Constituents of Ocimum sanctum with antistress activity

Enhanced In Vitro Plant Morphogenesis of Tobacco: Unveiling Indoleamine-Modulated Adaptogenic Properties of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.)

The medicinal plant tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.) is acknowledged for its invigorating and healing properties that enhance resilience to stress in various human and animal models by modulating antioxidant compounds. While extensive research has documented these effects in humans, the adaptogenic potential of tulsi in stressful in vitro plant systems has not been explored. This study aimed to elucidate the adaptogenic properties of tulsi leaf extract on the in vitro regeneration of tobacco leaf explants through an investigation of the indoleamines at different developmental stages. Shoot regeneration from leaf explants on the medium supplemented with tulsi extract (20%) was compared to the control, and the differences in indoleamine compounds were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography. Treatment of the explants with the extract resulted in an almost two-fold increase in the number of regenerants after four weeks of culture, and 9% of the regenerants resembled somatic embryo-like structures. The occurrence of browning in the extract-treated explants stopped on day 10, shoots began to develop, and a significant concentration of tryptamine and N-acetyl-serotonin accumulated. A comparative analysis of indoleamine compounds in intact and cut tobacco leaves also revealed the pivotal role of melatonin and 2-hydroxymelatonin functioning as antioxidants during stress adaptation. This study demonstrates that tulsi is a potent adaptogen that is capable of modulating plant morphogenesis in vitro, paving the way for further investigations into the role of adaptogens in plant stress biology.

Costunosides A-C: cytotoxic sesquiterpene lactones from the rhizomes of Aucklandia costus Falc

Three new eudesmane type rare sesquiterpene lactone galactosides, costunosides A-C (1-3) were isolated from the rhizomes of Aucklandia costus along with ten known compounds (4-13). Costunosides A-C (1-3) are the first example of naturally eudesmane glycosides containing a β-galactopyranoside moiety. The structure and relative configurations of these compounds were established by comprehensive analysis of MS and, in particular 1D/2D NMR spectroscopic data. The isolated compounds were tested against a panel of human cancer cell lines, where compounds 3, 6 and 7 have shown promising cytotoxic activity against PC-3, HCT-116 and A549 cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 3.4 µM to 9.3 µM, respectively. Costunosides A-C (1-3) were also screened for inhibition assay of acetyl-cholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and found inactive at a concentration of 10 µM.

Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant activity and antihypertensive evaluation of Ocimum basilicum L. in l-NAME induced hypertensive rats and its correlation analysis

Ocimum basilicum Linn. (basil) is an aromatic culinary herb that has shown a great potential in therapeutic world. It has many promising pharmacological activities that make it centre for investigations for many researchers. Current study has been planned to determine chemical constituents of basil leaves extracts and their in-vitro and ex-vivo antioxidant and in-vivo antihypertensive potential. GC-MS studies of non-polar extracts showed presence of 75 compounds including monoterpenes, hydrocarbons, sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, phyto-sterols and phthalates. Higher percentages of fatty acids were also identified. The major compounds include linalool (7.65%), terpineol (1.42%), tau-cadinol (13.55%), methyl palmitate (14.24%), palmitic acid (14.31%), linolenic acid (1.30%) and methyl linolenate (17.72%). Electron spray ionization mass spectrometry ESI-HRMS/MS of the polar extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic acid, amino acid, coumarin, lignin, flavanoid and terpene derivative. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were determined using spectrophotometric technique and calculated as gallic acid equivalents GAE/g dry weight and rutin equivalent RE/g of dry weight respectively. The highest phenolic content and flavonoid content were found in ethyl acetate extract 9.40 mg GAE/g and 15.9 mg RE/g of dry weight. All the extracts showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH and ABTS cation decolorization assays. Dichloromethane extract possess the highest DPPH scavenging activity, i.e., 64.12% ± 0.23 at concentration of 4 mg/ml. Moreover in ex-vivo studies all the extracts showed prominent effect by inhibiting AAPS induce oxidation in Human erythrocytes being 69.24% ± 0.18 in dichloromethane extract, 64.44% ± 0.04 in ethyl acetate and 53.33% ± 0.09 in acetone extract. The methanol extract of O. basilicum exhibited significant decrease in systolic blood pressure in l-Name induced hypertensive rats at the dose of 50 mg/kg for 28 days. Total phenolic content had a higher linear correlation (r = 0.678) with antihypertensive activity, with a level of significance 95% showing that phenolic compounds in the leaves of the plant has important role in inhibiting l -NAME induced hypertension while flavonoid compounds may play a key role in the antioxidant activities of the plant, through synergism. Conclusively, O. basilicum leaves with bioactive metabolites are a potential source for the development of antihypertensive drugs.

