bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-inflammatory Potential of Silk Sericin
Authors: Aramwit Pornanong , Towiwat Pasarapa , Srichana Teerapol
Published: March 2019

Silk sericin was found to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are related to the inflammatory reaction. The objectives of this study were to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of sericin in vivo using the carrageenan-induced rat edema model and changes in the histology of tissues. The effects of sericin on the expression of COX-2 and iNOS were also evaluated. Sericin solutions at 0.004-0.080 mg/mL were applied topically to the top of the hind paw and carrageenan (1.0 mg) was injected subcutaneously to the plantar surface of the right hind paw. Our results indicated that sericin significantly reduced the inflammation in rats’ paw compared with the negative control (water and acetone) and its effect at 0.080 mg/mL was only slightly lower than that of 1.0% w/v indomethacin. Similar numbers of polymorphonuclear and macrophage cells were found in rats’ tissue treated with indomethacin and sericin solution, while the numbers were significantly higher in their absence. The gene expression results by RT-PCR showed that the COX-2 and iNOS genes were down-regulated in samples treated with sericin in a dose dependent manner. These data indicated that the anti-inflammatory properties of sericin may be partly attributable to the suppression of the COX-2 enzyme and nitric oxide production.
Composition of Essential Oil from Aerial and Underground Parts of Geum rivale and G. urbanum Growing in Poland
Authors: Owczarek Aleksandra , Gudej Jan , Kicel Agnieszka
Published: March 2019

A study of the composition of essential oils from aerial and underground parts of Geum rivale L. and Geum urbanum L. growing in Poland led to the identification of 130 compounds. The main compound of the essential oil from underground parts of G. urbanum was eugenol (69.2%), whereas cis-myrtanal (53.3%) was the major constituent of the essential oil from roots of G. rivale. The essential oils from aerial parts of the plants contained large amounts of aliphatic compounds with ( Z)-3-hexenol (38.4%) being the dominant constituent of the essential oil from aerial parts of G. urbanum and 1-octen-3-ol (33.9%) from G. rivale.
Effect on Emotional Behavior and Stress by Inhalation of the Essential oil from Chamaecyparis obtusa
Authors: Kasuya Hikaru , Hata Erika , Satou Tadaaki , Yoshikawa Masaki , Hayashi Shinichiro , Masuo Yoshinori , Koike Kazuo
Published: March 2019

Various effects have been reported in the literature for the essential oil from Chamaecyparis obtusa (EOCO), such as antibacterial and antifungal activity. In this study, we examined the effect of EOCO on emotional behavior and stress-induced biomarkers. Male ICR mice, aged 5 weeks at the start of each experiment, were individually housed in cages for 1 week. After placing each mouse in a glass container and exposing it to EOCO for 90 min, we then investigated the influence on emotional behavior using the elevated-plus maze (EPM) test, which is one of the evaluation methods for anxiolytic-like behavior. Significant anxiolytic-like effects were observed for the 7.0 mg/L air EOCO ( P<0.05). After the EPM test, mice were dissected and changes in the stress-induced biomarkers within the brain were investigated by examining the amounts of fast nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) and activity regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein (Arc) gene expression, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and galactokinase 1 (GLK1) protein expression. Significant increases were observed in the amount of NGFR after inhalation of 7.0 mg/L air EOCO ( P<0.05). These results indicate that EOCO has both anxiolytic-like and stress mitigation effects.
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Rhizome Oils from Five Hedychium Species
Authors: Suksathan Ratchuporn , Sookkhee Siriwoot , Anuntalabhochai Somboon , Chansakaow Sunee
Published: March 2019

The essential oils from rhizomes of five Hedychium species, H. coronarium, H. neocarneum, H. flavescens, H. speciosum and H. stenopetalum (Zingiberaceae), were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by capillary GC and GC/MS. Sixty components were identified and percentage oil yields from the fresh plants ranged from 0.06-0.17 % (v/w). All rhizome oils were rich in terpenes, especially monoterpenes (75.0-95.9 %). The most common compounds in the rhizome oils of Hedychium were β-pinene, linalool and 1,8-cineole. The essential oils were tested against four bacterial strains. They showed moderate to weak activity against Gram-positive bacteria (inhibition zone 25-13 mm, MIC 0.3-8.3 mg/mL, MBC 0.6-8.3 mg/mL).
Phenols, Alkaloids and Terpenes from Medicinal Plants with Antihypertensive and Vasorelaxant Activities. A Review of Natural Products as Leads to Potential Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Maione Francesco , Cicala Carla , Musciacco Giulia , De Feo Vincenzo , Amat Anibal G. , Ialenti Armando , Mascolo Nicola
Published: March 2019

Numerous studies support the cardiovascular effects of medicinal plants. This review examines plants whose antihypertensive and vasorelaxant effects have been scientifically validated. Our study selected only chemically characterized plants whose mode of action had already been investigated. The aim of the paper is to provide a quick way to identify medicinal plants and their constituents with antihypertensive and vasorelaxant activities.
Chemosystematics of the Thai Liverwort Cheilolejeunea (Marchantiophyta, Lejeuneaceae)
Authors: Sukkharak Phiangphak , Asakawa Yoshinori
Published: March 2019

Members of the liverwort genus Cheilolejeunea, on the basis of chemical data, have been divided into striatane- (I), trifarane- (II) and δ-lactone- (III) chemotypes. In this paper the sesquiterpenoids occurring in C. ceylanica from Thailand are described and the chemosystematics of Cheilolejeunea species are explored. Species belonging to type I produce striatane-type sesquiterpenoids, which have been found in many species of Lejeuneaceae and thus are considered to be one of the significant chemical markers of this family. However, to the best of our knowledge, the trifarane-type is not detected in any other liverworts. The lactone-type species produce chiroptical δ-lactones, with a milky odor.
Cytotoxic Properties of Marrubium globosum ssp. libanoticum and its Bioactive Components
Authors: Marrelli Mariangela , Conforti Filomena , Rigano Daniela , Formisano Carmen , Bruno Maurizio , Senatore Felice , Menichini Francesco
Published: March 2019

