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Plants exhibiting the water-conserving crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthetic pathway provide some of the most intriguing examples of photosynthetic diversity and plasticity. Here, a largely unnoticed facet of CAM-plant photosynthesis is highlighted: the co-occurrence of ontogenetically controlled constitutive and environmentally controlled facultative CAM in a species. Both forms of CAM are displayed in leaves of Coleus amboinicus Lour. (Lamiaceae), a semi-succulent perennial plant with oregano-like flavour that is native to southern and eastern Africa and naturalised elsewhere in the tropics. Under well-watered conditions, leaves assimilate CO2 predominantly by the C3 pathway. They also display low levels of CO2 uptake at night accompanied by small nocturnal increases in leaf tissue acidity. This indicates the presence of weakly expressed constitutive CAM. CAM expression is strongly enhanced in response to drought stress. The drought-enhanced component of CAM is reversible upon rewatering and thus considered to be facultative. In contrast to C. amboinicus, the thin-leaved closely related Coleus scutellarioides (L.) Benth. exhibits net CO2 fixation solely in the light via the C3 pathway, both under well-watered and drought conditions. However, low levels of nocturnal acidification detected in leaves and stems indicate that the CAM cycle is present. The highly speciose mint family, which contains few known CAM-exhibiting species and is composed predominantly of C3 species, appears to be an excellent group of plants for studying the evolutionary origins of CAM and for determining the position of facultative CAM along the C3–full CAM trajectory.

Next-generation sequencing technologies have facilitated new phylogenomic approaches to help clarify previously intractable relationships while simultaneously highlighting the pervasive nature of incongruence within and among genomes that can complicate definitive taxonomic conclusions. Salvia L., with ∼1,000 species, makes up nearly 15% of the species diversity in the mint family and has attracted great interest from biologists across subdisciplines. Despite the great progress that has been achieved in discerning the placement of Salvia within Lamiaceae and in clarifying its infrageneric relationships through plastid, nuclear ribosomal, and nuclear single-copy genes, the incomplete resolution has left open major questions regarding the phylogenetic relationships among and within the subgenera, as well as to what extent the infrageneric relationships differ across genomes. We expanded a previously published anchored hybrid enrichment dataset of 35 exemplars of Salvia to 179 terminals. We also reconstructed nearly complete plastomes for these samples from off-target reads. We used these data to examine the concordance and discordance among the nuclear loci and between the nuclear and plastid genomes in detail, elucidating both broad-scale and species-level relationships within Salvia. We found that despite the widespread gene tree discordance, nuclear phylogenies reconstructed using concatenated, coalescent, and network-based approaches recover a common backbone topology. Moreover, all subgenera, except for Audibertia, are strongly supported as monophyletic in all analyses. The plastome genealogy is largely resolved and is congruent with the nuclear backbone. However, multiple analyses suggest that incomplete lineage sorting does not fully explain the gene tree discordance. Instead, horizontal gene flow has been important in both the deep and more recent history of Salvia. Our results provide a robust species tree of Salvia across phylogenetic scales and genomes. Future comparative analyses in the genus will need to account for the impacts of hybridization/introgression and incomplete lineage sorting in topology and divergence time estimation.

Roylea elegans Wall. ex Benth. is a lemon-scented hoary shrub belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Traditionally, a local tribe of the Himalayan region uses leaves for scabs and skin infections. The aerial parts and leaves are widely used to cure various skin ailments. The plant is well known for two furanoid diterpenes, royeleganin and royelegafuran. The aqueous extract of Roylea elegans (AERE) leaves was investigated for wound-healing effects in rats using a physically induced burn model by assessing different parameters. Animals were divided into four groups (six rats in each group). Group I animals were considered as disease control and topically given base cream. Group II was considered as standard control and treated topically with Framycetin sulphate cream (1% w/w). Group III and IV animals were treated topically with creams containing 5 or 10% of AERE, respectively. Several parameters such as wound contraction rate, epithelialization period, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant markers along with pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were studied followed by histopathological studies. The animals treated with AERE cream exhibited significant declination in the wound area and increased collagen content as compared to the disease control group. The results showed that the lower dose (5%) of AERE produced a significant decrease in the epithelialization period, wound contraction rate, and collagen content. Increased levels of cytokine production may be one of the mechanisms in accelerating the wound-healing process. The study established the traditional claim as an antioxidant and wound-healing potential of Roylea elegans by promoting the accelerated wound-healing activity against the physically induced burn model.

Perilla is a young allotetraploid Lamiaceae species widely used in East Asia as herb and oil plant. Here, we report the high-quality, chromosome-scale genomes of the tetraploid (Perilla frutescens) and the AA diploid progenitor (Perilla citriodora). Comparative analyses suggest post Neolithic allotetraploidization within 10,000 years, and nucleotide mutation in tetraploid is 10% more than in diploid, both of which are dominated by G:C → A:T transitions. Incipient diploidization is characterized by balanced swaps of homeologous segments, and subsequent homeologous exchanges are enriched towards telomeres, with excess of replacements of AA genes by fractionated BB homeologs. Population analyses suggest that the crispa lines are close to the nascent tetraploid, and involvement of acyl-CoA: lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase gene for high α-linolenic acid content of seed oil is revealed by GWAS. These resources and findings provide insights into incipient diploidization and basis for breeding improvement of this medicinal plant., Perilla is a young allotetraploid species within the mint family Lamiaceae. Here, the authors assemble the genomes of a tetraploid species and its diploid progenitor, characterize the incipient diploidization of the tetraploid, conduct population genetics analyses, and identify loci associate with pigmentation and oil content.

Triterpenic acids (TAs), a large group of natural compounds with diverse biological activity, are produced by several plant taxa. Betulinic, oleanolic, and ursolic acids are the most medicinally important TAs and are mainly found in plants of the mint family. Metabolic engineering is strongly dependent on identifying the key genes in biosynthetic pathways toward the products of interest. In this study, gene expression tracking was performed by transcriptome mining, co-expression network analysis, and tissue-specific metabolite-expression analysis in order to identify possible key genes involved in TAs biosynthetic pathways. To this end, taxa-specific degenerate primers of six important genes were designed using an effective method based on the MEME algorithm in a phylogenetically related group of sequences and successfully applied in three members of the Lamiaceae (Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia officinalis, and Thymus persicus). Based on the results of in-depth data analysis, genes encoding squalene epoxidase and oxido squalene cyclases are proposed as targets for boosting triterpene production. The results emphasize the importance of identifying key genes in triterpene biosynthesis, which may facilitate genetic manipulation or overexpression of target genes.

