Acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of Pinus species essential oils and their constituents

Essential oil and Waste Hydrosol of Ocimum Tenuiflorum L.: A Low-Cost Raw Material Source of Eugenol, Botanical Pesticides, and Therapeutic Potentiality

In this study, essential oils and waste hydrosols of leaves of Ocimum tenuiflorum in four different geographical locations were extracted by hydrodistillation method and using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for chemical composition analysis. All four essential oil samples contained the main components (E)-β-caryophyllene (27.8-49.0 %), trans-β-elemene (20.3-37.1 %) and eugenol (9.0-44.0 %). Three of the four hydrosol samples had eugenol in absolute content (94.5-98.6 %), while the remaining hydrosol sample had two main components, elemicin (77.8 %) and eugenol (14.2 %). Essential oils and hydrosols demonstrated larvicidal activities against four important disease-transmitting mosquito species including Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Culex fuscocephala with 24-h LC50 values in the range 15.42-56.01 μg/mL and 53.88-97.80 μg/mL for the essential oils and the hydrosols, respectively. Essential oils and hydrosols strongly inhibited the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme of electric eels with IC50 values in the range of 25.35-107.19 μg/mL. Microemulsion (ME) can be considered as a sustainable pesticide formulation over 300 days and has improved larvicidal activity compared to free essential oil. The O. tenuiflorum in Vietnam can be considered a low-cost source of eugenol, botanical pesticides that control disease-transmitting mosquitoes, as well as having therapeutic potential to be further investigated.

Impact of tps1 Deletion and Overexpression on Terpene Metabolites in Trichoderma atroviride

Terpenoids are structurally diverse natural products that have been widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Research has shown that fungi produce a variety of terpenoids, yet fungal terpene synthases remain not thoroughly explored. In this study, the tps1 gene, a crucial component of the terpene synthetic pathway, was isolated from Trichoderma atroviride HB20111 through genome mining. The function of this gene in the terpene synthetic pathway was investigated by constructing tps1-gene-deletion- and overexpression-engineered strains and evaluating the expression differences in the tps1 gene at the transcript level. HS-SPME-GC-MS analysis revealed significant variations in terpene metabolites among wild-type, tps1-deleted (Δtps1), and tps1-overexpressed (Otps1) strains; for instance, most sesquiterpene volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were notably reduced or absent in the Δtps1 strain, while nerolidol, β-acorenol, and guaiene were particularly produced by the Otps1 strain. However, both the Δtps1 and Otps1 strains produced new terpene metabolites compared to the wild-type, which indicated that the tps1 gene played an important role in terpene synthesis but was not the only gene involved in T. atroviride HB20111. The TPS1 protein encoded by the tps1 gene could function as a sesquiterpene cyclase through biological information and evolutionary tree analysis. Additionally, fungal inhibition assay and wheat growth promotion assay results suggested that the deletion or overexpression of the tps1 gene had a minimal impact on fungal inhibitory activity, plant growth promotion, and development, as well as stress response. This implies that these activities of T. atroviride HB20111 might result from a combination of multiple metabolites rather than being solely dependent on one specific metabolite. This study offers theoretical guidance for future investigations into the mechanism of terpenoid synthesis and serves as a foundation for related studies on terpenoid metabolic pathways in fungi.

Chemical composition and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of essential oil from the leaves of Mitrephora poilanei Weeras. & R.M.K. Saunders

The present study provides the first information on the chemical composition and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of the essential oil (EO) from the leaves of Mitrephora poilanei Weeras. & R.M.K.Saunders from Vietnam. Gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the main components of the M. poilanei EO were β-caryophyllene (13.2%), α-humulene (10.5%), germacrene D (8.1%), β-elemene (5.2%) and bicyclogermacrene (5.1%). The anti-acetylcholinesterase assay showed that the EO displayed moderate activity with IC50 value of 31.16 ± 3.06 μg/mL. These findings proposed that the plant can be exploited for its anti-acetylcholinestrate potential.

The Repellent Capacity against Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and In Vitro Inhibition of the Acetylcholinesterase Enzyme of 11 Essential Oils from Six Plants of the Caribbean Region of Colombia

The repellent capacity against Sitophilus zeamais and the in vitro inhibition on AChE of 11 essential oils, isolated from six plants of the northern region of Colombia, were assessed using a modified tunnel-type device and the Ellman colorimetric method, respectively. The results were as follows: (i) the degree of repellency (DR) of the EOs against S. zeamais was 20-68% (2 h) and 28-74% (4 h); (ii) the IC50 values on AChE were 5-36 µg/mL; likewise, the %inh. on AChE (1 µg/cm3 per EO) did not show any effect in 91% of the EO tested; (iii) six EOs (Bursera graveolens-bark, B. graveolens-leaves, B. simaruba-bark, Peperomia pellucida-leaves, Piper holtonii (1b*)-leaves, and P. reticulatum-leaves) exhibited a DR (53-74%) ≥ C+ (chlorpyrifos-61%), while all EOs were less active (8-60-fold) on AChE compared to chlorpyrifos (IC50 of 0.59 µg/mL). Based on the ANOVA/linear regression and multivariate analysis of data, some differences/similarities could be established, as well as identifying the most active EOs (five: B. simaruba-bark, Pep. Pellucida-leaves, P. holtonii (1b*)-leaves, B. graveolens-bark, and B. graveolens-leaves). Finally, these EOs were constituted by spathulenol (24%)/β-selinene (18%)/caryophyllene oxide (10%)-B. simaruba; carotol (44%)/dillapiole (21%)-Pep. pellucida; dillapiole (81% confirmed by 1H-/13C-NMR)-P. holtonii; mint furanone derivative (14%)/mint furanone (14%)-B. graveolens-bark; limonene (17%)/carvone (10%)-B. graveolens-leaves.

The impact of seasonal variation on the composition of the volatile oil of Polyalthia suberosa (Roxb.) Thwaites leaves and evaluation of its acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity

BACKGROUND

Polyalthia suberosa (Roxb.) Thwaites (Annonaceae) is a medicinal plant that has been reported for its various pharmacological potentials, such as its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and neuropharmacological activities. This study aimed to analyze the leaf essential oils of P. suberosa (PSLO) collected in different seasons, to evaluate the acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity, and to corroborate the obtained results via in-silico molecular docking studies.

METHODS

The leaf essential oils of P. suberosa collected in different seasons were analyzed separately by GC/MS. The acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of the leaves oil was assessed via colorimetric assay. In-silico molecular docking studies were elucidated by virtual docking of the main compounds identified in P. suberosa leaf essential oil to the active sites in human acetylcholinesterase crystal structure.

RESULTS

A total of 125 compounds were identified where D-limonene (0.07 - 24.7%), α-copaene (2.25 - 15.49%), E-β-caryophyllene (5.17 - 14.42%), 24-noroleana-3,12-diene (12.92%), β-pinene (0.14 - 8.59%), and α-humulene (2.49-6.9%) were the most abundant components. Results showed a noteworthy influence of the collection season on the chemical composition and yield of the volatile oils. The tested oil adequately inhibited acetylcholinesterase enzyme with an IC50 value of 91.94 µg/mL. Additionally, in-silico molecular docking unveiled that palmitic acid, phytol, p-cymene, and caryophyllene oxide demonstrated the highest fitting scores within the active sites of human acetylcholinesterase enzyme.

CONCLUSIONS

From these findings, it is concluded that P. suberosa leaf oil should be evaluated as a food supplement for enhancing memory.

Variation of the essential oil components of Citrus aurantium leaves upon using different distillation techniques and evaluation of their antioxidant, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effect against Alzheimer's disease

Citrus fruit essential oil is considered one of the widely studied essential oils while its leaves attract less attention although being rich in nearly the same composition as the peel and flowers. The leaves of bitter orange or sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.) were extracted using three different techniques namely; hydrodistillation (HD), steam distillation (SD), and microwave-assisted distillation (MV) to compare their chemical composition. The three essential oil samples were analyzed through GC/FID and GC/MS analyses. The samples were tested in vitro using different antioxidant techniques (DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, PBD, and MCA), neuroprotective enzyme inhibitory activities (acetylcholine and butyl choline enzymes), and antidiabetic activities (α-amylase and α-glucosidase). The results showed that thirty-five volatile ingredients were detected and quantified. Monoterpenes represented the most abundant class in the three essential oils followed by sesquiterpenes. C. aurantium essential oil carried potential antioxidant activity where SD exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with values arranged in the following order: FRAP (200.43 mg TE/g), CUPRAC (138.69 mg TE/g), ABTS (129.49 mg TE/g), and DPPH (51.67 mg TE/g). SD essential oil also presented the most potent α-amylase (0.32) inhibition while the MV essential oil showed the highest α-glucosidase inhibition (2.73 mmol ACAE/g), followed by HD (2.53 mmol ACAE/g), and SD (2.46 mmol ACAE/g). The SD essential oil exhibited the highest BChE and AChE inhibitory activities (3.73 and 2.06 mg GALAE/g), respectively). Thus, bitter orange essential oil can act as a potential source of potent antioxidant, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective activities for future drug leads.

