Antioxidant Activity of Four Endemic Stachys Taxa

An overview on pharmacological significance, phytochemical potential, traditional importance and conservation strategies of Dioscorea deltoidea: A high valued endangered medicinal plant

Dioscorea deltoidea Wall. ex Griseb. is an endangered species of the Dioscoreaceae family. It is the most commonly consumed wild species as a vegetable due to its high protein, vital amino acid, vitamin, and mineral content. There are approximately 613 species in the genus Dioscorea Plum. ex L., which is found in temperate and tropical climates. Dioscorea deltoidea, a plant species widespread across tropical and sub-tropical regions, called by different names in different languages. In English, it is commonly referred to as "Wild yam" or "Elephant foot". The Sanskrit name for this plant is "Varahikand," while in Hindi, it is known as "Gun" or "Singly-mingly." The Urdu language refers to it as "Qanis," and in Nepali, it is called "Tarul," "Bhyakur," or "Ghunar." Dioscorea deltoidea has been used to cure a wide range of human ailments for centuries. This plant has nutritional and therapeutic uses and also contains high amounts of steroidal saponins, allantoin, polyphenols, and most notably, polysaccharides and diosgenin. These bioactive chemicals have shown potential in providing protection against a wide spectrum of inflammatory conditions, including enteritis (inflammation of the intestines), arthritis (joint inflammation), dermatitis (skin inflammation), acute pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and neuro inflammation (inflammation in the nervous system). Furthermore, the valuable bioactive chemicals found in D. deltoidea have been associated with a range of beneficial biological activities, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, and cytotoxic properties. Sapogenin steroidal chemicals are highly valued in the fields of medicine, manufacturing, and commerce. It has both expectorant and sedative properties. It is employed in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, encompassing various ailments related to the heart and blood vessels, skin disease, cancer, immune deficiencies, and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, it finds application in managing disorders of the central nervous system and dysfunctional changes in the female reproductive system. Furthermore, it is valued for its role in treating bone and joint diseases. Metabolic disorders are also among the ailments for which D. deltoidea is employed. It has traditionally been used as a vermifuge, fish poison, and to kill lice. Diosgenin, a steroidal compound found in D. deltoidea, plays a crucial role as a precursor in the chemical synthesis of various hormones. Due to the presence of valuable bioactive molecule, like corticosterone and sigmasterol, D. deltoidea is cultivated specifically for the extraction of these beneficial phytochemicals. The current study aims to assess D. deltoidea's medicinal properties, ethnobotanical usage, phytochemicals, pharmacological properties, threats, and conservation techniques.

Anthelminthic and antimicrobial effects of hedge woundwort (Stachys sylvatica L.) growing in Southern Kazakhstan

The Stachys L. genus has been widely used in traditional medicine in many countries throughout the world. The study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and bioactivity of the hydroethanolic extract (50% v/v) obtained by ultrasonication from the aerial flowering parts of Stachys sylvatica L. (SSE) collected in Almaty region (Southern Kazakhstan). According to RP-HPLC/PDA analysis the leading metabolites of the SSE belonged to polyphenols: chlorogenic acid and its isomers (2.34 mg/g dry extract) and luteolin derivatives (1.49 mg/g dry extract), while HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS-based qualitative fingerprinting revealed the presence of 17 metabolites, mainly chlorogenic acid and its isomers, flavonoid glycosides, and verbascoside with its derivatives. GC-MS analysis of the volatile metabolites showed mainly the presence of diterpenoids and fatty acid esters. A reduction in the viability of nematodes Rhabditis sp. was obtained for the SSE concentration of 3.3 mg/mL, while 11.1 mg/mL showed activity comparable to albendazole. The SSE exhibited higher activity against Gram-positive (MIC = 0.5-2 mg/mL) than Gram-negative bacteria and yeast (MIC = 8 mg/mL), exerting bactericidal and fungicidal effects but with no sporicidal activity. The SSE showed some antiviral activity against HCoV-229E replicating in MRC-5 and good protection against the cytopathic effect induced by HHV-1 in VERO. The SSE was moderately cytotoxic towards human cervical adenocarcinoma (H1HeLa) cells (CC50 of 0.127 mg/mL after 72 h). This study provides novel information on the SSE extract composition and its biological activity, especially in the context of the SSE as a promising candidate for further antiparasitic studies.

Antimicrobial activity of Stachys rupestris Montbret et Aucher ex Benth. and inactivation of the pathogens inoculated on lab-made skin by the essential oil

The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Stachys rupestris essential oil and inactivation of the pathogens on lab-made skin the oil in the fight against Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. S. rupestris EO was extracted by hydrodistillation, and its contents were analyzed by GCMS. Logarithmic reduction of the pathogens inoculated on the artificial skin surface by S. rupestris EO was studied for the first time. The highest inhibition zone was 22.1 mm on C. tropicalis, while the lowest IZ was 0.1 mm on E. coli. The other zones were 20.01 mm for Acinetobacter baumannii, 20.02 mm for Enterococcus faecalis, 20.01 mm for Staphylococcus aureus, 22.03 for Candida albicans (p < 0.05). As a result, S. rupestris essential oil was effective on most of the microorganisms and might be increased to use in the treatment of skin infections in the future.

