Search

• Drug resistant mastitis-causing pathogens form protective biofilms. • Of 29 bacterial isolates tested, 93 % had biofilm forming ability. • Searsia lancea extracts prevented biofilm formation and disrupted preformed biofilm. • S. lancea ethanol extract had quorum quenching ability with MQSIC 50 < 0.08 mg/mL. Bovine mastitis is a critical pathology in global dairy herds, causing economic losses due to decreased production and increased culling. The continuous use of conventional antibiotics has led to antimicrobial resistance and treatment failures. The ability of mastitis bacteria to form biofilms is associated with resistance, while quorum sensing plays a vital role in biofilm formation. This complex interplay between quorum sensing (QS) and biofilm formation challenges mastitis management, necessitating the development of alternative therapeutics to combat this microbial threat effectively. This study aimed to investigate the biofilm forming ability (BFA) of 29 bacterial strains isolated from milk from cattle diagnosed with clinical cases of mastitis in Brain Heart Infusion broth (BHI) and Tryptic Soy broth (TSB). Of these strains, 93.10 % (27) and 68.97 % (20) demonstrated BFA in TSB and BHI, respectively. Compared to BHI, TSB appeared to enhance BFA of the bacteria except for Streptococcus (Str.) uberis strains. Four selected South African plants with known antibacterial activities were tested for their antibiofilm and antiquorum sensing activities against the biofilm-forming mastitis isolates. Searsia lancea demonstrated antibiofilm forming activity against all organisms tested. All the plants demonstrated good biofilm disruption ability (BDA) against 24 h preformed biofilms of the isolates except for Erythrina caffra , while S. lancea displayed good BDA against all the 48 hour preformed biofilms of the bacteria. Generally, the plants' antibiofilm activities appeared to improve as the biofilm matured, with few exceptions. The ethanol extracts of S. lancea demonstrated MQSIC activity at 2.50 mg/mL, and the lowest MQSIC 50 value (< 0.08 mg/mL), demonstrating its quorum quenching ability. The ability of these plants, especially S. lancea , to inhibit QS and biofilms at various developmental stages may play a pivotal role in managing mastitis infections and curbing the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Nonetheless, further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying the inhibition of quorum signaling and biofilms, and to identify the specific compounds responsible for the observed activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is desirable to obtain high levels of viable Lacticaseibacillus paracasei , a widely used food probiotic whose antibacterial activity and potential application in milk remain largely uninvestigated. Here, we isolated and purified the L. paracasei strain XLK 401 from food-grade blueberry ferments and found that it exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative foodborne pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus , Salmonella paratyphi B, Escherichia coli O157, and Shigella flexneri. Then, we applied alternating tangential flow (ATF) technology to produce viable L. paracasei XLK 401 cells and its cell-free supernatant (CFS). Compared with the conventional fed-batch method, 22 h of ATF-based processing markedly increased the number of viable cells of L. paracasei XLK 401 to 12.14 ± 0.13 log cfu/mL. Additionally, the CFS exhibited good thermal stability and pH tolerance, inhibiting biofilm formation in the abovementioned foodborne pathogens. According to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, organic acids were the main antibacterial components of XLK 401 CFS, accounting for its inhibition activity. Moreover, the CFS of L. paracasei XLK 401 effectively inhibited the growth of multidrug-resistant gram-positive Staph. aureus and gram-negative E. coli O157 pathogens in milk, and caused a reduction in the pathogenic cell counts by 6 to 7 log cfu/mL compared with untreated control, thus considerably maintaining the safety of milk samples. For the first time to our knowledge, ATF-based technology was employed to obtain viable L. paracasei on a large scale, and its CFS could serve as a broad-spectrum biopreservative for potential application against foodborne pathogens in milk products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An analytical protocol was developed to study water extracts from aged lacquer. • 12 New compounds were identified as aging products of lacquer. • During aging, pH, conductivity, and peak areas and indices of components changed. • Iron treatment caused the most changes in water extract while drying oil the least. Lacquered artifacts are among the most exquisite objects in museum collections. However, during aging, a considerable quantity of water-soluble products are formed on the lacquered surfaces, posing significant conservation and preservation challenges. This paper presents in-depth research on the composition of these water-soluble products by the investigation into water extracts from Asian lacquer coatings during artificial aging. Lacquer coatings of 15 specially designed formulations involving different lacquer tree saps (urushi, laccol, and thitsi), drying oils, tree resins and pigments were produced and artificially aged. A set of analytical methods was developed including pH and conductivity measurements, and peak area and index analyses based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Results show that artificial light aging cause the formation of a complex array of hydroxyl carboxyl benzenes (Webboxy products), while simultaneously decreasing the amounts of saturated straight-chain dicarboxylic fatty acids and glycerol. Distinct changes in the average number of hydroxyls and carboxyls bonded to the benzene rings or average chain length of the dicarboxylic fatty acids have also been observed with light aging. The additive that impeded light degradation and formation of water-soluble products the most is drying oil, and the additives that accelerated composition changes of water-soluble products was iron (treatment). Additionally, 12 new compounds have been identified as aging products of lacquer, such as tetramethyl dimethoxybenzene tetracarboxylate and benzene hexacarboxylic acid hexamethyl ester. The understanding of pH and conductivity readings of water extracts from aged lacquer is significantly improved. The research results contribute to the knowledge of aging pathways and mechanisms of alteration to Asian lacquer coatings. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Natural and synthetic dyes in Central Asian ikats were identified by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS. • Cotton weft threads were often dyed with red synthetic dyes. • Yellow from larkspur kept being used well after synthetic dyes were available. • A local species of scale insect (cochineal) might have been used to obtain red. • The introduction of synthetic dyes in ikat dyeing was a gradual and experimental process. Central Asian ikat textiles are characterised by their bold and large abstract patterns, made up of vibrant colours with a characteristic "blurred edge" effect, which makes them some of the most recognisable fabrics worldwide. Eleven ikats from the collection of the National Museum of Asian Art, Smithsonian Institution (Washington, DC, USA) and six ikats from the collection of the British Museum (London, UK) were investigated by high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detector and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-HRMS/MS) to identify the dyes and expand on recent research focused on the integration of synthetic dyes in ikat dyeing during the second half of the 19th century. The results confirmed that the palette of natural dyes includes cochineal (probably mostly from a local species native to central Asia) for red, larkspur (Delphinium semibarbatum) for yellow, and indigo for blue as the main dye sources. In some of the textiles, madder (Rubia tinctorum) for red and pagoda tree (Sophora japonica) for yellow were also detected as minor components mixed with cochineal and larkspur, respectively. Synthetic dyes, such as scarlet reds (C.I. 16150 and 16155), rose bengale (C.I. 45435), eosin (C.I. 45380), erythrosine (C.I. 45430), fuchsin (C.I. 42510/42520), methyl violet (C.I. 42535/42555), malachite green (C.I. 42000) and brilliant green (C.I. 42040) were detected in eight textiles. In three textiles, natural dyes were identified in the ikat-dyed silk warp threads and synthetic dyes in the red cotton weft threads, highlighting interesting mixtures of materials and textile-making practices. Natural yellow dyes were used in all textiles, even those for which all the other colours are synthetic. These results provide significant new information about the changes in ikat production that occurred during the 19th century in Central Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We provide first detailed phenolic profiles of six Turkish Hypericum L. species. • Results indicate a significant chemodiversirty among the investigated populations. • Results also indicate little chemotaxonomic significance for tested phenolics. • Such data are essential in clarifying evolutionary relationships within the genus Hypericum. • Such data are also crucial in identifying the heterogeneous germplasms. Hypericum species have been of great interest to mankind for centuries and Türkiye is a global intersection for these species. In the present study, 20 wild populations of six under-exploited species of Turkish Hypericum from four sections (Hypericaceae; H. orientale, H. bupleuroides, H. venustum, H. hirsutum, H. linarioides and H. androsaemum) were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively for the presence of 16 phenolic compounds by detailed high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses for the first time. Except for quercetin, which was not accumulated by H. bupleuroides, H. venustum and H. linarioides , and hyperoside which was only accumulated by H. bupleuroides and H. venustum , all phenolics were detected at different levels depending on species and their populations. In order to differentiate the samples according to their geographical origin and botanical section, as well as to elucidate the function of the phenolics as chemotaxonomic markers in taxonomy of the Hypericum genus, two multivariate approaches namely, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed. The results indicate a significant inter and intra species chemovariability, which has little chemosystemic significance for the taxa studied and makes a poor contribution to the chemotaxonomic understanding of the Turkish Hypericum species. The presented data could be possibly beneficial in clarifying evolutionary relationships within the botanical sections of the genus Hypericum and offer interesting proposals for further studies in the chemotaxonomy and pharmacognosy of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chorisia (syn. Ceiba) species are important ornamental, economic, and medicinal plants that are endowed with a diversity of secondary metabolites; however, their volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been scarcely studied. Therefore, this work explores and compares the headspace floral volatiles of three common Chorisia species, namely Chorisia chodatii Hassl., Chorisia speciosa A. St.