Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. (Rutaceae): A Systematic Review of Its Traditional Uses, Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, and Toxicology

Safety of medicinal and edible herbs from fruit sources for human consumption: A systematic review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Medicinal and edible herbs from fruit sources have been increasingly used in traditional Chinese medicine dietotherapy. There are no restrictions on who could consume the medicinal and edible fruits or on the dosage of consumption. However, their safety for human consumption has yet to be established.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This systematic review aimed to assess the safety of human consumption of 30 medicinal and edible fruits.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seven English and Chinese databases were searched up to May 31, 2023, to collect AE reports following human consumption of medicinal and edible fruits. Eligible reports should include details on the occurrence, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes of AEs. AEs that were life-threatening or caused death, permanent or severe disability/functional loss, or congenital abnormality/birth defects were classified as serious AEs (SAEs). The causality between the consumption of fruits and AEs was graded as one of four ranks: "certain", "probable", "possible", or "unlikely".

RESULTS

Thirty AE reports related to the consumption of medicinal and edible fruits were included, involving 12 species of fruits: Crataegi fructus, Gardeniae fructus, Mori fructus, Hippophae fructus, Cannabis fructus, Siraitiae fructus, Perillae fructus, Rubi fructus, Longan arillus, Anisi stellati fructus, Zanthoxyli pericarpium, and Lycii fructus. No AE reports were found for the remaining 18 species. A total of 97 AEs, featuring predominantly gastrointestinal symptoms, followed by allergic reactions and neuropsychiatric symptoms, were recorded. Thirty SAEs were noted, with Zanthoxyli pericarpium accounting for the most (14 cases), followed by Perillae fructus (7 cases), Anisi stellati fructus (6 cases), and Gardeniae fructus, Rubi fructus, and Mori fructus (1 case each). Mori fructus was associated with one death. All AEs were concordant with a causality to fruit consumption, judged to be "certain" for 37 cases, "probable" for 53 cases, and "possible" for 7 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that among medicinal and edible fruits, 12 species have AE reports with a causality ranging from "possible" to "definite". SAEs were not scarce. Most AEs may be associated with an excessive dose, prolonged consumption, or usage among infants or young children. No AE reports were found for the remaining 18 species.

Da-Jian-Zhong decoction alleviates diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome via modulation of gut microbiota and Th17/Treg balance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Da-Jian-Zhong decoction (DJZD) is a herbal formula clinically used for abdominal pain and diarrhea induced by spleen-Yang deficiency syndrome. Recently, treatment of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) with DJZD has received increasing attention, but the underlying mechanism of action remains elusive.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of DJZD on IBS-D rats and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An IBS-D rats model was constructed using a two-factor superposition method of neonatal maternal separation and Senna folium aqueous extract lavage. Moreover, the effect of DJZD was evaluated based on the body weight, rectal temperature, abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR), and Bristol stool scale score (BSS). The factors that regulate the DJZD effects on IBS-D were estimated using whole microbial genome, transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq), flow cytometry, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analyses.

RESULTS

We found that DJZD alleviated the symptoms of IBS-D rats, with the low-dose (2.4 g/kg) as the better ones, as shown by the higher body weight and lower AWR score and BSS. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes was obviously increased, and at the genus level, Lactobacillus and Parabacteroides were increased, while that of Firmicutes_bacterium_424 and Ruminococcus gnavus was decreased in DJZD group. Furthermore, the significantly enriched GO terms after treatment with DJZD mainly included the immune response, positive regulation of activated T cell proliferation, and positive regulation of interleukin-17 (IL-17) production. Importantly, flow cytometry analysis further revealed that the T helper cell type 17/regulatory T cell (Th17/Treg) balance contributed to the DJZD-induced alleviation of IBS-D symptoms, as DJZD downregulated Th17/Treg ratio and Th17 cell-related cytokines IL-17 and IL-6 levels in the colon.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrated that DJZD has a good therapeutic effect on IBS-D rats, probably by maintaining the homeostasis of gut microbiota and regulating Th17/Treg balance and its related inflammatory factors.

Genetic diversity analysis and DNA fingerprint construction of Zanthoxylum species based on SSR and iPBS markers

Zanthoxylum is a versatile economic tree species utilized for its spice, seasoning, oil, medicinal, and industrial raw material applications, and it has a lengthy history of cultivation and domestication in China. This has led to the development of numerous cultivars. However, the phenomenon of mixed cultivars and confusing names has significantly obstructed the effective utilization of Zanthoxylum resources and industrial development. Consequently, conducting genetic diversity studies and cultivar identification on Zanthoxylum are crucial. This research analyzed the genetic traits of 80 Zanthoxylum cultivars using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and inter-Primer Binding Site (iPBS) molecular markers, leading to the creation of a DNA fingerprint. This study identified 206 and 127 alleles with 32 SSR markers and 10 iPBS markers, respectively, yielding an average of 6.4 and 12.7 alleles (Na) per marker. The average polymorphism information content (PIC) for the SSR and iPBS markers was 0.710 and 0.281, respectively. The genetic similarity coefficients for the 80 Zanthoxylum accessions ranged from 0.0947 to 0.9868 and from 0.2206 to 1.0000, with mean values of 0.3864 and 0.5215, respectively, indicating substantial genetic diversity. Cluster analysis, corroborated by principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), categorized these accessions into three primary groups. Analysis of the genetic differentiation among the three Zanthoxylum (Z. bungeanum, Z. armatum, and Z. piperitum) populations using SSR markers revealed a mean genetic differentiation coefficient (Fst) of 0.335 and a gene flow (Nm) of 0.629, suggesting significant genetic divergence among the populations. Molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) indicated that 65% of the genetic variation occurred within individuals, while 35% occurred among populations. Bayesian model-based analysis of population genetic structure divided all materials into two groups. The combined PI and PIsibs value of the 32 SSR markers were 4.265 × 10- 27 and 1.282 × 10- 11, respectively, showing strong fingerprinting power. DNA fingerprints of the 80 cultivars were established using eight pairs of SSR primers, each assigned a unique numerical code. In summary, while both markers were effective at assessing the genetic diversity and relationships of Zanthoxylum species, SSR markers demonstrated superior polymorphism and cultivar discrimination compared to iPBS markers. These findings offer a scientific foundation for the conservation and sustainable use of Zanthoxylum species.

Lemairamin (Wgx-50) Attenuates DSS-Induced Intestinal Inflammation in Zebrafish

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic non-specific intestinal inflammatory disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and current treatment methods have certain limitations. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of lemairamin (Wgx-50) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We used dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-treated zebrafish as an inflammatory bowel disease model, and observed the effect of Wgx-50 on DSS-induced colitis inflammation. The results of the study showed that Wgx-50 could reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by DSS and inhibit the recruitment of neutrophils to the site of intestinal injury. Further experiments revealed that Wgx-50 exerted its anti-inflammatory effect by regulating the activation of the Akt pathway. These research findings indicate that Wgx-50 possesses anti-inflammatory activity.

Efficient preparation of hyperoside and quercitrin from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim leaves using an integrated surfactant-based aqueous two-phase system, back-extraction and adsorption separation

Zanthoxylum bungeanum leaves (ZBL) are of great medicinal value for being rich in hyperoside and quercitrin. In this study, a novel, efficient and economical continuous process was established. First, aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) composed of Triton X-100/(NH4)2SO4 was employed to enrich hyperoside and quercitrin from ZBL extracts and the recoveries reached 98.53% and 99.12%. Then back-extraction with dichloromethane-water system was adopted to separate hyperoside and quercitrin from Triton X-100 micelles which were recycled and the recoveries reached 86.58% and 85.19%. Finally, S-8 macroporous resin was used for removing the salt introduced in ATPS and the final recoveries reached 82.38% and 81.81%, much higher than the total flavonoids recovery as 69.08%. Furthermore, scale-up experiment certified that the continuous process was feasible for industrial production. Efficiently and economically, this method achieved a great breakthrough in purity and provided a novel reference for further purification and phase-forming component recycle.

Antibacterial Activity of Plants in Cirsium: A Comprehensive Review

As ethnic medicine, the whole grass of plants in Cirsium was used as antimicrobial. This review focuses on the antimicrobial activity of plants in Cirsium, including antimicrobial components, against different types of microbes and bacteriostatic mechanism. The results showed that the main antimicrobial activity components in Cirsium plants were flavonoids, triterpenoids and phenolic acids, and the antimicrobial ability varied according to the species and the content of chemicals. Among them, phenolic acids showed a strong antibacterial ability against Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecium. The antibacterial mechanisms include: (1) damaging the cell membrane, cell walls, mitochondria and nucleus of bacteria; (2) inhibiting the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids; (3) suppressing the synthesis of enzymes for tricarboxylic acid cycle pathways and glycolysis, and then killing the bacteria via inhibition of energy production. Totally, most research results on antimicrobial activity of Cirsium plants are reported based on in vitro assays. The evidence from clinical data and comprehensive evaluation are needed.

