Characterization of hepatoprotective metabolites from Artemisia annua and Cleome droserifolia using HPLC/PDA/ESI/MS–MS

Effects of seasonal variation on phytochemicals contributing to the antimalarial and antitrypanosomal activities of Breonadia salicina using a metabolomic approach

This study involves the investigation of various plant parts of Breonadia salicina (Vahl) Hepper and J.R.I. Wood across multiple consecutive seasons. It aims to delve into the phytochemistry of these different plant parts and establish connections between the findings and their biological activities. This comprehensive approach employs metabolomics techniques, with the ultimate goal of exploring the potential for drug development. Samples were collected in Fondwe, a village in Limpopo (South Africa), based on local reports of the efficacy of this plant used by traditional healers in the area. The antimalarial and antitrypanosomal activities of samples collected over the seasons were determined with the parasite lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) and specific Trypanosoma brucei assays, respectively. Consequently, a total of 24 compounds were tentatively identified through ultra-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Chemical profiles of the different plant parts of Breonadia salicina collected in different seasons produced contrasting metabolic profiles. Chemometric analysis of the UPLC-QTOF-MS data enabled us to determine the chemical variability of the crude stem bark, root and leaf extracts (n = 48) collected over four consecutive seasons by evaluating the metabolomics fingerprinting of the samples using an untargeted approach. Principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) indicated the existence of two key clusters that are linked to the root, stem bark, and leaves. The stem and root chemistry differed from that of the leaves. Seasonal variations were noted in each plant part, with autumn and winter samples closely grouped compared to spring and summer samples in the methanol leaf extracts. Biochemometric analysis could not relate specific compounds to the antimalarial and antitrypanosomal activities of the active extracts, underscoring the intricate interactions among the secondary metabolites. This study further confirms the optimal plant parts to collect in each season for the most effective antimalarial and antitrypanosomal activities.

Symbiotic Antidiabetic Effect of Lactobacillus casei and the Bioactive Extract of Cleome droserifolia (Forssk.) Del. on Mice with Type 2 Diabetes Induced by Alloxan

The consumption of probiotics protects pancreatic β-cells from oxidative damage, delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and preventing microvascular and macrovascular complications. This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic activity of CDE fermented by Lactobacillus casei (ATCC 39539) (LC) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The oxidative stress identified by catalase (CAT), serum AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, urea, and uric acid were measured. The chemical profiles of the plant extract and the fermented extract were studied using HPLC/MS. The potential of the compounds towards the binding pockets of aldose reductase and PPAR was discovered by molecular docking. A significant reduction in fasting blood glucose in alloxan-treated rats. The CAT showed a significant decrease in diabetic rats. Also, serum AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, urea, and uric acid were significantly decreased in the mixture group. Mild histological changes of pancreatic and kidney tissues suggested that the mixture of probiotics and cleome possesses a marked anti-diabetic effect. Overall, the study suggests that the combination of Cleome droserifolia fermented by Lactobacillus casei exhibits significant antidiabetic activity (p-value=0.05), reduces oxidative stress, improves lipid profiles, and shows potential for the treatment of diabetes.

Chemical Characterization of Different Extracts from Artemisia annua and Their Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitory and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Artemisia annua L. (Asteraceae Family) is an important plant in Asia that has been used for treating different diseases, including fever due to malaria, wounds, tubercolisis, scabues, pain, convulsions, diabetes, and inflammation. In this study we aimed to evaluate the effects of different polarity extracts (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, ethanol/water (70 %) and water) from A. annua against the burden of inflammation and oxidative stress occurring in colon tissue exposed to LPS. In parallel, chemical composition, antiradical, and enzyme inhibition effects against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, tyrosinase, and cholinesterases were evaluated. The water extract contained the highest content of the total phenolic with 34.59 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g extract, while the hexane had the highest content of the total flavonoid (20.06 mg rutin equivalent (RE)/g extract). In antioxidant assays, the polar extracts (ethanol, ethanol/water and water) exhibited stronger radical scavenging and reducing power abilities when compared to non-polar extracts. The hexane extract showed the best AChE, tyrosinase and glucosidase inhibitory effects. All extracts revealed effective anti-inflammatory agents, as demonstrated by the blunting effects on COX-2 and TNFα gene expression. These effects seemed to be not related to the only phenolic content. However, it is worthy of interest to highlight how the higher potency against LPS-induced gene expression was shown by the water extract ; thus suggesting a potential phytotherapy application in the management of clinical symptoms related to inflammatory colon diseases, although future in vivo studies are needed to confirm such in vitro and ex vivo observations.

Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Monoterpene and Sesquiterpene Glycosides from the Aqueous Extract of Artemisia annua L

Artemisia annua L. is a Chinese medicinal herb, but the origin of its pharmacological properties, including its anti-inflammatory activity, remain unknown. In this study, five new monoterpene glycosides (1-5) and two new sesquiterpene glycosides (6 and 7) were isolated from the aqueous extract of the aerial parts of A. annua. The structures of these glycosides were determined using high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, electronic circular dichroism calculations, and chemical hydrolysis methods. The anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated by down-regulating interleukin-6 (IL-6) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Notably, all the new compounds significantly inhibited the expression of IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner.

Phytoecdysteroids and Anabolic Effect of Atriplex dimorphostegia: UPLC-PDA-MS/MS Profiling, In Silico and In Vivo Models

Atriplex dimorphostegia (Saltbush) is an annual halophytic shrub that is widely distributed across various parts of Asia. The current study is the first to report the metabolites profile of the total ethanol extract of the aerial parts of A. dimorphostegia (TEAD), and its anabolic activity together with the isolated 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-HE) in orchidectomized male rats. TEAD was analyzed and standardized utilizing UPLC-PDA-ESI−MS/MS and UPLC-PDA-UV techniques, resulting in tentative identification of fifty compounds including polyphenols, steroids and triterpenoids. In addition, 20-HE was quantified, representing 26.79 μg/mg of the extract. Phytochemical investigation of TEAD resulted in the isolation of 20-HE from the ethyl acetate fraction (EFAD) and was identified by conventional spectroscopic methods of analysis. Furthermore, the anabolic effect of the isolated 20-HE and TEAD was then evaluated using in silico and in vivo models. Molecular docking experiments revealed in vitro selectivity of 20-HE towards estrogen receptors (ERs), specifically ERβ over ERα and androgenic receptor (AR). The anabolic efficacy of TEAD and 20-HE was studied in orchidectomized immature male Wistar rats using the weight of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. The weights of ventral prostate and seminal vesicles were used as indicators for androgenic activity. Rats administered 20-HE and TEAD showed a significant increase (p = 0.0006 and p < 0.0001) in the net muscle mass compared to the negative control, while the group receiving TEAD showed the highest percentage among all groups at p < 0.0001. Histopathological investigation of skeletal muscle fibers showed normal morphological structures, and the group administered 20-HE showed an increase in cross sectional area of muscle fibers comparable to methandienone and testosterone groups at p > 0.99. A. dimorphostegia exhibited promising anabolic activity with minimal androgenic side effects.

Germline transformation of Artemisia annuaL. plant via in planta transformation technology “Floral dip”

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We for the first time proposed the in planta transformation technique in the Asteraceae plant family member Artemisia annua L.

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Numerous numbered, partially open, immature bud stage inflorescence is suitable for A. annua L. transformation.

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The infiltration media containing 1/2MS, Tween-20 (0.075%), and Acetosyringone (50mM) is found to be best for high efficiency transformation.

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Acetosyringone was more prevalent than Benzyl amino purine (BAP) for high efficiency transformation in A. annua L.

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Without including any labour intensive and time-consuming processes, we discovered a transformation efficiency of 26.9%, which is higher than previously reported studies.

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Transgene integration was further validated by quantitative Real time PCR using a low copy number hmgr as an endogenous reference gene.

The therapeutic efficacy of Artemisia annua L. is governed by artemisinin (ART), prevalently produced by A. annua extraction. Due to the modest amount of ART (0.01-1 %dw) in this plant, commercialization of ACTs is difficult. In this study, the floral-dip based transformation protocol for A. annua was developed to enhance expression of artemisinin biosynthesis genes and ART content. For dipping, the effective infiltration media components were optimized, and to obtain high transformation (26.9%) partially open bud stage capitulum of floral development was used. Hygromycin phospho-transferase (hptII) selection marker was used to validate the transformed T₁ progenies. The copy numbers of the transgene (hptII) in T₁ progenies were determined using a sensitive, high-throughput SYBR Green based quantitative RT-PCR. The results of the hptII transgene were compared with those of the low copy number, internal standard (hmgr). Using optimised PCR conditions, one, two and three transgene copies in T₁ transformants were achieved.

