bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Gamma-Irradiation on the Antioxidant Potential of Traditional Bulgarian Teas
Authors: Janiak Michał Adam , Slavova-Kazakova Adriana , Karamać Magdalena , Kancheva Vessela , Terzieva Anastasiya , Ivanova Milena , Tsrunchev Tsvetelin , Amarowicz Ryszard
Published: March 2019

Food irradiation technologies are used to reduce the risk of food borne diseases by eliminating pathogenic microorganisms, prolonging shelf life and reducing storage losses by delaying ripening, germination or sprouting. However, application of irradiation in food technology can negatively influence the biologically active compounds in foods. In this research, the effect of gamma-irradiation on the antioxidant activity of Bulgarian teas was investigated. The aim of the study was to evaluate the total phenolic and tannin content and antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts of Bulgarian herbal teas before and after gamma-irradiation. Mursalski tea ( Sideritis scardica), Mashterka tea ( Thymus serpyllum), Good Night tea (tea mix), Staroplaninski tea (Balkan tea mix), Trakia tea (tea mix), and Mountain tea (Planinski tea mix) were selected for this study. Gamma-irradiation was applied at the absorbed dose of 5 kGy. Antioxidant activity of non-irradiated and irradiated teas was determined by measuring antiradical activity against DPPH• and ABTS•+ and the ability to reduce ferrous ions. The highest total phenolic content was found in Mursalski tea (268 mg/g), and the highest tannin content in Good Night tea (168 mg/g). FRAP, TEAC and DPPH assays revealed that the most active samples were Staroplaninski (2.78 mmol Fe (II)/g), Planinski (0.87 mmol Trolox/g) and Planinski (0.032 mg/mL), respectively. The radical scavenging activity of irradiated tea samples was maintained after gamma-irradiation. The most interesting extract from irradiated tea studied was Staroplaninski, which demonstrated a higher antioxidant potential in the irradiated sample compared with the non-irradiated sample.
Microelements and Heavy Metals Content in Frequently Utilized Medicinal Plants Collected from the Power Plant Area
Authors: Stanojković-Sebić Aleksandra , Maksimović Jelena , Dinić Zoran , Poštić Dobrivoj , Iličić Renata , Stanojković Aleksandar , Pivić Radmila
Published: March 2019

The effectiveness of medicinal plants is mainly associated with their active constituents, but one of the major quality problems frequently encountered is their high trace metals content that can be associated to extensive pollution of the environment where medicinal plants grow. Therefore the aim of this research was to evaluate the content of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn and As in selected and frequently used medicinal plants, including chicory, broadleaf, common comfrey and dandelion. The plant material was collected from their wild habitats in the area of highly developed power plant activity during the summer of 2015. Plant analyses were done according to ICP methodology, using ICAP 6300 ICP optical emission spectrometer. The obtained results showed that the content of As, Cd, Co, Mn, Ni and Zn in the investigated medicinal plant species was below the maximum permissible concentration, while in all parts of all studied plants the concentration of Cr was toxic. The toxic concentrations of Cu were determined in root and aerial parts of chicory and common comfrey, and the toxic concentrations of Fe in root and aerial parts of dandelion and broadleaf plantain, and in aerial parts of common comfrey. However, high but not toxic content of Pb was found in aerial parts of chicory. It can be concluded that medicinal plants from the studied growing site are not appropriate for use in alternative medicine and that a determination of trace metals content in these plants must become a standard criterion for evaluation of their quality.
Molecular Characterization of Verbascum anisophyllum (Scrophulariaceae) Genetic Resources Through Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) Markers
Authors: Petrova Galya , Petrov Stefan , Bancheva Svetlana
Published: March 2019

Verbascum (Mullein) flowers are highly valued as natural remedy for various respiratory diseases. Verbascum anisophyllum Murb. is a Balkan endemic, protected by law and included in the Bulgarian Red Data Book as “Critically Endangered”. Thus, a strict conservation policy and a reliable evaluation of its genetic resources are required, considering its narrow distribution range and the increasing risk from destruction of its habitats. Here, we used Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers to characterize the genetic diversity and to assess the genetic differentiation between the existing populations of Verbascum anisophyllum in Bulgaria. The level of genetic diversity found herein clearly indicates a long-term potential for adaptability of this endangered plant. Our findings provide important knowledge of population genetic structure of this species, thus representing a strategy for its efficient conservation and utilization.
Insights into the Essential Oil Compositions of Brazilian Red and Taiwanese Green Propolis
Authors: Trusheva Boryana , Ivanova Daniela , Popova Milena , Bankova Vassya
Published: March 2019

The objective of the present study was to characterize chemically the essential oils of two distinct propolis types: Brazilian red and Taiwanese green. Unlike the non-volatile chemical composition of these types of propolis, which has been extensively studied, the knowledge of the essential oils is scarce or even not investigated. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation of raw propolis samples using a Likens-Nickerson type apparatus and then analyzed by GC/MS. The main volatile components of Brazilian red propolis were the phenylpropanoids: elemicin (26.1–27.5%), methyl eugenol (16.3–23.8%), trans-methyl isoeugenol (9.2–11.6%), isoelemicin (6.1–7.1%) and trans-anethole (4.4–7.1%), while the major constituents of Taiwanese green propolis essential oil were: β-eudesmol (13.9%), 6-methyl-3,5-heptadiene-2-one (12.2%), γ-eudesmol (4.4%), geranial (4.1%) and 6-methyl-5-heptene-2-one (3.7%).
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Angelica archangelica Root Essential Oil
Authors: Aćimović Milica G. , Pavlović Snežana Đ. , Varga Ana O. , Filipović Vladimir M. , Cvetković Mirjana T. , Stanković Jovana M. , Čabarkapa Ivana S.
Published: March 2019

