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Abstract Plants of the genus Cordia (Boraginaceae family) are widely distributed in the tropical regions of America, Africa, and Asia. They are extensively used in folk medicine due to their rich medicinal properties. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of the isolation, structure, biogenesis, and biological properties of quinones from Cordia species reported from 1972 to 2023. Meroterpenoids were identified as the major quinones in most Cordia species and are reported as a chemotaxonomic markers of the Cordia. In addition to this property, quinones are reported to display a wider and broader spectrum of activities, are efficient scaffold in biological activity, compared to other classes of compounds reported in Cordia, hence our focus on the study of quinones reported from Cordia species. About 70 types of quinones have been isolated, while others have been identified by phytochemical screening or gas chromatography. Although the biosynthesis of quinones from Cordia species is not yet fully understood, previous reports suggest that they may be derived from geranyl pyrophosphate and an aromatic precursor unit, followed by oxidative cyclization of the allylic methyl group. Studies have demonstrated that quinones from this genus exhibit antifungal, larvicidal, antileishmanial, anti-inflammatory, antibiofilm, antimycobacterial, antioxidant, antimalarial, neuroinhibitory, and hemolytic activities. In addition, they have been shown to exhibit remarkable cytotoxic effects against several cancer cell lines which is likely related to their ability to inhibit electron transport as well as oxidative phosphorylation, and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). Their biological activities indicate potential utility in the development of new drugs, especially as active components in drug-carrier systems, against a broad spectrum of pathogens and ailments. Graphical Abstract

Plants of the genus Cordia (Boraginaceae family) are widely distributed in the tropical regions of America, Africa, and Asia. They are extensively used in folk medicine due to their rich medicinal properties. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of the isolation, structure, biogenesis, and biological properties of quinones from Cordia species reported from 1972 to 2023. Meroterpenoids were identified as the major quinones in most Cordia species and are reported as a chemotaxonomic markers of the Cordia. In addition to this property, quinones are reported to display a wider and broader spectrum of activities, are efficient scaffold in biological activity, compared to other classes of compounds reported in Cordia, hence our focus on the study of quinones reported from Cordia species. About 70 types of quinones have been isolated, while others have been identified by phytochemical screening or gas chromatography. Although the biosynthesis of quinones from Cordia species is not yet fully understood, previous reports suggest that they may be derived from geranyl pyrophosphate and an aromatic precursor unit, followed by oxidative cyclization of the allylic methyl group. Studies have demonstrated that quinones from this genus exhibit antifungal, larvicidal, antileishmanial, anti-inflammatory, antibiofilm, antimycobacterial, antioxidant, antimalarial, neuroinhibitory, and hemolytic activities. In addition, they have been shown to exhibit remarkable cytotoxic effects against several cancer cell lines which is likely related to their ability to inhibit electron transport as well as oxidative phosphorylation, and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). Their biological activities indicate potential utility in the development of new drugs, especially as active components in drug-carrier systems, against a broad spectrum of pathogens and ailments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) protein dissolutes fibrin clots and prevents the disease like thrombosis. The current study aimed to study the tPA-promoting activity of bioactive molecules of Justicia adhatoda L (JA) and Cordia dichotoma Frost (CD). Methods: The phytochemical characterization of methanolic and aqueous extracts of JA and CD stems was performed through qualitative analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and biochemical tests (total phenolic and total flavonoid content [TPC and TFC]). The bioactivity of the extracts was studied through total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and ferric-reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assays. Finally, forty phytocompounds from JA and CD were identified from the literature, and in silico molecular docking study was performed to target tPA protein (PDB id 1A5H, Chain A, X-ray diffraction, resolution 2.90 Å). Results: Various phytochemical classes were identified from extracts, through qualitative and FTIR analysis. TPC and TFC were estimated from the JA and CD extracts within the range of 9.34–28.67 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g of extract weight (EW) and 2.48–16.17 mg quercetin equivalent/100 g of EW, respectively. The aqueous extract of CD showed the highest TAC of 14.90 ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE)/100 g of EW, and the methanolic extract of JA had the highest FRAP activity of 27.77 mg AAE/100 g EW. The molecular docking study showed that apigenin 6,8-di-glucopyranoside had the highest binding potential toward the tPA (−9.380 kcal/mol). Conclusion: It can be concluded that antioxidant phytochemicals of JA and CD could promote the tPA activity, thereby promoting thrombolytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are several infections and diseases that can affect plants. Diagnosis of plant diseases is a challenging task. A fascinating method for identifying plant diseases is computer-based diagnosis using digital images of plant’s leaves. Most of the earlier research in this field has been devoted to feature engineering and traditional machine learning (ML) techniques. Based on hand-crafted features taken from digital photographs of the plant’s leaves, these methods identify various plant diseases. It can be challenging to use feature engineering to extract high-quality features from these digital images. Deep learning (DL) algorithms, have relieved feature engineering by automatically extracting and learning resilient features. However, the high number of parameters in conventional DL models typically leads to overfitting. Therefore, gradient vanishing problems in vast networks intensify learning failure and generalization errors. Additionally, getting a big dataset for starting from scratch to train a deep learning model is also difficult. To solve these issues to detect Dome Galls in Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. early, this research suggests quick and efficient deep transfer learning (DTL) model. In the proposed method, a custom dataset of Cordia dichotoma leaf images is created. 