Chemical Composition and Future Perspectives of Essential Oil Obtained from a Wild Population of Stachys germanica L. Distributed in the Balkan Mountains in Bulgaria

Stachys germanica L. (Lamiaceae) is a plant associated with a rich history in the traditional medicine of Iran, Turkey, and Serbia. However, researchers have not fully investigated the pharmacological potential of the herb, and scientific data on this plant species are limited. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) obtained from the aerial parts of S. germanica L. growing wild in Bulgaria and to perform a comparative analysis of the chemical composition of EOs obtained from the same plant species from other geographical regions. For the evaluation of the chemical profile of the isolated EO, gas chromatographic analysis with mass spectrometry was performed. The most abundant terpene class was oxygenated monoterpenes, which accounted for 59.30% of the total EO composition. The bicyclic monoterpene camphor, as a compound of this class, was identified as the major constituent in the EO, accounting for 52.96% of the total oil composition. The chemical profile of Bulgarian EO is quite different compared to that of EOs from other regions. It is the only one to contain more than 50% camphor. In addition, EO contains significant amounts of the diterpene geranyl p-cymene (10.49%). This is the first study describing the chemical composition of EO from Bulgarian Stachys germanica L., and our results reveal some future perspectives for the evaluation of the biological activity of EO from the studied plant species as a new therapeutic agent or natural remedy targeting different medical conditions. The EO has a promising potential to be used as a biopesticide and repellent as well, an environmentally friendly and safer alternative to standard pesticides.

The chemical composition of the aerial parts of Stachys spreitzenhoferi (Lamiaceae) growing in Kythira Island (Greece), and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative properties

The Stachys L. genus has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin inflammations, stomach disorders, and stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical profile and biological activity of the methanolic extract of Stachys spreitzenhoferi Heldr. (Lamiaceae) aerial parts, collected on the island of Kythira, South Greece. The analysis by liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization and high-resolution mass spectrometry [LC-(-)ESI/HRMSⁿ] of the methanol extract revealed the occurrence of thirty-six compounds - flavonoids, phenylethanoid glycosides, iridoids, quinic acid derivatives, aliphatic alcohol glycosides, and oligosaccharides - highlighting the substantial presence, as main peaks, of the iridoid melittoside (2) along with flavonoid compounds such as 4'-O-methylisoscutellarein mono-acetyl-diglycoside/chrysoeriol mono-acetyl-diglycoside (24), trimethoxy- (35) and tetramethoxyflavones (36). This extract was tested for its antimicrobial properties against Gram-positive and negative pathogenic strains. The extract was not active against Gram-negative bacteria tested, but it possessed a good dose-dependent antimicrobial activity towards S. aureus (MIC: 1.0 mg/mL) and L. monocytogenes (MIC: 1.0 mg/mL) Gram-(+) strains. Furthermore, this extract has been tested for its possible antioxidant activity in vitro. In particular, it has been shown that these molecules cause a decrease in DPPH, ABTS, and H₂O₂ radicals. The extract of S. spreitzenhoferi exhibited anti-DPPH activity (IC₅₀: 0.17 mg/mL), anti-H₂O₂ activity (IC₅₀: 0.125 mg/mL), and promising antiradical effect with an IC₅₀ value of 0.18 mg/mL for anti-ABTS activity. S. spreitzenhoferi extract caused a decrease in ROS (at the concentration of 200 μg/mL) and an increase in the activity of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and GPX in OZ-stimulated PMNs. Furthermore, it exhibited antiproliferative activity against acute myeloid leukemia (U937 cell), causing 50% of cell death at the 0.75 mg/mL.

In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Effects of TEES-10®, a Mixture of Ethanol Extracts of Ligularia stenocephala Matsum. & Koidz. and Secale cereale L. Sprout, on Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Gingivitis and periodontitis are inflammatory disorders caused by dental plaque and calculus. These disorders often lead to tooth loss if not treated properly. Although antibiotics can be used, it is hard to treat them due to the difficulty in supplying effective doses of antibiotics to lesion areas and side effects associated with long-term use of antibiotics. In the present study, attempts were made to provide in vitro and in vivo evidence to support anti-inflammatory activities of TEES-10^®, a mixture of ethanol extracts of Ligularia stenocephala (LSE) and Secale cereale L. sprout (SCSE) toward gingivitis and periodontitis by performing the following experiments. TEES-10^® with a ratio of 6:4 (LSE:SCSE) showed the best effects in both stimulating the viability and inhibiting the cytotoxicity. In in vitro experiments, TEES-10^® showed an ability to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and superoxide radicals and remove ROS generated in periodontal ligament cells treated with lipopolysaccharide. TEES-10^® also enhanced the viability of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth and stimulated the osteogenic differentiation of deciduous teeth cells. In in vivo experiments using rats with induced periodontitis, TEES-10^® significantly decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and the numbers of osteoclasts, increased alveolar process volume and the numbers of osteoblasts, decreased serum levels of IL-1β and TNF-α (pro-inflammatory cytokines), and increased serum levels of IL-10 and IL-13 (anti-inflammatory cytokines). These results strongly support the theory that TEES-10^® has the potential to be developed as a health functional food that can treat and prevent gingival and periodontal diseases and improve dental health.

