Structural characterization and identification of major constituents in Jitai tablets by high-performance liquid chromatography/diode-array detection coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry

Corydaline alleviates Parkinson's disease by regulating autophagy and GSK-3β phosphorylation

BACKGROUND

Jitai tablet, a traditional Chinese medicine, has a neuroprotective effect on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson's disease (PD) mice. As one of the main active ingredients in the Jitai tablet, corydaline (Cory) has analgesic and anti-allergic effects, but it has not been studied in PD. Here, we investigated the role and mechanism of Cory in PD.

METHODS

The PD model was induced by MPTP. Cell viability was measured by 3-(4, 5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3, 5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide assay. The Pole test and traction test were performed to detect the behaviors of mice. The expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Immunofluorescence staining, monodansylcadaverine staining, and Western blot were conducted to assess autophagy. A lactic dehydrogenase release assay was used to detect cytotoxicity. Network pharmacology was used to screen the targets.

RESULTS

There existed cytotoxicity when the concentration of Cory reached 40 μg/mL. Cory (not exceeding 20 μg/mL) could alleviate MPTP-induced cell damage. In vivo experiments indicated that Cory could improve the motor coordination of mice with PD. Besides, Cory could increase LC3-II/LC3-I levels both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, the Th levels reduced in the striatum and middle brain tissues of Parkinson's mice were recovered by Cory injection. We also found that Cory decreased the phosphorylation of glucogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) at Tyr216 and increased the phosphorylation of GSK-3β at Ser9 not only in primary neurons and SH-SY5Y cells but also in the striatum and middle brain tissues. Furthermore, Cory increased LC3-II/LC3-I levels and decreased p62 levels by regulating GSK-3β.

CONCLUSION

Cory enhanced autophagy, attenuated MPTP-induced cytotoxicity, and alleviated PD partly through the regulation of GSK-3β phosphorylation.

Dereplication of tropane alkaloids from four Erythroxylum species using liquid chromatography coupled with ESI-MSn and HRESIMS

RATIONALE

Tropane alkaloids represent an important class of secondary metabolites, but many of these compounds are already described in the scientific literature, so the use of guided identification and isolation strategies, such as dereplication, represent a fast and safe alternative.

METHODS

For the annotation of the tropane alkaloids the chloroform phases of the four Erythroxylum species were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry with positive-mode electrospray ionization, then the ions of their protonated molecules, molecular formulas and fragmentation patterns were observed and a comparison of the obtained data with those present in the scientific literature was performed. The compounds not fully annotated were isolated and characterized by 1 H and 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

RESULTS

The annotation of 29 tropane alkaloids was performed, some being described for the first time in the family Erythroxylaceae. The chemical profiles of these secondary metabolites in the four Erythroxylum species analyzed were traced and compared. Isolation of three compounds whose mass spectral data were not sufficient for their full annotation was performed. They were 6-(benzoyloxy)-3-(3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxybenzoyloxy)tropane, 6-(benzoyloxy)-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyloxy)tropane and 6-(benzoyloxy)-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxycinamoyloxy)tropane, first reported in the species Erythroxylum revolutum Mart.

CONCLUSIONS

This work contributes to the phytochemical knowledge of the genus Erythroxylum, and demonstrates the efficiency and importance of using guided isolation methodologies of secondary metabolites in natural products research. Since safe results were presented in the annotation of the compounds evidenced, employing small quantities of organic solvents, when compared to classical methodologies, besides promoting an optimization in the research time.

Exploring the Traditional Uses of Thymbra capitata Infusion in Algarve (Portugal): Anti-Inflammatory, Wound Healing, and Anti-Aging

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the resolution of infection or tissue damage. In addition, inflammation is considered a hallmark of aging, which in turn compromises wound healing. Thymbra capitata is an aromatic plant, whose infusion is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing agent. In this study, a T. capitata infusion was prepared and characterized by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn and its safety profile determined by the resazurin metabolic assay. The anti-inflammatory potential was revealed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages by assessing nitric oxide (NO) release and levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the interleukin-1β pro-form (pro-IL-1β). Wound-healing capacity was determined using the scratch assay. The activity of senescence-associated β-galactosidase was used to unveil the anti-senescent potential, along with the nuclear accumulation of yH2AX and p21 levels. The antiradical potential was assessed by DPPH and ABTS scavenging assays. The infusion contains predominantly rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acids. The extract decreased NO, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β levels. Interestingly, the extract promoted wound healing and decreased β-galactosidase activity, as well as yH2AX and p21 levels. The present work highlights strong antiradical, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing capacities, corroborating the traditional uses ascribed to this plant. We have described, for the first time for this extract, anti-senescent properties.

Rationalising the retro-Diels-Alder fragmentation pattern of viscutins using electrospray interface-tandem mass spectrometry coupled to theoretical modelling

RATIONALE

Although mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool in structural elucidation of unknown flavonoids based on their unique fragmentation patterns, proposing the correct fragmentation mechanism is still a challenge from tandem mass spectrometry data only. In recent years, computational tools such as molecular networking and MS2LDA have played a major role in the identification of structurally related compounds through an in-depth survey of their fragmentation patterns.

METHODS

Therefore, in this study, three viscutin molecules in Viscum combreticola Engl. crude extracts were characterised using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry and MS2LDA, a computational tool. Ion-trap mass spectrometry and density functional theoretical modelling were used as confirmatory tools to rationalise the unique fragmentation patterns observed for these molecules.

RESULTS

Here, MS2LDA revealed the presence of a unique Mass2Motif in all the three viscutin molecules at m/z 137, which was confirmed to be a ^1,3 A^- RDA (retro-Diels-Alder) fragmentation product using liquid chromatography-ion-trap mass spectrometry and density functional theoretical modelling. Moreover, MS2LDA proved to be useful in differentiating this spectral feature that was specific to viscutin molecules in the presence of other isobaric ions at m/z 137 occurring in compounds in other molecular families.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, the results of the current study showed that computational tools such as MS2LDA are essential in uncovering some gas-phase fragmentation reactions of molecules in MS and that theoretical modelling is a powerful tool in rationalising these reactions in metabolite identification.

Effect of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav. on Inflammation, Senescence and Cell Migration

Aromatic plants are reported to display pharmacological properties, including anti-aging. This work aims to disclose the anti-aging effect of the essential oil (EO) of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav., an aromatic and medicinal plant widely used as a spice, as well as of the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW), a discarded by-product of EO hydrodistillation. The phytochemical characterization of EO and HRW was assessed by GC-MS and HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSⁿ, respectively. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays were used to disclose the antioxidant properties. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages by assessing NO production, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β protein levels. Cell migration was evaluated using the scratch wound assay, and the etoposide-induced senescence was used to assess the modulation of senescence. The EO is mainly characterized by carvacrol, while the HRW is predominantly characterized by rosmarinic acid. The HRW exerts a stronger antioxidant effect in the DPPH and FRAP assays, whereas the EO was the most active sample in the ABTS assay. Both extracts reduce NO, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β. The EO has no effect on cell migration and presents anti-senescence effects. In opposition, HRW reduces cell migration and induces cellular senescence. Overall, our study highlights interesting pharmacological properties for both extracts, EO being of interest as an anti-aging ingredient and HRW relevant in cancer therapy.

