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Bouea macrophylla Griff., a species belonging to the Anacardiaceae family is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia and also known as kundang, kundang daun besar, and setar in Malaysia. The fruit can be eaten raw or as a pickle, while the young leaves can be consumed as salads. It has been claimed to be able to accelerate wound healing, prevent cancer, reduce the risk of stroke, and be good for blood circulation. The previous study on the plant from the same genus, known as B. oppositofolia has shown the presence of various. The present study was designed to isolate and elucidate flavonoids from this plant. The twig extract of kundang was purified by using several chromatographic techniques including Vacuum Liquid Chromatography (VLC), Column Chromatography (CC), and preparative-Thin Layer Chromatography (pTLC). The structures of isolated compounds were characterized by using spectroscopic methods including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), infrared (IR), and ultraviolet (UV) spectral data, as well as comparison with the data reported in the literature. Five flavonoids were isolated and purified from the twigs of B. macrophylla which includes one flavanonol known as garbanzol; one flavonol which is resokaempferol; one flavandiol characterized as catechin; and two flavandiol known as mollisacacidin and guibourtacacidin. The results of the glucose uptake experiment indicated that the extract and compounds tested affected the glucose uptake rate of the insulin-resistant C2C12 cell line as compared to the standard. This is the first report describing the elucidation of the stated compounds from B. macrophylla as well as its glucose uptake study.

Syzygium polyanthum has been used as folk medicine to treat ailments related to oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of stem bark and root bark of the plant were investigated. The experiments that have been carried out were estimation of total phenolic and total flavonoid in the methanol extracts and fractions of both parts, isolation and structure elucidation of chemical compounds, anti-inflammatory activity evaluation based on inhibition of prostaglandin E2 production in the LPS-induced human whole blood using radioimmunoassay technique as well as antioxidant activity based on assays by using free radical scavenging DPPH and FRAP. Results showed high amounts of phenolics and flavonoids in both parts of S. polyanthum. Seven compounds were succesfully isolated from the stem bark and identified as stigmasterol (1), 8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-3-pentylisocoumarin (2), 3,3’-di-O-methylellagic acid (3), methylgallate (4), asiatic acid (5), arjunolic acid (6), and daucosterol (7). The ethyl acetate fraction of the root bark showed potent inhibitory activity on the production of PGE2 (IC50 3.03 ± 0.83 μg/mL). The methanol extract of the stem bark displaying promising DPPH scavenging activity (SC50= 2.82 ± 0.1 μg/mL) and FRAP activity (7.02 ± 0.1 μg/μg of equivalent trolox amount). Compounds 1, 5, 6 and 7 showed pronounced inhibitory activity on the PGE2 production with IC50ranging from 0.052 to 1.25 μM. Meanwhile, compound 4 exhibited antioxidant activity toward DPPH (SC5010.60 μM) and FRAP (20.5 ± 1.0 μg/μg). The study concluded that S. polyanthum as a potential source for therapeutic agents with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Phytochemical screening was conducted on Hylocereusundatus foliage to determine the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins using methanol and chloroform solvents via oven-dried and open air-dried methods. As for the antioxidant activity, powdered Hylocereusundatus foliage were extracted using both solvents through Ferric Reduction Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay; and the findings were then compared to 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Ipicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay from previous studies. Results revealed that for both methods in phytochemical screening, flavonoids were present only in methanol extract; however, saponins were present in both extracts. No alkaloid and tannins were present in both extracts using both methods. Antioxidant activity results revealed that the methanol extract (59.05%) and chloroform extract (20.58%) using the FRAP assay were comparable to that of DPPH assay in which methanol extract (88.81%) and chloroform extract (38.30%) were obtained. It concludes that Hylocereusundatus has comparable phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity based on the different drying and assay methods.

Songi (Dillenia serrata) is a tree endemic to Southeast Sulawesi and its stem bark been used in folk medicine. Nonetheless, only a handful scientific knowledge regarding chemistry and biological activities has been investigated on the plant. The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity of the stem bark of the plant. Methanol extract and organic fractions (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol) of the dried powdered stem bark of songi were evaluated for phytochemical screening, total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid contents (TFC), DPPH, FRAP, and XO in vitro assays. Flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, steroids, and saponins present in the extract. TPC and TFC in extract were 59.2 mg GAE/g and 23.4 mg QE/g. The contents in organic fractions were in solvent-dependent manner (methanol>ethyl acetate>petroleum ether). Extract and fractions scavenged DPPH radicals (48.2–59.7%) at 100 μg/mL compared to ascorbic acid, trolox, and gallic acid (90.3–93.8%). FRAP values varied from 0.8–3.4 μg/μg equivalent trolox amount (quercetin and gallic acid were 25.7 dan 32.4 μg/μg, respectively). They also inhibited xanthine oxidase (15.3–50.3%) at 100 μg/mL (allopurinol, 98.2%). The study concluded the potential of methanol extract and organic fraction of the stem bark of songi, thus highlighted the prospect of songi to be used in herbal and drugs development from nature.

