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Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages and can lead to significant physical and psychological distress. The first line of action against acne is topical products, though the most effective are topical antibiotics. In such a scenario, the development of effective and safe herbal formulations for the treatment of acne is of great importance. Rubia cordifolia, Aloe barbadensis, and Allium cepa extracts are rich sources of bioactive metabolites and are safe compared with antibiotics, in addition to being cost effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly. Also, their combination has not been studied for treating acne, and their potential benefits need to be investigated. The present study aimed to develop an effective polyherbal gel formulation of R. cordifolia, A. barbadensis, and A. cepa combined extract for treating acne and validate its effect with reference to conventional antibiotics. Plant materials were extracted in water by the reflux method, and phytochemical analysis was done for flavonoid, anthraquinone, and phenolic contents. The combined extract (R. cordifolia, A. barbadensis, and A. cepa extracts) was formulated in gel. The selected polyherbal gel was evaluated for in vitro antibacterial activity using agar well diffusion against Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes) culture. Phytochemical analysis of the composite extract revealed the rich presence of flavonoids, phenolics, and anthraquinones. The polyherbal gels showed good physicochemical properties; however, FCEG-4 was selected for further studies. It was found to be effective against C. acnes (MTCC 1951) in agar well diffusion, as it showed a similar zone of inhibition as that of standard. Also, during in vivo studies, FCEG-4 showed comparable efficacy with clindamycin gel. It was concluded from the study that composite extracts incorporated in an aqueous-based gel system were effective in topical therapy of mild acne vulgaris, showing similar efficacy to that of clindamycin cream. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic, reproductive, and endocrine disorder affecting women of fertile age. This study aimed to formulate a phytochemicals-based standardized aqueous ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia (SERC) to explore its pharmacological potential in PCOS-induced female rats and elucidate its mechanism. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of phytochemicals such as chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, and kaempferol. Thirty female adult rats were divided into two groups for induction of PCOS (5 female rats in the normal control group + 25 female rats in the disease-induced group). PCOS was induced by administering letrozole (1 mg/kg p.o.) for 6 weeks. After PCOS induction, animals of the disease-induced group were divided into five groups: one group used as disease control (PCOS) group, one group on metformin (20 mg/kg), and three groups on SERC (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg). Histopathological analysis showed that PCOS induction reduced corpus luteum and developing follicles and increased cystic follicles. In comparison, SERC treatment improved ovulation with more primary and developing follicles. SERC reduced the serum insulin, LH surge, and testosterone levels while improving the FSH, estrogen, and progesterone serum levels. SERC significantly improved the oxidation status of the liver and normalized the lipid profile and liver function markers. In conclusion, SERC treated PCOS, and the suggested mechanism might be the restoration of aromatase activity and background inflammatory status improvement in ovaries.

Background: Diabetic neuropathy is a debilitating manifestation of long-term diabetes mellitus. The present study explored the effects of the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. (R. cordifolia L.) in the Wistar rat model for diabetic neuropathy and possible neuroprotective, antidiabetic, and analgesic mechanisms underlying this effect. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into five experimental groups. An amount of 0.25% carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) in saline and streptozotocin (STZ) (60 mg/kg) was given to group 1 and group 2, respectively. Group 3 was treated with STZ and glibenclamide simultaneously while groups 4 and 5 were simultaneously treated with STZ and hydroalcoholic extract of the root of R. cordifolia, respectively. Hot plate and cold allodynias were used to evaluate the pain threshold. The antioxidant effects of R. cordifolia were assessed by measuring Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). At the end of the study, sciatic nerve and brain tissues were collected for histopathological study. Bcl-2 proteins, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax were assessed through the Western blot method. Results: R. cordifolia significantly attenuated paw withdrawal and tail flick latency in diabetic neuropathic rats. R. cordifolia significantly (p < 0.01) improved the levels of oxidative stress. It was found to decrease blood glucose levels and to increase animal weight in R. cordifolia-treated groups. Treatment with R. cordifolia suppressed the cleaved caspase-3 and reduced the Bax:Bcl2 ratio in sciatic nerve and brain tissue compared to the diabetic group. Histopathological analysis also revealed a marked improvement in architecture and loss of axons in brain and sciatic nerve tissues at a higher dose of R. cordifolia (400 mg/kg). Conclusion: R. cordifolia attenuated diabetic neuropathy through its antidiabetic and analgesic properties by ameliorating apoptosis and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical investigation of roots of the plant, Rubia cordifolia Linn, led to the isolation of an undescribed anthraquinone, cordifoquinone R, determined as 1,2-dihydroxy-6-methoxyanthracene-9,10-dione (6) based on the 1D and 2D NMR analyses and HRESIMS. Ten other known compounds viz.1,4-dihydroxy-2-methoxyanthracene-9,10-dione (1), rubiadin (2), xanthopurpurin (3), 1-methoxy-3-hydroxy-2-carbomethoxy-9,10-anthraquinone (4), alizarin (5), β-sitosterol glucoside (7), scopoletin (8), oleanolic acid, (9), pomolic acid (10), queretaroic acid (11) were also isolated. Out of these compounds, 4, 10, and 11 are first reported from this plant species. Compounds 2, 3, 6, 7, and 10 showed activity in the range of 16-32 µg/ml against S. aureus ATCC 29213. