Search

In this work, aerial parts of Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wigg. produced in Umbria, Italy, were chemically investigated by solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME/GC-MS) to describe their volatile profile. The results obtained showed the preponderant presence of monoterpenes, with limonene and 1,8-cineole as the main components. Further analyses by GC/MS after derivatization reaction were performed to characterize the non-volatile fraction highlighting the presence of fatty acids and di- and triterpenic compounds. T. officinale methanol and dichloromethane extracts, first analyzed by HRGC/MS, were investigated to evaluate the antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and antiproliferative properties of MDA cells on the breast cancer cell line and MCF 10A normal epithelial cells as well as the antioxidant activity by colorimetric assays. The impact on matrix metalloproteinases MMP-9 and MMP-2 was also explored in 3D cell systems to investigate the extracts' efficacy in reducing cell invasiveness. The extracts tested showed no cytotoxic activity with EC50 > 250 µg/mL on both cell lines. The DPPH assay revealed higher antioxidant activity in the MeOH extract compared with the DCM extract, while the FRAP assay showed a contrasting result, with the DCM extract exhibiting slightly greater antioxidant capacity. After treatment for 24 h with a non-cytotoxic concentration of 500 µg/mL of the tested extracts, gelatin zymography and Western blot analyses demonstrated that both MeOH and DCM extracts influenced the expression of MMP-9 and MMP-2 in MDA cells within the 3D cell model, leading to a significant decrease in the levels of these gelatinases, which are crucial markers of tumor invasiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The total mineral content was studied in medicinal plants from roadside and railside biotopes of the Voronezh region. Pharmacopoeial plant raw materials of 10 species were evaluated: roots of Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wigg and Arctium lappa L.; herb of Polygonum aviculare L., Artemisia absinthium L., Leonurus quinquelobatus Gilib., and Achillea millefolium L.; leaves of Urtica dioica L. and Plantago major L.; and flowers of Tanacetum vulgare L. and Tilia cordata Mill. Plant raw materials were collected near roads and railways of various types in the periods specified in regulatory documents. The total ash content in plant material was used to determine the minimum allowable distances from various roads and railways for collecting plant material. The minimum allowable distance from heavy-traffic motorways was recommended to be 210 m in the forest zone, 240 m in the forest-steppe zone, and 380 m in the steppe zone. A distance of at least 80 m was recommended for secondary low-speed roads and railways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the effects of Taraxacum officinale extracts on mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) and mitophagy in the hippocampi of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats. Materials and Methods: The T2DM model was established by a high-fat high-sucrose diet (HFSD) for 6 weeks and streptozotocin (STZ) administration. The rats were randomly divided into control, model, metformin (100 mg/kg/day), and T. officinale extracts (1,500 mg/kg/day) treatment groups. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels, 2-h postprandial plasma glucose (2hPPG) levels, and sucrose preference rates (SPR) were ascertained. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonaldehyde (MDA) in the serum. Finally, the expression levels of UPRmt and mitophagy-related proteins were determined via Western blot analysis. Results: Rats in the model group exhibited significantly higher levels of FPG and 2hPPG but lower SPR than those in the control group. Rats in the Taraxacum group had lower FPG and 2hPPG levels and higher SPR than those of the model group. Moreover, clpP, HSP60, PINK-1, Parkin, P62, Beclin-1, and LC3-II/I proteins were significantly upregulated in the rats of the model group, relative to the control group. UPRmt and mitophagy-related proteins were markedly downregulated in rats of the Taraxacum group, relative to the model group. Conclusion: T2DM rats exhibited certain levels of anhedonia and depression, which were effectively alleviated by T. officinale extracts through the downregulation of UPRmt and mitophagy, and also by conferring protection to mitochondrial function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Central Europe, Taraxacum officinale Weber ex Wiggers (dandelion) is an economically important admixture in grasslands. Its spread is supported by its ability to germinate in gaps in grass stands. In a 5‐year experiment, we examined the effect of gap size on the germination rate and percentage of dandelion achenes. Each year, achenes were sown in late spring and mid‐summer in 90 square plots of six sizes, ranging from 2.5 × 2.5 cm to 80 × 80 cm. The plots were placed on a 2 × 6 m experimental area covered with low‐cut lawn. The course of germination varied among individual replicates depending on the weather. In each replicate, however, the rate of germination increased, and the percentage of germinated achenes decreased with increasing gap size. Differences in germination paralleled differences in the microclimate on the soil surface of plots where humidity decreased and temperature increased with plot size. The ultimate cause of this difference was the variance among gaps of different sizes in proportion to which the total area of the gap surface is insolated during the day. The colonization of lawns by dandelion is supported by the formation of small gaps in grass stands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solar drying method consists of removing gartially and non-bound water with a small impact on the chemical structure and compositions, thus reducing the mass and minimizing the risk of numerous transformations. Taraxacum officinale leaves are well-known in the fields of pharmacology, herbal medicine, and traditional soft drinks. Since it is a seasonal plant, plants from these regions have become an indispensable element after drying and storing. The objective of this paper is to determine both total and specific energy consumption of the hybrid solar convection dryer in drying Taraxacum officinale leaves. The paper investigates the energy analysis of the leaves of Taraxacum solar drying, which includes the investigation of the impact of the aerothermal parameters' variations: 4 temperatures (50, 60, 70, and 80°C) and 2 drying airflows (150 and 300 m3 h–1) on the specific energy utilization in the drying process. Furthermore, this work studies the thermal efficiency as well as the energy efficiency of the solar dryer which gives room to maximize the performance of the dryer chamber. The results indicate minimal values of total energy consumption are achieved at higher temperatures and airflow rates. The findings reveal that lower total energy consumption is achieved at higher temperatures and airflow rates. Moreover, the study delves into thermal efficiency and energy efficiency, highlighting a thermal efficiency of approximately 5.58% at lower temperatures 50°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the effect of adding dandelion extract on the characteristics of raw-ripening pork sausages while reducing the nitrite addition from 150 to 80 mg/kg. The sausages were made primarily from pork ham (80%) and pork jowl (20%). The process involved curing, preparing the meat stuffing, forming the links, and then subjecting the sausages to a 21-day ripening period. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, water activity, and oxidation-reduction potential were compared at the beginning of production and after the ripening process. The study also examined the impact of ripening on protein metabolism in pork sausages and compared the protein profiles of different sausage variants. The obtained research results indicate that dandelion-leaf extract (Taraxacum officinale) were rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, and their derivatives (LC-QTOF-MS method). Antiradical activity test against the ABTS+* and DPPH radical, and the TBARS index, demonstrated that addition of dandelion (0.5–1%) significantly improved the oxidative stability of raw-ripening sausages with nitrite content reduction to 80 mg/kg. A microbiological evaluation of the sausages was also carried out to assess the correctness of the ripening process. The total number of viable bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and coliforms were evaluated and subsequently identified by mass spectrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aims to conduct a scientometric analysis and thematically-based narrative review of a century of Taraxacum officinale research (TOR), uncovering patterns, trends, themes, and advancements in the field to provide insights for future investigations. The study followed PRISMA guidelines and utilized the Scopus database with MeSH terms for bibliographic data retrieval. Scientometric mapping employed VOSviewer and R-package-based Bibliometrix, while extracted themes were reviewed narratively. A detailed analysis of TOR was achieved by including only original studies. Results The findings include the extensive duration of TOR since 1908 and its significant growth, particularly in the last two decades. China emerges as the most productive country, but the United States leads in recognizable and collaborative TOR. The thematic map displays dynamic and diverse themes, with a rich knowledge structure revealed through the analysis of term co-occurrence. The year 2016 represents a turning point in the thematic map, marked by numerical growth and thematic bifurcation. The study extracted several main research topics within the field of TOR, including germination, antioxidant activity, bioherbicide, oxidative stress, Taraxacum kok-saghyz, and heavy metals. These topics represent key areas of investigation and provide insights into the diverse aspects of research surrounding T. officinale. Additionally, emerging topics in TOR encompass toxicity, metabolomics, dandelion extract, and diabetes mellitus. Conclusions The study consolidated knowledge, highlighted research gaps, and provided directions for future investigations on TOR.

