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Abstract: Background: Rising global temperatures have been linked to an increased incidence of heat stress (HS)-induced myocardial damage. Methods: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of shikimic acid (SA) on HS-induced myocardial damage using network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and in vitro experiments. Results: Network pharmacology analysis indicated that SA significantly attenuates the inflammatory response to HS by modulating 60 targets, including TNF, IL-6, and STAT3, which are enriched in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Molecular docking and MD simulation analyses demonstrated that SA forms stable complexes with TNF (−6.642 kcal/mol) and IL-6 (−7.261 kcal/mol), with no significant conformational changes over a 100 ns simulation period. In vitro experiments demonstrated that SA, within the concentration range of 250 μM to 31.25 μM, significantly promoted the proliferation of normal HL-1 cells by an average of 31.0%. Moreover, it enhanced the survival rate of HL-1 cells exposed to 43 °C for 3 h by approximately 59.9% and downregulated the expression of Hsp90 and Hsp70. Additionally, this concentration range of SA reduced the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, TLR2, and COL1A1. Conclusions: These findings offer evidence for the therapeutic potential of SA in HS-induced myocardial damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The metabolomic profiles of individuals with different clinical manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have not been clearly characterized. Methods: We performed metabolomics analysis of 166 individuals, including 62 healthy controls, 16 individuals with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, and 88 patients with moderate (n = 42) and severe (n = 46) symptomatic 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19; 17 with short-term and 34 with long-term nucleic-acid test positivity). By examining differential expression, we identified candidate metabolites associated with different SARS-CoV-2 infection presentations. Functional and machine learning analyses were performed to explore the metabolites' functions and verify their candidacy as biomarkers. Results: A total of 417 metabolites were detected. We discovered 70 differentially expressed metabolites that may help differentiate asymptomatic infections from healthy controls and COVID-19 patients with different disease severity. Cyclamic acid and N-Acetylneuraminic Acid were identified to distinguish symptomatic infected patients and asymptomatic infected patients. Shikimic Acid, Glycyrrhetinic acid and 3-Hydroxybutyrate can supply significant insights for distinguishing short-term and long-term nucleic-acid test positivity. Conclusion: Metabolomic profiling may highlight novel biomarkers for the identification of individuals with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection and further our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a novel water treatment agent, can be used for disinfection, water quality adjustment, and disease prevention, while excessive H2O2 can injure farm animals, even leading to death. Hydrogen peroxide is a recommended disinfectant and bactericide for treating gill diseases and vibriosis in the greenfin horse-faced filefish Thamnaconus septentrionalis. However, its cumulative effect, toxic molecular mechanism and relevant signal transduction/metabolic networks in marine fishes are largely unknown. Results: We employed a multi-omics approach to investigate the detrimental effects of 50 mg/L H2O2 exposure (2 h/d) on filefish for 2 d, 4 d, and 6 d. Transcriptome sequencing showed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly classified into functions such as signal transduction, nervous system, liver and bile acid metabolism, energy metabolism, cell adhesion and communication, inflammation and immune response. Metabolomic analysis found that the significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) were involved in phenylalanine metabolism, inflammatory mediator regulation, linoleic acid metabolism, and necroptosis. The main SCMs were cholic acid, carnitine C12:1, dimethylmalonic acid, glutamic acid, L-lactic acid, shikimic acid, 2-methylsuccinic acid, and others. Moreover, H2O2-induced oxidative stress also disturbs the balance of the gut microbiota, altering the microbial composition and affecting digestive processes. Conclusions: Integrated multiomics analysis revealed that H2O2-induced detrimental impacts include mucosal damage, inflammatory and immune responses, altered energy metabolism, and gut microbiota disorders. These findings offer novel insights into the harmful effects and signal transduction/metabolic pathways triggered by H2O2 exposure in marine fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION The potential for the efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass has been extensively explored to produce a wide range of bioproducts. Many approaches have been sought for the deep conversion of lignin to generate products that are toxin‐free and beneficial for processing into high‐value‐added components.This study reported a fungus isolated from the deep sea with strong synthesis of multiple lignocellulases, conversion of lignin and guaiacol (0.1%) by 71.6% and 86.1% within 9 days at 30 °C respectively, and outstanding environmental adaptability (20–50 °C and pH 3–8). Metabolic pathway profiling showed that this fungus utilized lignin to rapidly activate multiple ring‐opening reactions including the 2,3‐ and 3,4‐cleavage pathways, with the 2,3‐cleavage pathway predominating after 5 days. Conversion of metabolic intermediates confirmed the superb potential of this strain for lignin treatment. Meanwhile, its shikimic acid pathway was metabolically active under lignin.This further expands the potential to produce valuable bioproducts during lignin treatment, especially under ambient conditions, which can significantly enhance high‐value precursor compound production. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium wilt is one of the major constraints on global watermelon production, and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (Fon) is the causative agent of Fusarium wilt in watermelon and results in severe yield and quality losses worldwide. The enhancement of antifungal activity from antagonistic bacteria against Fon is highly practical for managing Fusarium wilt in watermelon. The aim of this study was to maximize the antifungal activity of Bacillus velezensis LZN01 by optimizing fermentation conditions and analysing its regulatory mechanism via transcriptome sequencing. The culture and fermentation conditions for strain LZN01 were optimized by single‐factor and response surface experiments. The optimum culture conditions for this strain were as follows: the addition of D‐fructose at 35 g/L and NH4Cl at 5 g/L in LB medium, pH 7, and incubation at 30°C for 72 h. The fungal inhibition rate for strain LZN01 reached 71.1%. The improvement of inhibition rate for strain LZN01 in optimization fermentation was supported by transcriptomic analysis; a total of 491 genes were upregulated, while 736 genes were downregulated. Transcriptome analysis revealed that some differentially expressed genes involved in carbon and nitrogen metabolism, oxidation–reduction, fatty acid and secondary metabolism; This optimization process could potentially lead to significant alterations in the production levels and types of antimicrobial compounds by the strain. Metabolomics and UPLC/Q‐Exactive Orbitrap MS analysis revealed that the production yields of antimicrobial compounds, such as surfactin, fengycin, shikimic acid, and myriocin, increased or were detected in the cell‐free supernatant (CFS) after the fermentation optimization process. Our results indicate that fermentation optimization enhances the antifungal activity of the LZN01 strain by influencing the expression of genes responsible for the synthesis of antimicrobial compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camellia luteoflora is a rare and endangered plant endemic to China. It has high ornamental and potential economic and medicinal value, and is an important germplasm resource of Camellia. To understand the distributions and differences in metabolites from different parts of C. luteoflora, in this study, we used liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) to examine the types and contents of chemical constituents in five organs of C. luteoflora: roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits. The results showed that a total of 815 metabolites were identified in the five organs and were classified into 18 main categories, including terpenoids (17.1%), amino acids (10.4%), flavonoids (10.3%), sugars and alcohols (9.8%), organic acids (9.0%), lipids (7.1%), polyphenols (4.8%), alkaloids (4.8%), etc. A total of 684 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) in five organs were obtained and annotated into 217 KEGG metabolic pathways, among which metabolic pathways, ABC transporters, the biosynthesis of cofactors, and the biosynthesis of amino acids were significantly enriched. In DEMs, flowers are rich in flavonoids, polyphenols, organic acids, and steroids; fruits are rich in amino acids, alkaloids, vitamins, and xanthones; stems are rich in lignans; and leaves have the highest relative content of phenylpropanoids, ketoaldehydic acids, quinones, sugars and alcohols, terpenoids, coumarins, lipids, and others; meanwhile, the metabolite content is lower in roots. Among the dominant DEMs, 58 were in roots, including arachidonic acid, lucidone, isoliquiritigenin, etc.; 75 were in flowers, including mannose, shikimic acid, d-gluconic acid, kaempferol, etc.; 45 were in the fruit, including pterostilbene, l-ascorbic acid, riboflavin, etc.; 27 were in the stems, including salicylic acid, d-(-)-quinic acid, mannitol, (-)-catechin gallate, etc.; there was a maximum number of 119 dominant metabolites in the leaves, including oleanolic acid, l-glucose, d-arabitol, eugenol, etc. In sum, the rich chemical composition of C. luteoflora and the significant differences in the relative contents of metabolites in different organs will provide theoretical references for the study of tea, flower tea, edible oil, nutraceuticals, and the medicinal components of C. luteoflora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea buckthorn has lipid‐lowering properties and is widely used in the development of functional foods. In this study, a probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum, Lp10211) with cholesterol‐lowering potential and acid and bile salt resistant was screened for the fermentation of sea buckthorn juice. Changes in the active ingredients, such as sugars and phenolics, before and after