The Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Cell-Protective Properties of Bioactive Compounds Extracted from Rowanberry (Sorbus aucuparia L.) Fruits In Vitro

Considering that Sorbus aucuparia fruits have been underutilized despite their tremendous potential, this study aimed to correlate the in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial and cell-protective abilities of fruit extracts derived from Sorbus aucuparia Romanian cultivars with their phytochemical composition. Therefore, following the preparation of ethanolic and carotenoid extracts, phytochemical screening was performed using UV-Vis and HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS methods. The antioxidant activity was analyzed using DPPH and FRAP tests. As the results revealed high contents of bioactive compounds (polyphenols 1.11 mg GAE/g DM, flavonoids 430.06 µg QE/g DM and carotenoids 95.68 µg/g DM) and an important antiradical action (DPPH 24.51 mg/mL and FRAP 0.016 µM TE/mL), we chose to further examine the fruits' biological properties. The antibacterial capacity was assessed employing agar well diffusion and broth microdilution techniques, with fruits displaying an intense activity against MSSA, MRSA and Enterococcus faecalis, but also E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The cell-protective activity was analyzed on gentamicin-stressed renal cells, through MTT and Annexin V-FITC assays. Importantly, a significant increase in viability was registered on stressed cells following extract administration in low doses; nevertheless, viability was noticed to decline when exposed to elevated concentrations, potentially due to the cumulative actions of the extract and gentamicin. These findings offer novel light on the antibacterial activity of Sorbus aucuparia Romanian cultivars, as well as their cell-protective ability in renal cell injury.

Betula pendula Leaf Extract Targets the Interplay between Brain Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and NFkB Pathways in Amyloid Aβ1-42-Treated Rats

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is known as the primary and most common cause of dementia in the middle-aged and elderly population worldwide. Chemical analyses of B. pendula leaf extract (BPE), performed using spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods (LC/MS), revealed high amounts of polyphenol carboxylic acids (gallic, chlorogenic, caffeic, trans-p-coumaric, ferulic, and salicylic acids), as well as flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, naringenin, hyperoside, quercetin, and quercitrin). Four groups of Wistar rats were used in this experiment (n = 7/group): control (untreated), Aβ1-42 (2 μg/rat intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.), Aβ1-42 + BPE (200 mg/Kg b.w.), and DMSO (10 μL/rat). On the first day, one dose of Aβ1-42 was intracerebroventricularly administered to animals in groups 2 and 3. Subsequently, BPE was orally administered for the next 15 days to group 3. On the 16th day, behavioral tests were performed. Biomarkers of brain oxidative stress Malondialdehyde (MDA), (Peroxidase (PRx), Catalase (CAT), and Superoxid dismutase (SOD) and inflammation (cytokines: tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α), Interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX 2)) in plasma and hippocampus homogenates were assessed. Various protein expressions (Phospho-Tau (Ser404) (pTau Ser 404), Phospho-Tau (Ser396) (pTau Ser 396), synaptophysin, and the Nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB) signaling pathway) were analyzed using Western blot and immunohistochemistry in the hippocampus. The results show that BPE diminished lipid peroxidation and neuroinflammation, modulated specific protein expression, enhanced the antioxidant capacity, and improved spontaneous alternation behavior, suggesting that it has beneficial effects in AD.

Stachys Species: Comparative Evaluation of Phenolic Profile and Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential

This study aimed to investigate the polyphenolic composition and antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of six Romanian Stachys species: S. officinalis, S. germanica, S. byzantina, S. sylvatica, S. palustris, and S. recta. The LC-MS/MS method was used to analyze the polyphenolic profile, while the phenolic contents were spectrophotometrically determined. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the following methods: DPPH, FRAP, nitrite-induced autooxidation of hemoglobin, inhibition of cytochrome c-catalyzed lipid peroxidation, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. The in vitro antimicrobial properties were assessed using agar-well diffusion, broth microdilution, and antibiofilm assays. Fifteen polyphenols were identified using LC-MS and chlorogenic acid was the major component in all the samples (1131.8-6761.4 μg/g). S. germanica, S. palustris, and S. byzantina extracts each displayed an intense antiradical action in relation to high contents of TPC (6.40 mg GAE/mL), flavonoids (3.90 mg RE/mL), and caffeic acid derivatives (0.89 mg CAE/mL). In vitro antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties were exhibited towards Candida albicans, Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, with the most intense efficacy recorded for S. germanica and S. byzantina when tested against S. aureus. These results highlighted Stachys extracts as rich sources of bioactive compounds with promising antioxidant and antimicrobial efficacies and important perspectives for developing phytopharmaceuticals.

Agastache Species: A Comprehensive Review on Phytochemical Composition and Therapeutic Properties

The Agastache genus is part of the Lamiaceae family and is native to North America, while one species, Agastache rugosa (A. rugosa), is native to East Asia. A review on the phytochemistry and bioactivity of Agastache genus was last performed in 2014. Since then, a lot of progress has been made on the characterization of the phytochemical and pharmacological profiles of Agastache species. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to present a summary of the findings on the phytochemistry and biological effects of several Agastache species, including both extracts and essential oil characterization. We performed a comprehensive search using PubMed and Scopus databases, following PRISMA criteria regarding the study selection process. The available data is focused mainly on the description of the chemical composition and bioactivity of A. rugosa, with fewer reports referring to Agastache mexicana (A. mexicana) and Agastache foeniculum (A. foeniculum). Agastache species are characterized by the dominance of flavonoids and phenolic acids, as well as volatile compounds, particularly phenylpropanoids and monoterpenes. Moreover, a series of pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, anti-atherosclerotic, and cardioprotective properties, have been reported for species from the Agastache genus.