Roots of wild growing Angelica archangelica L. from Mt. Ozren (Serbia) were subjected to hydrodistillation and GC-MS analysis. The roots contained 0.10% of essential oil with α-pinene (29.7%), δ-3-carene (14.2%), and a mixture of β-phellandrene and limonene (13.2%) as main compounds. The modified resazurin microtiter-plate assay was used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the essential oil against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were 14.2 μL/mL for S. aureus and 28.4 μL/mL for E. coli, while the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were 56.8 μL/mL and 113.6 μL/mL, respectively. According to the obtained results, the angelica root essential oil can be applied as a natural preservative in food and as a natural antibiotic for the treatment of several infectious diseases caused by these two bacteria.
Rapid and Efficient Extraction and HPLC Analysis of Sesquiterpene Lactones from Aucklandia lappa Root
Authors: Guccione Clizia , Ros Giorgia , Gallori Sandra , Bergonzi Maria Camilla , Bilia Anna Rita
Published: March 2019

The root of Aucklandia lappa Decne, family Asteraceae, is widely used in Asian traditional medicine due to its sesquiterpene lactones. The aim of this study was the development and optimization of the extraction and analysis of these sesquiterpene lactones. The current Chinese Pharmacopoeia reports a monograph for “Aucklandiae Radix”, but the extraction method is very long and tedious including maceration overnight and ultrasonication. Different extraction protocols were evaluated with the aim of optimizing the maceration period, solvent, and shaking and sonication times. The optimized method consists of only one hour of shaking plus 30 minutes of sonication using 100% MeOH as solvent. 1H NMR spectroscopy was used as a complementary analytical tool to monitor the residual presence of sesquitepene lactones in the herbal material. A suitable LC-DAD method was set up to quantify the sesquiterpene lactones. Recovery was ca. 97%, but a very high instability of constituents was found after powdering the herbal drug. A loss of about 20% of total sesquiterpenes was found after 15–20 days; as a consequence, it is strongly endorsed to use fresh powdered herbal material to avoid errors in the quantification.
Antimalarial Activity of some Kaurenes
Authors: Villasmil Thayded , Rojas Julio , Aparicio Rosa , Gamboa Neira , Acosta Maria Eugenia , Rodrigues Juan , Usubillaga Alfredo
Published: March 2019

The antimalarial activity of sixteen ent-kaurenes was assayed on male albino mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. Ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (kaurenic acid), 15α-hydroxy- ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid, 15α-acetoxy- ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid, and ent-kaur-9(11)16-en-19-oic acid, natural kaurenes isolated from two species of Espelletiinae, were modified by semisynthesis to obtain methyl esters, glucopyranosyl esters, epoxides, 17-hydroxy, and isokaurenes (compounds with a 15,16-double bond). The kaurenes were first submitted to an in vitro test to measure their capacity to inhibit the formation of β-hematin. Compared with chloroquine (95.7%), the best effect was shown by 16,17-epoxy- ent-kauran-19-oic acid α-D-glucopyranosyl ester (2a), which produced 92.6% inhibition. Three other kaurenes showed good inhibition levels: ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (1a, 73.5%), 17-hydroxy- ent-kaur-15-en-19-oic acid methyl ester (3b, 76.5%), and 15-oxo-16,17-epoxy- ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid α-D-glucopyranosyl ester (4b,76.1%). These four compounds were assayed in a four day suppressive test in vivo (Peters’ test) using chloroquine as a positive control Two hours after infection the mice received the first treatment and then every 24 hours during four consecutive days. Blood smears from the tails were prepared on the fourth day and parasitemia was determined microscopically. Survivals were followed up to the 30th day post-infection, Once again compound 2a performed best, showing 4.5% of parasitemia on the fourth day post-infection (chloroquine 0.2%) and a survival time of 25.5 days (chloroquine 29.5 days; 1a 18.8 days, 4b 12 7 days and 3b 10.3 days). A comparative examination of the effect of all compounds on the in vitro test permitted the inference that the presence of a C-19 carboxylic moiety was a requirement for the antimalarial activity and that a 16,17 epoxy group enhanced such activity.
Briarenol B, a New Polyoxygenated Briarane from the Octocoral Briareum excavatum
Authors: Li Mu-Jang , Su Yin-Di , Liao Zuo-Jian , Wen Zhi-Hong , Su Jui-Hsin , Wu Yang-Chang , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: March 2019

A new polyoxygenated briarane diterpenoid, briarenol B (1), was isolated from the octocoral Briareum excavatum and its structure determined from spectroscopic data. In RAW264.7 cells, a macrophage-like murine cell line, briarane B (1) was found to enhance the protein expression of pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Polyhydroxy Sterols Isolated from the Red Sea Soft Coral Lobophytum crassum and their Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Aboutabl Elsayed A. , Selim Nabil M. , Azzam Shadia M , Michel Camilia G. , Hegazy Mohamed F. , Ali Abdelhamid M. , Hussein Ahmed A.
Published: March 2019

One new (1) together with four known sterols (2 - 5) and a sesquiterpene (6) were isolated from a polar extract of the Red Sea soft coral Lobophytum crassum. The compounds were identified as 24-methylenecholest-5-ene-1α,3 1α,11α-triol 1-acetate (1), 24-methylenecholest-5-ene-1α,3β,11α-triol (2), 24-methylenecholest-5-ene-3β-ol (3), 24-methylenecholestane-1α,3β,5a,6P,1-pentol (4), 24-methylenecholestane-3β,5α,6β-triol (5) and alismoxide (6) based on extensive NMR analysis. The cytotoxicity of compounds 1 - 6 was evaluated in vitro using three human cancer cell lines viz., HepG2, Hep-2 and HCT-116. Compound 1 showed selective cytotoxic activity against HepG2, while 3 exhibited cytotoxicity against all tested cell lines.
Preparative and Rapid Purification of Saponins from Asparagus racemosus Root by High Performance Centrifugal Partition Chromatography
Authors: Onlom Churanya , Yang Yi , Aisa Haji A. , Woranuch Neti , Phrompittayarat Watoo , Putalun Waraporn , Ingkaninan Kornkanok
Published: March 2019

