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Six new tirucallane-type triterpenoids, named munropenes A–F (1–6), were extracted from the whole plants of Munronia pinnata using a water extraction method. Their chemical structures were determined based on detailed spectroscopic data. The relative configurations of the acyclic structures at C-17 of munropenes A–F (1–6) were established using carbon–proton spin-coupling constants (2,3JC,H) and inter-proton spin-coupling constants (3JH,H). Furthermore, the absolute configurations of munropenes A–F (1–6) were determined through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) analyses. The antiproliferative effects of munropenes A–F were evaluated in five tumor cell lines: HCT116, A549, HepG2, MCF7, and MDAMB. Munropenes A, B, D, and F (1, 2, 4, and 6) inhibited proliferation in the HCT116 cell line with IC50 values of 40.90, 19.13, 17.66, and 32.62 µM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new limonoid, named munronoid P, was isolated from the aerial parts of Munronia pinn ata and characterized on the basis of spectral data. The compound exhibited moderate inhibition against ConA-induced T cell proliferation with IC 50 value of 2.73 ± 0.61 μ M and LPS-induced B cell proliferation with IC 50 value of 34.88 ± 0.61 μ M, respectively. [Display omitted] • A new limonoid was isolated from the aerial parts of Munronia pinnata. • The structure was elucidated based on spectroscopic data coupled with theoretical NMR and ECD calculations. • The new compound exhibited moderate immunosuppressive activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of medical ingredients come from nature, which is regarded as a rich source for creating all types of medications, even contemporary ones. One of Meliaceae’s most significant plants is Swietenia machrophylla. In Southern Asia and the Pacific, it is widely cultivated. This review gives details on its pharmacological, phytochemical, and customary usage. Plant extracts and chemical components like limonoids have been shown to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, anti-HIV, and anti-ulcer properties. Effects that are antifungal, antimalarial and antidiarrheal, etc. The chemical components and conventional usage of S. macrophylla were used to demonstrate its biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental factors are strong drivers of local adaptation in forest tree species. Toona ciliata var. pubescens, an endangered tree species endemic to China, is widely distributed across Eastern and Southwestern China. In this study, we used 8 genomic microsatellite markers and 17 EST-SSR markers across nine populations from the Yunnan–Kweichow Plateau and Eastern China, to explore the adaptive variation and genetic structure of T. ciliata var. pubescens. Patterns of population structure were apparent using a Bayesian clustering program, STRUCTURE, which identified four distinct clusters. We identified four outlier loci that were potentially under selection using the Dirichlet-multinomial and hierarchic simulation models. Through the Mantel test, it was found that geographic and climatic factors have jointly affected the genetic structure of T. ciliata var. pubescens in the study area. Based on redundancy analysis (RDA), it was shown that the correlation between climatic variables associated with variation is stronger than that of geographic variables. It is worth mentioning that the eight alleles from outlier loci have potentially adaptive and are associated with either precipitation or temperature variables. All analyses revealed high genetic diversity and significant genetic differentiation in the populations of T. ciliata var. pubescens. This indicated that the climatic variables including precipitation and temperature are drivers of local adaptation in the populations of T. ciliata var. pubescens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Walsura guangxiensis (Meliaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is here described and illustrated. The new species is easily distinguishable from the other two Chinese members of the genus by its petals being pale yellow, filaments being connate into tubes above the middle, the berry being oval and glabrous. An identification key of Walsura for 17 species is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aglaia cucullata is a mangrove plant with a tropical Asian distribution. It is used as traditional medicine for the treatment of diarrhea, inflammation, skin diseases, and heart diseases. Several compounds isolated from A. cucullata have demonstrated cytotoxic activity against various human cancer cells. Cancer therapies such as surgery, chemo-, and radiotherapy have many side effects. However, the use of natural bioactive compounds such as triterpenoid in cancer treatment can be used as an alternative to reduce these side effects. Therefore, the discovery of bioactive compounds from plants is very important to improve aspects of discovery and development of sustainable new anticancer drug candidates. Here, we report the chemical structures of seven known dammarane-type triterpenoids (1–7) isolated from A. cucullata exocarp and evaluate their cytotoxicity against B16-F10 melanoma skin cancer cells. The isolated compounds included cabraleahydroxylactone 3α-acetate (1), (20S)-20-hydroxydammar,24-en-3α-ol (2), (20S)-20-hydroxydammar,24-en-3-on (3), methyl 20(S)-hydroxy-3,4-secodammar-4(28),24-diene-3-oic acid (4), 3-epi ocotillol II (5), cabraleone (6), and ocotillone (7). The n-hexane extract was found to be active against B16-F10 cells, exhibiting an IC50 value of 7.85 ± 0.22 µg/mL. Fractionation of this extract subsequently identified the compound (20S)-20-hydroxydammar 24-en-3-on (3) as an active substance with an IC50 value of 21.55 ± 0.25 µM, comparing favorably with the positive control cisplatin (12.90 µg/mL; 43.00 µM). These results provide further evidence of the genus Aglaia as a source of cytotoxic cancer drug leads. In addition, compound 3 has potential as a convincing therapeutic agent for further research in the context of sustainable drug development, especially the development of new safe cancer chemotherapeutic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive alien plant species (IAPS) pose one of the most significant threats to native biodiversity. Swietenia macrophylla, or big leaf mahogany, is among the most threatening invasive plants in the Philippines. This article aimed to formally document the presence of S. macrophylla along the edges of Mt. Banahaw de Nagcarlan, a protected area on Luzon Island, Philippines. The study also sought to identify the management strategies being implemented by various government institutions to address big leaf mahogany and other invasive plants. A total of 1591 individuals of S. macrophylla were documented in mixed land-use areas and roadsides. These were found to have been introduced by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 1991 as a reforestation species. Fortunately, no individuals were observed beyond the buffer zone towards the protected area. The identification of management strategies for big leaf mahogany and other IAPS revealed that there is no established approach specifically addressing the presence of S. macrophylla at the site. However, some institutions advocate for the conservation of native plants through tree planting activities and educational campaigns. Furthermore, no collaborative efforts were observed among stakeholders and institutions. The results of this study highlight the urgent need to manage the S. macrophylla population. Planning and enforcement of strategies require collaborative efforts among stakeholders to prevent its entry into the protected area and ensure the