A Review of the Ethnobotanical Use, Chemistry and Pharmacological Activities of Constituents Derived from the Plant Genus Geijera (Rutaceae)

Geijera Schott is a plant genus of the Rutaceae Juss. (rue and citrus) family, comprising six species which are all native to Oceania. Of the plants belonging to this genus, the most significant species that has a customary use is Geijera parviflora, which was used by Indigenous Australians, primarily as a pain reliever. Herein, a comprehensive review of the literature published on the genus Geijera from 1930 to 2023 was conducted. This is the first review for this plant genus, and it highlights the chemical constituents reported to date, together with the range of pharmacological properties described from the various species and different parts of the plant. These properties include anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-parasitic, insect repellent, analgesic, neuroactive, and anti-cancer activities. Finally, a reflection on some of the important areas for future focused studies of this plant genus is provided.

Chemical profile, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Pinus heldreichii Christ. Distributed in Bulgaria

Pinus heldreichii Christ. (Bosnian pine), a Tertiary relict and Balkan sub-endemic, has not been comprehensively studied for its essential oil (EO) profile and bioactivity of its different plant parts. This study aimed to determine the EO yield, composition and antimicrobial activity from different parts of P. heldreichii at three different populations (mountains) in Bulgaria. Furthermore, the study assessed the antioxidant activities of plant tissue, including leaves (needles), twigs wood, male and female cones. The EOs yield from different plant parts ranged from 0.09 % (leaves) to 0.74 % (wood of twigs), with monoterpenes being the predominant class. Limonene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, germacrene D, β-pinene, and β-myrcene were detected in the EO extracted from all analyzed trees. However, these compounds were not found in the EO extracted from all plant parts of the same trees. Four chemical groups (chemotypes) were identified for EO from twigs, and three chemotypes were identified for EO from leaves. The chemotypes were based on the percent ratio of the main EO constituents (>5 %). Leaves tissue showed the highest values in terms of polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as higher ABTS radical scavenging activity, while the highest antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus was seen in the EOs obtained from twigs. This is the first study to identify several chemotypes based on leaf and twigs EO of P. heldreichii distributed in Bulgarian flora. Furthermore, the EO of twigs tips (TT), male cones (MC), and wood of one-two-year-old twigs (WT) of the same trees were reported for the first time. The total polyphenol, flavonoid content, and radical scavenging activity of tissues of annual twigs wood and biennial twigs wood, leaf tissue, MC tissue, and the twigs tips tissue is also reported for the first time in the accessible literature. These findings highlight the potential of P. heldreichii to provide EOs with varying compositions and bioactivities, making them suitable for nutraceutical, pharmacological, and potentially food additive applications. Furthermore, the identification of chemotype accessions in this study suggests their selection for the development of new forest crop as a source for natural products with desirable composition and bioactivity.

Characterizing cannabis-prevalent terpenes for neuroprotection reveal a role for α and β-pinenes in mitigating amyloid β-evoked neurotoxicity and aggregation in vitro

BACKGROUND

Cannabis sativa L. (C. sativa) can efficiently synthesize of over 200 terpenes, including monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and triterpenes that may contribute to the known biological activities of phytocannabinoids of relevance for the burgeoning access to medicinal cannabis formulations globally; however, to date have been uncharacterized. We assessed twelve predominant terpenes in C. sativa for neuroprotective and anti-aggregative properties in semi-differentiated PC12 neuronal cell line that is robust and validated as a cell model responsive to amyloid β (Aβ1-42) protein exposure and oxidative stress.

METHODS

Cell viability was assessed biochemically using the MTT assay in the presence of myrcene, β-caryophyllene, terpinolene, limonene, linalool, humulene, α-pinene, nerolidol, β-pinene, terpineol, citronellol and friedelin (1-200 μM) for 24 hr. Sub-toxic threshold test concentrations of each terpene were then applied to cells, alone or with concomitant incubation with the lipid peroxidant tert-butyl hyrdroperoxide (t-BHP; 0-250 μM) or amyloid β (Aβ1-42; 0-1 μM) to assess neuroprotective effects. Direct effects of each terpene on Aβ fibril formation and aggregation were also evaluated using the Thioflavin T (ThT) fluorometric kinetic assay and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to visualize fibril and aggregate morphology.

RESULTS

Terpenes were intrinsically benign to PC12 cells up to 50 μM, with higher concentrations of β-caryophyllene, humulene and nerolidol inducing some loss of PC12 cell viability. No significant protective effects of terpenes were observed following t-BHP (0-200 µM) administration, with some enhanced toxicity instead demonstrated from both β-caryophyllene and humulene treatment (each at 50 µM). α-pinene and β-pinene demonstrated a significant neuroprotective effect against amyloid β exposure. α-pinene, β-pinene, terpineol, terpinolene and friedelin were associated with a variable inhibition of Aβ1-42 fibril and aggregate density.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of this study underline a neuroprotective role of α-pinene and β-pinene against Aβ-mediated neurotoxicity associated with an inhibition of Aβ1-42 fibrilization and density. This demonstrates the bioactive potential of selected terpenes for consideration in the development of medicinal cannabis formulations targeting neurodegenerative diseases.

Chemo- and bio-informatics insight into anti-cholinesterase potentials of berries and leaves of Myrtus communis L., Myrtaceae: an in vitro/in silico study

BACKGROUND

Myrtus communis L. (MC) has been used in Mesopotamian medicine. Here, the cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitory potential of its methyl alcohol extracts has been investigated and computationally dissected.

METHOD

The ChE inhibition has been measured based on usual Ellman's colorimetric method compared to a canonical ChE inhibitor, eserine. Through a deep text mining, the structures of phytocompounds (= ligands) of MC were curated from ChemSpider, PubChem, and ZINC databases and docked into protein targets, AChE (PDB 1EVE) and BChE (PDB 1P0I) after initial in silico preparedness and binding affinity (BA; kcal/mol) reported as an endpoint. The calculation of ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) features of phytocompounds were retrieved from SwissADME ( http://www.swissadme.ch/ ) and admetSAR software to predict the drug-likeness or lead-likeness fitness. The Toxtree v2.5.1, software platforms ( http://toxtree.sourceforge.net/ ) have been used to predict the class of toxicity of phytocompounds. The STITCH platform ( http://stitch.embl.de ) has been employed to predict ChE-chemicals interactions.

RESULTS

The possible inhibitory activities of AChE of extracts of leaves and berries were 37.33 and 70.00%, respectively as compared to that of eserine while inhibitory BChE activities of extracts of leaves and berries of MC were 19.00 and 50.67%, respectively as compared to that of eserine. Phytochemicals of MC had BA towards AChE ranging from -7.1 (carvacrol) to -9.9 (ellagic acid) kcal/mol. In this regard, alpha-bulnesene, (Z)-gamma-Bisabolene, and beta-bourbonene were top-listed low toxic binders of AChE, and (Z)-gamma-bisabolene was a more specific AChE binder. Alpha-cadinol, estragole, humulene epoxide II, (a)esculin, ellagic acid, patuletin, juniper camphor, linalyl anthranilate, and spathulenol were high class (Class III) toxic substances which among others, patuletin and alpha-cadinol were more specific AChE binders. Among intermediate class (Class II) toxic substances, beta-chamigrene was a more specific AChE binder while semimyrtucommulone and myrtucommulone A were more specific BChE binders.

CONCLUSION

In sum, the AChE binders derived from MC were categorized mostly as antiinsectants (e.g., patuletin and alpha-cardinal) due to their predicted toxic classes. It seems that structural amendment and stereoselective synthesis like adding sulphonate or sulphamate groups to these phytocompounds may make them more suitable candidates for considering in preclinical investigations of Alzheimer's disease.

