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Anthropogenic activities are altering levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO) and tropospheric ozone (O). These changes can alter phytochemistry, and in turn, influence ecosystem processes. We assessed the individual and combined effects of elevated CO and O on the phytochemical composition of two tree species common to early successional, northern temperate forests. Trembling aspen ( Populus tremuloides) and paper birch ( Betula papyrifera) were grown at the Aspen FACE (Free- Air Carbon dioxide and ozone Enrichment) facility under four combinations of ambient and elevated CO and O. We measured, over three years (2006-08), the effects of CO and O on a suite of foliar traits known to influence forest functioning. Elevated CO had minimal effect on foliar nitrogen and carbohydrate levels in either tree species, and increased synthesis of condensed tannins and fiber in aspen, but not birch. Elevated O decreased nitrogen levels in both tree species and increased production of sugar, condensed tannins, fiber, and lignin in aspen, but not birch. The magnitude of responses to elevated CO and O varied seasonally for both tree species. When co-occurring, CO offset most of the changes in foliar chemistry expressed under elevated O alone. Our results suggest that levels of CO and O predicted for the mid-twenty-first century will alter the foliar chemistry of northern temperate forests with likely consequences for forest community and ecosystem dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the independent and interactive effects of elevated carbon dioxide (CO) and ozone (O) on the foliar quality of two deciduous trees species and the performance of two outbreak herbivore species. Trembling aspen ( Populus tremuloides) and paper birch ( Betula papyrifera) were grown at the Aspen FACE research site in northern Wisconsin, USA, under four combinations of ambient and elevated CO and O. We measured the effects of elevated CO and O on aspen and birch phytochemistry and on gypsy moth ( Lymantria dispar) and forest tent caterpillar ( Malacosoma disstria) performance. Elevated CO nominally affected foliar quality for both tree species. Elevated O negatively affected aspen foliar quality, but only marginally influenced birch foliar quality. Elevated CO slightly improved herbivore performance, while elevated O decreased herbivore performance, and both responses were stronger on aspen than birch. Interestingly, elevated CO largely offset decreased herbivore performance under elevated O. Nitrogen, lignin, and C:N were identified as having strong influences on herbivore performance when larvae were fed aspen, but no significant relationships were observed for insects fed birch. Our results support the notion that herbivore performance can be affected by atmospheric change through altered foliar quality, but how herbivores will respond will depend on interactions among CO, O, and tree species. An emergent finding from this study is that tree age and longevity of exposure to pollutants may influence the effects of elevated CO and O on plant-herbivore interactions, highlighting the need to continue long-term atmospheric change research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus medica var. sarcodactylus (Siebold ex Hoola van Nooten) Swingle is not only a delicious fruit with rich nutrients, but also a traditional Chinese medicine with clinical values. The botanical characteristics of C. medica var. sarcodactylus (Siebold ex Hoola van Nooten) Swingle are systematically summarized and descripted in this paper. C. medica var. sarcodactylus (Siebold ex Hoola van Nooten) Swingle is used to treat many diseases in Chinese folk as a traditional medicine. Compounds (1–180) were identified from C. medica var. sarcodactylus (Siebold ex Hoola van Nooten) Swingle, including flavonoids (1–45), lignans (46–69), coumarins (70–93), volatile oils (94–163), carbohydrates (164–168), and others (169–180), and their structural characteristics are summarized and analyzed. The extracts or compounds of this plant have been reported to exert various pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, hypolidemic, anti-microbial, immunosuppressive, anti-depressant, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective activities, and their effective doses and experimental models are summarized and discussed in this paper. Future studies should focus on extraction technology, component analysis, molecular mechanism of C. medica var. sarcodactylus (Siebold ex Hoola van Nooten) Swingle to fill the study gap, as well as to provide an important theoretical basis and valuable references for in-depth researches and exploitations of C. medica var. sarcodactylus (Siebold ex Hoola van Nooten) Swingle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sonchus oleraceus L. (Asteraceae) is a cosmopolitan species native to Europe commonly known as lettuce, sowthistle, chicory, or fake dandelion, considered a weed. However, for many years in various cultures around the world, it has been used as food and medicinal plant. The aim of this integrative review is to document the ethnomedical, phytochemical, and pharmacological information of this species. Forty-one papers document the use of S. oleraceus to heal of a wide variety of diseases. However, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, inflammation, infections, hepatitis, wounds, and to consume it as food are the most common uses. On the other hand, only 11 items highlight that the main groups of secondary metabolites in this species are flavonoids and terpene lactones. Finally, 45 items reveal that antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative and cytotoxic were the most studied pharmacological activities. In vitro and in vivo studies of extracts and components isolated from different parts of S. oleraceus have provided a concrete overview of the pharmacological properties of this species that supports its ethnomedical uses in cultures from different parts of the world. The reports of this species have focused solely on the study of the complete plant, leaves, and aerial parts, so it is necessary to study other parts of this species to search for bioactive compounds. No clinical studies were found, which creates an opportunity to expand scientific knowledge of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant Nyctanthes arbor-tristis belongs to the genus Nyctanthes (Oleaceae family) which is used in the treatment of many diseases like diabetes, cancer, inflammation, intestinal problem and tuberculosis in many countries of Asia. In this analysis, we have investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of various extracts of leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis by the in vitro method as the cyclooxygenase inhibitory potential. The reported phytochemical constituent of the plant was in silico screened to find the cyclooxygenase inhibitory potential by molecular docking method. The molecular docking study of pre-isolated phytochemicals from the leaves of plants shows that compounds possess a great inhibition potential against COX-1 and COX-2 therefore, an in vitro comparative study is required to conclude the selective and potential COX-2 inhibitor for the development of new anti-inflammatory drug without causing any gastrointestinal ulcer. Here, we deliver a new strategy to design a selective COX-2 inhibitor from the plant origin natural compound by using molecular docking technique and in vitro screening of plant extract. In the other part of the paper, abortitristoside A (1) and abortitristoside B (2) were isolated from the leaves part of the plant. The isolated compound possesses good activity against COX-2 and COX-1 (IC50 value 7.91–8.00 μM against COX-2) which is also established by structure–activity relationship analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artocarpus (Moraceae) species have been widely studied for phytochemical components and pharmacological activity. This review aims to highlight key findings on the discovery, biosynthesis, and biological properties of Artocarpus metabolites. One hundred papers over the past 50 years were critically analysed. Current trends in the research of the genus are also discussed. The ethno-medicinal benefits of Artocarpus species, mainly for inflammation, malaria, diarrhoea, diabetes, and tapeworm infection, have a strong bond between traditional and modern sources. Artocarpus crude extract, especially those from the leaves, bark, stem, and fruit, contain numerous beneficial active molecules, including flavonoids, stilbenoids, aryl benzofurans, and the lectin jacalin. To understand the flavonoid and triterpenoid mechanisms as antimalarial agents, more research on Artocarpus is required. Highly collaborative programs that integrate conventional and modern techniques will be crucial for the future applications of Artocarpus as a possible source of medicinal natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) is native to the western Mediterranean basin and has an economic importance in southwestern Europe. This importance is based on the use of its wood in the construction, furniture, and paper industries. Bark and other parts of the plant, such as resin, needles, and cones, are by-products with potential industrial application. These parts of the tree stand out because of the presence of secondary metabolites, the main ones being phenolic compounds and terpenes. Bark contains both, while other parts of the plant are mainly composed of terpenes. All these compounds have biological potential, mainly antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The bark has the widest range of industrial applications, and it can be used to obtain dietary supplements and functional foods, adsorbents, and bio-based resins and foams. Resin has a prominent industrial role too, especially in chemical industry. In this manuscript, an overview of these applications is described, opening an innovation opportunity for enterprises to use the by-products and residue of maritime pine. Still, albeit the described application, maritime pine has further applications that are right now being studied under the premises of circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peganum genus is rich with its high phytochemical and botanical variability. Peganum species have been used as a sedative, antitumor, analgesic and antidepressant. This paper aims to study the molecular diversity of Peganum genus and to shed more light on