Effects of Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Cornus mas L. Fruit Extract on the Aorta Wall in Rats with a High-Fat Diet and Experimental-Induced Diabetes Mellitus-An Imaging Study

Diabetes mellitus and high-fat diets trigger the mechanisms that alter the walls of blood vessels. Gold nanoparticles, as new pharmaceutical drug delivery systems, may be used in the treatment of different diseases. In our study, the aorta was investigated via imaging after the oral administration of gold nanoparticles functionalized with bioactive compounds derived from Cornus mas fruit extract (AuNPsCM) in rats with a high-fat diet and diabetes mellitus. Sprague Dawley female rats that received a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 months were injected with streptozotocin to develop diabetes mellitus (DM). The rats were randomly allocated into five groups and were treated, for one additional month with HFD, with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), insulin, pioglitazone, AuNPsCM solution or with Cornus mas L. extract solution. The aorta imaging investigation consisted of echography, magnetic resonance imaging and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Compared to the rats that received only CMC, the oral administration of AuNPsCM produced significant increases in aorta volume and significant decreases in blood flow velocity, with ultrastructural disorganization of the aorta wall. The oral administration of AuNPsCM altered the aorta wall with effects on the blood flow.

New Approaches on the Anti-Inflammatory and Cardioprotective Properties of Taraxacum officinale Tincture

The present research investigated the in vivo anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective activities, as well as the antioxidant potential of Taraxacum officinale tincture (TOT), in relation to the polyphenolic composition. Chromatographic and spectrophotometric techniques were used to determine the polyphenolic profile of TOT and the antioxidant activity was preliminarily assessed in vitro by DPPH• and FRAP spectrophotometric methods. The in vivo anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective activities were studied in rat turpentine-induced inflammation and in rat isoprenaline-induced myocardial infarction (MI) models. The main polyphenolic compound identified in TOT was cichoric acid. The oxidative stress determinations showed the capacity of the dandelion tincture not only to decrease the total oxidative stress (TOS), the oxidative stress index (OSI), and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), but also the malondialdehide (MDA), thiols (SH), and nitrites/nitrates (NOx) levels both in inflammation and MI models. In addition, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatin kinase-MB (CK-MB), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) parameters were decreased by the administration of the tincture. The results show that T. officinale could be considered a valuable source of natural compounds with important benefits in pathologies linked to oxidative stress.

Evaluation of the Cytotoxic, Antioxidative and Antimicrobial Effects of Dracocephalum moldavica L. Cultivars

The aim of the present study was to correlate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities of hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from the aerial parts of three Dracocephalum moldavica L. cultivars with their polyphenolic compositions. The polyphenols were identified and quantified using spectrophotometrical methods and LC-MS analysis. Their antioxidant capacities were assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. Their in vitro antimicrobial efficacies were assessed using the agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Their cytotoxicity was investigated on normal diploid foreskin fibroblasts (BJ) and on colorectal adenocarcinoma (DLD-1) cell lines. The results pointed out significant amounts of polyphenolic compounds in the compositions of the tested cultivars, with rosmarinic acid as the main compound (amounts ranging between 5.337 ± 0.0411 and 6.320 ± 0.0535 mg/mL). All three cultivars displayed significant antioxidant (IC₅₀ ranging between 35.542 ± 0.043 and 40.901 ± 0.161 µg/mL for the DPPH assay, and for the FRAP assay 293.194 ± 0.213 and 330.165 ± 0.754 µmol Trolox equivalent/mg dry vegetal material) and antimicrobial potential (especially towards the Gram-positive bacteria), as well as a selective toxicity towards the tumoral line. A significant positive correlation was found between antioxidant activity and the total phenolic acids (r² = 0.987) and polyphenols (r² = 0.951). These findings bring further arguments for strongly considering D. moldavica cultivars as promising vegetal products, which warrants further investigation.

Chemical Profile and Biological Effects of an Herbal Mixture for the Development of an Oil-in-Water Cream

Three individual hydroalcoholic extracts derived from Hamamelis virginiana leaves, Krameria lappacea root, Salix alba bark, and the resulting herbal mixture (HM) were assessed for the phytochemical profile as well as for antibacterial and cytotoxic potential. The chemical composition of the individual extracts and of their mixture was analyzed by chromatographical (LC-MS) and spectrophotometrical methods. The antimicrobial properties were evaluated by using the agar-well diffusion and the broth microdilution assays, whereas the potential cytotoxicity was investigated on human keratinocyte cell line by MTT method and apoptosis test. The HM composition revealed important amounts of valuable polyphenolic compounds provided from the individual extracts, having synergistic biological effects. All tested extracts displayed in vitro antimicrobial properties, with a significantly higher efficacy noticed for the HM when tested against Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, none of the tested extracts was responsible for in vitro cytotoxicity against the human keratinocytes in the selected concentration range. Furthermore, the HM was included in an oil-in-water cream for the nonpharmacological treatment of seborrheic dermatitis, developed and optimized by using a QbD approach. A D-optimal experimental plan with four factors that varied on two levels was used to investigate the effect of the quantitative variation of the formulation factors (emulsifier, co-emulsifier, thickening agent, oily phase ratio) on the characteristics of the cream in terms of firmness, consistency, adhesiveness, stringiness, spreadability, and viscosity. Based on the experimental results, an optimal formulation containing 2.5% emulsifier and 20% oily phase was prepared and analyzed. The obtained results showed appropriate quality characteristics of this novel cream, which may be used in the future to manage the associated symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.

Biological Activities and Chemical Profile of Gentiana asclepiadea and Inula helenium Ethanolic Extracts

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic potential of ethanolic extracts obtained from Gentiana asclepiadea L. and Inula helenium L. roots, in relation to their chemical composition. The total polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids were determined by spectrophotometric methods, while LC-MS analysis was used to evaluate the individual constituents. The antioxidant properties were tested using the FRAP and DPPH methods. The standard well diffusion and broth microdilution assays were carried out to establish in vitro antimicrobial efficacy and minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations. The cytotoxicity was tested on rat intestinal epithelial cells using the MTT assay. The results pointed out important constituents such as secoiridoid glycoside (amarogentin), phenolic acids (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, trans-p-coumaric acid, salicylic acid), and flavonoids (apigenin, chrysin, luteolin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, quercetin, rutoside, and naringenin) and promising antioxidant properties. The in vitro antimicrobial effect was noticed towards several pathogens (Bacillus cereus > Staphylococcus aureus > Enterococcus faecalis > Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis > Escherichia coli), with a pronounced bactericidal activity. Rat intestinal epithelial cell viability was not affected by the selected concentrations of these two extracts. These data support the ethnomedicinal recommendations of these species and highlight them as valuable sources of bioactive compounds.

