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During the process of updating horticultural records of this genus in Egypt, five problems were identified: lack of publications, lack of clarity between species, numerous errors of identifications, loss of earlier documented records of identity, as well as, the introduction and cultivation of new plants during the 19th Century added to the complexity of the problem. In this study, the taxonomic aspects of genus Mimusops, were thoroughly studied to identify the most reliable characters for taxon delimitation. Our assessment was based on morphological characters representing habit, leaves, petioles, flowering pedicels, buds, floral parts, fruit and seed. Fieldwork have revealed the presence of four species, of which Mimusops kummel and M. zeyheri are new records. The latter species is represented in Egypt by M. zeyheri var. laurifolia. This variety has been neglected by many authors. Additionally, Mimusops elengi L. was believed to be cultivated in Egypt, but no materials have been encountered that could confirm it. The specimens earlier identified as M. elengi actually belong either to M. kummel or to M. laurifolia. A detailed description of the genus and species with photographs, an identification key, and synonymy for each taxon are provided.

The use of antibiotics against infection-causing bacteria is inactivated, due to the presence of antibiotic-degrading enzymes. These enzymes resist the action of antibiotics and make difficult for the already existing antibiotics to break the drug resistance. Hence, there is a need to formulate alternate therapies against the enzymes providing multidrug resistance to bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii. A silver nanoparticle coated with the natural compounds is a way of finding an alternative to the traditional antibiotics. Objective of the study was to identify and assess Mimusops elengi's floral silver nanoparticles (MENP) for its effective antibacterial activity. The methods involved were in silico analysis involving screening by ADME; drug likeness and docking of ligand to the protein (CrtM and CTX-M-15); in vitro analysis which included silver nanoparticle preparation; characterization by UV-Vis spectrum; SEM, FT-IR, DLS, and antimicrobial assays which include agar well diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, and anti-biofilm assays. The compounds present in the flower extract were identified and their usability against the enzymes under study was assured by silico screening. The in vitro analysis furthermore supports through showing potent antibacterial activity of MENP against selected organisms. Hence both in silico and in vitro studies reveal that MENP can be used as an alternative to break multidrug resistance.

Cancer patients, including breast cancer patients, live in a hypercoagulable state. Chemo- and hormone- therapy used in the treatment of breast cancer increases the risk of thrombosis. Due to differences in health care services between developed and developing countries, the survival rate of women with breast cancer in developing countries is low. Consequently, ethnomedicines are used and their efficacy as potential alternatives are being scientifically explored. The seed oils of

Understanding tree species autecology and population structure supports effective conservation actions. Of particular importance are multipurpose trees that provide non-timber forest products (NTFPs). We assessed the population structures and morphologies of two species of NTFP trees in the genus Mimusops across bioclimatic zones in Benin by sampling 288 plots within 11 forests. Structural characteristics were compared between species, forests and zones. Correlations were also observed between Mimusops tree regeneration density, tree features and ecological characteristics. The density of trees ≥ 5 cm and of regeneration and mean tree height were higher for M. andongensis (within more protected forest) than M. kummel (in forests with access to people), while the highest mean diameter was observed for M. kummel. Tree and regeneration densities and mean height were greatest in the humid zone of Benin, whilst the largest mean diameter was obtained in the sub-humid zone. The results showed significant correlations between regeneration density and soil properties for M. andongensis but not for M. kummel. The correlations between tree morphology and soil characteristics were weak for both species. Ecological characteristics, along with the species’ functional traits and pressures, are important factors related to the observed differences between the species. All diameter classes were represented, and the population seemed more stable in the more protected forest relative to other forests. Mimusops trees with a diameter of 5–15 cm represented more than 30% of this species in most forests, this suggests, for M. kummel, whose trees flower when quite small (≥6 cm dbh), that there are sufficient reproductive trees. Thus, as a long-lived species, its populations could be maintained even with low/episodic recruitment. However, we found no regeneration in many forests and climate change could threaten populations. Therefore, it is important to investigate regeneration growth and dynamics, seed production and germination of the species in relation to the biophysical conditions and disturbances experienced by Mimusops stands.

Background—chlorhexidine (CHX) is most commonly used as a chemical plaque control agent. Nevertheless, its adverse effects, including teeth discoloration, taste alteration and calculus build-up, limit its use and divert us to medicinal herbs. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, and cytotoxic effects of Mimusops elengi Linn extract (ME) over normal human cultured adult gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Methods—in vitro phytochemical screening, total flavonoid content, antioxidant potential by DPPH and Nitric Oxide (NO) radical scavenging activity, and cytotoxic effects of ME extracts over HGF were explored. The viability of HGF cells was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT), neutral red uptake, and trypan blue assay after treatment with different concentrations of CHX and ME (0.3125 to 10 µg/mL). Results—ME showed some alkaloids, glycosides, saponins and flavonoids exhibited relatively moderate-to-good antioxidant potential. Increasing the concentration of CHX and ME from 0.3125 to 10 µg/mL reduced cell viability from 29.71% to 1.07% and 96.12% to 56.02%, respectively. At higher concentrations, CHX reduced the viability of cells by 52.36-fold compared to ME, revealed by MTT assay. At 10 µg/mL concentration, the mean cell viability of CHX and ME-treated cells was 2.24% and 57.45%, respectively, revealed by a neutral red assay. The viability of CHX- and ME-treated HGF cells estimated at higher concentrations (10 µg/mL) using trypan blue assay was found to be 2.18% and 47.36%, respectively. A paired t-test showed significance (p &lt, 0.05), and one-way ANOVA difference between the mean cell viability of CHX- and ME-treated cells at different concentrations. One-way ANOVA confirmed the significant difference between the viability of CHX- and ME-treated cells. Conclusions—The cytoprotective and antioxidant effects of ME emphasize its potential benefits. Therefore, it could emerge as a herbal alternative and adjunct to conventional oral hygiene methods, that can diminish periodontal tissue destruction.

The present study focused on combined effect of titanium oxide nanoparticles dispersed into B20 and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) on the performance and pollutant of a CI engine has been examined. A 25 ppm of titanium oxide nanoparticles (TON) was blended with B20 sample (20% of Mimusops Elangi biodiesel + 80% of diesel) by using ultrasonication process. Moreover, EGR was implemented to diminish nitrogen oxide (NOx) of a CI engine. The experimental runs were performed on four-stroke CI engine with various fuels like diesel, B20, B20TO25, B20TO25 + 5% EGR-, B20TO25 + 10% EGR-, B20TO25 + 15% EGR-, B20TO25 + 20% EGR-tested fuel samples at various conditions of load. The outcomes of the experimentations reveals that BTE of B20TO25 + 15% EGR fuel decreased by 6.56% and BSFC increased by 6.46% compared to the B20TO25 but for B20TO25 + 15% EGR fuel samples decrease the maximum amount of emission levels with respect to other tested fuels especially NOx was reduced by 32% compared with B20TO25 at full load condition.

The improvement in engine performance and exhaust emissions reduction are the major important issues in developing a more efficient engine. The injection timing is one the major parameters that aff...