the structure–activity relationship of the alkaloids isolated from Peganum genus. All Peganum alkaloids were grouped according to their structural properties. A chemoinformatic approach (SwissTargetPrediction) was used to determine the molecular targets of these alkaloids. To analyze and visualize the results, R software was used to generate hierarchical clustering heatmaps. The results of this study can help researchers to better understand the structure–activity relationship of Peganum alkaloids and how substitution can affect the biological activity of those alkaloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maytenus is a genus in the plant family Celastraceae, the species of which are primarily distributed in China, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. These plants have long been used as a resource for the development of medicines. The latest advances in the pharmacology and phytochemistry of Maytenus are reviewed in this paper. Studies have discovered that Maytenus spieces have efficacy in the treatment of various diseases. They are widely used as antitumor, anti-septicaemia, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antioxidative, antiulcer, antipathogenic, anti-proliferative and salivation-inducing drugs. In addition, they are used for treating asthma, digestive tract diseases, rheumatism, and rheumatoid diseases. Recently, there has been growing interest in the medicinal value of Maytenus. The diversity of the biological and pharmacological activities attributed to Maytenus is associated with the presence of a large number of chemical substances in these species, the most important of which are triterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and alkaloids. Among these, certain triterpenes have been demonstrated to be effective anticancer agents. In this paper, we present an overview of the phytochemicals in species within the Maytenus genus and their associated biological activities, which can provide a reference for future research, development, and utilisation of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paulownia species, especially their flowers and fruits, are traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of infectious diseases. C-geranylated flavonoids were found to be the major special metabolites in Paulownia flowers and fruits, and 76 C-geranylated flavonoids had been isolated and characterized thus far. Structural variations in Paulownia C-geranylated flavonoids are mainly due to the complicated structural modifications in their geranyl substituents. These natural compounds have attracted much attention because of their various biological activities, including antioxidation, anti-inflammation, cytotoxic activity and various enzymatic inhibitions, etc. Among them, diplacone, a major Paulownia component, was considered to have promise for applications in medicine. This paper summarizes the information from current publications on Paulownia C-geranylated flavonoids, with a focus on their structural variety, key spectroscopic characteristics, biological activity with structure–activity relationships and application prospects. We hope that this paper will stimulate further investigations of Paulownia species and this kind of natural product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naturally occurring phenanthroindolizidine and phenanthroquinolizidine alkaloids (PIAs and PQAs) are two small groups of herbal metabolites sharing a similar pentacyclic structure with a highly oxygenated phenanthrene moiety fused with a saturated or an unsaturated N-heterocycle (indolizidine/quinolizidine moieties). Natural PIAs and PQAs only could be obtained from finite plant families (such as Asclepiadaceae, Lauraceae and Urticaceae families, etc.). Up to date, more than one hundred natural PIAs, while only nine natural PQAs had been described. PIA and PQA analogues have been applied to the development of potent anticancer agents all along because of their excellent cytotoxic activity. However, in the last two decades, other great biological properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities were revealed successively by different pharmacological assays. Especially because of their potent antiviral activity against coronavirus (TGEV, SARS CoV and MHV) and tobacco mosaic virus, PIA and PQA analogues have attracted much pharmaceutical attention again, some of them have been used to present interesting targets for total or semi synthesis, and structure–activity relationship (SAR) study for the development of antiviral agents. In this review, natural PIA and PQA analogues obtained in the last two decades with their herbal origins, key spectroscopic characteristics for structural identification, biological activity with possible SARs and application prospects were systematically summarized. We hope this paper can stimulate further investigations on PIA and PQA analogues as an important source for potential drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jujubae Fructus (ZJF) [called Dazao (大枣) in Chinese], the fruit of Ziziphus jujuba Mill. (ZJ), is utilized as a food and traditional medicine in China. In TCM use, ZJF is traditionally used to treat and nourish the stomach, tonify the spleen, and nourish the blood, as well as for overall nourishing and strength. According to the available literature from 1974 to March 2019, more than 278 compounds have been isolated and identified from ZJ. Local books, papers and dissertations were also searched. The aim of this review was to examine this plant's traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, toxicity, pharmacokinetics, quality control and economically important uses. In vivo and in vitro scientific investigations have initially confirmed its pharmacological potential by showing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, gastrointestinal protective, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, anticancer, anti-HIV, sedative-hypnotic and anxiolytic effects. Bioactive metabolites belonging to different classes are responsible for these activities, including triterpenoid acids, saponins, cyclopeptide alkaloids, flavonoids and neo-lignans, which are considered the characteristic and active components of ZJ. The TCM use of ZJF, including tonifying and replenishing the middle Qi and nourishing the blood to tranquilize, is based on its gastrointestinal protective, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, sedative-hypnotic and anxiolytic properties. Its detoxification effects are attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer and antibacterial activities. Moreover, the TCM characteristics of ZJF (sweet flavour; warm nature; and spleen, stomach, and heart meridian effects) support its traditional uses and pharmacological effects. We encourage more studies to further clarify the relationship between modern applications and traditional uses in the future. Furthermore, no one has studied ZJ blossoms, and researchers should allocate more time to the study of ZJ blossoms. Additionally, unsolved problems include the scientific principle of the Chinese material medica processing [CMMP (中药炮制) in Chinese] of ZJF, the molecular mechanisms of the biological activity of ZJ and its other medicinal parts, the overall pharmacokinetics rather than single molecule pharmacokinetics, the efficacy and the toxicology. All of the unsolved problems noted above require further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect herbivores have ubiquitous associations with microorganisms that have major effects on how host insects may interact in their environment. Recently, increased attention has been given to how insect gut microbiomes mediate interactions with plants. In this paper, I discuss the ecology and physiology of gut bacteria associated with insect herbivores and how they may shape interactions between insects and their various host plants. I first establish how microbial associations vary between insects with different feeding styles, and how the insect host physiology and ecology can shape stable or transient relationships with gut bacteria. Then, I describe how these relationships factor in with plant nutrition and plant defenses. Within this framework, I suggest that many of the interactions between plants, insects, and the gut microbiome are context-dependent and shaped by the type of defense and the isolates present in the environment. Relationships between insects and plants are not pairwise, but instead highly multipartite, and the interweaving of complex microbial interactions is needed to fully explore the context-dependent aspects of the gut microbiome in many of these systems. I conclude the review by suggesting studies that would help reduce the unsureness of microbial interactions with less-defined herbivore systems and identify how each could provide a path to more robust roles and traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Fruit vinegar is one of the most famous fruit byproducts worldwide with several unique properties. There are two types of fruit vinegar, artisanal and industrial, for consumers to choose from. This review aims to assess for the first time the phytochemistry of fruit vinegar and its anti-inflammatory effects.The present work was conducted based on a literature search that selected the relevant papers from indexed databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, MDPI, PubMed, Hindawi, and Web of Science. We used numerous terms to assure a good search in different databases, including fruit vinegar, phytochemistry, bioavailability and bioaccessibility, and anti-inflammatory effect. All articles were selected based on their relevance, quality, and problematic treatment.Literature data have shown that vinegar has a long medicinal history and has been widely used by different civilizations, due to its richness in bioactive molecules, vinegar plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis, mastitis, asthma, arthritis, acute pancreatitis, and colitis. Fruit vinegar consumption benefit is highly dependent on its chemical composition, especially organic acids and antioxidants, which can act as nutraceuticals.Fruit vinegar has a rich chemical composition, including organic acids that can be transformed in the digestive system into compounds that play an important role in health-promoting features such as anti-inflammatory effects throughout the control of intestinal microbiota and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.Method: Fruit vinegar is one of the most famous fruit