Flowers and Leaves Extracts of Stachys palustris L. Exhibit Stronger Anti-Proliferative, Antioxidant, Anti-Diabetic, and Anti-Obesity Potencies than Stems and Roots Due to More Phenolic Compounds as Revealed by UPLC-PDA-ESI-TQD-MS/MS

The present work aims to assess the biological potential of polyphenolic compounds in different parts (flowers, leaves, stems, and roots) of Stachys palustris L. Towards secondary metabolites profile, 89 polyphenolic compounds (PCs) were identified by UPLC-PDA-ESI-TQD-MS/MS, with a total average content of 6089 mg/100 g of dry matter (d.m.). In terms of biological activity, antioxidant activity (radical activity, reducing power), digestive enzyme inhibitory (α-glucosidase, α-amylase, pancreatic lipase) effect, and antiproliferative activity (inhibition of cell viability and induction of apoptosis in different human cancer cell lines) were explored. Leaves, flowers, stems, and roots of S. palustris L. have not been studied in this regard until now. Vescalagin and cocciferin d2, isoverbascoside (verbascoside), luteolin 6-C-glucoside, luteolin 6-C-galactoside, apigenin 6-C-glucoside, (−)-epicatechin, ellagic acid, and malvidin 3-O-diglucoside were detected as main ingredients in the studied parts. Methanolic extract of S. palustris L. leaves and flowers revealed the highest amount of PCs with the strongest antiradical (18.5 and 15.6 mmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/g d.m., respectively) and reducing power effects (7.3 and 5.6 mmol TE/g d.m.). Leaf extracts exhibited better α-amylase and pancreatic lipase inhibition effects, while flower extracts exhibited better α-glucosidase inhibition effect. Regarding antiproliferative activity, extracts of the leaves and flowers significantly reduced cell viability and induced a high level of apoptosis in human lung, pancreatic, bladder, and colon cancer cell lines, as well as in human acute myeloid leukemia; whereas the extracts from stems and roots revealed the weaker effects. The results of this work showed anti-proliferative and potentially anti-diabetic, anti-obesity properties of S. palustris L., especially for flowers and leaves, which may have wide potential applications in the functional food, special food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics industries, and/or in medicine.

Spasmolytic, Gastroprotective and Antioxidant Activities of Dry Methanol Extract of Ferula heuffelii Underground Parts

Dry MeOH extract of Ferula heuffelii (Apiaceae) underground parts was tested for spasmolytic, gastroprotective and antioxidant activities. HPLC analysis revealed that chlorogenic acid (CGA; 34.6 mg/g) was its main constituent. Extract in vitro exhibited notable total antioxidant activity (FRAP value=1.0 μmol Fe²⁺ /mg), and scavenging of DPPH (SC₅₀ =62.5 μg/ml) and ^• OH radicals (49.5 % at 20 μg/ml in 2-deoxyribose assay). In vitro on isolated rat ileum, extract exhibited significant spasmolytic activity, i. e., it showed 124.6 % of maximal atropine effect on spontaneous contractions (at 100 μg/ml), and reduced spasmogenic effect of KCl (80 mm) to 44.4 % (at 60 μg/ml) and of highest applied concentration of ACh to 26.3 % (at 120 μg/ml). In parallel experiments, spasmolytic effect of CGA was also demonstrated. In acute EtOH-induced gastric ulceration model in rats, extract (100 mg/kg p.o.) showed significant gastroprotective effect (gastric damage score 0.50), similar to ranitidine (20 mg/kg p.o.). Obtained results showed that tested F. heuffelii polar extract represents new herbal preparation with potential use against some gastrointestinal complaints.

Chemical Structure, Sources and Role of Bioactive Flavonoids in Cancer Prevention: A Review

There has been a major shift in the collective mindset around the world in recent decades, both in terms of food and in terms of the treatment of chronic diseases. Increasing numbers of people are choosing to prevent rather than treat, which is why many consumers are choosing plant-based diets, mainly due to their bioactive compounds. A significant case of bioactive compound is flavonoids-a wide subclass of an even wider class of phytochemicals: polyphenols. Flavonoids are a broad topic of study for researchers due to their potential in the prevention and treatment of a broad range of cancers. The aim of this review is to inform/update the reader on the diversity, accessibility and importance of flavonoids as biomolecules that are essential for optimal health, focusing on the potential of these compounds in the prevention of various types of cancer. Along with conventional sources, this review presents some of the possible methods for obtaining significant amounts of flavonoids based on a slightly different approach, genetic manipulation.

Biological Activity and NMR-Fingerprinting of Balkan Endemic Species Stachys thracica Davidov

Stachys thracica Davidov is a Balkan endemic species distributed in Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey. In Bulgaria, it is classified as “rare” and is under the protection of the Bulgarian biodiversity law. The aim of our study was to develop an efficient protocol for ex situ conservation of S. thracica and to perform comparative NMR-based metabolite profiling and bioactivity assays of extracts from in situ grown, in vitro cultivated, and ex vitro acclimated plants. Micropropagation of S. thracica was achieved by in vitro cultivation of mono-nodal segments on basal MS medium. Ex vitro adaptation was accomplished in the experimental field with 83% survival while conserved genetic identity between in vitro and ex vitro plants as shown by the overall sequence-related amplified polymorphism marker patterns was established. Verbascoside, chlorogenic acid, and trigonelline appeared the main secondary metabolites in in situ, in vitro cultivated, and ex vitro acclimated S. thracica. High total phenolic and flavonoid content as well as antioxidant and radical scavenging activity were observed in in situ and ex vitro plants. Further, the anti-inflammatory activity of S. thracica was tested by hemolytic assay and a high inhibition of the complement system was observed. Initiated in vitro and ex vitro cultures offer an effective tool for the management and better exploitation of the Stachys secondary metabolism and the selection of lines with high content of bioactive molecules and nutraceuticals.