In vitro and in silico β-lactamase inhibitory properties and phytochemical profile of Ocimum basilicum cultivated in central delta of Egypt

CONTEXT

Some studies reported the chemical content and antimicrobial properties of Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae), relevant to the ecological variations in some areas of Egypt and other countries, yet no research was conducted on the plant cultivated in the central delta region of Egypt. Also, no previous data reported on inhibition of β-lactamases by O. basilicum.

OBJECTIVE

To assess β-lactamases inhibition by O. basilicum extracts and the individual constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dried aerial parts of O. basilicum were extracted by hydrodistillation for preparation of essential oil and by methanol for non-volatile constituents. Essential oil content and the methanol extract were analysed by GC-MS and UPLC-PDA-MS/MS, respectively. Methyl cinnamate was isolated and analysed by NMR. Broth microdilution method was used to investigate the antimicrobial against resistant clinical isolates of Escherichia coli identified by double disc synergy, combination disc tests and PCR. The most active oil content was further tested with a nitrocefin kit for β-lactamase inhibition and investigated by docking.

RESULTS

O. basilicum was found to contain methyl cinnamate as the major content of the essential oil. More interestingly, methyl cinnamate inhibited ESBL β-lactamases of the type CTX-M. The in vitro IC₅₀ using nitrocefin kit was 11.6 µg/mL vs. 8.1 µg/mL for clavulanic acid as a standard β-lactamase inhibitor.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to report the inhibitory activity of O. basilicum oil and methyl cinnamate against β-lactamase-producing bacteria. The results indicate that methyl cinnamate could be a potential alternative for β-lactamase inhibition.

Agathis robusta Bark Extract Protects from Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Phytochemical, In Silico and In Vivo Studies

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) is associated with a high incidence of mortality. Existing therapies are mainly supportive, with no available nephroprotective agent. The purpose of this study is to examine the potential protective effect of Agathis robusta Bark Extract (ARBE) in RIRI. Methods: The chemical composition of ARBE was examined by LC-ESI-MS/MS. Network pharmacology was utilized to identify the RIRI molecular targets that could be aimed at by the identified major components of ARBE. Experimentally validated protein–protein interactions (PPIs) and compound-target networks were constructed using the STRING database and Cytoscape software. Molecular docking studies were employed to assess the interaction of the most relevant ARBE compounds with the hub RIRI-related targets. Furthermore, ARBE was tested in a rat model of RIRI. Results: The phytochemical analysis identified 95 components in ARBE, 37 of which were majors. Network analysis identified 312 molecular targets of RIRI that were associated with ARBE major compounds. Of these 312, the top targets in the experimentally validated PPI network were HSP90, EGFR, and P53. The most relevant compounds based on their peak area and network degree value included narcissoside, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside, and syringetin-3-O-glucoside, among others. Docking studies of the most relevant compounds revealed significant interactions with the top RIRI-related targets. In the in vivo RIRI experiments, pretreatment of ARBE improved kidney function and structural changes. ARBE reduced the renal expression of p-NfkB and cleaved caspase-3 by downregulating HSP90 and P53 in rats exposed to RIRI. Conclusion: Taken together, this study revealed the chemical composition of ARBE, depicted the interrelationship of the bioactive ingredients of ARBE with the RIRI-related molecular targets, and validated a nephroprotective effect of ARBE in RIRI.

Characterization of effective phytochemicals in traditional Chinese medicine by mass spectrometry

Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been widely used in clinical and healthcare applications around the world. The characterization of the phytochemical components in TCMs is very important for studying the therapeutic mechanism of TCMs. In the analysis process, sample preparation and instrument analysis are key steps to improve analysis performance and accuracy. In recent years, chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (MS) has been widely used for the separation and detection of trace components in complex TCM samples. This article reviews various sample preparation techniques and chromatography-MS techniques, including the application of gas chromatography-MS and liquid chromatography-MS and other MS techniques in the characterization of phytochemicals in TCM materials and Chinese medicine products. This article also describes a new ambient ionization MS method for rapid and high-throughput analysis of TCM components.

Cardiovascular Effects Induced by Fruit Peels from Passiflora edulis in Hypertensive Rats and Fingerprint Analysis by HPLC-ESI-MSn spectrometry

Hypertension is a chronic disease and a global health problem. Due to its high prevalence, it constitutes the most important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fruit peels from Passiflora edulis fo. flavicarpa are rich in bioactive natural compounds that may have action in hypertension. This study aimed to perform a fingerprinting analysis of Passiflora edulis fruit peel extract and evaluate its actions on the cardiovascular system in an in vivo model. The extract was obtained from the dried and powdered fruit peels of Passiflora edulis. Glycoside flavonoids were identified in the extract by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ. The extract showed a significant hypotensive effect after 28 days of treatment and improved vascular function in the mesenteric artery. This effect was verified by decreased vascular hypercontractility and increased vasorelaxant in response to sodium nitroprusside and acetylcholine. There was also a decrease in endothelial dysfunction, which can be attributed to nitric oxide's increased bioavailability. Thus, we hypothesize that all these effects contributed to a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance, leading to a significant hypotensive effect. These results are novel for fruit peels from P. edulis. Also, there was a decrease in plasma and cardiac malondialdehyde levels and an increase in glutathione, suggesting a reduction in oxidative stress, as well as an increase of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 in the plasma. This study demonstrated that the extract can be a new source of raw material to be applied as food or medicine adjuvant for treating hypertension.

UPLC MS/MS Profile and Antioxidant Activities from Nonpolar Fraction of Patiwala (Lantana camara) Leaves Extract

One of the plants used in Indonesian traditional medicine, namely, Patiwala (Lantana camara), is traditionally used to treat some diseases, including itching, wounds, ulcers, swelling, eczema, tetanus, malaria, tumors, rheumatism, and headaches. This study aimed to characterize the compound nonpolar fraction of Patiwala leaf capable of scavenging free radicals. The characterization of compound was carried out using the Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography–tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) with positive ion method, while the antioxidant testing was carried out using the radical DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhidrazyl) and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) methods. The results showed that the nonpolar fraction of the methanol extract of L. camara leaves was very strong toward DPPH radicals (IC50 34.65 ± 1.26 μg/mL and 40.23 ± 0.18 μg/mL), and FRAP radical (IC50 4.93 ± 0.22 μg/mL and 12.79 ± 0.09 μg/mL). Nineteen compounds identified by UPLC-MS/MS method were Resveratrol dimer, iso-humolones, oleuropein glucoside, quercetin-3-O-glycoside, myricetin, oleuropein, 12-deoxy-16-hydroxy-phorbol, aloeresin A, humulones, ursolic acid, viniferin, Epicatechin, oleanolic acid, 5-hydroxy-3′,4′,7-trimerthoxy-flavanone, Apigenin-6,8-di-C-β-D-glucoside, procyanidin A2, caffeoyl-O-hexoside, tansihnone IIA, and phillyrin. The methanolic extract of L. camara leaves can be developed as a source of antioxidants from natural ingredients.

