (44.88±6.8 mL/min/1.73 m²) compared to the controls (92.88±3.4 mL/ min/1.73 m², p<0.05). In the case group, a statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between serum cystatin C levels and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), with a regression coefficient of β=−0.028 (p<0.006). Conclusion The elevated serum cystatin C levels (1.6±0.1 mg/L) and decreased eGFR (38.99±12.7 mL/min/1.73 m²) observed in the case group suggest that cystatin C may serve as a potential biomarker for the early diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy due to arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease, as well as for predicting related complications.

Background: The capital city of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar is not only one of the coldest capitals in the world but has also become one of the most polluted cities in recent years due to the prolonged effects of severe cold. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most harmful air pollutant to human health is PM2.5. These fine particulate matters can penetrate the human body through the respiratory tract, causing various changes in the body and the oral cavity. Aim: Relationship between dental caries, gingivitis and periodontal status and PM2.5 air pollutant levels among 12 years old children in different areas of Ulaanbaatar. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 190 children aged 12 years old, who were selected from high and low level areas with air pollutant PM2.5 in Ulaanbaatar city, Mongolia. We obtained informed consent No.24-25/10-1 of the Ethical Committee, MNUMS. The oral examination of every child was done according to WHO recommendation (2013). We determined the prevalence of dental caries and mean DMFT score, and the prevalence of gingivitis, and CAL score. Statistical analysis was done by the SPSS 29 software. Results: The prevalence and mean DMF/t score of dental caries were 96% аnd 5.37±2.75 among children living in the high level area of the PM2.5 air pollutant; and 91% and 5.39±3.95 in the low level area, respectively (p<0.01). The prevalence of gingivitis was 23.2% among all children; 25.2% among children living in the high level area of the PM2.5 air pollutant and 20.5% in the low level area. The CAL score was 1.89±0.89 mm in the high polluted area and 1.94±0.77 mm in the low polluted area (p<0.001). Conclusion The prevalence of dental caries and gingivitis and the mean DMFT and CAL score among children living in air polluted areas were higher than low polluted areas.

Background: The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Mongolia was reported on November 11, 2020. In response, the government imposed a nationwide lockdown, which significantly impacted the population’s mental health. Heightened levels of stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression during the pandemic altered individuals’ psychological stability and behavior. Personality traits—defined as relatively stable patterns of emotion, cognition, and behavior—play a key role in stress responses and emotional regulation under pressure. Emerging evidence suggests that these psychological factors may influence the immune system’s responsiveness, including vaccine-induced antibody production. Aim: To evaluate the association between post-vaccination antibody responses and personality types following two doses of COVID-19 vaccines. Materials and Methods: A total of 738 participants who received two doses of COVID-19 vaccines (AstraZeneca ChAdOx1, n=29; Pfizer-BioNTech, n=119; Sinopharm BBIBP, n=590) and had no prior SARS-CoV-2 infection were enrolled. Serum samples were collected 21–28 days after the second dose, and SARS-CoV-2 RBD (S) IgG antibodies were measured using ELISA (Proteintech Inc., USA). Personality types were assessed using a 56-item temperament questionnaire developed by A. Belov, categorizing individuals into classical temperament types (choleric, phlegmatic, sanguine, melancholic). Logistic regression and ROC analysis were used to examine associations between personality types and antibody response. Results: The presence of an antibody response was significantly higher among individuals with a melancholic temperament, and significantly lower among those with a phlegmatic temperament. Furthermore, antibody titers were higher in participants with melancholic and sanguine temperaments and lower in those with a phlegmatic type. Conclusions 1. During the early period following the second dose of COVID-19 vaccination, the antibody response was higher in individuals with a pure melancholic temperament, while it was lower in those with a phlegmatic temperament. 2. After the second dose of the Sinopharm BBIBP COVID-19 vaccine, antibody titers were higher in individuals with pure melancholic and sanguine temperaments, and lower in those with a phlegmatic temperament.

Background: In the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis, in addition to mechanical plaque control, the use of chemical plaque control such as mouth rinses for a certain period has shown a positive effect on treatment outcomes and prognosis. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of a probiotic mouthwash in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was designed for a period of 2 weeks on 45 systemically healthy subjects between 20 and 25 years having plaque-induced gingivitis. The study population was divided into three groups. Group 1-15 subjects were advised experimental (probiotic) mouthwash. Group 2-15 subjects were advised positive control (chlorhexidine) mouthwash and Group 3-15 subjects into a negative control group. Oral prophylaxis was done for all groups at baseline. After the proper oral hygiene instructions, groups 1 and 2 were instructed to rinse their mouth with 15 ml of their respective mouthwashes, for 1 min twice daily, 30 min after brushing. Clinical parameters such as Full mouth plaque score (FMPS), Full mouth bleeding score (FMBS) were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks respectively. Results: At baseline, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of FMBS and FMPS mean values (p=0.174, p=0.887). At day 14, the FMPS, FMBS mean values were significantly reduced by all treatment modalities ranking probiotic and chlorhexidine is greater than negative control group (p<0.001, p<0.001). Conclusion The probiotic mouthwash was effectively used as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis.