Antitussive activity of a glucuronoxylan from Rudbeckia fulgida compared to the potency of two polysaccharide complexes from the same herb

An alkali-extracted low-molecular glucuronoxylan and two water-extractable polysaccharide complexes isolated from various parts of Rudbeckia fulgida were tested for antitussive activity on mechanically induced cough in nonanaesthetized cats. Glucuronoxylan consisted of a (1-->4)-linked beta-D-xylopyranosyl backbone with about 18% of 4-0-methyl-D-glucuronic acid attached to 0-2 of the chain xylose residues. The polysaccharide complexes differed from each the other regarding the in qualitative and quantitative composition of the sugar components. It was found that peroral administration of all the compounds led to a significant suppression of the cough reflex without negative influence on expectoration. Glucuronoxylan and the complex from the aerial parts of the herb exhibited much higher antitussive activity than the complex from the roots which did not contain any uronic acid component. Their activity (48.2% and 46.5%, respectively) highly surpassed the activity of the complex from the roots (23.5%) as well as that of the peripherally acting drugs dropropizine (28.3%) and prenoxdiazine (24.7%).

Epicuticular flavonoids of some Scrophulariaceae

Twenty-two species of Scophulariaceae have been found to accumulate flavonoid aglycones externally on their leaves and stems. They belong to the genera Anarrhinum, Antirrhinum, Asarina, Calceolaria, Mimulus, and Odontites. Most of the flavonoids are methylated flavones and flavonols, some with 6-O and/or 8-O-substitution. One of them is the natural isobutyryl ester of a rare flavone.

New gas chromatographic method for residue determination of dithiopyr in soil, wheat grain and straw

A gas chromatographic method has been developed for a new pyridine herbicide, dithiopyr, utilising an electron capture detector. The method makes use of a column (10 m x 0.534 mm I.D.; 1 microm film thickness) containing HP-1 with nitrogen as a carrier gas at a flow rate of 15 ml min(-1) at temperatures of 190, 210, 270 degrees C for oven, injector port and detector, respectively. Soil, wheat grain and straw samples fortified with dithiopyr were extracted with acetone-0.2 M HCl (95:5) and cleaned up by partitioning with hexane. The technique has a sensitivity of 0.05 microg ml(-1) and the recovery of dithiopyr from soil, wheat grain and straw ranged between 80 and 99%.

Effect of plant matrix and fluid ethanol concentration on supercritical fluid extraction efficiency of schisandrin derivatives

An investigation of the effect of plant matrix on the supercritical fluid extraction efficiency of five schisandrin derivatives is reported, exhibiting a great difference with respect to extraction efficiency depending on the matrix. Pure supercritical CO2 at 60 degrees C and 34.0 MPa cannot fully recover schisandrin derivatives from the leaves as much as from the other matrices. Only 36.9% of these compounds are extracted from leaves of Schisandra chinensis by supercritical CO2 in comparison with organic solvent extraction. However, more than 80% of schisandrin derivatives are obtained from both stem and fruit parts. Ethanol addition also shows a different effect depending on plant matrix; that is, CO2 modified with 10% ethanol could enhance the yield of schisandrin derivatives from leaves by four times when compared with that of pure CO2, but it has little effect on both stems and fruits.

[Studies of Echinopsis multiplex on antineoplastic effects]

Fresh Echinopsis multiplex decoction(p.o. 30 g/kg and 60 g/kg) could inhibit the growth of solid tumour S180 and Lewis pulmonary carcinoma, prolong the survival date of the mice with the tumours. In vitro, the serum of animal, which took the herb, significantly suppressed the proliferation of EAC tumour cells and inhibited the YAC-1 tumour cell DNA synthesis when compared with the serum of normal animal. The decoction did not reduce the WBC, but increased the number of PFC of spleen cells at the effective dose in mice with tumour, indicating that it did not impair the immune system, but enhance the immune function.

[Clinical observation of the effect of shuxinsu capsule in treating angina pectoris]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the therapeutic effect of Shuxinsu capsule (SXSC) in treating angina pectoris patients.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty angina pectoris patients were divided into two groups. Group A (80 cases), randomly divided into two subgroups, SXSC treated and Yixin oral liquid (YXOL) control group, each group consisted of 40 cases. Group B (70 cases) was an openly treated group (OTG).

RESULTS

17 cases were markedly effective in the SXSC treated group in relieving the symptoms, effective were 16, the total effective rate was 82.50%, while in the control group, the markedly effective cases, the effective cases and the total effective rate were 13, 16 and 72.50% respectively; there was significant difference between these two groups (u = 1.99, P < 0.05). In the treated group (SXSC and OTG) of 110 cases, the markedly effective, effective cases on ECG were 34 and 30 respectively. The total effective rate was 58.18%, higher than that of the control group, which was 55.00%, but the difference was insignificant. The activity of SOD in RBC and the amount of plasma LPO were significantly different after treatment in the SXSC group. Both of the medications had effect to reduce serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG), the TC was lower and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) higher significantly after treatment in the SXSC group.