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: RA-VII analogues; peptides; macrocyclic peptides; medicinal chemistry; cytotoxicity; Rubia cordifolia EN RA-VII analogues peptides macrocyclic peptides medicinal chemistry cytotoxicity Rubia cordifolia 1905 1910 6 09/15/23 20231004 NES 231004 Graph RA-VII ( B 1 b ) is a bicyclic hexapeptide isolated from the plants I Rubia cordifolia i L. and I Rubia argyi i (H. Lév. In conclusion, we have designed and synthesized the antitumor bicyclic hexapeptide RA-VII analogues B 4a b and B 4b b , in which the a- or the b-hydrogen atom of Tyr-5 in RA-VII ( B 1 b ) was replaced by a fluorine atom to prevent metabolic hydroxylation at these positions. RA-VII analogues, peptides, macrocyclic peptides, medicinal chemistry, cytotoxicity, Rubia cordifolia. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Indian madder (Rubia cordifolia L.), is an important natural dyeing plant with long history. Rubia belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is one of the oldest dyeing plant with a source of beautiful and permanent shades of red. The compounds found in the plant’s roots are an excellent natural dye for dyeing protein fibres. The ingredients contained in the root of the plant have numerous health-promoting effects on the human body, both internal and external. In this study water extract from the plant roots was tested to obtain different colours on protein fibres. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the dyeing properties of East Frisian sheep wool by water extract of R. cordifolia roots. Methods: In this research wool from the East Frisian sheep breed were selected and compared the colours obtained on this wool using six dyeing methods. Results: The results indicate that the type of mordants used affects the intensity and colour of the wool after dyeing. Wool samples dyed without any treatments and with various mordants show different intensity of colour in the red colour range (cinnabar red, brick red, raspberry, tomato red, Tuscan red). Conclusions: Indian Madder R. cordifolia plant is an efficient raw material that gives intense colours on wool in range of red. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO is a semiconductor metal oxide with unique antibacterial and photocatalytic properties. Green synthesis of nanoparticle is environmentally friendly procedure, imparting multiple properties to the nanoparticles (NPs). This study reports Rubia cordifolia root extract mediated ZnO NP synthesis. Synthesised NPs were analysed for antibacterial properties and sonication assisted photocatalytic dye degradation experiments were performed. Synthesised ZnO NPs were characterized employing UV-VIS spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) followed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis and was compared with commercial grade ZnO. UV-VIS adsorption peak of NPs was found at 375 nm with a bandgap of 3.2 eV. The NPs reveals to have a crystalline size of 17.54 nm with a hexagonal wurtzite structure and clustered flakes with rose petal morphology were identified through XRD and SEM analysis respectively. The green ZnO possesses good antibacterial properties against both gram positive (Staphyllococcus aureus) and gram negative bacteria (E.coli). Study on the effectiveness of synthesised ZnO for ultrasound sonication-assisted photocatalysis over normal photocatalytic degradation were carried out through response surface methodology with face central composite design. The regression models (R2adj > 90 % and R2pred > 90 %) were confirmed by analysis of variance (ANOVA), and optimization was performed. The green ZnO nanoparticle was capable of degrading alizarine red up to 92.89 % and rhodamine B up to 89.95 % under optimal conditions and were also compared with commercial ZnO NPs. Reusability of the photocatalyst was confirmed by conducting 4 cycles of experiments at optimum condition.

Introduction: Plasmodium falciparum human malaria parasite is resistant to most available medicines in Africa, necessitating research for new drugs. Rubia cordifolia L. is used in traditional malaria treatment in Kenya despite no supporting scientific data. Objectives: To evaluate anti-plasmodial efficacy of extracts from the aerial part of Rubia cordifolia against chloroquine sensitive (3D7) and resistant (W2) Plasmodium falciparum strains. Methods: Hexane, methanol and water were separately used in crude extractions from open shade dried aerial plant parts. Phytochemical composition was determined qualitatively. Anti-plasmodial efficacy of serial dilutions (range; 0.4 to 50 μg/ml) of each extract were evaluated in vitro and compared using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test, at p<0.05). Results: All the extracts significantly inhibited parasites growth, in a dose dependent manner. At 50 μg/ml, inhibition was (84.07%, 77.94% and 66.08%) for hexane, methanol and water extracts respectively against W2 and (80.06%, 78.36% and 60.92%) against 3D7 strain. Hexane extract showed IC50 0.551 μg/ml and 2.747 micrograms/ml against W2 and 3D7 respectively. Methanol extract, IC50 1.231 and 3.528 μ g/ml respectively, aqueous extract showed moderate activity, IC50 5.348 μg/ml and 17.341 μg/ml against the strains respectively. Chloroquine resistant (W2 strain) was more responsive to the extracts than 3D7 strain. Conclusion: Anti-plasmodial activities were in the order, Hexane>methanol>aqueous and were attributed to the phytochemicals present in the extracts. This presents evidence of R. cordifolia as anti-malarial drugs' source. Further work is required to identify, purify, and characterize active molecules for development of anti-malaria drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at optimization of dyeing process parameters such as dyeing temperature, dyeing pH, and mordant concentration toward achieving maximum color strength and antimicrobial activity of cotton fabric dyed with Indian madder (Rubia cordifolia) as a natural dye. Box-Behnken three factorial with three levels experimental design (dyeing temperature ranges are 60ºC, 70ºC, and 80ºC, dyeing pH ranges are 6, 9, and 12, Mordant concentration ranges are 10%, 20%, and 30% of OWF) was used for optimization. Results showed that all the selected process variables have influenced the color strength as well as antimicrobial activity against the microbes such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The quadratic regression models have been developed for optimization of all the process parameters and it was validated through ANOVA. UV-Vis spectroscopy, Phytochemical analysis, and FTIR studies have been conducted to confirm the presence of the phytochemical compounds.