1784 images of Cordia dichotoma leaf are collected in real world environment, and offline augmentation techniques are applied for obtaining the final training dataset of 5400 images. Further, image preprocessing techniques are used to enhance the images. A DL model, Yolov4, has been modified and is trained for the early detection of dome galls in the leaves of Cordia. The model is trained using pre-trained weights, a process called transfer learning (TL). The model is tested on another set of 200 images, and the results show an accuracy of 95% and an F1-score of 95.8%. Experimental results show that the modified Yolov4 performs 3% more accurately than the original Yolov4.

Lowering blood glucose levels by enhancing glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation is an important strategy in glucose homeostasis in insulin-sensitive tissues. Similarly, traditional medicinal plants are used by several traditional healers, and plants are a possible avenue for the discovery and development of antidiabetic drugs. The study aimed to investigate the effects of Cordia grandicalyx Oberm. bark, fruit, and leaf extracts through glucose uptake activity by preadipocytes, liver and skeletal muscle cells, relative to their capability on increasing GLUT4 translocation. In addition, the protein expression and phosphorylation of diabetes-related proteins were performed. The C. grandicalyx extracts increased glucose uptake activity by enhancing GLUT4 translocation. Moreover, it was established that the co-usage of insulin with plant extracts increased the glucose uptake activity in comparison to insulin. The extracts upregulated total insulin receptor substrate expression and increased the phosphorylation of Akt levels. This data, therefore, suggests that C. grandicalyx enhances glucose uptake by modulating insulin signalling, potentially through GLUT4 translocation and upregulation of diabetes-related proteins, possibly mimicking the PI3-K/Akt pathway. This, therefore, suggests that C. grandicalyx is a possible candidate for the management of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schematic illustration of AgNPs synthesis, foliar application on lettuce with morpho-anatomical characterizations.

Two new species of Cordia L. (Boraginales: Cordiaceae), C. caudata J. S. Mill. and C. caucana J. S. Mill., are described from Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Both species are quite distinctive morphologically, but their relationships are not evident, so they are compared with the two other species known from Colombia with which they are most likely to be confused. Both new species are apparently uncommon and have geographically restricted ranges and are of conservation concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Antihistamine drugs for acute upper respiratory tract infection treatment in children have many side effects. In this study, a anti-cough syrup was prepared from Cordia (Sepestan in Persian) extract and its effect was compared to that of diphenhydramine syrup on cough relief of children with upper respiratory tract infection. Subjects and Methods This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 124 children with upper respiratory tract infection aged 6-12 years referred to Abouzar Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran during 2019- 2021 in two treatment groups. The first group was given Sepestan syrup at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day and the second group received diphenhydramine syrup at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day in four dosages. For three days, the number and severity of day-time and night-time coughs were examined and the data were analyzed with independent t-test and chi-square test in SPSS software, version 24. Results The number and severity of day-time and night-time coughs in the group received Sepestan syrup significantly decreased compared to the diphenhydramine group, without any side effects (P<0.001). Conclusion High polysaccharides, strong antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds of Sepestan can reduce throat irritation and soften the chest. The mucilage in the Sepestan extract can dissolve in water and produce a viscous substance such as gelatin that cause softening of the breast and expectoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of indolebutyric acid (IBA) concentration, substrate composition and volume, and propagule type on the adventitious rooting and quality of Cordia trichotoma plantlets produced by mini-cuttings. Mini-cuttings were evaluated for rooting percentage and root number and length at 30 and 60 days of cultivation. Plantlets were evaluated for shoot height and stem diameter at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days of cultivation. The Dickson quality index, number of leaves, and fresh and dry weights of shoots and roots were also determined at 120 days of cultivation. The experiments were carried out in a completely randomized design, with six replicates, in a greenhouse, evaluating different concentrations of IBA, substrate composition and volume, and propagule type for adventitious rooting. Plantlets of C. trichotoma can be produced with quality and proper rooting from mini-cuttings with one or two buds or multiple buds (apical) when treated with 3,000 mg L-1 IBA and planted in 110 cm3 tubes containing equal proportions of substrate and vermiculite.