Nephroprotective activity of Aframomum melegueta seeds extract against diclofenac-induced acute kidney injury: A mechanistic study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Africa, Aframomum species have been traditionally used to treat illnesses such as inflammation, hypertension, diarrhea, stomachache and fever. Moreover, Aframomum melegueta seed extracts (AMSE) are used in traditional medicine to relieve stomachaches and inflammatory diseases.

AIM

Chronic administration of diclofenac (DIC) has been reported to cause acute kidney injury (AKI), which is a serious health condition. The nephroprotective effect of AMSE is yet to be elucidated. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate the phytoconstituents of standardized AMSE, evaluate its nephroprotective effects against DIC-induced AKI in rats, and elaborate its underlying molecular mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The quantitative estimation of major AMSE constituents and profiling of its secondary metabolites were conducted via RP-HPLC and LC-ESI/Triple TOF/MS, respectively. Next, DIC (50 mg/kg)-induced AKI was achieved in Sprague-Dawley rats and DIC-challenged rats were administered AMSE (100 and 200 mg/kg) orally. All treatments were administered for five consecutive days. Blood samples were collected and the sera were used for estimating creatinine, urea and, kidney injury molecule (KIM)-1 levels. Kidney specimens were histopathologically assessed and immunohistochemically examined for c-Myc expression. A portion of the kidney tissue was homogenized and examined for levels of oxidative stress markers (MDA and GSH). Heme oxygenase (HO)-1, TNF-α, IL-6, Bax, Bcl2 and caspase-3 renal levels were quantified by ELISA. Moreover, the protein expression levels of NF-ҡB p65 was quantified using Western blot analysis, whereas mRNA expression levels of AMPK, SIRT-1, nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and STAT3 were detected using qRT-PCR in the remaining kidney tissues.

RESULTS

Standardized AMSE was shown to primarily contain 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol and 6-paradol among the 73 compounds that were detected via LC-ESI/Triple TOF/MS including phenolic acids, hydroxyphenylalkanes, diarylheptanoids and fatty acids. Relative to DIC-intoxicated rats, AMSE modulated serum creatinine, urea, KIM-1, renal MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, Bax, and caspase-3 levels. AMSE has also improved renal tissue architecture, enhanced GSH and HO-1 levels, and upregulated renal Nrf2, AMPK, and SIRT-1 mRNA expression levels. Furthermore, AMSE suppressed NF-ҡB p65 protein and STAT3 mRNA expression, and further reduced c-Myc immunohistochemical expression in renal tissues. Overall, our findings revealed that AMSE counteracted DIC-induced AKI via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities. Moreover, AMSE activated Nrf2/HO1 and AMPK/SIRT1, and inhibited NF-ҡB/STAT3 signaling pathways. Therefore, AMSE is a promising agent for inhibiting DIC-induced nephrotoxicity.

Quality Assessment of Insamyangpye Decoction by Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Multiple Reaction Monitoring

Insamyangpye decoction (ISYPD) is an oriental herbal prescription used in Korea to treat lung-related diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. ISYPD is a complex prescription consisting of 13 herbal medicines, and ISYPD sample was obtained by adding 50 L of distilled water to a mixture (5 kg) of 13 herbal medicines, extracting at 100 °C for 2 h using an electric extractor, and freeze-drying. In this study, an accurate and sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method based on multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) was developed and verified for quality assessment of ISYPD using 10 marker components: mulberroside A (1), amygdalin (2), liquiritin apioside (3), naringin (4), poncirin (5), platycodin D (6), ginsenoside Rb1 (7), glycyrrhizin (8), saikosaponin A (9), and schizandrin (10). These marker compounds were separated using an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.7 μm) maintained at 30 °C with a mobile phase elution gradient of acetonitrile in distilled water, both containing 0.1% (v/v) trifluoroacetic acid. Marker components were quantified using the LC–MS/MS MRM method developed and validated, and found at 0.09–7.47 mg/g.

In vitro anthelmintic activity of Chenopodium album and in-silico prediction of mechanistic role on Eisenia foetida

Helminths born diseases are related to pitiable management practices and improper control strategies. The medicinal plants contain various phytoconstituents that are liable for their anthelmintic activity. The aerial parts of the Chenopodium album were successively extracted with microwaves assisted extraction using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol, hydroalcoholic and aqueous solvents to get respective extracts (CAPE, CAEE, CAME, CAHE, and CAAE). All the extracts were analyzed for preliminary phytochemical screening for the identification of phytoconstituents. The anthelmintic activity was analyzed on Indian adult earthworms Eisenia foetida using piperazine citrate (PCT) as a standard drug. All the extracts (apart from CAAE) lead to paralysis and fatality of the earthworms. CAEE extract exhibits highly significant anthelmintic activity at a 10 mg/ml concentration by causing paralysis and fatality of earthworms and was more potent than PCT suspension. At a concentration of 10 mg/ml, paralysis and death time for CAEE was recorded as (10.08 ± 1.11) and (65.28 ± 2.09) respectively, while for standard piperazine citrate, it was recorded as (22.96 ± 1.12) and (65.09 ± 1.23). The CAEE exhibits two major compounds by LC-MS, i.e., NG and DG, that are mainly accountable for the Chenopodium album anthelmintic activity. The plant possesses GABA-mimetic action and thereby leads to flaccid, reversible paralysis of the body wall muscle.

Crepis vesicaria L. subsp. taraxacifolia Leaves: Nutritional Profile, Phenolic Composition and Biological Properties

Crepis vesicaria subsp. taraxacifolia (Cv) of Asteraceae family is used as food and in traditional medicine. However there are no studies on its nutritional value, phenolic composition and biological activities. In the present work, a nutritional analysis of Cv leaves was performed and its phenolic content and biological properties evaluated. The nutritional profile was achieved by gas chromatography (GC). A 70% ethanolic extract was prepared and characterized by HLPC-PDA-ESI/MSn. The quantification of chicoric acid was determined by HPLC-PDA. Subsequently, it was evaluated its antioxidant activity by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods. The anti-inflammatory activity and cellular viability was assessed in Raw 264.7 macrophages. On wet weight basis, carbohydrates were the most abundant macronutrients (9.99%), followed by minerals (2.74%) (mainly K, Ca and Na), protein (1.04%) and lipids (0.69%), with a low energetic contribution (175.19 KJ/100 g). The Cv extract is constituted essentially by phenolic acids as caffeic, ferulic and quinic acid derivatives being the major phenolic constituent chicoric acid (130.5 mg/g extract). The extract exhibited antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays and inhibited the nitric oxide (NO) production induced by LPS (IC50 = 0.428 ± 0.007 mg/mL) without cytotoxicity at all concentrations tested. Conclusions: Given the nutritional and phenolic profile and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Cv could be a promising useful source of functional food ingredients.