CONCLUSION

SXSC has significant effect on angina pectoris.

New cytotoxic 1-azaanthraquinones and 3-aminonaphthoquinone from the stem bark of Goniothalamus marcanii

Guided by brine shrimp toxicity and human tumor cell toxicity, fractionation of the alcoholic extract from the stem bark of Goniothalamus marcanii led to the isolation of four new 1-azaanthraquinones: marcanines B (3), C (4), D (5), and E (6), along with two known derivatives: marcanine A and dielsiquinone. A new 5-hydroxy-3-amino-2-aceto-1,4-naphthoquinone (7), a possible 1-azaanthraquinone biosynthetic precursor, was also isolated. The structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, mainly 1D and 2D NMR techniques ((1)H, (13)C, NOEDS, COSY, HMQC, and HMBC), as well as comparison with literature data. All the compounds except 6 were evaluated for cytotoxic activity. They exhibited significant cytotoxicity against several human tumor cell lines, A-549, HT-29, MCF7, RPMI, and U251 with the ED(50) in the range of 0.04-3.03 microM.

Biological activities of crude plant extracts from Vitex trifolia L. (Verbenaceae)

Biological assays of Vitex trifolia L. organic extracts have shown relevant activities. Hexanic and dichloromethanic (DCM) extracts, when prepared from stems and foliage, have proved to be very toxic against several cancer cell lines in culture (SQC-1 UISO, OVCAR-5, HCT-15 COLADCAR, and KB). Also, an important antifeeding activity against the insect pest Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was recorded. The hexanic extract from leaves completely inhibited the growth of the fungal plant pathogen Fusarium sp. within the first 2 days of the experiment, but dropped significantly at day 6 (15% inhibition). The potential of V. trifolia for several uses is discussed.

Monoterpene composition of essential oil from peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.) with regard to leaf position using solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis

Monoterpene compounds of leaf pairs and flowers of Mentha x piperita have been studied by direct headspace sampling using solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS). The content of peppermint-characteristic compounds such as menthol, menthyl acetate, and neomenthol increased in a basipetal direction (older plant parts), whereas menthone and isomenthone showed higher levels in the acropetal direction (younger plant parts). Higher levels of menthofuran were found in peppermint flowers in contrast to the leaves. SPME sampling resulted in relatively higher amounts of high-volatile monoterpenes and lower detection of less volatile compounds such as menthol and menthone, compared to solvent-based samples from essential oil distillation.

[Study on carbazole alkaloids of Murraya microphylla]

Four carbazole alkaloids were isolated from the methanol extract of Murraya microphylla. Their structures were identified by spectral analysis and chemical evidence, which were identified as koenigine, bis-6-hydroxy-7-methoxygirinimbine, girinimbine and mukonicine. All the compounds were discovered from this plant for the first time, and bis-6-hydroxy-7-methoxygirinimbine was a new compound.

[Pharmacognostical identification on the stem and leaf of Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis]

In this paper, pharmacognostical identification of Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis was studied. The character of medicinal materials, histological and powder characteristics and UV absorption for the stem and leaf of H. nepalensis var. sinensis were mainly reported.

Neocrotocembranal from Croton oblongifolius

A new cembranoid diterpene, neocrotocembranal (3), was isolated from the stem bark of Croton oblongifolius. Its structure was established on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. This compound inhibited platelet aggregation induced by thrombin, with an IC50 value of 47.21 microg/mL, and exhibited cytotoxicity against P-388 cells in vitro, with an IC(50) value of 6.48 microg/mL.

The antimicrobial efficiency of Piper betle Linn leaf (stalk) against human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi

The in vitro antimicrobial activity of different varieties of Piper betle Linn, leaf stalk extracts were studied against human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi by comparing the results with standard microbial susceptibility testing biodiscs. The ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of all the four varieties have shown significant activity against bacteria Vibrio cholerae ogawa, Staphylococcus aureus, Diplococcus pneumoniae and Klebsiella aerogenes. The hexane and benzene extracts have shown moderate activity, while other extracts have shown poor or no activity. In the same way ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of all the varieties have shown moderate to significant activity against most of the fungi tested, while other extracts showed poor or moderate activity.