Ocimum tenuiflorum extract (HOLIXERTM): Possible effects on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in modulating stress

Ocimum tenuiflorum is a sacred medicinal plant bestowed with multiple health benefits. This plant is traditionally considered an adaptogen. Many scientific studies have indicated the anti-stress potential of Ocimum tenuiflorum but with higher doses. The present study investigated the effects of HolixerTM (a clinically studied standardized Ocimum tenuiflorum extract) on modulating stress using two in vivo models, namely the swim endurance study in mice and forced swim test in rats. In addition, we explored the mechanism of action of HolixerTM on the HPA axis using two in vitro cell-based assays to check for its inhibitory effect on cortisol release and CRF1 receptor antagonistic activity. Ocimum tenuiflorum extract enhanced the swimming time in mice, reduced the stress-induced increase in immobility time, and prevented the increase in corticosterone in rats subjected to the forced swim test. Further, Ocimum tenuiflorum extract inhibited cortisol release and exhibited a significant CRF1 receptor antagonist activity. Thus, Ocimum tenuiflorum extract was found effective in managing stress, and the effect could be due to the inhibition of cortisol release and the antagonistic effect on the CRF1 receptors.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of an Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil) extract (HolixerTM) on stress, mood, and sleep in adults experiencing stress

Background

In Ayurveda, Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil) is referred to as “the elixir of life” and is believed to promote longevity and general wellbeing. Although limited, there are clinical trials to suggest Ocimum tenuiflorum has anti-stress effects.

Purpose

Examine the effects of a standardized Ocimum tenuiflorum extract (Holixer^TM) on subjective and objective measures of stress and sleep quality in adults experiencing stress.

Study design

Two-arm, parallel-group, 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry trial registration number ACTRN12621000609853.

Methods

One hundred volunteers aged 18–65 years received either 125 mg of Ocimum tenuiflorum twice daily or a placebo. Outcome measures included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) (primary outcome measure), Profile of Mood States, Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), Restorative Sleep Questionnaire, and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29. Sleep quality was also assessed using a wrist-worn sleep tracker (Fitbit), and stress changes were examined by measuring between-group differences in hair cortisol and stress responses after exposure to an experiment stress procedure known as the Maastricht Acute Stress Test (MAST).

Results

Compared to the placebo, Ocimum tenuiflorum supplementation was associated with greater improvements in PSS (p = 0.003) and AIS (p = 0.025) scores; and at week 8, concentrations in hair cortisol were also lower (p = 0.025). Moreover, Ocimum tenuiflorum supplementation was associated with a buffered stress responses after exposure to the MAST as demonstrated by significantly lower concentrations in salivary cortisol (p = 0.001), salivary amylase (p = 0.001), systolic (p = 0.010) and diastolic (p = 0.025) blood pressure, and subjective stress ratings (p < 0.001). Ocimum tenuiflorum supplementation was well-tolerated with no reports of major adverse effects.

Conclusion

The results from this trial suggest that 8 weeks of supplementation with an Ocimum tenuiflorum extract (Holixer^TM) may reduce objective and subjective measures of stress, and improve subjective measures of sleep quality. However, further research using gold-standard objective sleep measures will be required to substantiate the sleep-related findings.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12621000609853p.aspx, identifier: ACTRN12621000609853p.

Ursolic acid and its isomer oleanolic acid are responsible for the anti-dementia effects of Ocimum sanctum in olfactory bulbectomized mice

This study aims to clarify the bioactive constituents responsible for the anti-dementia effects of Ocimum sanctum Linn. ethanolic extract (OS) using olfactory bulbectomized (OBX) mice, an animal model of dementia. The effects of OS or its extract further fractionated with n-hexane (OS-H), ethyl acetate (OS-E), and n-butanol (OS-B) on the spatial cognitive deficits of OBX mice were elucidated by the modified Y-maze tests. The effects of the major constituents of the most active OS fraction were also elucidated using the reference drug donepezil. The administration of OS and OS-E ameliorated the spatial cognitive deficits caused by OBX, whereas OS-H or OS-B had no effect. Two major constituents, ursolic acid (URO) and oleanolic acid (OLE), and three minor constituents were isolated from OS-E. URO (6 and 12 mg/kg) and OLE (24 mg/kg) attenuated the OBX-induced cognitive deficits. URO (6 mg/kg) and donepezil reversed the OBX-induced down-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and choline acetyltransferase expression levels in the hippocampus. URO inhibited the ex vivo activity of acetylcholinesterase with similar efficacy to donepezil. URO inhibited the in vitro activity of acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 106.5 μM), while the effects of OS, OS-E, and other isolated compounds were negligible. These findings suggest that URO and OLE are responsible for the anti-dementia action of OS extract, whereas URO possesses a more potent anti-dementia effect than its isomer OLE. The effects of URO are, at least in part, mediated by normalizing the function of central cholinergic systems and VEGF protein expression.

