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Descurainia sophia L. Webb ex Prantl is used in traditional medicine globally. However, the lack of an efficient and reliable genetic transformation system has seriously limited the investigation of gene function and further utilization of D. sophia. In this study, a highly efficient, time-saving, and cost-effective Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated genetic transformation system has been developed in D. sophia. In this method, the transformation was accomplished by simply dipping developing D. sophia inflorescences for 45 s into an Agrobacterium suspension (OD600 = 0.6) containing 5% sucrose and 0.03% (v/v) Silwet L-77. Treated plants were allowed to set seeds which were then plated on a selective medium with hygromycin B (HygB) to screen transformants. Additionally, the CRISPR/Cas9 genomic editing system was validated by targeting phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene using this floral dip method, and mutant plants with the expected albino phenotype could be obtained in 2.5 months. This genetic transformation and targeted editing system will be a valuable tool for routine investigation of gene function and further exploitation in D. sophia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia sophia, as an an ethno-medicinal plant, contains antioxidant compounds that safeguard cellular integrity against various forms of damage and may play a role in cancer prevention. Antioxidant compounds present in this plant facilitate the body's production of new cells and diminish the risk of colon cancer. In recent years, silver nanoparticles synthesized through green methods using ethnomedicinal herbs have been employed in cancers treatment. We have conducted an investigation into silver nanoparticles that were synthesized through green chemistry principles, utilizing the Descurainia sophia leaves extract for lung carcinoma treatment. The efficacy of Ag NPs against prevalent lung cancer cells was assessed. The green-synthesized silver nanoparticles characterization was conducted utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The findings from morphological analyses validate the nanoparticles spherical shape, which ranges in size from 20 to 60 nm. The IC50 values were determined to be 173, 125, and 109 μg/mL for HLC-1, LC-2/ad, and PC-14 cell lines, respectively. According to recent data, Ag NPs may be a useful option to support the treatment of lung cancer. Although the current study presents encouraging findings, further investigation is necessary to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of action and potential side effects of silver nanoparticles on HUVEC cells.

In addressing the time-consuming and labor-intensive issues inherent in traditional marker selection mode including systematic isolation, structural elucidation, and activity screening of indicator components for a single traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the aim of this study was to develop a method for quick simultaneous identification of multiple medicinal drugs by using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) technique featuring the advantages of being intuitive, easy to operate, and offering multi-dimensional information. Taking three TCMs originating from five closely related different species from Cruciferae family as an example, the study conducted parallel comparisons of optimized TLC chromatograms of seeds from the five species Lepidium apetalum, Descurainia sophia, Raphanus sativus, Sinapis alba, and Brassica juncea under different detection wavelength lights; eight characteristic components were distinctly discovered, and among them one known common constituent identified as sinapine. Subsequently, seven characteristic components were isolated on a small scale and within a short-time, and elucidated structurally. Lastly, for each seed, a combination of the common constituent and most of one of its characteristic components were chosen as identification markers for the respective seed. To sum up, a unified HPTLC method with different detection wavelengths and different marker combinations was established for the simultaneous identification of five seed-originated medicines. This research approach, characterized by simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and rapidity, presents a highly efficient alternative for establishing identification methods for chemically similar multiple TCMs from closely related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia sophia L. Webb ex Prantl is used in traditional medicine globally. However, the lack of an efficient and reliable genetic transformation system has seriously limited the investigation of gene function and further utilization of D. sophia. In this study, a highly efficient, time-saving, and cost-effective Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated genetic transformation system has been developed in D. sophia. In this method, the transformation was accomplished by simply dipping developing D. sophia inflorescences for 45 s into an Agrobacterium suspension (OD600 = 0.6) containing 5% sucrose and 0.03% (v/v) Silwet L-77. Treated plants were allowed to set seeds which were then plated on a selective medium with hygromycin B (HygB) to screen transformants. Additionally, the CRISPR/Cas9 genomic editing system was validated by targeting phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene using this floral dip method, and mutant plants with the expected albino phenotype could be obtained in 2.5 months. This genetic transformation and targeted editing system will be a valuable tool for routine investigation of gene function and further exploitation in D. sophia.

The seeds of Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl contain goitrogenic glucosinolates, such as gluconapin (3‐butenyl glucosinolate). Because of the important role of iodine in the synthesis of thyroid hormones and the inhibitory activity of D. sophia on iodine uptake by the thyroid gland, this study aimed to determine the effects of D. sophia syrup on clinical and biochemical variables of thyrotoxicosis in hyperthyroid patients. In this randomized, double‐blind trial, 10 newly diagnosed hyperthyroid female patients were randomly assigned to treatment with (1) methimazole (MMI) plus D. sophia capsules (350 mg/d) or (2) MMI plus placebo capsules. The primary outcomes were clinical and biochemical manifestations of hyperthyroidism after 60 days. Serum levels of FT3 and FT4 significantly decreased (5.9 ± 2.5 vs. 9.4 ± 5.9 and 29.1 ± 3.1 vs. 31.77 ± 3.7, respectively) and the serum thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration significantly increased in the D. sophia group contrasted to the placebo group (4.7 ± 0.1 vs. 0.05 ± 0.02). Significant improvement in the thyrotoxicosis clinical symptoms was reported in the D. sophia group contrasted to the placebo group (p <.05). D. sophia can suppress plasma levels of FT3 and FT4 and may be useful as adjunctive therapy for hyperthyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The combined use of plant-based and chemical coagulants, such as aluminium or iron salts can reduce the use of chemical coagulants while providing sufficient efficiency in removing suspended solids. This experimental research investigated the effect of Descurainia sophia seed extract (DSSE) in conjunction with the aluminium sulphate (alum) on turbidity removal efficiency. Methods: D-Optimal design using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used for experimental design to investigate the effects of operating factors on responses and the potential interactions between these factors. Results: The results showed that, when starting with an initial turbidity of 200 NTU, the maximum achieved turbidity removal efficiency of 91.45% (Run 1) was attained by using only alum at an optimized concentration of 59.5 mg/L and a pH 6. However, when the initial turbidity was 200 NTU, pH 7, and the alum concentration was reduced to 40 mg/L, and the DSSE/water ratio was increased to 16 mL/L, a turbidity removal efficiency of 93.45% (Run 35) was obtained. Conclusion: DSSE can be used as a plant-based coagulant along with alum to reduce alum consumption and improve the coagulation and flocculation of suspended solids in water. By incorporating this extract, the removal of impurities and reduction of turbidity can be effectively promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Weeds are a permanent constraint on crop productivity in agriculture. Due to the importance of the effect of weeds on