Background: This study aims to conduct a scientometric analysis and thematically-based narrative review of a century of Taraxacum officinale research (TOR), uncovering patterns, trends, themes, and advancements in the field to provide insights for future investigations. The study followed PRISMA guidelines and utilized the Scopus database with MeSH terms for bibliographic data retrieval. Scientometric mapping employed VOSviewer and R-package-based Bibliometrix, while extracted themes were reviewed narratively. A detailed analysis of TOR was achieved by including only original studies. Results: The findings include the extensive duration of TOR since 1908 and its significant growth, particularly in the last two decades. China emerges as the most productive country, but the United States leads in recognizable and collaborative TOR. The thematic map displays dynamic and diverse themes, with a rich knowledge structure revealed through the analysis of term co-occurrence. The year 2016 represents a turning point in the thematic map, marked by numerical growth and thematic bifurcation. The study extracted several main research topics within the field of TOR, including germination, antioxidant activity, bioherbicide, oxidative stress, Taraxacum kok-saghyz, and heavy metals. These topics represent key areas of investigation and provide insights into the diverse aspects of research surrounding T. officinale. Additionally, emerging topics in TOR encompass toxicity, metabolomics, dandelion extract, and diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: The study consolidated knowledge, highlighted research gaps, and provided directions for future investigations on TOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host plant consumption and pathogen infection commonly influence insect traits related to development and immunity, which are ultimately reflected in the behavior and physiology of the insect. Herein, we explored changes in the metabolome of a generalist insect herbivore, Vanessa cardui (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), in response to both dietary variation and pathogen infection in order to gain insight into tritrophic interactions for insect metabolism and immunity. Caterpillars were reared on two different host plants, Plantago lanceolata (Plantaginaceae) and Taraxacum officinale (Asteraceae) and subjected to a viral infection by Junonia coenia densovirus (JcDV), along with assays to determine the insect immune response and development. Richness and diversity of plant and caterpillar metabolites were evaluated using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry approach and showed that viral infection induced changes to the chemical content of V. cardui hemolymph and frass dependent upon host plant consumption. Overall, the immune response as measured by phenoloxidase (PO) enzymatic activity was higher in individuals feeding on P. lanceolata compared with those feeding on T. officinale. Additionally, infection with JcDV caused suppression of PO activity, which was not host plant dependent. We conclude that viral infection combined with host plant consumption creates a unique chemical environment, particularly within the insect hemolymph. Whether and how these metabolites contribute to defense against viral infection is an open question in chemical ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is one of the leading causes of increasing global mortality with uprising health concerns and threats. Unfortunately, conventional chemotherapy has substantial side effects, limiting its relevance and prompting a quest for safe and efficient alternatives. For thousands of years, plants have provided a rich reservoir for curing a variety of ailments, including cancer. According to the World Health Organization, medicinal plants would be the best source of medications. However, only 25% of drugs in the present pharmacopoeia are derived from plants. Hence, further research into different plants is required to better understand their efficacy. Twenty extracts of widely distributed Middle Eastern plants were screened for the cytotoxic effect against lung cancer cell lines (A549). Eleven plants showed IC50 below 25 μg/mL, consequently, the bioactive extracts were further fractionated by graded precipitation using absolute ethanol. All fraction A (FA; crude polysaccharides precipitate) showed potent IC50, 0.2–5.5 μg/mL except the FA of Brassica juncea, Silybum marianum, and Phaseolus vulgaris, whereas FB fractions (filtrate) of Anastatica hierochuntica, Plantago ovate, Tussilago farfara, and Cucurbita moschata had lower efficacy than other fractions with IC50 values in the range of 0.1–7.7 μg/mL. The fractions of FA Taraxacum officinale and FB Ziziphus spina possess the most potent cytotoxic activity with IC50, 0.2 and 0.1 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, cell cycle analysis of both fractions revealed an arrest at G1/S-phase and activation of apoptosis rather than necrosis as the mode of cell death. Therefore, T. officinale and Z. spina fractions may pave the way to manage lung carcinoma as an alternative and complementary food regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, aerial parts of Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wigg. produced in Umbria, Italy, were chemically investigated by solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME/GC-MS) to describe their volatile profile. The results obtained showed the preponderant presence of monoterpenes, with limonene and 1,8-cineole as the main components. Further analyses by GC/MS after derivatization reaction were performed to characterize the non-volatile fraction highlighting the presence of fatty acids and di- and triterpenic compounds. T. officinale methanol and dichloromethane extracts, first analyzed by HRGC/MS, were investigated to evaluate the antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and antiproliferative properties of MDA cells on the breast cancer cell line and MCF 10A normal epithelial cells as well as the antioxidant activity by colorimetric assays. The impact on matrix metalloproteinases MMP-9 and MMP-2 was also explored in 3D cell systems to investigate the extracts’ efficacy in reducing cell invasiveness. The extracts tested showed no cytotoxic activity with EC50 > 250 µg/mL on both cell lines. The DPPH assay revealed higher antioxidant activity in the MeOH extract compared with the DCM extract, while the FRAP assay showed a contrasting result, with the DCM extract exhibiting slightly greater antioxidant capacity. After treatment for 24 h with a non-cytotoxic concentration of 500 µg/mL of the tested extracts, gelatin zymography and Western blot analyses demonstrated that both MeOH and DCM extracts influenced the expression of MMP-9 and MMP-2 in MDA cells within the 3D cell model, leading to a significant decrease in the levels of these gelatinases, which are crucial markers of tumor invasiveness.