Protective effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Stachys pilifera on paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity in female rats

Background and purpose:

Stachys pilifera is used in traditional medicine due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. The goal of this study was to examine the renoprotective activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of aerial parts of S. pilifera on paracetamol (PCM)-induced nephrotoxicity.

Experimental approach:

The Wistar female rats were randomly divided into four groups including control, PCM, S. pilifera hydroalcoholic extract (SPE), and PCM + SPE. The animals received SPE (500 mg/kg) for one week and PCM (3 g/kg) on the 6^th day orally. Kidney function tests and oxidant/antioxidant markers were determined in serum and tissue homogenate, respectively. Protein and mRNA levels of TNF-α, as well as hematoxylin and eosin staining, were assessed in the kidney tissue.

Findings/Results:

Treatment with SPE in the PCM group significantly decreased blood urea nitrogen and creatinine against the merely PCM rats (P < 0.05). The amount of nitric oxide metabolite and superoxide dismutase activity in the group receiving SPE showed a significant increase compared to PCM rats (P < 0.05). A significant difference in TNF-α levels between the groups was not observed. Histological changes were improved in the rats treated with SPE.

Conclusion and implications:

Totally, our findings showed that SPE can inhibit PCM nephrotoxicity by enhancing kidney function markers, antioxidant status, and histological changes. Though, more researches are required to estimate the possible mechanism of SPE.

Antioxidant, Antigenotoxic and Cytotoxic Activity of Essential Oils and Methanol Extracts of Hyssopus officinalis L. Subsp. aristatus (Godr.) Nyman (Lamiaceae)

Hyssopus officinalis L. is a well-known aromatic plant used in traditional medicine and the food and cosmetics industry. The aim of this study is to assess the antioxidant, genotoxic, antigenotoxic and cytotoxic properties of characterized hyssop essential oils and methanol extracts. Chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography with diode array detection and mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-MS), respectively. Antioxidant activity was examined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) tests; genotoxic and antigenotoxic activity were examined by the comet assay, while cytotoxicity was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide dye (MTT) test against tumor cell lines (SW480, MDA-MB 231, HeLa) and non-transformed human lung fibroblast cell lines (MRC-5). The essential oils were rich in monoterpene hydrocarbons (e.g., limonene; 7.99–23.81%), oxygenated monoterpenes (1,8-cineole; 38.19–67.1%) and phenylpropanoids (methyl eugenol; 0.00–28.33%). In methanol extracts, the most abundant phenolics were chlorogenic and rosmarinic acid (23.35–33.46 and 3.53–17.98 mg/g, respectively). Methanol extracts expressed moderate to weak antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 56.04–199.89 µg/mL, FRAP = 0.667–0.959 mmol Fe²⁺/g). Hyssop preparations significantly reduced DNA damage in human whole blood cells, induced by pretreatment with hydrogen peroxide. Methanol extracts exhibited selective and potent dose- and time-dependent activity against the HeLa cell line. Results of the current study demonstrated notable H. officinalis medicinal potential, which calls for further investigation.

Protective Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Stachys pilifera on Oxidant-Antioxidant Status in Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injuries in Male Rats

Background

Renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) has a pivotal role in the progression of acute renal failure. Reactive oxygen species are considered the major constituents involved in the biochemical and pathophysiological changes that were shown during kidney I/R. The purpose of this study was to examine the renoprotective effects of Stachys pilifera ethanolic extract on oxidant-antioxidant status in renal I/R-injuries in male rats. Material and methods. Twenty-one male Wistar rats were arbitrarily distributed into 3 groups: sham control (SC), I/R, and I/R + Stachys pilifera ethanolic extract (500 mg/kg). The artery and vein of the right kidney were completely blocked, and the right kidney was completely removed in all groups. Then, the left kidney artery was blocked with suture thread for 30 minutes in only I/R and I/R + SP extract groups. Kidney function indices, oxidative stress markers, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were investigated in the plasma and kidney tissues.

Results

It was shown that the urine Na and K, fractional excretion of Na and K, and protein carbonyl content markedly increased in the merely I/R group as compared to SC rats, while the administration of SP extract markedly reduced these indices (P < 0.05). Also, glomerular filtration rate and total thiol meaningfully reduced in the I/R rats in contrast to the SC group, while the treatment with SP extract markedly augmented these indices (P < 0.05). However, in agreement with renal function tests, SP extract had no significant effects on histopathological examinations.

Conclusion

It seems that SP extract employs renoprotective effects on renal damage induced by I/R, possibly by improving of oxidant-antioxidant status in favor of the antioxidant system.

Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels is not only used for its edible fruits but also used to treat a wide spectrum of diseases such as inflammatory, rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, respiratory disorder, hepatic diseases and diabetes in India, Asia, the Caribbean region, and Central and South America. This paper aims to discuss the current understanding regarding the traditional uses, phytochemical and pharmacological studies of P. acidus, and their possible research opportunities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All information on P. acidus was collected from various electronic database (ACS, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciFinder, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Springer, Wiley, Taylor and Mendeley) and also from those published materials (Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations and books) by using a combination of various meaningful keywords.

