Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial activities of ethanol extracts of selected traditional Chinese medicinal herbs

Preliminary Identification and Quantification of Individual Polyphenols in Fallopia japonica Plants and Honey and Their Influence on Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activities

Fallopia japonica (FJ), an invasive plant species known for its rich bioactive compounds, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Despite its significant beekeeping potential, this aspect of FJ remains underexplored. This research aims to investigate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of FJ plants and honey. Notably, this study is the first to identify individual phenolic compounds in both FJ plant tissues and FJ honey, highlighting resveratrol as a marker of FJ honey. The study tested inhibitory activity against seven bacterial strains: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella enteritidis, and the yeast Candida albicans. Disk diffusion and microdilution methods were used to assess antimicrobial activity, while the crystal violet staining test evaluated antibiofilm activity. Results showed that FJ plant tissues and honey exhibited strong inhibition, particularly against Gram-negative bacterial strains. The most significant inhibition of biofilm formation, by both FJ plant tissues and honey, was observed against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A significant positive correlation was found between antimicrobial activity and individual polyphenols, especially resveratrol. The antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of FJ plant tissues and honey suggests promising applications in sustainable beekeeping. Further research is necessary to evaluate the bioactive compounds found in FJ honey and their health effects.

Advanced researches of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of medical Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Medical Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis consists of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Miq. ex Havil, Uncaria macrophylla Wall, Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil, Uncaria hirsuta Havil, and Uncaria sessilifructus Roxb, which belongs to the species widely used in the genus Uncaria. These species resource widely distributed in China and abroad, and the hook-bearing stem is the primary constituent enrichment site. There are many different forms and architectures of chemicals, depending on the extraction site. Traditional remedies employing URCU had been used widely in antiquity and were first compiled in renowned ancient masterpiece 'Mingyi Bielu ()' written by Hongjing Tao. In modern pharmacological studies, both the total extracts and the phytoconstituents isolated from URCU have been shown to have neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and autophagy-enhancer properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review concentrates on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and nanomaterials studies of URCU, with a perspective to assist with further research and advance.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The Chinese and English literature studies of this review are based on these database searches including Science Direct, CNKI, Wiley online library, Spring Link, Web of Science, PubMed, Medalink, Google scholar, Elsevier, ACS Publications, iPlant, Missouri Botanical Garden, Plant of the World Online. The pertinent data on URCU was gathered.

RESULTS

Based on the examination of the genus Uncaria, 107 newly marked chemical compositions have been identified from URCU from 2015 to present, including alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, and others. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that URCU has a variety of benefits in diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and migraine, due to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. According to metabolic and toxicological studies, the dosage, frequency, and interactions of the drugs that occur in vivo are of great significance for determining whether the organic bodies can perform efficacy or produce toxicity. The research on URCU-mediated nanomaterials is expanding and increasing in order to address the inadequacies of conventional Chinese medicine. The alkaloids in URCU have the capability to self-assemble with other classes of components in addition to being biologically active.

CONCLUSION

URCU plants are widely distributed, abundant in chemical constituents, and widely used in both traditional and modern medicine for a variety of pharmacological effects. The utilization of herbal medicines can be raised by assessing the pharmacological distinctions among several species within the same genus and may accelerate the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine. Controlling the concentration of drug administration, monitoring metabolic markers, and inventing novel nanotechnologies are effective strategies for synergistic influence and detoxification to alleviate the main obstacles that toxicity, low bioavailability, and poor permeability. This review can assist further research and advances.

New Eremophilane-Type Sesquiterpenes from the Marine Sediment-Derived Fungus Emericellopsis maritima BC17 and Their Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Activities

The fungal strain BC17 was isolated from sediments collected in the intertidal zone of the inner Bay of Cadiz and characterized as Emericellopsis maritima. On the basis of the one strain-many compounds (OSMAC) approach, four new eremophilane-type sesquiterpenes (1-4), together with thirteen known derivatives (5-17) and two reported diketopiperazines (18, 19), were isolated from this strain. The chemical structures and absolute configurations of the new compounds were determined through extensive NMR and HRESIMS spectroscopic studies and ECD calculation. Thirteen of the isolated eremophilanes were examined for cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities. PR toxin (16) exhibited cytotoxic activity against HepG2, MCF-7, A549, A2058, and Mia PaCa-2 human cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 3.75 to 33.44 µM. (+)-Aristolochene (10) exhibited selective activity against the fungal strains Aspergillus fumigatus ATCC46645 and Candida albicans ATCC64124 at 471 µM.

Poria cocos Lanostane Triterpenoids Extract Promotes Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid Production in D-Galactose-Induced Aging Rats

The global aging population is expanding at an increasingly rapid pace, with approximately one-fourth of the world's population expected to be composed of elderly individuals by 2050. Aging skin is one of the major characteristics expressed in the elderly. The study comprehensively utilizes both cell and animal experiments to confirm the skin anti-aging effects of Poria cocos (P. cocos), which is one of the most important traditional Chinese medicines classified as tonic Chinese medicine, commonly used to treat physical weakness and aging-associated diseases. We demonstrate in this study that P. cocos lanostane triterpenoids extract (Lipucan®) ameliorates aging skin and promotes collagen accumulation and hyaluronic acid production in galactose-induced aging rats. Purified lanostane triterpenoids were initially identified as active components in P. cocos, which significantly increased collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in cultured human skin cells.

Lonicera japonica Thunb. as a promising antibacterial agent for Bacillus cereus ATCC14579 based on network pharmacology, metabolomics, and in vitro experiments

Lonicera japonica Thunb. has attracted much attention for its treatment of bacterial and viral infectious diseases, while its active ingredients and potential mechanisms of action have not been fully elucidated. Here, we combined metabolomics, and network pharmacology to explore the molecular mechanism of Bacillus cereus ATCC14579 inhibition by Lonicera japonica Thunb. In vitro inhibition experiments showed that the Lonicera japonica Thunb.'s water extracts, ethanolic extract, luteolin, quercetin, and kaempferol strongly inhibited Bacillus cereus ATCC14579. In contrast, chlorogenic acid and macranthoidin B had no inhibitory effect on Bacillus cereus ATCC14579. Meanwhile, the minimum inhibitory concentrations of luteolin, quercetin, and kaempferol against Bacillus cereus ATCC14579 were 15.625 μg mL-1, 31.25 μg mL-1, and 15.625 μg mL-1. Based on the previous experimental basis, the metabolomic analysis showed the presence of 16 active ingredients in Lonicera japonica Thunb.'s water extracts and ethanol extracts, with differences in the luteolin, quercetin, and kaempferol contents between the water extracts and ethanol extracts. Network pharmacology studies indicated that fabZ, tig, glmU, secA, deoD, nagB, pgi, rpmB, recA, and upp were potential key targets. Active ingredients of Lonicera japonica Thunb. may exert their inhibitory effects by inhibiting ribosome assembly, the peptidoglycan biosynthesis process, and the phospholipid biosynthesis process of Bacillus cereus ATCC14579. An alkaline phosphatase activity assay, peptidoglycan concentration assay, and protein concentration assay showed that luteolin, quercetin, and kaempferol disrupted the Bacillus cereus ATCC14579 cell wall and cell membrane integrity. Transmission electron microscopy results showed significant changes in the morphology and ultrastructure of the cell wall and cell membrane of Bacillus cereus ATCC14579, further confirming the disruption of the cell wall and cell membrane integrity of Bacillus cereus ATCC14579 by luteolin, quercetin, and kaempferol. In conclusion, Lonicera japonica Thunb. can be used as a potential antibacterial agent for Bacillus cereus ATCC14579, which may exert its antibacterial activity by destroying the integrity of the cell wall and membrane.