The influence of 2% and 5% Cordia (CG) and Ziziphus (ZG) gums on dough characteristics and cookie quality was investigated. Micro-DoughLab, a texture analyzer (TA), a rapid viscoanalyzer (RVA), and solvent retention capacity were used to examine the effect of CG and ZG gums on dough physicochemical parameters (SRC) and cookie quality. The diameter, thickness, spread, and sensory evaluation of cookies were evaluated. With the addition of CG and ZG, dough softness, mixing time, and mixing tolerance index (MTI) increased, whereas stability and water absorption decreased. TA data showed that adding gums resulted in softer and less sticky doughs than the control, whereas RVA data showed that adding CG resulted in a significant increase in peak viscosity, but no change in flour gel setback. In comparison to the control and CG samples, the ZG samples exhibited the most dough extensibility. The thickness and diameter of the cookies increased but the spread decreased, due to the added gums. The gum-containing cookies had a lower overall acceptability by panelists than the control, although only by a small margin. Gum-containing cookies, on the other hand, can deliver up to 5% soluble fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A new species of Cordia L. (Boraginales: Cordiaceae) is described from Amazonian Venezuela and Colombia. Cordia carnevalii J. S. Mill. is distinct in its lanceolate to elliptic-lanceolate leaves borne on short petioles, and axillary inflorescences. It is vegetatively distinct from other species of Cordia in Colombia and Venezuela, and no other species in the genus has leaves that are similar. The species occurs in a poorly known region of Amazonian Colombia and Venezuela, and is presently known from only three collections made in a very restricted area, so the species is clearly of conservation concern and is therefore provisionally considered Critically Endangered (CR) by IUCN Red List standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study assessed the antioxidant activity of methanolic extract and different fractions of the seeds of Cordia dichotoma by 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl hydrate method. Phytochemical screening of C. dichotoma seed extract was done using thin-layer chromatography technique and phytochemical methods. The percentage yield of secondary metabolites like alkaloids and saponins was also determined. The methanolic extract was subjected to isolation by Column Chromatography. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of significant amounts of phenols and flavonoids in the extract. TLC analysis confirmed the presence of phytoconstituents with the application of derivatizing agents like aluminium chloride and anisaldehyde. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents obtained were 37.7 and 32.16% w/w, respectively. The crude seed extract of C. dichotoma showed inhibition at all concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. Maximum scavenging activity was exhibited by the methanolic extract with a low IC50 value. A new compound named Cordioside was also isolated from the same extract. The phytochemical screening of the seed extract showed the presence of rich amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which may be acting as the key factors responsible for the antioxidant activity. The results revealed that methanolic extract and the aqueous fraction of C. dichotoma seed possess a significant antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cordia myxa L. is one of the medical plants that plays an important role in the treatment of many diseases. There are many studies explained that C. myxa can show antiinflammatory, anti-diabetic, antiparasitic, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. This review was focused on the active compounds and medical effects of C. myxa. The fatty acids contents are particularly high (9.9%). Sodium and potassium constitute the largest mineral proportion (13 ppm and 29 ppm respectively) of the fruit. However, the toxic heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium and copper have not been found in the fruit. This gives an additional significant benefit of the medical uses of the plant. The content of alkaloids, saponin, polyphenols, and comarine were recorded and was relatively high compared to steroids, resins, glycosides, tannins, and gum that found to be in less amounts. When the mucilage was extracted, the alkaloids constitute more than 35%. By using the Folin-Ciocalteu, C. myxa extracts have a high Phenolic content. The antibacterial activity against gram-negative bacteria were included in the fruit mucilage extract while the alcoholic extracts have no effect on all bacterial isolates. In addition, the mucilage extract showed anti-parasitic activity when it was tested against Leishmania infantum promastigotes. However, the highest concentration of extract significantly reduced the amounts of lymphocytes. Moreover, ethanolic extracts of C. myxa fruits give rise to leucocyte and lymphocyte count. Future research needs to be done on this kind of herbs which could show high medicinal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of 2% and 5% Cordia (CG) and Ziziphus (ZG) gums on dough characteristics and cookie quality was investigated. Micro-DoughLab, a texture analyzer (TA), a rapid viscoanalyzer (RVA), and solvent retention capacity were used to examine the effect of CG and ZG gums on dough physicochemical parameters (SRC) and cookie quality. The diameter, thickness, spread, and sensory evaluation of cookies were evaluated. With the addition of CG and ZG, dough softness, mixing time, and mixing tolerance index (MTI) increased, whereas stability and water absorption decreased. TA data showed that adding gums resulted in softer and less sticky doughs than the control, whereas RVA data showed that adding CG resulted in a significant increase in peak viscosity, but no change in flour gel setback. In comparison to the control and CG samples, the ZG samples exhibited the most dough extensibility. The thickness and diameter of the cookies increased but the spread decreased, due to the added gums. The gum-containing cookies had a lower overall acceptability by panelists than the control, although only by a small margin. Gum-containing cookies, on the other hand, can deliver up to 5% soluble fiber.