Safety and efficacy of a class II medical device based on highly purified and standardized plant extracts in the management of post-menopausal patients with vulvar and vaginal atrophy: a single-center prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Despite the gold standard treatment for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is based on the use of local or systemic estrogen-containing products, the typical long-term side effects of hormonal treatments and, most importantly, the contraindications in patients with history of breast and endometrial neoplasms do limit in some extent its use. As hyaluronic acid and some highly purified botanicals have clearly demonstrated their anti-inflammatory and mucosa-protecting properties, we have tested, in women with GSM, a class II vaginal medical device containing hyaluronate gel and a mucoadhesive active enriched with purified alkylamides from Zanthoxylum bungeanum, triterpenes from Centella asiatica and high molecular weight polysaccharides from Tamarindus indica.

METHODS

Our single-center, open-label, prospective and observational study was conducted on 50 menopausal women enrolled at the Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Umberto I Polyclinic Hospital in Rome, Italy. Gel administration lasted 150 days and was performed daily for the first 12 days and every 48 hours for the remaining 138 days. Clinical evaluations were performed at baseline and after 12, 57 and 150 days. Besides product safety, main outcomes of our study were: 1) vaginal health (by Vaginal Health Index score [VHI]); 2) sexual quality of life (by Female Sexual Distress Scale [FSDS]); and 3) percentage of women declaring regular sexual activity.

RESULTS

The product was safe with no specific adverse events reported. It significantly improved VHI (about 5% after 57 days and 8% after 150 days), FSDS (about 7% after 57 days and 10% after 150 days), and sexual activity (about 20% after 150 days). It also reduced dryness, dyspareunia, burning, itching, and dysuria incidence, respectively by about 18%, 14%, 14%, 27% and 11% after 150 days.

CONCLUSIONS

In women with GSM, the intravaginal administration of a hyaluronate-based gel enriched with purified botanical actives endowed with anti-inflammatory and mucosal-protecting properties, reduced painful sensation during sexual acts and increased regular sexual activity.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the BZR gene family in Zanthoxylum armatum DC and functional analysis of ZaBZR1 in drought tolerance

MAIN CONCLUSION

In this study, six ZaBZRs were identified in Zanthoxylum armatum DC, and all the ZaBZRs were upregulated by abscisic acid (ABA) and drought. Overexpression of ZaBZR1 enhanced the drought tolerance of transgenic Nicotiana benthamian. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a pivotal class of sterol hormones in plants that play a crucial role in plant growth and development. BZR (brassinazole resistant) is a crucial transcription factor in the signal transduction pathway of BRs. However, the BZR gene family members have not yet been identified in Zanthoxylum armatum DC. In this study, six members of the ZaBZR family were identified by bioinformatic methods. All six ZaBZRs exhibited multiple phosphorylation sites. Phylogenetic and collinearity analyses revealed a closest relationship between ZaBZRs and ZbBZRs located on the B subgenomes. Expression analysis revealed tissue-specific expression patterns of ZaBZRs in Z. armatum, and their promoter regions contained cis-acting elements associated with hormone response and stress induction. Additionally, all six ZaBZRs showed upregulation upon treatment after abscisic acid (ABA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), indicating their participation in drought response. Subsequently, we conducted an extensive investigation of ZaBZR1. ZaBZR1 showed the highest expression in the root, followed by the stem and terminal bud. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that ZaBZR1 is present in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Overexpression of ZaBZR1 in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana improved seed germination rate and root growth under drought conditions, reducing water loss rates compared to wild-type plants. Furthermore, ZaBZR1 increased proline content (PRO) and decreased malondialdehyde content (MDA), indicating improved tolerance to drought-induced oxidative stress. The transgenic plants also showed a reduced accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Importantly, ZaBZR1 up-regulated the expression of drought-related genes such as NbP5CS1, NbDREB2A, and NbWRKY44. These findings highlight the potential of ZaBZR1 as a candidate gene for enhancing drought resistance in transgenic N. benthamiana and provide insight into the function of ZaBZRs in Z. armatum.

Genome-wide analysis of AP2/ERF transcription factors that regulate fruit development of Chinese prickly ash

BACKGROUND

AP2/ERF is a large family of plant transcription factor proteins that play essential roles in signal transduction, plant growth and development, and responses to various stresses. The AP2/ERF family has been identified and verified by functional analysis in various plants, but so far there has been no comprehensive study of these factors in Chinese prickly ash. Phylogenetic, motif, and functional analyses combined with transcriptome analysis of Chinese prickly ash fruits at different developmental stages (30, 60, and 90 days after anthesis) were conducted in this study.

RESULTS

The analysis identified 146 ZbAP2/ERF genes that could be classified into 15 subgroups. The motif analysis revealed the presence of different motifs or elements in each group that may explain the functional differences between the groups. ZbERF13.2, ZbRAP2-12, and ZbERF2.1 showed high levels of expression in the early stages of fruit development. ZbRAP2-4, and ZbERF3.1 were significantly expressed at the fruit coloring stage (R2 and G2). ZbERF16 were significantly expressed at fruit ripening and expression level increased as the fruit continued to develop. Relative gene expression levels of 6 representative ZbAP2/ERFs assessed by RT-qPCR agreed with transcriptome analysis results.

CONCLUSIONS

These genes identified by screening can be used as candidate genes that affect fruit development. The results of the analysis can help guide future genetic improvement of Chinese prickly ash and enrich our understanding of AP2/ERF transcription factors and their regulatory functions in plants.

Preparation and Characterization of Prickly Ash Peel Oleoresin Microcapsules and Flavor Retention Analysis

Prickly ash peel oleoresin (PPO) is a highly concentrated oil of Prickly ash essential oil and has a stronger aroma. However, its low water solubility, high volatility, difficulty in transport and storage, and decomposition by light, heat, and oxygen limit its wider application. To solve this problem, this study used freeze-drying or spray-drying, with soybean protein isolate (SPI) or gum Arabic (GA), combined with aqueous maltodextrin (MD) as the encapsulating agents to prepare four types of PPO microcapsules (POMs). Spray-dried microcapsules with GA as the encapsulating agent achieved a high encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 92.31 ± 0.31%, improved the thermal stability of the PPO, and had spherical morphology. (Headspace solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) HS-SPME/GC-MS detected 41 volatile compounds in PPO; of these, linalool, β-myrcene, sabinene, and D-limonene were identified as key flavor components. Principal component analysis (PCA) effectively distinguished the significant differences in flavor between PPO, spray-dried SPI/MD microcapsules (SS), and spray-dried GA/MD microcapsules (SG). During 15 days of air-exposure, the loss of flavor from SG (54.62 ± 0.54%) was significantly lower than PPO (79.45 ± 1.45%) and SS (57.55 ± 0.36%). During the air-exposure period, SG consistently had the highest antioxidant capacity, making it desirable for PPO packaging, and expanding its potential applications within the food industry.

Comparative analysis of codon usage bias in chloroplast genomes of ten medicinal species of Rutaceae

Rutaceae family comprises economically important plants due to their extensive applications in spices, food, oil, medicine, etc. The Rutaceae plants is able to better utilization through biotechnology. Modern biotechnological approaches primarily rely on the heterologous expression of functional proteins in different vectors. However, several proteins are difficult to express outside their native environment. The expression potential of functional genes in heterologous systems can be maximized by replacing the rare synonymous codons in the vector with preferred optimal codons of functional genes. Codon usage bias plays a critical role in biogenetic engineering-based research and development. In the current study, 727 coding sequences (CDSs) obtained from the chloroplast genomes of ten Rutaceae plant family members were analyzed for codon usage bias. The nucleotide composition analysis of codons showed that these codons were rich in A/T(U) bases and preferred A/T(U) endings. Analyses of neutrality plots, effective number of codons (ENC) plots, and correlations between ENC and codon adaptation index (CAI) were conducted, which revealed that natural selection is a major driving force for the Rutaceae plant family's codon usage bias, followed by base mutation. In the ENC vs. CAI plot, codon usage bias in the Rutaceae family had a negligible relationship with gene expression level. For each sample, we screened 12 codons as preferred and high-frequency codons simultaneously, of which GCU encoding Ala, UUA encoding Leu, and AGA encoding Arg were the most preferred codons. Taken together, our study unraveled the synonymous codon usage pattern in the Rutaceae family, providing valuable information for the genetic engineering of Rutaceae plant species in the future.