the crop, there has been great interest in establishing the competitive ability of each species to optimize its control. This work presents a new methodology approach to determining the relative competitiveness of weed species based on population dynamics theory, which is applied to establish the competitiveness of Papaver rhoeas L. (PAP), Veronica hederifolia L. (VER), Descurainia sophia L. (DES) and Fumaria spp. (FUM) infesting a biennial cereal-legume rotation under conventional tillage. Data to fit the nonlinear population dynamic models were obtained from a long-term experiment (32 years) in Mediterranean drylands. The results showed asymmetric competitive interactions, and the competitive ability of weeds was crop specific. In cereals, the competitiveness ranking order was FUM > PAP > VER > DES, with strong interspecific competition; in legumes, it was VER > FUM > DES > PAP, with weak interspecific competition intensity. Overall, intraspecific competition was stronger than interspecific competition in the rotation system. The information gained in these studies can provide insights into the role of the intraspecific and interspecific competition in weed communities and help identify weed species that are relatively poor competitors in given crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective measure for controlling the most harmful wintering and winter weed species, such as Apera spica-venti, Galium aparine, Veronica persica, Consolida regalis, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Descurainia Sophia, Vicia villosa, etc. in winter wheat crops is the autumn application of herbicides, especially in the early stages of crop development, starting from the seed germination stage, when it is most sensitive to their presence. The study presents the results of two-year studies on the biological effectiveness of applying the herbicide Pledge 50, WP in different stages of development of winter wheat (BBCH 00, 11, 12, 14, and 16) independently and in a mixture with herbicides partners: Zenkor Liquid 600, SC, Marathon, SC, Granstar Gold 75, WG, Grodil Maxi 375, OD, and adjuvant Skaba, EC. As a result, it is identified that the biological effectiveness of the drugs under study against Apera spica-venti and other winter and wintering weeds substantially differed depending on the phase of development of winter wheat during the period of herbicide application. Pre-emergence application of herbicides does not ensure proper control of Apera spica-venti and other winter and wintering weeds. In particular, during the spring resumption of vegetation, the control of Apera spica-venti with the use of 0.1 kg/ha Pledge 50, WP was 69.0%, with an overall efficiency of 68.0%. Application of 0.4 l/ha Sencor Liquid 600, CS provided indicators of 66.1 and 71.4%, respectively. The introduction of 0.1 kg/ha of Pledge 50, WP in the BBCH 11 development phase provided high efficiency in controlling Apera spica-venti and all weeds in general with indicators of 91.2 and 87.6%, respectively. The use of a reduced rate of 0.08 kg/ha Pledge 50, WP in the BBCH 12 phase did not reduce both the overall effectiveness against weeds – 87.4%, and Apera spica-venti in particular – 93.1%. The use of Pledge 50, WP (0.1 kg/ha) in the BBCH 16 phase had a worse, but acceptable effect with efficiency indicators of 84.2% against Apera spica-venti and 83.6% overall. The best control of Apera spica-venti and all weeds, in general, was obtained by using a mixture of Pledge 50, WP + Granstar Gold 75, WG + adjuvant Skaba, EC (0.06 kg/ha + 0.025 l/ha + 0.05 l/ha) in the BBCH 14 phase – 97.5 and 99.2%, which is at the level of Sencor Liquid 600, SC + Grodil Maxi 375, OD (0.35 l/ha + 0.11 kg/ha). The highest yield of winter wheat in the experiment was obtained by applying a mixture of Pledge 50, WP + Granstar Gold 75, WG + adjuvant Skaba, EC (0.06 kg/ha + 0.025 l/ha + 0.05 l/ha) in the BBCH 14 phase – 7.56 t/ha, which is 59.8% better than the control

Due to the presence of various phenolic compounds in D.sophia, this plant may have an inhibitory effect on α-Glc and ultimately diabetes control. Therefore, this work aims to scrutinize total phenolic, flavonoid contents, antioxidant capacity, and α-Glc inhibitory activity in aerial parts of methanolic D.sophia extract. The methanolic flower extracts were selected from among aerial parts for the experimental study of anti-diabetic effects by α-Glc inhibitory assays. The flower extracts were also studied by GC/MS to detect the compounds. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 21.38 ± 0.93 GAE/g and 96.2 ± 0.20 QE/g, respectively. The IC50 value of flower extract for α-Glc inhibition with mixed (Competitive/non-competitive) mode was found to be 20.34 ± 0.11 mg/ml. Furthermore, in-vivo studies showed that the blood glucose level reduced after consumption of flower extract compared to the control group. Twenty-one compounds were identified by GC/MS technique. These compounds were assessed for high docking scores against α-Glc in silico. Docking score calculations exhibited that the DES-α-Glc complex had a significantly higher binding energy (-6.13 Kcal/mol) than other compounds. The DES-α-Glc complex which displayed a higher docking energy value than the ACR was subjected to MDs studies. The findings of this study suggest that the flower extract of D.sophia can be used as a suitable additive in syrups or foods with anti-diabetic capacity.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Descurainia sophia (DS) on proliferation, apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress of high glucose (HG)-induced mouse podocytes and its regulation of LncRNA KCNQ1OT1. In vitro cultured immortal mouse podocytes were divided into Con group, HG group, HG+DS-L group, HG+DS-M group, HG+DS-H group. si-NC and si-KCNQ1OT1 were transfected respectively into podocytes, followed by 30 mmol/L glucose intervention for 24 h. pcDNA, pcDNA-KCNQ1OT1 were transfected into podocytes, followed by 200 µg/mLDS and 30 mmol/L glucose intervention for 24 h. CCK-8 method and colony-forming assay were taken to detect cell proliferation ability; flow cytometry was adopted to detect apoptosis rate; qRT-PCR method was used to detect the expression of KCNQ1OT1; Western blot method was used to detect Nephrin, GRP78, GRP94, and Caspase 12 protein expressions. We found that DS enhanced the proliferation of high glucose-induced podocytes (P<0.05), increased the number of clones formed (P<0.05), reduced the apoptosis rate and GRP78, GRP94, Caspase 12 protein levels (P<0.05), and increased Nephrin protein level (P<0.05). High glucose-induced podocytes had increased KCNQ1OT1 expression level (P<0.05). DS reduced KCNQ1OT1 expression level (P<0.05). The inhibition of KCNQ1OT1 expression resulted increase in the survival rate and nephrin protein level of high glucose-induced podocytes (P<0.05), increase in the number of clones formed (P<0.05), reduce in apoptosis rate and GRP78, GRP94, Caspase 12 protein levels (P<0.05). KCNQ1OT1 overexpression reduced DS effect on high glucose-induced podocyte proliferation, apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress. It is concluded that D. sophia can promote high glucoseinduced podocyte proliferation, inhibit cell apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress by down-regulating the expression of KCNQ1OT1, thereby reducing podocyte damage in diabetic nephropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Descurainia sophia seed extract on paracetamol-induced oxidative stress and acute liver injury in mice. Methods: Sixty male Swiss albino mice were divided into 6 groups, group I: as control group received NaCl 9%. Group II: as paracetamol group received paracetamol intraperitoneally (i.p.) (500 mg/kg). Groups III to VI as treatment groups received different doses of D. sophia seed extract (T1 = 50, T2 = 100, T3 = 200 and T4 = 300 mg/kg, respectively). Twenty-four hours after the paracetamol administration, the mice were sacrificed under mild anesthesia and their blood samples were collected to estimate serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Their livers were also removed for histopathological examinations. Results: Pretreatment of mice with D. sophia seed extract, significantly prevented the paracetamol induced elevation in the levels of serum ALT, AST and ALP, total bilirubin and MDA (P < 0.05). The results of histopathologic studies were consistent with the above findings. Conclusion: Descurainia sophia seed extract has a protective effect against paracetamol induced oxidative damage and acute hepatotoxicity in mice.

