Structural diversity, evolutionary origin, and metabolic engineering of plant specialized benzylisoquinoline alkaloids

Covering: up to June 2024Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) represent a diverse class of plant specialized metabolites derived from L-tyrosine, exhibiting significant pharmacological properties such as anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, anti-cancer, cardiovascular protection, and analgesic effects. The industrial production of valuable BIAs relies on extraction from plants; however, challenges concerning their low concentration and efficiency hinder drug development. Hence, alternative approaches, including biosynthesis and chemoenzymatic synthesis, have been explored. Model species like Papaver somniferum and Coptis japonica have played a key role in unraveling the biosynthetic pathways of BIAs; however, many aspects, particularly modified steps like oxidation and methylation, remain unclear. Critical enzymes, e.g., CYP450s and methyltransferases, play a substantial role in BIA backbone formation and modification, which is essential for understanding the origin and adaptive evolution of these plant specialized metabolites. This review comprehensively analyzes the structural diversity of reported BIAs and their distribution in plant lineages. In addition, the progress in understanding biosynthesis, evolution, and catalytic mechanisms underlying BIA biosynthesis is summarized. Finally, we discuss the progress and challenges in metabolic engineering, providing valuable insights into BIA drug development and the sustainable utilization of BIA-producing plants.

Bioactive polysaccharides from Momordica charantia as functional ingredients: a review of their extraction, bioactivities, structural-activity relationships, and application prospects

Momordica charantia L. is a well-known medicine and food homology plant with high pharmaceutical and nutritional values. Polysaccharides are carbohydrate polymers connected by glycosidic bonds, one of the key functional ingredients of M. charantia. Recently, M. charantia polysaccharides (MCPs) have attracted much attention from industries and researchers due to their anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetes, anti-bacteria, immunomodulatory, neuroprotection, and organ protection activities. However, the development and utilization of MCPs-based functional foods and medicines were hindered by the lack of a deeper understanding of the structure-activity relationship (SAR), structural modification, applications, and safety of MCPs. Herein, we provide an overview of the extraction, purification, structural characterization, bioactivities, and mechanisms of MCPs. Besides, SAR, toxicities, application, and influences of the modification associated with bioactivities are spotlighted, and the potential development and future study direction are scrutinized. This review provides knowledge and research underpinnings for the further research and application of MCPs as therapeutic agents and functional food additives.

3-N-Butylphthalide Confers Antiarrhythmic Features in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury of Diabetic Heart by Targeting Mitochondria-Endoplasmic Reticulum Network and Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

While 3-N-butylphthalide (NBP) has demonstrated notable cardioprotective effects, its precise role in mitigating myocardial arrhythmia following ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury in diabetes remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms through which NBP mitigates reperfusion-induced myocardial arrhythmia in diabetic rats, with a particular focus on mitochondrial function and biogenesis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and oxidative/inflammatory responses. Sixty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into non-diabetic and diabetic groups, subjected to in-vivo myocardial IR injury, and treated with NBP (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) through different modalities: preconditioning, postconditioning, or a combination of both. Electrocardiography (ECG) was employed to assess the incidence and severity of arrhythmia. Fluorometric, Western blotting and ELISA analyses were utilized to measure the mitochondrial, ER stress, and cellular outcomes. Treatment of non-diabetic rats with NBP in preconditioned, postconditioned, and combined approaches significantly reduced cardiotroponin-I and the frequency and severity of arrhythmias induced by IR injury. However, only the combined preconditioning plus postconditioning approach of NBP had protective and antiarrhythmic effects in diabetic rats, in an additive manner. Moreover, the NBP combined approach improved mitochondrial function and upregulated the expression of PGC-1?, Sirt1, and glutathione while concurrently downregulating ER stress and oxidative and pro-inflammatory-related proteins in diabetic rats. In conclusion, the combined approach of NBP treatment was effective in mitigating myocardial arrhythmia in diabetic rats. This approach coordinates interactions within the mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum network and inhibits oxidative and inflammatory mediators, offering a promising strategy for managing myocardial arrhythmia in diabetic patients. Key words: Myocardial Infarction, Mitochondria, Arrhythmia, Reperfusion, Diabetes, Ischemia.

