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Cocîrlea MD, Soare A, Petrovici AR, Silion M, Călin T, Oancea S. Phenolic Composition and Bioactivities of Invasive Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle Leaf Extracts Obtained by Two-Step Sequential Extraction. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:824. [PMID: 39061893 PMCID: PMC11273599 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13070824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ailanthus altissima, a highly invasive species, contains valuable compounds in different plant parts, indicating great practical potential. This paper proposes the use of non-polar (n-hexane) and polar (ethanol) solvents for the extraction of antioxidant compounds from A. altissima (family Simaroubaceae) leaves in a sequential two-step process. Fresh and dried leaves were examined for their microstructure by scanning electron microscopy, and for color changes in the CIELAB color space co-ordinates. An investigation of the harvesting season, processing (freezing and drying), and solvent indicates ethanol can be used for the highly efficient extraction of phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and carotenoids. Statistically significant differences were found between the autumn and summer samples for phenolic content, and between dried and frozen samples for tannin content. The HPLC phenolic profile indicates more phenolics (nine polyphenols) in dried leaves harvested in both seasons compared to those in frozen ones (five to six polyphenols). Frozen leaves showed a higher antioxidant activity in a ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay than that of the dried samples, which exhibited a higher antioxidant activity using the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl assay, but it was not statistically significant. The phenolic, flavonoid, and carotenoid contents significantly influenced the antioxidant activities. Among the ethanolic extracts, those from dried leaves showed better antibacterial activity, in particular, on Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. The high bioactive content and activity of A. altissima leaves make them suitable natural raw materials for various applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Denisa Cocîrlea
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Food Engineering, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 7–9 Ion Ratiu Street, 550024 Sibiu, Romania;
| | - Amalia Soare
- National Research and Development Institute for Cryogenic and Isotopic Technologies ICSI, 4 Uzinei Street, 240050 Râmnicu-Vâlcea, Romania;
| | - Anca Roxana Petrovici
- Centre of Advanced Research in Bionanoconjugates and Biopolymers, “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Aleea Grigore Ghica-Voda, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Mihaela Silion
- Physics of Polymers and Polymeric Materials Department, “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Teodora Călin
- Laboratory of Diagnostic and Investigation, Directorate of Public Health, 3 George Barițiu Street, 550178 Sibiu, Romania;
| | - Simona Oancea
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Food Engineering, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 7–9 Ion Ratiu Street, 550024 Sibiu, Romania;
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Song Q, Duan ZK, Tan YN, Gao ZH, Liu D, Hao JL, Lin B, Huang XX, Song SJ. Isolation of four new monoterpenes from Ailanthus altissima (mill.) Swingle and their enzyme inhibitory effects. Fitoterapia 2024; 176:105984. [PMID: 38701870 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.105984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
A phytochemical study of the ethanol extract from Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle leaves resulted in the isolation of four new monoterpenoids (1-3, 5). The structures were elucidated using HRESIMS data, NMR spectroscopic data, quantum chemical calculations for NMR and ECD, and custom DP4+ probability analysis. Additionally, the absolute configuration of sugar was determined by acid hydrolysis. Compounds 1-4 are cyclogeraniane monocyclic monoterpenes, while compound 5 contains an acyclic mycrane monoterpenes skeleton. Anti-tyrosinase, anti-acetylcholinesterase, and anti-butyrylcholinesterase activities were tested. Compound 1 showed notable anti-acetylcholinesterase activity, and compound 3 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on anti-tyrosinase activity. Furthermore, the potential binding sites of compounds 1 and 3 were predicted by molecular docking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Song
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Kang Duan
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Nuo Tan
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Heng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Dai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Le Hao
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shao-Jiang Song
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China.