In the current study, the cytotoxicity of an ethanol extract from the fruits of Cordia myxa was studied, in addition to the effect of the extract on the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) in human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF7). The study also included the effectiveness of the extract to stimulate tumor phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) gene expression. The results proved that treating MCF7 cells with C. myxa ethanol extract led to a significant decrease in cell vitality (up to 70%), and the cells treated with ethanol extract showed higher expression activity of all antioxidant enzymes with real-time PCR results at a concentration of 455.8 µg / mL, in this way, it overpowered the cells exposed to H2O2 (200 µM) and not treated with the plant extract that showed reductions in the expression of enzymes SOD, GPx and CAT., we demonstrated the activity of C. myxa extract to increase PTEN expression in MCF7 cells approximately 5 to 6 times compared to cells that were not treated. Results of our study indicated that C. myxa Fruit is useful as a curative agent in prevention diseases resulting from oxidative exertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian cherry (Cordia myxa L.), locally called lasora or gonda, is an important multipurpose fruit tree species distributed in arid and semi-arid regions of India. Its versatile adaptability to poor soils, wastelands and tolerance capacity to water stress makes it suitable plant for arid ecosystem. The species is known for its nutritious fruits and diverse uses of other plant parts. It is generally planted as shelter belt on farm boundaries, but now a days, it is grown as planned orchard to fetch premium prices from its fruits in summer season (March-April). In view of its benefits both in tangible and non-tangible terms, the research work on its genetic improvement and production technologies has been attempted at various ICAR institutes and Agricultural Universities. High yielding varieties like Maru Samridhi, Karan Lasora and Thar Bold have been developed by selection from seedling population. The vegetative propagation technique, rootstocks, canopy management and crop regulation by defoliation and irrigation scheduling have been standardized. To review the available information on its germplasm collection, evaluation and improvement as well as production, and post harvest management under-utilized may serve the purpose for benefits of growers, researchers, and policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cordia sinensis, locally known as 'Goondi' in India, is an underexploited multipurpose fruit species found in hot arid regions that is well adapted to drought, salt and hot conditions. The present study was undertaken to collect fruit samples from different locations in the Kachchh region of Gujarat, India, and to determine their field establishment for characterization, conservation and utilization. The maximum distribution of the species was observed in Bhuj (45%) and Mandvi (25%). Field boundaries (35%) and scrub forests (30%) had greater frequencies, whereas backyards had rarer frequencies (10%). The species most commonly occurred on levelled topography (60%) with a soil pH in the range of 8–8.5 (63%). Morphological data of three-year-old plants in the field gene bank showed a maximum coefficient of variation in the number of leaves per plant (66.6), followed by the number of branches per plant (45.62) and collar diameter (27.69). Wide variations were recorded in plant height (121.67–212 cm), spread (118–223 cm2) and the number of branches per plant (6–24.33). Specific accessions were identified for fodder (CBCG-12, CBCG-13 and CBCG-16), early flowering and fruiting (CBCG-12, CBCG-13 and CBCG-14), easier propagation by seeds (CBCG-12 and CBCG-13) and salt tolerance (CBCG-15 and CBCG-16). Preliminary findings and information provided about this species' utilization and other aspects might be useful for future research on its domestication, sole plantation and conservation aspects, improving the exploitation of this species by present and future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal pollution in roadside soil and trees because of traffic emission has been recognized for a long time of Nasiriyah city, Iraq. The study was conducted to examine the heavy metals content of five plant species of Zizphus, Cordia, Morus, Salix alba and Ficus the concentration of heavy metals was tested, including the iron, zinc and copper. Heavy metals were detected using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The accumulation of Fe, Cu, and Zn in roadside soil was affected by human activity. Significant difference (p<0.05) in Fe, Cu and Zn content were found in soil samples. The results showed that the highest concentration of iron in Morus leaves and Ficus leaves. Among the Zizphus, Cordia, Morus, Salix alba and Ficus studied, showed higher heavy metals concentration Zn and Cu of Zizphus leaves. The results