Marrubium globosum Montbr. et Auch. ex Benth. ssp. libanoticum Boiss. (Lamiaceae) is a medicinal plant used in Lebanon for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, asthma, coughs and other pulmonary and urinary problems. The goal of our study was to assess the biological activity of M. globosum by testing different extracts of the aerial parts for their antiproliferative activity against human melanoma cells using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The chloroform fraction showed the greatest activity. The compounds isolated from the extracts were also tested: the mixture of (13 S)-9α,13α-epoxylabda-6β(19),16(15)-diol dilactone and (13 R)-9α,13α-epoxylabda-6β(19),16(15)-diol dilactone was the most active fraction, with an IC50 value of 29.2 ± 0.06 μg/mL.
Ursane-Type Saponins from Zygophyllum cornutum
Authors: Bencharif-Betina Soumeya , Miyamoto Tomofumi , Tanaka Chiaki , Kabouche Zahia , Mitaine-Offer Anne-Claire , Lacaille-Dubois Marie-Aleth
Published: March 2019

Seven known ursane-type saponins were isolated from the methanolic extract of the whole plant of Zygophyllum cornutum Coss, and identified by 2D NMR spectroscopy and FAB-mass spectrometry. They are reported in this species for the first time and might be chemotaxonomically significant for the genus Zygophyllum.
Vasorelaxant Alkaloids from Spirospermum penduliflorum (Menispermaceae), a Plant Used to Treat Hypertension in Malagasy Traditional Medicine
Authors: Raoelison Guy E. , Rafamantanana Mamy H. , Razafindrazaka René , Randriantsoa Adolphe , Urverg-Ratsimamanga Suzanne , Morel Nicole , Quetin-Leclercq Joëlle
Published: March 2019

Spirospermum penduliflorum Thouars (Menispermaceae) is widely used on the eastern coast of Madagascar to treat hypertension. The aim of the present study was to analyse the vasorelaxant properties of different leaf extracts. The activity of the n-hexane, dichloromethane and methanolic extracts was tested on phenylephrine-contracted aorta. The dichloromethane extract was shown to be the most effective. Further fractionation of this extract led to the isolation of an active fraction relaxing phenylephrine-contracted aorta with an IC50 of 0.18 μg/mL {log IC50 (μg/mL) −0.74 ± 0.03} but was much less effective on KCl induced contractions. Bioassay-guided fractionation of this fraction led to the isolation of two aporphinoid alkaloids, neolitsine and dicentrine, which at concentrations of 0.1 μM and 1 μM displaced to the right the phenylephrine concentration-contraction curve. Our results show that Spirospermum penduliflorum extracts possess vasorelaxant activity in vitro that could be related to the presence of dicentrine in the extracts having an α1 antagonist activity. This finding is not in accord with the previous studies by Rasoanaivo et al where no alkaloids were detected in the leaves of Spirospermum penduliflorum.
PPARα Signaling is Activated by Cocoa in Mouse Liver
Authors: Fidaleo Marco , Sartori Claudia
Published: March 2019

In this study we evaluated in mouse liver the effects of cocoa on PPARα signaling. To this aim, mouse diet was supplemented with 10%, w/w, cocoa for one and two weeks. We quantified the expression of PPARα target genes and PPARα gene level and some parameters related to PPARα activation (hepato-somatic index, peroxisomal β-oxidation system and catalase activity). Moreover, we evaluated antioxidant capacity of cocoa by detecting the expression of CAT and SOD1 genes (known to be involved in oxidative balance) and hypolipidemic properties on serum triglycerides. We made a parallel treatment with 0.025%, w/w, ciprofibrate, a well-known PPARα activator, to quantify signal modulation by cocoa. It is known that PPARα activation by ciprofibrate is mediated by direct binding to the receptor and strongly induces expression of target genes. Our results show that cocoa weakly up-regulates PPARα target genes as a consequence of the modulation of the PPARα gene level and does not improve the triglyceride profile in blood. Finally, cocoa increased SOD1 gene expression suggesting an antioxidant effect.
Chemical Investigation of Caragana arborescens Shoots
Authors: Olennikov Daniil N. , Tankhaeva Larisa M. , Partilkhaev Vyacheslav V.
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical study of flowering shoots of Caragana arborescens Lam. (Fabaceae family) collected in Buryatia Republic (Russian Federation) resulted in the isolation of twenty compounds identified as quercetin, isoquercitrin and rutin, previously identified in this species, and β-sitosterol, β-sitosterol-3- O-glucoside, umbelliferone, kaempferol, formononetin, isorhamnetin-3- O-glucoside, nicotiflorin, narcissin, myricetin-3- O-rutinoside, ononin, formononetin-7- O-rutinoside, caffeic, 3- O-caffeoylquinic, 5- O-caffeoylquinic, 3,5-di- O-caffeoylquinic acids and sucrose, isolated for the first time from C. arborescens.
A New Metabolite from the Endophytic Fungus Penicillium citrinum
Authors: Li Xinlan , Zhang Liang , Liu Yanhui , Guo Zhiyong , Deng Zhangshuang , Chen Jianfeng , XuanTu  , Zou Kun
Published: March 2019

A new polyketide, penicillocitrin A (1), together with four known compounds, was isolated from the endophytic fungus Penicillium citrinum (CTGU-TS-24) of Tapiscia sinensis Oliv., and their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopic and MS spectrums. The five compounds were evaluated cytotoxic activity to four cancer cell lines A549, Hep G2, Hela and Caski at different levels.
Antioxidant Activity of the Isoflavonoids from the Roots of Maackia amurensis
Authors: Kulesh Nadezda I. , Fedoreyev Sergey A. , Veselova Marina V. , Mischenko Natalia P. , Denisenko Vladimir A. , Dmitrenok Pavel S. , Zverev Yakov F. , Zamyatina Svetlana V.
Published: March 2019

