Allergic contact dermatitis caused by Lithraea molleoides and Lithraea brasiliensis: identification and characterization of the responsible allergens

BACKGROUND

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by species of Lithraea genus (Anacardiaceae) is frequent in South America. Nevertheless, it has been scarcely reported in the literature, hitherto the responsible allergens have not been studied in some species.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify and characterize the allergenic compounds of Lithraea molleoides and brasiliensis, and to investigate the existence of cross-reactions with Toxicodendron allergens.

METHODS

Twenty-seven South American subjects (17 with previous Lithraea dermatitis and 10 controls without any plant dermatitis) and four North American subjects who are highly sensitive to poison oak were tested with both purified Lithraea molleoides and brasiliensis extracts and poison oak urushiol. Lithraea extracts were analyzed by gas liquid chromatography (GLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

RESULTS

All 17 Lithraea-sensitive subjects reacted to poison oak urushiol and 13 of them also reacted to Lithraea molleoides and/or brasiliensis extracts. All 4 poison oak sensitive subjects reacted to poison oak urushiol and to Lithraea extracts. In both groups of sensitive subjects, the responses to poison oak urushiol were stronger and occurred at lower concentration than those to Lithraea extracts. The allergenic fraction in both Lithraea species consisted of: 3-pentadecylcatechol, 3-pentadecenylcatechol, 3-heptadecenylcatechol and 3-hepta-dec-dienilcatechol.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that Lithraea molleoides and brasiliensis allergens are closely related to urushiol, although their eliciting potential seems to be lower in comparison with poison oak urushiol, even for Lithraea-sensitive subjects.

Effect of the aqueous extract of Aquilaria agallocha stems on the immediate hypersensitivity reactions

We investigated the effects of the aqueous extract of Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. (Thymelaeaceae) on the immediate hypersensitivity reactions. The aqueous extract of Aquilaria agallocha stems showed inhibitory effects on passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, anaphylaxis induced by compound 48/80, and histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC). The morphological examination also clearly showed that the extract prevented the degranulation of RPMC in rats. The level of compound 48/80-induced intracellular cAMP in RPMC, when the extract was added, significantly increased about 8-fold at 10 s compared with that of basal cells. These results suggest that the aqueous extract of Aquilaria agallocha stems inhibits the immediate hypersensitivity reaction by inhibition of histamine release from mast cells.

[GC-MS analysis of constituents of essential oils from stems of Ephedra sinica Stapf, E. intermedia Schrenk et C.A. Mey. and E. equisetina Bge]

The essential oils from the dried stems of Ephedra sinica, E. intermedia and E. equisetina were analyzed by GC-MS qualitatively and GC quantitatively. One hundred and twenty-seven constituents were identified, l-alpha-terpineol (31.64%) in E. sinica, 1,4-cineole (12.80%) in E. intermedia and hexadecanoic acid (26.22%) in E. equisetina being the main constituents.

Antinociceptive effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Bauhinia splendens stems in mice

The analgesic effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of the stems of Bauhinia splendens (Leguminosae) has been investigated in chemical and thermal models of nociception in mice. The hydroalcoholic extract of B. splendens, 3-60 mg kg-1 intraperitoneally or 50-400 mg kg-1 orally, caused dose-related, and long-lasting (up to 3 h) inhibition of acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction in mice, with ID50 values of 3.2 and 177.6 mg kg-1 and maximum inhibition of 95 +/- 2 and 61 +/- 6%, respectively. In the formalin test, the extract given intraperitoneally (1-60 mg kg-1) or orally (50-400 mg kg-1) caused graded inhibition of both phases of formalin-induced pain, being about 5- to 6-fold more potent in attenuating the second phase of pain. The calculated mean ID50 values for the first and the second phases were 11.5 and 2.5 mg kg-1, respectively, for intraperitoneal administration and > 200 and 70 mg kg-1, respectively, for oral administration; the percentages of maximum inhibition for the first and the second phases were 68 +/- 6 and 99 +/- 1, respectively, for intraperitoneal administration and 37 +/- 6 and 69 +/- 9, respectively, for oral administration. However, at the same doses the extract did not significantly affect the oedematogenic response induced by formalin. The treatment of animals with naloxone (5 mg kg-1, i.p.) completely reversed the analgesic effect caused by morphine (5 mg kg-1, s.c.), but had no effect against the antinociceptive effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of B. splendens (60 mg kg-1, i.p.) when assessed against acetic acid-induced abdominal constrictions. Furthermore, the extract, in contrast with morphine, had no analgesic effect in the hot-plate test. These data show that the hydroalcoholic extract of B. splendens has significant analgesic action when assessed against several models of pain. The mechanism underlying its analgesic effect still remains unknown, but seems to be unrelated to interaction with opioid systems.