preservation of native biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudocedrela kotschyi is one of the most widely exploited species in Benin. Therefore, populations of the species are faced with the issue of human disturbance. This study investigated the ethnobotanical knowledge of the species in order to set sustainable management strategies. Individual face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 324 respondents in the three climatic zones of Benin according to two levels of abundance (low and high abundance) of the species per zone. Reported use values (RUV), importance score (IS), overall use values for each use category (UV), and overall cultural importance indices (CI) were calculated. Poisson family generalized linear models were used to identify the socio-environmental factors that determined the uses and the importance of the species. The results showed that climatic zone had a significant influence (p < 0.001) on the reported use values of P. kotschyi, whereas climatic zone (p = 0.032) and abundance status (p = 0.025) were the two factors that had a significant effect on the cultural importance of P. kotschyi. These findings support the availability hypothesis in ethnobotany. According to local knowledge, fire was the main threat to the species in natural habitats, and such local knowledge depended on ethnicity and education level. Overall, the results of this study can be used for the sustainable management of P. kotschyi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Popular tree Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a member of the Meliaceae family. Many foods are prepared using bark, leaves, flowers, seeds, oil, and other materials in the Traditional System of Medicine. For pharmaceutical uses, neem has been the subject of several patent applications. The pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities that have been documented thus far are all thoroughly examined in this review. As a source of several therapeutic substances in Indian culture and a plant that thrives in tropical and semi-tropical regions, neem is the most beneficial traditional medicine. All parts of the neem tree--bark, leaves, fruits, seeds, and extracts--are utilized in traditional medicine. Its extracts are anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anthelmintic, and anti-allergic. The names "free tree of India," "wonder tree," "Nature's drug store," "Village dispensary," "Divine tree," "heal all," and "Panacea of all Diseases" are also used to neem. In current times, non-toxic herbal items should be used with specific concentration to control animal and human ailments. There is much room for this amazing plant to be used more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chisocarpene A (1) is a new tirucallane-type triterpenoid together with odoratone (2) and 24-methylenecycloartanol (3), isolated from the stem bark of Chisocheton lasiocarpus. The chemical structures of compounds 1–3 were elucidated through a detailed analysis of their spectroscopic data (IR, MS, 1 D, and 2 D NMR). The isolated compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line using a resazurin-based assay. Compound 1 showed the most potent activity (IC50 26.56 ± 1.01 µM) and was two-fold more active than the positive control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Recent investigations on the floristic exchange between Southeast Asia and Australia have shown a clear dispersal directionality bias (West to East) of wet‐adapted plant taxa. However, dispersal routes and directions of wet forest taxa into the South Pacific remain insufficiently known. We here aimed to establish the most likely routes and directions of plant dispersal into the Southwest Pacific islands. Location: Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, Southwest Pacific. Taxon: Dysoxylum s.l. (Meliaceae). This includes Dysoxylum s.s., Didymocheton, Epicharis, Goniocheton, Pseudocarapa, and Prasoxylon. Method: We sampled 75% of the species diversity in Dysoxylum s.l., covering the entire distribution range, all genera and major lineages. Phylogenetic relationships of 149 accessions were reconstructed using Bayesian Evolutionary Analysis and two internal constraints. The dispersal–extinction–cladogenesis variant, founder‐event speciation (DEC+J), was used for reconstructing the biogeographic history, and 100 Biogeographical Stochastic Mappings were simulated. Results: Dysoxylum s.l. originated and firstly diversified in the western part of its current distribution range (including Indochina) during the Miocene to Pliocene, followed by an overall eastern range expansion towards Malesia, Australia and the Southwest Pacific in the Pliocene. Main Conclusions: The south‐eastward expansion of lineages into Wallacea and Australia is in temporal agreement with the convergence of the Asian and Australian tectonic plates since the Miocene. Long‐distance dispersal is the main mechanism that led to the current distribution. Two dispersal pathways into the Southwest Pacific are identified, (1) through New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to Fiji, and (2) from New Zealand to Fiji. For both routes, Fiji was an important secondary source area for dispersal into the Southwest Pacific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical investigation on the fruits of C. tabularis led to the isolation of five new phragmalin-type limonoids (1–5) and four known ones (6–9). The structures of the new compounds 1–5, named chuktabamalins A–E, were elucidated via spectroscopic techniques (HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR) and were comparable with the literature data of known compounds. In addition, new compounds were evaluated for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. Compounds 1, 2, 3 and 5 showed moderate anti-inflammatory activity with IC50 values of 21.72 ± 2.79, 23.29 ± 1.00, 47.08 ± 3.47 and 66.67 ± 2.89 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aglaia genus, a member of the Meliaceae family, is generally recognized to include a number of secondary metabolite compounds with diverse structures and biological activities, including triterpenoids. Among the members of this genus, Aglaia cucullata has been reported to have unique properties and thrives exclusively in mangrove ecosystems. This plant is also known to contain various metabolites, such as flavaglines, bisamides, and diterpenoids, but there are limited reports on the isolation of triterpenoid compounds from its stem bark. Therefore, this research attempted to isolate and elucidate seven triterpenoids belonging to dammarane-type (1–7) from the stem bark of Aglaia cucullata. The isolated compounds included 20S,24S-epoxy-3α,25-dihydroxy-dammarane (1), dammaradienone (2), 20S-hydroxy-dammar-24-en-3-on (3), eichlerianic acid (4), (20S,24RS)-23,24-epoxy-24-methoxy-25,26,27-tris-nor dammar-3-one (5), 3α-acetyl-cabraleahydroxy lactone (6), and 3α-acetyl-20S,24S-epoxy-3α,25-dihydroxydammarane (7). Employing spectroscopic techniques, the chemical structures of the triterpenoids were identified using FTIR, NMR, and HRESITOF-MS. The cytotoxic activity of compounds 1–7 was tested with the PrestoBlue cell viability reagent against MCF-7 breast cancer, B16-F10 melanoma, and CV-1 normal kidney fibroblast cell lines. The results displayed that compound 5 had the highest level of bioactivity compared to the others. Furthermore, the IC50 values obtained were more than 100 μM, indicating the low potential of natural dammarane-type triterpenoids as anticancer agents. These findings provided opportunities for further studies aiming to increase their cytotoxic activities through semi-synthetic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methanol extract