High performance centrifugal partition chromatography (HPCPC) was applied to the rapid isolation and purification of saponin glycosides in Asparagus racemosus Willd. root. A two-phase solvent system composed of CHCl3-MeOH-water (4:4:2, v/v) in descending mode was used for the separation, yielding shatavarin IX (1) and asparacoside (2) in one step. Asparanin A (3) and shatavarin V (4) were separated by repeated HPCPC fractionation using CH2Cl2-MeOH-water (4:4:2, v/v) as the solvent system, followed by either gel-filtration or TLC. Their structures were identified by NMR spectroscopy and ESI/MS. The A. racemosus extracts and 1, 2, 3 and 4 were cytotoxic towards human hepato- and prostate-carcinoma cell lines (IC50 14–37 μM), while primary human fibroblasts were less vulnerable (IC50 22–66 μM), i.e., every saponin glycoside showed selectivity towards carcinoma cells compared with normal fibroblasts. HPCPC has proven rapidity to separate complex mixtures of phytochemicals yielding quantities suited to biological studies.
Product Selectivity of Esterification of L-Aspartic Acid and L-Glutamic Acid Using Chlorotrimethylsilane
Authors: Takaishi Tomohiro , Izumi Minoru , Ota Ryo , Inoue Chieri , Kiyota Hiromasa , Fukase Koichi
Published: March 2019

TMSCl works as an acid catalyst precursor for selective esterification of L-aspartic and L-glutamic acids in the presence of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols. Although excess TMSCl was required for the completion of esterification, the resulting alkyl TMS ether could be azeotropically removed by simple evaporation with alcohol.
New Cyclopentyl Fatty Acid and Cyanohydrin Glycosides from Fruits of Hydnocarpus hainanensis
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Tra , Truong Bich Ngan , Mai Huong Doan Thi , Litaudon Marc , Nguyen Van Hung , Thi Thao Do , Tran Van Hieu , Tran Dang Thach , Chau Van Minh , Pham Van Cuong
Published: March 2019

Three new compounds, hydnohainanic acid (1), and hydnohainanin A (2) and B (3) were isolated from the fruits of Hydnocarpus hainanensis (Achariaceae). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis, including 2D NMR, and MS. Compounds 1-3 were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against the KB cell line. Compound 1 had a moderate cytotoxicity with an IC50 value of 32.5 μg/mL, while the two remaining compounds did not exhibit inhibition, even at a concentration of 128 μg/mL.
Isolation and Characterization of Antiangiogenesis Compounds from the Fungus Aspergillus terreus Associated with Apostichopus japonicus Using Zebrafish Assay
Authors: Qi Jun , Zhao Bo , Zhao Peipei , Jia Airong , Zhang Yonggang , Liu Xin , Liu Changheng , Zhang Lixin , Xia Xuekui
Published: March 2019

Three compouds, (+)-butyrolactone IV (1), butyrolactone I (2) and terrelactone A (3) were isolated from the fungus Aspergillus terreus associated with Apostichopus japonicus from the Yellow Sea in China; their structures were elucidated by spectral methods. Compounds 1 and 2 were shown to have moderate antiangiogenesis activity when tested using the zebrafish assay. This is the first report of butyrolactones with antiangiogenesis activity.
Adsorptive Property of Food Materials and Chemicals to Cesium and Strontium
Authors: Uehara Yuya , Ishizuka Kana , Shimamura Yuko , Yasuda Michiko , Shimoi Kayoko , Masuda Shuichi
Published: March 2019

In March, 2011, large amounts of radioactive materials were released from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant after the nuclear accident. Especially, for humans, internal exposure to 137Cs and 90Sr radionuclides presents very high risks because of their very long physical half-lives (137Cs: 30.2 years, 90Sr: 28.9 years). Therefore, it is important to inhibit the absorption of radioactive materials and to promote the excretion of them from the body through feces. The aim of this study was to explore foods, their components and various chemicals showing adsorption properties to Cs and Sr. Sodium alginate (ALA-Na) strongly adsorbed Cs and Sr compared with other samples. Chondroitin sulfate, carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC-Na), methyl cellulose (MC) and apple polyphenols (AP; high molecule weight) also showed adsorption potency to Cs in that order. For Sr adsorption, kelp, CMC-Na, MC, AP (high molecule weight), laminaran and Jew's mallow exhibited adsorbing effects in that order. These samples might be useful and safe tools to protect from the adverse effects induced by internal exposure to these radioactive materials.
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of the Bulgarian Endemic Species Achillea thracica from its Natural Habitat, and in vitro Propagated and ex vitro Established Plants
Authors: Stojanović Gordana S. , Kapchina-Toteva Veneta , Rogova Mariq Angelova , Jovanović Snežana Č. , Yordanova Zhenya , Zlatković Bojan K.
Published: March 2019

The present study reports the chemical composition of headspace volatiles (HS) and acetone extracts of the endemic Bulgarian species Achillea thracica Velen. from its natural habitat (N), in vitro propagated (IN) and ex vitro established (EX) plants. Additionally, acetone extracts were tested by a disk diffusion method for antibacterial activity. Irregular monoterpenes were the most abundant HS volatile constituents, while O,O-dimethyl quercetin was the most abundant flavonoid in the acetone extracts. The secondary metabolites of A. thracica grown in its natural habitat (N), propagated in vitro (IN) and ex vitro established (EX) showed that the qualitative composition is mutually similar, but there are differences in the quantitative composition. Considering antibacterial activity, IN and EX samples showed moderate activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli.
Chemistry and Pharmacology of Tinospora cordifolia
Authors: Singh Deepika , Chaudhuri Prabir K
Published: March 2019