Effects of dietary eucommia ulmoides leaf extract on growth performance, expression of feeding-related genes, activities of digestive enzymes, antioxidant capacity, immunity and cytokines expression of large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) larvae

A 30-d feeding trial was conducted to investigate effects of dietary eucommia ulmoides leaf extract (ELE) on growth performance, activities of digestive enzymes, antioxidant capacity, immunity, expression of inflammatory factors and feeding-related genes of large yellow croaker larvae. Five micro-diets were formulated with supplementation of 0 g kg^-1 (the control), 5 g kg^-1 (0·5 %), 10 g kg^-1 (1·0 %) and 20 g kg^-1 (2·0 %) of ELE, respectively. Results showed that the best growth performance was found in larvae fed the diet with 1·0 % ELE. Furthermore, ELE supplementation significantly increased the npy expression at 1·0 % dosage, while increased ghrelin in larvae at 0·5 % dosages. The activity of leucine aminopeptidase in larvae fed the diet with 1·0 % ELE was significantly higher than the control, while alkaline phosphatase was significantly upregulated in larvae fed the diet with 2·0 % ELE. A clear increase in total antioxidant capacity in larvae fed the diet with 1·0 % ELE was observed, whereas catalase activity was significantly higher in 1·0 % and 2·0 % ELE supplementation compared with the control. Larvae fed the diet with 1·0 % ELE had a significantly higher activities of lysozyme, total nitric oxide synthase and nitric oxide content than the control. Moreover, transcriptional levels of cox-2, il-1β and il-6 were remarkably downregulated by the supplementation of 0·5-1·0 % ELE. This study demonstrated that the supplementation of 1·0 % ELE in diet could increase the growth performance of large yellow croaker larvae probably by promoting expression of feeding-related genes, enhancing antioxidant capacity and immunity and inhibiting expression of inflammatory factors.

Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Ethnoveterinary Medicinal Plants of Southern Region, Ethiopia

Background

For decades, Ethiopians have employed ethnoveterinary medicinal plants to cure both human and livestock ailments. Currently, few studies have been conducted on antimicrobial activity evaluation in Ethiopia. This study, therefore, is designed to evaluate the antibacterial activities of selected ethnoveterinary medicinal plants used in treating livestock ailments in the study area.

Methods

Ethanol extracts of plants obtained by maceration of roots and leaves of four medicinal plant species were studied for potential antimicrobial activity using a disc diffusion method against S. aureus and E. coli. Data obtained from experiments were analyzed using ANOVA and the significant test was set to P < 0.05.

Results

The antibacterial properties of four ethanol extracts of leaves of Withania somnifera L., Becium obovatum, Ageratum conyzoides L., and root of Pentas lanceolata (Forssk.) Defiers were evaluated in vitro and found to be effective against S. aureus but not E. coli. There was no significant difference between the studied plant species and concentrations (p > 0.05), according to the results. The four test extracts had minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 6.25 to 25 mg/mL, with inhibitory potential ranging from 12.5 to 100 mg/mL. Pentas lanceolata (Forssk.) Defiers’s antibacterial activity at a concentration of 100 mg/mL (18.67 3.78 mm) was comparable to the standard antibiotic (Gentamicin 20g per disc), which had a measurement of 23.08 ±0.9 mm.

Conclusion

This finding on the selected medicinal plants of Dawuro Zone supports the traditional claims of effective antimicrobial activity in the treatment of livestock health management. Hence, the study suggests further investigations need to be conducted to isolate and elucidate active ingredients in the plant materials tested.

Kribbellichelins A and B, Two New Antibiotics from Kribbella sp. CA-293567 with Activity against Several Human Pathogens

Current needs in finding new antibiotics against emerging multidrug-resistant superbugs are pushing the scientific community into coming back to Nature for the discovery of novel active structures. Recently, a survey of halophilic actinomyectes from saline substrates of El Saladar del Margen, in the Cúllar-Baza depression (Granada, Spain), led us to the isolation and identification of 108 strains from the rhizosphere of the endemic plant Limonium majus. Evaluation of the potential of these strains to produce new anti-infective agents against superbug pathogens was performed through fermentation in 10 different culture media using an OSMAC approach and assessment of the antibacterial and antifungal properties of their acetone extracts. The study allowed the isolation of two novel antibiotic compounds, kribbellichelin A (1) and B (2), along with the known metabolites sandramycin (3), coproporphyrin III (4), and kribelloside C (5) from a bioassay-guided fractionation of scaled-up active extracts of the Kribbella sp. CA-293567 strain. The structures of the new molecules were elucidated by ESI-qTOF-MS/MS, 1D and 2D NMR, and Marfey’s analysis for the determination of the absolute configuration of their amino acid residues. Compounds 1–3 and 5 were assayed against a panel of relevant antibiotic-resistant pathogenic strains and evaluated for cytotoxicity versus the human hepatoma cell line HepG2 (ATCC HB-8065). Kribbellichelins A (1) and B (2) showed antimicrobial activity versus Candida albicans ATCC-64124, weak potency against Acinetobacter baumannii MB-5973 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa MB-5919, and an atypical dose-dependent concentration profile against Aspergillus fumigatus ATCC-46645. Sandramycin (3) confirmed previously reported excellent growth inhibition activity against MRSA MB-5393 but also presented clear antifungal activity against C. albicans ATCC-64124 and A. fumigatus ATCC-46645 associated with lower cytotoxicity observed in HepG2, whereas Kribelloside C (5) displayed high antifungal activity only against A. fumigatus ATCC-46645. Herein, we describe the processes followed for the isolation, structure elucidation, and potency evaluation of these two new active compounds against a panel of human pathogens as well as, for the first time, the characterization of the antifungal activities of sandramycin (3).

