Search Results (120)

Strophanthus sarmentosus is recognised for various ethnomedicinal applications, including treatment after snakebites. However, only limited scientific evidence exists on its antivenomous capabilities. This study investigates the efficacy of methanol and ethylacetate extracts from S. sarmentosus leaves and roots against Echis ocellatus venom. A non-toxic range for the extracts was determined in rats, and assays were performed to test their anti-hemorrhagic and anti-hemolytic activity as well as their influence on venom-induced blood clotting. In all of these experiments, the extracts demonstrated significant positive effects equal to or better than antivenom. Moreover, the extracts strongly inhibited and even abolished the digestion of the vasoactive neuropeptide bradykinin by snake venom metalloproteinases. Strophantus plants are known for their high content of cardiac glycosides, one of which is the commercially available ouabain, that by itself also considerably inhibited venom-induced bradykinin cleavage. Although ouabain is only present in low amounts in S. sarmentosus when compared to other cardenolides of similar structure, it can be hypothesized that members of this substance class may also have inhibitory properties against venom proteases. S. sarmentosus additionally contains bioactive substances such as flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids, which contribute to its protective effects. The study provides scientific data to explain the success of the traditional use of S. sarmentosus plant extracts as a first aid against envenomation in rural Africa. Full article

Leaves (LV), stems (STs), and inflorescences (IFs) of Pfaffia glomerata are usually discarded despite containing various bioactive compounds, especially β-ecdysone saponin. The objective was to optimize by desirability (DI) the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds (total phenolics (TPCs), antioxidant activity (AA), and total saponins) from the aerial parts (LV, ST, and IF) of P. glomerata. Ideal drying conditions were determined and the drying kinetics were evaluated. LV, STs, and IFs were dried and extracted (0.06 g/mL 80% EtOH) in a USS (6 cm × 12 mm, pulse 3/6 s) by Central Composite Design (CCD), varying sonication power (140–560 W) and time (11–139 min), with TPC, AA by DPPH, and total saponin content as responses. The DI indicated that the higher TPC, AA, and saponin levels were obtained at 136.5 min and 137.87 W (STs), and 138.6 min and 562.32 W (LV and IFs). IF extracts contained higher saponin, TPCs, and AA. Higher β-ecdysone levels (3.90 mg g⁻¹) were present in the leaves. Several phenolics were detected in area parts of P. glomerata, the most abundant being p-coumaric acid (LV) and nicotinic acid (STs and IFs). These compounds provide potential health benefits. Phytol was found in all extracts. Extracts by UAE from leaves have antibacterial potential, with demonstrated inhibitory effects against S. aureus, E. coli, L. monocytogenes, S. Typhi, and P. aeruginosa, and presented bactericidal effects against E. coli, L. monocytogenes, and S. Typhi. Aerial parts of P. glomerata can be used to obtain extracts by UAE rich in bioactive compounds, providing complete utilization of the plant and sustainability to cultivation. This work represents the first report on the application of ecofriendly UAE techniques to extract bioactive compounds from the aerial parts of Brazilian ginseng. Full article

Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi or Waterhyssop, is a plant used in Ayurveda for its memory-enhancing properties and control of blood sugar levels. It contains active compounds such as alkaloids, saponins, and cucurbitacins, which have various biological activities. The plant has been studied for its potential in treating Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression. Animal studies have shown promising results in reducing symptoms and protecting against neurodegeneration. Concerning safety, Bacopa monnieri has been found to be generally non-toxic, with no serious side effects reported. However, interactions with certain medications and contraindications in conditions like hyperthyroidism should be considered. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosages and ensure safety, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Full article

The economically efficient, reproducible cultivation of plants containing valuable ingredients for pharmaceutical or cosmetic purposes is a challenge today. Although greenhouse cultivation is much more expensive than field cultivation, this may be justified by the high level of control over environmental conditions. However, a careful analysis of costs and the investigation of potential cost-reducing measures are essential. Here, soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) was grown in a greenhouse to identify factors influencing the production costs of the pharmaceutically relevant saponin SO1861 in the roots. The plants were grown hydroponically to facilitate harvesting. Three factors were identified as having a significant impact on production costs: the genotype of the plants, the method of propagation, and the type of lighting used in the greenhouse. Commercially available soapwort seeds do not have a defined genetic background. Cost simulations suggest that the cost of producing SO1861 can be significantly reduced by pre-testing plants for SO1861 production capacity, propagating plants from cuttings rather than seeds, and using light-emitting diodes instead of the more traditional high-pressure sodium lamps. The impact of these factors on the total production costs was calculated and discussed. A simplified version of the cost model, which can be used as a blueprint for estimating the costs of any other greenhouse crop, was also included in the supporting data. Full article