ST-Segment Alterations in the Electrocardiogram of Acute Pulmonary Thromboembolism: A Rabbit Model

In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying electrocardiogram (ECG) alterations in a rabbit model of acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE). Twelve healthy adult New Zealand white rabbits were used, with eight in the experimental group (PTE group) and four in the control group. After developing the rabbit model of acute PTE, ECG and coronary angiography were performed. HE staining was conducted on the right and left ventricular tissues, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to determine brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-?), and Troponin I (TNI) mRNA expression in the myocardium. There were considerable changes in the ST segment of the ECG in the PTE group. Coronary angiography revealed the absence of spasm, stenosis, and occlusion. In the plasma of the PTE group, the levels of D-dimer, BNP, TNF-?, and TNI were significantly elevated, and these changes were statistically significant (P<0.05). PCR analysis of ventricular myocardial tissue indicated significantly higher levels of BNP, TNF-?, and TNI mRNA in the PTE group than in the control group. These differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The ST-T variations on the ECG of rabbits with acute PTE correlate strongly with the temporary changes in right heart volume caused by acute PTE. Keywords: Animal model of pulmonary embolism, B-type natriuretic peptide, Electrocardiogram, Pulmonary thromboembolism, Troponin I, Tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

Elucidating the interaction of rhizosphere microorganisms and environmental factors influencing the quality of Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl

Polygonatum kingianum Collett & Hemsl., is one of the most important traditional Chinese medicines in China. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between herb quality and microbial-soil variables, while also examining the composition and structure of the rhizosphere microbial community in Polygonatum kingianum, the ultimate goal is to provide a scientific approach to enhancing the quality of P. kingianum. Illumina NovaSeq technology unlocks comprehensive genetic variation and biological functionality through high-throughput sequencing. And in this study it was used to analyze the rhizosphere microbial communities in the soils of five P. kingianum planting areas. Conventional techniques were used to measure the organic elements, pH, and organic matter content. The active ingredient content of P. kingianum was identified by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Colorimetry. A total of 12,715 bacterial and 5487 fungal Operational Taxonomic Units (OTU) were obtained and taxonomically categorized into 81 and 7 different phyla. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Acidobacteriae were the dominant bacterial phyla Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the dominat fungal phyla. The key predictors for bacterial community structure included hydrolysable nitrogen and available potassium, while for altering fungal community structure, soil organic carbon content (OCC), total nitrogen content (TNC), and total potassium content (TPOC) were the main influencing factors. Bryobacter and Candidatus Solibacter may indirectly increase the polysaccharide content of P. kingianum, and can be developed as potential Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR). This study has confirmed the differences in the soil and microorganisms of different origins of P. kingianum, and their close association with its active ingredients. And it also broadens the idea of studying the link between plants and microorganisms.

Changes and significance of the fibrinolytic system following two pulmonary thromboembolisms in a rabbit model

In this study, we examined the changes in the fibrinolytic system in a rabbit model of two acute pulmonary thromboembolisms (PTE). Fourteen healthy adult New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups: the single PTE group (five rabbits), the double PTE group (five rabbits), and the control group (four rabbits). A rabbit model of acute pulmonary embolism was established, and immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were performed on tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in plasma, and pulmonary embolism tissue. Plasma results: 1) t-PA levels: one hour following the initial modeling, the levels of t-PA in the modeling groups were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). In addition, the t-PA levels in the double PTE group were found to be lower after the modeling, as compared to the pre-modeling period (P<0.05). One hour after the second modeling, the double PTE group had lower t-PA levels compared to the control group (P<0.05). However, t-PA rebounded two hours after modeling in the double PTE group. One week after the second modeling, the double PTE group had higher t-PA levels compared to the other two groups (P<0.05). 2) PAI-1 results: one hour after the initial modeling, PAI-1 levels in the two modeling groups were lower compared to the pre-modeling period and control groups (P<0.05). Two hours following modeling, PAI-1 levels in both modeling groups were lower compared to the control group (P<0.05). PAI-1 levels were lower in the double PTE group one and two hours after the second modeling compared to the other two groups and pre-modeling period (P<0.05). 3) The immunohistochemistry results: the expression of PAI-1 decreased in the two modeling groups, while t-PA expression increased compared to the control group. 4) PCR results: t-PA mRNA expression did not differ among the three groups. The PAI-1 mRNA expression was lower in the two PTE groups compared to the control group. We conclude that in the early stages of PTE, the local fibrinolytic activity of the thrombus is increased, which is favorable for thrombolysis. However, as the thrombus persists, the activity of the fibrinolytic system is inhibited, contributing to the development of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Cepharanthine analogs mining and genomes of Stephania accelerate anti-coronavirus drug discovery