Dietary Replacement of Soybean Meal with Zanthoxylum bungeanum Seed Meal on Growth Performance, Blood Parameters, and Nutrient Utilization in Broiler Chickens

Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed meal (ZBM), a novel plant protein raw material, has shown promising potential in enhancing the growth of broiler chickens as a substitute for soybean meal (SBM) in feed. In the artificial digestive experiment of vitro experiments, the digestibility of ZBM and SBM were assessed using the SDS-III Single Stomach Animal Biometric Digestion System. Subsequently, 180 1-day old AA chicks were divided into three groups for in vivo experiments: corn-soybean-meal-based diet (CON group); ZBM replacing 5% soybean meal in the basal diet (ZBM-1 group); ZBM replacing 10% soybean meal in the basal diet (ZBM-2 group). The experiment period lasted for 42 days. Compared to SBM, ZBM demonstrated higher crude protein content, dry matter digestibility, and extracorporeal digestible protein. Compared with the CON group, the broilers in the ZBM-2 group showed improved ADG and ADFI during the 1-21 d, 22-42 d, and 1-42 d periods (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the ZBM groups exhibited significant increases in slaughter performance compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). The substitution of ZBM for SBM also leads to a significant reduction in serum enzyme indicators (p < 0.05). Additionally, the lipoprotein and total cholesterol of the ZBM groups were significantly lower than those of the CON group (p < 0.05). Substituting SBM with ZBM significantly enhances the activity of superoxide dismutase and the content of immunoglobulin G in broiler serum, while reducing the content of malondildehyde (p < 0.05). The ZBM groups showed significantly higher utilization of dry matter, crude protein, and energy compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the study confirmed that the substitution of SBM with 5-10% ZBM in broiler diets has a significant positive effect on growth, development, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and nutrient utilization. This study not only provides a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ZBM in broiler diets but also offers an effective approach for reducing reliance on soybean meal.

Bridging the Gap: Harnessing Plant Bioactive Molecules to Target Gut Microbiome Dysfunctions in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

The correlation between neurodegenerative diseases and the gut microbiome is increasingly evident, with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) being particularly notable for its severity and lack of therapeutic options. The gut microbiota, implicated in the pathogenesis and development of ALS, plays a crucial role in the disease. Bioactive plant molecules, specifically volatile compounds in essential oils, offer a promising therapeutic avenue due to their anti-inflammatory properties and gut-modulating effects. Our narrative review aimed to identify microbiota-associated bacteria in ALS and analyze the benefits of administering bioactive plant molecules as much-needed therapeutic options in the management of this disease. A comprehensive search of PubMed database articles published before December 2023, encompassing research on cell, human, and animal ALS models, was conducted. After selecting, analyzing, and discussing key articles, bacteria linked to ALS pathogenesis and physiopathology were identified. Notably, positively highlighted bacteria included Akkermansia muciniphila (Verrucomicrobia phylum), Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and Butyrivibrio spp. (Firmicutes phylum). Conversely, members of the Escherichia coli spp. (Proteobacteria phylum) and Ruminococcus spp. (Firmicutes phylum) stood out negatively in respect to ALS development. These bacteria were associated with molecular changes linked to ALS pathogenesis and evolution. Bioactive plant molecules can be directly associated with improvements in the microbiome, due to their role in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, emerging as one of the most promising natural agents for enriching present-day ALS treatments.

Fractionation and antioxidation activities of polysaccharides from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim

Zanthoxylum bungeanum has a lengthy history of widespread use as a food ingredient in China. However, the composition of Zanthoxylum bungeanum polysaccharide remains ambiguous, and the antioxidant effect has received limited attention. This study aimed to extract water-soluble polysaccharide from the dried pericarp of Zanthoxylum bungeanum, referred to as WZBP, which was fractionated into a neutral component (WZBP-N) and three pectic components (WZBP-A-I, WZBP-A-II, WZBP-A-III). The findings indicated that WZBP-A-III is a pectic polysaccharide "smooth region" without many side chains. All components of WZBP exhibited a notable capacity for scavenging free radicals, with WZBP-A-III demonstrating the most potent antioxidation activity, and WZBP-A-III also observed to effectively extend the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes. These results provide valuable insight and direction for future research on Zanthoxylum bungeanum polysaccharide as an antioxidant agent.

Identification, Characterization, Cloning, and Cross-Reactivity of Zan b 2, a Novel Pepper Allergen of 11S Legumin

Protein from Sichuan peppers can elicit mild to severe allergic reactions. However, little is known about their allergenic proteins. We aimed to isolate, identify, clone, and characterize Sichuan pepper allergens and to determine its allergenicity and cross-reactivities. Sichuan pepper seed proteins were extracted and then analyzed by SDS-PAGE. Western blotting was performed with sera from Sichuan pepper-allergic individuals. Proteins of interest were purified using hydrophobic interaction chromatography and gel filtration and further analyzed by analytical ultracentrifugation, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry (MS). Their coding region was amplified in the genome. IgE reactivity and cross-reactivity of allergens were evaluated by dot blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and competitive ELISA. Western blot showed IgE binding to a 55 kDa protein. This protein was homologous to the citrus proteins and has high stability and a sheet structure. Four DNA sequences were cloned. Six patients' sera (60%) showed specific IgE reactivity to this purified 11S protein, which was proved to have cross-reactivation with extracts of cashew nuts, pistachios, and citrus seeds. A novel allergen in Sichuan pepper seeds, Zan b 2, which belongs to the 11S globulin family, was isolated and identified. Its cross-reactivity with cashew nuts, pistachios, and citrus seeds was demonstrated.

Genomic survey and expression analysis of cellulose synthase superfamily and COBRA-like gene family in Zanthoxylum bungeanum stipule thorns

The Cellulose Synthase gene (CS) superfamily and COBRA-like (COBL) gene family are essential for synthesizing cellulose and hemicellulose, which play a crucial role in cell wall biosynthesis and the hardening of plant tissues. Our study identified 126 ZbCS and 31 ZbCOBL genes from the Zanthoxylum bungeanum (Zb) genome. Phylogenetic analysis and conservative domain analysis unfolded that ZbCS and ZbCOBL genes were divided into seven and two subfamilies, respectively. Gene duplication data suggested that more than 75% of these genes had tandem and fragment duplications. Codon usage patterns analysis indicated that the ZbCS and ZbCOBL genes prefer ending with A/T base, with weak codon preference. Furthermore, seven key ZbCS and five key ZbCOBL genes were identified based on the content of cellulose and hemicellulose and the expression characteristics of ZbCS and ZbCOBL genes in various stages of stipule thorns. Altogether, these results improve the understanding of CS and COBL genes and provide valuable reference data for cultivating Zb with soft thorns.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12298-024-01432-x.

Metabolomics study of graphene nuangong acupoint plaster for primary dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological disease with typical clinical symptoms and diverse treatment methods. Acupoint patch therapy is one of the traditional external treatments of traditional Chinese medicine, with a long history, and has been widely used in the treatment of many diseases in China. Graphene nuangong acupoint plaster (GNGAP) developed based on traditional acupoints and new materials have been used in the clinical treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, and satisfactory therapeutic effects have been achieved. However, the underlying mechanisms of GNGAP still need further investigation. In this study, we used estradiol benzoate combined with oxytocin intraperitoneally to establish dysmenorrhea model rats, and observed the torsion response, uterine organ coefficients, prostaglandin levels and metabolite changes of rats with dysmenorrhea model after the intervention of GNGAP, to elucidate the mechanism of the effect of GNGAP. Compared with normal rats, the dysmenorrhea model rats exhibited increased writhing response and latency time, increased uterine organ coefficient, and significant changes in 79 metabolites. Twenty-three significantly enriched pathways were discovered, including amino acid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, and ovarian steroidogenesis, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of primary dysmenorrhea. Compared with the model group, the torsion response, latency time and uterine organ coefficient of rats in the acupoint patch group were significantly improved, and nine uterine metabolites were significantly altered, among which metabolites such as 4-pyridoxic acid, d-glucarate and Phenol were identified as potential biomarkers for the therapeutic effects of GNGAP. Vitamin B6 metabolism, Ascorbate and aldarate metabolism and Tyrosine metabolism were enriched in nine metabolic pathways. These findings contribute to the screening study of potential pathological metabolic pathways in primary dysmenorrhea. Additionally, they reveal the biological effects of GNGAP in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea at the metabolite level.

Rapid classification and identification of chemical components in three different Zanthoxylum species by ultra-high-performance-liquid chromatography quadrupole-orbitrap-mass spectrometry

Zanthoxylum, as a medicinal and edible herbal medicine, has a long history and complex chemical composition. There are many varieties of Zanthoxylum, and there are differences in composition between varieties. In this study, a rapid classification and identification method for the main components of Zanthoxylum was established using ultra-high-performance-liquid chromatography quadrupole-orbitrap-mass spectrometry. The components of Shandong Zanthoxylum bungeanum, Wudu Zanthoxylum bungeanum, and Zanthoxylum schinifolium were identified by studying the characteristic fragmentations and neutral losses of characteristic components. A total of 48 common components and 24 different components were identified and the fragmentation patterns of the main components, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and organic acids were summarized. These findings provided a reference for the study of pharmacodynamic substance basis and quality control of different varieties of Zanthoxylum.