Compartive study of volatile components and fatty acids of plants and in vitro cultures of parsley (Petroselinum crispum (Mill) nym ex hill)

Volatile compounds from plants, callus tissue cultures, and cell suspensions of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) were captured during the growth cycle using a dynamic headspace extraction and were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Parsley plants were found to produce mainly monoterpenes, and the compound of major abundance was p-1,3,8-menthatriene, followed by beta-phellandrene and apiole. Callus cultures and cell suspensions produced aldehydes (nonanal and decanal) that were also detected in parsley plant. The former also produced limonene, acetophenone, and benzotiazol; these were not observed in the plants. The production of volatiles in plants, callus tissue, and cell suspensions was found to be time-dependent. Free and bound fatty acids were also monitored by an in situ method. Palmitic (C16:0) and stearic (C18:0) acids were the most abundant fatty acids in all materials; however, higher levels were found in plants. On the other hand, the unsaturated C16:1 and C16:3 were not detected in the in vitro cultures.

Volatile components of roots, stems, leaves, and flowers of Echinacea species

The headspace volatile components of roots, stems, leaves, and flowers of Echinacea angustifolia,E. pallida, and E. purpurea were analyzed by capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Over 70 compounds were identified in the samples. All plant tissues, irrespective of the species, contain acetaldehyde, dimethyl sulfide, camphene, hexanal, beta-pinene, and limonene. The main headspace constituents of the aerial parts of the plant are beta-myrcene, alpha-pinene, limonene, camphene, beta-pinene, trans-ocimene, 3-hexen-1-ol, and 2-methyl-4-pentenal. The major headspace components of root tissue are alpha-phellandrene (present only in the roots of E. purpurea and E.angustifolia), dimethyl sulfide, 2-methylbutanal, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylpropanal, acetaldehyde, camphene, 2-propanal, and limonene. Aldehydes, particularly butanals and propanals, make up 41-57% of the headspace of root tissue, 19-29% of the headspace of the leaf tissue, and only 6-14% of the headspace of flower and stem tissues. Terpenoids including alpha- and beta-pinene, beta-myrcene, ocimene, limonene, camphene, and terpinene make up 81-91% of the headspace of flowers and stems, 46-58% of the headspace of the leaf tissue, and only 6-21% of the roots. Of the 70 compounds identified, >50 are reported in Echinacea for the first time.

Effects of Daniellia oliveri stem bark and leaf extracts on rat skeletal muscle

The stem bark and leaves of Daniellia oliveri were screened phytochemically and the effects of their respective methanol extracts on the skeletal muscle of rats were investigated using the isolated phrenic nerve hemidiaphragm muscle preparation. Both were found to contain tannins, cardiac and saponin glycosides. In addition, the bark, but not leaves, contained cyanogenetic glycosides. The methanol extracts were found to possess neuromuscular blocking properties. The leaf extract appeared to act primarily by inhibiting the influx of extracellular Ca(2+) principally by inhibiting K(+) channels. The inhibitory action of the bark extract appeared to be mediated by interference with transmitter release and an action on multiple sites.

[Direct determination of raw plant drugs by FTIR]

Twenty-five common raw plant drugs were determined quickly and directly with diffuse reflectance drawing sample of FTIR for the first time. The results show that the drugs with different chemical compounds are characteristics of different peaks. The category of plant drugs may be firmly identified through their respective IR characteristic absorption spectrum. Furthermore, the approach can be achieved quickly and accurately without extraction and separation of samples.

[Measurement of cadmium content in soils and vegetables by FAAS]

The analytical and testing centre the total cadmium (Cd) and the available Cd contents in different Cd-polluted soils were measured by FAAS. The Cd content in the stems and leaves of cole was tested in the same way. The methods of sample pretreatment for the total Cd and available Cd in soils and in cole were compared respectively. The standard sample recovery rates were all above 96 percent, and the relative standard deviations were less than 3.97 percent. The FAAS is rapid and accurate.

A new chalcone, xanthones, and a xanthonolignoid from Hypericum geminiflorum

A new prenyl chalcone, gemichalcone C (1), was isolated from the heartwood and root of Hypericum geminiflorum. Three new xanthones-6, 7-dihyroxy-1,3-dimethoxyxanthone (2), 4-hydroxy-1, 2-dimethoxyxanthone (3), and gemixanthone A (4)-and four known xanthones were isolated from the leaves and stems of the same plant.

Salvadora persica L.: hypolipidemic activity on experimental hypercholesterolemia in rat

Stems of Salvadora persica are widely used as tooth cleaning sticks in Arabic countries and decoctions show hypocholesterolemic properties. The effects of prolonged administration of a lyophilized stem decoction of Salvadora persica were evaluated in diet-induced rat hypercholesterolemia. The preparation was administered for 15 and 30 days (by gavage at a dose of 500 mg/kg in an aqueous vehicle in a volume of 0.5 ml/100 g b.w.). Cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglyceride plasma levels were assayed. The results showed that the S. persica decoction significantly lowered cholesterol and LDL plasma levels in rats, proving to be more active at 30 days of treatment. The systemic administration of Triton results in a rise in plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The results obtained show that S. persica decoction was inactive at 18 hr after treatment, whereas at 27 hr, it was able to reduce cholesterol and LDL plasma levels. In all experiments HDL and triglycerides were unchanged.