As a means to maintain their sessile lifestyle amid challenging environments, plants produce an enormous diversity of compounds as chemical defenses against biotic and abiotic insults. The underpinning metabolic pathways that support the biosynthesis of these specialized chemicals in divergent plant species provide a rich arena for understanding the molecular evolution of complex metabolic traits. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a phenolic natural product first discovered in plants of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is recognized for its wide range of medicinal properties and potential applications in human dietary and medical interventions. Interestingly, the RA chemotype is present sporadically in multiple taxa of flowering plants as well as some hornworts and ferns, prompting the question whether its biosynthesis arose independently across different lineages. Here we report the elucidation of the RA biosynthetic pathway in Phacelia campanularia (desert bells). This species represents the borage family (Boraginaceae), an RA-producing family closely related to the Lamiaceae within the Lamiids clade. Using a multi-omics approach in combination with functional characterization of candidate genes both in vitro and in vivo, we found that RA biosynthesis in P. campanularia involves specific activities of a BAHD acyltransferase and two cytochrome P450 hydroxylases. Further phylogenetic and comparative structure–function analyses of the P. campanularia RA biosynthetic enzymes clearly indicate that RA biosynthesis has evolved independently at least twice in the Lamiids, an exemplary case of chemotypic convergence through disparate evolutionary trajectories.

Purpose The importance of nutraceuticals and functional foods has been a topic of interest in nutrition research for many years. This review aims to summarize the findings on the nutritive value and health benefits of chia, as well as its use as a food fortificant. Design/methodology/approach Published literature on the nutritive value and therapeutic properties of chia has been reviewed. Findings Chia, an ancient grain, belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and was cultivated in Mexico and Guatemala by the Mayas and Aztecs of a pre-Columbian era. In addition to being gluten-free, chia seeds are concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids (mainly α-linolenic acid), fiber (insoluble) and polyphenolic compounds (myricetin, quercetin, kaempferol, chlorogenic and caffeic acids), which were found to be comparatively higher than many other grains, cereals and oily seeds. Chia supplementation has potential to lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, obesity, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, pruritus and celiac disease. Because of its nutraceutical and physiochemical properties, chia has been widely used as a whole seed, flour, seed mucilage, gel and oil for developing various enriched food products, such as bread, pasta, cakes, cookies, chips, cheese, yoghurt, meat, fish and poultry. Originality/value With advancement in nutrition research, chia would have a great future perspective as feed, food and medicine. However, further research is needed to validate the potential therapeutic effect of chia supplementation on human health.

Summary The mint family (Lamiaceae) is well documented as a rich source of terpene natural products. More than 200 diterpene skeletons have been reported from mints, but biosynthetic pathways are known for just a few of these.We crossreferenced chemotaxonomic data with publicly available transcriptomes to select common selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) and its highly unusual vulgarisin diterpenoids as a case study for exploring the origins of diterpene skeletal diversity in Lamiaceae. Four terpene synthases (TPS) from the TPS‐a subfamily, including two localised to the plastid, were cloned and functionally characterised. Previous examples of TPS‐a enzymes from Lamiaceae were cytosolic and reported to act on the 15‐carbon farnesyl diphosphate. Plastidial TPS‐a enzymes using the 20‐carbon geranylgeranyl diphosphate are known from other plant families, having apparently arisen independently in each family.All four new enzymes were found to be active on multiple prenyl‐diphosphate substrates with different chain lengths and stereochemistries. One of the new enzymes catalysed the cyclisation of geranylgeranyl diphosphate into 11‐hydroxy vulgarisane, the likely biosynthetic precursor of the vulgarisins.We uncovered the pathway to a rare diterpene skeleton. Our results support an emerging paradigm of substrate and compartment switching as important aspects of TPS evolution and diversification.

Culinary sage (Salvia officinalis L.) is a common spice plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae) well known for its distinctive culinary and traditional medicinal uses. Sage tea has been used traditionally as a brain-enhancing tonic and extracts from sage have been reported to have both cognitive and memory enhancing effects. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an endogenous signaling molecule involved in cognition and memory function. In this study, activity-guided fractionation employing preparative reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) of culinary sage extracts led to the discovery of benzyl 6-O-β-D-apiofuranosyl-β-D-glucoside (B6AG) as a natural product that upregulates transcription of neurotrophic factors in C6 glioma cells. Purified B6AG showed a moderate dose response, with upregulation of BDNF and with EC50 at 6.46 μM. To better understand the natural variation in culinary sage, B6AG was quantitated in the leaves of several commercial varieties by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The level of B6AG in dried culinary sage was found to range from 334 ± 14 to 698 ± 65 μg/g. This study provided a foundation for future investigations, including quantitative inquiries on the distribution of B6AG within the different plant organs, explorations in optimizing post-harvest practices, and aid in the development of sage varieties with elevated levels of B6AG.

Lamiaceae (Labiatae) or the mint family is one of the most important families containing volatile oil. It is one of the largest plant families including 236 genera and more than 7,000 species. By reviewing the current available literature (2002-2018), many classes of secondary metabolites of this family were determined, viz., flavonoids (113 compounds), fatty derivatives (26 compounds) and sterols (15 compounds). Moreover, plants belonging to this family have been shown many biological activities such as antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, analgesic, cardiovascular, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, antispasmodic, antiepileptic, anti-anxiety and anti-angiogenic. The most chemically investigated genus is Leonurus, while, Lavandula latifolia, Lamium garganicum, Lamium purpureum, Melissa officinalis and Moluccella laevis need more phytochemical attention. Regarding the biological investigation, Melissa officinalis was the most investigated species. Due to limited phytochemical and biological studies on many genera of the above family, we were encouraged to perform this review to help the researchers and orient them to carry out extensive studies on these plants to discover new or novel natural products.

Lamiaceae, also known as the mint family, is a family of plants comprising about 245 genera and 7886 species distributed all over the world. Plants of this family are widely used in folk medicine, cosmetics, spices, and as a flavoring agents in food. With the exception of the coldest polar regions, Lamiaceae species are distributed almost throughout the world, particularly in tropical and temperate areas, including the Mediterranean region and in tropical upland savannas. The Lamiaceae family is known for a wealth of species possessing medicinal properties with a strong history of use since early times and is well known for high essential oil content, for their richness with polyphenolic compounds and terpenoids. All of these classes of compounds are of great interest due to their biological activities. A number of studies conducted on different species of Lamiaceae family and their effects on memory, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders have been reported. For example, Rosmarinus officinalis has long been known as the herb of remembrance and was proved to boost memory, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve sleep quality. Different salvia species are used to enhance memory, as a sedative and for the treatment of headaches. Evidence for the use of other Lamiaceae species on the central nervous system (CNS), such as Dracocephalum moldavica. Clerodendrum formicarum, Nepeta clarkei has also been reported. Thymol and menthol are examples of the essential oils identified in species from Lamiaceae. It has been reported that thymol and menthol both act as positive modulators on GABAA receptors (the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian CNS acting through a number of pharmacologically and structurally different receptor subtypes). Thymol was reported to have a GABAergic activity and acts as a positive allosteric modulator with a mechanism of action similar to other depressants, such as diazepam. This review aims to survey the current literature on the effect of Lamiaceae family and its use in the treatment of CNS disorders to provide sufficient baseline information that would improve the knowledge and the application of this family as safe therapeutic alternatives.