Cervicitis is an inflammatory condition of the cervix associated with upper genital tract infection and reproductive complications. Therapy for cervicitis in conventional system is the use of antibiotics and antifungal therapies and surgical interventions, none of these treatments provides the definite efficacy in spite of high cost and side effect. So there is a need for alternate therapy which is safe, effective, easily available and free from side effects. Our study focuses on medicinal plants mentioned in main Iranian Traditional Medicine reference books. Medicinal plants mentioned in Iranian Traditional Medicine for treatment of Cervicitis were elicited and searched in electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Science direct and Google Scholar to find studies that confirmed their efficacy. The findings included 311plants(Which are mentioned below) belonging to 21 families, research findings showed that these plants that have mentioned in the Iranian Traditional Medicine resources can contribute to the recovery and treatment of cervicitis through anti- inflammatory, anti- oxidant, anti- bacterial and anti- fungal, wound healing and analgesic effects. Finding the medicinal plants effective on cervicitis based on ITM could suggest a better strategy for relieving and management cervicitis symptoms especially in recurrent or persistent condition. In following step effect of selected plants were investigated. Results are confirmed the effect of Lawsonia inermis on treating Cervicitis which is currently in progress (Zareshahi et al. 2018).

Background and objectives: Cervicitis is a common and recurrent gynecologic disease which is usually resistant to treatments. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) product, flixweed- honey, on cervicitis. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted as a clinical trial before and after the intervention at the School of Traditional Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. The married women referring to the clinic aged 17-55 years with a diagnosis of cervicitis who were not pregnant and breastfeeding, without any history of cervical polyps and pelvic surgery, and non-concurrent use of herbal or other chemical medicines were included in the study. During this research, 97 patients were treated through the vaginal use of flixweed- honey for two weeks. One week after the treatment, clinical symptoms were examined. Results: Among 97 patients who were evaluated in this study, 72 returned for follow-up. All subjective and objective parameters including vaginal irritation, itching, discharge, bleeding and pain after coitus, tenderness, and cervical wound size and friability improved significantly in comparison to the time before taking the medication. There was no treatment; five patients (0.69%) who took the medication had vulvovaginal itching that was resolved after 3-4 days. Conclusions: Vaginal product of flixweed– honey could be used in the treatment of clinical symptoms of cervicitis regardless of the reason causing cervicitis, without causing severe or serious side effects.

Several studies have tried to find an efficient agent to prevent or reverse gentamicin (Gm) induced acute kidney injury (AKI). In this study, we assessed the potential renal protective effects of Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl against Gm-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Thirty-five male Wistar rats were categorized in five groups (n = 7 per group). Control group was treated with normal saline. In four experimental groups, the rats were initially treated with normal saline (A), 800 (B), 1600 (C) and 2400 (D) mg/kg Descurainia sophia respectively for 28 days. After that, the rats of experimental groups were treated with Gm (80 mg/Kg) for 7 consecutive days. Blood and urine markers, as well as apoptosis and histological features were determined. Serum BUN, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglycerides level, as well as urinary excretion of Na+ significantly increased in group A. Furthermore, Gm induced inflammatory cells infiltration, apoptosis, and renal cells injuries in rats were pretreated with normal saline (group A). However, in the rats pretreated with Descurainia sophia extract (groups B, C, and D, there were significant and dose-dependent reductions in serum BUN, creatinine, cholesterol and triglyceride, urinary Na+ excretion, apoptosis rate, and inflammatory cells infiltration in renal tissues. Overall, Descurainia sophia showed significant protective effects against Gm-induced AKI by alleviating biochemical and histological markers of renal toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ethanol extract complex of Descurainia sophia seeds and Peucedanum praeruptorum roots, called BP10A, has antitumor potential against colorectal cancer. In the present study, we evaluated the 28‐day oral toxicity and the genotoxicity of BP10A. The subacute toxicity test was done through oral administration to mice. ICR mice (n = 10) received daily oral BP10A doses of 0, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg for 28 consecutive days. During administration, general clinical signs, food consumption, organ weights, and hematologic, biochemical and histopathological parameters in male and female mice were assessed. No significant adverse effects up to the highest dose (2000 mg/kg) were found. The genotoxicity was evaluated using a battery of tests, including an in vitro bacterial reverse mutation (Ames) test, an in vivo micronucleus test using bone marrow cells in ICR mice and a chromosomal aberration test using CHL/IU cells. BP10A did not show any genotoxic signs in the Ames (up to 5000 μg/plate), micronucleus (up to 5000 mg/kg) and the chromosomal aberration tests (550‐1750 μg/mL). Therefore, BP10A was considered safe based on the subacute toxicity and genotoxicity results, indicating that it is a useful pharmaceutical material with no adverse toxicity. An ethanol extract complex of Descurainia sophia and Peucedanum praeruptorum was evaluated toxicologically by subacute oral toxicity and genotoxicity studies. The genotoxicity was evaluated using a battery of tests including an in vitro bacterial reverse mutationtest, an in vivo micronucleus testusing bone marrow cells in ICR mice, and a chromosomal aberration test usingCHL cells. BP10A did not show significant adverse effects and genotoxic signs within the dose range used inthis study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The mediated gold NPs were characterized by UV–Vis, SEM, FT-IR, and TEM. • The particles range size was 10–38 nm. • The levels of interferon-gamma, interleukin 4, IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, phospholipase A 2 , immunoglobulin E, total protein and lung pathological changes were determined. This study reveals a sustainable and eco-friendly protocol towards the in situ mediated gold nanoparticles by Descurainia sophia extract (Au NPs), followed by the assessment of its biological and chemical properties. The mediated gold NPs were characterized by FT-IR, SEM, UV–Vis, and TEM. The fabricated Au NPs were found to be in polymorphic shapes and aggregated which possibly was due to dehydration exerted during the sample preparation for SEM analysis. In addition, the particles range size was 10–38 nm. In the in vivo design, four groups of wistar rats were applied; sensitized to ovalbumin, non-sensitized, sensitized and dexamethasone-treated, and gold NPs-treated (5 μg/mL). To induce asthma, 100 mg Al(OH) 3 plus 1 mg/kg ovalbumin was administered and rats were exposed to 2 % ovalbumin aerosol. 24 h after the sensitization end, rats were sacrificed. The levels of IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, interleukin 4, IFN-γ, phospholipase A 2 , immunoglobulin E, total protein and lung pathological changes were determined. The Au NPs amelioration effects on pathological changes, inflammatory and immunological parameters more potent than dexamethasone offers the nanoparticle remedial property in asthma. The Au NPs significantly ameliorated the sensitized rat's pathological changes. Treatment with gold nanoparticles resulted in reduced IgE, PLA 2 , TP, and IL-4 levels. A significant rise in IgE, PLA 2 , TP, and IL-4 concentrations, all lung pathological indices, and a notable reduction in IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antifeedant activity of the aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of leaves of Descurainia sophia L. and Thuja orientalis L. were tested against adults of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst).The experiment was designed to measure the nutritional indices such as relative growth rate (RGR), relative consumption rate (RCR), efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI) and feeding deterrence index (FDI). Treatments were evaluated by the method of flour disc bioassay under dark condition, at 27 ± 1 °C and 60 ± 5% RH. Ten microliter portions of each extract at concentrations (0.25-2.0%) was spread evenly on the flour discs. Results indicated that nutritional indices were significantly affected as extract concentrations increased. In this study extracts from T. orientalis decreased RGR, RCR and ECI significantly more than that of D. sophia. In addition, hydroalcoholic extracts decreased RGR, RCR and ECI significantly more than those by aqueous extracts. Both of plant extracts increased FDI as the extract concentrations were increased, showing high feeding deterrence activity against T. castaneum. Generally, antifeedant activity of T. orientalis was greater than D. sophia and hydroalcoholic extracts were more effective than aqueous extracts.