Studies on constituents with cytotoxic activity from the stem bark of Syringa velutina

Cytotoxic compounds, oleuropein (1) and a phenylethanoid glycoside (2) were isolated from the stem bark of Syringa velutina KOM. along with coniferylaldehyde 4-O-glucoside, syringin, ligstroside, (+)-syringaresinol 4-O-glucoside, (+)-medioresinol 4"-O-glucoside and (-)-olivil 4"-O-glucoside. Phenylethanoid glycoside (2) was identified to be 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol 8-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside. This compound showed the most potent cytotoxic effect on several tumor cell lines (P-388, L-1210, SNU-5 and HL-60) among eight compounds isolated in the present study. We suggest that the 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethoxy moiety of this compound contributes to cytotoxicity.

Atrial natriuretic-like peptide and its prohormone within metasequoia

Metasequoia glyptostroboides was one of the dominant conifers in North America, Asia, and Europe for more than 100 million years since the late Cretaceous Albian Age, but Quaternary glaciations drove the Metasequoia population to apparent extinction. A small pocket of Metasequoia, however, was found in central China in the 1940s representing the only surviving population of this "living fossil" species. Atrial natriuretic peptide, a 28-amino-acid peptide hormone that causes sodium and water excretion in animals, has been found to be part of the first peptide hormonal system in lower plants. The existence of this hormonal system has never been examined within trees of any genus. High-performance gel permeation chromatography of the leaves and stems (i.e., branches) of Metasequoia followed by atrial natriuretic peptide radioimmunoassay revealed an ANP-like peptide and its prohormone (i.e., approximately 13,000 mol wt) were present in both leaves and stems of this conifer. The elution profile of ANP-like peptide in stems of Metasequoia had a shoulder to the left of where pure synthetic ANP elutes suggesting the possibility of a slightly larger peptide eluting within this shoulder secondary to alternate processing of the ANP-like prohormone and similar to what occurs with the kidney of animals. The elution profile of ANP-like peptide in the leaves of Metasequoia revealed two peaks; one where ANP elutes and a second peak suggesting a smaller peptide that has been metabolically processed. The presence of the ANP-like prohormone strongly suggests that ANP-like gene expression is occurring in both leaves and stems of Metasequoia since this prohormone is the gene product of this hormonal system. The presence of the ANP-like hormonal system in trees implies that this hormonal system may have been present early in land plant evolution to allow trees to reach heights of greater than 30 feet where a water flow-enhancing substance is absolutely necessary for water flow to occur to these heights.

Studies on anti-allergic constituents in the leaves and stems of Anchientia salutaris var. martiana (Violaceae)

The anti-allergic active fractionation of hexane extracts of the leaves and stems of Anchietia salutaris var. martiana (family Violaceae) was performed by monitoring their activities with an in vitro bioassay system measuring the inhibitory effects on induced histamine release from guinea pig lung cells. Three known pentacyclic triterpenes (friedelin, alpha-amyrin, beta-amyrin) were isolated, but these compounds were inactive. Aliphatic hydrocarbons and methyl esters of fatty acids (palmitic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic acids) were detected in active fractions. All compounds isolated were detected for the first time in this medicinal plant.

[Chemical constituents of Cynanchum chinense R. Br]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the chemical constituents in the aerial part of Cynanchum chinense.

METHOD

The chemical constituents were extracted with solvent and separated by column chromatography. The structures were identified by spectral methods:

RESULT

The structures were identified as 7-O-alpha-L-rhamnopy-ranosyl-kaempferol-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside, 7-O-alpha-L-rhamnopy-ranosyl-kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside and 7-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyr-anosylkaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->2)- beta-D-glucopyranoside.

CONCLUSION

All the three compounds were separated from C. chinense for the first time.

Flavones and sesquiterpene lactones from Achillea atrata subsp. multifida: antimicrobial activity

Four flavones (1-4) and nine sesquiterpene lactones (5-13), one of them (5) a new compound, were isolated from the aerial parts of Achillea atrata L. subsp. multifida. Although the crude extract demonstrated in vitro inhibitory activity against Candida albicans and Bacillus subtilis, all isolated flavones were active against B. subtilis. Flavones 1, 2, and 3 were also active against C. albicans, while 1 and 3 exhibited activity against E. coli, as well. None of the tested lactones (7, 9, 12, and 13) showed any antimicrobial activity.

[Pharmacognostical identification of Artemisia argyi and Artemisia indica]

This paper reported the identification of Artemisia argyi and A. indica on their macroscopical and microscopical chracteristics, TLC and UV spectra. It provides a basis for their differentication, exploitage and utilization.

