Evaluation of genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Zuccagnia punctata Cav

Comet assay and hormesis

The paper provides the first assessment of the occurrence of hormetic dose responses using the Comet assay, a genotoxic assay. Using a priori evaluative criteria based on the Hormetic Database on peer-reviewed comet assay experimental findings, numerous examples of hormetic dose responses were obtained. These responses occurred in a large and diverse range of cell types and for agents from a broad range of chemical classes. Limited attempts were made to estimate the frequency of hormesis within comet assay experimental studies using a priori entry and evaluative criteria, with results suggesting a frequency in the 40% range. These findings are important as they show that a wide range of genotoxic chemicals display evidence that is strongly suggestive of hormetic dose responses. These findings have significant implications for study design issues, including the number of doses selected, dose range and spacing. Likewise, the widespread occurrence of hormetic dose responses in this genotoxic assay has important risk assessment implications.

Zuccagnia punctata Cav., a Potential Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Bionematicide for the Control of Argentinean Horticultural Crops

This research was designed to investigate the metabolite profiling, phenolics, and flavonoids content as well as the potential nematicidal properties of decoction (ZpDe), orange-yellow resin (ZpRe) and essential oil (ZpEO) from Argentinean medicinal plant Zuccagnia punctata Cav. Additionally, the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of ZpDe and ZpEO were determined. Metabolite profiling was obtained by an ultrahigh-resolution liquid chromatography MS analysis (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF/OT-MS-MS) and GCMS. The nematicidal activity was assayed by a standardized method against Meloidogyne incognita. The antioxidant properties were screened by four methods: (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (DPPH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity assay (TEAC), ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP), and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes (ILP). The antibacterial activity was evaluated according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) rules. The ZpDe, ZpRe and ZpEO displayed a strong nematicidal activity with an LC50 of 0.208, 0.017 and 0.142 mg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, the ZpDe showed a strong DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 = 28.54 µg/mL); ILP of 87.75% at 250 µg ZpDe/mL and moderated antimicrobial activity. The ZpEO showed promising activity against a panel of yeasts Candida albicans and non-albicans (ATCC and clinically isolated) with MIC values from 750 to 1500 µg/mL. The ZpDe showed a content of phenolics and flavonoid compounds of 241 mg GAE/g and 10 mg EQ/g, respectively. Fifty phenolic compounds were identified in ZpDe by ultrahigh-resolution liquid chromatography (UHPLC-PDA- Q-TOF-MS) analysis, while forty-six phenolic compounds were identified in ZpRe by UHPLC-ESI-Q-OT-MS-MS and twenty-nine in ZpEO using a GC-MS analysis, updating the knowledge on the chemical profile of this species. The results support and standardize this medicinal plant mainly as a potential environmentally friendly and sustainable bionematicide for the control of Argentinean horticultural crops including tomatoes and peppers and as a source of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds which could be further explored and exploited for potential applications.

Powdered Beverage from Native Plants from Argentina (Zuccagnia punctata and Solanum betaceum) Obtained by Spray-Drying: A Promising Source of Antioxidant Compounds

In previous studies, the Argentinean native plants called Zuccagnia punctata (jarilla, pus pus, lata) and Solanum betaceum (chilto, tree tomato) were reported as new natural sources of antioxidant compounds, mainly chalcones, anthocyanins and rosmarinic acid derivates. The present study deals with the production of antioxidant beverages of Z. punctata (Zp) extract and chilto juice with honey as sweetener. A Zp extract and red chilto juice were obtained according to Food Code and characterized. The beverages were formulated by using maltodextrin (MD) with two dextrose equivalents (DE), 10 and 15, and then spray-dried at an inlet air temperature of 130 °C. The physicochemical, microscopical, phytochemical and functional characteristics of the powders were surveyed. The experiments carried out showed good physical properties for both formulations showing high water solubility with adequate features for handling, transport and storage. The chromatic parameters of both powdered beverages indicate orange-pink tones regardless of the wall material used. The total polyphenol and flavonoid content in the beverages were kept after spray-drying (92 and 100%, respectively). The anthocyanins were less stable under drying conditions (yield 58%). Both powdered beverages showed high scavenger capacity on ABTS^•+, HO^• and H₂O₂ (SC₅₀ between 3.29 to 41.05 µg GAE/mL) and were able to inhibit xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity (CI₅₀ between 91.35 and 114.43 µg GAE/mL). The beverages were neither toxic nor mutagenic in the concentration range with biological activity. The results obtained in the present work scientifically support the use of the powdered beverages of Argentinean native plants as antioxidant.