RESULTS

Phytochemical analyses on barks, leaves, roots and fruits of P. acidus identified triterpene, diterpene, sesquiterpene, and glycosides as predominant classes of bioactive substances found in this plant. P. acidus was reported with various pharmacological activities such as in vivo hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic, in vitro anti-oxidant, α-glucosidase inhibitory, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. However, none of these studies are with clinical research. Some of the studies were performed with only a single set of experiments or with a high dose of extract, and thus the validity of the experimental data may be questionable. In addition, most of the studies described were without identifying the effective components. Some of the assays were even without a positive control for comparison which makes results questionable.

CONCLUSION

Although P. acidus has been proven as a valuable medicinal source from its traditional uses. However, the pharmacological experiments conducted were not sufficient to verify its traditional uses. More investigation is required to confirm the traditional claims such as bioassay-guided isolation of bioactive compounds, detailed pharmacological investigations, clinical studies, and its toxicity investigation. Additionally, an experimental design with sufficient data replication, the use of controls and authenticated research materials, and the selection of a rationale dose or concentration for the analysis are keys to providing reproducible experimental data.

Fingerprinting, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anticancer, Cyclooxygenase and Metabolic Enzymes Inhibitory Characteristic Evaluations of Stachys viticina Boiss. Essential Oil

The present study aimed to identify the chemical constituents and to assess the in-vitro, antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, metabolic enzymes and cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitory properties of essential oil (EO) of Stachys viticina Boiss. leaves. The S. viticina EO was isolated and identified using microwave-ultrasonic and GC-MS techniques, respectively. Fifty-two compounds were identified, of which endo-borneol was the major component, followed by eucalyptol and epizonarene. The EO was evaluated against a panel of in-vitro bioassays. The EO displayed antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli and Epidermophyton floccosum, with MIC values of 0.039, 0.078 and 0.78 mg/mL, respectively. The EO exhibited cytotoxicity against HeLa (cervical adenocarcinoma) and Colo-205 (colon) cancer cell lines with percentages of inhibition of 95% and 90%, for EO concentrations of 1.25 and 0.5 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, it showed metabolic enzyme (α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipase) inhibitory (IC₅₀ = 45.22 ± 1.1, 63.09 ± 0.26, 501.18 ± 0.38 µg/mL, respectively) and antioxidant activity, with an IC₅₀ value of 19.95 ± 2.08 µg/mL. Moreover, the S. viticina EO showed high cyclooxygenase inhibitory activity against COX-1 and COX-2 with IC₅₀ values of 0.25 and 0.5 µg/mL, respectively, similar to those of the positive control (the NSAID etodolac). Outcomes amassed from this investigation illustrate that S. viticina EO represents a rich source of pharmacologically active molecules which can be further validated and explored clinically for its therapeutic potential and for the development and design of new natural therapeutic preparations.

The chemistry and biological activities of Peperomia pellucida (Piperaceae): A critical review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth is an annual weed with a preference to humid places with reduced solar radiation. This plant is mainly distributed in the Neotropics, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It is popularly employed in the treatment of a variety of health conditions such as abscesses, abdominal pain, skin sores, conjunctivitis, measles, and kidney troubles. Several studies have also described its antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiabetic and a variety of other bioactivities.

THE AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of this work is to evaluate, using a critical review, the present ethnomedicinal applications, phytochemistry and pharmacological studies of P. pellucida essential oils (EOs) and extracts from different locations around the world.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review was performed through an online survey of the ethnomedicinal practices, chemical compositions and pharmacological applications of P. pellucida EOs and extracts. The data were mainly obtained from online journals and books published in English, Portuguese and Spanish. The information was collected from websites such as Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, ResearchGate and other online databases that provided more information about this herb.

RESULTS

Peperomia pellucida bioactivities such as antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antioxidant, fracture healing, antidiabetic and anti-hypercholesterolemia have been described in several literature sources. Nonetheless, most reports only provide the phytochemical screening of extracts, which does not allow the identification of the active compounds. From these studies, some reported constituents are not included in the Dictionary of Natural Products (DNP), which raises questions toward their identification. In addition, some biological assays were even performed without standard controls for comparison which also makes these results questionable.

CONCLUSION

This review evaluates data regarding the phytopharmaceutical potential of P. pellucida. In general, several important aspects were questionable or missing in these manuscripts, which points out the need of more investigation on the pharmacological properties and phytochemical compositions of this herb.

Elucidating genes involved in sesquiterpenoid and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways in Saussurea lappa by de novo leaf transcriptome analysis

Saussurea lappa (family Asteraceae) possesses immense pharmacological potential mainly due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones. In spite of its medicinal importance, S. lappa has been poorly explored at the molecular level. We initiated leaf transcriptome sequencing of S. lappa using the illumina highseq 2000 platform and generated 62,039,614 raw reads. Trinity assembler generated 122,434 contigs with an N50 value of 1053 bp. The assembled transcripts were compared against the non-redundant protein database at NCBI. The Blast2GO analysis assigned gene ontology (GO) terms, categorized into molecular functions (3132), biological processes (4477) and cellular components (1.927). Using KEGG, around 476 contigs were assigned to 39 pathways. For secondary metabolic pathways, we identified transcripts encoding genes involved in sesquiterpenoid and flavonoid biosynthesis. Relatively low number of transcripts were also found encoding for genes involved in the alkaloid pathway. Our data will contribute to functional genomics and metabolic engineering studies in this plant.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activity of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and Filipendula vulgaris Moench

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) and dropwort (Filipendula vulgaris Moench) are herbaceous perennials employed in folk medicine for their antirheumatic, antipyretic and anti-ulcer properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess ethnomedicinal claims through investigation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects of F. ulmaria and F. vulgaris lyophilized flower infusions (LFIs) as well as the F. vulgaris isolated flavonoids spiraeoside, kaempferol 4'-O-glucoside, astragalin 2'-O-gallate, mixture of hyperoside 2'-O-gallate and isoquercitrin 2'-O-gallate, and a tannin tellimagrandin II.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Free radical scavenging activity of the tested samples was determined by examining their ability to neutralize DPPH and OH radicals in vitro, whereas reducing properties were assessed in Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was studied ex vivo in human platelets by monitoring the effect on eicosanoid biosynthesis. Gastroprotective action was estimated in animal model of acute gastric injury induced by ethanol.

