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Background: Aloe ferox is an indigenous medicinal plant that is widely used for its various medicinal and pharmacological properties. Despite the medicinal importance and various applications of the species, it is surprising that little is known about the extent of geographical differences in its major chemical compounds. Also, the correlation between different geographic regions and variations in plant phytochemicals has received less attention. Aim: This study sought to investigate the presence of biologically active compounds in the leaf extracts of A. ferox from different geographical regions across South Africa. Setting: This study was set in different regions within South Africa. Methods: Phytochemical screening was performed qualitatively using established standard procedures involving chemical reagents such as hexane, chloroform and methanol and a series of reactions to determine the presence of phytocompounds of biological importance. Results: The study revealed that A. ferox leaves possess several classes of phytocompounds such as alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins and fixed oils and fats across various samples. Mucilage was absent across the samples. Conclusion: The study revealed eight classes of phytochemical compounds present on A. ferox leaves in three different geographic regions, which is consistent with the previous studies; however, further research is needed to enhance the study through qualitative research, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to validate phytochemical variations and their therapeutic effects. Contribution: This study contributes to the existing knowledge of the therapeutic Aloe genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The pharmacological importance of the west African aloe species was appraised. • Aloe species have therapeutic benefits such as antioxidants, antidiabetic and anticancer. • The west African aloe species are underutilized but can be harnessed as medicines. • Modern technologies are needed to decipher their detailed chemical entities. The genus Aloe belongs to the family Xanthorrhoeaceae with over 560 species ranging from small shrub-like plants to large trees. Despite their pharmacological applications against ailments such as arthritis, cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus, digestive disorders, cancer, microbial infections, and skin diseases, only Aloe vera, Aloe ferox, Aloe perryi , and Aloe arborecens have received superior research attention over the years with some members of the genus such as Aloe buettneri, Aloe macrocarpa , and Aloe schweinfurthii being either neglected or underutilized. Here, we reviewed the ethnobotanical, phytochemistry, toxicological and pharmacological importance of the three indigenous and underutilized West African Aloe species- A. buettneri, A. macrocarpa , and A. schweinfurthii. Scientific databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, JSTOR, Science Direct, and Scopus were used in retrieving the data presented in this study. The information gathered revealed that, the three species are generally underutilized with some ethnopharmacological uses against dysmenorrhea, skin diseases, female infertility, chronic gonorrhea, facilitation of childbirth, hemorrhoids, and impotency in men, being documented. Majorly, their leaves and gel are rich in alkaloids, phenolics, sterols, saponins, glycosides, anthraquinones, and anthraquinoic derivatives and the species exhibited a broad spectrum of biological activities including antidiabetic, aphrodisiac, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesia, antipyretic, antileishmanial, and antimalarial. Despite their numerous therapeutic applications, Aloe species generally potentiate toxicological concerns at high doses, necessitating further research to standardize and establish their optimum therapeutic doses including those of the West African species. Furthermore, while the medicinal uses of Aloe species have been well documented in Africa, there is still paucity of information on the pharmacological and phytochemistry of the West African species. Therefore, further advanced and in-depth investigations are imperative to isolate and characterize their active compounds, as well as to understand the molecular mechanism of action of the species against human ailments with the hope of developing commercially valuable products of high economic importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite Aloe's traditional use, Aloe juvenna Brandham & S.Carter is poorly characterized. Other Aloes are known for their antidiabetic activity. This study describes the antidiabetic potentials and phytoconstituents of the A. juvenna leaves methanolic extract (AJME). Twenty-six phytoconstituents of AJME were described using HPLC/MS-MS. Lupeol and vitexin were isolated using column chromatography. The antidiabetic activity of AJME was investigated using an in vivo high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model and in vitro α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity assays. AJME demonstrated its α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC 50 =313±39.9 ppm) with no effect on α-glucosidase. In vivo, AJME dose-dependently improved hyperglycaemia in a high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. Notably, the higher dose (1600 mg/kg) of AJME significantly downregulated serum interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and matrix metalloproteinase-1 genes, suggesting its anti-inflammatory effect. These findings indicate AJME's potential as a significant antidiabetic agent through its α-amylase inhibition, hypoglycaemic, and anti-inflammatory properties., (© 2024 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

The aim of our study is to provide new type skeleton of α-glucosidase inhibitor from food source. A new 6′- O -(E)–cinnamoyl-7-methoxy-aloin A (1) was isolated from Aloe vera. Also, known chysalodin (2) was the first report for A. vera. These structures were identified with based on HR-ESI Mass and 1/2D-NMR spectra. These isolated compounds were tested for their inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase by using spectrophotometer. Of these, compound 2 exhibited inhibitory activity, with an IC 50 value of 13.4 ± 1.5 μM. An enzyme kinetic study identified the mechanism of binding of the ligand with the enzyme; the ligand binds in the active site of the enzyme in a competitive mode. Additionally, fluorescence quenching between the ligand and receptor revealed a two-to-one reaction. Finally, this finding provides that anthraquinone dimer (2) could be a starting point for the design of new class of α-glucosidase inhibitor. • A new 6′- O -(E)–cinnamoyl-7-methoxy-aloin A (1), and chysalodin (2) were isolated from Aloe vera for the first time. • Chysalodin (2) was bound into α-glucosidase with IC 50 value of 13.4 ± 1.5 μM. • Through steady-state kinetic study, this was revealed with competitive of mode for inhibition. • Fluorescence quenching led to calculate the kinetic parameters of compound 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new compound, 9-dihydroxyl-2'-O-(Z)-cinnamoyl-7-methoxy-aloesin (1), and eight known compounds (2–9) were isolated from Aloe vera. Their structures were elucidated using 1D/2D nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectra. Compound 9 exhibited reversible competitive inhibitory activity against the enzyme tyrosinase, with an IC50 value of 9.8 ± 0.9 µM. A molecular simulation revealed that compound 9 interacts via hydrogen bonding with residues His244, Thr261, and Val283 of tyrosinase. Additionally, compounds 3 and 7 were shown by half-leaf assays to exhibit inhibitory activity towards Pepper mild mottle virus.