fermentation, as well as their in vitro lipid‐lowering activities, were compared. The contents of reducing and total sugars decreased substantially after fermentation. Lp10211 primarily utilized fructose for growth and reproduction, with a utilization rate of 76.9%. The phenolic compound content of sea buckthorn juice increased by 37.06% after fermentation and protected the phenolic components from degradation (protocatechuic and p‐coumaric acids) and produced new polyphenol (shikimic acid). Enhanced inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity (95.42%) and cholesterol micellar solubility (59.15%) was evident. The antioxidant properties of the fermentation broth were improved. Notably, Lp10211 preserved the color and reversed browning in sea buckthorn juice. The collective findings indicate that fermentation of sea buckthorn juice by Lp10211 may enhance the functional components and lipid‐lowering activity of sea buckthorn, which may provide a new approach for the development of lipid‐lowering foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to increasingly serious soil salinisation, exploring high‐quality closely related wild species is an effective means to solve food security problems. In this study, based on comprehensive metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses of the types, quantities, metabolic pathways and gene expression of small molecule metabolites in cotyledons and embryo axis/root, we report the strategies used by barren‐tolerant wild soybean (GS2) to resist salt stress during the post‐germination period. Our results showed that salt tolerance in GS2 cotyledons mainly involves the enhanced mobilisation of reserves, including lipid and sugar breakdown and utilisation, as well as protein breakdown and, in particular, the transport of amino acids to the embryo axis/root. Moreover, antioxidant capacity is enhanced through the promotion of ascorbic acid and naringin synthesis. We also found that under salt stress, the GS2 embryo axis/root accumulates proline by promoting the ornithine biosynthetic pathway, while stimulating glutathione metabolism to eliminate excess reactive oxygen species and restore oxidative balance. In addition, to establish and elongate the embryo axis/root, lignin synthesis is enhanced by the promotion of the shikimic acid pathway, which compensates for the decrease in cell wall support caused by salt stress. This study lays the foundation for developing and utilising high‐quality wild plant resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study demonstrates that low concentrations of azelaic acid (AZA) significantly impact the metabolism of Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings, leading to imbalances in numerous minerals and metabolites due to AZA‐induced stress. Untargeted metabolomic analyses were conducted on untreated and AZA‐treated seedlings at two time points: 7 and 14 days after treatment initiation. The results revealed a general accumulation of sugars (e.g., glucose, mannose, xylose), amino acids (e.g., lysine, GABA, threonine, glutamine), and organic acids (e.g., glutaric acid, shikimic acid, succinic acid) in AZA treated‐seedlings, suggesting that AZA triggers stress responses in Arabidopsis. Ionomic analysis revealed that AZA induces phosphorus deficiency, which plants compensate by increasing malate content in the roots. Additionally, AZA treatment induced putrescine accumulation within the root, a metabolic biomarker of potassium deficiency and plant stress. The metabolomic profile showed elevated levels of different specialized metabolites, such as nitrogen‐ and sulphur‐containing compounds, and altered levels of various phytohormones, including jasmonates and brassinosteroids, implicated in plant protection under biotic and/or abiotic stresses. These findings support the hypothesis that AZA's mode of action is associated with an auxin imbalance, suggesting its function as an auxinic herbicide. The observed increases in starch and jasmonates, coupled with the disruptions in potassium homeostasis, are linked to the previously reported alterations in the auxin transport, root architecture and gravitropic root response. Statistical analyses were applied, including Kruskal‐Wallis tests for ionomic data, as well as multifactor analysis, Principal Component Analysis, Orthogonal Partial Least Squares‐Discriminant Analysis, and enrichment pathway analysis for metabolomic data, ensuring the robustness and validity of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Intercropping leads to different plant roots directly influencing belowground processes and has gained interest for its promotion of increased crop yields and resource utilization. However, the precise mechanisms through which the interactions between rhizosphere metabolites and the microbiome contribute to plant production remain ambiguous, thus impeding the understanding of the yield‐enhancing advantages of intercropping.This study conducted field experiments (initiated in 2013) and pot experiments, coupled with multi‐omics analysis, to investigate plant–metabolite–microbiome interactions in the rhizosphere of maize.Field‐based data revealed significant differences in metabolite and microbiome profiles between the rhizosphere soils of maize monoculture and intercropping. In particular, intercropping soils exhibited higher microbial diversity and metabolite chemodiversity. The chemodiversity and composition of rhizosphere metabolites were significantly related to the diversity, community composition, and network complexity of soil microbiomes, and this relationship further impacted plant nutrient uptake. Pot‐based findings demonstrated that the exogenous application of a metabolic mixture comprising key components enriched by intercropping (soyasapogenol B, 6‐hydroxynicotinic acid, lycorine, shikimic acid, and phosphocreatine) significantly enhanced root activity, nutrient content, and biomass of maize in natural soil, but not in sterilized soil.Overall, this study emphasized the significance of rhizosphere metabolite–microbe interactions in enhancing yields in intercropping systems. It can provide new insights into rhizosphere controls within intensive agroecosystems, aiming to enhance crop production and ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics, an environmental contaminant, can directly harm aquatic organisms and alter the toxicity and availability of other pollutants. The herbicide glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine) exerts its toxicity by inhibiting 5-enol-pyruvyl-shikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS), a key enzyme belonging to shikimic acid pathway that leads to the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids; tolerance, instead, is dependent on a glyphosate -resistant EPSPS. We tested the effects of 0,2mM glyphosate alone and in combination with 170 mg/mL polyethylene microplastics (MPs) on the expression of EPSPS and chorismate synthase (ChS) on a culture of the cyanobacterium Limnospira maxima. Glyphosate caused the highest mortality after one week, with the resistant population surviving thereafter.However, when the culture was exposed to the combined treatment the mortality decreased. Proteomic profiles of treated cultures demonstrated that both enzymes were accumulated during the 21 days glyphosate treatment, suggesting that the surviving population of L. maxima might express glyphosate-resistant target enzymes. Treatment with combined solution caused a decrease of EPSPS and ChS levels compared to those of glyphosate alone. Our results strongly suggest that microplastics mitigate the toxicity of glyphosate towards target enzymes of the shikimic acid pathway, thereby increasing the resistance capacity of the L. maxima strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Shikimic acid is a hydroaromatic intermediate in the amino acid biosynthesis pathway in bacteria, fungi, and plants. Shikimic acid is an essential agent in applied sciences, especially in pharmacy and medicine. It can be used as a reactant in organic synthesis to obtain various medicinal drugs. This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal properties of shikimic acid comparatively and to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of shikimic acid against the tested Candida and bacterial species. Materials and Methods: The inhibitory effect of pure (98.85%) shikimic acid was tested on five bacteria (two Gram-positive and three Gram-negative) and five Candida species. The broth two-fold microdilution method was used to determine the MIC values against the tested microorganisms, and the viability of microorganisms treated with shikimic acid was determined using resazurin sodium salt. Results: The MIC values of shikimic acid against Candida glabrata, Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis and Candida parapsilosis were determined to be between 250 and 31.25 mg/mL. However, the MIC values against bacterial species, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacter aerogenes, ranged between 15.625 and 3.906 mg/mL. Therefore, the antibacterial effect of shikimic acid is almost twenty times stronger than its antifungal effect. Conclusion: This preliminary study shows that shikimic acid is also usable as an antibacterial and antifungal as a potential therapeutic agent in addition to its proven antiviral properties. Further, advanced studies in this sense will be eye-opening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and diabetes are non-communicable diseases with global impacts. Inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) are suitable therapies for AD, while α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors are employed as antidiabetic agents. Compounds were isolated from the medicinal plant Terminalia macroptera and evaluated for their AChE, BChE, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitions. From 1H and 13C NMR data, the compounds were identified as 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid (1), 3,3′,4′-tri-O-methyl ellagic acid-4-O-β-D-xylopyranoside (2), 3,3′,4′-tri-O-methyl ellagic acid-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside (5), shikimic acid (6), arjungenin (7), terminolic acid (8), 24-deoxysericoside (9), arjunglucoside I (10), and chebuloside II (11). The derivatives of ellagic acid (1–4) showed moderate to good inhibition of cholinesterases, with the most potent being 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid, with IC50 values of 46.77 ± 0.90 µg/mL and 50.48 ± 1.10 µg/mL against AChE and BChE, respectively. The compounds exhibited potential inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, especially the phenolic compounds (1–5). Myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside had the highest α-amylase inhibition with an IC50 value of 65.17 ± 0.43 µg/mL compared to acarbose with