Seven isoflavonoids, including a new glycoside, (6a R,11a R)-medicarpin-3- O-gentiobioside (6), were isolated from the roots of Maackia amurensis using repeated column chromatography on a Toyopearl HW-50F sorbent and identified by HPLC–PDA–MS, 1H NMR, 13C, 1H–1H COSY, HSQC NMR and HMBC NMR analyses as daidzin (1), genistein-7- O-gentiobioside (2), pseudobaptigenin-7- O-gentiobioside (3), formononetin-7- O-gentiobioside (4), (6a R,11a R)-maackiain-3- O-gentiobioside (5), and 5- O-methylgenistein-7- O-gentiobioside (7). In the model of oxidative stress induced by formalin injection, the isolated isoflavone and pterocarpan glucosides 1-7 were shown to reduce the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and other thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), as well as glutathione peroxidase (GPO) activity in rats.
The Effect of Pyridinecarbothioamides on Isoflavonoid Production in Genista tinctoria Cultures in Vitro
Authors: Tůmová Lenka , Klimešová Věra , Vildová Anna
Published: March 2019

Previous studies showed that derivatives of pyrazinecarboxylic acid used as elicitors increased either flavonoid or flavonolignan production. The effect of 2-(3-bromobenzylsulfanyl) pyridine-4-carbothioamide on isoflavonoids production in Genista tinctoria culture in vitro was tested. The highest isoflavonoid content (0.3 mg.g−1 DW) in callus culture was found after elicitor application at a concentration of 2.96 × 10−5 mol.L−1 after 24 h of treatment. The maximum daidzein production (0.2 mg.g−1 DW) was detected after 48 h of elicitor treatment at a concentration of 2.96 × 10−3 mol.L-1 and after 24 h of elicitor treatment at a concentration of 2.96 × 10−5 mol.L−1. Suspension culture produced the highest amount of isoflavonoids (0.3 mg.g−1 DW) after elicitor application at concentrations of 2.96 × 10−4 mol.L−1 after 24 and 168 h of treatment, and 2.96 × 10−5 mol.L−1 after 168 h of treatment. The highest content of genistin (0.3 mg. g−1 DW) was detected after 24 h of elicitor treatment at a concentration of 2.96 × 10−4 mol.L−1. The maximum content of daidzein (3.80 mg.L−1) released into the suspension culture medium was found after elicitor application at a concentration of 2.96 × 10−4 mol.L−1 after 12 h of treatment.
A New Homoisoflavanone from the Rhizomes of Polygonatum cyrtonema
Authors: Gan Li-She , Chen Jin-Jie , Shi Man-Fei , Zhou Chang-Xin
Published: March 2019

A new homoisoflavanone, (3 R)-5,7-dihydroxy-8-methyl-3-(2′-hydroxy-4′-methoxybenzyl)-chroman-4-one (1), was isolated from the 95% ethanol extract of the rhizomes of Polygonatum cyrtonema. The structure of 1 was determined by spectroscopic methods, especially 2D NMR techniques. Quantum chemical TD DFT calculations of the theoretical ECD spectrum of 1 allowed assignment of the absolute configuration as 3R.
Polyphenols in the Aqueous Extracts of Garden Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Chemotypes Cultivated in Hungary
Authors: Szilvássy Blanka , Rak Gábor , Sárosi Szilvia , Novák Ildikó , Pluhár Zsuzsanna , Abrankó László
Published: March 2019

Thyme is used worldwide both as a spice and crude drug. In addition, nowadays in the food industry it has increasing significance as a natural antioxidant. Volatile aromatic compounds of thyme have been thoroughly characterized; however, the non-volatile compounds may also contribute to the organoleptic quality and antioxidant properties. The aim of this work is to determine the phenolic acids and to profile the flavonoid compounds in the aqueous extract of two chemotypes of Thymus vulgaris L. Experiments were carried out using high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS). Predefined phenolic acids were quantified in untreated and alkaline hydrolyzed aqueous extracts. Flavonoid derivatives were qualitatively analyzed by a non-targeted screening method. Our results showed that among the phenolic acids rosmarinic acid was the main component (882-1677 μg g−1 fresh weight) and in the thymol-type samples the amount of syringic acid and rosmarinic acid was predominantly higher compared with the non-thymol type sample. Apigenin and luteolin were the major flavonoids in the extracts, which were present in the form of hexopyranuronic acid conjugates.
Resveratrol Production from Hairy Root Cultures of Scutellaria baicalensis
Authors: Lee Sang-Won , Kim Young Seon , Uddin Md. Romij , Kwon Do Yeon , Kim Yeon Bok , Lee Mi Young , Kim Sun-Ju , Park Sang Un
Published: March 2019

The levels of resveratrol produced by hairy root cultures of Scutellaria baicalensis were investigated using different media of varying strengths and in the presence of various concentrations of auxins. The levels of resveratrol were higher when the hairy root cultures were maintained in full-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium when compared with other growth media. The cultures grown in full-strength MS medium produced 2.5-fold higher resveratrol than those grown in half-strength B5 medium—the lowest resveratrol-producing medium. The levels of resveratrol varied significantly when cultures were grown in full-strength MS with varying concentrations of auxins. Supplementation of the media with the auxin indole acetic acid (IAA) at 0.1 mg/L produced the highest accumulation of resveratrol. Our findings reveal a valuable alternative approach for the production of resveratrol from S. baicalensis.
The Triple Botanical Origin of Russian Propolis from the Perm Region, Its Phenolic Content and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Popova Milena , Trusheva Boryana , Khismatullin Rail , Gavrilova Natalja , Legotkina Galina , Lyapunov Jaroslav , Bankova Vassya
Published: March 2019