Tinospora cordifolia (Menispermaceae) is an Ayurvedic medicinal plant distributed throughout the Indian subcontinent and China. The whole plant is used in folk and the Ayurvedic system of medicine alone and in combination with other plants. Due to its commercial importance, T. cordifolia has been of intense research interest for the last four decades with the isolation of diverse compounds such as alkaloids, sesquiterpenoids, diterpenoids, phenolics, steroids, aliphatic compounds and polysaccharides, along with the discovery of a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties like immunomodulation, anticancer, hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic. Although pharmacological activities of extracts and compounds of T. cordifolia have been studied both in vitro and in vivo, only few mechanisms of action have been explored and need further elaboration. In the present review, the pharmacological activities of compounds and different extracts of T. cordifolia are highlighted, along with those of the marketed products, showing the relevance of phytochemicals and the standardization of the marketed products for medicinal use. This compilation of the extensive literature of T. cordifolia here will be a referral point for clinical study and the development of standardized phytomedicines in healthcare.
Perspectives of the Apiaceae Hepatoprotective Effects – A Review
Authors: Aćimović Milica G. , Milić Nataša B.
Published: March 2019

The liver has the crucial role in the regulation of various physiological processes and in the excretion of endogenous waste metabolites and xenobiotics. Liver structure impairment can be caused by various factors including microorganisms, autoimmune diseases, chemicals, alcohol and drugs. The plant kingdom is full of liver protective chemicals such as phenols, coumarins, lignans, essential oils, monoterpenes, carotenoids, glycosides, flavonoids, organic acids, lipids, alkaloids and xanthenes. Apiaceae plants are usually used as a vegetable or as a spice, but their other functional properties are also very important. This review highlights the significance of caraway, dill, cumin, aniseed, fennel, coriander, celery, lovage, angelica, parsley and carrot, which are popular vegetables and spices, but possess hepatoprotective potential. These plants can be used for medicinal applications to patients who suffer from liver damage.
Eremophilane-type Sesquiterpenes from the Leaves of Ligularia Virgaurea
Authors: Qi Feng-Ming , Dong Le-Le , Li Zheng-Yu , Hu Qiao-Ling , Liu Ying-Hong , Wu Pei-Qian , Zhang Zhan-Xin , Fei Dong-Qing
Published: March 2019

A phytochemical study of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Ligularia virgaurea led to the isolation of a new eremophilane-type sesquiterpene lactone, (4 S,5 R,6 S,8 S,10 R)–6β-angeloyloxy-eremophil-7(11)-en-10βH-8α,12-olide (1), along with a known eremophilane-type sesquiterpene, (4 S,5 R,6 S,10 S)–6β-angeloyloxy-10βH-furanoeremophil-9-one (2). Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry experiments, and the absolute configurations were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis using the anomalous scattering of Cu Kα radiation.
Chemopreventive and Anticancer Activities of Bacopa Monnieri Extracted from Artificial Digestive Juices
Authors: Koczurkiewicz Paulina , Łojewski Maciej , Piska Kamil , Michalik Marta , Wójcik-Pszczoła Katarzyna , Szewczyk Agnieszka , Hałaszuk Patrycja , Pękala Elżbieta , Muszyńska Bożena
Published: March 2019

Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell (water hyssop) from the Scrophulariaceae family represents one of the best known plants of the Ayurveda system, with reported procognitive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anticonvulsant activity. It is considered to be a central nervous system modulating agent. However, recent studies have indicated its potential use in cancer prevention and treatment. Here we report the findings from a study of the effects of B. monnieri extracts derived from artificial digestive juices on physiological traits of prostate cancer cells (DU 145), such as viability and migratory activity. The safety profile and chemopreventive potential of B. monnieri extracts were investigated in Vibrio harveyi mutagenicity assays. Additionally, in this study for the first time the content of phenolic compounds and bacosides released from B. monnieri biomass to artificial digestive juices was determined. The investigated extracts were cytotoxic to DU 145; however, in non-cytotoxic concentrations, they significantly reduced cancer cell motility, thereby demonstrated anti-invasive activity. All extracts under study exhibited very strong antimutagenic activity against nitroquinoline- N-oxide. Bacoside A and phenolic acids were determined, but qualitative and quantitative differences between extracts were found.
Flavonol Glycosides and Cytotoxic Steroidal Saponins from Furcraea Tuberosa (Agavaceae)
Authors: Tapondjou Leon A. , Jenett-Siems Kristina , Siems Karsten , Weng Alexander , Melzig Matthias F.
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical analysis of the mature fruits of Furcraea tuberosa (Agavaceae) resulted in the isolation of a new bisdesmosidic spirostanol saponin (1), along with eight known steroidal glycosides (2–9), one known phenolic carboxylic acid ester (10) and three known flavonol glycosides (11–13). The structures of these compounds were assigned using a combination of 1D and 2D NMR techniques including 1H, 13C, COSY, TOCSY, HSQC and HMBC NMR, and confirmed by mass spectrometry. Thus the new saponin was elucidated as (25 R)–6α-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-5α-spirostane-3β- O-[(6- O-hexadecanoyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside]. The literature survey revealed that most of the steroidal saponins isolated have shown potent cytotoxic effects against various human cancer cell lines and the results are herein reviewed.
Isolation and Structural Elucidation of Nitrogenous Secondary Metabolites from Terrestrial and Marine Streptomyces spp
Authors: Shaaban Mohamed , Shaaban Khaled A. , Helmke Elisabeth , Grün-Wollny Iris , Laatsch Hartmut
Published: March 2019