In this study, we investigated the dietary effects of dandelion root extract (DRE) on growth performance, body composition, serum biochemical parameters, intestinal and liver histology, and fish resistance against Lactococcus garvieae infection in the rainbow trout. In total, 540 rainbow trout fry (22.05±1.740 g and 13.03±0.470 cm) were used. Six experimental groups (control, 2.5 mL/kg (DRE-1), 5 mL/kg (DRE-2), 10 mL/kg (DRE-3), 20 mL/kg (DRE-4), and 40 mL/kg (DRE-5) dandelion root extract) with three replicates were formed. In each tank, 30 fish were placed and fed for 90 days, and the volume of water was adjusted to 80 L with a flow-through system. The results showed that the final fish weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio, and protein deposition rate were significantly higher in the DRE-4 group, while the feed conversion ratio and fat deposition ratio were significantly lower compared to that in the control group (P<0.05). The viscerosomatic index and the hepatosomatic index decreased in the experimental groups depending on the concentration of the extract used, while the condition factor was higher than that in the control (P<0.05). The DRE significantly decreased glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels in blood serum in the fish from the experimental groups, but it significantly increased high-density lipoprotein, alkaline phosphatase, and total protein levels (P<0.05). Similarly, the DRE positively affected intestinal histology by increasing the stratum compactum, submucosa, lamina propria, villi length, villi width, absorption area, tunica muscularis thickness, mucosal folds, and goblet cell count. In the liver, depending on the high-fat diet (crude lipid = 20%), vacuolization areas, hepatocellular degeneration areas, apoptotic hepatocyte nucleus, and necrotic areas recorded in the control group decreased or even disappeared completely in the extract groups. The results of the challenge test showed that adding 2.5 mL/kg of the DRE to the feed positively affected the disease resistance against Lactococcus garvieae infection. The results of the quadratic polynomial regression showed that an average level of 23.91±1.048 mL/kg of DRE would be suitable for optimum fish growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the effects of Taraxacum officinale L. and Ricinus communis L. on growth and physiology of sunflower and maize plants. Seeds of sunflower (cv Parson 3) and maize (cv TP 1217) were surface sterilized and soaked in 0.3 % and 0.5 % aqueous extracts of T. officinale L. and R. communis L. prior to sowing, plants were grown in pots under natural conditions. Fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, chlorophyll, carotenoids, protein, proline, phenols and flavonoids and phytohormones contents in leaves of sunflower and maize were determined. The activities of antioxidant enzymes (Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Peroxidase (POD) and defense related enzymes viz. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) were also recorded in leaves of maize and sunflower at vegetative phase. Phytohormones indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) were detected in T. officinale L. and R. communis L. Extract of T. officinale L. and R. communis L. significantly enhanced the shoot biomass in maize and sunflower as compared to control. Proline, phenolics, flavonoids, protein, chlorophyll, carotenoids and terpenoids content of fresh leaves were enhanced in all the treatments as compared to control. Activities of PAL, SOD, PPO and POD were also enhanced. Among all the treatments 0.3 % aqueous extract of T. officinale L. and 0.5 % aqueous extract of R. communis L. were more effective in sunflower and maize plants. The extracts of T. officinale L. and R. communis L. may be implicated to improve the growth and defensive system of maize and sunflower and induce tolerance to stresses by augmenting osmoregulation and enhancing the antioxidant and defense related enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The content of phenolic compounds (flavonols, flavans (catechins), tannins), polysaccharides (pectins, protopectins), and tetraterpenes (carotenoids), as well as the antioxidant activity of Cichorium intybus L., Taraxacum officinale Wigg., Arnica iljinii (Maguire) Iljin., and Echinops sphaerocephalus L. cultivated in conditions of Western Siberia were studied. A significant part of the biologically active substances is represented by tannins (up 28.25%) and protopectins (up 11.11%). The content of flavonoids in the studied samples of C. intybus plants agree with the values of this indicator for the chicory herb from other regions of the Russian Federation, including its commercial growing regions. The inflorescences and leaves of the studied samples of T. officinale are characterized by approximately identical contents of flavonols (1.02–1.43%), pectins (0.80–1.08%), and protopectins (7.94–8.87%). The leaves and inflorescences of A. iljinii are distinguished by fairly high contents of flavonols (up to 4.23%) and tannins (up to 28.25%). The leaves of E. sphaerocephalus are significantly superior to the inflorescences in terms of the content of tannins (8.34%), catechins (36.3 mg%), protopectins (10.06%), and carotenoids (64.60 mg%); flavonols are present in equal proportions in the leaves (0.68%) and inflorescences (0.64%). The indicators of the total content of phenolic antioxidants in the leaves and inflorescences of C. intybus, T. officinale, A. iljinii, and E. sphaerocephalus do not differ significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the effect of adding dandelion extract on the characteristics of raw-ripening pork sausages while reducing the nitrite addition from 150 to 80 mg/kg. The sausages were made primarily from pork ham (80%) and pork jowl (20%). The process involved curing, preparing the meat stuffing, forming the links, and then subjecting the sausages to a 21-day ripening period. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, water activity, and oxidation-reduction potential were compared at the beginning of production and after the ripening process. The study also examined the impact of ripening on protein metabolism in pork sausages and compared the protein profiles of different sausage variants. The obtained research results indicate that dandelion-leaf extract (Taraxacum officinale) were rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, and their derivatives (LC-QTOF-MS method). Antiradical activity test against the ABTS+* and DPPH radical, and the TBARS index, demonstrated that addition of dandelion (0.5–1%) significantly improved the oxidative stability of raw-ripening sausages with nitrite content reduction to 80 mg/kg. A microbiological evaluation of the sausages was also carried out to assess the correctness of the ripening process. The total number of viable bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and coliforms were evaluated and subsequently identified by mass spectrometry.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and deadly breast cancer sub-type with limited therapeutic options. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) exhibiting extensive anticancer activity is reported to be effective against TNBC; however, its anti-tumor effect mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to determine the anti-cancer activity of hydroalcoholic extract of dandelion (HADE) on 4T1 cells, and the mechanism of HADE-induced cell death. The effect of HADE on cell viability was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and lactate dehydrogenase assays. Apoptotic cell death was monitored by flow cytometry. The DNA fragmentation was evaluated by Acridine orange/Ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining. Nitric oxide (NO) level was detected using Griess assay. The effects of HADE on Atg-7, Beclin-1, Bcl2, Bax and p53 genes were investigated by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that HADE inhibited cell growth and proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The HADE induced 4T1 breast cancer cell death via apoptosis and autophagy. The DNA fragmentation was improved as the concentration of HADE increased. The NO secretion was declined with increasing concentration of HADE. Gene expression analysis confirmed HADEinduced apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells. The Bax, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, p53, Beclin-1 and Atg-7 over-expression as well as Bcl-2 down-regulation were also evident in treated cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of dandelion plant leaves including qualitative and quantitative assessments. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), a member of Asteraceae family, is widely distributed and utilized for its various pharmacological properties. Phytochemical screening of the aqueous extract of dandelion leaves confirmed the presence of phenols, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids and alkaloids. Additionally, the total phenolic and flavonoid content of the dandelion leaf extract was quantitatively analysed using standard methods. The findings of this study contribute to understanding the medicinal potential of dandelion plant leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants play a vital role in herbal medical field and allopathic medicine field industry. Chemical and spectroscopic studies of Taraxacum officinale, Hyoscyamus niger, Ajuga bracteosa, Elaeagnus angustifolia, Camellia sinensis, and Berberis lyceum are conducted in this paper by using a 532-nm Nd:YAG laser in an open air environment. These medicinal plant's leaves, roots, seed, and flowers are used to treat a range of diseases by the locals. It is crucial to be able to distinguish between beneficial and detrimental metal elements in these plants. We demonstrated how various elements are categorized and how roots, leaves, seeds and flowers of same plants differ from each other on the basis of elemental analysis. Furthermore, for classification purpose, different classification models, partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), k-nearest neighbors (kNN), and principal component analysis (PCA) are used. We found silicon (Si), aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), potassium (K), manganese (Mn), phosphorous (P), and vanadium (V) in all of the medicinal plant samples with a molecular form of carbon and nitrogen band. We detected Ca, Mg, Si, and P as primary components in all of the plant samples, as well as V, Fe, Mn, Al, and Ti as essential medicinal metals, and additional trace elements like Si, Sr, and Al. The result's findings show that the PLS-DA classification model with single normal variate (SNV) preprocessing method is the most effective classification model for different types of plant samples. The average correct classification rate obtained for PLS-DA with SNV is 95%. Moreover, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was successfully employed to perform rapid, sensitive, and quantitative trace element analysis on medicinal herbs and plant samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have unique chemical and physical traits that can reduce infections in animals ranging from primates to caterpillars. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus; Asteraceae) are one striking example, with pollen that suppresses infections by the trypanosomatid gut pathogen Crithidia bombi in the common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens). However, the mechanism underlying this effect has remained elusive, and we do not know whether pollens from other Asteraceae species have similar effects.We evaluated whether mechanisms mediating sunflower pollen's antipathogenic effects are physical (due to its spiny exine), chemical (due to metabolites) or both. We also evaluated the degree to which pollen from seven other Asteraceae species reduced C. bombi infection relative to pollen from sunflower and two non‐Asteraceae species, and whether pollen spine length predicted pathogen suppression.We found that sunflower exines alone reduced infection as effectively as whole sunflower pollen, while sunflower pollen metabolites did not. Furthermore, bees fed pollen from four of seven other Asteraceae had 62%–92% lower C. bombi infections than those fed non‐Asteraceae pollen. Spine length, however, did not explain variation in bumble bee infection.Our study indicates that sunflower pollen's capacity to suppress C. bombi is driven by its spiny exine, and that this phenomenon extends to several other Asteraceae species. Our results indicate that sunflower pollen exines are as effective as whole pollen in reducing infection, suggesting that future studies should expand to assess the effects of other species with spiny pollen on pollinator–pathogen dynamics. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: The use of doxorubicin is limited due to its toxic effects on normal cells. A substance containing antioxidant properties, such as taraxacum officinale, would be useful in preventing doxorubicin toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of taraxacum officinale on doxorubicin-induced damage in the rat liver. Methods: Forty Wistar albino rats were allocated into four groups. In group 1 (control group), no treatment was given. In group 2 (Taraxacum officinale, group T), 100 mg/kg Taraxacum officinale was administered via the gavage route for 10 days. In group 3 (doxorubicin, group D), a single intraperitoneal dose of 40 mg/kg doxorubicin was given. In group 4 (doxorubicin + Taraxacum officinale, group D+T), a single intraperitoneal dose of 40 mg/kg doxorubicin was administered on the eighth day, and 100 mg/kg Taraxacum officinale was administered for 10 days. Blood malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured. Histopathology was assessed by examining preparations of hepatic tissue with light microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Results: MDA levels were significantly higher, and the activities of SOD and CAT were lower in group D than in group D+T (P=0.04). Tissue damage was significantly higher in group D than in group D+T (P=0.03). Conclusion: Our short-term results indicate that oxidative stress could be responsible for the damage to liver tissue due to doxorubicin, and Taraxacum officinale might reverse these harmful effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taraxacum officinale play an important role in the prophylaxis and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Taraxacum officinale is proven as promising antioxidant in earlier studies and one of its constituent "cichoric acid" is shown to have vasorelaxant property. Therefore, present study mainly designed to investigate the cardioprotective effects of Taraxacum officinale against ischemia–reperfusion injury (I/R injury)–induced myocardial dysfunction in rats. This study not only explored the overall cardioprotective potential but also tried to explore its molecular mechanism using pharmacological inhibition via L-NAME and glibenclamide. Pretreatment of methanolic extract of Taraxacum officinale significantly attenuated (p < 0.001) increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), infarct size, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), while it increased the reduced levels of protein content, glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT) activity. Results showed that pretreatment with methanolic extract of Taraxacum officinale provides cardioprotection against I/R induced myocardial dysfunction, at least, may be mediated through the endogenous release of nitric oxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dandelion, or Taraxacum officinale, is a perennial herb that forms a rosette leaf and has golden yellow flowers that bloom all year long. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is typically found in the temperate zone of the Northern hemisphere. Many conventional and modern herbal medical systems use dandelion leaves, roots, and flowers. According to a phytochemical analysis, dandelion herb contains one or more important phytochemical components. Similarly, one of the most significant dandelion compounds contains bitter sesquiterpene lactones, particularly taraxacin and taraxacerin, which play a key role in the mechanism of liver functions associated with hepatoprotective action. Additionally, the results of the phytochemical investigation showed the presence of sterols, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, all of which have been linked to a variety of pharmacological effects, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Taraxacum officinale (TO), commonly known as dandelion, has demonstrated its effectiveness against many types of tumours, like hepatocellular and colon carcinomas, melanoma, leukaemia. Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the activity of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethanolic TO extracts against glioblastoma cells line U-251 MG. Methods: Viability of U-251 MG glioblastoma cells was assessed by alamarBlue test. The antitumor activity of TO was compared with Doxorubicin. Results: The highest inhibitory activity was established in TO leaf extracts made in DMSO (110.000 µg/l – 6.15±1.69%), which was ten times higher than the action exhibited by Doxorubicin (105 µg/l – 59.52±5.92%). The lowest antitumor activity was exhibited by TO leaf extracts made in 20% ethanol (1.792 µg/l – 99.74±0%) and 50% ethanol (240 µg/l – 97.76±0.77%). Conclusion: T. officinale exhibits antitumor activity against glioblastoma cells in vitro. The inhibitory action exercised by TO extracts depends on the type of extractant, plant’ parts used and type of tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary plant chemistry mediates a variety of communication signals among species, playing a fundamental role in the evolutionary diversification of communities and ecosystems. Herein, we explored diet-mediated host plant effects on development and immune response of a generalist insect herbivore. Vanessa cardui (Nymphalidae) caterpillars were reared on leaves of three host plants that vary in secondary metabolites, Plantago lanceolata (Plantaginaceae), Taraxacum officinale (Asteraceae) and Tithonia diversifolia (Asteraceae). Insect development was evaluated by larval and pupal viabilities, survivorship, and development rate. Immune response was measured as phenoloxidase (PO) activity. Additionally, chemical profiles of the host plants were obtained by liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and the discriminant metabolites were determined using a metabolomic approach. Caterpillars reared on P. lanceolata exhibited the highest larval and pupal viabilities, as well as PO activity, and P. lanceolata leaves were chemically characterized by the presence of iridoid glycosides, phenylpropanoids and flavonoids. Taraxacum officinale leaves were characterized mainly by the presence of phenylpropanoids, flavones O-glycoside and germacranolide-type sesquiterpene lactones; caterpillars reared on this host plant fully developed to the adult stage, however they exhibited lower larval and pupal viabilities compared to individuals reared on P. lanceolata. Conversely, caterpillars reared on T. diversifolia leaves, which contain phenylpropanoids, flavones and diverse furanoheliangolide-type sesquiterpene lactones, were not able to complete larval development and exhibited the lowest PO activity. These findings suggested that V. cardui have adapted to tolerate potentially toxic metabolites occurring in P. lanceolata (iridoid glycosides), however caterpillars were not able to cope with potentially detrimental metabolites occurring in T. diversifolia (furanoheliangolides). Therefore, we suggest that furanoheliangolide-type sesquiterpene lactones were responsible for the poor development and immune response observed for caterpillars reared on T. diversifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants, especially medicinal plants, took up the most space during the production of silver nanoparticles and have shown significant promise for use in biotechnology. So the goal of this research was to focus on a type of lung cell line, the WI-38 cell line, infected with the Corona virus. The study also included the isolation of the active compounds from the roots of the Taraxacum officinale plant, their extraction, and the study of their biological effects. Used in this study were: Taraxacum officinale extract, silver nitrate, (Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM), fetal bovine serum (FBS) L-glutamine, penicillin, streptomycin, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) from Sigma Aldrich, USA), and XTT (2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfo phenyl) -2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxamide) from RIbobio - China. WI-38 CCL-75 cell lines were purchased from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) identification. Source was the lung tissue for female-3 month gestation and the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Oils, flavonoids, glycosides, and tannins from Taraxacum officinale were extracted in the extraction device (Soxhlet) in successive stages using several solvents. Silver nanoparticles Ag NPs were synthesized using the green method from these extracts and diagnosed by X-Ray diffraction analysis XRD, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Cell cultures were used to study the effect of nanoparticles on lung cells infected with the Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) using lung cell lines (wi-38). The activity of these particles as antivirals was evaluated due to their antiviral activity where pure cultures of cell lines were planted on DMEM where DEME was used as a positive control and the cell line with DMEM was a negative control. For each experiment, the diameter of the inhibition area was measured in millimeters. Finally, the XTT test was used to test the extracted and the nanoparticle solution to ensure its suitability for inhibition of the virus coronavirus (SARS-COV-2). The results showed that nanoparticles have strong antiviral efficacy against the coronavirus. 50 mg/L of the Ag NPs extract was found to have the greatest inhibition. The potent bioactivity of the synthetic green silver nanoparticles derived from medicinal plants supports their biological use as an antiviral. The study also showed the effects of different concentrations of silver nanoparticle solutions on cell growth. The presence of phenolics and flavonoids was found in the alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the T. officinale roots. The mechanism of action of Ag NPs was investigated. As noted, the Ag NPs alcoholic extract outperformed the Ag NPs aqueous extract in terms of growth because of its small size. From this study, we conclude that the method of green biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles is considered safe and inexpensive, and the materials produced are not contaminated. Nanoparticles can be applied in many applications depending on their physical properties, such as the size and shape of the particle. They were also tested in vitro against coronavirus (SARS-COV-2) utilizing the cell line. Interestingly, the antiviral activities of Ag NPs alcoholic and aqueous extracts against SARS-CoV-2 were noteworthy, with IC50 values of 32.50 and 29.03, respectively. The findings might be a suitable starting point for future optimization and more sophisticated preclinical and clinical research of molecules on single components, particularly alcoholic extract, for inhibiting and lowering the activity of the Coronavirus in infected cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research investigated the in vivo anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective activities, as well as the antioxidant potential of Taraxacum officinale tincture (TOT), in relation to the polyphenolic composition. Chromatographic and spectrophotometric techniques were used to determine the polyphenolic profile of TOT and the antioxidant activity was preliminarily assessed in vitro by DPPH• and FRAP spectrophotometric methods. The in vivo anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective activities were studied in rat turpentine-induced inflammation and in rat isoprenaline-induced myocardial infarction (MI) models. The main polyphenolic compound identified in TOT was cichoric acid. The oxidative stress determinations showed the capacity of the dandelion tincture not only to decrease the total oxidative stress (TOS), the oxidative stress index (OSI), and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), but also the malondialdehide (MDA), thiols (SH), and nitrites/nitrates (NOx) levels both in inflammation and MI models. In addition, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatin kinase-MB (CK-MB), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) parameters were decreased by the administration of the tincture. The results show that T. officinale could be considered a valuable source of natural compounds with important benefits in pathologies linked to oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcriptional activity of genes related to ionizing radiation responses in chronically irradiated plant populations at radioactively contaminated territories can be a cost-effective and precise approach for stress response evaluation. However, there are limits to studying non-model plants in field conditions. The work studies the transcriptional activity of candidate genes of adaptation to chronic radiation exposure in plant populations from radioactively contaminated territories of the Chernobyl. In this work, we studied plant species with different sensitivity to acute irradiation: Trifolium repens L., Taraxacum officinale Wigg., and Dactylis glomerata L., sampled in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. The differential expression of several candidate genes of adaptation to chronic radiation exposure in the leaves of these species was analyzed, including homologs of Arabidopsis thaliana genes SLAC1, APX1, GPX2, CAB1, NTRB, PP2-B11, RBOH-F, HY5, SnRK2.4, PDS1, CIPK20, SIP1, PIP1, TIP1. All studied species were characterized by upregulation of the CAB1 homolog, encoding chlorophyll a/b binding protein, at radioactively contaminated plots. An increase in the expression of genes associated with water and hydrogen peroxide transport, intensity of photosynthesis, and stress responses (homolog of aquaporin TIP1 for T. repens; homologs of aquaporin PIP1 and transcription factor HY5 for D. glomerata; homolog of CBL-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase CIPK20 for T. officinale) was revealed. The methodological approach for studying gene expression in non-model plant species is described, which may allow large-scale screening studies of candidate genes in various plant species abundant in radioactively contaminated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a liquid that is colorless, transparent, inflammable, and volatile. Its central carbon atom is surrounded by four Cl- atoms. As a result, the objective of this effort was to estimate the anti-oxidant properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) made utilizing aqueous plant extracts from Taraxacum officinale leaves. A green synthesis of AgNPs using a synergistic aqueous extract from T. officinale leaves was tested against liver damage in rats caused by CCl4. The rats were randomly distributed into seven groups: Group 1: Control group, Group 2: Olive oil group, Group 3: AgNPs-treated group (100 mg/kg BW.), Group 4: AgNPs-treated group (200 mg/kg