bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloning and Expression of Brassica napus β-Carbonic Anhydrase cDNA
Authors: Deng Qiu-Hong , Li Mao-Teng , Yu Long-Jiang
Published: January 2015

A new full-length β-carbonic anhydrase cDNA was obtained from Brassica napus by homologous cloning. The cDNA has an open-reading frame of 996 nucleotides, encoding 331 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of 35,692 Da and an estimated pI value of 5.459. The deduced amino acid sequence of β-carbonic anhydrase from Brassica napus shared significant identity with β-carbonic anhydrases from Brassica carinata, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Thlaspi caerulescens (97.9%, 94%, and 93.5% identity, respectively). This cDNA was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) using the expression vector pET-32a(+). The expression band corresponded to the calculated mass plus the N-terminal fusion protein derived from the vector
Genotoxicity of Different tert-Butylcalix[4]crowns
Authors: Khalil Ahmad , Maslat Ahmed , Hafiz Abeer , Mizyed Shehadeh , Ashram Muhammad
Published: January 2015

The ability of two calix[4]arene derivatives, namely 25,27-p-tert-butylcalix[4]dithiooxabenzocrown (1) and 25,27-p-tert-butylcalix[4]trithiooxabenzocrown (2), to produce chromosomal aberrations in root meristematic cells of Allium cepa and micronuclei (MN) in normochromatic erythrocytes (NCE) of Balb/c mice was investigated. NCE are normal mature red blood cells with a full complement of hemoglobin but lack ribosomes. In the first test, the root tips were treated with a series of concentrations of the two test chemicals ranging from 10 - 7 to 10 - 4 M for 24 or 48 h. Both compounds caused concentration-dependent increases in the percentage of aberrant cells and reductions in the mitotic index. These effects depended, to some extent, on the duration of the treatment. The most conspicuous chromosomal abnormalities were c-mitosis, chromosome bridges, chromosome breaks, chromosome lags as well as micronuclei and multinuclei. In the second test, acridine orange fluorescent staining was applied to evaluate the incidence of MN in NCE of mice intraperitoneally injected with varying contents of the two test chemicals (0.02 - 0.08 mg/mouse). The two chemicals induced dose-dependent MN formation as compared to the negative control. The second compound had more pronounced cytogenetic influence than the first one. Mitomycin C (MMC, 14 mg/kg body weight), employed as positive control, produced more obvious effects on the parameters investigated.
Cytotoxic Thiophenes from the Root of Echinops grijisii Hance
Authors: Zhang Peng , Liang Dong , Jin Wenrong , Qu Haibin , Cheng Yiyu , Li Xian , Ma Zhongjun
Published: January 2015

A new thiophene, echinothiophenegenol (1), together with seven known thiophenes was isolated from the crude ethanol extract of roots of Echinops grijisii Hance. The structure of 1 was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. Compounds 2 and 5, isolated from the plant for the first time, and compounds 1 - 7 were tested for their cytotoxicity against two human cancer cell lines, HL60 and K562. The thiophenes showed better activity than the bithiophenes
Hepatoprotective Triterpenes from Hairy Root Cultures of Ocimum basilicum L.
Authors: Marzouk Amani M.
Published: January 2015

Six triterpene acids identified as betulinic, oleanolic, ursolic, 3-epimaslinic, alphitolic and euscaphic acids have been isolated from a dichloromethane extract of hairy root cultures of Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae). These cultures were obtained by genetic transformation using Agrobacterium rhizogenes. The extract as well as the isolated compounds were evaluated for their hepatoprotective activity by measuring their effect on the oxidative stress status of liver, induced by carbon tetrachloride, in albino rats and in liver homogenate in vitro. All tested compounds displayed hepatoprotective activity comparable to oleanolic and ursolic acids.
Production of Isoflavonoids in Callus Cultures of Pueraria candollei var. mirifica
Authors: Udomsuk Latiporn , Jarukamjorn Kanokwan , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Putalun Waraporn
Published: January 2015

Pueraria candollei Wall. ex Benth. var. mirifica (Airy Shaw & Suvat.) Niyomdham was investigated for callus induction using Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different plant growth regulators. After 8 weeks of culture, 66 - 100% of leaf or stem explants formed calli. Calli from stem explants cultured on MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/l thidiazuron (TDZ) gave the maximum of shoot induction (16%) and the highest level of total isoflavonoids [(50.39 ± 7.06) mg/g dry wt], which was 7-fold higher than that of the native tuber [(7.04 ± 0.29) mg/g dry wt]. These results suggest that addition of TDZ to the culture medium markedly enhances the production of isoflavonoids in calli induced from stem explants of P. candollei var. mirifica.
Geranyl Acetate Esterase Controls and Regulates the Level of Geraniol in Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus Nees ex Steud.) Mutant cv. GRL-1 Leaves
Authors: Ganjewala Deepak , Luthra Rajesh
Published: January 2015

Essential oil isolated from lemongrass (Cymbopogon fl exuosus) mutant cv. GRL-1 leaves is mainly composed of geraniol (G) and geranyl acetate (GA). The proportion of G and GA markedly fluctuates during leaf development. The proportions of GA and G in the essential oil recorded at day 10 after leaf emergence were ~59% and ~33% respectively. However, the level of GA went down from ~59 to ~3% whereas the level of G rose from ~33 to ~91% during the leaf growth period from day 10 to day 50. However, the decline in the level of GA was most pronounced in the early (day 10 to day 30) stage of leaf growth. The trend of changes in the proportion of GA and G has clearly indicated the role of an esterase that must be involved in the conversion of GA to G during leaf development. We isolated an esterase from leaves of different ages that converts GA into G and has been given the name geranyl acetate esterase (GAE). The GAE activity markedly varied during the leaf development cycle; it was closely correlated with the monoterpene (GA and G) composition throughout leaf development. GAE appeared as several isoenzymes but only three (GAE-I, GAE-II, and GAE-III) of them had significant GA cleaving activity. The GAE isoenzymes pattern was greatly influenced by the leaf developmental stages and so their GA cleaving activities. Like the GAE activity, GAE isoenzyme patterns were also found to be consistent with the monoterpene (GA and G) composition. GAE had an optimum pH at 8.5 and temperature at 30 °C. Besides GAE, a compound with phosphatase activity capable of hydrolyzing geranyl diphosphate (GPP) to produce geraniol has also been isolated.
Attractant for Vinegar Fly, Drosophila busckii, and Cluster Fly, Pollenia rudis (Diptera: Drosophilidae et Calliphoridae)
Authors: Būda Vincas , Radžiutė Sandra , Lutovinovas Erikas
Published: January 2015