Cepharanthine is a secondary metabolite isolated from Stephania. It has been reported that it has anti-conronaviruses activities including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Here, we assemble three Stephania genomes (S. japonica, S. yunnanensis, and S. cepharantha), propose the cepharanthine biosynthetic pathway, and assess the antiviral potential of compounds involved in the pathway. Among the three genomes, S. japonica has a near telomere-to-telomere assembly with one remaining gap, and S. cepharantha and S. yunnanensis have chromosome-level assemblies. Following by biosynthetic gene mining and metabolomics analysis, we identify seven cepharanthine analogs that have broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus activities, including SARS-CoV-2, Guangxi pangolin-CoV (GX_P2V), swine acute diarrhoea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), and porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). We also show that two other genera, Nelumbo and Thalictrum, can produce cepharanthine analogs, and thus have the potential for antiviral compound discovery. Results generated from this study could accelerate broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus drug discovery.

Extraction, purification, characteristics, bioactivities, prospects, and toxicity of Lilium spp. polysaccharides

The genus Lilium has been widely used worldwide as a food and medicinal ingredient in East Asia for over 2000 years due to its higher nutritional and medicinal value. Polysaccharide is the most important bioactive ingredient in Lilium spp. and has various health benefits. Recently, Lilium spp. polysaccharides (LSPs) have attracted significant attention from industries and researchers due to their various biological properties, such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antitumor, antibacterial, hypoglycaemic, and anti-radiation. However, the development and utilization of LSP-based functional biomaterials and medicines are limited by a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the structure-activity relationships (SARs), industrial applications, and safety of LSPs. This review provides an inclusive overview of the extraction, purification, structural features, bioactivities, and mechanisms of LSPs. SARs, applications, toxicities, and influences of structural modifications on bioactivities are also highlighted, and the potential development and future study direction are scrutinized. This article aims to offer a complete understanding of LSPs and provide a foundation for further research and application of LSPs as therapeutic agents and multifunctional biomaterials.

Comparatively analyzing of chloroplast genome and new insights into phylogenetic relationships regarding the genus Stephania

The medicinal plant of the genus Stephania holds significant economic importance in the pharmaceutical industry. However, accurately classifying and subdividing this genus remains a challenge. Herein, the chloroplast (cp) genomes of Stephania and Cyclea were sequenced, and the primary characteristics, repeat sequences, inverted repeats regions, simple sequence repeats, and codon usage bias of 17 species were comparatively analyzed. Twelve markers were identified through genome alignment and sliding window analysis. Moreover, a molecular clock analysis revealed the divergence between subgenus (subg.) Botryodiscia and the combined Cyclea, subg. Stephania and Tuberiphania during the early Oligocene epoch. Notably, the raceme-type inflorescence represents the ancestral state of the Stephania and Cyclea. The genetic relationships inferred from the cp genome and protein-coding genes exhibited similar topologies. Additionally, the paraphyletic relationship between the genera Cyclea and Stephania was confirmed. Bayesian inference, maximum likelihood, and neighbor-joining trees consistently showed that section Tuberiphania and Transcostula were non-monophyletic. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights for further investigations into species identification, evolution, and phylogenetics within the Stephania genus.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and safety concerns of hawthorn (Crataegus genus): A comprehensive review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Crataegus (hawthorn), a member of the Rosaceae family, encompasses several species with broad geographical distribution across the Northern Hemisphere, including Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Hawthorn is recognized as an edible medicinal plant with applications related to strengthening the digestive system, promoting blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This study critically summarized the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties to provide a theoretical basis for further studies on hawthorn and its applications in medicine and food.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The available information on hawthorn was gathered from scientific databases (including Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, online ethnobotanical databases, and ethnobotanical monographs, and considered data from 1952 to 2023). Information about traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and safety concerns of the collected data is comprehensively summarized in this paper.