Zanthoxylum armatum DC fruit ethyl acetate extract site induced hepatotoxicity by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress and inhibiting autophagy in BRL-3A models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum armatum DC (Z. armatum) is renowned not only as a culinary spice but also as a staple in traditional ethnic medicine, predominantly in Southeast Asia and various other regions. Recent research has unveiled its multifaceted pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and toothache relief effects. Nonetheless, some studies have reported the potential toxicity of Z. armatum, emphasizing the need to further explore its toxicity mechanisms for safer application.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigated the effect and mechanism of hepatotoxicity in BRL-3A cells induced by Z. armatum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The compounds of the ethyl acetate extract of Z. armatum (ZADC-EA) were identified by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS). The hepatotoxicity of the extract was evaluated by detecting cell viability, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, and apoptosis. Endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, and apoptosis were detected by Ad-mCherry-GFP-LC3B, flow cytometry, and Western blot to explore the mechanism of hepatotoxicity induced by ZADC-EA.

RESULTS

UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis revealed the presence of compounds belonging to flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. The IC50 value of ZADC-EA was 62.43 μg/mL, the cell viability of BRL-3A decreased in a time-dose dependent manner, and the levels of AST, ALT, and LDH were upregulated. In addition, ZADC-EA-induced increased expression of eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP pathway proteins, inhibited autophagy, and promoted apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insights into the hepatotoxicity mechanisms of ZADC-EA on BRL-3A cells. It was found that ZADC-EA could induce endoplasmic reticulum stress and inhibit autophagy, then intensify apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress could exacerbate autophagy inhibition.

Research advances of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. polyphenols in inflammatory diseases

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim., commonly known as Chinese prickly ash, is a well-known spice and traditional Chinese medicine ingredient with a rich history of use in treating inflammatory conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the botanical classification, traditional applications, and anti-inflammatory effects of Z. bungeanum, with a specific focus on its polyphenolic components. These polyphenols have exhibited considerable promise, as evidenced by preclinical studies in animal models, suggesting their therapeutic potential in human inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis, arthritis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. This positions them as a promising class of natural compounds with the potential to enhance human well-being. However, further research is necessary to fully elucidate their mechanisms of action and develop safe and effective therapeutic applications.

In Vitro Metabolism and In Vivo Pharmacokinetics Profiles of Hydroxy-α-Sanshool

Hydroxy-α-sanshool (HAS) is the predominant active compound in Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (ZBM). Our present work was aimed to explore the in vitro metabolism characteristics, and in vivo pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of HAS. Plasma (human), liver microsomes, and hepatocytes (human, monkey, dog, mouse, and rat) were collected for HAS metabolism studies in vitro and HAS elimination rates in liver microsomes and hepatocytes of different species were investigated. In addition, five recombinant human CYP enzymes were used to identify CYP isoforms of HAS. Finally, the PK properties of HAS in rats in vivo were studied by oral administration (p.o.). The results showed that HAS stably metabolized in human and rat liver microsomes and human hepatocytes, and the binding of HAS to human plasma proteins was nonspecific; HAS has strong inhibitory effects on CYP2C9 and CYP2D6 of human liver microsomes. In addition, in vivo PK study, HAS is rapidly absorbed in rats after oral administration. In conclusion, the in vivo and in vitro metabolic studies of HAS in this study provide data support for its further development and application, and the metabolic profiles of different species can be used as a reference for its safety evaluation.

Zanthoxylum bungeanum amides ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver via regulating gut microbiota and activating AMPK/Nrf2 signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. (Rutaceae) is a known herbal medicine with various bioactivities, including anti-obesity, lipid-lowering, learning & memory improving and anti-diabetes, and amides in Z. bungeanum (AZB) are considered as the major active agents for its bioactivities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This research was carried out to uncover the anti-NAFL effect of AZB and its corresponding molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

The central composite design-response surface methodology (CCD-RSM) was utilized to optimize the AZB extraction process, and the anti-NAFL effect of AZB was investigated on high fat diet (HFD) fed mice (HFD mice). The levels of ROS in liver tissues were determined using laser confocal microscopy with DCFH-DA probe staining, and anti-enzymes (such as HO-1, SOD, CAT & GSH-PX) and MDA in liver tissues were measured using commercial detecting kits. GC-MS was used to determine the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) contents in feces and blood of mice. 16S high-throughput sequencing, western blotting (WB) assay and immunofluorescence (IF) were used to explore the intestinal flora changes in mice and the potential mechanisms of AZB for treatment of NAFL.

RESULTS

Our results showed AZB reduced body weight, alleviated liver pathological changes, reduced fat accumulation, and improved oxidative stress in HFD mice. In addition, we also found AZB improved OGTT and ITT, reduced TG, TC, LDL-C, whereas increased HDL-C in HFD mice. AZB increased total number of the species and interspecies kinship of gut microbiota and reduced the richness and diversity of gut microbiota in HFD mice. Moreover, AZB decreased the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidota, whereas increased the abundance of Allobaculum, Bacteroides and Dubosiella in feces of HFD-fed mice. Furthermore, AZB increased the production of SCFAs, and up-regulated the phosphorylation of AMPK and increased the nuclear transcription of Nrf2 in liver of HFD mice.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results suggested AZB can improve NAFL, which could reduce body weight, reverse liver lesions and fat accumulation, improve oxidative stress in liver tissues of HFD mice. Furthermore, the mechanisms are related to increase of the abundance of high-producing bacteria for SCFAs (e.g. Allobaculum, Bacteroides and Dubosiella) to activate AMPK/Nrf2 signaling.

Hydroxy-α-sanshool from the fruits of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. promotes browning of white fat by activating TRPV1 to induce PPAR-γ deacetylation

BACKGROUND

Accumulating evidence suggested increasing energy expenditure is a feasible strategy for combating obesity, and browning of white adipose tissue (WAT) to promote thermogenesis might be one of the attractive ways. Hydroxy-α-sanshool (HAS), a natural amide alkaloid extracted from the fruits of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim, possesses lots of benefits in lipid metabolism regulation.

METHODS

The anti-obesity effect of HAS was investigated by establishing an animal model of obesity and a 3T3-L1 differentiation cell model. Effects of HAS on the whole-body fat and liver of obese mice, and the role of HAS in inducing browning of white fat were studied by Micro CT, Metabolic cage detection, Cell mitochondrial pressure detection, transmission electron microscopy and cold exposure assays. Furthermore, the Real-time PCR (qPCR), digital PCR (dPCR), western blot, Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), molecular docking, drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), Cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and other methods were used to investigate the target and mechanisms of HAS.

RESULTS

We found that treatment with HAS helped mice combat obesity caused by a high fat diet (HFD) and improve metabolic characteristics. In addition, our results suggested that the anti-obesity effect of HAS is related to increase energy consumption and thermogenesis via induction of browning of WAT. The further investigations uncovered that HAS can up-regulate UCP-1 expression, increase mitochondria number, and elevate the cellular oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) of white adipocytes. Importantly, the results indicated that browning effects of HAS is closely associated with SIRT1-dependent PPAR-γ deacetylation through activating the TRPV1/AMPK pathway, and TRPV1 is the potential drug target of HAS for the browning effects of WAT.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested the HAS can promote browning of WAT via regulating AMPK/SIRT-1/PPARγ signaling, and the potential drug target of HAS is the membrane receptor of TRPV1.

WGX50 mitigates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity through inhibition of mitochondrial ROS and ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) is a major impediment to its clinical application. It is indispensable to explore alternative treatment molecules or drugs for mitigating DIC. WGX50, an organic extract derived from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant biological activity, however, its function and mechanism in DIC remain unclear.

METHODS

We established DOX-induced cardiotoxicity models both in vitro and in vivo. Echocardiography and histological analyses were used to determine the severity of cardiac injury in mice. The myocardial damage markers cTnT, CK-MB, ANP, BNP, and ferroptosis associated indicators Fe2+, MDA, and GPX4 were measured using ELISA, RT-qPCR, and western blot assays. The morphology of mitochondria was investigated with a transmission electron microscope. The levels of mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial ROS, and lipid ROS were detected using JC-1, MitoSOX™, and C11-BODIPY 581/591 probes.

