Search Results (121)

Background: β-ketolipoyl coenzyme A synthase (KCS) is an essential limiting catalyst involved in carbon chain elongation during fatty acid biosynthesis, characterized by strict substrate specificity. C18:1 (oleic acid) plays a vital role in cell membranes and is essential for nutrient storage and stress defense. There are indications of significant accumulation and rapid synthesis of C18:1 during the early growth stages of Ginkgo biloba L. episperm. The KCS gene family in G. biloba has yet to be analyzed, and the role of KCS in oleic acid synthesis remains unexplored. Methods: In this study, this issue was investigated using transcriptomic and metabolomic data, bioinformatics analysis to screen a key gene from the KCS gene family, and dual validation using yeast and Arabidopsis thaliana expression systems to probe its function. Results: A total of 11 members of the GbKCS gene family were identified, and the dynamics of these genes were analyzed during exocarp development in the G. biloba genome. Among them, the gene designated GbKCS7 showed a highly direct association with the content of C18:1. Heterologous expression of GbKCS7 in yeast increased C18:1N12 and C18:1 content by 3.18-fold and 2.07-fold, respectively. Overexpression of GbKCS7 in Arabidopsis showed that C18:1 was increased by 27.70% and 31.43% in GbKCS7-OE-1 and GbKCS7-OE-2 strains, correspondingly, in juxtaposition to the non-transgenic plants. In addition, the content of VLCFAs increased to varying degrees. Conclusions: These outcomes offer important insights for investigating the role of KCS genes in fatty acid synthesis to further improve G.biloba resistance. Full article

Nitrogen nutrition monitoring is crucial in agriculture and forestry. With the development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) imaging technology, its application in nitrogen nutrition monitoring has gained attention. Traditional regression methods often struggle to accurately capture the nonlinear relationships between image features and nitrogen nutrition parameters. This study introduces Gaussian regression models to better model the relationship between UAV image features and nitrogen nutrition in Ginkgo. UAV RGB imagery of three-year-old Ginkgo biloba L. seedlings was used to extract nitrogen-related image features. Gaussian regression models were employed to select and model these features, creating regression models for nitrogen accumulation and nitrogen content in Ginkgo. The accuracy of the models was validated. Results indicated that the optimal canopy type for monitoring nitrogen accumulation in Ginkgo was the shadowed canopy, with the color feature BMR being the most important feature. For monitoring nitrogen content, sunlight and shadow canopy types were suitable, with BMR and b* being the key features. Gaussian regression demonstrated superior accuracy and robustness compared to traditional regression models. This study emphasizes the potential of Gaussian regression models to improve nitrogen monitoring through UAV imagery, offering valuable applications in precision agriculture and forestry management, particularly in supporting nitrogen fertilization and nutrition management for Ginkgo. Full article

The chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model is an embryonic blood capillary system considered a suitable “in vivo” model for studying the irritation effect of plant extracts on the vascular system, including impacts on hemostasis, hyperemia, hemorrhage, and coagulation. The main aim of the present work was to investigate the irritation effects of different concentrated alcohol extracts of Ginkgo biloba L. (GBE) leaves on the blood vessels of the CAM model during early embryogenesis, evaluated using the Luepke scoring system. The antioxidant properties of GBE were assessed using DPPH radical scavenging and the FRAP method, alongside HPLC-DAD analysis to confirm the presence of major therapeutically relevant metabolites, revealing a strong therapeutic potential of the extract. On embryonic day 9, different concentrations of GBE as well as the controls (saline solution and 30% ethanol) were applied to the CAM surface. Vascular changes were observed immediately after application, with vasoconstriction leading to the temporary “disappearance” of blood vessels. At 30 s post-application, all GBE concentrations and ethanol induced hyperemia and mild hemorrhage, which gradually diminished over time. No changes were observed with saline application. The extent of morphometric changes in the vessels was also influenced by the concentration of GBE used. Concentrations of 20% and 30% GBE induced vasoconstriction. Lower concentrations of GBE induced vasodilation, with maximum values recorded after 240 s for 1% and 15% GBE. The results of this study may help to better characterize the vascular effects of natural Ginkgo biloba under in vivo conditions and promote greater interest in the use of alternative animal models in pharmacological and biomedical research. Full article