Russian propolis from the Perm Region was studied by GC-MS, its antibacterial activity was determined, and the bioactive compounds (total phenolics and flavonoids) were quantified by spectrophotometric methods. It was found that Permian propolis belonged to a bee-glue type of triple plant origin: aspen-birch-poplar. Such propolis type has not yet been described. It contains many constituents which could be responsible for diverse biological activities: antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor. The combination of the protective excretions of three plant species, resulting in the presence of secondary plant metabolites of many different structural classes gives reason to believe that the pharmacological actions are implemented in different, complementary mechanisms. Together with the detected antibacterial activity, this observation leads to the expectation that such combination could be especially effective in treatment of infections of different origin..
Antioxidant Action of Solid Preparation of Xingnaojing in SHRSP
Authors: Liu Yang , Yasui Naomi , Kishimoto Aya , Sun Jian-ning , Ikeda Katsumi
Published: March 2019

We investigated the antioxidant action of a solid preparation of Xingnaojing (XNJ) and ascorbic acid (AA) in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). The total antioxidant states in the plasma, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate were measured every 2 weeks, and lipid peroxidation, expressed as thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances in plasma, was measured in the 6th week. The results showed that AA and XNJ significantly increased the total antioxidant status in plasma and reduced malondialdehyde in the plasma. These data suggest that during 6-week administration, XNJ has antioxidant action on SHRSP, which may relate to its generalized inhibition of lipid peroxidation and promotion of the total antioxidant state. These results demonstrated that orally treated XNJ has an antioxidant effect on SHRSP plasma.
Eight New Alkyne and Alkene Derivatives from Four Saussurea Species Collected in China
Authors: Saito Yoshinori , Iwamoto Yuko , Okamoto Yasuko , Kawahara Takayuki , Gong Xun , Kuroda Chiaki , Tori Motoo
Published: March 2019

Five samples of four Saussurea species, S. hieracioides, S. stella, S. graminea, and S. tatsienensis, collected in Sichuan Province, China were studied and seven new diynes and a new alkene derivatives were isolated along with 16 known compounds. Absolute configurations of two of the new compounds were established using a modified Mosher's method.
The Apoptotic Activity of one VLC Fraction of the Sponge Petrosia tuberosa on Human Cervical Cells and the Subsequent Isolation of a Bioactive Polyacetylene
Authors: Ramanjooloo Avin , Beedessee Girish , Arya Deepak , vanSoest Rob WM. , Cresteil Thierry , Marie Daniel E.P.
Published: March 2019

As part of our ongoing studies on bioactive natural products from marine sponges, we investigated the cytotoxic potential of extracts from the new sponge Petrosia tuberosa sampled from Mauritius waters. Bioguided fractionation of the ethyl acetate extract by vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC) revealed two fractions, namely VLC (6-9) and (13-17) showing cell deaths of 86 ± 1% and 88 ± 4%, respectively, at 50 μg/mL on HeLa cells. At 10 μg/mL, only VLC (13-17) displayed a significant cell death (56 ± 7%) compared with VLC (6-9) (8 ± 1 %). The cytotoxic activity of VLC (13-17) was also determined on nine other human cancer cell lines. Clonogenic assay, mitochondrial membrane potential change, DNA fragmentation and microscopic analysis of fraction VLC (13-17) revealed distinct features of apoptosis on HeLa cells. Further fractionation and purification of this fraction by chromatographic techniques resulted in isolation of one known secondary metabolite, petrosynol. Its structure was determined by 1H and 13C-NMR analyses.
Phytochemical and Micromorphological Traits of Geranium dalmaticum and G. macrorrhizum (Geraniaceae)
Authors: Kremer Dario , Čepo Dubravka Vitali , Dunkić Valerija , Müller Ivna Dragojević , Kosalec Ivan , Bezić Nada , Stabentheiner Edith
Published: March 2019

A study of types and distribution of trichomes, pollen morphology, chemical composition of essential oil, and the content of macroelements and trace elements was conducted on endemic and previously uninvestigated Geranium dalmaticum (Beck) Rech. f. and widely distributed G. macrorrhizum L. growing in Croatia. The essential oil of G. dalmaticum was characterized by a high concentration of monoterpenes (82.2%) and the oil of G. macrorrhizum by mainly sesquiterpenes (76.7%). Among the investigated macroelements, the content of Ca was the highest (19,125.6 mg/kg and 22,439.6 mg/kg in G. dalmaticum and G. macrorrhizum, respectively). The content of trace elements ranged from 0.16 (Cr) to 110.01 mg/kg (Al) in G. dalmaticum, and from 0.01 (Cd) to 101.8 mg/kg (Al) in G. macrorrhizum. Non-glandular trichomes and two (in G. dalmaticum three) types of capitate glandular trichomes (type 1 composed of one basal epidermal cell, and one head cell with subcuticular space; type 2 composed of one basal epidermal cell, one or two stalk cells, and one head cell with subcuticular space; type 3 composed of one basal epidermal cell, 2–6 stalk cells, and one head cell with subcuticular space) were observed on leaves, stems and calyxes.
Volatile Fraction Composition and Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents of Elionurus hensii—Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils and Solvent Extracts
Authors: Yang Yin , De Cian Marie-Cécile , Nsikabaka Samuel , Tomi Pierre , Silou Thomas , Costa Jean , Paolini Julien
Published: March 2019