A field test carried out in an industrial greenhouse in Lithuania revealed the attractiveness of synthetic methyl salicylate (MeSa) to two dipteran species: the vinegar fl y, Drosophila busckii (Drosophilidae), and the cluster fl y, Pollenia rudis (Calliphoridae). The attractant for the former fl y species was especially effective, as sticky traps containing 0.25 ml of MeSa captured (814 ± 55) D. busckii flies/trap on average compared to (12 ± 4) flies/trap in control traps. The mean capture of P. rudis [(42 ± 4) flies/trap] was significantly higher in MeSa-baited traps compared to the control traps [(13 ± 4) flies/trap]. The presence of MeSa in emissions of many fruits suitable for D. busckii feeding allows to attribute this attractant to kairomones. In case of P. rudis, MeSa should be attributed to synomones (compounds beneficial for both receiver and sender), because adult flies feeding on flowers act as pollinators. This is the first report on the field-active attractant for D. busckii and the second for P. rudis.
New Pyridine Alkaloids from Rove Beetles of the Genus Stenus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae)
Authors: Lusebrink Inka , Dettner Konrad , Schierling Andreas , Müller Tobias , Daolio Cristina , Schneider Bernd , Schmidt Jürgen , Seifert Karlheinz
Published: January 2015

Three new pyridine alkaloids were detected in the pygidial glands of some Stenus species. The chemotaxonomic significance of the occurrence of these alkaloids and stenusine in different Stenus species is discussed. The antimicrobial properties of (Z)- and (E)-3-(2- methyl-1-butenyl)-pyridine and the deterrent activities of stenusine and norstenusine were investigated.
De-Novo Cloning of FKBP23 cDNA from Pig ER Using Nested PCR
Authors: Han Ruifang , Wang Ying , Chen Chen , Zhao Zhuo , Mi Huaifeng
Published: January 2015

FK506 binding proteins (FKBPs) in cells are known as immunophilins. We have identifi ed and characterized a cDNA encoding an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) immunophilin, FKBP23, from pig liver by nested PCR. The predicted amino acid sequence of pig FKBP23 shows high identity to those of human FKBP23 and mouse FKBP23. It possesses a conserved FKBP-type peptidylprolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) domain and EF-hand domain. We constructed a plasmid to express pFKBP23. Furthermore, we proved that the recombinant pFKBP23 can specifi cally bind to natural BiP, the main protein of the molecular chaperone Hsp70 in ER lumen; the binding is interrelated with the Ca2+ concentration just as the FKBP23 from mice.
Cassiaindoline, a New Analgesic and Anti-Infl ammatory Alkaloid from Cassia alata
Authors: Villaseñor Irene M. , Sanchez Arlyn C.
Published: January 2015

Cassiaindoline is a new dimeric indole alkaloid isolated from Cassia alata L. leaves whose structure was elucidated through spectroscopic analyses. It exhibited analgesic activity at a dosage of 125.0 mg/kg mouse and decreased the number of writhings induced by acetic acid by 49.4%. It also showed a 57.1% anti-inflammatory activity at a dosage of 75 mg/kg mouse
Antimicrobial Activity of Gentiana lutea L. Extracts
Authors: Šavikin Katarina , Menković Nebojša , Zdunić Gordana , Stević Tatjana , Radanović Dragoja , Janković Teodora
Published: January 2015

Methanolic extracts of flowers and leaves of Gentiana lutea L., together with the isolated compounds mangiferin, isogentisin and gentiopicrin, were used to investigate the antimicrobial activity of the plant. A variety of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as the yeast Candida albicans has been included in this study. Both extracts and isolated compounds showed antimicrobial activity with MIC values ranging from 0.12 - 0.31 mg/ml. Our study indicated that the synergistic activity of the pure compounds may be responsible for the good antimicrobial effect of the extracts. Quantification of the secondary metabolites was performed using HPLC
Xanthanolides with Antitumour Activity from Xanthium italicum
Authors: Kovács Adriána , Vasas Andrea , Forgo Peter , Réthy Borbála , Zupkó István , Hohmann Judit
Published: January 2015

1

Bioassay-guided fractionation of a CHCl3 extract of the leaves of Xanthium italicum Moretti led to the isolation of four xanthanolides: xanthatin (), 4-epixanthanol (2), 4-epiisoxanthanol (3), and 2-hydroxyxanthinosin (4). Their structures were determined by means of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, including 1H-1H COSY, NOESY, HSQC and HMBC experiments, which resulted in complete and unambiguous 1H and 13C NMR chemical shift assignments. The isolated compounds 1 - 4 were evaluated for their antiproliferative activities, and were demonstrated to exert significant cell growth inhibitory activity against human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa), skin carcinoma (A431), and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) cells
Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Selected Osthole Derivatives
Authors: Zimecki Michał , Artym Jolanta , Cisowski Wojciech , Mażol Irena , Włodarczyk Maciej , Glenśk Michał
Published: January 2015

