Synthesis of 4'-Thionucleoside Analogues Bearing a C2' Stereogenic All-Carbon Quaternary Center

The design of novel 4'-thionucleoside analogues bearing a C2' stereogenic all-carbon quaternary center is described. The synthesis involves a highly diastereoselective Mukaiyama aldol reaction, and a diastereoselective radical-based vinyl group transfer to generate the all-carbon stereogenic C2' center, along with different approaches to control the selectivity of the N-glycosidic bond. Intramolecular SN2-like cyclization of a mixture of acyclic thioaminals provided analogues with a pyrimidine nucleobase. A kinetic bias favoring cyclization of the 1',2'-anti thioaminal furnished the desired β-D-4'-thionucleoside analogue in a 7:1 ratio. DFT calculations suggest that this kinetic resolution originates from additional steric clash in the SN2-like transition state for 1',4'-trans isomers, causing a significant decrease in their reaction rate relative to 1',4'-cis counterparts. N-glycosylation of cyclic glycosyl donors with a purine nucleobase enabled the formation of novel 2-chloroadenine 4'-thionucleoside analogues. These proprietary molecules and other derivatives are currently being evaluated both in vitro and in vivo to establish their biological profiles.

Hawthorne root (Crataegus mexicana) toxicity

Here we present the case of a patient who purchased a Hawthorne root (Crataegus mexicana) product, Raiz de Tejocote, for weight loss purposes. She presented with diffuse myalgias, dizziness and a heart rate of 52 beats per minute. At triage and at initial evaluation, the patient denied taking any medications, but on iterative questioning concerning over-the-counter, over-the-internet and herbal medications, she reported taking Hawthorne root tablets in the three days prior to the emergency department (ED) visit for the purpose of weight loss. The product was purchashed through the internet. Her plasma digoxin concentration was 0.4 ng/ml the patient's constellation of symptoms, as well as the detectable plasma digoxin concentration, were consistent with hawthorne root toxicity. Hawthorne root has intrinsic cardiac glycoside activity. In addition, Hawthorne root may cause a range of toxicity. Mild symptoms can include flu-like syndrome with significant myalgias. However, in the more severe exposures the cardiac glycoside effects can result in bradycardia and hemodynamic instability. Symptoms resolved with ED observation. The heart rate normalized. This case reinforces the importance of asking a patient about all medications, including over-the-counter, over-the-internet and herbal medications.

In Silico Approach Triterpene Glycoside of H. atra Targeting Orotidine 5-Monophosphate Decarboxylase Protein (PfOMPDC) in P. falciparum Infection Mechanism

This study accessed the potential antimalarial activity of triterpene glycoside of H. atra through targeting orotidine 5-monophosphate decarboxylase protein (PfOMPDC) in P. falciparum by molecular docking. Nine triterpene glycosides from H. atra extract modeled the structure by the Corina web server and interacted with PfOMPDC protein by using Hex 8.0.0. The docking results were visualized and analyzed by Discovery Studio version 21.1.1. 17-Hydroxyfuscocineroside B showed the lowest binding energy in PfOMPDC interaction, which was -1,098.13 kJ/mol. Holothurin A3, echinoside A, and fuscocineroside C showed low binding energy. Nine triterpene glycosides of H. atra performed interaction with PfOMPDC protein at the same region. Holothurin A1 posed interaction with PfOMPDC protein by 8 hydrogen bonds, 3 hydrophobic interactions, and 8 unfavorable bonds. Several residues were detected in the same active sites of other triterpene glycosides. Residue TYR111 was identified in all triterpene glycoside complexes, except holothurin A3 and calcigeroside B. In summary, the triterpene glycoside of H. atra is potentially a drug candidate for malaria therapeutic agents. In vitro and in vivo studies were required for further investigation.

Expeditious Synthesis of Gwanakoside A and the Chloronaphthol Glycoside Congeners

The synthesis of gwanakoside A, a chlorinated naphthol bis-glycoside, and its analogues was achieved through stepwise chlorination and donor-equivalent controlled regioselective phenol glycosylation with glycosyl N-phenyltrifluoroacetimidates as donors. Gwanakoside A displayed considerable inhibitory effects against various cancer cells and Staphylococcus aureus strains.