byproducts worldwide with several unique properties. There are two types of fruit vinegar, artisanal and industrial, for consumers to choose from. This review aims to assess for the first time the phytochemistry of fruit vinegar and its anti-inflammatory effects.The present work was conducted based on a literature search that selected the relevant papers from indexed databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, MDPI, PubMed, Hindawi, and Web of Science. We used numerous terms to assure a good search in different databases, including fruit vinegar, phytochemistry, bioavailability and bioaccessibility, and anti-inflammatory effect. All articles were selected based on their relevance, quality, and problematic treatment.Literature data have shown that vinegar has a long medicinal history and has been widely used by different civilizations, due to its richness in bioactive molecules, vinegar plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis, mastitis, asthma, arthritis, acute pancreatitis, and colitis. Fruit vinegar consumption benefit is highly dependent on its chemical composition, especially organic acids and antioxidants, which can act as nutraceuticals.Fruit vinegar has a rich chemical composition, including organic acids that can be transformed in the digestive system into compounds that play an important role in health-promoting features such as anti-inflammatory effects throughout the control of intestinal microbiota and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.Results: Fruit vinegar is one of the most famous fruit byproducts worldwide with several unique properties. There are two types of fruit vinegar, artisanal and industrial, for consumers to choose from. This review aims to assess for the first time the phytochemistry of fruit vinegar and its anti-inflammatory effects.The present work was conducted based on a literature search that selected the relevant papers from indexed databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, MDPI, PubMed, Hindawi, and Web of Science. We used numerous terms to assure a good search in different databases, including fruit vinegar, phytochemistry, bioavailability and bioaccessibility, and anti-inflammatory effect. All articles were selected based on their relevance, quality, and problematic treatment.Literature data have shown that vinegar has a long medicinal history and has been widely used by different civilizations, due to its richness in bioactive molecules, vinegar plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis, mastitis, asthma, arthritis, acute pancreatitis, and colitis. Fruit vinegar consumption benefit is highly dependent on its chemical composition, especially organic acids and antioxidants, which can act as nutraceuticals.Fruit vinegar has a rich chemical composition, including organic acids that can be transformed in the digestive system into compounds that play an important role in health-promoting features such as anti-inflammatory effects throughout the control of intestinal microbiota and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.Conclusion: Fruit vinegar is one of the most famous fruit byproducts worldwide with several unique properties. There are two types of fruit vinegar, artisanal and industrial, for consumers to choose from. This review aims to assess for the first time the phytochemistry of fruit vinegar and its anti-inflammatory effects.The present work was conducted based on a literature search that selected the relevant papers from indexed databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, MDPI, PubMed, Hindawi, and Web of Science. We used numerous terms to assure a good search in different databases, including fruit vinegar, phytochemistry, bioavailability and bioaccessibility, and anti-inflammatory effect. All articles were selected based on their relevance, quality, and problematic treatment.Literature data have shown that vinegar has a long medicinal history and has been widely used by different civilizations, due to its richness in bioactive molecules, vinegar plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis, mastitis, asthma, arthritis, acute pancreatitis, and colitis. Fruit vinegar consumption benefit is highly dependent on its chemical composition, especially organic acids and antioxidants, which can act as nutraceuticals.Fruit vinegar has a rich chemical composition, including organic acids that can be transformed in the digestive system into compounds that play an important role in health-promoting features such as anti-inflammatory effects throughout the control of intestinal microbiota and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.Graphical abstract: Fruit vinegar is one of the most famous fruit byproducts worldwide with several unique properties. There are two types of fruit vinegar, artisanal and industrial, for consumers to choose from. This review aims to assess for the first time the phytochemistry of fruit vinegar and its anti-inflammatory effects.The present work was conducted based on a literature search that selected the relevant papers from indexed databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, MDPI, PubMed, Hindawi, and Web of Science. We used numerous terms to assure a good search in different databases, including fruit vinegar, phytochemistry, bioavailability and bioaccessibility, and anti-inflammatory effect. All articles were selected based on their relevance, quality, and problematic treatment.Literature data have shown that vinegar has a long medicinal history and has been widely used by different civilizations, due to its richness in bioactive molecules, vinegar plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis, mastitis, asthma, arthritis, acute pancreatitis, and colitis. Fruit vinegar consumption benefit is highly dependent on its chemical composition, especially organic acids and antioxidants, which can act as nutraceuticals.Fruit vinegar has a rich chemical composition, including organic acids that can be transformed in the digestive system into compounds that play an important role in health-promoting features such as anti-inflammatory effects throughout the control of intestinal microbiota and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin, a polyphenol, targets multiple signaling molecules and shows activity at the cellular level, supporting its various health benefits. Thereafter, the present study examines the effects of different doses of dietary curcumin on growth indices, feed efficiency, serum metabolites, redox (oxidation) status, immunity, histological assessment, and antioxidant-related genes in red tilapia (Oreochromis sp, Oreochromis aureus x O. mossambicus). A total of 1200 red tilapia with an average weight of 19.1±0.03 g were distributed in 12 cement ponds (3×3.5×1m). Each treatment was assigned three pounds (n=100 replicates). For 60 days, fish were fed baseline diets containing 0, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 g of curcumin/kg of diet. The treated fish showed increased body weight and SGR (specific growth rate) compared to the T0 group (P<0.05). Curcumin in the diet significantly improved weight gain, percentages, and FCR (feed conversion ratio), with a dose-dependent effect (P < 0.05). Curcumin supplementation showed no influence on feed intake, fish mortality, or survival rate (P >0.05). The curcumin-treated fish groups improved tissue structure in hepatocytes, pancreatic lumens, hepatic blood sinusoids, and intestine tissue layers, particularly the mucosal layer. The T0.8 group had reduced liver enzymes (AST and ALT) and greater total protein and albumin levels (P<0.05). The T0.6 and T0.8 groups showed significantly lower MDA levels than the other groups (P < 0.05). Curcumin groups demonstrated significantly higher antioxidant indices (CAT, GPx, and SOD) compared to the basal diet (P<0.05). Curcumin administration resulted in significant improvements in IgM and lysosome levels (P<0.05). All supplemented groups had considerably (P<0.05) higher levels of SOD, CAT, and GPx mRNA than the control group. Consequently, administering 0.6–0.8 g/kg of curcumin to red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) diets may improve the fish's growth, health, tissue composition, and antioxidant response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The bioefficacy of accessible chemical structures has been established, leading to some optimization to address these constraints. Methods: This study aimed to identify the computational interactions of molecular docking, molecular simulations, and Network Pharmacology, which were used to predict the anticancer efficacy of Capsaicin and Quinidine complexes. Results: The molecular docking studies exhibited that the identified phytocompounds had excellent binding energy against all of these target receptors, with 6OP9 affinity binding energy at -8.62 kcal/mol and for 3VHE at -8.18 kcal/mol. Molecular dynamics simulation for 100 ns of MD studies with RMSD and RMSF plots indicated that the ligand is stable, as it establishes interactions within active site residues such as LYS868, ASP1046, PHE1447, LEU14035, and LEU1099, followed by hydrogen bond interactions with THR768, ASP833, PHE834, LEU726, SER728, VAL734, and MET801. Based on human intestinal absorption, bioavailability score, P-glycoprotein, and BBB penetrant data, these are positive physiochemical inhibitors of Capsaicin and Quinidine. In network pharmacology, the essential genes identified were associated with cancer development (HER-2, HER-3), not specific to those that play a role in the carcinogenesis of the breast as well discussed by the targeted therapy trials mentioned above, that is, VEGFR1-3 and FGFR2 versus identification of progression-related genes involved, including ESR1, SRC, and HSP. Conclusions: In vivo studies are needed to confirm the anticancer action of cancer regulatory proteins, and clinical trials are required to prove its safety and efficacy in other human subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysphania ambrosioides L. (Chenopodiaceae) is a Moroccan medicinal plant known locally as "M'Khinza." It is widely used in traditional medicine to treat numerous ailments, such as diabetes, digestive disorders, fever, fertility problems, immune disorders, hypertension, bronchitis, respiratory conditions, pharyngitis, cough, and flu. As part of this review, comprehensive preclinical investigations, including in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies, were conducted to better understand the mechanisms of