RESULTS

The literature review revealed that hawthorn includes more than 1000 species primarily distributed in the northern temperate zone. Traditional uses of hawthorn have lasted for millennia in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Within the past decade, 337 chemical compounds, including flavonoids, lignans, fatty acids and organic acids, monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids, terpenoids and steroids, have been identified from hawthorn. Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed numerous bioactivities, such as cardiovascular system influence, antitumor activity, hepatoprotective activity, antimicrobial properties, immunomodulatory functions, and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, evaluations have indicated that hawthorn lacks toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on its traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological studies, hawthorn has significant potential as a medicinal and edible plant with a diverse range of pharmacological activities. Traditional uses of the hawthorn include the treatment of indigestion, dysmenorrhea, and osteoporosis. However, modern pharmacological research primarily focuses on its cardiovascular and cerebrovascular system effects, antitumor effects, and liver protection properties. Currently, there is a lack of correlative research involving its traditional uses and pharmacological activities. Moreover, phytochemical and pharmacological research has yet to focus on many types of hawthorn with traditional applications. Therefore, it is imperative to research the genus Crataegus extensively.

Comparative analysis of medicinal plants Scutellaria baicalensis and common adulterants based on chloroplast genome sequencing

BACKGROUND

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi has been extensively used as a medicinal herb in China for over 2000 years. They may be intentionally or inadvertently substituted or blended with comparable species in the local market, threatening clinical medication safety. Molecular markers are effective tools to prevent misidentification and eliminate doping and falsification among Scutellaria plants. This study screened four highly variable regions to identify Scutellaria and its adulterants. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis was performed using the complete cp genome combined with published Scutellaria species samples. Moreover, a comparative analysis of the cp genomes was conducted to investigate the cp genome evolution of S. baicalensis.

RESULTS

The complete cp genome of five species of Scutellaria was sequenced for the first time, and four previously published Scutellaria species were re-sequenced. They all exhibited a conserved quadripartite structure in their cp genomes, including two distinct regions, namely a small and large single copy region, respectively, and two inverted repeats encompassing the majority of ribosomal RNA genes. Furthermore, the nine species exhibited high conservation from aspects of the genome structure, codon usage, repeat sequences, and gene content. Four highly variable regions (matK-rps16, ndhC-trnV-UAC, psbE-petL, and rps16-trnQ-UUG) may function as potential molecular markers for differentiating S. baicalensis from its adulterants. Additionally, the monophyly of Scutellaria was ascertained and could be reclassified into two subgenera, subgenus Anaspis and subgenus Scutellaria, as evidenced by the phylogenetic analyses on sequences of cp genome and shared protein-coding sequences. According to the molecular clock analysis, it has been inferred that the divergence of Scutellaria occurred at approximately 4.0 Mya during the Pliocene Epoch.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides an invaluable theoretical basis for further Scutellaria species identification, phylogenetics, and evolution analysis.