of the seeds of Khaya ivorensis afforded two new mexicanolide limonoids, ivorensines A and B (1 and 2), together with one known compound, ruageanin D (3). The structures of the isolated compounds were established based on 1 D and 2 D (1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) NMR spectroscopy, in addition to high resolution mass spectrometry. The isolated limonoids were tested in vitro for antimicrobial potentials against 5 pathogenic microorganisms. As a result, compounds 1–3 exhibited antimicrobial activity against the tested Gram negative bacteria at the minimum inhibitory concentration values less than 50 μg/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pterorhachis. zenkeri commonly known as "Ayilalou" or "Démareur" is an aphrodisiac plant used by Cameroonian traditional healers to enhance libido and sperm production. This study was undertaken to investigate the aphrodisiac mechanism of P. zenkeri on the contractile activity of vas deferens with regard to its function on ejaculation. Materials and Methods: The proximal parts of rat vas deferens were mounted in a 20 mL organ bath containing Krebs solution at 37°C. Cumulative dose-response curves were recorded with KCl (35-280 mM), adrenaline (7-70 µM) and aqueous extract of P. zenkeri (3,55-21,3 mg/mL). Prazosin (type 1 alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist, 10 µM), Nifedipine (a specific L-type calcium channel antagonist, 5 µM), 2-AminoethoxydiPhenyl Borate (2-APB, IP3 receptor antagonist, 200 μM) and calcium-free medium were further used to study the mechanism of action. Results: KCl, adrenaline and aqueous extract of P. zenkeri showed a concentration-dependent effect on vas deferens contractibility. Nifedipine and Pazosin partially inhibited the effects of P. zenkeri. In calcium-free medium containing Ethylene Glycol-bis (2-aminoethylether)-N,N,N'N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA, 1µM), P. zenkeri triggered vas deferens contraction which was completely abolished in the presence of 2-APB. These results suggest that the aqueous extract of P zenkeri possesses bioactive compounds capable of inducing vas deferens contractions through type 1 alpha adrenergic receptors and mobilization of extra and intracellular calcium. Conclusion: These results confirm the aphrodisiac properties of P. zenkeri through the activation of the emissive phase of ejaculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sesquiterpenoids, an important class of natural products possessing three isoprene-derived units, are widely distributed across plants and have a variety of biological activities. All sesquiterpenoids are derived from farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP), a biosynthesis precursor that can form various carbon skeletons. In order to provide a reference for further research and development of these compounds, this review focused on the increasing number of isolated and volatile sesquiterpenoids found to be produced by plants of the Meliaceae family between 1968 and 2023. The related articles were collected from SciFinder, Google Scholar, and PubMed. According to a literature review, several studies were started for more than 55 years on the plant's stem barks, twigs, leaves, flowers, seeds, and pericarps, where approximately 413 sesquiterpenoid compounds from several groups such as eudesmane, aromadendrane, cadinane, guaiane, bisabolane, furanoeremophilane, humulene, germacrane, and oppositane-type were isolated and identified with some minor products. Additionally, the hypothetical route of sesquiterpenoids biosynthesis from this family was identified, and eudesmane-type was reported to be 27% of the total compounds. The antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiplasmodial, antiviral, and cytotoxic activities of the isolated compounds and major volatile sesquiterpenoids constituent on essential oil were also evaluated. The result showed the fundamental of using the sesquiterpenoid compounds from the Meliaceae family in traditional medicine and the discovery of new drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steroids are one of the secondary metabolite groups that are abundant in many organisms. In plants, this type of compound is called phytosterols. Phytosterols have been widely known to show many potential bioactivities such as antiinflammatory, induced apoptosis, cytotoxic, anti-diabetic, angiogenic, and antioxidant. One of the sources of phytosterol compounds is the genus Aglaia. As the largest genus in the Meliaceae family, the genus Aglaia contains many bioactive compounds, including steroids. This research reported the isolation, structural determination, and cytotoxic activity of steroid compounds from the stem bark of Aglaia cucullata, one of the members of the Aglaia genus. Pure isolated steroid was obtained after maceration of dried stem bark with ethanol and partitioned based on difference polarity, continued by column chromatography. Spectroscopic methods, including HRMS, FTIR, 1D and 2D NMR, were used for structural determination. The compound structure identified as stigmast-5-en-3β-ol-3β-oleate was first isolated from this species. MCF-7 breast cancer cell, B16-F10 melanoma cell, and CV-1 normal fibroblast kidney cell were used to evaluate its cytotoxicity. Stigmast-5-en-3β-ol-3β-oleate displayed low cytotoxicity against those two cancer cells and a normal cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramicines are a series of limonoids that were isolated from the bark of Malaysian Chisocheton ceramicus (Meliaceae) and were known to show various biological activity. Four new limonoids, ceramicines Q–T (1–4) were isolated from the barks of C. ceramicus, and their structures were determined on the basis of the 1D and 2D NMR analyses in combination with calculated 13C chemical shift data. Ceramicines Q–T (1–4) were established to be new limonoids with a cyclopentanone[α]phenanthren ring system with a β-furyl ring at C-17, and without a tetrahydrofuran ring like ceramicine B, which is characteristic of known ceramicines. Ceramicine R (2) exhibited potent antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain with IC50 value of 2.8 µM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mahogany family, Meliaceae, contains 58 genera with only one mangrove genus: Xylocarpus. Two of the three species of the genus Xylocarpus are true mangroves (X. granatum and X. moluccensis), and one is a non-mangrove (X. rumphii). In order to resolve the phylogenetic relationship between the mangrove and non-mangrove species, we sequenced chloroplast genomes of these Xylocarpus species along with two non-mangrove species of the Meliaceae family (Carapa guianensis and Swietenia macrophylla) and compared the genome features and variations across the five species. The five Meliaceae species shared 130 genes (85 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA, and eight rRNA) with identical direction and order, with a few variations in genes and intergenic spacers. The repetitive sequences identified in the rpl22 gene region only occurred in Xylocarpus, while the repetitive sequences in accD were found in X. moluccensis and X. rumphii. The TrnH-GUG and rpl32 gene regions and four non-coding gene regions showed high variabilities between X. granatum and the two non-mangrove species (S. macrophylla and C. guianensis). In addition, among the Xylocarpus species, only two genes (accD and clpP) showed positive selection. Carapa guianensis and S. macrophylla owned unique RNA editing sites. The above genes played an important role in acclimation to different stress factors like heat, low temperature, high UV light, and high salinity. Phylogenetic analysis with 22 species in the order Sapindales supported