Background: Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a widely spread skin disorder; the topical application of corticosteroids is the first choice for treatment. Natural products have a great contribution in the treatment of this disease; Asphodelus microcarpus seeds are rich in anthraquinones and known to possess both anti-inflammatory and antidermatitis effects. Objective: The objective of the study is to investigate the anti-eczematic activity, acute toxicity, and molecular modeling of A. microcarpus seeds. Materials and Methods: Nuclear magnetic resonance, ultraviolet, and mass spectroscopy were applied for characterization of isolated metabolites; induction of eczema was conducted by 2% and 0.2% w/v dinitrochlorobenzene in acetone; eczema was treated with topical application of the different seed extracts in the form of ointments (1% w/w); Swiss albino mice (25–30 g) were used for the determination of LD50and anti-eczematic effect. Docking studies were performed by Molecular Operating Environment software. Results: A. microcarpus seed extract exhibited promising ant-eczematic activity, six anthraquinones were isolated from chloroform portion and characterized as 10,7'-bichrysophanol (1), asphodelin (2), chrysophanol-8-O-methyl ether (3), chrysophanol (4), physcion (5), and emodin (6). Compounds 1, 3, and 5 exerted significant anti-eczematic effect. Conclusion: Six known anthraquinone derivatives were isolated and characterized for the first time from the seeds of A. microcarpus. Chloroform fraction (1% w/w) showed significant anti-eczematic effect compared to standard mometasone furoate (0.1 w/w). The docking study proved the anti-eczematic activity of anthraquinone content by their affinity to the target human histamine H1receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The main polysaccharide of the gel present in the leaves of or Aloe vera Burm.F., (Aloe barbadensis Miller) a xerophytic crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plant, is an acetylated glucomannan named acemannan. This polysaccharide is responsible for the succulence of the plant, helping it to retain water. In this study we determined using polysaccharide analysis by carbohydrate gel electrophoresis (PACE) that the acemannan is a glucomannan without galactose side branches. We also investigated the expression of the gene responsible for acemannan backbone synthesis, encoding a glucomannan mannosyltransferase (GMMT, EC 2.4.1.32), since there are no previous reports on GMMT expression under water stress in general and specifically in Aloe vera. It was found by in silico analyses that the GMMT gene belongs to the cellulose synthase-like A type-9 (CSLA9) subfamily. Using RT-qPCR it was found that the expression of GMMT increased significantly in Aloe vera plants subjected to water stress. This expression correlates with an increase of endogenous ABA levels, suggesting that the gene expression could be regulated by ABA. To corroborate this hypothesis, exogenous ABA was applied to non-water-stressed plants, resulting in a significant increase of GMMT expression after 48 h of ABA treatment. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Acemannan from Aloe vera Burm.F. is a glucomannan without galactose side-branches. • GMMT (a possible CSLA9) from Aloe vera Burm.F. is up-regulated by water stress. • GMMT expression is induced by exogenous ABA in non-water-stressed plants. • ABA induced acemannan synthesis probably helping to retain water during drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past years, interest in the phytochemical profile of Aloe species (family: Xanthorrhoeaceae ) has been on the rise, compelled by its popularity as an ingredient in cosmetic formulations, food supplements and drug design. It is surprising that only few Aloe spp. have been grown and commercialized; this might be due to the very limited knowledge of their potent bioactive compounds. The phytochemical profile of eighteen Aloe species was investigated using colorimetric assays, triple quadrupole and time-of-flight mass spectrometry, focusing on bioactive secondary metabolites in leaf exudates. The phytochemical profile of leaf exudates from different species was widely diverse and included free and glycosylated chromones (mainly aloeresins, with a content of aloeresin A up to 843.4 g 100 g −1 ) followed by the anthraquinones aloin (0.66–4.96 g 100 g −1 ) and hydroxyaloins. Among the examined species A. marlothii , and A. melanacantha were found to be richest in total polyphenols (14.3 and 6.4 g gallic acid equivalents 100 g −1 ), flavonoids (up to 7.1 g rutin equivalents 100 g −1 ), flavonols (up to 5.0 g rutin equivalents 100 g −1 ), and presented the highest antioxidant activity (up to 810.3 μmol g −1 trolox for DPPH, and 453.4 μmol g −1 trolox for ORAC), aloin, and aloeresin A contents. A second cluster, including A. arborescens and A. nyeriensis, was characterized by high contents of total phenolics and aloenin. These findings highlight for the first time the complex profile of phytochemicals in aloe leaf exudates and open new horizons to the industrial use of these Aloe species, which could represent a smart approach to increase the growers’ income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:: It has been hypothesized that two flower types permit flexible allocation of resources to female and male functions, yet empirical evidence for the sex‐allocation hypothesis remains scarce in gynomonoecious species. To characterize resource allocation to pistillate and perfect flowers and allocation of perfect flowers between gynomonoecious