The basic objective of the research work was to study the effect of various blends of Mimusops elangi methyl ester (MEME) on engine performance, combustion, and emission characteristics of ...

Sixty two Indonesian wood species were exposed to marine borers for determining their resistances. The study was conducted at Rambut Island seashore using wood samples measuring 2,5 cm by 5 cm by 30 cm. The samples were randomly arranged using nylon rope immersed in the shore and then observed after six months. Results revealed that most of the samples were completely attacked by Martesia striata Linne of the Pholadidae family, Teredo bartchi Clapp., Dicyathifer manni Wright and Bankia cieba Clench., of the Teredinidaefamily. Nine out of 62 wood species i.e. 14.5% were resistant to marine borers. Eusideroxylon zwageri T. et B., was classified as very resistant (no attack), while Diospyros celebica Bakh., Mimusops elingi L., Parinari corymbosa Miq., Tectona grandis lf, Trestania maengayi Duthii.,Trestania whiteana Griff, Vitex cofassus Reinw., and Vitex pubescens Vahl. were categorized as resistant (light attack). These nine wood species are suitable for marine constructions.

Multipurpose NTFP species typically experience higher harvest demand because of their multiple uses, which, when combined with unsustainable land use practices, may threaten population viability. We assessed local knowledge on the uses, habitat, and population status of Mimusops andongensis and Mimusops kummel, both multipurpose NTFP species in Benin, to promote their valorization and conservation and thus sustain local knowledge on their uses for domestication issues. One hundred households were randomly selected for structured interviews for M. andongensis and 500 for M. kummel. The relationship between age, sex, and ethnic groups and the species uses was assessed using comparison and correspondence analyses. Nearly all organs of the species were used. Both species were mainly exploited for medicinal purposes but also in construction and as firewood. We found similarities in some uses of the species organs, although the species occur in different ecological zones and are used by different ethnic groups. This result should be considered for the valorization of the species. Most informants reported that populations of M. andongensis were decreasing, although some felt that they were increasing, whereas less than one-third said that M. kummel was decreasing. There were strong relationships between gender, age, and ethnic affiliation of the users and the exploited organs of both species. Potential uses exist based on both the past and current uses of the species and in comparison to other countries where they are exploited. Local ethnoecological knowledge and practices will help to valorize and conserve the species. However, further research on the species’ seed germination and propagation ability are also necessary.

Microbes are considered as the primary etiological agents in endodontic diseases. Ways of reducing these agents are root canal debridement and antibacterial filling materials. One of the factors in determining the success of endodontic treatment previously was sealing root canals with materials possessing potent bactericidal effect. Due to cytotoxic reactions of sealers and their inability to eliminate bacteria completely from dentinal tubules, trend to use natural plants extracts have been introduced.To compare antimicrobial activity of endodontic sealers added to herbal extracts.Three sealers mixed with three herbal extracts were evaluated against seven strains of bacteria at various time intervals using Agar Diffusion Test. The mean zones of inhibition were measured.All statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 15 statistical software version, Chicago. Intergroup comparison was evaluated using Kruskal Walls test along with Mann Whitney U test. The Intragroup comparison was evaluatd using Friedman test along with Wilcoxon test.Statistically significant zones of bacterial growth inhibition were observed largest with Zinc Oxide Eugenol based sealer when mixed with Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) followed in descending order by zinc oxide eugenol based sealer mixed with Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Mimusops elengi (Bakul) respectively.Zinc Oxide Eugenol based sealer with herbal extracts produced largest inhibitory zones followed in descending order by Resin based sealer and Calcium hydroxide along with three herbal extracts respectively.

Mimusops zeyheri is widely used in traditional medicine and for nourishment. Consequently, the elemental composition, including heavy metals concentrations in M. zeyheri fruits, sampled from industrial and mining areas in Gauteng and North West Province, South Africa, was determined. The results showed soil concentrations to be in decreasing order of K > Na > Ca > Mg > Fe > Al > Zn > Mn > Cu > Cr > Sr > Pb > As > Li > Ni ≈ Co > Rb > U > Bi > Ga > Be > Tl > Mo > Ba > Ag > Cd. Geoaccumulation indices showed moderate contamination by Cd that did not accumulate in the fruits whilst principal component analysis revealed metals in soils to originate from different anthropogenic sources in the area. The plant controlled uptake of metals to meet metabolic needs and levels of toxic metals was low making the fruits suitable for human consumption, even if picked from sites close to mining areas. Nutritional value of the fruits highlighted their positive contribution to the diet and showed them to be rich in Cr and Mn.

Taxifolin possesses gastroprotective property but is characterized by low water solubility, is instabile in alkaline medium, and is degraded by the intestinal bacteria flora. The purpose of the work was therefore to produce a gastroadhesive formulation to prolong taxifolin residence time and release in the stomach. We first demonstrated that taxifolin is stable in simulated gastric fluid with or without pepsin and mucus, and is able to cross pig gastric mucus layer and stomach mucosa. Next, gastromucoadhesive microparticles composed of Syloid® AL-1 mesoporous silica, chitosan and HPMC were produced using spray-drying. Microparticles were characterized by a spherical shape and a mean volume-equivalent diameter around 12 μm. The optimized microparticles were able to release taxifolin and to adhere to pig stomach mucosa for 5 h.

Harvesting of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) can threaten target species, especially those with limited distribution and density. Exploited species also face threats from habitat fragmentation, fire, and invasive species. We assessed the impact of human disturbances and invasive species on the population of a key multipurpose NTFP species, Mimusops andongensis, in Lama Forest reserve (Benin). The densities of adult trees and regenerative stems decreased with increasing degradation. Mimusops andongensis contributed less to total tree density with increasing human disturbance. There were significantly fewer M. andongensis recruits with increasing cover of invasive Chromolaena odorata. Smaller diameter individuals predominated in non-degraded and moderately degraded sites while in degraded sites, the structure showed a negative exponential trend with the density of small diameter individuals being less than two trees/ha. Larger individuals were also rare in degraded sites. The low density of both mature trees and seedlings in degraded sites may undermine the long-term viability of M. andongensis, despite existing protection against NTFP harvesting and other anthropogenic pressures. Management should emphasize facilitating recruitment subsidies and limiting the presence of C. odorata.

Summary Antifertility efficacy of oral administration of aqueous fruit extract of Mimusops elengi (200, 400 and 600 mg kg−1 body weight/day for 35 days) was evaluated in Parkes strain male mice. Various reproductive end points such as histopathology, sperm parameters, testosterone level, haematology, serum biochemistry and fertility indices were assessed; activities of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, and immunoblot expressions of StAR and P450scc in the testis were also assessed. Histologically, testes in Mimusops-treated mice showed nonuniform and diverse degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules; both affected and normal tubules were observed in the same sections of testis. The treatment had adverse effects on testicular hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases and StAR and P450scc, serum level of testosterone and on motility, viability and number of spermatozoa in cauda epididymis. However, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine, and haematological parameters were not affected by the treatment. Also, libido was not affected in treated males, but their fertility was markedly suppressed. By 56 days of treatment withdrawal, the alterations caused in the above parameters recovered to control levels, suggesting that Mimusops treatment causes reversible suppression of spermatogenesis and fertility in Parkes mice. Further, there were no detectable signs of toxicity in treated males.