Triadica cochinchinensis has been used traditionally to treat diseases related to oxidative stress. Nonetheless, little is known about its biological activity. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity of this plant. For this purpose, qualitative phytochemicals, total phenolic, total flavonoid, antioxidant assays (DPPH and FRAP), and xanthine oxidase assay were evaluated towards methanol and organic fractions of its stem bark. Results showed the occurrence of flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, steroids, and saponins in the methanol extract. The extract and its two fractions (ethyl acetate and methanol) exhibited promising radical scavenging (IC50 values between 3.6-4.5 μg/mL) and ferric reduction activities (4.2-5.5 μg/μg of equivalent trolox amount). They also exhibited inhibition on the xanthine oxidase activity ranging from 43.8 to 80.5% at a dose of 100 μg/mL. These activities could be attributed to the amount of phenolics in the methanol extract and active fractions (136.6-174.1 mg GAE/g of sample). Our results suggested that the methanol extract of T. cochinchinensis stem bark could be used as a promising source of lead molecules for antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibitors from natural source.

Four new dihydrostilbenes, malayheyneiins A–D (1–4) along with three known analogues, laevifolins A–B (5–6) and macarubiginosin C (7) were isolated from the leaves of Macaranga heynei. The structures of the compounds were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR, UV, IR, MS as well as comparison with literature data. Compounds 2, 3 and 7 exhibited significant acetylcholinesterase inhibitory (AChEI) activity with IC50 of

In search of better α-glucosidase inhibitors, a series of bis-indolylmethane sulfonohydrazides derivatives (1-14) were synthesized and evaluated for their α-glucosidase inhibitory potential. All derivatives exhibited outstanding α-glucosidase inhibition with IC50 values ranging between 0.10 ± 0.05 to 5.1 ± 0.05 μM when compared with standard drug acarbose having IC50 value 856.28 ± 3.15 μM. Among the series, analog 7 (0.10 ± 0.05 μM) with tri-chloro substitution on phenyl ring was identified as the most potent inhibitor of α-glucosidase (∼ 8500 times). The structure activity relationship has been also established. Molecular docking studies were also performed to help understand the binding interaction of the most active analogs with receptors. From the docking studies, it was observed that all the active bis-indolylmethane sulfonohydrazides derivatives showed considerable binding interactions within the active site (acarbose inhibition site) of α-glucosidase. We also evaluated toxicity of all derivatives and found none of them are toxic.

Plants contain natural sources of glycolipids that play an essential role in human nutrition as a nutrient. These glycolipids can be found on biological membrane structure of plant parts such as leaves, stems, and roots. This paper reviews about these glycolipids which can contribute to the cell membrane functionality and form several phase behaviours in the absence (thermotrophic) and occurrence of water contents (lyotropic). Many studies have shown that the glycolipids have important biological functions in nature due to their capabilities to self-assemble into various liquid crystalline phases such as hexagonal, columnar, lamellar, and cubic which can give a variety of interesting applications.

Bisindolylmethane thiosemicarbazides 1-18 were synthesized, characterized by 1H NMR and ESI MS and evaluated for urease inhibitory potential. All analogs showed outstanding urease inhibitory potentials with IC50 values ranging between 0.14 ± 0.01 to 18.50 ± 0.90 μM when compared with the standard inhibitor thiourea having IC50 value 21.25 ± 0.90 μM. Among the series, analog 9 (0.14 ± 0.01 μM) with di-chloro substitution on phenyl ring was identified as the most potent inhibitor of urease. The structure activity relationship has been also established on the basis of binding interactions of the active analogs. These binding interactions were identified by molecular docking studies.

Thirty-two (32) bis-indolylmethane-hydrazone hybrids 1–32 were synthesized and characterized by 1HNMR, 13CNNMR and HREI-MS. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for β-glucuronidase inhibitory potential. All analogs showed varying degree of β-glucuronidase inhibitory potential ranging from 0.10 ± 0.01 to 48.50 ± 1.10 μM when compared with the standard drug d -saccharic acid-1,4-lactone (IC50 value 48.30 ± 1.20 μM). Derivatives 1–32 showed the highest β-glucuronidase inhibitory potentials which is many folds better than the standard drug d -saccharic acid-1,4-lactone. Further molecular docking study validated the experimental results. It was proposed that bis-indolylmethane may interact with some amino acid residues located within the active site of β-glucuronidase enzyme. This study has culminated in the identification of a new class of potent β-glucuronidase inhibitors.