Secondary metabolites produced by Macrophomina phaseolina, a fungal root endophyte of Brugmansia aurea, using classical and epigenetic manipulation approach

Endophytic fungi are rich sources of structurally complex chemical scaffolds with interesting biological activities. However, their metabolome is still unknown, making them appealing for novel compound discovery. To maximize the number of secondary metabolites produced from a single microbial source, we used the "OSMAC (one strain-many compounds) approach." In potato dextrose medium, M. phaseolina produced phomeolic acid (1), ergosterol peroxide (2), and a volatile compound 1,4-benzene-diol. Incorporating an epigenetic modifier, sodium valproate, affected the metabolite profile of the fungus. It produced 3-acetyl-3-methyl dihydro-furan-2(3H)-one (3) and methyl-2-(methyl-thio)-butyrate (4), plus volatile chemicals: butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT), di-methyl-formamide, 3-amino-1-propanol, and 1,4-benzenediol, 2-amino-1-(O-methoxyphenyl) propane. The structure of compounds 1-4 was established with the help of spectroscopic data. This study revealed first-time compounds 1-4 in the fungus M. phaseolina using a classical and epigenetic manipulation approach.

Ocimum sanctum Linn. Extract Improves Cognitive Deficits in Olfactory Bulbectomized Mice via the Enhancement of Central Cholinergic Systems and VEGF Expression

This study aimed to clarify the antidementia effects of ethanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum Linn. (OS) and its underlying mechanisms using olfactory bulbectomized (OBX) mice. OBX mice were treated daily with OS or a reference drug, donepezil (DNP). Spatial and nonspatial working memory performance was measured using a modified Y maze test and a novel object recognition test, respectively. Brain tissues of the animals were subjected to histochemical and neurochemical analysis. OS treatment attenuated OBX-induced impairment of spatial and nonspatial working memories. OBX induced degeneration of septal cholinergic neurons, enlargement of the lateral ventricles, and suppression of hippocampal neurogenesis. OS and DNP treatment also depressed these histological damages. OS administration reduced ex vivo activity of acetylcholinesterase in the brain. OBX diminished the expression levels of genes coding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor type 2 (VEGFR2). Treatment with OS and DNP reversed OBX-induced decrease in VEGF gene and protein expression levels without affecting the expression of the VEGFR2 gene. These results demonstrate that the administration of OS can lessen the cognitive deficits and neurohistological damages of OBX and that these actions are, at least in part, mediated by the enhancement of central cholinergic systems and VEGF expression.

Coronarin K and L: Two Novel Labdane Diterpenes From Roscoea purpurea: An Ayurvedic Crude Drug

The main objective of cancer treatment with chemotherapy is to kill the cancerous cells without affecting the healthy normal cells. In the present study, bioactivity-guided purification of the n-chloroform soluble fraction from the methanol extract of Roscoea purpurea resulted in the identification of two new labdane diterpenes: coronarin K (1) and coronarin L (2), along with eight known compounds, coronarin A (3), bisdemethoxycurcumin (4), kaempferol 3-O-methyl ether (5), kaempferol (6), fenozan acid (7), 3-(3-methoxy,4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoic acid ferulic acid (8), caffeic acid (9), and gallic acid (10). The structural identification of new compounds (1 and 2) were determined by detailed analysis of 1D (¹H and ¹³C) and 2D NMR (COSY, HSQC, and HMBC) spectroscopic data. The relative configurations of 1 and 2 were determined with the help of NOESY correlations and comparison of optical rotations with known labdane diterpenes, with established stereochemistry, while structure of known compounds was established by direct comparison of their NMR data with those reported in the literature. This is the first report of isolation of this labdane diterpenes and phenolic classes of secondary metabolites in R. purpurea. In the preliminary screening, the methanol extract and its fractions were tested for the cytotoxic activity against a panel of four cancer cell lines (A549, HCT-116, Bxpc-3, and MCF-7); extract and its chloroform fraction were found to be active against the lung cancer cell line, A-549, with IC₅₀ value <25 μg/ml. Owing to the notable cytotoxic activity of the chloroform fraction, the compounds (1-5) were screened for their cytotoxicity against all the cell lines by MTT assay. Coronarin K, 1 showed significant cytotoxic potential against lung cancer cell lines (A-549), with IC₅₀ value of 13.49 μM, while other compounds did not show activity below 22 μM.

Therapeutic Single Compounds for Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an age-related degenerative disease for which an effective disease-modifying therapy is not available. Natural compounds derived from plants have been traditionally used in the clinic to treat OA. Over the years, many studies have explored the treatment of OA using natural extracts. Although various active natural extracts with broad application prospects have been discovered, single compounds are more important for clinical trials than total natural extracts. Moreover, although natural extracts exhibit minimal safety issues, the cytotoxicity and function of all single compounds in a total extract remain unclear. Therefore, understanding single compounds with the ability to inhibit catabolic factor expression is essential for developing therapeutic agents for OA. This review describes effective single compounds recently obtained from natural extracts and the possibility of developing therapeutic agents against OA using these compounds.