Antidiabetic effects of Syzygium cumini leaves: A non-hemolytic plant with potential against process of oxidation, glycation, inflammation and digestive enzymes catalysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Plant materials are commonly used in traditional medicine in order to treat various diseases such as Diabetes mellitus. Some plants, such as Syzygium cumini, have the capability to act controlling oxidative stress and protein glycation besides their potential to decrease hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia by the inhibition of the catalysis of digestive enzymes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and antiglicant activity of S. cumini leaves fractions, their capacity to inhibit hydrolases and lipase enzymes, as well as the cytotoxicity effects against erythrocytes and comparate these results with isolate quercetin flavonoid.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical researches, carried out by academic studies at the Federal University of Uberlandia, led us to choose S. cumini as a potential plant for treatment of Diabetes mellitus. Fractions from ethanolic extract of S. cumini (hexane/Hex, dichloromethane/DCM, ethyl acetate/EtOAc, n-butanol/ButOH and water/H₂O) were used to evaluate their antioxidant (DPPH, ORAC and FRAP) and antiglycant (BSA/fructose, BSA/methylglyoxal and Arginine/Methylglyoxal) activity as well as the inhibitory potential against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and lipase. In addition, identification of the main bioactive compounds of S. cuimini leaves by HPLC-ESIMS/MS analysis was carried out.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that all fractions, for exception Hex, present noteworthy antioxidant activity, mainly in EtOAc and ButOH fractions (FRAP 1154.49 ± 67.37 and 1178.27 ± 21.26 μmol trolox eq g^-1, respectively; ORAC 1224.63 ± 58.16 and 1313.53 ± 85.23 μmol trolox eq g^-1, respectively; DPPH IC₅₀ 15.7 ± 2.4 and 23.5 ± 2.7 μg mL^-1, respectively). Regarding the antiglycant activity (BSA/fructose and Arginine/Methylglyoxal models), all fraction, for exception Hex, presented inhibition higher than 85%. All fractions were capable to inhibit 100% of α-amylase and the fractions DCM, EtOAc and ButOH inhibited α-glucosidase more than 50%. Regarding the lipase assay, DCM and Hex had the best activity (31.5 ± 14.3 and 44.3 ± 4.5 μg mL^-1, respectively). Various biomolecules known as potent antioxidants were identified in these fractions, such as quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin and (Epi)catechin.

CONCLUSION

S. cumini fractions and quercetin presented promising antioxidant and antiglycation properties as well as the ability to inhibit digestive enzymes. This study presents new biological activities not yet described for S. cumini which provide new possibilities for further studies in order to assess the antidiabetic potential of S. cumini fractions especially EtOAc and ButOH.

Effect of processing on polyphenol profile, aflatoxin concentration and allergenicity of peanuts

Worldwide peanuts are often thermally processed before consumption, which might alter its bioactive composition and toxicity. The presented work explores the effect of processing methods such as roasting, frying, and pressure cooking on the bioactive composition, polyphenol profiles, aflatoxin concentration and, allergenicity response of peanuts. Effect of processing methods was assessed by monitoring total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activity by DPPH & ABTS radicals, sensory analysis and, indirect ELISA. Compared to raw peanuts, all processing methods caused significant differences in TPC, TFC, DPPH & ABTS radical scavenging activities. Comparison of polyphenol profiles of raw to processed peanuts by LC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS chromatograms revealed different effects on concentrations of individual bioactive polyphenols. Indirect ELISA showed a significant decrease in the assay response on pressure cooking as compared to other samples. Total aflatoxin concentration was significantly reduced after processing in roasted (97.7%) and fried (98.3%) peanuts. Optimum processing conditions based on bioactive concentration and sensory analysis were found to be, roasting: 150 °C for 10 min, frying: 170 °C for 2 min and, pressure cooking: 15 min. Polyphenol profiles and bioactive constituents of peanuts were influenced by processing and may alter health benefits associated with them hence, vital for research and food industry applications.

In Vitro Assessment of the Interaction Potential of Ocimum basilicum (L.) Extracts on CYP2B6, 3A4, and Rifampicin Metabolism

Ocimum basilicum L. or basilicum is a common culinary herb, used as a traditional medicine for various medical conditions including HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, in Africa. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of methanol, ethanol, aqueous and ethyl acetate extracts of the dried leaves and inflorescence of O. basilicum, on the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) CYP2B6 and 3A4, as well as esterase-mediated metabolism of rifampicin to 25-O-desacetyl rifampicin (25ODESRIF). Human liver microsomes (HLM) were used to evaluate inhibition and CYP2B6/3A4 mRNA expression HepG2 assays were used to measure induction. Furthermore, the phytoconstituents likely involved in causing the observed effect were analyzed using biochemical tests and LC-MS. The aqueous and methanolic extracts showed reversible and time-dependent inhibition (TDI) of CYP2B6 with TDI-IC₅₀s 33.35 μg/ml (IC₅₀ shift-fold >1.5) and 4.93 μg/ml (IC₅₀ shift-fold >7) respectively, while the methanolic and ethanolic extracts inhibited 25ODESRIF formation (IC₅₀s 31 μg/ml, 8.94 μg/ml). In HepG2 assays, the methanolic and ethanolic extracts moderately induced CYP2B6, 3A4 mRNA with 38%-, 28%-fold shift, and 22%-, 44%-fold shift respectively. LC-MS full scans identified phenols rosmarinic acid [m/z 359 (M-H)^-, approximately 2298 mg/L in aqueous extract] and caftaric acid along with flavones salvigenin [m/z 329 (M+H)⁺, approximately 1855 mg/L in ethanolic extract], eupatorin [m/z 345 (M+H)⁺, 668.772 mg/L in ethanolic extract], rutin [m/z 609 (M-H)^-] and isoquercetin [m/z 463 (M-H)^-] and other compounds—linalool [m/z 153 (M-H)^-], hydroxyjasmonic acid [m/z 225 (M-H)^-], eucommiol [m/z 187 (M-H)^-] and trihydroxy octadecenoic acid [m/z 329 (M-H)^-, 530 mg/L in ethanolic extract]. The putative gastrointestinal tract (GIT) concentration for all extracts was calculated as 2,400 μg/ml and hepatic circulation concentrations were estimated at 805.68 μg/ml for the aqueous extract, and 226.56 μg/ml for methanolic extract. Based on the putative GIT concentration, estimated hepatic circulation concentration [I] and inhibition constant K_i, the predicted percentile of inhibition in vivo was highest for the aqueous extract on CYP2B6 (96.7%). The observations indicated that O. basilicum extracts may have the potential to cause clinically relevant herb-drug interactions (HDI) with CYP2B6 and rifampicin metabolism in vivo, if sufficient hepatic concentrations are reached in humans.

Chemical characterization, computational analysis and biological views on Daphne gnidioides Jaub. & Spach extracts: Can a new raw material be provided for biopharmaceutical applications?