Phytochemical Characterization of Taxus baccata L. Aril with Emphasis on Evaluation of the Antiproliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Activity of Rhodoxanthin

Taxus baccata L., an evergreen tree, was known until recently due to its high concentration of toxic compounds. The purpose of the present study was to focus on the only non-poisonous part, the red arils, which have recently been described as an important source of various bioactive constituents. To establish total phenolic, flavonoid, and carotenoid content, antioxidant capacity, and cytotoxic properties, two types of extracts were obtained. The chemical profile of the ethanolic extract was evaluated using chromatographic (HPLC-DAD-ESI+) and spectral (UV-Vis) methods, and the antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract was assessed using DPPH and FRAP assays, yielding moderate results. In the second type of extract (methanol: ethyl acetate: petroleum ether (1:1:1, v/v/v)) we identified three carotenoids using open column chromatography and RP–PAD–HPLC, with rhodoxanthin being the most abundant. Considering the above and mainly because of the lack of information in the literature about this pigment and its biological effects, we decided to further investigate the cytotoxic activity of rhodoxanthin, the main carotenoid presented in aril, and its protective effect against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress using two cell lines: human HaCaT keratinocytes and B16F10 murine malignant melanoma. The MTT and Annexin-V Apoptosis assays showed a substantial cytotoxic potential expressed in a dose-dependent manner towards the melanoma cell line, however, no obvious cytotoxic effects on human keratinocytes were noticed.

Polyphenolic Profile, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Nociceptive Activities of Some African Medicinal Plants

The aim of the present study was to investigate the polyphenolic profile and the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of four traditionally used medicinal plants from Burkina Faso: Parkia biglobosa, Detarium microcarpum, Vitellaria paradoxa and Sclerocarya birrea. The analysis of the main phenolic compounds was performed by the HPLC-UV-MS method. The anti-inflammatory effect of the aqueous bark extracts was investigated by the λ-carrageenan-induced rat paw edema test. The anti-nociceptive activity was evaluated by the Randall−Selitto test under inflammatory conditions. Seven phenolic acids (gallic, protocatechuic, gentisic, vanillic, p-coumaric, ferulic, and syringic acids), and three flavonoids (catechin, epicatechin, and quercitrin) were identified in the plant samples. High contents of gallic acid were determined in the D. microcarpum, P. biglobosa and S. birrea extracts (190−300 mg/100 g), and V. paradoxa extract was the richest in epicatechin (173.86 mg/100 g). The λ-carrageenan-induced inflammation was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) by the P. biglobosa and D. microcarpum extracts (400 mg/kg p.o.). Under the inflammatory conditions, a significant anti-nociceptive activity (p < 0.001) was obtained after 2−3 h from the induction of inflammation. The effects of the tested extracts could be related to the presence of polyphenols and could be useful in the management of certain inflammatory diseases.

Biological Activities of Some Isoquinoline Alkaloids from Fumaria schleicheri Soy. Will

Fumaria schleicheri Soy. Will. is a species belonging to the Papaveraceae family, being widespread in East-Central and Southern Europe. As with numerous other species of the genus, it is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of hepatobiliary and digestive disorders. The aim of the present study consisted of the evaluation of its alkaloid content and the assessment of its in vitro antioxidant, anti-cholinesterase and cytotoxic potential. Total alkaloid content in the composition of the species was quantified by a spectrophotometrical method and they were individually identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD. The antioxidant capacity was investigated by the DPPH and FRAP methods, while the anti-cholinesterase activity was assessed by an adapted Ellman's method. The in vitro cytotoxic activity was evaluated on BJ human fibroblasts and DLD-1 human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines. Results showed the presence of bicuculline, protopine, chelidonine, stylopine and sanguinarine, among which bicuculline, protopine, stylopine and sanguinarine were quantified, while the antioxidant and anti-cholinesterase assays showed valuable potentials. No cytotoxic effect was observed on BJ cell lines and selective cytotoxicity was expressed towards tumoral cells. In this context, F. schleicheri appears as an important medicinal species with significant potential of substitution with the officinal species.

Oxidative Stress and DNA Lesion Reduction of a Polyphenolic Enriched Extract of Thymus marschallianus Willd. in Endothelial Vascular Cells Exposed to Hyperglycemia

The present study aimed to compare two polyphenolic-enriched extracts obtained from the Thymus marschallianus Willd. (Lamiaceae) species, harvested from culture (TMCE in doses of 0.66 μg GAE/mL and 0.066 μg GAE/mL) and from spontaneous flora (TMSE in doses of 0.94 μg GAE/mL and 0.094 μg GAE/mL) by assessing their biological effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to normoglycemic (137 mmol/L glucose) and hyperglycemic conditions (200 mmol/L glucose). Extracts were obtained by solid phase extraction (SPE) and analyzed by chromatographical (HPLC-DAD) and spectrophotometrical methods. Their effects on hyperglycemia were evaluated by the quantification of oxidative stress and NF-ĸB, pNF-ĸB, HIF-1α, and γ-H₂AX expressions. The HPLC-DAD analysis highlighted significant amounts of rosmarinic acid (ranging between 0.18 and 1.81 mg/g dry extract), luteolin (ranging between 2.04 and 17.71 mg/g dry extract), kaempferol (ranging between 1.85 and 7.39 mg/g dry extract), and apigenin (ranging between 4.97 and 65.67 mg/g dry extract). Exposure to hyperglycemia induced oxidative stress and the activation of NF-ĸ increased the expression of HIF-1α and produced DNA lesions. The polyphenolic-enriched extracts proved a significant reduction of oxidative stress and γ-H₂AX formation and improved the expression of HIF-1α, suggesting their protective role on endothelial cells in hyperglycemia. The tested extracts reduced the total NF-ĸB expression and diminished its activation in hyperglycemic conditions. The obtained results bring evidence for the use of the polyphenolic-enriched extracts of T. marschallianus as adjuvants in hyperglycemia.

Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Activity and Oxidative Stress Reduction of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Shoots Tincture in Rats with Experimentally Induced Hepatotoxicity

Rosmarinus officinalis L. is a widely known species for its medicinal uses, that is also used as raw material for the food and cosmetic industry. The aim of the present study was to offer a novel perspective on the medicinal product originating from this species and to test its hepatoprotective activity. The tested sample consisted in a tincture obtained from the fresh young shoots. Compounds that are evaluated for this activity are polyphenols and terpenoids, that are identified and quantified by HPLC-UV-MS and GC-MS. Antioxidant activity was assessed in vitro, using the DPPH, FRAP and SO assays. Hepatoprotective activity was tested in rats with experimentally-induced hepatotoxicity. In the chemical composition of the tincture, phenolic diterpenes (carnosic acid, carnosol, rosmanol, rosmadial) and rosmarinic acid were found to be the majority compounds, alongside with 1,8-cineole, camphene, linalool, borneol and terpineol among monoterpenes. In vitro, the tested tincture proved significant antioxidant capacity. Results of the in vivo experiment showed that hepatoprotective activity is based on an antioxidant mechanism. In this way, the present study offers a novel perspective on the medicinal uses of the species, proving significant amounts of polyphenols and terpenes in the composition of the fresh young shoots tincture, that has proved hepatoprotective activity through an antioxidant mechanism.

Phytochemical Profile, Antioxidant, Cardioprotective and Nephroprotective Activity of Romanian Chicory Extract

The present study analyzed the methanol extract and tincture obtained from the spontaneous Romanian Cichorium intybus species, in order to evaluate polyphenols content and some biological properties. Chromatographic and spectrophotometric methods were used for the analysis of polyphenols and the antioxidant capacity was assessed in vitro with DPPH● (2,2-diphenyl-picrylhydrazil) and FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power) tests. The cardio-protective effects of Cichorii herba tincture on myocardial ischemia induced by isoprenaline and nephroprotection on renal failure induced by gentamicin were evaluated on rats. Also, aspartate aminotrasferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and creatinine clearance (CrCl) were measured. The antioxidant effect was evaluated by determining total oxidative stress (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondyaldehide (MDA), total thiols (SH) and total nitrites and nitrates (NOx). Cichoric acid was the main polyphenolic compound. The extracts had moderate in vitro antioxidant activity but the in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were significant and associated with myocardial and renal dysfunction improvement. The results were attributed to the content of polyphenols in the extracts, for which reason C. intybus may be considered an important raw material for pharmaceuticals formulations recommended in the prevention or treatment of heart or kidney diseases.

Targeting Oxidative Stress Reduction and Inhibition of HDAC1, MECP2, and NF-kB Pathways in Rats With Experimentally Induced Hyperglycemia by Administration of Thymus marshallianus Willd. Extracts

The effects of two lyophilized extracts obtained from the aerial parts of Thymus marschallianus Willd. and harvested from wild flora (TMW) and obtained from culture (TMC) were evaluated in Wistar rats with experimentally induced hyperglycemia. The hyperglycemia was induced by streptozotocin (STZ) administration and the obtained results were evaluated in comparison for TMW and TMC. The polyphenolic composition of extracts was evaluated by spectrophotometrical and LC-MS methods. In vitro antioxidant capacity assays (DPPH, FRAP, EPR) were performed in order to preliminary establish the ability of tested samples to protect against free radical induced damage. Afterwards, the effects of these extracts were assessed in vivo on rats with experimental-induced hyperglycemia. Oxidative stress biomarkers (e.g. malondialdehyde—MDA), phosphorylated transcription factor subunit of nuclear kappaB (NF-kB) p65, methyl CpG binding protein (MECP) 2 and histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) expressions in hippocampus and frontal lobe were assessed. Open Field Test (OFT) and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) were conducted on tested animals. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and HDAC1and MeCP2 expressions increased significantly in hippocampus (p<0.05) and frontal lobe (p<0.001) of diabetes group compared to the control group in parallel with decreasing of GSH/GSSG ratio. TMW and TMC administration reduced blood glucose levels and diminished lipid peroxidation, HDAC1 expression and enhanced antioxidant capacity in frontal lobe. TMW improved central locomotion of rats, increased phospho-NFkB p65 and diminished MECP2 expressions in hippocampus. Both tested samples exerted a beneficial effect by increasing the antioxidant defense. Our findings indicate that the administration of these extracts might represent a good option in the treatment of diabetes and its complications.

Phytochemical Profile and Antimicrobial Potential of Extracts Obtained from Thymus marschallianus Willd

Thymus marschallianus Willd. is a Lamiaceae species spread in a large variety of habitats worldwide. The aim of the present research was to analyse two different samples belonging to this species, one obtained from the spontaneous flora and one from culture. The total polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acid contents were spectrophotometrically determined. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of polyphenols was performed by an HPLC-DAD-ESI (+)-MS method. For the antibacterial assay, the well-diffusion and the broth microdilution methods were used. Analysis of polyphenols revealed for both samples the presence of flavonoids like luteolin, quercetin, apigenin and their derivatives, but also of rosmarinic acid and methyl-rosmarinate. Differences regarding the amount of these compounds were emphasized. Significantly larger amounts of flavonoids were found for the sample harvested in the spontaneous flora, while for the rosmarinic acid, larger amounts were found for the cultured sample. Both samples displayed promising antibacterial activity, particularly towards Gram positive organisms. T. marschallianus represents, therefore, a rich source of polyphenolic compounds that prove its promising potential as a medicinal species.

Chemical Characterization of Artemisia Annua L. Extract Assessment of Antioxidant Activity in vitro and in vivo Toxicity Studies

The purpose of the study was to demonstrate in vitro antioxidant activity and in vivo toxicity of the Artemisia Annua L. extract. The plant was harvested from Bihor area (Crisul Repede and Negru river valleys), Romania. Preparation of the plant product and of the lyophilizated extract was carried out in accordance with the Romanian Pharmacopeia Xth Edition. Lyophilized extract was evaluated in terms of polyphenol content using HPLC method. Antioxidant activity was highlighted using the DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods. Hepatic, renal and haematological toxicity studies have been performed on laboratory mice. For this purpose blood and organs were collected. Biochemical and haematological parameters were determined on the blood samples and histopathological examination was performed on organs. In vitro antioxidant effect of Artemisia Annua L extract and its lack of in vivo toxicity were demonstrated. It is desirable to obtain a new phytoproduct harvested from spontaneous flora of Romania with antioxidant / antitumoral properties and which is devoid of toxicity.