Members of the Lamiaceae, or mint family, are used worldwide for medicinal, culinary and/or magical-religious purposes, as well as in pesticides and as ornamental plants. Very little is known about nepticulids, or pygmy moths, as leaf miners of Lamiaceae, but they may be an important component of South American diversity and potential pests of economically-important species of the mint family. In this paper, four new species of leaf-mining Nepticulidae are described from the equatorial Andes of Ecuador: S. mentholica Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., Stigmella aromatica Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. odora Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., feeding on Minthostachys mollis (Benth.) Griseb., and S. tomentosella Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., feeding on Clinopodium tomentosum (Kunth) Govaerts. It is hypothesized that host-plant distribution ranges can provide clues to potential distribution ranges of these newly discovered, trophically specialized leaf miners. The leaf mines, adults, and the genitalia of the new species are illustrated with photographs., This research was partially funded by a grant (S-MIP-19-30, “DiagnoStics”) from the Research Council of Lithuania. JLFA thanks the Royal Botanical Garden—CSIC of Spain, for facilitating visits to herbaria and field work in South America under the CGL 2010-19747 project in Lamiaceae.

Background: A robust molecular phylogeny is fundamental for developing a stable classification and providing a solid framework to understand patterns of diversification, historical biogeography, and character evolution. As the sixth largest angiosperm family, Lamiaceae, or the mint family, consitutes a major source of aromatic oil, wood, ornamentals, and culinary and medicinal herbs, making it an exceptionally important group ecologically, ethnobotanically, and floristically. The lack of a reliable phylogenetic framework for this family has thus far hindered broad-scale biogeographic studies and our comprehension of diversification. Although significant progress has been made towards clarifying Lamiaceae relationships during the past three decades, the resolution of a phylogenetic backbone at the tribal level has remained one of the greatest challenges due to limited availability of genetic data. Results: We performed phylogenetic analyses of Lamiaceae to infer relationships at the tribal level using 79 protein-coding plastid genes from 175 accessions representing 170 taxa, 79 genera, and all 12 subfamilies. Both maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses yielded a more robust phylogenetic hypothesis relative to previous studies and supported the monophyly of all 12 subfamilies, and a classification for 22 tribes, three of which are newly recognized in this study. As a consequence, we propose an updated phylogenetically informed tribal classification for Lamiaceae that is supplemented with a detailed summary of taxonomic history, generic and species diversity, morphology, synapomorphies, and distribution for each subfamily and tribe. Conclusions: Increased taxon sampling conjoined with phylogenetic analyses based on plastome sequences has provided robust support at both deep and shallow nodes and offers new insights into the phylogenetic relationships among tribes and subfamilies of Lamiaceae. This robust phylogenetic backbone of Lamiaceae will serve as a framework for future studies on mint classification, biogeography, character evolution, and diversification. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]. © 2021, The Author(s). Ten Thousand Talent Plans for Young Top-notch Talents of Yunnan Province: YNWR-QNBJ-2018-279National Science Foundation, NSF: TUBITAK-BIDEB 2219, DEB-1655611RG19-172019FI009 This study was in part supported by Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects (Grant No. 2019FI009) and “Ten Thousand Talents Program of Yunnan” (Grant No. YNWR-QNBJ-2018-279) awarded to CLX, the CAS “Light of West China” program to CLX and YPC, the Australian Biological Resources Study National Taxonomy Research Grant Program (Grant No. RG19-17) awarded to TCW, CLX, and BL, NSF DEB-1655611 awarded to BTD, and the Postdoctoral Research Program (TUBITAK-BIDEB 2219) awarded to FC.

Species within the mint family, Lamiaceae, are widely used for their culinary, cultural, and medicinal properties due to production of a wide variety of specialized metabolites, especially terpenoids. To further our understanding of genome diversity in the Lamiaceae and to provide a resource for mining biochemical pathways, we generated high-quality genome assemblies of four economically important culinary herbs, namely, sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana L.), oregano (Origanum vulgare L.), and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), and characterized their terpenoid diversity through metabolite profiling and genomic analyses. A total 25 monoterpenes and 11 sesquiterpenes were identified in leaf tissue from the 4 species. Genes encoding enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of precursors for mono- and sesqui-terpene synthases were identified in all four species. Across all 4 species, a total of 235 terpene synthases were identified, ranging from 27 in O. majorana to 137 in the tetraploid O. basilicum. This study provides valuable resources for further investigation of the genetic basis of chemodiversity in these important culinary herbs.

Salvia is a perennial plant of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is commonly referred to as Salvia officinalis...

Medicinal and aromatic plants have an increasing demand but this demand requires qualified material. Most of the products still obtained from nature. The mint family (Lamiaceae) contains more than 7000 species and the largest genera of the family are Salvia, Scuttellaria, Stachys, Plectranthus, Hyptis, Teucrium, Vitex, Thymus and Nepeta. The member of the family has a value through their secondary metabolites. Essential oils are the most important secondary metabolite in many of the species in the family. The genus Salvia consists of 1000 species which 107 of the taxa represented in Turkey. This review focuses on two Salvia species from natural flora of Turkey: Salvia fruticosa and Salvia aramiensis. Salvia fruticosa Mill. with wide distribution is a very important commodity with medicinal and aromatic properties. Besides that, S. aramiensis Rech. fil. occurs in a restricted area in Turkey but depending on low camphor and thujone content has a great potential to be part in trade. The importance of two species were estimated and future approaches were discussed. Especially the botany, distribution, domestication, spread, cultivation, previous studies on agricultural aspects, biological properties, breeding, molecular characterization of the species were discussed.

Annona squamosa L. is belongs to the Annonaceae family. Similarly, Thymus vulgaris L. is a flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae. In this study, Annona squamosa L. seeds ethanolic extract (A...

Members of the mint family (Lamiaceae) accumulate a wide variety of industrially and medicinally relevant diterpenes. We recently sequenced leaf transcriptomes from 48 phylogenetically diverse Lamiaceae species. Here, we summarize the available chemotaxonomic and enzyme activity data for diterpene synthases (diTPSs) in the Lamiaceae and leverage the new transcriptomes to explore the diTPS sequence and functional space. Candidate genes were selected with an intent to evenly sample the sequence homology space and to focus on species in which diTPS transcripts were found, yet from which no diterpene structures have been previously reported. We functionally characterized nine class II diTPSs and 10 class I diTPSs from 11 distinct plant species and found five class II activities, including two novel activities, as well as a spectrum of class I activities. Among the class II diTPSs, we identified a neo-cleroda-4(18),13E-dienyl diphosphate synthase from Ajuga reptans, catalyzing the likely first step in the biosynthesis of a variety of insect-antifeedant compounds. Among the class I diTPSs was a palustradiene synthase from Origanum majorana, leading to the discovery of specialized diterpenes in that species. Our results provide insights into the diversification of diterpene biosynthesis in the mint family and establish a comprehensive foundation for continued investigation of diterpene biosynthesis in the Lamiaceae.