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Xue JF, Zhao CG, Pan H, Duan JJ, Jia YY, Chen H, Feng WS, Xue GM. A new canthinone glycoside isolated from the root barks of Ailanthus altissima with NO inhibitory activity. JOURNAL OF ASIAN NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38949198 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2024.2360047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
One new canthinone glycoside (1), together with six known compounds (2-7) including three lignans (2-4), two coumarins (5-6) and one phenol (7) was isolated from the root barks of Ailanthus altissima. The structure of new compound 1 was established by the interpretation of UV, IR, MS and NMR data, while its absolute configuration was determined by acid hydrolysis and GIAO NMR calculations with DP4+ probability analysis. The inhibitory effects of all compounds on Nitric oxide (NO) production were investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Results showed that compounds 2 and 5 displayed NO production inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 30.1 and 15.3 μM, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Feng Xue
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Chen-Guang Zhao
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Hao Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Jiang-Jing Duan
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yao-Yao Jia
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Wei-Sheng Feng
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Gui-Min Xue
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
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Cocîrlea MD, Simionescu N, Petrovici AR, Silion M, Biondi B, Lastella L, Oancea S. In Vitro Screening of Ecotoxic and Cytotoxic Activities of Ailanthus altissima Leaf Extract against Target and Non-Target Plant and Animal Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5653. [PMID: 38891841 PMCID: PMC11171768 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Ailanthus altissima, an invasive plant species, exhibits pharmacological properties, but also some allergic effects on humans. This study aimed to evaluate the potential toxicity of A. altissima leaves, using a complex approach towards different organisms. The ecotoxic impact of a crude extract was investigated on seeds germination and brine shrimp lethality. Cytotoxicity was studied in vitro using non-target (haemolysis, liposomal model, fibroblast), and target (cancer cells) assays. Leaf extract at 1000 µg/mL significantly inhibited wheat and tomato germination, while no significant effects were found on parsley germination. A slight stimulatory effect on wheat and tomato germination was found at 125 µg/mL. In a brine shrimp-test, the extract showed a low toxicity at 24 h post-exposure (LC50 = 951.04 ± 28.26 μg/mL), the toxic effects increasing with the exposure time and extract concentration. Leaf extract caused low hematotoxicity. The extract was biocompatible with human gingival fibroblasts. No anti-proliferative effect was found within the concentration range of 10-500 µg/mL on malignant melanoma (MeWo) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2). In a liposomal model-test, the extract proved to possess low capability to alter the eukaryotic cell-mimicking membranes within the tested concentration range. Given the low to moderate toxicity on tested organisms/cells, the A. altissima autumn leaves may find useful applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Denisa Cocîrlea
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Food Engineering, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 7–9 Dr. Ion Ratiu Street, 550024 Sibiu, Romania;
| | - Natalia Simionescu
- Centre of Advanced Research in Bionanoconjugates and Biopolymers, “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Aleea Grigore Ghica-Voda, 700487 Iasi, Romania; (N.S.); (A.R.P.)
| | - Anca Roxana Petrovici
- Centre of Advanced Research in Bionanoconjugates and Biopolymers, “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Aleea Grigore Ghica-Voda, 700487 Iasi, Romania; (N.S.); (A.R.P.)
| | - Mihaela Silion
- Physics of Polymers and Polymeric Materials Department, “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Barbara Biondi
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padova Unit, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Luana Lastella
- Department of Chemistry, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Simona Oancea
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Food Engineering, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 7–9 Dr. Ion Ratiu Street, 550024 Sibiu, Romania;
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Duan ZK, Wang X, Lian MY, Guo SS, Gao ZH, Bai M, Huang XX, Song SJ. Bioassay-Guided and DeepSAT-Driven Precise Mining of Monoterpenoid Coumarin Derivatives with Antifeedant Effects from the Leaves of Ailanthus altissima. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:10958-10969. [PMID: 38703118 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c01049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Demand for the exploration of botanical pesticides continues to increase due to the detrimental effects of synthetic chemicals on human health and the environment and the development of resistance by pests. Under the guidance of a bioactivity-guided approach and HSQC-based DeepSAT, 16 coumarin derivatives were discovered from the leaves of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, including seven undescribed monoterpenoid coumarins, three undescribed monoterpenoid phenylpropanoids, and two new coumarin derivatives. The structure and configurations of these compounds were established and validated via extensive spectroscopic analysis, acetonide analysis, and quantum chemical calculations. Biologically, 5 exhibited significant antifeedant activity toward the Plutella xylostella. Moreover, tyrosinase being closely related to the growth and development of larva, the inhibitory potentials of 5 against tyrosinase was evaluated in vitro and in silico. The bioactivity evaluation results highlight the prospect of 5 as a novel category of botanical insecticide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Kang Duan