previous studies, which revealed that the non-mangrove species X. rumphii is closer to X. moluccensis than X. granatum. Overall, our results provided important insights into the variation of genetic structure and adaptation mechanism at interspecific (three Xylocarpus species) and intergeneric (mangrove and non-mangrove genera) levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): The aim of this study was to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of Pseudocedrela kotschyi leaf decoction by making a comparison between extracts harvested over three months. Design: This study is done through a few experiences. After the quantification of total polyphenols by folin-Ciocalteu reagent method, the antioxidant activities were tested with ABTS, DPPH and FRAP essays. Then, the glucose oxidase kit was used to determine the glucose adsorption capacity of the extracts. At last, dinitrosalicylic acid method served to evaluate the α-amylase inhibitory activity of the extracts. Results: As results the leaves extracts of Pseudocedrela kotschyi showed a polyphenol content of 39,97 ± 3,63 mg EAG/g DE for October, 74,2 ± 11,64 for November and 59,45 ± 7,024 for December. For total flavonoids, the content was 4,86 ± 0,29 mg QE/g DE (October) 5,68 ± 0,39 mg QE/g DE (November) and 5,548 ± 0,19 mg QE/g DE (December). In addition, the antioxidant activity was correlated with the phenolic content (r = -0.65 for DPPH IC50, r = -0.84 for ABTS IC50 and r = 0.97 for FRAP). Besides, the extracts exhibited a strong α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 0,272 mg DE/mL for October, 0,097 mg DE/mL for November and 0,101 mg DE/mL for December) and had a high capacity to adsorb glucose (over 219,98 ±2,54mmol/g DE for a 30mM glucose solution for November). Conclusion: Pseudocedrela kotschyi leaf decoction has the ability to inhibit α-amylase activity and adsorb glucose in glucose concentrated solution. So it possess a high antidiabetic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toona sinensis is an important "vegetable and timber" tree species that is widely distributed in eastern and southeastern Asia. An efficient mechanism for preserving and utilizing germplasm resources is crucial for speeding up the process of genetic improvement of T. sinensis. We collected a total of 1040 germplasm resources of T. sinensis from China, Britain, and New Zealand. Using a total of 27,040 markers, we analyzed the genetic diversity, genetic structure, and core collection of these resources. Additionally, a comprehensive evaluation method for phenotypes of T. sinensis was established by principal component analysis (PCA) and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). Our analysis included three main results: Firstly, the breeding population, consisting of a total of 1040 individuals, contains a diverse genetic pool and can be divided into two genetic clusters. Secondly, the best core collection was obtained from the alternative population, consisting of a total of 208 individuals and comprising 20% of the breeding population. It was screened out based on Core Hunter 3 software with the average entry-to-nearest-entry (E-NE) algorithm. Finally, a comprehensive evaluation method was established based on eight selected agronomic traits of the core collection. This method allowed us to screen the best individual plants of the core collection, including N0237, N0972, and N0409. Overall, our research findings will enable better preservation and utilization of T. sinensis germplasm resources and result in faster improvement of T. sinensis varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aimé S Ouédraogo,2,3 Arsène W Nikiema,1,2 Moustapha Abdoulaye Gambo,1,2 Norbert Ramde,2,3 Estelle NH Youl,1,2 Assita Sanou-Lamien,2,3 Olga Mélanie Lompo,2,3 Pierre I Guissou1,21Laboratoire de Développement du Médicament, Ecole Doctorale Sciences et Santé (ED2S), Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 2Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 3Laboratoire d'Anatomie Pathologique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Yalgado Ouédraogo, Ouagadougou, Burkina FasoCorrespondence: Moussa Ouédraogo, Laboratoire de Développement du Médicament, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, BP: 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Tel +226 25 30 70 64 /65, Email ouem [email protected] Purpose: This study aimed to provide pharmacological evidence of Pseudocedrela kotschyi and Ximenia americana in preventing or healing peptic ulcers claimed by traditional healers in Burkina Faso. Methods: The trunk bark of Pseudocedrela kotschyi and the roots bark of Ximenia americana (Olacaceae) were macerated in mixed ethanol/water (80:20), respectively, to obtain dried extracts. Two models of hydrochloric acid (HCl, 0.3 M/ethanol, 60%) and hypothermic stress-induced peptic ulcer were used. The cytoprotective effect of individual or combined plant extracts was assessed at 1; 10; 30mg/kg. bw. Then, the healing effect of the extracts at 10mg/kg.bw was evaluated within 21 days of treatment on the hydrochloric acid-induced ulcer model. The extracts' antioxidant activity and phenolic content were assessed to support the plant extracts' efficiency. Results: The extracts of P. kotschyi and X. americana at 10 mg/kg.bw reduced ulceration index in hydrochloric acid- and hypothermic stress-ulcer models by more than 83% and 65%, respectively. The extract from X. americana at 10mg/kg.bw allowed complete ulcer healing but not the association of the two plant extracts. The plant extracts had IC50of inhibition of DPPH radical lower than 5μg/mL and total ferric reducing antioxidant power of more than 77 mg EQAA/100mg. The total polyphenolic content was 64.82 ± 0.99 and 53.75 ± 1.39 mg EGA/g of dried extract of P. kotschyi and X. americana, respectively. Conclusion: X. americana extract is better than the combined two plant extracts in gastric cytoprotection and ulcer healing. Further investigations are needed to highlight mechanism-based effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruagea (Meliaceae) comprises c. 15 species of small or medium-sized trees distributed in Central and South America, predominantly in montane rain forest and cloud forest of the Andes. The taxonomic position of Ruagea has changed several times in the past, and it was previously included in Guarea. Ruagea is currently accepted as a separate genus based on morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses at the family level. However, its monophyly has not been accurately tested, and phylogenetic relationships among species are still largely unknown. In addition, delimitation of species boundaries is not straightforward due to morphological diversity within species. Here, we present the first phylogenetic reconstruction of Ruagea based on two nuclear ribosomal (ITS, ETS) and two plastid DNA regions (rps4-trnT , psbA-trnH). Our results show that Ruagea is monophyletic and composed of four main clades (A, B, C and D). Clade D, comprising the Ecuadorian endemic R. membranacea and a potentially new species from Colombia, is sister to the rest of the genus. Our results demonstrate that R. membranacea and R. insignis are monophyletic and provide support for the recognition of two new species with divergent morphologies. The delimitation of the remaining species remains unresolved as they are recovered as either poly- or paraphyletic. Our results highlight the complexity of the taxonomy of Ruagea , as found in other rainforest taxa, and the need for further detailed analyses to delimit these taxa. This study provides the first and most extensive phylogenetic analysis of the genus so far, representing a contribution towards understanding the evolutionary history of