Anti-Amnesia-like Effect of Pinus densiflora Extract by Improving Apoptosis and Neuroinflammation on Trimethyltin-Induced ICR Mice

This study was conducted to investigate the anti-amnestic property of Korean red pine bark extract (KRPBE) on TMT-induced cognitive decline in ICR mice. As a result of looking at behavioral function, the consumption of KRPBE improved the spatial work ability, short-term learning, and memory ability by Y-maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze tests. KRPBE suppressed antioxidant system damage by assessing the SOD activity, reduced GSH content, and MDA levels in brain tissue. In addition, it had a protective effect on cholinergic and synaptic systems by regulating ACh levels, AChE activity, and protein expression levels of ChAT, AChE, SYP, and PSD-95. Also, the KRPBE ameliorated TMT-induced mitochondrial damage by regulating the ROS content, MMP, and ATP levels. Treatment with KRPBE suppressed Aβ accumulation and phosphorylation of tau and reduced the expression level of BAX/BCl-2 ratio and caspase 3, improving oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. Moreover, treatment with KRPBE improved cognitive dysfunction by regulating the neuro-inflammatory protein expression levels of p-JNK, p-Akt, p-IκB-α, COX-2, and IL-1β. Based on these results, the extract of Korean red pine bark, which is discarded as a byproduct of forestry, might be used as an eco-friendly material for functional foods or pharmaceuticals by having an anti-amnesia effect on cognitive impairment.

Effects of linalyl acetate on oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction: can linalyl acetate prevent mild cognitive impairment?

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a major public health challenge with an increasing prevalence. Although the mechanisms underlying the development of MCI remain unclear, MCI has been reported to be associated with oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and endothelial dysfunction, suggesting that agents that reduce these factors may be key to preventing MCI. Currently, no agents have been approved for the treatment of MCI, with the efficacy of commonly prescribed cholinesterase inhibitors remaining unclear. Relatively safe natural products that can prevent the development of MCI are of great interest. Linalyl acetate (LA), the major component of clary sage and lavender essential oils, has been shown to have a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which may have the potential for the prevention of MCI. The present review briefly summarizes the pathogenesis of MCI related to oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and endothelial dysfunction as well as the benefits of LA against these MCI-associated factors. The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were used to search the relevant literature. Further clinical research may lead to the development of new strategies for preventing MCI, particularly in high-risk populations with oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and endothelial dysfunction (e.g., patients with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus).

Chemical Constituents, Enantiomer Content, Antioxidant and Anticholinesterase Activities of Valeriana microphylla Kunth Essential Oil

The study of the essential oil (EO) from aerial parts (stems and leaves) of Valeriana microphylla Kunth (Valerianaceae), collected from the Saraguro community in the southern region of Ecuador, was analyzed for the first time. A total of 62 compounds were identified in V. microphylla EO by GC-FID and GC-MS on nonpolar DB-5ms and polar HP-INNOWax columns. The most abundant components (>5%) detected on DB-5ms and polar HP-INNOWax columns were α-gurjunene (11.98, 12.74%), germacrene D (11.47, 14.93%), E-caryophyllene (7.05, 7.78%), and α-copaene (6.76, 6.91%), respectively. In addition, the enantioselective analysis, carried out on a chiral column, showed (+)-α-pinene and (R)-(+)-germacrene as enantiomerically pure compounds (enantiomeric excess = 100%). The antioxidant activity was high for the radicals ABTS (SC50 = 41.82 µg/mL) and DPPH (SC50 = 89.60 µg/mL), and finally, the EO was shown to be inactive to the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), as both values were >250 µg/mL.

Comparative GC-MS Analysis of Fresh and Dried Curcuma Essential Oils with Insights into Their Antioxidant and Enzyme Inhibitory Activities

Species belonging to the Zingiberaceae family are of high nutritional, industrial, and medicinal values. In this study, we investigated the effect of processing steps (fresh vs. dried milled rhizomes) and extraction methodologies (hydrodistillation vs. hexane extraction) of curcuma essential oil on its chemical content (using GC-MS analysis), its antioxidant behavior (using in vitro assays such as DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, phosphomolybdenum, and metal chelation), and its enzyme inhibitory activities (on tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase, butylcholinesterase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase) supported by multivariate analysis, in silico studies, and molecular dynamics. The GC-MS investigations revealed a high degree of similarity in the chemical profile of fresh hydrodistilled and hexane-extracted essential oils with tumerone and curlone being the major metabolites. The extraction techniques affected the concentrations of other minor constituents such as terpinolene, caryophylla-4(12), 8(13)-dien-5α-ol, and neo-intermedeol, which were almost exclusively detected in the hydrodistilled fresh essential oil; however, zingiberene and β-sesquiphellandrene were predominant in the hexane-extracted fresh essential oil. In the dried curcuma rhizomes, tumerone and curlone contents were significantly reduced, with the former being detected only in the hydrodistilled essential oil while the latter was doubly concentrated in the hexane-derived oil. Constituents such as D-limonene and caryophyllene oxide represented ca. 29% of the dried hydrodistilled essential oil, while ar-turmerone was detected only in the dried hydrodistilled and hexane-extracted essential oils, representing ca. 16% and 26% of the essential oil composition, respectively. These variations in the essential oil chemical content have subsequently affected its antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibitory activities. In silico investigations showed that hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding were the characteristic binding modes of the bioactive metabolites to their respective targets. Molecular dynamics revealed the stability of the ligand-target complex over time. From the current study we conclude that fresh hexane-extracted essential oil showed the best radical scavenging properties, and fresh rhizomes in general display better enzyme inhibitory activity regardless of the extraction technique.

Chemical Profiling, Anticholinesterase, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Potential of the Essential Oil from Myrcianthes discolor (Kunth) McVaugh, an Aromatic Tree from Southern Ecuador

Myrcianthes discolor, an aromatic native tree from southern Ecuador, was collected to determine the chemical composition and the biological activity of its essential oil (EO). The EO was obtained by steam-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to a mass and a FID detector (GC-MS and GC-FID) and a non-polar DB5-MS column. Enantioselective GC-MS analysis was performed in a chiral capillary column. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase potency of the EO was carried out by the broth microdilution method, radical scavenging assays using 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, and by measuring the inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme. A total of 58 chemical compounds were identified, corresponding to 94.80% of the EO composition. Sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons represented more than 75% of the composition. The main compounds detected were E-caryophyllene with 29.40 ± 0.21%, bicyclogermacrene with 7.45 ± 0.16%, β-elemene with 6.93 ± 0.499%, α-cubebene with 6.06 ± 0.053%, α-humulene with 3.96 ± 0.023%, and δ-cadinene with 3.02 ± 0.002%. The enantiomeric analysis revealed the occurrence of two pairs of pure enantiomers, (−)-β-pinene and (−)-α-phellandrene. The EO exerted a strong inhibitory effect against AChE with an IC50 value of 6.68 ± 1.07 µg/mL and a moderate antiradical effect with a SC50 value of 144.93 ± 0.17 µg/mL for the ABTS radical and a weak or null effect for DPPH (3599.6 ± 0.32 µg/mL). In addition, a strong antibacterial effect against Enterococcus faecium was observed with a MIC of 62.5 μg/mL and Enterococcus faecalis with a MIC of 125 μg/mL. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the chemical composition and biological profile of the EO of M. discolor, and its strong inhibitory effect over AChE and against two Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria, which encourage us to propose further studies to validate its pharmacological potential.

Echinophora tenuifolia subsp. sibthorpiana-Study of the Histochemical Localization of Essential Oil

BACKGROUND

Echinophora tenuifolia L. subsp. sibthorpiana is a perennial, aromatic plant used in traditional folk medicine and cuisine of the Mediterranean and the Middle East. However, scholars have not fully studied the pharmacological potential of the herb, and the scientific data on this plant species are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) obtained from the aerial parts of E. tenuifolia subsp. sibthorpiana growing wild in Bulgaria and to perform histochemical analysis.

METHODS

A microscopic histochemical analysis and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry were performed.

RESULTS

The histochemical analysis confirmed the presence of terpenes in the stem and leaf of E. tenuifolia subsp. sibthorpiana. The phenylpropanoid methyleugenol was identified as the main compound in the EO, representing 48.13% of the total oil composition. There were also found considerable amounts of monoterpene hydrocarbons, representing 41.68% of the total EO. Alpha-phellandrene, o-cymene, and β-phellandrene were the most abundant monoterpene hydrocarbons.

CONCLUSION

This is the first histochemical analysis performed on E. tenuifolia subsp. sibthorpiana. This is the first report of the EO composition from Bulgarian E. tenuifolia subsp. sibthorpiana, and our results indicate some future possibilities for evaluating of the biological activity of the EO of E. tenuifolia subsp. sibthorpiana and highlight the potential future use of the EO of this plant species. E. tenuifolia L. subsp. sibthorpiana EO possesses a good potential for use as a biopesticide and repellent an environmentally friendly alternative of synthetic pesticides.