An interaction study of Ocimum sanctum L. and levetiracetam in pentylenetetrazole kindling model of epilepsy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ocimum sanctum L. commonly known as tulsi (synonym of Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) is widely used in Ayurveda medicine and is having multitude neuromodulatory effect including the anticonvulsant effect in acute seizure models as per previous studies. In India, it is used for the treatment of epilepsy as traditional medicine. However, its role in chronic seizure model and interaction with newer antiepileptic drugs has not been investigated, which will enhance its translational value.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Current study investigated the effect of Ocimum on chronic seizure model and its interaction with levetiracetam (LEV), a newer antiepileptic drug.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The adjuvant role of Ocimum sanctum hydroalcoholic extracts (OSHE) 1000 mg/kg along with LEV 300 mg/kg was studied in adult male Wistar rats with mean weight of 227.84 ± 21.68 g using pentylenetetrazole (30 mg/kg, i.p.) kindling (K) (with maximum 24 injections on alternate days and challenge on 7th-day). Along with seizure score, neurobehavioral, brain tissue oxidative stress and histopathology status were assessed. Pharmacokinetic interaction was assessed between LEV and OSHE after 14 days of drug treatment.

RESULTS

K-LEV + OSHE had least seizure score during kindling and on the pentylenetetrazole-challenge test (p=0.031) than other kindling groups. Seizure protection was more in K-LEV + OSHE (85.72%) than others (K-LEV-42.86%, K-OSHE-42.86%, and K-Control-28.58%). Ocimum treated groups had better memory retention potential as evident from Morris water maze (MWM), passive avoidance test but not in an elevated plus maze test. Oxidative-stress was lower in Ocimum treated groups than K-Control group. As per histopathology, K-LEV + OSHE group had the least neuronal degeneration among kindling groups. There was no significant pharmacokinetic interaction between LEV and OSHE, except increased T_max in LEV + OSHE group than LEV alone (p=0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Ocimum per se and combination with levetiracetam treatment exerted better seizure control, memory retention, oxidative stress reduction, and neuronal structure preservation than kindling control group. There was a very minimal drug interaction between Ocimum and LEV. So, Ocimum as an adjuvant to LEV may be shelpful in enhancing the antiepileptic effect and also in minimizing the adverse effects.

Effects of a wax organogel and alginate gel complex on holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) in vitro ruminal dry matter disappearance and gas production

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to: (a) select an ideal organogel for the oil phase of a novel gel encapsulation technology, (b) optimize the formulation of an organogel and sodium alginate-based gel complex, and (c) examine the rumen protective ability of the gel by measuring 48-h in vitro ruminal dry matter disappearance and gas production from encapsulated dried and ground holy basil leaves.

RESULTS

A rice-bran wax and canola oil organogel was selected for the oil phase of the gel complex as this combination had a 48-h dry matter disappearance of 6%, the lowest of all organogels analyzed. The gel complex was formulated by homogenizing the organogel with a sodium alginate solution to create a low-viscosity oil-in-water emulsion. Average dry matter disappearance of gel-encapsulated holy basil was 19%, compared to 42% for the free, unprotected holy basil. However, gel encapsulation of holy basil stimulated gas production. Specifically, gas production of encapsulated holy basil was four times higher than the treatment with holy basil added on top of the gel prior to incubation rather than encapsulated within the gel.

CONCLUSION

Although the gel itself was highly degradable, it is speculated encapsulation thwarted holy basil's antimicrobial activity. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Green route for synthesis of multifunctional fluorescent carbon dots from Tulsi leaves and its application as Cr(VI) sensors, bio-imaging and patterning agents

We report a one pot green strategy for the synthesis of carbon dots using tulsi leaves and their potential application in sensing of Cr(VI) selectively. The detection mechanism is based on the phenomenon called inner filter effect (IFE) and a good linear static quenching was observed in the range of 1.6 μM to 50 μM with a detection limit of 4.5 ppb. The reversible switching in fluorescence has been tested and a good recovery in fluorescence was observed up to three consecutive cycles upon addition of ascorbic acid as reducing agent. Also the low toxicity, high fluorescence and photostabilty of the CDs make them excellent imaging and patterning agent. The acid and alkali resistant property of these CDs makes it suitable for real sample analysis. The fluorescent CDs were applied for successful detection of Cr(VI) in water with spike-recoveries ranging from 93 to 99%.

Ocimum Genome Sequencing—A Futuristic Therapeutic Mine

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms from the past decade are in the continuous efforts of changing the impact of sequencing on our current knowledge about plant genes, genomes, and their regulation. Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum L. or sanctum L.) genome sequencing has also paved the path for deeper exploration of the medicinal properties of this beneficial herb making it a true ‘elixir of life.’ The draft genome sequence of the holy basil has not only opened the avenues for the drug discovery but has also widened the prospects of the molecular breeding for development of new improved plant varieties.