[Chemical constituents of the stems and leaves of Trigonella foenum-graecum L]

Two compounds were isolated from the leaves and stems of Trigonella foenum-graecum, and on the basis of spectral analysis, their structures were elucidated as gamma-schizandrin and scopoletin. They were isolated from T. foenum-grecum for the first time.

Cytotoxic constituents from the stems of Diospyros maritima

One novel coumaric acid ester of lupeol, dioslupecin A (1), three naphthoquinones, 8'-hydroxyisodiospyrin (2), isodiospyrin (3), and plumbagin (4), three triterpenes, lupeol, lupenone and taraxerone, and four sterols, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, stigmast-4-en-3-one and ergosta-4,6,8(14),22-tetraen-3-one were isolated from the n-hexane extract of the stems of Diospyros maritima Blume. The structural determination of 1 was based on 1D and 2D NMR spectra (including 1H-1H COSY, 1H-13C COSY, and HMBC). All compounds were evaluated for in vitro cytotoxicity in 4 cancer cell lines. Compound 2 showed similar cytotoxicity against hepatoma (HEPA-3B, ED50 = 1.72 micrograms/ml), nasopharynx carcinoma (KB, ED50 = 1.85 micrograms/ml), colon carcinoma (COLO-205, ED50 = 2.24 micrograms/ml) and cervical carcinoma (HELA, ED50 = 1.92 micrograms/ml). Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited strong cytotoxicity against HEPA-3B, KB, COLO-205 and HELA (ED50 = 0.25, 1.81, 0.13 and 0.27 micrograms/ml for 3; ED50 = 0.87, 3.27, 0.56 and 0.35 micrograms/ml for 4, respectively.

[Isolation and structure elucidation of three dihydrophenanthrenes from Ephemerantha lonchophylla]

In this paper, three dihydrophenanthrenes are isolated from the Stems and pseudobulbs of Ephemerantha lonchophylla (Orchidaceae). They are identified as Iusianthridin (1), ephemeranthol-B (2) and erianthridin (3) by spectral data.

[The structural elucidation of new polyoxygenated cyclohexenes from Uvaria grandiflora]

Four new polyoxygenated cyclohexenes, named uvarigranol A(1), B(2), E(3) and F(4), along with the known zeylenol were obtained from the roots of Uvaria grandiflora Roxb (Annonaceae). Based on spectral and X-ray analysis as well as Mosher methodology, their structures and absolute configuration were established.

Bioactive alkaloids from Illigera luzonensis

Using antiplatelet aggregation as a guide to fractionation, seven aporphines, actinodaphnine (1), N-methylactinodaphnine (2), launobine (3), dicentrine (4), O-methylbulbocapnine (5), hernovine (7), and bulbocapnine (9), and two oxoaporphines, dicentrinone (6) and liriodenine (8), were isolated from the stems of Illigera luzonensis. Among them, compounds 2, 4, 5, 8, and 9 were isolated for the first time from this species. Moreover, compounds 1-5, and 8 showed significant antiplatelet aggregation and compounds 1 and 6 exhibited significant vasorelaxant activities, respectively.

[Chemical constituents of the stems of Erycibe schmidtii Craib]

Seven compounds were isolated from the stems of Erycibe schmidtii for the first time. They were identified as hexadecanoic acid, beta-sitosterol, scopoletin, chlorogenic acid, daucosterel, scopolin and an alkaloid-baogongteng C.

Analysis of type 1 metallothionein cDNAs in Vicia faba

In animals and fungi, small cysteine-rich proteins called metallothioneins (MTs) play a role in heavy metal tolerance. MT genes have been isolated in plants, but their function remains to be elucidated. We have isolated two distinct Vicia faba MT genes that belong to the type 1 group of plant MT genes in contrast to a MT gene we previously isolated that belongs to type 2. We found similarities and differences between the V. faba MT genes. The RNA expression patterns differed and this was most pronounced in roots, which contained high MT1 but very low MT2 RNA levels. Like MT2, MT1 transcript levels were not significantly affected by treatment with Cd, Cu, Fe and Zn, at least under the experimental conditions. MT RNA levels varied in leaves and stem internodes of different developmental ages, with the highest expression in the older tissue. The levels of MT RNA correlated inversely with endogenous Cd, Cu and Fe levels within different internodes, but not with a number of other metals tested (including Zn). The three bean MTs were expressed in Escherichia coli and found to bind Cd, Cu and Zn but not to Fe. The MTs were tested to determine if they differed in their ability to bind a specific metal but no significant differences in binding were observed.