Rubia cordifolia represents the pivotal plant resource belonging to traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurveda. The present study aims to synthesize biocompatible copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) using R. cordifolia bark extracts, characterize the incumbent chemical transitions, and explore their biomedical and environmental applications. The absorbance peak between 250 and 300 nm clearly demonstrates the formation of CuONPs in the UV–visible spectrum. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results showed the presence of functional groups essential for copper ion reduction. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and dynamic light scattering analysis revealed that the CuONPs are spherical-shaped with a mean particle size of 50.72 nm. Additionally, the zeta potential demonstrates its robustness at 11.2 mV. X-ray diffraction pattern showed mixed phases (Cu, Cu2O, and CuO) of cubic monoclinic crystalline nature. CuONPs exhibited noticeable antibacterial activity against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) pathogenic bacteria. Bacterial cell damages were affirmed through FE-SEM imaging when treated with CuONPs. Further, CuONPs demonstrated considerable antioxidant activities by quenching free radicals such as DPPH (60.75%), ABTs (70.88%), nitric oxide (65.48%) and reducing power (71.44%) in a dose-dependent way. CuONPs showed significant larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti (65 ± 8.66%), Anopheles stephensi (80 ± 13.69%), and Culex quinquefasciatus (72 ± 13.04%) mosquito larvae. The photocatalytic activity of the CuONPs demonstrates the methylene blue (81.84%) and crystal violet (64.0%) dye degradation potentials, indicating the environmental bioremediation efficacy. Hence the present study is the first report in accounting for the versatile applications of the phyto-CuONPs. Moreover, the green synthesis of CuONPS has future applications in designing the drug for life-threatening diseases and various environmental issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bridged peptide analogue of RA-VII was designed, in which the α carbons of residues 1 and 4 were linked by a tetramethylene chain to restrict the conformational freedom of the backbone of the 18-membered cyclopeptide. This peptide analogue was synthesized by a ring-closing metathesis reaction of [ l -2-allylglycine-1, l -2-allylglycine-4]RA-VII and a subsequent hydrogenation of the resulting olefinic compound. Compared with RA-VII, the analogue showed much weaker cytotoxic activity toward human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells and human colon carcinoma HCT-116 cells, which may be accounted for by the difference in the orientation of the Tyr-6 phenyl ring plane between the analogue and RA-VII. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetic neuropathy is a debilitating manifestation of long-term diabetes mellitus. The present study explored the effects of the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. (R. cordifolia L.) in the Wistar rat model for diabetic neuropathy and possible neuroprotective, antidiabetic, and analgesic mechanisms underlying this effect. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into five experimental groups. An amount of 0.25% carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) in saline and streptozotocin (STZ) (60 mg/kg) was given to group 1 and group 2, respectively. Group 3 was treated with STZ and glibenclamide simultaneously while groups 4 and 5 were simultaneously treated with STZ and hydroalcoholic extract of the root of R. cordifolia, respectively. Hot plate and cold allodynias were used to evaluate the pain threshold. The antioxidant effects of R. cordifolia were assessed by measuring Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). At the end of the study, sciatic nerve and brain tissues were collected for histopathological study. Bcl-2 proteins, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax were assessed through the Western blot method. Results: R. cordifolia significantly attenuated paw withdrawal and tail flick latency in diabetic neuropathic rats. R. cordifolia significantly (p < 0.01) improved the levels of oxidative stress. It was found to decrease blood glucose levels and to increase animal weight in R. cordifolia-treated groups. Treatment with R. cordifolia suppressed the cleaved caspase-3 and reduced the Bax:Bcl2 ratio in sciatic nerve and brain tissue compared to the diabetic group. Histopathological analysis also revealed a marked improvement in architecture and loss of axons in brain and sciatic nerve tissues at a higher dose of R. cordifolia (400 mg/kg). Conclusion: R. cordifolia attenuated diabetic neuropathy through its antidiabetic and analgesic properties by ameliorating apoptosis and oxidative stress.

Mohd Nasarudin Watroly,1 Mahendran Sekar,1 Shivkanya Fuloria,2 Siew Hua Gan,3 Srikanth Jeyabalan,4 Yuan Seng Wu,5,6 Vetriselvan Subramaniyan,7 Kathiresan V Sathasivam,8 Subban Ravi,9 Nur Najihah Izzati Mat Rani,10 Pei Teng Lum,1 Jaishree Vaijanathappa,11 Dhanalekshmi Unnikrishnan Meenakshi,12 Shankar Mani,13 Neeraj Kumar Fuloria2 1Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, Malaysia; 2Faculty of Pharmacy & Centre of Excellence for Biomaterials Engineering, AIMST University, Kedah, 08100, Malaysia; 3School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, 47500, Malaysia; 4Department of Pharmacology, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Pharmacy, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600116, India; 5Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia; 6Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia; 7Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Selangor, 42610, Malaysia; 8Faculty of Applied Science & Centre of Excellence for Biomaterials Engineering, AIMST University, Kedah, 08100, Malaysia; 9Department of Chemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 640 021, India; 10Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, Malaysia; 11Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research Mauritius, Vacoas, Mauritius; 12College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, 130, Oman; 13Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Sri Adichunchanagiri College of Pharmacy, Adichunchanagiri University, Mandya, Karnataka, 571418, IndiaCorrespondence: Neeraj Kumar Fuloria; Shivkanya FuloriaFaculty of Pharmacy & Centre of Excellence for Biomaterials Engineering, AIMST University, Kedah, 08100, MalaysiaTel +60 16 4037685; +60 14 3034057Email neerajkumar@aimst.edu.my; shivkanya_fuloria@aimst.edu.myAbstract: Anthraquinones (AQs) are found in a variety of consumer products, including foods, nutritional supplements, drugs, and traditional medicines, and have a wide range of pharmacological actions. Rubiadin, a 1,3-dihydroxy-2-methyl anthraquinone, primarily originates from Rubia cordifolia Linn (Rubiaceae). It was first discovered in 1981 and has been reported for many biological activities. However, no review has been reported so far to create awareness about this molecule and its role in future drug discovery. Therefore, the present review aimed to provide comprehensive evidence of Rubiadin’s phytochemistry, biosynthesis, physicochemical properties, biological properties and therapeutic potential. Relevant literature was gathered from numerous scientific databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Google Scholar between 1981 and up-to-date. The distribution of Rubiadin in numerous medicinal plants, as well as its method of isolation, synthesis, characterisation, physiochemical properties and possible biosynthesis pathways, was extensively covered in this review. Following a rigorous screening and tabulating, a thorough description of Rubiadin’s