Ginseng volatile oil prolongs the lifespan and healthspan of Caenorhabditis elegans

Ginseng volatile oil (GVO) is one of the main components of ginseng and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was applied to characterize GVO chemical composition, and 73 volatile components were detected from GVO. Caenorhabditis elegans was used as animal model to further elucidate the antioxidant and anti-aging effects of GVO in vivo. The results suggested that GVO significantly prolonged the lifespan of C. elegans and promoted its health without damaging its reproductive capacity. In addition, GVO increased the antioxidant capacity and survival rate of nematodes after heat shock. Transcriptional sequencing showed that autophagy-related genes atg-4.2, atg-7, lgg-2, and cyd-1 were up-regulated, and superoxide dismutase 1 (sod-1) expression was increased after GVO pretreatment. Considering the role of autophagy and antioxidant in aging, the expression of autophagy substrate P62 protein in BC12921 strain was analyzed and found to decrease by more than 50.00% after treatment with GVO. In addition, the lifespan of SOD-1 mutant nematodes was not significantly different from that of the control group. SOD activity and autophagy were activated, which is a clear expression of hormesis. All these results suggest that GVO prolongs the lifespan and healthspan of C. elegans, and its biological functions may be related to hormesis.

Spatholobus suberectus Dunn Water Extract Ameliorates Atopic Dermatitis–Like Symptoms by Suppressing Proinflammatory Chemokine Production In Vivo and In Vitro

S. patholobus suberectus Dunn, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, has various pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory properties. However, to the best of our knowledge, its therapeutic effect on atopic dermatitis (AD) has not been investigated. In this study, we explored the effect of S. suberectus Dunn water extract (SSWex) on AD in vivo and in vitro. In Dermatophagoides farina extract (DfE)–treated NC/Nga mice, the oral administration of SSWex alleviated AD-like symptoms, such as ear thickness, dermatitis score, epidermal thickness, immune cell infiltration, and levels of AD-related serum parameters (immunoglobulin E, histamine, and proinflammatory chemokines). In HaCaT cells, the production of proinflammatory chemokines induced by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was inhibited by SSWex pretreatment. SSWex treatment inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and activation and translocation of transcriptional factors, such as signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 and nuclear factor kappa B in IFN-γ/TNF-α–stimulated HaCaT cells. These results indicate that SSWex may be developed as an efficient therapeutic agent for AD.

The Invasive Species Reynoutria japonica Houtt. as a Promising Natural Agent for Cardiovascular and Digestive System Illness

Polygoni Cuspidati Rhizoma et Radix, the dry roots and stems of Reynoutria japonica Houtt (called Huzhang, HZ in Chinese), is a traditional and popular chinese medicinal herb for thousands of years. As a widely used ethnomedicine in Asia including China, Japan, and Korea, HZ can invigorate the blood, cool heat, and resolve toxicity, which is commonly used in the treatment of favus, jaundice, scald, and constipation. However, HZ is now considered an invasive plant in the United States and many European countries. Therefore, in order to take advantage of HZ and solve the problem of biological invasion, scholars around the world have carried out abundant research studies on HZ. Until now, about 110 compounds have been isolated and identified from HZ, in which anthraquinones, stilbenes, and flavonoids would be the main bioactive ingredients for its pharmacological properties, such as microcirculation improvement, myocardial protective effects, endocrine regulation, anti-atherosclerotic activity, anti-oxidant activity, anti-tumor activity, anti-viral activity, and treatment of skin inflammation, burns, and scalds. HZ has a variety of active ingredients and broad pharmacological activities. It is widely used in health products, cosmetics, and even animal husbandry feed and has no obvious toxicity. Efforts should be made to develop more products such as effective drugs, health care products, cosmetics, and agricultural and animal husbandry products to benefit mankind.

Study on the mechanism of Yupingfeng powder in the treatment of immunosuppression based on UPLC⁃QTOF⁃MS, network pharmacology and molecular biology verification

AIMS

The current study aims to investigate the effect of Yupingfeng (YPF) powder on immunosuppression, and explore the possible mechanisms.

MAIN METHODS

Firstly, the monomer components of YPF powder were analyzed by UPLC-QTOF-MS combined with UNIFI automatic analysis platform, then the mechanism of YPF on immunosuppressive treatment was investigated using network pharmacological method, and finally the prediction was verified in a Candida albicans (Can)-induced immunosuppressive BALB/c mouse model.

KEY FINDINGS

98 monomer compounds in YPF were obtained. Through virtual analysis and screening on the oral utilization and drug likeness properties of the components, 47 effective components were got. 9 core targets obtained were enriched in IL-17 signaling pathway. In the mouse model, YPF could reduce the number of Can and alleviate Can-induced inflammation in the kidney effectively, upregulate Can-induced low proportion of CD4⁺/CD8⁺ of splenic lymphocytes, and increase Can-induced low activity of IL-17 pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results demonstrate that YPF could improve the immunity of Can-induced immunosuppression in BALB/c mice through upregulating the activity of IL-17 pathway.

Caerulines A and B, Flavonol Diacylglycosides from Persea caerulea

Two undescribed 4'-O-methylkaempferol-[3″,4″-di-p-coumaroyl]-α-l-rhamnopyranosides, caerulines A and B (1-2), along with three known 4'-O-methylkaempferol diacylrhamnosides isomers (3-5) were isolated from an ethanol extract of the leaves of Persea caerulea, a native plant growing on the Colombian Caribbean coast. The chemical structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. The effect of compounds 1-5 against four pathogenic microorganisms [i.e., methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Acinetobacter baumannii, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus] was tested in vitro. The compounds exhibited no activity against these pathogens except MRSA (MIC 12-48 μg/mL). Caeruline B (2) was found to be the most active compound with a modest anti-MRSA activity (MIC = 12 μg/mL).

An Update on Phytochemicals and Pharmacological Activities of the Genus Persicaria and Polygonum

The discovery of new pharmaceutical identities, particularly anti-infective agents, represents an urgent need due to the increase in immunocompromised patients and the ineffectiveness/toxicity of the drugs currently used. The scientific community has recognized in the last decades the importance of the plant kingdom as a huge source of novel molecules which could act against different type of infections or illness. However, the great diversity of plant species makes it difficult to select them with probabilities of success, adding to the fact that existing information is difficult to find, it is atomized or disordered. Persicaria and Polygonum constitute two of the main representatives of the Polygonaceae family, which have been extensively used in traditional medicine worldwide. Important and structurally diverse bioactive compounds have been isolated from these genera of wild plants; among them, sesquiterpenes and flavonoids should be remarked. In this article, we firstly mention all the species reported with pharmacological use and their geographical distribution. Moreover, a number of tables which summarize an update detailing the type of natural product (extract or isolated compound), applied doses, displayed bioassays and the results obtained for the main bioactivities of these genera cited in the literature during the past 40 years. Antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, anticancer, antiviral, antiparasitic, anti-diabetic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, diuretic, gastroprotective and neuropharmacological activities were explored and reviewed in this work, concluding that both genera could be the source for upcoming molecules to treat different human diseases.