Antibiotic resistance is the major growing threat facing the pharmacological treatment of bacterial infections. Therefore, bioprospecting the medicinal plants could provide potential sources for antimicrobial agents. Mimusops, the biggest and widely distributed plant genus of family Sapotaceae, is used in traditional medicines due to its promising pharmacological activities. This study was conducted to elucidate the antimicrobial effect of three unexplored Mimusops spp. (M. kummel, M. laurifolia and M. zeyheri). Furthermore, the mechanisms underlying such antibacterial activity were studied. The Mimusops leaf extracts revealed significant antibacterial activities against the five tested bacterial strains with a maximum inhibition zone diameter of 22.0 mm against B. subtilis compared with standard antibiotic ciprofloxacin. The minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentration values against tested Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains ranged from 3.15-12.5 µg/ml. However, weak antifungal effect was recorded against Candida albicans with MIC value ˃25 µg/ml. The 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay showed that M. caffra was the best antioxidant (IC50=14.75±0.028 µg/ml), while M. laurifolia was the least one (IC50=34.22±0.014 µg/ml). The phenolics in plant leaves extracts were identified and quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) which revealed the presence of seven phenolic acids and four flavonoids. The abundant phenolic compounds were rutin (5.216±0.067 mg/g dried wt.) and gallic acid (0.296±0.068 mg/g) followed by myricetin (0.317±0.091 mg/g) then kaempferol (0.113±0.049 mg/g) as flavonoids. The antibacterial mechanism of M. laurifolia extract, as a representative species, induces ultrastructural changes in the model bacterium Staphylococcus aureus with cell wall and plasma membrane lysis as revealed by transmission electron microscopy. Overall, Mimusops species (M. laurifolia, M. kummel and M. zeyheri) are promising natural alternative sources for antimicrobial agents.

The current investigation has been aimed at the effective utilization of the alternative renewable feedstock towards propelling the diesel engine. A novel alternative feedstock, which is abundantly present in the south of India, Mimusops elengi was identified for this present investigation. The study was initiated with 20% of Mimusops elengi and methyl ester (B20) was blended with fossil diesel fuel on a volume basis. Moreover, it was observed that on the trade-off between the performance characteristics; the emission quantity was marginally higher. Concentrating on the environmental pollution caused by the diesel engine, an oxygenated nano additive, titanium oxide, was doped with the base fuel at different mass fractions of 25, 50, 75, and 100 parts per million (ppm). The result observed states that B20 with 25 ppm of titanium oxide nanoparticle (B20 + 25 ppm) established a 3.60% improvement in BTE (brake thermal efficiency) as equated with B20; furthermore, it resulted in 14.2% and 17.4% reduction in hydrocarbon and smoke emission, respectively, though it resulted in a marginal penalty of 14.72% in NOx.

BACKGROUND Claims abound that the Transvaal red milkwood, Mimusops zeyheri, indigenous to areas with tropical and subtropical commercial fruit trees and fruiting vegetables in South Africa, is relatively pest free owing to its copious concentrations of latex in the above-ground organs. On account of observed fruit fly damage symptoms, a study was conducted to determine whether M. zeyheri was a host to the notorious quarantined Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata). RESULTS Fruit samples were kept for 16–21 days in plastic pots containing moist steam-pasteurised growing medium with tops covered with a mesh sheath capable of retaining emerging flies. Microscopic diagnosis of the trapped flies suggested that the morphological characteristics were congruent with those of C. capitata, which was confirmed through cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene sequence alignment with a 100% bootstrap value and 99% confidence probability when compared with those from the National Centre for Biotechnology Information database. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that M. zeyheri is a host of C. capitata. Therefore, C. capitata from infestation reservoirs of M. zeyheri fruit trees could be a major threat to the tropical and subtropical fruit industries in South Africa owing to the fruit-bearing nature of the new host. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry

Mosquito-borne diseases represent a deadly threat for millions of people worldwide. However, the use of synthetic insecticides to control Culicidae may lead to high operational costs and adverse non-target effects. Plant-borne compounds have been proposed for rapid extracellular synthesis of mosquitocidal nanoparticles. Their impact against biological control agents of mosquito larval populations has been poorly studied. We synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using the aqueous leaf extract of Mimusops elengi as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The formation of AgNP was studied using different biophysical methods, including UV-vis spectrophotometry, TEM, XRD, EDX and FTIR. Low doses of AgNP showed larvicidal and pupicidal toxicity against the malaria vector Anopheles stephensi and the arbovirus vector Aedes albopictus. AgNP LC50 against A. stephensi ranged from 12.53 (I instar larvae) to 23.55 ppm (pupae); LC50 against A. albopictus ranged from 11.72 ppm (I) to 21.46 ppm (pupae). In the field, the application of M. elengi extract and AgNP (10 × LC50) led to 100 % larval reduction after 72 h. In adulticidal experiments, AgNP showed LC50 of 13.7 ppm for A. stephensi and 14.7 ppm for A. albopictus. The predation efficiency of Gambusia affinis against A. stephensi and A. albopictus III instar larvae was 86.2 and 81.7 %, respectively. In AgNP-contaminated environments, predation was 93.7 and 88.6 %, respectively. This research demonstrates that M. elengi-synthesized AgNP may be employed at ultra-low doses to reduce larval populations of malaria and arbovirus vectors, without detrimental effects on predation rates of mosquito natural enemies, such as larvivorous fishes.

Mimusops spp. is used as plant-based antiulcer drugs in Indian traditional medicine. In this study, a bio-guiding study of methanolic extracts of Mimusops balata edible fruits was performed to identify an antiulcer gastric compound. The gastric lesions induced by HCl/ethanol in mice were significantly improved by methanolic extract from seed (MESe, 300 mg/kg), but not by methanolic extract from peel (MEPe, 300 mg/kg) or pulp (MEPu, 300 mg/kg), when compared to the vehicle group. Treatment with MESe also decreased gastric ulceration induced by indomethacin. The antiulcerogenic activity of MESe appears to involve the maintainance of GSH levels, reduction of LPO content, inhibition of neutrophil migration (as evidenced by a decrease in the MPO activity) and a potent free radical scavenger activity (IC50 = 3.4 μg/ml). Moreover, MESe decrease the gastric volume, pH, total acidity, and pepsin activity in the gastric juice. Exceptionally, MESe showed a high content of phenolic compound, identified by layer chromatography and Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Considering the better pharmacological and phytochemical profile, MESe was successively partitioned and resulted in isolation and identification of a constituent, the flavonoid taxifolin, identified by spectroscopic methods ((1)H, (13)C NMR, and HPLC). Taxifolin also inhibited the ulcerogenic effect of HCl/ethanol at a low dose of 1.14 mg/kg and inhibited in vitro H+/K(+)-ATPase activity by 41% at a concentration of 100 μg/ml. Taken together, these results evidenced the gastroprotective potential of fruits from M. balata and showed that this effect is exclusive to the seeds.