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interaction of hydroalcoholic extract of Ocimum sanctum with valproate

For effective control of seizures, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are administered at higher dose which is associated with several adverse effects. This study envisaged antiepileptic and neuroprotective potential of Tulsi, a commonly used herb for its immunomodulatory property. The optimal dose of Ocimum sanctum hydroalcoholic extract (OSHE) was determined using maximal electroshock seizure (MES)- and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizure models in Wistar rats (200-250g) after administering OSHE (200-1000mg/kg) orally for 14days. For interaction study, OSHE optimal dose in combination with maximum and submaximal therapeutic doses of valproate was administered for 14days. Serum levels of valproate were estimated using HPLC for pharmacokinetic study. For pharmacodynamic interaction, antiepileptic effect on above seizure models, neurobehavioral effect using Morris water maze, passive avoidance and elevated plus maze tests, and antioxidant capacity were assessed. Ocimum sanctum hydroalcoholic extract 1000mg/kg was found to be optimal providing 50% protection against both MES- and PTZ-induced seizures. Combination of OSHE with valproate did not alter antiepileptic efficacy of valproate significantly. However, the combination showed better memory retention potential in neurobehavioral tests and protection against oxidative stress compared with valproate-alone-treated groups. Pharmacokinetic parameters did not reveal any significant change in combination group compared with valproate alone. Ocimum, although having per se antiepileptic action, did not affect antiepileptic action of valproate in combination. However, combination treatment has an edge over valproate alone-better neurobehavioral function and reduced oxidative stress-predicting adjuvant potential of Ocimum in epilepsy treatment.

Biological importance of structurally diversified chromenes

Compounds incorporating the chromene scaffold are largely present in natural products and display a wide variety of biological activities. Their low toxicity combined to the broad pharmacological properties have inspired medicinal chemists in the search for new therapeutic agents. This review covers the literature between 1993 and on the biological activity of 2H- and 4H-chromenes, both from natural and synthetic origin. Includes a section that identifies a selection of chromene-based natural products, followed by recent literature on bioactive natural chromenes and the corresponding source, covering plants and fruits. Synthetic chromenes are equally important and a separate section addresses the use of these derivatives as new leads for drug discovery. Different biological targets were identified, namely those associated with anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic and antipsychotic activities.

Simultaneous quantitative determination of multiple bioactive markers in Ocimum sanctum obtained from different locations and its marketed herbal formulations using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS combined with principal component analysis

INTRODUCTION

Ocimum sanctum L., with phenolic acids, flavonoids, propenyl phenols and terpenoids as active pharmacological constituents, is a popular medicinal herb and is present as an ingredient in many herbal formulations. Therefore, development of a reliable analytical method for simultaneous determination of the pharmacologically active constituents of O. sanctum is of high importance.

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a new, rapid, sensitive and selective UPLC-ESI/MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of 23 bioactive markers including phenolic acids, flavonoids, propenyl phenol and terpenoid in the leaf extract and marketed herbal formulations of O. sanctum.

METHODS

An UPLC-ESI/MS/MS method using negative electrospray ionisation (ESI) in multiple-reaction-monitoring (MRM) mode was used for simultaneous determination. Chromatographic separation was achieved on an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 -column using a gradient elution with 0.1% formic acid in water and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to correlate and discriminate eight geographical collections of O. sanctum based on quantitative data of the analytes.

RESULTS

The developed method was validated as per International Conference on Harmonization guidelines and found to be accurate, with overall recovery in the range 95.09-104.84% (RSD ≤ 1.85%), precise (RSD ≤ 1.98%) and linear (r(2)  ≥ 0.9971) over the concentration range of 0.5-1000 ng/mL. Ursolic acid was found to be the most abundant marker in all the samples investigated, except for the marketed tablet.

CONCLUSION

The method established is simple, rapid and sensitive, hence it can be reliably utilised for the quality control of O. sanctum and derived herbal formulations.

Reverse-phase HPLC method for the quantification of two antihyperglycemic glycolipids in Oplismenus burmannii

Glycolipids and sphingolipids are well known for their diverse biological activities like anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antistress, anti-HIV, hepatoprotective and antimicrobial. The present study deals with the activity-guided isolation and characterization of two antihyperglycemic glycolipids, (2S)-1,2-di-O-octadecanoyl-3-O-[α-d-galctopyranosyl-(1'' → 6')-O-β-d-galactopyranosyl] glycerol (1) and 1-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(2S,3S,4R,8E)-2-[(2R)-2-hydroxy-tetracosanoylamino]-2,3,4-octadecanetriol-8-ene (2) from Oplismenus burmannii and the development of a simple and validated reverse-phase HPLC analytical method for their quantification in the methanolic extracts of O. burmannii. The marker compounds 1 and 2 were isolated from the methanolic extract of O. burmannii and characterized on the basis of their spectroscopic data. Their antihyperglycemic potential was evaluated by determining their glucose uptake-stimulating potential in L6-GLUT4myc myotube cells. Finally, these analytes were separated on a Waters Spherisorb ODS 2 column with a binary gradient of methanol and water at a constant flow rate of 0.8 mL/min and detected using a photodiode array detector at 230 nm. The calibration curve was linear (r(2)  > 0.999) over 1.2 orders of magnitude with acceptable accuracy, reproducibility and recovery (98.16-100.50%). The limits of detection and quantification for 1 and 2 were 1.36, 4.11 and 1.11, 3.35 µg/mL respectively. The method is simple, accurate, precise and selective and may be routinely used for the quality control analysis of whole plant extract of O. burmannii for these two glycolipids.