The scientific world tends to turn to natural products such as medicinal and aromatic plants because of the inadequacy of commercially available synthetic drugs as antibiotics or anticancer, and their adverse effects on healthy tissues. One of these plants is Daphne gnidioides Jaub. & Spach, which belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family, and there is no data in the literature on its biological activity. This study is aimed to elucidate the chemical profiles and in vitro anticancer, antibacterial and DNA protection and enzyme inhibitory properties of methanol extracts of root, stem, and leaf of D. gnidioides Jaub. & Spach. Polyphenolic components of the extracts were characterized by HPLC-MS/MS. The highest phenolic content was detected in the leaf extract (TIPC = 43.5 ± 0.5 mg/g DE), followed by stem (TIPC = 27.3 ± 0.7 mg/g DE) and root (TIPC = 18.3 ± 0.2 mg/g DE) extracts. Vicenin-2 and 3-O-p-coumaroyl-5-O-caffeoylquinic acid were the main identified compounds in leaf and both root and stem extracts, respectively. The extracts did not show any protective effect on DNA against experimental Fenton's reagent. The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration values for the root and leaf extracts against tested bacterial strains ranged from 31.25 to 500 μg/mL. After 48 h interaction of the cancer cell lines with the extracts, only the stem extract had significant cytotoxicity on HeLa cells (IC50 = 86.16 μg/mL). No remarkable activity of the extracts, which was tested against MDA-MB-231, was detected (IC50 > 1000 μg/mL). These data showed that D. gnidioides Jaub. & Spach stem extract inhibited the survival of HeLa cells in a time-dependent manner. After the treatment of IC50 concentration of stem extract with HeLa cells, an increase in LC3-II autophagic gene expression was detected. Also, the extracts exhibited significant tyrosinase inhibitory effects which were confirmed by molecular docking. To sum up, the tested extracts could be used as a starting point for the development of new multifunctional drugs.

Infusions of Herbal Blends as Promising Sources of Phenolic Compounds and Bioactive Properties

Several plants have been used for medicinal applications and have been traditionally consumed as decoctions and infusions. Although some herbs are used alone as a beverage, they are often blended in mixtures to maximize their effects. Herein, the nutritional characterization of six infusions from herbal blends was evaluated using the official methods of analysis (AOAC international). A further characterization of the individual phenolic profile was also performed by HPLC-DAD/ESI-MSn, and finally bioactive potential was determined by evaluating the antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities of each blend. The wide variety of plants in each sample led to variability in the results for all analyzed parameters. However, blends containing 15% Laurus nobilis L. and 15% Juglan regia L. in their composition showed higher sugar content and energy contribution; higher concentration of phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids); greater antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory capacity; and also better antimicrobial effects against all the tested bacterial and fungal strains. Further studies will be necessary to evaluate the real synergistic effects that these two species show in the presence of other plants, and to evaluate their potential for application in various food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical products as infusion preparations.

Ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometeric analysis of ethyl acetate fraction from saudi Lavandula coronopifolia Poir and evaluation of its cytotoxic and antioxidant activities

Introduction: The ethyl acetate fraction of the Saudi Lavandula coronopifolia Poir has been previously reported to have hepatoprotective activity against ethanol-induced oxidative stress. The aim of the current study was to investigate the chemical composition, cytotoxic effect, and antioxidant activities of ethyl acetate fraction of the aerial parts of Saudi L. coronopifolia Poir. Methods: Air dried aerial parts of L. coronopifolia were extracted using 90% ethyl alcohol. The dried extract was suspended in water, defatted with light petroleum and then fractionated with ethyl acetate. The ethyl acetate fraction was subjected to ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometeric (UPLC-ESI/MS/MS) analysis in a negative ionization mode. The antioxidant activity of the fraction was determined using free radical 2,2-diphyenyl-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay and its cytotoxic effect against HepG2 (human hepatocarcinoma) and MCF-7 (human breast carcinoma) cells were determined using (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) tetrazolium (MTT) cell viability assay. Results: The major components of the ethyl acetate fraction included carvacrol-O-diglucoside, (34.98%) and trihydroxy ursolic acid (12.07%). Moreover, the DPPH radical scavenging activity of ethyl acetate fraction was measured. The ethyl acetate fraction revealed an antioxidant potential with EC50 17.8 ± 1.3 µg/mL. Additionally, he ethyl acetate fraction showed cytotoxic activity against HepG-2 and MCF-7 cells with IC50=29.3 ± 0.9 µg/mL and 14.6 ± 0.3 µg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: The ethyl acetate fraction of the Saudi L. coronopifolia has antioxidant activity and also cytotoxic activity against breast and liver cancer cells.

Benefits of the ipowder® extraction process applied to Melissa officinalis L.: improvement of antioxidant activity and in vitro gastro-intestinal release profile of rosmarinic acid

The objective of this study was to evaluate the benefits of a new extraction process, the ipowder® technology, applied to Melissa officinalis L. Compared to M. officinalis ground dry leaves, the ipowder® had a similar phytochemical fingerprint but contained twice the concentration of rosmarinic acid (by HPTLC and HPLC) and had a two-fold greater antioxidant activity (DPPH* method). In vitro digestion experiments (TIM-1 model) showed better availability of rosmarinic acid for intestinal absorption with the ipowder® than with ground dry leaves, manifested by a three-fold reduction in the quantity of ingested product needed for delivery of the same amount of rosmarinic acid into the upper gastro-intestinal tract. This study shows that the ipowder® technology preserves all the original plant compounds intact while making some active ingredients more accessible and available to exert their effects. To obtain a given effect, the amount of ipowder® extract to ingest will therefore be lower; a reduction in the daily dosage will be more convenient for the patient and will improve patient compliance with supplementation.

The Contribution of Carotenoids, Phenolic Compounds, and Flavonoids to the Antioxidative Properties of Marine Microalgae Isolated from Mediterranean Morocco

This study aimed to investigate the potential of four sea water microalgae, isolated and cultivated at M′diq Bay in Morocco, as a new source of natural antioxidants. These microalgae belong to different classes, including Phaedactylium tricornitum (Bacillariophyceae), Nannochloropsis gaditana (Eustigmatophyceae), Nannochloris sp (Trebouxiophyceae), and Tetraselmis suecica (Chlorodendrophycea). The antioxidant properties were screened by the use of in vitro assays, namely 2,2-difenil-1-picrylhydrazyl, Ferric reducing antioxidant power, and Ferrous ions chelating activity, and compoundidentification was carried out in methanol and acetone extracts of both dried and fresh microalgae biomass by HPLC–PDA–MS analysis. Among the investigated microalgae, Phaedactylium tricornutum was the richest one regarding its carotenoid (especially all-E-fucoxanthin) and phenolic (especially protocatechuic acid) contents, as well as antioxidant activity (65.5%), followed by Nannochloris sp, Tetraselmis suicica, and Nannochloropsis gaditana, with antioxidant activity of 56.8%, 54.9%, and 51.1%, respectively.