RESULTS

LFIs and spiraeoside exerted activities comparable to those of positive control in DPPH-radical scavenging and FRAP antioxidant assays, whereas notable hydroxyl radical scavenging ability was demonstrated only for spiraeoside (IC₅₀ = 5.1μg/mL). Among tested samples, astragalin 2″-O-gallate (IC₅₀ = 141.1μg/mL) and spiraeoside (IC₅₀ = 4.69μg/mL) the most markedly inhibited production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E₂ and 12(S)-hydroxy-(5Z,8Z,10E,14Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid in human platelets, respectively. Examination of LFIs (100-300mg/kg, p.o.) gastroprotective action in rats revealed their capacity to preserve mucosal integrity. In addition, spiraeoside (50mg/kg, p.o.) and tellimagrandin II (40mg/kg, p.o.) showed ulcer preventive ability.

CONCLUSION

Current study supports documented traditional use of investigated herbs and indicates that flavonoid and tannin components are partially responsible for the demonstrated pharmacological activities.

Potential use of deodorised water extracts: polyphenol-rich extract of Thymus pannonicus All. as a chemopreventive agent

Deodorised water extracts of aromatic plants are obtained as by-products of essential oil isolation and usually discarded as waste. However, phytochemical composition of these extracts encourages their further utilization as food additives or functional food ingredients. In this study we investigated phytochemical composition, antioxidant and in vivo antiproliferative activity of deodorised water extract of Thymus pannonicus All. (DWE). HPLC analysis revealed rosmarinic acid (RA) (71.11 ± 1.54 mg/g) as the most abundant constituent of the extract, followed by salvianolic acid H (14.83 ± 0.79 mg/g, calculated as RA). DWE exhibited pronounced antioxidant activity in vitro, in FRAP and DPPH tests (FRAP value: 7.41 mmol Fe/g and SC50: 3.80 μg/g, respectively). Using the model of Ehrlich carcinoma cells in mice that were treated with DWE prior, at the time, and after tumour cells implantation, the tumour growth suppression and redox status of malignant cells (i.e., activities of antioxidant enzymes, level of glutathione and intensity of lipid peroxidation) were followed. DWE applied as pretreatment caused disturbance of antioxidant equilibrium as well as apoptosis/necrosis of up to 90% EAC cells. Results obtained in the present study revealed chemopreventive potential and possibility of T. pannonicus DWE usage. High content of RA and other phenolic compounds explains, at least in part, the observed effects.

Methanol Extracts of 28 Hieracium Species from the Balkan Peninsula - Comparative LC-MS Analysis, Chemosystematic Evaluation of their Flavonoid and Phenolic Acid Profiles and Antioxidant Potentials

INTRODUCTION

Hieracium s. str. represents one of the largest and most complex genera of flowering plants. As molecular genetics seems unlikely to disentangle intricate relationships within this reticulate species complex, analysis of flavonoids and phenolic acids, known as good chemosystematic markers, promise to be more reliable. Data about pharmacological activity of Hieracium species are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of the chemosystematic significance of flavonoids and phenolic acids of methanol extracts of aerial flowering parts of 28 Hieracium species from the Balkans. Additionally, investigation of antioxidant potentials of the extracts.

METHODS

Comparative qualitative and quantitative analysis of flavonoids and phenolic acids was performed by LC-MS. Multivariate statistical data analysis included non-metric multidimensional scaling (nMDS), unweighted pair-group arithmetic averages (UPGMA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Antioxidant activity was evaluated using three colorimetric tests.

RESULTS

Dominant phenolics in almost all species were luteolin type flavonoids, followed by phenolic acids. Although the investigated Hieracium species share many compounds, the current classification of the genus was supported by nMDS and UPGMA analyses with a good resolution to the group level. Hieracium naegelianum was clearly separated from the other investigated species. Spatial and ecological distances of the samples were likely to influence unexpected differentiation of some groups within H. sect. Pannosa. The vast majority of dominant compounds significantly contributed to differences between taxa. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was satisfactory and in accordance with their phenolics composition.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparative LC-MS analysis demonstrated that flavonoids and phenolic acids are good indicators of chemosystematic relationships within Hieracium, particularly between non-hybrid species and groups from the same location. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Polar Constituents, Essential Oil and Antioxidant Activity of Marsh Woundwort (Stachys palustris L.)

Stachys palustris, well-known as marsh woundwort, is a perennial herb growing in wet environments of Europe. Its tubers, leaves and seeds are eaten raw or cooked. Alike other Stachys species, the plant is also used as a traditional remedy. Despite S. palustris has been consumed for centuries, little is known about its chemical constituents. In this work the main secondary metabolites of S. palustris from Hungary and France have been analysed. From the plant ethanolic extracts, ethanoid glucosides, isoscutellarein derivatives, caffeoyl-quinic acids and iridoids have been isolated and structurally characterized by NMR. The essential oils were analysed by GC/MS and showed (E)-phytol, fatty acids and carbonylic compounds as the most abundant compounds. The radical scavenging capacity of plant ethanolic extracts, as evaluated by the DPPH assay, was noteworthy, with IC₅₀ values of 92.08 - 105.42 μg/ml.