[Pharmacognostical studies on the stem and leaf of Chinese Alyxia]

About the stem and leaf of Chinese alyxia, pharmacognostical studies on the character, microscopical and physichemical aspects are made, The results are certifed that the methods of determination on the character and microscopical may be adopt for stem and leaf Chinese alyxia. There are a rich amino acids and trace elements. It provide scientific basis for its comprehensive development and utilization.

Tissue-specific expression of ATCYS-3A, a gene encoding the cytosolic isoform of O-acetylserine(thiol)lyase in Arabidopsis

Atcys-3A from Arabidopsis encodes the cytosolic isoform of O-acetylserine(thiol)lyase that catalyzes the last step of cysteine biosynthesis. The Atcys-3A transcript is present in different organs of mature plants, being more abundant in roots and declining to 40-50% in rosette leaves and flowers. In situ hybridization studies have shown a high Atcys-3A signal in root tissues, mainly localized to the cortex and xylem parenchyma. In a flower before anthesis, the transcript is detected exclusively in anthers and sepals and evenly distributed throughout the receptacle of the flower. An unexpected observation from these studies is the highest expression of Atcys-3A mRNA found in trichomes of either leaf or stem. The presence of high levels of the transcript is observed very early in trichome cell development. This is the first report describing the cellular localization of any plant O-acetylserine(thiol)lyase mRNA. The high level of Atcys-3A expression in trichomes raises new aspects to the biological function of trichomes, related to sulfate metabolism.

Functional activity of sporamin from sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas Lam.): a tuber storage protein with trypsin inhibitory activity

Sporamin accounts for about 60% to 80% of total soluble protein in sweet potato tubers, and the predicted protein sequence of sporamin shares significant amino acid sequence identity with some Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitors. We constructed three recombinant plasmids with cDNAs that encode preprosporamin, prosporamin, and sporamin, and these three were expressed in Escherichia coli cells as fusion proteins. All three forms of sporamin expressed in E. coli were shown to have strong inhibitory activity to trypsin in vitro, suggesting that post-translational modifications are not essential for trypsin inhibitory activity. Northern blot analysis showed that sporamin transcripts could be systemically induced in leaf tissue of sweet potato by wounding. Therefore, sporamin may have a defense role as a protease inhibitor, in addition to its role as a storage protein.

A comparative survey of leguminous plants as sources of the isoflavones, genistein and daidzein: implications for human nutrition and health

Over 80 taxa of mostly agriculturally important legumes were surveyed as sources of the metabolites, genistein and daidzein. Remarkably high concentrations (over 2 g.kg-1 dry weight) of the anticancer metabolite, genistein, were found in the leaves of Psoralea corylifolia (Indian bread root). All other legumes, with the exception of fermented soybean miso, had genistein levels < 400 mg.kg-1 dry weight. Concentrations of over 1 g.kg-1 dry weight and 0.95 g.kg-1 dry weight of the anticancer metabolite, daidzein, were found in the stems of the fava bean (Vicia faba) and roots of kudzu vine (Pueraria lobata), respectively. From this survey, our results indicate that the legumes, lupine (Lupinus spp.), fava bean, (Vicia faba), soybeans (Glycine max), kudzu (Pueraria lobata), and psoralea (Psoralea corylifolia), are excellent food sources for both genistein and daidzein. Miso, a fermented soybean product, is also a rich source of both isoflavones.

Cytochemical localization of phenol-oxidizing enzymes in lignifying Coleus blumei stems

The cytochemical localization of the phenol oxidases, laccase and peroxidase, has been studied in pro-lignifying and lignifying Coleus blumei stem sections using 4-methoxy-alpha-naphthol as substrate. The results illustrated that, for short incubation times, both pro-lignifying and lignifying Coleus sections showed H2O2-dependent phenol oxidase (peroxidase-like) activity in epidermal and vascular tissues, while no detectable H2O2-independent phenol oxidase (laccase-like) activity was found in Coleus tissues. For long incubation times, H2O2-independent phenol-oxidases can also be detected in these tissues, however, this is probably due to the partial capability of intercellular washing fluid Coleus peroxidase to oxidize 4-methoxy-alpha-naphthol in the absence of exogenously added H2O2. This illustrates not only the importance of the substrate used, but also the importance of the incubation time, in the cytochemical localization of phenol oxidizing enzymes.

[Chemical constituents of Strychnos nitida G. Don]

Six compounds were isolated from the root and stem of Strychnos nitida for the first time. On the basis of chemical properties and spectral data, the compounds were identified as beta-sitosterol, strychnine, brucine, cantieyine, lignoceric acid and palmitic acid.