Effects of Cardiac Glycoside Digoxin on Dendritic Spines and Motor Learning Performance in Mice

Synapse formation following the generation of postsynaptic dendritic spines is essential for motor learning and functional recovery after brain injury. The C-terminal fragment of agrin cleaved by neurotrypsin induces dendritic spine formation in the adult hippocampus. Since the α3 subunit of sodium-potassium ATPase (Na/K ATPase) is a neuronal receptor for agrin in the central nervous system, cardiac glycosides might facilitate dendritic spine formation and subsequent improvements in learning. This study investigated the effects of cardiac glycoside digoxin on dendritic spine turnover and learning performance in mice. Golgi-Cox staining revealed that intraperitoneal injection of digoxin less than its IC50 in the brain significantly increased the density of long spines (≥2 µm) in the cerebral cortex in wild-type mice and neurotrypsin-knockout (NT-KO) mice showing impairment of activity-dependent spine formation. Although the motor learning performance of NT-KO mice was significantly lower than control wild-type mice under the control condition, low doses of digoxin enhanced performance to a similar degree in both strains. In NT-KO mice, lower digoxin doses equivalent to clinical doses also significantly improved motor learning performance. These data suggest that lower doses of digoxin could modify dendritic spine formation or recycling and facilitate motor learning in compensation for the disruption of neurotrypsin-agrin pathway.

Antioxidant isolation and characterization from the plant Tradescantia spathacea Sw. of the Commelinaceae family

A novel bioactive flavan glycoside was isolated by solvent extraction method with the help of Soxhlet apparatus from the methanolic extract of Tradescantia spathacea Sw. Flavan glycoside having molecular formula C20H22O10, melting point 175-1780C, molecular weight by ESI-MS m/z (M + H]+ 423, optical rotation was[α]21D-45.1(c 0.20 methanol). Its structure was determined (-)-epicatechin 7-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside. Various color reactions, chemical degradation (like acid hydrolysis, permethylation, and enzymatic hydrolysis), UV-Visible spectrophotometry, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used to establish the structure of compound (-)-(-)-epicatechin 7-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside.. A flavan glycoside was also tested with a DPPH assay method for antioxidant activity by using Ascorbic acid as standard. DPPH radical scavenging test data demonstrate that a flavan glycoside possesses potent antioxidant activity so this flavan glycoside can be utilized as a potent antioxidant agent.

New phenylbutenoids and terpene glycosides from Ginkgo biloba leaves

Our continued works on the chemical constituents of Ginkgo biloba (G. biloba) leaves has led to the isolation of two novel phenylbutenoids (1, 2), along with five previously unidentified terpene glycosides (3-7). Among them, compounds 1 and 2 represent unique (Z)-phenylbutenoids, 3-6 are megastigmane glycosides, and 7 is identified as a rare bilobanone glycoside (Fig. 1). This study marks the first reported isolation of phenylbutenoid and bilobanone glycoside from G. biloba. The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated through extensive spectroscopic analysis, including HR-ESI-MS and various 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Furthermore, the absolute configurations of these molecules were determined using Mosher's method, ECD experiments, and Cu-Kα X-ray crystallographic analyses.

Glycoside constituents of Camellia amplexicaulis and their α-glucosidase inhibitory activity

Four new glycosides, named amplexicosides A-D (1-4), and five known compounds: benzyl 2-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranosyloxy]-benzoate (5), benzyl 2-neohesperidosyloxy-6-hydroxybenzoate (6), chrysandroside A (7), chrysandroside B (8) and camelliquercetiside C (9) were isolated from the branches and leaves of Camellia amplexicaulis (Pit.) Cohen-Stuart. Their structures were elucidated using HR-ESI-MS and 1D- and 2D-NMR spectra and compared to reported NMR data. All of the isolated compounds were screened in an α-glucosidase assay. Compounds 4, 8, and 9 significantly inhibited α-glucosidase with respective IC50 values of 254.9 ± 4.2, 304.8 ± 11.9 and 228.1 ± 16.4 μM.