and hermaphroditic individuals, we examined the flexibility and whether female‐biased allocation increases with plant size in the hermaphroditic‐gynomonoecious herb Eremurus anisopterus. METHODS:: Frequency of gynomonoecious individuals, flower production, and plant size were investigated in different populations. Floral allocation was compared among the three flower types of E. anisopterus. KEY RESULTS:: Frequency of gynomonoecious plants varied from 2–17% in nine populations. Only larger plants produced female flowers at the bottom of racemes. Both female and perfect flower production tended to increase proportionately with plant size in gynomonoecious individuals. Female flowers did not produce less biomass than perfect flowers from hermaphroditic or gynomonoecious plants. However, both female and perfect flowers from gynomonoecious individuals had lighter stamen mass, but larger pistil mass, than perfect flowers from hermaphrodites. CONCLUSIONS:: Although the prediction of an increase in female flower number with plant size was not observed in E. anisopterus, the flexibility of sex allocation in gynomonoecious species was confirmed in that gynomonoecious individuals had a female‐biased floral allocation compared to hermaphroditic individuals. Such comparisons of gynomonoecious to hermaphroditic individuals permit us to unveil a sexual adjustment strategy: flexibility of sexual investments within plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new compound, 9-dihydroxyl-2'-O-(Z)-cinnamoyl-7-methoxy-aloesin (1), and eight known compounds (2–9) were isolated fromAloe vera.Their structures were elucidated using 1D/2D nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectra. Compound9exhibited reversible competitive inhibitory activity against the enzyme tyrosinase, with an IC50value of 9.8 ± 0.9 µM. A molecular simulation revealed that compound9interacts via hydrogen bonding with residues His244, Thr261, and Val283 of tyrosinase. Additionally, compounds3and7were shown by half-leaf assays to exhibit inhibitory activity towardsPepper mild mottle virus. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Traditional medicine is a useful guide in medical sciences. In the Islamic Iranian traditional medicine, the medicinal properties of many plants have been mentioned that could be exploited in drug discovery. We aimed to explore the nature and properties of Aloe spp. As described in some major Islamic traditional texts including Ferdows al-Hekmah fi’l-Tibbe (The Paradise of Wisdom in Medicine), Al-Hawi fi’l-Tibb (Comprehensive Book of Medicine), Kamel al-Sanaat al-Tibbyyah (Complete Book of the Medical Art), Al-Qanun fi’l-Tibb (Canon of Medicine), Zakhireh Kharazmshahi (Treasure of Kharazmshah), and Makhzan al-Adwiah (Drug Treasure), and assess the conformity of traditional medicine instructions with the findings of modern pharmacological studies. Gastrointestinal activities, hepato-protective properties, beneficial effects against skin problems such as wounds, injuries, and infective diseases are among the most frequently mentioned properties of Aloe spp. Several activities of Aloe spp. described in traditional medicine have been the subject of recent in vitro and in vivo studies as well as clinical trials. Owing to the positive findings, different preparations of Aloe spp. are now present in pharmaceutical markets such as Aloe cosmetic products. On the other hand, there are many traditional therapeutic effects of Aloe spp. which have not been studied and require confirmatory experimental or clinical investigations. It is hoped that the present study could stimulate further research on the unexplored aspects of the medicinal properties of Aloe spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aloes and allies are prominent members of African succulent vegetation and especially of the highly diverse Cape Flora. The main goal of this study was to obtain age estimates for alooids by calibrating a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis based on two chloroplast markers (the trnL-trnF spacer region and rbcL gene) and one gene marker (ITS) using a relaxed molecular clock. Seventy four species from all succulent genera of alooids were analysed with MrBayes to infer species relationships. We discuss the age estimates to address the question whether vicariance or dispersal could account for the diversification of Madagascan alooids. In the combined maximum clade credibility tree obtained from BEAST the succulent alooids have split from asphodeloids around 51.8 Mya in Early Miocene. Divergence time age estimation for succulent drought resistant alooids (late Oligocene to early Miocene) correspond well with dates identified for several other plant lineages in southern Africa and does match with the start of dry period in Miocene which triggered speciation and evolutionary radiation of these genera and families. All climbing aloes and some tree aloes which were recently split into new genera are amongst the early diverged group in alooids and the crown node of this group diverged around 16.82 (15.5–22.4) Mya. The oldest node age estimation for aloes from Madagascar (5.1 Mya) is in early Pliocene and our findings support the hypothesis that the Africa-Madagascan divergence is best explained by oceanic long-distance dispersal rather than vicariance. This study is one of the first to give age estimates for clades of alooids in Xanthorrhoeaceae as a starting point for future studies on the historical biogeography of this family of succulent plants which are important for ethnomedicine, and as ornamental and horticultural plants.

