MPharm Master of Pharmacy Pharmacognosy and Natural Products 2

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of colchicine, a plant-derived drug used for gout?

Accepted Answer

Binds tubulin and inhibits microtubule polymerization to reduce neutrophil migration

Answer

Colchicine binds to tubulin heterodimers, disrupting microtubule formation and inhibiting neutrophil chemotaxis and inflammation in acute gout attacks.

Question 2

Which botanical dietary supplement is contraindicated with anticoagulants due to its platelet-inhibiting properties?

Accepted Answer

Ginkgo biloba

Answer

Ginkgo biloba contains ginkgolides that inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF), increasing bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants like warfarin.

Question 3

The bitter acids in hops (Humulus lupulus) contribute to sedative effects primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

GABA-A receptor positive modulation

Answer

Hop bitter acids and methylbutenol metabolites have been shown to positively modulate GABA-A receptors, contributing to sedative and anxiolytic effects.

Question 4

In pharmacognosy, what is the difference between a primary and secondary metabolite?

Accepted Answer

Primary metabolites are essential for basic cell functions; secondary metabolites are not directly required but serve ecological or protective roles

Answer

Primary metabolites (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids) are essential for cell growth and survival, while secondary metabolites (alkaloids, terpenes, phenolics) serve defense, attraction, or competition functions.

Question 5

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects primarily by inhibiting which pathway?

Accepted Answer

COX-2 and NF-κB signaling pathways

Answer

Curcumin suppresses inflammatory gene expression by inhibiting NF-κB activation and downregulating COX-2 and LOX enzyme pathways.

MPharm Master of Pharmacy Practice Test

MPharm Master of Pharmacy Practice Test

MPharm Master of Pharmacy Pharmacognosy and Natural Products 2