In Chinese medicine, Descurainia sophia is used to treat cough by removing the phlegm in asthma and inflammatory airway disease, but the mechanism is not clear. In this study, we evaluated whether D. sophia water extract (DSWE) can alleviate airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in the lungs of a murine asthma model. Female BALB/c mice were divided into five groups: normal controls, ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized asthmatic mice, and OVA-sensitized mice treated with DSWE (2, 4, 8 g/day) by intraperitoneal injection. After sacrificing the mice, serum was collected to detect OVA-specific antibodies by ELISA, as well as bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) to detect cytokine levels. We also detected gene expression and histopathologically evaluated the lungs of asthmatic mice. DSWE reduced AHR, goblet cell hyperplasia, eosinophil infiltration, and collagen aggregation in the lungs of asthmatic mice. DSWE also suppressed the gene expression of Th2-associated cytokines and chemokines in lung tissue and inhibited serum OVA-IgE and Th2-associated cytokine levels in the BALF of OVA-sensitized mice. Our findings suggest that DSWE is a powerful immunomodulator for ameliorated allergic reactions by suppressing Th2 cytokine expression in asthmatic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methamphetamine causes cytotoxicity and apoptosis in different cell lines. It seems that Descurainia sophia oil, as an East Asian folk herbal drug, can suppress the methamphetamine-induced cell death. In this study, protective effects of Descurainia sophia oil were followed up in methamphetamine-induced cell cytotoxicity in a neuron-like PC12 cell line. The viability, proliferation, and cytotoxicity of the cells were assessed by Trypan blue, MTT test, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, respectively. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) test was performed to detect DNA fragmentation and apoptosis. Nitric oxide (NO) level was detected by Griese method. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, interferon gamma (INF-γ), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured by Rat Kit V-Plex, and finally, caspase-3 activity was determined by spectrophotometry. Results showed that Descurainia sophia oil has cell death–suppressing effects on PC12 cells. It enhanced the cell viability and proliferation and also increased the cell cytotoxicity and cell death index in methamphetamine-treated PC12 cells. Also, it suppressed NO production, inflammatory cytokine production by flow cytometry, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and caspase-3 activity in a dose-dependent manner. We concluded that Descurainia sophia oil suppresses the methamphetamine-induced cell death in PC12 cell due to reduction of NO production, inflammation, and inhibition of apoptosis cascade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome with predominant constipation (IBS-C) is a common digestive disorder. The current therapy is inadequate and evidence regarding the effect of herbal therapies on the relief of affected individuals is insufficient. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of flixweed and fig consumption on IBS-C symptoms.Methods: 150 patients with IBS-C were enrolled in this randomized, controlled trial. All patients were randomly assigned to three groups and received an intervention for four months. The IBS severity score system and quality-of-life questionnaires were used for evaluating IBS-C symptoms. C-reactive protein levels, frequency of defecation and hard stool were also assessed.Results: Consumption of flixweed or fig, compared to a control group, caused a significant improvement in IBS symptoms including frequency of pain, distention, frequency of defecation and hard stool. Also, the findings showed a significant increase in quality of life, as well as satisfaction with overall bowel habits. However, flixweed and fig intake had no significant effects on abdominal pain severity and C-reactive protein levels.Conclusions: In conclusion, consumption of flixweed or fig for four months would be a useful therapy for alleviating IBS-C symptoms and can be a beneficial option for first-line treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Brassicaceae is one of the most popular family of vegetables consumed worldwide. Owing to their wide range of phenolic compounds, the attention of researchers has shifted towards their pharmacological exploitation. This study investigates into the antioxidant properties of three solvent extracts (acetone, methanol, and aqueous) of C. draba and D. sophia using six assays including DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, phosphomolybdenum, and β-carotene/linoleic acid inhibition. Spectrophotometric and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) techniques were used to determine the total and individual phytocompounds, respectively. Results showed that among the C. draba extracts, the methanolic one displayed the highest antioxidant activities in CUPRAC, FRAP, and phosphomolybdenum assays while the aqueous extract exerted the strongest DPPH and ABTS scavenging, and β-carotene inhibition. As for D. sophia extracts, the acetone extract displayed the highest activity in CUPRAC and phosphomolybdenum assays; the methanol extract was the most effective DPPH scavenger while the aqueous extract showed the highest ABTS scavenging and ferric reducing power, and β-carotene inhibitory effect. Total phenolic content was highest in the acetone extract of C. draba , while the methanolic extract of D. sophia showed the highest total flavonoid content. The most abundant compounds in C. draba extract were verbascoside and chlorogenic acid, while hesperidin and hyperoside were most abundant in the extract of D. sophia. The present findings revealed that both species had potent antioxidant properties and could be utilized as new natural antioxidants for therapeutic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that effects an estimated 12% to 30% of general population worldwide. Descurainia sophia L. known commonly as flixweed acts as first-line medical treatment for constipation in Iranian traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of this remedy for treating functional constipation by standard assessments. The Rome III criteria for functional constipation were the basis for diagnosis. All participants underwent a 4-week treatment. The primary end point was the proportion of patients achieving ≥3 complete spontaneous bowel movements per week. Secondary outcome measures included Patient Assessment of Constipation–Symptom items, Bristol Stool Form Scale, numbers of laxatives/week used by patients, and reported adverse effects. Thirty-five patients completed the program with no important adverse effect. Fifty-four (4%) patients had ≥3 complete spontaneous bowel movements per week. Descurainia sophia is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic functional constipation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate efficiency of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) biosynthesis using Descurainia sophia as a novel biological resource. The resulting synthesized Ag-NPs were characterized using UV visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The UV-Vis spectra gave surface plasmon resonance at ~420 nm. TEM images revealed formation spherical shaped Ag-NPs with size ranged from to 1-35 nm. DLS confirmed uniformity of the synthesized Ag-NPs with an average size of ~30 nm. Following, the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the synthesized Ag-NPs were investigated. The concentration 25 µg/ml of the Ag-NPs showed maximum inhibitory effect on mycelium growth of Rhizoctonia solani (More than 86 % inhibition), followed by 15 µg/ml (55 % inhibition) and 10 µg/ml (63 % inhibition). The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of Ag-NPs against Agrobacterium tumefaciens (strain GV3850) and A, rhizogenes (strain 15843) were 4 and 8 µg/ml, respectively. The Ag-NPs were stable in vitro for 3 months without any precipitation or decrease of antifungal effects. Finally, it could be concluded that D. sophia can be used as an effective method for biosynthesis of nanoparticles, especially Ag-NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new sulphur glycosides, raphanuside B–D (1–3), together with a known sulphur glycoside, raphanuside (4) were isolated from the decoction of the seeds of Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl, and the compound 4 was reported for the first time from this plant. Their structures were identified by means of UV, IR, 1D, 2D NMR (HSQC, HMBC and NOESY) and HR–ESI–MS spectroscopic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed of Descurainia sophia Webb ex Prantl has been traditionally prescribed as treatment for palpitation, varicose vein, varicocele, constipation, hemorrhoid, skin