Asphodeline species are widespread in the inner Anatolia region in Turkey and used for the treatment of skin disorders, earaches and haemorrhoids. The aim of the present study is to investigate in vitro inhibitory effects of the extracts prepared from the stems, seeds, leaves and roots of Asphodeline brevicaulis subsp. brevicaulis var. brevicaulis, A. baytopae and A. cilicica on hyaluronidase, collagenase and elastase enzymes. Hyaluronidase, collagenase and elastase inhibitory effects of the extracts were performed by using in vitro enzyme inhibitory assays based on spectrophotometric evaluation. The methanol extract of the roots of A. cilicica displayed the highest hyaluronidase, collagenase and elastase inhibitory activities. On the other hand, the acetone extract of the roots of A. cilicica, the acetone extract of the leaves of A. brevicaulis subsp. brevicaulis var. brevicaulis, the acetone and the methanol extracts of seeds of A. baytopae, acetone and the methanol extract of the roots of A. baytopae, the aqueous extract of the stems of A. cilicica, the acetone and the methanol extracts of the leaves of A. cilicica, the aqueous extract of the roots of A. cilicica possessed significant collagenase, hyaluronidase and elastase inhibitory activities. In the present study, extracts of Asphodeline species significantly inhibited collagenase, elastase and hyaluronidase enzymes, suggesting their utilization for the treatment of wounds, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, bone destruction and fibrosis, as well as skin aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fatty acid composition of the seed oil from 13 Turkish Asphodeline species was analyzed. The seed oil content ranged between 0.9% and 4.6%, and included 26 different fatty acids from C12:0 to C22:5. The most abundant saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids were C16:0 (5.7% to 23.7% of their total fatty acid content), C18:19 (11.3% to 30.3%), and C18:26 (49.2% to 66.1%). A. tenuior subsp. tenuiflora, which had the highest content of unsaturated fatty acids, also had the best fatty acid profile from a nutritional point of view. Asphodeline seed oil composition was similar to that of local, related vegetables such as onion seeds. Asphodeline species, which are most frequently grown to use the leaves in salads, may also be a good source of seed oil with good nutritional properties. Results of a cluster analysis using data on the fatty acid composition are consistent with the taxonomic classification of genus Asphodeline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A number of antiviral therapies have evolved that may be effectively administered to treat respiratory viral diseases. But these therapies are very often of limited efficacy or have severe side effects. Therefore there is great interest in developing new efficacious and safe antiviral compounds e.g. based on the identification of compounds of herbal origin. Hypothesis Since an aqueous extract of Aloe arborescens Mill. shows antiviral activity against viruses causing infections of the upper respiratory tract in vitro we hypothesised that a product containing it such as Biaron C ® could have an antiviral activity too. Study design Antiviral activity of Bioaron C ® , an herbal medicinal product consisting of an aqueous extract of Aloe arborescens Mill., Vitamin C, and Aronia melanocarpa Elliot. succus, added as an excipient, was tested in vitro against a broad panel of viruses involved in upper respiratory tract infections. Methods These studies included human adenovirus and several RNA viruses and were performed either with plaque reduction assays or with tests for the detection of a virus-caused cytopathic effect. Results Our studies demonstrated an impressive activity of Bioaron C ® against members of the orthomyxoviridae – influenza A and influenza B viruses. Replication of both analysed influenza A virus strains – H1N1 and H3N2 – as well as replication of two analysed influenza B viruses – strains Yamagatal and Beiying – was significantly reduced after addition of Bioaron C ® to the infected cell cultures. In contrast antiviral activity of Bioaron C ® against other RNA viruses showed a heterogeneous pattern. Bioaron C ® inhibited the replication of human rhinovirus and coxsackievirus, both viruses belonging to the family of picornaviridae and both representing non-enveloped RNA viruses. In vitro infections with respiratory syncytial virus and parainfluenza virus, both belonging to the paramyxoviridae, were only poorly blocked by the test substance. No antiviral activity of Bioaron C ® was detected against adenovirus – a non-enveloped DNA virus. Conclusions These results represent the first proof of a selective antiviral activity of Bioaron C ® against influenza viruses and create basis for further analyses of type and molecular mechanisms of the antiviral activity of this herbal medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The record of fossil monocotyledonous pollen in New Zealand is summarized and discussed in terms of age and palaeoecological implications. The fossil monocot pollen record covers reports of taxa variously ranging from the Palaeogene to the present, with diverse groups represented, including Alstroemeriaceae: Luzuriagoideae ( Luzuriaga), Amaryllidaceae (aff. Hymenocallis?), Arecaceae (including Nypa and aff. Metroxylon), Asparagaceae: Lomandroideae ( Arthropodium, Cordyline), Asteliaceae ( Astelia and Collospermum), Cyperaceae, Anarthriaceae (including Hopkinsiaceae and Lyginiaceae) or Flagellariaceae?, Orchidaceae, Pandanaceae, Poaceae, Restionaceae (aff. Empodisma), Ripogonaceae ( Ripogonum), Typhaceae ( Typha and Sparganium) and Asphodelaceae (= Xanthorrhoeaceae): Hemerocallidoideae ( Dianella and Phormium). There are also monosulcate and reticulate lilioid and echinate and gemmate arecoid palynomorphs known from the Late Cretaceous. The possible biogeographical and palaeoecological implications of these records, especially for tropical or subtropical taxa occurring at mid to high southern latitudes, are also discussed. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2015, 178, 421-440. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The macrofossil record of monocotyledons for New Zealand and Australia is updated on the basis of recent finds. In particular, reports for mummified leaf fossils with good cuticular preservation reveal significant fossil age or range extensions for a number of families in several different orders, including Ripogonaceae in the Eocene of Tasmania and New Zealand (and South America), and calamoid and other Arecaceae from the Eocene of southern New Zealand. There are also earliest macrofossil records for several families or subfamilies, including Alstroemeriaceae: Luzuriagoideae ( Luzuriaga), Arecaceae, Asparagaceae: Lomandroideae ( Cordyline), Asteliaceae ( Astelia), Cymodoceaceae (aff. Ruppia), Cyperaceae, Restionaceae, Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae ( Dendrobium and Earina), Asphodelaceae (previously Xanthorrhoeaceae): Hemerocallidoideae ( Dianella/ Phormium) and Xeronemataceae ( Xeronema) from the Miocene of New Zealand. In addition, an Ensete-like seed associated with Pakawaua ( Musaceae) and a leaf fragment of a second Musaceae-like species of Miocene age are presented. The biogeographical and palaeoecological implications of these records, especially for tropical or subtropical taxa occurring at mid to high southern latitudes, is discussed. In particular, the role and ecology of the relatively high-diversity monocot fossils in the sclerophyllous swamp forest at Newvale Mine in Southland and the lake-edge rainforest at Foulden Maar are explored. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2015, 178, 394-420. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed at a comprehensive chemical characterization of the cuticular wax mixtures covering leaves of the monocot species Aloe arborescens . The wax mixtures were found to contain typical aliphatic compound classes in characteristic chain length distributions, including alkanes (predominantly C 31 ), primary alcohols (predominantly C 28 ), aldehydes (predominantly C 32 ), fatty acid methyl esters (predominantly C 28 ) and fatty acids (bimodal distribution around C 32 and C 28 ). Alkyl esters ranging from C 42 to C 52 were identified, and found to mainly contain C 28 alcohol linked to C 16 –C 20 acids. Three other homologous series were identified as 3-hydroxy fatty acids (predominantly C 28 ), their methyl esters (predominantly C 28 ), and 2-alkanols (predominantly C 31 ). Based on structural similarities and homolog distributions, the biosynthetic pathways leading to these novel wax constituents can be hypothesized. Further detailed analyses showed that the A. arborescens leaf was covered with 15 μg/cm 2 wax on its adaxial side and 36 μg/cm 2 on the abaxial side, with 3:2 and 1:1 ratios between epicuticular and intracuticular wax layers on each side, respectively. Terpenoids were found mainly in the intracuticular waxes, whereas very-long-chain alkanes and fatty acids accumulated to relatively high concentrations in the epicuticular wax, hence near the true surface of the leaf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphodeline lutea (L.) Rchb. is a wild edible plant, traditionally consumed in the Mediterranean diet, but there are limited literature data about its medicinal properties. Methanol extracts of A. lutea roots from Bulgarian (ALB) and Turkish (ALT) origin were evaluated for their antioxidant activity using various in vitro models: phosphomolybdenum assay, free radical scavenging activity, metal chelating activity and ferric and cupric reducing power. Both methanolic extracts were analyzed for phenolic derivatives by HPLC–DAD. Caffeic acid was the dominant phenolic acid being present up to 2.19 ± 0.020 mg/g extract in ALB. The highest content of (+) catechin (1.54 ± 0.060 mg/g) and (−) epicatechin (3.18 ± 0.160 mg/g) was found in ALB as well as total polyphenolics (22.45 ± 0.95 mg/g GAEs/g extract). The ALT revealed the highest total flavonoid content (34.99 ± 0.39 mg REs/g extract). Free radical scavenging activity of ALB against DPPH (25.39 ± 0.36 mg TEs/g extract) and ABTS (33.99 ± 1.06 mg TEs/g) was evaluated. In addition, ALB had stronger metal chelating activity (7.31 ± 0.31 mg EDTAEs/g extract) and higher ferric (34.67 ± 0.51 mg TEs/g extract) and cupric (23.82 ± 0.36 mg TEs/g) reduction ability as compared with the ALT. Total antioxidant capacity of ALB in phosphomolybdenum test was assayed (236.80 ± 0.86 mg AEs/g extract). A. lutea roots have a significant potential in safeguarding against various induced oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study represents phylogenetic analyses of Eremurus, Asphodelus and Asphodeline (Xanthorrhoeaceae-Asphodeloideae) using both plastids genome (trnL-F) and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrDNA ITS) sequence data. The analyses revealed that each of the investigated genera is monophyletic. Eremurus subgenus Eremurus is