Therapeutic Use of Scoparia dulcis Reduces the Progression of Experimental Osteoarthritis

Pain is recognized as one of the main symptoms in knee osteoarthritis and is the main reason why patients seek medical attention. Scoparia dulcis has been popularly used to relieve discomfort caused by various painful conditions. The objective of the study is to evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect of the crude extract of S. dulcis, in an experimental model of osteoarthritis. The experiment was performed with Wistar rats divided into 4 groups with 5 animals each: healthy, saline, crude extract, and meloxicam groups. Knee osteoarthritis was induced by intra-articular injection of sodium mono-iodoacetate. First, clinical parameters of pain were assessed at days 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 after induction. Second, the potential cyclooxygenase inhibition was evaluated, and the cytokines of the synovial fluid were quantified. An in silico test and Molecular Docking tests were performed. A histopathological evaluation was made on articular cartilage with safranin O staining. The results showed that a 15-day treatment with crude extract reduced edema, spontaneous pain, peripheral nociceptive activity, and proinflammatory cytokines in the synovial fluid. The highest inhibition of cyclooxygenase 2 in the crude extract occurred at 50 µg/mL. The crude extract of S. dulcis presents therapeutic potential for the treatment of osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive action.

Comparative metabolite fingerprinting of legumes using LC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics

Legumes are a well-known source of phytochemicals and are commonly believed to have similar composition between different genera. To date, there are no studies evaluating changes in legumes to discover those compounds that help to discriminate for food quality and authenticity. The aim of this work was to characterize and make a comparative analysis of the composition of bioactive compounds between Cicer arietinum L. (chickpea), Lens culinaris L. (lentil) and Phaseolus vulgaris L. (white bean) through an LC-MS-Orbitrap metabolomic approach to establish which compounds discriminate between the three studied legumes. Untargeted metabolomic analysis was carried out by LC-MS-Orbitrap from extracts of freeze-dried legumes prepared from pre-cooked canned legumes. The metabolomic data treatment and statistical analysis were realized by using MAIT R's package, and final identification and characterization was done using MSⁿ experiments. Fold-change evaluation was made through Metaboanalyst 4.0. Results showed 43 identified and characterized compounds displaying differences between the three legumes. Polyphenols, mainly flavonol and flavanol compounds, were the main group with 30 identified compounds, followed by α-galactosides (n = 5). Fatty acyls, prenol lipids, a nucleoside and organic compounds were also characterized. The fold-change analysis showed flavanols as the wider class of discriminative compounds of lentils compared to the other legumes; prenol lipids and eucomic acids were the most discriminative compounds of beans versus other legumes and several phenolic acids (such as primeveroside salycilic), kaempferol derivatives, coumesterol and α-galactosides were the most discriminative compounds of chickpeas. This study highlights the applicability of metabolomics for evaluating which are the characteristic compounds of the different legumes. In addition, it describes the future application of metabolomics as tool for the quality control of foods and authentication of different kinds of legumes.

Chemical compounds as well as antioxidant and litholytic activities of Arbutus unedo L. leaves against calcium oxalate stones

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to quantify and identify the bioactive compounds of the Arbutus unedo L. leaves in order to evaluate both their antioxidant properties and litholytic activities against calcium oxalate stones.

METHODS

This survey was carried out using hydroalcoholic extract (E.FA) and infusion (I.FA) of A. unedo leaves. The quantification of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, flavonols and anthocyanins was done by spectrophotometric methods and identification of chemical components was performed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Antioxidant activity was measured using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method and by the ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Litholytic activity of E.FA and I.FA was studied using a special model that resembles circuitry of the urinary system.

RESULTS

E.FA showed greater antioxidant efficacy than I.FA (P < 0.05). Its higher efficiency was shown via the values of median inhibitory concentration, which was close to (76.14 ± 0.91) µg/mL for E.FA versus (202.64 ± 5.77) μg/mL for I.FA using the DPPH method, and (53.77 ± 0.81) μg/mL for E.FA versus (236.86 ± 31.90) μg/mL for I.FA, using FRAP method. I.FA exhibited significantly higher litholytic activity compared to E.FA (P < 0.05), with dissolution values of 31.03% ± 0.63% versus 14.55% ± 0.65%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results suggest that the A. unedo is rich in bioactive compounds, and possesses antioxidant and litholitic abilities that are worthy of further study.

Mass spectrometry imaging guided molecular networking to expedite discovery and structural analysis of agarwood natural products

Structural analysis of biomolecules is essential to natural product discovery, especially for precious biomaterials such as agarwood. However, one of the greatest challenges to the characterization of natural products is the profound cost in time and manpower to the structural elucidation of these highly diverse compounds. Here, we demonstrate a multi-modal mass spectrometric strategy, integrating matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) and mass spectral molecular networking, to uncover agarwood natural products of Aquilaria sinensis trees. A simple workflow for preparing wood sections for MALDI-MSI analysis was demonstrated. Notably, tens of natural products in the agarwood region in wood stem section of A. sinensis were spatially revealed by MALDI-MSI. For the first time, such a great number of plant specialized metabolites is obtained by a single wood section MSI. Guided by the spatially resolved features, mass spectral molecular networking was subsequently applied for structural analysis of the agarwood natural products, in which three major classes of 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromones and their analogues were putatively characterized. These results suggest an efficient strategy to the dereplication of plant natural products.

Basal and Spasmolytic Effects of a Hydroethanolic Leaf Extract of Melissa officinalis L. on Intestinal Motility: An Ex Vivo Study

Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm) has been used for decades with symptomatic benefits in patients with digestive disorders. However, very little is known on the effects of M. officinalis on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In this study, the basal and spasmolytic properties of a hydroethanolic leaf extract (HLE) of M. officinalis were assessed ex vivo on different segments of the GI tract of mice after phytochemical characterization of the extract. M. officinalis HLE had site- and dose-dependent effects on the contractile activity of the GI tract, the motility response being impacted in the jejunum and ileum but not in the antrum and colon. The observed effects could be caused by the phenolic compounds (mainly rosmarinic acid) detected in the extract.

Chemical characterization and acaricidal activity of Drimia maritima (L) bulbs and Dittrichia viscosa leaves against Dermanyssus gallinae

The emergence of resistance to chemical acaricides in Dermanyssus gallinae, together with their toxicity and high costs, has prompted investigations into the use of plant extracts as alternatives to chemical acaricidal treatments. Drimia maritima bulbs and Dittrichia viscosa (D. viscosa) leaf extracts were here characterized by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS, and their toxicity against D. gallinae was evaluated using contact methods. Twenty-nine compounds were identified in D. maritima extracts, with glucoscilliphaeoside derivatives (i.e., quercetin, kaempferol and bufadienolides) as the major components. Twenty-four phenolic compounds, mainly caffeic acid derivatives, were detected in D. viscosa extracts. D. maritima extracts displayed a significantly higher (p < 0.05) acaricidal activity than D. viscosa extracts, with 100% of D. gallinae mortality at a concentration of 100 mg/mL following 24 h exposure. The mortality rate of D. gallinae induced by D. viscosa extracts ranged from 25 to 45% following 48 h exposure at a concentration of 200 mg/mL. The acetonic extract of D. viscosa and D. maritima displayed the highest efficacy against D. gallinae. This study provides evidence of the diversity of bioactive compounds present in D. maritima bulbs and D. viscosa leaf extracts, which are both efficacious against D. gallinae. The higher efficacy of D. maritima bulb extracts might be linked to the presence of bufadienolides in its extracts.