Screening and chromatography of extracts from a terrestrial and a marine-derived streptomycete yielded two new nitrogenous benzene derivatives, namely ( S)- N-[3-hydroxy-1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propyl]-acetamide (1a), and ( R)-2-(1-methyl-2-oxopropylamino)-benzoic acid (2). Additionally, eight known compounds were isolated, 2-acetamidophenol, phenazine-1-carboxylic acid, phenazine-1-carboxylic acid methyl ester, perlolyrin, tyrosol, uracil, and anthranilic acid. The structures of the new compounds were deduced from high resolution mass, 1D and 2D NMR spectra and by comparison with related compounds from the literature. The absolute configuration of 1a and 2 was determined by comparison of experimental and calculated CD and ORD data.
Two New Hygroline and Tropane Alkaloids Isolated from Schizanthus Hookeri and S. Tricolor (Solanaceae)
Authors: Cretton Sylvian , Muñoz Orlando , Tapia Jorge , Marcourt Laurence , Maes Louis , Christen Philippe
Published: March 2019

Two new hygroline and tropane alkaloids, 4-hydroxybenzenepropanoylhygroline (1) and 3α,4β-dihydroxy-6β-angeloyoxytropane (2) have been isolated from the aerial parts of Schizanthus hookeri and S. tricolor, respectively, two plants indigenous from Chile. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods and high resolution mass spectrometry. Their antiparasitic activity and cytotoxicity were measured.
Toward the Synthesis and Pharmacological Screening of a Natural Cycloheptapeptide of Plant Origin
Authors: Dahiya Rajiv , Singh Sunil
Published: March 2019

The solution-phase synthesis of a proline and glycine-rich plant-derived cyclic heptapeptide, gypsophin E (8), is reported via coupling of a tetrapeptide unit Glycyl-L-leucyl-L-valyl-L-proline-OMe with a tripeptide unit Boc-L-isoleucyl-glycyl-L-proline-OH, followed by cyclization of the linear fragment having seven amino acid units. The structure of the newly synthesized cycloheptapeptide was confirmed by means of chemical and spectroscopic methods. The newly synthesized cyclopolypeptide displayed potent antifungal and anthelmintic activities against the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans, the dermatophytes Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum audouinii at the 6 μg/mL level, and the earthworms Megascoplex konkanensis, Pontoscotex corethruses and Eudrilus eugeniea at a concentration of 2 mg/mL.
Vasculoprotective Effects of Water Extracts of Black, Green and Dark Tea in Vitro
Authors: Wu Yu-ting , Du Wan-hong , Shi Ling , Liang Qin , Zou Xiao-qing
Published: March 2019

To investigate the preventive effects of tea on hyperglycemia and vascular complications of diabetes, we report the extraction and composition as well as the vasculoprotective effects of black tea extract (BTE), green tea extract (GTE), and dark tea extract (DTE). High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and colorimetric methods were conducted to analyze for tea catechins, caffeine, polyphenols, amino acids and polysaccharides of BTE, GTE and DTE. The inhibitory effects of α-glucosidase, aldose reductase (AR), advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and glucose uptake promotion effect in BTE, GTE and DTE were explored in vitro. Contents of six major catechin forms and total catechin as well as polyphenols are higher in GTE and DTE than BTE. BTE, GTE, and DTE showed the inhibitory effects of α-glucosidase, AR, and AGEs, but only DTE exhibited the glucose uptake promotion effect in HepG2 cells. The results suggest that regular consumption of tea can help prevent the progression of hyperglycemia and the vascular complications of diabetes.
Shushe Acids A-D from Ganoderma Applanatum
Authors: Luo Qi , Zhang Yan-Jiao , Shen Zhi-Qiang , Chen Peng , Cheng Yong-Xian
Published: March 2019

Ganoderma applanatum is a fungus used for the prevention and treatment of a variety of disorders in China. In the present study, four new compounds, named shushe acids A-D (1-4), were isolated from the fruiting bodies of this species. Their structures were identified on the basis of spectroscopic methods. Compounds 1-4 are all natural product hybrids composed of derivatives of gallic acid, glycerol and succinic acid. None of the four compounds showed activity against the MCF-7 cell line.
Structural Revision of a Naphthodipyranodione from Gentian Root and its Degradation Pathway from Gentiopicroside
Authors: Fujii Mikio , Ando Hidehiro , Konno Kiju , Fukumura Motonori , Hori Yumiko , Hirai Yasuaki , Ida Yoshiteru
Published: March 2019

Based on NOE experiments, the structure of naphthodipyranodione from Gentianaceae plants was revised to 1,2-dihydro-4 H,6 H,8 H-naphto[1,2-d:4,5-c'd']dipyrano-4,8-dione. Naphthodipyranodione was assumed to be formed by the degradation of gentiopicroside by enzymatic hydrolysis at low water concentration. The degradation pathway was a unique domino-reaction triggered by enzymatic hydrolysis. Naphthodipyranodione may become an index compound for the drying and/or fermenting procedure of Gentian root.
Phytochemicals from the Bark of Rhamnus Caroliniana
Authors: Mekala Amrutha Bindu , Satyal Prabodh , Setzer William N.
Published: March 2019

Rhamnus caroliniana (Rhamnaceae), or Carolina buckthorn, is a plant commonly found in the southeastern United States that was used in Cherokee traditional medicine. To date, there have been no reports on the phytochemical constituents of R. caroliniana. The bark of R. caroliniana was collected and extracted with chloroform. The crude chloroform extract was subjected to preparative column chromatography on silica gel leading to the isolation of two anthraquinones (chrysophanol and physcion), the bianthrone ararobinol, the dihydroxynaphthalene torachrysone, and the fatty alcohol 1-docosanol. The bark essential oil of R. caroliniana was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography – mass spectrometry. The major bark volatiles were the anthrone chrysarobin (24.2%), the piperidine alkaloid piperine (15.4%), and the dibenzoxepin pacharin (7.5%).
Cytotoxic Constituents of Mallotus Microcarpus
Authors: Thai Tran Huy , Hai Nguyen Thi , Hien Nguyen Thi , Ha Chu Thị Thu , Cuong Nguyen The , Binh Pham Thanh , Dang Nguyen Hai , Dat Nguyen Tien
Published: March 2019