-Hil, and Chorisia insignis H.B.K. for the first time. A total of 112 VOCs of varied biosynthetic origins were identified at different qualitative and quantitative ratios, encompassing isoprenoids, fatty acid derivatives, phenylpropanoids, and others. Flowers of the investigated species showed perceptibly differentiated volatile profiles, with those emitted by C. insignis being dominated by non-oxygenated compounds (56.69 %), whereas oxygenated derivatives prevailed among the volatiles of C. chodatii (66.04 %) and C. speciosa (71.53 %). The variable importance in the projection (VIP) in the partial least-squares–discriminant (PLS-DA) analysis described 25 key compounds among the studied species, of which linalool was verified as the most important aroma compound based on VIP values and significance analysis, and it could represent the most typical VOC among these Chorisia species. Furthermore, molecular docking and dynamics analyses of both the major and the key VOCs displayed their moderate to promising binding interactions with four main proteins of SARS-CoV-2, including Mpro, PLpro, RdRp, and spike S1 subunit RBD. The current results collectively cast new light on the chemical diversity of the VOCs of Chorisia plants as well as their chemotaxonomic and biological relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through phytochemical research, the composition of diterpenoid alkaloids in Aconitum sessiliflorum was analyzed, and sixteen compounds were identified. Among them, there are seven napelline type C 20 -diterpenoid alkaloids (1 – 4 , 7 – 8 , 15), three denudatine type C 20 -diterpenoid alkaloids (5 – 6 , 16), and six aconitine type C 19 -diterpenoid alkaloids (9 – 14). On the basis of NMR spectroscopy, the structural analysis of the separated compounds was achieved by comparing with previous data. All sixteen compounds were isolated for the first time from the Aconitum sessiliflorum , of which five compounds (1 , 6 , 9 , 13 , 15) were isolated for the first time from series Brachypoda, where Aconitum sessiliflorum is classified. These diterpenoid alkaloids not only enrich the chemical diversity of Aconitum sessiliflorum , but also facilitate the analysis of their chemotaxonomic implications. Importantly, the diverse types and structural features of these diterpenoid alkaloids provide new insights into both the potential phylogenetic affiliations within the series Brachypoda and the varying degrees of evolutionary divergence among these related taxa. [Display omitted] • Through phytochemical research, sixteen diterpene alkaloids were isolated from Aconitum sessiliflorum. • All sixteen compounds were isolated from this species for the first time. • The importance of these compounds in the chemical taxonomy of Aconitum was discussed. • New insights were provided into the genetic relationships of series Brachypoda and similar series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical study of Croton lauioides Radcl.-Sm. & Govaerts led to the isolation of twenty-one compounds (1 – 21) , including three diterpenoids (1 – 3), two triterpenoids (4 – 5), eight flavonoids (6 – 13), three lignans (14 – 16), four aromatic compounds (17 – 20), and one glycolipid (21). Their structures were determined by NMR spectroscopic analysis as well as comparison with previously reported data. All compounds (1 – 21) were isolated from C. lauioides for the first time, while twelve compounds 3 , 5 , 9 – 10 , 12 – 18 , and 21 were firstly isolated from the family Euphorbiaceae, and two compounds 2 , and 20 were isolated from the genus Croton for the first time. Meanwhile, the chemotaxonomic significance of these isolated compounds from the whole plant of C. lauioides was also discussed. • Twenty-one compounds (1 – 21) have been isolated from Croton lauioides for the first time. • Twelve compounds 3 , 5 , 9 – 10 , 12 – 18 , and 21 were firstly isolated from the family Euphorbiaceae. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical investigation of the Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (S. baicalensis) leaves separation obtained two phenols (1 , 2), one coumarin (3), thirteen flavones (4–16). Compounds 7 – 16 are valuable chemical classification markers in S. baicalensis leaves. Their structures were further determined by spectroscopic method in which compounds 1 , 2 , 5 , and 6 have not yet been reported to be isolated from S. baicalensis , serving as chemical classification markers for S. baicalensis. Furthermore, compounds 1 – 3 , 5 , 6 , 8 and 10 were successfully isolated from S. baicalensis leaves for the first time. The most important is that the significance of chemical taxonomy was discussed, which can provide theoretical principle on the separation of S. baicalensis leaves for subsequent research. • Sixteen compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids and a coumarin were isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis leaves. • Four compounds were isolated for the first time from S. baicalensis. • Eight compounds were isolated for the first time from S. baicalensis leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical study on the seeds of Peganum harmala led to the separation of 22 alkaloids, including quinazoline alkaloids (1 – 10), β -carboline alkaloids (11 – 18), and others alkaloids (19 – 22). Their structures were identified by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison with literature data. Compounds 14 and 20 – 22 were first isolated from Zygophyllaceae family. Compounds 8 and 15 were firstly discovered as natural products. Moreover, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated alkaloids is discussed. [Display omitted] • 22 alkaloids were isolated from the seeds of Peganum harmala. • Compounds 14 and 20 – 22 were isolated from Zygophyllaceae family for the first time. • Compounds 8 and 15 were firstly described as natural products. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical study of Acer tegmentosum Maxim (the dried stem bark of Acer tegmentosum Maxim) led to the isolation of 28 compounds, including thirteen phenols, five coumarins, four benzoate esters, three tetracyclic triterpenoids, one carbohydrate, one hydrocarbon and one lignan. The structures of these isolated compounds were identified using NMR spectroscopy (1H and 13C) by comparison with previously reported data. To the best of our knowledge, salidroside, 2-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)ethyl β - d -galactopyranoside, 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate, 3,3´,4,4´-tetrahydroxybiphenyl, (4-methoxyphenyl)acetic acid, daphnetin, 5,6,7-trimethoxycoumarin, 1,2-bis(2-methylheptyl) 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate, 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, periplocoside N and 3,4-dimethoxycinnamyl alcohol were reported from this plant for the first time. Chemotaxonomic significance was discussed. [Display omitted] • The chemical constituents from Acer tegmentosum Maxim was investigated. • Twenty-eight compounds were purified and identified mainly by means of NMR tools. • The chemotaxonomy significance was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical study of Alnus mandshurica (Callier) Hand.-Mazz. (dried stem bark) led to the isolation of 28 compounds, including twelve simple phenols and simple phenol glycosides (1 – 12), eleven flavonoids (13 – 23), among them, compounds 13, 15, 17, 18, and 23 are flavan-3-ols compounds, two coumarins (24 and 25), one diarylheptanoid (26), one lupine triterpenoid (27), one sterol (28). The structures of these isolated compounds were identified using NMR spectroscopy (1H and 13C) by comparison with previously reported data. Compounds 2 , 5 – 14 , 18 , 20 , 22 , 25 – 27 were isolated from A. mandshurica for the first time. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was also discussed. Alnus mandshurica (Callier) Hand.