indicated that the Salix alba leaves had the lowest heavy metals content compared with Zizphus, Cordia, Morus, and Ficus. It could be concluded that impaction of traffic emission on the accumulation of heavy metals in roadside trees and soils in urban area was slight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cordia dodecandra A. DC. is an arboreal component of forests and Maya homegardens in the state of Yucatán, México. Changes in land use and landscape fragmentation have led to declines in wild populations. Understanding this species' population structure is relevant to determining the current state of its populations and proposing strategies for its conservation. The population structure of C. dodecandra in forest and homegardens in Yucatan, and the management practices associated with the species were documented with interviews. Relative importance of the tree species in the associated vegetation was estimated. Seedling density (< 1m of height) was higher in the homegardens than the forest with an evident decrease in the density of juvenile individuals caused by practices such as weeding. In contrast, the forest contained a greater number of adult and larger individuals than in the homegardens. Individual C. dodecandra were taller in the forest, but those in the homegardens had a larger diameter at breast height. Although it has multiple uses (e.g. food, ornamental, wood) the C. dodecandra in homegardens received only minimal maintenance, possibly threatening its permanence in this system. This is concerning since the homegardens function as de facto germplasm banks for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatic dysfunction is a great health trouble. The aim evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of aqueous – methanol (30:70%) extract of Cordia dichotoma fruit against paracetamol – induced hepatic damage in rabbits. The study was conducted on 16 mature, male rabbits, split into four sets of 4 in each. Rabbits of 1st group (control group), 2nd group treated with extract (30:70%) at300 mg / kg for 9 days, then hepatitis was induced via intraperitoneal injection of paracetamol 250mg/ kg b.wt. for 9 days, the treatment with extract continue till end of experiment. . Rabbits of 3rd group were left without treatment in the first 9 days then paracetamol hepatitis induced at a dosage 250 mg/ kg. b.wt. and treated with extract at 300 mg / kg b.wt. for 9 days. In 4th group hepatitis was induced with paracetamol (250 mg / kg b.wt.) for 9 day, without treatment with the extract. All animals in day 18th were euthanized to collect blood for estimation of serum enzymes (RBS, ALT, AST, TSB, TSP, BUN, Creatinine), in addition for histopathological examination. Heart and respiratory rates, body temperature and weight, Hb and PCV, and clotting, bleeding time, total and differential leucocytes counts were taken for three times. The results revealed that the levels of biochemical parameters were elevated in paracetamol intoxicated animals when compared with the control group. The extract at 300 mg /kg b.wt. exhibit significant reduction in biochemical parameters. Hepatoprotective activity was promoted by histopathological changes. In conclusion, cordia fruit aqueous – methanol extract possess significant hepatoprotective influence against paracetamol – induced hepatotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Planting tested forest reproductive material is crucial to ensure the increased resilience of intensively managed productive stands for timber and wood product markets under climate change scenarios. Single-step Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (ssGBLUP) analysis is a cost-effective option for using genomic tools to enhance the accuracy of predicted breeding values and genetic parameter estimation in forest tree species. Here, we tested the efficiency of ssGBLUP in a tropical multipurpose tree species, Cordia africana, by partial population genotyping. A total of 8070 trees from three breeding seedling orchards (BSOs) were phenotyped for height. We genotyped 6.1% of the phenotyped individuals with 4373 single nucleotide polymorphisms. The results of ssGBLUP were compared with pedigree-based best linear unbiased prediction (ABLUP) and genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP), based on genetic parameters, theoretical accuracy of breeding values, selection candidate ranking, genetic gain, and predictive accuracy and prediction bias., Results: Genotyping a subset of the study population provided insights into the level of relatedness in BSOs, allowing better genetic management. Due to the inbreeding detected within the genotyped provenances, we estimated genetic parameters both with and without accounting for inbreeding. The ssGBLUP model showed improved performance in terms of additive genetic variance and theoretical breeding value accuracy. Similarly, ssGBLUP showed improved predictive accuracy and lower bias than the pedigree-based relationship matrix (ABLUP)., Conclusions: This study of C. africana, a species in decline due to deforestation and selective logging, revealed inbreeding depression. The provenance exhibiting the highest level of inbreeding had the poorest overall performance. The use of different relationship matrices and accounting for inbreeding did not substantially affect the ranking of candidate individuals. This is the first study of this approach in a tropical multipurpose tree species, and the analysed BSOs represent the primary effort to breed C. africana., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