Flavonoid Analysis and Antioxidant Activities of the Bryonia alba L. Aerial Parts

Bryonia alba L. is the only Bryonia species found in Romanian flora, being known as a remedy for inflammatory pathologies or for its hepatoprotective and adaptogen activities. The present investigation studied the flavonoid composition and antioxidant activities of the aerial parts of this species. Flavonoid profile was evaluated by HPLC coupled with Diode Array Detection (DAD), while antioxidant capacity was assessed by various methods, testing different antioxidant mechanisms: DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), CUPRAC (cupric reducing antioxidant capacity), FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma), TEAC (Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity), EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance method) and SNPAC (silver nanoparticles antioxidant capacity). Cytotoxicity was tested on human cancerous and healthy cell lines. Anti-plasmodial tests were performed on two strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Whole organism toxicity was assessed on zebrafish larvae. The HPLC-DAD analysis proved the presence of lutonarin, saponarin, isoorientin, and isovitexin as the major flavonoids in the composition of tested samples. Significant results were obtained for all antioxidant capacity assays. The cytotoxicity tests proved the absence of cellular and parasitic toxicity and these results were confirmed by the lack of toxicity on the zebrafish larvae model. This study proves a promising potential of the aerial parts of Bryonia alba L. as antioxidant agents.

Characterization and biological effects of Hypericum extracts on experimentally-induced - anxiety, oxidative stress and inflammation in rats

Anxiety disorders can associate with oxidative stress and immune system alterations. Our study aimed to chemically analyze Hypericum maculatum (HM) and Hypericum perforatum (HP) dry extracts and to evaluate their effects along with quercetin (Q), on brain oxidative stress biomarkers: malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), inflammatory cytokines: interleukin-1α, (IL-1α), IL-1β, regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), interferon (IFN), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP1), macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP) and serum corticosterone levels. Nuclear transcription factor κB (NFκB) signaling pathway in the hippocampus and frontal lobe in rats with N-methyl-9H-pyrido[5,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide (FG-7142) experimental-induced anxiety were also investigated. The chemical analyses of total hypericins were performed by spectrophotometric analysis and hypericin, hyperforin and polyphenols derivatives were quantified by chromatographic methods. The animals were divided in 6 groups: carboxymethylcellulose 2% (CMC); CMC + FG; alprazolam (APZ) + FG; Q + FG; HM + FG; HP + FG. APZ (0.08 mg/kg b.w.), Q (30 mg/kg b.w.), HM and HP (350 mg/kg b.w.) were orally administered for 21 days. FG (7.5 mg/kg b.w.) was intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected in a single dose. Q and hypericum extracts (HpE) exerted anti-inflammatory (decreased IL-1α, IL-1β, MCP1, IFN and MIP mainly in hippocampus) and antioxidant effects (decreased MDA levels, increased CAT and SOD activity), enhanced NFκB and pNFκB expressions in the brain and reduced serum corticosterone levels. Our findings suggest that HpE may improve anxiety-like behavior, offer brain protection by modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation, and can contribute to overall biological activity of natural compounds-rich diet.

The anemonin content of four different Ranunculus species

The Ranunculus species are poorly known as medicinal plants. They have potential toxicity given by the ranunculin and its enzymatic degradation compounds: protoanemonin and anemonin. This paper aims to evaluate the anemonin content of four species: R. bulbosus, R. ficaria, R. sardous and R. sceleratus. The evaluation was performed by TLC and HPLC. There were evaluated two types of extracts hydroalcoholic (HA) and glycerol-ethanol (GE). The most concentrated extract in anemonin was found to be the R. sardous aerial part HA extract: 2.66 mg/ml. The lowest anemonin content is in R. sceleratus: 0.13-0.19 mg/ml. In R. bulbosus aerial part the anemonin content is less than the used HPLC method detection limits (7.68 mg/ml). In all cases the GE extracts are less concentrated in anemonin, being more safely for human administration.

Sources for developing new medicinal products: biochemical investigations on alcoholic extracts obtained from aerial parts of some Romanian Amaryllidaceae species

BACKGROUND

Although Galanthus nivalis L. (snowdrop) is known for the galanthamine content, used in the treatment of Alzheimer disease, the polyphenolic compounds of Amaryllidaceae species are less studied. Proper understanding of the polyphenolics in these extracts and of their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties may allow a reconsideration of their medicinal uses.

METHODS

The polyphenolic content of four selected Amaryllidaceae species harvested from Romania (Galanthus nivalis L., Narcissus pseudonarcissus L., N. poeticus L. and Leucojum vernum L.) was determined by spectrophotometric methods; the identification of phenolic compounds was performed by a HPLC-MS method, in order to establish their polyphenolic fingerprints. For the evaluation of the antioxidant potential the following methods were employed: DPPH radical scavenging, FRAP, hemoglobin ascorbate peroxidase activity inhibition (HAPX), inhibition of lipid peroxidation catalyzed by cytochrome c, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy assays. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the disc diffusion method.

RESULTS

Qualitative and quantitative analyses highlight important amount of polyphenols (over 15 mg/g); the main identified compounds are chlorogenic and p-coumaric acids in all species. Only G. nivalis shows antioxidant activity by all the used methods. G. nivalis and L. vernum strongly inhibits the growth of S. aureus, while N. poeticus shows a very good antifungal activity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study provide a new approach to the properties and therapeutic uses of some Romanian widespread Amaryllidaceae species that could be considered sources of developing new medicinal products with anti anti-staphylococcal and antifungal activity.