Antigenotoxic, antiproliferative and antimetastatic properties of a combination of native medicinal plants from Argentina

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Jarilla is the common name of an appreciated group of native plants from the semi-arid region in Argentina (Larrea cuneifolia Cav., Larrea divaricata Cav. and Zuccagnia punctata Cav.) that have been historically consumed to heal respiratory, musculoskeletal and skin ailments, as well as recommended for weakness/tiredness, hypertension, diabetes and cancer treatment. It was previously reported that some biological properties could be improved when these plants are used jointly. Infusions of a defined mixture, composed by three Jarilla species, L. cuneifolia: L. divaricata: Z. punctata (0.5:0.25:0.25) (HM2) showed synergistic and additive effect on antioxidant activity even after passing through the gastro-duodenal tract.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The main purpose of this work was to evaluate antigenotoxic, antitumor, and anti-metastatic properties of the Jarilla species that grow in the Northwest of Argentina and a herbal combination of them.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Infusions of Jarilla mixture (HM2), and of each single plant species were prepared. Phenolic profiles of infusions were analyzed by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS and two relevant chemical markers were quantified. The antigenotoxic activity was evaluated by using the Ames test and the Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus (CBMN) assay against direct mutagens. Evaluations of both cytotoxicity and antiproliferative effects were conducted on tumor and non-tumor cell lines. Both in vivo tumoral growth and metastasis inhibition were evaluated by using a carcinoma model on Balb/c mice.

RESULTS

HM2 mix could suppress genetic and chromosome mutations induced by 4-nitro-o-phenylendiamine (4-NPD) and doxorubicin. Herbal mixture and single plant infusions showed cytotoxic effect against mammary, uterus, and brain tumoral cells without a selective action vs normal human cell line. HM2 mix was able to reduce mammary tumor mass on the Balb/c mice model and showed a significant reduction in the number of metastatic nodules in the lungs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the combinations of three Jarilla species from northwest Argentina would be a promising alternative to treat or slow down the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer.

UHPLC-HESI-OT-MS-MS Biomolecules Profiling, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity of the "Orange-Yellow Resin" from Zuccagnia punctata Cav

This research was designed to investigate the metabolite profiling, phenolics, and flavonoids content as well as the potential antioxidant and antibacterial, properties of orange-yellow resin from Zuccagnia punctata Cav (ZpRe). Metabolite profiling was obtained by a ultrahigh resolution liquid chromatography orbitrap MS analysis (UHPLC-ESI-OT-MS-MS). The antioxidant properties were screened by four methods: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (DPPH), trolox equivalent antioxidant activity assay (TEAC), ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP), and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes (LP)). The antibacterial activity was evaluated according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) rules. The resin displayed a strong DPPH scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 25.72 µg/mL) and showed a percentage of inhibition of LP close to that of the reference compound catechin (70% at 100 µg ZpRe/mL), while a moderated effect was observed in the FRAP and TEAC assays. The resin showed a content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds of 391 mg GAE/g and 313 mg EQ/g respectively. Fifty phenolics compounds were identified by ultrahigh resolution liquid chromatography orbitrap MS analysis (UHPLC-PDA-OT-MS) analysis. Thirty-one compounds are reported for the first time, updating the knowledge on the chemical profile of this species. The importance of the biomolecules identified support traditional use of this endemic plant. Furthermore, additional pharmacological data is presented that increase the potential interest of this plant for industrial sustainable applications.

The use of jarilla native plants in a Diaguita-Calchaquí indigenous community from northwestern Argentina: An ethnobotanical, phytochemical and biological approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In northwestern Argentina inhabit several ancient indigenous communities with diverse cultural and historical background. Geographical isolation has contributed to the prevalence of a native plant-based folk medicine; "jarilla" species are medicinal plants widely used in local communities for the treatment of mycosis, respiratory, gastrointestinal and rheumatic disorders.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

To assemble the traditional knowledge acquired through years with scientific data concerning to phytochemistry, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of three "jarillas" species.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical data of three "jarillas", Zuccagnia punctata (Zp), Larrea cuneifolia (Lc), and Larrea divaricata (Ld), were explored by interviewing native people from Indigenous Community of Amaicha del Valle, Tucumán. Phenolic profiles from each infusion were analyzed by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Antioxidant activity was determined by superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide scavenging capacity, lipoperoxidation inhibition, and ferrous iron chelating activity. It was also assessed their ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as xanthine oxidase, lipoxygenase, and hyaluronidase.