Impact of Plant-Derived Compounds on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal illness characterized by progressive motor neuron degeneration. Conventional therapies for ALS are based on treatment of symptoms, and the disease remains incurable. Molecular mechanisms are unclear, but studies have been pointing to involvement of glia, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and glutamate excitotoxicity as a key factor. Nowadays, we have few treatments for this disease that only delays death, but also does not stop the neurodegenerative process. These treatments are based on glutamate blockage (riluzole), tyrosine kinase inhibition (masitinib), and antioxidant activity (edaravone). In the past few years, plant-derived compounds have been studied for neurodegenerative disorder therapies based on neuroprotection and glial cell response. In this review, we describe mechanisms of action of natural compounds associated with neuroprotective effects, and the possibilities for new therapeutic strategies in ALS.

Effects of Phoenix dactylifera against Streptozotocin-Aluminium Chloride Induced Alzheimer's Rats and Their In Silico Study

Phoenix dactylifera is known for medicinal importance due to its antioxidant, antidiabetic, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of P. dactylifera seeds to cure Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD was induced in the rats with streptozotocin + aluminium chloride followed by treatment of methanolic extract of P. dactylifera seeds. The blood glucose levels were determined at regular intervals, which showed a prominent decrease in the extracts treated group. Behavior tests, including the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test and Morris Water Maze (MWM) test, were used to evaluate memory patterns in rats. The results indicated that extract-treated rats significantly improved memory behavior compared to the diseased group. After dissection, the serum electrolytes, antioxidant enzymes, and choline esterase enzymes were measured in different organs. The serum parameters creatinine, urea, and bilirubin increased after extract treatment. Similarly, the level of antioxidant enzymes like peroxidases (POD), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) in the extract-treated group showed improved results that were close to the normal control group. The enzyme (lipase, insulin, amylase, and acetylcholine) levels were found enhanced in extract groups as compared to diseased rats. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the level of dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters, which were increased significantly for P. dactylifera seeds with values of 0.18 μg/mg tissue and 0.56 μg/mg tissue, respectively. Overall, results showed that P. dactylifera seeds proved to be quite efficient in improving the memory and behavior of treated rats. The antioxidants and enzymes were also increased; therefore, it may be a potential candidate for treating AD.

Chemical Profiling of Hedyosmum cumbalense and Hedyosmum spectabile (Chloranthaceae) Essential Oils, and Their Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anticholinesterase Properties

In Ecuador, Hedyosmum cumbalense and Hedyosmum spectabile are valued for their well-known aromatic characteristics and therapeutic benefits. In this study, fresh and dried leaves of these species were steam-distilled to obtain their essential oils (EOs) for chemical characterization and assessment of their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase properties. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and a flame-ionized detector (GC-FID) with a nonpolar column was employed to determine the chemical composition, along with the enantioselective analysis. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against three Gram-positive, two Gram-negative, and two sporulated fungi. The radical scavenging properties were evaluated by DPPH and ABTS assays. A total of 66 and 57 compounds were identified for H. cumbalense and H. spectabile, respectively. Two pairs of enantiomers for each species were also detected, with (1R,5R)-(+)-sabinene and (1S,5S)-(-)-sabinene found in both specimens. A poor effect against Gram-positive cocci was observed on H. cumbalense (MIC of 4000 µg/mL). Both oils displayed weak antifungal activities, exhibiting a MIC of 1000 µg/mL. H. cumbalense had a good scavenging effect assessed by the ABTS radical (SC₅₀ = 96.02 ± 0.33 µg/mL). Both EOs showed a strong anticholinesterase potential with an IC₅₀ value of 61.94 ± 1.04 µg/mL for H. cumbalense and 21.15 ± 1.03 µg/mL for H. spectabile.

Chemical Constituents, Antioxidant, and Enzyme Inhibitory Activities Supported by In-Silico Study of n-Hexane Extract and Essential Oil of Guava Leaves

Psidium guajava (Guava tree) is one of the most widely known species in the family Myrtaceae. The Guava tree has been reported for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. In the current study, the chemical compositions of the n-hexane extract and the essential oil of P. guajava were investigated using the GC/MS analysis, along with an evaluation of their antioxidant potential, and an investigation into the enzyme inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BchE), tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase. Moreover, molecular docking of the major identified active sites of the target enzymes were investigated. The chemical characterization of the n-hexane extract and essential oil revealed that squalene (9.76%), α-tocopherol (8.53%), and γ-sitosterol (3.90%) are the major compounds in the n-hexane extract. In contrast, the major constituents of the essential oil are D-limonene (36.68%) and viridiflorol (9.68%). The n-hexane extract showed more antioxidant potential in the cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), the ferric reducing power (FRAP), and the metal chelating ability (MCA) assays, equivalent to 70.80 ± 1.46 mg TE/g, 26.01 ± 0.97 mg TE/g, and 24.83 ± 0.35 mg EDTAE/g, respectively. In the phosphomolybdenum (PM) assay, the essential oil showed more antioxidant activity equivalent to 2.58 ± 0.14 mmol TE/g. The essential oil demonstrated a potent BChE and tyrosinase inhibitory ability at 6.85 ± 0.03 mg GALAE/g and 61.70 ± 3.21 mg KAE/g, respectively. The α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the n-hexane extract and the essential oil varied from 0.52 to 1.49 mmol ACAE/g. Additionally, the molecular docking study revealed that the major compounds achieved acceptable binding scores upon docking with the tested enzymes. Consequently, the P. guajava n-hexane extract and oil can be used as a promising candidate for the development of novel treatment strategies for oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, and diabetes mellitus diseases.

Chemical composition, enantiomeric analysis and anticholinesterase activity of Lepechinia betonicifolia essential oil from Ecuador

CONTEXT

Due to the interesting potential of essential oils (EO) against cholinesterases and their close relation in Alzheimer's disease, the EO of Lepechinia betonicifolia (Lam) Epling (Lamiaceae), a native shrub from Ecuador, was assessed. Chemical profiling and enantiomeric distribution were also recorded for the first time.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the chemical profile including the enantiomeric composition and anticholinesterase effect exerted by EO of L. betonicifolia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The EO of L. betonicifolia fresh aerial parts was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus. Physical properties were determined according to standard norms. The chemical composition was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID. Enantioselective GC-MS analysis was carried out by using a capillary chiral column. Anticholinesterase effect was assessed by Ellman's method with acetylthiocoline as substrate and Ellman's reagent (DTNB) to detect its hydrolysis at 405 nm for 60 min. Donepezil was used as a reference drug. EO was dissolved in methanol to reach 10 mg/mL concentration and two more 10× dilutions were included.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine constituents were identified corresponding to 97.55% of the total oil composition. The main components were β-pinene (30.45%), sabinene (27.98%), α-pinene (4.97%), β-phellandrene (4.79%), E-caryophyllene (4.44%) and limonene (3.84%). L. betonicifolia EO exerted a strong inhibitory effect over the AChE enzyme with an IC₅₀ value of 74.97 ± 1.17 μg/mL.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Current chemical characterisation and anticholinesterase effect of EO of L. betonicifolia encourage us to propose this EO as a candidate for the preparation of functional foods or as adjuvant therapy for Alzheimer's disease.

Evaluating Cannabis sativa L.'s neuroprotection potential: From bench to bedside

BACKGROUND

Neurodegenerative diseases and dementia pose a global health challenge in an aging population, exemplified by the increasing incidence and prevalence of its most common form, Alzheimer's disease. Although several approved treatments exist for Alzheimer's disease, they only afford transient symptomatic improvements and are not considered disease-modifying. The psychoactive properties of Cannabis sativa L. have been recognized for thousands of years and now with burgeoning access to medicinal formulations globally, research has turned to re-evaluate cannabis and its myriad phytochemicals as a potential treatment and adjunctive agent for neurodegenerative diseases.

PURPOSE

This review evaluated the neuroprotective potential of C. sativa's active constituents for potential therapeutic use in dementia and Alzheimer's disease, based on published studies demonstrating efficacy in experimental preclinical settings associated with neurodegeneration.

STUDY DESIGN

Relevant information on the neuroprotective potential of the C. sativa's phytoconstituents in preclinical studies (in vitro, in vivo) were included. The collated information on C. sativa's component bioactivity was organized for therapeutic applications against neurodegenerative diseases.

METHODS

The therapeutic use of C. sativa related to Alzheimer's disease relative to known phytocannabinoids and other phytochemical constituents were derived from online databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, The Plant List (TPL, www.theplantlist.org), Science Direct, as well as relevant information on the known pharmacological actions of the listed phytochemicals.