Antihematotoxic Role of Bunium persicum Seed Differential Extracts in Animal Model: Reactive Oxygen Species Might Be a Contributor

Objectives

Humans have been using plants as natural medicines since prehistoric times. Bunium persicum is a rich source of oils with different biological activities such as antioxidative and antimicrobial activities. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antihematotoxic and antioxidative effects of the differential extracts of B. persicum against leukemic blood induced hematotoxicity in an animal model.

Methods

This study was performed on animals, which were divided into several groups: normal control, disease control, and groups that were administered with differential extracts of plants. We measured the concentration of free radical [reactive oxygen species (ROS)] and hematological parameters as blast cells from the tibia and femur in different groups.

Results

The ROS level and blast cells count were higher in disease control groups than in groups treated with varying amounts of B. persicum extract and the normal group. Moreover, there was an imbalance in hematological parameters in untreated and treated groups with a correlation between free radicals and plant extract administration.

Conclusion

These findings may indicate a possible link between free radicals and hematotoxicity and blast cells, while depicting a potential therapeutic role for B. persicum against ROS-induced hematotoxicity.

Phytochemical and biological studies of Stachys species in relation to chemotaxonomy: a review

The genus Stachys is comprised of about 300 species spread throughout the world, hence representing one of the largest genera of the Lamiaceae. Several Stachys species have been exploited in traditional medicine as astringent, wound-healing, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-nephritic and anti-inflammatory agents. Moreover, antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of some Stachys species are documented. Iridoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids and diterpenoids are reported as secondary metabolites of different species of this genus. The aim of the present review is to summarize and to highlight the recent advances in current knowledge on Stachys species and to compile reports of chemical constituents isolated from the genus Stachys over the past decades, together with their structural features, biological activities, and structure-activity relationships. Diversity of chemical constituents is discussed in relationship with current Stachys infrageneric taxonomy, classification and relationships with systematically close genera.

Screening of radical scavenging activity and polyphenol content of Bulgarian plant species

BACKGROUND

Discovery of new plant species with antioxidant properties is a priority of many research teams. Most of the species included in this study are unstudied for antioxidant properties, but they are taxonomically related to reference plants with well-documented antioxidant activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Free radical scavenging activity of plant extracts was evaluated using a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. An aluminum chloride colorimetric method was used for flavonoid determination. The amount of phenolic compounds in the extracts was estimated by using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent.

RESULTS

As a result of screening, it was found that the significant antioxidant properties possess several unstudied until now plant species (Veronica bellidioides L., V. kellereri Deg. et Urm, V. vindobonensis (M. Fisher) M. Fisher, V. beccabunga L., V. rhodopaea L., V. austriaca (Velen.) Degen., Clinopodium vulgare L., Stachysrecta L., Clematis vitalba L., and Xeranthemum annum L.). The antioxidant potential of the new species is comparable to that of reference medicinal plants.

CONCLUSIONS

The existing data presented here provide new information for antioxidant potential of plant species that have not been traditionally used as medicinal plants.

The genotoxic and anti-genotoxic effects of Stachys petrokosmos leaf extract in human lymphocytes using microsomal fractions

The genotoxic and anti-genotoxic effects of Stachys petrokosmos leaf extracts (Sp) were investigated in human lymphocytes. The cells were treated with 1.5, 3.0 and 6.0 μL/mL concentrations of Sp leaf extracts for 24 and 48 h treatment periods in the absence and presence of metabolic activator (S9mix). In the absence of S9mix, Sp alone did not induce chromosome aberrations and formation of micronucleus while inducing the mean sister chromatid exchange at the highest concentration. In addition, Sp decreased the mutagenic effect of mitomycin-c. Sp alone showed a cytotoxic effect determined by a decrease in the proliferation index, mitotic index and nuclear division index. On the other hand a mixture of Sp and mitomycin-c resulted in a higher cytotoxic effect especially for 48 h treatment period. In the presence of S9mix, Sp was not genotoxic and cytotoxic however, it showed an anti-genotoxic effect by decreasing the effects of cyclophosphamide.

Antioxidant activities of bark extract from mangroves, Bruguiera cylindrica (L.) Blume and Ceriops decandra Perr

OBJECTIVES

The antioxidant activities of two Indian mangrove plants, Bruguiera cylindrica and Ceriops decandra, were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total phenolics and total flavonoid contents of the mangroves were determined using folin-ciocalteu reagent method and aluminium chloride method, respectively. Antioxidant capacity was assessed by the following methods: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH.) quenching assay; 2,2'- azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiozoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS.(+)) cation decolorization test; scavenging capacity towards hydroxyl ion radicals (.OH); reductive capacity; and antihemolytic activity.

RESULTS

The mangroves yielded 233.3 ± 0.062 and 283.31 ± 0.04 mg gallic acid equivalent/g phenolic contents and 11.6 ± 0.12 and 15.1 ± 0.02 mg quercetin equivalent/g flavonoid contents. The methanol extracts of both mangroves exhibited high antiradical activity against DPPH., ABTS.(+), and .OH radicals. The reductive capacity of the extracts increased with increasing concentration of samples. The extracts also inhibited H(2)O(2) induced hemolysis in cow blood erythrocytes. The antioxidant activities were found stronger than that of the reference standard, butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT). The antioxidant activity of mangrove plants was correlated with total phenolics and flavonoid contents.