Sudarmono. 2018. Decreased populations of Scutellaria discolor and Plectranthus galeatus (Lamiaceae) on Mount Gede, West Java, Indonesian and its surrounding. Biodiversitas 19: 1866-1870. Scutellaria discolor Colebr. and Plectranthus galeatus Vahl. are herbs belonging to mint family (Lamiaceae) which have the potential to be used for medicinal purposes. However, their population is gradually declining. The population of the two species are now only found in the mountains or highlands or the edges of the forests that are still protected, i.e. Mount Gede and Telaga Warna protected forest. This research aimed to know the condition of parent and seedling population of Scutellaria discolor Colebr and Plectranthus galeatus Vahl. on Mount Gede and Telaga Warna vicinities, West Java Province, Indonesia. The research method used was parallel transect lines. Association of the existing plants in the vicinity of the area were also observed. In Mount Gede at altitudes about 1200 m above sea level there are 203 seedlings and 167 parents of S. discolor species, while there are 69 seedlings and 11 parents of P. galeatus. This is higher than the populations of 1100 m altitude, i.e. there are 76 seedlings and 45 parents of S. discolor and 12 seedlings and 9 parents of P galeatus. In Telaga Warna, S. discolor exist only at altitudes about 1500 m asl., i.e.. 47 seedlings and 52 parents. While for P. galeatus, there are 37 seedlings and 31 parents at altitudes about 1500 m. At altitude below 1400 m, there are 18 seedlings and 8 parents, this is very rare. Populations of S. discolor and P. galeatus in Mount Gede at an altitude between 1100-1300 m asl is a balance between the seedlings and its parent population which is the same for seedling populations of S. discolor in Telaga Warna at an altitude of 1400-1500 m asl, but for P. galeatus seedling number decreases from an altitude of 1400 to 1500 m asl.

The evolution of chemical complexity has been a major driver of plant diversification, with novel compounds serving as key innovations. The species-rich mint family (Lamiaceae) produces an enormous variety of compounds that act as attractants and defense molecules in nature and are used widely by humans as flavor additives, fragrances, and anti-herbivory agents. To elucidate the mechanisms by which such diversity evolved, we combined leaf transcriptome data from 48 Lamiaceae species and four outgroups with a robust phylogeny and chemical analyses of three terpenoid classes (monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and iridoids) that share and compete for precursors. Our integrated chemical–genomic–phylogenetic approach revealed that: (1) gene family expansion rather than increased enzyme promiscuity of terpene synthases is correlated with mono- and sesquiterpene diversity; (2) differential expression of core genes within the iridoid biosynthetic pathway is associated with iridoid presence/absence; (3) generally, production of iridoids and canonical monoterpenes appears to be inversely correlated; and (4) iridoid biosynthesis is significantly associated with expression of geraniol synthase, which diverts metabolic flux away from canonical monoterpenes, suggesting that competition for common precursors can be a central control point in specialized metabolism. These results suggest that multiple mechanisms contributed to the evolution of chemodiversity in this economically important family.

Talebi SM, Nohooji MG,Yarmohammadi M. 2017. Short Communication: Infraspecific variations in essential oil compositions of Nepeta fissa from Iran. Nusantara Bioscience 9: 318-321. Nepeta fissa C.A. Mey. is a member of Mint family (Lamiaceae) and distributed naturally in different regions of Iran. The aim of this investigation was to provide more information about the influence of environmental conditions on the essential oil composition of two populations, Polor and Dizin, of this species. The dry plant samples were submitted to hydrodistillation for 2.5 h, using a Clevenger-type apparatus. The highest amount of essential oil yields (0.2%) were obtained for Dizin population. Forty-nine compounds, representing 85.9 to 97.80% of the total essential oils, were separated and identified. In Dizin and Polor populations, the essential oils were characterized by the very high percentage of oxygenated monoterpenes (79.1%), oxygenated diterpenes (20.01%) that constituted the predominant classes, respectively. From the analyzed populations, the major compounds in Dizin population were 1, 8-Cineole, 4 a-α, 7-α, 7 a-α-Nepetalactone and 2E, 4E-nonadienal. While, phytol, caryophyllene oxide, E-caryophyllene, and thymol were the core compounds of essential in Polor population. The obtained results showed that environmental conditions are the important factors influencing the yield and also the chemical compositions of essential oils in N. fissa. Knowledge of the essential oil chemical composition in relation to ecological factors is a most prominent quality criterion for its marketing and contributes to its valorization as a functional ingredient in food industry.

Summary Salvia divinorum commonly known as diviner's sage, is an ethnomedicinal plant of the mint family (Lamiaceae). S. divinorum is rich in clerodane-type diterpenoids, which accumulate predominantly in leaf glandular trichomes. The main bioactive metabolite, salvinorin A, is the first non-nitrogenous natural compound known to function as an opioid-receptor agonist, and is undergoing clinical trials for potential use in treating neuropsychiatric diseases and drug addictions. We report here the discovery and functional characterization of two S. divinorum diterpene synthases (diTPSs), the ent-copalyl diphosphate (ent-CPP) synthase SdCPS1, and the clerodienyl diphosphate (CLPP) synthase SdCPS2. Mining of leaf- and trichome-specific transcriptomes revealed five diTPSs, two of which are class II diTPSs (SdCPS1-2) and three are class I enzymes (SdKSL1-3). Of the class II diTPSs, transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana identified SdCPS1 as an ent-CPP synthase, which is prevalent in roots and, together with SdKSL1, exhibits a possible dual role in general and specialized metabolism. In vivo co-expression and in vitro assays combined with NMR analysis identified SdCPS2 as a CLPP synthase. A role of SdCPS2 in catalyzing the committed step in salvinorin A biosynthesis is supported by its biochemical function, trichome-specific expression and absence of additional class II diTPSs in S. divinorum. Structure-guided mutagenesis revealed four catalytic residues that enabled the re-programming of SdCPS2 activity to afford four distinct products, thus advancing our understanding of how neo-functionalization events have shaped the array of different class II diTPS functions in plants, and may promote synthetic biology platforms for a broader spectrum of diterpenoid bioproducts. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Over the past six years we have been studying extracts from tropical, specially Amazon, plants, to search for new sensitizers for photodynamic therapy of cancer and infectious diseases. Tectona grandis is a genus of tropical hardwood trees in the mint family, Lamiaceae. That is native to south and southeast Asia, but since the end of the 20th century is also gaining ground in the Amazon. The present work aims to evaluate the photodynamic potential of hydro-alcoholic extract from Tectona grandis LF leaves (TGE) and the same extract prepared as the oil-water nanoemulsion (TGE-NE) against melanoma B16 F10 cells. The method for preparation of a stable nanoemulsion with ~ 20 nm particles associated to the TGE (TGE-NE) was successfully developed. We have shown that both free and nanostructured presentations possess the ability to sensitize B16 F10 cells to red light of the LED in vitro. Photodynamic effect was observed for both TGE and TGE-NE because toxicity increased under illumination with red light. While TGE was highly toxic towards melanoma cells under illumination with red light of the LED, it also possessed significant dark toxicity towards both B16 F10 and murine fibroblast NIH3T3 cells. The TGE-NE showed reasonable photocytotoxicity and was much less toxic towards normal cells in the dark compared to free TGE.

Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a versatile tool for genetic studies that has been applied to a variety of plant species. With the advent of more accessible genomic and transcriptomic technology applied to an increasing range of plants, tools such as VIGS are being adapted to more non-model plants to explore genes relevant to agriculture and chemical discovery. In this protocol, we adapted VIGS technology to target genes in Nepeta cataria (catnip) and Nepeta mussinii (catmint). These plants carry biochemical and economical value for their production of nepetalactone, an iridoid which provokes a strong reaction in both house cats and aphids. We describe a method to target magnesium chelatase subunit H (CHlH), a gene often targeted as a visual marker for VIGS. Furthermore, we describe a method to simultaneously target two genes in a single plant, which aids in the study of genes found in key biochemical steps in the production of nepetalactone. This approach, which was successfully applied in two members of the Lamiaceae family (mint), could be adapted to other members of the mint family with economical and chemical value.

Complementary clues from enzyme and genome evolution reveal how a mint turned into catmint., Catnip or catmint (Nepeta spp.) is a flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae) famed for its ability to attract cats. This phenomenon is caused by the compound nepetalactone, a volatile iridoid that also repels insects. Iridoids are present in many Lamiaceae species but were lost in the ancestor of the Nepetoideae, the subfamily containing Nepeta. Using comparative genomics, ancestral sequence reconstructions, and phylogenetic analyses, we probed the re-emergence of iridoid biosynthesis in Nepeta. The results of these investigations revealed mechanisms for the loss and subsequent re-evolution of iridoid biosynthesis in the Nepeta lineage. We present evidence for a chronology of events that led to the formation of nepetalactone biosynthesis and its metabolic gene cluster. This study provides insights into the interplay between enzyme and genome evolution in the origins, loss, and re-emergence of plant chemical diversity.

The prevalence of allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergy and atopic dermatitis has increased dramatically in recent decades. Conventional therapies for allergy can induce undesirable effects and hence patients tend to seek alternative therapies like natural compounds. Considering the fact above, there is an urgency to discover potential medicinal plants as future candidates in the development of novel anti-allergic therapeutic agents. The Lamiaceae family, or mint family, is a diverse plant family which encompasses more than 7,000 species and with a cosmopolitan distribution. A number of species from this family has been widely employed as ethnomedicine against allergic inflammatory skin diseases and allergic asthma in traditional practices. Phytochemical analysis of the Lamiaceae family has reported the presence of flavonoids, flavones, flavanones, flavonoid glycosides, monoterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenoids, essential oil and fatty acids. Numerous investigations have highlighted the anti-allergic activities of Lamiaceae species with their active principles and crude extracts. Henceforth, this review has the ultimate aim of compiling the up-to-date (2018) findings of published scientific information about the anti-allergic activities of Lamiaceae species. In addition, the botanical features, medicinal uses, chemical constituents and toxicological studies of Lamiaceae species were also documented. The method employed for data collection in this review was mainly the exploration of the PubMed, Ovid and Scopus databases. Additional research studies were obtained from the reference lists of retrieved articles. This comprehensive summarization serves as a useful resource for a better understanding of Lamiaceae species. The anti-allergic mechanisms related to Lamiaceae species are also reviewed extensively which aids in future exploration of the anti-allergic potential of Lamiaceae species.

Perilla or kkaennip (Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton), an annual herb of the mint family, Lamiaceae, is used in salads and kimchi and for wrapping sliced raw fish. In September 2007, a disease occurred on greenhouse-produced perilla (cv. Manchu) in Gwangyang and Jeonnam provinces, Korea. Symptoms included leaf blight and irregularly shaped stem lesions approximately 1 to 3 cm long. Plants eventually died. In some greenhouses, 10 to 30%, and occasionally as much as 70%, of the plants were affected. Isolations on potato dextrose agar yielded a fungus with single conidiophores (439 to 656 [average 524] μm long × 6.2 to 11.6 [average 9.2] μm wide) with three to eight septa. Conidia were fusiform, obclavate to subcylindrical, straight or curved, and 30.4 to 180.1 (average 98.2) μm long × 6.7 to 18.1 (average 10.5) μm wide with 5 to 16 (commonly 13) distosepta. On the basis of morphological data and ITS rDNA sequences, the fungus was identified as Corynespora cassiicola (Berk. & Curt.) Wei. (1,2). Sequences of one isolate, EML-COR1, were more than 99% identical to sequences of C. cassiicola ATCC64204 (GenBank Accession No. AY238606) and C. cassiicola (GenBank Accession No. EF490450). In pathogenicity tests, the stems and leaves of two 2-month-old wounded and nonwounded potted plants (cv. Manchu) were sprayed until runoff with a conidial suspension of 5 × 104 conidia per ml. The plants were maintained for 48 h in a humid chamber and then moved to a greenhouse. Symptoms similar to those observed in the commercial greenhouse developed on wounded stems within 10 days. On nonwounded plants, symptoms developed 3 to 4 weeks after inoculation. C. cassiicola was reisolated from these lesions. Control plants (sprayed with distilled water) remained symptomless. The experiment was repeated with similar results. Although C. cassiicola causes blight of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), and other crops, to our knowledge, this is the first report of C. cassiicola on perilla. References: (1) M. B. Ellis. Page 372 in: Dematiaceous Hyphomycetes. 1971. (2) J. L. D. Silva et al. Plant Pathol. 55:580, 2006.

The utilization of therapeutic plants is expanding around the globe, coupled with the tremendous expansion of alternative medicine and growing demand in health treatment. Plants are applied in pharmaceuticals to preserve and expand health—physically, mentally and as well as to treat particular health conditions and afflictions. There are more than 600 families of plants identified so far. Among the plants that are often studied for their health benefit include the genus of Salvia in the mint family, Lamiaceae. This review aims to determine the bioactive components of Salvia and their potential as antidiabetic agents. The search was conducted using three databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus), and all relevant articles that are freely available in the English language were extracted within 10 years (2011–2021). Salvia spp. comprises many biologically active components that can be divided into monoterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, and phenolic components, but only a few of these have been studied in-depth for their health benefit claims. The most commonly studied bioactive component was salvianolic acids. Interestingly, S. miltiorrhiza is undoubtedly the most widely studied Salvia species in terms of its effectiveness as an antidiabetic agent. In conclusion, we hope that this review stimulates more studies on bioactive components from medicinal plants, not only on their potential as antidiabetic agents but also for other possible health benefits.