RESULTS

Numerous C. sativa -prevalent phytochemicals were evidenced in the body of literature as having efficacy in the treatment of neurodegenerative conditions exemplified by Alzheimer's disease. Several phytocannabinoids, terpenes and select flavonoids demonstrated neuroprotection through a myriad of cellular and molecular pathways, including cannabinoid receptor-mediated, antioxidant and direct anti-aggregatory actions against the pathological toxic hallmark protein in Alzheimer's disease, amyloid β.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide strong evidence for a role of cannabis constituents, individually or in combination, as potential neuroprotectants timely to the emergent use of medicinal cannabis as a novel treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Future randomized and controlled clinical studies are required to substantiate the bioactivities of phytocannabinoids and terpenes and their likely synergies.

Chemical and Biological Activity Profiling of Hedyosmum strigosum Todzia Essential Oil, an Aromatic Native Shrub from Southern Ecuador

The present study aimed to determine the chemical composition, enantiomeric distribution and the biological profile of Hedyosmum strigosum essential oil (EO). The antioxidant properties and anticholinesterase effect were measured by spectroscopic methods and antimicrobial potency assessed against 8 bacteria and two fungi. H. strigosum is a native shrub, particularly found in Ecuador and Colombia at 2000 to 3500 m a.s.l. Chemical composition was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID. A total of 44 compounds were detected, representing more than 92% of the EO composition. The main compounds were thymol (24.35, 22.48%), α-phellandrene (12.15, 13.93%), thymol acetate (6.59, 9.39%) and linalool (8.73, 5.82%), accounting for more than 51% of the EO. The enantioselective analysis revealed the presence of 5 pure enantiomers and 3 more as a racemic mixture. The EO exerted a strong antioxidant capacity, determined by ABTS assay, with a SC50 of 25.53 µg/mL and a strong and specific antimicrobial effect against Campylobacter jejuni with a MIC value of 125 µg/mL. A moderate acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effect was also observed with an IC50 value of 137.6 µg/mL. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of the chemical composition and biological profile of H. strigosum EO.

Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activities of Essential Oils from Vietnamese Traditional Medicinal Plants

Essential oils are promising as environmentally friendly and safe sources of pesticides for human use. Furthermore, they are also of interest as aromatherapeutic agents in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, and inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) has been evaluated as an important mechanism. The essential oils of some species in the genera Callicarpa, Premna, Vitex and Karomia of the family Lamiaceae were evaluated for inhibition of electric eel AChE using the Ellman method. The essential oils of Callicarpa candicans showed promising activity, with IC₅₀ values between 45.67 and 58.38 μg/mL. The essential oils of Callicarpa sinuata, Callicarpa petelotii, Callicarpa nudiflora, Callicarpa erioclona and Vitex ajugifolia showed good activity with IC₅₀ values between 28.71 and 54.69 μg/mL. The essential oils Vitex trifolia subsp. trifolia and Callicarpa rubella showed modest activity, with IC₅₀ values of 81.34 and 89.38, respectively. trans-Carveol showed an IC₅₀ value of 102.88 µg/mL. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were performed on the major components of the studied essential oils to investigate the possible mechanisms of action of potential inhibitors. The results obtained suggest that these essential oils may be used to control mosquito vectors that transmit pathogenic viruses or to support the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

An Insight into Salvia haematodes L. (Lamiaceae) Bioactive Extracts Obtained by Traditional and Green Extraction Procedures

Even though Salvia is one of the most known genera of the Lamiaceae family, some traditionally used Salvia species are still now less investigated. To that end, the present study aims to evaluate the chemical profile and the potential bioactivities of extracts and related fractions obtained from the endemic sage Salvia haematodes L. by applying a traditional extraction method such as Soxhlet apparatus (SHS) and the rapid solid–liquid dynamic extraction (RSLDE) by Naviglio extractor^® (SHN), considered among the “green techniques” operating at room temperature and with minimum solvent employment and minimum energy. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activity was measured by a modified Ellman’s method. The antioxidant activity was investigated by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric reducing ability power (FRAP), and β-carotene bleaching tests. The SHN methanol fraction resulted the most active in all assays in particular in inhibiting lipid peroxidation with IC₅₀ of 1.7 and 1.6 μg/mL, respectively, after 30 and 60 min of incubation. The SHN n-hexane fraction exhibited a selective activity against AChE with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 22.9 μg/mL, while the SHS n-hexane extract was more active against BChE (IC₅₀ of 30.9 μg/mL). Based on these results, these fractions were subjected to further bio-fractionation by Medium Pressure Liquid Chromatography (MPLC) and the relative obtained fractions were investigated for their AChE and BChE inhibitory activity. A comparative analysis with bio-activity and chemical profile was performed. The observed biological effects provided us with a good starting point for further studies on S. haematodes extracts and fractions such as agents beneficial for the treatment of AD.

The faecal metabolome and mycobiome in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Gut fungal composition and its metabolites have not been assessed simultaneously in Parkinson's disease (PD) despite their potential pathogenic contribution.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the faecal metabolome and mycobiome in PD by assessing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and fungal rRNA.

METHODS

Faecal VOCs from 35 PD patients and two control groups (n = 35; n = 15) were assessed using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. DNA was extracted from 44 samples: 18S rRNA gene amplicons were prepared and sequenced. Metabolomics, mycobiome and integrated analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Several VOCs were more abundant and short chain fatty acids were less abundant in PD. Hanseniaspora, Kazachstania, uncultured Tremellaceae and Penicillium genera were more abundant, and Saccharomyces less abundant in PD (FDR<0.0007). Torulaspora was associated with PD and two VOCs.

CONCLUSION

PD patients had a distinct metabolome and mycobiome suggesting that fungal dysbiosis may contribute to PD pathogenesis.

Biological properties of terpinolene evidenced by in silico, in vitro and in vivo studies: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Terpinolene, a monoterpene that is naturally found in a variety of herbs, is widely used as a flavoring agent in the industry. Although it's well established in the literature that terpinolene is an important component of plant extracts, the biological properties and the potential therapeutic use of this compound remain poorly explored.

PURPOSE

This work aimed to answer the following guiding question: "What are the biological activities of terpinolene demonstrated through in silico, in vitro, and in vivo assays?".

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

A systematic review was carried out in four electronic databases (Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed) according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, using the following search terms: terpinolene "AND" activity "OR" properties "OR" therapeutic "OR" treatment. This search included manuscripts published between 1960 and June 2020. Study selection was conducted by two independent reviewers according to predefined criteria.

RESULTS

The initial search found a total of 2449 articles. However, only 57 of them were selected as they met the inclusion criteria and answered the guiding question. The analysis of these studies indicated that terpinolene presents a series of biological effects, from which the antioxidant, larvicide, and insecticide activities stand out. Despite the evidence demonstrating that terpinolene has the potential to be used in a broad pharmacological context, the mechanisms underlying its cellular and molecular effects remain to be better elucidated. In addition, the in vivo efficacy and safety of the administration of this compound have been poorly evaluated through either preclinical and clinical trials. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of characterizing the biological aspects and mechanisms of action of this natural compound.

CONCLUSION

The data summarized in the present systematic review demonstrates the pharmacological potential of terpinolene. Nevertheless, most studies included in this review provide a superficial characterization of terpinolene biological effects and therefore, further research elucidating its mechanism of action and potential therapeutic benefits through preclinical and clinical trials are required. Nevertheless, due to its wide range of different biological activities, terpinolene will certainly attract the interest of scientific research, which could significantly contribute to the development of new products with both therapeutic and environmental applications.

A Recent Look into Natural Products that have Potential to Inhibit Cholinesterases and Monoamine Oxidase B: Update for 2010-2019

With respect to the unknowns of pathophysiology of Alzheimer's Disease (AD)-, and Parkinson's Disease (PD)-like neurodegenerative disorders, natural product research is still one of the valid tools in order to provide alternative and/or better treatment options. At one hand, various extracts of herbals provide a combination of actions targeting multiple receptors, on the other hand, the discovery of active natural products (i.e., secondary metabolites) generally offers alternative chemical structures either ready to be employed in clinical studies or available to be utilized as important scaffolds for the design of novel agents. Regarding the importance of certain enzymes (e.g. cholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B), for the treatment of AD and PD, we have surveyed the natural product research within this area in the last decade. Particularly novel natural agents discovered within this period, concomitant to novel biological activities displayed for known natural products, are harmonized within the present study.