Thiourea derivatives having benzimidazole 1 – 17 have been synthesized, characterized by 1 H NMR, 13 C NMR and EI-MS and evaluated for α-glucosidase inhibition. Identification of potential α-glucosidase inhibitors were done by in vitro screening of 17 thiourea bearing benzimidazole derivatives using Baker’s yeast α-glucosidase enzyme. Compounds 1 – 17 exhibited a varying degree of α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC 50 values between 35.83 ± 0.66 and 297.99 ± 1.20 μM which are more better than the standard acarbose (IC 50 = 774.5 ± 1.94 μM). Compound 10 and 14 showed significant inhibitory effects with IC 50 value 50.57 ± 0.81 and 35.83 ± 0.66 μM, respectively better than the rest of the series. Structure activity relationships were established. Molecular docking studies were performed to understand the binding interaction of the compounds.

The genus Dillenia is comprised of about 100 species of evergreen and deciduous trees or shrubs of disjunct distribution in the seasonal tropics of Madagascar through South and South East Asia, Malaysia, North Australia, and Fiji. Species from this genus have been widely used in medicinal folklore to treat cancers, wounds, jaundice, fever, cough, diabetes mellitus, and diarrhea as well as hair tonics. The plants of the genus also produce edible fruits and are cultivated as ornamental plants. Flavonoids, triterpenoids, and miscellaneous compounds have been identified in the genus. Their extracts and pure compounds have been reported for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antidiabetes, antioxidant, antidiarrheal, and antiprotozoal activities. Mucilage from their fruits is used in drug formulations.

Benzimidazole derivatives have a diverse range of biological activities, including antiulcer, antihypertensive, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. Despite these activities, previous studies have revealed that some of the derivatives can induce mutations. This study aimed to screen for potential mutagenic activities of novel benzimidazole derivatives 1&ndash, 4 using the Ames test and to study their structure&ndash, activity relationship (SAR). An Ames test was carried out on two strains of Salmonella typhimurium (TA98 and TA100) in the absence and presence of metabolic activation. Genetic analysis was performed prior to the Ames test to determine the genotypes of the bacterial tester strains. Both bacterial strains showed dependency on histidine with the presence of rfa mutation, uvrB deletion, and plasmid pKM101. Further, all derivatives tested showed no mutagenic activity in the absence of metabolic activation in both tester strains. However, in the presence of metabolic activation, compound 1 appeared to induce mutation at 2.5 &micro, g/plate when tested against the TA98 strain. These results suggest that the absence of the -OH group at the ortho-position over the phenyl ring might be the cause of increased mutagenic activity in compound 1. Additionally, the presence of mutagenic activity in compound 1 when it was metabolically activated indicates that this compound is a promutagen.

Breast cancer is the most common and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. It has two distinctive hallmarks: rapid abnormal growth and the ability to invade and metastasize. During metastasis, cancer cells are thought to form actin-rich protrusions, called invadopodia, which degrade the extracellular matrix. Current breast cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy, comes with adverse effects like immunosuppression, resistance development and secondary tumour formation. Hence, naturally-occurring molecules claimed to be less toxic are being studied as new drug candidates. Ampelopsin E, a natural oligostilbene extracted from Dryobalanops species, has exhibited various pharmacological properties, including anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. However, there is yet no scientific evidence of the effects of ampelopsin E towards metastasis. Scratch assay, transwell migration and invasion assays, invadopodia and gelatin degradation assays, and ELISA were used to determine the effects of ampelopsin E towards the invasiveness of MDA-MB-231 cells. Strikingly in this study, ampelopsin E was able to halt migration, transmigration and invasion in MDA-MB-231 cells by reducing formation of invadopodia and its degradation capability through significant reduction (p &lt, 0.05) in expression levels of PDGF, MMP2, MMP9 and MMP14. In conclusion, ampelopsin E reduced the invasiveness of MDA-MB-231 cells and was proven to be a potential alternative in treating TNBC.