action of D. ambrosioides. Additionally, the phytochemical profile of the plant was examined, highlighting the presence of certain bioactive secondary metabolites. The information was gathered from electronic data sources such as Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Springer Link, and Google Scholars. Numerous studies have mentioned the pharmacological properties of D. ambrosioides, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Furthermore, research has also suggested its potential as an anticancer, antidiabetic, and vasorelaxant agent. Phytochemical characterization of D. ambrosioides has revealed the presence of over 96 major bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and fatty acids. As for the toxicity of this plant, it is dose-dependent. Furthermore, more in-depth pharmacological studies are needed to establish the mechanisms of action of this plant more accurately before considering clinical trials. In conclusion, this review highlights the traditional use of D. ambrosioides in Moroccan medicine and emphasizes its potential pharmacological properties. However, to fully harness its therapeutic potential, further research, both in terms of chemistry and pharmacology, is necessary. These future studies could help identify new active compounds and provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of this plant, thus opening new prospects for its pharmaceutical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Duchesnea genus (Rosaceae) is widely distributed throughout the world, and it is comprised of Duchesnea indica (D. indica) and Duchesnea chrysantha (D. chrysantha) species excluding varieties. The whole plant of Duchesnea genus has been used as a folk medicine for almost 2000 years in Asia. Its phytochemicals mainly include phenolic acids and their derivatives, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, lignins, sterols, among others. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that the Duchesnea genus exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial activities, and so on. Nowadays, Duchesnea genus is mainly used in the treatment of various malignant tumors. However, its pharmacological activity research is mainly focused on plant extracts, while the pharmacological activities of its pure compounds, their mechanisms of action are seldom studied. Simultaneously, there is limited research on the synergistic effects of multiple effective parts, multiple components, and multiple targets. Additionally, there are few proprietary drugs mainly based on the Duchesnea genus, and their toxicity remains ambiguous. This review provides an overview of the phytochemical and pharmacological investigations of Duchesnea genus, and the applications of multi-target affinity ultrafiltration are prospected, aiming at providing further comprehensive information about the active compounds from Duchesnea genus for drug discovery and development. Synoptically, it is imperative and significant to clarify their toxicity, develop clinical preparations based on Duchesnea genus plants as a single drug or active ingredient, and strengthen the research on the synergistic effects of their multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple effective parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galls are products of anatomical, metabolic, and chemical alterations in host plant tissues, caused by parasitic organisms named gall inducers. Gall inducers can potentiate chemical and structural specializations of their host plants for their own benefit, such as the accumulation of bioactive and antioxidant secondary metabolites, which should be tested. This could lead to increased protection against natural enemies, pathogens, and different abiotic stressors. Based on data in the literature, we listed the gall morphotypes found in restingas (threatened coastal vegetations) in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, and reunited the anatomical, phytochemical, and medicinal information of the host plants. Superhost plants, capable of hosting more than one gall-inducing species, represented 51% of the hosts, with 80% of the listed galls. Phytochemical and pharmacological potentials were confirmed for 80% of the gall superhosts. Most of the non-medicinal superhosts belong to species or families of toxic plants. These facts indicate the high percentage of superhost species capable of producing and accumulating secondary metabolites. Anatomical, phytochemical, and pharmacological potentials of the 17 most widely distributed superhosts are discussed in detail. These plants have metabolites with antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, among several other pharmacological properties. Data gathered here revealed that superhost plants of galling organisms have wide distribution in restingas, accumulate diverse secondary metabolites, and several of them are reported to have bioactive or pharmacological properties. Families of superhost plants not necessarily are those richer and more diverse in restingas, indicating that specific chemical and structural features of host plants are preponderant in galling arthropod–plant interactions. Based on our results, we indicated some superhosts as study models to test the potentiation of such features in galls, which were selected based on the number of associated galls, the types of secondary metabolites detected, and the presence of bioactive substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants are one of the primary sources of natural products for drug development. However, despite centuries of research, only a limited region of the phytochemical space has been studied. To understand the scope of what is explored versus unexplored in the phytochemical space, we begin by reconstructing the known chemical space of the plant kingdom, mapping the distribution of secondary metabolites, chemical classes, and plants traditionally used for medicinal purposes (i.e., medicinal plants) across various levels of the taxonomy. We identify hotspot taxonomic clades occupied by a large proportion of medicinal plants and characterized secondary metabolites, as well as clades requiring further characterization with regard to their chemical composition. In a complementary analysis, we build a chemotaxonomy which has a high level of concordance with the taxonomy at the genus level, highlighting the close relationship between chemical profiles and evolutionary relationships within the plant kingdom. Next, we delve into regions of the phytochemical space with known bioactivity that have been used in modern drug discovery. While we find that the vast majority of approved drugs from phytochemicals are derived from known medicinal plants, we also show that medicinal and non-medicinal plants do not occupy distinct regions of the known phytochemical landscape and their phytochemicals exhibit properties similar to bioactive compounds. Moreover, we also reveal that only a few thousand phytochemicals have been screened for bioactivity and that there are hundreds of known bioactive compounds present in both medicinal and non-medicinal plants, suggesting that non-medicinal plants also have potential therapeutic applications. Overall, these results support the hypothesis that there are many plants with medicinal properties awaiting discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bassia All. is a genus from the Amaranthaceae family, which was created by merging selected species belonging to the former Bassia and Kochia genera with those classified to Chenolea, Londesia, Kirilowia and Panderia. The reorganised Bassia genus currently comprises around 20 species, which are annual herbs or perennial subshrubs native to Eurasia and Africa. Bassia plants are well known for their therapeutic applications in folk medicine and traditional medical systems, and they are also used for nonmedical purposes. Some members of this genus, such as Bassia scoparia (syn. Kochia scoparia) is of great medical importance and economic value. The plant is cultivated in some regions of Asia as a crop to collect Kochiae fructus, which is used for both curative and food purposes. Phytochemical studies carried out on Bassia species indicate that these plants synthesize metabolites belonging to different groups of compounds (e.g., triterpene saponins, sterols, flavonoids, fatty acids, lignanamides, alkaloids, organic acids). Some of the structures are rarely found in the plant kingdom. Biological activity studies carried out on Bassia plants revealed various effects exerted by extracts and isolated compounds, including anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, anti-obesity, etc. Modern research explained some of the mechanisms of action. This review covers literature from 1935 to 2022, and assembles and discusses data on phytochemistry, biological activity, as well as medical and nonmedical use of the representatives of the genus Bassia. In this review we present the current state of knowledge about the plants of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The numerous uses of the grapevine fruit, especially for wine and beverages, have made it one of the most important plants worldwide. The phytochemistry of grapevine is rich in a wide range of compounds. Many of them are renowned for their numerous medicinal uses. The production of grapevine metabolites is highly conditioned by many factors like environment or pathogen attack. Some grapevine phytoalexins have gained a great deal of attention due to their antimicrobial activities, being also involved in the induction of resistance in grapevine against those pathogens. Meanwhile grapevine biotechnology is still evolving, thanks to the technological advance of modern science, and biotechnologists are making huge efforts to produce grapevine cultivars of desired characteristics. In this paper, important metabolites from grapevine and grape derived products like wine will be reviewed with their health promoting effects and their role against certain stress factors in grapevine physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sugar alcohol dulcitol is a strong feeding stimulant for larvae of the small ermine moth Yponomeuta cagnagellus. In this paper we tested the hypothesis that dulcitol also acts as an oviposition stimulant for this species. We found that the sugar-alcohol dulcitol was present on the surface of the host Euonymus europaeus. We also showed that (as yet unidentified compounds) can be systemically transferred (i.e. by uptake and transport via the vascular