biological properties was gathered, which were based on scientific evidences. Rubiadin fits all five of Lipinski’s rule for drug-likeness properties. Then, the in depth physiochemical characteristics of Rubiadin were investigated. The simple technique for Rubiadin’s isolation from R. cordifolia and the procedure of synthesis was described. Rubiadin is also biosynthesized via the polyketide and chorismate/o-succinylbenzoic acid pathways. Rubiadin is a powerful molecule with anticancer, antiosteoporotic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antimalarial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. The mechanism of action for the majority of the pharmacological actions reported, however, is unknown. In addition to this review, an in silico molecular docking study was performed against proteins with PDB IDs: 3AOX, 6OLX, 6OSP, and 6SDC to support the anticancer properties of Rubiadin. The toxicity profile, pharmacokinetics and possible structural modifications were also described. Rubiadin was also proven to have the highest binding affinity to the targeted proteins in an in silico study; thus, we believe it may be a potential anticancer molecule. In order to present Rubiadin as a novel candidate for future therapeutic development, advanced studies on preclinical, clinical trials, bioavailability, permeability and administration of safe doses are necessary.Keywords: Rubiadin, Rubia cordifolia, biosynthesis, physicochemical properties, anticancer, pharmacology

The present study aims at optimization of dyeing process parameters such as dyeing temperature, dyeing pH, and mordant concentration toward achieving maximum color strength and antimicrobial activity of cotton fabric dyed with Indian madder (Rubia cordifolia) as a natural dye. Box-Behnken three factorial with three levels experimental design (dyeing temperature ranges are 60ºC, 70ºC, and 80ºC, dyeing pH ranges are 6, 9, and 12, Mordant concentration ranges are 10%, 20%, and 30% of OWF) was used for optimization. Results showed that all the selected process variables have influenced the color strength as well as antimicrobial activity against the microbes such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The quadratic regression models have been developed for optimization of all the process parameters and it was validated through ANOVA. UV-Vis spectroscopy, Phytochemical analysis, and FTIR studies have been conducted to confirm the presence of the phytochemical compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural dyeing requires two main features- a natural colorant and a mordant which can fix the natural colorant to the fabric. Selection of an appropriate metallic compounds as mordants is essential as well as crucial as there is a natural dye and mordant compatibility factor. Mordant is required for dyeing natural fibers with natural dyes. This paper presents the application of rare earth (RE)salts as mordant for the dyeing of pure silk fabrics by two different modes of mordanting using a natural dye--Rubia cordifolia. The influence of pre-andpost -mordanting on silk dyeing were explored. The rare earth mordant dyeing was found to improve dye-uptake, thefixation of dyestuff, and thus causing better adherence of the colorant and good colour fastness. Another speciality of RE salts is that they provide different hues to the fabric with Rubia dye extract. Through this study we wish to report that with the use of rare earth salts, there has been manifold advantages such as better dye uptake, better fastness properties, low temperature dyeing, low energy consumption, and above all would have lesser pollution load in the effluent, thus proving them to be ecofriendly and safe mordant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants are used as an important source of medicines in pharmaceutical industry. Rubia cordifolia is widely used to cure diabetes mellitus. Present study was aimed to investigate the antihyperglycemic effects of different fractions of R. cordifolia leaves and to analyze its antioxidant effect and phytochemical composition. Male albino mice were randomly distributed into seven groups (n = 7). Group-I was normal control, group-II was Alloxan (100 mg/kg)-induced diabetic control, and group-III was standard drug (Glibenclamide 0.5 mg/kg)-treated group. Animals in groups IV–VII were treated with n-hexane fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, n-butanol fraction and aqueous fraction of R. cordifolia, orally administered (100 mg/kg) once daily up to 28 days after Alloxan induction, respectively. Methanolic extract (ME) and fractions of R. cordifilia were analyzed for antioxidant activity and quantification of total phenolic content and total flavonoid content. HPLC of ME and most active fractions were performed. The results showed that RCEF (G-V) and RCBF (G-VI) have significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the increased level of glucose as compared to toxicant control group. It was further revealed that EF and BF have higher antioxidant activity (having IC50 34.9, 36.86 (µg/mL)) owing to phenolic and flavonoid identified by HPLC.

[Display omitted] • A rare structure in which a phenylpropanoid is ether-linked to a cyclic peptide. • X-ray crystallography solved the problem that spectroscopic methods could not. • Biosynthetic route for the connection of phenylpropanoids to aromatic rings verified by [4+2] cycloaddition reaction. • Modification of the aromatic ring at Tyr-6 may reduce cytotoxic activity. Two bicyclic hexapeptides RA-XXVII and RA-XXVIII, featuring a phenylpropanoid unit attached to the aromatic ring of the Tyr-6 residue of deoxybouvardin, were isolated from the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic data and X-ray crystallography of the 4- O -methyl derivative of RA-XXVII, and the semisynthesis from deoxybouvardin and coniferyl alcohol. RA-XXVII and RA-XXVIII exhibited cytotoxic activity with IC 50 values of 0.051 and 0.18 μM, respectively, against the HL-60 cell line, and 0.18 and 0.78 μM, respectively, against the HCT-116 cell line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify the composition of the aerial parts of Rubia cordifolia L. A chemical investigation on the EtOAc extracts from the aerial parts of Rubia cordifolia resulted in the isolation of four new anthraquinones, namely Cordifoquinone A-D (1-4), along with 16 known anthraquinones. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of NMR and HR-ESIMS data. All isolates were assessed for their inhibitory effects on NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Compounds 1, 3 and 10 exhibited significant inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 14.05, 23.48 and 29.23 μmol·L-1, respectively. Their antibacterial activities of four bacteria, Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus (ATCC 29213), Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica (ATCC 14028) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), were also evaluated. Our results indicated that the antibacterial activity of these compounds is inactive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic, reproductive, and endocrine disorder affecting women of fertile age. This study aimed to formulate a phytochemicals-based standardized aqueous ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia (SERC) to explore its pharmacological potential in PCOS-induced female rats and elucidate its mechanism. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of phytochemicals such as chlorogenic acid, p -coumaric acid, gallic acid, and kaempferol. Thirty female adult rats were divided into two groups for induction of PCOS (5 female rats in the normal control group + 25 female rats in the disease-induced group). PCOS was induced by administering letrozole (1 mg/kg p.o .) for 6 weeks. After PCOS induction, animals of the disease-induced group were divided into five groups: one group used as disease control (PCOS) group, one group on metformin (20 mg/kg), and three groups on SERC (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg). Histopathological analysis showed that PCOS induction reduced corpus luteum and developing follicles and increased cystic follicles. In comparison, SERC treatment improved ovulation with more primary and developing follicles. SERC reduced the serum insulin, LH surge, and testosterone levels while improving the FSH, estrogen, and progesterone serum levels. SERC significantly improved the oxidation status of the liver and normalized the lipid profile and liver function markers. In conclusion, SERC treated PCOS, and the suggested mechanism might be the restoration of aromatase activity and background inflammatory status improvement in ovaries., Competing Interests: 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., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Phytochemical evaluation of the alcoholic extract of Rubia cordifolia Linn. roots resulted in the identification of two anthraquinone compounds 1a (1,4-dihydroxyanthracene-9,10(4aH,9aH)-dione) and 1b (2-methylanthracene-9,10(4aH,9aH)-dione). The isolated compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods and their structures were established. The derivatives were found to be nontoxic against Vero and HepG2 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present investigation aims to predict the pharmacokinetic aspects and assessing the anti-Alzheimer's activity using both molecular docking platform and ex vivo pharmacological studies on muscle contraction. Materials and Methods: 2-Methyl Anthraquinone (MAQ) and Quinizarine (QNZ) were isolated from Rubia cordifolia L., and evaluated for absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity. Molecular docking was performed with the help of Mcule software on five drug targets acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE), cyclin-dependent kinase5 (CDK5), glycogen synthase kinase 3ß (GSK3ß), monoamine oxidase (MAO-B), and ß-secretase enzyme (BACE). The pharmacological activity was screened by recording the muscle contractions of chick ileum. Results: The selected compounds were following Lipinski rule of five and the in silico studies have shown that the compounds possess drug likeliness, appreciated absorption, distribution, admired bioavailability, acceptable toxicity profile, and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. The multi-target screening of AChE, CDK5, MAOB, GSK3ß, and BACE for MAQ and QNZ showed greater binding energy of -9.9, -10, -10.5, -9.4, and 8.2 kcal/mol and -9.6, -9.1, -9.9, -8.9, and 7.8 kcal/mol, respectively. The ex vivo studies have shown to possess synergistic effect in increasing the muscle contractility response of MAQ and QNZ with acetylcholine. Conclusion: The in silico parameters have shown good pharmacokinetic profile of the isolated compounds. The binding energy and affinity of amino acids with ligands have similar behavior in the ex vivo studies. It is suggested that the isolated compounds have promising anti-Alzheimer's activity. Further studies are required to confirm the possibility of anti-Alzheimer's activity of the selected compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal plants and their combination report therapeutic as well synergistic effect that has been recognized in medicine. So, taking into account this factor, polyherbal topical cream formulation was prepared by using plant extracts, to improve patient compliance, enhance antimicrobial spectrum and enhance aesthetic properties. The objective of this study was to formulate and evaluate topical polyherbal cream for the delivery of the active constituents present in plants to improve skin diseases. The plant extracts of Ocimum sanctum (OS), Rubia cordifolia (RC) and Glycyrrhiza glabra (GG) were utilized for the preparation of cream. The formulated cream was subjected to different evaluation parameters and the results depicted that the spreadability of the formulation was low (17.80±1.10g. cm/sec) and this low value of spreadability coefficient was sufficient suggesting easy spreading and no signs of grittiness. In rheological studies, all the cream formulations also exhibited the same non-Newtonian behavior. Polyherbal topical cream showed potential antimicrobial activity against all selected microorganisms. Polyherbal topical cream (PHC5) was ideal in terms of viscosity than other formulations and showed good drug release. Thus, the formulated polyherbal cream was found to be stable in terms of all physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are essential regulators of plant growth and development, biotic and abiotic stress responses. Inactivation of the auto-inhibitory domain (AID) of CDPKs provides the constitutive activity. This study investigated the effect of overexpressed native and constitutive active (AtCPK1-Ca) forms of the AtCPK1 gene on abiotic stress tolerance and the ROS/redox system in Rubia cordifolia transgenic callus lines. Overexpression of the native AtCPK1 increased tolerance to salinity and cold almost in two times, when AtCPK1-Ca – in three times compare to control culture. A more interesting effect of overexpression of the AtCPK1 and AtCPK1 - Ca was observed for heat resistance. The native form of AtCPK1 increased resistance to heating by 45%, while the AtCPK1 - Ca increased by 80%. At the same time, another type of mutation of the AID (AtCPK1-Na , not active) did not affect the tolerance of the cell culture to stresses. We suppose, in this process, the ROS/redox system might be involved. Levels of intracellular ROS, ROS-generating enzymes expression and activities (Rbohs, Prx) and ROS-detoxifying enzymes (SOD, Cat, Apx and Prx) changed in a coordinated manner and in strict interconnection, depending of the callus growth phase and correlated with improved stress tolerance caused by AtCPK1. Because overexpression of both the AtCPK1 and AtCPK1-Ca did not significantly change callus growth, we propose that inactivation of AID of the AtCPK1 or its ortholog, might be an interesting instrument for improvement of plant cells resistance to abiotic stress. • The expression of ROS producers and scavengers was activated at the middle stages of growth of the AtCPK1- expressed cells. • The AtCPK1 overexpression causes an increase in heat, coldand salinity tolerance. • Inactivation of the AI domain in AtCPK1-Ca (constitutively active) strengthens all these processes. • The constitutively active forms of CDPKs are most interesting for subsequent biotechnological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four new natural products were obtained from the the medicinal Rubia cordifolia. • The nucleoside and furanpentanone derivatives are reported from Rubia cordifolia for the first time. • Two compounds exhibited NO production inhibitions. One new nucleoside 1 and three new furanpentone derivatives 2 ‒ 4 were isolated from the aerial part of Rubia cordifolia. Their structures were established using spectroscopic methods. Compounds 1 and 4 exhibited inhibition of NO production with IC 50 values of 27.5 and 19.8 μ M, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The genuineness of Ayurvedic herbs causally determines the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment protocols. Research and subsequent evidence-based medicinal practices fundamentally dependant on appropriate identification and standardization of specific herbs are used for health-care purposes. Definite deficits that prevail in this regard in the form of adulteration, substitution, and compromised quality standards are the reasons why many scientific communities and health-related organizations question Ayurvedic sciences. This