I

From osthole [7-methoxy-8-(3-methyl-but-2-enyl)-chromen-2-one] (), obtained by selective extraction of Peucedanum ostruthium (L.) W. Koch roots, ostholic acid (II) was synthetized as a result of its oxidation with chromium trioxide. From ostholic acid, through its chloride, four amides were obtained: the morpholide 1, the p-chloro-benzylamide 2, the piperidine 3 and the N-methyl-piperazide 4. Except for 1, other compounds have not been described before. The amides 1 - 4 and their precursor osthole (I) were tested for their potential activities in selected immunological assays. The compounds showed moderate inhibitory activity in the humoral immune response to sheep erythrocytes in mice in vitro, and 4 was the most suppressive. The effects of 1 and 3 on concanavalin A- and pokeweed mitogen-induced mouse splenocyte proliferation were inhibitory and those of 4 stimulatory. The compounds were also tested for their activity on tumour necrosis factor α and interleukin 6 production, induced by lipopolysaccharide, in cultures of rat peritoneal cells and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Compounds 1, 3 and 4 inhibited tumour necrosis factor α (rat cells), whereas compound 2 stimulated the production of both cytokines. Compounds 1, 2 and 3 were also strongly inhibitory on tumour necrosis factor α production in human blood cells (73, 78 and 80% inhibition at 10 μg/ml, respectively). On the other hand, 2 and 4 stimulated the interleukin 6 production (2- to 3-fold stimulation). In addition, 2 and 4 suppressed the carrageenan-induced inflammation in mice (56.5% and 68.3% inhibition, respectively). In summary, the compounds predominantly displayed suppressive and anti inflammatory activities in the investigated models
Ethylamine Content and Theanine Biosynthesis in Different Organs of Camellia sinensis Seedlings
Authors: Deng Wei-Wei , Ogita Shinjiro , Ashihara Hiroshi
Published: January 2015

We examined the distribution of ethylamine, glutamic acid and alanine, which are utilized in theanine biosynthesis, and other major amino acids in leaves, stems, cotyledons and roots of 6-week-old tea seedlings. Ethylamine and glutamic acid, which are substrates of theanine synthetase, were distributed almost uniformly in all parts of the seedlings; the contents in μmol/g fresh wt varied from 0.44 - 0.88 (ethylamine) and 1.6 - 2.4 (glutamic acid). The content of alanine, a possible precursor of ethylamine synthesis, was significantly higher in roots (3.1 μmol/g fresh wt) than in other parts. Incorporation of radioactivity from [U-14C]- alanine into theanine was also higher in roots than in other organs. In 10-week-old seedlings, [1-14C]ethylamine was converted to theanine in young and developed leaves, stems, main and lateral roots; the highest rates of conversion were detected in the main and lateral roots. These results suggest that the theanine synthesis preferentially takes place in roots but is not restricted to them; substrates and the enzymatic machinery for theanine synthesis are available in all parts of tea seedlings
Effect of DNA Methylation on 18S rRNA Gene Sequences during Culture of Taxus chinensis Cells
Authors: Xiang Fu , Li Liqing , Jin Wenwen , Yu Longjiang
Published: January 2015

Cell suspension culture has rapidly become an alternative source of taxol, an anticancer compound. To investigate the role of DNA methylation in the cultural course of Taxus chinensis cells, analyses of 18S rRNA gene sequences of cultured T. chinensis cells and related species were conducted. The phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA gene sequences indicated that HG-1 (the cultured T. chinensis cells), like T. mairei (the natural variety of T. chinensis), should be a new variety of T. chinensis, and cell culture can change the 18S rRNA gene sequence at the level of species despite 18S rRNA is the most conserved gene. The analyses of the CpG and TpG+CpA relative abundance and GC content of the 18S rRNA gene sequences made clear that DNA methylation contributed to changes of the 18S rRNA gene sequence of HG-1 at the level of species, which can make HG-1 to become a new variety of T. chinensis.
Micro-Particle Transporting System Using Galvanotactically Stimulated Apo-Symbiotic Cells of Paramecium bursaria
Authors: Furukawa Shunsuke , Karaki Chiaki , Kawano Tomonori
Published: January 2015

It is well known that Paramecium species including green paramecia (Paramecium bursaria) migrate towards the anode when exposed to an electric field in a medium. This type of a cellular movement is known as galvanotaxis. Our previous study revealed that an electric stimulus given to P. bursaria is converted to a galvanotactic cellular movement by involvement of T-type calcium channel on the plasma membrane [Aonuma et al. (2007), Z. Naturforsch. 62 c, 93 - 102]. This phenomenon has attracted the attention of bioengineers in the fields of biorobotics or micro-robotics in order to develop electrically controllable micromachineries. Here, we demonstrate the galvanotactic controls of the cellular migration of P. bursaria in capillary tubes (diameter, 1 - 2 mm; length, 30 - 240 mm). Since the Paramecium cells take up particles of various sizes, we attempted to use the electrically stimulated cells of P. bursaria as the vehicle for transportation of micro-particles in the capillary system. By using apo-symbiotic cells of P. bursaria obtained after forced removal of symbiotic algae, the uptake of the particles could be maximized and visualized. Then, electrically controlled transportations of particle-filled apo-symbiotic P. bursaria cells were manifested. The particles transported by electrically controlled cells (varying in size from nm to μm levels) included re-introduced green algae, fluorescence-labeled polystyrene beads, magnetic microspheres, emerald green fluorescent protein (EmGFP)-labeled cells of E. coli, Indian ink, and crystals of zeolite (hydrated aluminosilicate minerals with a micro-porous structure) and some metal oxides. Since the above demonstrations were successful, we concluded that P. bursaria has a potential to be employed as one of the micro-biorobotic devices used in BioMEMS (biological micro-electro-mechanical systems).
Lipophilic Compounds from the Femoral Gland Secretions of Male Hungarian Green Lizards, Lacerta viridis
Authors: Kopena Renata , López Pilar , Martín José
Published: January 2015