Zika virus: Antiviral immune response, inflammation, and cardiotonic steroids as antiviral agents

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne virus first reported from humans in Nigeria in 1954. The first outbreak occurred in Micronesia followed by an outbreak in French Polynesia and another in Brazil when the virus was associated with numerous cases of severe neurological manifestations such as Guillain-Barre syndrome in adults and congenital zika syndrome in fetuses, particularly congenital microcephaly. Innate immunity is the first line of defense against ZIKV through triggering an antiviral immune response. Along with innate immune responses, a sufficient balance between anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines and the amount of these cytokines are triggered to enhance the antiviral responses. Here, we reviewed the complex interplay between the mediators and signal pathways that coordinate antiviral immune response and inflammation as a key to understanding the development of the underlying diseases triggered by ZIKV. In addition, we summarize current and new therapeutic strategies for ZIKV infection, highlighting cardiotonic steroids as antiviral drugs for the development of this agent.

Iridoid Glycosides and Coumarin Glycoside Derivatives from the Roots of Nymphoides peltata and Their In Vitro Wound Healing Properties

Nymphoides peltata has been used as a medicinal herb in traditional medicines to treat strangury, polyuria, and swelling. The phytochemical investigation of the MeOH extract of N. peltata roots led to the isolation of three iridoid glycosides and three coumarin glycoside derivatives, which were characterized as menthiafolin (1), threoninosecologanin (2), callicoside C (3), and scopolin (4), as well as two undescribed peltatamarins A (5) and B (6). The chemical structures of the undescribed compounds were determined by analyzing their 1 dimensional (D) and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra and using high-resolution (HR)-electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (ESI-MS), along with the chemical reaction of acid hydrolysis. The wound healing activities of the isolated compounds 1-6 were evaluated using a HaCaT cell scratch test. Among the isolates, scopolin (4) and peltatamarin A (5) promoted HaCaT cell migration over scratch wounds, and compound 5 was the most effective. Furthermore, compound 5 significantly promoted cell migration without adversely affecting cell proliferation, even when treated at a high dose (100 μM). Our results demonstrate that peltatamarin A (5), isolated from N. peltata roots, has the potential for wound healing effects.

ATP1A1/BCL2L1 predicts the response of myelomonocytic and monocytic acute myeloid leukemia to cardiac glycosides

Myelomonocytic and monocytic acute myeloid leukemia (AML) subtypes are intrinsically resistant to venetoclax-based regimens. Identifying targetable vulnerabilities would limit resistance and relapse. We previously documented the synergism of venetoclax and cardiac glycoside (CG) combination in AML. Despite preclinical evidence, the repurposing of cardiac glycosides (CGs) in cancer therapy remained unsuccessful due to a lack of predictive biomarkers. We report that the ex vivo response of AML patient blasts and the in vitro sensitivity of established cell lines to the hemi-synthetic CG UNBS1450 correlates with the ATPase Na+/K+ transporting subunit alpha 1 (ATP1A1)/BCL2 like 1 (BCL2L1) expression ratio. Publicly available AML datasets identify myelomonocytic/monocytic differentiation as the most robust prognostic feature, along with core-binding factor subunit beta (CBFB), lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) rearrangements, and missense Fms-related receptor tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations. Mechanistically, BCL2L1 protects from cell death commitment induced by the CG-mediated stepwise triggering of ionic perturbation, protein synthesis inhibition, and MCL1 downregulation. In vivo, CGs showed an overall tolerable profile while impacting tumor growth with an effect ranging from tumor growth inhibition to regression. These findings suggest a predictive marker for CG repurposing in specific AML subtypes.