BW.), Group 5: CCl4 + Olive oil group, Group 6: (CCl4 + Olive Oil) + 100 mg/kg of AgNPs-treated group, and Group 7: (CCl4 + Olive oil) + 200 mg/kg of AgNPstreated group one a week for 6 weeks. This study demonstrated a sustainable method for synthesizing AgNPs utilizing T. officinale leaf (TOL) extract. To characterize the synthesized T. officinale leaf-silver nanoparticles (TOL-AgNPs), various microscopic and spectroscopic methods were used. The effectiveness of the biosynthesized TOL-AgNPs against CCl4 was tested to assess their antioxidant potential. The antioxidant properties of synthetic TOL-AgNPs were also evaluated. Histopathological research showed that all groups treated with nanoextract had less severe inflammatory responses. Our findings demonstrated that AgNPs synthesized using the leaves of T. officinale possess a potential anti-oxidant activity against CCl4-induced liver injury in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Technogenic terrains are one of the most unfavorable terrains for occupying of plant species. However, there are species that are distributed in such places and their reaction to such conditions is interesting. Some of them can be used for remediation of such terrains. The purpose of this study is to establish relationships among the heavy metals in the roots and aboveground part of T. officinale on the one hand and the metabolites synthesized under conditions of polymetallic contamination in Osogovo Mine, West Bulgaria. The metabolites were identified by GC/MS. There were determined 19 soil characteristics, content of 15 elements in aboveground and in the root system of Taraxacum officinale, as well as 20 metabolites. The concentrations of the studied elements in the aboveground part were significantly higher than the ones in the root system. There were found 40 significant correlations among the studied soil indicators and the studied metabolites in the roots. The number of statistically significant correlations (106) among the studied soil indicators and the studied metabolites in the aboveground parts were determined. There are also statistically significant correlations (38) among the studied chemical elements in the roots, the metabolites in the roots, and the metabolites in the aboveground part as well as 32 statistically significant correlations among the studied elements in the aboveground part of T. officinale and the studied metabolites in the aboveground and underground parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants have been identified for biological functions due to the presence of various minerals and metals in them. A study was conducted to determine selected elements in a medicinal plant dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) from selected sites of AJK (Azad Jammu and Kashmir) by using PIXE (particle induces x-ray emission) technique. The elements detected were Al, Ca, Cl, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, S, and Zn whose concentrations respectively ranged as 4.9–33, 672–1995.6, 23–163, 0.03–1.55, 0.42–4.10, 18–75, 516–1893, 11–34.35, 3.30–11.00, 23.5–70 mg/kg. Toxic elements were not detected in studied samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral malaria (CM) is a severe manifestation of parasite infection caused by Plasmodium species. In 2018, there were approximately 228 million malaria cases worldwide, resulting in about 405,000 deaths. Survivors of CM may live with lifelong post-CM consequences apart from an increased risk of childhood neurodisability. EphA2 receptors have been linked to several neurological disorders and have a vital role in the CM-associated breakdown of the blood–brain barrier. Molecular docking (MD) studies of phytochemicals from Taraxacum officinale, Tinospora cordifolia, Rosmarinus officinalis, Ocimum basilicum, and the native ligand ephrin-A were conducted to identify the potential blockers of the EphA2 receptor. The software program Autodock Vina 1.1.2 in PyRx-Virtual Screening Tool and BIOVIA Discovery Studio visualizer was used for this MD study. The present work showed that blocking the EphA2 receptor by these phytochemicals prevents endothelial cell apoptosis by averting ephrin-A ligand-expressing CD8+ T cell bioadhesion. These phytochemicals showed excellent docking scores and binding affinity, demonstrating hydrogen bond, electrostatic, Pi-sigma, and pi alkyl hydrophobic binding interactions when compared with native ligands at the EphA2 receptor. The comparative MD study using two PDB IDs showed that isocolumbin, carnosol, luteolin, and taraxasterol have better binding affinities (viz. −9.3, −9.0, −9.5, and −9.2 kcal/mol, respectively). Ocimum basilicum phytochemicals showed a lower docking score but more binding interactions than native ligands at the EphA2 receptor for both PDB IDs. This suggests that these phytochemicals may serve as potential drug candidates in the management of CM. We consider that the present MD study provides leads in drug development by targeting the EphA2 receptor in managing CM. The approach is innovative because a role for EphA2 receptors in CM has never been highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the extraction of plant species Taraxacum officinale (F. H. Wigg) was optimized providing the maximum extraction of phenolic compounds using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The optimum extraction parameters were as follows: extraction temperature of 60°C, extraction time of 30 min and 1:32.7 g/mL solid-liquid ratio for ethanol extract, and 60°C, 30 min, 1:14.2 g/mL ratio for acetone extract. The optimized extracts exhibited different biological activities. Ethanol extract showed better DPPH radicals scavenging activity and reducing power compared to acetone extract. The extracts had low antibacterial activity. In addition, the extracts had no effect on the healthy MRC-5 cell line, while acetone extract reduced the viability of HCT-116 carcinoma cells. This paper provides a basis for further research on the optimization of dandelion extraction under different conditions and testing the bioactivity of this medicinal plant.

Dandelion seeds respond to wet weather by closing their plumes, which reduces dispersal when wind conditions are poor.

Animal migration is highly sensitised to environmental cues, but plant dispersal is considered largely passive. The common dandelion, Taraxacum officinale, bears an intricate haired pappus facilitating flight. The pappus enables the formation of a separated vortex ring during flight; however, the pappus structure is not static but reversibly changes shape by closing in response to moisture. We hypothesised that this leads to changed dispersal properties in response to environmental conditions. Using wind tunnel experiments for flow visualisation, particle image velocimetry, and flight tests, we characterised the fluid mechanics effects of the pappus morphing. We also modelled dispersal to understand the impact of pappus morphing on diaspore distribution. Pappus morphing dramatically alters the fluid mechanics of diaspore flight. We found that when the pappus closes in moist conditions, the drag coefficient decreases and thus the falling velocity is greatly increased. Detachment of diaspores from the parent plant also substantially decreases. The change in detachment when the pappus closes increases dispersal distances by reducing diaspore release when wind speeds are low. We propose that moisture-dependent pappus-morphing is a form of informed dispersal allowing rapid responses to changing conditions.

Salt stress has a major effect on growth and secondary metabolism in medicinal plants, however, the effect of salt stress on Taraxacum officinale F. H. Wigg. is still scarce. In this study, we evaluated the effects of salt stress on the physiology, morphology, phenolic acid accumulation, and expression of genes involved in phenolic acid biosynthesis in T. officinale. We found that plants grew well at 1 g kg−1 NaCl, and the state of photosystem Ⅱ (PSⅡ) and the organization of the chloroplasts at 0.5 g kg−1 NaCl showed no significant differences compared with the control. However, 2 g kg−1 and 4 g kg−1 NaCl inhibited growth and accelerated leaf senescence. At 4 g kg−1 NaCl, the fresh and dry weights decreased to 28% and 42% of the control, while chlorosis and necrosis were observed on the leaves. Furthermore, up-regulation of the expression of ToC3′H corresponded with an increase in the levels of caffeoylquinic acids (chlorogenic acid and isochlorogenic acid A) at NaCl concentration ≤ 1 g kg−1. Expressions of four phenolic acid biosynthesis genes, ToC4H , To4CL , ToHCT , and ToHQT , were down-regulated with increasing NaCl concentrations, consistent with the observed decreases in caftaric and cichoric acids. In summary, cultivation of T. officinale under mild salt stress (NaCl ≤ 1 g kg−1) is feasible and facilitates the accumulation of caffeoylquinic acids; thus this species may be recommended for saline soils. • Plant growth were greatly inhibited under high concentration of salt stress. • Accumulation of caffeoylquinic acids was improved under mild salt stress. • The expression of C3′H gene which directly catalyzes CGA synthesis was up-regulated under mild salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taraxacum