-Mazz. [Display omitted] • Alnus mandshurica also known as "dong-bei-qi-mu". Commonly used in Chinese folklore to treat traditional diseases. • The hydroalcoholic extract from A. mandshurica was investigated. • Twenty-eight compounds were purified and identified mainly by means of NMR tools. • The chemotaxonomic significance was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical composition of Ficus tikoua Bur. was studied, from which fourteen compounds were isolated, including four phenolics (1 - 4), one aromatic alcohol glycoside (5), two benzofuran derivatives (6 – 7), five sesquiterpenes (8 – 12), one lignan (13) and one alkaloid (14). The structures of these compounds were determined by MS, NMR spectroscopy, and comparison with the published spectroscopic data. Compounds 1 – 3 , 5 , and 7 – 14 were firstly isolated from F. tikoua , and compounds 1, 5, 10, 11, 13 and 14 were reported from genus Ficus for the first time. Furthermore, the research discussed the taxonomic significance of the isolated compounds, and enriched the knowledge of the chemical classification of genus Ficus. [Display omitted] • Twelve compounds (1 – 3 , 5 and 7 – 14) were isolated from Ficus tikoua for the first time. • Six compounds (1 , 5 , 10 , 11 , 13 and 14) were isolated from Ficus genus for the first time. • The structural type of lignans was found in F. tikoua for the first time. • It is the first time to discuss the chemotaxonomic significance of compounds in Ficus tikoua. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L. (Ranunculaceae) is a taxonomically complex genus composed of approximately 365 species of perennial herbs. Chemical taxonomy is highly important for assisting and supplementing the taxonomy of this genus. In the present study, Delphinium tatsienense Franch., a Chinese endemic Delphinium species, was phytochemically investigated, which led to the discovery of two previously undescribed anthranilamide derivatives, tatsieamides A and B (1 – 2). The isolated anthranilamides possess chemotaxonomic value and could be utilized as good chemical markers to provide valuable information for the chemotaxonomy of D. tatsienense and related species. • Two new anthranilamides were isolated from Delphinium tatsienense. • This is first report of anthranilamides from this Delphinium tatsienense. • The chemotaxonomic value of the isolates was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comprehensive phytochemical investigation of the Callicarpa nudiflora resulted in the isolation of a new labdane diterpenoid 16(R / S)-3,4- seco -11 E ,13 E -labdien-15,16-olide-3-al (2), together with sixteen known compounds: two sesquiterpenoids (1 R ,3 S ,4 R ,5 S ,9 S)-3,4-epoxy-5-hydroxy-8(13)-caryophyllen (1), and 4 β ,10 α -aromadendranediol (3), eight labdane analogues (4 – 11), a pimarane-type diterpenoid (12), three flavonoids (13 – 15), and two lignans (16 , and 17). The structures were elucidated by extensive NMR and HRESIMS analysis. This marks the first comprehensive report of the NMR data of compound 1 , as well as the absolute configurations of compounds 1 and 3. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds was also discussed. Compounds 1 , 3 , 14 , 16 , and 17 were being reported from the genus Callicarpa for the first time, while 3,4- seco -labdane diterpenoids 4 – 11 were previously obtained only from C. nudiflora. [Display omitted] • A new labdane diterpenoid, together with sixteen known compounds were isolated. • Compounds 1 , 3 , 14 , 16 , and 17 have been reported from the genus Callicarpa for the first time. • 3,4- Seco -labdanes 4 – 11 could contribute as fingerprints for C. nudiflora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical investigation of the stem barks of Voacanga africana resulted in the isolation of fifteen known monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (1 – 15). The structures of the alkaloids were determined by comparison of their physical and spectroscopic data with those reported in literature. Twelve of these metabolites (4 – 15) were previously unreported within the genus Voacanga , thus they can serve as chemotaxonomic markers for V. africana to differentiate between V. africana from other species of the genus Voacanga. The alkaloids 3-oxoconopharyngine (6), ervahainanmine (10), crassanine (14) and conolobine A (15) hold the potential to serve as chemical markers for distinguishing V. africana from other family species. Furthermore, compounds 3 , 6 , 10 , 12 showed potential antimicrobial activities against Candida albicans and Bacillus subtilis with MIC values of 6.25–12.50 μg/mL. [Display omitted] • A phytochemical investigation of Voacanga africana has been carried out. • Fifteen monoterpenoid indole alkaloids were identified from the stem barks of Voacanga africana. • Twelve compounds 4 – 15 were reported for the first time from the genus Voacanga. • Chemotaxonomic significance of these alkaloids was discussed. • Compounds 3 , 6 , 10 , 12 showed potential antimicrobial activities against Candida albicans and Bacillus subtilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical studies on the fruits of Illicium verum Hook. f., also known as star anise (Magnoliaceae), resulted in the isolation of thirty-five compounds, including ten phenylpropanoids (1 – 10), eight phenolic glycosides (11 – 18), five benzoic acids (19 – 23), four flavonoids (24 – 27), four lignans (28 – 31), three organic acids (32 – 34), and one monoterpenoid (35). The structures of these metabolites were determined through NMR spectroscopy analysis and comparison with existing literature. This is the first confirmation of the presence of eight compounds (1 , 4 – 7 , 13 , 34 and 35) isolated from the family Magnoliaceae, one compound (11) from the genus Illicium , and three compounds (12 , 28 , 30) from I. verum. Furthermore, the taxonomic significance of these compounds was discussed. [Display omitted] • Thirty-five compounds were obtained from the fruits of this plant. • Eight compounds were isolated from the family Magnoliaceae for the first time. • One compound was new for the genus Illicium. • Three compounds were first confirmation from Illicium verum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive phytochemical investigation on the EtOAc-soluble fraction of the 90% MeOH extract from the twigs and needles of the 'vulnerable' Chinese endemic conifer Tsuga forrestii (Forrest's hemlock) led to the isolation and characterization of 50 structurally diverse diterpenoids, including 15 unreported C-18 carboxylated ones (tsugaforrestiacids A−O, 1 − 15 , resp.). Among them, compounds 1 − 7 are abieten-18-oic acids, compound 8 is an abieten-18-succinate, and compounds 10 − 12 are podocarpen-18-oic acids, whereas compounds 13 − 15 are pimarane-type, isopimarane-type, and totarane-type diterpenoid acids, respectively. Their structures and absolute configurations were determined by a combination of spectroscopic methods, GIAO NMR calculations and DP4+ probability analyses, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data, and single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. All the isolates were evaluated for their inhibitory activities against the ATP-citrate lyase (ACL), a key enzyme in cellular metabolism. Tsugaforrestiacids E (5) and H (8) were found to have significant inhibitory effects against ACL, with IC 50 values of 5.3 and 6.2 μ M, respectively. The interactions of the bioactive molecules with the ACL enzyme were examined by molecular docking studies. The isolated diterpenoids also provide chemotaxonomic evidence to support the delimitation of Tsuga from its closest sister group (Nothotsuga). The above findings highlight the importance of protecting plant species with unique and diverse secondary metabolites, which may be potential sources of new therapeutic agents for the treating ACL-associated diseases. Graphic Abstract:An extensive phytochemical investigation of the needles and twigs of the vulnerable conifer Tsuga forrestii led to the isolation and characterization of 50 structurally diverse diterpenoids, including 15 previously undescribed C-18 carboxylated ones (tsugaforrestiacids A−O, 1 − 15 , resp.). Compounds 1 − 7 are abieten-18-oic acids, compound 8 is an abieten-18-succinate, compound 9 is a rare 13,14- seco -abieten-18-oic acid, and compounds 10 − 12 are podocarpen-18-oic acids, whereas compounds 13 − 15 are pimarane-type, isopimarane-type, and totarane-type diterpenoid acids, respectively. Compounds 5 and 8 showed significant inhibitory effects against ACL with IC 50 values of 5.2 and 6.3 μM, respectively. The interactions of the bioactive molecules with ACL enzyme were examined by molecular docking studies. The above findings highlight the importance of protecting plant species with unique and diverse secondary metabolites, which may be potential sources of new therapeutic agents. [Display omitted] • 15 undescribed C-18 carboxylated diterpenoids were obtained from Tsuga forrestii. • Compound 9 is a rare naturally occurring 13,14- seco -abieten-18-oic acid. • Compounds 5 and 8 showed significant inhibitory effects against the ACL enzyme. • Molecular docking studies of the bioactive molecules with ACL were performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quartzite caves located on table-top mountains (tepuis) in the Guyana Shield, are ancient, remote, and pristine subterranean environments where microbes have evolved peculiar metabolic strategies to thrive in silica-rich, slightly acidic and oligotrophic conditions. In this study, we explored the culturable fraction of the microbiota inhabiting the (ortho)quartzite cave systems in Venezuelan tepui (remote table-top mountains) and we investigated their metabolic and enzymatic activities in relation with silica solubilization and extracellular hydrolytic activities as well as the capacity to produce antimicrobial compounds. Eighty microbial strains were isolated with a range of different enzymatic capabilities. More than half of the isolated strains performed at least three enzymatic activities and four bacterial strains displayed antimicrobial activities. The antimicrobial producers Paraburkholderia bryophila CMB_CA002 and Sphingomonas sp. MEM_CA187, were further analyzed by conducting chemotaxonomy, phylogenomics, and phenomics. While the isolate MEM_CA187 represents a novel species of the genus Sphingomonas , for which the name Sphingomonas imawarii sp. nov. is proposed, P. bryophila CMB_CA002 is affiliated with a few strains of the same species that are antimicrobial producers. Chemical analyses demonstrated that CMB_CA002 produces ditropolonyl sulfide that has a broad range of activity and a possibly novel siderophore. Although the antimicrobial compounds produced