Traditional application and modern pharmacological research of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv

As a Traditional Chinese Medicine, Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. has been used for the treatment of various diseases since ancient times, involving lumbar pain, knee pain, osteoporosis, hepatoprotection, paralysis, intestinal haemorrhoids, vaginal bleeding, abortion, spermatorrhoea, foot fungus, anti-aging etc. With the developing discovery of E. ulmoides extracts and its active components in various pharmacological activities, E. ulmoides has gained more and more attention. Up to now, E. ulmoides has been revealed to show remarkable therapeutic effects on hypertension, hyperglycemia, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, sexual dysfunction. E. ulmoides has also been reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anti-aging, anti-cancer and immunoregulation activities etc. Along these lines, this review summarizes the traditional application and modern pharmacological research of E. ulmoides, providing novel insights of E. ulmoides in the treatment of various diseases.

Mechanism of Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Effects of QingXiaoWuWei Decoction Based on Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and In Vitro Experiments

Background and Aim: QingXiaoWuWei Decoction (QXWWD) is a traditional Chinese medicine that is commonly used in clinical settings to treat inflammatory and bacterial diseases. However, there is still a lot to learn about its molecular mechanism. A network pharmacology approach was applied to investigate the pharmacological mechanisms of QXWWD in inflammation treatment.

Methods: The basic mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial potentials of QXWWD were identified using network pharmacology and molecular docking. The principal components of QXWWD were identified by the HPLC-Q-Exactive-MS method. The antibacterial bioactivity of QXWWD was further investigated using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration. The anti-inflammatory activity of QXWWD was evaluated using mice ear swelling test, RAW264.7 cell culture, and pro-inflammatory cytokines measurement. Skin irritation and HE staining were employed to evaluate the safety of QXWWD topical use and to depict the drug’s potential therapeutic function. The hub genes and signaling pathways associated with inflammatory and bacterial diseases were validated by western blot in addition to biochemical and pathological markers.

Results: Our findings revealed that the ethanolic extract of QXWWD had a strong inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Meanwhile, QXWWD was potentially effective in suppressing ear swelling, elevated white blood cell counts, and the TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6 levels. According to skin irritation, QXWWD was found to be safe when tested for topical application. The results of HE staining showed that the possible therapeutic role of QXWWD was related to the change in skin microstructure. Also, the network pharmacology, molecular docking as well as Q-Exactive-MS and HPLC analysis suggested that the synergistic effect of quercetin, luteolin and other ingredients could serve as main contributor of QXWWD for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. Moreover, the JUN, MAPK1, RELA, NFKBIA, MYC, and AKT1 were the potential identified key targets, and MAPK/PI3K/Akt was among the possibly involved signaling pathways in the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities of QXWWD.

Conclusions: From a therapeutic standpoint, QXWWD may be a promising antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of bacterial, acute, and chronic dermatitis.

Invasive plant Reynoutria japonica produces large amounts of phenolic compounds and reduces the biomass but not activity of soil microbial communities

Reynoutria japonica is one of the most invasive plant species. Its success in new habitats may be associated with the release of secondary metabolites. The aim of this study was to compare phenolic concentrations in plant biomass and soils between plots with R. japonica and resident plants (control), and determine the effects of these compounds on soil microbial communities. Samples of plant shoots and rhizomes/roots, and soil were collected from 25 paired plots in fallow and riparian habitats in Poland. We measured concentrations of total phenolics, condensed tannins, catechin, chlorogenic acid, emodin, epicatechin, hyperoside, physcion, piceatannol, polydatin, procyanidin B3, quercetin, resveratrol, and resveratroloside. Soil microbial parameters were represented by acid and alkaline phosphomonoesterases, β-glucosidase, phenoloxidase, and peroxidase activity, culturable bacteria activity and functional diversity measured with Biolog Ecoplates, and microbial biomass and community structure measured with phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis. We found that concentrations of total phenolics and condensed tannins were very high in R. japonica leaves and rhizomes/roots, and concentrations of most phenolic compounds were very high in R. japonica rhizomes/roots when compared to resident plant species. Concentrations of most phenolics in mineral soil did not differ between R. japonica and control plots; the only exceptions were catechin and resveratrol which were higher and lower, respectively, under the invader. Total microbial and bacterial (G+, G-) biomass was decreased by approx. 30% and fungal biomass by approx. 25% in invaded soils in comparison to control. Among soil functional microbial parameters, only peroxidase activity and functional diversity differed between R. japonica and resident plant plots; peroxidase activity was higher, while functional diversity was lower in soil under R. japonica. The negative effects of R. japonica on microbial biomass may be related to catechin or its polymers (proanthocyanidins) or to other phenolics contained in high concentrations in R. japonica rhizomes.

Exploring new horizons in health care: A mechanistic review on the potential of Unani medicines in combating epidemics of infectious diseases

The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed epidemics and pandemics of various infectious agents. The development of effective antimicrobials in the 20th century has been complemented with the emergence of resistant and mutant strains. In this context, we present a comprehensive overview of the preventive measures described in Unani medicine during epidemics. Unani medicine is a traditional medicine system included in the Indian Systems of Medicine. Unani medicine has an extensive description of epidemic infections and preventive and therapeutic measures for the same. Certain factors like environment, season, and geographical location of a place are known to determine the extent of infections, and their escalation to epidemics. Maintenance of general health, immune-stimulation, and disinfecting of the environment are advised as protective measures, for which many drugs are prescribed. In the case of illness, specific antimicrobial drugs of natural origin are prescribed. Herein we discuss these measures in detail, along with the scientific evidences of anti-microbial, immunomodulatory, and health-protective actions of these drugs.

The effect of Poria cocos ethanol extract on the intestinal barrier function and intestinal microbiota in mice with breast cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Poria cocos Wolf has been used in traditional East-Asian medicine for centuries to effectively treat various gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea for its tonic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial activities. Previous studies have revealed that the tumor development would induce intestinal microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal barrier dysfunction to the patients with breast cancer.

AIM OF STUDY

To investigate the effect and the mechanism of ethanol extract of Poria cocos (PC) on intestinal barrier function and intestinal microbiota in the mice with breast cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups (the normal control, model, PC and positive control group). Intestinal histopathological was evaluated by H&E staining. The difference of the intestinal microbiota in each group was studied by 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing. The level of plasma endotoxin, D -lactic acid (D-LA) and diamine oxidase (DAO) were measured by ELISA. The putrescine content in serum and urine were detected by HPLC. Expression of the tight junction (TJ) proteins, phosphorylated p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 were determined by western blotting.

RESULTS

Our results showed that tumor development prominently induced the intestinal damage and microbiome dysbiosis in mice. PC prominently remit such histologic damage through enhancing the expression of TJ proteins and decreasing the levels of DAO, D-LA and endotoxin via upregulating the expression of phosphorylated ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK. Furthermore, PC increased the diversity of the intestinal microbiota and strikingly changed the structure and composition of the gut microbiota in the mice by increasing the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and decreasing the sulfate-reducing bacteria Desulfovibrio and inflammatory associated bacteria Mucispirillum, S24-7 and Staphylococcus. Moreover, PICRUSt analysis and the putrescine detection might indicate that PC might be involved in the putrescine metabolism in the mice. Correlation analysis indicated that Prevotella, Rikenellaceae and Bacteroidetes were significantly correlated with Claudin-8 and p38-MAPK expression (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

PC could improve the dysbacteriosis and repair the intestinal barrier function in the mice with breast cancer. This study provide more data to support the application of PC in breast cancer treatment.