Background: The PDX2 gene serves as a critical catalytic component in vitamin B6 (VB6) biosynthesis pathways and plays pivotal regulatory roles in plant growth. Methods: To investigate the metabolic regulation of PDX2 (GbPDX2) from Ginkgo biloba in VB6 biosynthesis during kernel development, we successfully cloned this gene and conducted systematic expression profiling through qRT-PCR across multiple tissues and developmental stages. Results: Bioinformatic characterization revealed that GbPDX2 contains a 765-bp coding sequence encoding a 254-amino acid polypeptide. The encoded protein displays typical hydrophilic properties (average hydrophobicity index: −0.32) and was predicted to be an unstable cytosolic protein (instability index: 45.7) lacking signal peptides or transmembrane domains with cytoplasmic localization. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that GbPDX2’s closest evolutionary relationship was with its ortholog in Picea sitchensis, which had an amino acid sequence similarity of 83.7% with spruce PsPDX2. Tissue-specific expression analysis revealed a gradient expression profile of Kernel > Exocarp > Leaves > Stems > Roots. The expression level in kernels was significantly higher than that in other tissues (19.7 times that in roots, 8.3 times that in stems, and 5.9 times that in leaves; p < 0.01), with peak transcript levels observed in mature kernels. HPLC quantification established a strong positive correlation between GbPDX2 expression dynamics and VB6 accumulation patterns during kernel maturation (r = 0.92, p < 0.01), and the peak period of VB6 reached 288.9 ± 7.1 μg/g. Conclusions: Our findings provide the first experimental evidence that GbPDX2 spatiotemporally regulates VB6 biosynthesis in ginkgo kernels, offering novel insights into the evolutionary adaptation of vitamin metabolism in gymnosperms. Full article

Objective: This review aims to assess the efficacy and safety of different supplements, such as L-theanine, caffeine, Ginkgo biloba L., and Bacopa monnieri for improving ADHD symptoms, to determine the most effective supplement and provide insight for medical practice. Methods: International databases (PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus) were searched for English-language RCTs, open-label studies, and cross-sectional studies. Results: Studies on L-theanine, caffeine, Ginkgo biloba L., and Bacopa monnieri have shown various effects on ADHD symptoms. L-theanine improved sleep efficiency but not other sleep parameters. Caffeine showed no significant benefits, although its combination with L-theanine may enhance attention. Bacopa monnieri consistently improved inattention, hyperactivity, and memory, whereas Ginkgo biloba L. reduced ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention, but was less effective than methylphenidate. Conclusions: The evidence revealed the potential use of supplements as complementary ADHD treatments under clinical guidance. The limited effect of supplements cannot replace the well-documented efficacy of stimulants for ADHD treatment. Additional studies are needed to ascertain the most effective dosages and the safety of these supplements as adjunctive treatments for ADHD. Full article

Drought stress is one of the key environmental factors restricting the germination of alfalfa seeds (Medicago sativa L.). Nanopriming is an innovative seed-priming technology able to meet economic, agronomic, and environmental needs in agriculture. However, the use of conventional nanomaterials is hampered by high costs, environmental risks, and biotoxicity. In this study, we synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄NPs) using seasonal Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts (collected from August to November) obtained via an enzymatic ultrasonic-assisted method. The synthesized Fe₃O₄NPs were characterized using SEM, EDS, DLS, FTIR, UV-Vis, and XRD. To investigate the effects of Fe₃O₄NP priming on alfalfa seed germination under drought stress, germination and pot experiments were conducted with five Fe₃O₄NP priming concentrations (unprimed, 0, 20, 40, and 60 mg/L) and three PEG-6000 concentrations (0%, 10%, and 15%) to simulate normal, moderate, and severe drought conditions. The results showed that leaf extracts collected in November exhibited the highest flavonoid content (12.8 mg/g), successfully yielding bioactive-capped spherical Fe₃O₄NPs with a particle size of 369.5 ± 100.6 nm. Germination experiments revealed that under severe drought stress (15% PEG-6000), the 40 mg/L Fe₃O₄NP treatment most effectively enhanced seed vigor, increasing the germination rate, vigor index, and α-amylase activity by 22.1%, 189.4%, and 35.5% (p < 0.05), respectively, compared to controls. Under moderate drought stress (10% PEG-6000), the 20 mg/L Fe₃O₄NP treatment optimally improved germination traits, increasing the germination rate by 25.5% and seedling elongation by 115.6%. The pot experiments demonstrated morphological adaptations in alfalfa seedlings: under moderate drought stress, the 40 mg/L Fe₃O₄NPs significantly increased lateral root numbers, while under severe drought stress, the 60 mg/L Fe₃O₄NPs increased the root surface area by 20.5% and preserved the roots’ structural integrity compared to controls. These findings highlight that Fe₃O₄NPs synthesized via Ginkgo leaf extracts and enzymatic ultrasonic methods exhibit promising agricultural potential. The optimal Fe₃O₄NP priming concentrations enhanced seed vigor, germination traits, and drought resistance by modulating root morphology, with concentration-specific efficacy under varying drought intensities. Full article