The potential, challenges, and prospects of the genus Spirulina polysaccharides as future multipurpose biomacromolecules

Spirulina has been widely used worldwide as a food and medicinal ingredient for centuries. Polysaccharides are major bioactive constituents of Spirulina and are of interest because of their functional properties and unlimited application potential. However, the clinical translation and market industrialization of the polysaccharides from genus Spirulina (PGS) are retarded due to the lack of a further understanding of their isolation, bioactivities, structure-activity relationships (SARs), toxicity, and, most importantly, versatile applications. Herein, we provide an overview of the extraction, purification, and structural features of PGS; meanwhile, the advances in bioactivities, SARs, mechanisms of effects, and toxicity are discussed and summarized. Furthermore, the applications, potential developments, and future research directions are scrutinized and highlighted. This review may help fill the knowledge gap between theoretical insights and practical applications and guide future research and industrial application of PGS.

Preparation, structural characterization, bioactivities, and applications of Crataegus spp. polysaccharides: A review

Crataegus, is a genus within the Rosaceae family. It is recognized as a valuable plant with both medicinal and edible qualities, earning it the epithet of the "nutritious fruit" owing to its abundant bioactive compounds. Polysaccharides are carbohydrate polymers linked by glycosidic bonds, one of the crucial bioactive ingredients of Crataegus spp. Recently, Crataegus spp. polysaccharides (CPs) have garnered considerable attention due to their diverse range of bioactivities, including prebiotic, hypolipidemic, anticancer, antibacterial, antioxidant, and immunobiological properties. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent research on CPs. The analysis revealed that CPs exhibited a broad molecular weight distribution, ranging from 5.70 Da to 4.76 × 108 Da, and are composed of various monosaccharide constituents such as mannose, rhamnose, and arabinose. Structure-activity relationships demonstrated that the biological function of CPs is closely associated with their molecular weight, galacturonic acid content, and chemical modifications. Additionally, CPs have excellent bioavailability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, which make them promising candidates for applications in the food, medicine, and cosmetic industries. The article also scrutinized the potential development and future research directions of CPs. Overall, this article provides comprehensive knowledge and underpinnings of CPs for future research and development as therapeutic agents and multifunctional food additives.

Diagnosis of spinal dural arteriovenous fistula: a multimodal MRI assessment strategy

AIM

To identify more specific screening indicators at magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) and to determine an efficient diagnostic strategy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study analysed clinical and imaging data of patients diagnosed with SDAVF and alternative myelopathy who underwent conventional MRI examinations. Additionally, three-dimensional (3D) T2-weighted sampling perfection with application-optimised contrasts using different flip-angle evolutions (3D-T2-SPACE) and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) data from patients with SDAVF were compared with digital subtraction angiography (DSA) data.

RESULTS

The age of onset, perimedullary flow voids (PFV), distribution of lesions, syringomyelia, degree of spinal oedema, and cauda equina disorder (CED) were factors that showed statistically significance in the identification of SDAVF with alternative myelopathy. After controlling for age, gender, PFV, degree of spinal cord swelling, and syringomyelia, the multivariable ordinal logistic regression model showed that the CED sign (OR = 32.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.47-427.15; p=0.008) was an independent predictor for SDAVF. The diagnostic model constructed using the PFV and CED signs had better diagnostic performance, with an area under the curve of 0.957 (p<0.001), maximum Youden index of 0.844, sensitivity of 92.9%, and specificity of 91.5%. Both 3D-T2-SPACE (77.8%) and CE-MRA (83.3%) sequences had good localisation values for SDAVF. Combining the two imaging examinations had better diagnostic accuracy than that of DSA.

CONCLUSION

CED and PFV on conventional MRI were specific indicators for the diagnosis of SDAVF. To compensate for the lack of fistula localisation on conventional MRI, 3D-T2-SPACE and CE-MRA can be used. Together they complement each other and have good diagnostic potential.

Analysis of codon usage patterns in 48 Aconitum species

BACKGROUND

The Aconitum genus is a crucial member of the Ranunculaceae family. There are 350 Aconitum species worldwide, with about 170 species found in China. These species are known for their various pharmacological effects and are commonly used to treat joint pain, cold abdominal pain, and other ailments. Codon usage bias (CUB) analysis contributes to evolutionary relationships and phylogeny. Based on protein-coding sequences (PCGs), we selected 48 species of Aconitum for CUB analysis.