As a genus, Scutellaria designates a group of medicinal species employed for centuries as a potential cure for various ailments in many traditional medicine practices. Preparations derived from Scutellaria imbue crude drugs, concoctions, decoctions, essential oils, infusions, tinctures, tonics, and teas. Therapies are denoted as “complementary” when practiced in addition to conventional medical treatments or as “alternative” when carried out instead of conventional medical treatment. Studies have shown the designs of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies to safely and effectively treat and prevent a varied range of health conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and osteoarthritis. Scutellaria, commonly known as skullcap, is represented by over 360 species belonging to the mint family Lamiaceae. The resulting forms of Scutellaria-based medicinal preparations concentrate in extracting adequate quantities of bioactive chemicals, or phytochemicals produced by plants. These phytochemicals serve in protection from predators as well as a way to ensure ecological adaptation for extreme weather survival. Further, a number of studies conducted to ascertain the role of bioactive compounds extracted from Scutellaria using in vitro and in vivo approaches have shown a lot of promise as antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties. Scutellaria species have been observed to have high amount of polyphenols, particularly flavonoids like baicalein, baicalin, wogonin, and wogonoside. Others include apigenin, chrysin, scutellarin, and scutellarien that have been extensively studied for their bioactivity using cell and animal model systems. Scutellaria genus exhibits great diversity in the presence of glandular and nonglandular trichomes on aboveground plant parts. The glandular trichomes are the organs specifically involved in chemical biosynthesis and ecophysiological adaptation and are employed as a taxonomic tool to differentiate various species.

Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. (PF) is an annual herbal medicinal, aromatic, functional food, and ornamental plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. The origin of perilla traces back to East Asian countries (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, and India), where it has been used as a valuable source of culinary and traditional medicinal uses. The leaves, seeds, and stems of P. frutescens are used for various therapeutic applications in folk medicine. In the absence of a comprehensive review regarding all aspects of perilla, this review aims to present an overview pertaining to the botanical drug, ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and biological activity. It was found that the taxonomic classification of perilla species is quite confused, and the number of species is vague. Perilla has traditionally been prescribed to treat depression-related disease, anxiety, asthma, chest stuffiness, vomiting, coughs, colds, flus, phlegm, tumors, allergies, intoxication, fever, headache, stuffy nose, constipation, abdominal pain, and indigestion, and acts as an analgesic, anti-abortive agent, and a sedative. Until now, 271 natural molecules have been identified in perilla organs including phenolic acids, flavonoids, essential oils, triterpenes, carotenoids, phytosterols, fatty acids, tocopherols, and policosanols. In addition to solvent extracts, these individual compounds (rosmarinic acid, perillaldehyde, luteolin, apigenin, tormentic acid, and isoegomaketone) have attracted researchers’ interest for its pharmacological properties. Perilla showed various biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-allergic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotection effects. Although the results are promising in preclinical studies (in vitro and in vivo), clinical studies are insufficient; therefore, further study needs to be done to validate its therapeutic effects and to ensure its safety and efficacy.

Nepeta is a perennial herbal plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae mint family. Nepta has different species that are widely used in the agriculture, medicine, and pharmaceutical industries. A field experiment was conducted in 2015 and 2016 to determine the effects of potassium humate foliar application [0 (control) and 400 ppm] on growth, essential oil and constituents of three Nepta species [Nepeta cataria (catnip), Nepeta cataria var. citriodora (lemon catnip), and Nepeta grandiflora (giant catmint)] under Egyptian conditions. In all three species, the application of potassium humate increased growth indicators, essential oil content (%) and yield (mL/plant), and flavonoids in each of the two harvests. However, the height of giant catmint was significantly higher than that of lemon catnip, which was higher than that of catnip. Lemon catnip that received potassium humate and harvested second gave the highest essential oil content and yield. The major constituents were geraniol and nepetalactone in catnip; citronellol and geraniol in lemon catnip; and o-cymene, c-terpinene, p-cymene and carvacrol in giant catmint. The highest p-cymene in giant catmint, citronellol in lemon catnip, and geraniol in catnip were obtained from the application of potassium humate, while the highest o-cymene, c-terpinene and carvacrol in giant catmint, geraniol in lemon catnip, and nepetalactone in catnip were obtained from control plants. This study demonstrated the variations among species of nepeta, and how they respond to the application of potassium humate. The findings of this study can guide the customization of potassium humate applications to the three species for achieving desired growth and essential oil production outcomes.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) is a flowering plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is used as a culinary herb and is often commercialized as a fine powder or a mixture of small fragments of dried leaves, which makes morphological recognition difficult. Like other commercial preparations of drugs and spices, the contamination of oregano mixtures with vegetable matter of lower quality, or the use of generic misleading names, are frequent and stress the need to develop a molecular traceability system to easily, quickly, and cheaply unveil these scams. The DNA-based analytical approach known as cpDNA barcoding is particularly suited for fraud identification in crop plant species (fresh products and food derivatives), and it represents a promising traceability tool as an alternative or complement to traditional detection methods. In the present study, we used a combined approach based on both qualitative and quantitative cpDNA barcoding with end-point and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses to assess the type and degree of contamination in commercial batches of common oregano. In a preliminary qualitative screening, we amplified, cloned, and sequenced a number of universal trnH-psbA- and trnL-barcoded regions, to identify the main contaminants in the samples under investigation. On the basis of these findings, we then developed and validated a species-specific and sequence-targeted method of testing for the quantitative assessment of contaminants, using trnL gene intron assays. Surprisingly, the results obtained in our case study indicated an almost total absence of O. vulgare in the commercial batches analyzed, but a high presence of group I contaminants (Satureja pilosa Velen.), and a moderate presence of group II contaminants (Cistus lanidifer L./Cistus albidus).

The genus Mentha, which belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Essential oil yield and chemical components of two Mentha species including Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds. and (Mentha spicata L.) collected from three ecotypes in Iran were investigated. The essential oils of samples were obtained by hydro-distillation, and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A significant difference (p < 0.05) in oil yields was obtained from the aerial parts of two Mentha species. The essential oil yields were obtained from the aerial of M. longifolia, 0.62, 0.85 and 1.24 ml / 100 g dry matter identified in Ardestan, Saman and Kuhrang province, respectively and the aerial of M. spicata, 0.49, 1.02 and 1.54 ml / 100 g dry matter identified in Ardestan, Saman and Kuhrang province, respectively. Results indicated significant differences (p < 0.01) among the aerial for the main constituents in the essential oil from two Mentha species. The major constituents of the essential oil from the aerial of M. longifolia collected from Ardestan province were pulegone (31.21%), 1,8-cineole (23.01%), sabinene (6.76%), the aerial of M. longifolia collected from Saman province were pulegone (31.06%), 1,8-cineole (24.34%), sabinene (7.45%) and the aerial of M. longifolia collected from Kuhrang province were pulegone (36.42%) and 1,8-cineole (29.49%). The major constituents of the essential oil from the aerial of M. spicata collected from Ardestan province were 1,8-cineole (35.28%), carvone (30.71%), the aerial of M. spicata collected from Saman province were carvone (35.37%), 1,8-cineole (24.35%), pulegone (18.67%) and the aerial of M. spicata collected from Kuhrang province were carvone (41.51%), 1,8-cineole (25.95%). Generally, a comparison of our results with the previous reports suggests differences in the essential oil compositions and oil yield of the plant material could be attributed to genetic diversity in two Menthe species.