In spite of the importance of chemical signals (pheromones) in the reproductive behaviour of lizards, only a few studies have examined the role of specific chemical compounds as sexual signals. The secreted chemicals vary widely between species but whether this variation reflects phylogenetic or environmental differences remains unclear. Based on mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS, we found 40 lipophilic compounds in femoral gland secretions of male green lizards (Lacerta viridis), including several steroids, α-tocopherol, and esters of n-C16 to n-C20 carboxylic acids, and minor components such as alcohols between C12 and C20, squalene, three lactones and one ketone. We compared these chemicals with those previously found in other closely related green lizard species, and discussed how phylogenetical differences and/or environmental conditions could be responsible for the differential presence of chemicals in different lizard species.
Antiviral and Antischistosomal Evaluation of Newly Synthesized Thioglycosides and their Acyclic Analogues
Authors: Srour Aladdin M. , Ismail Abd El-Hamid A. , El-Kosy Salah M.
Published: January 2015

The pyrimidine thione derivatives 2a - d were prepared by the reaction of thiourea, ethyl cyanoacetate and several aromatic aldehydes. The acyclic thioglycosides 4a - 7d were prepared by the reaction of the synthesized pyrimidine thiones 2a - d with different alkyl halides, whereas the reaction of 2a - d with 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-α-D-glucopyranosyl bromide afforded the cyclic thioglycosides 8a - d whose deprotection afforded 9a - d. The obtained compounds were tested for their antischistosomal and antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus (HBV). Compounds 5a, 5d, 7a showed high activity against HBV using the MTT assay; moreover compounds 5c, 6d, 7a, 9a, 9c exhibited high activity as antischistosomal agents.
Phytoconstituents of Jatropha curcas L. Leaves and their Immunomodulatory Activity on Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immune Response in Chicks
Authors: Abd-Alla Howaida I. , Moharram Fatma A. , Gaara Ahmed H. , El-Safty Mounir M.
Published: January 2015

A novel biflavone di-C-glucoside, 6,6″-di-C-β-D-glucopyranoside-methylene-(8,8″)- biapigenin (1), was isolated from the leaves of Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), together with six known compounds; apigenin 7-O-β-D-neohesperidoside (2), apigenin 7-O-β-Dgalactoside (3), orientin (4), vitexin (5), vicenin II (6), and apigenin (7). Their structures were determined on the basis of extensive chemical and spectroscopic analyses (UV, NMR and HRESI-MS). The immunomodulatory effect of an 80% aqueous methanol extract (AME) and compounds 1 - 5 (0.25 mg/kg body wt) to one-day-old specific pathogen-free (SPF) chicks was determined. Stimulation of both humoral and cell-mediated seroresponse was observed, especially those of AME and compound 1. Remarkable effective increases of the antibody titers, lymphocyte and macrophage cells, in blood were recorded. SPF chicks treated with the tested samples exhibited protection against Newcastle disease challenge virus after being vaccinated.
Biological Activity of a Phloroglucinol Glucoside Derivative from Conyza aegyptiaca
Authors: Mahmoud Ahmed A. , Al-Shihry Shar S. , Hegazy Mohamed-Elamir F.
Published: January 2015

The phloroglucinol glucoside derivative [2,4-dihydroxy-6-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy)phenyl]- butan-1-one (1), roseoside (2), and kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3) were isolated from the aerial parts of Conyza aegyptiaca (L.). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first isolation of compounds 1 - 3 from C. aegyptiaca. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic techniques including, IR, HR-EIMS, and extensive 500 MHz 1D- and 2D-NMR analyses (1H, 13C NMR, DEPT, 1H-1H COSY, HMQC and HMBC experiments). The antioxidant activity of 1, using the DPPH assay, was investigated; in addition, 1 was investigated against different types of cell lines, including Hep-G2, HCT-116, and RAW 264.7 for its cytotoxic effects. Also, this is the first report on the activity of 1.
New Caloporoside Derivatives and their Inhibition of Fungal Spore Germination
Authors: Schüffler Anja , Liermann Johannes C. , Kolshorn Heinz , Opatz Till , Anke Timm
Published: January 2015

In our ongoing screening culture fluid extracts of Gloeoporus (Caloporus) dichrous strain 83065 inhibited the germination of Magnaporthe grisea and Fusarium graminearum spores. While isolating the active metabolites two new caloporosides, caloporoside G and caloporoside H, in addition to the known caloporoside derivatives F-16438G, caloporoside A, and 2-hydroxy-6-(16-hydroxyheptadecyl)benzoic acid were obtained.
Genetic Stability, Active Constituent, and Pharmacoactivity of Salvia miltiorrhiza Hairy Roots and Wild Plant
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Liu Yunjun , Lu Dongmei , Huang Luqi , Liang Rixin , Yang Zhaochun , Chen Shunqin
Published: January 2015

Salvia miltiorrhiza is an annual plant growing in China, Mongolia, Korea and some other Asian countries. The extract from S. miltiorrhiza roots has been used for supporting healthy cardiovascular and circulatory systems during the last decade. The active constituents of S. miltiorrhiza from different areas vary significantly, and the wild resources are overexploited. To adapt the demand for active constituents of S. miltiorrhiza against cardiovascular-related diseases, alternative materials need to be developed. The aim of the present work was to investigate the possibility of S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots as the alternative materials. The results showed that S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots are genetically stable. The contents of salvianolic acid B and tanshinone IIA, two main active constituents in hairy roots, determined by the assessment of combining fl ow cytometry and phytochemical analysis, are comparable to or significantly lower than in wild plant roots. The extract from S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots also had similar protection activity for hypoxia and reoxygenation injury in rat cardiac myocytes like that from wild plant roots. S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots may be alternative materials to obtain the drug or healthy food for cardiovascular-related diseases.
Isolation and Expression Analysis of Two DOPA Dioxygenases in Phytolacca americana
Authors: Takahashi Kana , Takamura Eri , Sakuta Masaaki
Published: January 2015