eruptions, and impotence. To outline a view for further approaches, current work compiled a survey on all relevant clinical properties of this medicament in addition to the traditional reports. To do this, databases as PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, IranMedex and Science information databases (SID) were searched by keywords, i.e., "Descurainia sophia", "Khaksheer", and "Flixweed" as well as "pharmacology" and "phytochemistry". According to the findings, scant experimental evaluation and clinical assessment have been performed on this medicament. Of those, only anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects as well as antioxidant and anthelmintic activities were assessed and confirmed in experimental studies. Despite broad administration of this herb in folk and traditional medicine, only two human clinical trials in bowel discomfort and pregnant subjects were conducted. Taken as a whole, more comprehensive clinical evaluations should be conducted on respective applications to support those traditional and folk uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Our previous genome-wide gene expression analysis revealed that tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptors 4 (DR4) and 5 (DR5) are markedly upregulated by the ethanolic extract of D. sohia seeds (EEDS) in A549 TRAIL-refractory cancer cells. In the present study, we investigated whether the EEDS-mediated upregulation of TRAIL death receptors was associated with increased TRAIL-mediated toxicity in A549 cells in vitro. Methods: Cell proliferation and viability were determined by an automatic cell counter. Gene silencing was performed by introducing small interfering RNA into cells. Expression changes of cellular proteins were determined by western blot analysis. Apoptotic cell death was monitored by western blot analysis. Analysis of variance followed by the post-hoc Dunnett's test was used to compare the data. Results: EEDS treatment increased both mRNA and protein levels of DR4 and DR5 in the TRAIL refractory A549 cells. Co-treatment of A549 cells with sub-lethal dose of EEDS and recombinant TRAIL increased the apoptotic cell death. Upregulation of DR5 by EEDS was mediated by an endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced transcription factor, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), and knockdown of CHOP expression inhibited EEDS-induced DR5 upregulation and abolished the EEDS-associated increase in TRAIL toxicity in A549 cells. Conclusions: EEDS can sensitize A549 cells to TRAIL cytotoxicity by upregulation of TRAIL death receptors. Our findings suggested that EEDS is a good initial herbal source for the development of an anticancer supplement for anticancer therapeutics associated with TRAIL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia sophia is a valuable medicinal plant in family of Brassicaceae. To determine the range of diversity amongst D. sophia in Iran, 32 naturally distributed plants belonging to six natural populations of the Iranian plateau were investigated by inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. The average percentage of polymorphism produced by 12 ISSR primers was 86 %. The PIC values for primers ranged from 0.22 to 0.40 and Rp values ranged between 6.5 and 19.9. The relative genetic diversity of the populations was not high (Gst =0.32). However, the value of gene flow revealed by the ISSR marker was high (Nm = 1.03). UPGMA clustering method based on Jaccard similarity coefficient grouped the genotypes into two major clusters. Graph results from Neighbor-Net Network generated after a 1000 bootstrap test using Jaccard coefficient, and STRUCTURE analysis confirmed the UPGMA clustering. The first three PCAs represented 57.31 % of the total variation. The high levels of genetic diversity were observed within populations, which is useful in breeding and conservation programs. ISSR is found to be an eligible marker to study genetic diversity of D. sophia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Descurainia sophia seeds have a variety of pharmacological functions and been widely used in traditional folk medicine. However, their effects on human drug metabolizing enzyme (DME) activities have not been elucidated. The present study investigated the inhibitory effects of an ethanol extract of D. sophia seeds (EEDS) on human Phase I/II (DMEs) and P-glycoprotein (p-gp) in vitro. Methods: The enzyme activities of human Phase I (cytochrome P450s, CYPs), Phase II (uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferases, UGTs) DMEs, and the drug transporter P-gp were determined in the presence of various concentrations of EEDS using commercially available luminogenic assay systems. The mode of enzyme inhibition and the inhibitory constant (Ki) value of EEDS were graphically determined with Lineweaver-Burk double reciprocal plots and secondary plots, respectively. Results: The enzyme activity assays showed that EEDS moderately inhibited the CYP1A2, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 isoforms with half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 47.3, 25.8, and 38.7 µg/mL, respectively. Graphical analyses with Lineweaver-Burk double reciprocal plots and secondary plots indicated that EEDS competitively inhibited CYP2C9 with a Ki value of 19.8 µg/mL; however, it inhibited CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 in a mixed mode with Ki values of 5.2, and 11.9 µg/mL, respectively. Other Phase I (CYP2C8, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4) and Phase II (UGT1A1 and UGT2B7) enzymes as well as P-gp were weakly or negligibly affected by EEDS with concentrations up to 500 µg/mL. Conclusions: EEDS is a selective inhibitor of CYP1A2, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 with moderate enzymatic inhibition. Clinically, full consideration should be given to a potential toxic adverse effect from a herb-drug interaction when drugs that are particularly susceptible to CYP1A2, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19-mediated metabolism are taken together with EEDS. Characterization of metabolic profiles of specific herbal drugs could help consumers and medical specialists to use them safely as a complementary and alternative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the pharmacological activities of the seed extract of Descurainia sophia have been proven to be useful against cough, asthma, and edema, the biologically active components, particularly at the molecular level, remain elusive. Therefore, we aimed to identify the active component of an ethanol extract of D. sophia seeds (EEDS) by applying a systematic genomic approach. Results: After treatment with EEDS, the dose-dependently expressed genes in A549 cells were used to query the Connectivity map to determine which small molecules could closely mimic EEDS in terms of whole gene expression. Gene ontology and pathway analyses were also performed to identify the functional involvement of the drug responsive genes. In addition, interaction network and enrichment map assays were implemented to measure the functional network structure of the drug-responsive genes. A Connectivity map analysis of differentially expressed genes resulted in the discovery of helveticoside as a candidate drug that induces a similar gene expression pattern to EEDS. We identified the presence of helveticoside in EEDS and determined that helveticoside was responsible for the dose-dependent gene expression induced by EEDS. Gene ontology and pathway analyses revealed that the metabolism and signaling processes in A549 cells were reciprocally regulated by helveticoside and inter-connected as functional modules. Additionally, in an ontological network analysis, diverse cancer type-related genes were found to be associated with the biological functions regulated by helveticoside. Conclusions: Using bioinformatic analyses, we confirmed that helveticoside is a biologically active component of EEDS that induces reciprocal regulation of metabolism and signaling processes. Our approach may provide novel insights to the herbal research field for identifying biologically active components from extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Morphine withdrawal syndrome is one of the critical and dangerous side effects of opioid abusing; and treatment of addiction and its withdrawal syndrome are in health priorities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Teucrium polium, Descurainia sophia and Artemisia aucheri extracts on morphine. Methods: In this experimental study, 40 male rats were divided into 4 identical groups including control group that received morphine, naloxone and distilled water, and groups with morphine dependent rats treated with Descurainia sophia extract (400 mg/kg), morphine dependent rats treated with Teucrium polium extract (600mg/kg), and morphine dependent rats treated with Artemisia aucheri extract (200mg/kg). All animals received different