RESULTS

The results revealed that Aconitum species had less than 50% GC content. Furthermore, the distribution of GC content was irregular and followed a trend of GC1 > GC2 > GC3, indicating a bias towards A/T bases. The relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) heat map revealed the presence of conservative codons with slight variations within the genus. The effective number of codons (ENC)-Plot and the parity rule 2 (PR2)-bias plot analysis indicate that natural selection is the primary factor influencing the variation in codon usage. As a result, we screened various optimal codons and found that A/T bases were preferred as the last codon. Furthermore, our Maximum Likelihood (ML) analysis based on PCGs among 48 Aconitum species yielded results consistent with those obtained from complete chloroplast (cp.) genome data. This suggests that analyzing mutation in PCGs is an efficient method for demonstrating the phylogeny of species at the genus level.

CONCLUSIONS

The CUB analysis of 48 species of Aconitum was mainly influenced by natural selection. This study reveals the CUB pattern of Aconitum and lays the foundation for future genetic modification and phylogenetic analyses.

Comparative analysis of chloroplast genome and new insights into phylogenetic relationships of Ajuga and common adulterants

Introduction

The potential contamination of herbal medicinal products poses a significant concern for consumer health. Given the limited availability of genetic information concerning Ajuga species, it becomes imperative to incorporate supplementary molecular markers to enhance and ensure accurate species identification.

Methods

In this study, the chloroplast (cp) genomes of seven species of the genus Ajuag were sequenced, de novo assembled and characterized.

Results

exhibiting lengths ranging from 150,342 bp to 150,472 bp, encompassing 86 - 88 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 35 - 37 transfer RNA, and eight ribosomal RNA. The repetitive sequences, codon uses, and cp genomes of seven species were highly conserved, and PCGs were the reliable molecular markers for investigating the phylogenetic relationship within the Ajuga genus. Moreover, four mutation hotspot regions (accD-psaI, atpH-atpI, ndhC-trnV(UAC), and ndhF-rpl23) were identified within cp genomes of Ajuga, which could help distinguish A. bracteosa and its contaminants. Based on cp genomes and PCGs, the phylogenetic tree preliminary confirmed the position of Ajuga within the Lamiaceae family. It strongly supported a sister relationship between Subsect. Genevense and Subsect. Biflorae, suggesting the merger of Subsect. Biflorae and Subsect. Genevenses into one group rather than maintaining separate categorizations. Additionally, molecular clock analysis estimated the divergence time of Ajuga to be around 7.78 million years ago.

Discussion

The species authentication, phylogeny, and evolution analyses of the Ajuga species may benefit from the above findings.

Tumor Treatment Response Assessed During the Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Patients

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To evaluate intratumoral treatment response distribution with using FDG-PET/CT during the chemoradiotherapy of nasopharyngeal patients (NPC).

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 5 of 30 patients with stage III-IVA NPC were enrolled in the institutional protocol for induction/concurrent chemoradiotherapy with radiation dose of 70 Gy in 33 fractions. For each patient, a pre-radiation treatment FDG-PET/MRI image (SUV0) and a mid-treatment image (SUVm) at the treatment dose of 31.8 Gy were obtained. Followed by deformable PET/MRI registration between SUV0 and SUVm, the tumor voxel SUV reduction ratio was obtained to construct a tumor dose response matrix (DRM). Tumor SUVavid was also constructed by limiting tumor voxel SUVm > a given value. Spatial correlations of the tumor SUV0, SUVm, SUVavid and DRM were determined.

RESULTS

The mean and coefficient variation (CV) of the SUV0, SUVm and DRM for all tumors were 5.05 (52%), 2.72 (49%) and 0.64 (63%) (Table contains the individual data), which were smaller than those on the SUVs of head-n-neck HPV+ patients reported previously due to the induction chemotherapy, but had much larger DRM mean and CV. The inter-tumoral CVs of SUV0 and DRM were 29% and 27%, which were much lower than those of the intra-tumoral CVs 43% and 57%. Meanwhile, the intra-tumoral variations on SUV0 was smaller than the one of head-neck HPV+ patients, but the DRM intra-variation was much larger. There was a weak correlation between SUV0 and SUVm with the correlation coefficient 0.13, a medium correlation of -0.55 between SUV0 and DRM, but a strong correlation, 0.72, between SUVm and DRM. However, the spatial correlation between tumor DRM and SUVavid was getting weaker as the SUVavid value increasing and equal 0.47 with SUVavid value > 3.