Comparative Analysis of Chemical Constituents of Moringa oleifera Leaves from China and India by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Quadrupole-Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

With the aim to discuss the similarities and differences of phytochemicals in Moringa oleifera leaves collected from China (CML) and India (IML) in mind, comparative ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) analysis was performed in this study. A screening analysis based on a UNIFI platform was first carried out to discuss the similarities. Next, untargeted metabolomic analysis based on multivariate statistical analysis was performed to discover the differences. As a result, a total of 122 components, containing 118 shared constituents, were characterized from CML and IML. The structure types included flavonoids, alkaloids, glyosides, organic acids and organic acid esters, iridoids, lignans, and steroids, etc. For CML, 121 compounds were characterized; among these, 18 potential biomarkers with higher contents enabled differentiation from IML. For IML, 119 compounds were characterized; among these, 12 potential biomarkers with higher contents enabled differentiation from CML. It could be concluded that both CML and IML are rich in phytochemicals and that CML is similar to IML in the kinds of the compounds it contains, except for the significant differences in the contents of some compounds. This comprehensive phytochemical profile study provides a basis for explaining the effect of different growth environments on secondary metabolites and exists as a reference for further research into or applications of CML in China.

Protective and restorative effects of the traditional Chinese medicine Jitai tablet against methamphetamine-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity

Background

Methamphetamine (METH) is a psychostimulant with high abuse liability that affects the monoamine neurotransmitter systems, particularly the dopamine system. Currently there are no effective medications for the treatment of METH abuse to restore METH-induced dopaminergic dysfunction. The Jitai tablet (JTT), a commercial traditional Chinese medicinal preparation, has been shown to modulate the dopaminergic function both in heroin addicts and in morphine-dependent rats. The purpose of this study was to investigate, in a rodent model, whether JTT can protect against METH-induced neurotoxicity, and/or restore METH-damaged dopaminergic function.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining and/or autoradiography staining were used to detect tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the substantia nigra, and to examine the levels of dopamine transporter (DAT), dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) and TH levels in the striatum. Using a stereotyped behavior rating scale, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of JTT on METH-induced behavioral sensitization.

Results

Repeated METH administration induced obvious stereotyped behavior and neurotoxicity on the dopaminergic system. Pre-treatment with JTT significantly attenuated METH-induced stereotyped responses, and interdicted METH-induced changes in the levels of DAT, D2R and TH expression. Treatment with JTT after METH administration restored DAT, D2R and TH expression to normal levels.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that JTT protects against METH-induced neurotoxicity and restores the dopaminergic function, and thus might be a potential treatment for the dopaminergic deficits associated with METH abuse.

Cretan tea (Origanum dictamnus L.) as a functional beverage: an investigation on antiglycative and carbonyl trapping activities

Chemical characterization of dittany infusion and its inhibitory effects on AGEs formation at different stages of the glycation reaction were investigated.

The Applications and Features of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry in the Analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicine

With increasingly improved separation of complex samples and detection of unknown material capabilities, liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) research. This article describes the principles of liquid chromatography (LC) and mass spectrometry (MS) and their advantages and disadvantages in qualitative and quantitative analysis of TCM. We retrieved research literatures about the application of LC-MS in TCM published during the past five years at home and abroad. To better guide the analysis of TCM, this review mainly focuses on the applications category of LC-MS, how often different kinds of LC-MS are used, and the qualitative and quantitative ability of various LC-MS in the study of TCM.

NanoESI-MS-based lipidomics to discriminate between cultivars, cultivation ages, and parts of Panax ginseng

Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) is one of the most popular medicinal herbs used in Asia, including Korea and China. In the present study lipid profiling of two officially registered cultivars (P. ginseng 'Chunpoong' and P. ginseng 'Yunpoong') was performed at different cultivation ages (5 and 6 years) and on different parts (tap roots, lateral roots, and rhizomes) using nano-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (nanoESI-MS). In total, 30 compounds including galactolipids, phospholipids, triacylglycerols, and ginsenosides were identified. Among them, triacylglycerol 54:6 (18:2/18:2/18:2), phosphatidylglycerol 34:3 (16:0/18:3), monogalactosyldiacylglycerol 36:4 (18:2/18:2), phosphatidic acid species 36:4 (18:2/18:2), and 34:1 (16:0/18:1) were selected as biomarkers to discriminate cultivars, cultivation ages, and parts. In addition, an unknown P. ginseng sample was successfully predicted by applying validated partial least squares projection to latent structures regression models. This is the first study regarding the identification of intact lipid species from P. ginseng and to predict cultivars, cultivation ages, and parts of P. ginseng using nanoESI-MS-based lipidomic profiling with a multivariate statistical analysis.

Comparative Analysis of Phenolic Compound Characterization and Their Biosynthesis Genes between Two Diverse Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Varieties Differing for Chapatti (Unleavened Flat Bread) Quality

Phenolic compounds (PCs) affect the bread quality and can also affect the other types of end-use food products such as chapatti (unleavened flat bread), now globally recognized wheat-based food product. The detailed analysis of PCs and their biosynthesis genes in diverse bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) varieties differing for chapatti quality have not been studied. In this study, the identification and quantification of PCs using UPLC-QTOF-MS and/or MS/MS and functional genomics techniques such as microarrays and qRT-PCR of their biosynthesis genes have been studied in a good chapatti variety, "C 306" and a poor chapatti variety, "Sonalika." About 80% (69/87) of plant phenolic compounds were tentatively identified in these varieties. Nine PCs (hinokinin, coutaric acid, fertaric acid, p-coumaroylqunic acid, kaempferide, isorhamnetin, epigallocatechin gallate, methyl isoorientin-2'-O-rhamnoside, and cyanidin-3-rutinoside) were identified only in the good chapatti variety and four PCs (tricin, apigenindin, quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, and myricetin-3-glucoside) in the poor chapatti variety. Therefore, about 20% of the identified PCs are unique to each other and may be "variety or genotype" specific PCs. Fourteen PCs used for quantification showed high variation between the varieties. The microarray data of 44 phenolic compound biosynthesis genes and 17 of them on qRT-PCR showed variation in expression level during seed development and majority of them showed low expression in the good chapatti variety. The expression pattern in the good chapatti variety was largely in agreement with that of phenolic compounds. The level of variation of 12 genes was high between the good and poor chapatti quality varieties and has potential in development of markers. The information generated in this study can be extended onto a larger germplasm set for development of molecular markers using QTL and/or association mapping approaches for their application in wheat breeding.

Fragmentation reactions using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry: an important tool for the structural elucidation and characterization of synthetic and natural products

Over the last decade, the number of studies reporting the use of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) in combination with collision cells (or other activation methods) to promote fragmentation of synthetic and natural products for structural elucidation purposes has considerably increased. However, the lack of a systematic compilation of the gas-phase fragmentation reactions subjected to ESI-MS/MS conditions still represents a challenge and has led to many misunderstood results in the literature. This review article exploits the most common fragmentation reactions for ions generated by ESI in positive and negative modes using collision cells in an effort to stimulate the use of this technique by non-specialists, undergraduate students and researchers in related areas.