LC-MS Characterization and Quantification of Known and Unknown (Poly)phenol Metabolites-Possible Pitfalls and Their Avoidance

This review focuses on the LC-MS characterization and quantification of dietary (poly)phenols and their metabolites. It draws attention to errors, omissions, and misunderstandings that appear frequently in published papers, and suggests strategies for their avoidance. Aspects covered include the use of authentic standards and surrogate reference materials, the importance of collecting and archiving Total Ion Current MS data, the limitations of using on-line compilations of accurate mass MS data to assign unknown components when multiple isomers are possible, and the often understated magnitude of person-to-person variation that may significantly impact at population level any potential health benefit.

Potential Mechanisms Involved in the Protective Effect of Dicaffeoylquinic Acids from Artemisia annua L. Leaves against Diabetes and Its Complications

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease affecting the globe and its incidence is increasing pandemically. The use of plant-derived natural products for diabetes management is of great interest. Polar fraction of Artemisia annua L. leaves has shown antidiabetic activity in vivo. In the present study, three major compounds were isolated from this polar fraction; namely, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (1); 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (2), and 3,4- dicaffeoylquinic acid methyl ester (3), using VLC-RP-18 and HPLC techniques. The potential protective effects of these compounds against diabetes and its complications were investigated by employing various in vitro enzyme inhibition assays. Furthermore, their antioxidant and wound healing effectiveness were evaluated. Results declared that these dicaffeoylquinic acids greatly inhibited DPPIV enzyme while moderately inhibited α-glucosidase enzyme, where compounds 1 and 3 displayed the most prominent effects. In addition, compound 3 showed pronounced inhibition of α-amylase enzyme. Moreover, these compounds markedly inhibited aldose reductase enzyme and exerted powerful antioxidant effects, among which compound 3 exhibited the highest activity implying a notable potentiality in impeding diabetes complications. Interestingly, compounds 2 and 3 moderately accelerated scratch wound healing. Our findings suggest that these dicaffeoylquinic acids can be promising therapeutic agents for managing diabetes and its complications.

Metabolomic Profiling and Antioxidant Activities of Breonadia salicina Using 1H-NMR and UPLC-QTOF-MS Analysis

Breonadia salicina (Vahl) Hepper and J.R.I. Wood is widely used in South Africa and some other African countries for treatment of various infectious diseases such as diarrhea, fevers, cancer, diabetes and malaria. However, little is known about the active constituents associated with the biological activities. This study is aimed at exploring the metabolomics profile and antioxidant constituents of B. salicina. The chemical profiles of the leaf, stem bark and root of B. salicina were comprehensively characterized using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR) spectroscopy and ultra-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The antioxidant activities of the crude extracts, fractions and pure compounds were determined using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging and reducing power assays. A total of 25 compounds were tentatively identified using the UPLC-QTOF-MS. Furthermore, the ¹H-NMR fingerprint revealed that the different parts of plant had differences and similarities among the different crude extracts and fractions. The crude extracts and fractions of the root, stem bark and leaf showed the presence of α-glucose, β-glucose, glucose and fructose. However, catechin was not found in the stem bark crude extracts but was found in the fractions of the stem bark. Lupeol was present only in the root crude extract and fractions of the stem bark. Furthermore, 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid was identified in the methanol leaf extract and its respective fractions, while the crude extracts and fractions from the root and dichloromethane leaf revealed the presence of hexadecane. Column chromatography and preparative thin-layer chromatography were used to isolate kaempferol 3-O-(2″-O-galloyl)-glucuronide, lupeol, d-galactopyranose, bodinioside Q, 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, sucrose, hexadecane and palmitic acid. The crude methanol stem bark showed the highest antioxidant activity in the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging activity with an IC₅₀ value of 41.7263 ± 7.6401 μg/mL, whereas the root crude extract had the highest reducing power activity with an IC_0.5 value of 0.1481 ± 0.1441 μg/mL. Furthermore, the ¹H-NMR and UPLC-QTOF-MS profiles showed the presence of hydroxycinnamic acids, polyphenols and flavonoids. According to a literature survey, these phytochemicals have been reported to display antioxidant activities. Therefore, the identified hydroxycinnamic acid (caffeic acid), polyphenol (ellagic acid) and flavonoids (catechin and (epi) gallocatechin) significantly contribute to the antioxidant activity of the different parts of plant of B. salicina. The results obtained in this study provides information about the phytochemistry and phytochemical compositions of Breonadia salicina, confirming that the species is promising in obtaining constituents with medicinal potential primarily antioxidant potential.