monophyletic, whereas the E. subgenus Henningia is paraphyletic. Trachyandra is the closest relative of Eremurus. Bulbinella and Kniphofia are subsequent sisters of Eremurus and Trachyandra. Aloe, Haworthia and Bulbine were nested in a single clade, sister to the last four genera. Asphodeline section Asphodeline appeared to be non-monophyletic, because of the inclusion of A. damascena. All species of Asphodelus analyzed herein, formed a well-supported clade that it is sister to the clade of Asphodeline species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioassay guided fractionation of the ethanolic extract of Asphodelus microcarpus Salzm. et Viv. (Xanthorrhoeaceae or Asphodelaceae) resulted in isolation of five compounds identified as asphodosides A-E (1-5). Compounds 2-4 showed activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with IC50 values of 1.62, 7.0 and 9.0μg/mL, respectively. They also exhibited activity against Staphylococcus aureus (non-MRSA) with IC50 values of 1.0, 3.4 and 2.2μg/mL, respectively. The structure elucidation of isolated metabolites was carried out using spectroscopic data (1D and 2D NMR), optical rotation and both experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daylily orHemerocallisspp. (Xanthorrhoeaceae) is one of the most economically important flowering crops in the world. Ploidy level of 149 genotypes both local to China and introduced from the United States and New Zealand were assessed with an outcome of 79 diploids, 22 triploids and 48 tetraploids. A large proportion of introduced cultivars were tetraploid (42%), half were diploid and the rest, 8%, were triploid. Most Chinese cultivars were diploid; only one was tetraploid. Among the 29 wild genotypes collected from the Taihang Mountain range, 13 (45%) were triploid and 16 (55%) were diploid; no tetraploids were identified. For the 31 genotypes with known ploidy, 22 matched previous counts with the rest showing a lower ploidy. As different ploidy is common in daylily, we suggest that ploidy levels should be assessed in breeding programmes for specific breeding purposes. Karyotypes of three diploid, three triploid and two tetraploid genotypes were constructed and they were assigned to ‘3A’, ‘2B’ and ‘3B’ categories based on Stebbins’ karyotype classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aloe peglerae Schönland is a rare succulent plant species, which is endemic to South Africa. The species is currently listed as Endangered and is threatened mainly by illegal collection. The aim of this study was to determine the population status of Aloe peglerae in the Magaliesberg Mountain Range, that is, whether the population is declining, stable or increasing. Key population parameters assessed for this study included plant density, population structure, area of occupancy, population size, and rate of past population decline. Nine subpopulations were surveyed in 2009 and 2010 using a distance sampling technique. Also, these data were compared to data collected in 1999 by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment, so as to determine possible population trends. The results showed a decline of 43% in mean population density between 1999 and 2010, suggesting that the population of Aloe peglerae in the Magaliesberg is in a state of decline. The application of this technique to plant populations is relatively novel and key recommendations are provided to improve survey design. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Easter Island, a remote island in the Pacific Ocean, is currently primarily covered by grasslands, but palaeoecological studies have shown the former presence of different vegetation. Much of its original biota has been removed during the last two millennia, most likely by human activities, and little is known about the native flora. Macrofossil and pollen analyses of a sediment core from the Raraku crater lake have revealed the occurrence of a plant that is currently extinct from the island: Dianella cf. intermedia/adenanthera (Xanthorrhoeaceae), which grew and disappeared at the Raraku site long before human arrival. The occurrence of Dianella within the Raraku sedimentary sequence (between 9.4 and 5.4 cal. kyr b.p.) could have been linked to the existence of favorable palaeoenvironmental conditions (peatland rather than the present-day lacustrine environment) during the early to mid Holocene. This finding contributes new knowledge about indigenous plant diversity on Easter Island and reinforces the usefulness of further macrofossil and pollen analyses to identify native species on Easter Island and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Aloe species (family: Xanthorrhoeaceae) are widely used in ethnomedicine for treating various ailments. Approximately 125 Aloe taxa are documented as indigenous to South Africa. This review was aimed at critically evaluating the available data on the ethnomedicinal uses, pharmacological activities, safety and conservation status of the documented South African Aloe species. Materials and methods: A detailed search using major electronic search engines (such as Google Scholar, Scopus and Scirus) and ethnobotanical literature was undertaken. Search terms used included ‘medicinal properties of Aloe species’, ‘biological activity of South African Aloe species’ and ‘safety and toxicological evaluation of aloes’. Results: Although Aloe species are widely used as laxatives and for treating wound and skin-related ailments, only about 20% of South African Aloe species have been clearly documented for their medicinal uses. The pharmacological potential including the antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antiplasmodial and anthelmintic activities of some of the species has been established, providing a rationale for their use in traditional medicine. Successful micropropagation protocols have been developed as a conservation strategy, but only for a few species. Conclusions: The highlighted medicinal activities of some Aloe species indicate their therapeutic potential. Nonetheless, further research especially on the understudied species is required to properly document their ethnomedicinal uses and fully explore their pharmacological value. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The net effect of pollen production on fecundity in plants can range from negative – when self-pollen interferes with fecundity due to incompatibility mechanisms, to positive – when pollen availability is associated with increased pollinator visitation and fecundity due to its utilization as a reward. We investigated the responses of bees to pollen and nectar rewards, and the effects of these rewards on pollen deposition and fecundity in the hermaphroditic succulent shrub Aloe tenuior. Self-pollinated plants failed to set fruit, but their ovules were regularly penetrated by self-pollen tubes, which uniformly failed to develop into seeds as expected from ovarian self-incompatibility (or strong early inbreeding depression). Bees consistently foraged for pollen during the morning and early afternoon, but switched to nectar in the late afternoon. As a consequence of this differential foraging, we were able to test the relative contribution to fecundity of pollen- versus nectar-collecting flower visitors. We exposed emasculated and intact flowers in either the morning or late afternoon to foraging bees and showed that emasculation reduced pollen deposition by insects in the morning, but had little effect in the afternoon. Despite the potential for self-pollination to result in ovule discounting due to late-acting self-sterility, fecundity was severely reduced in artificially emasculated plants. Although there were temporal fluctuations in reward preference, most bee visits were for pollen rewards. Therefore the benefit of providing pollen that is accessible to bee foragers outweighs any potential costs to fitness in terms of gender interference in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The net effect of pollen production on fecundity in plants can range from negative – when self-pollen interferes with fecundity due to incompatibility mechanisms, to positive – when pollen availability is associated with increased pollinator visitation and fecundity due to its utilization as a reward. We investigated the responses of bees to pollen and nectar rewards, and the effects of these rewards on pollen deposition and fecundity in the hermaphroditic succulent shrub Aloe tenuior. Self-pollinated plants failed to set fruit, but their ovules were regularly penetrated by self-pollen tubes, which uniformly failed to develop into seeds as expected from ovarian self-incompatibility (or strong early inbreeding depression). Bees consistently foraged for pollen during the morning and early afternoon, but switched to nectar in the late afternoon. As a consequence of this differential foraging, we were able to test the relative contribution to fecundity of pollen- versus nectar-collecting flower visitors. We exposed emasculated and intact flowers in either the morning or late afternoon to foraging bees and showed that emasculation reduced pollen deposition by insects in the morning, but had little effect in the afternoon. Despite the potential for self-pollination to result in ovule discounting due to late-acting self-sterility, fecundity was severely reduced in artificially emasculated plants. Although there were temporal fluctuations in reward preference, most bee visits were for pollen rewards. Therefore the benefit of providing pollen that is accessible to bee foragers outweighs any potential costs to fitness in terms of gender interference in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outcrossing rates and seed set were estimated at both the population and individual plant scale within four populations of Xanthorrhoea johnsonii. Sites differed with respect to habitat disturbance (time since fire), plant density, mean plant height, and mean inflorescence length. Allozyme data from progeny arrays of 24 seeds per plant from ten plants at each site were used to determine maternal outcrossing rates, which were found to be consistently high at all sites (> 90%). Small but significant levels of inbreeding were recorded at three of the four sites. There was close agreement between tm and ts measures, which indicated that most inbreeding was a result of within plant selfing rather than biparental inbreeding. Outcrossing rates were estimated within top, middle, and bottom thirds of spikes on six plants at a fifth site. Significant differences from complete outcrossing were recorded in the middle and/or bottom sections of three plants. Total seed set per plant and seed set per flower varied significantly among the four sites. Xanthorrhoea johnsonii appears to be able to maintain relatively high outcrossing rates under different ecological conditions, although levels of both seed set per plant and seed set per flower are much more variable. © 2013 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2013, 110, 335-345. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Markets for Aloe leaf mesophyll or ‘gel’ are expanding in Africa. [•] We analysed leaf mesophyll monosaccharides in 31 species of Aloe and related genera. [•] Glucose, mannose and xylose are the most common monosaccharides in most species. [•] The phylogeny of Aloe is the best predictor of a species’ monosaccharides profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Microsporogenesis leading to monosulcate pollen grains has already been described for a wide range of monocot species. However, a detailed study of additional callose deposition after the completion of the cleavage walls has been neglected so far. The study of additional callose deposition in monosulcate pollen grain has gained importance since a correlation between additional callose deposition and aperture location has recently been revealed. Methods Microsporogenesis is described for 30 species belonging to eight families of the monocots: Acoraceae, Amaryllidaceae, Alstroemeriaceae, Asparagaceae, Butomaceae, Commelinaceae, Liliaceae and Xanthorrhoeaceae. Key Results Five different microsporogenesis pathways are associated with monosulcate pollen grain. They differ in the type of cytokinesis, tetrad shape, and the presence and shape of additional callose deposition. Four of them present additional callose deposition. Conclusions In all these different microsporogenesis pathways, aperture location seems to be linked to the last point of callose deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Larvae of an undescribed gall midge species were found feeding within leaf sheaths and between leaves of potted plants of flax lilies Dianella revoluta, D. tasmanica, D. caerulea (all native to Australia) and New Zealand flax Phormium tenax (native to New Zealand) in South Australia. The larvae were previously recorded infesting Phormium tenax in New Zealand. The new species is described and named Resseliella xanthorrhoeae Kolesik. Larvae, pink when young and red when mature, feed gregariously, causing extensive tissue necrosis. Pupation takes place in the soil. Large necrotic areas remain visible after the fully grown larvae exit the sheaths until the end of the infested leaves' life, temporarily decreasing ornamental value of the plants. Infested plants recover from the injury by shedding off infested leaves and producing fresh leaves. The new species is the first Resseliella Seitner reported from Australia and New Zealand and the first species of this genus known to infest plants from the family Xanthorrhoeaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karyomorphological studies were carried on three species of Haworthia Duval (family: Xanthorrhoeaceae) namely H. radula (Haw.) Duval, H. glauca Bak.var . herrei and H. limifolia Marl .var. keithii. Karyotyping through Image Analyzing System in three species of Haworthia (family: Xanthorrhoeaceae) reflected karyotypic orthoselection with same basic chromosome number ( x = 7) and bimodal karyotype. In H. radula (2 n = 14) two satellites were found one in each on the long arm of the two long chromosomes. H. glauca var . herrei and H. limifolia var. keithii possessed 2n = 28 somatic chromosomes. In addition pollen mitosis of each species was done. Pollens are endowed with expected number of n = 7 and bimodal chromosomes. Therefore karyotyping through Image Analyzing System suggests that H. radula is diploid (2n = 14) whereas H. glauca var . herrei and H. limifolia var. keithii are autotetraploid (2n = 28) plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Solid-phase microextraction (SPME)–gas chromatography (GC)–mass spectrometry (MS) has been applied to the analysis of acetic acid and furfural that are emitted from the fibres of Phormium tenax (Xanthorrhoeaceae) [New Zealand flax] during degradation. Accelerated hydrothermal ageing of fibres of the Ruawai cultivar of P. tenax for 55 days at 70°C resulted in the production of acetic acid at a level greater or equal to 1.65mg g–1 fibre. This corresponds to only 8.5% of the acetyl groups present in the fibres. These groups are an important source of acetic acid, which is capable of damaging the fibres. The rate of production of acetic acid suggests that a heritage object made from the fibres of P. tenax, that was stored in damp ambient conditions, would undergo significant deterioration after a relatively short period. Other volatile products released during ageing included furfural, a series of short to medium chain aliphatic aldehydes that were derived from the oxidation of long chain unsaturated fatty acids on the fibres and a small group of products that were derived from carotenoids. The levels of furfural were determined to be approximately 0.75% of the potential production but at these levels, furfural could contribute to unpleasant odours from unventilated items. Fibres from six cultivars of P. tenax were found to release acetic acid and furfural all at the same rate. The levels of acetic acid that can be generated from these fibres are sufficiently high that low moisture levels and continuous change of air is required to minimize degradation of cultural objects that are made from these fibres and displayed in museum halls. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

El artículo discurre sobre las plantas suculentas conocidas como Xanthorroeaceae dumort. El autor comenta sobre varias plantas en esta familia, incluyendo Aloe, Haworthia, Gasteria, Kniphofia, Phormiun y Hemerocallis. Se describen las características únicas a cada tipo de planta, como las hojas, estambres y flores.