RESULTS

Ethnobotanical interviews showed that local people use "jarillas" mainly as infusions and baths. It was reported different categories of uses, such as medicinal (10 curative applications), to religious purposes, tinctorial, as construction material and as fuel. From infusions prepared, the MS and MS/MS data allowed the identification of 27 compounds from Z. punctata, and 11 from both Larrea sp. The infusions showed an important antioxidant activity through different mechanisms, highlighting Zp and Lc in free radical scavenging capacity and Ld on lipid peroxidation inhibition and iron binding. They were also capable of inhibit xanthine oxidase and lipoxygenase enzymes, being Lc the most active one.

CONCLUSIONS

This research work provides novel information concerning to several categories of traditional uses of "jarilla" species in a Diaguita-Calchaquí community and focus attention to infusions from a phytochemical and biological approach.

Design, synthesis and QSAR study of 2'-hydroxy-4'-alkoxy chalcone derivatives that exert cytotoxic activity by the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway

Eleven 4'-alkoxy chalcones were synthesized and biologically evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against four human tumor cell lines (PC-3, MCF-7, HF-6, and CaSki). Compounds 3a-3d and 3f were selective against PC-3, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 8.08 to 13.75 μM. In addition, chalcones 3a-3c did not affect the normal fibroblasts BJ cells. The most active and selective compounds were further evaluated for their effect on the progression of cell cycle in PC-3 cells, and chalcones 3a and 3c induced a G2/M phase arrest. Furthermore, it was found that these three chalcones induced the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway by regulating Bax and Bcl-2 transcripts and by increasing caspase 3/7 activation. Otherwise, the QSAR model indicates that the double bond of the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl, as well as the planar structure geometry, are important to the biological activity of the synthetized chalcones. Based on these studies, it was concluded that withdrawing substituents in ring A, decrease the antiproliferative activity. This is related to the possible mechanism of action of these compounds, where a Michael addition needs to take place in order to be a potent anticancer agent.

Oral administration of Zuccagnia punctata extract improves lipid profile, reduces oxidative stress and prevents vascular dysfunction in hypercholesterolemic rabbits

BACKGROUND

The consumption of flavonoids has been shown to prevent cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis. In this sense, in a recent in vitro study we demonstrated that a rich in flavonoids extract from Zuccagnia punctata has beneficial effects on vascular function in aorta from hypercholesterolemic rabbits.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of a hydroalcoholic extract from Z.puncata (ZpE) to prevent alterations induced by high cholesterol diet in rabbits.

METHODS

The major components of the ZpE, flavonoids, were analyzed by using a validated reversed phase HPLC method. Rabbits were separated in five groups: fed standard chow (CD); CD orally administrated 2.5 mg, 5 mg or 10 mg GAE/day ZpE (ZpE- CD); fed 1% cholesterol-enriched chow (HD); HD orally administrated 2.5 mg GAE/day ZpE (ZpE-HD); HD orally administrated 2.5 mg rosuvastatin/day (Ro-HD). All diets were administrated by 6 weeks. Body weights (BW), mean blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), visceral abdominal fat (VAF), organ weight (heart, kidney, liver) and vascular morphology were determined. Total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), fasting glucose (FG), aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT), bilirubin, creatinine, thiobarbituric acids reactive substances (TBARS) and glutathione reduced/oxidized index were measured in serum. Abdominal aorta was excised and vascular function was assessed by acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusiate relaxation and contractile response to norepinephrine and angiotensin II.

RESULTS

The major compounds of ZpE identified were chalcones: 2',4'-dihydroxy-3'-methoxychalcone and 2',4'-dihydroxychalcone. Oral treatment with ZpE reduced MAP, TC, TG, TBARS, aortic intima/media ratio and increased glutathione reduced/oxidized index in HD rabbits. No differences were found in AST, ALT, bilirubin or creatinine. Acetylcholine relaxation was normalized and contractile response to norepinephrine and angiotensin II was reduced in ZpE-HD.

CONCLUSION

Oral administration of ZpE as natural product in the prevention of cardiovascular disease related with hypercholesterolemia and endothelial dysfunction is very promising.

Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity Characterization and Toxicity Studies of Flowers of “Jarilla”, a Medicinal Shrub from Argentina

Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Fabaceae) is an Argentine medicinal aromatic shrub (jarilla pispito, puspus, lata and jarilla macho). The chalcones were identified as pigments responsible for the yellow color of the flowers. Hydroethanolic extracts were obtained both from fresh flowers and from flowers dried by lyophilization. The extracts were standardized by their phenolic and flavonoids content. Their fingerprints by HPLC-DAD indicated the presence of two chalcones as major compounds (2′,4′-dihydroxychalcone and 2′,4′-dihydroxy-3′-methoxychalcone). Both extracts showed the same total phenolic, non-flavonoid phenolic and flavonoid phenolic content and their phenolic profiles were similar. The polyphenolic extracts exhibited antioxidant (free radical scavenging and inhibitory activity on lipoperoxidation) and anti-inflammatory (inhibition of lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase enzymes) activities. The flower extracts were active against six Candida species with MIC values between 60 and 120 μg GAE.mL−1 and were also active on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 250 μg GAE.mL−1) and Enterococcus faecalis (MIC: 500 μg GAE.mL−1). The extracts were neither toxic ( Artemia salina test) nor mutagenic (Ames test). Jarilla flowers could be considered as a new dietary supplement that could help to prevent pathologies associated with oxidative stress and the polyphenolic extract obtained from them could be considered as a standardized phytotherapeutic product with antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Effect of structurally related flavonoids from Zuccagnia punctata Cav. on Caenorhabditis elegans

Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Fabaceae), commonly called jarilla macho or pus-pus, is being used in traditional medicine as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and to relieve muscle and bone pain. The aim of this work was to study the anthelmintic effects of three structurally related flavonoids present in aerial parts of Z. punctata Cav. The biological activity of the flavonoids 7-hydroxyflavanone (HF), 3,7-dihydroxyflavone (DHF) and 2´,4´-dihydroxychalcone (DHC) was examined in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Our results showed that among the assayed flavonoids, only DHC showed an anthelmintic effect and alteration of egg hatching and larval development processes in C. elegans. DHC was able to kill 50% of adult nematodes at a concentration of 17 μg/mL. The effect on larval development was observed after 48 h in the presence of 25 and 50 μg/mL DHC, where 33.4 and 73.4% of nematodes remained in the L3 stage or younger. New therapeutic drugs with good efficacy against drug-resistant nematodes are urgently needed. Therefore, DHC, a natural compound present in Z. punctata, is proposed as a potential anthelmintic drug.

Effects of Zuccagnia punctata extracts and their flavonoids on the function and expression of ABCB1/P-glycoprotein multidrug transporter

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zuccagnia punctata extracts (ZpE) are used in ethnomedicine as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs. The pharmacological properties of ZpE and their polyphenolic components suggest that they may be used as potential modulators on the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) multidrug transporter. P-gp is well known for its role in the acquired drug resistance by tumors following chemotherapy, causing a low drug bioavailability by extruding them out of the cells.

AIM OF STUDY

To evaluate the effects of ZpE and three of their phenolic components: 7-hydroxyflavanone (HF), 3,7-dihydroxyflavone (DHF) and 2',4'-dihydroxychalcone (DHC) on P-gp activity and expression.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The effects of natural products on ABCB1/P-gp function and expression were evaluated by R-123 accumulation assay and western blot analysis using HK-2 cells as experimental model. The ABCB1 mRNA content was determined by SQRT-PCR.

RESULTS

The accumulation of R-123 in HK-2 cells was significantly increased by ZpE and DHF, and to a lesser extent by DHC, indicating their roles on the efflux transporter activity. However, HF did not show any effect. HK-2 cells maintained in the presence of ZpE or DHF for 72 h, showed an increase in P-gp expression whereas activity was unchanged or decreased. No changes were observed in ABCB1 mRNA content. Furthermore, in these assay conditions, more sensibility of HK-2 cells to the cytotoxic action of cyclosporine A (P-gp substrate) was observed.

CONCLUSION

These results may suggest an impact of Zuccagnia punctata and some of its components on the pharmacokinetics of drugs that are P-gp substrates, as well as a potential role on multidrug resistance modulation.

Antigenotoxic effect, composition and antioxidant activity of Dendrobium speciosum

The chemical composition, the antiradical properties of Dendrobium speciosum (Orchidaceae) leaves and stem extracts have been studied. Furthermore, in view of the use of this orchid as "bush foods", the genotoxic/antigenotoxic effects of the extracts have been evaluated.

Potentiality of standardized extract and isolated flavonoids from Zuccagnia punctata for the treatment of respiratory infections by Streptococcus pneumoniae: in vitro and in vivo studies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Fabaceae) is a monotypic species distributed in western Argentina and is traditionally used for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections. The aim of this study was to demonstrated the antibacterial activity of the Zuccagnia punctata standardized extract and the structurally related non-methoxylated flavonoids with similar pattern of substitution and differences in ring C present in this plant species: 7-hydroxyflavanone (HF), 2',4'-dihydroxychalcone (DHC) and 3,7-dihydroxyflavone (DHF), against Streptococcus pneumoniae clinical isolates using in vitro and in vivo models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MIC values of natural products were determined by agar macrodilution method. In vivo activities were investigated in a Streptococcus pneumoniae infection model in mice. Lung and blood samples were obtained for bacterial cell counts. The serum was used by biochemical analysis (alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, urea and creatinine) in order to evaluate the toxicity of natural products.