an IC50 value of 32.25 ± 0.36 µg/mL. Two compounds, 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid (IC50 = 74.18 ± 0.29 µg/mL) and myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside (IC50 = 69.02 ± 0.65 µg/mL), were more active than the standard acarbose (IC50 = 87.70 ± 0.68 µg/mL) in the α-glucosidase assay. For α-glucosidase and α-amylase, the molecular docking results for 1–11 reveal that these compounds may fit well into the binding sites of the target enzymes, establishing stable complexes with negative binding energies in the range of −4.03 to −10.20 kcalmol−1. Though not all the compounds showed binding affinities with cholinesterases, some had negative binding energies, indicating that the inhibition was thermodynamically favorable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several Nepeta species, used in traditional uses, represent sources of valuable phytochemical composition, as well as in vitro biological and in silico clinical activities. In the present study, the antioxidant and DNA protective properties of methanol: chloroform (1 : 1) extracts of six Nepeta species were evaluated by comparison with standards. In HPLC‐MS/MS analysis, the main components of the extracts were identified as rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, shikimic acid, and scutellarin. In the GC‐FID analysis, the highest components were palmitate and cis‐11‐eicosenoic acid. N. aristata has the greatest total phenol and flavonoid contents. N. baytopii, N. aristata, N. italica, N. stenantha, and N. nuda exhibited the highest antioxidant activities. The N. nuda, N. aristata, N. italica, and N. trachonitica extracts were shown to have the most potent DNA protection activity. According to the result of the GC‐FID and HPLC‐MS/MS analysis of Nepeta extracts, ADMET studies of the main components of the extracts were performed. It was evaluated that palmitic acid had BBB permeability, but oleic acid was toxic. The in vitro and in silico results confirmed that Nepeta L. extracts are potential natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the pandemic, the interest in colorful wild small fruits increased due to their positive effects on health. Also it has become very important to offer species with high nutritional value as fresh or processed products for human consumption due to increasing world population and decreasing arable land. In this context, we characterized the horticultural characteristics of 11 rosehip genotypes grown from seeds. Results: Citric acid was determined as the main organic acid in all the genotypes investigated. The mean values of the organic acids obtained from all the genotypes were found to be as follows: citric acid (7177 mg L–1), malic acid (3669 mg L–1), tartaric acid (1834 mg L–1), oxalic acid (1258 mg L–1), carboxylic acid (631.9 mg L–1), shikimic acid (157.8 mg L–1), ascorbic acid (155 mg L–1), and acetic acid (20.9 mg L–1). Ellagic acid was the dominant phenolic compound (90.1 mg L–1 – 96.2 mg L–1) in all genotypes. The average values obtained from all genotypes for total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity were 37 261 mg GAE L–1, 526.2 mg quercetin L–1, and 93.6%, respectively. These characteristics had the lowest coefficients of variation, which indicated that all genotypes were similar regarding high biochemical with antioxidant effect. In addition, fruit width, fruit length, and fruit weight varied between 13.0 and 17.3 mm, 20.7 and 25.5 mm, and 1.4 and 2.7 g, respectively. Conclusions: The genotypes were categorized according to different purposes, such as suitability for wine production, making vinegar, etc. While the pomological characteristics were strongly positively correlated among themselves, they were generally found to be negatively correlated with the phytochemical characteristics. Categorizing genotypes according to different usage purposes can improve the agricultural and industrial application of rosehip and enhance their breeding efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the effects of 2 multispecies direct-fed microbial (DFM) supplements on ruminal and plasma metabolome of early-lactation dairy cows using a high-coverage untargeted metabolomics approach. A total of 45 multiparous Holstein cows (41 ± 7 DIM) were enrolled for the 14-d pre-experimental and 91-d experimental period and were a subset from a lactation performance study, which used 114 cows. Cows were blocked using pre-experimental energy-corrected milk yield and randomly assigned within each block to 1 of 3 treatments: (1) corn silage–based diet with no DFM supplement (control; CON), (2) basal diet top-dressed with a mixture of Lactobacillus animalis and Propionibacterium freudenreichii at 3 × 109 cfu/d (PRO-A), or (3) basal diet top-dressed with a mixture of L. animalis , P. freudenreichii , Bacillus subtilis , and Bacillus licheniformis at 11.8 × 109 cfu/d (PRO-B). The basal diet was fed ad libitum daily as a TMR at 0600 and 1200 h for a duration of 91 d. Rumen fluid and blood samples were taken on d −3, 28, 49, 70, and 91 and immediately stored at −80°C. Before analysis, ruminal and plasma samples from d 28, 49, 70, and 91 were composited. An in-depth, untargeted metabolome profile of the composite rumen and plasma samples and the d −3 samples was developed by using a chemical isotope labeling/liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)–based technique. Differentially abundant metabolites (taking into account fold change [FC] values and false discovery rates [FDR]) were identified with a volcano plot. In the rumen, compared with the CON diet, supplemental PRO-A increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) the relative concentrations of 9 metabolites, including 2-hydroxy-2,4-pentadienoic acid, glutaric acid, quinolinic acid, and shikimic acid, and PRO-B increased relative concentrations of 16 metabolites, including 2-hydroxy-2,4-pentadienoic acid, glutaric acid, 16-hydroxypalmitic acid, and 2 propionate precursors (succinic and methylsuccinic acids). Relative to PRO-A, supplemental PRO-B increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) relative rumen concentrations of 3 metabolites, 16-hydroxypalmitic acid, indole-3-carboxylic acid, and 5-aminopentanoic acid, but reduced relative rumen concentrations of 13 metabolites, including carnitine, threonic acid, and shikimic acid. Compared with the CON diet, relative concentrations of 13 plasma metabolites, including myxochelin A and glyceraldehyde, were increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) by PRO-A supplementation, whereas those of 9 plasma metabolites, including 4-(2-aminophenyl)-2,4-dioxobutanoic acid, N-acetylornithine, and S-norlaudanosolin, were reduced (FC ≤0.83; FDR ≤0.05). Supplemental PRO-B increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) relative concentrations of 9 plasma metabolites, including trans -o-hydroxybenzylidenepyruvic acid and 3-methylsalicylaldehyde, and reduced relative concentrations of 4 plasma metabolites, including β-ethynylserine and kynurenine. Pathway analysis of the differentially abundant metabolites in both rumen and plasma revealed that these metabolites are involved in AA and fatty acid metabolism and have antimicrobial and immune-stimulating properties. The results of this study demonstrated that dietary supplementation with either PRO-A or PRO-B altered the plasma and ruminal metabolome. Notably, ruminal and plasma metabolites involved in the metabolism of AA and fatty acids and those with immunomodulatory properties were altered by either or both of the 2 microbial additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this study, the changes in volatile compounds, lipids, and small molecule compounds during the curing and drying processes were examined. The results showed that lipid oxidation was enhanced during curing and drying processes. A total of fifty‐two types of volatile compounds in the dry‐cured fish were detected, and the contents of alcohols (such as 3‐methyl‐1‐butanol, 1‐octen‐3‐ol), ketones (such as 2‐heptanone, 2‐octanone), and aldehydes (such as 3‐methylbutyraldehyde, hexanal, nonanal, decanal) were increased during curing and drying processes. A total of 812 metabolites were identified. The metabolites in linoleate, arachidonate, nucleotide, amino acid, and other metabolic pathways showed significant differences between drying stage and curing stage. The oxidative degradation of arachidonate acid, linoleate acid, and amino acid may contribute to the changes in volatile compounds during the curing and drying stages. Seven compounds including shikimic acid, carnitine C5: DC, carnitine C7: DC, 2‐hydroxybutanoic acid, 3‐hydroxybutanoic acid, malonic acid, and methylmalonic acid could be key small molecule compounds in curing and drying processing. These findings are valuable for understanding the mechanisms underlying flavour changes occurring during fish curing and drying processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has evolved into a dangerous pathogen resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics (BLAs) and has become a worrisome superbug. In this study, a strategy in which shikimic acid (SA), which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity, is combined with BLAs to restart BLA activity was proposed for MRSA treatment. The synergistic effects of oxacillin combined with SA against oxacillin resistance in vitro and in vivo were investigated. The excellent synergistic effect of the oxacillin and SA combination was confirmed by performing the checkerboard assay, time-killing assay, live/dead bacterial cell viability assay, and assessing protein leakage. SEM showed that the cells in the control group had a regular, smooth, and intact surface. In contrast, oxacillin and SA or the combination treatment group exhibited different degrees of surface collapse. q-PCR indicated that the combination treatment group significantly inhibited the expression of the mecA gene. In vivo, we showed that the combination treatment increased the survival rate and decreased the bacterial load in mice. These results suggest that the combination of oxacillin with SA is considered an effective treatment option for MRSA, and the combination of SA with oxacillin in the treatment of MRSA is a novel strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in Chemistry of Natural Compounds, explores the secondary metabolites found in mango, specifically Mangifera indica. The study highlights the various valuable phytochemicals present in different parts of the mango, such as the peel and seed, which are often discarded. These phytochemicals, including polyphenols, carotenoids, enzymes, and vitamins, have been found to have potential health benefits. The article also provides a detailed analysis of the extraction process and the specific compounds obtained from unripe mango fruits. It includes a list of chemical compounds and their properties, such as physical characteristics, spectroscopic data, and NMR spectra. The research was supported by a grant from Yuan's General Hospital. [Extracted from the article]