Betacyanins and anthocyanins, two main red fl ower pigments, never occur together in the same plant. Although the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway has been well analyzed, the biosynthetic genes and the regulatory mechanism of the betacyanin biosynthesis are still obscure. We cloned two cDNAs of DOPA dioxygenase from Phytolacca americana, PaDOD1 and PaDOD2, that may be involved in the betalain biosynthesis. The deduced amino acid sequence of PaDOD1 and PaDOD2 showed approximately 80% homology to each other. The promoter regions of PaDOD1 and PaDOD2 were isolated by inverse PCR and analyzed using PLACE database. Some putative MYB, bHLH, and environmental stress-responsive transcription factor binding sites were detected in the PaDOD1 and PaDOD2 promoter regions. Expression patterns of PaDOD1 and PaDOD2 in suspension cultures of P. americana were investigated by semiquantitative RT-PCR. The transcripts of PaDODs were found in both betacyanin-producing red cells and non-betacyanin-producing white cells, suggesting that not only the expression of DOD, but also the supplementation of DOPA might be a regulatory step for the betalain biosynthesis in P. americana.
The Sex Pheromone of the Sand Sagebrush Carpenterworm, Holcocerus artemisiae (Lepidoptera, Cossidae)
Authors: Zhang Jintong , Jing Xiaoyuan , Luo Youqing , Li Zhanwen , Zong Shixiang , Yang Meihong
Published: January 2015

(Z)-5-dodecen-1-ol (Z5 - 12:OH), (Z)-5-dodecenyl acetate (Z5 - 12:Ac), and (Z)-5-tetradecenyl acetate (Z5 - 14:Ac) were found in the extracts of the female sex pheromone gland of the carpenterworm moth Holcocerus artemisiae Chou et Hua, a pest of Artemisia filifolia. The average amounts of Z5 - 12:OH, Z5 - 12:Ac, and Z5 - 14:Ac in a single sex pheromone gland of a calling moth were (7.14 ± 0.73) ng, (54.20 ± 0.34) ng, and (38.70 ± 0.46) ng, respectively. Electroantennography (EAG) of these compounds and their analogues demonstrated that Z5 - 12:Ac excitated the largest male EAG response, followed by Z5 - 14:Ac. Traps baited with rubber septa impregnated with Z5 - 12:Ac (500 μg/septum) and Z5 - 14:Ac (300 μg/septum) were more effective than traps with other baits or virgin females. Addition of Z5 - 12:OH to rubber septa did not enhance the trap catches, but (E,Z)-3,5-dodecadienyl acetate (E3,Z5 - 12:Ac) enhanced the trap catch.
Induction of Metalloproteinase 9 Secretion from Human Keratinocytes by Pleuran (β-Glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus)
Authors: Majtán Juraj , Kumar Pawan , Koller Ján , Dragúńová Jana , Gabriž Ján
Published: January 2015

Glucan preparations, primarily modifi ed water-soluble glucans, are involved in the activation of the body’s natural defense mechanisms and in the acceleration of the skin’s wound-healing processes. Pleuran, an insoluble β-D-glucan in hydrogel form, offers a natural alternative to more common chemically derivated soluble β-D-glucans. Pleuran was applied to human keratinocyte primary cultures, and after 24 h of incubation the release of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) by stimulated keratinocytes was detected using gelatine zymography. There was a concentration-dependent increase in pro-MMP-9 release after treatment with pleuran over the concentration range of 2 to 200 μg/ml, but pro-MMP-2 was detected at a constant level. Moreover, the active forms of both MMPs were not detectable, indicating that in vitro autoactivation of these zymogens did not occur. The results indicate that pleuran is a potent keratinocyte stimulator of pro- MMP-9 release, which implies its application in dermatological therapies
Cytotoxicity of 3-O-(β-D-Glucopyranosyl) Etioline, a Steroidal Alkaloid from Solanum diphyllum L.
Authors: El-Sayed Magdi A. , Mohamed Abou El-Hamd H. , Hassan Mohamed K. , Hegazy Mohamed-Elamir F. , Hossain Sheikh J. , Sheded Mohamed G. , Oht Shinji
Published: January 2015

In continuation of our interest in phytochemical screening of the Egyptian flora for potential drugs, the reinvestigation of the methanolic extract of the roots of Solanum diphyllum, which grows naturally in the south of Egypt and is recorded as new to the Egyptian flora, afforded an interesting, highly cytotoxic compound, named 3-O-(β-D-glucopyranosyl) etioline [(25S)-22,26-epimino-3β-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy) cholesta-5,22(N)-dien-16α-ol]. The chemical structure of this compound was determined by comprehensive NMR studies, including DEPT, COSY, HMQC, and MS. The compound exhibited high cytotoxic effects against the cervical cancer cell line, Hela cells, with an IC50 value of 150 μg/mL
Diterpenes from Xylopia langsdorffiana Inhibit Cell Growth and Induce Differentiation in Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Castello Branco Marianna V. S. , Anazetti Maristella C. , Silva Marcelo S. , Tavares Josean F. , Diniz Margareth F. F. Melo , Frungillo Lucas , Haun Marcela , Melo Patrícia S.
Published: January 2015