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Xu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103, Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, P. R. China
| | - Mei-Ya Lian
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Shan-Shan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Zhi-Heng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Ming Bai
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Shandong province, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Shao-Jiang Song
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry-Based Natural Antitumor Drug Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Engineering Research Center of Natural Medicine Active Molecule Research & Development, Liaoning Province; Key Laboratory of Natural Bioactive Compounds Discovery & Modification, Shenyang; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
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Andonova T, Petkova Z, Teneva O, Antova G, Apostolova E, Naimov S, Mladenova T, Slavov I, Dimitrova-Dyulgerova I. Ailanthus altissima Seed Oil-A Valuable Source of Lipid-Soluble Components with DNA Protective and Antiproliferative Activities. Foods 2024; 13:1268. [PMID: 38672940 PMCID: PMC11048806 DOI: 10.3390/foods13081268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study is focused on the chemical and lipid composition of seed oil of the European ornamental and invasive wood plant Ailanthus altissima (Simaroubaceae). Total lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, ash, and moisture in the seeds were determined. A high yield of glyceride oil (30.7%) was found, as well as a high content of fibers (29.6%) and proteins (18.7%). Physicochemical properties of the oil define it as semi-dry (129.4 g I2/100 g Iodine value) with oxidative stability, refractive index, saponification value, and relative density similar to widely used oils with nutritional value and health benefits. The composition of the seed oil was determined chromatographically. Unsaturated fatty acids (95.3%) predominated in the seed oil, of which linoleic acid (48.6%) and oleic acid (44.8%) were the major ones. The main lipid-soluble bioactive components were β-sitosterol (72.6%), γ-tocopherol (74.6%), phosphatidylinositol (29.5%), and phosphatidic acids (25.7%). The proven in vitro DNA-protective ability of seed oil is reported for the first time. The seed oil exhibited a weak antiproliferative effect on HT-29 and PC3 tumor cell lines and showed no cytotoxicity on the BALB/c 3T3 cell line. In brief, the present study reveals that A. altissima seed oil can be used as a healthy food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsvetelina Andonova
- Department of Botany and Biological Education, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (T.A.); (T.M.); (I.D.-D.)
| | - Zhana Petkova
- Department of Chemical Technology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (O.T.); (G.A.)
| | - Olga Teneva
- Department of Chemical Technology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (O.T.); (G.A.)
| | - Ginka Antova
- Department of Chemical Technology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (O.T.); (G.A.)
| | - Elena Apostolova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (E.A.); (S.N.)
| | - Samir Naimov
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (E.A.); (S.N.)
| | - Tsvetelina Mladenova
- Department of Botany and Biological Education, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (T.A.); (T.M.); (I.D.-D.)
| | - Iliya Slavov
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria;
| | - Ivanka Dimitrova-Dyulgerova
- Department of Botany and Biological Education, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 24 Tzar Asen Street, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (T.A.); (T.M.); (I.D.-D.)
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7
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Ma S, Guo X, Han R, Meng Q, Zhang Y, Quan W, Miao S, Yang Z, Shi X, Wang S. Elucidation of the mechanism of action of ailanthone in the treatment of colorectal cancer: integration of network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1355644. [PMID: 38384287 PMCID: PMC10880095 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1355644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Ailanthone, a small compound derived from the bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, has several anti-tumour properties. However, the activity and mechanism of ailanthone in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain to be investigated. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the mechanism of ailanthone in the treatment of CRC by employing a combination of network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis, and molecular biological technique. Methods: The druggability of ailanthone was examined, and its targets were identified using relevant databases. The RNA sequencing data of individuals with CRC obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed. Utilizing the R programming language, an in-depth investigation of differentially expressed genes was carried out, and the potential target of ailanthone for anti-CRC was found. Through the integration of protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, GO and KEGG enrichment studies to search for the key pathway of the action of Ailanthone. Then, by employing molecular docking verification, flow cytometry, Transwell assays, and Immunofluorescence to corroborate these discoveries. Results: Data regarding pharmacokinetic parameters and 137 target genes for ailanthone were obtained. Leveraging The Cancer Genome Atlas database, information regarding 2,551 differentially expressed genes was extracted. Subsequent analyses, encompassing protein-protein interaction network analysis, survival analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and molecular docking verification, revealed the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway as pivotal mediators of ailanthone against CRC. Additionally, the in vitro experiments indicated that ailanthone substantially affects the cell cycle, induces apoptosis in CRC cells (HCT116 and SW620 cells), and impedes the migration and invasion capabilities of these cells. Immunofluorescence staining showed that ailanthone significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT protein and suppressed the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells. Conclusion: Therefore, our findings indicate that Ailanthone exerts anti-CRC effects primarily by inhibiting the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Additionally, we propose that Ailanthone holds potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of human CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanbo Ma
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaodi Guo
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ruisi Han
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qian Meng
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Quan
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shan Miao
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhao Yang
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaopeng Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Siwang Wang
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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8
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Shao Q, Li TY, Quan W, Wang H, Yan KY, Qiu PC, Tang HF, Lu YY. The alkaloids with neuroprotective effect from the root bark of Ailanthus altissima. Nat Prod Res 2023; 37:3751-3757. [PMID: 36416576 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2022.2149518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The chemical constituent investigation on the root bark of Ailanthus altissima leads to the isolation of a new β-carboline alkaloid, 14(S),15-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-β-carboline (1), along with nine known alkaloids. The structure of new compound was elucidated on basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis, especially two-dimensional (2D) NMR techniques and the absolute configuration of C-14 was determined by ECD calculation. The neuroprotective effect of the isolated compounds on PC12 cells against the serum deprivation injury was evaluated by MTT method. As a result, compound 7 revealed protective effect on PC12 cells and the cell survival rate was significantly increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Shao
- Xi'an Mental Health Center, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tian-Yi Li
- Department of Chinese Materia Medica and Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Quan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Xi'an Mental Health Center, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ke-Yu Yan
- Xi'an Mental Health Center, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng-Cheng Qiu
- Department of Chinese Materia Medica and Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hai-Feng Tang
- Department of Chinese Materia Medica and Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yun-Yang Lu
- Department of Chinese Materia Medica and Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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9
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To KKW, Cho WC. Drug Repurposing to Circumvent Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Resistance in Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2166. [PMID: 37631380 PMCID: PMC10459070 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have achieved unprecedented clinical success in cancer treatment. However, drug resistance to ICI therapy is a major hurdle that prevents cancer patients from responding to the treatment or having durable disease control. Drug repurposing refers to the application of clinically approved drugs, with characterized pharmacological properties and known adverse effect profiles, to new indications. It has also emerged as a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance. In this review, we summarized the latest research about drug repurposing to overcome ICI resistance. Repurposed drugs work by either exerting immunostimulatory activities or abolishing the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Compared to the de novo drug design strategy, they provide novel and affordable treatment options to enhance cancer immunotherapy that can be readily evaluated in the clinic. Biomarkers are exploited to identify the right patient population to benefit from the repurposed drugs and drug combinations. Phenotypic screening of chemical libraries has been conducted to search for T-cell-modifying drugs. Genomics and integrated bioinformatics analysis, artificial intelligence, machine and deep learning approaches are employed to identify novel modulators of the immunosuppressive TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth K. W. To