Ginkgo biloba has unique leaf color and high ornamental value. Here, we conducted seasonal dynamic analyses of leaf color, morphology, physiology, and biochemistry in the new variety Huangjinwanliang (HJWL), using the golden-leaf ginkgo Xiajin (XJ) as a control, and performed genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) to explore genetic differences. The results showed that both varieties were golden-yellow leaves in spring and autumn, transitioning to green in summer. The total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents in HJWL (1.45~4.84 mg/g and 0.09~0.39 mg/g) were significantly higher than those in XJ (1.42~3.93 mg/g and 0.08~0.34 mg/g). HJWL exhibited a higher number of chloroplasts, with visible single lamellar thylakoids, whereas XJ had fewer chloroplasts. Chloroplast fluorescence and photosynthetic parameters indicated that HJWL possesses a greater capacity for light acclimatization. The total flavonoids and wax content of HJWL (16.67 ± 0.33 mg/g and 18.22 ± 0.15 mg/g) were significantly higher than those of XJ (14.15 ± 0.31 mg/g and 30.19 ± 0.18 mg/g). GBS analysis revealed distinct genome-wide molecular bases between HJWL and XJ. These findings demonstrate that HJWL’s leaf color and extended ornamental period make it a valuable landscape tree species for spring and autumn, suitable for promotion as an ornamental tree. Full article

The dynamic development of various branches of medicine and pharmacy, along with the emergence of new preventive and alternative therapies for various diseases, creates opportunities for new solutions utilizing carriers of active substances. Their therapeutic effect may occur through direct contact with skin lesions or indirectly, where medicinal substances penetrate the capillary network in the deeper layers of the skin and reach the bloodstream. The aim of the research was to obtain carriers with a matrix consisting of two renewable-source polymers (chitosan and ethylcellulose) and a core material derived from Ginkgo biloba green leaf extract (GBE). The obtained ethylcellulose microcapsules with encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles with extract {Et[Ch(GB)NP]} were characterized with respect to size, shape, surface morphology (SEM microscopy), and active substance release kinetics (UV-VIS and mathematical release models). The kinetics of active substance release were analyzed using UV-VIS spectroscopy and mathematical release models. The released active components were assessed microbiologically for activity against six bacterial strains and two fungal strains, as well as chromatographically using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS fingerprinting. The microcapsules with a dual polymer layer exhibited a slow release of the core material, which demonstrated microbiological activity. The strongest antimicrobial effects were observed against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella enteritidis, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 410 µg/mL. The release of the core material from the double-layer polymer structures was more efficient in a physiological saline environment, with the best fit for the extract release kinetics following a zero-order model (regression coefficient R² = 0.9939). The obtained microcapsules with a dual polymer layer show great potential for therapeutic applications in the medical industry. Their controlled release properties and antibacterial effectiveness make them a promising carrier for active substances in modern therapies. Full article