Controlled environments alter nutrient content of soybeans

Information about compositional changes in plants grown in controlled environments is essential for developing a safe, nutritious diet for a Controlled Ecomological Life-Support System (CELSS). Information now is available for some CELSS candidate crops, but detailed information has been lacking for soybeans. To determine the effect of environment on macronutrient and mineral composition of soybeans, plants were grown both in the field and in a controlled environment where the hydroponic nutrient solution, photosynthetic flux (PPF), and CO2 level were manipulated to achieve rapid growth rates. Plants were harvested at seed maturity, separated into discrete parts, and oven dried prior to chemical analysis. Plant material was analyzed for proximate composition (moisture, protein, lipid, ash, and carbohydrate), total nitrogen (N), nonprotein N (NPN), nitrate, minerals, amino acid composition, and total dietary fiber. The effect of environment on composition varied by cultivar and plant part. Chamber-grown plants generally exhibited the following characteristics compared with field-grown plants: 1) increased total N and protein N for all plant parts, 2) increased nitrate in leaves and stems but not in seeds, 3) increased lipids in seeds, and 4) decreased Ca:P ratio for stems, pods, and leaves. These trends are consistent with data for other CELSS crops. Total N, protein N, and amino acid contents for 350 ppm CO2 and 1000 ppm CO2 were similar for seeds, but protein N and amino acid contents for leaves were higher at 350 ppm CO2 than at 1000 ppm CO2. Total dietary fiber content of soybean leaves was higher with 350 ppm CO2 than with 1000 ppm CO2. Such data will help in selecting of crop species, cultivars, and growing conditions to ensure safe, nutritious diets for CELSS.

Antisweet natural products. XII. Structures of sitakisosides XI-XX from Stephanotis lutchuensis Koidz. var. japonica

From the fresh stem of Stephanotis lutchuensis var. japonica, ten new oleanane-type triterpenoid glycosides, named sitakisosides XI-XX (1-10), were isolated. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic data and chemical evidence. The results show that all have a 3-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl(1 --> 6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1 --> 6)- beta-D-glucopyranosyl moiety and the aglycones of sitakisosides XI-XV, XVI and XVII, XVIII and XIX, and XX are sitakisogenin, chichipegenin, marsglobiferin and longispinogenin, respectively. Sitakisosides XI-XIII, XVI and XVIII, having an acyl group, showed antisweet activity.

Immunofluorescence detection of F-actin on low melting point wax sections from plant tissues

We developed a simple and reliable technique for immunofluorescence detection of F-actin on microtome sections of plant tissues. For the first time, large numbers of plant cells from various tissues that pass through their developmental stages could be consistently visualized on one section from plant organs. n-Maleimidobenzoic acid N-hydroxysuccinimide ester-pretreated and formalin-fixed segments of plant roots and shoots were embedded in low melting point ester wax at 37C and sectioned on a microtome. After dewaxing and rehydration, microfilaments were visualized by indirect immunofluorescence technique with a monoclonal anti-actin antibody. The technique has been successfully used for visualization of tissue- and development-specific F-actin arrays in cells of Zea mays and Lepidium sativum root tips and of maize stem nodes.

Antimycobacterial cycloartanes from Borrichia frutescens

In a bioassay-guided search for antimycobacterial compounds from higher plants of the southeastern United States, we have chemically investigated the sea daisy (Borrichia frutescens) from coastal marshes of Louisiana for their active constituents. Bioactive chromatographic fractions provided two new triterpenes, (24R)-24,25-epoxycycloartan-3-one (1) and (23R)-3-oxolanosta-8,24-dien-23-ol (4), and (3 alpha H, 24R)-24,25-epoxycycloartan-3-ol (3a). Compound 3a had been previously isolated as a mixture of C-24 epimers. The structures of 1, 3a, and 4 were established by spectroscopic methods and chemical transformations, and the molecular structures of 1 and 4 were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In a radiorespirometric bioassay against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the epoxycycloartanes 1 and 3a exhibited minimum inhibitory concentrations of 8 micrograms/mL. In contrast, the lanostadiene-type triterpene 4 showed no significant inhibition at 128 micrograms/mL, as did the acetate 3b. Cytotoxicity for Vero cells gave IC50 values of 71.8, 39.8, and 103.6 micrograms/mL for triterpenes 1, 3a, and 4, respectively.

A gene encoding a major Kunitz proteinase inhibitor of storage organs of winged bean is also expressed in the phloem of stems

Winged bean Kunitz chymotrypsin inhibitor (WCI) accumulates abundantly in seeds and tuberous roots, and small amounts of the WCI protein and mRNA can also be detected in stems. In this study, we analyzed the localization of the WCI protein in stems of winged bean. The results demonstrated that the WCI protein was localized in sieve tubes. Furthermore, we showed that the 5' region of the WCI-3b gene, which exhibited strong transcriptional activity in developing seeds, also promoted transcription of a reporter gene in the phloem of stems of transgenic tobacco.