Two new aromatic glycosides, elengiosides A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the methanolic extract of the flowers of Mimusops elengi (Sapotaceae) together with 26 known compounds. Their stereostructures were elucidated based on their spectroscopic properties and chemical evidence. Among the isolates, a phenylethanoid glycoside, undatuside C (14), was found to exhibit hyaluronidase inhibitory activity.

In this study, the elemental distribution of essential and toxic elements in the soil and fruits of the indigenous plant species, Mimusops caffra, from ten sites along the KwaZulu-Natal east coast was investigated using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. This was done to determine the nutritional value of the fruits as well as to evaluate the impact of soil quality on elemental uptake by the plant. The elemental concentrations in the fruits (in descending order) were found to be KNaCaMgSiAlFeZnMnNiCrCuPbMoSbAsSeVCdCo. The results show that approximately 10 g of fruit would contribute more than 85% towards the recommended dietary allowance for Fe and Si for most adults. The proximate chemical composition revealed the fruits to contain approximately 84% moisture, 4.7% ash, 6.9% protein, 1.7% oil and 2.7% carbohydrates. The study indicates that the fruits of this indigenous plant species are a good source of essential elements with low levels of potentially toxic elements (Pb, As and Cd) which makes the plant a good indigenous food source especially for vulnerable communities that need food security.

Orientador: Vera Lúcia Garcia Tese (doutorado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia Resumo: O uso de plantas para fins medicinais apresenta vantagens que tornam a sua utilização muito atrativa, principalmente em países em desenvolvimento. O desenvolvimento de compostos com ação anti-helmíntica ou antimicrobiana representa uma necessidade urgente, devido a alta prevalência de doenças infecciosas novas e reemergentes além da crescente resistência dos patógenos aos fármacos atuais. Nosso estudo teve como objetivo determinar a composição química e avaliar as atividades anti-helmíntica, antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos, frações e compostos isolados das folhas de Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen (sapoti) e de Mimusops commersonii (G. Don) Engl (abricó-da-praia). Extratos etanólicos e frações iniciais das folhas de ambas as espécies foram preparados separadamente por turbolização. A purificação dos extratos para obtenção dos compostos isolados foi realizada por (1) filtração em coluna de poliamida e extração em fase sólida e (2) por cromatografia Flash seguido de separação por cromatografia preparativa. Essas etapas foram monitoradas por cromatografia em camada delgada e perfis analíticos obtidos por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência. As técnicas de cromatografia a gás acoplada a detector seletivo de massas, rotação óptica, determinação de massa de alta resolução, e ressonância magnética nuclear de 1H e 13C uni e bidimensionais foram empregadas para identificação e elucidação estrutural dos compostos. A atividade anti-helmíntica contra Strongyloides venezuelensis foi avaliada a partir da sobrevida (%) de parasitas adultos (fêmeas partenogenéticas) expostos diretamente aos extratos, frações e compostos isolados O teste de atividade antimicrobiana (MIC) foi realizado frente aos patógenos Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans e Trichophyton rubrum. O extrato etanólico, a fração de maior polaridade, a fração enriquecida em compostos fenólicos, miricitrina e ácido clorogênico, oriundos de folhas de M. zapota mostraram potente ação anti-helmíntica na concentração de 200 ?g/mL, enquanto a fração de menor polaridade apresentou ação potente antibacteriana. O extrato e as frações iniciais foram potentes frente à C. albicans (16 ?g/mL). O composto 2 foi potente frente ao S. aureus e T. rubrum (8 e 16 ?g/mL ) Dos derivados de M. commersonii, a fração rica em compostos fenólicos (F2) apresentou melhor ação anti-helmíntica. O extrato etanólico e as frações iniciais apresentaram atividade promissora frente à C. albicans e S. aureus. O composto 3¿ apresentou atividade antibacteriana potente e o composto 5¿ foi potencialmente ativo frente à T. rubrum e S. aureus. Este é o primeiro relato sobre a identificação dos compostos ácido clorogênico, miricetina-3- glicosídeo, mearnsitrina, germanicol e seu acetato em folhas de M. zapota e de um norisoprenoide e quatro diferentes ácidos protobassicos em folhas de M. commersonii Abstract: The use of plant extracts has several advantages that make them attractive for developing countries. The development of new compounds with antimicrobial or anthelmintic properties is even more urgent due to an increase in the prevalence of new and reemerging infectious diseases, besides a growing resistance to current drugs. The purpose of this study was to determine the chemical composition of the leaves of Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen (sapoti) and Mimusops commersonii (G. Don) Engl. (abricó-da-praia) and to evaluate the antimicrobial and anthelmintic activities of their ethanolic extracts, fractions and isolated compounds. Ethanolic extracts, primary fractions of sapoti and abricó-da-praia leaves were prepared separately via ultra-turrax extraction. The purification of fractions to obtain the isolated compounds was performed through (i) filtration in polyamide column followed by solid phase extraction and preparative chromatography ; (ii) and flash chromatography followed by preparative separation. These steps were monitored by TLC and high performance liquid chromatography profiles. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, optical rotation, high resolution mass, and 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopic (1D and 2D) were used for identification and structural elucidation. The anthelmintic action against Strongyloides venezuelensis was evaluated by means of the survival rate of the adult parasites (parthenogenetic females) that were directly exposed to the extracts, fractions and isolated compounds. Antimicrobial assays (MIC) were performed against to Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans e Trichophyton rubrum. The ethanolic extract, higher polarity fraction, myricitrin and chlorogenic acid from M. zapota leaves showed potential anthelmintic activity while the lower polarity fraction showed potential antibacterial action. The extract and primary fractions showed potential activity against to C. albicans (16 ?g/mL). The compound 2, was active against to S. aureus and T rubrum (8 and 16 ?g/mL). For M. commersonii the fraction rich in phenolic compounds presented the best anthelmintic action. The ethanolic extract and initial fractions was active against S. aureus and C. albicans. For derived of M. commersonii the fraction of phenolic compounds (F2) showed the best anthelmintic activity. The ethanolic extract and primary fractions have promising action against to C. albicans and S. aureus. The compound 3¿ showed potential antibacterial activity while the compound 5¿ was active against T. rubrum and S. aureus. This is the first report into the identification of chlorogenic acid, myricetin-3-glucoside, mearnsitrin, germanicol and germanicol acetate in M. zapota leaves and of an isoprenoid and four protobassic acids in M. commersonii leaves Doutorado Fármacos, Medicamentos e Insumos para Saúde Doutora em Ciências CAPES FAPESP 2013/05355-1

The present study reports the use of Mimusops elengi (M. elengi) fruit extract for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The synthesized Ag NPs was initially noticed through visual color change from yellow to reddish brown and further confirmed by surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) band at 429 nm using UV-Visible spectroscopy. Morphology and size of Ag NPs was determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) study revealed crystalline nature of Ag NPs. The prolonged stability of Ag NPs was due to capping of oxidized polyphenols which was established by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) study. The polyphenols present in M. elengi fruit extract was analyzed by High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and the results revealed the presence of ascorbic acid, gallic acid, pyrogallol and resorcinol. In order to study the role of these polyphenols in reducing Ag+ ions to Ag NPs, analyses of extracts before reduction and after reduction were carried out. In addition, the synthesized Ag NPs were tested for antibacterial and antioxidant activities against Staphylococcus aureus (S. Aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Ag NPs showed good antimicrobial activity against both gram positive (S. aureus) and gram negative (E. coli) bacteria. It also showed good antioxidant activity as compared to ascorbic acid as standard antioxidant.