Glochidion chodoense, a rare and endangered plant endemic to Republic of Korea, is known for containing a wide variety of phytochemicals, including triterpenoid saponins and flavonoids. This study sought to profile the phytochemical composition of the leaves and branches of G. chodoense harvested during three different periods (May, July, and October 2023) using liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry (LC-ESI/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography–photodiode array detection (HPLC/PDA). Plant materials were harvested, authenticated, and subjected to ethanol extraction prior to chemical analysis. LC-ESI/MS and quantitative HPLC/PDA analyses were conducted to identify and quantify nine key phytochemicals: norbergenin (1), bergenin (2), epigallocatechin (3), ethyl gallate (4), orientin (5), epicatechin gallate (6), isovitexin 2″-O-arabinoside (7), ellagic acid (8), and cynaroside (9). Our findings revealed significant seasonal variations in major phytochemicals, with leaves containing higher concentrations than branches. Notably, bergenin (2) showed the highest content in May leaves (43.42 mg/g extract), followed by October (17.60 mg/g extract) and July branches (8.56 mg/g extract). Ethyl gallate (4), which was absent or present in trace amounts in branches, was abundant in leaves, with concentrations of 22.24 mg/g extract in October, 21.75 mg/g extract in May, and 17.48 mg/g extract in July. A similar trend was observed for norbergenin (1). These findings provide valuable insights into the phytochemical composition of G. chodoense, emphasizing its potential applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional foods, while highlighting the critical importance of conserving this endangered species. Full article

Anemone baicalensis, a plant abundant in Northeast China, has garnered attention for its potential medicinal properties. While its aerial parts (ABAP) have demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, the rhizome (ABR) remains less explored, particularly in comparison to the well-documented Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma, a valuable traditional Chinese medicine. This study investigates the chemical composition and bioactivity of ABR, comparing it with ABAP and evaluating its potential as a substitute for Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma. Phytochemical analyses, including qualitative and quantitative assessments, were conducted on ABR extracts using various solvents. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through multiple assays, and stability studies were performed on methanol and 80% ethanol extracts. UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS was employed to identify chemical constituents. Acute toxicity and hepatoprotective effects were assessed in vivo using a rat model. The results revealed that ABR and ABAP share nearly half of their chemical components, with ABR containing a higher diversity of triterpenoid saponins. The 80% ethanol extract of ABR exhibited the highest extraction yield, rich in phenolics and triterpenoids, and demonstrated superior antioxidant activity and stability. In vivo studies showed that ABR significantly reduced liver injury markers (ALT, AST, $\gamma$-GT, and MDA), enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT), and increased albumin concentration, comparable to the effects of Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma. Acute toxicity tests indicated low toxicity, supporting its safety for medicinal use. ABR shows significant potential as a substitute for Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma, particularly due to its rich triterpenoid content and hepatoprotective effects. While ABAP outperforms ABR in terms of antioxidant activity, ABR’s unique chemical profile and liver-protective capabilities highlight its value in drug development. This study provides a scientific foundation for the further exploration of ABR as a sustainable alternative in traditional medicine. Full article

The aerial parts (Herba Saniculae) and the underground parts (Radix Saniculae) of Sanicula europaea (sanicle) have been used traditionally in Austrian folk medicine to treat wounds. Interestingly, in the Austrian vernacular, “Radix Saniculae” can also refer to the underground parts of Cardamine enneaphyllos. This ambiguity can lead to mistakes in using these two plants and, importantly, adulterations. The present work aims to shed light on using Radix Saniculae as a wound-healing agent. Thus, the main components in the aerial and the scarcely investigated underground parts of Sanicula europaea were identified and compared to the underground parts of Cardamine enneaphyllos. For this purpose, different analytical techniques were employed: TLC, HPLC-DAD/ELSD, UHPLC-ESI-MS, and GC-MS. The main components in both Sanicula and Cardamine plant extracts were saccharides. Both parts of Sanicula europaea showed similar compositions: hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives and triterpene saponins. In contrast, the underground parts of Cardamine enneaphyllos contain two glucosinolates and their breakdown products. These findings suggest the same wound-healing activity for the underground parts of Sanicula europaea as was already found for its aerial parts. The glucosinolates detected in Cardamine enneaphyllos substantiate its use in wound healing. Nevertheless, the presented analytical methods allow for easy discovery of adulterations. Full article