[GC-MS analysis of volatile oil of Herba Pogostemonis collected from Leizhou county]

The chemical constituents of the volatile oil of the stems and leaves of Pogostemon cablin collected from Leizhou county have been analysed by means of GC-MS. The main constituents are patchouli alcohol, delta-guaiene, alpha-guaiene, seychellene, alpha-patchoulene, aciphyllene, trans-caryophyllene.

Antifungal jujubogenin saponins from Colubrina retusa

Antifungal assay-guided isolation of the 95% ethanol extract of the stems of Colubrina retusa yielded jujubogenin 3-O-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1-->2)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->3)]-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside (1), which showed modest growth-inhibitory effects against Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Aspergillus fumigatus (MICs, 50 microg/mL). In addition, two new minor saponins, jujubogenin 3-O-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1-->2)-[2-O-(trans, cis)p-coumaroyl-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)]-alpha-L-arabinopy ranosi de (2), and jujubogenin 3-O-(5-O-malonyl)-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl (1-->2)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)]-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside (3), were obtained. Saponin 2 was marginally active against only C. neoformans, with a MIC of 50 microg/mL, while 3 was inactive. NMR spectroscopy was used extensively for the structure determination of these compounds. The previously reported ambiguity of the NMR assignments of jujubogenin saponins for carbons -26 to -29 was clarified by a comprehensive analysis of the NMR spectra of 1.

[Studies on chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of the stem of Cynomorium songaricum Rupr]

OBJECTIVE

In order to exploit the medicinal resources and provide a scientific evidence for the clinical use and quality of Cynomorium songaricum control, the chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of the stem of the plant were studied preliminarily.

METHOD

The chemical constituents were studied by spectral analysis and chemical method. The pharmacological effects were studied by an experiment on the defecation and deficiency of kidney function.

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

Seven compounds were isolated from the stem of C. songaricum and identified as beta-sitosterol(I), palmitic acid (II), ursloic acid (III), daucosterol (IV), (-)-catechin (VI), naringenin-4'-O-pyranogluoside (VII) and succinicyacid (XII). Compounds VI and XII were isolated from this species for the first time. The pharmacological results show that the different extracts facilitate catharsis and replenish the deficiency of kidney yang.

[Determination of B(a)p contents of pine tar and its extractives]

In this paper, the B(a)P contents of pine tar and its extractives A, B were determined by PC-Scanning method. After combining extraction by caffeine and formic acid with PC-Scanning method, the B(a)P contents were obtained. The results showed the B(a)P contents of pine tar and its extractives A, B were 6171.3 ppb, 2285.2 ppb, 129.6 ppb, among them, the B(a)P content of B was the lowest.

Polyhydroxylated pyrrolidine and pyrrolizidine alkaloids from Hyancinthoides non-scripta and Scilla campanulata

Aqueous ethanol extracts from the immature fruits and stalks of bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) were subjected to various ion-exchange column chromatographic steps to give 1,4-dideoxy-1,4-imino-D-arabinitol (1),2(R),5(R)-bis(hydroxymethyl)-3(R),4(R)-dihydroxypyrrolidine (DMDP) (2), 6-deoxy-6-C-(2,5-dihydroxyhexyl)-DMDP (3),2,5-dideoxy-2,5-imino-DL-glycero-D-manno-heptitol (homoDMDP)(4),homoDMDP-7-O-apioside (5), homoDMDP-7-O-beta-D-xylopyranoside (6), (1S*,2R*,3R*,5R*,7aR*)-1,2-dihydroxy-3,5- dihydroxymethylpyrrolizidine (7), and (1S*,2R*,3R*,5R*,6R*,7R*,7aR*)-3-hydroxymethyl-5-methyl-1,2,6,7 tetrahydroxypyrrolizidine (8). Bulbs of Scilla campanulata (Hyacinthaceae) yielded (1S*,2R*,3R*,5S*,7aR*)-1,2-dihydroxy-3,5-dihydroxy-methylpyrrol izidine (9) in addition to compounds 1-7. Compounds 3,6,7,8, and 9 are new natural products. Compound 4 is a potent competitive inhibitor with K(i) values of 1.5 microM for Caldocellum saccharolyticum beta-glucosidase and 2.2 microM for bovine liver beta-galactosidase. The 7-O-beta-D xyloside 6 was a stronger competitive inhibitor than 4 of C saccharolyticum beta-glucosidase and rat intestinal lactase, with K(i) values of 0.06 and 0.07 microM, respectively, but a weaker inhibitor of bovine liver beta-galactosidase. Furthermore, compound 4 is also a competitive inhibitor (K(i) = 1.8 microM) of porcine kidney trehalase, but 6 was inactive against this enzyme.