The present communication reviews the pattern of modern pollen-rain studies carried out in southwestern Madhya Pradesh, India. The study largely revealed that Tectona grandis (teak), despite being an enormous pollen producer (7500 average number of absolute pollen/flower) and the dominant forest constituent (80 to 95% of the total forest constituents), is recorded mostly in low frequencies, attributable to its low pollen dispersal efficiency as well as poor pollen preservation in the sediments. However, Madhuca indica (Mahua) and other dominant members of Sapotaceae (cf. Manilkara hexandra and Mimusops elangi) have always shown their typical behaviour in the pollen spectra and are represented in high frequencies, which are assigned to their local abundance around the provenance of the samples, coupled with high dispersal efficiency as well as good pollen preservation in the sediments. Meanwhile, the other usual and characteristic associates of teak (Tectona grandis) in the tropical deciduous forests, desp...

Mimusops elengi is Indian native plant and is used for a long time in the history of the medicine. Plant was well studied in majority of the world because of its high potential medicinal value. Traditionally all different part of this plant, namely leaf, root, fruit, seed, bark and flower are used to cure various kinds of disorders. Information compiled here will be useful to improve the present investigation of several health care research regarding the Mimusops elengi.

Mimusops elengi (M. elengi) Linn. (Sapotaceae) has been used as a folk medicine in wound healing, and the treatment of pain, and inflammation in many parts of India.The purpose of this investigation was to explore the antitumor activity of methanol extract of M. elengi (MEME) in Swiss albino mice against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cell line.Twenty-four hours after intraperitoneal (i.p.) inoculation of tumor (EAC) cells in mice (n = 12), MEME was administered at 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight daily for 9 consecutive days. On day 10, half of the mice were dissected and the rest were kept alive for assessment of increase in life span. The antitumor effect of MEME was assessed by evaluating tumor volume, viable and nonviable tumor cell count, tumor weight, hematological parameter, and biochemical estimations. In vivo antioxidant parameters were assayed by estimating liver tissue enzyme. In vitro cytotoxicity assay of MEME was measured by using trypan blue exclusion method.MEME showed significant (p.001) decrease in tumor volume, packed cell volume, and viable cell count, and increased the life span of EAC bearing mice. Hematological, biochemical profile, and in vivo antioxidant parameters were significantly restored toward normal levels in MEME-treated mice as compared to EAC control. MEME also showed direct cytotoxicity on EAC cell line in a dose-dependent manner.The present study demonstrates that M. elengi leaves exhibited antitumor activity in Swiss mice, which may be due to its cytotoxic effect and antioxidant properties.

To evaluate the antioxidant potential of the phenolic extracts of Mimusops elengi (M. elengi) L. (Sapotaceae).The extract of stem bark and seeds of M. elengi were prepared in methanol and acetone:water (7:3). The acetone: water was further partitioned with ethyl acetate and n-butanol. Antioxidant activity of the extracts and partitioned fractions of M. elengi was evaluated in terms of radical scavenging potential (DPPH), inhibition of lipid peroxidation [ferric thiocyanate (FTC)], and total antioxidant activity (phosphomolybdate method). Total phenolics content were calculated using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent.The stem bark extract partitioned with ethyl acetate exhibited highest amount of total phenols (98.0 mg GAE/g dry weight), among all other extracts, with 92.0% DPPH radical scavenging activity at concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, while methanol extract (stem bark) had maximum inhibition of lipid peroxidation (62.0%) and total antioxidant activity (771.0 mg/g GAE/g). A positive correlation occurred between total phenols and radical scavenging activity (R (2) = 0.922 9) and total antioxidant activity (R (2) = 0.945 1).Our study suggested that antioxidant activity of stembark extract of M. elengi is due the presence of phenolic compounds. Furthermore, the bark extract is a valuable source of natural antioxidants.

A atividade moluscicida das folhas da Bauhinia variegata e da casca do Mimusops elengi foi testada contra o vetor caracol, Limnaea acuminata. A toxicidade de ambas as plantas é dependente do tempo e da concentração. Entre os extratos orgânicos, os extratos de etanol de ambas as plantas foi mais tóxico. A toxicidade do extrato etanólico da folha da B. variegata (96 h LC50 - 14,4 mg/L) foi mais pronunciada do que o extrato etanólico da casca do M. elengi (96h - LC50 - 15,0 mg/L). As frações purificadas em coluna durante 24 h LC50 do B. variegata e da casca do M. elengi foram 20,3 mg/L e 18,3 mg/L, respectivamente. A saponina e a quercentina foram caracterizadas e identificadas como os componentes ativos moluscicidas. A co-migração da saponina (Rf 0,48) e da quercentina (Rf 0,52) com a casca purificada por coluna do M. elengi e as folhas da B. variegata na cromatografia demonstraram o mesmo valor Rf isto é, 0,48 e 0,52 respectivamente. O presente estudo indica claramente a possibilidade de usar M. elengi e/ou B. variegata como moluscicidas potentes. The molluscicidal activity of Bauhinia variegata leaf and Mimusops elengi bark was studied against vector snail Lymnaea acuminata. The toxicity of both plants was time and concentration-dependent. Among organic extracts, ethanol extracts of both plants were more toxic. Toxicity of B. variegata leaf ethanolic extract (96h LC50- 14.4 mg/L) was more pronounced than M. elengi bark ethanolic extract (96h LC50-15.0 mg/L). The 24h LC50 of column purified fraction of B. variegata and M. elengi bark were 20.3 mg/L and 18.3 mg/L, respectively. Saponin and quercetin were characterized and identified as active molluscicidal component. Co-migration of saponin (Rf 0.48) and quercetin (Rf 0.52) with column purified bark of M. elengi and leaf of B. variegata on thin layer chromatography demonstrate same Rf value i.e. 0.48 and 0.52, respectively. The present study clearly indicates the possibility of using M. elengi and/or B. variegata as potent molluscicide.