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen, particularly in vulnerable populations. Background: No vaccine for the prevention of HMPV is currently licensed, although several subunit vaccines are in development. Saponin-based adjuvant systems (AS), including QS-21, have transformed the field of subunit vaccines by dramatically increasing their potency and efficacy, leading to the development of several licensed vaccines. However, naturally sourced tree bark-extracted QS-21 faces supply and manufacturing challenges, hindering vaccine development. Objective: This study reports on an alternative plant cell culture system for the consistent production of highly pure QS-21. Method: We evaluated the efficacy of cultured plant cell (cpc)-produced QS-21 in a novel HMPV vaccine, formulating a recombinant pre-fusion stabilized HMPV F protein (preF) with cpcQS-21 and a synthetic toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonist adjuvant formulation. Results: In mice, TLR4 agonist containing adjuvant formulations with plant cell-produced QS-21 performed equally to licensed adjuvant AS01 containing tree-bark-extracted QS-21 and demonstrated a significant increase in immunogenicity against HMPV preF compared to the unadjuvanted control. Conclusion: Our findings pave the way for a reliable, scalable, and sustainable source of pure QS-21, enabling the development of highly effective HMPV and other vaccines with significant public health impact. Full article

Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant of considerable application value and commercial potential, primarily due to its production of various bioactive compounds, particularly dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins that are structurally analogous to ginsenosides. Oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC), a pivotal enzyme in the biosynthesis of triterpenoid metabolites in plants, catalyzes the conversion of oxidosqualene into triterpenoid precursors, which are essential components of the secondary metabolites found in G. pentaphyllum. To elucidate the role of OSC gene family members in the synthesis of gypenosides within G. pentaphyllum, this study undertook a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterization of OSC genes within G. pentaphyllum and compared their expression levels across populations distributed over different geographical regions by both transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR experimental validation. The results identified a total of 11 members of the OSC gene family within the genome of G. pentaphyllum. These genes encode proteins ranging from 356 to 767 amino acids, exhibiting minor variations in their physicochemical properties, and are localized in peroxisomes, cytoplasm, plasma membranes, and lysosomes. All GpOSCs contain highly conserved DCTAE and QW sequences that are characteristic of the OSC gene family. A phylogenetic analysis categorized the GpOSCs into four distinct subfamilies. A cis-element analysis of the GpOSC promoters revealed a substantial number of abiotic stress-related elements, indicating that these genes may respond to drought conditions, low temperatures, and anaerobic environments, thus potentially contributing to the stress resistance observed in G. pentaphyllum. Expression analyses across different G. pentaphyllum populations demonstrated significant variability in OSC gene expression among geographically diverse samples of G. pentaphyllum, likely attributable to genetic variation or external factors such as environmental conditions and soil composition. These differences may lead to the synthesis of various types of gypenosides within geographically distinct G. pentaphyllum populations. The findings from this study enhance our understanding of both the evolutionary history of the OSC gene family in G. pentaphyllum and the biosynthetic mechanisms underlying triterpenoid compounds. This knowledge is essential for investigating molecular mechanisms involved in forming dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins as well as comprehending geographical variations within G. pentaphyllum populations. Furthermore, this research lays a foundation for employing plant genetic engineering techniques aimed at increasing gypenoside content. Full article

Lectins are a diverse group of proteins crucial in numerous biological activities. They exist in plants, animals, and microorganisms, each with unique structural and functional characteristics. Their ability to exhibit hemagglutination and specifically bind with carbohydrates allows lectins to participate in processes like cell adhesion, immune responses, and intracellular signaling pathways. Lectins are particularly noted for their roles in counteracting viral diseases, regulating blood sugar levels, fending off pathogens, and preventing cancer progression. These natural compounds offer potential therapeutic benefits in various healthcare applications. Terminalia catappa (TC), known as Indian almond, is a large tropical tree containing flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phytosterols with medicinal values. This research aimed to investigate the partial purification and characterization of lectins from TC seeds. The process involved extracting and partially purifying the lectin, testing it for hemagglutination assay, temperature and pH stability, EDTA dependence, effect of metal ions, specific sugar determination, and antibacterial activity. Hemagglutination activity was observed in human blood group B+. The findings suggest TC seed lectin is remarkably stable within a moderate temperature range and across a broad pH spectrum. The dependence on EDTA for hemagglutination activity indicates a potential metalloprotein nature, with notable interactions with various metal ions, except Hg²⁺. While the initial antimicrobial assessment against common bacteria yielded limited results, further studies hold promise for uncovering the full potential of TC seed lectin in healthcare and therapeutic advancements. Full article