The goal of this research study was to see how plant extracts of Acorus calamus Linn. and Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. overcome scopolamine-induced Alzheimer's type dementia in mice by activating the cholinergic system, anti-oxidant and protection of neuronal death in the brain (hippocampus region). Scopolamine (1 mg/kg i.p.) reduced mice's routine in behavioral parameters such as Morris Water Maze (MWM), Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), and also the locomotor activity. It also decreases antioxidant levels such as Reduced glutathione (GSH) and also Superoxide dismutase (SOD) but also increases the level of Acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) in brain. Assessment of various behavioral, and biochemical parameters (AChE, SOD, GSH, and Nitrite level) were compared with each group. Acorus calamus (hydro-alcoholic 1:1) 600 mg/kg p.o. and the combination (Acorus calamus 600 mg/kg p.o. + Cordia dichotoma 750 mg/kg p.o.) group showed significant results as compared to Cordia dichotoma 750 mg/kg p.o.in behavioral as well as in biochemical parameters. Histological studies showed significant neuroprotection in the Acorus calamus-treated group and the combination-treated groups. In the future, the Acorus calamus and the combination are possibly helpful in the treatment of various cognitive disorders or it may be valuable to investigate the pharmacological potential of such plant extracts during the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In situ exfoliated natural polysaccharide Cordia myxa (CMX) is used to promote the utilization of zinc-oxide nanoparticles for eco-friendly catalytic hydrogenation of p-nitrophenol (p-NP) and microbial growth inhibition. Polysaccharide-mediated biosynthetic nanocomposite materials are interesting because they are cheap, green, and environmentally friendly. This study uses CMX gum as a bioreduction to produce multifunctional, environmentally friendly zinc-oxide nanocomposites (ZnO NPs). The process involves a low reaction time and temperature and utilizes CMX as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the CMX-ZnO nanocomposite were characterized. The biosynthetic CMX-ZnO NPs exhibited robust catalytic activity and recycling capacity for rapidly oxidizing hazardous p-NPs. The complete reduction of 4-NP to CMX-ZnO NPs in excess NaBH 4 was achieved within 15 min, with recyclability and pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.2571 min -1 . Additionally, human colon cancer (HCT116) and 3T3L1 cell lines were remarkably sensitive to the cytotoxic effects of ZnO nanoparticles. CMX-ZnO NPs exhibited potent antibacterial properties against human pathogenic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (Bacillus, Salmonella, E. coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) based on the zone of inhibition measured by the disc-diffusion method. The significant antibacterial activity of CMX-ZnO NPs can overcome the current limitations associated with removing water-soluble organic pollutants and microbiological contaminants for long-term environmental sustainability., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Cordia subcordata trees or shrubs, belonging to the Boraginaceae family, have strong resistance and have adapted to their habitat on a tropical coral island in China, but the lack of genome information regarding its genetic background is unclear. In this study, the genome was assembled using both short/long whole genome sequencing reads and Hi-C reads. The assembled genome was 475.3 Mb, with 468.7 Mb (99.22%) of the sequences assembled into 16 chromosomes. Repeat sequences accounted for 54.41% of the assembled genome. A total of 26,615 genes were predicted, and 25,730 genes were functionally annotated using different annotation databases. Based on its genome and the other 17 species, phylogenetic analysis using 336 single-copy genes obtained from ortholog analysis showed that C. subcordata was a sister to Coffea eugenioides , and the divergence time was estimated to be 77 MYA between the two species. Gene family evolution analysis indicated that the significantly expanded gene families were functionally related to chemical defenses against diseases. These results can provide a reference to a deeper understanding of the genetic background of C. subcordata and can be helpful in exploring its adaptation mechanism on tropical coral islands in the future.