RESULTS

Our findings demonstrate that WGX50 protects DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via restraining mitochondrial ROS and ferroptosis. In vivo, WGX50 effectively relieves doxorubicin-induced cardiac dysfunction, cardiac injury, fibrosis, mitochondrial damage, and redox imbalance. In vitro, WGX50 preserves mitochondrial function by reducing the level of mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing mitochondrial ATP production. Furthermore, WGX50 reduces iron accumulation and mitochondrial ROS, increases GPX4 expression, and regulates lipid metabolism to inhibit DOX-induced ferroptosis.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, WGX50 protects DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via mitochondrial ROS and the ferroptosis pathway, which provides novel insights for WGX50 as a promising drug candidate for cardioprotection.

Stability of Hydroxy-α-Sanshool in Medium-Chain Triglyceride Oil and Corresponding Oil/Water Emulsions

The pungent component of sansho (Japanese pepper, Zanthoxylum pipritum) is sanshool, which is easily oxidized and decomposed. We have previously reported several sanshool stabilizers, such as α-tocopherol (α-Toc). Sansho pericarp powder treated with middle-chain triglycerides (MCTs) can be used to obtain extracts containing hydroxy-α-sanshool (HαS). Although HαS is stabilized when α-Toc is added to the MCT extracts, the loss of HαS is accelerated when it is mixed with a powder such as lactose. The separation of α-Toc from sanshools was thought to inevitably lead to their oxidation. Therefore, using sansho pericarp MCT extracts with or without α-Toc, oil/water (o/w) emulsions were prepared by adding a surfactant, glycerin, and water to these extracts. In both emulsions, HαS was stable in accelerated tests at 50 °C. However, when lactose powder was added to the emulsions and an accelerated test was performed, HαS in the emulsion containing α-Toc was stable, but HαS in the emulsion without α-Toc was unstable. These results highlight the importance of maintaining the close proximity of HαS and α-Toc in the emulsion. The stabilization of sanshools using emulsion technology can facilitate the production of various processed beverages, foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals containing Japanese pepper.

Stabilization of Hydroxy-α-Sanshool by Antioxidants Present in the Genus Zanthoxylum

Japanese pepper (sansho, Zanthoxylum piperitum) contains several types of sanshools belonging to N-alkylamides. Because of the long-chain unsaturated fatty acids present in their structure, sanshools are prone to oxidative deterioration, which poses problems in processing. In this paper, we evaluated the effects of antioxidants from the genus Zanthoxylum in preventing sanshool degradation using accelerated tests. An ethanolic extract of segment membranes of the sansho fruit pericarp was incubated at 70 °C for 7 days with different antioxidants to determine the residual amount of hydroxy-α-sanshool (HαS) in the extract. α-Tocopherol (α-Toc) showed excellent HαS-stabilizing activity at low concentrations. Among phenolic acids, we noted that the HαS-stabilizing activity increased with the number of hydroxy groups per molecule. For example, gallic acid and its derivatives exhibited excellent sanshool-stabilizing activity. Quercetin was found to be a superior HαS stabilizer compared with hesperetin and naringenin. However, the effective concentration was much higher for phenolic compounds than for α-Toc. These substances are believed to play a role in preventing the decomposition of sanshools in the pericarp of sansho. These sanshool stabilizers should be useful in the development of new beverages, foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals that take advantage of the taste and flavor of sansho.

Transcriptomics integrated with metabolomics to characterize key pigment compounds and genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis in Zanthoxylum bungeanum peel

Zanthoxylum bungeanum is an important condiment with high economic value and its peel color is one of the main quality indexes. However, the key pigment compounds and related genes are still unclear affecting the quality control of the plants. In this study, the contents of four types of pigments were measured in Z. bungeanum and flavonoids were identified as the most important pigments. Based on the targeted flavonoid metabolomics of Z. bungeanum peels, 14 key pigment compounds were screened out from 152 flavonoids, among which cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside were the most critical compounds for peel color. They were further verified to be present in nine varieties of Z. bungeanum by HPLC fingerprints. The 14 compounds were all associated with flavonoid and anthocyanin biosynthesis pathways and the 39 differentially expressed genes related to these pathways were annotated and screened based on transcriptomics. The genes ZbDFR, ZbANS, and ZbUFGT were identified as three key genes for anthocyanin synthesis in Z. bungeanum peels. Further qRT-PCR results confirmed the reliability of transcriptomics and the accuracy of gene screening. Subsequent protein induced expression demonstrated that ZbANS and ZbUFGT were expressed after 12 h induced by IPTG while ZbDFR was expressed after 15 h. Further transient and stable transformation analysis confirmed that both anthocyanin content and the expression of ZbDFR were significantly increased in overexpression Z. bungeanum leaves and Nicotiana benthamiana. The functional effect of stable transformation of ZbDFR was more significant than that of transient transformation with a 7.67-fold/1.49-fold difference in total anthocyanin content and a 42.37-fold/12.32-fold difference in the expression of ZbDFR. This study provides new insights into the chemical composition and the molecular mechanisms of Z. bungeanum peel color and lays an effective foundation for the color quality control, multi-purpose utilization of Z. bungeanum and the creation of new germplasm.

A cell-based electrochemical taste sensor for detection of Hydroxy-α-sanshool

The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) has been identified as a suitable candidate for a spicy taste (Zanthoxylum plant) sensor. In this study, we investigated the response of TRPV1 expressed on human HepG2 cell membranes following stimulation with Hydroxy-α-sanshool. A three-dimensional (3D) cell-based electrochemical sensor was fabricated by layering cells expressing hTRPV1. l-cysteine/AuNFs electrodes were functionalized on indium tin oxide-coated glass (ITO) to enhance the sensor's selectivity and sensitivity. HepG2 cells were encapsulated in sodium alginate/gelatin hydrogel to create a 3D cell cultivation system, which was immobilized on the l-cysteine/AuNFs/ITO to serve as biorecognition elements. Using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), the developed biosensor was utilized to detect Hydroxy-α-sanshool, a representative substance in Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. The result obtained from DPV was linear with Hydroxy-α-sanshool concentrations ranging from 0 to 70 μmol/L, with a detection limit of 2.23 μmol/L. This biosensor provides a sensitive and novel macroscopic approach for TRPV1 detection.

Fascinating Furanosteroids and Their Pharmacological Profile

This review article delves into the realm of furanosteroids and related isoprenoid lipids derived from diverse terrestrial and marine sources, exploring their wide array of biological activities and potential pharmacological applications. Fungi, fungal endophytes, plants, and various marine organisms, including sponges, corals, molluscs, and other invertebrates, have proven to be abundant reservoirs of these compounds. The biological activities exhibited by furanosteroids and related lipids encompass anticancer, cytotoxic effects against various cancer cell lines, antiviral, and antifungal effects. Notably, the discovery of exceptional compounds such as nakiterpiosin, malabaricol, dysideasterols, and cortistatins has revealed their potent anti-tuberculosis, antibacterial, and anti-hepatitis C attributes. These compounds also exhibit activity in inhibiting protein kinase C, phospholipase A2, and eliciting cytotoxicity against cancer cells. This comprehensive study emphasizes the significance of furanosteroids and related lipids as valuable natural products with promising therapeutic potential. The remarkable biodiversity found in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems offers an extensive resource for unearthing novel biologically active compounds, paving the way for future drug development and advancements in biomedical research. This review presents a compilation of data obtained from various studies conducted by different authors who employed the PASS software 9.1 to evaluate the biological activity of natural furanosteroids and compounds closely related to them. The utilization of the PASS software in this context offers valuable advantages, such as screening large chemical libraries, identifying compounds for subsequent experimental investigations, and gaining insights into potential biological activities based on their structural features. Nevertheless, it is crucial to emphasize that experimental validation remains indispensable for confirming the predicted activities.

Essential Oils: Chemistry and Pharmacological Activities

In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the main mechanisms of pharmacological action of essential oils and their components in various biological systems. A brief introduction on essential oil chemistry is presented to better understand the relationship of chemical aspects with the bioactivity of these products. Next, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial activities are discussed. The mechanisms of action against various types of viruses are also addressed. The data show that the multiplicity of pharmacological properties of essential oils occurs due to the chemical diversity in their composition and their ability to interfere with biological processes at cellular and multicellular levels via interaction with various biological targets. Therefore, these natural products can be a promising source for the development of new drugs.