study aims at raising the very timely subject matter of genuine drug collection based on a model of Pharmacognostical and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) profiling of an Indian medicinal herb "Manjishta"' (Rubia cordifolia L.), a profoundly marketed Ayurvedic drug. Objectives: To compare the six market samples of Manjishta (Pharmacognostical and with HPTLC profiling) with the genuine root and stolon. Materials and Methods: The market samples of Manjishta from 6 districts of Kerala were collected, and these samples were compared with the genuine root and stolon (morphology, histology, and with HPTLC profiles). Results: Morphological and anatomical evaluation of the market samples was similar with that of the original stolon of Rubia cordifolia. HPTLC profiling yielded entirely different peaks in specific samples when compared with that of the genuine stolon. Conclusion: The collected market samples of Manjishta from different districts of Kerala were almost similar to the stolon of Rubia cordifolia L. A clear standard operative procedure should be prepared for medicinal plant part collection with respect to source plant maturity for Manjishta or as a matter of fact any other herb and thus the HPTLC profiles should be redefined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's time research on plants has increased globally. There are thousands of plant species having good potential offering direct therapeutic effect individually or in combinations. Manjith a herbal drug also known as Indian madder with its botanical name Rubia cordifolia is an age old ethno-medicinal plant in India used as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-bacterial, anti-androgenic, immune-modulator, hepatoprotective, astringent, tonic, antiseptic, de-obstruent, anti-dysenteric and efficient blood purifier, hence is extensively used against blood, skin and urinary diseases. This study is aimed at assessing the scientific evaluation of desi Rubia cordifolia in the course of pharmacognostical analysis to identify its various parts and to differentiate it from various adulterants, which mainly covers the macroscopic and microscopic features and its medicinal properties which are due to its richness in phytoconstituents such as quinines (anthraquinones), glycosides, saponins, tanins, alkaloids, hexapeptides, triterpenoids, steroids, phenols, and saccharids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently published phylogenetic analyses of the Golovinomyces orontii complex revealed that three different species of the genus Golovinomyces may occur on cucurbitaceous hosts, viz., G. bolayi , G. orontii s. str., and G. tabaci. Owing to its morphological characteristics, Erysiphe cucurbitacearum (≡ G. cucurbitacearum) was tentatively reduced to synonym with G. tabaci. However, final conclusions on the identity and status of E. cucurbitacearum , described from China on Cucumis sativus , as putative synonym of G. tabaci required a phylogenetic confirmation and epitypification with ex-epitype sequences. Therefore, a sample of G. cucurbitacearum collected on C. sativus in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, in 2014 (HMJAU-PM91862) has been sequenced and is designated as epitype of the latter species, since its holotype material (HMAS 40016, collected in 1954) turned out to be too old for molecular examinations. As a result of morphological examinations and phylogenetic analyses based on ex-epitype ITS and 28S rDNA sequences, the recently assumed synonymy of G. cucurbitacearum , found on C. sativus in China, with G. tabaci could be confirmed. In addition, two new host species of G. tabaci , viz., Trigonotis peduncularis (Boraginaceae) and Rubia cordifolia (Rubiaceae), were concurrently identified. Trigonotis peduncularis is the first verified boraginaceous host for G. tabaci. • Golovinomyces found on Cucumis sativus was reallocate to as a synonymy of G. tabaci. • Additional host family and host species of G. tabaci were first found. • Phylogenetic analyses and morphology confirmed the results in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental issues inspire the revival of natural dyes that exhibit better biodegradability and more compatibility over synthetic ones. This research is aimed to investigate the effect of color and fastness properties on wool yarn substrate with natural anthraquinone colorants extracted from madder roots using gallnut (Quercus infectoria) extract as anchoring agent. Prior to the dyeing with Indian Madder (Rubia cordifolia), wool fibers were pre and post-treated with different concentrations of gallnut extract (viz 1–5% o.w.f) to get a broad range of beautiful and color fast shades. The feasibility of gallnut extract as an anchoring agent and its effect on color strength and color fastness to light, rubbing, and washing was investigated. Results of color characteristics showed that the color coordinates of the dyed samples were situated in the red-yellow quadrant of the CIELabcolor space. Bio-mordanting with gallnut extract produced shades of practically acceptable color depth, color fastness to light, washing and rubbing. Pre-treatment with gallnut extract is dominated over post-treatment in terms of better colorimetric and fastness results.

The present study is aimed to explore the dyeing ability of anthraquinone colorants extracted from Rubia cordifolia Lin. roots. Sustainable approach for textile dyeing with a systematic protocol is followed with the effect of AlCl3 and CaCl2 metallic mordants. The optimization of extraction and dyeing conditions was assessed by Reflectance Spectrophotometry. The optimum extraction and dyeing conditions were found to be pH = 2, time = 45 min and temperature 90 °C and pH = 4, time = 90 min and temperature 90 °C respectively. At optimized conditions, dyeing abilities of pre-mordanted with metallic salts as anchoring agent (AlCl3 and CaCl2) were compared. Wool samples dyed with Madder root extract impart radiant red shades with or without mordants having different hue and tones with commercially acceptable colorimetric and fastness properties without sacrificing much of the resources. Effective improvement in color as well as fastness properties was observed using anchoring agents.

• rolA-transgenic Rubia cordifolia calli show stable and elevated growth over 14 years. • rolA-calli had increased anthraquinone yield from activation of ruberitrinic acid biosynthesis. • Expression of key anthraquinone biosynthesis genes strongly activated in rolA- calli. • The rolA gene is a potential inducer of plant secondary metabolism. The RolA protein belongs to the RolB class of plant T-DNA oncogenes, and shares structural similarity with the papilloma virus E2 DNA-binding domain. It has potentially as an inducer of plant secondary metabolism, although its role in biotechnology has yet to be realised. In this investigation, a Rubia cordifolia callus culture transformed with the rolA plant oncogene for more than 10 years was analysed. Expression of the rolA gene in the callus line was stable during long-term cultivation, and growth parameters were both elevated and stable, exceeding those of the non-transformed control culture. The rolA -transformed calli not only demonstrated remarkably stable growth, but also the ability to increase the yield of anthraquinones (AQs) in long-term cultivation. After ten years of cultivating rolA callus lines, we observed an activation of AQ biosynthesis from 200 mg/l to 874 mg/l. The increase was mainly due to activation of ruberitrinic acid biosynthesis. The expression of key AQ biosynthesis genes was strongly activated in rolA -transgenic calli. We compared the effects of the rolA gene with those of the rolB gene, which was previously considered the most potent inducer of secondary metabolism, and showed that rolA was more productive under conditions of long-term cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The body responds to overnutrition by converting stem cells to adipocytes. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown polyphenols and other natural compounds to be anti-adipogenic, presumably due in part to their antioxidant properties. Purpurin is a highly antioxidative anthraquinone and previous studies on anthraquinones have reported numerous biological activities in cells and animals. Anthraquinones have also been used to stimulate osteoblast differentiation, an inversely-related process to that of adipocyte differentiation. We propose that due to its high antioxidative properties, purpurin administration might attenuate adipogenesis in cells and in mice. Methods: Our study will test the effect purpurin has on adipogenesis using both in vitro and in vivo models. The in vitro model consists of tracking with various biomarkers, the differentiation of pre-adipocyte to adipocytes in cell culture. The compound will then be tested in mice fed a high-fat diet. Murine 3T3-L1 preadipocyte cells were stimulated to differentiate in the presence or absence of purpurin. The following cellular parameters were measured: intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), membrane potential of the mitochondria, ATP production, activation of AMPK (adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase), insulin-induced lipid accumulation, triglyceride accumulation, and expression of PPARγ (peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ) and C/EBPα (CCAAT enhancer binding protein α). In vivo, mice were fed high fat diets supplemented with various levels of purpurin. Data collected from the animals included anthropometric data, glucose tolerance test results, and postmortem plasma glucose, lipid levels, and organ examinations. Results: The administration of purpurin at 50 and 100 μM in 3T3-L1 cells, and at 40 and 80 mg/kg in mice proved to be a sensitive range: the lower concentrations affected several measured parameters, whereas at the higher doses purpurin consistently mitigated biomarkers associated with adipogenesis, and weight gain in mice. Purpurin appears to be an effective antiadipogenic compound. Conclusion: The anthraquinone purpurin has potent in vitro anti-adipogenic effects in cells and in vivo anti-obesity effects in mice consuming a high-fat diet. Differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells was dose-dependently inhibited by purpurin, apparently by AMPK activation. Mice on a high-fat diet experienced a dose-dependent reduction in induced weight gain of up to 55%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work the natural madder dye (Rubia Cordifolia) and Kattha (Acacia catechu) was applied on the regenerated cellulosic fabric-Lyocell through hand screen printing method. In the first part of the study printing paste was developed, using various ratios of guar gum and chitosan for printing with Madder and Kattha. The printed fabric was then characterized with respect to colourfastness and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. For durability tests, both the dyes showed a moderate to good light fastness and fastness to perspiration and good to excellent fastness to washing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two RA‐series bicyclic hexapeptides, RA‐XXV (4) and RA‐XXVI (5), which have no N‐methyl group at Tyr‐5, were isolated from the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. Their amino acid compositions and sequences were determined by interpretation of MS, and 1D and 2D NMR data and their relative structures were elucidated by XRD analysis of 4 and RA‐XXVI acetate (6). The absolute stereochemistry of 4 was established by the total synthesis of 4, and that of 5, by the chemical correlation with 4. Peptides 4 and 5 exhibited cytotoxicity toward human promyelocytic leukemia HL‐60 (IC50=0.062 and 0.066 μm, respectively) and human colonic carcinoma HCT‐116 (IC50=0.028 and 0.051 μm, respectively) cell lines. Analysis of the conformational structures of 4 and 6 in the crystalline state and those of 4 and 5 in solution revealed that the N‐methyl group at Tyr‐5 functions to make this series of peptides preferentially adopt the active conformation. The eye of Ra: Two RA‐series bicyclic hexapeptides, RA‐XXV and RA‐XXVI, which have no N‐methyl group at Tyr‐5, were isolated from the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. and their absolute structures were established by synthetic methods. Investigation of their conformational properties and cytotoxic activity revealed that the N‐methyl group at Tyr‐5 is necessary for this series of peptides to take the active conformation preferentially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperlipidemia is major problem among population those, who have sedentary life style. The effects of ethanolic and aqueous root extract of Rubiacordifoliain experimentally induced hyperlipidemic rats were investigated. 42 wistar rats of both sexes were used for the study. The animals were completely randomized into seven groups comprising 6 animals each. The groups were treated as follows: Group I: normal diet (ND); Group II: HFD ( Vanaspati ghee + coconut oil mixture in ratio of 3:2 at 10 ml/kg/day); Group III: HFD + Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day); Group IV: HFD+ ethanolic extract of roots of Rubia cordifolia low dose(200 mg/kg/day); Group V: HFD + ethanolic extract of roots of Rubia cordifolia high dose (400 mg/kg/day); Group VI: HFD + aqueous extract of roots of Rubia cordifolia low dose (200 mg/kg/day); Group VII: HFD + aqueous extract of roots of Rubia cordifolia high dose (400 mg/kg/day). Hypercholesterolemia was induced by feeding the animals with high fat diet for 21 days before administration of the extract. After 21thday of feeding, administration of extract lasted for 14 days. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed that the ethanolic and aqueous root extract of Rubia cordifolia contains glycosides, triterpenoids, saponins, alkaloids and flavonoids. Overall, findings from the present study suggest that the antihyperlipidemic activity observed with Atorvastatin (10mg/kg oral) and the ethanolic extracts of Rubia cordifolia (400mg/kg) showed better activity thanaqueous extracts of Rubia cordifolia (200mg/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counter-current chromatography (CCC) is a unique liquid–liquid partition chromatography and largely relies on the partition interactions of solutes and solvents in two-phase solvents. Usually, the two-phase solvents used in CCC include a lipophilic organic phase and a hydrophilic aqueous phase. Although a large number of partition interactions have been found and used in the CCC separations, there are few studies that address the role of water on solvents and solutes in the two-phase partition. In this study, we presented a new insight that H2O (water) might be an efficient and sensible hydrophobic agent in the n-hexane-methanol-based two-phase partition and CCC separation of lipophilic compounds, i.e., anti-cancer component mollugin from Rubia cordifolia. Although the n-hexane-methanol-based four components solvent systems of n-hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water (HEMWat) is one of the most popular CCC solvent systems and widely used for natural products isolation, this is an interesting trial to investigate the water roles in the two-phase solutions. In addition, as an example, the bioactive component mollugin was targeted, separated, and purified by MS-guided CCC with hexane-methanol and minor water as a hydrophobic agent. It might be useful for isolation and purification of lipophilic mollugin and other bioactive compounds complex natural products and traditional Chinese medicines.