The objective of this study was to characterize Elionurus hensii in terms of the chemical composition of its essential oil and volatile fractions, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of solvent extracts and antioxidative activity. Analysis of E. hensii essential oil samples from Congo was carried out using Gas Chromatography (GC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (MS). The essential oil of the aerial parts consisted predominantly of oxygenated monoterpene compounds, of which the main components were menthane alcohol stereoisomers, whereas the essential oil of the root was characterized by a high content of oxygenated sesquiterpenes, the main component of which was aristolone. The amounts of total phenolics and flavonoids in the solvent extracts (dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol) were determined spectrometrically. The essential oil did not exhibit significant antioxidant activity in terms of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+) scavenging ability, and exhibited only slight Fe3+ reducing ability. In contrast, the antioxidant activity of the solvent extracts of the aerial parts increased in the order ethyl acetate > methanol > dichloromethane, and that of the solvent extracts of the root increased in the order methanol > ethyl acetate > dichloromethane. Finally, a relationship was observed between the antioxidant activity and the total phenolic and flavonoid levels of the extract.
Leaf Essential Oils of Six Vietnamese Species of Fissistigma (Annonaceae)
Authors: Höferl Martina , Dai Do Ngọc , Thang Tran Dinh , Jirovetz Leopold , Schmidt Erich
Published: March 2019

The compositions of essential oils of the leaves of six Vietnamese species of Fissistigma Griff. (Annonaceae) were determined by means of GC and GC/MS. F. chloroneurum (Hand.-Mazz.) Y. Tsiang yielded an oil in which the major components were ( E)-α-bergamotene (52.0%), ( E)-β-caryophyllene (9.0%) and β-bisabolene (6.0%). The major components of the leaf oil of F. cupreonitens Merr. et Chun were ( E)-β-caryophyllene (27.7%), bicyclogermacrene (14.7%) and α-muurolene (7.1%), whereas those of the leaf oil of F. pallens (Fin. & Gagnep.) Merr. were germacrene D (30.2%), bicyclogermacrene (26.4%) and bicycloelemene (18.3%). The essential oil of F. bicolor (Roxb.) Merr. was very similar, mainly comprised of ( E)-β-caryophyllene (13.3%), ( E)-α-bergamotene (13.1%), ( Z)-β-farnesene (12.3%), p-cymene (8.9%), β-bisabolene (6.6%) and elemol (6.5%). The main constituents of the essential oil of F. shangtzeense Y. Tsiang & P. T. Li were ( E)-β -caryophyllene (28.1%), bicyclogermacrene (10.3%) and α-muurolene (8.8%), whereas those of F. petelotii Merr. were α-pinene (15.4%), bicyclogermacrene (13.9%), bicycloelemene (10.8%) and ( E)-β-caryophyllene (9.9%)..
Studies on the Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity and Chemical Composition of the Essential Oils of Kitaibelia vitifolia
Authors: Mašković Pavle , Radojković Marija , Ristić Mihailo , Solujić Slavica
Published: March 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential use of the essential oil of Kitaibelia vitifolia Willd. in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of essential oil of K. vitifolia isolated by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus were assessed. GC/FID and GC/MS analyses were used to determine the major components of the essential oil as sclareoloxide ( cis A/B) 17.9%, sclaral 10.9%, labda-7,13,14-triene 10.6% and sclareol 9.5%. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was evaluated against the bacterial strains: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 13315, P. mirabilis ATCC 14153, and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633; and fungal strains: Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and Aspergillus niger ATCC 16404. Antimicrobial activity was tested using a broth dilution procedure for determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The essential oil of K. vitifolia showed strong antimicrobial activity. Antioxidant activities of the essential oils were evaluated using the DPPH and hydroxy radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation and metal chelating assays. The results for antioxidant activity were compared with control antioxidants, ascorbic acid, gallic acid, α-tocopherol and BHT. Results showed that the essential oil possesses antioxidant activity, with total antioxidant capacity of 95.4±0.7 μg AA/g and IC50 values of 5.45±1.45 μg/mL for DPPH free radical scavenging activity, 26.5±1.6 μg/mL for inhibitory activity against lipid peroxidation, 79.4±0.4 μg/mL for hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, and 39.9±0.7 μg/mL for metal chelating activity.
Constituents of the Indonesian Epiphytic Medicinal Plant Drynaria rigidula
Authors: Nugraha Ari S. , Haritakun Rachada , Keller Paul A.
Published: March 2019

The rhizome of Drynaria rigidula has been traditionally claimed to have anti-infective properties. A phytochemical study conducted on the rhizome successfully isolated two new aromatic glycosides as well as three known terpenoids, two benzoic acid derivatives and two known flavonoid glycosides. The rhizome methanol extract and its fractions were tested against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Plasmodium falciparum, herpes simplex virus and KB-oral cancer cell; insignificant activity was found.
Two Polyketides from a Co-culture of Two Marine-derived Fungal Strains
Authors: Kossuga Miriam H. , Ferreira Antonio G. , Sette Lara D. , Berlinck Roberto G. S.
Published: March 2019

Co-cultivation of the fungal strains Penicillium sp. Ma(M3)V and Trichoderma sp. Gc(M2)1 in malt 2% medium led to the production of two novel, unusual polyketides, ( Z)-2-ethylhex-2-enedioic acid and ( E)-4-oxo-2-propylideneoct-7-enoic acid. Analysis of spectroscopic data enabled the structure determination of both compounds.
Relative Configuration of the Marine Natural Product Elatenyne using NMR Spectroscopic and Chemical Derivatization Methodologies
Authors: Brkljača Robert , Urban Sylvia
Published: March 2019

NMR spectroscopic methodologies used to characterize and elucidate the structure of the marine natural product elatenyne were also applied to the characterization of a new triazole structural derivative of elatenyne, obtained by “Click” chemistry. The two most probable relative configurations assigned to naturally occurring elatenyne were concluded on the basis of key single irradiation nOe NMR enhancements, in combination with the use of a variant of the HSQC NMR experiment that permitted NMR coupling constants to be measured for the overlapped ring junction protons. This study represents the first application of “Click” chemistry to chemically derivatize an unmodified natural product.
Antimicrobial, Antimalarial and Cytoxicity Activities of Constituents of a Bhutanese Variety of Ajania nubigena
Authors: Wangchuk Phurpa , Keller Paul A. , Pyne Stephen G. , Korth John , Samten  , Taweechotipatr Malai , Rattanajak Roonglawan , Kamchonwongpaisan Sumalee
Published: March 2019