Antioxidant capacity and polyphenolic content of the Echinocystis lobata (Michx.) Torr. et A.Gray flowers

Echinocystis lobata (Michx.) Torr. et A.Gray is a spontaneous species in the Romanian flora, lesser studied by scientific literature, but which has proved significant activities in traditional medicine. The present study is aimed to provide data on the polyphenolic compounds in the composition of the flowers of this species and to test their biological potential. Polyphenols were identified and quantified using an HPLC-MS method. Tested biological activities were the cytotoxic, anti-plasmodial and antioxidant ones. Methods used for testing the antioxidant activity were the DPPH, CUPRAC, FRAP, TEAC, EPR and SNPAC assays. Cytotoxic activity was tested on cancerous and healthy cell lines and anti-plasmodial activity was assesed on two strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Ethanolic extracts of the flowers of E. lobata proved to contain isoquercitrin, rutin, quercitrin, kaempferol, p-coumaric and ferulic acid. No cytotoxic and anti-plasmodial activity was found, but antioxidant assays showed an important antioxidant capacity. The obtained results show that flowers of E. lobata are important sources of antioxidant compounds. It is the first approach of the kind on the flowers of this species and it offers a new perspective on possible sources of antioxidant compounds.

Origanum vulgare mediated green synthesis of biocompatible gold nanoparticles simultaneously possessing plasmonic, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

Purpose

The leaves and flowering stem of Origanum vulgare contain essential oils, flavonoids, phenolic acids and anthocyanins. We propose a new, simple, one-pot, O. vulgare extract (OVE) mediated green synthesis method of biocompatible gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) possessing improved antioxidant, antimicrobial and plasmonic properties.

Materials and methods

Different concentrations of OVEs were used to reduce gold ions and to synthetize biocompatible spherical AuNPs. Their morphology and physical properties have been investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, photon correlation spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, whereas their plasmonic properties have been tested using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The antioxidant properties of nanoparticles (NPs) have been evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay, and the antimicrobial tests were performed using the disk diffusion assay. Their cytotoxicity has been assessed by means of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay.

Results

The experimental results confirmed the successful synthesis of biocompatible, spherical, plasmonic NPs having a mean diameter of ~40 nm and an outstanding aqueous stability. This new class of NPs exhibits a very good antioxidant activity and presents interesting inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Due to their plasmonic properties, AuNPs are used as SERS substrates for the detection of a test molecule (methylene blue) up to a concentration of 10^-7 M and a pharmaceutical compound (propranolol) in solution. Cytotoxicity assays revealed that AuNPs are better tolerated by normal human dermal fibroblast cells, while the melanoma cancer cells are more sensitive.

Conclusion

The biocompatible AuNPs synthetized using OVEs showed significant bactericidal and antimycotic activities, the most sensitive microorganisms being S. aureus and C. albicans, both commonly involved in various dermatological infections. Moreover, the significant antioxidant effect might recommend their use for protective and/or preventive effect in various skin inflammatory conditions, including the reduction in side effects in dermatological infections. Meanwhile, the as-synthesized biocompatible AuNPs can be successfully used as SERS substrates for the detection of pharmaceutical compounds in aqueous solutions.

Terpenic profile of different Rosmarinus officinalis extracts

The Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), a well-known medicinal and culinary herb, was studied to compare the terpenic profile of different extracts obtained from dry and fresh herb. There were studied the volatile oil extracted by hydro distillation from dry plant, the hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from fresh respectively dry plant and the glycerol macerate obtained from fresh plant, by GC-MS using headspace injection. The separated compounds were identified using a MS spectra library. The quantitative determination was performed by normalization respectively by calibration curve method for 1,8-cineole, alpha-pinene and D-limonene. The main separated compounds were alpha-pinene, 1,8-cineol, camphene, camphor, D-limonene and cymene. A significant difference was observed between the 4 samples volatile profiles. 1,8-cineole was found major component of the essential oil (VO-21.39%) and glycerol macerate (GM-35.60%), while and α-pinene was detected as the main constituent of the two tinctures (T-46.05%; MT-31.93%). The highest 1,8-cineol content, determined by calibration curve method, was found in the volatile oil, while the fresh plant hydroalcoholic extract was richer in α-pinene and D-limonene.

Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Potential of Cyanidin-Based Anthocyanins on Melanoma Cells

Elderberries are known for their high anthocyanins content, which have been shown to possess anti-proliferative and anti-cancer effects. Anthocyanins enriched extract (AEE) was obtained from elderberries and was characterized by LC/DAD/ESI-MS analysis. Five cyanidin-based anthocyanins were identified, among which Cy-3-O-samb was the major compound (51%). The total anthocyanins content of AEE was 495 mg Cy-3-O-samb/100 g FW. AEE inhibited proliferation of metastatic B16-F10 murine melanoma cells, in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC50 of 264.3 μg/mL. LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), as a marker of membrane integrity, increased 74% in B16-F10 cells treated with 250 μg/mL AEE, compared to control. It was observed that apoptosis is the mechanism of melanoma cell death after AEE treatment, confirmed morphologically by acridine orange/ethidium bromide double staining and TUNEL analysis. These results indicate that elderberry-derived anthocyanins might be utilized in future applications as topical adjuvant in skin cancer therapy.

Cytotoxicity and Antioxidant Potential of Novel 2-(2-((1H-indol-5yl)methylene)-hydrazinyl)-thiazole Derivatives

Newly synthesized 2-(2-((1H-indol-5yl)methylene)-hydrazinyl)-thiazole derivatives were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxicity on two carcinoma cell lines A2780 and HeLa. Significant cytotoxic activity for 2-(2-((1H-indol-5-yl)methylene)hydrazinyl)-4-methylthiazole (1) and 2-(2-((1H-indol-5-yl)methylene)hydrazinyl)-4-phenylthiazole (3), on both A2780 [IC₅₀: 11.6 μM (1), and 12.4 μM (3)] and HeLa [IC₅₀: 22.4 μM (1) and 19.4μM (3)] cell lines is reported. Their antioxidant potential was evaluated by spectrophotometric method, using DPPH radical or Fe (TPTZ)³⁺ complex, and EPR spectroscopy, therefore the compounds 1 and 3 showed remarkable antioxidant activity simultaneously with a cytotoxic effect on A2780 and HeLa cell lines. Furthermore, based on theoretical quantum chemical calculation, the present study analyzed the chemoselectivity of the hydrogen extraction from the indolyl-hydrazinil-thiazoles in reaction with free radicals.