system) from E. europaeus, to the non-host Crataegus monogyna and stimulate oviposition. However, no evidence was found that this stimulatory activity was due to dulcitol. Systemic enrichment of C. monogyna with dulcitol did not induce oviposition on this plant. Neither was the application of pure dulcitol on artificial twigs effective. In addition it was shown that when dulcitol was removed from host plant extracts, oviposition stimulatory activity was retained in the fraction without dulcitol. Synergism between dulcitol and other stimulants could not be demonstrated, however, high concentrations of dulcitol in combination with the main stimulant(s) showed a trend towards enhanced oviposition. It is concluded that the sugar alcohol dulcitol can only play a limited role in adult host acceptance behaviour. The hypothesis that a host shift in the genus Yponomeuta from Celastraceae to Rosaceae might have been facilitated by the presence of small amounts of dulcitol in Rosaceae therefore needs to be restricted to larval feeding behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of CO2 and light availability on sapling growth and foliar chemistry, and consequences for insect performance. Quaking aspen ( Populus tremuloides Michx.), paper birch ( Betula papyrifera Marsh.), and sugar maple ( Acer saccharum Marsh.) were grown in controlled environment greenhouses under ambient or elevated CO2 (38.7 and 69.6 Pa), and low or high light availability (375 and 855 μmol m−2 s−1). Because CO2 and light are both required for carbon assimilation, the levels of these two resources are expected to have strong interactive effects on tree growth and secondary metabolism. Results from this study support that prediction, indicating that the relative effect of rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations on the growth and secondary metabolism of deciduous trees may be dependent on light environment. Trees in ambient CO2-low light environments had substantial levels of phytochemicals despite low growth rates; the concept of basal secondary metabolism is proposed to explain allocation to secondary metabolites under growth-limiting conditions. Differences between CO2 and light effects on the responses of growth and secondary metabolite levels suggest that relative allocation is not dependent solely on the amount of carbon assimilated. The relative growth rates and indices of feeding efficiency for gypsy moth ( Lymantria dispar L.) larvae fed foliage from the experimental treatments showed no significant interactive effects of light and CO2, although some main effects and many host species interactions were significant. Gypsy moth performance was negatively correlated with CO2- and light-induced increases in the phenolic glycoside content of aspen foliage. Insects were not strongly affected, however, by treatment differences in the nutritional and secondary chemical components of birch and maple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trianthema portulacastrum L. (Aizoaceae) commonly called as black pigweed or giant pigweed, which is a yearly herb, utilized as purgative, pain relieving, stomachic and provide as alternative heal for lung disease, cardiovascular disease, anemia and edema. In the Ayurvedic system of medicine, the plant is used in the treatment of inflammation in the peripheral organs, uteralgia and cough. Taking into account exploratory study, the present review aims to provide up-to date data about the routine uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological actions of T. portulacastrum to explore their therapeutic value for future clinical settings. All data of T. portulacastrum were collected from library database and electronic search (ScienceDirect, Pubmed, and GoogleScholar). The different pharmacological information was gathered and orchestrated in a suitable spot on the paper. The genus Trianthema comprises of 64 species. Among them, the species of T. portulacastrum has been easily known for their customary uses. Phytochemical studies showed that T. portulacastrum included trianthamine, ecdysterone, flavonoid (5,2 dihydroxy-7methoxy-6,8 dimethyl flavone), leptorumol (5,7 dihydroxy-6,8 dimethyl chromone), and other intermediary bioactive compounds such as β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and their β-glucopyranosides, β-cyanin, 3,4-dimethoxy cinnamic acid, 5-hydroxy-2-methoxy benzaldehyde, 3-acetyl aleuritolic acid, pmethoxy benzoic acid, and p-propoxy benzoic acid. The plant extracts showed significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antihyperglycemic, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. The toxicity study conducted in animals and no noteworthy mortality found till 4 g/kg b.w. Taking into account on animal studies, T. portulacastrum have different bioactivities including antihyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antimicrobial and modulate different cellular signals related to control of oxidative stress and inflammation. The phytoconstituents of T. portulacastrum have a various potential to exact pharmacological benefits and possible chemotherapeutic mediator. Nevertheless, more support for such properties/dynamic constituents have been obtained from cellular and molecular studies, while clinical studies are as yet deficient. Since animal research do not constantly interpret to human conditions, additional clinical studies are also warranted to infer the full interpretation impact of T. portulacastrum for prevention of human diseases. Hence, future comprehensive clinical studies are required to warrant the therapeutic usefulness of the T. portulacastrum. Graphical Abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonum aviculare is a plant widely distributed in all continents and very common in temperate regions of the world. The different parts of this plant are used as an anthelmintic, antidiabetic and to treat kidney disorders and skin problems. In order to highlight the importance of P. aviculare L., This review is undertaken with the aim to highlight some aspects of this plant, specifically the taxonomy, ethnomedicinal, morphological, phytochemical and biological studies of the plant. The taxonomic analysis indicated that the plant is descended from an inbred line and the cytogenetic results showed that P. aviculare L. is dominated by the number of chromosomes x = 10, therefore it was found that this herb has a rich phytochemical composition and many biological activities have been discussed in this review, mainly antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and dermato-protective activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euodiae Fructus, referred to as "Wuzhuyu" in Chinese, has been used as local and traditional herbal medicines in many regions, especially in China, Japan and Korea, for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, headache, emesis, aphtha, dermatophytosis, dysentery, etc. Substantial investigations into their chemical and pharmacological properties have been performed. Recently, interest in this plant has been focused on the different structural types of alkaloids like evodiamine, rutaecarpine, dehydroevodiamine and 1-methyl-2-undecyl-4(1H)-quinolone, which exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities in preclinical models, such as anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cardiovascular disease, etc. This review summarizes the up-to-date and comprehensive information concerning the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology of Euodiae Fructus together with the toxicology and quality control, and discusses the possible direction and scope for future research on this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genus Cistus L. (Cistaceae) occurs mainly in the Mediterranean region. Many plants of this genus have been used in different folk medicines since ancient times, mainly against peptic ailments and skin disorders, such as burns, wounds, and infections. Over the last years, Cistus species have attracted great interest due to the variety of their bioactive compounds and pharmacological activities. Comprehensive research of previously published literature was performed for the collection of the available data on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of the genus Cistus since 2014, using electronic databases with several key search words. A total of 66 published scientific studies was examined. Over the last years, 111 secondary metabolites have been described in Cistus taxa. In vitro and in vivo studies, as well as a clinical study are included, highlighting the interesting pharmacological aspects of these plants. This review summarizes and discusses the current knowledge of the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of Cistus plants, revealing the uncharted scientific territory and may provide critical information for future perspectives on these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the ethyl acetate fraction of Myristica fragrans Houtt. was investigated for its in vitro anticholinesterase activity as well as neuroprotectivity against H2O2-induced cell death in PC12 neuronal cells and the ability to chelate bio-metals (Zn2+, Fe2+, and Cu2+). The fraction was inactive toward acetylcholinesterase (AChE); however, it inhibited the butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) with IC50 value of 68.16 µg/mL, compared with donepezil as the reference drug (IC50 = 1.97 µg/mL) via Ellman's method. It also showed good percentage of neuroprotection (86.28% at 100 µg/mL) against H2O2-induced neurotoxicity and moderate metal chelating ability toward Zn2+, Fe2+, and Cu2+. The phytochemical study led to isolation and identification of malabaricone A (1), malabaricone C (2), 4-(4-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2,3-dimethylbutyl)benzene-1,2-diol (3), nectandrin B (4), macelignan (5), and 4-(4-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-1-methoxy-2,3-dimethylbutyl)-2-methoxyphenol (6) which were assayed for their cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitory activity. Compounds 1 and 3 were not previously reported for M. fragrans. Among isolated compounds, compound 2 showed the best activity toward both AChE and BChE with IC50 values of 25.02 and 22.36 μM, respectively, compared with donepezil (0.07 and 4.73 μM, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Psydrax is one of the ethno-medicinally important genera of the Rubiaceae family which has only received a limited scientific attention, despite coming