doses of morphine for 7 days. Then, at the 7th day of addiction they received the extracts by an oral-gastric catheter. After passing one hour of intraperitoneal naloxone injection (0.5 mg/kg), each animal was placed in a cage separately and observed for forty minutes. Then, variables of fecal quality, frequency, and weight of stool, lying down, itching, and jumping were determined. Results: In this experimental study, the extract of Descurainia sophia significantly decreased indexes of lying down, weight loss and itching compared with control group (P<0.01). Teucrium polium extract group significantly decreased (P<0.01) frequency of jumping and lying down compared with control group. Also, the Artemisia aucheri extract decreased itching index compared to control group (P<0.001). Conclusion: Results showed that the extracts have significant effects on reducing the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome in rats. More studies are suggested to confirm the effects of these plants on morphine withdrawal syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia sophia is a plant widely distributed and used as folk medicine throughout the world. Different extracts of aerial parts and seeds of this plant have been shown to inhibit the growth of different cancer cell lines in vitro. In this study, cytotoxic activity of D. sophia seed volatile oil was evaluated. D. sophia seed powder was mixed with distilled water and left at 25 °C for 17 h (E1), 23 h (E2) and 28 h (E3) to autolyse. Then, the volatile fractions of E1, E2, and E3 were collected after steam distillation for 3 h. Cytotoxic effects of the volatile oils alone or in combination with doxorubicin (mixture of E1 or E2 at 50 µg/ml or E1 at 100 µg/ml with doxorubicin at 0.1, 1, 10 µM) against MCF-7 cell line were determined using MTT assay. Cytotoxic effect of E1 volatile oil was also determined on HeLa cell line. The results indicated that 1-buten- 4-isothiocyanate was the major isothiocyanate found in the volatile oils. The results of cytotoxic evaluations showed that volatile constituents were more toxic on MCF-7 cells with IC50 < 100 µg/ml than HeLa cells with IC50 > 100 µg/ml. No significant differences were observed between cytotoxic activities of E1, E2 and E3 on MCF-7 cell line. Concomitant use of E1 and E2 (50 µg/ml) with doxurubicin (1 µM) significantly reduced the viability of MCF-7 cells compared to the negative control, doxorubicin alone, or each volatile fraction. The same result was obtained on HeLa cells, when E1 (100 µg/ml) was concurrently used with doxorubicin (1 µM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is often considered as the first-line treatment for functional constipation in children. Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb et Berth (D. sophia) is a safe recommended medicine in Iranian folk and Traditional Persian Medicine for the treatment of constipation. Objectives: To clinically compare D. sophia with PEG 4000 (without electrolyte) in pediatric constipation and to assess its efficacy and side effects. Patients and Methods: 120 patients aged 2 - 12 years with constipation for at least 3 months were included in an 8 weeks lasting randomized controlled trial within two parallel-groups. Children received either PEG, 0.4 g/kg/day, or D. sophia seeds, 2 grams (for children aged 2 - 4 years) and 3 grams (for those aged > 4 years) per day. Results: A total of 109 patients completed the study (56 in D. sophia and 53 in PEG group). At the end of the study, 36 (64.3%) patients in D. sophia group and 29 (54.7%) in PEG group were out of Rome III criteria (P = 0.205). Median weekly stool frequency in 0, 1, 2, 3 weeks of the treatment was found to be 2, 5, 5, 5 in D. sophia and 3, 4, 4, 5 in PEG group (P = 0.139, 0.076, 0.844, 0.294), respectively. The number of patients who suffered flatulence was less (5, 8.9%) in D. sophia group as compared to PEG group (6, 11.3%) at the end of the trial (P = 0.461). D. sophia taste was less tolerated. Conclusions: D. sophia is introduced as a cheap and available medication which can be applied as a safe alternative to conventional PEG in the management of pediatric chronic functional constipation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia sophia (L.) (Brassicaceae), popularly known as "Khaksheer", is a native species widely distributed in Iran. The seeds and essential oil has been used in local traditional medicine (Persian folk ethnomedicine) to treat fever, inflammation, back pain, and headache. To investigate in vitro anti-nociceptive and antineuropathic activities of Descurainia sophia seeds essential oil (DSEO) in rats and to determine the possible mechanism(s) involved. The antinociceptive activity of DSEO or Linolenic acid (LA) was evaluated using the formalin induced paw licking test followed by determination on the role of NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathway as well as a number of non-opioid receptor systems (vanilloid, dopamine, cannabinoid, serotonin, peroxisome proliferator activated, and adrenergic receptors) in the modulation of DSEO-induced antinociceptive activity. Additionally, the cervical spinal cord contusion (CCS) model was used to study antineuropathic potential of DSEO or LA. DSEO exerted significant (p < 0.05) antinociceptive activity in formalin test (both phases) and altered mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia observed in the CCS model. Pretreatment with glibenclamide, Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, tranilast, methylene blue, SCH23390, SR141716A and SR144528 restored DSEO-induced antinociceptive activity observed in the formalin test. Furthermore, LA also reduced nociceptive responses induced in the formalin and CCS models. DSEO inhibits inflammatory mediated nociceptive response partly via the modulation of NO-cGMP-K+ channels pathway well as the activation of vanilloid, dopamine, and cannabinoid receptors, and exerts antineuropathic activity possibly via the modulation of inflammatory mediated activity. Thus, these findings confirm the Persian ethno-medicine claim on the efficacy of D. Sophia. [Display omitted] • DSEO and LA exhibits antinociceptive activity against acute inflammatory pain. • DSEO seems to act via L-arginine-NO, vanilloid, dopamine, and cannabinoid systems. • DSEO exerts antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic activity. • Cytokines plays a crucial role in the antineuropathic activity of DSEO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Due to the presence of various phenolic compounds in D.sophia , this plant may have an inhibitory effect on α-Glc and ultimately diabetes control. Therefore, this work aims to scrutinize total phenolic, flavonoid contents, antioxidant capacity, and α-Glc inhibitory activity in aerial parts of methanolic D.sophia extract. The methanolic flower extracts were selected from among aerial parts for the experimental study of anti-diabetic effects by α-Glc inhibitory assays. The flower extracts were also studied by GC/MS to detect the compounds. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 21.38 ± 0.93 GAE/g and 96.2 ± 0.20 QE/g, respectively. The IC 50 value of flower extract for α-Glc inhibition with mixed (Competitive/non-competitive) mode was found to be 20.34 ± 0.11 mg/ml. Furthermore, in-vivo studies showed that the blood glucose level reduced after consumption of flower extract compared to the control group. Twenty-one compounds were identified by GC/MS technique. These compounds were assessed for high docking scores against α-Glc in silico. Docking score calculations exhibited that the DES-α-Glc complex had a significantly higher binding energy (-6.13 Kcal/mol) than other compounds. The DES-α-Glc complex which displayed a higher docking energy value than the ACR was subjected to MDs studies. The findings of this study suggest that the flower extract of D.sophia can be used as a suitable additive in syrups or foods with anti-diabetic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia Sophia with high oil content has been regarded as an alternative of traditional oil crops, such as peanut and soybean. In this study, surface response methodology was employed to optimize the process parameters for extraction of Descurainia Sophia seed oil. Four factors, type of extraction solvent, ratio of solid and liquid, extraction temperature, and extraction time, were investigated. The result indicated that petroleum ether is better for the extraction of Descurainia Sophia seed oil. The result of response surface showed that the optimum values forextraction time, temperature and ratio of solid and liquid were6 h, 60 °C, and 1:5, respectively. The high model F value (35.8) with a very low P value (< 0.0001) showed that this model is highly significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new sinapoyl glycoside, 1,3-di- O-sinapoyl- β- d-glucopyranose ( 1) along with 13 known compounds, including, sinapoyl glycosides ( 2 and 3), cardenolide