Total synthesis and structure-activity relationship of glycoglycerolipids from marine organisms

Glycoglycerolipids occur widely in natural products, especially in the marine species. Glycoglycerolipids have been shown to possess a variety of bioactivities. This paper will review the different methodologies and strategies for the synthesis of biological glycoglycerolipids and their analogs for bioactivity assay. In addition, the bioactivities and structure-activity relationship of the glycoglycerolipids are also briefly outlined.

Antioxidant activity of phenolics in leaves of three red pepper (Capsicum annuum) cultivars

The antioxidant properties and phenolic profiles were first investigated in this paper on the leaves of three red pepper cultivars, Blackcuban (BCPL), Hongjinju (HPL), and Yeokgang-hongjanggun (YHPL). Of the ethanol extract of the three cultivars, BCPL showed potent antioxidant activities against the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and the 2,2-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical. Nine antioxidative compounds from the red pepper leaves were isolated and identified as one polyamine phenolic conjugate, N-caffeoylputrescine (1); three chlorogenic acid derivatives, 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (2), 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid methyl ester (4), and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid butyl ester (9); one anthocyanin, delphinidin-3-[4-trans-coumaroyl-l-rhamnosyl(1→6)glucopyranoside]-5-O-glucopyranoside (3); and four flavone glycosides, luteolin-7-O-apiofuranosyl(1→2)glucopyranoside (5), luteolin-7-O-glucopyranoside (6), apigenin 7-O-apiofuranosyl(1→2)glucopyranoside (7), apigenin-7-O-glucopyranoside (8). 1 and 3 had the greatest potential for radical-scavenging activity and HepG2 cells protecting effect against oxidative stress. BCPL exhibited the highest content of 1 and 3. Of the three cultivars BCPL may be considered a good source of antioxidants.

Chloroplast DNA phylogeography of holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) in Indian subcontinent

Ocimum tenuiflorum L., holy basil "Tulsi", is an important medicinal plant that is being grown and traditionally revered throughout Indian Subcontinent for thousands of years; however, DNA sequence-based genetic diversity of this aromatic herb is not yet known. In this report, we present our studies on the phylogeography of this species using trnL-trnF intergenic spacer of plastid genome as the DNA barcode for isolates from Indian subcontinent. Our pairwise distance analyses indicated that genetic heterogeneity of isolates remained quite low, with overall mean nucleotide p-distance of 5 × 10(-4). However, our sensitive phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood framework was able to reveal subtle intraspecific molecular evolution of this species within the subcontinent. All isolates except that from North-Central India formed a distinct phylogenetic clade, notwithstanding low bootstrap support and collapse of the clade in Bayesian Inference. North-Central isolates occupied more basal position compared to other isolates, which is suggestive of its evolutionarily primitive status. Indian isolates formed a monophyletic and well-supported clade within O. tenuiflorum clade, which indicates a distinct haplotype. Given the vast geographical area of more than 3 million km(2) encompassing many exclusive biogeographical and ecological zones, relatively low rate of evolution of this herb at this locus in India is particularly interesting.

Synthesis and antiviral evaluation of 6'-acylamido-6'-deoxy-α-D-mannoglycerolipids

Eight new aminomannoglycerolipids (2a-h) with linear, branched, or aromatic acyl chains were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-influenza A virus (IAV) activity. By comparing six mannosyl donors with different protecting and leaving groups, the critical glycosylation reaction employed mannosyl trichloroacetimidate with 2-O-benzoyl protecting group as the donor to give the glycoside with absolute α-anomeric selectivity. The bioactivity results showed that the branched compound 2g could effectively inhibit IAV multiplication in MDCK cells with IC50 69.9μM.

Novel Ocimumoside A and B as anti-stress agents: modulation of brain monoamines and antioxidant systems in chronic unpredictable stress model in rats