[A new benzopyran glycoside from Gentiana macrophylla]

Thirteen compounds were isolated and identified from 70% ethanol extract of the roots of Gentiana macrophylla by multi-chromatographic methods, including microporous resin, silica gel, and C_(18) reversed-phase column chromatography, as well as HPLC as follows: macrophylloside G(1), macrophylloside D(2), 5-formyl-2,3-dihydroisocoumarin(3),(+)-medicarpin(4),(+)-syringaresinol(5), liquiritigenin(6),(3R)-sativanone(7),(3R)-3'-O-methylviolanone(8), 4,2',4'-trihydroxychalcone(9), latifolin(10), gentioxepine(11), 6α-hydroxycyclonerolidol(12), and ethyl linoleate(13). Compound 1 was a new benzopyran glycoside. Compounds 4, 6-10, 12, and 13 were isolated for the first time from Gentiana plants. Compounds 1 and 2 showed promising hepatoprotective activity against D-GalN-induced AML12 cell damage at the concentration of 10 μmol·L~(-1), and compound 2 exhibited more significant activity than silybin at the same concentration.

Isolation and structural characterization of phytoconstituents from leaves of Bignonia binata

Phytochemical investigation of Bignonia binata leaves led to the isolation of three new compounds: including a glycoside of simple alcohol, namely binatoside (2), 3,4-dihydroxy-N-methyl piperidin-2-one (7), and a phenyl ethanoid glycoside, namely bignanoside C (8), alongside with five known compounds; including a glycoside of simple alcohol; (2S) propane-1,2-diol 1-O-(6-O-caffeoy1)-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), phenyl ethanoids; leucosceptoside A (3) and plantainoside C (4), and iridoids; ipolamiide (5) and strictoloside (6). The structure of the isolated compounds was elucidated by various spectroscopic methods, including 1 D and 2 D NMR experiments, HR-ESI-MS as well as by comparison with the literature.

Three new phenolic glycosides and a new lignan glycoside from Gaultheria leucocarpa var. yunnanensis

Three new phenolic glycosides (1-3) and a new lignan glycoside (4), together with five known compounds (5-9) were isolated from the ethanol extract of the aerial part of Gaultheria leucocarpa var. yunnanensis (Franch.) T.Z.Hsu & R.C.Fang. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic techniques, experimental and calculated ECD spectra, acid hydrolysis, and enzymatic hydrolysis experiments. All the isolates were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Compounds 7 and 8 exhibited inhibitory effects against the LPS-induced production of NO with IC50 of 63.71 and 10.66 μM, respectively, compared to L-NMMA having an IC50 of 6.95 μM. Besides, compound 7 also represented significant DPPH radical scavenging activity with EC50 of 18.75 μM, comparable with vitamin C (EC50 = 15.77 μM).

A new megastigmane glycoside, a new organic acid glycoside and other constituents with anticomplementary activity from Artemisia halodendron

A new megastigmane glycoside, (1R,5R,6S,7E)-megastigman-3,9-dione-7-en-6,11-diol 11-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), and a new organic acid glycoside, methyl (4 R)-4-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-decanoate (2), together with eight known compounds (3-10), were isolated from the aerial parts of Artemisia halodendron Turcz. ex Bess. (Asteraceae). Their chemical structures were elucidated by 1 D and 2 D NMR and HR-ESI-MS spectra and DP4+ probability analysis. Among the identified compounds, compounds 5, 6 and 10 were isolated from the family Asteraceae, and compounds 3, 4 and 7-9 were identified from the genus Artemisia for the first time. All of the compounds were evaluated for their anticomplementary activity against the classical pathway (CP) and the alternative pathway (AP). Compounds 7 and 9 showed anticomplementary activity with the CH50 values of 0.31 ± 0.08 and 0.50 ± 0.09 mM, respectively.

Lepiginosides A-D: three new triterpenoid saponins and a new farnesyl glycoside from the stembarks of Lepisanthes rubiginosa (roxb.) leenh

Phytochemical investigation of methanolic extract of L. rubiginosa using modern chromatographic techniques has led to the isolation of three new triterpenoid saponins, lepiginosides A-C (1-3), a new farnesyl glycoside, lepiginoside D (4), together with lepisantheside B (5) and gleditsoside C (6). The characterization and structural elucidation of the isolated compounds were established by extensive spectroscopic data analysis and comparison with literature data. Moreover, the antibacterial activity against seven bacteria, but none is active.