Two new diterpenes were isolated from stems and leaves of Xylopia langsdorffi ana, entatisane- 7α,16α-diol (xylodiol) and ent-7α-acetoxytrachyloban-18-oic acid (trachylobane), along with the known 8(17),12E,14-labdatrien-18-oic acid (labdane). We investigated their antitumour effects on HL60, U937 and K562 human leukemia cell lines. We found that xylodiol was the most potent diterpene in inhibiting cell proliferation of HL60, U937 and K562 cells, with mean IC50 values of 90, 80 and 50 μM, respectively. Based on the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction assay, all the diterpenes were found to induce terminal differentiation in HL60 and K562 cells, with xylodiol being the most effective. NBT reduction was increased by almost 120% after 12 h exposure of HL60 cells to xylodiol at a concentration lower than the IC50 (50 μM). Thus, xylodiol inhibited human leukemia cell growth in vitro partly by inducing cell differentiation, and merits further studies to examine its mechanism of action as a potential antitumoural agent
Lichen Metabolites Modulate Hydrogen Peroxide and Nitric Oxide in Mouse Macrophages
Authors: Carlos Iracilda Z. , Quilles Marcela B. , Carli Camila B. A. , Maia Danielle C. G. , Benzatti Fernanda P. , Lopes Thiago I. B. , Gianini Aline S. , Brum Rosenei L. , Vilegas Wagner , dos Santos Lourdes C. , Honda Neli K.
Published: January 2015

The activities of perlatolic acid (1), atranorin (2), and lecanoric acid (3) and their derivatives, such as orsellinates and β-methyl orsellinates obtained by alcoholysis, were assessed for stimulation of the release of hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide in cultures of peritoneal macrophage cells from mice. The hydrogen peroxide production was estimated by oxidation of phenol red, while the Griess reagent was used to determine the nitric oxide production. 1 and 4-methoxy-ethyl orsellinate (XVII) were the compounds that induced the greatest release of H2O2, whereas n-pentyl orsellinate (IV), iso-propyl orsellinate (V), sec-butyl orsellinate (VI), and XVII induced a small release of NO. These results indicate that lichen products and their derivatives have potential immune-modulating activities
On the Minimum Quantum Requirement of Photosynthesis
Authors: Zeinalov Yuzeir
Published: January 2015

An analysis of the shape of photosynthetic light curves is presented and the existence of the initial non-linear part is shown as a consequence of the operation of the non-cooperative (Kok’s) mechanism of oxygen evolution or the effect of dark respiration. The effect of nonlinearity on the quantum efficiency (yield) and quantum requirement is reconsidered. The essential conclusions are: 1) The non-linearity of the light curves cannot be compensated using suspensions of algae or chloroplasts with high (>1.0) optical density or absorbance. 2) The values of the maxima of the quantum efficiency curves or the values of the minima of the quantum requirement curves cannot be used for estimation of the exact value of the maximum quantum efficiency and the minimum quantum requirement. The estimation of the maximum quantum efficiency or the minimum quantum requirement should be performed only after extrapolation of the linear part at higher light intensities of the quantum requirement curves to “0” light intensity
Antioxidant Activity of an Unusual 3-Hydroxyindole Derivative Isolated from Fruits of Aristotelia chilensis (Molina) Stuntz
Authors: Céspedes Carlos L. , Alarcon Julio , Valdez-Morales Maribel , Paredes-López Octavio
Published: January 2015

3-Hydroxyindole was isolated from the EtOH extract of fruits of Aristotelia chilensis during analyses by HPLC/MS and GC/MS and identifi ed by its mass fragmentation pattern and spectrophotometric data. Additionally, this extract showed an interesting antioxidant activity in DPPH, crocin and TBARS assays. The presence of this type of compound in this fruit species permits us to explain its strong antioxidant activity and its important part in the biosynthetic pathway of phenolic and alkaloid compounds in this plant. Therefore this compound could be useful for the development of future nutraceutical and antioxidant protective agents
Mutagenicity of Bisbenzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Alanyalı Filiz Susuz , Arıcı Merve , Artagan Öge , Işıkdağ İlhan , Özkay Yusuf
Published: January 2015

The mutagenicities of 2,2’-(di-3-hydroxyphenyl)-1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole, 2,2’-(di- 4-hy droxyphenyl)-1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole, 2,2’-(di-3-methoxyphenyl)-1H,1H’-[5,5’]- bisbenzimidazole, 2,2’-bis-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole, 2,2’-bis-(3-nitrophenyl)- 1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole, 2,2’-bis-(4-methylphenyl)-1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole, 2,2’-(di-4-methoxyphenyl)-1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole, and 2,2’-bis-(3-me thylphenyl)- 1H,1H’-[5,5’]-bisbenzimidazole were studied in vitro using two strains of Salmonella typhimurium with frameshift mutation (TA98) and base-pair substitution mutation (TA100) as the plate incorporation assay in the absence of metabolic activation. These compounds are currently used to treat cancer. 4-Nitrophenyl and 3-nitrophenyl compounds were found to be mutagenic on both strains of Salmonella. A clear mutagenic response was seen in nitro-bound derivatives. The mutagenic response in Salmonella test strains (TA98, TA100) and structures of molecules suggest that nitro-bound molecules could be mutagenic.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of New Substituted 1,2,4-Triazoles and their Acyclic C-Nucleoside Analogues
Authors: El-Sayed Wael A. , Ali Omar M. , El-Dakkony Saly R. , Abdel-Rahman Adel A.-H.
Published: January 2015

A number of new substituted 1,2,4-triazole {[(1,2,4-triazolyl)ethyl]tetrazolyl} derivatives, their sugar hydrazones, and their acyclic C-nucleoside analogues were synthesized and tested for their antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis (Gram-positive), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-negative), and Streptomyces species (Actinomycetes). The synthesized compounds displayed different degrees of antimicrobial activities or inhibitory actions.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of New Substituted Fused 1,2,4-Triazole Derivatives
Authors: El-Sayed Wael A. , Ali Omar M. , Hathoot Marwa M. , Abdel-Rahman Adel A.-H.
Published: January 2015

