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Genus Plantago of Plantaginaceae family is bestowed with a repertoire of structurally diverse secondary metabolites that have not only been used as therapeutics but also effect the plant physiology by conferring adaptive advantages under stress. Assuming that domestication process in plants has influenced their secondary metabolites, we performed a comparative transcriptome of wild and cultivated species of Plantago to analyze the variation in the expression of genes related to secondary metabolite pathways. GO and KEGG analysis of DEGs in wild species showed their enrichment in abiotic stresses, oxidation–reduction and secondary metabolite related pathways. Overall, we found upregulation of genes of carotenoid, flavonoid and phenylpropanoid, isoprenoid, terpenoid and alkaloid pathways in wild species of Plantago in particular, P. lanceolata while mucilage pathway-related genes showed higher expression in P. ovata. Moreover, transcriptome data presented putative transcription factors associated with terpenoids, carotenoid and phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathways which were also identified using co-expression analysis of cluster 9 (secondary metabolite enriched gene cluster). Taken together, the genomic resource obtained from the present study form a valuable repository of genetic information for elucidating and exploring the secondary metabolic circuitry of Plantagos. Further, information on the regulatory aspects of genes related to secondary metabolites, shall aid in the enhanced production of valuable metabolites in these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to produce and characterize a novel gluten‐free cupcake for celiac and diabetes people. For this purpose, wheat flour and sugar in the cupcake formulation were fully replaced with soy flour and monk fruit. Also, samples containing wheat flour with sugar and monk fruit were prepared for comparison. The gluten‐free cupcake without sucrose had a less specific volume and porosity index. To improve these properties, Cydonia oblonga (Cydonia Vulgaris) and Plantago ovata (Plantago genus) were used individually and in combination at concentrations of 1 and 2%. The cake containing no gum was made as a control as well. It was observed that addition of gums had positive effects on the specific volume, porosity index, and weight loss of cakes, but their incorporation increased their hardness. Based on the results, the fabrication of a novel and successful gluten‐free cupcake replaced with soy flour, monk fruit, and gum is possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for humans, but its deficiency as well as toxicity affects large number of people worldwide. Plantago ovata, a commercially important medicinal plant, is mainly cultivated in western regions of India, where elevated levels of Se have been found in soil. Thus, we evaluated the potential of Se biofortification in P. ovata via phytoremediation and its effect on the bioactive composition. Results: The results showed a significant alteration in various morphological and physiological parameters in a dose-dependent manner. The 10 µM Se dose improved seedling height, biomass and total chlorophyll content. There was a gradual increase in total Se content, with highest accumulation of 457.65 µg/g FW at 500 µM Se treatment. Se positively affected the antioxidative metabolism which was measured from the change in total antioxidant capacity, radical scavenging activity and Metallothionein 2 expression. Increasing levels of Se also affected the PAL activity, total polyphenol and flavonoid content. Caffeic acid, Coumaric acid and Rutin were found to be the most abundant phenolic compounds. Conclusions: Low levels of selenium (below 50 µM) can successfully improve Se accumulation and elicit production of various polyphenols without hampering plant growth. Thus, Se fortification of P. ovata seedlings via phytoremediation appears to be a feasible and efficient way to enhance its nutraceutical value in dietary products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for humans, but its deficiency as well as toxicity affects large number of people worldwide. Plantago ovata, a commercially important medicinal plant, is mainly cultivated in western regions of India, where elevated levels of Se have been found in soil. Thus, we evaluated the potential of Se biofortification in P. ovata via phytoremediation and its effect on the bioactive composition. Results: The results showed a significant alteration in various morphological and physiological parameters in a dose-dependent manner. The 10 µM Se dose improved seedling height, biomass and total chlorophyll content. There was a gradual increase in total Se content, with highest accumulation of 457.65 µg/g FW at 500 µM Se treatment. Se positively affected the antioxidative metabolism which was measured from the change in total antioxidant capacity, radical scavenging activity and Metallothionein 2 expression. Increasing levels of Se also affected the PAL activity, total polyphenol and flavonoid content. Caffeic acid, Coumaric acid and Rutin were found to be the most abundant phenolic compounds. Conclusions: Low levels of selenium (below 50 µM) can successfully improve Se accumulation and elicit production of various polyphenols without hampering plant growth. Thus, Se fortification of P. ovata seedlings via phytoremediation appears to be a feasible and efficient way to enhance its nutraceutical value in dietary products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the treatment and management of infectious pathogens, many antimicrobial and antifungal substances were previously found from synthetic and natural sources. Numerous investigations have demonstrated that the compounds coumarins, flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids, tannins, essential oils, lectin, polypeptides, and polyacetylenes are present in medicinal plants. These bioactive chemicals serve as a foundation for the creation of antibiotics that are utilized to cure infectious illnesses. Allium sativum is being used traditionally since ages for many purposes. It is extensively used in numerous dishes throughout the world and due to its aromatic nature, as a fragrance and Plantago ovata is traditionally used for many therapeutic purposes; laxative anti-acidic stabliser, stomach soothing, diuretic; and it is also anticancerous. Nigela sativa is used for jaundice, paralysis, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistant syndrome, and high level of cholesterol, nerve tension problems; it stops hair fall and boost's immune system. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that almost all the plant extracts showed potential antibacterial, insecticidal and antifungal activities against different. The research has focused on the potential therapeutic efficacy of AliumSativum, NigelaSativa, and Plantago Ovata in the treatment of microbial infections due to their significant antibacterial activity. Additionally, Different fractions of the A. sativum, P. ovata, N. sativa were prepared anad analyzed for antibacterial, insecticidal and antifungal activities. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that almost all the plant extracts showed potential antibacterial, insecticidal and antifungal activities against different microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is one of the major abiotic factors that limit the growth and productivity of plants. Foliar application of plant growth regulators (PGRs) may help plants ameliorate the negative impacts of salinity. Thus, a field experiment was conducted at the Botanical Garden University of Balochistan, Quetta, to explore the potential role of PGRs, i.e., moringa leaf extract (MLE; 10%), proline (PRO; 1 µM), salicylic acid (SA; 250 µM), and thiourea (TU; 10 mM) in ameliorating the impacts of salinity (120 mM) on Plantago ovata, an important medicinal plant. Salinity hampered plant photosynthetic pigments and metabolites but elevated oxidative parameters. However, foliar application of PGRs enhanced photosynthetic pigments, including Chl b (21.11%), carotenoids (57.87%) except Chl a, activated the defense mechanisms by restoring and enhancing the metabolites, i.e., soluble sugars (49.68%), soluble phenolics (33.34%), and proline (31.47%), significantly under salinity stress. Furthermore, foliar supplementation of PGRs under salt stress led to a decrease of about 43.02% and 43.27% in hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde content, respectively. Thus, PGRs can be recommended for improved photosynthetic efficiency and metabolite content that can help to get better yield under salt stress, with the best and most effective treatments being those of PRO and MLE to predominately ameliorate the harsh impacts of salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to characterize raw aqueous extracts from Plantago ovata husk in terms of molecular chain mass, osmotic, hydrodynamic, and rheological properties. The raw extracts used in this study have not been yet investigated in the indicated research area. Determination of the molecular weight of the chains present in the extract was performed by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Osmotic properties were characterized using membrane osmometry. Rheological properties were investigated via classical rotational rheology with normal force measurements, as well as less common but equally important measurements of extensional viscosity. Two types of chains with an average molecular mass of 200 and 1780 kDa were found. The values of the first virial coefficient (B2) indicate the predominance of biopolymer-biopolymer interactions. The hydrodynamic radius established at 25 and 30 °C was 74 and 67 nm, respectively, and lower than at 40 °C (>600 nm). The first critical concentration was determined: c * = 0.11   g · dL − 1 . The dominance of negative normal force values resulting from the formation of a pseudo-gel structure of the heteroxylates was demonstrated. Extensional viscosity measurement results revealed that the studied extracts cannot be treated as simple shear-thinning fluids, as indicated by shear flow, but should be considered as viscoelastic fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low restoration success in degraded drylands has promoted research efforts towards recovery of pioneer components of these ecosystems such as biocrusts. Biocrusts can stabilize soils and improve nutrient cycling to assist vegetation establishment, but their natural recovery following a disturbance may be very slow. Soil inoculation with biocrust-forming components such as cyanobacteria is widely spread to foster biocrust formation. However, the growth of induced biocrust can be constrained under field conditions due to the harsh environmental conditions in drylands. Thus, strategies to reduce abiotic stresses have to be explored to improve cyanobacteria survival and growth. In this study, we performed an outdoor experiment to analyze the effect of plant-based ameliorating strategies in combination with cyanobacteria inoculum on biocrust formation and improvement of degraded arid soil properties. These ameliorants consisted of a plant mesh made of Macrochloa tenacissima and a Plantago ovata -based stabilizer. Application of ameliorating treatments improved cyanobacteria growth (higher chlorophyll a content, lower albedo and higher NDVI) compared to the application of cyanobacteria inoculum alone. Inoculated soils showed higher aggregate stability than non-inoculated ones, but the highest soil stability was found in the soils treated with P. ovata and was also significantly increased in the soils covered by the M. tenacissima mesh compared to uncovered soils. Both the mesh and the P. ovata stabilizer increased soil organic carbon content by up to 10% and 172%, respectively, compared to soils without habitat amelioration. Microbial community composition was similar between control and inoculated soils and between the mesh covered and uncovered soils, indicating that neither cyanobacteria inoculation nor the vegetal mesh had negative effects on the native soil community. In contrast, the soil with the P. ovata stabilizer alone displayed a different composition, with up to 95% of the bacteria's relative abundance represented by Firmicutes. This effect needs to be considered when applying this stabilizer to prevent a potential alteration of the indigenous soil microbial community. This study indicates the viability of using plant-based ameliorating strategies to optimize the establishment and growth of cyanobacteria inoculum and maximize their effects on soil properties, thus contributing to advancing in the application of nature-based solutions for the restoration of degraded dryland ecosystems. • Plant-based habitat amelioration increased inoculum survival and colonization. • Soil community composition was not altered by cyanobacteria inoculation. • P. ovata stabilizer increased SOC and stability but altered microbial community. • Cyanobacteria inoculation combined with habitat amelioration assist soil restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantago ovata Forssk. is an emerging crop yielding psyllium husk, a material comprised of hydrophilic polysaccharides that form mucilage upon wetting. Psyllium husk has important industrial uses including as a dietary fibre supplement and a textural alternative in gluten‐free bread production. Industrial applications require high‐quality and purity psyllium husk, but consistent supply of uniform quality material is often limited by climatic constraints, especially unseasonable rainfall at crop maturity. Here we compared the seed quality of four P. ovata varieties harvested before and after 26 mm of rain and validated our key findings in the following season. Colourimetry showed that the rain event caused the seeds to be darker and greener, possibly from pigment oxidation and microbial growth. Sugar profiling, water absorption assays and microscopy showed that premature hydration of the husk in rain‐damaged samples caused loss of the most soluble mucilage components and an increase in non‐mucilage contaminants, leading to a reduction in seed water absorption capacity, which is a key indicator of psyllium husk functionality. Germination was also diminished in rain‐affected seeds. In this study we show for the first time the extent that unseasonable rain at maturity has on P. ovata seed quality. We suggest that rain‐damaged seeds are unsuitable for husk production and resowing and outline potential screening methods to identify rain‐damaged seeds before purchase. Additionally, the extensive quality impacts described here may make P. ovata a suitable model or indicator species for studying acute climate effects on seed quality, especially from rain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a xenobiotic chemical that eventually is used as an experimental model for investigating the ameliorative activity of medicinal plants. Plantago ovata husk is rich in bioactive antioxidant compounds and different metabolites such as polyphenols, fatty acids, amino acids, and flavonoids therefore, Plantago ovata husk can be used for the treatment of liver diseases. A total of thirty white Albino rats were used, at a weight of about (144-176 g). Rats were divided into five groups (6 rats/group): (Control group) received nothing. (Oil-treated group) was given olive oil. (CCl4-treated group) was given CCl4. (PS-CCl4 treated group) was given daily PSH for six weeks and CCl4 for 4 weeks. (CCl4-PS treated group) was given CCl4 and then given daily PSH. All Groups were anaesthetized and sacrificed. White blood cells (WBCs), Red blood cell count (RBCs), Hematocrit (HCT) and Hemoglobin (Hb) concentration were determined. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (ALT) level, bilirubin and total protein were estimated as well as glycogen content in the liver. The CCl4 induced a significant reduction in red blood cell count, hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration than control and a significant increase in white blood cells. Moreover, liver enzymes, bilirubin and total protein were significantly increased in the CCl4-treated group than in the control. In general, the Treatment of rats with Psyllium husk powder induced a marked degree of improvement in hematological parameters and a marked increase in glycogen content. Moreover, serum levels of ALT, AST, bilirubin, and total protein were decreased. The present study aimed to investigate the possible protective and therapeutic effect of Psyllium husk (PSH) on Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4) induced toxicity in albino male rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantagos are important economical and medicinal plants that possess several bioactive secondary metabolites, such as phenolics, iridoids, triterpenes, and alkaloids. Triterpenoids are the ubiquitous and dynamic secondary metabolites that are deployed by plants for chemical interactions and protection under biotic/abiotic stress. Plantago ovata, a cultivated species, is the source of psyllium, while Plantago major, a wild species, has significant therapeutic potential. Wild species are considered more tolerant to stressful conditions in comparison to their cultivated allies. In view of this, the present study aimed to decipher the terpenoid biosynthetic pathway operative in P. ovata and P. major using a comparative transcriptomics approach. Majority of terpenoid biosynthetic genes were observed as upregulated in P. major including rate limiting genes of MVA (HMGR) and MEP (DXR) pathways and genes (α-AS, BAS, SM, and CYP716) involved in ursolic acid biosynthesis, an important triterpenoid prevalent in Plantago species. The HPLC output further confirmed the higher concentration of ursolic acid in P. major as compared to P. ovata leaf samples, respectively. In addition to terpenoid biosynthesis, KEGG annotation revealed the involvement of differentially expressed unigenes in several metabolic pathways, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, biosynthesis of antibiotics, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. MYB was found as the most abundant transcription factor family in Plantago transcriptome. We have been able to generate valuable information which can help in improving terpenoid production in Plantago. Additionally, the present study has laid a strong foundation for deciphering other important metabolic pathways in Plantago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Plantago ovata is a medicinal plant, rich in fibre. Its seed-husk (psyllium) is used to control constipation, obesity, diabetes and cholesterol levels etc. In the presented study, it was incorporated into poultry meat formulations and the quality parameters of the cooked samples were tested. Materials and methods. Ground thigh meat from chicken was mixed with water and powdered Plantago ovata husk. The amount of water and husk ranged between 0-40% and 0-3%, respectively. The proximate composition of raw batters and cooked samples was tested. Production yields were calculated after cooking the samples in a water bath. Water activity, texture and colour parameters were analysed in the cooked samples. Results. Fat content was lower in the samples with higher water addition. Water activity was lower in the samples with psyllium, but increased in the case of the highest water addition. Production yields were the highest while hardness was the lowest in the sample with both 3% of Plantago ovata husk and 40% of water. Lightness decreased when psyllium was added while redness decreased with both psyllium and water addition. Conclusion. The formulation with 40% of water and 3% of psyllium was chosen as the best, due to high production yields. Further tests should be conducted to test microbiological stability, shelf-life and consumer acceptance of products manufactured according to the abovementioned parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantago ovata (Plantaginaceae) is an economically and medicinally important species, however, least is known about its genomics and evolution. Here, we report the first complete plastome genome of P. ovata and comparison with previously published genomes of related species from Plantaginaceae. The results revealed that P. ovata plastome size was 162,116 bp and that it had typical quadripartite structure containing a large single copy region of 82,084 bp and small single copy region of 5,272 bp. The genome has a markedly higher inverted repeat (IR) size of 37.4 kb, suggesting large-scale inversion of 13.8 kb within the expanded IR regions. In addition, the P. ovata plastome contains 149 different genes, including 43 tRNA, 8 rRNA, and 98 protein-coding genes. The analysis revealed 139 microsatellites, of which 71 were in the non-coding regions. Approximately 32 forward, 34 tandem, and 17 palindromic repeats were detected. The complete genome sequences, 72 shared genes, matK gene, and rbcL gene from related species generated the same phylogenetic signals, and phylogenetic analysis revealed that P. ovata formed a single clade with P. maritima and P. media. The divergence time estimation as employed in BEAST revealed that P. ovata diverged from P. maritima and P. media about 11.0 million years ago (Mya; 95% highest posterior density, 10.06–12.25 Mya). In conclusion, P. ovata had significant variation in the IR region, suggesting a more stable P. ovata plastome genome than that of other Plantaginaceae species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myxospermy is a process by which the external surfaces of seeds of many plant species produce mucilage—a polysaccharide-rich gel with numerous fundamental research and industrial applications. Due to its functional properties the mucilage can be difficult to remove from the seed and established methods for mucilage extraction are often incomplete, time-consuming and unnecessarily wasteful of precious seed stocks. Results: Here we tested the efficacy of several established protocols for seed mucilage extraction and then downsized and adapted the most effective elements into a rapid, small-scale extraction and analysis pipeline. Within 4 h, three chemically- and functionally-distinct mucilage fractions were obtained from myxospermous seeds. These fractions were used to study natural variation and demonstrate structure–function links, to screen for known mucilage quality markers in a field trial, and to identify research and industry-relevant lines from a large mutant population. Conclusion: The use of this pipeline allows rapid analysis of mucilage characteristics from diverse myxospermous germplasm which can contribute to fundamental research into mucilage production and properties, quality testing for industrial manufacturing, and progressing breeding efforts in myxospermous crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry eye disease is a relatively common eye disorder associated with decrease in quality of life. In this study, efficacy of an eye drop of Plantago ovata mucilage on symptoms of dry eye disease was evaluated. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, sixty dry eye patients with ocular symptoms and total Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score of ≥12 were randomly assigned to receive either a natural ophthalmic drop, made of Plantago ovata mucilage or placebo 4 times a day for 6 weeks. The patients were evaluated at pretreatment (baseline), weeks 4 and 6 post-treatment. The evaluation of the efficacy and safety were conducted based on the OSDI questionnaire, the noninvasive tear film break-up time (NI-BUT) with keratograph, the Schirmer test without anesthesia, and the osmolarity test, as well as by monitoring possible adverse events. After 6 weeks, within group analysis showed a significant improvement in total OSDI score (p < 0.001). In addition, between group comparison revealed a significant improvement in the OSDI score of the intervention group (p < 0.001). Although, NI-BUT was significantly improved in the Plantago ovata group (p = 0.004), however no statistically significant difference was observed in between group analysis. There were no significant differences between two groups, or significant changes within the groups in the Schirmer test without anesthesia and the osmolarity test. No serious adverse events were reported. In conclusion, P. ovata mucilage is a natural, inexpensiveness, and safe lubricant polymer that could have beneficial ocular effects on subjective symptoms of the patients with dry eye disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantago ovata (Plantaginaceae) is a medicinal plant cultivated extensively in Western Asia for seed husk known as blonde Psyllium or Isabgol. We used ISSR molecular markers to investigate the