A Systematic Analysis of the Correlation between Flavor Active Differential Metabolites and Multiple Bean Ripening Stages of Coffea arabica L

Coffee cherries contain a crucial flavor-precursor and chemical substances influencing roasted bean quality, yet limited knowledge exists on metabolite changes during cherry ripening. Our study identified 1078 metabolites, revealing 46 core differential metabolites using a KEGG pathway analysis. At the GF vs. ROF stage, amino acid synthesis dominated; ROF vs. BRF featured nucleotide catabolism; BRF vs. PRF exhibited glycoside and flavonoid synthesis; and PRF vs. PBF involved secondary metabolite synthesis and catabolism. The PRF stage emerged as the optimal cherry-harvesting period. A correlation analysis identified core differential metabolites strongly linked to taste indicators, suggesting their potential as taste markers. Notably, nucleotides and derivatives exhibited significant negative correlations with glycosides and flavonoids during ripening. This research systematically analyzed flavor and active substances in green coffee beans during cherry ripening, offering valuable insights into substance formation in Coffea arabica L.

Sustainable Transformation of Two Algal Species of Different Genera to High-Value Chemicals and Bioproducts

This study investigates the potential of two algae species from different genera, namely the recently isolated Scenedesmus obliquus BGP and Porphyridium cruentum, from the perspective of their integral sustainable transformation to valuable substances. Conventional Soxhlet and environmentally friendly supercritical fluid extraction were applied to recover oils from the species. The extracts were characterized through analytical techniques, such as GC-Fid and LC-MS/MS, which allowed their qualitative and quantitative differentiation. Thus, P. cruentum oils contained up to 43% C20:4 and C20:5 fatty acids, while those of S. obliquus BGP had only residual amounts. The LC-MS/MS analysis of phenolic compounds in the S. obliquus BGP and P. cruentum extracts showed higher content of 3-OH-4-methoxybenzoic acid and kaempferol 3-O-glycoside in the former and higher amounts of ferulic acid in the latter. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the oils were also determined and compared. The compositional analysis of the oil extracts revealed significant differences and varying potentialities based on their genera and method of extraction. To the best of our knowledge our work is unique in providing such detailed information about the transformation prospects of the two algae species to high-value chemicals and bioproducts.

Selective Wine Aroma Enhancement through Enzyme Hydrolysis of Glycosidic Precursors

Selective enhancement of wine aroma was achieved using a broad spectrum of exogenous glycosidases. Eight different enzyme preparations were added to Verdejo wine, resulting in an increase in the levels of varietal volatile compounds compared to the control wine after 15 days of treatment. The enzyme preparations studied were robust under winemaking conditions (sulfur dioxide, reducing sugars, and alcohol content), and no inhibition of β-glucosidase activity was observed. Significant differences were detected in four individual terpenes (α-terpineol, terpinen-4-ol, α-pinene, and citronellal) and benzyl alcohol in all the treated wines compared to the control wine, contributing to the final wine to varying degrees. In addition, a significant increase in the other aromatic compounds was observed, which showed different patterns depending on the enzyme preparation that was tested. The principal component analysis of the data revealed the possibility of modulating the different aromatic profiles of the final wines depending on the enzyme preparation used. Taking these results into account, enhancement of the floral, balsamic, and/or fruity notes of wines is possible by using a suitable commercial enzyme preparation.