Triterpenes from the combined leaf and stem of Lithospermum caroliniense

An investigation of the combined leaf and stem of Lithospermum caroliniense afforded two new pentacyclic triterpenoids based on the olean-12-ene and taraxast-12-ene skeletal types. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectral analysis as 1 alpha,3 beta,23-trihydroxyolean-12-ene-28-oic acid and 3 alpha,19 beta,21 alpha,23-tetrahydroxytaraxast-12-ene-28-oic acid.

New triterpenoid saponins from Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Three new triterpenoidal saponins (1-3), together with the known compound 4, were isolated from a MeOH extract of the aerial parts of Gynostemma pentaphyllum. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of chemical and spectral methods, such as 1H-1H DQFCOSY, HMQC, HMBC, and TOCSY NMR spectra. The aglycon moiety of 1 and 2 is a new dammarane-type triterpene 12-oxo-2 alpha, 3 beta, 20 (S)-trihydroxydammar- 24-ene.

Two new lignans, interiotherins A and B, as anti-HIV principles from Kadsura interior

Two new lignans, interiotherins A (1) and B (2), along with two known lignans, angeloylgomisin R (3) and schisantherin D (4), were isolated from Kadsura interior. Their structures and stereochemistries were determined from spectral data. Compounds 1 and 4 inhibit HIV replication with EC50 values of 3.1 and 0.5 micrograms/mL, respectively.

Indonesian medicinal plants. XVII. Characterization of quassinoids from the stems of Quassia indica

Four new quassinoids named samaderines X (1), Y (2) and Z (3), and indaquassin X (5), and a new C19 quassinoid glycoside, 2-O-glucosylsamaderine C (10), together with five known quassinoids, samaderines B (7), C (8), and E (4), indaquassin C (6), and simarinolide (9), were isolated form the stems of Quassia indica (Simaroubaceae), an Indonesian medicinal plant. The chemical structures of these quassinoids have been elucidated on the bases of their chemical and physiochemical properties. Samaderines X (1), Z (3), E (4), and B (7) were shown to exhibit significant growth-inhibitory activity against the cultured malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum (a chloroquine- resistant K1 strain), and 1--8 were shown to exhibit in vitro cytotoxicity (IC50: 0.04--100 micrograms/ml) against KB cells. Samaderines X (1), B (7) and C (8), as well s indaquassin X (5), exhibited inhibitory activity in the in vitro endothelial cell-neutrophil leukocyte adhesion assay, whereas samaderines X (1) and B (7) were found to exhibit significant anti-inflammatory activity.

[Determination of flavonoids in different parts of five epimedium plants]

By means of RP-HPLC, nine major flavonoids in different parts of five Epimedium plants incorporated in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (1990 edn.) were analyzed. The result shows that the total contents of nine flavonoids in four species were rhizome and roots > leaves > stems. Nevertheless, in terms of composition of the main constituents and relative contents of the five species, the leaves are similar to the stems but different from the rhizome and roots. The difference may be reflected in their pharmaceutical effects and thus deserves attention.

Localization of tobacco cytosolic glutamine synthetase enzymes and the corresponding transcripts shows organ- and cell-specific patterns of protein synthesis and gene expression

The subcellular localization of glutamine synthetase in tobacco and the differential expression of two genes encoding cytosolic enzyme was investigated using both immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization. Two full length cDNA clones each encoding cytosolic GS (Gln 1-3 and Gln 1-5) were isolated from a tobacco seeding cDNA library. A strong homology was found in the coding region of the two clones whereas the 3'- and 5'-untranslated sequences were dissimilar. In order to determine the levels of transcription, specific sequences from Gln1-3 and Gln1-5 were used in an RNAse protection assay. This experiment clearly showed that the gene encoding Gln1-3 is expressed in roots and flowers whereas the gene encoding Gln1-5 is transcribed at a high level in stems and at a lower level in roots and flowers. Immunogold labelling was used to examine the subcellular and cellular distribution of glutamine synthetase in vegetative and reproductive organs of tobacco plants. In mature leaf tissue or petals and sepals, plastidic GS was visualised only in the stroma matrix of chloroplasts and plastids. Cytosolic GS was detected in a number of vegetative or reproductive organs including leaves and flowers. In leaves cytosolic GS was preferentially located in the vascular tissue. In situ hybridization was performed using sections of tobacco organs and specific antisense RNA probes to the genes encoding Gln1-3 and Gln1-5. Gln1-5 transcripts were localised in the vascular tissues of stems and roots whereas Gln1-3 transcripts were detected in all root cells and floral organs including petals, sepals and anthers.