CONCLUSION

The spatial dose response DRM for NPC in the concurrent chemoradiotherapy was relatively high, while had relatively low baseline tumor metabolic activity SUV0. It was most likely due to the induction chemotherapy. In addition, the tumor dose response showed vary large intra-tumoral variation. The high correlations between DRM and SUVm imply that SUVavid could be used partially to guide adaptive modification of NPC treatment with carefully selected boundary value.

Bioactive polysaccharides from lotus as potent food supplements: a review of their preparation, structures, biological features and application prospects

Lotus is a famous plant of the food and medicine continuum for millennia, which possesses unique nutritional and medicinal values. Polysaccharides are the main bioactive component of lotus and have been widely used as health nutritional supplements and therapeutic agents. However, the industrial production and application of lotus polysaccharides (LPs) are hindered by the lack of a deeper understanding of the structure-activity relationship (SAR), structural modification, applications, and safety of LPs. This review comprehensively comments on the extraction and purification methods and structural characteristics of LPs. The SARs, bioactivities, and mechanisms involved are further evaluated. The potential application and safety issues of LPs are discussed. This review provides valuable updated information and inspires deeper insights for the large scale development and application of LPs.

Extraction, structural-activity relationships, bioactivities, and application prospects of Bletilla striata polysaccharides as ingredients for functional products: A review

Bletilla striata is a well-known medicinal plant with high pharmaceutical and ornamental values. Polysaccharide is the most important bioactive ingredient in B. striata and has various health benefits. Recently, B. striata polysaccharides (BSPs) have attracted much attention from industries and researchers due to their remarkable immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, gastroprotective, and liver protective effects. Despite the successful isolation and characterization of B. striata polysaccharides (BSPs), there is still limited knowledge regarding their structure-activity relationships (SARs), safety concerns, and applications, which hinders their full utilization and development. Herein, we provided an overview of the extraction, purification, and structural features, as well as the effects of different influencing factors on the components and structures of BSPs. We also highlighted and summarized the diversity of chemistry and structure, specificity of biological activity, and SARs of BSP. The challenges and opportunities of BSPs in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical fields are discussed, and the potential development and future study direction are scrutinized. This article provides comprehensive knowledge and underpinnings for further research and application of BSPs as therapeutic agents and multifunctional biomaterials.

Extraction, structural-activity relationships, bioactivities, and application prospects of Pueraria lobata polysaccharides as ingredients for functional products: A review

Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi is an important resource with dual functions in medicine and food since ancient times. Polysaccharides are the main bioactive component of P. lobata and have various bioactivities, such as antidiabetic, antioxidant, immunological activities, etc. Due to the distinctive bioactivity of P. lobata polysaccharides (PLPs), the research on PLPs is booming. Although a series of PLPs have been isolated and characterized, the chemical structure and mechanism are unclear and need further study. Here, we reviewed recent progress in isolation, identification, pharmacological properties, and possible therapeutic mechanisms of PLPs to update awareness of these value-added natural polysaccharides. Besides, the structure-activity relationships, application status, and toxic effects of PLPs are highlighted and discussed to afford a deeper understanding of PLPs. This article may provide theoretical insights and technical guidance for developing PLPs as novel functional foods.