kok-saghyz Rodin (TKS) is a potential edible resource plant that is rich in inulin, lipid, protein and other active ingredients. In this study, HS-SPME/GC–MS was used to analyze volatile compounds (VCs) and profile the fatty acids in TKS roots and leaves, and the results were compared with those from Taraxacum officinale (TO). A total of 105 and 107 VCs were detected in the leaves and roots of seven dandelion samples (three TKS and four TO), amongst which the main VCs were ethyl tetradecanoate, ethyl linolenate, ethyl linoleate, dihydroactinidiolide, ethyl palmitate, β-ionone, 3,5-octadien-2-one, β-ionone 5,6-epoxide, geranyl acetone, benzaldehyde, safranal, 2-Pentylfuran, farnesene and β-elemene. Linoleic acid and linolenic acid were the dominant fatty acids in seven dandelion samples, and the ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acids was larger than 4. Principal component analysis showed that the differences in VCs and fatty acid levels between different dandelion samples mainly came from different places of origin, while the differences between different varieties in the same place of origin was minor; i.e., the VCs and fatty acid levels of TKS and TO collected from the same place were basically similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study was to investigate whether the most common wild plant species of urban grassland can be used for phytoremediation of soils polluted with heavy metals. The study was conducted in the city of Varaždin, in northern Croatia. The content of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) was determined in soil samples as well as in unwashed and washed plant samples (Taraxacum officinale, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens). The results show that the most polluted site is the railway station, while most sites are polluted by road traffic. The soils are most enriched with Pb, Cu, Zn and Cd. The bioconcentration factors for all three plant species are <1, indicating the relatively low capacity of phytoextraction. A considerable amount of heavy metals is found in the dust deposited on the plant surface, which is confirmed by a statistically significant difference between washed and unwashed plant samples. In addition, the biomass of each plant species that can be removed (in t/ha year), the mass of specific heavy metal that can be removed (in kg/ha), and the years required for phytoremediation are reported. In conclusion, phytoremediation with only common plant species of urban grassland is not possible within a reasonable period of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taraxacum officinale (TO) has been historically used for medicinal purposes due to its biological activity against specific disorders. To investigate the antioxidant and the antiproliferativepotential of TO essential oil in vitro and in vivo, the chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by GC-MS. The in vivo antioxidant capacity was assessed on liver and kidney homogenate samples from mice subjected to acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress and treated with TO essential oil (600 and 12,000 mg/kg BW) for 14 days. The in vitro scavenging activity was assayed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the reducing power methods. The cytotoxic effects against the HeLa cancer cell line were analyzed. The GC-MS analysis showed the presence of 34 compounds, 8 of which were identified as major constituents. The TO essential oil protected mice's liver and kidneys from acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress by enhancing antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione) and lowering malondialdehyde levels. In vitro, the TO essential oil demonstrated low scavenging activity against DPPH (IC50 = 2.00 ± 0.05 mg/mL) and modest reducing power (EC50 = 0.963 ± 0.006 mg/mL). The growth of the HeLa cells was also reduced by the TO essential oil with an inhibition rate of 83.58% at 95 µg/mL. Current results reveal significant antioxidant and antiproliferative effects in a dose-dependent manner and suggest that Taraxacum officinale essential oil could be useful in formulations for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate antibacterial activity of chemical constituents of Taraxacum officinale against foodborne pathogens. A total of 133 retail meat products were randomly purchased from different supermarkets. All samples were isolated and identified by conventional methods as Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. Different bacteria were respectively inoculated into LB medium, the OD600 was adjusted to 0.5, and the initial bacterial concentration was adjusted to about 5x108 CFU/mL. T. officinale were dried in a hot air oven, and chemical substances in the dried powder were separated using Soxhlet extraction method with light petroleum as organic solvent. The antibacterial properties of T. officinale extracts against foodborne pathogens were evaluated by agar diffusion method. Sub-inhibitory concentration (SIC) value, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) value were measured. The virulence gene expression of the four foodborne pathogens was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). A microplate reader was used to monitor cell growth at 600 nm with 1 h interval. Environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) was used to analyze morphological changes of E. coli and Staph. aureus cells. ATP analysis kit and EnSpire microplate reader were used to detect the intracellular ATP concentration of 4 foodborne pathogens. According to our results of all the tested samples, 38 (28.57%) were found to have Staph. aureus, 27 (20.30%) had Salmonella, 46 (34.59%) had E. coli, and 22 (16.54%) had L. monocytogenes. Staph. aureus had MIC of 0.55±0.18µg/ml and MBC of 1.13±0.11µg/ml; Salmonella had MIC of 0.25±0.13μg/ml and MBC of 0.54±0.06µg/ml; E. coli had MIC of 1.07±0.15µg/ ml and MBC of 2.08±0.19µg/ml; L. monocytogenes had MIC of 0.56±0.11µg/ml and MBC of 1.05±0.13µg/ml. After treatment, reduced expression was shown in Staph. aureus isolates' seb, hlg and icaA virulence genes, Salmonella isolates' mogA, ssel, mgtC, siiE and sopB virulence genes, E. coli isolates' astA, estlb, pic, escV and aggR virulence genes and L. monocytogenes isolates' LLO, plcA, plcB, actA and inlA virulence genes (P<0.05). The growth rate of E. coli and Staph. aureus strains decreased at 1/2 MIC. When the chemical constituent concentration in T. officinale increased to MIC, the bacteria growth was completely inhibited. Untreated E. coli and Staph. aureus displayed typical bacilli-like and spherical morphology with uniform cell size, and the cell surface looked intact and shiny. On the contrary, when the cells were treated with increased concentration of chemical constituents of T. officinale, the cells exhibited irregular morphology, aggregated and showed extensive surface collapse, thereby increasing the rate and extent of cell damage. After treatment, in the presence of chemical constituents of T. officinale, the intracellular ATP concentration was significantly reduced in the treated Staph. aureus, Salmonella, E. coli and L. monocytogenes (P<0.05). When the chemical constituent concentration of T. officinale plant increased from 1/2 MIC to MIC, the intracellular ATP content further decreased (P<0.05). We concluded that the chemical constituents of T. officinale have antibacterial activity against the two Gram-positive and two Gram-negative bacteria. The chemical constituents of T. officinale can inhibit the growth of foodborne pathogens by inhibiting the expression of virulence genes and reducing permeability of cell membranes, thereby changing the cell morphology and reducing intracellular ATP concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has been used in traditional medicine. It has been utilized as a source for bioactive compounds. Such as phenolic compounds. Thus, this study aimed to increase phenolic yield in callus cultures supplied with Phenylalanine (Phe.) as a precursor. Seeds of T. officinale were sterilized and cultured in vitro on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium then used as a source of explants. Leaves and roots were cultured on MS medium supplemented with combinations (0.25, 0.5 or 0.75mg/L) of benzyl adenine purine (BAP) and (1, 2 or 3 mg/L) of indole acetic acid (IAA). The best fresh weight for callus formation was achieved at 0.75 mg/L BAP for leaves and 0.75 mg/L with 2 mg/L IAA for root. Quantitative analyses with spectrophotometer, the total phenols were expressed as Gallic acid standard curve showed phenolic content presence in leaves 15.38 mg and 14.89 mg in root of intact plant. The addition of different concentrations of Phe (0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, 1 or 1.5 mg/L) as a precursor to the medium led to increase the levels of phenolic content in leaves and roots callus tissue. Phe. at concentration 1.5mg/L enhanced production of phenols to 17.86 mg on leaves callus and 1mg/L concentration of Phe. Enhanced production of phenols to 16.50 mg on roots callus comparison with intact plant. In contrast, even the control treatment (0 mg/L) concentration of (Phe.) was found