population genetic structure and genetic divergence within P. ovata populations. We identified P. ovata variety as var. decumbens based on the morphological data. WARD tree and PCoA plot produced similar results on morphological data. AMOVA revealed a significant genetic differentiation among the studied populations. STRUCTURE analyses showed some degree of gene flow among the studied populations. NJ tree and PCoA plot of ISSR data revealed that there are at least three genetic groups within the studied populations. Though the studied populations in P. ovata are genetically differentiated, there are not qualitative morphological features for differentiating among theirs. Therefore, we consider them as ecotypes within P. ovata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Multi-scale assembly of mucilage hydrogels from Plantago ovata seed is studied. • A combination of small angle scattering and rheological techniques is used. • Molecular structure and gel network are evaluated in non-gelled and gelled states. • Hydrogen bonding contributes to gelation and distinct gel properties. Abstract The structures of two hydrogels formed by purified brush-like polysaccharides from Plantago ovata seed mucilage have been characterised from the nanometre to micrometre scale by using a combination of SANS and USANS techniques. These two hydrogels have distinctly different melting and rheological properties, but the structure of their gel networks bears striking similarity as revealed by USANS/SANS experiments. Surprisingly, we find that the dramatic changes in the rheological properties induced by temperature or change in the solvent quality are accompanied by a small alteration of the network structure as inferred from scattering curves recorded above melting or in a chaotropic solvent (0.7 M KOD). These results suggest that, in contrast to most gel-forming polysaccharides for which gelation depends on a structural transition, the rheological properties of Plantago ovata mucilage gels are dependent on variations in intermolecular hydrogen bonding. By enzymatically cleaving off terminal arabinose residues from the side chains, we have demonstrated that composition of side-chains has a strong effect on intermolecular interactions, which, in turn, has a profound effect on rheological and structural properties of these unique polysaccharides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Expression pattern of the phenylpropanoid-flavonoid pathway genes was studied for the first time in Plantago ovata. • Methanolic leaf extract of P. ovata (PL) has high total flavonoid and phenol content and high antioxidant potential. • Besides, the traditional use of mucilage of P. ovata , present study has revealed it as a possible new source of natural antioxidants. Abstract Flavonoids are the most widespread secondary metabolites in plants, which are synthesized through the phenylpropanoid pathway. These are known to possess various types of health promoting activities. Plantago ovata , a medicinally important plant has not been explored much in terms of its antioxidant potential. In the present study, the expression pattern of genes of the phenylpropanoid-flavonoid biosynthetic pathway in P. ovata was studied in detail for the first time. These genes showed expression in both the tissues under study (leaf and ovary). In addition, the in vitro radical scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity, and reducing power ability of the plant extracts were also assessed. The experiments revealed that the leaf extract of P. ovata had higher antioxidant activity than that of the husk extract, which also correlated with their total phenolics and flavonoid content. The flavonoid and phenolics content of the leaf extract was observed to be 320.9 ± 0.052 mg Rutin/g dry wt. and 43.8 ± 0.092 mg GAE/g dry wt., respectively. The results of this study suggest that the methanolic extract of P. ovata leaf is a source of natural compounds with significant antioxidant activity. It also presented P. ovata as a possible new source of natural antioxidants which can be further explored as a therapeutic agent in the free radical induced diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • 1A symmetric karyotype of P. psyllium (2n = 12) demonstrates it as a primitive species. • P. ovata belongs to 2A karyotype classification and it prone to genetic diversity. • P. ovata accumulates higher seed mass and mucilage as compared with P. psyllium. • Early maturity of P. ovata helps it to escape summer drought in dry land areas. • Mucilage content was higher in natural habitats than in experimental field trials. Abstract Plantago ovata and P. psyllium are of the most abundant and widely distributed Plantago species in the world. World-wide, it is an important and growing industrial and medicinal crop for dry land agriculture. In spite of this, basic characterization for economically important traits of these species is lacking for many accessions. In particular, there are gaps in our knowledge about accession identity and ploidy levels and the effects of agronomic practices of yield. This study is aimed at determining mitotic chromosome number, karyotype characteristics, morphological and mucilage character variation of wild accessions of Plantago species collected from a wide geographic range in Iran. Chromosome numbers were determined by a modification of conventional root tip squash method and karyotypes were digitally analysed. Morphological characters were evaluated under experimental field condition. Three replications of morphological and mucilage characters were also measured in the wild in situ natural habitats. The analysis of the karyotype indices showed that all P. ovata accessions were diploid (2n = 8) with small, homogeneous chromosomes. Likewise, P. psyllium accessions were diploid (2n = 12) and had symmetrical karyotype demonstrating P. psyllium as a primitive species. Results showed significant differences in accessions and environments with respect to seed yield, thousand grain weight, mucilage yield, mucilage content, days to flowering and plant height. P. ovata accumulated higher mucilage than P. psyllium. Mucilage content was higher in samples collected from natural habitats compared with those grown under experimental field conditions whereas mucilage yield was lower under field evaluation in natural habitats. Genotype by environment analysis revealed that the most stable accessions were G2 (P. ovata) and G6, G7 and G8 (P. psyllium) for seed yield, and G2 and G4 (P. ovata) and G8 (P. psyllium) for mucilage content, G4 (P. ovata) and all P. psyllium for grain weight. All accessions tested showed stability for mucilage yield, flowering stalk height and days to flowering. The outcome of karyotype analysis and field evaluations in this study provides information important to Plantago breeders focused on crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two gel-forming arabinoxylan (AX) fractions with very similar linkage composition and molecular weight distributions have been isolated from Plantago ovata seed mucilage. Both isolated fractions have distinct gel properties attributed to differences in intermolecular hydrogen bonding. This study probes the effect of hydrogen bonding on molecular interactions of P. ovata AX fractions under non-gelled conditions achieved using a mild hydrogen bonding inhibitor, 0.2 M KOH. Chain conformation, relaxation dynamics and interactions between AX molecules are investigated using a combination of rheological techniques and small angle X-ray and neutron scattering. The scattering data confirm similar molecular dimensions and chain rigidity for both fractions, while showing distinct patterns of molecular interactions which result in the formation of a self-associated polymer network. The relationship between molecular associations, chain relaxation time and entanglement behaviour of P. ovata AX solutions are corroborated though the analysis of flow profiles and small amplitude oscillatory shear rheology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enteropathy associated with sand accumulation in the large colon of horses has been reported worldwide. Intestinal sand accumulations are commonly treated medically, but randomised controlled clinical trials on horses are scarce. This