The separation of large polar constituents presents a substantial challenge in natural product research when employing column chromatography techniques, as the process is both complex and time-consuming. In this study, an acetonitrile/tetrahydrofuran/di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid/aqueous saturated sodium chloride solvent system was developed and utilized for the countercurrent chromatography of polar constituents from Ginkgo biloba L. seeds. Five polar constituents were effectively isolated using an acetonitrile/tetrahydrofuran/di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid/aqueous saturated sodium chloride (2:2:0.8:3, v/v) solvent system using a two-step countercurrent chromatography method. In the initial countercurrent chromatography process, three constituents were successfully purified from the methanol extract: compound 1, compound 4, and compound 5. Compounds 2 and 3, co-eluted from the column, were further subjected to three inner-recycling chromatographic procedures. At last, five constituents were purified and identified, including 4′-O-methylpyridoxine (1); two indole alkaloid N-glucosides, ginkgoside B (2) and ginkgoside A (3); 2-(4-hydroxybenzyl) malic acid (4); and coniferyl alcohol (5). The results demonstrated that the acetonitrile/tetrahydrofuran/di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid/aqueous saturated sodium chloride solvent system serves as a feasible system for the efficient countercurrent chromatography separation of polar components. Full article

Ginkgo biloba L. was named by Carl Linnaeus in 1771; a “living fossil” with immense medicinal and conservation value, it is a nationally first-class protected wild plant. However, many Ginkgo populations are under threat from habitat destruction, human exploitation, and over-harvesting, which have limited their numbers and range. Using an optimized MaxEnt model in R, this study analyzed Ginkgo distribution points and 22 ecological factors in China to explore the key environmental factors affecting its geographical distribution. The study also predicted the spatial distribution patterns and centroid changes of potential suitable areas under three different carbon emission pathways: current conditions, 2021–2040 (2030s), 2041–2060 (2050s), and 2061–2080 (2070s). The findings are as follows: (1) The optimal combination of model parameters (RM = 3.2, FC = LPH) reduced model complexity and overfitting and achieved very high prediction accuracy with an optimized AUC value of 0.928. (2) The key environmental factors influencing Ginkgo growth include precipitation in the driest month (20–175 mm), minimum temperature in the coldest month (−4 to 3 °C), precipitation in the hottest quarter (450–2500 mm), and a temperature seasonal variation deviation greater than 580. (3) Under the three future climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP245, and SSP585), the potential suitable habitat area for Ginkgo in China was increased, with the distribution range migrating to higher latitudes, Under the three different development models, the total suitable area followed this order: SSP126 > SSP245 > SSP585. Highly and moderately suitable areas are concentrated in the Yangtze River Basin. This study is highly significant for the ecological protection of Ginkgo, aiding in the rational planning of potential suitable areas, enhancing the monitoring of key conservation areas, and developing effective protection strategies in a timely manner. Full article

Superoxide dismutase (SOD), a critical enzyme within the plant antioxidant defense system, serves as the primary shield against reactive oxygen species (ROS) under adverse environmental conditions. However, the characterization of GbSODs in ginkgo remains incomplete. In our study, a total of eight GbSODs were identified, which were unevenly distributed across 10 chromosomes and predominantly localized on the plasma membrane. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that GbSODs from ginkgo and other species form three distinct groups, each characterized by specific binding domains and supported by relatively high bootstrap values. Our promoter analysis indicated that all GbSODs contained multiple cis-elements related to various abiotic stress responses. Our systemic analysis revealed that only one pair of GbSODs underwent segmental duplications. The transcriptome analysis showed the variable expression of GbSODs across different tissues, which were significantly influenced by drought, ultraviolet (UV), and salt stress, with GbSOD8 showing a particularly notable induction. Transgenic plants that overexpressed GbSOD8 exhibited enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, elevated proline levels, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content, collectively contributing to their improved salt tolerance compared to wild-type plants. Our findings expand the comprehensive understanding of the GbSOD gene family and provide a solid foundation for further elucidating the molecular mechanisms of GbSODs under salt stress. Full article