Microbial community diversity and function analysis of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux in rhizosphere soil of farmlands in Southwest China

Understanding how microbial communities affect plant growth is crucial for sustainable productivity and ecological health. However, in contrast with the crop system, there is limited information on the microbial community associated with the medicinal plant. We observed that altitude was the most influential factor on the soil microbial community structures of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux. For community composition, bacterial reads were assigned to 48 phyla, with Proteobacteria, Acidobacteriota, and Actinobacteriota being the dominant phyla. The fungal reads were assigned to seven phyla, and Ascomycota was the predominant phylum detected in most groups. The four dominant phyla were categorized as keystone taxa in the co-occurrence networks, suggesting that they may be involved in soil disease suppression and nutrient mobility. Bacterial co-occurrence networks had fewer edges, lower average degree, and lower density at YL1, HQ1, HQ2, BC, and DL than fungal networks, creating less intricate rhizosphere network patterns. Furthermore, the bacterial and fungal communities showed strong distance decay of similarity across the sampling range. Overall, this study improves our understanding of regulating rhizosphere microbial communities in soil systems and also provides potential production strategies for planting A. carmichaelii.

Comparative analysis of medicinal plant Isodon rubescens and its common adulterants based on chloroplast genome sequencing

Isodon rubescens (Hemsley) H. Hara is the source of Donglingcao under the monograph Rabdosiae Rubescentis Herba in Chinese Pharmacopoeia. In the local marketplace, this medicine can be accidentally contaminated, deliberately substituted, or mixed with other related species. The contaminants of herbal products are a threat to consumer safety. Due to the scarcity of genetic information on Isodon plants, more molecular markers are needed to avoid misidentification. In the present study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of seven species of Isodon was sequenced, de novo assembled and characterized. The cp genomes of these species universally exhibited a conserved quadripartite structure, i.e., two inverted repeats (IRs) containing most of the ribosomal RNA genes and two unique regions (large single copy and small single copy). Moreover, the genome structure, codon usage, and repeat sequences were highly conserved and showed similarities among the seven species. Five highly variable regions (trnS-GCU-trnT-CGU, atpH-atpI, trnE-UUC-trnT-GGU, ndhC-trnM-CAU, and rps15-ycf1) might be potential molecular markers for identifying I. rubescens and its contaminants. These findings provide valuable information for further species identification, evolution, and phylogenetic research of Isodon.

Phylogenetic relationship and characterization of the complete chloroplast genome of Laggera crispata, a folk herbal medicine plant in China

Laggera crispata, an herbaceous plant, has been used in Chinese medicines as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-viral. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequence of L. crispata was first reported. The cp genome of L. crispata is 155522 bp in length, with two inverted repeats (IR) regions of 25042 bp, the large single copy (LSC) region of 84198 bp and the small single copy (SSC) region of 21240 bp. 128 genes were predicted, including 87 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis suggested that L. crispata is more closely related to Pluchea pteropoda and P. indica with solid bootstrap values belonging to the subfamily Inuleae of Asteraceae.

Effective prediction of biosynthetic pathway genes involved in bioactive polyphyllins in Paris polyphylla

The genes in polyphyllins pathway mixed with other steroid biosynthetic genes form an extremely complex biosynthetic network in Paris polyphylla with a giant genome. The lack of genomic data and tissue specificity causes the study of the biosynthetic pathway notably difficult. Here, we report an effective method for the prediction of key genes of polyphyllin biosynthesis. Full-length transcriptome from eight different organs via hybrid sequencing of next generation sequencingand third generation sequencing platforms annotated two 2,3-oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs), 216 cytochrome P450s (CYPs), and 199 UDP glycosyltransferases (UGTs). Combining metabolic differences, gene-weighted co-expression network analysis, and phylogenetic trees, the candidate ranges of OSC, CYP, and UGT genes were further narrowed down to 2, 15, and 24, respectively. Beside the three previously characterized CYPs, we identified the OSC involved in the synthesis of cycloartenol and the UGT (PpUGT73CR1) at the C-3 position of diosgenin and pennogenin in P. polyphylla. This study provides an idea for the investigation of gene cluster deficiency biosynthesis pathways in medicinal plants.

Xin Hua, Wei Song, and ZheYong Xue et al. report an effective method to predict key genes involved in polyphyllin biosynthesis in plants. Their results provide further insight into biosynthesis pathways in Paris polyphylla, and the approach may be relevant to other medicinal plants.