Search

One undescribed benzofuran derivative (illiciumphenolicacid A, 1) and one new phenolic glycoside (illiciumphenolicacid B, 2), together with six known compounds (3–8) were isolated from the leaves of Illicium dunnianum Tutcher. Their structures were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic data (UV, IR, HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR). In addition, we determined the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the isolates in vitro using spectrophotometric methods. Compared with the positive control acarbose (IC50 306.2 ± 4.1 μM), compounds 1–8 were shown to be moderate potential α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values in the range 380–655 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schisandra propinqua subsp. sinensis (Oliv.) R.M.K. Saunders 1997, a woody vine plant esteemed for its medicinal properties, has garnered attention in botanical research. In this study, we elucidated the complete chloroplast genome sequence of S. propinqua. The genome spans 145,562 bp and comprises a large single-copy (LSC) region of 94,164 bp, a small single-copy region of 18,294 bp (SSC), and a pair of inverted repeats (IR) of 16,552 bp. Notably, S. propinqua exhibits an overall GC content of 36.2%. Annotation revealed a total of 116 genes, encompassing 81 protein-coding genes, 27 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. Phylogenetic analysis unveiled a close relationship among Schisandraceae, indicating the evolutionary proximity. This comprehensive genomic dataset provides valuable insights into the genetic makeup and evolutionary dynamics within the Schisandra genus.

Phytochemical study on the methanol extract of the stems and leaves of Kadsura induta led to the isolation of six dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, including three new compounds named kadsindutalignans A–C (1–3), and three known ones, heteroclitalignan B (4), kadsuphilin C (5) and kadsulignan E (6). Their structures were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic analyses, including HRESIMS, 1D- (1H NMR and 13C NMR), 2D-NMR (HSQC, HMBC, 1H-1H COSY and NOESY), and experimental circular dichroism (CD) spectra. All the isolates inhibited NO production in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells with IC50 values in the range from 5.67 ± 0.54 µM to 38.19 ± 2.03 µM, compared to that of the positive control of NG-monomethyl-L-arginine acetate (L-NMMA) with an IC50 value of 8.90 ± 0.48 µM. Interestingly, the new compound 2 showed potential inhibition of NO production with an IC50 value of 5.67 ± 0.54 µM, which was higher than that of the positive control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: The representatives of the ANA‐grade angiosperms demonstrate a diverse pattern of morphological characters, but their apocarpous gynoecium (except in Nymphaeaceae), composed of at least partly ascidiate carpels, the four‐nucleate and four‐celled female gametophyte, and the diploid endosperm (except in Amborella) are inferred to be plesiomorphies. Since the structure of fruits in Austrobaileyales is under‐investigated, this research aims to fill this gap in these data, describing the carpological characters of ANA‐grade taxa, and potentially illuminating the ancestral fruit and seed types of angiosperms. Methods: The pericarp and seed coat anatomy was studied with light microscopy. The character optimization was carried out using WinClada software. Results: The fruits of Austrobaileya, Trimenia, Kadsura, and Schisandra are determined to be apocarpous berries of the Schisandra type, with a parenchymatous pericarp and mesotestal (Austrobaileya) or exomesotestal seeds (other genera). Most inferred scenarios of fruit evolution indicate that the apocarpous berry is either the most probable plesiomorphic fruit type of all angiosperms, or that of all angiosperms except Amborellaceae. This inference suggests the early origin of the berry in fruit evolution. The plesiomorphic seed type of angiosperms according to reconstructed scenarios of seed type evolution was either a seed lacking a sclerenchymatous layer or an exotestal seed. Conclusions: The current research indicates that an apocarpous berry, and not a follicle, is a probable plesiomorphic character of the ANA‐grade taxa and of angiosperms as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver injury is a common pathological process characterized by massive degeneration and abnormal death of liver cells. With increase in dead cells and necrosis, liver injury eventually leads to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatic fibrosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Consequently, it is necessary to treat liver injury and to prevent its progression. The drug Bicylol is widely employed in China to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and has therapeutic potential for liver injury. It is the derivative of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans extracted from Schisandra chinensis (SC). The Schisandraceae family is a rich source of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, which possesses potential liver protective activity. This study aimed to comprehensively summarize the phytochemistry, structure-activity relationship and molecular mechanisms underlying the liver protective activities of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from the Schisandraceae family. Here, we had discussed the analysis of absorption or permeation properties of 358 compounds based on Lipinski’s rule of five. So far, 358 dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans have been reported, with 37 of them exhibited hepatoprotective effects. The molecular mechanism of the active compounds mainly involves antioxidative stress, anti-inflammation and autophagy through Kelch-like ECH-associating protein 1/nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Keap1/Nrf2/ARE), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-кB), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)/Smad 2/3 signaling pathways. This review is expected to provide scientific ideas for future research related to developing and utilizing the dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from Schisandraceae family.

Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith and Schisandra sphenantha rehd. et wils. are different genus plants of Schisandraceae, distributed in the north and south of China, respectively. These species are non-wood forest trees with important medicinal value. Grafting is one of the technical means by which plants migrate to other regions to adapt to different habitats. However, the current research on the grafting of Schisandraceae only focuses on the effect of the rootstock on the scion, and lacks investigations on the effect of the scion on the rootstock, leading to the mechanism of the rootstock–scion interaction being still unclear. In this study, Kadsura coccinea (K) and Schisandra sphenanthera (S) were used as scion and rootstock for reciprocal grafting, and four grafted combinations, K/S (scion/rootstock), S/S, S/K, and K/K, were obtained, with S/S and K/K being the controls. Comparative analyses of the morphological, anatomical, and physiological characteristics of rootstocks were conducted at 10 d, 30 d, 50 d, and 70 d after grafting. The results showed that compared with the control, the total root length, root volume, root tips, and root biomass of K/S and S/K decreased. However, the root average diameter and root surface area of K/S increased, while those of S/K decreased. All the differences between the above indices and the control were about 10%, and almost all of them changed most significantly at 70 d after grafting. Anatomically, the root cross section, stele diameter, and xylem area of K/S increased, while those of S/K decreased. In addition, the cortex thicknesses of K/S and S/K increased. These anatomical changes were mainly reflected in the second-order and third-order roots. Meanwhile, the changes in root endogenous hormone (IAA, ZR, GA3, ABA) contents in K/S and S/K in relation to days after grafting could explain the differences in root morphology. Moreover, both K/S and S/K had lower root activity and soluble sugar content than the control, and S/K had lower soluble protein and higher malondialdehyde content. This study indicated that the intergeneric grafting of Schisandraceae inhibited the growth of rootstocks, and the degree of inhibition was potentially related to the relative strength of the rootstock and scion, which provides a theoretical basis for further research on the rootstock–scion interaction mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Schisandraceae are medicinal plants with significant medicinal and economic value. However, little is known about the microbiota assembly of Schisandraceae plants and the relationship between endophytic species and the accumulation of secondary metabolites. Methods: In this study, we characterized the bacterial and fungal communities in different compartments of Schisandra sphenanthera and Kadsura angustifolia by 16S/ITS amplicon sequencing. The prediction of the metabolic potential and measurement of specific metabolites were conducted, as well as the correlation with endophytic species was estimated. Results: A total of 744,162 bacterial and 641,388 fungal amplicon sequence variants were obtained and taxonomically grouped into 44 and 16 different phyla, respectively. Community diversity and composition analyses showed that the two Schisandraceae plants had similar and unique endophytic microbial communities compared with soil microorganisms. Furthermore, PICRUSt and FUNGuild predictive analysis indicated that host-associated functions were associated with metabolic processing. Therefore, the correlations between the five active components (polyphenols, flavonoids, sugars, triterpenoids and lignans) and endophytes of S. sphenanthera and K. angustifolia were investigated. Diverse relationships including positive and negative correlation were found among chemicals and endophytes based on correlation coefficient matrices, which suggested that the accumulation of secondary metabolites in Schisandraceae plants is closely related to the endophytes community composition. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated the differences in the co-occurrence patterns and assembly processes of microbiomes across the multiple plant niches in Schisandraceae plants, which were closely associated with secondary metabolites. These findings present new opportunities to deeply understand plant-microbial symbioses and secondary metabolite productions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new dibenzocyclooctane lignans, schisanwilsonins H (1) and I (2), together with eight known compounds gomisin J (3), wulignan A1 (4), gomisin S (5), tigloylgomisin P (6), gomisin O (7), (-)-gomisin K1 (8), rubschisantherin (9) and wuweizisu C (10) were isolated from the 95% ethanol extract of the fruits of Schisandra wilsoniana. 7 exhibited anti-HBV activity with potency against HBsAg and HBeAg secretion by 37.1% and 32.6%, respectively, at 50 μg/ml. 10 exhibited anti-HIV activity with EC50 and therapeutic index (TI) values of 2.10 μg/ml and 11.98, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schisandra grandiflora (Wall.) Hook. f. & Thomson (Schisandraceae: sect. Pleiostema), the specimens collected in Ha Giang, Cao Bang, and Vinh Phuc provinces, as a new recorded species for the flora of Vietnam. A morphological comparison with related species and a key to species in Vietnam was provided. A description including details of distribution and habitat is supplied with a line-drawing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heilaohu, the roots of Kadsura coccinea, has been used in Tujia ethnomedicine to treat rheumatic arthritis (RA). Heilaohuacid G (1), a new 3,4-seco-lanostane type triterpenoid isolated from the ethanol extract of Heilaohu, whose structure was determined using HR-ESI-MS data, NMR spectroscopic analyses, and ECD calculations. In this study, our purpose is to elucidate the mechanisms of Heilaohuacid G in the treatment of RA by inhibited proliferation of rheumatoid arthritis-fibroblastoid synovial (RA-FLS) cells and inhibited the inflammatory reactions in LPS-induced RA-FLS and RAW 264.7 cell lines via inhibiting NF-κB pathway. The biological activity screening experiments indicated that Heilaohuacid G significantly inhibited proliferation of RA-FLS cells with IC50 value of 8.16 ± 0.47 μM. CCK-8 assay, ELISA, flow cytometry assay, and Western blot were used to measure the changes of cell viability, apoptosis, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. Heilaohuacid G was found not only induced RA-FLS cell apoptosis, but also inhibited the inflammatory reactions in LPS-induced RA-FLS and RAW 264.7 cell lines via inhibiting NF-κB pathway. Furthermore, Heilaohuacid G (p.o.) at doses of 3.0, 6.0, and 12.0 mg/kg and the ethanol extracts of Heilaohu (p.o.) at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg both were confirmed antiinflammatory effects on xylene-induced ear mice edema model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schisandra propinqua subsp. sinensis (Oliv.) R.M.K. Saunders 1997, a woody vine plant esteemed for its medicinal properties, has garnered attention in botanical research. In this study, we elucidated the complete chloroplast genome sequence of S. propinqua . The genome spans 145,562 bp and comprises a large single-copy (LSC) region of 94,164 bp, a small single-copy region of 18,294 bp (SSC), and a pair of inverted repeats (IR) of 16,552 bp. Notably, S. propinqua exhibits an overall GC content of 36.2%. Annotation revealed a total of 116 genes, encompassing 81 protein-coding genes, 27 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. Phylogenetic analysis unveiled a close relationship among Schisandraceae, indicating the evolutionary proximity. This comprehensive genomic dataset provides valuable insights into the genetic makeup and evolutionary dynamics within the Schisandra genus., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s)., (© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)

Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith and Schisandra sphenantha rehd. et wils. are different genus plants of Schisandraceae, distributed in the north and south of China, respectively. These species are non-wood forest trees with important medicinal value. Grafting is one of the technical means by which plants migrate to other regions to adapt to different habitats. However, the current research on the grafting of Schisandraceae only focuses on the effect of the rootstock on the scion, and lacks investigations on the effect of the scion on the rootstock, leading to the mechanism of the rootstock–scion interaction being still unclear. In this study, Kadsura coccinea (K) and Schisandra sphenanthera (S) were used as scion and rootstock for reciprocal grafting, and four grafted combinations, K/S (scion/rootstock), S/S, S/K, and K/K, were obtained, with S/S and K/K being the controls. Comparative analyses of the morphological, anatomical, and physiological characteristics of rootstocks were conducted at 10 d, 30 d, 50 d, and 70 d after grafting. The results showed that compared with the control, the total root length, root volume, root tips, and root biomass of K/S and S/K decreased. However, the root average diameter and root surface area of K/S increased, while those of S/K decreased. All the differences between the above indices and the control were about 10%, and almost all of them changed most significantly at 70 d after grafting. Anatomically, the root cross section, stele diameter, and xylem area of K/S increased, while those of S/K decreased. In addition, the cortex thicknesses of K/S and S/K increased. These anatomical changes were mainly reflected in the second-order and third-order roots. Meanwhile, the changes in root endogenous hormone (IAA, ZR, GA3, ABA) contents in K/S and S/K in relation to days after grafting could explain the differences in root morphology. Moreover, both K/S and S/K had lower root activity and soluble sugar content than the control, and S/K had lower soluble protein and higher malondialdehyde content. This study indicated that the intergeneric grafting of Schisandraceae inhibited the growth of rootstocks, and the degree of inhibition was potentially related to the relative strength of the rootstock and scion, which provides a theoretical basis for further research on the rootstock–scion interaction mechanism.