Bioactive Ascochlorin Analogues from the Marine-Derived Fungus Stilbella fimetaria

The marine-derived fungus Stilbella fimetaria is a chemically talented fungus producing several classes of bioactive metabolites, including meroterpenoids of the ascochlorin family. The targeted dereplication of fungal extracts by UHPLC-DAD-QTOF-MS revealed the presence of several new along with multiple known ascochlorin analogues (19–22). Their structures and relative configuration were characterized by 1D and 2D NMR. Further targeted dereplication based on a novel 1,4-benzoquinone sesquiterpene derivative, fimetarin A (22), resulted in the identification of three additional fimetarin analogues, fimetarins B–D (23–25), with their tentative structures proposed from detailed MS/HRMS analysis. In total, four new and eight known ascochlorin/fimetarin analogues were tested for their antimicrobial activity, identifying the analogues with a 5-chloroorcylaldehyde moiety to be more active than the benzoquinone analogue. Additionally, the presence of two conjugated double bonds at C-2′/C-3′ and C-4′/C-5′ were found to be essential for the observed antifungal activity, whereas the single, untailored bonds at C-4′/C-5′ and C-8′/C-9′ were suggested to be necessary for the observed antibacterial activity.

Viennamycins: Lipopeptides Produced by a Streptomyces sp

Extracts from Streptomyces sp. S4.7 isolated from the rhizosphere of edelweiss, an alpine medicinal plant, exhibited activity against Gram-positive bacteria. LC-HRMS analyses of the extracts resulted in the detection of two unknown, structurally related lipopeptides that were assumed to be responsible for the antibiotic activity. LC-MS guided isolation and structure elucidation of viennamycins A and B (1 and 2) by HR-MS/MS, 1D and 2D NMR, and Marfey's analyses revealed them to be novel compounds, with viennamycin A containing cysteic acid, a unique feature for lipopeptides. Tests for antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic activities of purified viennamycins, both with and without divalent cations, did not reveal any bioactivity, suggesting that their biological function, which could not be determined in the tests used, is atypical for lipopeptides. The genome of Streptomyces sp. S4.7 was sequenced and analyzed, revealing the viennamycin biosynthetic gene cluster. Detailed bioinformatics-based analysis of the viennamycin gene cluster allowed elucidation of the biosynthetic pathway for these lipopeptides.

Oral Administration of Liquiritigenin Confers Protection from Atopic Dermatitis through the Inhibition of T Cell Activation

While liquiritigenin, isolated from Spatholobus suberectus Dunn, is known to possess anti-inflammatory activities, it still remains to be known whether liquiritigenin has a suppressive effect on T cell activation and T cell-mediated disease. Here, we used Jurkat T cells to explore an underlying mechanism of pre-treatment with liquiritigenin in activated T cell in vitro and used atopic dermatitis (AD) in vivo to confirm it. We found liquiritigenin blocks IL-2 and CD69 expression from activated T cells by PMA/A23187 or anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies. The expressions of surface molecules, including CD40L and CD25, were also reduced in activated T cells pre-treated with liquiritigenin. Western blot analysis indicated repressive effects by liquiritigenin are involved in NFκB and MAPK pathways. To assess the effects of liquiritigenin in vivo, an AD model was applied as T cell-mediated disease. Oral administration of liquiritigenin attenuates AD manifestations, including ear thickness, IgE level, and thicknesses of dermis and epidermis. Systemic protections by liquiritigenin were observed to be declined in size and weight of draining lymph nodes (dLNs) and expressions of effector cytokines from CD4⁺ T cells in dLNs. These results suggest liquiritigenin has an anti-atopic effect via control of T cell activation and exhibits therapeutic potential for T cell-mediated disorders.

In Vitro Comparison of the Bioactivities of Japanese and Bohemian Knotweed Ethanol Extracts

Knotweed is a flowering plant that is native to temperate and subtropical regions in the northern hemisphere. We evaluated Japanese (Reynoutria japonica Houtt.) and Bohemian (Fallopia x bohemica) knotweed rhizome and flower ethanol extracts and compared them in terms of their biological activities. The specific polyphenols were identified and quantified using HPLC/DAD, and the antioxidant activity was determined using 2,2-diphenly-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and cellular antioxidant capacity assays. The anticancer activity was evaluated as the difference between the cytotoxicity to cancer cells compared with control cells. The antimicrobial activity was determined using bacteria and yeast. The antidiabetic activity was tested as the ability of the extracts to inhibit α-amylase. Both rhizome extracts were sources of polyphenols, particularly polydatin and (-)-epicatechin; however, the cellular assay showed the highest antioxidant capacity in the flower extract of F. bohemica. The PaTu cell line was the least sensitive toward all knotweed extracts. The flower extracts of both species were less toxic than the rhizomes. However, the activity of the tested extracts was not specific for cancer cells, indicating a rather toxic mode of action. Furthermore, all used extracts decreased the α-amylase activity, and the rhizome extracts were more effective than the flower extracts. None of the extracts inhibited bacterial growth; however, they inhibited yeast growth. The results confirmed that rhizomes of Reynoutria japonica Houtt. could become a new source of bioactive compounds, which could be used for the co-treatment of diabetes and as antifungal agents.

Characterization of Secondary Metabolites in Flowers of Sanguisorba officinalis L. by HPLC-DAD-MSn and GC/MS

The investigations reported here focus on an in-depth characterization of the secondary metabolite profile of Sanguisorba officinalis flowers. For this purpose, fresh flowers were extracted with MeOH/H₂ O and EtOH/H₂ O and the resulting crude extracts fractionated using CH₂ Cl₂ , AcOEt, and BuOH. Individual compounds were characterized by high performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometric detection (HPLC-DAD-MSⁿ and GC/MS). MeOH/H₂ O extraction and LC/MSⁿ investigations revealed the occurrence of flavonoid glycosides (quercetin, kaempferol), ellagitannin glycosides and four anthocyanins. Among the latter, two components, i. e., cyanidin-malonyl-glucose and cyanidin-galloyl-hexose, have not been reported for S. officinalis so far. Furthermore, phenylethylamine was characterized for the first time in Sanguisorba by pH value dependent extraction with CH₂ Cl₂ . In addition, AcOEt and BuOH extracts were analyzed by GC/MS both prior to and after acid hydrolysis of secondary metabolites. For this purpose, the extracts were treated with 1 n HCl solution (105 °C, 1 h) and derivatized with BSTFA. Analyses revealed the occurrence of several classes of phenolic compounds, such as gallic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid and ellagic acid derivatives. Additionally, the most prominent ursane-type triterpenoid (ziyu-glycoside I) from Sanguisorba and its corresponding aglycone isomers were detected and assigned based on their characteristic fragmentation patterns.