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), Cordia verbenacea and Psidium guajava, both alone and in association against Rhipicephalus microplus. Larval packet and adult immersion tests were conducted in concentrations ranging from 3.1 at 100.0mg mL−1. CNSL was effective against engorged females (99.6%) at 100.0mg mL−1 and against larvae (99.2 %) at 50.0mg mL−1. The highest efficacy on engorged females was achieved by the essential oils of P. guajava at 12.5mg mL−1 (99.9%), followed by those of C. verbenacea at 25.0mg mL−1 (96.9%), while a low larvicidal activity of 5.8 and 59.0% was, respectively, obtained. The association at 50.0mg mL−1 had asignificant effect on both life stages of R. microplus. This association caused considerable larval mortality (95.3%) and high efficacy on engorged females (93.9%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein a new species, Varronia xinguana, is described and illustrated. In addition, Varronia polystachya, a species previously known only from Venezuela, is reported for the first time for Brazil. Both species are restricted to the phytogeographic domain of Amazonia, northern Brazil. A distribution map and a conservation assessment are provided. An identification key is also provided for the species of Varronia with spike inflorescence from Northern of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study investigated the antidiabetic outcome of ethanolic extract of Cordia sebestena fruit (EECSF) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetogenic rodents and evaluated its consequence to improve the level of biochemical parameters, serum electrolytes level, and hematological indices along with its impact on body weight. Materials and Methods: The albino rodents were selected to observe oral glucose tolerance test by oral intake of aqueous glucose solution (4 g/kg, body weight) in normal rodents and assessment of blood glucose level after administration of EECSF at 100 and 200 mg/kg and standard drug glibenclamide at 0.6 mg/kg, body weight. Antidiabetic activity was estimated in the chronic biological model by STZ (65 mg/kg/i.p.)-induced diabetes in rodents escorted by the determination of blood glucose. Further pharmacological research was carried out to explore the effect of EECSF on body weight, variations in biochemical parameters including aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, and total protein, transformations in serum electrolytes such as Na+, K+, Cl-, and Ca2+ along with estimation of hematological indices such as red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and monocytes. Results: It was discovered that EECSF significantly lowered the blood glucose level of diabetic rodents along with enhancement in body weight. Correspondingly, EECSF significantly ameliorated the biochemical parameters, serum electrolytes, and hematological indices. Conclusion: The results demonstrated the antidiabetic potential of EECSF in STZ-induced diabetes in rodents, and it could be selected to benefit from diabetes and its affiliated complexities inclusive of anemia, diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, and hepatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aimed: Determine the potential of Cordia myxa L. leaf on inhibited α-glucosidase. Material: ELISA Kit, Ethanol 96%, Colomn Chromatography, n-hexane, ethyl acetate, Glocobay®. Method: Sample from Cordia myxa L. leaf extracted by ethanol 96% then evaporated to get the sticky extract. The sticky extract of Cordia myxa L. leaf fractionated by column chromatography with n-hexane, n-hexane: ethyl acetate (90:10,80:20,75:25,70:30,65:35,60:40,55:45; 50:50) Assay: The fractions assayed by ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) with acarbose (Glucobay ®) as the comparator. Result: The results showed that the n-hexane fraction is the highest potency on inhibited α-glucosidase with the noncompetitive mechanism. The IC50 of n-hexane fraction is 0.53 ppm been while the acarbose is 6.85 ppm. Conclusion: The n-hexane fraction of Cordia myxa L. leaf has the highest potency to use for possible decrease blood glucose level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnobotanical study of traditional medicinal plants used by local people of Kondala Woreda was conducted from September 2016 to June 2017. The aim of the study was to collect, identify, describe, compile and document medicinal plant species used by the local people for the treatments of human and livestock ailments. A total of 49 informants from seven kebeles were selected. A total of 64 plant species were collected. Out of these, 78% of medicinal plant species were used as cure for human ailments, 12% of species for livestock and 10% of species for the treatment of both human and livestock. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves and roots. In the study area, there are threats to medicinal plants and firewood was ranked first by selected key informant followed by, agricultural expansion. Results indicated that Viciafaba is most effective in treating stomach ache while Cordia africana is used as multipurpose medicinal plants. Majority of the 64 medicinal plants that were cited by informants, (57.8%) were used to treat a specific ailment. Thus, the community should conserve and manage these medicinal plant species before they become extinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. It is broadly accepted that plant diversity influences plant–herbivore interactions, yet few studies have separated damage by different herbivore species and simultaneously tested for effects on herbivory and plant defences to elucidate the mechanisms underlying such effects. 