A series of schiartane C29 nortriterpenoids with 5/5/7/6/5 membered consecutive rings (1‒5) with an unique schinortriterpenoid skeleton including a new, kadcoccilactone V (1), together with four known ones (2‒5) and three known triterpenoids (6‒8) were identified from stems of Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith. The structures of 1 and known compounds were elucidated by interpretation of 1D and 2D NMR, and HR-ESI-MS data as well as comparing those data in the literature. All the isolated compounds were examined for cytotoxic effects against six human cancer cell lines [(HCT-15 (colon), NUGC-3 (stomach), NCI-H23 (lung), ACHN (renal), PC-3 (prostate), and MDA-MB-231 (breast)]. Among them, compound 6 showed potent cytotoxicity against NCI-H23 (GI50 1.28 µM) and NUGC-3 (GI50 1.28 µM), and significantly inhibited on PC-3, MDA-MB-231, ACHN, HCT-15 with GI50 values around 2.33 to 2.67 µM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schisandra lignans are the main bioactive compounds found in Schisandra chinensis fruits, such as schisandrol lignans and schisandrin lignans, which play important roles in organ protection or other clinical roles. Pinoresinol-lariciresinol reductase (PLR) plays a pivotal role in plant lignan biosynthesis, however, limited research has been conducted on S. chinensis PLR to date. This study identified five genes as Sc PLR, successfully cloned their coding sequences, and elucidated their catalytic capabilities. Sc PLR3-5 could recognize both pinoresinol and lariciresinol as substrates, and convert them into lariciresinol and secoisolariciresinol, respectively, while Sc PLR2 exclusively catalyzed the conversion of (+)-pinoresinol into (+)-lariciresinol. Transcript-metabolite correlation analysis indicated that Sc PLR2 exhibited unique properties that differed from the other members. Molecular docking and site-directed mutagenesis revealed that Phe271 and Leu40 in the substrate binding motif were crucial for the catalytic activity of Sc PLR2. This study serves as a foundation for understanding the essential enzymes involved in schisandra lignan biosynthesis. [Display omitted] • Identified five ScPLRs in S. chinensis and cloned their sequence. • Sc PLR3∼5 could recognize both pinoresinol and lariciresinol as substrates. • Sc PLR2 exclusively catalyzed the conversion of (+)-pinoresinol into (+)-lariciresinol. • Identified Phe271 was one of the key sites for the stereoselectivity of Sc PLR2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new lanostane triterpenoids, designated as 6-hydroxyl schiglausin A (1), 29-hydroxyl schiglausin D (2), and 6-hydroxyl schiglausin G (3), were isolated from the ethanol extract of the stems of Schisandra viridis. Structural elucidation of all the compounds were performed by spectral methods such as 1D and 2D (1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) NMR spectroscopy, in addition to high resolution mass spectrometry. The isolated compounds were tested in vitro for cytotoxic activities. As a result, compound 1 exhibited cytotoxic activities for all six tested human lung cancer cell lines with IC50 values less than 10 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gall midges are among the most host-specific insects. Their interactions with plants likely date back to the Cretaceous period. Plants from at least seven families are involved in gall midge pollination; however, little is known about the pollination signals of gall midges. In this study, we used a Resseliella–Schisandra model to investigate the roles of floral scent and color in attracting gall midges. Field observations, behavioral bioassays via Y-tubes, and "flight box" experiments were performed. The results demonstrated that gall midges may be attracted by both floral scent and color and that two flower signals are more effective in promoting insect flower-landing than either alone. In the field, gall midges visited male flowers effectively at night but almost always visited female flowers during the day. Thus, during the Resseliella–Schisandra interactions, female flowers predominantly employed visual cues over scent to attract midges during the day; in contrast, olfactory cues were more functional for male flowers to export pollen in the dark. In this study, we first identified the roles of floral color and the functional differentiation of visual and olfactory cues during gall midge pollination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wu Wei Zi is the dried fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. or Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils. (family Magnoliaceae). As a homology of medicine and food, it has been widely used in China for thousands of years, to tonify the kidney, and ameliorate neurological, cardiovascular, liver, and gastrointestinal disorders. As its increasing health benefits and pharmacological value, many literatures have reported that the combination of Wu Wei Zi in patients has led to fluctuations in the blood level of the combined drug. Therefore, it is extremely important to evaluate its safety concern such as drug-drug interactions (DDIs) when patients are under the poly-therapeutic conditions. This review summarized the effects of Wu Wei Zi extract and its major lignan components on cytochrome P450 and P-glycoprotein activities, the change of which could induce metabolic DDIs. Our review also elaborated on the differences of the major lignan components of the two Schisandra species, as well as the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of the major lignans. In conclusion, these results would enhance our understanding of the DDI mechanisms involving Wu Wei Zi, and may potentially untangle some differing and conflicting results in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wu Wei Zi is the dried fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. or Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils. (family Magnoliaceae). As a homology of medicine and food, it has been widely used in China for thousands of years, to tonify the kidney, and ameliorate neurological, cardiovascular, liver, and gastrointestinal disorders. As its increasing health benefits and pharmacological value, many literatures have reported that the combination of Wu Wei Zi in patients has led to fluctuations in the blood level of the combined drug. Therefore, it is extremely important to evaluate its safety concern such as drug-drug interactions (DDIs) when patients are under the poly-therapeutic conditions. This review summarized the effects of Wu Wei Zi extract and its major lignan components on cytochrome P450 and P-glycoprotein activities, the change of which could induce metabolic DDIs. Our review also elaborated on the differences of the major lignan components of the two Schisandra species, as well as the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of the major lignans. In conclusion, these results would enhance our understanding of the DDI mechanisms involving Wu Wei Zi, and may potentially untangle some differing and conflicting results in the future.