Ruagea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The roots of different forest species show mixed colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and dark septate fungi (DSE). In temperate ecosystems, AMF colonization and community structure change according to plantation age, while colonization by DSE is apparently unaffected. However, in tropical ecosystems, little has been documented on the possible changes caused by plantation age on mycorrhizal fungal communities. We analyzed AMF and DSE colonization and described the glomerospore community structure associated with three agroforestry systems of different Cedrela odorata plantation ages (8, 13 and 17 years), in addition to a secondary forest, during the dry season in southeastern Costa Rica. We detected statistical differences in total colonization in the agroforestry systems with respect to the secondary forest (P < 0.05). Among the agroforestry systems, total colonization was higher in 8-year-old trees and DSE were only detected in agroforestry systems with higher colonization in 8-year-old trees. The abundance and richness of glomerospores were higher in the agroforestry systems than in the secondary forest, with greater richness in younger plantations. We isolated 39 morphospecies, 27 from the plantations and 17 from the secondary forest, with a greater representativeness of Acaulospora and Glomus. We also provide four new AMF reports for Costa Rica (Acaulospora laevis, A. excavata, A. spinosissima, and A. bireticulata). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chukrasia tabularis A. Juss produces a valuable timber but plantations are susceptible to attack by the shoot-tip borer Hypsipyla robusta Moore. An integrated pest management (IPM) approach is desirable to limit the extent of damage. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the deployment of IPM measures in plantations in Vietnam. Data on tree damage and the biology of H. robusta were gathered in 4 provinces over one year and used to build an investigation schedule. Two preliminary IPM trials were then established in which Bacillus thuringiensis and Metarhizium anisopliae were applied to the foliage when the damage incidence (P%) was in the range 5–10%; and insecticides (Carbaryl, Carbosulfan) were applied when the P% exceeded 10%. In addition, larvae and pupae were removed manually over time. In the first trial, the combination of manual and biological control methods reduced the damage index (DI) of trees from 4 tolerant families by 82% compared to the untreated control plots. In the second trial using standard planting stock, application of insecticides was required to reduce the DI by 83%. Six extended IPM trials were undertaken using the same IPM protocols and these reduced the DI to the same extent as in the preliminary trials. Over an 18-month period, the deployment of IPM increased height growth by 19–22% and diameter growth by 38–41% compared to the controls. These findings highlight the value of planting improved seed and the benefit of adopting an IPM approach to manage the shoot-tip borer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapindales is an angiosperm order of high economic and ecological value comprising nine families, c. 479 genera, and c. 6570 species. However, family and subfamily relationships in Sapindales remain unclear, making reconstruction of the order's spatio-temporal and morphological evolution difficult. In this study, we used Angiosperms353 target capture data to generate the most densely sampled phylogenetic trees of Sapindales to date, with 448 samples and c. 85% of genera represented. The percentage of paralogous loci and allele divergence was characterized across the phylogeny, which was time-calibrated using 29 rigorously assessed fossil calibrations. All families were supported as monophyletic. Two core family clades subdivide the order, the first comprising Kirkiaceae, Burseraceae, and Anacardiaceae, the second comprising Simaroubaceae, Meliaceae, and Rutaceae. Kirkiaceae is sister to Burseraceae and Anacardiaceae, and, contrary to current understanding, Simaroubaceae is sister to Meliaceae and Rutaceae. Sapindaceae is placed with Nitrariaceae and Biebersteiniaceae as sister to the core Sapindales families, but the relationships between these families remain unclear, likely due to their rapid and ancient diversification. Sapindales families emerged in rapid succession, coincident with the climatic change of the Mid-Cretaceous Hothouse event. Subfamily and tribal relationships within the major families need revision, particularly in Sapindaceae, Rutaceae and Meliaceae. Much of the difficulty in reconstructing relationships at this level may be caused by the prevalence of paralogous loci, particularly in Meliaceae and Rutaceae, that are likely indicative of ancient gene duplication events such as hybridization and polyploidization playing a role in the evolutionary history of these families. This study provides key insights into factors that may affect phylogenetic reconstructions in Sapindales across multiple scales, and provides a state-of-the-art phylogenetic framework for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi endophytes are living microorganisms colonizing inside the internal tissue of a plant and provide ecological benefits for their host. Endophytes provide various metabolites for plant adaptation toward biotic and abiotic stresses and have tremendous pharmacological activities. Toona sureni (T. sureni) (Meliaceae) belongs to the Toona genera and is reported to have antimalarial activity. To determine the compounds produced by the endophytic fungus from this plant, we isolated a compound from Periconia pseudobyssoides (P. pseudobyssoides) K5 endophytes from the stem bark of T. sureni. Diketopiperazine cyclo-(S-Pro-R-Leu), a non-ribosomal peptide, was isolated from brown rice fermented at 28 ± 2 ℃ for 30 days. The structure was determined by spectroscopic methods including fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. This compound was evaluated for heme polymerization inhibition activity (HPIA) with an IC50 value of 9.89 ± 0.24 mmol/L compared with positive control chloroquine phosphate with an IC50 value of 3.08 ± 0.58 mmol/L. This compound has been categorized as having low activity three times lower than positive control chloroquine phosphate. This information provides new leads about the compound diketopiperazine cyclo-(S-Pro-R-Leu) produced by P. pseudobyssoides K5 endophytes having low activity in inhibiting heme polymerization. In the future, to explore the potency of this compound as antimalarial agent, the other antimalarial test such as lactate dehydrogenase assay might be useful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Meliaceae is a useful plant family owing to its high‐quality timber and its many limonoids that have pharmacological and biological activities. Although some genomes of Meliaceae species have been reported, many questions regarding their unique family features, namely wood quality and natural products, have not been answered. In this study, we provide the whole‐genome sequence of Melia azedarach comprising 237.16 Mb with a contig N50 of 8.07 Mb, and an improved genome sequence of Azadirachta indica comprising 223.66 Mb with a contig N50 of 8.91 Mb. Moreover, genome skimming data, transcriptomes and other published genomes were comprehensively analysed to determine the genes and proteins that produce superior wood and valuable limonoids. Phylogenetic analysis of chloroplast genomes, single‐copy gene families and single‐nucleotide polymorphisms revealed that Meliaceae should be classified into two subfamilies: Cedreloideae and Melioideae. Although the Meliaceae species did not undergo additional