New Napyradiomycin Analogues from Streptomyces sp. Strain CA-271078

As part of our continuing efforts to discover new bioactive compounds from microbial sources, a reinvestigation of extracts of scaled-up cultures of the marine-derived Streptomyces sp. strain CA-271078 resulted in the isolation and structural elucidation of four new napyradiomycins (1-3, 5). The known napyradiomycin SC (4), whose structural details had not been previously described in detail, and another ten related known compounds (6-15). The structures of the new napyradiomycins were characterized by HRMS and 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopies and their relative configurations were established through a combination of molecular modelling with nOe and coupling constants NMR analysis. The absolute configuration of each compound is also proposed based on biosynthetic arguments and the comparison of specific rotation data with those of related compounds. Among the new compounds, 1 was determined to be the first non-halogenated member of napyradiomycin A series containing a functionalized prenyl side chain, while 2-4 harbor in their structures the characteristic chloro-cyclohexane ring of the napyradiomycin B series. Remarkably, compound 5 displays an unprecedented 14-membered cyclic ether ring between the prenyl side chain and the chromophore, thus representing the first member of a new class of napyradiomycins that we have designated as napyradiomycin D1. Anti-infective and cytotoxic properties for all isolated compounds were evaluated against a set of pathogenic microorganisms and the HepG2 cell line, respectively. Among the new compounds, napyradiomycin D1 exhibited significant growth-inhibitory activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and HepG2.

Ethanol extract of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. leaves suppressed hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro and in vivo

Background

The present study investigated the pharmacological activity and mechanism of ethanol extract of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. leaves (EEL) on HCC.

Methods

Cell viability was determined using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The effects of EEL on cellular biological activities were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM), cell wound scratch assay and transwell assay. The expression levels of related mRNA and protein were determined by performing quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blotting assay and immunocytochemistry. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) was carried out to investigate the possible mechanism underlying the DNA methylation of PTEN.

Results

EEL showed cytotoxicity to both Bel-7402 and Huh-7 cell lines. We also found that EEL enhanced the apoptosis of Bel-7402 and Huh-7 cells by regulating the expressions of Bcl-2 associated X (Bax), B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and Cytochrome-C and the activity of caspase-3 and therefore promoted cell cycle arrest. Moreover, EEL also suppressed cell migration and invasion. EEL increased the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP2) but decreased the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase2 (MMP2) and MMP9. Furthermore, EEL inhibited the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt pathway. MSP results showed that EEL promoted the demethylation of PTEN, suggesting that the inactivation of PI3K/Akt may be related to DNA de-methylation of PTEN. In addition, EEL inhibited the tumor growth of HCC in vivo.

Conclusions

EEL exerted anti-tumor effect on HCC in vitro and in vivo. EEL mediated by the inhibition of PI3K/Akt may be closely related to DNA de-methylation of PTEN. Thus, EEL could be used as a potential anti-cancer therapeutic agent of HCC.

A review on medicinal plant extracts and their active ingredients against methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is among the pathogens capable of developing a broad spectrum of infections in human beings. In addition to the hospital, the bacterium is present in the community and has a high resistance to antibiotics, which is also increasing on an ongoing basis. Resistance to β-lactam antibiotic family is one of the concerns about the bacterium that has encountered the treatment of such infections with difficulty. Due to the increased resistance and importance of this bacterium, new strategies are needed to control this pathogen. One of these approaches is the use of medicinal plants, which has attracted many researchers in the last decade. Several studies have been carried out or are being designed using various herbs to find active ingredients to deal with this bacterium. The aim of this study was to present the antibacterial activity of different medicinal plants and the effects of their active ingredients on methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus and to clarify the pathway to further studies in this regard.

Purification and characterization of two grandiuvarones from Desmos chinensis leaves and their antimicrobial activities

A novel aromatic compound, grandiuvarone B (5-acetoxy-3-benzoyloxymethyl-5H-oxepin-4-one), along with a known compound grandiuvarone A (5-acetoxy-6-benzoyloxymethyl-5H-oxepin-4-one) were isolated from methanol extracts of Desmos chinensis leaves. Their structures were determined by various spectroscopic techniques including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), high-resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS) and circular dichroism (CD). Grandiuvarone A and grandiuvarone B are isomers and the S configuration of grandiuvarone B was reported for the first time. We then determined their antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus. Results revealed that grandiuvarone B exhibited better antifungal activity against A. flavus, with MIC values of 0.01 mg/mL compared to grandiuvarone A (MIC values of 0.02 mg/mL). In the presence of each active compound at 160 μg/g of aquafeed, A. flavus growth was completely inhibited. Grandiuvarone B also showed antibacterial activity against the plant pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum.

Total flavonoids extracted from Nervilia Fordii function in polycystic ovary syndrome through IL-6 mediated JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Large doses of flavonoids could cure many diseases with no serious side effects. However, the role of flavonoids in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has not been reported. Therefore, total flavonoids extracted from Nervilia Fordii were selected to explore its therapeutic efficiency in PCOS. PCOS rat model was constructed to explore the role of total flavonoids in the treatment of PCOS. ELISA was used to assess the changes of ovulation function under the treatment of total flavonoids with or without exogenous interleukin-6 (IL-6). Western blot, real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were carried out to assess the related molecular mechanisms. We explored that total flavonoids obviously increased the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and sharply decreased the serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T) and insulin (INS) in the PCOS-IR rats via partly inhibiting the activation of JAK2/STAT3 pathway, partially up-regulating the IL-6 expression and partially down-regulating the suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) expression in ovaries of PCOS rats. The effect of total flavonoids on estrous cycles, serum levels of FSH, LH, T and INS were partially attenuated by IL-6 in PCOS rat model. Moreover, IL-6 significantly reversed the effect of total flavonoids on the phosphorylation of JAK2/STAT3, the expression of IL-6 and SOCS3 in ovaries of PCOS rats. Total flavonoids extracted from Nervilia Fordii might induce the expression of IL-6 in ovary and act as a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of PCOS.

Antibacterial Potential of Aloe weloensis (Aloeacea) Leaf Latex against Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria Strains

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the antibacterial effects of the leaf latex of Aloe weloensis against infectious bacterial strains.

METHODS

The leaf latex of A. weloensis at different concentrations (400, 500, and 600 mg/ml) was evaluated for antibacterial activities using the disc diffusion method against some Gram-negative species such as Escherichia coli (ATCC 14700) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 35619) and Gram-positive such as Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 50080) and Enterococcus fecalis (ATCC 4623).