Leveraging hallmark Alzheimer's molecular targets using phytoconstituents: Current perspective and emerging trends

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a type of dementia, severely distresses different brain regions. Characterized by various neuropathologies, it interferes with cognitive functions and neuropsychiatrical controls. This progressive deterioration has negative impacts not only on an individual's daily activity but also on social and occupational life. The pharmacological approach has always remained in the limelight for the treatment of AD. However, this approach is condemned with several side effects. Henceforth, a change in treatment approach has become crucial. Plant-based natural products are garnering special attention due to lesser side effects associated with their use. The current review emphasizes the anti-AD properties of phytoconstituents, throws light on those under clinical trials, and compiles information on their specific mode of actions against AD-related different neuropathologies. The phytoconstituents alone or in combinations will surely help discover new potent drugs for the effective treatment of AD with lesser side effects than the currently available pharmacological treatment.

Potential therapeutic natural products against Alzheimer's disease with Reference of Acetylcholinesterase

Alzheimer's disease (AD), is the most common type of dementia primarily affecting the later years of life. Its prevalence is likely to increase in any aging population and will be a major burden on healthcare system by the mid of the century. Despite scientific and technological breakthroughs in the last 50 years, that have expanded our understanding of the disease on a system, cellular and molecular level, therapies that could stop or slow the progression of the disease are still unavailable. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has approved acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors (donepezil, galantamine, tacrine and rivastigmine) and glutamate receptor antagonist (memantine) for the treatment of AD. In this review we summarize the studies reporting phytocompounds and extracts from medicinal plants that show AChE inhibitory activities and could be of potential benefit in AD. Future research directions are suggested and recommendations made to expand the use of medicinal plants and their formulations to prevent, mitigate and treat AD.

Phytochemical and biological activities of Pinus halepensis mill., and their ethnomedicinal use

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pinus halepensis Mill., is a Mediterranean medicinal plant with numerous traditional applications such as anti-scarring, antiseptic, astringent, antifungal, and anti-tuberculosis. It is used against diarrhea, wounds, rheumatism, cough, gastrointestinal illnesses, hypertension, and hemorrhoids.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

We critically summarized previous reports on the botanical, taxonomical, ecological, geographical distribution, phytochemical, and pharmacological results of P. halepensis Mill.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To gather data on P. halepensis Mill., different scientific search engines were consulted such as Google Scholar, Scopus, Wiley Online, Scifinder, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, PubMed. The collected data on P. halepensis Mill., were organised according to ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, and pharmacology.

RESULTS

Ethnomedicinal studies indicated that P. halepensis Mill., is used as a protective remedy against respiratory and digestive disorders, arterial hypertension, microbial infections. These medicinal uses vary based on the part used and regions. The extracts and essential oils of P. halepensis Mill., demonstrated several biological effects including antimicrobial, antidiabetic anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antiparasitic, and hepatoprotective. Traditional uses and biological effects of P. halepensis Mill., were attributed to the numerous molecules that belong to different chemical classes such as terpenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, fatty acids and steroids, aldehydes and ketones.

CONCLUSIONS

In vitro and in vivo investigations of P. halepensis Mill., extracts and essential oils showed interesting pharmacological activities supporting the traditional use of this species. Previous reports indicated that P. halepensis Mill., extracts and their constituents exhibited potent antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, protective, anticoagulant, anti-hemolytic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Further investigation is needed to reveal the full biological spectra of P. halepensis Mill., extracts and essential oils (using in vivo models) and to validate their industrial applications as a food additive. However, in-depth studies are required to investigate the biological properties and molecular mechanisms of P. halepensis Mill., secondary metabolites in the management of diabetes mellitus and the prevention of the neurodegenerative disorders development such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Studies exploring pharmacological effects of P. halepensis Mill., bioactive components such as the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic drugs are required to validate the clinical use of these molecules. The safety of P. halepensis Mill., and its bioactive compounds should be also investigated by carrying out further pharmacokinetic and toxicological experiments.

Medical food development by dietetic management of the endocannabinoid system through dietary sources of β-caryophyllene

Objective: To research the biological impact on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) from dietary sources of [Formula: see text]-caryophyllene (BCP). This will encompass pre-clinical and clinical research for BCP. The bioavailability of BCP will be explored, focusing on bioavailability improvement. This research will establish if there is justification to warrant the development of a medical food for supporting the ECS through dietetic supplementation of BCP.

Methods: Research and review papers were identified through the search engines Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Main keywords included [Formula: see text]-caryophyllene, endocannabinoid system, dietary cannabinoids, cannabinoid type-2 receptor, and bioavailability.

Results: The human body is limited in the digestion of BCP from food. This is because BCP is poorly absorbed in the gut. Everyone has different underlying endocannabinoid efficiency and most people do not have the full potential of supporting their ECS through diet.

Conclusion: A medical food can be developed to use BCP with a delivery system, so that the bioactive food cannabinoid is readily absorbed. This will deliver dietary support to the ECS, that otherwise would be available from food.

This review provides insight into the efficacy of using BCP in medical foods as dietary support for the ECS. Supporting the ECS can assist in maintaining homeostasis, regulating immune function, pain intensity, inflammatory markers, sleep patterns, mood, appetite, and stress susceptibility.

Chemical Composition and Pharmacological Evaluation and of Toddalia asiatica (Rutaceae) Extracts and Essential Oil by in Vitro and in Silico Approaches

Toddalia asiatica (L.) Lam. is extensively used in traditional medicinal systems by various cultures. Despite its frequent use in traditional medicine, there is still a paucity of scientific information on T. asiatica growing on the tropical island of Mauritius. Therefore, the present study was designed to appraise the pharmacological and phytochemical profile of extracts (methanol, ethyl acetate and water) and essential oil obtained from aerial parts of T. asiatica. Biological investigation involved the evaluation of in vitro antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory potentials. The chemical profile of the EO was determined using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis, while for the extracts, the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content were quantified as well as their individual phenolic compounds by LC/MS/MS. Quinic acid, fumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, quercitrin and isoquercitrin were the main compounds in the extracts. Highest total phenolic (82.5±0.94 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE/g)) and flavonoid (43.8±0.31 mg rutin equivalent (RE/g)) content were observed for the methanol extract. The GC/MS analysis has shown the presence of 26 compounds with linalool (30.9 %), linalyl acetate (20.9 %) and β-phellandrene (7.9 %) being most abundant components in the EO. The extracts and EO showed notable antioxidant properties, with the methanol extract proved to be superior source of antioxidant compounds. Noteworthy anti-acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and anti-butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) effects were recorded for the tested samples, while only the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were active against tyrosinase. With respect to antidiabetic effects, the extracts and EO were potent inhibitors of α-glucosidase, while modest activity was recorded against α-amylase. Docking results showed that linalyl acetate has the highest affinity to interact with the active site of BChE with docking score of -6.25 kcal/mol. The findings amassed herein act as a stimulus for further investigations of this plant as a potential source of bioactive compounds which can be exploited as phyto-therapeutics.

Essential Oils as a Potential Neuroprotective Remedy for Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Review

Despite the improvements in life expectancy, neurodegenerative conditions have arguably become the most dreaded maladies of older people. The neuroprotective and anti-ageing potentials of essential oils (EOs) are widely evaluated around the globe. The objective of this review is to analyse the effectiveness of EOs as neuroprotective remedies among the four common age-related neurodegenerative diseases. The literature was extracted from three databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar) between the years of 2010 to 2020 using the medical subject heading (MeSH) terms "essential oil", crossed with "Alzheimer's disease (AD)", "Huntington's disease (HD)", "Parkinson's disease (PD)" or "amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)". Eighty three percent (83%) of the studies were focused on AD, while another 12% focused on PD. No classifiable study was recorded on HD or ALS. EO from Salvia officinalis has been recorded as one of the most effective acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors. However, only Cinnamomum sp. has been assessed for its effectiveness in both AD and PD. Our review provided useful evidence on EOs as potential neuroprotective remedies for age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

GC-MS Based Identification of the Volatile Components of Six Astragalus Species from Uzbekistan and Their Biological Activity