Ethnopharmacological relevance In the traditional Indian and Thai system of medicine, Mimusops elengi Linn., flower is used as brain tonic and to calm anxiety and panic attacks. Aim of the study The present study was designed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Mimusops elengi (ME) against cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury in rats. Materials and methods Male rats were pretreated with ME (100 and 200 mg/kg) for seven days and focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method. After 60 min of MCAO and 24 h of reperfusion, a battery of behavioral tests assessed the extent of neurological deficits. Infarct volume and brain edema were measured in TTC stained brain sections and the extent of blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption was observed by Evan's blue extravasation. Oxidative and nitrative stress parameters were estimated in the brain homogenates. Further, simultaneous quantification of five polyphenolic biomarkers were done using HPLC. Results Pretreatment with ME at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly improved the neurobehavioral alterations and reduced the infarct volume, edema and extent of BBB disruption induced by ischemia reperfusion injury. It also prevented the alteration in the antioxidant status and reduced the nitrite levels when compared to ischemic animals. Further, HPLC studies revealed that ME contains five bioactive polyphenolic compounds. Conclusions These results clearly indicate the neuroprotective effect of ME against stroke like injury. The observed protective effect might be attributed to the polyphenolic compounds and their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property.

Indian medicinal herbs and plants are used since ancient times to treat different diseases and ailments as these natural products exert broad-spectrum actions. The present study was aimed to explore the hydrogen donating and hydroxyl radical scavenging potential of methanol extract of 10 medicinal plants belonging to six families including mimosaceae, Apocynaceae, moraceae, sapindaceae, rutaceae and meliaceae using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and plasmid nicking assay, respectively. The total phenol and flavonoid content of these extracts was also estimated using Folin-Ciocalteu and colorimetric assay respectively. It was found that methanol leaf extract of Koelreutaria paniculata, Acacia catechu and Mimusops hexandra showed strong inhibitory activity whereas that of Hamelia patens exhibited moderate DPPH radical scavenging activity at concentration of 200 µg/ml. However, methanol extract of Swietenia mahogoni, Murraya exotica, Murraya koenigii, Alstonia scholaris, Ficus benjamina and Sapindus trifoliatus exhibited weak hydrogen donating potential in DPPH assay. The methanol extract of these plants was effective in plasmid nicking assay and the activity was found to be correlated to the phenolic and flavonoid content in these fractions. These results emphasized the benefit of the phenolic compounds rich plant extracts and thus augmented the urge of in vivo studies to further confirm the beneficial effect of these extracts.

Phytochemical investigation of the ethanolic extract of the stem bark of Mimusops elengi L. (Sapotaceae) led to the isolation of new gallic acid esters, characterised as phenyl propanoxyl gallate (1), beta-D-glucopyranosyl (6'--1'')-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-4''-(4''-ethylphenyl) gallate (2), 2'-(1'''-geranyloxy)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl (6'--1'')-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-4''-phenoxy gallate (3), beta-D-glucopyranosyl (6'--1'')-beta-D-glucopyranosyl 3,4,5-trihydroxy benzoate (4), beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(6'--1'')-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-4''-(4'''-n-butylphenyl) 3,4,5-trihydroxy benzoate (5), beta-D-glucopyranosyl(6'--1'')-beta-D-rhamnosyl 3,4,5-trihydroxy benzoate (6) and beta-D-(2'-phenyl glucopyranosyl)-(6'--1'')-(2'', 4''-diphenylrhamnopyranosyl)-3,4,5-trihydroxylbenzoate (7), along with the known compounds: farnon-3-one, stigmasta-5-en-3-beta-ol, olean-18-en-2-one-3-ol, lup-20(29)-en-3beta-ol and stigmasta-5-en-3beta-D-glucopyranoside. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses and chemical reactions.

The Wadi Jawrah Mimusops Garden is a new botanic garden which is under construction on a 25ha site in Jizan province, southern Saudi Arabia. The garden is being established around a stand of 14 Mimusops laurifolia (Forssk) Friis trees, the second largest stand of this species in the Arabian Peninsula. The major objectives of this garden are to conserve these trees, recreate the rare valley forest habitat of which they are characteristic, establish a nursery for the propagation and ecological restoration of rare species, and to provide a valuable resource for conservation education in the region. This paper covers these aims, the conservation importance of M. laurifolia and valley forest and some challenges and recommendations for the new garden.

Biodiversity is a major resource for identification of new molecules with specific therapeutic activities. To identify such an active resource, high throughput screening (HTS) of the extracts prepared from such diversity are examined on specific functional assays. Based on such HTS studies and bioactivity-based fractionation, we have isolated ergoflavin, a pigment from an endophytic fungus, growing on the leaves of an Indian medicinal plant Mimosops elengi (bakul). We report here the isolation, structure elucidation, and biological properties of this compound, which showed good anti- inflammatory and anticancer activities. Introduction. - Natural products from medicinal plants and microorganisms are the most consistent and productive source for thefirst-in-classdrugs (1). Recently, a great deal of interest has been generated by discovery of remarkable pharmacological agents from endophytic fungi (2). In our ongoing pharmacological screening program on biodiversity of endophytic fungi present in Indian landscape, we have discovered a remarkable anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity in extracts/fractions of an endophytic fungus of the ascomycetes family growing on an Indian plant named Mimosops elengi. The primary purpose for such broad-based screening of endophytic fungi was to identify novel inhibitors of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in various immunological pathways. The therapeutic areas for which the screening was carried out included inflammation, diabetes, and cancer targets. Our anticancer screen is designed to identify compounds active against multiple cancers (renal cell carcinoma, pancreatic tumours, non-small cell lung carcinoma, and colon cancers). Cytotoxicity-based screening for identification of compounds with anticancer properties has been previously shown to be successful in discovery of many clinically used anticancer natural products (3), for example, the cell-based screening of cytotoxic compounds by the National Institute of Health, USA (4). To discover natural products with anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, the fermented broths of a number of endophytic fungi were tested. Amongst the different strains of fungi, the one coded as PM0651480 was isolated from the leaves of the plant Mimosops elengi (Sapotaceae). The extract prepared from this fungal culture showed good anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity, and we describe here the isolation of the active compound ergoflavin from this endophyte culture. Ergoflavin was originally

This study reports the widespread prevalence of Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii in decayed wood inside trunk hollows of 14 species representing 12 families of trees and from soil near the base of various host trees from Delhi and several places in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Tamil Nadu and Chandigarh Union Territory. Of the 311 trees from which samples were obtained, 64 (20.5%) were found to contain strains of the C. neoformans species complex. The number of trees positive for C. neoformans var grubii (serotypeA) was 51 (16.3%), for C. gattii (serotype B) 24 (7.7%) and for both C. neoformans and C. gattii 11 (3.5%). The overall prevalence of C. neoformans species complex in decayed wood samples was 19.9% (111/556). There was no obvious correlation between the prevalence of these two yeast species and the species of host trees. The data on prevalence of C. gattii (24%) and C. neoformans (26%) in soil around the base of some host trees indicated that soil is another important ecologic niche for these two Cryptococcus species in India. Among our sampled tree species, eight and six were recorded for the first time as hosts for C. neoformans var grubii and C. gattii, respectively. A longitudinal surveillance of 8 host tree species over 0.7 to 2.5 years indicated long term colonization of Polyalthia longifolia, Mimusops elengi and Manilkara hexandra trees by C. gattii and/or C. neoformans. The mating type was determined for 153 of the isolates, including 98 strains of serotype A and 55 of serotype B and all proved to be mating type alpha (MAT alpha). Our observations document the rapidly expanding spectrum of host tree species for C. gattii and C. neoformans and indicate that decayed woods of many tree species are potentially suitable ecological niches for both pathogens.