RESULTS

The tested concentrations of the latex ranging between 400 and 600 mg·mL-1 showed significant antibacterial activity against bacterial strain. The highest dose (600 mg/ml) of A. weloensis leaf latex revealed the maximum activity (25.93 ± 0.066 inhibition zone) followed by the dose 500 mg/ml against S. aureus. The lowest antibacterial activity was observed by the concentration 400 mg/ml (5.03 ± 0.03) against E. coli.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present investigation suggest that the leaf latex of A. weloensis can be used as potential leads to discover new drugs to control some bacterial infections.

A review on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Alpinia officinarum Hance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Alpinia officinarum Hance is a perennial plant that has been traditionally used for many decades to treat several ailments including inflammation, pain, stomach-ache, cold, amongst others. Pharmacological studies over the years have demonstrated remarkable bioactivities that could be further explored for development of new therapeutic agents against various ailments.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The paper critically reviewed the ethno-medicinal uses, pharmacology, and phytochemistry of A. officinarum.

METHODS

Keywords including A. officinarum and its synonyms were searched using electronic databases including ISI web of knowledge, Science direct, Scopus, PubMed, Google scholar and relevant database for Masters and Doctoral theses.

RESULTS

A. officinarum is prepared in Asia, Turkey, Morocco and Iran as a decoction, infusion or juice as a single preparation or in combination with other herbs, food or drinks for the treatment of general health problems including cold, inflammation, digestive disorders, etc. Pharmacological studies revealed the potent in vitro and in vivo bioactivities of various parts of A. officinarum that include anti-inflammatory, cytotoxicity, homeostasis, lipid regulation, antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial, antiosteoporosis, etc. Over 90 phytochemical constituents have been identified and isolated from A. officinarum comprising vastly of phenolic compounds especially diarylheptanoids isolated from the rhizome and considered the most active bioactive components.

CONCLUSION

In vitro and in vivo studies have confirmed the potency of A. officinarum. However, further studies are required to establish the mechanisms mediating its bioactivities in relation to the medicinal uses as well as investigating any potential toxicity for future clinical studies.

Effects of traditional Chinese medicine formula on ruminal fermentation, enzyme activities and nutrient digestibility of beef cattle

This study was conducted to evaluate effects of traditional Chinese medicine formula (TCMF) combined with several herbs on ruminal fermentation, enzyme activities and nutrient digestibility. Twenty finishing bulls were assigned to control or different TCMFs (Yufeisan-1, -2, -3; 2.5% dry matter (DM) in concentrate). Results showed that DM intake was higher (P < 0.05) in the Yufeisan-3 group than others. Compared to control, apparent digestibility of crude protein and neutral detergent fiber were increased (P < 0.05) by Yufeisan-3. No changes were observed in ruminal pH, concentrations of ammonia-N, microbial crude protein and total volatile fatty acid, whereas ratio of acetate to propionate was lower (P < 0.05) and propionate proportion tended to be higher (P < 0.1) in three TCMFs than control. Ruminal xylanase (P = 0.061) and carboxymethylcellulase (P < 0.05) activities were higher in Yufeisan-3 than control. No changes were observed in abundance of total bacteria, fungi and protozoa, whereas Fibrobacter succinogenes (P = 0.062) and Ruminococcus flavefaciens (P < 0.05) were increased and total methanogens was reduced (P = 0.069) by Yufeisan-3 compared to control. Yufeisan-3 improved nutrient digestibility and ruminal enzyme activity, and modified fermentation and microbial community, maybe due to the presence of Herba agastaches, Cortex phellodendri and Gypsum fibrosum.

Peptides: Production, bioactivity, functionality, and applications

Production of peptides with various effects from proteins of different sources continues to receive academic attention. Researchers of different disciplines are putting increasing efforts to produce bioactive and functional peptides from different sources such as plants, animals, and food industry by-products. The aim of this review is to introduce production methods of hydrolysates and peptides and provide a comprehensive overview of their bioactivity in terms of their effects on immune, cardiovascular, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems. Moreover, functional and antioxidant properties of hydrolysates and isolated peptides are reviewed. Finally, industrial and commercial applications of bioactive peptides including their use in nutrition and production of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals are discussed.

Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of total flavonoids of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn on PCV2 infected mice

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of virus infection and antioxidants are becoming promising candidates as therapeutic agents. This study is designed to investigate the effect of total flavonoids of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn (TFSD) on oxidative stress in mice induced by porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infection. The PCV2 infection leads to significant decrease in thymus and spleen indices, elevation of xanthine oxidase (XOD) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities, reduction in GSH level and GSH to GSSG ratio and decline of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, indicating the formation of immunosuppression and oxidative stress. TFSD treatment recovered the alteration of viscera index, antioxidant content and activities of oxidative-associated enzymes to a level similar to control. Our findings suggested that PCV2 induced immunosuppression and oxidative stress in mice and TFSD might be able to protect animals from virus infection via regulation of immune function and inhibition of oxidative stress.

β-Caryophyllene Pretreatment Alleviates Focal Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Activating PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

β-Caryophyllene (BCP) has been reported to be protective against focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury by its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory features. Recent study demonstrates that the BCP exhibits potential neuroprotection against I/R injury induced apoptosis, however, the mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, we investigate the underlying anti-apoptotic mechanism of BCP pretreatment in I/R injury. Sprague-Dawley rats (pretreated with BCP suspensions or solvent orally for 7 days) were subjected to transient Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion (MCAO) for 90 min, followed by 24 h reperfusion. Results showed that BCP pretreatment improved the neurologic deficit score, lowered the infarct volume and decreased number of apoptotic cells in the hippocampus. Moreover, in western blot and RT-qPCR detections, BCP pretreatment down-regulated the expressions of Bax and p53, up-regulated the expression of Bcl-2, and enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt on Ser473. Blockage of PI3K activity by wortmannin not only abolished the BCP-induced decreases in infarct volume and neurologic deficit score, but also dramatically abrogated the enhancement of AKt phosphorylation. Our results suggested that BCP pre-treatment protects against I/R injury partly by suppressing apoptosis via PI3K/AKt signaling pathway activation.

Few effects of invasive plants Reynoutria japonica, Rudbeckia laciniata and Solidago gigantea on soil physical and chemical properties

Biological invasions are an important problem of human-induced changes at a global scale. Invasive plants can modify soil nutrient pools and element cycling, creating feedbacks that potentially stabilize current or accelerate further invasion, and prevent re-establishment of native species. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of Reynoutria japonica, Rudbeckia laciniata and Solidago gigantea, invading non-forest areas located within or outside river valleys, on soil physical and chemical parameters, including soil moisture, element concentrations, organic matter content and pH. Additionally, invasion effects on plant species number and total plant cover were assessed. The concentrations of elements in shoots and roots of invasive and native plants were also measured. Split-plot ANOVA revealed that the invasions significantly reduced plant species number, but did not affect most soil physical and chemical properties. The invasions decreased total P concentration and increased N-NO₃ concentration in soil in comparison to native vegetation, though the latter only in the case of R. japonica. The influence of invasion on soil properties did not depend on location (within- or outside valleys). The lack of invasion effects on most soil properties does not necessarily imply the lack of influence of invasive plants, but may suggest that the direction of the changes varies among replicate sites and there are no general patterns of invasion-induced alterations for these parameters. Tissue element concentrations, with the exception of Mg, did not differ between invasive and native plants, and were not related to soil element concentrations.