[Effects of saponins from stems and leaves of Panax quinquefolium L. on the contraction of rabbit aortic strips]

It has been found out that the saponins from stems and leaves of Panax quinquefolium (PQS) can non-competitively antagonize the dose-response curves of norepinephrine (NE), potassium chloride and calcium chloride on the isolated aortic strips of rabbits, and obviously inhibit intracellular and extracellular Ca2(+)-dependent contraction of the aortic strips induced by NE. These effects of PQS are similar to verapamil.

Expression of two heterologous promoters, Agrobacterium rhizogenes rolC and cauliflower mosaic virus 35S, in the stem of transgenic hybrid aspen plants during the annual cycle of growth and dormancy

We monitored, for the first time, the activity of two model heterologous promoters, the Agrobacterium rhizogenes rolC and the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S, throughout the annual cycle of growth and dormancy in a perennial species, hybrid aspen. Each promoter was fused to the uidA beta-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene and the constructs were introduced into the hybrid aspen genome by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Both wild-type and transgenic plants were cultivated under different regimes of photoperiod and temperature to induce passage through one growth-dormancy-reactivation cycle, and at intervals GUS staining was assessed in stem sections. In rolC::uidA transformants, GUS activity in rapidly growing current-year shoots was not only tissue-specific, being localized to the phloem, but also cell-specific at the shoot base, where it was present only in the companion cells. However, during the onset of dormancy induced by short photoperiod, GUS activity shifted laterally from the phloem to include the cortex and pith. After subsequent exposure to chilling temperatures to induce the transition between the dormancy stages of rest and quiescence, GUS activity almost disappeared from all stem tissues, but regained its original phloem specificity and intensity after the shoots were reactivated by exposing them to long photoperiod and high temperatures. In contrast, GUS activity in the stem of 35S::uidA transformants was strong in all tissues except for the vascular cambium and xylem, and did not vary in intensity during the growth-dormancy-reactivation cycle. The lateral shift and increased intensity of GUS activity in the stem of rolC::uidA transformants during dormancy induction was shown to be associated with the accumulation of starch, and to be mimicked by incubating stem sections in sucrose, as well as glucose and fructose, but not sorbitol, prior to the GUS assay. Our results demonstrate that the activities of the rolC and 35S promoters varied in very different, unpredictable ways during the annual cycle of growth and dormancy in a perennial species, and indicate that the spatial and temporal variation in rolC promoter activity that we observed in the stem of transgenic hybrid aspen plants is attributable to cellular and seasonal changes in sucrose content.

[Effects of ginsenosides from stems and leaves on hyperlipemia induced by prednisone acetate in rabbits]

Rise of total lipid, total cholesterol and triglyceride in rabbits were markedly inhibited by oral administration of ginsenosides from stems and leaves at a daily dose of 60mg/kg. The inhibitory rates were 66.2%, 92.8% and 58.1% respectively.

Lupane derivatives from Lophopetalum wallichii with farnesyl protein transferase inhibitory activity

Chloroform-soluble extracts of the stems and of the mixed stems and stem bark of Lophopetalum wallichii were found to be inhibitory in a farnesyl protein transferase (FPTase) bioassay system. During the course of activity-guided fractionation, the known lupane-type triterpenes, ochraceolide A (1), ochraceolide B (2), betulin, and lupeol and the new lupane lactone, dihydro ochraceolide A (4), were isolated. The stereochemistry of the epoxide group of ochraceolide B (2) was determined by preparation of both epoxide isomers [2, and the new semisynthetic derivative, 20-epi-ochraceolide B (3)] from 1. The structure of 4 was established by reduction of 1 with sodium borohydride. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited significant inhibitory activity in the FPTase assay (IC50 values of 1.0 and 0.7 microgram/mL, respectively). Lupeol was found to be weakly active (IC50 65.0 micrograms/mL) in this test system, whereas no significant inhibition was detected for betulin or compounds 3 or 4. When evaluated against a panel of human cancer cells in culture, compounds 1 and 4 were modestly cytotoxic. Compounds 2 and 3 were not active in the panel.

Susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori and Candida spp. to the east African plant Terminalia spinosa

Trees of the genus Terminalia have long been used in the traditional medicine of Kenya (East Africa). In an ethnopharmacological approach, extracts of the stem bark of Terminalia spinosa were investigated for antibacterial and antifungal activity. The extracts were active against Helicobacter pylori, with the following minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC): MIC50 of 125 mg/l, MIC90 of 250 mg/l, and MIC-range of 62.5-500 mg/l. Yeasts of the genus Candida showed a similar susceptibility. The results indicate that the plant if a source of antimicrobial compounds with therapeutic potential.