glycoside ( 4), flavonoids ( 5- 10), lignan ( 11), phenolic acids ( 12 and 13), and phytosterol ( 14), were isolated from the seeds of Descurainia sophia by chromatographic separation methods. The structures of 1- 14 were determined by the interpretation of spectroscopic data as well as by comparison of that data with previously reported values. Compounds 2, 3, 5, 6, and 11 were identified in and isolated from this plant for the first time in this study. All isolates were evaluated for in vitro cytotoxic activities against seven human cancer cell lines and for in vitro anti-inflammatory potential using LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 murine macrophages. Compound 4 showed potent cytotoxicity (IC values ranging from 0.034 to 0.596 μM) against all human cancer cell lines tested and was identified as the main active cytotoxic constituent of this plant. Compound 8 (ED = 5.45 μM) and 11 (ED = 10.02 μM) exerted dose-dependent inhibitory effects on NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven coumarin compounds were isolated for the first time from the aerial parts of Descurainia Sophia L. identified as scopoletine, scopoline, isoscopoline, xanthtoxol, xanthtoxin, psoralene and bergaptane. Three flavonoids namely kaempferol, quercetine and isorhamnetine and three terpenoid compounds β-sitosterol β-amyrine and cholesterol were also isolated and identified by physical and chemical methods; melting point, Rf values, UV and ¹H NMR spectroscopy. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of free and protein amino acids using amino acid analyzer were performed. The plant contains 15 amino acids as free and protein amino acids with different range of concentrations. Fatty acid analysis using GLC, revealed the presence of 10 fatty acids, the highest percentage was palmitic acid (27.45 %) and the lowest was lauric acid (0.13%). Biological screening of alcoholic extract showed that the plant is highly safe and has analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three cDNAs of DsFAD3, DsFAD7 and DsFAD8, encoding omega-3 fatty acid desaturases, which are the key enzymes for the conversion of linoleic to α-linolenic acid (18:3 n−3), were isolated from Descurainia sophia using RACE-PCR. Tissue-specific expression analysis revealed that DsFAD3 and DsFAD7 genes were expressed in all tissues and at a high level in stems, leaves and young siliques, whereas DsFAD8 was moderately expressed in photosynthetic tissues including stems, leaves and young siliques. All three genes were significantly induced by wounding stress and DsFAD3 and DsFAD7 transcript levels were down-regulated by cold, whereas DsFAD8 was increased upon cold stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the description of Ceutorhynchus subpubescens LeConte (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) >125 yr ago, very little information has been published on its biology, taxonomy, or distribution. We conducted studies in southern Alberta, Canada, to investigate aspects of its life history and host plant feeding preferences. Preimaginal life stages of C. subpubescens were described for the first time, and data were compiled on its North American distribution. Ceutorhynchus subpubescens was univoltine. Adults emerged from overwintering sites in shelterbelts in late April to early May, and first occurred on host plants in May. Eggs were laid into apical stem regions of flixweed, Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb (Brassicaceae), and hatched to larvae that mined the stems, feeding primarily on pith tissue. Three instars developed within D. sophia. When mature, the final instar bored an exit hole in the primary stem, just below the juncture of a lateral shoot. Developmental time from eggs to final instars required only 35-45 d, an adaptation that accommodated the rapid development of D. sophia hosts. Setal numbers on the mouthparts and head capsule distinguished final instars of C. subpubescens from its sympatric congeners, Ceutorhynchus neglectus Blatchley and Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham). New distribution records for the species include Alberta, Arizona, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, and Washington. C. subpubescens has adapted to exploit a resource-rich habitat, where larvae are free from interference from predators and parasitoids; however, its relatively rare occurrence in western North America is surprising given the abundance of its host plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of cardiac glycosides containing medicinal herbs, e.g. Ting Li Zi ( Descurainia sophia), against heart failure was detected by traditional Chinese doctors at the beginning of the first century, more than 16 centuries before Withering's discovery of digitalis to promote diuresis. We ran infer the diagnosis from the description of the symptom complex, for which the herb as the main constituent of related formulas was prescribed. Cardiac glycosides were successfully isolated lately from Semen Descurainiae by Chinese chemists. Ting Li Zi was also recommended for hastening child delivery and to treat edema, amenorrhoea, insanity and, presumably, malignant growth by the traditional medical literature. The common mechanism of these actions may be the inhibition of Na-K-ATPase by the cardiac glycosides contained. The narrow therapeutic range restricts its widespread usage and makes the supply of standardized dosageforms necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the effect of active components of Descurainia sophia on allergic asthma and explored the underlying mechanism. SD male rats were randomly divided into a normal group(NC), a model group(M), a D. sophia decoction group(DS), a D. sophia fatty oil group(FO), a D. sophia flavonoid glycoside group(FG), a D. sophia oligosaccharide group(Oli), and a positive drug dexamethasone group(Y). The allergic asthma model was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin(OVA) and aluminum hydroxide gel adjuvant(sensitization) and atomization of OVA solution(excitation). After modeling, asthma-related indicators, tracheal phenol red excretion, inflammatory cell levels in the peripheral blood, lung permeability index(LPI), and oxygenation index(OI) of rats were detected. The pathological changes of lung tissues were observed by HE staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was used to detect the content of inflammatory factors immunoglobulin E(IgE), interleukin-4(IL-4), and interferon-γ(IFN-γ) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF) and the content of endothelin-1(ET-1) and angiotensin-converting enzyme(ACE) in lung tissue homogenate. The serum content of nitric oxide(NO) was detected by colorimetry. Western blot was employed to determine the protein expression of Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), nuclear factor κB-p65(NF-κB-p65), phosphorylated NF-κB-p65(p-NF-κB-p65), myosin light chain kinase(MLCK), vascular endothelial cadherin(VE cadherin), connexin 43, and claudin 5, and the mechanism of active components of D. sophia on allergic asthma was explored. As revealed by the results, the M group showed extensive infiltration of inflammatory cells around the bronchus of the lung tissues of the allergic asthma rats, thickened bronchial wall, severely deformed alveolar structure, increased number of wheezes, the content of IgE, IL-4, ET-1, and ACE, inflammatory cells, and LPI, and reduced latency of asthma, tracheal phenol red excretion, IFN-γ, NO content, and OI. After the intervention of the active components of D. sophia, the DS, FO, FG, Oli, and Y groups showed improved asthma-related indicators, tracheal phenol red excretion, and lung tissue lesions in allergic asthma rats, and the effects in the FO and Oli groups were superior. The content of inflammatory factors in BALF was recovered in the DS, FO, and Y groups and the FG and Oli groups. The number of inflammatory cells in rats was reduced in the DS and FO groups, and the FG, Oli, and Y groups to varying degrees, and the effect in the FO group was superior. DS, FO, Oli, and Y reduced ET-1, ACE, and LPI and increased NO and OI. FG recovered NO, ET-1, ACE, LPI, and OI to improve lung epithelial damage and permeability. Further investigation of inflammation-related TLR4/NF-κB pathways, MLCK, and related skeleton protein levels showed that TLR4, NF-κB-p65, p-NF-κB-p65, and MLCK levels were increased, and VE cadherin, connexin 43, and claudin 5 were reduced in the M group. DS, FO, FG, Oli, and Y could reduce the protein expression related to the TLR4 pathway to varying degrees, and regulate the protein expression of MLCK, VE cadherin, connexin 43, and claudin 5. It is inferred that the active components of D. sophia improve lung permeability in rats with allergic asthma presumedly by regulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway to improve airway inflammation, mediating MLCK and connexin, and regulating epithelial damage.