Karyotype and Phylogenetic Relationship Analysis of Five Varieties and Cultivars of Zanthoxylum armatum Based on Oligo-FISH

Green prickly ash (Zanthoxylum armatum) has edible and medicinal value and is an economically significant plant in many countries. Z. armatum has many cultivars and varieties with similar phenotypes that are difficult to distinguish via traditional methods. In this study, we utilized oligo-FISH to distinguish five varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum on the basis of three oligonucleotide probes of 5S rDNA, (AG₃T₃)₃, and (GAA)₆. Karyotype analysis of the five varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum showed that the Z. armatum 'Tengjiao' karyotype formula was 2n = 2x = 98m with karyotype type 1C and an arm ratio of 4.3237, including two pairs of 5S rDNA signals and five pairs of (GAA)₆ signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum 'Youkangtengjiao' was 2n = 2x = 128m + 8sm with karyotype type 2B and an arm ratio of 3.5336, including three pairs of 5S rDNA signals and 17 pairs of (GAA)₆ signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum var. novemfolius was 2n = 2x = 134m + 2sm with karyotype type 1C and an arm ratio of 5.5224, including two pairs of 5S rDNA signals and eight pairs of (GAA)₆ signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum 'YT-03' was 2n = 2x = 2M + 128m + 4sm + 2st with karyotype type 2C and an arm ratio of 4.1829, including three pairs of 5S rDNA signals and nine pairs of (GAA)₆ signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum 'YT-06' was 2n = 2x = 126m + 10sm with cytotype 2B and an arm ratio of 3.3011, including three pairs of 5S rDNA signals and two pairs of (GAA)₆ signals. The five varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum had (AG₃T₃)₃ signals on all chromosomes. The chromosomal symmetry of Z. armatum 'Tengjiao' was high, whereas the chromosomal symmetry of Z. armatum 'YT-03' was low, with the karyotypes of the five materials showing a trend toward polyploid evolution. The phylogenetic relationship between Z. armatum 'Tengjiao' and Z. armatum var. novemfolius was the closest, while that between Z. armatum 'YT-03' and Z. armatum 'YT-06' was closer than with Z. armatum 'Youkangtengjiao' according to oligo-FISH. The results provided a karyotype profile and a physical map that contributes to the distinction of varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum and provides strategies for distinguishing other cultivated species.

HS-SPME/GC×GC-TOFMS-Based Flavoromics and Antimicrobial Properties of the Aroma Components of Zanthoxylum motuoense

Zanthoxylum motuoense Huang, native to Tibet, China, is a newly discovered Chinese prickly ash, which, recently, has increasingly attracted the attention of researchers. In order to understand its volatile oil compositions and flavor characteristics, and to explore the flavor difference between Z. motuoense and the common Chinese prickly ash sold in the market, we analyzed the essential oils of Z. motuoense pericarp (MEO) using HS-SPME/GC×GC-TOFMS coupled with multivariate data and flavoromics analyses. The common commercial Chinese prickly ash in Asia, Zanthoxylum bungeanum (BEO), was used as a reference. A total of 212 aroma compounds from the 2 species were identified, among which alcohols, terpenoids, esters, aldehydes, and ketones were the major compounds. The predominant components detected from MEO were citronellal, (+)-citronellal, and β-phellandrene. Six components-citronellal, (E,Z)-3,6-nonadien-1-ol, allyl methallyl ether, isopulegol, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octen-1-ol acetate, and 3,7-dimethyl-(R)-6-octen-1-ol-could be used as the potential biomarkers of MEO. The flavoromics analysis showed that MEO and BEO were significantly different in aroma note types. Furthermore, the content differences of several numb taste components in two kinds of prickly ash were quantitatively analyzed using RP-HPLC. The antimicrobial activities of MEO and BEO against four bacterial strains and nine plant pathogenic fungi were determined in vitro. The results indicated that MEO had significantly higher inhibitory activities against most microbial strains than BEO. This study has revealed the fundamental data in respect of the volatile compound properties and antimicrobial activity of Z. motuoense, offering basic information on valuable natural sources that can be utilized in the condiment, perfume, and antimicrobial sectors.

Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-Ascaris suum Activity of Different Zanthoxylum Species In Vitro and In Vivo

Zanthoxylum plants (ZPs), including multiple Chinese prickly ash species, are dual-purpose functional foods favored by the general population around the world in foods, cosmetics, and traditional medicines and have antipruritic, insecticidal, and fungicidal bioactivities. For the first time, the anti-roundworm bioactivity of ZPs and the active ingredients were compared and investigated. Through nontarget metabolomics following targeted quantitative analysis, qinbunamides, sanshools, sanshooel, asarinin, and sesamin were found to be the main different components of Zanthoxylum species. Coincidentally, the 12 chemical components were also the dominant anti-roundworm ingredients of ZP extracts. The extracts of three species of Chinese prickly ash (1 mg/mL) decreased the hatchability of roundworm eggs significantly, and the ChuanJiao seed killed roundworms (insecticidal rate 100%) and alleviated the symptoms of pneumonia in mice. Furthermore, retention time-accurate mass-tandem mass spectrometry-ion ratio (RT-AM-MS/MS-IR) were modeled by assaying 108 authentic compounds of ZP extracts, and 20 metabolites were confidently identified in biological samples from ZP extract-treated mice by analyzing the m/z values and the empirical substructures. This study provides a good reference for the proper application of ZPs.

α-Linolenic Acid Inhibits RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis In Vitro and Prevents Inflammation In Vivo

Inflammation is an important risk factor for bone-destroying diseases. Our preliminary research found that Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed oil (ZBSO) is abundant in unsaturated fatty acids and could inhibit osteoclastogenesis in receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL)-induced RAW264.7 cells. However, the key constituents in ZBSO in the prevention of osteoclastogenesis and its possible mechanism related to inflammation are still unclear. Therefore, in this study, oleic acid (OA), linoleic acid (LA), palmitoleic acid (PLA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in ZBSO, havingthe strongest effect on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis, were selected by a tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining method. Furthermore, the effects of the selected fatty acids on anti-inflammation and anti-osteoclastogenesis in vitro and in vivo were assessed using RT-qPCR. Among the four major unsaturated fatty acids we tested, ALA displayed the strongest inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis. The increased expression of free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4) and β-arrestin2 (βarr2), as well as the decreased expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor of activated T-cells c1 (NFATc1), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in RAW264.7 cells after ALA treatment were observed. Moreover, in ovariectomized osteoporotic rats with ALA preventive intervention, we found that the expression of TNF-α, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), NFATc1, and TRAP were decreased, while with the ALA therapeutic intervention, downregulated expression of NF-κB, NFATc1, TRAP, and transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) were noticed. These results indicate that ALA, as the major unsaturated fatty acid in ZBSO, could inhibit RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis via the FFAR4/βarr2 signaling pathway and could prevent inflammation, suggesting that ZBSO may be a promising potential natural product of unsaturated fatty acids and a dietary supplement for the prevention of osteoclastogenesis and inflammatory diseases.

Integrative multi-omics unravels the amelioration effects of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

The effect of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. (ZBM) on anti-obesity, lipid-lowering and liver protection has been identified, but the effect on the development of NAFLD induced by high-fat diet remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the alleviation effect of ZBM on NAFLD in vivo and explore the mechanisms by analyzing the liver transcriptome, microbiota and fecal metabolites.

METHODS

NAFLD model was induced in C57BL/6J mice by feeding with high-fat diet (HFD). The potential mechanism of ZBM in improving NAFLD was studied by liver transcriptome analysis, real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, 16s rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabonomics.

RESULTS

ZBM has alleviation effects on HFD-induced NAFLD. The liver transcriptome, real-time PCR and immunofluorescence analysis showed that ZBM could efficiently regulate fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism. The 16S rRNA sequencing and LC-MS based metabonomic demonstrated that ZBM could rebalance gut microbiota dysbiosis and regulate metabolic profiles in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a strong correlation between gut microbiota and biochemical, pathological indexes and differential metabolic biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

ZBM ameliorates HFD-induced NAFLD by regulating fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism, gut microbiota and metabolic profile.

The complex genome and adaptive evolution of polyploid Chinese pepper (Zanthoxylum armatum and Zanthoxylum bungeanum)

Zanthoxylum armatum and Zanthoxylum bungeanum, known as 'Chinese pepper', are distinguished by their extraordinary complex genomes, phenotypic innovation of adaptive evolution and species-special metabolites. Here, we report reference-grade genomes of Z. armatum and Z. bungeanum. Using high coverage sequence data and comprehensive assembly strategies, we derived 66 pseudochromosomes comprising 33 homologous phased groups of two subgenomes, including autotetraploid Z. armatum. The genomic rearrangements and two whole-genome duplications created large (~4.5 Gb) complex genomes with a high ratio of repetitive sequences (>82%) and high chromosome number (2n = 4x = 132). Further analysis of the high-quality genomes shed lights on the genomic basis of involutional reproduction, allomones biosynthesis and adaptive evolution in Chinese pepper, revealing a high consistent relationship between genomic evolution, environmental factors and phenotypic innovation. Our study provides genomic resources and new insights for investigating diversification and phenotypic innovation in Chinese pepper, with broader implications for the protection of plants under severe environmental changes.