Chemical investigation into the stems of the medicinal plant Schisandra sphaerandra led to the isolation and identification of a new dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan sphaerandrin A (1) and 11 known ones gomisin B (2), schirubrisin B (3), kadsuphilin B (4), schizandrin (5), benzoylgomisin Q (6), angeloylgomisin Q (7), gomisin G (8), schisanwilsonin O (9), isogomisin O (10), schisantherin D (11), and wuweizisu C (12). The structure of the new compound was elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic methods including 1 D/2D NMR, HRESIMS, and CD spectrometry. To the best of our knowledge, compounds 2 – 11 were obtained from this species for the first time. All the compounds were evaluated for the cytotoxic activity against the triple-negative breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and HCC-1937. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kadsura heteroclita Roxb. Craib. (Schisandraceae), is a vine plant mainly distributed in southwest part of China. A new dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan, kadsulignan W (1), along with eleven known lignans (2–12) were isolated from chloroform soluble fraction of stems of Kadsura heteroclita. The structure of new lignan was elucidated by extensive spectroscopic techniques, namely one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy, and HRESI-MS analysis. The absolute configuration of the biphenyl ring in the new dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan was discerned by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Antioxidative effects of these compounds were evaluated on human isolated neutrophils, and compounds 5, 8, 9, and 10 were found to be strongly active with the IC50 of 36.68, 34.41, 35.97, and 33.65 µM, respectively. Furthermore, compound 8 was also found to be cytotoxic against human gastric cancer cells (BGC 823), and human cervical cancer cell lines (HeLa) with the IC50 values of 11.0, and 23.8 µM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One new 3,4-seco-17,13-friedo-lanostane triterpenoid heilaohuacid A (1), one new 3,4-seco-17,14-friedo-lanostane triterpenoid heilaohuacid B (2), five new 3,4-seco-lanostane triterpenoids heilaohuacids C-D (3–4) and heilaohumethylesters A-C (7–9), one new 3,4-seco-cycloartane triterpenoid heilaohuacid E (5), and one new intact-lanostane triterpenoid heilaohuacid F (6), together with twenty-two known analogues (10–31), were isolated from heilaohu. Their structures were determined using HR-ESI-MS data, 1D and 2D NMR spectra, 13C NMR calculations, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Heilaohuacids A and B (1 and 2) contain a 3,4-seco ring A and unprecedented migration of Me-18 from C-13 to C-17 or C-14 to C-18. This type of lanostane triterpenoid derivatives was rarely reported so far. More importantly, all compounds against inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α levels on LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages were evaluated, and compounds 4 and 31 significantly inhibited the release level of IL-6 with IC50 values of 8.15 and 9.86 μM, respectively. Meanwhile, compounds 17, 18, and 31 significantly inhibited proliferation of rheumatoid arthritis-fibroblastoid synovial (RA-FLS) cells in vitro with IC50 values of 7.52, 8.85, and 7.97 μM, respectively.

Extensive phytochemical investigation of Schisandra sphenanthera leaves resulted in the isolation of six highly oxygenated nortriterpenoids (1–6) and five lignans (7–11) including a new pre-schisanartane-type, schisandrathera A (1), a new dibenzocyclooctadiene glycoside, schisandrathera B (7) and two new lignans, schisandrathera C (8) and schisandrathera D (9). Their chemical structures including absolute configurations were determined extensively by means of HR-ESI-MS, NMR, and ECD spectra. In addition, all isolated compounds were tested for cytotoxic activity against PC3 (prostate cancer) and MCF7 (breast cancer) cell lines. Among these compounds, schirubrisin B (3) showed strong cytotoxic effect on both PC3 and MCF7 cell lines with IC50 values of 3.21 ± 0.68, 13.30 ± 0.68 μM, respectively, whereas ten remaining compounds were found to be less effective in the investigated models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gall midges are among the most host-specific insects. Their interactions with plants likely date back to the Cretaceous period. Plants from at least seven families are involved in gall midge pollination; however, little is known about the pollination signals of gall midges. In this study, we used a Resseliella–Schisandra model to investigate the roles of floral scent and color in attracting gall midges. Field observations, behavioral bioassays via Y-tubes, and “flight box” experiments were performed. The results demonstrated that gall midges may be attracted by both floral scent and color and that two flower signals are more effective in promoting insect flower-landing than either alone. In the field, gall midges visited male flowers effectively at night but almost always visited female flowers during the day. Thus, during the Resseliella–Schisandra interactions, female flowers predominantly employed visual cues over scent to attract midges during the day; in contrast, olfactory cues were more functional for male flowers to export pollen in the dark. In this study, we first identified the roles of floral color and the functional differentiation of visual and olfactory cues during gall midge pollination.