The compositions of volatile components in the aerial parts of six Astragalus species, namely A. campylotrichus (Aca), A. chiwensis (Ach), A. lehmannianus (Ale), A. macronyx (Ama), A. mucidus (Amu) and A. sieversianus (Asi), were investigated using gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Ninety-seven metabolites were identified, accounting for 73.28, 87.03, 74.38, 87.93, 85.83, and 91.39% of Aca, Ach, Ale, Ama, Amu and Asi whole oils, respectively. Sylvestrene was the most predominant component in Asi, Amu and Ama, with highest concentration in Asi (64.64%). In addition, (E)-2-hexenal was present in a high percentage in both Ale and Ach (9.97 and 10.1%, respectively). GC-MS based metabolites were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchal cluster analysis (HCA) to explore the correlations between the six species. The PCA score plot displayed clear differentiation of all Astragalus species and a high correlation between the Amu and Ama species. The antioxidant activity was evaluated in vitro using various assays, phosphomolybdenum (PM), 2,2 diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH), 2,2-azino bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric reducing power (FRAP) and ferrous ion chelation (FIC) assays. In addition, the potential for the volatile samples to inhibit both acetyl/butyrylcholinesterases (AChE, BChE), α- amylase, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase was assessed. Most of the species showed considerable antioxidant potential in the performed assays. In the DPPH assay, Ama exhibited the maximum activity (24.12 ± 2.24 mg TE/g sample), and the volatiles from Amu exhibited the highest activity (91.54 mgTE/g oil) in the ABTS radical scavenging assay. The effect was more evident in both CUPRAC and FRAP assays, where both Ale and Ama showed the strongest activity in comparison with the other tested species (84.06, 80.28 mgTE/g oil for CUPRAC and 49.47, 49.02 mgTE/g oil for FRAP, respectively). Asi demonstrated the strongest AChE (4.55 mg GALAE/g oil) and BChE (3.61 mg GALAE/g oil) inhibitory effect. Furthermore, the best tyrosinase inhibitory potential was observed for Ale (138.42 mg KAE/g). Accordingly, Astragalus species can be utilized as promising natural sources for many medicinally important components that could be tested as drug candidates for treating illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease, diabetes mellitus and oxidative stress-related diseases.

A Novel Chemical Profile of a Selective In Vitro Cholinergic Essential Oil from Clinopodium taxifolium (Kunth) Govaerts (Lamiaceae), a Native Andean Species of Ecuador

A novel chemical profile essential oil, distilled from the aerial parts of Clinopodium taxifolium (Kunth) Govaerts (Lamiaceae), was analysed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS, qualitative analysis) and Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID, quantitative analysis), with both polar and non-polar stationary phase columns. The chemical composition mostly consisted of sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpenoids (>70%), the main ones being (E)-β-caryophyllene (17.8%), α-copaene (10.5%), β-bourbonene (9.9%), δ-cadinene (6.6%), cis-cadina-1(6),4-diene (6.4%) and germacrene D (4.9%), with the non-polar column. The essential oil was then submitted to enantioselective GC analysis, with a diethyl-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-β-cyclodextrin diluted in PS-086 chiral selector, resulting in the following enantiomeric excesses for the chiral components: (1R,5S)-(-)-α-thujene (67.8%), (1R,5R)-(+)-α-pinene (85.5%), (1S,5S)-(-)-β-pinene (90.0%), (1S,5S)-(-)-sabinene (12.3%), (S)-(-)-limonene (88.1%), (S)-(+)-linalool (32.7%), (R)-(-)-terpinen-4-ol (9.3%), (S)-(-)-α-terpineol (71.2%) and (S)-(-)-germacrene D (89.0%). The inhibition activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) of C. taxifolium essential oil was then tested, resulting in selective activity against BChE with an IC50 value of 31.3 ± 3.0 μg/mL (positive control: donepezil, IC50 = 3.6 μg/mL).

Salvia officinalis L. from Italy: A Comparative Chemical and Biological Study of Its Essential Oil in the Mediterranean Context

Salvia officinalis L. (sage) is one of the most appreciated plants for its plethora of biologically active compounds. The objective of our research was a comparative study, in the Mediterranean context, of chemical composition, anticholinesterases, and antioxidant properties of essential oils (EOs) from sage collected in three areas (S1–S3) of Southern Italy. EOs were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory properties were investigated by employing Ellman’s method. Four in vitro assays, namely, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric-reducing ability power (FRAP), and β-carotene bleaching tests, were used to study the antioxidant effects. Camphor (16.16–18.92%), 1,8-cineole (8.80–9.86%), β-pinene (3.08–9.14%), camphene (6.27–8.08%), and α-thujone (1.17–9.26%) are identified as the most abundant constituents. However, the content of these constituents varied depending on environmental factors and pedoclimatic conditions. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. Based on Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI), S2 essential oil exhibited the highest radical potential with an IC₅₀ value of 20.64 μg/mL in ABTS test and presented the highest protection of lipid peroxidation with IC₅₀ values of 38.06 and 46.32 μg/mL after 30 and 60 min of incubation, respectively. The most promising inhibitory activity against BChE was found for S3 sample (IC₅₀ of 33.13 μg/mL).

Phenolic constituents and inhibitory effects of the leaf of Rauvolfia vomitoria Afzel on free radicals, cholinergic and monoaminergic enzymes in rat's brain in vitro

OBJECTIVES

Rauvolfia vomitoria is a medicinal plant used traditionally in Africa in the management of several human diseases including psychosis. However, there is inadequate scientific information on the potency of the phenolic constituents of R. vomitoria leaf in the management of neurodegeneration. Therefore, this study characterized the phenolic constituents and investigated the effects of aqueous and methanolic extracts of R. vomitoria leaf on free radicals, Fe²⁺-induced lipid peroxidation, and critical enzymes linked to neurodegeneration in rat's brain in vitro.

METHODS

The polyphenols were evaluated by characterizing phenolic constituents using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The antioxidant properties were assessed through the extracts ability to reduce Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺; inhibit ABTS, DPPH, and OH radicals and Fe²⁺-induced lipid peroxidation. The effects of the extracts on AChE and MAO were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The phenolic characterization of R. vomitoria leaf revealed that there were more flavonoids present. Both aqueous and methanolic extracts of R. vomitoria leaf had inhibitory effects with the methanolic extract having higher significant (p≤0.05) free radicals scavenging ability coupled with inhibition of monoamine oxidases. However, there was no significant (p≤0.05) difference obtained in the inhibition of lipid peroxidation and cholinesterases.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that the rich phenolic constituents of R. vomitoria leaf might contribute to the observed antioxidative and neuroprotective effects. The methanolic extract was more potent than the aqueous extract; therefore, extraction of R. vomitoria leaf with methanol could offer better health-promoting effects in neurodegenerative condition.

Terpenes and Phenylpropanoids as Acetyl- and Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors: A Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Cholinesterase inhibitors are routinely applied in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and seeking new cholinesterase inhibitors is a priority.

OBJECTIVES

Twenty seven compounds were compared, including ones not previously tested. An attempt was undertaken to precisely describe the role of alcohol in the inhibitory activity. This paper underlines the role of a "false positive" blank sample in the routine analysis.

METHODS

The inhibition of cholinesterase was measured using Ellman's colorimetric method with a few modifications designed by the authors (including the "false-positive" effect). The inhibitory role of ethanol and methanol was also carefully evaluated. The present and past results were compared taking the source of enzyme and alcohol content into consideration.

RESULTS

For the first time, new inhibitors were identified, namely: methyl jasmonate, 1R-(-)-nopol ((anti-acetyl-(AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activity)) and 1,4-cineole, allo-aromadendrene, nerolidol, β-ionone, and (R)-(+)-pulegone (anti-BChE activity). Oleanolic acid and (+)-β-citronellene (not previously studied) proved to be inefficient inhibitors. For a number of well-known inhibitors (such as nerol, (-)-menthol, (+)-menthol, isoborneol, (-)-bornyl acetate, limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α- ionone, and eugenol) some serious discrepancies were observed between our findings and the results of previous studies. Ethanol and methanol showed no anti-AChE activity up to 0.29% (v/v) and 0.23% (v/v), respectively. Similarly, ethanol up to 0.33% (v/v) and methanol up to 0.29% (v/v) did not inhibit the activity of BChE.

CONCLUSION

It can be stated that the impact of alcohol should be precisely determined and that blank "false-positive" samples should be processed together with test samples. Furthermore, the effect of the enzyme origin on the result of this test must be taken into consideration.

Terpenes, Phenylpropanoids, Sulfur and Other Essential Oil Constituents as Inhibitors of Cholinesterases

Essential oils constituents are a diverse family of low molecular weight organic compounds with comprehensive biological activity. According to their chemical structure, these active compounds can be divided into four major groups: terpenes, terpenoids, phenylpropenes, and "others". In addition, they may contain diverse functional groups according to which they can be classified as hydrocarbons (monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and aliphatic hydrocarbons); oxygenated compounds (monoterpene and sesquiterpene alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, esters, and other oxygenated compounds); and sulfur and/or nitrogen containing compounds (thioesters, sulfides, isothiocyanates, nitriles, and others). Compounds that act as cholinesterase inhibitors still represent the only pharmacological treatment of Alzheimer´s disease. Numerous in vitro studies showed that some compounds, found in essential oils, have a promising cholinesterase inhibitory activity, such as α-pinene, δ-3-carene, 1,8-cineole, carvacrol, thymohydroquinone, α- and β-asarone, anethole, etc. This review summarizes the most relevant research published to date on essential oil constituents and their acetylcholinesterase/butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory potential as well as their structure related activity, synergistic and antagonistic effects.