prospective study evaluated the efficacy of an enterally administered combination of psyllium and magnesium sulphate (MgSO 4 ) for the removal of large colonic sand accumulations in horses without clinical signs of acute colic. The two groups comprised 20 untreated control horses and 20 horses treated with 1 g/kg bodyweight (bwt) of psyllium and 1 g/kg bwt of MgSO 4 administered by nasogastric intubation once daily for 4 days. Both groups had no access to soil during the study period. The amounts of accumulated sand were evaluated radiographically before and after treatment. Significantly more treated horses cleared their sand accumulations than horses in the control group. This clearance was determined by observing the estimated quantity by area of sand remaining in the large colon ( P < 0.001) and by comparing the numbers of successfully treated horses ( P = 0.004) between the two groups after 4 days of treatment. However, there were unexplained individual variations in the clearance of sand accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work concerns structural investigation of water-extractable hemicelluloses from seed husk of Plantago ovata and seeds of Mimosa pudica and Lallemantia royleana. The composition of the materials was determined by CHN elemental analysis, FT-IR spectrometry and monosaccharide analysis. The detailed structural analysis was carried out by MALDI-ToF mass spectrometry. The absence of nitrogen in the materials suggested that they were free from proteins. The isolated materials were found to be branched hemicelluloses. The mass spectrometric study showed presence of β-1,4-linked xylose with arabinose attached to main chain at β-1,3 positions (Plantago ovata), β-1,4-linked xylose with glucose attached to main chain at β-1,3 positions (Mimosa pudica), and β-1,2-linked rhamnose and β-1,3-linked arabinose units in the main chain with arabinose attached to the main chain through β-1,3-linkage (Lallemantia royleana). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this experiment, the effect of dietary Plantago ovata (PO) on performance, carcass criteria, intestinal morphology, immunity, and intestinal bacterial population of broiler chickens was evaluated. A total of 250 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to five treatments containing 0, 5, 10, 15, or 20 g/kg of PO with five replicate pens and 10 birds in each replicate. Dietary PO increased body weight gain and decreased feed conversion ratio in the finisher period, improving the performance index ( p < .05). Dietary treatments had no effects on carcass criteria, but breast meat percentage showed an increasing trend with incremental levels of PO in the diet ( p = .069). The length of small intestine, especially jejunum section, as well as the villus height, villus width, villus area, and goblet cell numbers were significantly increased with supplemental PO ( p < .05). Humoral and cellular immunity parameters, and oxidation stability of meat were improved due to use of dietary PO ( p < .05). Dietary PO decreased the CFU of Escherichia coli, whereas the Lactobacilli population was increased ( p = .001). Broken-line regression revealed that dietary PO at the rate of 10 g/kg may results in the best performance in broiler chickens. This study showed that PO at the level of 10 g/kg could be considered as a beneficial feed additive in broiler diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty four accessions of Plantago ovata were grown to study existing variability, correlation and cause and effect relationships between yield and its component traits with their possible view in future improvement programmes. Analysis of variances displayed highly significant differences among accessions for all the traits. High heritability (>75%) coupled with the high genetic advance (>30%) were observed for the traits viz., leaf width, number of spikes/plant, biological yield/plant and seed yield/plant suggesting predominance of additive gene action. Seed yield/plant exhibited highly significant and positive correlation with biological yield/plant followed by number of spikes/plant, effective tillers/plant, harvest index, seed weight/spike, spike weight and husk recovery both at genotypic and phenotypic level. Biological yield/plant, harvest index, spike weight, effective tillers/plant and husk recovery exhibited the highest positive and significant direct effect on seed yield/plant. Critical analysis of results obtained from character association and path analysis indicated that the traits viz., biological yield/plant, harvest index, spike weight, effective tillers/plant and husk recovery were of prime concern as they possessed high positive association and direct effects on seed yield/plant. These traits are more reliable for selection for yield improvement programmes in Plantago ovata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucilages are hydrocolloid solutions produced by plants for a variety of functions, including the creation of a water-holding barrier around seeds. Here we report our discovery of the formation of three distinct mucilage layers around Plantago ovata seeds upon their hydration. Each layer is dominated by different arabinoxylans (AXs). These AXs are unusual because they are highly branched and contain β-1,3-linked xylose in their side chains. We show that these AXs have similar monosaccharide and linkage composition, but vary in their polymer conformation. They also exhibit distinct rheological properties in aqueous solution, despite analytical techniques including NMR showing little difference between them. Using enzymatic hydrolysis and chaotropic solvents, we reveal that hydrogen bonding and side chain distribution are key factors underpinning the distinct rheological properties of these complex AXs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psyllium plants were treated with different doses of lead (Pb) and different plant parts and seeds were analyzed. Iron (Fe) contents were found to be lower than the toxic level (Soil 2396.9, seeds 691.5, roots 1516.6, leaves 1384.5, husks 1226.1µmol kg-1 DW). The leaf Zn contents were above the critical level but lower than the toxic level (295.2 ± 16 µmol kg-1). Leaf manganese (Mn) and Cr levels in P. ovata plants fell within the critical range (232.6 and 0.1923 µmol kg-1 respectively). Lead in soil significantly correlated with Fe and Mn, but non-significantly with Zn and Cr in plants of P. ovata. The transfer ratios of Cr and Zn in plants without Pb treatment were lower as compared to plants treated with varying levels of Pb. P. ovata can grow in soils having lead concentration up to 4000 µmol and act as a hyper accumulator of lead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide from Plantago ovata was investigated for its inhibition characteristics for carbon steel corrosion in 1 M HCl. The mucilage of the Plantago is comprised of a highly branched polysaccharide, arabinosyl (galaturonic acid) rhamnosylxylan (AX), which is mainly responsible for the corrosion inhibition of the carbon steel. The techniques that were used to assess the inhibition and adsorption properties of the AX in the acid solution are gravimetric method, potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV–vis spectroscopy and FTIR. Thermodynamic and activation parameters revealed that the spontaneous adsorption of AX on carbon steel was mixed type and predominantly chemical in nature. Quantum chemical analysis supports the proposed mechanism of inhibition. AX from Plantago could serve as a green corrosion inhibitor for the carbon steel in hydrochloric medium with good inhibition efficiency but low risk of environmental pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field experiment was conducted to access the effect of different fertilizer levels on yield, nutrient content and uptake of seed and straw under middle Gujarat condition during rabi season of 2013-14 at Anand. There are total with three nitrogen levels (15, 30, and 45 kg N ha-1), three levels of phosphorus (0, 15 and 30 kg P2O5 ha-1) and two levels of potassium (0 and 30 kg K2O ha-1) with four replication. The result revealed that successive increasing of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels significantly affect the nutrient content and uptake by