to be stimulated phenolic yield in comparison with phenolic content in intact plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fermentation of medicinal plants has been studied very little, as compared to the fermentation of food and beverages. One approach applies fermentation by single bacterial or fungal strains and targets the production of specific compounds or preservation of the fermented material. Spontaneous fermentation by an autochthonous starter community may lead to a more diverse blend of fermentation products because co-occurring microbes may activate the biosynthetic potentials and formation of compounds not produced in single strain approaches. We applied the community approach and studied the fermentation of four medicinal plants (Achillea millefolium, Taraxacum officinale, Mercurialis perennis, and Euphrasia officinalis), according to a standardized pharmaceutical fermentation method. It is based on the spontaneous fermentation by plant-specific bacterial and fungal communities under a distinct temperature regime, with a recurrent cooling during the first week and further fermentation for at least six months. The results revealed both general and plant-specific patterns in the composition and succession of microbial communities during fermentation. Lactic acid bacteria increasingly dominated in all preparations, whereas the fungal communities retained more plant-specific features. Three distinct fermentation phases with characteristic bacterial communities were identified, i.e., early, middle, and late phases. Co-occurrence network analyses revealed the plant-specific features of the microbial communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dandelion or Taraxacum officinale is a well - known medical plant that is a source of various nutrients and biologically active substances, and its polyphenolic compounds are considered responsible for the high biological activity of dandelion and its antioxidant, anti - inflammatory and atitumor effects. Aques - ethanol extracts were obtained using various maceration extraction techniques at room and boiling temperature, ultrasonic and Soxhlet extraction. In this study, all parts of the plant (roots, leaves, stems, flowers) previously dried at room temperature were analysed. The content of mineral elements of the plant was determined by AAS, antioxidant activity by DPPH (2,2 - diphenyl - 1 - pycryl hydrazyl) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) method, flavonoids (method with AlC13), vitamin C, carotenoids and chlorophyll were determined spectrophotometrically. The content of total phenols was determined by the Folin - Ciocalteu method. The content of phenolic compounds is higher in the outer parts of the plant (flowers and leaves) than in the root. The results of chemical analysis show that all its components have special qualities in terms of chemical composition. The best antioxidant activity was shown by the water - ethanol extract obtained using Soxlet extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Taraxacum officinale (G.H. Weber ex Wiggers), commonly known as dandelion, is a herbaceous plant native to North America, Europe and Asia. This plant has been used for health purposes since ancient times. The phytochemicals present in different parts of the plant are responsible for its medicinal properties. In this review, we describe the main health properties of Taraxacum officinale. Main body of the abstract We searched for the main medicinal properties of Taraxacum officinale in the scientific literature, using the PubMed database. We selected 54 studies and we described twelve therapeutic properties, which are reported in previous studies. These properties are diuretic, hepatoprotective, anticolitis, immunoprotective, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiarthritic, antidiabetic, antiobesity, antioxidant and anticancer effects. We also found that the most frequently reported therapeutic effects include hepatoprotective, antioxidant and anticancer activities. Short conclusion In this review, we describe the medicinal properties of Taraxacum officinale reported in previous studies. Antioxidant, hepatoprotective and anticancer effects are mostly found in the scientific literature.

Abstract Background Taraxacum officinale, or the common dandelion, is a widespread perennial species recognized worldwide as a common lawn and garden weed. Common dandelion is also cultivated for use in teas, as edible greens, and for use in traditional medicine. It produces latex and is closely related to the Russian dandelion, T. kok-saghyz, which is being developed as a rubber crop. Additionally, the vast majority of extant common dandelions reproduce asexually through apomictically derived seeds- an important goal for many major crops in modern agriculture. As such, there is increasing interest in the molecular control of important pathways as well as basic molecular biology and reproduction of common dandelion. Results Here we present an improved Agrobacterium-based genetic transformation and regeneration protocol, a protocol for generation and transformation of protoplasts using free DNA, and a protocol for leaf Agrobacterium infiltration for transient gene expression. These protocols use easily obtainable leaf explants from soil-grown plants and reagents common to most molecular plant laboratories. We show that common markers used in many plant transformation systems function as expected in common dandelion including fluorescent proteins, GUS, and anthocyanin regulation, as well as resistance to kanamycin, Basta, and hygromycin. Conclusion Reproducible, stable and transient transformation methods are presented that will allow for needed molecular structure and function studies of genes and proteins in T. officinale.

A new analytical procedure for the speciation of chromium (Cr) in plants by high performance liquid chromatography inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS) was developed using a strong anion-exchange Mono Q column for the separation of the Cr species. To optimize the analytical procedure, Cr complexes were first synthesized from Cr-nitrate with the addition of an excess of ligand (90°C). Cr-oxalate, Cr-malate, Cr-citrate, Cr-aconitate and Cr-quinate complexes and Cr-nitrate (pH 6.5) were chromatographically separated from Cr(VI) by applying linear gradient elution from 100% water to 100% NH4Cl at a flow rate of 1.5 ml min−1 in 10 min. The column recoveries ranged from 100 to 104%. The exception was Cr-aconitate (column recovery 33%), where a quantitative synthesis was not possible. Good repeatability of the measurements (relative standard deviations better than ± 3%) and low limits of detection (below 0.37 ng ml−1 Cr) were achieved for the individual Cr species. The developed analytical procedure was applied to Cr speciation for dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) grown in soil with a high Cr content and a study of the uptake and metabolism of Cr species in dandelions grown in soil with a low Cr content treated with solutions of Cr(VI) or Cr-nitrate (5000 ng ml−1 Cr, pH 6.5) for 48 h. The separated Cr species were quantified by post-column isotope dilution ICP-MS, while the identification was based on retention times and was also supported by mass spectra obtained with high resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS). The data indicate that for dandelions grown in Cr-rich soil and that treated with Cr-nitrate (pH 6.5), the Cr was mainly accumulated in the roots, while in plants treated with Cr(VI) (pH 6.5), the Cr was evenly distributed between the roots and the leaves. The Cr species found in dandelion roots and leaves were Cr-aconitate, Cr-malate, and Cr-quinate. The results revealed that Cr(VI) was completely reduced and metabolized to Cr(III) complexes. LA-ICP-MS data showed that the Cr in a leaf of dandelion grown in Cr-rich soil was localized mainly at the apex of the leaf.

Glioblastoma is an aggressive type of CNS tumor. The aim was to evaluate the antitumor activity of Taraxacum officinale (TO) extracts on U-138 MG glial cells and correlate it with the concentration of chicoric (ChA), chlorogenic (CGA), and caftaric (CA) acids (mg/mL) in the extract. TO dry leaves were extracted with DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and ethanol of different concentrations. The concentration of acids was determined by liquid chromatograph (Agilent 1260 with DAD). The viability of U-138 MG cells was assessed by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) test (% of viable cells). The activity of TO was compared with that of doxorubicin. The best antitumor activity was shown by TO extracts prepared with DMSO (110,000 µg/L—17.3 ± 8%, which contained ChA—8976 × 10−6 mg/mL, CGA—316.8 × 10−6 mg/mL, CA—1628 × 10−6 mg/mL), with 50% ethanol (150,000 µg/L—13.7 ± 3.2%, containing ChA—52,500 × 10−6 mg/mL, CGA—1746 × 10−6 mg/mL, CA—8460 × 10−6 mg/mL) and with 80% ethanol (40,000 µg/L—16.1 ± 9%, containing ChA—904 × 10−6 mg/mL, CGA—114.4 × 10−6 mg/mL, CA—70.4 × 10−6 mg/mL). TO extract activity was close to that of doxorubicin. In conclusion, the TO antitumor activity depends on the type of extractant and its concentration, as well as on the content of cinnamic acids.