2. This study tested for effects of tree species diversity on leaf damage by beetle larvae and caterpillars on Cordia dodecandra in a diversity experiment, and measured leaf chemical and physical traits to assess whether differences in herbivory underlie changes in plant traits. 3. Four year‐old trees were sampled in 21 × 21‐m plots classified as monocultures of C. dodecandra or mixtures of this species plus three other tree species. Herbivory by beetle larvae and caterpillars was estimated, and we subsequently collected undamaged leaves to quantify total phenolics and condensed tannins, trichome density, and specific leaf area. 4. A significant effect of diversity on herbivory by beetle larvae was found, with mixtures exhibiting an 80% lower mean value than monocultures. By contrast, there was no diversity effect on caterpillar herbivory. Additionally, a positive relationship was found between beetle larvae (but not caterpillar) damage and plant chemical defences, yet there was no effect of diversity on defences. Specific leaf area was higher and trichome density tended to be lower in mixtures than in monocultures, but neither trait was associated with herbivory, and damage did not explain diversity effects on these traits. 5. These findings emphasise the importance of separating diversity effects on different herbivore species and measuring plant traits associated with herbivory to better understand controls of diversity on plant–herbivore interactions. Tree diversity had contrasting effects on leaf herbivory by beetle larvae and caterpillars on the tropical tree Cordia dodecandra, negatively affecting the former but not influencing the latter.Diversity altered leaf physical attributes but not chemical defences, and changes in the former were not explained by herbivory but instead probably responded to changes in abiotic conditions with diversity.Contrasting effects on beetles and caterpillars suggest differences in dispersal ability or oviposition. That differences in herbivory levels did not to drive changes defences suggests that diversity effects on herbivory and plant defences operate independently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We carried out surveys on the use of Cordia nodosa Lam. in the jungles of Bobonaza (Ecuador). We documented this knowledge to prevent its loss under the Framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Nagoya Protocol. We conducted bibliographic research and identified quercetrin as a significant bioactive molecule. We studied its in silico biological activity. The selected methodology was virtual docking experiments with the proteins responsible for the venomous action of snakes. The molecular structures of quercetrin and 21 selected toxins underwent corresponding tests with SwissDock and Chimera software. The results point to support its antiophidic use. They show reasonable geometries and a binding free energy of −7 to −10.03 kcal/mol. The most favorable values were obtained for the venom of the Asian snake Naja atra (5Z2G, −10.03 kcal/mol). Good results were also obtained from the venom of the Latin American Bothrops pirajai (3CYL, −9.71 kcal/mol) and that of Ecuadorian Bothrops asper snakes (5TFV, −9.47 kcal/mol) and Bothrops atrox (5TS5, −9.49 kcal/mol). In the 5Z2G and 5TS5 L-amino acid oxidases, quercetrin binds in a pocket adjacent to the FAD cofactor, while in the myotoxic homologues of PLA2, 3CYL and 5TFV, it joins in the hydrophobic channel formed when oligomerizing, in the first one similar to α-tocopherol. This study presents a case demonstration of the potential of bioinformatic tools in the validation process of ethnobotanical phytopharmaceuticals and how in silico methods are becoming increasingly useful for sustainable drug discovery.

Endophytic fungi are a significant source of secondary metabolites, which are chemical compounds with biological activities. The present study emphasizes the first-time isolation and identification of such fungi and their pharmacological activities from the medicinal plant Cordia dichotoma , which is native to Jammu, India. The Shannon Wiener diversity index revealed a wide range of fungal endophytes in root (1.992), stem (1.645), and leaf (1.46) tissues. A total of 19 endophytic fungi belonging to nine different genera were isolated from this plant and the majority belonged to the Ascomycota phylum. ITS rRNA gene sequencing was used to identify the fungal strains and they were submitted in NCBI GenBank. The most potent fungal isolate Cladosporium cladosporioides OP870014 had strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activity against MCF-7, HCT-116, and PC-3 cancer cell lines. The LC-MS and GC-MS analyses of the ethyl acetate extract of C. cladosporioides were examined to identify the bioactive metabolites. The major compounds of the crude extract derived from C. cladosporioides OP870014, according to GC-MS, are spiculisporic acid; dibutyl phthalate; phenylethyl alcohol; cyclohexanone, 2,3,3-trimethyl-2-3-methylbutyl; pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione,hexahydro-3-(phenylmethyl);2,5-piperazinedione,3,6-bis(2-methylpropyl); and heneicosane which possessed antimicrobial, anticancerous, and antioxidant activities. The findings revealed that C. dichotoma has the capacity to host a wide variety of fungal endophytes and that secondary metabolites from the endophytic fungus may be a source of alternative naturally occurring antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic compounds.