Dereplication of phenolic derivatives of three Erythroxylum species using liquid chromatography coupled with ESI-MSn and HRESIMS

INTRODUCTION

Given the diversity of secondary metabolites produced by species of the genus Erythroxylum, in addition to the many methods that have already been described in the literature, modern screening and identification methodologies, such as dereplication, represent an efficient and quick strategy compared to the classic techniques linked to natural product research.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to determine the phenolic profiles obtained from three species of Erythroxylum (Erythroxylum pauferrense Plowman, Erythroxylum pulchrum A.St.-Hil. and Erythroxylum simonis Plowman) by dereplication using liquid chromatography coupled with ESI-MSⁿ and HRESIMS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ethyl acetate and n-butanolic fractions from crude ethanolic extract of Erythroxylum species were analyzed by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ and HPLC-HRESIMS, in order to identify its corresponding compounds. Experiments were performed in negative ionization mode, and the metabolites were provisionally identified based on deprotonated molecules, molecular formulas, fragmentation patterns and literature data. The corresponding isolated compounds were characterized by ¹ H and ¹³ C NMR spectroscopy.

RESULTS

According to the dereplication method, it was possible to establish and compare the phenolic profile of the corresponding species by the assignment of 55 compounds, most of which were first described in these species and among which some were also new to the Erytroxylum genus. Additionally, nine compounds were isolated, including biphenyl-3,3',4,4'-tetraol, where the mass spectral data were not sufficient for their identification, and reported for the first time in the Erythroxylaceae family.

CONCLUSION

This research contributes to the phytochemical knowledge of the Erythroxylum genus and demonstrates the importance of the dereplication method regarding the investigation of natural products, enabling accurate identification of the metabolites while avoiding the efforts and material expenses involved in the isolation of known compounds.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Cleome droserifolia (Forssk.) Del. and Its Biological Effects on Redox Status, Immunity, and Gut Microflora

Simple Summary

The antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activities of the Cleome droserifolia (Forssk.) Del. (Cd) shrub were investigated considering the biological activity of its phytogenic compounds. Cd shrub encompasses several phenolic compounds, mainly phenolic acids, such as benzoic acid. The methanolic extract of Cd exhibited strong in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Anin vivo study using rabbits as an animal model confirmed the ability of a powder of Cd aerial parts to improve humoral and innate immunity, as well as gastrointestinal microbiota homeostasis. In conclusion, Cd shrub represents a novel source of secondary active metabolites that can be employed as antibiotic alternative in the livestock production field and/or in human pharmaceutical applications.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activities of a Cleome droserifolia (Forssk.) Del. (Cd) shoot methanolic extracts considering the biological activity of its phytogenic compounds. For this purpose, the Cd phenolic compounds were detected, and an in vitro evaluation of the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the Cd extract was performed. For a biological evaluation, 30 v-line rabbits were randomly distributed into three groups with treatments including: a basal diet without Cd shoots powder supplement (C group) or supplemented with 1.25- (Cdl group) or 2.5 (Cdh group)-mg Cd/kg dry matter (DM). The Cd extract showed a linear scavenging activity for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), with the maximal activity observed at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. A total of 16 phenolic compounds were identified by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) in the Cd methanolic extract, among which benzoic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, naringenin, and o-coumaric acid were the major compounds. The methanolic extract of Cd showed inhibitory actions against microbial pathogen species. The in vivo study showed that the two concentrations of Cd significantly improved the redox status of the blood plasma and lysozyme activity. Treatment with Cdh significantly decreased the levels of interleukin-β1 in the blood plasma compared with the control. Moreover, the two concentrations of Cd significantly increased the counts of intestinal and cecal yeast and Lactobacillus species and decreased the Salmonella and Coliform species compared with the control. The aerial parts of the Cd shrub had strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activities, which can improve the overall health status and seem to be related to its impressive range of biologically active phenolic compounds.