The juvenile-to-adult phase change with first flowering as the indicator plays a crucial role in the lifecycle of fruit trees. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying phase change in fruit trees remain largely unknown. Shikimic acid (ShA) pathway is a main metabolic pathway closely related to the synthesis of hormones and many important secondary metabolites participating in plant phase change. So, whether ShA regulates phase change in plants is worth clarifying. Here, the distinct morphological characteristics and the underlying mechanisms of phase change in jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.), an important fruit tree native to China with nutritious fruit and outstanding tolerance abiotic stresses, were clarified. A combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis found that ShA is positively involved in jujube ('Yuhong' x 'Xing 16') phase change. The genes in the upstream of ShA synthesis pathway (ZjDAHPS, ZjDHQS and ZjSDH), the contents of ShA and the downstream secondary metabolites like phenols were significantly upregulated in the phase change period. Further, the treatment of spraying exogenous ShA verified that ShA at a very low concentration (60 mg $ L-1) can substantially speed up the phase change and flowering of jujube and other tested plants including Arabidopsis, tomato and wheat. The exogenous ShA (60 mg $ L-1) treatment in jujube seedlings could increase the accumulation of endogenous ShA, enhance leaf photosynthesis and the synthesis of phenols especially flavonoids and phenolic acids, and promote the expression of genes (ZjCOs, ZjNFYs and ZjPHYs) involved in flowering pathway. Basing on above results, we put forward a propose for the underlying mechanism of ShA regulating phase change, and a hypothesis that ShA could be considered a phytohormone-like substance because it is endogenous, ubiquitous, movable and highly efficient at very low concentrations. This study highlights the critical role of ShA in plant phase change and its phytohormone-like properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancratistatin and structurally related narciclasine are natural products of great interest as they display potent and selective activities against various diseases. A concise synthesis of a functionalised pancratistatin framework, via a Heck reaction and subsequent cyclisation, is reported. The unfunctionalised model core of pancratistatin was synthesised from 1‐cyclohexene‐1‐carboxylic acid in two steps in 50 % yield. A modified route was then successfully applied to (−)‐shikimic acid to afford a novel pancratistatin/shikimic acid hybrid analogue that possesses three stereo‐defined hydroxyl groups in the C‐ring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing salt-tolerant plants is a cost-effective strategy for agricultural production on salinized land. However, little is known about the mechanism of dandelion (Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz.) in response to saline stress and caffeic acid biosynthesis. We investigated the morphological and physiological variations of two dandelions, namely, "BINPU2" (dandelion A) and "TANGHAI" (dandelion B) under gradient NaCl concentrations (0, 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.7%, and 0.9%), and analyzed potential mechanisms through a comparison analysis of transcriptomes in the two dandelions. Dandelion A had a high leaf weight; high ρ-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and caffeoyl shikimic acid contents; and high activities of POD and Pro. The maximum content of four kinds of phenolic acids mostly occurred in the 0.7% NaCl treatment. In this saline treatment, 2468 and 3238 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in dandelion A and B were found, of which 1456 and 1369 DEGs in the two dandelions, respectively, showed up-regulation, indicating that more up-regulated DEGs in dandelion A may cause its high salt tolerance. Further, Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that dandelion salt response and caffeic acid metabolism were mainly enriched in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway (ko00940) and response to ethylene (GO: 0009723). The caffeic acid biosynthesis pathway was reconstructed based on DEGs which were annotated to PAL, C4H, 4CL, HCT, C3′H, and CSE. Most of these genes showed a down-regulated mode, except for parts of DEGs of 4CL (TbA05G077650 and TbA07G073600), HCT (TbA03G009110, TbA03G009080, and novel.16880), and COMT (novel.13839). In addition, more up-regulated transcription factors (TFs) of ethylene TFs in dandelion A were found, but the TFs of ERF104, CEJ1, and ERF3 in the two dandelions under saline stress showed an opposite expression pattern. These up-regulated genes could enhance dandelion salt tolerance, and down-regulated DEGs in the caffeic acid biosynthesis pathway, especially CSE (TbA08G014310) and COMT (TbA04G07330), could be important candidate genes in the synthesis of caffeic acid under saline stress. The above findings revealed the potential mechanisms of salt response and caffeic acid metabolism in dandelion under saline stress, and provide references for salt-tolerant plant breeding and cultivation on saline–alkali land in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efforts to curtail the escalating health threat posed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a formidable superbug, necessitate the development of innovative treatment strategies. Leveraging potential compounds from natural sources in tandem with antibiotics has emerged as a promising approach against MRSA. These strategies should enhance the antibiotic efficacy, reduce dosage and toxicity, and bypass MRSA resistance. In this study, we used a checkerboard assay to illustrate the significant synergistic anti-MRSA effect of shikimic acid (SA), a naturally occurring compound, and ceftiofur (CF). Time-kill curves further revealed that a combination of 1/4 of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of SA and 1/8 MIC of the sodium CF eradicated MRSA within 2 h, with no noticeable toxicity observed with these concentrations. In vivo experiments confirmed that this combination therapy demonstrated robust antimicrobial activity against MRSA-induced bacteremia in mice, significantly reducing bacterial loads in the kidneys, liver, and spleen, attenuating inflammatory cell infiltration, and alleviating pathological damage. This study not only offers a compelling strategy, capitalizing on the synergistic potential of SA and CF, to rapidly address antibiotic resistance but also contributes significantly to the refinement of antimicrobial therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High-performance poly(p-phenylenebenzobisoxazole) (PBO) fiber, with excellent mechanical properties (stiffness, strength, and toughness), high thermal stability combined and light weight, are widely employed in automotive and aerospace composites, body armor and sports goods. Hydroxyl modified PBO (HPBO) fiber shows better photostability and interfacial shear strength. 2-Hydroxyterephthalic acid (2-HTA), the monomer for the HPBO fiber, is usually synthesized by chemical method, which has poor space selectivity and high energy consumption. The enzymatic Kolbe–Schmitt reaction, which carboxylates phenolic substrates to generate hydroxybenzoic acids with bicarbonate/CO2, was applied in de novo biosynthesis of 2-HTA with CO2 fixation. Results: The biosynthesis of 2-HTA was achieved by the innovative application of hydroxybenzoic acid (de)carboxylases to carboxylation of 3-hydroxybenzoic acid (3-HBA) at the para-position of the benzene carboxyl group, known as enzymatic Kolbe–Schmitt reaction. 2,3-Dihydroxybenzoic acid decarboxylase from Aspergillus oryzae (2,3-DHBD_Ao) were expressed in recombinant E. coli and showed highest activity. The yield of 2-HTA was 108.97 ± 2.21 μg/L/mg protein in the whole-cell catalysis. In addition, two amino acid substitutions, F27G and T62A, proved to be of great help in improving 2,3-DHBD activity. The double site mutation F27G/T62A increased the production of 2-HTA in the whole-cell catalysis by 24.7-fold, reaching 2.69 ± 0.029 mg/L/mg protein. Moreover, de novo biosynthetic pathway of 2-HTA was constructed by co-expression of 2,3-DHBD_Ao and 3-hydroxybenzoate synthase Hyg5 in S. cerevisiae S288C with Ura3, Aro7 and Trp3 knockout. The engineered strain synthesized 45.40 ± 0.28 μg/L 2-HTA at 36 h in the CO2 environment. Conclusions: De novo synthesis of 2-HTA has been achieved, using glucose as a raw material to generate shikimic acid, chorismic acid, and 3-HBA, and finally 2-HTA. We demonstrate the strong potential of hydroxybenzoate (de)carboxylase to produce terephthalic acid and its derivatives with CO2 fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diarrhea is the increase of excretion of human water content and an imbalance in the physiologic processes of the small and large intestine while shikimic acid is an important biochemical metabolite in plants. This study aims to study the anti-diarrheal activity of shikimic acid through restoring kidney function, antioxidant activity, inflammatory markers, sodium/potassium-ATPase activity, apoptosis genes, and histology of the kidney in SD rats fed lactose diet to induce diarrhea. Results: Thirty-six male SD rats (150 ± 10 g, 12 weeks old) were divided into 2 equal groups (18 rats/group) as follows: normal and diarrheal rats. Normal rats were divided into 3 equal groups of 6 rats each: the control, shikimic acid, and desmopressin drug groups. Diarrheal rats were also divided into 3 equal groups of 6 rats each: diarrheal, diarrheal rats + shikimic acid, and diarrheal rats + desmopressin drug groups. Shikimic acid restored serum urea and creatinine, urinary volume, kidney weight, sodium, potassium, and chloride balance in serum and urine. The acid returned the antioxidant (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, malondialdehyde, NADPH oxidase activity, conjugated dienes, and oxidative index) activity and the inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and interleukin-10) to values approaching the control values. Shikimic acid also restored the sodium/potassium-ATPase activity, the apoptosis genes p53 and bcl-2, and the histology of kidney tissue in diarrheal rats to be near the control group. Conclusions: Shikimic acid rescues diarrhea and its complications through restoring kidney function, serum and urinary electrolytes, antioxidant activity, inflammatory markers, sodium/potassium-ATPase activity, the apoptosis genes, and the histology of the kidney in diarrheal rats to approach the control