[Analysis on chemical composition of genus Pueraria stems from China]

OBJECTIVE

To provide scientific basis for developing and utilizing Pueraria stems.

METHOD

The contents of total flavonoid were determined by means of UV spectrophotometry. The isoflavones in stems and roots of nine species of genus Pueraria were analyzed by TLC.

RESULTS

The stems and roots are similar in chemical composition.

CONCLUSION

Pueraria stems as a potential resource could be used as a substitute for Pueraria roots.

Antiprotozoal activity of aporphine alkaloids isolated from Unonopsis buchtienii (Annonaceae)

On a preliminary screening, substantial leishmanicidal activity was observed for the petroleum ether and alkaloidal extracts of the stem bark of Unonopsis buchtienii, the alkaloids and sterols isolated from these were studied. Of the alkaloids, liriodenine exhibited the highest activity against Leishmania major and L donovani (IC100 = 3.12 micrograms/mL). On the other hand, O-methylmoschatoline and the petroleum ether extract without alkaloids showed an interesting in vitro activity against Trypanosoma brucei with an IC100 of 6.25 micrograms/mL. The highest cytotoxic activities were found with the petroleum ether extracts without alkaloids and with all alkaloids isolated (IC50 < 9 micrograms/mL for Vero cell line).

bis-5-Alkylresorcinols from Panopsis rubescens that inhibit DNA polymerase beta

Bioassay-guided fractionation of Panopsis rubescens, using an assay to detect DNA polymerase beta inhibition, led to the isolation of two new bis-5-alkylresorcinols (1 and 2), in addition to one known bis-5-alkylresorcinol (3). The structures of 1-3 were established as 1,3-dihydroxy-5-[14'-(3' ',5' '-dihydroxyphenyl)-cis-4'-tetradecenyl]benzene (1), 1, 3-dihydroxy-5-[14'-(3' ',5' '-dihydroxyphenyl)-cis-7'-tetradecenyl]benzene (2), and 1, 3-dihydroxy-5-[14'-(3' ',5' '-dihydroxyphenyl)tetradecenyl]benzene (3), respectively, by spectroscopic and chemical analyses. Compounds 1-3 exhibited potent inhibition of calf thymus DNA polymerase beta, with IC50 values of 7.5, 6.5, and 5.8 microM, respectively.

Sesquiterpene esters of aristolochic acid from the root and stem of Aristolochia heterophylla

Three novel sesquiterpene esters of aristolochic acid, aristoloterpenate-II (2), -III (3), and-IV (4), together with known aristoloterpenate-I (1), were isolated and characterized from the root and stem of Aristolochia heterophylla. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. The absolute configuration of these compounds at C-4' was determined as R by circular dichroic studies. These compounds showed cytotoxicity against hepatoma G2, 2, 2, 15 cells.

Cassava latex as a source of linamarase for determination of linamarin

A major constraint in the enzymatic assays for determination of linamarin in cassava is the preparation of purified linamarase. Cassava latex, which exhibits high linamarase activity, was tried as an alternate source of the enzyme. Enzyme yield from latex was compared with that from rind and leaf. Preparations from latex had significantly higher linamarase activity (approximately 300-fold) compared to leaf and rind. The purification of the enzyme was easier since homogenization of large quantities of tissues could be avoided. A 1 g amount of latex could yield enough enzyme for >3000 assays.

Inhibition of chitin synthase II by catechins from stem bark of Taxus cuspidata

Two flavonoids, (+/-)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin, were isolated from the stem bark of Taxus cuspidata by monitoring chitin synthase II inhibitory activity. The compounds inhibit chitin synthase II with an IC50 of 15 and 29 micrograms/ml, respectively and appear to be selective for chitin synthase II. They did not inhibit chitin synthase III.

Analgesic, antiinflammatory and hypoglycaemic activities of Sida cordifolia

Sida cordifolia extracts of the aerial and root parts showed good analgesic, antiinflammatory and hypoglycaemic activities. The ethyl acetate (EA) extract of root (SCR-E) showed comparable antiinflammatory activity with indomethacin and possessed significantly higher activity when compared with that of the methanol extract of the root part (SCR-M). The ethyl acetate extract of both root and aerial parts of Sida cordifolia (SCR-E and SCA-E) showed very good central and peripheral analgesic activities at a dose of 600 mg/kg. The methanol extract of root (SCR-M) was found to possess significant hypoglycaemic activity.