Melanoma is a malignant neoplasm of melanocytes in the skin, and its occurrence is increasing annually. Plant-based products contain active compounds with low toxicity and are accessible alternatives for melanoma cancer treatment. The biotechnology approach for obtaining plant-based products provides continuity and allows the high-yield production of phytochemically uniform biomass. The callus biomass of Eryngium planum L. and Lychnis flos-cuculi L. was induced on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with growth regulators. A combination of 3.0 mg/L of 3,6-dichloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid (dicamba) and 0.3 mg/L of 1-phenyl-3-(1,2,3-thiadiazol-5-yl)urea—(thidiazuron) was used to obtain E. planum callus. Meanwhile, the callus of L. flos-cuculi was cultivated on MS medium with 2.0 mg/L of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Methanolic extracts (EpME and LFcME), including 40% MeOH fractions (Ep40MF and LFc40MF) and 80% MeOH fractions (Ep80MF and LFc80MF), of E. planum and L. flos-cuculi cell biomass were prepared. Their cytotoxicity activity was assessed in human fibroblast cells (MRC-5) and human melanoma cells (MeWo) by direct cell counting and 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Qualitative analyses using thin-layer chromatography and UPLC-HRMS/MS chromatograms showed the presence of phenolic acids and saponins within the extracts and fractions of both cell biomasses. LFc80MF and Ep80MF showed the strongest toxicity against the MeWo cell line, with IC₅₀ values of 47 ± 0.5 and 52 ± 4 μg/mL after 72 h of treatment. EpME and LFcME had IC₅₀ values of 103 ± 4 and 147 ± 4 µg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, Ep40MF and LFc40MF were less toxic against the MeWo cell line compared to the extracts and 80% MeOH fractions, with IC₅₀ values of 145 ± 10 and 172 ± 7 µg/mL. This study suggests that the obtained extracts and fractions of E. planum and L. flos-cuculi cell biomass potentially possess significant cytotoxic activity against MeWo cells, which work in a time and dose-dependent manner. Although the extracts and 80% MeOH fractions were more potent, the 40% MeOH was shown to be more selective against the MeWo than the control MRC-5 cells. Full article

The beef industry contributes to greenhouse gas emissions through enteric methane emissions, exacerbating climate change. Anacardic acid in cashew nutshell extract (CNSE), saponins and tannins (ST) are plant secondary metabolites that show promise in methane mitigation via antimicrobial effects, potentially exerting changes in ruminal fermentation patterns. This study examined the impact of CNSE, ST, and their combination on methane emissions, digestibility, intake, and performance of sixteen Angus crossbred steers (347 ± 30 kg) receiving a backgrounding diet (70:30 corn silage: cottonseed burrs). The study used a 4 × 4 Latin square design (4 steers, 4 treatments, 4 periods) with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, including the main effects of additive (CNSE or ST) fed individually or combined. Thus, steers received the following treatments: (1) no additive, (2) CNSE only, (3) ST only, or (4) both (CNSEST). Non-supplemented steers registered eight more feedbunk visits/d than ST-steers and spent an extra 10 min/d on the feedbunk. The addition of ST tended to increase dry matter, organic matter, and neutral detergent fiber intake. Additives fed individually reduced CP digestibility. Intake of the carrier containing CNSE only was lesser and coincided with a greater methane yield in that treatment. Digestibility and methane mitigation were improved after CNSEST compared with individual inclusion, suggesting synergistic reactions enhanced methane mitigation effects in fibrous diets without affecting the digestibility of nutrients nor animal growth performance. Full article