one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gonipterus sp. n. 2 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) is an invasive, commercially important weevil that causes large‐scale defoliation of Eucalyptus trees. The weevil specifically feeds on young leaves and new shoots, thus reducing tree growth. The weevil displays a very strong preference for certain Eucalyptus genotypes, however, this behaviour and the chemistry underlying it is poorly understood, thereby complicating the selection of resistant trees. To elucidate the feeding preference of Gonipterus sp. n. 2, we assessed the relative levels of susceptibility of 62 Eucalyptus genotypes from 23 species using a laboratory choice assay. This revealed large intraspecific variation in susceptibility to weevil feeding, which for certain species, exceeded the interspecific variation. A semiquantitative metabolite profile analysis on 13 genotypes revealed strong correlations of 10 metabolites to feeding damage. The behavioural effects of the identified compounds were assessed through an in vitro feeding preference assay using artificial diets as well as under field conditions. This revealed three phagostimulants (1,8‐cineole, oxalic acid and sucrose) and two feeding deterrent compounds (shikimic acid and palmitic acid) for Gonipterus sp. n. 2. These chemical markers can be applied to tree breeding programmes for the selection of resistant genotypes to reduce damage caused by Gonipterus weevils. Summary statement: Laboratory choice assays on 62 Eucalyptus genotypes from 23 species, detailed metabolic profiling, in vitro feeding assays and independent field trials revealed three phagostimulants and two feeding deterrent compounds for Gonipterus sp. n. 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illicium verum Hook. F., also known as star anise, is one of the most important plants of the genus Anise in the family Magnoliaceae. I. verum not only has the functions of warming Yang, dispersing cold, regulating Qi and relieving pain but can also be used as a condiment to increase flavor as well as reconcile and remove fish smells. Currently, 201 chemical constituents have been identified from star anise; among these, star anise oil and shikimic acid are the two most widely used and studied chemical components in star anise, with the oil accounting for a large proportion of the total. This review integrates, classifies and updates studies related to the botany, pharmacology, phytochemistry, traditional and modern uses and quality control of star anise, with a special reference to its phytochemical composition and pharmacological activity. It will provide a reference for further research on this important medicinal plant. In addition, the broad applications and research profiles of star anise essential oil and shikimic acid are highlighted. Our review indicates that the research prospects regarding star anise are very broad and worthy of further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of shikimic acid on growth performance, diarrhea index, serum immunity and antioxidant indicators of piglets infected with porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). A total of 120 clinically confirmed PEDV infected seven-day-old piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly divided into six groups, with five replicates in each group and four pigs in each replicate. Treatment group 1, group 2 and group 3 were administered 800, 400 and 200 mg/kg of shikimic acid daily to piglets infected with PEDV, treatment group 4 were treated with daily administration of 400 mg/kg chlorogenic acid to piglets infected with PEDV, treatment group 5 were treated with 20 000 units of gentamicin per day to piglets infected with PEDV, treatment group 6 were treated as positive control groups, and another 20 healthy piglets were selected as the blank control group. The experiment lasted for 5 d, and then observed for 3 d. The results showed that compared with control group with positive PEDV infection, the ADG of piglets with treatment group 1, group 2 and group 3 was significantly increased (P<0.05). The cure rate of PEDV infection in treatment group 1 and group 2 reached 85%, and the cure rate in treatment group 5 was 65%. The IgG content in the serum of piglets in group 1, group 2 and group 3 was significantly increased (P<0.05). The activity of SOD, CAT, NO, MPO, GSH-Px and T-AOC in the serum of piglets in group 1, group 2 and group 3 were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the content of MDA and XOD was significantly reduced (P<0.05). The experiment indicates that shikimic acid can improve the growth performance of piglets, reduce diarrhea index, enhance immunity and serum antioxidant capacity, and have a disease resistance and growth promoting effect on PEDV infected piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum (Al) toxicity is a major limiting factor for plant growth and crop production in acidic soils. This study aims to investigate the effects of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) priming on mitigating acid-Al toxicity to creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) associated with changes in plant growth, photosynthetic parameters, antioxidant defense, key metabolites, and genes related to organic acids metabolism. Thirty-seven-old plants were primed with or without 0.5 mM GABA for three days and then subjected to acid-Al stress (5 mmol/L AlCl3·6H2O, pH 4.35) for fifteen days. The results showed that acid-Al stress significantly increased the accumulation of Al and also restricted aboveground and underground growths, photosynthesis, photochemical efficiency, and osmotic balance, which could be effectively alleviated by GABA priming. The application of GABA significantly activated antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase, to reduce oxidative damage to cells under acid-Al stress. Metabolomics analysis demonstrated that the GABA pretreatment significantly induced the accumulation of many metabolites such as quinic acid, pyruvic acid, shikimic acid, glycine, threonine, erythrose, glucose-6-phosphate, galactose, kestose, threitol, ribitol, glycerol, putrescine, galactinol, and myo-inositol associated with osmotic, antioxidant, and metabolic homeostases under acid-Al stress. In addition, the GABA priming significantly up-regulated genes related to the transportation of malic acid and citric acid in leaves in response to acid-Al stress. Current findings indicated GABA-induced tolerance to acid-Al stress in relation to scavenging of reactive oxygen species, osmotic adjustment, and accumulation and transport of organic metabolites in leaves. Exogenous GABA priming could improve the phytoremediation potential of perennial creeping bentgrass for the restoration of Al-contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural product class of the sorbicillinoids is composed of structurally diverse molecules with many strong, biomedically relevant biological activities. Owing to their complex structures, the synthesis of sorbicillinoids is a challenging task. Here we show the first total synthesis of the fungal sorbicillinoids spirosorbicillinols A–C. The convergent route comprises the chemo-enzymatic transformation of sorbicillin to the highly reactive sorbicillinol and the assembly of scytolide and isomers starting from shikimic and quinic acid analogs. The key step in the total synthesis is the fusion of both building blocks in a Diels-Alder cycloaddition leading to the straightforward formation of the characteristic sorbicillinoid bicyclo[2.2.2]octane backbone. This work provides unifying access to all natural spirosorbicillinols and unnatural diastereomers. Spirosorbicillinols A–C are fungal natural products that display various biological properties, but their total synthesis has yet to be accomplished. Here, the authors report the total synthesis of spirosorbicillinols A–C based on a chemo-enzymatic transformation of sorbicillin into sorbicillinol, which is fused to synthetically prepared scytolide and isomers by a Diels-Alder cycloaddition reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial shikimic acid is an important intermediate metabolite in the synthesis of aromatic amino acids which are precursors for forming humus during composting process. Generally, the pathways producing shikimic acid and its downstream products are collectively referred as shikimic acid pathway (SKP). Microbial SKP can produce phenols, and tyrosine. Pyrogallol is the precursor of phenols. And, tyrosine can form an ammoniated monomer. Therefore, regulation of SKP can promote shikimic acid production, which is beneficial in promoting humus production and humification. However, SKP present in microbial cells is distinctive because of providing precursors for humification process, which needs to be recognized during composting. Due to the different structures of various organic wastes, it is difficult to control the SKP efficiency and shikimic acid production. Therefore, it is valuable to review the synthesis of shikimic acid by microorganisms and propose how to promote SKP during different materials composting. Furthermore, we have attempted to illustrate the application of metabolites from SKP in forming humus during organic waste composting. Finally, a series of regulating methods has been outlined to enhance microbial SKP, which are effective to promote humus aromatization and to improve humus formation during different materials composting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Star anise, rich in effective active constituents, is extensively employed in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The drying temperature can irreversibly damage these constituents. To enhance the drying quality and efficiency, this study undertook experiments using three drying methods on star anise including microwave vacuum drying, hot air drying, and a combination of microwave vacuum and hot air drying. The research examined the impacts of varying drying conditions on the drying characteristics of star anise, the moisture diffusion coefficient, and the primary component contents (anethole and shikimic acid). Models were separately established for microwave vacuum and hot air thin-layer drying kinetics including Lewis, Weibull distribution, two-term exponential, Wang, and Singh models, and a Weibull distribution model for combined microwave vacuum-hot air drying. The results indicated that drying with microwave vacuum and hot air primarily proceeded in a falling rate drying phase, whereas combined microwave vacuum and hot air drying encompassed both falling rate and constant rate stages. The effective moisture diffusion coefficients (Deff) for microwave vacuum drying and hot air drying of star anise ranged from 3.4423E-07 to 8.8239E-07 m²/s and 2.0386E-08 to 8.8239E-07 m²/s, respectively, while the Deff