In vitro evaluation of antibacterial activity of phytochemicals and micronutrients against Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia garinii

Aims

Little is known about the effects of phytochemicals against Borrelia sp. causing Lyme disease. Current therapeutic approach to this disease is limited to antibiotics. This study examined the anti‐borreliae efficacy of several plant‐derived compounds and micronutrients.

Methods and Results

We tested the efficacy of 15 phytochemicals and micronutrients against three morphological forms of Borrelia burgdoferi and Borrelia garinii: spirochetes, latent rounded forms and biofilm. The results showed that the most potent substances against the spirochete and rounded forms of B. burgdorferi and B. garinii were cis‐2‐decenoic acid, baicalein, monolaurin and kelp (iodine); whereas, only baicalein and monolaurin revealed significant activity against the biofilm. Moreover, cis‐2‐decenoic acid, baicalein and monolaurin did not cause statistically significant cytotoxicity to human HepG2 cells up to 125 μg ml⁻¹ and kelp up to 20 μg ml⁻¹.

Conclusions

The most effective antimicrobial compounds against all morphological forms of the two tested Borrelia sp. were baicalein and monolaurin. This might indicate that the presence of fatty acid and phenyl groups is important for comprehensive antibacterial activity.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This study reveals the potential of phytochemicals as an important tool in the fight against the species of Borrelia causing Lyme disease.

Antioxidant and Renoprotective Effects of Mushroom Extract: Implication in Prevention of Nephrolithiasis

Background

The pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis (kidney stone) remains elusive, while several therapeutic options are available but not effective as we expected. Accumulating data yet suggest that oxidative stress (generation of oxygen free radicals) may play a primary role in its occurrence. Particularly, calcium oxalate (CaOx) is a key element in the most common form (> 75%) of kidney stones, and its crystal form known as CaOx monohydrate (COM) has been shown to exert oxidative stress, facilitating CaOx stone formation. Hence, diminishing oxidative stress with certain antioxidants could be a potential strategic approach. We are interested in a bioactive extract of Poria mushroom, PE, which has been shown to have antioxidant and renoprotective activities. Accordingly, we investigated if PE might have antioxidant activity that would have implication in prevention of kidney stone formation.

Methods

Renal epithelial LLC-PK₁ cells were employed and exposed to COM or hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a positive control capable of exerting oxidative stress. Possible antioxidant and protective effects of PE against oxidative stress (exerted by COM or H₂O₂) were assessed by cell viability test and lipid peroxidation (LPO) assay. To explore its protective mechanism, two glycolytic parameters, hexokinase (HK) activity and ATP synthesis, were examined and cell cycle analysis was also performed.

Results

Both H₂O₂ and COM led to a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in cell viability, accompanied by severe oxidative stress assessed by LPO assay. Such oxidative stress also caused the significant decline in HK activity and cellular ATP level, indicating the inhibition of glycolysis. Cell cycle analysis further indicated that oxidative stress interfered with cell cycle, inducing a G₁ cell cycle arrest that presumably results in the cessation of cell proliferation. However, PE was capable of significantly preventing or diminishing all these cellular effects mediated through oxidative stress (exerted by H₂O₂ and COM).

Conclusions

The present study shows that the mushroom extract PE appears to have antioxidant and renoprotective effects against oxidative stress exerted by COM in renal cells. Therefore, PE with antioxidant activity is considered a promising natural agent that may have clinical implications in prevention of nephrolithiasis primarily induced by oxidative stress.

MDN-0170, a New Napyradiomycin from Streptomyces sp. Strain CA-271078

A new napyradiomycin, MDN-0170 (1), was isolated from the culture broth of the marine-derived actinomycete strain CA-271078, together with three known related compounds identified as 4-dehydro-4a-dechloronapyradiomycin A1 (2), napyradiomycin A1 (3) and 3-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-8-α-lapachone (4). The structure of the new compound was determined using a combination of spectroscopic techniques, including 1D and 2D NMR and electrospray-time of flight mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF MS). The relative configuration of compound 1, which contains two independent stereoclusters, has been established by molecular modelling in combination with nOe and coupling constant analyses. Biosynthetic arguments also allowed us to propose its absolute stereochemistry. The antimicrobial properties of the compounds isolated were evaluated against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Candida albicans. The potent bioactivity previously reported for compounds 2 and 3 against methicillin-sensitive S. aureus has been extended to methicillin-resistant strains in this report.

Cooperation of Doxycycline with Phytochemicals and Micronutrients Against Active and Persistent Forms of Borrelia sp

Phytochemicals and micronutrients represent a growing theme in antimicrobial defense; however, little is known about their anti-borreliae effects of reciprocal cooperation with antibiotics. A better understanding of this aspect could advance our knowledge and help improve the efficacy of current approaches towards Borrelia sp. In this study, phytochemicals and micronutrients such as baicalein, luteolin, 10-HAD, iodine, rosmarinic acid, and monolaurin, as well as, vitamins D3 and C were tested in a combinations with doxycycline for their in vitro effectiveness against vegetative (spirochetes) and latent (rounded bodies, biofilm) forms of Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia garinii. Anti-borreliae effects were evaluated according to checkerboard assays and supported by statistical analysis. The results showed that combination of doxycycline with flavones such as baicalein and luteolin exhibited additive effects against all morphological forms of studied Borrelia sp. Doxycycline combined with iodine demonstrated additive effects against spirochetes and biofilm, whereas with fatty acids such as monolaurin and 10-HAD it produced FICIs of indifference. Additive anti-spirochetal effects were also observed when doxycycline was used with rosmarinic acid and both vitamins D3 and C. Antagonism was not observed in any of the cases. This data revealed the intrinsic anti-borreliae activity of doxycycline with tested phytochemicals and micronutrients indicating that their addition may enhance efficacy of this antibiotic in combating Borrelia sp. Especially the addition of flavones balcalein and luteolin to a doxycycline regimen could be explored further in defining more effective treatments against these bacteria.

Health-Promoting Properties of Eucommia ulmoides: A Review

Eucommia ulmoides (EU) (also known as “Du Zhong” in Chinese language) is a plant containing various kinds of chemical constituents such as lignans, iridoids, phenolics, steroids, flavonoids, and other compounds. These constituents of EU possess various medicinal properties and have been used in Chinese Traditional Medicine (TCM) as a folk drink and functional food for several thousand years. EU has several pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiaging, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. Hence, it has been widely used solely or in combination with other compounds to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, sexual dysfunction, cancer, metabolic syndrome, and neurological diseases. This review paper summarizes the various active ingredients contained in EU and their health-promoting properties, thus serving as a reference material for the application of EU.