Biochemical Characterization of Parsley Glycosyltransferases Involved in the Biosynthesis of a Flavonoid Glycoside, Apiin

The flavonoid glycoside apiin (apigenin 7-O-[β-D-apiosyl-(1→2)-β-D-glucoside]) is abundant in apiaceous and asteraceous plants, including celery and parsley. Although several enzymes involved in apiin biosynthesis have been identified in celery, many of the enzymes in parsley (Petroselinum crispum) have not been identified. In this study, we identified parsley genes encoding the glucosyltransferase, PcGlcT, and the apiosyltransferase, PcApiT, that catalyze the glycosylation steps of apiin biosynthesis. Their substrate specificities showed that they were involved in the biosynthesis of some flavonoid 7-O-apiosylglucosides, including apiin. The expression profiles of PcGlcT and PcApiT were closely correlated with the accumulation of flavonoid 7-O-apiosylglucosides in parsley organs and developmental stages. These findings support the idea that PcGlcT and PcApiT are involved in the biosynthesis of flavonoid 7-O-apiosylglucosides in parsley. The identification of these genes will elucidate the physiological significance of apiin and the development of apiin production methods.

Small molecule regulators of microRNAs identified by high-throughput screen coupled with high-throughput sequencing

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate fundamental biological processes by silencing mRNA targets and are dysregulated in many diseases. Therefore, miRNA replacement or inhibition can be harnessed as potential therapeutics. However, existing strategies for miRNA modulation using oligonucleotides and gene therapies are challenging, especially for neurological diseases, and none have yet gained clinical approval. We explore a different approach by screening a biodiverse library of small molecule compounds for their ability to modulate hundreds of miRNAs in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. We demonstrate the utility of the screen by identifying cardiac glycosides as potent inducers of miR-132, a key neuroprotective miRNA downregulated in Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. Coordinately, cardiac glycosides downregulate known miR-132 targets, including Tau, and protect rodent and human neurons against various toxic insults. More generally, our dataset of 1370 drug-like compounds and their effects on the miRNome provides a valuable resource for further miRNA-based drug discovery.

Mechanistic insights into glycoside 3-oxidases involved in C-glycoside metabolism in soil microorganisms

C-glycosides are natural products with important biological activities but are recalcitrant to degradation. Glycoside 3-oxidases (G3Oxs) are recently identified bacterial flavo-oxidases from the glucose-methanol-coline (GMC) superfamily that catalyze the oxidation of C-glycosides with the concomitant reduction of O2 to H2O2. This oxidation is followed by C-C acid/base-assisted bond cleavage in two-step C-deglycosylation pathways. Soil and gut microorganisms have different oxidative enzymes, but the details of their catalytic mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we report that PsG3Ox oxidizes at 50,000-fold higher specificity (kcat/Km) the glucose moiety of mangiferin to 3-keto-mangiferin than free D-glucose to 2-keto-glucose. Analysis of PsG3Ox X-ray crystal structures and PsG3Ox in complex with glucose and mangiferin, combined with mutagenesis and molecular dynamics simulations, reveal distinctive features in the topology surrounding the active site that favor catalytically competent conformational states suitable for recognition, stabilization, and oxidation of the glucose moiety of mangiferin. Furthermore, their distinction to pyranose 2-oxidases (P2Oxs) involved in wood decay and recycling is discussed from an evolutionary, structural, and functional viewpoint.

Enzymatic β-elimination in natural product O- and C-glycoside deglycosylation

Biological degradation of natural product glycosides involves, alongside hydrolysis, β-elimination for glycosidic bond cleavage. Here, we discover an O-glycoside β-eliminase (OGE) from Agrobacterium tumefaciens that converts the C3-oxidized O-β-D-glucoside of phloretin (a plant-derived flavonoid) into the aglycone and the 2-hydroxy-3-keto-glycal elimination product. While unrelated in sequence, OGE is structurally homologous to, and shows effectively the same Mn2+ active site as, the C-glycoside deglycosylating enzyme (CGE) from a human intestinal bacterium implicated in β-elimination of 3-keto C-β-D-glucosides. We show that CGE catalyzes β-elimination of 3-keto O- and C-β-D-glucosides while OGE is specific for the O-glycoside substrate. Substrate comparisons and mutagenesis for CGE uncover positioning of aglycone for protonic assistance by the enzyme as critically important for C-glycoside cleavage. Collectively, our study suggests convergent evolution of active site for β-elimination of 3-keto O-β-D-glucosides. C-Glycoside cleavage is a specialized feature of this active site which is elicited by substrate through finely tuned enzyme-aglycone interactions.