A number of new substituted 1,2,4-triazole, 1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b]1,3,4-thiadiazole and 1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b]1,3,4-thiadiazine derivatives were synthesized and tested for their antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis (Gram-positive), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gramnegative), and Streptomyces species (Actinomycetes). The synthesized compounds displayed different degrees of antimicrobial activities or inhibitory actions.
Anticancer Activity of Diterpenoids from Amoora ouangliensis and Amoora stellato-squamosa
Authors: Yang Shu-Min , Wu Da-Gang , Liu Xi-Kui
Published: January 2015

A new ent-halimane-type diterpene, named 5(10),14-ent-halimadien-3β,13S-diol (1), was isolated from the bark of Amoora ouangliensis and its chemical structure determined on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. Additionally, ten other diterpenoids were obtained from A. ouangliensis and A. stellato-squamosa. The bioactive experiments of all compounds against AGZY 83-a (human lung cancer cells) and SMMC-7721 (human liver cancer cells) cells were documented.
In vitro Antitumour Activity of Orsellinates
Authors: Bogo Danielle , Matos Maria de Fatima Cepa , Honda Neli Kika , Pontes Elenir Curi , Oguma Patricia Midori , Santos Evelyn Cristina da Silva , Carvalho João Ernesto de , Nomizo Auro
Published: January 2015

Lichen phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and cytotoxic activities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of lecanoric acid, a secondary metabolite of the lichen Parmotrema tinctorum, and its derivatives, orsellinates, obtained by structural modifi cation. A cytotoxicity assay was carried out in vitro with sulforhodamine B (SRB) using HEp-2 larynx carcinoma, MCF7 breast carcinoma, 786-0 kidney carcinoma, and B16-F10 murine melanoma cell lines, in addition to a normal (Vero) cell line in order to calculate the selectivity index of the compounds. n-Butyl orsellinate was the most active compound, with IC50 values (the concentration that inhibits 50% of growth) ranging from 7.2 to 14.0 μg/mL, against all the cell lines tested. The compound was more active (IC50 = 11.4 μg/mL) against B16-F10 cells than was cisplatin (12.5 μg/mL). Conversely, lecanoric acid and methyl orsellinate were less active against all cell lines, having an IC50 value higher than 50 μg/mL. Ethyl orsellinate was more active against HEp-2 than against MCF7, 786-0, or B16-F10 cells. The same pattern was observed for n-propyl and n-butyl orsellinates. n-Pentyl orsellinate was less active than n-propyl or n-butyl orsellinates against HEp-2 cells. The orsellinate activity increased with chain elongation (from methyl to n-butyl), a likely consequence of an increase in lipophilicity. The results revealed that the structural modifi cation of lecanoric acid increases the cytotoxic activity of the derivatives tested.
Inhibitory Effect of Hydroxyindoles and their Analogues on Human Melanoma Tyrosinase
Authors: Yamazaki Yoshimitsu , Kawano Yasuhiro
Published: January 2015

A recent study showed that N-acylserotonin derivatives have strong inhibitory activity against tyrosinase. To clarify the role of the 5-hydroxy group in the indole ring, 2-, 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-hydroxyindole and 11 related compounds such as 5-hydroxyindan and 6-hydroxyquinoline were tested for their inhibition of catecholase activity of tyrosinase from human HMVII melanoma cells. 6-Hydroxyindole (5) and 7-hydroxyindole (6) were potent inhibitors, while 5-hydroxyindole (4) was a weaker inhibitor than the above-mentioned compounds (IC50 = 20, 79, 366, and 342 μM for 5, 6, 4, and kojic acid, respectively). 2-Hydroxycarbazole was also active (IC50 = 190 μM), 5-hydroxyindan, 4-aminophenol, and harmalol were slightly active, and other compounds were inactive as an inhibitor. A similar pattern of inhibition was found with these compounds against mouse B16 melanoma tyrosinase, but with some differences from that for HMV-II tyrosinase. Kinetic analysis with HMV-II tyrosinase showed that the inhibition by hydroxyindoles 4, 5, and 6 was competitive with respect to the substrate LDOPA. Melanin formation in HMV-II cells was suppressed by 14% with 10 μM 5 without cytotoxicity, but 30 or 100 μM 5 decreased the cell viability. The present results suggest that 6-hydroxyindole is a potential and useful pharmacophore of antimelanogenic agents and that the position of a phenolic hydroxy group in a specifi c heterocyclic ring such as in indole is possibly optimized to yield more active inhibitors for tyrosinase.
Concomitant Production, Partial Purification and Characterization of a Serine Protease and a Proteolysis-Resistant Metallolipase from Bacillus pumilus SG2
Authors: Sangeetha Ragupathy , Geetha Arumugam , Arulpandi Irulandi
Published: January 2015

Our objective was to investigate the concomitant production of protease and lipase by a bacterial strain. A promising bacterial strain was isolated from a food-processing industrial effl uent, which can produce both protease and lipase. The isolate was characterized by sequencing the16S rRNA gene. The PCR amplifi ed gene was subjected to analysis by BLAST to ascertain the genetic relatedness of the isolate, Bacillus pumilus SG2. The enzymes were produced and subjected to purifi cation by ammonium sulfate precipitation and dialysis followed by gel fi ltration chromatography; twelve-fold purity was obtained. The lipase produced was found to be proteolysis-resistant. The partially purifi ed enzymes were characterized for their optimum pH value, temperature, response to inhibitors, surfactants and oxidants. The relative molecular weights of protease and lipase were determined as 28 kDa and 40 kDa, respectively, by zymogram studies.
Cell Phone Radiations Affect Early Growth of Vigna radiata (Mung Bean) through Biochemical Alterations
Authors: Sharma Ved Parkash , Singh Harminder Pal , Batish Daizy Rani , Kohli Ravinder Kumar
Published: January 2015