Study of the antinociceptive action of the ethanolic extract and the triterpene 24-hydroxytormentic acid isolated from the stem bark of Ocotea suaveolens

We describe here the antinociceptive action of the crude extract (CE), the chemical isolation and characterisation and preliminary pharmacological analysis of 24-hydroxytormentic acid, isolated from the stem bark of Ocotea suaveolens (Lauraceae). The CE given by i.p. or p.o. routes, 30 min and 1 h prior, produced significant inhibition of abdominal constrictions caused by acetic acid and also inhibited both phases of formalin-induced licking in mice. The antinociception caused by the CE, given by i.p. and p.o. routes, lasted up to 4 and 2h, respectively. When assessed in the hot-plate test, the CE was inactive. Its antinociceptive action was not associated with non-specific effects such as muscle relaxation or sedation. The antinociception of CE was not influenced by naloxone, L-arginine or DL-p-chlorophenylalanine methyl ester, when assessed against the formalin assay. The triterpene 24-hydroxytormentic acid, given i.p. 30 min before testing, produced significant, dose-related and equipotent antinociceptive action against both phases of formalin-induced licking in mice. These results demonstrate, for the first time, the occurrence of the triterpene 24-hydroxytormentic acid in the stem bark of Ocotea suaveolens, and show that the CE and 24-hydroxytormentic acid exhibit marked antinociception against the neurogenic and the inflamamtory algesic responses induced by formalin in mice. The mechanism by which this compound and CE produces antinociception still remains unclear, but is unlikely to involve the activation of opioid, nitric oxide or serotonin systems or non-specific peripheral or central depressant actions.

A triterpenoid saponin from Albizia julibrissin

A triterpenoid saponin (1) was obtained from the stem barks of Albizia julibrissin Durazz. Its structure was elucidated as 3-O-[beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 --> 2)-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1 --> 6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl]-21-O-[(6S)-2-trans-2-hydroxymethyl-6-methyl-6-O-beta-D-quinovopyranosyl-2, 7-octadienoyl]-16-deoxy-acacic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 --> 3)-[alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl-(1 --> 4)]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 --> 2)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (1), named as Julibroside J26, based on the chemical and spectral methods.

Three steroidal alkaloids from Buxus microphylla

Three new steroidal alkaloids have been isolated from the leaves and stems of Buxus microphylla Sieb et Zucc. They are buxmicrophylline B, C and D. Their structures were elucidated by extensive analysis of the spectral data.

[GC-MS analysis of volatile oil of herba Pogostemonis collected from Gaoyao county]

The chemical constituents of the volatile oil of the stems and leaves of Pogostemon cablin collected from Gaoyao county, Guangdong province, have been studied by means of GC-MS. Sixty four compounds have been identified. The main constituents are pogostone (30.99% in stems, 21.31% in leaves, the same below), patchouli alcohol (10.26%, 37.53%), transcaryophyllene (4.92%, 6.75%), alpha-guaiene (2.27%, 6.18%) and seychellene (1.56%, 1.99%), etc.

Nutrient and antinutrient composition of Amaranthus muricatus

The chemical and nutritional composition of the aerial parts of Amaranthus muricatus was assessed. This is a wild plant growing well in arid and poor soil, which are not suitable for cereals. The material under study was boiled, dried and ground and then evaluated for chemical, nutritional and antinutritional properties. Protein concentration of the amaranth flour was 15.74 g/100 g and total dietary fiber content was high (53.81 g/100 g), with 79% coming from insoluble dietary fiber. The calcium content was 1533 mg/100 g and the Ca/P ratio (5.94) was markedly higher than the value suggested in the 1989 Recommended Dietary Allowances. Fifty-nine percent of the fatty acids present were unsaturated with linoleic acid accounting for 40% of the total fatty acid content. Nitrate, hemagglutinin, trypsin inhibitor and saponin contents were within the non-critical values. Net protein utilization (NPU), true digestibility (tD) and biological value (BV) measurements indicated a nitrogen gain of 74% that of casein. The results of this study indicate a nutritive potential for the A. muricatus leaves, therefore, domestication of this plant is suggested along with assessment of its chemical and nutritional properties.

[Morphometrical study on inhibitory effect of vitamin B6 and banana-stem extract on calcium crystallization]

OBJECTIVE

To search for the anticrystallization mechanism by vitamin B(6) and banana stem extract.

METHOD

Thirty-six male China-1 mice were divided into 4 groups: normal, crystallization, vitamin B(6) and banana-stem extract groups. Calcium oxalate crystallization was induced by 1% glycol and 1% ammonium chloride in the last 3 groups. Vitamin B(6) was then given to the 3rd group and banana stem extract to the 4th group for 3 weeks. At the end of 3 weeks, all the mice were sacrificed and the kidneys were taken for morphometrical studies using image analysis system and assayed for calcium oxalate.