The anticancer activities of Rubia cordifolia and its constituents have been reported earlier, but their influence on the crosstalk of complex cancer-related signaling metabolic pathways (i.e., transcription factors; TF) has not yet been fully investigated. In this study, R. cordifolia root extract was subjected to the cancer signaling assay based bioactivity-guided fractionation, which yielded the following compounds viz., three anthraquinones, namely alizarin (1), purpurin (2), and emodin (3); two lignans, namely eudesmin (4) and compound 5; and two cyclic hexapeptides, namely deoxybouvardin RA-V (6), and a mixture of 6+9 (RA-XXI). The structures of the isolated compounds were determined by NMR spectroscopy and HRESIMS. The isolated compounds 1, 2, 3, 6, and a mixture of 6+9 were tested against a panel of luciferase reporter genes that assesses the activity of a wide-range of cancer-related signaling pathways. In addition, reference anthraquinones viz., chrysophanol (11), danthron (12), quinizarin (13), aloe-emodin (14), and α-lapachone (15) were also tested. Among the tested compounds, the cyclic hexapeptide 6 was found to be very active against several signaling pathways, notably Wnt, Myc, and Notch with IC50 values of 50, 75, and 93 ng/mL, respectively. Whereas, the anthraquinones exhibited very mild or no inhibition against these signaling pathways. Compound 6 being the most active, we tested it for stability in simulated intestinal (SIF) and gastric fluids (SGF), since the stability in biological fluid is a key short-coming of cyclic hexapeptides. The anticancer activity of 6 was found to remain unchanged before and after the treatment of simulated gastric/intestinal fluids, indicating that RA-V was stable. As a result, it could be bioavailable when orally used in therapeutics and possibly a drug candidate for cancer treatment. The mechanism for the preferential inhibition of these pathways and the possible crosstalk effect with other previously reported signaling pathways has been discussed.

The expansion or reduction of suitable habitats for medicinal plants may result from climate change. There are few reports on the distribution of suitable habitats or potential origins of Rubia cordifolia L. , a relatively common herb. However, due to its important pharmacological properties, it is essential that high-quality R. cordifolia can be provided in the future. Therefore, this study combined the biomod2 ensemble platform and the secondary metabolites of R. cordifolia roots to predict its suitable habitats and potential planting areas. Root samples and occurrence data were gathered through fieldwork and public databases. Ultra high-performance liquid chromatography was used to measure the concentrations of two important secondary metabolites in the roots. According to the findings, appropriate habitats covering an area of 2,706,795 km2 were found in various regions, primarily in the eastern and southern parts of China. Under future climate scenarios, suitable habitats shrank inward or expanded outward along the current suitable habitats. Additionally, purpurin was extensively spread, and mollugin was narrowly distributed within the suitable habitats, resulting in dispersed and restricted potential planting areas (893,116 km2). In addition, the precipitation of the wettest month is crucial for distributing suitable habitats and the synthesis of two secondary metabolites. However, there is a risk of losing suitable planting areas for R. cordifolia due to future climate scenarios. Therefore, effective conservation and management measures are urgently needed. In conclusion, the findings of this study may serve as a guide for choosing appropriate planting areas for R. cordifolia. [Display omitted] • Climate change is predicted to alter the range of medicinal plants. • Suitable habitats of Rubia cordifolia were predicted by biomod2 and ArcGIS. • Precipitation of wettest month was the most important constraint on its distribution. • The distribution of secondary metabolites was obtained by UHPLC. • The suitable planting areas was much smaller than the suitable habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with the application of natural dyes extracted from powdered henna (Lawsonia inermis) leaves and madder (Rubia cordifolia) roots on woolen yarn and assessment of effect of stannous chloride mordant on dyeability, color characteristics, fastness properties and antifungal activity of dyed woolen yarn. Sixteen shades have been developed for the characterization of their color characteristics and fastness properties. The color strength (K/S value) has been found to be very good in all dyed woolen yarn samples. The color fastness with respect to light exposure, washing and rubbing was quite satisfactory for both henna as well as madder dyed samples. Henna leaves extract was found very effective against Candida glabrata both in solution as well as after application on wool substrate but no antifungal activity is reported in case of madder both in solution as well as on wool substrate.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Rubia cordifolia is a common traditional Chinese medicine that promotes blood circulation and eliminates blood stasis, and has been used to cure diseases related to blood stasis syndrome (BSS) clinically for many years. It has been previously demonstrated that anti-thrombosis and pro-angiogenesis can improve BSS. However, the anti-thrombotic and pro-angiogenic activities of Rubia cordifolia have not been well investigated. Aim of study To determine the potential anti-thrombotic and pro-angiogenic activities of Rubia cordifolia and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In addition, the major chemical constituents of Rubia cordifolia extract (QC) were qualitatively analysed by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS to explore the association between pharmacological activity and chemical constituents. Material and methods The QC samples were composed of a 95% ethanol extract and an aqueous extract following extraction using 95% ethanol. UPLC-Q-TOF/MS was used to analyse the major chemical constituents of QC. For the anti-thrombotic experiment of QC, a phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced AB strain zebrafish thrombosis model was used. The zebrafish larvae were stained using O-dianisidine, and the heart and caudal vein of the zebrafish were observed and imaged with a fluorescence microscope. The staining intensity of erythrocytes in the heart (SI) of each group and the morphology of thrombus in the caudal vein were used to assess the anti-thrombotic effect of QC. For the pro-angiogenic assay of QC, the intersegmental blood vessel (ISV) insufficiency model of Tg(fli-1: EGFP)y1 transgenic zebrafish (Flik zebrafish), which was induced by the VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor II (VRI), was used. The morphology of the intact ISVs and defective ISVs was observed to evaluate the pro-angiogenic activity of QC. The mechanism involved in promoting angiogenesis was studied with real-time PCR. Results A total of 12 components in QC were identified based on standard compounds and references, including nine anthraquinones and three naphthoquinones. After treatment with QC, the PHZ-induced thrombosis in AB strain zebrafish larvae decreased to a certain degree, which we believe was related to its dosages, and the therapeutic effect within the 50–200 µg/mL QC treatment groups was especially prominent (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) compared to that in the PHZ model group. Similarly, QC also recovered the loss of the ISVs, which was induced by VRI in Flik zebrafish larvae, which have a certain dose-effect relationship. The pro-angiogenic activity of QC was also conspicuous (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) compared to that of the VRI model group. The following real-time PCR assay proved that QC significantly restored the VRI-induced downregulation of vWF, VEGF-A, kdrl, and flt-1 in Flik zebrafish (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.001). Conclusions A total of 12 compounds from QC were analysed by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. The data of the pharmacological experiments demonstrated that QC presented anti-thrombotic and pro-angiogenic activities in zebrafish, and the principal active components were likely anthraquinones and naphthoquinones. Thus, the current study provided a theoretical basis for the clinical use of Rubia cordifolia as a traditional Chinese medicine in promoting blood circulation and eliminating stasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]