from a pharmacologically and phytochemically important plant family. The genus has found applications in ethnomedical management of diabetes, stomach disorders, inflammations, cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy, wounds, malaria and fever. To unveil knowledge gaps, stimulate research interest and unravel opportunities for drug discovery from the genus Psydrax, we have carried out an extensive review on its traditional applications, phytochemistry and pharmacology for the first time. Literature on these topics was obtained from Google Scholar, Pubmed and ScienceDirect journal articles published from 1788 to September, 2021. Only articles written in English were reviewed. While several species of Pysdrax used in traditional medicine have not been chemically explored for drug discovery, over a hundred secondary metabolites have so far been identified in few species of the genus, and majority of these chemotaxonomic markers are iridoids. Bioactive extracts and some isolated constituents of Psydrax species have shown various in vitro and in vivo pharmacological properties including anti-hyperglycemia, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant and antimicrobial, and thus, support some of the ethnomedical uses of the plants. For an evidence-informed application of the genus, Psydrax, in traditional medicine, more ethnobotanical surveys, elaborate in vivo pharmacological assays, in-depth toxicity and holistic phytochemical studies are required to fully exploit more species of the genus prior to future clinical studies. Following documented traditional uses of Psydrax species, the deliberate cultivation of medicinal plants under this genus is recommended for sustainability in medicinal plant utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tsaoko Fructus, the dried ripe fruit of Amomum tsao-ko Crevost & Lemarié, is used as both medicinal material and food additive. This review summarized the traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological progress on Tsaoko Fructus. One classical prescription and the other 11 representative prescriptions containing Tsaoko Fructus were reviewed. The indications of these prescriptions are major in treating spleen and stomach disorders and epidemic febrile diseases including malaria. At least 209 compounds have been isolated and identified from Tsaoko Fructus, most of which belong to terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and organic acids. Essential oil, crude extract, and some compounds were observed to have pharmacological activities such as anti-biotics, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, mostly via in vitro experiments. However, the mechanism of its medicinal uses remains unclear. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of Tsaoko Fructus, which will be beneficial to exploring the mechanism and potential medicinal applications of Tsaoko Fructus, as well as developing a rational quality control system for Tsaoko Fructus as a medicinal material in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycium ruthenicum Murr. (LR) is a medicinal and edible plant in China, which has a variety of medicinal values and health benefits and is used as traditional medicine for a variety of conditions, including heart complaints, irregular menstruation, and menopause. Based on analysis over two decades of documented literature, a comprehensive up-to-date review has been compiled covering traditional and folk medicine uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of LR, with a view to providing a scientific platform for its further development and utilization. Relevant data were obtained through systematic electronic searches into various scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Wiley, Springer, as well as the ancient and modern literature. The chemical constituents of LR include anthocyanins, polysaccharides, flavonoids, procyanidins, phenolic acid, alkaloids and other important substances. So far, more than 90 compounds have been isolated from LR, among which the content of anthocyanins is highest and is the main component, leading to recognition of LR as "King of Anthocyanins" and "Blue Demon King". The content of anthocyanins in LR reaches up to 387.9 mg/100 g. Modern pharmacological research has revealed multiple activities of LR, including anti-oxidant, anti-aging, blood lipid-lowering, and glucose-lowering properties. The antioxidant activity of LR is currently the most studied and the most in-depth. Reports on the chemical components of LR have mostly focused on single species, and no systematic studies have been conducted to date, the material basis related to the traditional effects has not yet been clarified. Therefore, follow-up research should focus on the relationship between pharmacology and structural characteristics of the majority of ingredients of LR, and chemical ingredients closely related to traditional functions. Systematic research on the phytochemistry and pharmacology of LR is essential to provide a basis for further development and guide in its traditional use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genus Populus (Salicaceae family) consists of dioecious, deciduous, and commercially important forest tree species which are widely spread over the Northern Hemisphere. Traditionally, Populus species are used in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, lower back pains, urinary complaints, digestive, liver disorders, debility, anorexia, fevers, and also relieve the pain of menstrual cramps. This review compiles or discusses the general morphology, ethno-medicinal uses and phytochemistry of Populus species along with their pharmacological activities (anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-diarrhea, and anti-oxidants) covering the period of 1990–2020. The literature shows that the genus Populus is a rich source of phytocompounds especially phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and terpenoids, etc. A total of one hundred and fifty-nine constituents were isolated from different plant parts like leaves, bark, buds, and roots of Populus species. Only some of the phytocompounds were screened for their biological activities and the rest of them are unexplored. Through this review, the authors hope to attract the attention of natural product researchers throughout the world to focus on the unexplored species of Populus and their unique phytocompounds. This review underlines the potential of phytocompounds from Populus species that could lead to a new pathway in Pharma industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Luteolin 7-O-glucoside (1), 10β-acetoxy-8α-butyryloxy-11α-hydroxy-2β-((2-methylbutanoyl)oxy)-1βH,6αH,7αH,11βH-guaian-3-en-12,6-olide (2) and thapsigargin (3) herbicidal activities' were evaluated in comparison with their binary and tertiary mixtures, against Lolium perenne. These allelochemicals were isolated from Thapsia garganica leaves methanolic extract. Experiments were carried out by irrigation and spray in pot trials. Each compound was tested at the concentration that inhibits 50% of L. perenne root growth (IC50). Mixtures were prepared at the total concentration determined to inhibit 50% of weed root growth based upon the IC50 value for each compound (1000 µM, 154 µM and 300 µM for 1, 2 and 3, respectively). The greatest herbicidal effect was observed in tertiary mixtures, followed by binary ones, and single compounds showed the lowest phytotoxicity. Moreover, spray treatment was more effective at inhibiting growth of L. perenne, compared with irrigation. For sprayed binary mixtures, the 2 and 3 mixture showed the best inhibitions in shoot (75.79%) and root (91.02%) growth, and fresh weight (89.28%). These values significantly improved those of the most active single compound, 1 (48.01%, 58.62% and 57.14%, respectively, following spray). On the other hand, compound 3, whose structure is related to guaianolide sesquiterpene lactones, was a common constituent of the most active mixtures, suggesting that it plays a more relevant role in the improvement of the phytotoxicity of mixtures. Results obtained for the spray treatment of the tertiary mixture of 1 (333.33 µM), 2 (51.33 µM) and 3 (100 µM) were even more prominent, since weed growth was completely inhibited. After irrigation with a tertiary mixture, the greatest inhibitions in shoot and root growth and fresh weight did not exceed 88.16%, 94% and 90.47%, respectively. The results reported highlight a synergistic behavior of the test allelochemicals which could be applied in the development of bio-herbicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) in arable lands exceed the maximum permissible levels due to the excessive use of phosphorus fertilizers and fungicides by farmers. The increasing issues related to the application of agrochemicals have lead to the demand for the implementation of sustainable agricultural approaches. Association of arbuscular mycorrhizae with crop plants is an appropriate strategy due to the potential of these microorganisms to augment the metals tolerance of plants through the immobilization of Cd and Zn in an eco-friendly manner. In the present study, 45 d old Zea mays (var. CoHM6) plants inoculated with AM fungi (Claroideoglomus claroideum) were exposed to 1.95 g Zn Kg−1 soil and 0.45 g Cd Kg−1 soil. The major objective of this study was to determine the metabolic alterations in the leaves and roots of mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants exposed to CdCl2 and ZnSO4. Both non AM and AM plants exhibited alterations in the quantity of primary and secondary metabolites on exposure to Zn and Cd toxicity. Moreover, Zn and Cd-induced accumulation of γ-sitosterol reduced the quantity of neophytadiene (a well-known terpenoid) and aided the production of 3-β-acetoxystigmasta-4,6,22-triene in maize leaves. Mycorrhization and heavy metal toxicity induced significant metabolic changes in the roots by producing 4,22-stigmastadiene-3-one, eicosane, 9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-3-ol, pentacosane, oxalic acid, heptadecyl hexyl ester, l-norvaline, and n-(2-methoxyethoxycarbonyl). In addition, the metal-induced variations in leaf and root lignin composition were characterized with the aid of the FTIR technique. Mycorrhization improved the tolerance of maize plants to Cd and Zn toxicity by stabilizing these metal ions in the soil and/or limiting their uptake into the plants, thus ensuring normal metabolic functions of their roots and