Novel series of disulfide and sulfone hybrid analogs (1-20) were synthesized and characterized through EI-MS and (1)H NMR and evaluated for β-glucuronidase inhibitory potential. All synthesized analogs except 13 and 15 showed excellent β-glucuronidase inhibitory potential with IC50 value ranging in between 2.20-88.16μM as compared to standard d-saccharic acid 1,4 lactone (48.4±1.25μM). Analogs 19, 16, 4, 1, 17, 6, 10, 3, 18, 2, 11, 14 and 5 showed many fold potent activity against β-glucuronidase inhibitor. Structure activity relationship showed that substitution of electron withdrawing groups at ortho as well as para position on phenyl ring increase potency. Electron withdrawing groups at meta position on phenyl ring showed slightly low potency as compared to ortho and para position. The binding interactions were confirmed through molecular docking studies.

Newly synthesized benzimidazole hydrazone derivatives 1-26 were evaluated for their α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Compounds 1-26 exhibited varying degrees of yeast α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values between 8.40 ± 0.76 and 179.71 ± 1.11 μM when compared with standard acarbose. In this assay, seven compounds that showed highest inhibitory effects than the rest of benzimidazole series were identified. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by different spectroscopic methods adequately. We further evaluated the interaction of the active compounds with enzyme with the help of docking studies.

A library of novel 2,5-disubtituted-1,3,4-oxadiazoles with benzimidazole backbone (3a–3r) was synthesized and evaluated for their potential as β-glucuronidase inhibitors. Several compounds such as 3a–3d, 3e–3j, 3l–3o, 3q and 3r showed excellent inhibitory potentials much better than the standard (IC50 = 48.4 ± 1.25 μM: d -saccharic acid 1,4-lactone). All the synthesized compounds were characterized satisfactorily by using different spectroscopic methods. We further evaluated the interaction of the active compounds and the enzyme active site with the help of docking studies.

Due to the great biological importance of β-glucuronidase inhibitors, here in this study, we have synthesized a library of novel benzothiazole derivatives (1–30), characterized by different spectroscopic methods and evaluated for β-glucuronidase inhibitory potential. Among the series sixteen compounds i.e. 1–6, 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, 20–23 and 26 showed outstanding inhibitory potential with IC50 value ranging in between 16.50 ± 0.26 and 59.45 ± 1.12 when compared with standard d -Saccharic acid 1,4-lactone (48.4 ± 1.25 µM). Except compound 8 and 23 all active analogs showed better potential than the standard. Structure activity relationship has been established.

A new trimeric oligostilbene, malaysianol D (1) and galloylglucoside, malaysin A (2), together with twelve known compounds (3–14) have been isolated from the methanol extract of the stem bark of Dryobalanops beccarii by combination of vacuum and radial chromatography techniques. Their structures were established on the basis of their spectroscopic evidence and comparison with the published data. The cytotoxic activity of isolated compounds was tested against A549 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines.

A new tetramer oligostilbenoid possessing tetrahydrofuran ring, malaysianol C (1), was isolated from the acetone extract of the stem bark of Dryobalanops lanceolata, together with four known oligostilbenoids nepalensinol E (2), ϵ-viniferin (3), laevifonol (4), and ampelopsin F (5). The structures of isolated compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectral evidence. The antibacterial activity of the isolated compounds was evaluated using resazurin microtitre-plate assay, whereas the cytotoxic activity was tested using MTT assay. The plausible biogenetic routes of the isolated compounds are also discussed.

Macaranga is a large genus belongs to Euphorbiaceae family which commonly distributed in the tropical region of Africa, South-East Asia, China, and India. The plant of this genus contain flavonoids and stilbenes bearing various terpenyl groups including prenyl, geranyl and farnesyl groups. The leaves of M. hypoleuca were collected from reserved forest UiTM Jengka Pahang, Malaysia, and the dried powdered leaves were macerated in methanol at room temperature. The crude methanol extract was subjected to liquid-liquid partition using n-hexane and ethyl acetate to obtain hexane, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions. The ethyl acetate fraction was semi purified using vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC) to give nine major fractions (MHL1-MHL9). Fraction MHL3 was further purified by column chromatography (CC) and preparative thin layer chromatography (p-TLC) to give two pure compounds, 8-prenylnaringenin (1) and sakuranetin (5,4’-dihydroxy-7-methoxyflavanone) (3). Meanwhile, fraction MHL6 was purified using column chromatography (CC) and p-TLC to yield another two pure compounds, 6-(3-hydroxy-3-methyl)naringenin (2) and 7-O-methyleriodictyol (4). The chemical structure of these isolated compounds were determined based on their 1D and 2D NMR, UV, and IR data. From this study, four flavanones were isolated from the leaves of M. hypoleuca.