Therapies targeting central stress mechanisms are fundamental for the development of successful treatment strategies. Ocimum sanctum (OS) is an Indian medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of various stress-related conditions. Previously, we have isolated and characterized three OS compounds; Ocimarin, Ocimumoside A and Ocimumoside B. However, their role in modulating chronic stress-induced central changes is unexplored. Thus, in the present study the efficacy of these OS compounds have been evaluated on the chronic unpredictable stress (CUS)-induced alterations in the monoaminergic and antioxidant systems in the frontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus, along with the changes in the plasma corticosterone levels. CUS (two different types of stressors daily for seven days) resulted in a significant elevation of plasma corticosterone level, which was reversed to control levels by pretreatment with Ocimumoside A and B (40 mg/kg p.o.), while Ocimarin showed no effect. The levels of NA, DA and 5-HT were significantly decreased in all the three brain regions by CUS, with a selective increase of DA metabolites. A significant decrease in the glutathione (GSH) content, the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase with a significant increase in the glutathione peroxidase activity and lipid peroxidation was observed in all the three regions of the brain by CUS. The OS compounds alone did not cause any significant change in the baseline values of these parameters. However, Ocimumoside A and B (40 mg/kg body p.o.) attenuated these CUS-induced alterations with an efficacy similar to that of standard anti-stress (Panax quinquefolium; 100 mg/kg p.o.) and antioxidant (Melatonin; 20 mg/kg i.p.) drugs. While, Ocimarin failed to modulate these CUS-induced alterations. Therefore, this is the first report which identified the anti-stress activity of novel Ocimumoside A and B at the level of central monoamines and antioxidant properties, implicating their therapeutic importance in the prevention of stress-related disorders.

Cytotoxic ceramides and glycerides from the roots of Livistona chinensis

A 70% ethanol extract of the roots of Livistona chinensis has been investigated, led to the isolation of 13 compounds, including a new ceramide, (2S,3S,4R,9Z)-2-[(2R)-2-hydroxytricosanoylamino]-9-octadecene-1,3,4-triol (2), a new glycosyl ceramide, 1-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(2S,3S,4R,9Z)-2-[(2R)-2-hydroxydocosanoylamino]-9-octadecene-1,3,4-triol (3), three new monoacylglycerols, 1-(34-hydroxytetratriacontanoyl)-sn-glycerol (9), 1-[nonadeca-(9Z,12Z)-dienoyl]-sn-glycerol (10), and 1-[12-hydroxypentatriaconta-(13E,15Z)-dienoyl]-sn-glycerol (11), a new diacylglycerol, 1-(heptadeca-6Z,9Z-dienoyl)-3-(octadeca-6Z,9Z,12Z-trienoyl)-sn-glycerol (12), as well as a new diacylglycerol aminoglycoside, 1-octadecanoyl-2-nonadecanoyl-3-O-(6-amino-6-deoxy)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-sn-glycerol (13). The structures of new compounds were elucidated, based on spectroscopic, zymologic and chemical methods. Among the compounds tested, compounds 3, 4 and 13 showed significantly antiproliferative effects against the human tumor cell lines (K562, HL-60, HepG2, and CNE-1) with the IC₅₀ of 10-65 μM. To our knowledge, this is first report of the occurrence of ceramides and acylglycerols in the genus Livistona.

Protective effects of Ocimum sanctum on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats

The antioxidant effects of Ocimum sanctum in experimental streptozocin-induced diabetic rats was evaluated in this study. Streptozocin, 55 mg kg(-1) body weight, was injected intraperitoneally once daily for 30 days to induce diabetes mellitus in rats. Streptozocin-induced diabetic rats were orally treated with an aqueous extract of O. sanctum once daily for 30 days. After the experimental period, thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) and antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase were measured. Administration of O. sanctum to streptozocin-induced diabetic rats for 30 days significantly reduced the plasma level of TBARS and improved the status of the antioxidant enzymes catalase, SOD and glutathione peroxidase in vital organs such as the liver and kidney. These results confirmed that the Indian medicinal plant O. sanctum has a protective effect and it may be useful in controlling complications resulting from diabetes.

Evaluation of the sedative and anticonvulsant properties of three Cameroonian plants

Millettia thonningii, Ocinum sanctum and Securitaca longepedunculaca are used in traditional medicine in Cameroon to treat epilepsy, insomnia and headaches. Animal models of epilepsy (maximal electroshock (MES), n-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), pentylenetetrazol (PTZ), isonicotinic hydrazide acid (INH), picrotoxine (PIC) and strychnine (STR)-induced convulsions or turning behavior were used to evaluate anticonvulsant activity while diazepam-induced sleep test was used to evaluate sedative activity of the plants. Four doses of extracts were used for each plant (100, 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg). At a dose of 1000 mg/kg, Millettia thonningii protected 60 and 90% of mice against MES and PTZ-induced convulsions, respectively. At the same dose, Millettia thonningii also protected 80% of mice against NMDA-induced turning behavior. At a dose of 1000 mg/kg, Ocinum sanctum provided complete protection against MES, PIC and STR- induced convulsions and 83.3% of protection in PTZ test. Securitaca longepedunculata completely protected (100%) mice in PIC test at a dose of 200 mg/kg, in MES test at a dose of 500 mg/kg and in PTZ test at a dose of 1000 mg/kg. 66.7% of mice were protected against STR-induced convulsions. All the three plants showed also sedative properties for they increased significantly and in a dose dependent manner the total sleep time induced by diazepam. The total sleep time of the control groups was multiplied by a factor of 3 at least by each extract. The presence of sedative and anticonvulsant activity in the three plants could explain their use in traditional medicine in the treatment of epilepsy and insomnia in Cameroon.