shoots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive mineral fertilizer input results in little extra yield but exacerbates insect herbivory and affects environmental health and ecosystem services. The use of organic fertilizer is considered to have promise for mitigating those impacts. How organic fertilizer amendment modifies crop resistance to insect herbivory and modulates biocontrol services on a landscape scale has not been well studied. We conducted a series of field experiments on a large spatial scale with three fertilization regimes (mineral fertilizer, mineral fertilizer amended with organic matter, and no fertilizer control) in Shandong Province, northern China. Soil nutrient content, wheat plant metabolism, cereal aphid abundance, parasitism rate, and wheat yield were quantified. Maize straw amendment combined with mineral fertilization significantly reduced cereal aphid abundance and promoted parasitism during the peak aphid period, compared with mineral fertilizer alone and the no fertilizer control. Modeling simulations showed increased biological pest control when a larger proportion of fields were additionally treated with maize straw amendment. Foliar chemical analyses revealed that the types and content of plant free amino acids, rather than plant defensive compounds, most likely accounted for the variation in aphid abundance and biological control efficiency. A mineral fertilization regime plus plant straw amendment may promote wheat resistance to herbivory and benefit biocontrol via bottom-up effects. Heterogeneity in fertilizer regimes between fields may be the key ecological force shaping pest control at a landscape scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of finding new medicines from natural sources is one of the more commonly cited reasons for preserving biodiversity, and employing indigenous knowledge of traditional healing remedies greatly increases the likelihood of discovering these hidden medicinal compounds. The main difficulties in using natural products as a source for pharmaceutical lead compounds involve separating the plethora of compounds from the original extract, as well as the gamble of time and money invested in an activity that may not yield a novel compound. However, while these difficulties exist, the potential of natural products still far outweighs the limitations of the simple structures and known modes of action of synthetic lead compounds. As such, the production of novel medicines, particularly for cancer and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatments as well as the inhibition of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, now requires the utilization of natural products. This paper provides a review of the current methods used in elucidating pharmaceutical lead compounds from natural sources, focusing on plant samples in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (W. somnifera) is a herb commonly known by its English name as Winter Cherry. Africa is indigenous to many medicinal plants and natural products. However, there is inadequate documentation of medicinal plants, including W. somnifera, in Africa. There is, therefore, a need for a comprehensive compilation of research outcomes of this reviewed plant as used in traditional medicine in different regions of Africa. Methodology: Scientific articles and publications were scooped and sourced from high-impact factor journals and filtered with relevant keywords on W. somnifera. Scientific databases, including GBIF, PubMed, NCBI, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Science Direct, SciFinder, and Web of Science, were accessed to identify the most influential articles and recent breakthroughs published on the contexts of ethnography, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and commercialization of W. somnifera. Results: This critical review covers the W. somnifera ethnography, phytochemistry, and ethnomedicinal usage to demonstrate the use of the plant in Africa and elsewhere to prevent or alleviate several pathophysiological conditions, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, reproductive impotence, as well as other chronic diseases. Conclusion: W. somnifera is reportedly safe for administration in ethnomedicine as several research outcomes confirmed its safety status. The significance of commercializing this plant in Africa for drug development is herein thoroughly covered to provide the much-needed highlights towards its cultivations economic benefit to Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ajuga integrifolia Buch. Ham. ex D.Don, a member of Lamiaceae family is pharmaceutically an active perennial herb widely spread in China, Afghanistan and Pakistan Himalayan region. The application of biotic elicitors is a promising approach to cover limitations of in vitro cell technology and challenges faced by pharmaceuticals industry for bulk up production. The current study involved the induction of agitated micro-shoot cultures with the aim to investigate the growth-promoting as well as phytochemicals enhancement role of yeast extract (YE) and pectin (PE). The results showed that both elicitors induced a considerable physiological response. Biomass accumulation was observed maximum (DW: 18.3 g/L) against PE (10 mg/L) compared to YE and control. Eleven secondary phytocompounds were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. PE (50 mg/L) was found to be effective in elicitation of rosmarinic acid (680.20 µg/g), chlorogenic acid (294.12 µg/g), apigenin (579.61 µg/g) and quercetin (596.89 µg/g). However, maximum caffeic acid (359.52 µg/g) and luteolin (546.12 µg/g accumulation was noted in PE (1 mg/L) treatment. Harpagide, aucubin, harpagoside and 8-O-acetyl-harpagoside production was suppressed by both elicitors except for YE (100 mg/L). Catalpol accumulation in micro-shoot cultures was also downregulated except in response to YE (50 and 100 mg/L). Antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory activity remained higher under PE (50 mg/L) and YE (100 mg/L) respectively. Therefore, results suggested that Ajuga integrifolia micro-shoot cultures treated with yeast extract and pectin might be an efficient bio-factory to produce commercially potent specific secondary metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nepeta tenuifolia (N. tenuifolia) is a common aromatic herb that is widespread in East Asia. The aerial parts and spikes can be used as the traditional phytomedicines for the treatment of cold, fever, respiratory diseases, and skin diseases in the clinic and as a vegetable in salads or cooked foods. These applications have lasted for thousands of years due to their outstanding performance. In this review, with the help of PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, and CNKI, we have summarized the research achievements made in recent years on the various aspects of N. tenuifolia, covering botany, traditional uses, processing, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmaceutics. A total of 102 phytochemicals have been found and identified in N. tenuifolia, which were grouped into terpenoids, flavonoids, organic acids and other components, including many bioactive compounds such as pulegone, hesperidin, and rosmarinic acid. This plant has also exhibited antiviral, immunoregulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and miscellaneous bioactivities, including antitumour, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and antithrombus activities. The progress to date has provided basic and strong evidence to support the traditional uses of this herbal medicine. However, the present explanations seem insufficient and unsatisfactory, in term of the relationships between the traditional uses and the modern pharmacological actions, the action mechanisms and the material basis. Therefore, in the future, some comprehensive studies should be well designed for further understanding the development and utilization of N. tenuifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Dorema (Apiaceae) comprises 12 accepted species, mainly growing in Asia and, particularly, in Iran, where D. ammoniacum and D. aucheri are the most used species in cuisine and folk medicine. The Dorema species are traditionally applied in the treatment of catarrh, asthma, chronic bronchitis, as carminative, mild diuretic and anthelmintic agents. In general, 42 non-volatile secondary metabolites were isolated from the 6 studied species, namely D. aitchisonii, D. ammoniacum, D. aucheri, D. glabrum, D. hyrcanum, and D. kopetdaghense. Among them, phenolic acid, flavonoid, acetophenone, coumarin, and sesquiterpene derivatives were identified as the predominant phytoconstituents. The leaves are characterized by the highest volatile content, and the sesquiterpenes in both hydrocarbon and oxygenated forms were reported as the most abundant compounds. Most of the studied pharmacological activities were assessed in vivo. Nevertheless, in vitro antiradical and antimicrobial potentials were the main investigated activities. Overall, the evaluation of bioactivities confirmed the ethnopharmacological use of the Dorema species, particularly their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and hypolipidemic properties. This study comprehensively overviewed, for the first time, the literature relating to the folk medicinal use and to the available phytochemical and pharmacological data. Considering the genus application and the rare clinical trials, the study of the efficacy and safety of the uninvestigated Dorema species might be an interesting and promising approach for further researches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology provides an advance way to solve the modern problems in modern world. The newly evolving technologies, more sustainable products and processes help us to lead a more eco friendly life. As researchers realized that a substance's physico—chemical properties like chemical reactivity, electrical conductivity, diffusivity, melting point, optical and mechanical properties were affected by its size, the importance of these materials became clear. Metal nanoparticles that are produced by green routes are non toxic in nature, no harmful by products are produced during the synthesis process, also this route gives a higher yield of nanoparticles as compared to other conventional methods. The varied pytochemistry of different biological extracts contains diverse chemical components that affects the nanoparticles and enhance their chemical or physical properties. This review so far