The study of polyphenolic compounds profile of some Rosmarinus officinalis L. extracts

The purpose of this study was to compare the polyphenol profile of different Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) extracts obtained from dry and fresh herb and the evaluation of their antioxidant effect. There were studied the polyphenols from hydroalcoholic extracts (1:5- dry plant:solvent) obtained from fresh respectively dry plant and the gemmotherapic extract obtained from fresh plant (1:20- dry plant: solvent). The polyphenol profile was evaluated by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, TLC and HPLC. The total polyphenol respectively flavonoids content were determined by UV-V is spectrophotometry. The antioxidant effect was evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC and silver nanoparticle (SNP) methods. The hydroalcoholic extract obtained from fresh plant contains the highest concentration of total polyphenols, (0.601mg/ml rosmarinic acid), total flavonoids, (0.270mg/ml luteoline) and rosmarinic acid (0.350 mg/ml). The less concentrated is the gemmotherapic extract, but also the extraction ratio is higher than the hydroalcoholic extracts. The high content in polyphenols of the mentioned hydroalcoholic extract was confirmed by highest values of antioxidant activity: 39.1ml (DPPH), 7.7 ml (ABTS), 698mM ET/100 ml (FRAP), 1947 mM ET/100 ml (CUPRAC), 4570mM ET/100 ml (SNP). These differences in the polyphenols profiles show the importance of use the fresh plants for obtaining the good quality extracts.

In vitro study of antioxidant activity and phenolic content of Chrysanthemum balsamita varieties

The purpose of our study was to identify the phenolic substances of two varieties of Chrysanthemum balsamita (balsamita and tanacetoides) and to measure the overall antioxidant activity. The phenolic compounds were determined by HPLC. The evaluation of the polyphenolic content was performed by colorimetric analysis. The antioxidant activity was measured by three in vitro assay models: the DPPH, the silver nanoparticles antioxidant capacity (SNPAC) and EPR radical detection. Using HPLC-MS analysis, phenolic acids, flavonoids and flavonoid aglycone were detected. The highest antioxidant activity was showed by Chrysanthemum balsamita var. balsamita, while the lowest for the Chrysanthemum balsamita var. tanacetoides extract, in accord with the polyphenolic content. The results show that Chrysanthemum balsamita var. balsamita might be a source of antioxidant flavonoids, especially rutin and isoquercitrin.

Comparative polyphenolic content and antioxidant activities of Genista tinctoria L. and Genistella sagittalis (L.) Gams (Fabaceae)

The aim of this study was focused on the polyphenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of Genista tinctoria L. and Genistella sagittalis (L.) Gams. A qualitative and quantitative characterization of the main phenolic compounds from the extracts were carried out using a HPLC-MS method. The total polyphenolic and flavonoid content was spectrophotometrically determined. The antioxidant activity towards various radicals generated in different systems was evaluated usingDPPH bleaching method, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay (TEAC) and Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and all indicated that G. tinctoria extract was more antioxidant than G. sagittalis extract.That was in good agreement with the total polyphenolic and flavonoidic content.Chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, isoquercitrin and apigenin were identified in bothspecies. Caffeic acid, ferulic acid, hyperoside, rutin, quercitrin and luteolin were found only in G. tinctoria, while quercetin was determined in G. sagittalis.

Assessment of rosmarinic acid content in six Lamiaceae species extracts and their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential

In the present study, six indigenous species of Lamiaceae family (Origanum vulgare L., Melissa officinalis L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Ocimum basilicum L., Salvia officinalis L. and Hyssopus officinalis L.), have been analyzed to assess the rosmarinic acid, phenyl propane derivatives and polyphenolic contents and their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. HPLC-MS method has been used for the analysis ofrosmarinicacid. The phenyl propane derivatives and total phenolic contents were determined using spectrophotometric method. The ethanolic extracts were screened for antioxidant activities by DPPH radical scavenging, HAPX (hemoglobin ascorbate per oxidase activity inhibition), and EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) methods. The ethanolic extracts revealed the presence of rosmarinic acid in the largest amount in O. vulgare (12.40mg/g) and in the lowest in R. officinalis (1.33 mg/g). O. vulgare extracts exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity, in line with the rosmarinic acid and polyphenolic contents. The antimicrobial testing showed a significant activity against L. monocytogenes, S. aureus and C. albicans for all six extracts.

Comparative studies on antioxidant activity and polyphenolic content of Lycium barbarum L. and Lycium chinense Mill. leaves

The purpose of this research was to bring new data regarding the phenolic composition and the antioxidant activity of L. barbarum L. and L. chinense Mill. leaves. The determination of the main polyphenolic compounds was performed using a HPLC-UV-MS method. The dominant compound found for both species was rutin, with its highest amount registered in L. chinense (24141.90±21.3 μ/g plant material) leaves. Among the flavonoidic aglycones, quercetin was found in both samples, being quantified in a higher amount in L. chinense. In the antioxidant assays, both extracts exhibited important antioxidant activities, as witnessed by the three methods, both correlated with their total polyphenolic content.

Polyphenolic content, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Lycium barbarum L. and Lycium chinense Mill. leaves

This study was performed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and the polyphenolic content of Lycium barbarum L. and L. chinense Mill. leaves. The different leave extracts contain important amounts of flavonoids (43.73 ± 1.43 and 61.65 ± 0.95 mg/g, respectively) and showed relevant antioxidant activity, as witnessed by the quoted methods. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of target phenolic compounds were achieved using a HPLC-UV-MS method. Rutin was the dominant flavonoid in both analysed species, the highest amount being registered for L. chinense. An important amount of chlorogenic acid was determined in L. chinense and L. barbarum extracts, being more than twice as high in L. chinense than in L. barbarum. Gentisic and caffeic acids were identified only in L. barbarum, whereas kaempferol was only detected in L. chinense. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, TEAC, hemoglobin ascorbate peroxidase activity inhibition (HAPX) and inhibition of lipid peroxidation catalyzed by cytochrome c assays revealing a better antioxidant activity for the L. chinense extract. Results obtained in the antimicrobial tests revealed that L. chinense extract was more active than L. barbarum against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The results suggest that these species are valuable sources of flavonoids with relevant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.