seed and straw as well as seed and straw yields of isabgol. Application of 45 kg N ha-1 and 30 kg P2O5 ha-1 gives significantly highest N, P and K uptake and content as well as yields of seed and straw of isabgol. Response of potassium was found to be non-significant in case of nutrient content, uptake and yield of isabgol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantago ovata is an economically and medicinally important plant of the family Plantaginaceae. It is used extensively for the production of seed husk for its application in pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries. In the present study, the transcriptome of P. ovata ovary was sequenced using Illumina Genome Analyzer platform to characterize the mucilage biosynthesis pathway in the plant. De novo assembly was carried out using Oases followed by velvet. A total of 46,955 non-redundant transcripts (≥100 bp) using ~29 million high-quality paired end reads were generated. Functional categorization of these transcripts revealed the presence of several genes involved in various biological processes like metabolic pathways, mucilage biosynthesis, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and antioxidants. In addition, simple sequence-repeat motifs, non-coding RNAs and transcription factors were also identified. Expression profiling of some genes involved in mucilage biosynthetic pathway was performed in different tissues of P. ovata using Real time PCR analysis. The study has resulted in a valuable resource for further studies on gene expression, genomics and functional genomics in P. ovata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Plantago ovata, commonly called psyllium, is known to be a rich source of polyphenolic compounds. The present study was aimed at determining polyphenol content and studying their antioxidant activities in P. ovata during in vitro callus culture. An attempt was also made to enhance polyphenol content using external additives. The role of PAL gene in polyphenol accumulation was also studied. RESULTS: The study indicated the presence of significant amounts of polyphenols, including flavonoids, in P. ovata callus. A gradual increase in polyphenol and flavonoid content was observed up to the third passage (63 days) of callus culture, which declined at the next passage. The third-passage callus showed highest antioxidant activity. High-performance liquid chromatographic results indicated the presence of high amounts of gallic acid and rutin in P. ovata calli; however, other polyphenols were also present but to a lesser extent. Additive supplementation was effective in enhancing polyphenol production and in increasing antioxidant activity in P. ovata callus. CONCLUSION: The present research reported accumulation of polyphenols in callus culture of P. ovata,which could be applied to isolation of polyphenols for various beneficial purposes. It also indicated enhancement in the production of several polyphenols and also an increase in antioxidant activity in the additive-treated callus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psyllium (PS), a water-swellable dietary fiber from seeds of widely distributed plant, Plantago ovata (PO) is esteemed for its medicinal and nutraceutical values. PS has been attributed to its broad range of pharmacological activities like anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, hypolipidemic, laxative, anti-obesity, anti-diarrheal, anti-amoebic, and anti-nociceptive, and has been employed for sustained/delayed/targeted drug delivery due to its biocompatible and biodegradable nature. Interestingly, PS can be utilized for the absorption of toxic materials from industrial waste and is also used as substituent of gluten in breads for better acceptance. This review focuses upon the utilization of PS in drug delivery systems, medicinal uses, and pharmacological attributes to explore its potential in the nutraceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The main objective of the study was to develop orodispersible tablets of Granisetron hydrochloride, a selective 5- HT3 receptor antagonist (an antivomiting agent) for improving patient compliance, especially those of paediatric & geriatric categories with difficulties in swallowing. In the wet granulation method orodispersible (ORD) tablets were prepared using natural super disintegrants plantago ovate. The prepared batches of tablets were evaluated for weight variation, hardness, friability, wetting time, in vitro dispersion time, drug content and in vitro dissolution studies. The tablet formulation batch F4 was considered as the overall best formulation (with an in vitro drug release study of 99.11%).Short term stability studies (at 40±2°C/75±5% RH) on the best formulation indicated that there no significant changes in drug content. From the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy study indicated that there are no drug excipient interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic differentiation and divergence among sixty indigenous and exotic collections comprising three species of isabgol was quantified for fourteen economic traits. Highly significant differences indicated existence of considerable genetic variability, as evident from the tremendous variation in shape and size of inflorescence. Considerable differences in economic traits, growth and other parameters were also noted. The germplasms could be grouped into nine clusters and enormous diversity among accessions were indicated by wide range of D 2 values (0.896–41,358.16). The cluster pattern was also confirmed by canonical analysis. Husk yield/plot was the highest contributor (37.79 %), followed by inflorescence husk yield (26.80%), whereas, peduncle length was the least contributor (2.14%) to seed yield. Five accessions each were identified to be the best in seed yield, husk yield, swelling factor and long panicle length. Three accessions can exploited for commercial cultivation to fulfill industrial use/demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants are widely used for the treatment of diseases and for the development of new drugs. This study was designed to determine the presence of hormone-like activities dependent on the activation of human estrogen receptor alpha (hERa) and/or androgen receptor (hAR) in methanol extracts prepared from three medicinal plants historically and currently used for therapeutic purposes:Ginkgo bilobaleaves (GBL),Elettaria cardamomumseeds (ECS) andPlantago ovataseeds (POS). After a solid–liquid extraction (SLE) step, their effects on hERa function were assessed in MCF-7 breast cancer cells using the E-Screen bioassay, and their ability to induce hAR-mediated reporter gene expression was evaluated using the androgen-sensitive stable prostatic PALM cell line. Unlike POS extracts, GBL and ECS extracts showed estrogenic (0.07 and 0.20 nM E2Eq mg–1, respectively) and anti-estrogenic (0.01 and 0.02 μM ICI182780Eq mg–1, respectively) activities. ECS extracts evidenced androgenic activity (0.30 nM R1881Eq mg–1) and POS extracts anti-androgenic activity (22.30 μM ProcEq mg–1). According to these findings, these plant extracts may interfere with the endocrine system via one or more hormonal receptors, and further investigation is warranted into their role as endocrine disrupters in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since there is limited information on the simultaneous effect of drought stress and salicylic acid on yield and mucilage content of the medicinal herb, Plantago ovata Forssk is available, a pot experiment was conducted in factorial form based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in Jiroft, Kerman Province, south of Iran. As the first factor, drought stress included four levels of irrigation: 100% field capacity (FC) (no stress), 75% FC (low stress), 50% FC (medium stress) and 25% FC (high stress). In the second factor, salicylic acid had four levels: 0, 0.01, 0.5 and 1 mM. The results showed that maximum yield and yield components of P. ovata Forssk were obtained with 100% FC and simultaneous application of 1 mM salicylic acid. Minimum amounts of yield and yield components resulted from irrigation based on 25% FC with no application of salicylic acid. Such an outcome revealed the significant role of salicylic acid