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William C. Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Silva AC, de Moraes DC, do Carmo DC, Gomes GCC, Ganesan A, Lopes RSC, Ferreira-Pereira A, Lopes CC. Synthesis of Altissimacoumarin D and Other Prenylated Coumarins and Their Ability to Reverse the Multidrug Resistance Phenotype in Candida albicans. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:758. [PMID: 37504746 PMCID: PMC10381857 DOI: 10.3390/jof9070758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Azoles are the main antifungal agents employed in clinical practice to treat invasive candidiasis. Nonetheless, their efficacy is limited by fungal resistance mechanisms, mainly the overexpression of efflux pumps. Consequently, candidiasis has a worrisome death rate of 75%. One potential strategy to overcome efflux-mediated resistance is to inhibit this process. Ailanthus altissima is a Chinese tree that produces several active substances, including altissimacoumarin D. Due to the low yield of its extraction and the need to search for new drugs to treat candidiasis, this study aimed to synthesize altissimacoumarin D and its analogues, as well as evaluating their ability to reverse the resistance phenotype of Candida albicans. Coumarin isofraxidin was prepared via total synthesis through a solvent-free Knoevenagel condensation as the key step. Isofraxidin and other commercially available coumarins were alkylated with prenyl or geranyl groups to yield the natural product altissimacoumarin D and seven analogues. The antifungal activity of the coumarins and their ability to reverse the fungal resistance phenotype were assessed using microbroth methodologies. Toxicity was evaluated using erythrocytes and an in silico prediction. All compounds improved the antifungal activity of fluconazole by inhibiting efflux pumps, and ACS47 and ACS50 were the most active. None of the coumarins were toxic to erythrocytes. In silico predictions indicate that ACS47 and ACS50 may be safe for human use. ACS47 and ACS50 are promising candidates when used as adjuvants in the antifungal therapy against C. albicans-resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Claudia Silva
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia, Bloco A, 508, Rio de Janeiro 21949-900, Brazil
| | - Daniel Clemente de Moraes
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco I, 44, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Denilson Costa do Carmo
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia, Bloco A, 508, Rio de Janeiro 21949-900, Brazil
| | - Giselle Cristina Casaes Gomes
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia, Bloco A, 508, Rio de Janeiro 21949-900, Brazil
| | - A Ganesan
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Rosangela Sabbatini Capella Lopes
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia, Bloco A, 508, Rio de Janeiro 21949-900, Brazil
| | - Antonio Ferreira-Pereira
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco I, 44, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Cerqueira Lopes
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia, Bloco A, 508, Rio de Janeiro 21949-900, Brazil
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11
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Ma SB, Liu L, Li X, Xie YH, Shi XP, Wang SW. Virtual screening-molecular docking-activity evaluation of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) swingle bark in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:197. [PMID: 37322476 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-03991-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The dried bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. The objective of this study was to explore the therapeutic basis of the dried bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle for the treatment of ulcerative colitis based on Virtual Screening-Molecular Docking-Activity Evaluation technology. METHODS By searching the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology TCMSP Database and Analysis Platform, 89 compounds were obtained from the chemical components of the dried bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. Then, after preliminarily screening the compounds based on Lipinski's rule of five and other relevant conditions, the AutoDock Vina molecular docking software was used to evaluate the affinity of the compounds to ulcerative colitis-related target proteins and their binding modes through use of the scoring function to identify the best candidate compounds. Further verification of the compound's properties was achieved through in vitro experiments. RESULTS Twenty-two compounds obtained from the secondary screening were molecularly docked with ulcerative colitis-related target proteins (IL-1R, TLR, EGFR, TGFR, and Wnt) using AutoDock Vina. The free energies of the highest scoring compounds binding to the active cavity of human IL-1R, TLR, EGFR, TGFR, and Wnt proteins were - 8.7, - 8.0, - 9.2, - 7.7, and - 8.5 kcal/mol, respectively. The potential compounds, dehydrocrebanine, ailanthone, and kaempferol, were obtained through scoring function and docking mode analysis. Furthermore, the potential compound ailanthone (1, 3, and 10 µM) was found to have no significant effect on cell proliferation, though at 10 µM it reduced the level of pro-inflammatory factors caused by lipopolysaccharide. CONCLUSION Among the active components of the dried bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, ailanthone plays a major role in its anti-inflammatory properties. The present study shows that ailanthone has advantages in cell proliferation and in inhibiting of inflammation, but further animal research is needed to confirm its pharmaceutical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Bo Ma
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lun Liu
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiang Li
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan-Hua Xie
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiao-Peng Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Si-Wang Wang
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China.