Premise of the study The subtribe Menthinae (Lamiaceae), with 35 genera and 750 species, is among the largest and most economically important subtribes within the mint family. Most genera of Menthinae are found exclusively in the New World, where the group has a virtually continuous distribution ranging from temperate North America to southern South America. In this study, we explored the presence, timing, and origin of amphitropical disjuncts within Menthinae. Methods Our analyses were based on a data set consisting of 89 taxa and the nuclear ribosomal DNA markers ITS and ETS. Phylogenetic relationships were determined under maximum likelihood and Bayesian criteria, divergence times were estimated with the program BEAST, and ancestral range estimated with BioGeoBEARS. Key results A North Atlantic Land Bridge migration event at about 10.6 Ma is inferred from western Eurasia to North America. New World Menthinae spread rapidly across North America, and then into Central and South America. Several of the large speciose genera are not monophyletic with nuclear rDNA, a finding mirrored with previous chloroplast DNA results. Three amphitropical disjunctions involving North and southern South America clades, one including a southeastern South American clade with several genera, were inferred to have occurred within the past 5 Myr. Conclusions Although three New World Menthinae genera occur in both North and South America, none exhibit an amphitropical disjunction. However, three clades exhibit amphitropical disjunctions, all dating to the early Pliocene, and all involve jump dispersals to either southeastern or southwestern South America from southeastern North America.

It is believed that Lamiaceae or the Mint family has numerous paraphyletic genera and the relationship between the species has not been fully determined in several cases. The genus Dracocephalum is one of the genera, which has not been investigated thoroughly. In the family Lamiaceae, Dracocephalum is the second largest genus consisting of about 186 species. Eight Dracocephalum species were reported of Iran belonging to the Irano-Turanian phytogeographical region. The present study has attempted to investigate Dracocephalum in terms of the molecular phylogeny for the first time and gather data on their species relationship, divergence time, and show how they are distributed geographically. To report the results, Chloroplast DNA (ribosomal protein L16 (rpL16)) sequences and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) molecular markers have been used. According to the results, the genus Dracocephalum is paraphyletic and has close affinity with Lallemantia. The results of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) analysis confirmed the inter-specific hybridization in the genus. Chronogram obtained by Bayesian Evolutionary Analysis Sampling Trees (BEAST) date revealed Dracocephalum species divergence time back to 2–10 million years ago(MYA). These findings extend the knowledge on the evolution of Lamiaceae.

Background: Origanum is one of the over 200 genera in the Lamiaceae (mint family), and this genus includes culinary, fragrant, and medicinal properties. The plant is reported to contain anti-microbial properties, but it lacks combination studies with that of synthetic antibiotics. Aim: To investigate the anti-oxidant and anti-microbial interaction studies of Origanum vulgare with standard drugs against Bacillus species of bacteria and Aspergillus niger . Materials and Methods: The anti-oxidant properties of phenolic, non-phenolic fractions of chloroform extract and volatile oil were evaluated by free radical-scavenging, hydrogen peroxide radical-scavenging assay, reducing power, and metal chelating assays. Results: The minimum inhibitory concentration and fractional inhibitory concentration index were determined which demonstrates the behavior of volatile oil, phenolic, and non-phenolic fractions of volatile oil with that of ciprofloxacin and fluconazole. The IC 50 value for volatile oil was found to be 15, 30, and 30 μg/ml and that of phenolic fraction was 60, 120, and 120 μg/ml for free radical-scavenging, hydrogen peroxide-scavenging, and metal chelating assays respectively. Non-phenolic fraction was found to act antagonistically along with ciprofloxacin against B. cereus and B. subtilis, while the phenolic fraction exhibited indifferent activity along with ciprofloxacin against both the bacterial strains. Conclusion: This combination of drug therapy will not only prove effective in antibiotic resistance, but these natural constituents will also help in preventing body from harmful radicals which lead to fatal diseases.

Agastache rugosa, a member of the mint family (Labiatae), is a perennial herb widely distributed in East Asian countries. It is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of cholera, vomiting, and miasma. This study assessed the genetic diversity and population structures on 65 accessions of Korean mint A. rugosa germplasm based on inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. The selected nine ISSR primers produced reproducible polymorphic banding patterns. In total, 126 bands were scored; 119 (94.4%) were polymorphic. The number of bands generated per primer varied from 7 to 18. A minimum of seven bands was generated by primer 874, while a maximum of 18 bands was generated by the primer 844. Six primers (815, 826, 835, 844, 868, and 874) generated 100% polymorphic bands. This was supported by other parameters such as total gene diversity (H T ) values, which ranged from 0.112 to 0.330 with a mean of 0.218. The effective number of alleles (N E ) ranged from 1.174 to 1.486 with a mean value of 1.351. Nei’s genetic diversity (H) mean value was 0.218, and Shannon’s information index (I) mean value was 0.343. The high values for total gene diversity, effective number of alleles, Nei’s genetic diversity, and Shannon’s information index indicated substantial variations within the population. Cluster analysis showed characteristic grouping, which is not in accordance with their geographical affiliation. The implications of the results of this study in developing a strategy for the conservation and breeding of A. rugosa and other medicinal plant germplasm are discussed.

The material was collected from the Botanical Garden and the Collegium Medicum Medicinal Plant Garden of the Jagiellonian University in Krakow. The investigated species were: lemon balm (Mellisa officinalis L.), common lavender (Lavendula angustifolia Mill.), horsemint (Mentha longifolia L.), sage (Salvia officinalis L.), sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), and wild marjoram (Origanum vulgare L.). The aim of the investigation was to identify fungi causing the death of leaf tissues of herbs from the mint family Lamiaceae. In mycological investigations, 180 fragments of each plant leaves (1,080 dead leaf fragments in total) were placed in a 2% PDA medium. Over 970 colonies of fungi belonging to 48 species were isolated from the dead leaf tissues of the six herb species. Alternaria alternata (toxin-producing), Epicoccum nigrum and Sordaria fimicola were the most frequently isolated. The largest numbers of colonies and species of fungi were isolated from horsemint, while the lowest numbers were from wild marjoram leaves. It was shown that the death of leaves of selected herb species from the Lamiaceae family was caused by various fungi. The results of the mycological analysis confirmed the diversity of species colonizing the leaves of the herbs.