in increasing the tolerance of Plantago ovata Forssk to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effects of gamma pre-exposure on cadmium accumulation in Plantago ovata seedlings. Metallothionein (MT) localization was also studied following Cadmium (Cd) treatment in P. ovata. Materials and methods: DNA damage was determined by alkaline comet assay. MT gene and protein expression were studied by real-time polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry, respectively, in root and shoot tissues. Metal accumulation (Cd, zinc [Zn], iron [Fe]) was evaluated by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Results: Cd treatment decreased seed germination rate, biomass and free radical scavenging activity and increased DNA damage in a dose-dependent manner. When P. ovata seeds were pre- exposed to 5 Gy gamma dose (prior to Cd treatment) seed germination rate, biomass and free radical scavenging activity increased significantly. MT genes (PoMT1, PoMT2 and PoMT3) and MT protein expression enhanced when 5 Gy gamma-irradiated seeds were grown in Cd containing medium and Cd accumulation also increased in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions: Higher Cd accumulation in P. ovata seedlings may be attributed to the upregulation of PoMT genes in gamma pretreated seedlings. Localization of metallothionein in cytosol and nucleus indicated its positive role against Cd-mediated cytotoxic and genotoxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The arabinoxylan from Ispaghula (Plantago ovata) husk has been proven scientifically as potential excipient. However, toxicity study of the arabinoxylan is still lacking. The present study was done to investigate the acute toxicity of arabinoxylan in two animal species.Methods: The mice were exposed to (1 g/kg, 5 g/kg, 10 g/kg) and rabbits (2.5 g/kg, 5 g/kg) of arabinoxylan orally and observed for a period of 14 days. On day 15 hematology, serum biochemistry and necropsy was performed in mice relative organ weight calculated and histological examination was carried out. Primary dermal and eye irritation tests were carried out. Cardiac effects of isolated arabinoxylan were studied on frog heart.Results: The acute administration of the arabinoxylan did not produce mortality or significant changes in, water and food consumption however body weights of mice and rabbits decreased initially with a gradual increase till day 14. Internal organs relative weights were found to be normal. Hematological biochemical and histopathological examination did not show any significant (p < 0.05) change. Primary dermal and eye irritation was not observed in treated rabbits. No change in heart rate and vascular contraction was observed in frog heart.Conclusion: This study has shown that acute administration of arabinoxylan may be safe. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

To investigate the influence of salinity and calcium (Ca) on some properties of Plantago ovata, a pot factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replicates was conducted in Jiroft, south of Kerman Province, Iran. Three salinity levels of 0, 100 and 200 mM NaCl and Ca levels of 0, 5 and 10 mM Calcium nitrate were applied as the first and second factors, respectively. Results showed that salt levels significantly affected plant height, dry weight, number of spikes per plant, spike length, number of seeds per spike, mucilage and 1000 seed weights. Maximum values for the measured variables were obtained in control and the minimum values in 100 mmol sodium chloride. The effect of Ca on these traits was significant as well; it diminished the adverse effects of salinity. In addition, the interactive effects of salt and Ca on all the above traits were remarkable except for mucilage and spike length on which no significant effect was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enzymatic mechanism that governs the synthesis of the xylan backbone polymer, a linear chain of xylose residues connected by β-1,4 glycosidic linkages, has remained elusive. Xylan is a major constituent of many kinds of plant cell walls, and genetic studies have identified multiple genes that affect xylan formation. In this study, we investigate several homologs of one of these previously identified xylan-related genes, IRX10 from Arabidopsis thaliana, by heterologous expression and in vitro xylan xylosyltransferase assay. We find that an IRX10 homolog from the moss Physcomitrella patens displays robust activity, and we show that the xylosidic linkage formed is a β-1,4 linkage, establishing this protein as a xylan β-1,4-xylosyltransferase. We also find lower but reproducible xylan xylosyltransferase activity with A. thaliana IRX10 and with a homolog from the dicot plant Plantago ovata, showing that xylan xylosyltransferase activity is conserved over large evolutionary distance for these proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psyllium husk ( Plantago ovata , Family: Plantaginaceae) contains a high proportion of hemicellulose, composed of a xylan backbone linked with arabinose, rhamnose, and galacturonic acid units (arabinoxylans). Polysaccharide was isolated from Psyllium husk using solvent precipitation method. The isolated polysaccharide was evaluated for various physicochemical parameters. The rheological behavior of polysaccharide (1% w/v in water) was studied using Brookfield viscometer. Polysaccharide derived from the husk of P. ovata was investigated as superdisintegrant in the fast dissolving tablets. Valsartan, an antihypertensive drug, was selected as a model drug. The tablets of Valsartan were prepared separately using different concentrations (1, 2.5, 5, 7.5% w/w) of isolated Plantago ovata ( P. ovata ) husk polysaccharide (Natural) and crospovidone as a synthetic superdisintegrant by direct compression method. The prepared tablets were evaluated for various pre-compression and post-compression parameters. The drug excipient interactions were characterized by FTIR studies. The formulation F4 containing7.5% polysaccharide showed rapid wetting time and disintegration time as compared to formulation prepared using synthetic superdisintegrant at the same concentration level. Hence batch F4 was considered as optimized formulation. The stability studies were performed on formulation F4. The disintegration time and in vitro drug release of the optimized formulation was compared with the marketed formulation (Conventional tablets). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of inorganic fertilizers and organic manure on plant growth and seed quality of isabgol in a hot arid region. Plant growth parameters viz., plant height, number of tillers plant-1 and dry matter accumulation was significantly higher with NPK + FYM as compared to other treatments. Yield attributes such as spike length, number of spikes plant-1 and number of grains spike-1 were also significantly higher with NPK + FYM. Highest grain (13.40 q ha-1) and straw (30.21 q ha-1) yield was obtained with the application of NPK + FYM, which was at par with NPK + Zn. Application of NPK + FYM recorded the highest N, P and K contents. However, highest Zn content was observed with NPK + Zn. The highest protein content in grain (12.43%) and straw (5.13%) was found with the treatment NPK + FYM, which was at par with NPK + Zn. The results clearly showed that the application of inorganic fertilizers significantly increase isabgol yield, nutrient content and grain quality when applied with organic manure as compared to sole application of inorganic fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