An investigation of the essential oil (EO) and the crude MeOH extract of a Bhutanese variety of Ajania nubigena using GC/GC-MS and NMR found the following: a) one kg of the dried plant material contained 0.7% w/w EO; b) 44 of the 53 GC-FID peaks of the EO were identified with (3 R,6 R)-linalool oxide acetate (75.8 %) as the major constituent (chemotype II) and chamazulene as a new sub-chemotype; c) purification of the EO furnished ( 3R, 6R)-linalool oxide acetate (1), chamazulene (2), ( E)-2-(2,4-hexadiynylidene)-1,6-dioxaspiro[4,4]non-3-ene (3), and ( Z)-2-(2,4-hexadinylidene)-1,6-dioxaspiro[4,4]non-3-ene (4); d) from the crude MeOH extract, four flavonoid compounds: 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-1-one (5), oxyanin B (6), luteolin (7) (major) and the luteolin-7- O-β-D-glucoside (8) were isolated; e) among the EO and pure compounds tested for biological activities, compound 7 exhibited a broad range of moderate antiplasmodial, cytoxicity and antimicrobial activities; c) compound 8 showed significant in vitro antiplasmodial activity against P. falciparum strains TM4/8.2 and K1CB1 (multidrug resistant strain) and was identified as a potential antimalarial scaffold; and f) the in vitro antimicrobial and cytotoxicity activities were in alignment with the traditional medical uses of this plant and thus substantiate its use in Bhutanese traditional medicine.
Characterization and Bioactivity of Essential Oils from Geijera parviflora (Rutaceae): A Native Bush Medicine from Australia
Authors: Sadgrove Nicholas J. , Jones Graham L.
Published: March 2019

Essential oil was hydrodistilled from the Australian Wilga, botanically named G. parviflora Lindl., (Rutaceae). Fresh and aged essential oils were characterized using GC-MS, quantified using GC-FID and screened for bacterial inhibition qualitatively using disc diffusion and quantitatively using micro-titer plate broth dilution. To identify components responsible for bacterial inhibition, TLC-bioautography was used. Free radical scavenging capacity was determined using diphenylpicrylhydrazyl in methanol, and solvent extracts of the leaves using light petroleum, acetone and water were screened for qualitative pharmacological properties, as well as extracts produced by smoking the leaves and channeling into a condenser. Results showed that all essential oils extracted here conform broadly in composition to a previous identified chemotype with α-pinene, camphene and sabinene as the main constituents. As the essential oils age, polymerization of peroxide intermediates produced epoxycaryophyllene in at least one of our samples. The fresh oil showed only a modest level of antibacterial activity, but this became pronounced as the oil aged in storage, which resulted from a chemical change in the oil during years of storage at 4°C. Bioautography revealed that the antimicrobial capacity of the fresh oil may be attributed to its less abundant constituents, mainly α-terpineol, terpinen-4-ol, spathulenol, 1,8-cineole and camphor. The solvent extracts of the leaves revealed the presence of saponins, triterpenoids and alkaloids. The last two of these were also present in the smoke extract.
Synthesis and Insecticidal Activities of Novel Derivatives of 1β,4α,6α,9α-Tetrahydroxy-2β,12-epoxymethano-β-dihydroagarofuran
Authors: Zhang Jiwen , Hu Zhan , Li Shengkun , Yang Shuding , Wu Wenjun
Published: March 2019

In order to develop novel biorational pesticides, twelve new ether derivatives of 1β,4α,6α,9α-tetrahydroxy-2β,12-epoxymethano-β-dihydroagarofuran (3) were synthesized. The structure of the important intermediate 3 was confirmed by X-ray crystallography, and the new derivatives (3.1–3.12) were elucidated by IR, 1H NMR, 13 C NMR and 2D NMR spectroscopic and ESI-MS analysis. Insecticidal activities of these derivatives were tested against the third-instar larvae of Mythimna separata. Though most of the derivatives (3.1–3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 3.9–3.12) revealed no obvious activities at the concentration of 10 mg/mL –1, two compounds 3.5 and 3.7, with KD50 values of 12.9 (μg/g-1 and 7.8 μg/g –1, respectively, showed much higher insecticidal activities than celangulin-V, with a KD50 of 321.4 μg·g–1, the main insecticidal component from the root bark of Chinese bittersweet, Celastrus angulatus Max. The results showed that β-dihydroagarofuran has the potential to be a lead structure for semi-synthetic green insecticides.
Synthesis and Mass Spectral Fragmentation Patterns of Brassinolide Early Biosynthetic Precursors Labeled at C-26
Authors: Khripach Vladimir A. , Tarkowská Danuše , Zhabinskii Vladimir N. , Gulyakevich Olga V. , Ermolovich Yurii V. , Drašar Pavel , Strnad Miroslav
Published: March 2019

New analogues of brassinolide biosynthetic precursors with three deuterium atoms at non-exchangeable positions have been synthesized to be used as standards for quantification of natural brassinosteroids by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. [26-2H3](22 R,23 R,24 S)-22,23-Dihydroxy-6β-methoxy-24-methyl-3α,5-cyclo-5α-cholestane was used as a starting material for the preparation of campestane derivatives having a 22 R,23 R-diol functionality and either a hydroxy or keto group at C-3 and labeled at C-26. The mass spectrometric behavior of the newly synthesized compounds has been studied.
Two New Morphinandienone Alkaloids from Croton micradenus
Authors: Payo-Hill Armando L. , Sandoval-López Daysi , Vélez-Castro Hermán T. , Spengler-Salabarría Iraida , Rastrelli Luca
Published: March 2019