Schisandra henryi subsp. hoatii, a new subspecies from Tay Nguyen (Central Highlands), Vietnam is described and illustrated. It differs from the subsp. marginalis and the typical subspecies by its flowers with 9--10 tepals, suborbicular largest tepals, essentially free stamens being 19--22 and carpels being 21--25; and differs from S. henryi subsp. yunnanensis in having leaf blades abaxially glausecent, yellow flowers, and 19--22 essentially free stamens. Detailed descriptions, color plates, a distribution map, notes on distribution and habitat, uses, conservation status and keys are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A.C.Sm. in the Schisandraceae family is woody vine plant, which produce edible red fruits that are rich in nutrients and antioxidant activities. Herein, we assembled the complete chloroplast genome of Kadsura coccinea by next-generation sequencing technologies. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Kadsura coccinea is 145,413 base pairs (bp) in length, including a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs, 16,431 bp), one large single-copy region (LSC, 94,511 bp), one small single-copy region (SSC, 18,040 bp). Besides, the complete chloroplast genome contains 126 genes in total, including 82 protein-coding genes, 35 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Kadsura coccinea has the closest relationship with Kadsura longipedunculata. Our study lay a foundation for further research of Kadsura coccinea.

Schisandra chinensis is an important traditional Chinese medicine and its main bioactive components are lignans and schinortriterpenoids (SNTs). The aim of this study was to explore the biologically rich SNTs from the stem and leaves of S. chinensis (SCSL). Here, seven previously undescribed 7/8/5 and 7/8/3 carbon skeleton SNTs (1 − 7) were reported. Their structures were determined by NMR, UV, MS, ECD, and X-ray diffraction analyses, and the neuroprotective activities of these compounds on corticosterone-induced PC12 cell injury were evaluated. The results showed that 1 , 5 , and 7 (25 μM) had neuroprotective effects, and the cell viability was increased by 20.07%, 14.24%, and 15.14% (positive control: 30.64%), respectively. These findings increased the number of described SNTs in SCSL, and the neuroprotective activities of all compounds indicated their potential application in neurodegenerative diseases. Seven highly oxidized and rearranged 7/8/5 and 7/8/3 carbon skeleton nortriterpenoids from the stems and leaves of Schisandra chinensis , and their neuroprotective activities. [Display omitted] • Seven undescribed 7/8/5, 7/8/3 carbon skeleton SNTs were determined. • Their structures were elucidated by NMR, MS, ECD, UV, and X-ray crystallography. • Compounds 1 , 5 , and 7 had neuroprotective activity. • The structure-activity relationship with 7/8/5 carbon skeleton SNTs was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify Kadsura interior (Dian Ji Xue Teng, Schisandraceae) by using DNA barcoding.

The 29 plant species in the Kadsura genus of the Schisandraceae family are mainly distributed in eastern and southeas-tern Asia. Ten species of plants in this genus are distributed in China, some of which are folk medicinal plants with activating blood circulation, relieving pain, dispelling wind, and dehumidifying effects. Their main constituents are lignans and triterpenes. The current pharmacology and clinical studies have shown that their extracts and constituents have anti-rheumatoid arthritis, liver protection, antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, and other biological activities. The rheumatologic and liver diseases can also be treated with the plants in the clinic. The new chemical constituents reported in the last decade(2012 to date) from the plants of Kadsura genus in China, as well as their pharmacological effects and clinical applications in recent years were reviewed, so as to provide a theoretical basis for further research on the genus.

Three undescribed schinortriterpenoids, schinensilactones D-F ( 1-3 ), together with five known ones, namely, wuweizidilactone A ( 4 ), wuweizidilactone C ( 5 ), wuweizidilactone F ( 6 ), wuweizidilactone J ( 7 ) and wuweizidilactone N ( 8 ), were isolated from the leaves of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. The structures of new compounds were established by analysis of their spectroscopic data including MS, IR, 1D- and 2D-NMR spectra. The absolute configuration of 1 was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. All compounds were evaluated for their neuroprotective effects against H 2 O 2 -induced injury in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell lines. Cell viability was remarkably reduced to 52.33% in H 2 O 2 -treated cells. Compounds 5 - 7 exhibited moderate neuroprotective activities at 50  μ M, with cell viability of 64.84%, 67.34% and 63.73%, respectively.