whole‐genome duplication events, the secondary wall biosynthetic genes of the woody Cedreloideae species, Toona sinensis, expanded significantly compared to those of A. indica and M. azedarach, especially in downstream transcription factors and cellulose/hemicellulose biosynthesis‐related genes. Moreover, expanded special oxidosqualene cyclase catalogues can help diversify Sapindales skeletons, and the clustered genes that regulate terpene chain elongation, cyclization and modification would support their roles in limonoid biosynthesis. The expanded clans of terpene synthase, O‐methyltransferase and cytochrome P450, which are mainly derived from tandem duplication, are responsible for the different limonoid classes among the species. These results are beneficial for further investigations of wood development and limonoid biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lansium domesticum Corr. is a member of the Meliaceae family that is widely spread in tropical and subtropical region of Asia and America. Traditionally, the fruit of this plant has been consumed because of its sweet taste. However, the fruit peels and the seeds of this plant have been rarely utilized. The previous chemical investigation of this plant showed the presence of secondary metabolites with many biological activities, including cytotoxic triterpenoid. Triterpenoids is a class of secondary metabolites which contain thirty carbon atoms in the main skeleton. The high modification of this type of compound, including the ring opening, highly oxygenated carbons, and the degradation of its carbon chain to give the nor-triterpenoid structure, is responsible for its cytotoxic activity. In this paper, we isolated and elucidated the chemical structure of two new onoceranoid triterpenes, kokosanolides E (1) and F (2), from the fruit peels of L. domesticum Corr., along with a new tetranortriterpenoid, kokosanolide G (3), from the seeds of L. domesticum Corr. The structural determination of compounds 1–3 was undertaken through FTIR spectroscopic analysis, 1D and 2D NMR, mass spectrometry, as well as through a comparison of the chemical shifts of the partial structures of compounds 1–3 with the literature data. The cytotoxic properties of compounds 1–3 were tested against MCF-7 breast cancer cells using the MTT assay. Moderate activity was shown by compounds 1 and 3, with IC50 values of 45.90 and 18.41 μg/mL, respectively, while compound 2 showed no activity (IC50 168.20 μg/mL). For the onoceranoid-type triterpene, the high symmetrical structure of compound 1 is presumably the reason for its better cytotoxic activity compared with that of compound 2. Compound 3 showed moderate activity, mainly because of the presence of the furan ring, which, based on the literature, gives better cytotoxic activity in a tetranortriterpenoid-type structure. The findings of three new triterpenoid compounds from L. domesticum indicate the significant value of this plant as a source of new compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mahogany shoot borer, Hypsipyla grandella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is one of the most economically important pests in all American tropical forests because it prevents the establishment of monoculture plantations of the family Meliaceae, such as Spanish cedar, Cedrela odorata L. Various studies have focussed on the bioecological aspects and the chemical and silvicultural control of this pest. However, relatively little is known about the biological interactions between this insect and its host plant. In this study, the shoot borer's behavior and attraction response to cedar host plants was evaluated in field cages. We also identified the volatiles emitted by healthy C. odorata plants that were attractive to H. grandella adults. The attraction to headspace volatiles from cedar plants and a synthetic blend were evaluated in a Y-glass tube olfactometer. We observed that virgin and mated females exhibited low activity at night, frequent movement of the antennae, sporadic flight activity, and short (< 10 s) and long (> 30 s) wing-fanning. Virgin females assumed a calling position, whereas mated females exhibited three periods of oviposition. The results showed that all evaluated categories – virgin females, virgin males, and mated females – were attracted to cedar plants. We identified the following volatile compounds: α-pinene, (E)-β-ocimene, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, limonene, nonanal, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, α-copaene, β-caryophyllene, and germacrene D. A synthetic blend significantly attracted virgin male and mated female shoot borers. Our results suggested that C. odorata volatiles compounds are responsible for the attraction of H. grandella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new 1,2-seco phragmalin-type limonoid, named trichilinone A, which contained a 1,30-oxo bridge in the tetranortriterpenoid core, was isolated from the roots of Trichilia sinensis (Meliaceae). The structure was elucidated based on the analysis of its HRESIMS and NMR spectroscopic data, and its absolute configuration was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Compound 1 showed weak acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in vitro. [Display omitted] • A new 1,2-seco phragmalin-type limonoid was isolated. • The absolute configuration of compound 1 was established. • Compound 1 showed weak acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lansium domesticum Corr. (L. domesticum), Meliaceae, has an economical fruit found throughout the southeast and has been reported to be used in traditional medicine. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential of four extracts from the stembark of L. domesticum Corr. cv. Kokossan and isolated four terpenoid compounds. Antimicrobial testing was performed on two fungi, namely Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans, and two bacteria, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Furthermore, antimicrobial activity was determined using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). All isolated extracts were also tested on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The results showed that butanol and n-hexane extracts have antimicrobial potential against K. pneumoniae bacteria with MIC values of 7.8125 mg/mL and 62.5 mg/mL, respectively, as well as against the dandruff fungus M. furfur. In addition to the antimicrobial results, the anticancer test results also showed that n-hexane has the most interesting cytotoxic value of all extracts, with an IC50 of 42.95 µg/mL than extracts of ethyl acetate, ethanol, and butanol with respective IC50 values of 72.84; 74.50, and 12088.33 µg/mL. The n-hexane and n-butanol extracts have anticancer and antimicrobial potential. These extracts can be studied further for other bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

M. azedarach fruit extracts had the highest saponin content, followed by A. indica and T. ciliata. The fully ripened fruits of Melia azedarach (Dhrek) and Toona ciliata (Toon) were collected in the months of May-June, while the fruits of Azadirachta indica (Neem) were collected in July-August during the peak fruiting period. The ethanol extracts possessed higher phenol content than aqueous extracts, with maximum phenol content in the ethanol fraction of A. indica fruits and minimum in T. ciliata fruit extract. Maximum % growth inhibition was recorded with ethanolic neem fruit extract at 50% concentration (76.34%) followed by aqueous neem fruit extract at 50% concentration (71.87%). [Extracted from the article]