Longitudinal changes of dopamine transporters in heroin users during abstinence

RATIONALE

Chronic exposure to heroin results in decreased dopamine transporter levels. Jitai tablets, a traditional Chinese medicine, have been effective at increasing striatal dopamine transporter availability after 6 months of treatment. However, it remains unknown how long the heroin-induced impairment persists and whether dopamine transporter can be normalized following long-term abstinence or treatment.

OBJECTIVES

This study was to evaluate the time course of dopamine transporter changes in heroin users undergoing long-term abstinence and treatment with Jitai tablets for 1 year.

METHODS

Single-photon emission computed tomography using [(99m)Tc]TRODAT-1 was performed on 64 heroin users and 20 healthy subjects to assess striatal dopamine transporter availability at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months. Heroin users were randomly assigned to treatment with either placebo or Jitai tablets. Depression and anxiety scores were measured before each imaging session.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy controls, significant reduction in dopamine transporter availability was found in heroin users at baseline in both the right (by ∼ 31.6%) and left striatum (by ∼ 33.2%). At 6 months, dopamine transporter availability was significantly higher in Jitai tablet-treated group than placebo group in the bilateral striatum (p < 0.01). At 12 months, dopamine transporter levels in both groups were upregulated substantially from baseline but still not recovered to normal levels in the left striatum (p < 0.05). Depression and anxiety scores significantly decreased at 3, 6, and 12 months (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirmed that heroin abuse induces pronounced, long-term reduction in dopamine transporter. Treatment with Jitai tablets appears to stimulate recovery.

LC-MS-based metabolite profiling of methanolic extracts from the medicinal and aromatic species Mentha pulegium and Origanum majorana

INTRODUCTION

There has been increasing interest dedicated to the phenolic compounds with a view to their antioxidant and healthy properties. Recent studies have focused on plants from the Lamiaceae family with special interest in phenolic compounds antioxidant potential.

OBJECTIVE

The metabolite profile of methanolic extracts from two Lamiacea medicinal plants was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mentha pulegium and Origanum majorana methanolic extracts were analysed using reversed-phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-UHPLC) coupled to electrospray ionisation quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-QTOF-MS) detection in the negative ion mode.

RESULTS

A total of 85 metabolites were characterised from different families, such as organic acids and derivatives, amino acids and derivatives, nucleosides, phenolic compounds as well as other polar metabolites, by using the MS and MS/MS information provided by the QTOF-MS. However, the total phenols and flavonoids were also quantified spectrophotometrically and they registered higher amounts in Mentha pulegium than in Origanum majorana extract. Gallocatechin was the major compound in M. pulegium extract whereas quercetin dimethyl ether, jaceidin and dihydrokaempferide were the major ones in O. majorana extract.

CONCLUSION

The distribution of phenolic compounds in the methanolic extract showed a variation among studied plants. Mentha pulegium can be considered as a source of gallocatechin.

Effects of Jitai tablet, a traditional Chinese medicine, on spontaneous withdrawal symptoms and modulation of dopaminergic functions in morphine-dependent rats

Chronic opioid abuse can cause damage to dopamine neurons. However, there are currently no effective pharmacotherapies to reverse this damage, even though progress has been made in the development of therapeutic strategies for opioid dependence. The Jitai tablet (JTT) is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation most commonly used for opioid addiction treatment in China. In a morphine spontaneous withdrawal rat model we investigated the effects of JTT, either given before (pre-treatment) or after (post-treatment) morphine administration, on the dopamine system. Our study has shown the following: (1) pre- and post-treatment with JTT were effective at alleviating the wet dog shakes and episodes of writhing; (2) pre-treatment with JTT inhibited the morphine-induced decreases in dopamine transporter (DAT), dopamine D2 receptor (D2 R) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) levels in the striatum (p < 0.01, compared with morphine group) and maintained them at normal levels; and (3) post-treatment with JTT restored the densities of DAT, D2 R and TH in the striatum to normal levels (p < 0.01, compared with morphine group). These results support the notion that modulation of the dopamine system in the striatum may play a role for JTT's therapeutic effect on the alleviation of opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Fragmentation of protonated 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromones from agarwood: the diagnostic role of ion/neutral complexes as reactive intermediates

A positive-ion electrospray ionisation collision-induced dissociation mass spectrometric study on the fragmentation of the [M + H](+) ions of 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone and a set of nine hydroxyl- and/or methoxy-substituted derivatives has revealed a highly prominent fragmentation channel, the loss of benzoquinomethanes or a benzaldehyde, respectively, as a diagnostic feature for 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromones that bear a hydroxyl group at the para- (4'-), ortho- (2'-) and/or benzylic (α-) position of the phenylethyl residue. Derivatives that bear only a meta- (3'-) hydroxyl group do not undergo this elimination. The intermediacy of ion/neutral complexes (INCs) is invoked to explain this fragmentation, which involves the remarkable intra-complex proton or hydrogen atom transfer from the remote 4'-OH (or the 2'- or α-OH) functionalities. Density functional theory (B3LYP/6-31G(d)) calculations confirm the energetic preference for these elimination channels and agree with the limited thermochemical data known for para- and ortho- benzoquinomethanes. The INC-mediated losses of the benzaldehydes from the [M + H](+) ions of the α-hydroxy-substituted 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromones correspond to a particularly facile (vinylogous) Grob fragmentation. The study may be viewed as a telling example of the diagnostic role of ion/neutral complexes as intermediates for the structural assignment of constitutional isomers by mass spectrometry.

Rapid profiling and structural characterization of bioactive compounds and their distribution in different parts of Berberis petiolaris Wall. ex G. Don applying hyphenated mass spectrometric techniques

RATIONALE

Berberis petiolaris Wall. is a lesser known medicinal plant, belonging to the family Berberidaceae. The genus Berberis is known for many biological activities such as anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-diarrheal, etc. There are not many reports of the isolation of components from Berberis petiolaris. This study aims to seek identification, characterization and quantification of components.

METHODS

A method was developed for rapid screening of phytochemicals using high-pressure liquid chromatography hyphenated with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI-QTOF-MS/MS). Suitable collision-induced dissociation mass spectrometry (CID-MS/MS) methods were developed for structural investigation of alkaloids, flavanoids and other classes of compounds using nine reference standards for authentication. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) methods were developed for quantitative study of five constituents using triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry (UPLC/QqLIT-MS/MS).

RESULTS

On the basis of HPLC retention behavior and fragmentation pathways obtained by high-resolution MS and MS/MS, 32 compounds were identified and characterized in different parts of Berberis petiolaris. Quantitative studies of chlorogenic acid, magnoflorine, jatrorrhizine, palmatine and berberine were also completed successfully.

CONCLUSIONS

Rapid and accurate HPLC/ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and UPLC/ESI-QqLIT-MS/MS methods were established for identification, characterization and quantification of phytochemicals in the ethanolic extract of Berberis petiolaris. These methods, therefore, can be used for studies on phytochemical variation in different parts of the plant. Principle components analysis (PCA) may be used for plant part discrimination.