Illicium difengpi (Schisandraceae), which is an endemic, medicinal, and endangered species found in small and isolated populations that inhabit karst mountain areas, has evolved strategies to adapt to arid environments and is thus an excellent material for exploring the mechanisms of tolerance to severe drought. In experiment I, I. difengpi plants were subjected to three soil watering treatments (CK, well-watered treatment at 50% of the dry soil weight for 18 days; DS, drought stress treatment at 10% of the dry soil weight for 18 days; DS-R, drought-rehydration treatment at 10% of the dry soil weight for 15 days followed by rewatering to 50% of the dry soil weight for another 3 days). The effects of the drought and rehydration treatments on leaf succulence, phytohormones, and phytohormonal signal transduction in I. difengpi plants were investigated. In experiment II, exogenous abscisic acid (ABA, 60 mg L -1 ) and zeatin riboside (ZR, 60 mg L -1 ) were sprayed onto DS-treated plants to verify the roles of exogenous phytohormones in alleviating drought injury. Leaf succulence showed marked changes in response to the DS and DS-R treatments. The relative concentrations of ABA, methyl jasmonate (MeJA), salicylic acid glucoside (SAG), and cis-zeatin riboside (cZR) were highly correlated with relative leaf succulence. The leaf succulence of drought-treated I. difengpi plants recovered to that observed with the CK treatment after exogenous application of ABA or ZR. Differentially expressed genes involved in biosynthesis and signal transduction of phytohormones (ABA and JA) in response to drought stress were identified by transcriptomic profiling. The current study suggested that the phytohormones ABA, JA, and ZR may play important roles in the response to severe drought and provides a preliminary understanding of the physiological mechanisms involved in phytohormonal regulation in I. difengpi , an endemic, medicinal, and highly drought-tolerant plant found in extremely small populations in the karst region of South China.

Summary of main observation and conclusion: Schisandraceae triterpenoids are novel natural products that contain highly fused ring systems bearing multiple chiral centers surrounding. Some of them exhibit promising bioactivities, such as antitumor, anti‐HIV, etc. In this article, we describe our efforts to the collective total synthesis of schilancidilactones A, B, schilancitrilactones A, B, C, and 20‐epi‐schilancitrilactone A from common precursors. An intramolecular radical cyclization, late‐stage halogenation and AIBN‐mediated or Ni‐catalyzed intermolecular radical cross coupling reaction were employed as the key steps. The collective total synthesis of schilancidilactones A, B, schilancitrilactones A, B, C, and 20‐epi‐schilancitrilactone A were accomplished. The key steps include intermolecular radical cyclization, late‐stage halogenation, intermolecular cross coupling of alkyl halide with vinyl stannane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Highly oxygenated schitriterpenoids are interesting for study of their structures, bioactivities and synthesis. From Kadsura angustifolia fermented by an associated symbiotic endophytic fungus, Penicillium sp. SWUKD4.1850, nine undescribed triterpenoids, kadhenrischinins A-H, and 7 β -schinalactone C together with four known triterpenoids, henrischinins A and B, schinalactone C and nigranoic acid were isolated and established by the extensive 1D-, 2D-NMR, HR-ESI-MS and ECD data analysis. Except nigranoic acid, all these metabolites have been first detected in non-fermented K. angustifolia. Structurally, kadhenrischinins A-D belong to the relatively rare class of highly oxygenated schitriterpenoids that contain a unique 3-one-2-oxabicyclo [3,2,1]-octane motif, while kadhenrischinins E-H feature a cyclopentane ring in a side chain rarely found in the family Schisandraceae. These results indicated that fermentation of K. angustifolia with SWUKD4.1850 induced the production of highly oxygenated schitriterpenoids from nigranoic acid, which provided a guidance to obtain desired compounds from those plants initially thought not to produce. This is the first report on the fermentation of K. angustifolia medical plant and the first discovery of highly oxygenated schitriterpenoids by microbial technology. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Nine undiscribed triterpenoids, kadhenrischinins A-H and 7 β -schinalactone C were isolated from fermented Kadsura angustifolia. • Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. • Kadhenrischinins A-H belong to rare 21, 24-cyclo-3, 4: 9, 10-disecocycloartene highly oxygenated triterpenoids. • The proposed biosynthetic pathways of all the compounds were drawn and are presented in this paper. • This is the first report on the discovery of highly oxygenated schitriterpenoids by microbial technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver injury is a common pathological process characterized by massive degeneration and abnormal death of liver cells. With increase in dead cells and necrosis, liver injury eventually leads to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatic fibrosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Consequently, it is necessary to treat liver injury and to prevent its progression. The drug Bicylol is widely employed in China to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and has therapeutic potential for liver injury. It is the derivative of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans extracted from Schisandra chinensis (SC). The Schisandraceae family is a rich source of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, which possesses potential liver protective activity. This study aimed to comprehensively summarize the phytochemistry, structure-activity relationship and molecular mechanisms underlying the liver protective activities of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from the Schisandraceae family. Here, we had discussed the analysis of absorption or permeation properties of 358 compounds based on Lipinski's rule of five. So far, 358 dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans have been reported, with 37 of them exhibited hepatoprotective effects. The molecular mechanism of the active compounds mainly involves antioxidative stress, anti-inflammation and autophagy through Kelch-like ECH-associating protein 1/nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Keap1/Nrf2/ARE), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-кB), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)/Smad 2/3 signaling pathways. This review is expected to provide scientific ideas for future research related to developing and utilizing the dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from Schisandraceae family. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illicium anisatum L. is a neighbor species of Illicium verum used for making anti-virus vaccine. Here, we completed the chloroplast genome of I. anisatum. Its length is 142,747 bp long and has four subregions: 100,833 bp of large single copy (LSC) and 20,227 bp of small single copy (SSC) regions are separated by 10,844 bp of inverted repeat (IR) including 123 genes (81 protein-coding genes, 8 rRNAs, and 34 tRNAs). The overall GC content of this chloroplast genome is 39.2% and those in the LSC, SSC, and IR regions are 38.1%, 33.9%, and 49.3%, respectively. Twenty-one single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 114 insertion and deletions (INDELs) are identified against I. anisatum originated from Green Farmacy Garden. Interestingly, 12 INDEL clusters, of which length ranges from 2 bp to 21 bp are identified, which is like the case of Duchesnea chrysantha. Phylogenetic trees show that five Illicium chloroplast genomes form Illicium clade, clearly.