The chemical investigation of the EtOH extract from the stem bark of Trichilia monadelpha (Thonn.) J. J. De Wilde afforded two new limonoids (1 and 2): 24-acetoxy-21,25-dihydroxy-21,23-epoxytirucall-7-en-3-one (1) and (6R)-1-O-deacetylkhayanolide E (2), together with eleven known compounds (3–13), including additional limonoids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids, and fatty acid. Their structures were determined using 1D- and 2D-NMR experiments, ESI mass spectrometry, and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The antibacterial and antiplasmodial activities of the extracts, sub-extracts, fractions, and some of the isolated compounds were evaluated in known pathogenic strains, including Staphylococcus aureus and Plasmodium falciparum. Fraction E (n-Hex/EtOAc 30:70, v/v) showed significant activity against S. aureus ATCC 25923 with a MIC value of 3.90 µg/mL, while one of its constituents (epicatechin (9)) exhibited significant activity with MIC values of 7.80 µg/mL. Interestingly, grandifotane A (6) (IC50 = 1.37 µM) and khayanolide D (5) (IC50 = 1.68 µM) were highly active against the chloroquine-sensitive/sulfadoxine-resistant plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain, unlike their corresponding plant extract and fractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diversity of structures of triterpenoids provides a variety of interesting pharmacological effects, one of them being anticancer. Sources of triterpenoids are found in Dysoxylum excelsum, it is still rarely studied, and it potentially contains triterpenoids with cytotoxic activity. Therefore, the research aimed to isolate the triterpenoids from the stem bark of D. excelsum and determine their cytotoxic efficacy against the breast cancer cells of MCF-7. The dried stem bark of D. excelsum was macerated using methanol and then fractionated with n-hexane and ethyl acetate to obtain the corresponding fractions. Two triterpenoids, 3α,7α-dihydroxyapotirucalla-14,24-Z-dien-26-oic acid (1) and masticadienonic acid or 3-oxo-tirucalla-7,24-Z-dien-26-oic acid (2) were isolated in the first place from the Dysoxylum genus. Compounds 1 and 2 were assayed for their cytotoxic potency anti- MCF-7 using the MTT assay and gave moderate IC50 values of 60.87 and 72.86 µM, respectively. Based on their analogs, partial structure modification of the compounds might increase the activity; thus, it can be further utilized as better lead compounds for anticancer drugs candidate.

Eight cyclopenta[ b ]benzofurans (1 , 2 , 4 , and 5 - 9) and eight cyclopenta[ bc ]benzopyrans (3 , 10 – 16), including a revised (4) and three undescribed compounds (1 – 3), were isolated from the twigs and leaves of Aglaia edulis (Roxb.) Wall. Their structures were determined by a combination of spectral analysis in conjunction with NMR and ECD calculations. Moreover, based on the findings from 13C NMR calculations and DP4+ statistical analysis, an empirical guideline was established to differentiate the structures of cyclopenta[ bc ]benzopyrans and cyclopenta[ b ]benzofurans by aggregating chemical shift data from known compounds. This guideline facilitated the proposal of structural revisions for three previously reported analogs (R-1 , R-2 , R-3). Biological assay indicated that cyclopenta[ b ]benzofuran flavalines (2 , and 4–8) could significantly inhibit NO production in LPS-induced BV-2 cells with IC 50 values from 0.002 to 0.05 μM. Three previously undescribed flavaglines were identified from Aglaia edulis , and an empirical guideline was established to differentiate the structures of cyclopenta[ bc ]benzopyrans and cyclopenta[ b ]benzofurans. [Display omitted] • Three previously undescribed flavaglines were identified from Aglaia edulis. • An empirical rule was established to differentiate the subtypes of flavaglines. • Four previously reported flavaglines structures were reassigned. • Compounds 2, and 4–8 could inhibit NO production in LPS-induced BV-2 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meliaceae plants are found worldwide in tropical or subtropical climates. They are important ethnobotanically as sources of traditional medicine, with 575 species and 51 genera. Previous research found that microorganisms are plant pioneers to produce secondary metabolites with diverse compound structures and bioactivities. Several plants of the Meliaceae family contain secondary metabolites isolated from endophytic fungi. Furthermore, related articles from 2002 to 2022 were collected from SciFinder, Google Scholar, and PubMed. About 276 compounds were isolated from endophytic fungi such as terpenoids, polyketides, lactones, pyrones, quinone, anthraquinones, xanthones, coumarines, isocoumarines, resorcylic acid lactones, cytochalasins, aromatics, ester, quinols, alkaloids, nitro compound, fatty acids, and sugars with bioactivities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-influenza, neuroprotective activities, anti-HIV, cytotoxic, allelopathic, anti-inflammatory, antifeedant effects, and BSLT toxicity. Meanwhile, secondary metabolites isolated from endophytic fungi were reported as one of the sources of active compounds for medicinal chemistry. This comprehensive review summarizes the ethnobotanical uses and secondary metabolites derived from Meliaceae endophytic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new triterpenoids, entanolide (1) and methyl 3,4-secotirucalla-23-oxo-4(28),7,24-trien-21-al-3-oate (2), together with nine known compounds (3-11), were isolated from the bark of Entandrophragma angolense. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic analyses, mainly 1 D and 2 D NMR spectral data. Compounds 1-6 and 8 were evaluated for their cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells, and compounds 2-5 exhibited weak activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aglaia is the most widespread and species-rich genus in Meliaceae, comprising 124 species. Aglaia elaeagnoidea has presented a longstanding dilemma for taxonomists; it is highly morphologically and ecologically variable, and has a range extending across India, Southeast Asia, Australia and islands of the western Pacific Ocean. Previous work has examined molecular variation in the eastern part of the species' range; however, molecular variation in the western half of its distribution remained uncharacterised, precluding taxonomic resolution of the complex. In this study, we used DArT-seq analysis to investigate genetic structure in A. elaeagnoidea from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Java and Bali. We find a strong genetic disjunction between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, suggesting that western A. elaeagnoidea comprises two taxa. On the basis of these results, in combination with morphology and previous molecular work on eastern A. elaeagnoidea, we resolve A. elaeagnoidea into three species, retaining A. elaeagnoidea for the eastern (type) species, and reinstating A. wallichii for a species in Bangladesh, Thailand, Java and Bali, and A. roxburghiana for a species occurring in India and Sri Lanka. We provide descriptions for each taxon and a key to the species, thereby resolving a previously difficult species group in a notoriously complex genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new limonoid, belonging to the havanensin-type, called pentandricine E (1), alongside four other known types, i.e., trichilenone acetate (2), toonaciliatones C (3), 11α-acetoxyazadirone (4) and ceramicine I (5), were found in Chisocheton pentandrus stem bark. The structures of the isolated 1-5 were identified by NMR spectroscopy and HRTOFMS. Pentandricine E (1) displayed the highest cytotoxicity toward the MCF-7 breast cancer line with an IC50 value of 63.27 ± 0.21 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new oleanane-type triterpenoid, 3-oxo-olean-11(12)-en-28-oic