Investigation on the Mechanisms of Zanthoxylum bungeanum for Treating Diabetes Mellitus Based on Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experiment Verification

Objective

The aim of the study was to explore the potential mechanism of Zanthoxylum bungeanum in the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) using network pharmacology.

Methods

The DrugBank database and TCMSP platform were used to search for the main chemical components and their targets of Zanthoxylum bungeanum, and the genes related to diabetes mellitus were obtained from the genecards database. Import the data into the Venny 2.1.0 platform for intersection analysis to obtain the Zanthoxylum bungeanum-DM-gene dataset. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis of Zanthoxylum bungeanum-DM gene was performed using the String data platform, and the visualization and network topology analysis were performed using Cytoscape 3.8.2. The KEGG pathway enrichment and biological process of GO enrichment analysis were carried out using the David platform. The active ingredients and key targets of Zanthoxylum bungeanum were molecularly docked to verify their biological activities by using Discovery Studio 2019 software. Zanthoxylum bungeanum was extracted and isolated by ethanol and dichloromethane. HepG2 cells were cultured, and cell viability assay was utilized to choose the suitable concentration of Zanthoxylum bungeanum extract (ZBE). The western blot assay was used for measuring the expression of AKT1, IL6, HSP90AA1, FOS, and JUN proteins in HepG2 cells.

Results

A total of 5 main compounds, 339 targets, and 16656 disease genes were obtained and retrieved, respectively. A total of 187 common genes were screened, and 20 core genes were finally obtained after further screening. The antidiabetic active ingredients of Zanthoxylum bungeanum are kokusaginin, skimmianin, diosmetin, beta-sitosterol, and quercetin, respectively. The main targets for its antidiabetic effect are AKT1, IL6, HSP90AA1, FOS, and JUN, respectively. GO enrichment analysis revealed that the biological process of Zanthoxylum bungeanum and DM is related to a positive regulation of gene expression, positive regulation of transcription, positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, response to drug, positive regulation of apoptotic process, and positive regulation of cell proliferation, etc. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that common biological pathways mainly including the phospholipase D signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, beta-alanine metabolism, estrogen signaling pathway, PPAR signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. Molecular docking results showed that AKT1 with beta-sitosterol and quercetin, IL-6 with diosmetin and skimmianin, HSP90AA1 with diosmetin and quercetin, FOS with beta-sitosterol and quercetin, and JUN with beta-sitosterol and diosmetin have relatively strong binding activity, respectively. Experiment verification results showed that DM could be significantly improved by downregulating the expression of AKT1, IL6, HSP90AA1, FOS, and JUN proteins after being treated at concentrations of 20 μmol/L and 40 μmol/L of ZBE.

Conclusion

The active components of Zanthoxylum bungeanum mainly including kokusaginin, skimmianin, diosmetin, beta-sitosterol, and quercetin. The therapeutic effect of Zanthoxylum bungeanum on DM may be achieved by downregulating core target genes including AKT1, IL6, HSP90AA1, FOS, and JUN, respectively. Zanthoxylum bungeanum is an effective drug in treatment of DM related to the above targets.

Differential Metabolomics Reveals Pathogenesis of Pestalotiopsis kenyana Causing Leaf Spot Disease of Zanthoxylum schinifolium

Pepper leaf spot is a common disease of Zanthoxylum schinifolium. When it is serious, it directly affects the growth of Z. schinifolium, making the plant unable to blossom and bear fruit, which seriously restricts the development of the Z. schinifolium industry. Therefore, the pathogenic mechanism of leaf spots should be explored to provide a basis for a comprehensive understanding of the disease. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technology combined with the data-dependent acquisition, the full spectrum analysis of pathogen mycelium samples was carried out. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was used to reveal the differences in metabolic patterns among different groups. Hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and PLS-DA were used to reveal the relationship between samples and metabolites, which reflected the metabolomics changes of Pestalotiopsis kenyana in the logarithmic growth phase of mycelia, the stable growth phase of mycelia, the massive spore stage, the induction culture conditions of PDA and Z. schinifolium leaves, and the possible pathogenic substances were selected for pathogenicity detection. PLS-DA had a strong predictive ability, indicating a clear analysis trend between different groups. The results of the metabolomics analysis showed that the differential metabolites of pathogenic bacteria were abundant at different stages and under different medium conditions, and the content of metabolites changed significantly. There were 3922 differential metabolites in nine groups under positive and negative ion modes, including lipids and lipid molecules, organic acids and their derivatives, organic heterocyclic compounds, organic oxygen compounds, carbohydrate polyketides, nucleosides, nucleotides, and analogs. The results of the pathogenicity test showed that the leaves treated with 3,5-dimethoxy benzoic acid, S-(5-adenosy)-l-homocysteine, 2-(1H-indol-3-yl) acetic acid, l-glutamic acid, and 2-(2-acetyl-3,5-dihydroxy phenyl) acetic acid showed different degrees of yellowish-brown lesions. This indicated that these substances may be related to the pathogenicity of P. kenyana, and the incidence was more serious when treated with 3,5-dimethoxybenzoic acid and S-(5-adenosy)- l -homocysteine. This study provides a basis for further analysis of differential metabolites and provides a theoretical reference for the prevention and treatment of Z. schinifolium leaf spot.

Fructus Zanthoxyli extract improves glycolipid metabolism disorder of type 2 diabetes mellitus via activation of AMPK/PI3K/Akt pathway: Network pharmacology and experimental validation

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the potential mechanisms behind the beneficial effects of Fructus Zanthoxyli (FZ) against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on network pharmacology and experimental validation.

METHODS

Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were used to identify the constituents of FZ. Next, the differentially expressed genes linked to the treatment of diabetes with FZ were screened using online databases (including Gene Expression Omnibus database and Swiss Target Prediction online database), and the overlapping genes and their enrichment were analyzed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Finally, the pathway was verified by in vitro experiments, and cell staining with oil red and Nile red showed that the extract of FZ had a therapeutic effect on T2DM.

RESULTS

A total of 43 components were identified from FZ, and 39 differentially expressed overlapping genes were screened as the possible targets of FZ in T2DM. The dug component-target network indicated that PPARA, PPARG, PIK3R3, JAK2 and GPR88 might be the core genes targeted by FZ in the treatment of T2DM. Interestingly, the enrichment analysis of KEGG showed that effects of FZ against T2DM were closely correlated with the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathways. In vitro experiments further confirmed that FZ significantly inhibited palmitic acid-induced lipid formation in HepG2 cells. Moreover, FZ treatment was able to promote the AMPK and PI3K/Akt expressions in HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Network pharmacology combined with experimental validation revealed that FZ extract can improve the glycolipid metabolism disorder of T2DM via activation of the AMPK/PI3K/Akt pathway.

A Brief Review of Natural Products with Urate Transporter 1 Inhibition for the Treatment of Hyperuricemia

Hyperuricemia is a common disease caused by a high level of uric acid. Urate transporter 1 (URAT1) is an important protein and mediates approximately 90% of uric acid reabsorption. Therefore, the URAT1 inhibitor is a class of uricosuric medicines widely used in the clinic for the treatment of hyperuricemia. To find the new medicine with stronger URAT1 inhibition and lower toxicity, researchers have been exploring natural products. This study systematically summarizes the natural products with URAT1 inhibition. The results show that many natural products are potential URAT1 inhibitors, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, coumarins, stilbenes, and steroids, among which flavonoids are the most promising source of URAT1 inhibitors. It is worth noting that most studies have focused on finding natural products with inhibition of URAT1 and have not explored their activities and mechanisms toward URAT1. By reviewing the few existing studies of the structure-activity relationship and analyzing common features of natural products with URAT1 inhibition, we speculate that the rigid ring structure and negative charge may be the keys for natural products to produce URAT1 inhibition. In conclusion, natural products are potential URAT1 inhibitors, and exploring the mechanism of action and structure-activity relationship will be an important research direction in the future.

Application of response surface methodology (RSM) for optimization of the supercritical CO2 extract of oil from Zanthoxylum bungeanum pericarp: Yield, composition and gastric protective effect

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Supercritical carbon-dioxide (SC-CO₂) extract is an effective technology for flavor components of Z. bungeanum pericarp.

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About 11.07 % oil yield can be obtained under the optimized parameters of 30 MPa, 43 °C, and 75 min.

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Limonene, linalool, hydroxy-α-sanshool and hydroxy-β-sanshool are the major flavor components of SZB.

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SZB supplementation could be employed as a gastric protective agent/additive for human health.

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Nineteen potential biomarkers were identified as the potential biomarkers contributed to the gastric protective effect of SZB.