Taher R, Al-Karmalawy AA, El-Ebeedy D, Metwaly AG, Elkateeb NM, Ghanem A, Elghaish RA, Abd El Maksoud AI. Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. leaves: isolation, HPLC/MS profiling and evaluation of nephroprotective and hepatoprotective activities supported by molecular docking

The metabolites profile of C. fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. leaves, 12 isolates, and its nephroprotective and hepatoprotective activities are described.

Polyphenols and Other Bioactive Compounds of Sideritis Plants and Their Potential Biological Activity

Due to the growing problem of obesity associated with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, causes of obesity are extensively investigated. In addition to a high caloric diet and low physical activity, gut microbiota disturbance may have a potential impact on excessive weight gain. Some reports indicate differences in the composition of the intestinal microflora of obese people in comparison to lean. Bioactive compounds of natural origin with beneficial and multifaceted effects on the body are more frequently used in prevention and treatment of many metabolic diseases including obesity. Sideritis scardica is traditionally consumed as mountain tea in the Balkans to strengthen the body and improve mood. Many reports indicate a positive effect on digestive system, weight loss, and prevention of insulin resistance. Additionally, it exhibits antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effects. The positive effect of Sideritis scardica extracts on memory and general cognitive abilities is indicated as well. The multilevel positive effect on the body appears to originate from the abundant occurrence of phenolic compounds, especially phenolic acids in Sideritis scardica extracts. However, mechanisms underlying their action require careful discussion and further research. Therefore, the objective of this review is to summarize the available knowledge on the role and mechanism of action of biologically active compounds of Sideritis scardica and other related species from the genus Sideritis.

Inhibition of Neutrophil Functions and Antibacterial Effects of Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) Infusion-Phytochemical Characterization

The aim of the study was to characterize phytochemicals in an infusion of the aerial parts of tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography diode array detector electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry UHPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐MS/MS method, as well as an evaluation of its effects on mediators of the inflammation in an in vitro model of human neutrophils, and antimicrobial activity on selected pathogens. Flavonoids and caffeoylquinic acids were the main phenolic components of the extract of tarragon’s aerial parts. The infusion was able to inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) production. The antimicrobial assay was performed with the use of nine strains of bacteria, both Gram-negative and Gram-positive. Three human pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC6538, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC14990, and Staphylococcus aureus MRSA (methicyllin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) ATCC43300, proved to be the most sensitive to tarragon infusion. Our study demonstrated the antiinflammatory and antimicrobial properties of tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.), meaning the common spice may be a prospective source of health-promoting constituents.

Artemisia annua, a Traditional Plant Brought to Light

Traditional remedies have been used for thousand years for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, particularly in developing countries. Of growing interest, the plant Artemisia annua, known for its malarial properties, has been studied for its numerous biological activities including metabolic, anti-tumor, anti-microbial and immunomodulatory properties. Artemisia annua is very rich in secondary metabolites such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and phenolic compounds, of which the biological properties have been extensively studied. The purpose of this review is to gather and describe the data concerning the main chemical components produced by Artemisia annua and to describe the state of the art about the biological activities reported for this plant and its compounds beyond malaria.

Combination of molecular network and centrifugal partition chromatography fractionation for targeting and identifying Artemisia annua L. antioxidant compounds

Artemisia annua L. is an annual weedy herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. As a traditional Chinese herb, Artemisia annua is a major source of artemisinin, an antimalarial drug. In addition to artemisinin, this plant contains several other molecular families presenting a wide range of biological properties. To facilitate the screening and the identification of active compounds, the present study describes their targeting by combining the dereplication information obtained by means of Molecular Networks and a crude extract fractionation by Centrifugal Partition Chromatography to obtain and test simplified fractions. This simple and fast approach was developed focused on the antioxidant activity of Artemisia annua with the aim of screening and identifying the antioxidant molecules for further cosmetic uses. Firstly, the aerial parts of Artemisia annua were extracted and their antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP and iron (II) chelating assays. Extract with a positive response was subjected to UHPLC-HRMS with autoMS/MS experiments in order to build a Molecular Network using the GNPS (Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking) platform. Secondly, the crude extract was fractionated using CPC with an adapted Arizona solvent system. The fractions obtained were evaluated for antioxidant activity to focus on active compounds, which were located on the Molecular Network and identified thanks to their MS/MS spectra. Using this approach, the major phenolic compound contributing to the antioxidant activity of Artemisia annua extract was identified.