A new 3-methoxybenzensulfonic acid 4- O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), and ten known compounds (2–11) were isolated from the methanolic extract of the stems of Mallotus microcarpus. The cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds was evaluated by the MTT method. 3-Methoxybenzensulfonic acid 4- O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1) and methyl salicylate 2-rutinoside (5) showed strong cytotoxicity against EGFR-TKI-resistant human lung cancer A549 cells in comparison with camptothecin. Compound 1, leonuriside A (2), 3,4'-dihydroxypropiophenone 3- O-glucoside (6) and (1 R,2 S)-hovetrichoside A (10) inhibited the growth of human breast cancer MCF-7 cell line with IC50 values in the range of 0.48–1.78 μM. This is the first report on the chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of M. microcarpus.
Comparison of Different Extraction Methods for the Determination of the Antioxidant and Antifungal Activity of Cynara Scolymus and C. Cardunculus Extracts and Infusions
Authors: Kollia Eleni , Markaki Panagiota , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis , Proestos Charalampos
Published: March 2019

Extracts and infusions of wild artichoke ( Cynara cardunculus L.) and globe artichoke ( C. scolymus L.) (heads, bracts and stems) were examined for their total phenolic content (TPC) and their antioxidant activity after performing Classical Extraction (CE) and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE). UAE proved to be more effective, since extracts exhibited higher antioxidant activity and TPC values than CE extracts and infusions. Moreover C. cardunculus heads extract using UAE, displayed the maximum TPC values (1.57 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) g−1 fresh weight (fw)), the highest DPPH• scavenging activity (IC50; 0.91mg mL−1) and the highest ABTS•+ radical scavenging capacity (2.08 mg Trolox Equivalents (TE) g−1 fw). Moreover, the effect of different concentrations of C. cardunculus head extracts (showing the highest TPC and antioxidant activity) on Aspergillus parasiticus growth was estimated in AFPA medium. The maximum inhibition was found to be ~42.1% in comparison with the control.
Enantioselective GC Analysis of C3–Oxygenated p-Menthane type Indian Mentha Spicata var. Viridis ‘Ganga’ Essential Oil
Authors: Shanmugam Pragadheesh V. , Saroj Arvind , Maurya Ranjana , Yadav Anju , Gupta Namita , Samad Abdul , Chanotiya Chandan S.
Published: March 2019

Essential oil of Mentha spicata L. var. viridis ‘Ganga’, an indigenously developed variety, was chemically profiled using various gas chromatographic techniques. Piperitenone oxide was characterized as the most exclusive constituent (69.7%) along with a new C3–oxygenated p-menthane alcohol, diosphenolene (1.6%). Enantiomeric discrimination revealed (4 S)-(-)-limonene, ( R)-(-)-linalool and (1 S,2 S)-(+)-piperitenone oxide as predominant enantiomers. The oil contained mainly C3–oxygenated p-menthane monoterpenoids, which are distinctive of peppermint, instead of the characteristic C6–oxygenated class of spearmint. The present findings will aid in understanding the pathway and cause of C3-oxygenation in a spearmint taxon. The essential oil and pure piperitenone oxide showed growth inhibiting properties and thus, may be utilized in antifungal preparations for disease management of medicinal and aromatic plants.
Integrated Analysis by GC(RI), GC-MS and 13C NMR of Fortunella Japonica Leaf Volatiles Obtained by Hydrodistillation, Microwave- assisted Hydrodistillation and Hydrolate Extraction
Authors: Sutour Sylvain , Luro François , Casanova Joseph , Tomi Félix
Published: March 2019

The chemical composition of the essential oil (EO), microwave extract (ME) and hydrolate extract (HE) from the same batch of leaves of Fortunella japonica, was investigated by combination of chromatographic (GC, CC) and spectroscopic techniques (GC-MS, 13C NMR). F. japonica essential oil and extracts are complex mixtures of 28–60 compounds being mainly oxygenated sesquiterpenes. The EO composition was dominated by germacrene D (14.9%), β-elemol (9.1%), cis-guai-6-en-10p-ol (6.3%), β-eudesmol (5.5%), and δ-elemene (5.2%). Limonene was the unique monoterpene identified at appreciable amount (7.1%). The extract obtained by microwave assisted hydrodistillation contained as main components: β-elemol (12.4%), germacrene D (9.9%), cis-guai-6-en-10β-ol (9.0%), β-eudesmol (8.2%), germacra-1(10),5-dien-4α-ol (7.1%) and α-eudesmol (6.4%). Finally, the highest content of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (near 92%) was found in the hydrolate extract displaying cryptomeridiol (23.3%, but totally absent in the EO and ME), β-eudesmol (20.6%) and α-eudesmol (10.7%). Combined analysis by chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques appeared useful for identification of various sesquiterpenols bearing a tertiary alcohol function.
Composition and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Essential Oil of Jatropha Curcas
Authors: Adeosun Tolulope E. , Ogunwande Isiaka A. , Avoseh Opeyemi N. , Raji Ismail P. , Lawal Oladipupo A.
Published: March 2019

The chemical constituents and anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oil from the leaf of Jatropha curcas L (Euphorbiaceae) collected from Nigeria are reported. The analysis of the chemical constituents of the essential oil was achieved by using gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). All constituents of the essential oil, namely neophytadiene (35.8%), phytol (23.1%), trans-pinane (12.7%), 6,10,14-trimethyl-2-pentadecanone (12.3%) and citronellyl propanoate (11.2%), were present in significant amounts. The anti-inflammatory activity of the leaf oil was determined on Wistar rats using egg-albumin as phlogistic agent; significant inhibition ( P< 0.05) was shown at a dose of 2%, v/v. Percentage inhibition of the anti-inflammation increased steadily to 76.6% in the 4th hour.
Chemical Composition and Antifungal Activity of Essential Oils from Flowers, Leaves, Rhizomes, and Bulbs of the Wild Iraqi Kurdish Plant Iris Persica
Authors: Amin Hawraz Ibrahim M. , Amin Ahmed Anwar , Tosi Solveig , Mellerio Giorgio Giacomo , Hussain Faiq H. S. , Picco Anna Maria , Vidari Giovanni
Published: March 2019

Essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation of different parts of Iris persica L. were investigated for the first time by GC-FID and GC-MS; moreover, their antifungal activities were determined. 34, 32, 27, and 17 compounds were identified in the oils from air-dried flowers, leaves, rhizomes and fresh bulbs, respectively, representing ≥ 98% each oil. The major constituents of the flower essential oil were phenylethanol (24.8%) and furfural (13.8%), which, as the main component, constituted also 39.0% and 22.2% of the leaf and rhizome volatile fractions, respectively. Phenylacetaldehyde (37.1%) was the main constituent of the bulb volatile fraction. In in vitro tests, moderate antifungal activity was detected for the oils against strains of the human pathogenic fungal species Candida albicans, Microsporum canis, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, the plant-fungal pathogen Pyricularia oryzae, and the fungal food contaminant Aspergillus carbonarius,. The highest activity was exhibited by the essential oils from leaves and flowers, suggesting that they could be considered natural antimicrobial agents.
Composition and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oils of Laser Trilobum Rhizomes and Fruits
Authors: Drobac Milica , Petrović Silvana , Milenković Marina , Couladis Maria , Kukić-Marković Jelena , Niketić Marjan
Published: March 2019

The compositions of hydrodistillated essential oils of Laser trilobum (L.) Borkh. rhizomes and fruits from Serbia, were investigated using GC and GC/MS. In the dark-blue rhizome oil forty-six compounds (93.1% of the total oil) were identified, with α-pinene (31.5%), γ-terpinene (9.0%), p-cymene (7.9%), β-pinene (6.1%) and 1,4-dimethylazulene (6.0%) as the major components. In the colorless fruits oil, twenty components (96.8% of the total oil) were identified, and the main constituents were limonene (51.6%) and perillaldehyde (26.8%). The antimicrobial activity of the oils was tested using the broth microdilution method against nine bacterial and two fungal strains. The oils revealed significant antimicrobial effect, mainly better than that of thymol, used as a reference compound. The strongest activity was recorded for the rhizome oil against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans (MICs=25 μg/mL), and the fruit oil against C. albicans ATCC 10259 (MIC=12.5 μg/mL).
Comparison of Different Strains of Agrobacterium rhizogenes for Hairy Root Induction and Betulin and Betulinic Acid Production in Morus alba
Authors: Park Chang Ha , Zhao Shicheng , Yeo Hyeon Ji , Park Ye Eun , Baska Thanislas Bastin , Arasu Mariadhas Valan , Al-Dhabi Naif Abdullah , Park Sang Un
Published: March 2019

Three Agrobacterium rhizogenes strains were tested for their ability to transform the plant Morus alba L. and to induce production of the secondary metabolites betulin and betulinic acid. All the tested strains of A. rhizogenes (R1601, LBA9402 and R1000) were able to induce hairy root formation in leaf tissue explants. Strain LBA9402 had the highest rate of infection (92.7% ± 8.8%), whereas strain R1601 had the lowest rate (87.4% ± 9.3%). The highest number of hairy roots per explant (5.6 ± 0.5) and the greatest root length (2.4 ± 0.2 mm) were obtained with strain LBA9402. We also evaluated dry weight (a measure of growth) and betulin and betulinic acid production in hairy roots and found that the highest growth (167.8 ± 14.5 mg/flask) occurred after infection with strain LBA9402. Furthermore the highest production of betulin (5.4 ± 0.4 mg/g dry weight) and betulinic acid (2.3 ± 0.2 mg/g dry weight) was noted using strain LBA9402. Among three elicitors, yeast extract showed the highest induction of betulin production (8.7 ± 0.4 mg/g) and silver nitrate induced the highest yield of betulinic acid (4.1 ± 0.2 mg/g). Our study showed that A. rhizogenes strain LBA9402 was the most effective of the three tested strains for production of transformed root cultures and betulin and betulinic acid.
Two New Triterpenes and Other Compounds from Mentha aquatica (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Ferhat Maria , Kabouche Zahia , Fujimoto Yoshinori , Araya Hiroshi
Published: March 2019

Two new triterpenoids, maquatic acid (1), a 2,3- seco-triterpene having an acetal in its A-ring, and 3- O-benzoyltormentic acid (2), were isolated from underground parts of Mentha aquatica, in addition to twelve known compounds, tormentic acid (3), 1- O-benzoylhyptadienic acid (4), 3- epi-ursolic acid (5), hyptadienic acid (6), 3- epi-maslinic acid (7), 3- epi-tormentic acid (8), ursolic acid (9), β-sitosterol (10), oleanolic acid (11), pomolic acid (12), micromeric acid (13) and 21α-hydroxyursolic acid (14) from aerial and underground parts of the plant. Compounds 4-6, 8, 13 and 14 have been isolated from the genus Mentha for the first time.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Lawsonia inermis Seed Extracts from Morocco
Authors: Nounah Issmail , Hajib Ahmed , Harhar Hicham , Madani Nadia El , Gharby Saïd , Guillaume Dom , Charrouf Zoubida
Published: March 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate the composition of Lawsonia inermis (henna) seed oil from Morocco and to evaluate some of its activities in order to use it in cosmetics. Phytosterols are valuable henna-oil constituents, but henna oil does not present any interesting antioxidant activity.
Protoflavanones from the Wood Stem of Salvertia convallariodora
Authors: de Mesquita Mariana L. , de Paula José E. , Espindola Laila S. , Soares Luiz A. L. , da Silva Tania M. G. , Camara Celso A. , Da Silva Telma M. G.
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of stem wood of Salvertia convallariodora A. St.-Hil. (Vochysiaceae), a Brazilian Cerrado species, led to the isolation and full characterization of three new non-aromatic B-ring flavanones (1-3) as well as the terpene mixture of sericic acid (4), 24-hydroxytormentic acid (5), 24-hydroxytormentic acid glucosyl ester (6), and sericoside (7), all identified for the first time from S. convallariodora. The structures of the new flavanones (1-3) were established from IR, LC-PDA-qTOF-MS, and NMR spectral data, including 2D NMR experiments.
Buxusoside, a Flavonoid Disaccharide from Buxus sinica
Authors: Wang Min , Xu Guo-Bo , Liu Jun , Zhang Yue-Hao , Liu Jun-Hong , Li Jing , Zhou Meng , Xiao Yao-Hua , He Xun , Liao Shang-Gao
Published: March 2019