by MEM_CA187 could not be identified through HPLC-MS analysis due to the absence of reference compounds, it represents the first soil-associated Sphingomonas strain with the capacity to produce antimicrobials. This work provides first insights into the metabolic potential present in quartzite cave systems pointing out that these environments are a novel and still understudied source of microbial strains with biotechnological potential. [Display omitted] • Quartzite caves are rare subterranean environments with still unexplored microbiology. • Eighty isolates were obtained from pristine and remote quartzite caves on tepuis. • More than half of microbial isolates showed enzymatic and/or metabolic activities. • Genome analysis allowed BGCs prediction and phylogenomics of two bioactive strains. • MEM_CA187 isolate belongs to a novel species of Sphingomonas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The genus Polygala (Polygalaceae), comprising about 670 species worldwide, has more than 40 species in China. The roots of Polygala tenuifolia Willd., Polygala sibirica L., and Polygala japonica Houtt. are recorded in the Chinese Pharmacopeia. Other closely related plants of the Polygala genus are also widely used in the folk medicine of southern China, such as Polygala fallax Hemsl., Polygala arvensis Willd., and Polygala glomerata Lour. To systematically compare the chemical compositional and elucidate characteristic compounds among the Polygala genus, six Polygala species, namely P. tenuifolia , P. sibirica , P. japonica , P. fallax , P. arvensis and P. glomerata , underwent comprehensive phytochemical studies using the ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass Spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) technique, resulting in the identification of 154 compounds, consisting of 62 oligosaccharide esters (40.26 %), 58 saponins (37.66 %), 29 xanthones (18.83 %), and 5 other chemicals (3.25 %). Based on the Masslynx computational tool, a comprehensive comparative phytochemical profiling was achieved and revealed differences in composition among the six Polygala species. P. sibirica exhibited higher levels of specific compounds and was more closely related to P. tenuifolia. Meanwhile, P. japonica showed greater similarity to P. fallax, P. arvensis , and P. glomerata. Oligosaccharide esters and triterpene saponins were more abundant in P. sibirica and P. tenuifolia than in other species. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities (1,1-diphenyl-2-acrylohydrazide [DPPH], 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt [ABTS], copper ion reducing antioxidant capacity [CUPRAC], and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power [FRAP]) of the six species were evaluated. Among them, P. tenuifolia demonstrated superior antioxidant potential, with a lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC 50) value for scavenging DPPH radicals and excellence in CUPRAC (119.85 ± 16.28 μM/0.01 g) compared to other plants. P. japonica showed higher ABTS (98.94 ± 0.03 μM/0.01 g) and FRAP (42.58 ± 0.08 μM/0.01 g). Total flavonoids showed remarkable antioxidant capabilities among the six medicinal plants. Total saponins and phenolics also contributed to the antioxidant potential of these plants. The systematic data and results obtained may provide methodological support for further evaluating the potential use of folk Polygala plants as new effective materials in various commercial sectors, including food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have been used as medicines for millennia and are major contributors to developed western pharmacopoeia. The Erythroxylum and Nectaropetalum genera belong to the Erythroxylaceae (coca) family , with select species capable of producing highly valued 'blockbuster' medicinal compounds including, amongst others atropine, cocaine, scopolamine, and tigloidine. Erythroxylum delagoense, E. emarginatum, E. pictum, N. capense and N. zuluense are indigenous to the south-east tropical regions of Africa. The morphological similarity between these taxa make identification to species-level troublesome and often unreliable, indicating a need for alternative identification methods. This study aimed to compare gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)- and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics analyses with DNA barcoding to evaluate the identifying characteristics of these coca species. The results emphasise the importance of integrating chemotaxonomy and DNA barcoding techniques in plant identification. In this sample of the Erythroxylaceae, the differentiating identification accuracy was shown to increase from morphology to DNA barcoding to chemotaxonomy. This study further highlights the strengths and weaknesses of various plant identification strategies, as well as providing a developing model for more accurate and reliable species-level identification of plants. The findings from this case study could aid in the identification and classification of other closely related taxa. [Display omitted] • The identification and classification of closely related taxa are described. • Identifying characteristics were compared between chemotaxonomy and DNA barcoding. • The identification accuracy increased from morphology to DNA barcoding to chemotaxonomy. • Phylogenetic clades correlate well with plant metabolite clustering. • The financial cost implications of different plant identification methodologies are discribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive phytochemical investigation of the flower buds and leaves/twigs of Heptacodium miconioides , a cultivated ornamental plant native to China and categorized as 'vulnerable', has led to the isolation of 45 structurally diverse compounds, which comprise 18 phenylpropanoids (1 – 4 , 7 – 20), 11 pentacyclic triterpenoids (5 , 6 , 21 – 29), eight secoiridoid glycosides (30 – 37), three quinic acid derivatives (38 – 40), and a few miscellaneous components (41 – 45). Among them, (+)- α -intermedianol (1), (+)-holophyllol A (2), and (−)-pseudolarkaemin A (3) represent previously unreported enantiomeric lignans, while (+)-7′(R)-hydroxymatairesinol (4) is an undescribed naturally occurring lignan. Heptacoacids A (5) and B (6) are undescribed 24- nor -urs-28-oic acid derivatives. Their chemical structures were determined by 2D-NMR, supplemented by evidence from specific rotations and circular dichroism spectra. Given the uncertainty surrounding the systematic position of Heptacodium , integrative taxonomy (ITA), a method utilized to define contentious species, is applied. Chemotaxonomy, a vital aspect of ITA, becomes significant. By employing hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and syntenic pattern analysis methods, a taxonomic examination based on the major specialized natural products from the flower buds of H. miconioides and two other Caprifoliaceae plants (i.e., Lonicera japonica and Abelia × grandiflora) could offer enhanced understanding of the systematic placement of Heptacodium. Additionally, compounds 39 and 40 displayed remarkable inhibitory activities against ATP-citrate lyase (ACL), with IC 50 values of 0.11 and 1.10 μM, respectively. In summary, the discovery of medical properties and refining systematic classification can establish a sturdy groundwork for conservation efforts aimed at mitigating species diversity loss while addressing human diseases. A phytochemical investigation of the endangered plant Heptacodium miconioides led to the isolation and characterization of 45 structurally diverse compounds. Compounds 1 – 3 represent previously unreported enantiomeric lignans, while 5 and 6 are undescribed 24- nor -urs-28-oic acid derivatives. The integrative taxonomy, including chemotaxonomic examination, were employed by hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and syntenic pattern analysis methods. Compounds 39 and 40 displayed remarkable inhibitory activities against ATP-citrate lyase (ACL), which were examined by molecular docking studies. The above findings could establish a sturdy groundwork for conservation efforts aimed at mitigating species diversity loss while addressing human diseases. [Display omitted] • A preliminary phytochemical study on Heptacodium miconioide has been carried out. • Undescribed enantiomeric lignans were identified by their NMR, [ α ] and ECD data. • Chemotaxonomy was first applied to refine the systematic position of H. miconioide. • Quinic acid derivatives 39 and 40 significantly inhibited the ATP-citrate lyase. • Medicinal uses and accurate systematic position stimulate the conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical studies on the aerial parts of Sideritis dichotoma led to the isolation and identification of a new iridoid glycoside (1), along with four known iridoid glycosides (2 - 5), three phenylethanoid glycosides (6 – 8), two flavone glycosides (9 and 10), one neolignan (11) and a megastigmane glycoside (12). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques. Compounds 2 , 3 and 12 have never been found in the Sideritis genus before. Furthermore, eleven compounds (1 – 5 , 7 – 12) were characterized for the first time from S. dichotoma. The chemotaxonomic importance of isolated compounds was discussed. This is the first phytochemical study on the polar constituents of S. dichotoma , an endemic species to Türkiye. [Display omitted] • A new iridoid glycoside (1) was obtained from Sideritis dichotoma. • Compounds 2 , 3 and 12 were isolated from the genus Sideritis for the first time. • First report on the existence of a megastigmane glycoside in the genus Sideritis. • All compounds are reported for the first time from S. dichotoma , but for 6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical study of the fruiting bodies of Albatrellus confluens afforded a new natural product methyl 2-hydroxyimino-3- phenylpropionate (1), as well as 14 known compounds: phenylalanine (2), zarzissine (3), uridine (4), emeheterone (5), uracil (6), nicotinamide (7), adenosine (8)), methyl 4-hydroxyphenylacetate (9), grifolin (10), neogrifolin (11), grifolin methyl ether (12), 4-O-methyl grifolin acid (13), confluentin (14), albatrelin G (15). The structures of these compounds were deduced using spectroscopic methods, including IR, MS, 1D and 2D NMR, as well as by comparisons with data reported in the literature. Furthermore, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was also discussed. • Fifteen compounds including a new compound were obtained. • Four compounds were isolated from the genus Albatrellus for the first time. • Five compounds were isolated from this species for the first time. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive phytochemical study on the combined methanolic extracts from the stem barks and roots of Phyllopentas schimperi (Hochst.) Y. D. Zhou & Q. F. Wang (syn. Pentas schimperi (Hochst.) Wieringa) led to the isolation of a new anthraquinone, schimperiquinone C (1) along with nineteen known secondary metabolites 2 – 20. The structures of all the isolated compounds were elucidated through spectroscopic techniques including 2D NMR. The new compound and the less common secondary metabolites 2 – 17 were tested for their pharmacological properties. Compounds 4 , 5 and 6 exhibited significant antioxidant and lipoxygenase inhibition activities, whereas compounds 2 – 5 , 7 – 10 , 12 and 17 had a potent urease inhibitory activity. Compounds 8 and 10 had the best urease inhibitory activities as compared to thiourea. Compounds 3 , 9 , 11 , 12 and 17 are reported for the first time from the genus Pentas. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds was discussed. Our results could be used for the chemotaxonomy of this species within the genus Pentas and for the Rubiaceae family. The obtained results suggested that some constituents from this plant may be used as such or in the form of their derivatives for the treatment of ulcer. [Display omitted] • A new anthraquinone, along with 19 known compounds were isolated from P. schimperi. • Their structures were fully elucidated using NMR and MS analyses. • This is the first report of compounds 3 , 9 , 11 and 12 from genus Pentas. • Compounds 4 , 5 and 6 displayed strong antioxidant potencies. • Compound 10 displayed the most potent urease inhibitory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fraxinus hubeiensis is an endemic plant that only grows in China and its phytochemistry has never been fully appreciated and sufficiently studied. In the present research, a phytochemical investigation on the leaves of Fraxinus hubeiensis led to the isolation of a new carbonate derivative (10), together with eleven known compounds. Their structures were analyzed on the basis of NMR spectroscopic and data comparison with previous literature. Among them, all of the compounds were isolated from F. hubeiensis for the first time except compound 9 and this is the first report of the occurrence of compounds (2 , 4 , 6 , 10 – 12) from the genus. The carbonate and triterpenoids components may serve as potential chemotaxonomic markers for distinguishing Fraxinus hubeiensis from other species in Fraxinus genus. [Display omitted] • Twelve compounds were isolated from Fraxinus hubeiensis. • Eleven compounds (1 – 8, 10 – 12), including a new carbonate, were isolated from F. hubeiensis for the first time. • The chemotaxonomic significance of these compounds was also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dinoflagellates of the genus Gambierdiscus have been associated with ciguatera, the most common non-bacterial fish-related intoxication in the world. Many studies report the presence of potentially toxic Gambierdiscus species along the Atlantic coasts including G. australes , G. silvae and G. excentricus. Estimates of their toxicity, as determined by bio-assays, vary substantially, both between species and strains of the same species. Therefore, there is a need for additional knowledge on the metabolite production of Gambierdiscus species and their variation to better understand species differences. Using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, toxin and metabolomic profiles of five species of Gambierdiscus found in the Atlantic Ocean were reported. In addition, a molecular network was constructed aiming at annotating the metabolomes. Results demonstrated that G. excentricus could be discriminated from the other species based solely on the presence of MTX4 and sulfo-gambierones and that the variation in toxin content for a single strain could be up to a factor of two due to different culture conditions between laboratories. While untargeted analyses highlighted a higher variability at the metabolome level, signal correction was applied and supervised multivariate statistics performed on the untargeted data set permitted the selection of 567 features potentially useful as biomarkers for the distinction of G. excentricus , G. caribaeus , G. carolinianus , G. silvae and G. belizeanus. Further studies will be required to validate the use of these biomarkers in discriminating Gambierdiscus species. The study also provided an overview about 17 compound classes present in Gambierdiscus , however, significant improvements in annotation are still required to reach a more comprehensive knowledge of Gambierdiscus ' metabolome. Toxin and metabolomic profiles of 17 Gambierdiscus strains were obtained by low and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Mutivariate statitics and molecular network were performed to select and annotate putative species-specific biomarkers. [Display omitted] • MTX4 and sulfo-gambierones are useful biomarkers for Gambierdiscus excentricus. • Toxin content vary up to 2.1-fold for a strain grown in different laboratories. • 46 and 567 species-specific features selected by LC-MS/MS and LC-HRMS/MS. • 17 classes of Gambierdiscus metabolites annotated using molecular network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil resins, also known under the name "ambers", are formed from exudates of gymnosperm and angiosperm trees in Earth's sedimentary rocks. Up to day, more than 167 fossil resin occurrences and major deposits have been reported in literature. The scientists are mainly focused on fossiliferous ambers, which contain numerous fossil inclusions. However, the geochemical studies, especially those that are aimed at elucidation of the chemical composition of the fossil resins are scantily reported in literature. The chemical composition of ambers is very important for establishing an evolutionary link between ancient plants and their present form. Here, we present seventy-eight major occurrences of fossil resins together with their geochemical, botanical, and geographical data that have been published up to now. Most of them are from North America, Europe, and Asia; however, the occurrences from South America, Africa, Australia, and Oceania are also discussed. The examined ambers have been found in the late Carboniferous or younger sediments. In most cases, the sediments were formed in a close-to-the-shore or swamp-based environment. In many cases, the fossil resins were likely transferred and redeposited in younger sediments during various environmental and geological processes. • An overview of fossil resin occurrences involving the chemical data. • The overview presents the results of geochemical studies on 78 different fossil resins. • The botanical sources, ages, and geographic locations of fossil resins are given. • Specific biomarkers related to the botanical source are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • First report on isolation of phytochemicals from M. beddomei subsp. Spherocarpa W.J. de Wilde. • Two new flavonoids were identified from the fruits and stem bark of the species. • Structures of the isolated compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods. • Four of the isolated compounds exhibited promising cytotoxicity against human adenocarcinoma cells. Chemoprofiling of the aerial parts of the unexplored wild nutmeg species M. beddomei subsp. Spherocarpa W.J. de Wilde led to the isolation of two new flavonoids, including an isoflavone 5,7-dihydroxy-3-(5'-hydroxybenzo[d](7',9')-dioxol-1'-yl)-4H-chromen-4-one (1) and a β -hydroxydihydrochalcone; (3(S)-hydroxy-3-phenyl-1-(2',4',6'-trihydroxyphenyl)propan-1-one (2) along with eleven known compounds (3-13) for the first time. The chemical structures of the isolates were elucidated by various spectroscopic analyses (1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESI-MS and IR). Chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was discussed in detail. In addition the selected compounds were assessed for their in vitro cytotoxicity against human adenocarcinoma cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). Amongst malabaricones (3, 5-7) showed promising activity against both the cell lines whereas trimyristin (10) efficiently inhibited MCF-7 also partensein (8) and promalabaricone B (9) were found to be moderately toxic to MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirteen compounds, including coumarins (1 − 4), phenols (5 − 10) and others (11 − 13), were isolated from the stems of Ostodes paniculata Bl. Their structures were elucidated by NMR, MS analyses and comparison with literature data. Compounds (1 − 2 , 4 − 13) were isolated from the Ostodes genus for the first time. The chemotaxonomical significance of the isolated compounds was also discussed, based on the chemical constituents from some plants of Trib. Cluytieae Pax (Euphorbiaceae). • Twelve compounds were first isolated from the genus Ostodes (Euphorbiaceae). • The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds was described. • Chemical taxonomy can prove morphology classification scientific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical investigation of the stems of Mallotus japonicus Thunb. led to the isolation of nineteen metabolites (1 – 19). The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated, revealing eighteen phenolics (1 – 18), including one coumarin (14) and four lignans (15 – 18), and one diterpene (19) through analyses of NMR, ESIMS, and optical rotation data. Notably, eleven (7 – 11 and 13 – 18) of these metabolites were previously unreported within the genus Mallotus. Consequently, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was evaluated, suggesting that 6′- O -vanilloylisotachioside (11) and daphnecin (14) hold the potential to serve as chemical markers for distinguishing M. japonicus from other plant species. • Mallotus japonicus Thunb. was chemically investigated for metabolic identification. • Nineteen metabolites were isolated and characterized from the stems of M. japonicus. • Eleven compounds were identified from M. japonicus for the first time. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the metabolites from M. japonicus was evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical study of Cortex Moutan (the dried root bark of Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews) led to the isolation of 24 compounds, including eleven mono-phenols (1 – 11), seven terpenoids (12 – 18), three flavonoids (19–21), two sterols (22 and 23) and one coumarin (24). The structures of these isolated compounds were identified using NMR spectroscopy (1H and 13C) by comparison with previously reported data. To the best of our knowledge, compounds 5 , 11 , 15 , 16 , 22 , and 24 were reported from this plant for the first time. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was also discussed. [Display omitted] • Cortex Moutan is a herbal remedy broadly utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine. • The hydroalcoholic extract from Cortex Moutan was investigated. • Twenty-four compounds were purified and identified mainly by means of NMR tools. • The chemotaxonomy significance was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(7 R ,8 S ,7′ E)-9′-O-methyl-5-methoxydehydrodiconiferylalcohol-4-O- β -D-glucopyranoside (1), a novel neolignan glycoside, and twenty-six known compounds (2 – 27) were isolated and characterized from the roots of Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim. Regarding the biogenic pathway, they both belong to the phenylpropanoids produced by the shikimate pathway. The structure of compound 1 was elucidated by the analysis of spectroscopic data obtaining from UV, IR, CD, HR-ESI-MS and 1D and 2D NMR experiments (NOESY, HMBC and HSQC). From the current study, compounds 1 – 4 , 16 – 18 were newly isolated from the family Araliaceae, compounds 8 , 13 , 14 and 19 were newly isolated from the genus Eleutherococcu s, and compound 15 was newly isolated from Eleutherococcus senticosus. Furthermore, an insightful discussion of the chemical classification of isolated compounds was presented. [Display omitted] • A new neolignan glycoside and twenty-six known phenylpropanoids from the roots of Eleutherococcus senticosus. • Used literature research in order to investigate the chemical taxonomic significance of the isolated compounds. • From the current study, compounds 1 - 4 , 16 - 18 were newly isolated from the family Araliaceae, compounds 8 , 13 , 14 and 19 were newly isolated from the genus Eleutherococcus , and compound 15 was newly isolated from Eleutherococcus senticosus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant metabolite profiling reveals the diversity of secondary or specialized metabolites in the plant kingdom with its hundreds of thousands of species. Specialized plant metabolites constitute a vast class of chemicals posing significant challenges in analytical chemistry. In order to be of maximum scientific relevance, reports dealing with these compounds and their source species must be transparent, make use of standards and reference materials, and be based on correctly and traceably identified plant material. Essential aspects in qualitative plant metabolite profiling include: (i) critical review of previous literature and a reasoned sampling strategy; (ii) transparent plant sampling with wild material documented by vouchers in public herbaria and, optimally, seed banks; (iii) if possible, inclusion of generally available reference plant material; (iv) transparent, documented state-of-the art chemical analysis, ideally including chemical reference standards; (v) testing for artefacts during preparative extraction and isolation, using gentle analytical methods; (vi) careful chemical data interpretation, avoiding over- and misinterpretation and taking into account phytochemical complexity when assigning identification confidence levels, and (vii) taking all previous scientific knowledge into account in reporting the scientific data. From the current stage of the phytochemical literature, selected comments and suggestions are given. In the past, proposed revisions of botanical taxonomy were sometimes based on metabolite profiles, but this approach ("chemosystematics" or "chemotaxonomy") is outdated due to the advent of DNA sequence-based phylogenies. In contrast, systematic comparisons of plant metabolite profiles in a known phylogenetic framework remain relevant. This approach, known as chemophenetics, allows characterizing species and clades based on their array of specialized metabolites, aids in deducing the evolution of biosynthetic pathways and coevolution, and can serve in identifying new sources of rare and economically interesting natural products. [Display omitted] • Plant metabolic profiling and reporting on it are challenging. • Botanical, phytochemical, and analytical pitfalls are discussed. • Artefact formation as well as botanical and chemical misassignments are problematic. • Data interpretation of chemophenetic/chemosystematic papers is often poor. • Recommendations for authors and editors are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Scorzonera L. comprises of approximately 175 species, which are mainly distributed in temperate and arid regions of Central Europe, Central Asia, and Africa. Twenty-nine Scorzonera traditional ethnomedicines have been used for treating colds and fevers, pulmonary diseases, asthma, dyspepsia, malignant stomach neoplasia, liver disorder, jaundice, kidney diseases, mastitis, women's vaginitis, herpes zoster, poisonous ulcers, rheumatic pain, diabetic, atherosclerosis, headache, hypertension, dysentery, pregnant vomiting, snakebites, etc. This review aims to systematically evaluate the genus Scorzonera over its ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology, discuss the relationship between traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties, and put forward some suggestions to promote further development and utilization of Scorzonera. This review is based on published scientific research works obtained from the following databases: Elsevier, Web of Science, PubMed, Springer, Wiley, Taylor & Francis, Google Scholar, CNKI, Baidu Scholar, ResearchGate, and others (the Flora of China, 1997 edition; Chinese herbal books, PhD dissertation and Master thesis in Chinese). The genus 81 Scorzonera plants have been studied for their traditional usage, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. Altogether 421 chemical constituents are isolated from the 54 species of Scorzonera , which include sesquiterpenoids, monoterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenoids, steroids, quinic acid derivatives, flavonoids, cumarinoids, lignanoids, phenylpropanoids, stilbene derivatives, benzylphthalides, kava lactones, phenolics, aliphatic acids, phthalic acids, alkanes, vitamins, sugars, alkaloids, and other constitutes. Besides those listed above, there are also volatile oils, polysaccharides, tannins, amino acids, enzymes, and inorganic elements. The extracts and compounds extracted from 55 Scorzonera species exhibit extensive pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, wound healing, anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, anti-microbial, anti-ulcerogenic, antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, repairing cerebral ischemia, antidepressant, immunomodulatory activities, enzyme inhibitory effects, etc. Clinical applications strongly indicate that certain species are effective in treating herpes zoster and pregnancy resistance. Certain species are studied over applicationssuch as pharmacokinetic and histological distribution, and toxicity, the product extraction process, quick-freezing processing technology, synthesized metabolites, etc. Chemotaxonomy is also discussed on Scorzonera. This review provides information on traditional usage, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, chemotaxonomy, other applications aspects, and future prospects of the genus Scorzonera. However, only around one third of Scorzonera species have been studied so far. This review may be used as the basis for future endeavors, including further biological and chemical investigations, and efforts of seeking more applications. [Display omitted] • Traditional uses of 42 species of Scorzonera , including 29 species for traditional medicines. • 421 compounds were isolated and identified from 54 Scorzonera species. • The pharmacological potential were demonstrated 55 Scorzonera species and certain species were tested their toxicity. • Other applications and extraction processes of products were involved on certain Scorzonera species. • Chemosystemay was discussed on Scorzonera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine phytoplankton forms the basis of the marine food web. Its diversity (size and pigmentation) has a significant impact on biogeochemical processes such as photosynthetic efficiency, trophic interactions, and global carbon fluxes. To date, little is known about the Algerian Basin regarding phytoplankton quality and quantity. In this study, we analyzed the distribution of phytoplankton communities in the Algerian Basin based on HPLC/Chemotaxonomy analysis for the summer season of 2014. The chemical taxonomy software CHEMTAX v1.95 was used to estimate the contributions of various phytoplankton groups to total Chlorophyll a (TChl a). The results showed that prymnesiophytes were the dominant group (16%) in the nanoplankton and occupied the entire water column, whereas cryptophytes were observed exclusively in the western region of the basin, and contributed about 6% to the TChl a. Diatoms had the highest contributions (18%) to the TChl a , and their emergence was linked to nutrient enrichment. Dinoflagellates had a contribution of about 12% with little variation throughout the basin. Prochlorococcus had a contribution of about 13% and prevailed in the deep layers (60–100 m) following the nitracline, while Synechococcus (11%) occupied the shallower layers (10–60 m) (beneath the MLD) following the nutrient depletion. Moreover, it is noteworthy that phytoplankton communities in the western part of the basin showed greater diversity and abundance, influenced by Atlantic waters and deep nutrient enrichment. In contrast, the eastern part of the basin displayed lower productivity, characterized by reduced diversity and the prevalence of nano- and picoplankton. • Phytoplankton communities in the Algerian basin are characterized by the CHEMTAX approach. • Nano- and micro-phytoplankton prevail in the Algerian basin. • Diatoms, prymnesiophytes, and Prochlorococcus are the major phytoplankton groups in the Algerian basin. • Phytoplankton communities are more abundant and diverse in the west of the Algerian basin than in the east. • Phytoplankton community composition is linked to the Algerian Basin's physical-chemical dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical investigation of the rhizomes of Polygonatum cyrtonema , a traditional Chinese medicine and healthy food named "Huang-jing" (Polygonati Rhizoma), led to the isolation of 22 phenolic derivatives including an undescribed (1) and nine (2 – 10) known C -methylated homoisoflavanones, two common homoisoflavanones (11 , 12), four flavanones (13 – 16), one chalcone (17), and five octopamine derivatives (18 – 22). The structure of compound 1 was established mainly by spectroscopic methods, including 1D-/2D-NMR and electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The known compounds were identified by comparing the observed and reported physicochemical properties and spectroscopic data published in the literature. Polygonatone H (8) and 5,7,2′-trihydroxy-4′-methoxy-6,8-dimethyl-homoisoflavanone (9) exhibited significant cytotoxic effects against four human cancer cell lines (HCT-116, AGS, U-87 MG, and PC-12) with IC 50 values ranging from 2.2 to 9.8 μM. Furthermore, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated C -methylated homoisoflavanones was briefly discussed. [Display omitted] • An undescribed C -methylated homoisoflavanone was isolated from Polygonatum cyrtonema. • Some isolates exhibited cytotoxic effects against a few human cancer cell lines. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the C -methylated homoisoflavanones is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-one compounds were isolated from the ethanol extract of the leaves of Nephrolepis exaltata (Nephrolepidaceae), including one furan derivative (1), five phenol derivatives (2–6), two megastigmens (7 , 8), one iridoid glycoside (9), nine flavonoids (10–18), and three lignan glycosides (19–21). The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic methods as well as comparison with previously reported data. Among the isolated compounds, phloretic acid (6) was isolated from the specie N. exalata for the first time. Dehydrovomifoliol (7), dehydrololiolide (8), quercitrin (10), kaempferol (11), afzelin (12), quercetin (13), luteolin (14), 3- O -methylquercetin (15), and demethoxymatteucinol (17) were obtained from the genus for the first time while methoxygaertneroside (9), (2S)-5,7,3′,5′-tetrahydroxyflavanone (16), epigallocatechin (18), lanicepside A (19), pinoresinol 4′- O - β -D-glucopyranoside (20), and glochidiobioside (21) were obtained from the family for the first time. • Taxonomic importance of isolated compounds from genus Nephrolepis. • Megastigmane type compounds are reported in the genus Nephrolepis. • Nine flavonoids isolated from the leaves of Nephrolepis exaltata. • Lignans and iridoid glycoside are reported in the Nephrolepidaceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three previously undescribed highly methoxylated neolignans, cylindrienones A‒C (1 – 3 , resp.), together with five related known neolignans (4 – 8) were isolated from the twigs and leaves of the ornamental and medicinal plant Yulania cylindrica , a 'vulnerable' species endemic to China. The new structures were established by spectroscopic methods including HRESIMS, 2D-NMR, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The known ones were identified by comparing their observed and reported physicochemical properties and spectroscopic data. Compounds 1 and 2 are (C 8 –C 3')-neolignan derivatives possessing a unique cyclohexadienone unit, while compound 3 is a rearranged neolignan containing a rare tricycle [4.2.0.02,8]octane moiety. Compounds 1 – 8 were isolated from Y. cylindrica for the first time. Compounds 4 and 7 were even firstly found from the family Magnoliaceae. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated methoxylated neolignans was briefly discussed. [Display omitted] • Three undescribed methoxylated neolignans were obtained from Yulania cylindrica. • Compound 3 is a rearranged neolignan with a rare tricycle [4.2.0.02,8]octane moiety. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated methoxylated neolignans is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new eudesmane-type sesquiterpene, chlorahupetolide R (1), and thirteen known compounds (2 – 14) were isolated from the roots of Chloranthus henryi Hemsl. var. hupehensis (Pamp.) K.F.Wu. Linderolide E (9) was first reported from the family Chloranthaceae. Atractylenolide III (2), shizukanolide E (3), chloramultilide D (4), shizukanolide F (5), linderolide G (6), 9 α -hydroxy-curcolonol (7), linderolide F (8), sarcaglaboside C (10), sarcaglaboside A (11), isofraxidin (12), trans-ferulic acid (13), and ethyl trans-caffeat (14) were first isolated from the investigated plant. In the current research, the structural identification of these compounds was achieved through the analysis of their spectroscopic and spectrometric characteristics. Furthermore, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds is discussed briefly. • Fourteen compounds were isolated for the first time from the roots of Chloranthus henryi Hemsl. var. hupehensis (Pamp.) K. F. Wu. • Compound 1 was a new eudesmane-type sesquiterpene. • Compound 9 was first obtained from the family Chloranthaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical investigation of the whole plant of Odontites vulgaris Moench led to the isolation and characterization of 40 compounds, including ten terpenoids (1 – 10), seven sterols (11 – 17), seven flavonoids (18 – 24), five phenols (25 – 29), five lipids (30 – 34), four lignans (35 – 38), one alkaloid (39), and one benzensulfonic acid (40). The structures of isolated compounds were elucidated by interpretation of their NMR spectroscopic data and comparison with reported ones in the literature. This is the first confirmation of the presence of twenty-one compounds (2 , 5 , 6, 9 – 14 , 17 , 24 , 27 , 30 – 35 , 38 – 40) isolated from the family Orobanchaceae, nine compounds (7 , 8 , 16 , 22 , 23 , 25 , 29 , 36 , 37) from the genus Odontites , and three compounds (3 , 4 , 15) from O. vulgaris. Furthermore, the chemotaxonomic significance of these constituents from the whole plant of O. vulgaris were also summarized. [Display omitted] • Forty chemical constituents were obtained from the whole plant of this plant. • Twenty-one compounds were reported from family Orobanchaceae for the first time. • Nine compounds were new for the genus Odontites. • Three compounds were first confirmation from Odontites vulgari. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical investigation of the 70% methanol extract of the aerial parts of Alsophila spinulosa (Wall. ex Hook.) R. M. Tryon afforded one previously undescribed biflavonoid glycoside (1), along with two known biflavonoids, hegoflavone A (2) and hegoflavone B (3). The chemical structure of compound 1 was unambiguously established by careful analyses of its HR-ESI-MS and NMR data and chemical degradation. The chemotaxonomic significance of compounds 1 – 3 was also discussed. • A new biflavonoid glycoside was isolated from Alsophila spinulosa. • The structure of the new compound was elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data. • The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-six known flavonoid compounds, including six flavones (1 – 6), ten flavone glycosides (7 – 16), four dihydroflavonols (17 – 20), two flavanones (21 and 22), two chalcones (23 and 24), and two isoflavones (25 and 26) were isolated from the 95% EtOH extract of the stem and leave parts of Bauhinia brachycarpa Wall. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis. All compounds were isolated from the plant for the first time. Compounds 4 , 6 , 9 , 12 – 21 , 23 , 25 and 26 were isolated from the genus Bauhinia for the first time. Furthermore, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was also discussed. [Display omitted] • A phytochemical investigation on Bauhinia brachycarpa was conducted. • Twenty-six known flavonoid compounds including five types of flavonoids were obtained. • All compounds were isolated from this plant for the first time. • This is a comprehensive report on the flavonoids from Bauhinia brachycarpa. • This finding provides new evidence for chemotaxonomic studies of the genus Bauhinia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical investigation of the stems of Cratoxylum formosum (Jack) Dyer subsp. pruniflorum (Kurz) Gogelin led to the isolation of a new xanthone derivative cratoxanthone (1), together with seven known biogenetically related xanthone derivatives (2 – 8). The structures of these compounds were elucidated using comprehensive spectroscopic methods. All compounds were isolated from C. formosum for the first time. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolates was also discussed. [Display omitted] • A new and seven known xanthones were isolated from the species Cratoxylum formosum. • Compound 1 represents the first example of the 4-COOH group of xanthones from natural products. • Compounds 1 – 8 can be considered as chemotaxonomic makers for the species Cratoxylum formosum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palynological analysis based on spore and pollen morphology is well established in the field of palaeo-environmental reconstruction but is currently not fully exploited for understanding the history and development of cereal cultivation due to difficulties in visually differentiating between grass species (Poaceae). Here we employ a chemotaxonomic approach, by examining the chemical differences among Poaceae taxa, based on Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy data to overcome problems associated with morphological similarities across the Poaceae family. FTIR spectra of untreated and acetolysed pollen from 19 Poaceae taxa were used in our study. We used both populations and individual pollen grains to explore how we can minimise the effect of Mie scattering (spectral distortions caused by scattering of the incident IR beam) on spectra from individuals. Random forest classification algorithms were applied to explore our ability to differentiate taxa at the species level. We found that pollen grains treated with acetolysis yield better classification results (86% for individuals and 97% for populations) compared to untreated samples (65.7% for individuals and 83% for populations), since they are less affected by Mie scattering. The high classification success at species level on acetolysed individual pollen grains suggests that our chemotaxonomic method holds substantial promise in numerous areas of grass and in particular cereal pollen research, including elucidating the history of agriculture. • Chemotaxonomy applied on Poaceae populations and individual pollen grains. • Chemical spectra of individual pollen grains are comparable to population spectra. • Individual grains of acetolysed pollen were scanned without embedment matrix. • Spectra from individual acetolysed pollen grains showed minimal Mie scattering. • Chemotaxonomy can be useful tool for fossil pollen classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Crossyne guttata is an obscure species taxonomically. • We isolated distichamine from C. guttata. • Distichamine once a chemotaxonomic marker is more widely distributed that previously thought. • We identified chemical variability in different populations of C. guttata. • Representative sampling is required for chemotaxonomic studies. Isoquinoline alkaloids of the Amaryllidaceae have proven to be of significant value in drug discovery and development. Crossyne guttata is frequently used in traditional medicine as an antiseptic and wound cleaner as well as to treat alcoholism. The aim of the study was to identify the variation in alkaloid content of the species in relation to published works on the genus Boophone. We isolated Distichamine 1 from an ethanolic fraction of Crossyne guttata using column chromatography. Spectroscopic analysis yielded three alkaloids, distichamine 1 , crinamine 2 and epibuphanisine 3. Distichamine 1 is a rare β-crinane alkaloid previously isolated only from the genus Boophone. The presence of distichamine 1 in the genus Crossyne suggests that it may be more widespread in tribe Amaryllideae than originally thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cuticular hydrocarbons of insects may be useful in the chemotaxonomy of species. • A Thermal Separation Probe was used to identify the cuticular hydrocarbons of thrips. • The cuticular hydrocarbons profiles of 6 species of thrip were obtained. • The finding could provide a possible method for the identification of thrips. Thrips constitute several families of slender insects with fringed wings and unique asymmetrical mouthparts. They have become globally important pests, infesting a variety of agriculturally important crops. Species of thrips are difficult to identify due to their small size and similarities in morphology. Recently, in addition to morphology, both molecular and non-molecular taxonomic tools have been used to identify species differences. Insect cuticular hydrocarbons have been widely used in chemotaxonomy. In this study, a Thermal Separation Probe was used to identify the cuticular hydrocarbons of Frankliniella occidentalis , Frankliniella intonsa , Thrips palmi , Thrips hawaiiensis , Haplothrips chinensis and Gynaikothrips ficorum. We analyzed the hydrocarbon composition of adults in all 6 species, and in the larvae of F. occidentali s, T. hawaiiensis and T. palmi. The results showed that the composition of cuticular hydrocarbons differed between species. All 6 species of adults and 3 species of larvae were easily distinguishable by quantitative analysis of hydrocarbon profiles. These results provide a possible method for the identification of thrips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image, graphical abstract Recently, a Namibian Plocamium specimen that shares the characteristics of both P. suhrii and P. rigidum was described in terms of the chemistry of its secondary metabolite constituents. Three variants or forms of this species with similarities and subtle differences in terms of morphology were found in the intertidal zone of Henties Bay, Namibia. Without DNA analysis, there is a degree of uncertainty regarding which Plocamium species these samples belong to. However, tentative morphological identification of the samples suggests P. rigidum. Hence, detailed chemical profiles of these variants were investigated in order to determine if their chemical compositions are in agreement with their morphological and taxonomic similarities and differences. Twelve halogenated monoterpenes previously identified in Namibian Plocamium species were mostly found to be present in the crude MeOH/DCM extracts of the three variants in this study. The major compound, 1 E ,3 R ,4 S ,5 E ,7 Z -1-bromo-3,4,8-trichloro-7-(dichloromethyl)-3-methylocta-1,5,7-triene, was previously identified as the major metabolite of P. suhrii , the Namibian Plocamium species and also mostly likely P. rigidum. Gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC-FID) was used for the accurate determination of the absolute and relative quantities of the twelve metabolites in the extracts. This data revealed that two of the variants were chemically similar, while the quantities of the metabolites present in the remaining variant showed large variations. In particular, significant variations in the concentration of the major metabolite was observed in the latter variant. However, the relative abundance of this metabolite in the former variants was almost 90%, which is consistent with what was previously reported and hence these two variants most probably belong to the same Namibian Plocamium rigidum species. Hence it was concluded that the remaining sample could be an intraspecies variant, or even another species of Plocamium. • Rapid gas chromatography quantification was used to accurately determine intraspecific variation of secondary metabolites from variants of Namibian Plocamium rigidum species. • This is the first time that the secondary metabolites of Plocamium rigidum have been quantified and compared in such a manner in order to learn more about the chemotaxonomy of this species variants. • Intraspecies variation or even possibly a new Plocamium species was potentially identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Herbarium Voucher leaves can be analyzed by GCMS. • The heavier volatile not present in essential oils are detected. • The chemical signatures can display taxa specific patterns. • Putative new species are evident from chemical analysis alone. The aromatic pink-flowered Phebalium complex is comprised by P. nottii Maiden & Betche, P. speciosum I. Telford and the very similar but mostly white-flowered P. woombye (F.M.Bailey) Domin. Phebalium nottii , as currently circumscribed, includes several geographically disjunct populations that have been segregated at the N.C.W. Beadle Herbarium as putatively distinct species, several of high conservation value. To study volatiles sustainably, large-scale hydrodistillation was aborted and only single leaves were removed from herbarium vouchers, extracted into solvent and analysed by GC–MS. Unlike other species of Phebalium , volatiles in pink-flowered Phebalium are mostly dominated by spathulenol and bicyclogermacrene. Multivariate analysis of the chemistry of volatiles clearly demonstrated good agreement between chemotypes and putative taxa in central Queensland populations. Southern taxa, and the true P. nottii sensu stricto from northern Queensland, express high levels of volatile coumarins. Thus, morphological relationships are mostly reflected in morphometric clusters. As with other members of Phebalium , most taxa can be distinguished on chemistry alone, using only GC–MS analysis of herbarium material. These results corroborate several new species and reveal relationships within the heterogeneous species aggregate of P. nottii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rare bis-rhamnopyranoside of aromadendrin, besides isoflavones of chemosystematic importance and peculiar compounds never reported in the genus, was identified from the flowers of Genista cilentina , an Italian endemic species. The structure of the aromadendrin derivative was elucidated by means of 1D and 2D NMR techniques. The exclusivity of the observed molecular pattern in comparison with other Genista species was further discussed from a chemotaxonomic point of view. A huge quantity of flavonoids in aglycone form resulted selectively accumulated in flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]