Supercritical carbon-dioxide (SC-CO₂) is a promising two-phase technology for flavor components (volatile oil and alkylamides) extract from Zanthoxylum bungeanum pericarp. However, the gastric protective effect of SC-CO₂ extract from Z. bungeanum (SZB) have not been systematically investigated. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the yield of SZB, and the average yield of 11.07 % were obtained under optimal parameters (30 MPa, 43 °C and time 75 min). Here, limonene, linalool and hydroxy-α-sanshool were identified as the main compounds of SZB by GC–MS and UPLC-Q-Extractive Orbitrap/MS analysis. When the gastric protective effect of SZB (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) were evaluated, significant increase in body weight and organ indexes of rat, and decreased gastric lesion were observed. Furthermore, nineteen serum metabolites were regarded as the potential biomarkers for the gastric protective effect of SZB. Collectively, this study provides a comprehensive perspective into the chemical composition analysis and gastric protective effect of Z. bungeanum SC-CO₂ extract.

Medicinal and edible plants in the treatment of dyslipidemia: advances and prospects

Dyslipidemia is an independent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which lead to the high mortality, disability, and medical expenses in the worldwide. Based on the previous researches, the improvement of dyslipidemia could efficiently prevent the occurrence and progress of cardiovascular diseases. Medicinal and edible plants (MEPs) are the characteristics of Chinese medicine, and could be employed for the disease treatment and health care mostly due to their homology of medicine and food. Compared to the lipid-lowering drugs with many adverse effects, such as rhabdomyolysis and impaired liver function, MEPs exhibit the great potential in the treatment of dyslipidemia with high efficiency, good tolerance and commercial value. In this review, we would like to introduce 20 kinds of MEPs with lipid-lowering effect in the following aspects, including the source, function, active component, target and underlying mechanism, which may provide inspiration for the development of new prescription, functional food and complementary therapy for dyslipidemia.

Protective mechanisms of Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice based on a colonic mucosal transcriptomic approach

The ameliorative effects on ulcerative colitis (UC) as well as the related mechanisms of the essential oil derived from the edible herb Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (ZBEO) have been demonstrated herein. Based on GC-MS analysis, 45 volatile compounds in ZBEO were determined for its quality control. In vitro studies showed that after pretreatment with ZBEO, the disordered expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and an anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) on colon epithelial NCM460 cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could be reversed. Additionally, oral administration of ZBEO significantly alleviated colitis in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice, including body weight loss, colon length shortening, disease activity index and colonic pathological damage. Furthermore, to uncover the anti-UC mechanisms of ZBEO, analysis of transcriptomes by next-generation sequencing technology was performed to explore the RNA genetic variation on colon tissues. Based on GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis, a series of genetic pathways involved in the protective role of ZBEO against UC were determined. As a result, ZBEO treatment could decrease the expression of VCAM-1, TLR8, IL-1β and IL-11 mRNA as verified by qRT-PCR, which are involved in these potential genetic pathways. In conclusion, ZBEO administration would be a medicinal or dietary supplementation strategy for ulcerative colitis treatment.

Anti-depression effectiveness of essential oil from the fruits of Zanthoxylum bungeanum maxim. on chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression behavior in mice

The fruits of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. Was a popular traditional Chinese herbal medicine for pain relief, itching prevention, and diarrhea relief. The fruits of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. Essential oil (HEO) had an effect of improving anxiety and other emotional disorders. In this paper, we aim to systematically research the antidepressant effects of HEO on Chronic Mild Unpredictable Stimulation (CUMS) mice and explore the relevant molecular mechanisms. Experimental mice were exposed to CUMS for 8 weeks. Meanwhile, for 8 weeks, Sertraline hydrochloride (20 mg/kg/day) and HEO (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg/day) were administered by gavage. HEO treatment increased residence time of central zone in OFT and open-arm in EPM test but decreased immobility times in FST and TST. Moreover, HEO treatment improved the levels of 5-HT, DA, NE, and BDNF, but reduced CRF and CORT levels of the HPA axis in the hippocampus. Network pharmacology predicted the possible mechanisms for the antidepressant effects of HEO by regulation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The mRNA expression of PI3K and Akt were increased, and immunofluorescence results in the hippocampus indicated that HEO treatment could increase the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt. Besides, the viability of CORT-treated PC12 cells was significantly improved by HEO treatment. The AO-EB staining, MOMP analysis, and flow cytometry analysis results showed HEO inhibiting the CORT-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells significantly. Besides, the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt in COTR-induced PC12 cells could increase by HEO treatment. In conclusion, HEO ameliorated depression behavior induced by CUMS, potentially via regulating HPA axis and activating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to reduce neuronal apoptosis.

Physiological and transcriptome analyses reveal the photosynthetic response to drought stress in drought-sensitive (Fengjiao) and drought-tolerant (Hanjiao) Zanthoxylum bungeanum cultivars

As an important economical plant, Zanthoxylum bungeanum is widely cultivated in arid and semi-arid areas. The studies associated with photosynthesis under drought stress were widely carried out, but not yet in Z. bungeanum. Here, the photosynthesis of two Z. bungeanum cultivars (FJ, Z. bungeanum cv. "Fengjiao"; HJ, Z. bungeanum cv. "Hanjiao") was analyzed under drought stress using physiological indicators and transcriptome data. Drought decreased stomatal aperture and stomatal conductance (Gsw), reduced transpiration rate (E) and sub-stomatal CO₂ concentration (Ci), and lowered chlorophyll and carotenoid content, which reduced the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of Z. bungeanum. The higher photosynthetic rate in HJ stemmed from its higher chlorophyll content, larger stomatal aperture and Gsw, and higher Ci. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified several ABA signal transduction genes (PYL4, PYL9, and PYR1), LCH-encoding genes (LHCB4.3), and chlorophyll metabolism genes (CRD1, PORA, and CHLH). Additionally, seven transcription factor genes were identified as important factors regulating photosynthesis under drought conditions. In general, a photosynthetic response model under drought stress was built firstly in Z. bungeanum, and the key genes involved in photosynthesis under drought stress were identified. Therefore, the results in our research provide important information for photosynthesis under drought and provided key clues for future molecular breeding in Z. bungeanum.

Encapsulation of Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil to enhance flavor stability and inhibit lipid oxidation of Chinese-style sausage

BACKGROUND

Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil (ZBEO) is a popular seasoning, commonly used in the food industry. It contains many easily degraded and highly volatile bioactive substances. Control of the stability of the bioactive substances in ZBEO is therefore very important in the food industry.

RESULTS

In this study, microencapsulation was applied to improve ZBEO stability. The key parameters for microcapsule preparation were optimized by the Box-Behnken design method, and the optimum conditions were as follows: ratio of core to wall, 1:8; ratio of hydroxypropyl-α-cyclodextrin (HPCD) to soy protein isolate (SPI), 4; total solids content, 12%; and homogenization speed, 12 000 rpm. Antioxidant experiments have indicated that tea polyphenols (TPPs) effectively inhibited hydroxy-α-sanshool degradation in ZBEO microcapsules. Application of ZBEO microcapsules in Chinese-style sausage effectively inhibited lipid oxidation in sausages and protected hydroxy-α-sanshool and typical volatiles from volatilization and degradation during sausage storage.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that ZBEO microencapsulation is an effective strategy for improving the stability of its bioactive components and flavor ingredients during food processing. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the Growth-Regulating Factor Family in Zanthoxylum armatum DC and Functional Analysis of ZaGRF6 in Leaf Size and Longevity Regulation

Growth-regulating factors (GRFs) are plant-specific transcription factors that play an important role in plant growth and development. In this study, fifteen GRF gene members containing QLQ and WRC domains were identified in Zanthoxylum armatum. Phylogenetic and collinearity analysis showed that ZaGRFs were closely related to CsGRFs and AtGRFs, and distantly related to OsGRFs. There are a large number of cis-acting elements related to hormone response and stress induction in the GRF gene promoter region of Z. armatum. Tissue-specific expression analysis showed that except for ZaGRF7, all the ZaGRFs were highly expressed in young parts with active growth and development, including terminal buds, seeds, and young flowers, suggesting their key roles in Z. armatum growth and development. Eight ZaGRFs were selected to investigate the transcriptional response to auxin, gibberellin and drought treatments. A total of six ZaGRFs in the NAA treatment, four ZaGRFs in the GA₃ treatment, and six ZaGRFs in the PEG treatment were induced and significantly up-regulated. Overexpression of ZaGRF6 increased branching and chlorophyll content and delayed senescence of transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana. ZaGRF6 increased the expression of CRF2 and suppressed the expression of ARR4 and CKX1, indicating that ZaGRF6 is involved in cytokinin metabolism and signal transduction. These research results lay a foundation for further analysis of the GRF gene function of Z. armatum and provide candidate genes for growth, development, and stress resistance breeding of Z. armatum.