HPLC and TLC profiling was carried out for leaf and fruit extracts of five Schisandraceae species: Schisandra chinensis, S. rubriflora, S. spehenanthera, S. henryi and Kadsura japonica. HPLC measurements confirmed presence of lignans and phenolic compounds in fruits and leaves of all tested species. The most abundant in lignans was S. chinensis fruit extract in which 15 compounds were detected (e. g.: schisandrol A, schisanhenol, γ-schisandrin, gomisin N). The effect-directed detection, i. e., TLC-direct bioautography against Bacillus subtilis, showed exceptionally high activity for S. chinensis and S. rubriflora fruit extracts. On the other hand, TLC-DB enzyme tests (α-glucosidase, lipase, tyrosinase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition assays) showed that all fruit and leaf extracts have ability to inhibit the above-mentioned enzymes (except for the K. japonica fruit). The leaf extracts showed much stronger antioxidant activity than the fruit ones, which were assessed and compared using both TLC-direct bioautography and spectrophotometric measurements based on ABTS, DPPH and FRAP tests., (© 2023 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

Phytochemical investigation on the stems of Schisandra glaucescens resulted into the isolation of three new lanostane triterpenoids, 12-hydroxyschiglausin B (1), 12-hydroxykadsuphilactone B (2), and 20R-hydroxyschinalactone C (3). Structural elucidation of all the compounds was accomplished by spectral methods. The isolated compounds were tested in vitro for cytotoxic activities. As a result, triterpenoids 1 and 2 showed cytotoxic activities for all six tested tumor cell lines with IC50 values less than 15 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect pollination in basal angiosperms is assumed to mostly involve 'generalized' insects looking for food, but direct observations of ANITA grade (283 species) pollinators are sparse.We present newdata for numerous Schisandraceae, the largest ANITA family, from fieldwork, nocturnal filming, electron microscopy, barcoding and molecular clocks to infer pollinator/plant interactions over multiple years at sites throughout China to test the extent of pollinator specificity. Schisandraceae are pollinated by nocturnal gall midges that lay eggs in the flowers and whose larvae then feed on floral exudates. At least three Schisandraceae have shifted to beetle pollination. Pollination by a single midge species predominates, but one species was pollinated by different species at three locations and one by two at the same location. Based on molecular clocks, gall midges and Schisandraceae may have interacted since at least the Early Miocene. Combining these findings with a review of all published ANITA pollination data shows that ovipositing flies are the most common pollinators of living representatives of the ANITA grade.Compared to food reward-based pollination, oviposition-based systems are less wasteful of plant gametes because (i) none are eaten and (ii) female insects with herbivorous larvae reliably visit conspecific flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new triterpenoids, named kadsuricoccins A and B, together with three known ones, were isolated from the Li folk herb Heilaohu, the stems of Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith, which was used for food and as a healthy supplement. Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive analyses of mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic data. To search healthy components, an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity test by Ellman’s Method was conducted, kadsuricoccins A and B showed activity with the AChE inhibit index (AII) up to 68.96% ± 0.19% and 57.8% ± 0.11% at 94 nM (compared with positive control tacrine AII 79.80% ± 0.20%, 9.4 nM), respectively.