acid (1) and four known oleananes (2–5), have been isolated from the Chisocheton macrophyllus King fruit. The chemical structures were unambiguously established through extensive spectroscopic data analysis of IR, HR-MS, and NMR. The cytotoxic effect of the compounds was evaluated against MCF-7 and A-549 cells. All compounds had no cytotoxic activity against both cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toona ciliata is an important timber species but is recognized as an endangered species at level II in China. Its genetic conservation is of increasing concern. Provenance trials and other breeding programs were conducted to develop seed transfer rules and multiplications. Here, we investigated twenty-nine populations sampled across the natural distribution of the T. ciliata complex using mtDNA and nrDNA ITS (ribosomal internal transcribed spacer) markers. Haplotype diversity was h = 0.190 ± 0.202 and nucleotide diversity was π = 0.000383 ± 0.000536 for mtDNA marker. Nucleotide diversity for ITS sequences was 0.00837 ± 0.000783. Haplotypes exhibited phylogeographic structure in spatial distribution. The extent of genetic differentiation was significant (Fst = 0.6994 ± 0.0079 for ITS and 0.8870 ± 0.0077 for mtDNA marker). Isolation by distance (IBD) and by elevation (IBE) occurred among populations. Phylogenetic relationships from mtDNA marker indicated three genetically distinct regions, each without IBD effects. Compared with pollen flow, seed flow was strongly impeded in the western region, but extensive in the central region, and less impeded in the eastern region. Most populations did not exhibit expansion, with only a few populations showing expansion after bottleneck effects. We discussed a strategy of region-based genetic conservation and proposed to conserve multiple populations in the western and eastern regions and a few populations in the central region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata L.) fruits and seeds, and to evaluate the effects of provenance, substrata, and fertilizer on germination and plant quality in nursery. Design/Methodology/Approach: The fruits and seeds from Spanish cedars were collected in three different towns: C-32 (Francisco Trujillo Gurria), C-40 (Ernesto Aguirre Colorado), and C-41 (Carlos A. Madrazo). Those towns are in Plan Chontalpa, Tabasco, Mexico. After they were harvested, the samples were morphometrically characterized. Seed production efficiency (SPE), germination (%), and Dickson Quality Index (DQI) were estimated. Two completely randomized experimental designs with factorial arrangement of treatments were used. The factors were the provenance, four or three substrata, and two levels of Greenfool® 600 fertilizer. Results: Fruits of 3.46 cm in length and 1.81 cm in width were collected; the mean number of seeds per fruit was 49.36. Seed production efficiency ranged from 48.1% to 52.72%, with 32.86% germination. The seeds from Town C-41 obtained the highest germination percentage, with the use of black soil:sand as substrate. The plants fertilized and developed in black soil:sand substrate obtained a higher DQI. Study Limitations/Implications: The activity restriction caused by the Sars-Cov-2 pandemic was the main limitation. The lower number of producers and plantations from Town C-32 was the implication. Findings/Conclusions: Fruit and seed characteristics were different among provenances. The provenance impacted on seed germination, but not on the plant quality index (DQI). Instead, the substrate and fertilizer impacted on the DQI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was aimed at divulging an eco-friendly antimicrobial finish on 100 % silk woven fabric. The leaves' extract of Azadirachata indica, Butea monosperma and Litche chinensis were used as the development of eco-friendly antimicrobial finish. The antimicrobial property and comfort related property were checked before and after applying antimicrobial finish. In comfort related property absorbency & air permeability were checked. The ASTEM E2149 Shake Flask method was used to check antimicrobial finish and AATCC method was used for checking fabric property. One way ANOVA statistical test was applied for analysis of results. The FTIR and SEM results showed the presences of finish on fabrics. In comfort related property, absorbency and air permeability was increased. The results showed that antimicrobial finish made 100% reduction against microorganism up to 25 washes which can be used in making reusable masks fight against COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melia dubia Cav. is a fast-growing plywood species gaining popularity due to high economic returns. This study aimed to assemble and annotate the chloroplast (cp) genome of M. dubia and compare it with previously published cp genomes within the Meliaceae family. The chloroplast genome was constructed by the de novo and reference-based assembly of paired-end reads generated by long-read sequencing of genomic DNA. The cp genome, sized 171,956 bp, comprised a typical angiosperm quadripartite structure. The large single-copy (LSC) region of 76,055 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,693 bp cover 55% of the genome. The pair of inverted repeats (IRA and IRB) were 38,604 bp each (covering 45% of the genome). We identified unique genes (112), including protein-coding genes (79), tRNA (29) and 4 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis using complete cp genomes of 11 species from Meliaceae revealed that M. dubia and M. azedarach shared a sister clade. Comparative analysis using cp genome of M. dubia, M. azedarach and Azadirachta indica revealed a high sequence similarity (> 70%). Five intergenic regions were highly conserved among the three cp genomes. The gene trnG-UCC at LSC region was found to be more divergent in M. dubia and M. azedarach, while it shows complete conservation within M. dubia and A. indica. This is the first report of the chloroplast genome in M. dubia. The available levels of taxonomic expertise and clarity in species delineation within the Melia genus are low. The information generated provides scope for identifying new barcodes which increases the discriminatory power of the species within the genus beyond morphological identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guarea is one of the largest genera of the American Meliaceae family, consisting of over 69 species which are widely distributed in Mexico, Argentina, and Africa and are used in traditional medicine for several diseases. Previous studies reported that the Guarea species produce secondary metabolites such as sesquiterpenoid, diterpenoid, triterpenoid, limonoid, steroid, and aromatic compounds. The preliminary chemical investigation commenced by isolating the limonoid compound, dihydrogedunin, in 1962; then, 240 compounds were obtained from the isolation and hydrodistillation process. Meanwhile, sesquiterpenoid is a significant compound with 52% of Guarea species. The extract and compounds were evaluated for their anti-inflammation, antimalarial, antiparasitic, antiprotozoal, antiviral, antimicrobial, insecticidal, antioxidant, phosphorylation inhibitor, and cytotoxic biological activities. The Guarea genus has also been reported as one of the sources of active compounds for medicinal chemistry. This review summarizes some descriptions regarding the types of Guarea species, especially ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology, such as the compounds isolated from the part of this genus, various isolation methods, and their bioactivities. The information can be used in further investigations to obtain more bioactive compounds and their reaction mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]