Synthesis and antifungal activity of cinnamic acid esters

Cinnamic, p-coumaric and ferulic acids were isolated from pineapple stems (Ananas comosus var. Cayenne). Twenty-four kinds of esters were prepared from these acids, alcohols and the components of Alpinia. Isopropyl 4-hydroxycinnamate (11) and butyl 4-hydroxycinnamate (12) were found to have almost the same effectiveness in antifungal activity against Pythium sp. at 10 ppm as that of the commercial fungicide iprobenfos (kitazin P).

Preliminary antimicrobial screening of four South African Asteraceae species

Organic and aqueous solvent extracts of Arctotis auriculata Jacq., Eriocephalus africanus L., Felicia erigeroides DC., and Helichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don, were investigated for selective antimicrobial activities. Organic extracts of A. auriculata and H. crispum inhibited the growth of Mycobacterium smegmatis. The same extracts, together with organic extracts of F. erigeroides, were active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antifungal activities against Candida albicans were exhibited by organic extracts of E. africanus, F. erigeroides, and H. crispum. Organic extracts of A. auriculata and E. africanus, as well as the aqueous extract of the latter plant, were active against Staphyllococcus aureus.

[Dynamic assay of oleanolic acid in Aralia taibaiensis Z. Z. Wang et H. C. Zheng]

The dynamic assay on oleanolic acid (OA) in Aralia taibaiensis shows that the plant has a higher OA level. The level in root cortex is 4.74%-10.81% and peak stages are mid-May to late June and late August to mid-September the level in stem barks is 3.59%-12.06% and peak period is between mid-May and late July, the level in leaves increases throughout the life time ranging from 2.41% to 6.66% and peak level is 6.66% around mid-September.

Plant cuticle staining with bismarck brown Y and azure B or toluidine blue O before paraffin extraction

Transverse paraffin sections of mature greenwood stems of rose (Rosa x hybrida) and flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.) were stained with Bismarck brown followed by azure B or toluidine blue 0. The Bismarck brown was replaced by thiazin dye metachromasia in all structures except the cuticle which remained brown or yellow. The interface between the cuticle and exterior cell walls of the epidermis was delineated clearly.

A novel phloem-specific gene is expressed preferentially in aerial portions of Vicia faba

We have isolated a gene from bean (Vicia faba L.), called Vein1, that encodes a novel protein. The Vein1 cDNA was isolated as a result of a differential screen for genes that are expressed in leaves but not in the most common cell type, the mesophyll cell. Northern blot analysis revealed that Vein 1 transcripts are differentially expressed in the plant with expression in leaves, stems and sepals but not in petals, mesophyll cells or roots. In situ hybridization studies of stem and leaf sections indicate that the expression of Vein1 is localized to the phloem tissue. Interestingly, Vein1 was differentially expressed in stem tissue with the highest expression in the oldest internodes. The deduced Vein1 protein sequence does not share homology with any known protein sequences. The 17 kDa Vein1 protein is highly hydrophilic and contains a histidine-rich motif, where six out of seven amino acids are histidines. The function of Vein1 is unknown, although the expression patterns suggests that it may play a role in mature phloem tissue in the aerial parts of the plant.

Enzyme conversion of lignocellulosic plant materials for resource recovery in a Controlled Ecological Life Support System

A large amount of inedible plant material composed primarily of the carbohydrate materials cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin is generated as a result of plant growth in a Controlled Ecological Life-Support System (CELSS). Cellulose is a linear homopolymer of glucose, which when properly processed will yield glucose, a valuable sugar because it can be added directly to human diets. Hemicellulose is a heteropolymer of hexoses and pentoses that can be treated to give a sugar mixture that is potentially a valuable fermentable carbon source. Such fermentations yield desirable supplements to the edible products from hydroponically-grown plants such as rapeseed, soybean, cowpea, or rice. Lignin is a three-dimensionally branched aromatic polymer, composed of phenyl propane units, which is susceptible to bioconversion through the growth of the white rot fungus, Pluerotus ostreatus. Processing conditions, that include both a hot water pretreatment and fungal growth and that lead to the facile conversion of plant polysaccharides to glucose, are presented.

Two new taxoids from the stem bark of Taxus baccata

Two new taxoids, 13-deoxo-13 alpha-acetyloxy-7 beta,9 alpha-diacetyl-1,2-dideoxytaxine B[1] and 7 beta-xylosyl-10-deacetyltaxol D [7], were isolated from the stem bark of Taxus baccata cv. stricta. Their structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods and their bioactivity was evaluated using an in vitro microtubule assembly assay.

Bruceanols G and H cytotoxic quassinoids from Brucea antidysenterica

Two new quassinoids, bruceanols G [1] and H [4], were isolated from Brucea antidysenterica, and their structures were elucidated by spectral evidence and chemical transformation. Bruceanol G exhibited significant cytotoxicity against the COLO-205 and KB neoplastic cell lines with ED50 values of 0.44 and 0.55 microM, respectively.