for combined microwave and hot air drying ranged from 2.8683E-07 to 4.8014E-07 m²/s and 7.9516E-8 to 2.0964E-7 m²/s, respectively. Evidently, segmented combined drying facilitated more convenient moisture diffusion, and both coefficients increased with microwave power and hot air temperature. During the microwave vacuum and hot air drying processes, both the Wang and Singh models and the Weibull distribution models showed good fitting effects. The Weibull distribution model could effectively predict the drying behavior of segmented microwave vacuum and hot air drying of star anise. In comparison with hot air drying time, combined microwave vacuum and hot air drying shortened the drying time by 30% to 92%. Considering quality and energy consumption, a microwave power of 2,000 W, a conversion moisture content of 30%, and a hot air drying temperature of 45°C were selected as the optimal drying parameters. Employing the combined microwave vacuum and hot air drying technique, this study, with a focus on drying efficiency and high quality, provided a scientific and theoretical foundation for the drying production of star anise, which represented a significant breakthrough in the traditional drying methods of star anise as a medicinal herb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A MXene-based SA-imprinted membrane using cooperative dual-imprinting strategy has been rationally developed to obtain high-selectivity double-layer-based SA-imprinted sites for selective recognition and separation of SA. [Display omitted] Ti 3 C 2 T x (MXene) has attracted extensive attention from scholars at home and abroad due to its rich surface termination functional groups and two-dimensional multilayer structure. In this work, MXene was introduced to the membrane by vacuum-assisted filtration processes, and the formed interlayer channel facilitated the construction of recognition sites and molecular transmission. In this paper, PDA@MXene@PDA@SiO 2 -PVDF dual-imprinted mixed matrix membrane (PMS-DIMs) were developed by the cooperative dual-imprinting strategy, which was used for the adsorption of shikimic acid (SA). Firstly, SiO 2 -PVDF nanofiber basement membrane were prepared by electrospinning method and the first Polydopamine (PDA)-based imprinted layer was constructed on the membrane. PDA not only realized the imprinting process, PDA modification was used to give MXene nanosheets better antioxidant properties and to confer the SiO 2 -PVDF nanofiber membrane the interface stability. After that, the second-imprinted sites were constructed on the stacked MXene nanosheets surface as well as between the layers. The SA dual-imprinted sites significantly increased the efficiency of the selective adsorption efficiency, when the template molecule passed through the membrane, the cooperative dual-imprinting strategy enabled multiplex recognition and adsorption of template molecules. As a consequence, which greatly improving the rebinding ability(262.17 g m−2), and mselectivity factors (β Catechol/SA , β P-HB/SA , β P-NP/SA were 2.34, 4.50 and 5.68). High stability proved the potentials of the PMS-DIMs for practical application. Precise SA-recognition sites were constructed on the PMS-DIMs, PMS-DIMs not only exhibit excellent selective rebinding properties but also have high permeability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonic assisted extraction of shikimic acid from Ginkgo biloba leaves was studied・ Based on the single factor test data, the response surface methodology was designed to investigate the effects of the ratio of material to liquid, ultrasonic temperature, ultrasonic time and extraction times on the extraction of shikimic acid from Ginkgo biloba leaves・ The results showed that the optimum conditions for ultrasonic assisted extraction of shikimic acid from Ginkgo biloba leaves w让h dilute hydrochloric acid were as follows: the ratio of material to liquid was 1: 200(g/mL), the ultrasonic temperature was 40 °C, the ultrasonic time was 18 min/times, and the extraction times were 3 times・ The yield of shikimic acid from Ginkgo biloba leaves was 2・ 981 mg/g. The order of influence on shikimic acid yield is: ratio of material to liquid > extraction times > ultrasonic temperature > ultrasonic time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haritaki churna (HC), a single herb ayurvedic formulations is known to be prescribed for various gastro-intestinal disorders in Ayurveda. Haritaki churna aqueous extract (HCAE) has anti-cancer activity against different types of cancer cells with an IC50 in the range of 50–97 μg/ml. Bioavailability of Haritaki Churna is very high in digestive track and treatment of colorectal cancer cells HCT-116, DLD1, HT-29 with HCAE reduces its cellular viability with anti-cancer IC50 70μg/ml. HCAE consumption is safe for human as it didn't affect the cellular viability of primary human PBMCs or non-cancerogenic HEK-293 cells. Haritaki churna was found to be stable in biological gastric fluids and bioactive agents are not losing their anti-cancer activity under such harsh conditions. The HPLC Chromatogram of HCAE is giving 13 major peaks and 11 minor peaks. Exploiting LC-MS, IR and NMR spectroscopic techniques, a total of 13 compounds were identified from HCAE namely Shikimic acid, Chebulic acid, gallic acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, Protocatechuic acid, 4-O-galloyl-shikimic Acid, 5-O-galloyl-shikimic Acid, Methylgallate, corilagin, 1, 2, 6, Tri-O-galloyl β-D-glucose, chebulagic acid, chebulinic acid, and Ellagic acid. Reconstitution and subtraction of phytochemicals from the mixture indicate that Ellagic acid significantly contribute into anti-cancer effect of HCAE. Cancer cells treated with ellagic acid from HCAE were incapable of completing their cell-cycle and halted the cell-cycle at DNA synthesis S-Phase, as demonstrated by decreased cyclin A2 expression levels with increasing ellagic acid concentration. Halting of cells at S-phase causes induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. Cancer cells exhibiting DNA fragmentation, changes in expression of several apoptotic proteins such as Bcl2, cytochrome-c and formation of cleaved products of caspase 3 and PARP-1 suggests ellagic acid induces cell death via mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glyphosate application, even in low doses, changes the metabolism of crops. This research aimed to evaluate the effects of glyphosate low doses and sowing season on metabolic changes of early-cycle common beans. Two experiments were conducted in the field, one in the winter season and one in the wet season. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design consisting of the application of glyphosate low doses [0.0, 1.8, 7.2, 12.0, 36.0, 54.0, and 108.0 g acid equivalent (a.e.) ha−1] in the phenological stage V4 with four replications. In the winter season, glyphosate and shikimic acid were increased five days after the application of treatments. In contrast, the same compounds increased only at doses of 36 g a.e. ha−1 and above in the wet season. The dose of 7.2 g a.e. ha−1 increased phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and benzoic acid in the winter season. The doses of 54 and 108 g a.e. ha−1 increased benzoic acid, caffeic acid, and salicylic acid. Our study indicated that glyphosate low doses increase the concentration of shikimic, benzoic, salicylic and caffeic acid, PAL and tyrosine. There was no reduction in aromatic amino acids and in secondary compounds from the shikimic acid pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Echinochloa consists of about 33 species worldwide; some of these are weeds that are very difficult to control in Argentina, and only E. colona was reported as resistant to glyphosate. The objective of this work is to determine if one or more populations of E. colona, E. crus-galli, E. oryzoides, and E. chacoensis are resistant to or less susceptible to glyphosate. Between 2015 and 2017, seeds of different Echinochloa populations were collected from the provinces of Córdoba, Santa Fe, Buenos Aires, and Entre Ríos, all from fields with a history of at least 10 consecutive years of glyphosate application and complaints from farmers due to failures in control. With these populations, survival, dose–response, and shikimic acid quantification tests were carried out to determine their level of susceptibility to glyphosate. The results obtained allow us to report the first worldwide case of resistance to glyphosate in populations of E. crus-galli, E. oryzoides, and E. chacoensis and expand the information on E. colona. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional enhancement has been reported to effectively relieve infected symptoms of Huanglongbing, one of the most destructive diseases of citrus. However, few studies focused on the role of plant nutrition in citrus plant–vector (Asian citrus psyllid; Diaphorina citri Kuwayama) interactions, which is regarded as an important part to develop an effective management strategy. Method In the present study, a hydroponic culture was carried out to evaluate the effects of boron deficiency on psyllid feeding process to decode the molecular/biochemical basis of host–psyllid interaction. Results Boron deficiency was observed to play a major role in accelerating the release of volatile organic compounds, especially methyl salicylate, affecting the shikimic acid pathway through an elevated synthesis of shikimic acid, l -phenylalanine, 3-phenylpyruvic acid and salicylic acid. These changes made citrus leaf more attractive to psyllid adults. Meanwhile, boron deficiency evidently decreased the boron concentration of leaf cell wall fractions, thereby, weakened the structural stability by affecting pectin and cellulose formations. A significant decrease of cell wall mechanical strength was observed in boron-deficiency leaf, which could be the critical reasons to reduce piercing and to increase phloem ingestion during psyllid feeding. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that boron deficiency facilitated the feeding behavior of psyllid adults through elevated release of methyl salicylate, coupled with weakened mechanical properties of cell wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants' diverse and multifaceted pharmacological effects are primarily based on their phytochemical components. These components are generally divided into two groups based on their involvement in basic metabolic processes: primary and secondary metabolites. Primary plant metabolites are involved in essential life functions and are fairly consistent in all living cells. Conversely, secondary plant metabolites are the products of auxiliary pathways, such as the shikimic acid pathway. In the study of the medicinal properties of herbs, secondary plant metabolites are the focus of attention. These compounds have played an important role in traditional and folk medicine in alleviating various ailments. A good understanding of the chemical composition of plants leads to a better appreciation of their potential medicinal value. Secondary metabolites of plants are numerous chemical compounds produced by plant cells through metabolic pathways derived from primary metabolic pathways. Each plant family, genus and species produces a specific mixture of these secondary metabolites, sometimes contributing to the taxonomic classification of plants. In modern medicine, they have served as starting points for developing drugs to treat a wide range of conditions. Secondary plant metabolites are classified into different classes based on their chemical structures. In this review, we will explore the different categories of plant secondary metabolites, their localisation in the plant, their biosynthesis and their significant bioactivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intercropping is a tried-and-true approach for restoring depleted agricultural soils, making better use of resources, controlling pests and disease, and ultimately boosting crop yield by reducing soil disease. This study tries to evaluate the role of tomato potato onion intercropping in induction tomato resistance against the soil-borne pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum. The study included four treatments Tomato seedlings monoculture in non-infected soil, Tomato seedlings monoculture in Fusarium infected soil, Tomato/potato onion intercropping in non-infected soil, Tomato/potato onion intercropping in Fusarium infected soil. Roots and shoots of tomato plants and soil were collected at 2 and 4 weeks after transplanting. Results showed that tomato/potato onion intercropping can enhance tomato resistance against Fusarium wilt. This is achieved through the improvement of soil enzymes and antifungal enzyme activity in the soil which release compounds from the Fusarium cell wall hydrolysis which act as elicitors to initiate defense response in the tomato plants. The defense response is represented in the elevation of the antioxidant capacity and enzymes which antagonize the oxidative stress. Additionally, as a result of the defense response, the secondary metabolism has improved, as evidenced by increased activity in the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and consumption of the shikimic acid, which raises the amounts of phenols and flavonoids. Besides that, the intercropped tomato showed high activity in the antifungal enzymes and high content of cell wall-bound phenols which stop the fungal growth spread inside tomato plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, cereal agriculture across main producing areas in Spain has progressively adopted direct sowing, associated with an increased use of herbicides in pre-sowing. Weedy species from genus Avena have been observed after the application of glyphosate in wheat. Here, Avena fatua (two accessions), Avena byzantina and Avena sterilis subsp. sterilis, one accession each, were taxonomically characterized by a biometric study. Dose-response trials confirmed that one A. fatua accession evolved to resistance, because it was four times more resistant (R) than the others, ascribed as susceptible (S). In addition, based on LD50, A. byzantina and A. sterilis had low susceptibility to glyphosate, with 604 and 458 g ae ha−1. Shikimic acid accumulation was able to discriminate between high susceptible (A. fatua (S)), low susceptible (A. byzantina and A. sterilis), and low resistant (A. fatua (R)) populations. On the other hand, the study revealed that A. fatua (R), A. byzantina and A. sterilis had low foliar uptake and decreased movement of glyphosate. In addition, the metabolism study showed less metabolite accumulation in A. byzantina and A. fatua (S). However, at 96 h after glyphosate application, A. fatua (R) and A. sterilis were able to convert more than 30% of glyphosate to aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) and sarcosine. Enzyme basal activity and I50 values predicted high affinity between the herbicide and the target enzyme for all accessions, thus indicating that a target-site (TS) mechanism is probably not involved in the differences in glyphosate susceptibility. In closing, non-target site (NTS) mechanisms could participate both in A. fatua R to glyphosate, and low susceptibility in A. byzantina and A. sterilis from Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most antibiotic multi-resistant bacteria, causing chronic pulmonary disease and leading to respiratory failure and even mortality. Thus, there has been an ever-increasing search for novel and preferably natural antimicrobial compounds. Agrimonia eupatoria L. and Origanum vulgare L. shoots are commonly used as teas or alcoholic tinctures for their human health-promoting and antibacterial properties. Here, we explored the antimicrobial effects of all plant parts, i.e., leaf, flower, stem, and root extracts, prepared in water or in 60% ethanol, against P. aeruginosa. The impact of these extracts on bacterial survival was determined using a luminescent strain of P. aeruginosa, which emits light when alive. In addition, the antimicrobial effects were compared with the antioxidant properties and content of phenolic compounds of plant extracts. Ethanolic extracts of O. vulgare roots and flowers showed the highest antimicrobial activity, followed by A. eupatoria roots. In particular, chlorogenic acid, the ethanolic extract of O. vulgare roots contained high levels of protocatechuic acid, hesperidin, shikimic acid, rutin, quercetin, and morin. The synergistic effects of these phenolic compounds and flavonoids may play a key role in the antibacterial activity of teas and tinctures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia leiocarpa is a medicinal plant widely used in ethnoveterinary medicine to treat digestive parasitosis whose extracts were shown to be active against gastrointestinal nematodes of domestic ruminants. The objective of our study was to identify compounds responsible for this activity. Column fractionation was performed, and the activity of the fractions was assessed in vitro on Haemonchus contortus and Caenorhabditis elegans as well as their cytotoxicity on WI38 fibroblasts. Two fractions were the most active on both nematode models and less cytotoxic. LC-MS/MS analysis and manual dereplication coupled to molecular networking allowed identification of the main compounds: ellagic acid and derivatives, gallic acid, astragalin, rutin, quinic acid, and fructose. Other potentially identified compounds such as shikimic acid, 2,3-(S)-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-D-glucose or an isomer, quercetin-3-O-(6-O-galloyl)-β-D-galactopyranoside or an isomer, and a trihydroxylated triterpenoid bearing a sugar as rosamultin are reported in this plant for the first time. Evaluation of the anthelmintic activity of the available major compounds showed that ellagic and gallic acids were the most effective in inhibiting the viability of C. elegans. Their quantification in fractions 8 and 9 indicated the presence of about 8.6 and 7.1 µg/mg ellagic acid and about 9.6 and 2.0 µg/mg gallic acid respectively. These concentrations are not sufficient to justify the activity observed. Ellagic acid derivatives and other compounds that were found to be positively correlated with the anthelmintic activity of the fractions may have additive or synergistic effects when combined, but other unidentified compounds could also be implicated in the observed activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hawk black tea exhibited a fresh, sweet and sweet aftertaste qualities, while hawk white tea showed a mellow and pure taste. • Amino acids, soluble sugars and tea polyphenols differed significantly between the two types of hawk tea. • Ten substances such as butin, phlorizin, naringin are the key metabolites affecting the taste difference of hawk black and white tea. • The absence of caffeine in hawk tea opens up the possibility of developing caffeine-based beverages in the future. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of the differences in the taste characteristics of hawk black tea and hawk white tea, exploring the intrinsic relationship between nonvolatile metabolites and these taste characteristics. The results revealed significant differences in taste properties of the two types of hawk tea. Hawk black tea mainly exhibits a fresh, sweet, and sweet aftertaste quality, whereas hawk white tea offers a mellow and pure taste. Comparative analysis revealed that the content of amino acids and carbohydrates in hawk black tea was significantly higher than that in hawk white tea, while the content of flavonoids and organic acids was relatively lower. Quality composition results indicated significant differences in the 13 major quality components and water extracts between the two hawk teas, aligning with the quantitative descriptive analysis results. Additionally, through weighted gene coexpression network analysis, significant associations were found between 671 metabolites across 155 metabolic pathways and 9 taste characteristics. Among them, flavonoid biosynthesis and degradation are the main metabolic pathways of the two types of hawk tea. And it was found that butin, phlorizin, naringin, dihydrokaempferol, sakuranetin, apigenin, (−)-epicatechin, (+)-gallocatechin, caffeoyl shikimic acid, homoeriodictyol, which are 10 flavonoids, are the key metabolites affecting the taste difference of hawk black and white tea. Additionally, this study found that hawk tea does not contain caffeine, which is of great significance for the development of caffeine-free beverages in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, Cistus libanotis (Cistus clusii Dunal) from Algeria was investigated. This plant is utilized in numerous industries, mostly in perfumery and, more recently, as a raw material for dietary supplements. For the first time, the present study evaluated the anticancer potential of Algerian C. libanotis by performing a comprehensive phytochemical investigation. The volatile fraction of the fresh plant material of C. libanotis was investigated using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled to GC-MS, and the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) of C. libanotis was examined using GC-MS technique; additionally, the phenolic compounds were identified and quantified using liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS). A healthy cell line (L929) and two cancer cell lines (CAPAN-1 and dld-1) were used to test the ethanolic extract's cytotoxicity. HS-SPME-GC/MS analysis identified sabinene (25.3 %) and α -thujene (23.8 %) as principal components. In EO the major ingredients were γ -terpinene (17.4 %), camphene (16.13 %), α -phellandrene (15.36 %), and 4-carene (13.54 %). Nevertheless, 24 components were identified by LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis and shikimic acid, luteolin and hesperidin were most abundant. Further, the ethanolic extract of C. libanotis showed a significant cytotoxic effect against dld-1 and CAPAN-1 cell lines, while it was less active against the healthy cell line L929. [Display omitted] • Sabinene and α-thujene were the major components found in the volatile fraction of C. libanotis. • C. libanotis EO was rich in monoterpenes such as γ-terpinene, camphene and α-phellandrene. • Shikimic acid, luteolin and hesperidin were the principal detected phenolic compounds. • The ethanolic extract of C. libanotis showed cytotoxic effect against dld-1 and CAPAN-1 cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Gut microbiota dysbiosis is linked to vascular wall disease, but the mechanisms by which gut microbiota cross-talk with the host vascular cells remain largely unknown. Shikimic acid (SA) is a biochemical intermediate synthesized in plants and microorganisms, but not mammals. Surprisingly, recent metabolomic profiling data demonstrate that SA is detectable in human and murine blood. In this study, analyzing data from germ-free rats, we provide evidence in support of SA as a bona fide gut microbiota-derived metabolite, emphasizing its biological relevance. Since vascular cells are the first cells exposed to circulating metabolites, in this study, we examined, for the first time, the effects and potential underlying molecular mechanisms of SA on vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration, which play a key role in occlusive vascular diseases, such as post-angioplasty restenosis and atherosclerosis. We found that SA inhibits the proliferation and migration of human coronary artery SMCs. At the molecular level, unexpectedly, we found that SA activates, rather than inhibits, multiple pro-mitogenic signaling pathways in VSMCs, such as ERK1/2, AKT, and mTOR/p70S6K. Conversely, we found that SA activates the anti-proliferative AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in VSMCs, a key cellular energy sensor and regulator. However, loss-of-function experiments demonstrate that AMPK does not mediate the inhibitory effects of SA on VSMC proliferation. In conclusion, these studies demonstrate that a microbiota-derived metabolite, SA, inhibits VSMC proliferation and migration in vitro and prompt further evaluation of the possible underlying molecular mechanisms and the potential protective role in VSMC-related vascular wall disease in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) and Fusarium wilt fungus (Fusarium oxysporum) are one of the most predominant pathogens responsible for substantial agricultural yield reduction of tomato. The current study planned to assess the effects of M. incognita (Mi) and F. oxysporum (Fo) and their co-infection on two tomato cultivars, Zhongza 09 (ZZ09) and Gailing Maofen 802 (GLM802). The present study examined the effects of co-infection on leaf morphology, chlorophyll content, leaf area, and histopathology. The present study used metabolomics to evaluate plant-pathogen interactions. The outcomes of the current study revealed that chlorophyll content and leaf area decreased more in GLM802 during co-infection. In co-infection (Fo + Mi), the chlorophyll content reduction in ZZ09 was 11%, while in GLM802 the reduction reached up to 31% as compared to control. Moreover, the reduction in leaf are in ZZ09 was 31%, however, in the GLM802 reduction was observed 54% as compared to control plants. Similarly, GLM802 stems exhibited larger brown patches on their vascular bundles than ZZ09 stems. The rate of browning of GLM802 stems was 247% more than ZZ09, during co-infection. Moreover, GLM802 roots exhibited a higher abundance of hyphae and larger galls than ZZ09 roots. In metabolic studies, glutathione, succinic acid, and 2-isopropylmalic acid decreased, whereas spermine and fumaric acid increased in GLM802 co-infected stems. It indicates that GLM802 is weakly resistant; therefore, F. oxysporum and other pathogens readily damage tissue. In the co-infected stem of ZZ09, L-asparagine and shikimic acid increased, but pipecolic acid, L-saccharine, and 2-isopropylmalic acid declined. L-asparagine was crucial in preserving the stability of nitrogen metabolism, chlorophyll synthesis, and leaf growth in ZZ09. Shikimic acid's substantial accumulation could explain the limited extent of browning observed in the vascular bundles of ZZ09. Thus, the present study provides insight into M. incognita and F. oxysporum co-infection in two tomato cultivars, which may aid breeding efforts to generate commercially viable resistant cultivars. However, further research on the relationship between M. incognita and F. oxysporum in different host plants is required in the future. • ZZ09 exhibited higher chlorophyll content and leaf area during co-infection than GLM802 cultivar. • GLM802 stems exhibited larger brown patches on their vascular bundles than ZZ09 stems. • Moreover, infected roots of GLM802 exhibited a higher abundance of hyphae and larger galls. • In metabolic studies, GLM802 showed decreased glutathione, and succinic acid. • ZZ09 showed that L-asparagine and shikimic acid increased in co-infected stem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin (MEL) has recently received ample attention as a potential biostimulator in agriculture. MEL has been considered a feasible and effective approach for improving crop output and resilience to various abiotic factors. The first step of MEL biosynthesis in plants is tryptophan (an amino acid), made de novo via the shikimic acid pathway. The processes involved in MEL biosynthesis and plant regulation are described in this review, providing a foundation for understanding the hormone's numerous physiological actions. The research delves into the intricate relationships between MEL and abiotic stresses, such as exposure to drought, salt, heat, cold, and heavy metals. This review provides an overview of recent research on the potential roles of MEL on seed germination, growth, and development in plants, highlighting its benefits for improving crop yield and quality and mitigating the detrimental effects of several abiotic stresses. It also discusses the current understanding of MEL's role as a biostimulator in agriculture, promoting root development, flowering, fruit ripening, and preventing leaf senescence. Furthermore, it summarizes the interplay of MEL with various phytohormones, including cytokinin (CK), auxin (Aux), ethylene (ETH), gibberellic acid (GA), salicylic acid (SA), abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), polyamines (PAs), brassinosteroid (BR), and signalling molecules such as NO, H 2 O 2 , H 2 S, and Ca2+. MEL shows synergistic interactions with GA, CK, PAs, JA, SA, and BR while exhibiting synergistic and antagonistic regulation with Aux, ETH, and ABA. Also, this review establishes the framework for developing novel MEL-based strategies to enhance agricultural sustainability in the face of increasingly severe environmental conditions. [Display omitted] • Melatonin (MEL) is used as a promising biostimulant for improving agricultural crop yield and quality. • MEL mitigates stress-induced damage and promotes plant resilience under adverse environmental conditions. • MEL interacts synergistically with diverse plant hormones such as GA, CK, PAs, JA, SA, BR, and signalling molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accelerated solvent extraction method was used to recover polyphenol-rich crude extract from rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) peel, a waste product from the canning industry. The influence of extraction parameters including temperature, extraction time and ethanol concentration on extraction yield, total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, and ABTS antioxidant activity was investigated. A Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology were used to optimize the extraction process. Optimal conditions were obtained at temperature, extraction time, and ethanol concentration of 60 °C, 34 min, and 54 vol%, respectively. These optimum conditions gave 333.01 ± 5.84 mg gallic acid/g, 318.28 ± 5.56 mg cyanidin-3-O-glucoside/g, and 3.05 ± 0.04 mmol Trolox/mg for total phenolic content, total anthocyanins content, and ABTS activity, respectively with extraction yield of 28.68 ± 1.48 wt%. Important active compounds found in the extract were geraniin, ellagic acid, shikimic acid and corilagin. Crude extract concentrations of 50–500 mg/kg retarded linoleic acid oxidation but efficacy was lower than synthetic antioxidants at 200 mg/kg. The current findings indicated that accelerated aqueous ethanol extraction was an effective method for the recovery of a crude extract rich in polyphenols from rambutan peel with the potential to be used as a natural antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Suspension‐cultured cells of a bamboo species (Bambusa multiplex; Bm) produce 3‐O‐feruloylquinic acid (3‐FQA) and 3‐O‐p‐coumaroylquinic acid (3‐pCQA) by treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitor suberoyl bis‐hydroxamic acid (SBHA). Acyltransferases catalyzing the formation of 5‐O‐hydroxycinnamoylquinic acid esters by transesterification from hydroxycinnamoyl‐CoAs to the C‐5 hydroxy group of quinic acid (hydroxycinnamoyl‐CoA:quinate hydroxycinnamoyltransferase, HQT) have been identified in the biosynthesis of chlorogenic acids and monolignols; however, an HQT that catalyzes the acylation of the C‐3 hydroxy group of quinic acid has not been identified previously. In the present study, we purified a native HQT from SBHA‐treated Bm cells. The purified enzyme preferentially accepted feruloyl‐/p‐coumaroyl‐CoAs as acyl‐donors and quinic acid as the acyl‐acceptor, and the enzyme specifically formed 3‐FQA and 3‐pCQA but not 5‐O‐hydroxycinnamoylquinic acid esters or esters with shikimic acid. A cDNA (BmHQT1) encoding this HQT was isolated. Although BmHQT1 is a phylogenetically unique member of the BAHD acyltransferase superfamily that does not cluster with other HQTs, functional characterization of the recombinant enzyme verified that BmHQT1 catalyzes the regiospecific formation of 3‐O‐hydroxycinnamoylquinic acid esters. Transcript levels of BmHQT1 markedly increased in Bm cells cultured in the presence of SBHA. Moreover, elevated acetylation levels of histone H3 were observed in the coding region of BmHQT1 in the presence of SBHA, indicating that the induced accumulation of 3‐FQA/3‐pCQA by SBHA is caused by transcriptional activation of BmHQT1 by the action of SBHA as a histone deacetylase inhibitor. The results demonstrate the utility of HDAC inhibitors for discovery of cryptic secondary metabolites and unknown biosynthetic enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]