The indiscriminate use of wireless technologies, particularly of cell phones, has increased the health risks among living organisms including plants. We investigated the impact of cell phone electromagentic fi eld (EMF) radiations (power density, 8.55 μW cm-2) on germination, early growth, proteins and carbohydrate contents, and activities of some enzymes in Vigna radiata. Cell phone EMF radiations signifi cantly reduced the seedling length and dry weight of V. radiata after exposure for 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 h. Furthermore, the contents of proteins and carbohydrates were reduced in EMF-exposed plants. However, the activities of proteases, α-amylases, β-amylases, polyphenol oxidases, and peroxidases were enhanced in EMF-exposed radicles indicating their role in providing protection against EMF-induced stress. The study concludes that cell phone EMFs impair early growth of V. radiata seedlings by inducing biochemical changes.
Difference of Physiological Characters in Dark Green Islands and Yellow Leaf Tissue of Cucumber mosaic Virus (CMV)-Infected Nicotiana tabacum Leaves
Authors: Shang Jing , Xi De-Hui , Yuan Shu , Xu Fei , Xu Mo-Yun , Qi Hai-Long , Huang Qing-Rong , Wen Lin , Lin Hong-Hui , Wang Shao-Dong
Published: January 2015

Dark green islands (DGIs) are a common symptom of plants systemically infected with the mosaic virus. DGIs are clusters of green leaf cells that are free of virus but surrounded by yellow leaf tissue that is full of virus particles. In Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV)-infected Nicotiana tabacum leaves, the respiration and photosynthesis capabilities of DGIs and yellow leaf tissues were measured. The results showed that the cyanide-resistant respiration was enhanced in yellow leaf tissue and the photosynthesis was declined, while in DGIs they were less affected. The activities of the oxygen-scavenging enzymes catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in infected leaves were signifi cantly higher than those in the healthy leaves, and the enzyme activities in DGIs were always lower than in the yellow leaf tissues. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) staining showed that the hydrogen peroxide content in yellow leaf tissues was apparently higher than that in DGIs, while the superoxide content was on the contrary. Formation of DGIs may be a strategy of the host plants resistance to the CMV infection.
Cadmium- and Flood-Induced Anoxia Stress in Pea Roots Measured by Electrical Impedance
Authors: Jócsák Ildikó , Droppa Magdolna , Horváth Gábor , Bóka Károly , Vozáry Eszter
Published: January 2015

Electrical impedance measurement - complex resistance in the presence of alternating current - is a useful tool for the investigation of structural characteristics of solid materials but also for plant tissues. This measurement is easily done: only two electrodes are inserted into the plant tissue, so it can be considered as a non-invasive technique and it may be a successful method for detecting structural changes in plants caused by environmental stresses. The effects of fl ood and cadmium stress were investigated by electrical impedance measurement, because both of them cause structural changes in plant tissues. Apoplasmic resistance (Ra), symplasmic resistance (Rs), and membrane capacitance (Cm) of pea roots were calculated. In the fi rst fi ve days of fl ood treatment, the Rs and Cm values of roots decreased drastically. In case of cadmium treatment, the Rs and Cm values of roots showed an increasing tendency supposedly as a consequence of the enhanced membrane rigidity, the thickened cell walls and decreased growth phenomena caused by the heavy metal. There also was a remarkable difference in cadmium accumulation patterns and in the changes of the calculated parameters amongst anoxic and aerated seedlings. This initial work revealed that the development of stress caused by two environental stress agents, cadmium and fl ood, can be followed by electrical impedance measurement.
Cloning and Expression Analysis of Carboxyltransferase of Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase from Jatropha curcas
Authors: Xie  , Gao Shun , Wang Sheng-hua , Zhu Jin-qiu , Xu Ying , Tang Lin , Chen Fang
Published: January 2015

A full-length cDNA of the carboxyltransferase (accA) gene of acetyl-coenzym A (acetyl- CoA) carboxylase from Jatropha curcas was cloned and sequenced. The gene with an open reading frame (ORF) of 1149 bp encodes a polypeptide of 383 amino acids, with a molecular mass of 41.9 kDa. Utilizing fl uorogenic real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the expression levels of the accA gene in leaves and fruits at early, middle and late stages under pH 7.0/8.0 and light/darkness stress were investigated. The expression levels of the accA gene in leaves at early, middle and late stages increased signifi cantly under pH 8.0 stress compared to pH 7.0. Similarly, the expression levels in fruits showed a signifi cant increase under darkness condition compared to the control. Under light stress, the expression levels in the fruits at early, middle and late stages showed the largest fl uctuations compared to those of the control. These fi ndings suggested that the expression levels of the accA gene are closely related to the growth conditions and developmental stages in the leaves and fruits of Jatropha curcas.
cDNA Cloning, Heterogeneous Expression and Biochemical Characterization of a Novel Trypsin-Like Protease from Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Yang Zhifan , Xia Xunli , Wang Xiaoxue , He Guangyuan
Published: January 2015

A reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) strategy was used to clone diverse trypsin-like protease gene transcripts from midguts of the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens Stål (Homoptera: Delphacidae). Six individual trypsin-like protease transcripts were identifi ed. On the basis of one nucleotide sequence of the six clones, a full-length cDNA sequence (1902 bp) was obtained by rapid amplifi cation of cDNA ends (RACE). The cDNA contained an 1128-bp open reading frame encoding a putative protein of 375 amino acids with typical features of the trypsin-like protease. Heterogeneous expression of the coding sequence for the mature peptide in Escherichia coli cells showed that the expressed protease with a molecular weight of 27.0 is active, for its BApNAse activity assayed by using BApNA (N-benzoyl-D,L-arginine-p-nitroanilide) as substrate. The protease had its maximum activity at pH 8.0 and 35 °C. A much better stability was observed at pH values above 4.0 and temperatures below 40 °C. The enzyme was strongly inhibited by serine protease inhibitor. The trypsin-like protease is therefore likely one of the major digestive proteases responsible for protein hydrolysis in N. lugens gut, and multiple gene families encoding digestive proteases may help in adaptation of this sap-sucker to different rice varieties.