Steam explosion of woody hemp chènevotte

This paper concerns the morphology of hemp woody core cells, investigated by optical and scanning electron microscopy, and the chemical analysis of the hemp cells. Steam explosion was investigated as a pre-treatment step for woody hemp 'chènevotte', with the aim of optimizing the separation and delignification of woody fibres. In this study, we report the results of five experiments performed on 'chènevotte' samples impregnated in acid solution (0.1% w/w H2SO4) and steamed at 200, 210, 220, 230 and 240 degrees C for 180 s. The effect of process temperatures on the woody hemp core after acidic impregnation was followed by optical and scanning electron microscopy, by assessment of the chemical composition, and by evolution of the average degree of polymerization (DPv) values of the purified wood fibres. We found that treatment at 200 and 210 degrees C led to samples that were difficult to delignigy because the destructuring and disintegration of lignocellulosic materials were insufficient. A temperature of the order of 220-230 degrees C is required to obtain well-separated fibres. However, at a temperature of 240 degrees C, degradation and fibre damage were noted.

Novel antiplatelet naphthalene from Rhamnus nakaharai

A new naphthalene derivative, isotorachrysone [1], was isolated from the stem bark of Rhamnus nakaharai along with several known compounds. The antiplatelet effects of isotorachrysone [1], isotorachrysone peracetate [2], 6-methoxysorigenin [3], quercetin 3-O-methyl ether [4], and quercetin 3-O-methyl ether peracetate [5] were studied using washed rabbit platelets. Of the compounds tested, 1, 2, 4, and 5 showed potent antiplatelet effects on arachidonic acid (AA-) and collagen-induced platelet aggregation. Compound 5 also showed potent antiplatelet effects on platelet-activating factor-(PAF-) induced platelet aggregation. Isotorachrysone [1] and its peracetate [2] were also studied for antiplatelet activity in human platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and both showed potent inhibition of the secondary aggregation induced by epinephrine. The antiplatelet effects of 1 and 2 are due partially to an inhibitory effect on thromboxane formation.

[Effects of Astragalus polysaccharides and ginsenosides of Ginseng stems and leaves on lymphocytes membrane fluidity and lipid peroxidation in traumatized mice]

From days 0 to 3 posttrauma, daily administration of Astragalus polysaccharides (250mg/kg,ip) and ginsenosides of ginseng stems and leaves (50mg/kg,sc) can elevate significantly the lymphocytes membrane fluidity of plasmalemma, mitochondria and microsome from spleen,thymus and mesenteric lymph nodes in traumatized mice, reduce lipid peroxide levels, and increase superoxide dismutase activities in serum and lymphocytes from traumatized mice.

Biological activities of Annona glabra

On a preliminary screening, substantial antimicrobial, antifungal and moderate insecticidal, sporicidal and cytotoxic activities were observed for the hexane extract of the stem bark of Amona glabra L. Chromatographic fractionation of this extract led to the isolation of kaur-16-en-19-oic acid in a large amount as the main constituent, which was found to be largely responsible for the biological activities possessed by the crude extract.

[Effects of Chinese ginseng root and stem-leaf saponins on learning, memory and biogenic monoamines of brain in rats]

The present investigation has shown that Ginseng root saponins (ig, 50mg/kg x 7d) facilitate the learning and memory of normal male Wistar rats, while the effect of Ginseng stem-leaf saponins (ig, 50mg/kg x 7d) on antielectrconvulsive shock-induced impairment of memory consolidation in rats is more intensive than that of root saponins. Both Ginseng root and stem-leaf saponins can significantly raise the levels of biogenic monoamines in normal rat's brain.

Influence of vegetative cycle of asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) on copper, iron, zinc and manganese content

The essential elements copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) were analyzed in fresh asparagus to determine the effects of the vegetative cycle of the plant on the micronutrient content. Asparagus samples were classified in two groups by diameter (< 11 mm and > 14 mm). Asparagus from a sample group with the same diameter were divided into two portions (apical and basal) according to distance from the tip. The concentrations of copper, iron, zinc and manganese increased during the vegetative cycle of the asparagus, mainly in the apical portion which showed significantly greater concentrations with respect to the basal portion. The > 14 mm diameter asparagus presented higher levels of copper, zinc and manganese, whereas the concentration of iron was greater in the < 11 mm diameter asparagus. The mean element levels were (mg/kg dry weight): Cu, 18.9 +/- 3.9; Fe, 91.7 +/- 33.7; Zn, 69.5 +/- 24.6 and Mn, 20.9 +/- 5.0).