Two new 8,14-dihydromorphinandienone alkaloids were isolated from the dried leaves of Croton micradenus. Spectroscopic analysis established their structures as trans B/C-4-hydroxy-3,6-dimethoxy-5,6-didehydromorphinan-7-one and cis B/C-4-hydroxy-3,6-dimethoxy-5,6-didehydromorphinan-7-one to which we have given the name of norocobotrine and nildahilline.
Antioxidant Activity and Mechanism of Tetrahydroamentoflavone in vitro
Authors: Li Xican , Han Weijuan , Mai Wenqiong , Wang Li
Published: March 2019

(2 S,2″ S)-Tetrahydroamentoflavone (THA) is a typical biflavonoid. In this study, we systematically evaluated its antioxidant activity by various antioxidant assays in vitro. The IC50 values of THA were 4.8±0.3, 743.2±49.5, 35.5±1.9, 165.7±22.8, 4.4±0.2, and 77.1±2.2 μg/mL, respectively, for superoxide (•O2-) radical-scavenging, Fe2+-chelating, Cu2+-chelating, DPPH• (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical) scavenging, ABTS•+ (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical) scavenging, and Cu2+-reducing power. The average ratio value of IC50, Trolox:IC50, THA was calculated as 2.54, suggesting that THA possesses 2.54 times the total antioxidant level than the standard antioxidant Trolox. THA exerts its antioxidant activity in vitro through metal-chelating, and radical-scavenging, which is via donating a hydrogen atom (H•) and an electron (e). Its antioxidant activity can be responsible for its pharmacological effect and make it an attractive natural antioxidant.
Blue Mood for Superfood
Authors: Taulavuori Kari , Julkunen-Tiitto Riitta , Hyöky Valtteri , Taulavuori Erja
Published: March 2019

The term superfood refers to food with high levels of either nutrient or bioactive phytochemicals with human health benefits. Phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds in plants that provide their color, flavor and odor. Phenolic compounds form the major constituents of phytochemicals. Plant traits in phytochemical production are tightly bound with the genome while modified markedly by the environmental conditions. Here, we studied the effect of supplemented blue light on the production of several phenolics in the leaves of tomato, basil and parsley, which are widely cultivated food plant species. The results indicated doubled or higher increases in the accumulation of several species-specific phenolic acids or flavonoids. In conclusion, we showed for the first time, that supplemented blue light results in high yield improvement of phytochemicals related to superfood products.
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors from Croton sylvaticus Ethyl Acetate Leaf Extract and their Mutagenic Effects
Authors: Aderogba Mutalib A. , Ndhlala Ashwell R. , Van Staden Johannes
Published: March 2019

Croton sylvaticus is a medicinal plant widely employed in the management of inflammatory conditions, infections and oxidative stress related diseases such as insomnia, abdominal and internal inflammations. The activities demonstrated by the plant extracts support that its constituents possess the ability to reduce oxidative damage to body cells. Repeated column fractionation of the ethyl acetate fraction of a 20% aqueous methanol leaf extract using acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity directed on Sephadex LH-20 afforded three compounds identified by mass spectrometry, and 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy as: 2′-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl)-ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate (1), 3, 3′, 4′, 5, 7-pentahydroxyflavone (quercetin) (2), and 3, 4′, 5, 7-tetrahydroxyflavone (kaempferol) (3). These compounds are reported from the leaf extracts of C. sylvaticus for the first time and compound 1 is a new natural product. The microplate technique was used to determine the inhibitory effects of the plant extracts (crude and solvent fractions) and isolated compounds against AChE. The IC50 values of the compounds ranged from 60.7 to 415.0 μg/mL, with compound 2 having the best inhibitory activity; the IC50 values of the plant crude extract and solvent fractions ranged from 235.0 to 4695.0 μg/mL. The ethyl acetate fraction had the best inhibitory activity (IC50=235.0 μg/mL). The three compounds showed no mutagenic effects against Salmonella typhimurium tester strains TA98 and TA100. The activity demonstrated by these compounds suggests that they could be effective in the management of neurodegenerative disorders.
Antifilarial Activity of Constituents of Calophyllum inophyllum and their Derivatives
Authors: Jankiprasad  , Naresh Gunaganti , Gupta Jyoti , Bhattacharya Shailja M. , Rajendran Siron M. , Awasthi Shailendra K. , Narender Tadigoppula
Published: March 2019

Elephantiasis is a classic sign of late-stage lymphatic filariasis. Although the infection can be treated with drugs, the chronic conditions may not be curable by currently available antifilarial drugs. In continuation of our drug discovery program, we identified potent antifilarial activity in a calophyllic acid and isocalophllic acid mixture, which was isolated from the leaves of Calophyllum inophyllum. The mixture inhibited the motility of adult Brugia malayi worms and microfilariae stage parasites at a concentration of 15.6 μg/mL with an IC50 of 2.1 and 5.5 μg/mL, respectively, in in vitro studies. The diastereomeric mixture also exhibited moderate in vivo antifilarial activity in the jird ( Meriones unguiculatus) model. A few derivatives of calophyllic acid and isocalophyllic acid were prepared and one of the amide derivatives turned out to be the most promising compound against the adult (MIC: 3.9 and IC50: 0.32 μg/mL) and microfilariae stage (MIC:1.9 and IC50: 0.26 μg/mL) parasites with a high selectivity index. The amide derivative has superior activity than the parent natural product, as well as the standard antifilarial drug, ivermectin.
Two New Lignans from the Wood of Cunninghamia konishii
Authors: Chang Chi-I , Li Yen-Cheng , Kuo Ching-Chuan , Chao Che-Yi , Chang Hsun-Shuo , Wu Jyh-Horng , Wang Sheng-Yang , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: March 2019

Two new lignans, (8 S,8′ S)-4,3′-dihydroxy-3,4′,5′-trimethoxylignan-9′,9-olide (1) and trans–4′,8,8′-trihydroxy-3′-methoxy-3,4-methylenedioxylignan-9′,9-olide (2), were isolated from the wood of Cunninghamia konishii. Their structures were determined by analysis of spectroscopic data.
Biological Studies of Turmeric Oil, Part 1: Selective in vitro Anticancer Activity of Turmeric Oil (TO) and TO-Paclitaxel Combination
Authors: Jacob James N. , Toloue Masoud
Published: March 2019