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12
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Andonova T, Muhovski Y, Slavov I, Vrancheva R, Georgiev V, Apostolova E, Naimov S, Mladenov R, Pavlov A, Dimitrova-Dyulgerova I. Phenolic Profile, Antioxidant and DNA-Protective Capacity, and Microscopic Characters of Ailanthus altissima Aerial Substances. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:920. [PMID: 36840268 PMCID: PMC9967504 DOI: 10.3390/plants12040920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Invasive species as sources of natural components are of increasing interest for scientific research. This is the case of Ailanthus altissima, which belongs to the top 100 of the most dangerous invasive plant species in Europe, and which is the subject of the present study. The purpose of the research was to analyze the main phenolic compounds in the flowers, leaves, and stem bark of A. altissima and determine the DNA-protective and antioxidant potential of their ethanolic extracts. HPLC profiling revealed the presence of 6 flavonoids and 10 phenolic acids, of which 15 were found in flowers, 14 in leaves, and 11 in the stem bark. Rutin (5.68 mg/g dw in flowers), hesperidin (2.67 mg/g dw in leaves) and (+)-catechin (2.15 mg/g dw in stem bark) were the best-represented flavonoids. Rosmarinic (10.32 mg/g dw in leaves) and salicylic (6.19 mg/g dw in leaves) acids were predominant among phenolic acids. All plant extracts tested showed in vitro antioxidant activity (determined by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and CUPRAC assays) and DNA-protection capacity (assay with supercoiled plasmid DNA-pUC19). The highest antioxidant activity was recorded in the flower parts (in the range from 661 to 893 mmol TE/g dw), followed by the leaves. A DNA protective potential for A. altissima leaf and flower extracts has not been established to date. In addition, the main microscopic diagnostic features of studied plant substances were described, with data for the flower parts being reported for the first time. The present study proves that A. altissima could be a natural source of DNA protection and antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsvetelina Andonova
- Department of Botany and Biological Education, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Yordan Muhovski
- Life Sciences Department, Walloon Agricultural Research Centre, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Iliya Slavov
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Radka Vrancheva
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, Technological Faculty, University of Food Technologies, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Vasil Georgiev
- Laboratory of Cell Biosystems, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Elena Apostolova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Samir Naimov
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Rumen Mladenov
- Department of Botany and Biological Education, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Plovdiv, 15A Vasil Aprilov Blvd., 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Atanas Pavlov
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, Technological Faculty, University of Food Technologies, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Laboratory of Cell Biosystems, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Ivanka Dimitrova-Dyulgerova
- Department of Botany and Biological Education, Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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Muhammad Abdur Rahman H, Javaid S, Ashraf W, Fawad Rasool M, Saleem H, Ali Khan S, Ul-Haq Z, Muhammad Muneeb Anjum S, Ahmad T, Alqahtani F, Ur Rehman A, Imran I. Effects of long-term Ailanthus altissima extract supplementation on fear, cognition and brain antioxidant levels. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:191-206. [PMID: 36942273 PMCID: PMC10023549 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ailanthus altissima is an indigenous plant known for various remedial properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of methanolic extract Ailanthus altissima (AA) bark as current scientific trend is searching plant for neurodegenerative diseases, worldwide. Methodology In in-vitro experiments, the AA was analyzed for phenols, flavonoids, antioxidative and cholinesterase inhibitory properties with subsequent detailed characterization for secondary metabolites. The in-vivo neurological effects were evaluated in rats through behavioral assessment for anxiety and memory after chronic administration (28 days) of 50-200 mg/kg of AA. At the end of behavior studies, isolated brains were biochemically tested to determine antioxidant enzyme activity. Results AA was found rich in phenols/flavonoids and active in radical scavenging with the presence of 13 secondary metabolites in UHPLC-MS analysis. The AA yielded anxiolytic effects dose-dependently in the open field, light/dark and elevated-plus maze tests as animals significantly (P < 0.05 vs control group) preferred open arena, illuminated zone and exposed arms of maze. Similarly, the animals treated with AA showed significant (P < 0.05 vs amnesic group) increase in spontaneous alternation, discrimination index in y-maze, novel object recognition tests. Further, AA.Cr treated rats showed noticeably shorter escape latencies in Morris water maze tests.In biochemical analysis, the dissected brains AA treated rats showed reduced levels of AChE and malondialdehyde with increased levels of first-line antioxidant enzymes i.e. glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. These observed biological effects might be attributed to phenols and flavonoids constituents owned by AA. -The in-silico studies showed thatconessine and lophirone J phytocompounds have good blood-brain barrier permeability and interaction with AChE. Conclusion The outcomes of this study validate that bark of Ailanthus altissima might work as a source of bioactive phytochemicals of neuroprotective potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sana Javaid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Women University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
| | - Waseem Ashraf
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fawad Rasool
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Hammad Saleem
- The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Salman Ali Khan
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Zaheer Ul-Haq
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
- Third World Center for Science and Technology, H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Syed Muhammad Muneeb Anjum
- The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Tanveer Ahmad
- Institut pour l’Avancée des Biosciences, Centre de Recherche UGA / INSERM U1209 / CNRS 5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, France
| | - Faleh Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Anees Ur Rehman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Imran Imran
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
- Corresponding authors.