Nanomedicine has introduced strategies that provide precise diagnosis and treatment with fewer side effects than traditional therapies. Treatments for neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, are palliative, necessitating an innovative delivery system with a curative function. This study investigated a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLNP) system’s ability to bind and safely deliver siRNA in vitro. SLNPS were formulated using sphingomyelin and cholesterol, with Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (GBE) incorporated to enhance biocompatibility and neuroprotection. Poly-L-lysine (PLL) functionalization ensured successful siRNA binding, safe transport, and protection from nuclease degradation. SLNPs were physicochemically characterized, with binding and protection of siRNA assessed using agarose gels. Cytotoxicity, apoptotic induction, and cellular uptake studies were undertaken in the human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) and embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. The GBE-PLL-SLNPs had an average size of 93.2 nm and demonstrated enhanced binding and protection of the siRNA from enzyme digestion, with minimal cytotoxicity in HEK293 (<10%) and SH-SY5Y cells (<15%). Caspase 3/7 activity was significantly reduced in both cells, while efficient cellular uptake was noted. The present study provided a solid basis as a proof of principle study for future applications of the potential therapeutic in vitro, promising to address the unmet medical needs of patients with neurological disorders. Full article

Ginkgo biloba extract (EGB) has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States for clinical studies on memory disorders. Ginkgolide B (GB) is the major terpene lactone component of EGB and is a specific and potent antagonist of platelet-activating factor (PAF). In a previous study, we reported the medium composition for the conversion of ginkgolides to GB by Coprinus comatus. In the present study, we applied the response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the conversion conditions in a 20 L fermenter and applied HPLC-MS/MS, circular dichroism (CD) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy analyses, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to further confirm the sample structure. The optimal conversion conditions consisted of 12.7 L/min of ventilation, a 156 h conversion time, a 132 rpm rotating speed, a 0.04 MPa fermenter pressure, and a 27.8 °C conversion temperature. Under the optimal conditions, the GB conversion rate was 98.62%, and the GB content of the sample was higher than 98%. HPLC-MS/MS, CD, IR, and NMR analyses showed that the molecular formula of the sample was C₂₀H₂₄O₁₀ and the chemical structure of the sample was in good agreement with the standard GB. Our current study lays the groundwork for the industrial production of GB. Full article

The present work evaluates the effect of casein, glucose, and olive oil on phytochemical bioaccessibility, antioxidant potential (DPPH and FRAP), antidiabetic potential (inhibition of amylase, α-glucosidase, and BSA glycation), and antihyperlipidemic potential (inhibition of lipase) of gingko standardized leaf extract in the form of tablets after in vitro digestion. Gingko extract formulations with protein, carbohydrates, and oil had high (>70%) in vitro bioaccessibility of quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin after each phases of digestion in comparison to moderate (35–70%) in vitro bioaccessibility from gingko water extract. Formulation with the highest in vitro bioaccessibility of the majority of the tested polyphenolic groups and terpene lactones after oral and intestinal phases was ginkgo with olive oil. High (>70%) antioxidant (DPPH and FRAP), antidiabetic (α-glucosidase and BSA glycation), and antihyperlipidemic potential were detected in almost all ginkgo formulations. Based on the results, we conclude that the in vitro bioaccessibility of individual compounds or groups of compounds depends on whether the tablets are taken with water or with foods (protein, carbohydrates, and oil). Full article

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.) is a widely used medicinal plant, with its green spring leaves commonly utilized for preparing extracts with various therapeutic properties, and leaf infusions also frequently employed. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro neuroprotective, anti-hyperpigmentation, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant activities, as well as the flavonoid content and its bioaccessibility, of ginkgo leaf infusions, comparing leaves collected in spring and autumn. Infusions made from yellow leaves, both those collected directly from the tree and fallen leaves, exhibited significantly higher total polyphenol content (3.2-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively) and flavonoid content (3.1-fold and 2.4-fold, respectively), along with greater flavonoid bioaccessibility in the salivary phase. These infusions also demonstrated enhanced tyrosinase inhibition (6.0-fold and 5.7-fold, respectively) and antioxidant activity (4.8-fold and 3.5-fold, respectively). Notably, infusions from fallen yellow leaves showed 2.5-fold higher acetylcholinesterase inhibition compared to spring leaf infusions, while α-glucosidase inhibition remained comparable across all samples. These findings suggest that yellow ginkgo leaves, including those that have fallen, could be considered a valuable material for making infusions with potential neuroprotective, anti-hyperpigmentation, and anti-diabetic properties. Full article