Evaluation of ethanol leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum in experimental models of anxiety and depression

CONTEXT

Recent studies reveal the co-occurrence of both anxiety and depressive disorders in many clinical conditions, which has introduced the concept of mixed anxiety and depressive disorders (MADD).

OBJECTIVE

The study evaluated the ethanol leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum (OS) Linn. (Labiatae), a prominent medicinal plant, against both anxiety and depressive disorder, to evaluate its potency in combating MADD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Swiss albino mice weighing 20-25 g were used. Gross behavior was observed through Digiscan animal activity monitor. Depression was studied through tail suspension test (TST) and forced swim test (FST). Anxiety experiments included light dark test, elevated plus maze test, and holeboard test. Further, rotarod test was also used to study any defects in motor coordination.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

OS at 200 mg/kg showed motor-depressant activity as evaluated with locomotor activity and stereotypy measures. OS at 50 mg/kg shortened the immobility time in the TST and FST, respectively, indicating a possible antidepressant activity. Further, a diminution in the anxiety response at a dose of 50 mg/kg, p.o. body weight was also observed against light dark, elevated plus maze, and holeboard tests, which signifies its antianxiety activity. No defects were observed in the motor coordination of the mice in the rotarod test. Thus, the OS extract shows antianxiety and antidepressant properties at the same dose and can be a potential therapeutic agent against mixed anxiety and depressive syndrome.

Correlated accumulation of anthocyanins and rosmarinic acid in mechanically stressed red cell suspensions of basil (Ocimum basilicum)

A red basil cell line (T2b) rich in rosmarinic acid (RA) was selected for the stable production of anthocyanins (ACs) in the dark. Cell suspension cultures were subjected to mechanical stress through increased agitation (switch from 90 to 150 rpm) to determine the relationship between AC and RA accumulation. Cell extracts were analyzed by HPLC and LC-MS, and the resulting data were processed with multivariate statistical analysis. MS and MS/MS spectra facilitated the putative annotation of several complex cyanidin-based ACs, which were esterified with coumaric acid and, in some cases, also with malonic acid. It was also possible to identify various RA-related molecules, some caffeic and coumaric acid derivatives and some flavanones. Mechanical stress increased the total AC and RA contents, but reduced biomass accumulation. Many metabolites were induced by mechanical stress, including RA and some of its derivatives, most ACs, hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids, whereas the abundance of some RA dimers was reduced. Although AC and RA share a common early biosynthetic pathway (from phenylalanine to 4-coumaroyl-CoA) and could have similar or overlapping functions providing antioxidant activity against stress-generated reactive oxygen species, there appeared to be no competition between their individual pathways.

A new acylated quercetin glycoside from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni

A new acylated quercetin glycoside quercetin-3-O-(4'''-O-trans-caffeoyl)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-galacopyranoside (1), along with luteolin (2), quercetin (3), luteolin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside (4), apigenin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside (5), quercitrin (6), quercetin-3-O-beta-D-arabinoside (7) and 4,5-di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid (8) have been isolated from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. The structures of these compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods (1H- and 13C-NMR, IR and MS) and by 2D-NMR experiments.

A review of phytotherapy of Acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris (acne) is a cutaneous pleomorphic disorder of the pilosebaceous unit involving abnormalities in sebum production and is characterized by both inflammatory (papules, pustules and nodules) and non-inflammatory (comedones, open and closed) lesions. Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis are common pus-forming microbes responsible for the development of various forms of acne. This disease remains a common condition in industrialized societies, with many mainstream treatment options available. There are many acne products on the market, and making an appropriate selection can be daunting. Common therapies that are used for the treatment of acne include topical, systemic, hormonal, herbal and combination therapy. Topically used agents are benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics and retinoid. Systemically used agents are antibiotics and isotretinoin. However, all such treatments carry risks and none is completely satisfactory. Natural alternatives are gaining greater research support, and have much to offer clinically in this disorder. This review focuses primarily on herbal treatments for acne that show scientific evidence of clinical efficacy, as well as the more common herbs shown to be useful in the treatment of this dermatologic disorder.

Apoptosis-inducing galactolipids from a cultured marine diatom, Phaeodactylum tricornutum

Two monogalactosyl diacylglycerols, 1 and 2, were isolated from the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum, using the patented ApopScreen cell-based screen for apoptosis-inducing, potential anticancer compounds. The molecular structures of the galactolipids were determined using a combination of NMR, mass spectrometry, and chemical degradation. The bioactivities were confirmed using a specific apoptosis induction assay based on genetically engineered mammalian cell lines with differential, defined capacities for apoptosis. The galactolipids induce apoptosis in micromolar concentrations. This is the first report of apoptosis induction by galactolipids.