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Chuang L, Liu S, Biedermann D, Franke J. Identification of early quassinoid biosynthesis in the invasive tree of heaven ( Ailanthus altissima) confirms evolutionary origin from protolimonoids. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:958138. [PMID: 36082289 PMCID: PMC9445810 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.958138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The tree of heaven, Ailanthus altissima (MILL.) SWINGLE, is a globally invasive plant known to secrete allelopathic metabolites called quassinoids. Quassinoids are highly modified triterpenoids. So far, nothing has been known about the biochemical basis of quassinoid biosynthesis. Here, based on transcriptome and metabolome data of Ailanthus altissima, we present the first three steps of quassinoid biosynthesis, which are catalysed by an oxidosqualene cyclase and two cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, resulting in the formation of the protolimonoid melianol. Strikingly, these steps are identical to the first steps of the biosynthesis of limonoids, structurally different triterpenoids from sister plant families within the same order Sapindales. Our results are therefore not only important to fully understand the biosynthesis of complex triterpenoids in plants, but also confirm the long-standing hypothesis that quassinoids and limonoids share an evolutionary origin. In addition, our transcriptome data for Ailanthus altissima will be beneficial to other researchers investigating the physiology and ecology of this invasive tree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Chuang
- Centre of Biomolecular Drug Research, Leibniz University Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Shenyu Liu
- Centre of Biomolecular Drug Research, Leibniz University Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Dave Biedermann
- Centre of Biomolecular Drug Research, Leibniz University Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Jakob Franke
- Centre of Biomolecular Drug Research, Leibniz University Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Institute of Botany, Leibniz University Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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15
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Creation of Value Chains for the Sustainability of Control and Eradication Actions on Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. ENVIRONMENTS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/environments9050064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Actions to control and eradicate Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle are essential to the prevention of uncontrolled growth and expansion of this species and its competition with native species. This competition leads to biodiversity and productivity losses in forests. The present study evaluated the potential to create value chains to maintain the sustainability of control actions through the energy recovery of collected A. altissima biomass. Other possibilities were also discussed, such as the extraction of allelopathic compounds. For this purpose, and to assess the potential for energy recovery, samples of A. altissima were collected and analyzed in the laboratory to discuss the potential of using extracted compounds in nature-based applications, and a literature review was carried out. It was found that, although there is potential for the use of these biomasses for energy production, the high levels of chlorine and heavy metals pose some obstacles to their large-scale use, mainly due to their corrosive potential. On the other hand, the extraction of allelopathic compounds was shown to be potentially interesting for use in the control of other invasive species. Used in this application, it may be possible to create value chains to sustain, control, and eradicate the actions of this invasive species.
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Beszterda M, Frański R. Seasonal Qualitative Variations of Phenolic Content in the Stem Bark of
Prunus persica
var.
nucipersica
‐ Implication for the Use of the Bark as a Source of Bioactive Compounds. ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202200418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Beszterda
- Poznań University of Life Sciences Department of Food Biochemistry and Analysis Mazowiecka 48 60-623 Poznań Poland
| | - Rafał Frański
- Faculty of Chemistry Adam Mickiewicz University Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8 61-614 Poznań Poland
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Kim SR, Park Y, Li M, Kim YK, Lee S, Son SY, Lee S, Lee JS, Lee CH, Park HH, Lee JY, Hong S, Cho YC, Kim JW, Yoo HM, Cho N, Lee HS, Lee SH. Anti-inflammatory effect of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle leaves in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated astrocytes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 286:114258. [PMID: 34271112 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Activated astrocytes are involved in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Traditionally, Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, widely distributed in East Asia, has been used as a medicine for the treatment of fever, gastric diseases, and inflammation. Although A. altissima has been reported to play an anti-inflammatory role in peripheral tissues or cells, its role in the central nervous system (CNS) remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanism of action of A. altissima in primary astrocytes stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). MATERIALS AND METHODS A nitrite assay was used to measure nitric oxide (NO) production, and the tetrazolium salt 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed to determine cytotoxicity. The expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were determined with western blotting. Reverse-transcription PCR was used to assess the expression of inflammatory cytokines. The levels of reactive oxygen species were measured using 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. Luciferase assay and immunocytochemistry were used for assessing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) transcription and p65 localization, respectively. Memory and social interaction were analyzed using the Y-maze and three-chamber tests, respectively. RESULTS The ethanol extract of A. altissima leaves (AAE) inhibited iNOS and COX-2 expression in LPS-stimulated astrocytes. Moreover, AAE reduced the transcription of various proinflammatory mediators, hindered NF-κB activation, and suppressed extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation without p38 activation. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry analysis revealed that AAE comprised ethyl gallate, quercetin, and kaempferol, along with luteolin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and repressed LPS-induced nitrite levels and the nuclear translocation of p65. Finally, oral administration of AAE attenuated LPS-induced memory and social impairment in mice and repressed LPS-induced ERK and JNK activation in the cortices of mice. CONCLUSION AAE could have therapeutic uses in the treatment of neuroinflammatory diseases via suppression of astrocyte activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Rae Kim
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongun Park
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Mo Li
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong Kyeong Kim
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunmin Lee
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Young Son
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Sarah Lee
- National Institute of Biological Resources, Environmental Research Complex, 42 Hwangyeong-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon, 22755, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Seok Lee
- National Institute of Biological Resources, Environmental Research Complex, 42 Hwangyeong-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon, 22755, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong Hwan Lee
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ho Park
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Yun Lee
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungguan Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Chang Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Woong Kim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Min Yoo
- Center for Bioanalysis, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Namki Cho
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Shik Lee
- KNU-Center for Nonlinear Dynamics, CMRI, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Lee
- Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.
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The Anthelmintic Quassinoids Ailanthone and Bruceine a Induce Infertility in the Model Organism Caenorhabditis elegans by an Apoptosis-like Mechanism Induced in Gonadal and Spermathecal Tissues. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26237354. [PMID: 34885936 PMCID: PMC8659173 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In continuation of the search for new anthelmintic natural products, the study at hand investigated the nematicidal effects of the two naturally occurring quassinoids ailanthone and bruceine A against the reproductive system of the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans to pinpoint their anthelmintic mode of action by the application of various microscopic techniques. Differential Interference Contrast (DIC) and the epifluorescence microscopy experiments used in the presented study indicated the genotoxic effects of the tested quassinoids (c ailanthone = 50 µM, c bruceine A = 100 µM) against the nuclei of the investigated gonadal and spermathecal tissues, leaving other morphological key features such as enterocytes or body wall muscle cells unimpaired. In order to gain nanoscopic insight into the morphology of the gonads as well as the considerably smaller spermathecae of C. elegans, an innovative protocol of polyethylene glycol embedding, ultra-sectioning, acridine orange staining, tissue identification by epifluorescence, and subsequent AFM-based ultrastructural data acquisition was applied. This sequence allowed the facile and fast assessment of the impact of quassinoid treatment not only on the gonadal but also on the considerably smaller spermathecal tissues of C. elegans. These first-time ultrastructural investigations on C. elegans gonads and spermathecae by AFM led to the identification of specific quassinoid-induced alterations to the nuclei of the reproductive tissues (e.g., highly condensed chromatin, impaired nuclear membrane morphology, as well as altered nucleolus morphology), altogether implying an apoptosis-like effect of ailanthone and bruceine A on the reproductive tissues of C. elegans.
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19
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Insights into the Bioactivities and Chemical Analysis of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app112311331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Many species of the so-called exotic plants coexist with native species in a balanced way, but others thrive very quickly and escape human control, becoming harmful—these are called invasive alien species. In addition to overcoming geographic barriers, these species can defeat biotic and abiotic barriers, maintaining stable populations. Ailanthus altissima is no exception; it is disseminated worldwide and is considered high risk due to its easy propagation and resistance to external environmental factors. Currently, it has no particular use other than ornamental, even though it is used to treat epilepsy, diarrhea, asthma, ophthalmic diseases, and seborrhoea in Chinese medicine. Considering its rich composition in alkaloids, terpenoids, sterols, and flavonoids, doubtlessly, its use in medicine or other fields can be maximised. This review will focus on the knowledge of the chemical composition and the discovery of the biological properties of A. altissima to understand this plant better and maximise its possible use for purposes such as medicine, pharmacy, or the food industry. Methods for the extraction and detection to know the chemical composition will also be discussed in detail.
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