RESULTS

All samples showed antimicrobial activity in vitro with MIC values between 50 and 500μg/ml. Zuccagnia punctata extract (1mg/mice) and HF (1mg/mice) significantly reduced the number of viable Streptococcus pneumoniae in lung (p<0.01) while lower quantities has not effect. Therefore, the present study has shown that intake once or twice a day of 1mg of Zuccagnia punctata extract or HF for seven days did not result in toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that Zuccagnia punctata extract as well as one of its isolated flavonoids, 7-hydroxyflavanone, could be useful for the development of a novel respiratory infections treatment.

Potential application of Northern Argentine propolis to control some phytopathogenic bacteria

The antimicrobial activity of samples of Northern Argentine propolis (Tucumán, Santiago del Estero and Chaco) against phytopathogenic bacteria was assessed and the most active samples were identified. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined by agar macrodilution and broth microdilution assays. Strong antibacterial activity was detected against Erwinia carotovora spp carotovora CECT 225, Pseudomonas syringae pvar tomato CECT 126, Pseudomonas corrugata CECT 124 and Xanthomonas campestris pvar vesicatoria CECT 792. The most active propolis extract (Tucumán, T1) was selected to bioguide isolation and identified for antimicrobial compound (2',4'-dihydroxychalcone). The antibacterial chalcone was more active than the propolis ethanolic extract (MIC values of 0.5-1 μg ml(-1) and 9.5-15 μg ml(-1), respectively). Phytotoxicity assays were realized and the propolis extracts did not retard germination of lettuce seeds or the growth of onion roots. Propolis solutions applied as sprays on tomato fruits infected with P. syringae reduced the severity of disease. Application of the Argentine propolis extracts diluted with water may be promising for the management of post harvest diseases of fruits.

Argentinean Andean propolis associated with the medicinal plant Larrea nitida Cav. (Zygophyllaceae). HPLC-MS and GC-MS characterization and antifungal activity

The chemical profile and botanical origin of Andean Argentinian propolis were studied by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS and GC-MS techniques as well as the antifungal activity according to CLSI protocols. Dermatophytes and yeasts tested were strongly inhibited by propolis extracts (MICs between 31.25 and 125 μg/mL). The main antifungal compounds were: 3'methyl-nordihydroguaiaretic acid (MNDGA) 1, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) 2 and a NDGA derivative 3, showing strong activity against Trichophyton mentagrophytes, T. rubrum and Microsporum gypseum (MICs between 15.6 and 31.25 μg/mL). The lignans 1 and 2 showed activities against clinical isolates of Candidas spp., Cryptococcus spp., T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes (MICs and MFCs between 31.25 and 62.5 μg/mL). The lignan and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) profiles from propolis matched with those of exudates of Larrea nitida providing strong evidences on its botanical origin. These results support that Argentinian Andean propolis are a valuable natural product with potential to improve human health. Six compounds (1-6) were isolated from propolis for the first time, while compounds 1 and 3-6 were reported for first time as constituents of L. nitida Cav.

Argentinean propolis from Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Caesalpinieae) exudates: phytochemical characterization and antifungal activity

This paper reports the in vitro antifungal activity of propolis extracts from the province of Tucuman (Argentina) as well as the identification of their main antifungal compounds and botanical origin. The antifungal activity was determined by the microdilution technique, using reference microorganisms and clinical isolates. All dermatophytes and yeasts tested were strongly inhibited by different propolis extracts (MICs between 16 and 125 microg mL(-1)). The most susceptible species were Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Trichophyton rubrum. The main bioactive compounds were 2',4'-dihydroxy-3'-methoxychalcone 2 and 2',4'-dihydroxychalcone 3. Both displayed strong activity against clinical isolates of T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes (MICs and MFCs between 1.9 and 2.9 microg mL(-1)). Additionally, galangin 5, pinocembrin 6, and 7-hydroxy-8-methoxyflavanone 9 were isolated from propolis samples and Zuccagnia punctata exudates, showing moderate antifungal activity. This is the first study matching the chemical profile of Z. punctata Cav. exudates with their corresponding propolis, giving strong evidence on the botanical origin of the studied propolis.