other superdisintegrants natural origin is preferred because they are comparatively cheaper, abundantly available, non-irritating and nontoxic in nature. An attempt has been made for the development of orodispersible tablets of the Sotalol hydrochloride, using different concentrations of natural superdisintegrating agents like plantago ovata mucilage, Bhringaraj powder, synthetic and semi synthetic superdisintegrants like cross povidone and croscarmellose sodium by direct compression method. Disintegration time and drug release were taken as the basis to optimize the orodispersible tablet. All the tablets were Prepared & evaluated for various parameters like hardness, weight variation, friability, thickness, disintegration time wetting time and dissolution time. Among all the formulations, formulation containing 5% w/w of natural superdisintegrant (Plantago ovata mucilage) was found to be shown faster and high drug dissolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the detection of genetic variability in Plantago ovata (P. ovata), a medicinal herb, and its several wild allies using molecular markers. It mentions that genomic DNA was isolated from young leaves of accessions of P. ovata, purified, and quantified. The study concludes that amplified fragment length polymorphism and simple sequence repeat markers are useful for assessing genetic diversity and determining their phylogenetic relationships.

Purpose: To study the oxidative stress-induced changes by sub-lethal doses of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) and gamma irradiation, two redox-inducing agents, on metallothionein (MT) gene and protein expression in Plantago ovata Forsk (P. ovata). Materials and methods: Chlorophyll content was estimated to study the stress response in P. ovata seedlings following exposure to gamma irradiation and CdCl2. Lipid peroxidation and proline content, two oxidative stress markers, were also studied. The level of metallothionein gene and protein expression was further investigated using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry. Results: Three MT genes of P. ovata namely PoMT 1, PoMT2 and PoMT 3 were isolated, sequenced and characterized and their expressions were found to be altered in the case of both oxidative stresses in a dose-dependent and tissue-specific manner. The results were in agreement with the observations from immunocytochemistry and FACS analysis. Conclusions: The results suggest that both gamma irradiation and CdCl2 alter redox balance in P. ovata. The metallothionein gene may play an important role in metal tolerance and stress balance. It is conjectured that the stress-mediated imbalance is maintained by altered MT gene and protein expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A green synthesis of highly stable gold and silver nanoparticles (NPs) using arabinoxylan (AX) from ispaghula (Plantago ovata) seed husk is being reported. The NPs were synthesized by stirring a mixture of AX and HAuCl4·H2O or AgNO3, separately, below 100°C for less than an hour, where AX worked as the reducing and the stabilizing agent. The synthesized NPs were characterized by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The particle size was (silver: 5–20nm and gold: 8–30nm) found to be dependent on pH, temperature, reaction time and concentrations of AX and the metal salts used. The NPs were poly-dispersed with a narrow range. They were stable for more than two years time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The study of nutritional interventions in humans is difficult to assess because the induced metabolic changes are lower than the natural biological variability between subjects. Due to its holistic approach, 1H NMR is one of the preferred technologies for this type of studies, even though it has a very low sensitivity. This work shows how the use of several chemometric algorithms on the measured data compensates for these drawbacks and allows the study of the effects of the nutritional intervention isolating them from the natural variability inherent to human studies. Mild to moderate hypercholesterolemic patients received either placebo or soluble fiber in a low saturated fat diet. Plasma samples were collected at week 0 and week 8. Spectra obtained with NMR equipment were processed with ANOVA simultaneous component analysis (ASCA). The application of clustering techniques revealed different responses based on the patient''s basal state, which allowed the identification of responders from non-responders. Results showed a triglyceride level reduction of up to 15% (p=0.0032), with a higher reduction for those patients with a higher initial lipid profile. Moreover, line-shape fitting techniques applied to the NMR spectra allowed the conclusion that LDL (and VLDL) lipoprotein particles, and more noticeably triglycerides, moved to a profile configuration associated with lower cardiovascular risk. Results shed light on some of the metabolic modifications that husk fiber induces in humans which could not be seen with more conventional data analysis approaches. Our conclusion is that by using the right chemometric techniques it is possible to assess nutritional intervention effects in human NMR human studies despite the low sensitivity and selectivity that the technique offers today. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose: The effect of gamma rays on metallothionein (MT) expression was studied using the medicinal plant Plantago ovata as the test system. Materials and methods: Western blotting and Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) were used for this purpose. Results: Western blot analysis showed significant induction of metallothionein protein following gamma exposure and that induction was highest at 20 Gy gamma dose. At higher gamma doses (100 Gy) MT expression level declined due to degeneration of cells. MALDI-TOF MS analysis indicated the presence of low molecular weight (7-8 kD) MT molecules following the lower radiation doses. Conclusion: It was concluded from the MALDI-TOF MS result that low gamma exposure leads to expression of MT-like protein. At high doses of gamma ray, MT homologues or MT-like protein were not identified, possibly because they might have precipitated due to uncontrolled cross-linking and non-specific aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk) seed germination and emergence in response to drought (Polyethylene glycol 8000) and salinity stress (NaCl), temperature, pH and planting depth were studied in laboratory and greenhouse experiments. Base, optimum and ceiling germination temperature were estimated as 3.35, 21.24 and 35.04 °C, respectively. Isabgol seed is rather tolerant to low water potential and high salt stress. Salinity stress up to 200 mM had no effect on Isabgol seed germination, but the germination decreased by increasing the salt concentration. The drought and salinity required for 50% inhibition of maximum germination were 328 mM and - 1.24 MPa, respectively. High percentage of seed germination (>93%) was observed at pH4-6 and declined to 52-58% at alkaline (pH 7-9) pH. Maximum seedling emergence occurred when the seeds were planted on the soil surface and decreased with increasing the depth of planting; no seed emerged from depth of 3 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with influence of habitat on VAM infection in Plantago ovata.growing wild and under cultivation .Plant growing wild showed heavy general VAM infection (100%) as compared to cultivated in which 78% general VAM infection was recorded. In wild P. ovata only 12% of the root segments showed external hyphae while in cultivated P.ovata external hyphae were totally absent. Internal hyphae were 36% in both while vesicular infection was high as compared to arbuscular infection. Variation in vesicles length and hyphal width indicates the presence of multiple VAM infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Isolation and thermal analysis of hydrogels from Plantago ovata (PO), Salvia aegyptiaca (SA), Ocimum basilicum (OB) and Mimosa pudica (MP) are reported. The hydrogel obtained from PO was modified by cross-linking, carboxymethylation and ethylation as a model to see the effect of modification on thermal behavior. Activation energy, enthalpy, entropy, free energy change, pre-exponential factor, comprehensive index of intrinsic thermal stability (ITS) were determined from the thermograms. The ITS values indicated good thermal stabilities of the hydrogels. Hydrogels isolated from SA, OB and MP did not show significant differences in their thermal behavior, whereas significant differences in thermal profiles of PO gel and its modified forms were observed. The modified gels exhibited improved thermal stability. Formation of water, 2-hydroxybutanedial, 3-hydroxypropanal and 2-furfuryl alcohol as degradation products was detected in the GC–MS analysis of some of the materials. The possible implications of these results are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]