The oil from turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains several sesquiterpenes with medicinal properties. The oil fractions were purified by repeated high vacuum distillations to constant boiling points and by column chromatography. The major components in the oil fractions were identified as α,β and ar-turmerones. The purified turmeric oil (TO) fractions had growth inhibitory activity against breast (SKBR-3), pancreatic (PANC-1), and prostate (PC-3) cancers, and reduced activity against a non-cancerous cell line, WI-38. A combination of the distillation fraction of turmeric oil and paclitaxel showed substantial increase in growth inhibitory activity against the three cancer cell lines compared with paclitaxel alone, while having reduced activity against the non-cancerous cell line. Percent inhibition may be related to the structural parameters of the turmerones. These results suggest that components in turmeric oil fractions have anticancer activity against breast, pancreatic and prostate cancer and a strong positive effect on the activity of paclitaxel.
Biological Studies of Turmeric Oil, Part 2: Isolation and Characterization of Turmeric Oil Components; Cytotoxic Activity against Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Yan Wudan , Bowen Wayne D. , Hopson Russell , Mathew Abraham E. , Jacob James N.
Published: March 2019

The current study is directed at identifying compounds that have biological activity in the less studied oil fraction of Curcuma longa (turmeric) to treat pancreatic cancer, which has no good treatment options. Fractional distillation and chromatographic separation of turmeric oil (TO) gave column fractions (CF) having biological activity against the PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell line, with an EC50 in the range of 23 to 33 μg/mL. These fractions were analyzed by NMR and GCMS and found to contain the sesquiterpenes, ar-curcumene, 7-epi-zingiberene, β-sesquiphellandrene, curlone, α-turmerone, β-turmerone and ar-turmerone. The ability of TO components to induce cell death was independent of caspase activity. Potency was higher at lower cell density and was reduced by increasing serum concentration, the latter indicating serum binding of active components.
Ushikulide C, a New Immunosuppressant from Streptomyces sp. IUK-102
Authors: Takahashi Kosaku , Fukushi Eri , Kawabata Jun , Matsuura Hideyuki , Kurosawa Kazuhiko
Published: March 2019

Ushikulide C (1), a new immunosuppressant, was isolated from the culture broth of Streptomyces sp. IUK-102. The structure of 1 is a new 22-membered macrolide that is related to ushikulides A (2) and B (3). The immunosuppressive activity of 1 on murine splenocyte proliferation in vitro was comparable with those of 2 and 3.
Aconitamide, a Novel Alkaloid from the Roots of Aconitum carmichaeli
Authors: Lee Tzong-Huei , Chen Yu-Chang , Lee Ching-Kuo , Chang Hsun-Shuo , Kuo Ching-Chuan , Chao Che-Yi , Lin Jing-Jer , Lo Lee-Chiang , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: March 2019

Aconitum carmichaeli Debx. is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly employed for curing a wide array of diseases in East Asia. From the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanolic extracts of A carmichaeli, a new alkaloid, aconitamide (1), along with eighteen known compounds 2–19 were isolated by column chromatography and identified on the basis of spectroscopic analyses. The anti-telomerase activity of 1–19 was also assessed, but no activity was found, even at a concentration higher than 30 μM.
The Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activities of the Essential Oils from Three Aframomum Species from Cameroon, and Their Potential as Sources of (E)-(R)-Nerolidol
Authors: Nguikwie Sylvie Kwanga , Nyegue Maximilienne A. , Belinga Florentine Ndoye-Foe , Ngane Rosalie A. Ngono , Romestand Bernard , Kouzayha Achraf , Casabianca Hervé , Zollo Paul H. Amvam , Menut Chantal
Published: March 2019

Essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation of seeds, pericarps, leaves and rhizomes of Aframomum dalzielii, A letestuianum and A. pruinosum grown in Cameroon were analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The seed oils of the three species were characterized by a high content of ( E)-( R)-nerolidol (>88.0 %), which was fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy and chiral GC analysis. The main constituents of the pericarp and rhizome oils were monoterpene hydrocarbons, mainly β-pinene (0.8%–22.9%) and sabinene (29.0%–42.3%), along with 1,8-cineole (4.5%–23.7%); leaf oils were characterized by sesquiterpenes, namely ( E)-β-caryophyllene (18.4%–82.4%) and caryophyllene oxide (4.5%–23.7%). The antibacterial activities of these essential oils and of nine pure compounds (sabinene, β-pinene, 1,8-cineole, linalool, racemic ( E)-nerolidol, ( E)-( R)-nerolidol, ( E)-β-caryophyllene, α-humulene and caryophyllene oxide) were assessed against Micrococcus luteus and Escherichia coli. The strongest activities were observed against E. coli. The seed essential oils and their major component, ( E)-( R)-nerolidol, exhibited the lowest MIC values (0.19-0.39 μL/mL), justifying their traditional use and their potential application as natural food preservatives.
Synthesis of Sterically-Crowded Olefins, gem-Dihaloalkenes, Butatrienes, and Thioketenes through the Reaction of Substituted Bornane-2-thiones or Bornane-2-selones with Conventional Carbenes or Metal Carbenoids
Authors: Shimada Kazuaki , Sasaki Jun , Kishi Anna , Aoyagi Shigenobu , Takikawa Yuji
Published: March 2019

Reaction of highly-substituted bornane-2-selones with a diazoalkane in the presence of either Rh2(OAc)4 or CuCl formed sterically-crowded exo-methylenic products, and similar treatment of the thiones or selones with dihalocarbenes or a propadienylidene carbene also formed dihaloalkenes, butatrienes, and thioketenes. All these reactions were assumed to proceed through a pathway involving the in situ formation and subsequent ring closure of chalcogenocarbonyl ylides.