Flixweed (Descurainia sophia L.) is widely distributed in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) fields in the North China Plain and has evolved resistance to herbicides, including the acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitor florasulam. However, the florasulam resistance status of flixweed in the North China Plain is poorly understood, which hinders the integrated management of this weed in winter wheat production systems. Thus, 45 flixweed populations were collected in wheat fields in these areas, and their sensitivity to florasulam and ALS-inhibitor-resistant mutation diversity were assessed. Meanwhile, alternative herbicides/herbicide mixtures for the control of florasulam-resistant flixweed were screened and evaluated under greenhouse and field conditions. Of the populations, 30 showed florasulam resistance (RRR and RR), 9 had a high risk of evolving florasulam resistance (R?) and 6 were susceptible. These populations had 5.3 to 345.1-fold resistance to florasulam, and 4 ALS resistance mutations (P197H, P197S, P197T and W574L) were observed. The subsequent herbicide sensitivity assay showed that the SD-06 population (with ALS1 P197T and ALS2 W574L mutations) exhibited cross-resistance to all ALS inhibitors tested, but was sensitive to MCPA-Na, fluroxypyr, carfentrazone-ethyl and bipyrazone. Meanwhile, the other HN-07 population with non-target-site resistance (NTSR) also showed resistance to all tested ALS inhibitors, and it was "R?" to MCPA-Na while sensitive to fluroxypyr, carfentrazone-ethyl and bipyrazone. The field experiments were conducted at the research farm where the SD-06 population was collected, and the results suggested that florasulam at 3.75–4.5 g ai ha−1 had little efficacy (0.6–12.1%), whereas MCPA-Na + carfentrazone-ethyl (87.1–91.2%) and bipyrazone+fluroxypyr (90.1–97.8%) controlled the resistant flixweed. Unlabelled Image • Florasulam resistance in flixweed is prevalent in wheat in the North China Plain. • An available weed map was established for scientific management of flixweed. • Both TSR and NTSR were existed in florasulam-resistant flixweed populations. • Alternative herbicides were screened for control of florasulam-resistant flixweed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descurainia sophia Webb ex Prantl has been used in traditional medicine globally. It has been shown that Descurainia sophia , together with many other bioactive compounds, can modulate the biological functions of various genes. We have viewed the clinical benefits and mechanisms of action of Descurainia sophia associated with its current uses and outlined potential further applications. There are many studies documenting its numerous clinical effects in cancer, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and cardiac systems. Further, Descurainia sophia has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anthelmintic activities. The clinical studies did not indicate any significant adverse effects of Descurainia sophia , demonstrating that it is a safe and effective herbal medicine. However, more clinical studies demonstrating the therapeutic effects of Descurainia sophia are still warranted., Competing Interests: Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interest exists., (© The author(s).)

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome with predominant constipation (IBS-C) is a common digestive disorder. The current therapy is inadequate and evidence regarding the effect of herbal therapies on the relief of affected individuals is insufficient. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of flixweed and fig consumption on IBS-C symptoms., Methods: 150 patients with IBS-C were enrolled in this randomized, controlled trial. All patients were randomly assigned to three groups and received an intervention for four months. The IBS severity score system and quality-of-life questionnaires were used for evaluating IBS-C symptoms. C-reactive protein levels, frequency of defecation and hard stool were also assessed., Results: Consumption of flixweed or fig, compared to a control group, caused a significant improvement in IBS symptoms including frequency of pain, distention, frequency of defecation and hard stool. Also, the findings showed a significant increase in quality of life, as well as satisfaction with overall bowel habits. However, flixweed and fig intake had no significant effects on abdominal pain severity and C-reactive protein levels., Conclusions: In conclusion, consumption of flixweed or fig for four months would be a useful therapy for alleviating IBS-C symptoms and can be a beneficial option for first-line treatment., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To investigate the effects of methanol-ethyl acetate partitioned fractions from Descurainia sophia (MEDS) on the proliferation and apoptosis of human non-small cell lung cancer H1975 cells., Methods: The systemic solvent extraction method was used to preliminary separation of the effective fractions in the methanol extract of Descurainia sophia . The cytotoxicity of each extract (5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 μg/mL) was tested using MTT assay. Colony cloning method was used to assess the effect of different concentrations of methanol-ethyl acetate partitioned fractions from MEDS (5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 μg/ mL) on the proliferation of H1975 cells. Flow cytometric analysis with Annexin V-FITC/PI staining was performed to detect the apoptosis of the cells after treatment with different concentrations of MEDS fractions (10, 20, and 40 μg/mL). Western blotting was used to evaluate the effects of MEDS fractions on the expressions of apoptosis-related proteins Akt, Bax, and Bcl-2. The anti-tumor activity of 100 mg/kg MEDS fractions was tested in a nude mouse model bearing H1975 cell xenografts., Results: MTT assay and colony forming experiment showed that MEDS fractions significantly inhibited the proliferation of H1975 cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner ( P &lt; 0.05). The results of flow cytometry showed that MEDS fractions induced obvious apoptosis of H1975 cells in a concentration-dependent manner ( P &lt; 0.05). MEDS fractions also significantly decreased the expressions of Bcl-2 and Akt protein and increased the protein expression of Bax ( P &lt; 0.05). In the tumor-bearing nude mouse model, MEDS fractions showed potent anti-tumor effects with a low toxicity to affect the body weight and organs of the mice., Conclusions: The methanol-ethyl acetate partitioned fractions from MEDS show potent anti-tumor activity both in vivo and in vitro , suggesting their value as promising therapeutic agents against lung cancer.

Background: Our previous genome-wide gene expression analysis revealed that tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptors 4 (DR4) and 5 (DR5) are markedly upregulated by the ethanolic extract of D. sohia seeds (EEDS) in A549 TRAIL-refractory cancer cells. In the present study, we investigated whether the EEDS-mediated upregulation of TRAIL death receptors was associated with increased TRAIL-mediated toxicity in A549 cells in vitro., Methods: Cell proliferation and viability were determined by an automatic cell counter. Gene silencing was performed by introducing small interfering RNA into cells. Expression changes of cellular proteins were determined by western blot analysis. Apoptotic cell death was monitored by western blot analysis. Analysis of variance followed by the post-hoc Dunnett's test was used to compare the data., Results: EEDS treatment increased both mRNA and protein levels of DR4 and DR5 in the TRAIL refractory A549 cells. Co-treatment of A549 cells with sub-lethal dose of EEDS and recombinant TRAIL increased the apoptotic cell death. Upregulation of DR5 by EEDS was mediated by an endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced transcription factor, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), and knockdown of CHOP expression inhibited EEDS-induced DR5 upregulation and abolished the EEDS-associated increase in TRAIL toxicity in A549 cells., Conclusions: EEDS can sensitize A549 cells to TRAIL cytotoxicity by upregulation of TRAIL death receptors. Our findings suggested that EEDS is a good initial herbal source for the development of an anticancer supplement for anticancer therapeutics associated with TRAIL.