Objective The purpose of this study is to test the postulated immuno cross-reactivity between proteins derived from raw gutta percha (RGP), gutta percha point (GPP) and natural rubber latex (NRL). Methods Antigenicity and cross-reactivity of proteins were determined by the FITkit (FITBiotech, Finland) and ELISA inhibition assays. Results Antigenicity of proteins derived from RGP or GPP was not demonstrated. Except for NRL glove extracts, neither extracts from RGP or GPP were reactive in ELISA inhibition assay. Significance There is no immunologic cross-reactivity in vitro between proteins derived from RGP or GPP, and from NRL gloves. Thus, therapeutic use of GPP is unlikely to initiate adverse immuno-reactivity in individuals previously sensitized to NRL proteins.

Claims abound that the Transvaal red milkwood, Mimusops zeyheri, indigenous to areas with tropical and subtropical commercial fruit trees and fruiting vegetables in South Africa, is relatively pest free owing to its copious concentrations of latex in the above-ground organs. On account of observed fruit fly damage symptoms, a study was conducted to determine whether M. zeyheri was a host to the notorious quarantined Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata).Fruit samples were kept for 16-21 days in plastic pots containing moist steam-pasteurised growing medium with tops covered with a mesh sheath capable of retaining emerging flies. Microscopic diagnosis of the trapped flies suggested that the morphological characteristics were congruent with those of C. capitata, which was confirmed through cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene sequence alignment with a 100% bootstrap value and 99% confidence probability when compared with those from the National Centre for Biotechnology Information database.This study demonstrated that M. zeyheri is a host of C. capitata. Therefore, C. capitata from infestation reservoirs of M. zeyheri fruit trees could be a major threat to the tropical and subtropical fruit industries in South Africa owing to the fruit-bearing nature of the new host. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

This study was aimed at assessing the diversity and population of plants species in Ikot Efre Itak Community forest in Nigeria. A total of 59 plant species were identified in the study area comprising 33 tree species, 12 shrub, 7 herbs, 34 climbers and 3 palms species. Mimusops heckelii and Canarium schweinfurthii, had the highest tree population density of 16 and 12 individual/0.6 ha respectively, all other tree species has a density of less than 10 individual/ha. In the shrub category, Bambusia vulgaris had the highest shrub population density with 31 individual/0.6 ha. Also, Costus afar and Hippocratea africana had the highest density of 53/0.6 ha and 11/0.6 ha respectively in the herb category. The result further shows that Ancistrophyllum secondiflorum had the highest population density of 23 in the palm category. Given the high rate of forest destruction in the country, there is need for to ensure sustainable conservation of the forest area to avoid further destruction by provision of alternative means of livelihood for the local population to reduce their dependence on these forest.

Oler una flor de loto es un motivo iconográfico bien conocido en relieves y pinturas del Egipto antiguo. Con menos frecuencia, la flor es reemplazada por una fruta de color amarillo, identificada por los egiptólogos unas veces como mimusops (persea) y otras como mandrágora. Debido a la marcada y agradable fragancia de la segunda, es más probable que se trate de esta. Los egiptólogos sostienen que los egipcios utilizaban la mandrágora como un afro- disíaco. Dicha idea, sin embargo, no es respaldada por las escenas que muestran a una mujer ofreciendo la fruta amarilla a otra mujer para que la huela. Sólo una escena, conocida como “El paseo en el jardín” (Berlín 15000), muestra a una mujer (la reina) sosteniendo mandrágoras y un capullo de loto en presencia de un hombre (el rey). Teniendo en cuenta que la autenticidad de dicho relieve es cuestionable y que escenas homólogas carecen de connotación erótica, la suposición de que la mandrágora fuera un afrodisíaco parece infundada. Das Riechen an einer Lotusblüte ist ein von Reliefs und Malereien gut bekanntes ikonographisches Motiv. Gelegentlich wird die Blüte durch eine gelbe Frucht ersetzt, die die Ägyptologen entweder als Mimusops (sogenannte Persea) oder als Mandragora identifizieren. Letztere Möglichkeit ist die ahrscheinlichere, wenn man den starken und angenehmen Geruch von Mandragora in Betracht zieht. Nach geläufiger ägyptologischer Auffassung diente die Mandragora im alten Ägypten als Aphrodisiakum. Diese Idee findet keine Stütze in den Szenen in denen eine Frau einer anderen die gelbe Frucht an die Nase hält. Nur eine einzige Szene – der sogenannte ‚Spaziergang im Garten‘ (Berlin 15000) – zeigt eine Frau (eine Königin), die in Gegenwart eines Mannes (eines Königs) Mandragoren und Lotusknospen in Händen hält. Da die Authentizität dieses Reliefs zweifelhaft ist und vergleichbare Szenen keine erotische Konnotation aufweisen, scheint die aphrodisische Verwendung von Mandragora eine grundlose Vermutung zu sein.

Electrophoretic profiles of native seed protein and esterase isozyme characters of four species of genus Mimusops have been revealed by PAGE. Seed coat scanning and numerical analysis of the results carried out. These species are M. laurifolia, M. elengi,M. zeyheri and M. coffra. The results of SEM on the surface seeds showed that, Seed ornamentation in Mimusops zeyheri differs than the rest species of the genus Mimusops by showing replicas of freeze on the their membrane surface. The results of seed protein and esterase isozyme characters indicated that delimitation of Mimusops zeyheri in a separated level, separation of two species of Mimusops coffra and Mimusops elengi in a separated group, in addition distinguishing of Mimusops laurifolia than other two species of Mimusops elengi and Mimusops coffra.

Studies on functional propertiesof a protein concentrate produced from the seeds of bakul (Mimusops elengiL.; Sapotaceae) have been carried out. Solubility of the protein was minimum at pH 4.0. Water and oil holding capacities of the seed protein concentrate were 1.70 g g-1and 3.23 g g-1, respectively. Minimum foaming capacity, minimum emulsifying activity, minimum emulsion stability and maximum foam stability were found at pH 4.0. Moreover, emulsion stability of the protein concentrate was high (above 88.3%) over the pH range of 2-10.