A new flavonoid diglycoside named buxusoside (1), together with its aglycone chrysosplenol-D (2), as well as 4’, 5-dihydroxy-3,6,7-trimethoxyflavone (3) and 3’,4’,5-trihydroxy-3,6,7-trimethoxyflavone (4), were isolated from the 70% EtOH extract of the air-dried plant of Buxus sinica. Its structure was elucidated mainly by 1D and 2D NMR spectra.
Syntheses of Benzo[c]Chromen-6-ones by Palladium Catalyzed C–H Bond Activation using Diazonium Salts
Authors: Huang Liang-Zhu , Ma Rui-Yue , Zhou Lu-Nan , Du Zhen-Ting , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2019

An efficient palladium catalyzed C-H bond activation for the synthesis of benzo[ c]chromen-6-ones using diazonium salts is described. In the presence of Pd(OAc)2, dppp, PivOH and K2CO3, the diazonium salt can be transformed into the product through a denitrogenation/C-H bond activation/cyclization sequence in acetonitrile. Altogether, nine structurally diverse substituted benzo[ c]chromen-6-ones were prepared in excellent yields through two different methods.
Variation in Phenolic Composition of Knautia arvensis in Correlation with Geographic Area and Plant Organ
Authors: Karalija Erna , Muratović Edina , Tarkowski Petr , Zeljković Sanja Ćavar
Published: March 2019

Knautia arvensis (family Dipsacaceae) is usually found in grasslands of Europe, but can also be found in some parts of Africa and Asia, usually in dry meadows, pastures, dry hills, and open woods. The chemical composition of this species is relatively unknown. The aim of this study was to give a phenolic profile of this plant, and to show how its phenolic composition varies depending upon plant organ and geographic origin. The chemical analysis included quantification of free phenolics soluble in methanol, esters and glycosides, and phenolics that are insoluble in methanol. Fourteen different phenolic acids and eight flavonoids were quantified in total. According to this study, the chemical composition of individual plant parts can differ tremendously within one population, which does not have to be in correspondence with chemical variability between populations. As shown in this study, the variation in chemical composition between plant parts can exceed that between different populations (from different climates, altitudes, with different environmental factors), which implies that microhabitat conditions can greatly affect the composition of some plant parts, which was shown also after PCA and HCA analysis.
GC-MS-based Metabolomic Profiling of Thymoquinone in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats
Authors: Raish Mohammad , Ahmad Ajaz , Jan Basit L. , Alkharfy Khalid M. , Mohsin Kazi , Ahamad Syed Rizwan , Ansari Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: March 2019

Diabetic nephropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and one of the major etiologies of end-stage renal disease. Specific therapeutic interventions are necessary to treat such complications. The present study was designed to investigate the metabolomic changes induced by thymoquinone for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy, using a rodent model. Rats were divided into three different groups (n = 6 each): control, diabetic, and thymoquinone-treated diabetic groups. Metabolites in serum samples were analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Multiple changes were observed, including those related to the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids. The correlation analysis suggested that treatment with thymoquinone led to the reversal of diabetic nephropathy that was associated with modulations in the metabolism and proteolysis of amino acids, fatty acids, glycerol phospholipids, and organic acids. In addition, we explored the mechanisms linking the metabolic profiling of diabetic nephropathy, with a particular emphasis on the potential roles of increased reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial dysfunctions. Our findings demonstrated that metabolomic profiling provided significant insights into the basic mechanisms of diabetic nephropathy and the therapeutic effects of thymoquinone.
Chemical Constituents of Chirita drakei
Authors: Anh Nguyen Thi Hoang , Van Tuan Nguyen , Thien Dao Duc , Quan Tran Duc , Tam Nguyen Thanh , Lien Giang Thi Kim , Franke Katrin , Thuy Trinh Thi , Van Sung Tran
Published: March 2019

Chirita drakei Burtt (now accepted as Primulina drakei (B.L. Burtt) Mich. Möller & A. Weber) is growing on limestone mountain slopes of Ha Long Bay islands in Vietnam. The chemical investigation of the aerial parts of C. drakei led to the isolation and structural elucidation of two new compounds named chiridrakoside A (1) and chiridrakoside B (2) besides twelve known compounds comprising five phenylethanoid glycosides (3–7), two lignans (8, 9), a phenyl propanoid (10), an anthraquinone (11), a furan derivative (12) and two triterpenes (13, 14). All described compounds, except 4, 5 and 11, were obtained for the first time from the genera Chirita or Primulina. The cytotoxic activity of the isolated compounds was evaluated against the four human cancer cell lines KB (mouth epidermal carcinoma), HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma), Lu (lung carcinoma) and MCF7 (breast carcinoma). Epoxyconiferyl alcohol (10) exhibited cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines (IC50 from 46 to 128 μM).