RESULT

Morphometrical area density and numerical density of crystallization was significantly less in the vitamin B(6) group and the banana-stem extract group as compared with the crystallization group, being the least in the banana-stem extract group. Oxalate in renal tissue was also significantly reduced. Both vitamin B(6) and banana stem extract had no effect on renal tissue calcium.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin B(6) and banana-stem extract may be useful agents in the treatment of patients with hyperocaluric urolithiasis.

Phytochemical and pharmacological analysis of different parts of Wedelia paludosa DC. (Compositae)

This study demonstrates the chromatographic profile and antinociceptive action of methanolic extracts obtained from different parts of Wedelia paludosa, a medicinal plant employed in folk medicine to treat dolorous processes. The results indicated that the root was the most potent part whereas the flower exhibited a weak antinociceptive activity. Comparative TLC suggested that all extract show different constituents or concentrations. Kaurenoic acid and stigmasterol were detected in all extracts and luteolin is present only in leaves and stems, but in small quantities. These results confirm our previous investigation on this plant and support its popular use for the treatment of algesic processes.

[Determination of oleanolic acid and total saponins in Aralia L]

OBJECTIVE

To search for higher contents of olenolic acid and saponins in Aralia for medicinal use.

METHOD

A HPLC method was developed for the determination of olenolic acid in Aralia. An YWG C-18 column was used and the mobile phase was methanol-water(90:10). The detection wavelength was UV 210 nm. The total saponins were determined by colorimetry.

RESULT

Olenolic acid in root or stems of 13 species and total saponins in whole roots and root barks of 14 species of Aralia were determined. The contents of olenolic acid and total saponins in woody Aralia were higher than those in herbaceous.

CONCLUSION

The contents of olenolic acid in A. decaisneana, A. elata, A. chinocaulis, A. chinensis and A. chinensis var. dasyphylloides are higher than those in other species. Furthermore, A. decaisneana and A. elata are rich in wild resources and thus of importance to the development and utilization of wild plants containing olenolic acid.

Gastroprotective effect of Copaifera langsdorffii oleo-resin on experimental gastric ulcer models in rats

The effects of oleo-resin obtained from the stem bark of Copaifera langsdorffii on ethanol, indomethacin and hypothermic restraint-stress induced gastric lesions were studied in rats. Oral administration of oleo-resin at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg provided dose-dependent significant protection against gastric damage caused by ethanol and restraint stress, and at a dose of 400 mg/kg it also prevented the gastric ulceration induced by indomethacin. Further, in the 4 h pylorus ligated rats, the accumulation of gastric juice volume and the mucus secretion was significantly enhanced by oleo-resin whereas the total acidity was inhibited. These results highlight the gastroprotective potential of C. langsdorffii oleo-resin and the need for a systematic study on this traditional remedy.

[Study on the chemical components of Rabdosia excisa]

Four kinds of components were extracted and separated from the stems and leaves of Rabdosia excisa. They had been identified as Kamebakaurin, Ursolic acid, Daucosterol and Liquiritin respectively by physical and chemical methods, as well as spectrum data. It was first time that Liquiritin was obtained from the Robdosia family, and its 13C-NMR data of Liquiritin had not been reported before.

In vitro antiplasmodial activity of stem and root extracts of Nauclea latifolia S.M. (Rubiaceae)

Aqueous extracts from Nauclea latifolia S.M. (Rubiaceae), a plant commonly used in Ivory Coast by traditional healers for the treatment of malaria, were tested on two strains of Plasmodium faliparum: FcB1-Colombia (chloroquine-resistant) and a Nigerian strain (chloroquine-sensitive). The extracts were obtained from stems and roots of the plant in two forms, infusion and decoction, both methods used by most traditional healers. The in vitro activity of N. latifolia extracts on P. falciparum was assessed both visually and by a radioactive method. The visual analysis allowed determination of the time of extract action on the erythrocytic cycle, as well as the parasitic stage of most inhibitory effect. Similar results were obtained applying fresh, frozen or lyophilized extracts. The IC50 values determined were within the range already reported for other antimalarial plants such as Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Meliaceae) or Artemisia annua L. (Asteraceae). Aqueous extracts of N. latifolia inhibited P. falciparum (FcB1 strain) mainly at the end of the erythrocytic cycle (32nd to 48th hour).

[Chemical constituents of essential oil from roots and rhizomes of Valeriana alernifolia Bunge]

OBJECTIVE

To study the chemical constituents of essential oil from the root and rhizome of Valeriana alternifolia.

METHOD

The essential oil was extracted by steam distillation. The components were separated and identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and elucidated on the standard mass spectral data and the percentages were determined by gas chromatographic area normalization method.

RESULT

Twenty-eight constituents were identified, which make up 64.05% of the oil.

CONCLUSION

Bornyl acetate is the main constituent, and other constituents include borneol, terpinyl acetate, alpha-curcumene, camphene, isovaleric acid, trans-beta-farnesene, beta-bisabolene, etc.