The present study was designed to investigate the effect of Mimusops elengi (Sapotaceae) against experimental gastric ulcers. The 50% alcoholic extract of Mimusops elengi (Ext E) and its different fractions namely ethyl acetate (Ext E1), n-butanol (Ext E2), methanol (Ext E3) and aqueous (Ext E4) were studied (p.o.) against ethanol-induced gastric damage. Ext E1 was also studied in ethanol-induced, pylorus-ligated and water-immersion plus stress-induced gastric ulcer models. Ranitidine HCl (80 mg kg(-1)) was used as a reference standard. In ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model, pantoprazole (20 mg kg(-1)) was also used as a reference standard. Ext E1 tested in mice up to the dose of 5000 mg kg(-1) (p.o.) did not produce any sign of toxicity. Ext E at the doses of 50, 100, 300 and 500 mg kg(-1) and its different fractions (100 mg kg(-1)) showed reduction in gastric ulceration (P0.05). Ext E1 at the doses of 10, 50 and 100 mg kg(-1) showed dose-dependent inhibition of gastric lesions against ethanol-induced gastric damage. In 19 h pylorus-ligated animals, Ext E1 at 50 and 100 mg kg(-1) doses showed significant reduction in ulcer index (P0.05). Significant reduction was also observed in total acidity, volume of gastric acid secretion, total acid output and pepsin activity (P0.05) when compared with the control group. Besides, Ext E1 showed increase in the mucosal glycoproteins that was evident from significant rise in total carbohydrates to protein ratio (TC:PR ratio) (P0.05), which is an indication of mucin activity. Ext E1 also showed protection against water-immersion plus stress-induced gastric lesions that was evident from dose-dependent decrease in ulcer index (P0.05), score for intensity (P0.05) and total lesion area (P0.05) when compared with the control group. It can be concluded from our study that Ext E1 possesses anti-ulcer activity against experimental gastric ulcers. The mechanism of anti-ulcer activity can be attributed to decrease in gastric acid secretory activity along with strengthening of mucosal defensive mechanisms.

Une bonne connaissance des interac- tions entre les forêts et les communautés humaines voisines est indispensable à la gestion participative des ressources forestières. La présente étude s’est atta- ché à déterminer la diversité écologique des arbres sauvages à fruits comes- tibles (ASFC) dans la Réserve forestière de Lama, zone protégée dans le sud du Bénin, et à définir des stratégies de conservation adaptées. Un inventaire des ASFC a été réalisé sur 53 placettes systématiquement délimitées dans des forêts denses typiques, de forêt dense dégradée et de jachère dans la Réserve forestière de Lama, ainsi qu’une enquête ethnobotanique auprès de 136 partici- pants. Les habitats des ASFC ont été iden- tifiés à partir d’une Analyse des Corres- pondances Simples sur les données de densité. Une liste d’especes prioritaires a été générée par la méthode des rangs composés : Dialium guineense, Diospy- ros mespiliformis, Drypetes floribunda, Mimusops andogensis et Pterocarpus santalinoides en forêt dense typique ; Pancovia bijuga, Psidium guajava et Lecaniodiscus cupanioides en forêt dense dégradée ; Ficus capensis et Spon- dias mombin dans les jachères. Contrai- rement aux autres essences, la densité moyenne de D. guineense, D. mespili- formis, D. floribunda, L. cupanioides et M. andongensis varie de manière signifi- cative (P < 0,01) selon les types de végé- tation. Les ASFC recensés sont principa- lement utilisés dans l’alimentation et la pharmacopée. Les essences à conserver en priorité sont P. guajava, S. mombin, F. capensis, P. santalinoides et P. bijuga. Des efforts de protection renforcés sont nécessaires en forêt dense dégradée et dans les zones de jachère pour assurer la conservation de ces essences. D’autre part, il convient d’intégrer les ASFC prio- ritaires dans des programmes de planta- tion afin de réduire la pression des com- munautés humaines voisines.

This study assessed endogenous knowledge and impact of human disturbance on the abundance of two underutilized wild fruit tree species: Drypetes floribunda (Mull. Arg.) Hutch. (Euphorbiaceae) and Mimusops andongensis Hiern. (Sapotaceae) in the Lama Forest Reserve (LFR) in southern Benin. A survey was conducted with 145 randomly selected people amongst the surrounding communities of LFR in order to assess the endogenous knowledge of the species. One hundred square plots were established in the forest for characterizing species abundance in different habitats according to human disturbance degree. Results indicated that this species has multiple uses and either local knowledge on their uses or their organ plant uses depend on social factors. A densities assessment suggests a negative effect of human disturbance on the abundance of both species. Results support the need to envisage conservation and sustainable use strategies as perspective policies.

Members of the family Sapotaceae, occurring in Madagascar’s various forest types, are mostly known as nanto in local dialects; some of their cultural and social values are described here. While the circumscription of Mimusops is well - defined, the delimitation of species within the genus remains unclear and their identification is often difficult. A study of herbarium specimens assigned to this genus deposited in key herbaria, two in Madagascar (TAN and TEF) and three outside the country (G, MO and P), revealed two new species: Mimusops boeniensis Randrianaivo sp. nov. and Mimusops masoalensis Randrianaivo sp. nov. This brings the number of Mimusops species recognized in Madagascar to 16. Both of these newly recognized species are illustrated, and detailed information is provided concerning their morphology and the differences between them and other members in the genus, as well as on their ecology and distribution.

Mimusops caffra E. Mey. ex A.DC and Mimusops obtusifolia Lam (both members of the Sapotaceae family), and Hypoxis colchicifolia Bak (family Hypoxidaceae) are used by traditional healers in Zululand to manage malaria. Anti-plasmodial investigation of the crude extracts and some triterpenes isolated from the plants showed activity against a chloroquine sensitive (CQS) strain of Plasmodium falciparum (D10). Among the crude extracts the leaves of M. caffra exhibited the highest activity, with an IC50 of 2.14 μg/mL. The pentacyclic tritepenoid ursolic acid (1), isolated from the leaves of M. caffra was the most active compound (IC50 6.8 μg/mL) as compared to taraxerol (2) and sawamilletin (3) isolated from the stem bark of M. obtusifolia (IC50 > 100). Chemical modification of the ursolic acid (1) to 3β-acetylursolic acid (4) greatly enhanced its anti-plasmodial activity. Compound 4 reduced parasitaemia against Plasmodium berghei by 94.01% in in vivo studies in mice. The cytotoxicity of 3β-acetylursolic acid (IC50) to two human cell lines (HEK293 and HepG2) was 366.00 μg/mL and 566.09 μg/mL, respectively. The results validate the use of these plants in folk medicine.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is commonly used as a flavor enhancer in many countries. However, overconsumption of MSG has been reported to produce detrimental effects on several organs. It mainly affects the normal physiology and function of the brain and causes severe oxidative stress. Mimusops elengi Linn. traditionally is used in many countries as a brain tonic and to calm anxiety and panic attacks. The effect of standardized hydroalcoholic extract of M. elengi flowers (ME) was evaluated against MSG-induced oxidative stress and excitotoxicity in Wistar rats. Excitotoxicity was induced by intraperitoneal administration of MSG (2 g/kg) for 7 days, and ME (100 and 200 mg/kg) was administered for 3 days before and for 7 days with administration of MSG. Animals were evaluated for locomotor activity, and brain homogenates were estimated for the levels of antioxidants and nitrite. In animals treated with MSG, pretreatment with ME improved ambulatory behavior, reduced lipid peroxidation and nitrite levels, and restored the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant (glutathione, total thiols, glutathione-S-transferase and catalase) status to near-normal levels; these were altered in the MSG control animals. Altogether, this investigation demonstrates the neuroprotective effect of ME against excitotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by MSG, and the observed protective effect might be attributed to the potential antioxidant property of ME.