Anemone baicalensis Turcz., a botanical species with a rich historical background in traditional medicine for detoxification and insecticidal applications, possesses a vast, yet largely unexplored, therapeutic potential. This study primarily focused on conducting a qualitative phytochemical analysis of the plant, determining the active ingredient content and antioxidant activity of various solvent extracts. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of 12 different types of phytochemicals within the plant. Utilizing ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, we identified 11 active ingredients in 4 solvent extracts. Notably, the methanol extract was found to contain high concentrations of total carbohydrate, total monoterpenoid, total phenolic, total tannin, and total triterpenoid. In the antioxidant experiment, the methanol extract demonstrated superior scavenging abilities against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonicacid) diammonium salt, superoxide anion radical, and hydrogen peroxide, outperforming other extracts in chelation experiments aimed at reducing iron and metal ions. Consequently, the methanol extract was selected for further investigation. Subsequent ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the methanol extract contained 39 compounds, primarily phenolic compounds and triterpenoid saponins. Three stability assessments confirmed the extract’s stability under high temperatures, varying pH levels, and simulated gastrointestinal processes. Additionally, oil stability testing demonstrated its antioxidant capacity in extra virgin olive oil and cold-pressed sunflower seed oil media. An oral acute toxicity experiment conducted on mice not only confirmed the absence of acute toxicity in the methanol extract but also provided a dose reference for subsequent gastric protection experiments. Notably, the methanol extract exhibited significant gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats, as evidenced by histopathological and biochemical analyses. Specifically, the extract reduced levels of malondialdehyde, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase while increasing glutathione, nitric oxide, and catalase, indicating its gastroprotective mechanism. These findings suggest that the methanol extract from the aerial part of Anemone baicalensis could be a promising therapeutic agent for conditions associated with oxidative imbalances. They underscore the plant’s potential therapeutic benefits and offer valuable insights into its antioxidant properties, thereby broadening our understanding of its medicinal potential. Full article

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is an annual, dicotyledonous medicinal plant which belongs to the Leguminosae family, and its leaves and seeds are widely used and cultivated throughout the world. Their widespread utilization is attributed to the great variety of primary and secondary metabolites they contain, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, steroidal saponins, tannins, as well as carbohydrates, in particular galactomannan, which is the focus of the current study. The presence of an equal number of galactose and mannose residues (Gal/Man ratio of 1:1) prevents the formation of hydrogen bonds between the mannose ones. This determines the good solubility of fenugreek galactomannan in cold water, even at low concentrations. The water solubility would be significantly better than that of carob and even slightly higher than that of guar gum, precisely due to their structural characteristics, which contribute to their possible advantages. Moreover, it is a good alternative as an excipient for the development of pharmaceutical dosage forms, as well as in the preparation of food products, affecting not only their structure but also their shelf life. Furthermore, it has promising applications not only in the fields of medicine and pharmaceutics but also offers environmental benefits. All of the above-mentioned factors are of high interest and qualify fenugreek galactomannan as a versatile polysaccharide, which is the reason for summarizing its benefits in this review. Full article

Sawfly species of the genus Monophadnus are specialised on Ranunculaceae plants from which the larvae can sequester furostanol saponins into the haemolymph, mainly (25R)-26-[(α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)oxy]-22α-methoxyfurost-5-en-3β-yl-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→3)-O-[6-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→3)]-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (compound 1). In this work, TLC, GC-MS, and HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS analyses together with feeding, repeated simulated attacks, and ant deterrence bioassays were conducted to extend the chemoecological knowledge about two sawfly species specialised on H. foetidus L. (Monophadnus species A) and H. viridis L. (Monophadnus species B). Larvae of Monophadnus species B were mostly feeding on the squares treated with the n-butanol fraction from H. foetidus, compound 1 being its primary non-nutritional stimulant. In contrast, all H. viridis fractions stimulated feeding, with n-hexane marginally more active. β-sitosterol within n-hexane was determined as the nutritional stimulant. Quantitative analyses demonstrated that leaves of H. viridis but not H. foetidus contain the ecdysteroids 20-hydroxyecdysone and polypodine B. Moreover, the haemolymph of Monophadnus species B larvae reared on H. viridis contained the glycosides of polypodine B and 20-hydroxyecdysone at a concentration of 2.5 to 6.8 µmol/g fresh weight of haemolymph. This concentration is several thousand times higher than the concentration range of the aglycones in their host plant (3.63 × 10⁻⁴ to 2.23 × 10⁻⁴ µmol total ecdysteroids/g fresh weight of leaves), suggesting bioaccumulation. The larvae of both species fed on H. foetidus do not show any traces of ecdysteroids in their haemolymph, indicating a facultative role of these compounds in their defence as well as their inability to endogenously synthesise these compounds. The haemolymph containing ecdysteroids was a significant feeding deterrent against Myrmica rubra L. ant workers (one of their natural predators) at 0.8 mg/mL. The larvae kept effective deterrent levels of glycosylated ecdysteroids (≅175 mM) between simulated attacks on days 1 and 2, but the levels clearly decreased on day 3 (≅75 mM). Most larvae (89%) survived a first attack but only 23% a consecutive second one. As a conclusion, we report for the first time that two Monophadnus species feeding on H. viridis sequester phytoecdysteroids into the larval haemolymph in the form of glycosides. In addition, compound 1 possesses defensive and phagostimulant activities, and we present evidence for a combined effect of furostanol saponins and ecdysteroids as repellents against ants. Full article