Age-related increase in monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) may contribute to CNS neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, MAO-B inhibitors are used in the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson disease as preliminary monotherapy or adjunct therapy with L-dopa. To date, meager natural sources of MAO-B inhibitors have been identified, and the relative strength, potency and rank of many plants relative to standard drugs such as Selegiline (L-deprenyl,Eldepryl) are not known. In this work, we developed and utilized a high throughput enzyme microarray format to screen and evaluate 905 natural product extracts (0.025-.7 mg/ml) to inhibit human MAO-B derived from BTI-TN-5B1-4 cells infected with recombinant baculovirus. The protein sequence of purified enzyme was confirmed using 1D gel electrophoresis-matrix assisted laser desorption ionization -time-of-flight-tandem mass spectroscopy, and enzyme activity was confirmed by [1] substrate conversion (3-mM benzylamine) to H202 and [2] benzaldehyde. Of the 905 natural extracts tested, the lowest IC50s [

 Premise of the study: The mint family (Lamiaceae) is the sixth largest family of fl plants, with the tribe Mentheae containing about a third of the species. We present a detailed perspective on the evolution of the tribe Mentheae based on a phylogenetic analysis of cpDNA and nrDNA that is the most comprehensive to date, a biogeographic set of analyses using a fossil-calibrated chronogram, and an examination of staminal evolution.  Methods: Data from four cpDNA and two nrDNA markers representing all extant genera within the tribe Mentheae were analyzed using the programs BEAST, Lagrange, S-DIVA, and BayesTraits. BEAST was used to simultaneously estimate phylogeny and divergence times, Lagrange and S-DIVA were used for biogeographical reconstruction, and BayesTraits was used to infer staminal evolution within the tribe.  Key results: Currently accepted subtribal delimitations are shown to be invalid and are updated. The Mentheae and all fi ve of its subtribes have a Mediterranean origin and have dispersed to the New World multiple times. The vast majority of New World species of subtribe Menthinae are the product of a single dispersal event in the mid-late Miocene. At least four transitions from four stamens to two stamens have occurred within Mentheae, once in the subtribe Salviinae, once in the subtribe Lycopinae, and at least twice in the subtribe Menthinae.  Conclusions: Worldwide cooling trends probably played a large role in the diversifi cation and present day distribution of the tribe Mentheae. Additional work is needed to ascertain relationships within some Mentheae genera, especially in the subtribe Menthinae.

The potential significance of the contributions of long chain iso and anteiso monomethyl alkanes (LC MMAs) from plants of the Lamiaceae, a family that includes many culinary and aromatic herbs of cultural value, to sediments and soil has been evaluated by analyzing 21 specimens from 16 species of Lamiaceae from different environmental settings in Hubei Province, central China, and comparing the results with those from tobacco plants, which are established to be rich in these compounds. Odd numbered iso -alkanes ( i -C 25 to i -C 36 ) and even numbered anteiso -alkanes ( a -C 25 to a -C 36 ) are abundant in the Lamiaceae (1.9–23.2% and 0.9–23.8% of total alkanes, respectively). The proportions of LC MMAs are relatively high and comparable to those in the tobacco plant. However, chain lengths in the Lamiaceae are longer than those in tobacco plants and compound-specific δ 13 C values are more negative than in the tobacco plants, potentially allowing distinction of their different origins. The results imply that Lamiaceae, in addition to some other land plants, can be important sources of LC iso - and anteiso -alkanes in sediments and soils.

The plant Salvia divinorum (Epling & Jativa-M.) is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) endemic to the Sierra Mazateca region of the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca of southern Mexico. It has a history of known ethnobotanical use by the Mazatec Indians extending several centuries both in medicinal and spiritual practices. Reports of the perceptiotropic effects that accompanied use of this material led to phytochemical investigations which yielded a novel neoclerodane diterpenoid, salvinorin A. This compound was found to possess extremely high affinity and selectivity for the kappa opioid receptors and was determined to bind in a unique manner different from classic opioids. While S. divinorum and salvinorin A both produce pronounced perceptotropic effects (i.e., mixed hallucinogenic and dissociative effects) they have also been shown to attenuate drug-seeking behavior. Furthermore, salvinorin A has been repeatedly shown to possess an extremely low potential for physiological toxicity. Salvia divinorum represents a novel source of bioactive molecules some of which have been shown to have utility as antiaddiction therapeutics.

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the ageing process and in several chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Endogenous antioxidant defenses, including enzymes and nonenzymatic compounds, try to combat the oxidative stress created by the disequilibrium between the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and the antioxidant defense system. Natural matrices such as food plants could help the exogenous defense antioxidant system in the mentioned process. Within this perspective, Mediterranean regions contribute significantly owing to their richness in species and habitats. This chapter details and compares the antioxidant activities of different edible parts of selected wild species in the Mediterranean regions, which were traditionally gathered and consumed as food and snacks. Thirty-three species from 16 families of flowering plants were studied. Asteraceae (daisy family), Polygonaceae (sorrel family), Rosaceae (dog-rose family), and Lamiaceae (mint family) are the most representative, as 70 % of the reviewed species are taxonomically included in such botanical families. Experimental research on these species is mainly focused on aerial plant pieces, for instance basal and other leaves, midribs, young stems, shoots, and inflorescences, as these plant parts are the most used and available. Given the complexity of antioxidant measurement assays, the following methods have been selected to give an idea of the antioxidant properties of different wild plant foods from the Mediterranean area: reducing power (Folin–Ciocalteu and ferricyanide/Prussian blue assays), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity, and lipid peroxidation inhibition (β-carotene/linoleate assay and thiobarbituric acid reactive species assay).

Cultural procedures to improve growth (fresh weight) and morphogenic (leaves, shoots and roots) development in the mint family (Lamiaceae) species (e.g. basil, catnip, oregano and spearmint) in vitro are presented. Novel plant tissue culture systems were employed to increase biomass and shooting. A survey study with several species is presented testing a wide range of CO2 levels. Employment of ultrahigh levels of CO2 (i.e. ≥3,000 μL CO2 L) promoted greater growth and morphogenesis in most mint species compared to that obtained employing ambient air (350 μL CO2 L). Employment of a sterile hydroponics system, i.e. an automated plant culture system (APCS), greatly enhanced spearmint biomass and shooting over that obtained employing an agar medium. Analysis of essential oil composition in spearmint cultures grown in various culture systems reveals that high secondary metabolite production is often associated with high growth and morphogenesis responses.

Sage (Salvia) species are the largest members of Lamiaceae or mint family. Many species of salvia are native to Mediterranean region. Sage family members especially common sage (Salvia officinalis) have been used traditionally throughout the world as a remedy for the treatment of many common ailments such as, cough, asthma, bronchitis, angina, mouth and throat inflammations, depression, digestive and circulation disorders, excessive sweating, skin and many other diseases.

Two new subfamilies, Callicarpoideae Bo Li & R.G.Olmstead and Tectonoideae Bo Li & R.G.Olmstead, are established within the mint family. Their morphology, distribution, generic and species diversity, homotypic tribes, and phylogenetic position are noted.