CONCLUSION

Both plants can be considered as good sources of natural antioxidants for medicinal uses. Further studies are necessary to isolate active principles responsible for the overall antioxidant activity of the extracts.

Behavioural characterization of four endemic Stachys taxa

We performed a basic behavioral characterization of methanol extracts of four Balkan endemic Stachys taxa: S. anisochila (SA), S. beckeana (SB), S. plumosa (SP) and S. alpina subsp. dinarica (SAD). The behavioral activity of extracts dosed intraperitoneally in the range 100-400 mg/kg was examined in adult male Wistar rats, in the elevated plus maze, spontaneous locomotor activity, and grip strength tests, mainly predictive of anxiolytic, sedative and myorelaxant actions, respectively. All investigated Stachys extracts lacked anxiolytic or myorelaxant activities, while SB at 400 mg/kg exerted an anxiogenic-like effect. The study with the selective antagonist beta-CCt showed that the sedative effect of SAD was only partially mediated by GABAA receptors containing the alpha1-subunit. While discernible, the behavioral effects of SA and SP were not distinct. In all extracts, chlorogenic acid and verbascoside were identified. In SA, SB, and SAD the flavonoid fraction was constituted of isoscutellarein and hypolaetine glycosides, while in SP chrysoeriol and apigenin glycosides were present. The results reveal the psychotropic potential of four endemic Stachys taxa, of which SAD appeared most promising as a natural sedative.

Chemical composition and screening of the antimicrobial and anti-oxidative activity of extracts of Stachys species

GC and GC/MS analyses of the diethyl ether and ethyl acetate extracts obtained from the aerial parts of Stachys germanica subsp. heldreichii (Boiss) Hayek, Stachys iva Griseb., Stachys plumosa Griseb. and Stachys scardica Griseb., Balkan peninsula endemics, were performed. One hundred and seventy-nine constituents, accounting for 88.8-98.1% of the total composition of the extracts, were identified. The common feature of the diethyl ether extracts was the high content of terpenoids and fatty acidderived compounds, while the common feature of the ethyl acetate extracts was the prevalence of fatty acid-derived compounds. A disk diffusion method was used for the evaluation of the antimicrobial activities of the extracts against a panel of microorganisms (bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella enteritidis; fungi: Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans). The total antioxidant capacity of the extracts was evaluated by the phosphomolybdenum method. The preliminary bioassay results indicated that the diethyl ether extract of S. plumosa could be a possible source of antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds.

Cytotoxic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of Ampelopsis brevipedunculata and Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Vitaceae)

Cyclohexane and methanol extracts of leaves and inflorescences of Ampelopsis brevipedunculata and Parthenocissus tricuspidata are shown to exert significant cytotoxic action on both estrogen-dependent (MDA-MB-361) and estrogen-nondependent (MDA-MB-453) breast cancer cell lines. Methanol extracts of P. tricuspidata exhibited higher cytotoxicity for the MDA-MB-453 cell line (inflorescence: IC50 =111.45 ? 2.56 ?g/ml; leaves: IC50= 56.76 ? 7.11 ?g/ml) than for MDA-MB-361. Cyclohexane extracts of A. brevipedunculata leaves exhibited high cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-453 (IC50 =78.32 ? 0.1 ?g/ml) and the estrogen-dependent MDA-MB-361 cell line (IC50 =97.40 ? 2.61 ?g/ml). The highest DPPH-scavenging ability was exhibited by methanol extracts of P. tricuspidata inflorescences, with IC50=7.55?0.07 ?g/ml. The tested extracts possessed weak antimicrobial activity.

DMPS reverts morphologic and mitochondrial damage in OK cells exposed to toxic concentrations of HgCl2

Mercuric chloride (HgCl(2)) is a highly toxic compound, which can cause nephrotoxic damage. In the present study effects of HgCl(2) on mitochondria integrity and energy metabolism, as well as antidotal effects of 2,3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonate (DMPS) were investigated in the opossum kidney derived cell line (OK). OK cell monolayers were incubated during 0, 1, 3, 6, and 9 h in serum-free culture medium containing 15 microM HgCl(2), either in the absence or in the presence of 60 microM DMPS in a 1:4 ratio. Intracellular ATP content, MTT reduction, and HSP70/HSP90 induction were studied; confocal, transmission electron microscopy, and light microscopy studies were also performed. For confocal analysis, a mitochondrial selective probe (MitoTracker Red CMXH2Ros) was used. Antioxidant activity of DMPS was also studied by the scavenging of the free radical 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) technique. A decrease of ATP content, an impaired ability to reduce tetrazolium, and dramatic changes on cellular and mitochondrial morphology, and energetic levels were found after either 6 or 9 h of HgCl(2) exposure. Increased expression of HSP90 and HSP70 were also seen. When OK cells were co-incubated with HgCl(2) and DMPS, cellular morphology, viability, intracellular ATP, and mitochondrial membrane potential were partially restored; a protective effect on mitochondrial morphology was also seen. DMPS also showed potent antioxidant activity in vitro. Mitochondrial protection could be the cellular mechanism mediated by DMPS in OK cells exposed to a toxic concentration of HgCl(2).