Antioxidant and enzyme-inhibitory activity of peppermint extracts and essential oils obtained by conventional and emerging extraction techniques

Peppermint is widely used medicinal plant with distinguished bioactive potential, therefore, the aim of present work was to develop novel peppermint extracts with high activity by application of traditional and emerging separation techniques. Conventional hydrodistillation and microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MWHD) were applied for recovery of essential oil (EO), while organic solvent extraction using Soxhlet apparatus, microwave-assisted and ultrasound-assisted process and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) were applied for non-selective recovery of peppermint lipophilic extracts. Extracts were characterized in terms of terpenoids profile with special emphasis on content of major compounds (mentol, menthone, isomenthol and eucalyptol). Antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, chelating and phosphomolybdenum assay) and enzyme-inhibitory assays (acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, amylase and glucosidase inhibition) were used for screening of peppermint bioactivity. MWHD was recognized as alternative for traditional process in EO recovery, while SFE extracts were useful for green production of solvent-free peppermint extracts rich in terpenoids and other lipophilic bioactives.

Comparative study of the phenolic profile, antioxidant properties, and inhibitory effects of Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) and Almond (Terminalia catappa Linn.) leaves on acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase activities in the head region of Fruitfly (Drosophila melanogaster Meigen) in vitro

Moringa and Almond are medicinal plants used traditionally as food and medicine to prevent and/or treat a wide array of metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases, however, Almond leaf is underutilized. Therefore, this study investigated and compared the polyphenol constituents, antioxidant capacities, and neurochemical indices of the aqueous extracts of Moringa and Almond leaves in fruitfly head tissue homogenate in vitro. The polyphenols were evaluated by characterization using HPLC-DAD, antioxidant properties were assessed through extracts ability to inhibit ABTS, DPPH, OH, and NO radicals, reduce Fe³⁺ and MDA, and chelate Fe²⁺ . The neurochemical indices were evaluated through AChE and MAO inhibitory activities. Almond leaf had significant (p < .05) higher polyphenols and antioxidant properties. However, Moringa leaf had significant (p < .05) higher AChE inhibition and no significant (p < .05) difference was obtained in MAO inhibitory activities. Thus, Almond leaf might be more effective in managing diseases related with oxidative stress and neurodegeneration. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This present study has shown that Almond leaf might offer better health promotion due to its higher phenolic constituents and antioxidant activities when compared with Moringa leaf, however, both Moringa and Almond leaves could be taken as functional foods to alleviate the symptoms of oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases.

The Essential Oil of Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. from Italy as a Source of Health-Promoting Compounds: Chemical Profile and Antioxidant and Cholinesterase Inhibitory Activity

The chemical composition of the essential oil from Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. collected in Calabrian Ionian (R1) and Tyrrhenian (R2) coast (Southern Italy) was examined by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Essential oils are mainly characterized by monoterpene hydrocarbons (39.32-40.70%) and oxygenated monoterpenes (36.08-39.47%). The 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, camphor, and trans-caryophyllene are the most representative compounds. S. rosmarinus essential oils were investigated for their antioxidant activity by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric reducing ability power (FRAP), and β-carotene bleaching tests. Additionally, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activity assays were used to screen the neuroprotective effects of S. rosmarinus. R2 showed the highest antioxidant potential as confirmed by relative antioxidant capacity index (RACI) and exhibited a selective activity against AChE (half maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50, value of 41.86 μg/mL). These results suggest S. rosmarinus essential oil as a potential source of bioactive compounds.

Bioactivity of some Apiaceae essential oils and their constituents against Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Sitophilus zeamais is a key pest of stored grains. Its control is made, usually, using synthetic insecticides, despite their negative impacts. Botanical insecticides with fumigant/repellent properties may offer an alternative solution. This work describes the effects of Anethum graveolens, Petroselinum crispum, Foeniculum vulgare and Cuminum cyminum essential oils (EOs) and (S)-carvone, cuminaldehyde, estragole and (+)-fenchone towards adults of S. zeamais. Acute toxicity was assessed by fumigation and topical application. Repellence was evaluated by an area preference bioassay and two-choice test, using maize grains. LC50 determined by fumigation ranged from 51.8 to 535.8 mg L-1 air, with (S)-carvone being the most active. LD50 values for topical applications varied from 23 to 128 µg per adult for (S)-carvone > cuminaldehyde > A. graveolens > C. cyminum > P. crispum. All EOs/standard compounds reduced significantly the percentage of insects attracted to maize grains (65-80%) in the two-choice repellence test, whereas in the area preference bioassay RD50 varied from 1.4 to 45.2 µg cm-2, with cuminaldehyde, (S)-carvone and estragole being strongly repellents. Petroselinum crispum EO and cuminaldehyde affected the nutritional parameters relative growth rate, efficiency conversion index of ingested food and antifeeding effect, displaying antinutritional effects toward S. zeamais. In addition, P. crispum and C. cyminum EOs, as well as cuminaldehyde, showed the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in vitro (IC50 = 185, 235 and 214.5 µg mL-1, respectively). EOs/standard compounds exhibited acute toxicity, and some treatments showed antinutritional effects towards S. zeamais. Therefore, the tested plant products might be good candidates to be considered to prevent damages caused by this pest.

Chemical Composition, Enantiomeric Distribution, and Sensory Evaluation of the Essential Oils Distilled from the Ecuadorian Species Myrcianthes myrsinoides (Kunth) Grifo and Myrcia mollis (Kunth) DC. (Myrtaceae)

The essential oils of Myrcianthes myrsinoides and Myrcia mollis, belonging to the Myrtaceae family, were obtained by steam distillation. They were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID), enantioselective gas chromatography, and gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O). A total of 58 compounds for Myrcianthes myrsinoides essential oil (EO) and 22 compounds for Myrcia mollis EO were identified and quantified by GC-MS with apolar and polar columns (including undetermined components). Major compounds (>5.0%) were limonene (5.3%-5.2%), 1,8-cineole (10.4%-11.6%), (Z)-caryophyllene (16.6%-16.8%), trans-calamenene (15.9%-14.6%), and spathulenol (6.2%-6.5%). The enantiomeric excess of eight chiral constituents was determined, being (+)-limonene and (+)-germacrene D enantiomerically pure. Eight components were identified as determinant in the aromatic profile: α-pinene, β-pinene, (+)-limonene, γ-terpinene, terpinolene, linalool, β-elemene and spathulenol. For M. mollis, the major compounds (>5.0%) were α-pinene (29.2%-27.7%), β-pinene (31.3%-30.0%), myrcene (5.0%-5.2%), 1,8-cineole (8.5%-8.7%), and linalool (7.7%-8.2%). The enantiomeric excess of five chiral constituents was determined, with (S)-α-pinene and (+)-germacrene D enantiomerically pure. The metabolites β-pinene, 1,8-cineole, γ-terpinene, terpinolene, linalool, and (E)-β-caryophyllene were mainly responsible for the aroma of the EO. Finally, the M. myrsinoides essential oil has an inhibitory activity for cholinesterase enzymes (IC50 of 78.6 μg/ml and 18.4 μg/ml vs. acethylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) respectively). This activity is of interest to treat Alzheimer's disease.

Natural Monoterpenes: Much More than Only a Scent

Terpenes are a widespread group of secondary metabolites that can be found in various family plants such as the Lamiaceae. In view of their numerous valuable biological activities, the industrial production of concrete terpenes and essential oils rich in the substances is intensively studied. Monoterpenes constitute a significant part of the whole group of the aforementioned secondary metabolites. This is due to their numerous biological activities and their ability to permeate the skin. Despite the fact that these substances have gain popularity, they are not comprehensively characterized. The presented review is based on studies of the biological activities of the most important monoterpenes and the essential oils rich in these compounds. The authors focused attention on antioxidant activity, inhibition towards acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterase, and α-amylase and α-glucosidase, antifungal, hepatoprotective, sedative properties, and their skin permeation enhancement.

Composition and biological activities of the essential oil from a Sicilian accession of Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl

Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl. (Fam. Apiaceae), is an orophilous species of eastern Mediterranean and western Asia which possesses several biological properties, which are worthy of exploitation in different fields. With the aim to provide new insights into the phytochemistry and pharmacology of this species, a local accession growing in Sicily (South Italy) was investigated as well. Notably, the P. ferulacea essential oil chemical composition and the antioxidant, anti-acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and cytotoxic activities have been studied. This analysis allowed to identify a new chemotype and to report good biological results for this oil.