discusses the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles, their properties, various possible reducing sources, reduction mechanisms of different phytochemicals and how they are involved in the reduction process of metal ions, various examples of metal nanoparticle synthesis, their safety and toxicity concerns, how these green synthesized nanoparticles could be used in various fields, how biodiversity affects the green synthesis and also the sustainability impact of green synthesis over the environment, making this review unique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A great variety of bioactive natural products has been reported for different Palicourea and Psychotria species (Rubiaceae). However, few of them as well as few of species of these botanical genera have been evaluated for antiplasmodial activity. Objective: To assess the antiplasmodial activity of 24 extracts from Palicourea and Psychotria genera, along with the targeted LC–MS metabolite profiling, as well as identification of the main metabolites in the bioactive extracts. Methods: Twenty four ethanol and acid–base extracts from Palicourea and Psychotria genera collected in the Amazonia and Atlantic Forest, Brazil, were evaluated against chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum W2 strain by PfLDH. The metabolite profiling and putative identification of metabolites from bioactive extracts were determined by LC-DAD-ESI–MS and LC-HRMS, respectively. Results: The ethanol extracts disclosed low antiplasmodial activity (% GI < 50%). High antiplasmodial effect was observed for the acid–base extracts from Psychotria apoda and Psychotria colorata with 100% inhibition of parasite growth inhibition. Fragment ions related to pyrrolidinoindoline alkaloids were observed by LC-DAD-ESI–MS mainly in the most bioactive extracts. The results of the in vitro screening associated with the LC-DAD-ESI–MS and LC-HRMSn data allowed to predict, for the first time, the pyrrolidinoindoline alkaloids as possible antiplasmodial representing, then, new potential natural antimalarial hits. In addition, other metabolite classes such as flavanones, lignans and chalcones were also putatively identified in the bioactive extracts of Psychotria apoda, Psychotria capitata, and Psychotria poeppigiana. Conclusion: The present results point to Palicourea and Psychotria species as sources of new antimalarial hits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Litsea (Lauraceae) comprises eight species in the American Continent collectively known as "laurel". Here, we review their botany, ethnobotany, ecology, chemistry and pharmacology to promote their international recognition, and to outline their use as condiments and as potential sources of novel phytomedicines. "Laurel" leaves are widely used as a spice and in traditional medicine throughout Mexico and Central America. The leaves of these species are harvested mainly from wild populations in temperate forests. The most used and studied species is L. glaucescens, which is listed as endangered in Mexico. Its leaves are traded throughout the country and even exported. However, in an international context, they are considered substitutes for the Mediterranean "bay leaf" (Laurus nobilis). Several folk medicinal applications of L. glaucescens and other species of Litsea have been experimentally validated in vitro. Although most active principles are yet to be discovered, some species may be suitable to develop new phytomedicines, especially as antidepressants and anti-inflammatory. However, research on the systematics, phytochemistry, ecology and genetics of the American species of Litsea is scarce. Further research will allow the development of such phytomedicines through the rational exploitation of natural populations or the establishment of plantations, thus avoiding "laurel" to follow the fate of numerous Mesoamerican floristic resources which have been depleted, while their economic and medicinal potential remained largely untapped. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequent use of acaricides against the tick Rhipicephalus microplus increases the risk of development of resistance. Recent studies have revealed that Neoglaziovia variegata, an indigenous plant species known in Brazil as 'caroá', has a deleterious effect against R. microplus. In the current study, extracts of N. variegata were studied for their possible acaricidal properties. A hexane extract of N. variegata leaves was fractionated in a chromatography column and the fractions were tested in adult tick immersion tests in triplicate using three concentrations (5, 10 and 25 mg/ml). All the fractions had harmful effects on the ticks. However, three fractions were more efficaceous. Phytochemical analysis indicated that stigmast-5-en-3-ol and stigmastanol were most abundant; they might be responsible for the acaricidal effects, making them potentially useful as alternative agents to control the tick R. microplus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Callistemon is an important genus in the family Myrtaceae which contains about 34 species. The members of this genus are known for their ornamental potentials, in addition to their outstanding value in conventional medicine in many parts of the world. Updated chemical analysis of the Callistemon genus has provided a variety of essential phytocompounds belonging to different chemical classes including terpenes, phenolic derivatives, flavonoids, anthocyanins, neolignans, phloroglucinol derivatives and other miscellaneous compounds. Hence, this dissertation reflects a systematic evaluation of the Callistemon genus phytochemical and biological studies, in addition to a summary of the previous studies' results as well as an overview of the possible directions of Callistemon species study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that some Campanula species are traditionally used because of their anti-allergic, spasmolytic, antiphlogistic, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. This study was designed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, α-amylase, and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts of Campanula macrostachya Waldst. & Kit. ex Willd. Chemical compositions were analyzed by spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods. Antioxidant activities of the samples were tested by using five different test systems. Enzyme inhibitory activities of the extracts were also studied. As a result of the LC–ESI–MS/MS analyses, chlorogenic acid, hesperidin, and hyperoside were found to be the major compounds of the extracts, especially the MeOH extract (6559.59, 2499.22, and 2047.66 μg/g extract, respectively). Antioxidant activity tests have proven that MeOH extract showed higher activity than others (DPPH: 4.15 mg/mL, ABTS: 2.05 mg/mL, CUPRAC: 1.80 mg/mL, FRAP: 0.83 mg/mL, phosphomolybdenum: 1.69 mg/mL). Ferrous ion chelating activity of the water extract was 1.03 mg/mL. In α-amylase and tyrosinase inhibitory assays, EtOAc (IC50: 2.54 mg/mL) and MeOH (IC50: 1.51 mg/mL) extracts showed higher activity than the others did. In phosphomolybdenum, CUPRAC, FRAP, and tyrosinase inhibitory assays, the activity was strongly correlated with flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, hesperidin, and hyperoside. On the other hand, phenolic compounds have been found to contribute more to radical scavenging activity. Pearson correlation analysis showed that phenolics and flavonoids were not responsible for the α-amylase inhibitory activity of EtOAc extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radix Astragali (RA), a traditional Chinese medicine from the dried root of Astragalus species, is widely distributed throughout the temperate regions of the world. The major bioactive constituents of RA are triterpene glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, and these compounds mostly exert pharmacological activities on the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, and hepatic systems. This review summarizes the recent studies on RA and provides a comprehensive summary regarding the status of resources, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, clinical application, and patent release of RA. We hope this review can provide a guidance for further development of therapeutic agents from RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of calcium nanoparticles (CaNP) and putrescine polyamine on some physiological and biochemical properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) under the control condition. Saffron corm was treated by different concentrations of putrescine (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2 mM) and CaNP (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5 g/l). The treatment of corm with putrescine and CaNP separately caused a significant increase in morphological parameters. Changes in biochemical parameters were also significant. Compared to other concentrations, the highest concentration of putrescine (1 mM) and CaNP (1 g/l) treatment in the plant showed the greatest effect. The combined effect of putrescine and CaNP treatment on morphological parameters was significant. The results of HPLC analysis showed that CaNP treatment alone is more effective on crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal content than the combined effect of CaNP and putrescine. The present study reported the functional potential of CaNP and putrescine combination to increase growth and phytochemical properties in Crocus sativus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk., a perennial herb belonging to the family Umbelliferae, is widely distributed in Northeast Asia. Its dried root (Radix Saposhnikoviae) is used as a Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of immune system, nervous system, and respiratory diseases. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies have shown that the main constituents of S. divaricata are chromones, coumarins, acid esters, and polyacetylenes, and these compounds exhibited significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antitumor, and immunoregulatory activities. The purpose of this review is to provide comprehensive information on the botanical characterization and distribution, traditional use and ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of S. divaricata for further study concerning its mechanism of action and development of better therapeutic agents and health products from S. divaricata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]