Protective effect of grape seed extract in experimental menopausal syndrome

Grape seed extract (GSE) is a natural product obtained from Vitis vinifera seeds; it has been used as adjuvant therapy in wide range of pathological conditions.

AIM

In the present study, we investigated the ability of GSE to improve the mental status on ovariectomized rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

GSE (10 mg/kg/day, 60 days long) was administrated orally on ovariectomized adult female rats; then the animals were investigated in open field. Additionally, were measured the hematological parameters, the plasma biochemistry, and the oxidative stress markers.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Treatment of GSE improved the loco motor activity in the open field, the number of crossings were almost twice in GSE treated rats (22.25 +/- 8.75) compared to placebo group (13.00 +/- 2.62) (p < 0.05). Lipid peroxides were reduced up to 51.57% (p < 0.05), while hematology and plasma biochemistry remained almost unchanged.

CONCLUSION

GSE improve the mental status and reduced the level of oxidative stress in rats subject to experimental ovariectomy.

Comparative study concerning mistletoe viscotoxins antitumor activity

Viscum album L. (Santalaceae) (VA) - a parasitic plant that grows on various trees - has proved a significant anticancer effect in both experimental studies and clinical trials. The present study assesses the influence of oxidative stress in mistletoe induced cytotoxicity in tumor cells, in relation to classic cytostatic therapy. VA ethanolic extract was administered alone and combined with doxorubicin (chloride) in Swiss female mice previously intraperitoneally (i.p.) inoculated with Ehrlich tumor cells (1 × 106/animal) that consequently developed Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). The administered doses were of 50 mg/kg on the 1st, 3rd and 6th day for the VA extract, respectively of 2.5 mg/kg on the 1st and 6th day for doxorubicin, after tumor cell implantation. Fourteen days later all mice were euthanized, ascites of the EAC were collected in order to analyze the tumor proliferation parameters, as well as blood samples, in order to evaluate the antioxidant status in plasma. Tumor development was associated with increased activity of plasma enzymes; classic doxorubicin therapy not only prevents the accumulation of ascitic fluid, but also significantly reduces the activity of plasma antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, in association with VA extract, the protective effect is improved. Oxidative changes in Ehrlich tumor cells consisted in decreased catalase activity and amplified xanthine oxidase and peroxidase activities.

Polyphenolic composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activities for two Romanian subspecies of Achillea distans Waldst. et Kit. ex Willd

The aim of this work was to study the chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of Achillea distans Waldst. et Kit. subsp. distans and Achillea distans Waldst. et Kit. subsp. alpina Rochel, from the Rodna Mountains (Romania). The identification and quantification of major phenolic compounds was performed by a HPLC-MS method. The total polyphenolic and flavonoid content was determined spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH bleaching method, trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay (TEAC), hemoglobin ascorbate peroxidase activity inhibition (HAPX) assay, and an Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy method. A data indicated that A. distans subsp. alpina extract has more antioxidant activity than A. distans subsp. distans extract. Luteolin, apigenin, quercetin, caffeic and chlorogenic acids were present in the two extracts of A. distans, but in different amounts. Three flavonoids were detected only in A. distans subsp. alpina. The polyphenol-richer A. distans subsp. alpina extract showed a higher antioxidant activity than A.distans subsp. distans extract. A.distans subsp. distans extract showed inhibitory activity for Gram-positive bacteria, as evaluated with four species. The quantitative and qualitative differences between the two subspecies of Achillea distans could be used as a potential taxonomic marker in order to distinguish the species.

[Regulation of cellular-mediated immunity by Chenopodi boni henrici herba polysaccharides in hens]

The immunomodulatory effect of polysaccharides from Chenopodium bonus-henricus herba was tested on adult hens.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Blood samples were harvested aseptically by punction of brachial vein; ability of circulating phagocytes was assessed by the carbon particles phagocytosis test in vitro; while reactivity of peripheral lymphocytes was evaluated by lymphocytes transformation assay in vitro. Polysaharides were dissolved in saline solution and filtered throughout Millipore.

RESULTS

Phagocytic indexes (at 15 and 39 minutes) are variable according to polysaharides concentration; phagocytosis increased at 15 minutes for 40 microg/mL and 60 microg/mL, while for 30 minutes the phagocytic index decreased. In lymphocytes transformation assay, Chenopodium bonus-henricus polysaharides, alone, shown no stimulatory effect, and together to the classic mitogen, their influence was variable, but not statistical significant results were seen.

CONCLUSION

Polysaccharides have inconstant effect on phagocytosis, and mainly inhibitory role on lymphocytes proliferation.

The study of some polyphenolic compounds from Melissa officinalis L. (Lamiaceae)

We proposed the analyses of polyphenolic coumpounds from the Melissa officinalis L. (Lamiaceae) leaves obtained from Medicinal Plant Collection of USAMV Cluj-Napoca.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The study was performed by using spectrophotometric (I) and HPLC methods (II).

RESULTS

The vegetal product contains 0.64% flavonoids expressed in rutoside and 8,962% phenyl-propane derivatives expressed in caffeic acid (I). HPLC analyses (II) were made after extraction of studied compounds from leaves with ethyl-ether, ethyl acetate and 1-buthanol. These extracts were analyzed before and after the hydrolysis of compounds. There were identified 6 polyphenolic compounds: caftaric acid, caffeic acid, p-cumaric acid, ferulic acid, luteolin and apigenin.

CONCLUSION

The extracted amount of these compounds in chosen solvents depending of their polarity.

Phytochemical and pharmacological studies on Orthosiphon stamineus Benth. (Lamiaceae) hydroalcoholic extracts

The main components of Orthosiphon stamineus Benth. leaves and extracts are the pharmacologically active polyphenols: the polymethoxylated flavonoids and the caffeic acid derivatives. Two tinctures, having different alcohol concentration, were studied from phytochemical and pharmacological point of view. The main polyphenols were identified and quantitatively determined by HPLC. Comparison of the retention parameters and UV-Vis spectra of standards and those of the separated compounds performed the identification of caffeic-, cichoric- and rosmarinic acids, respectively, of sinesetine and eupatorine. The quantitative determination was performed by external standard method. The diuretic, saluretic and uricosuric actions of the studied tinctures were compared by experiments on rats.