[Improvement of solubility of epimedium flavonoid secondary glycoside components by traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharides and its mechanism]

The poor solubility of insoluble components of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) is an important factor restricting the development of its preparations. Natural polysaccharides of TCM can be used as functional components to increase the solubility of insoluble components. Epimedium flavonoid secondary glycoside components(EFSGC) have been shown to have positive effects on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, but they exhibit poor solubility. Therefore, the strategy of solubilizing EFSGC with TCM polysaccharides was adopted, and its effect on the permeability and stability of EFSGC was evaluated in this study. Based on the equilibrium solubility experiment of EFSGC, it was found that Panax notoginseng crude polysaccharide(PNCP) had the best solubilization effect on EFSGC among the ten kinds of TCM polysaccharides, which increased the solubility of EFSGC from 0.8 mg·mL~(-1) to 13.3 mg·mL~(-1). It should be noted that after the solubilization of EFSGC by preparation technology, the effects on permeability and stability should be considered. Therefore, this study also investigated these two properties. The results showed that PNCP increased the effective transmittance of EFSGC from 50.5% to 71.1%, which could increase the permeability of EFSGC significantly. At the same time, it could improve the stability of EFSGC in the simulated gastric juice environment. In order to explain the solubilization mechanism of PNCP on EGSGC, critical micelle concentration, particle size, potential, differential scanning calorimetry, and infrared spectroscopy were analyzed. It was preliminarily inferred that the mechanism was as follows: PNCP and EFSGC could self-assemble into aggregates for solubilization by intermolecular hydrogen bonding interaction in water. In summary, PNCP can not only improve the solubility of EFSGC but also improve its permeability and stability. This study lays the foundation for the application of TCM polysaccharides as a functional component to solubilize insoluble components.

Sialic acid O-acetylation patterns and glycosidic linkage type determination by ion mobility-mass spectrometry

O-acetylation is a common modification of sialic acids that has been implicated in a multitude of biological and disease processes. A lack of analytical methods that can determine exact structures of sialic acid variants is a hurdle to determine roles of distinct O-acetylated sialosides. Here, we describe a drift tube ion mobility-mass spectrometry approach that can elucidate exact O-acetylation patterns as well as glycosidic linkage types of sialosides isolated from complex biological samples. It is based on the use of a library of synthetic O-acetylated sialosides to establish intrinsic collision cross section (CCS) values of diagnostic fragment ions. The CCS values were used to characterize O-acetylated sialosides from mucins and N-linked glycans from biologicals as well as equine tracheal and nasal tissues. It uncovered contrasting sialic acid linkage types of acetylated and non-acetylated sialic acids and provided a rationale for sialic acid binding preferences of equine H7 influenza A viruses.

New Monoterpene Glycoside Paeoniflorin Derivatives as NO and IL-1β Inhibitors: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation

Several monoterpene glycoside compounds were extracted from Paeonia lactiflora Pall. Among them, paeoniflorin, a water-soluble monoterpene glycoside found in the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall, exhibits excellent antioxidant pharmacological functions. Initially, Sc(CF3SO3)3 was employed as the catalyst for paeoniflorin's dehydration and rearrangement reactions with alcohols. Subsequently, structural modifications were performed on paeoniflorin through a series of responses, including acetylation, deacetylation, and debenzoylation, ultimately yielding 46 monoterpene glycoside derivatives. The potential inhibitory effects on the pro-inflammatory mediators interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and nitric oxide (NO) were assessed in vitro. The results revealed that compounds 29 and 31 demonstrated notable inhibition of NO production, while eight derivatives (3, 8, 18, 20, 21, 29, 34, and 40) displayed substantial inhibitory effects on the secretion of IL-1β. Computational research was also undertaken to investigate the binding affinity of the ligands with the target proteins. Interactions between the proteins and substrates were elucidated, and corresponding binding energies were calculated accordingly. The findings of this study could provide valuable insights into the design and development of novel anti-inflammatory agents with enhanced pharmacological properties.

DCTPP1, a reliable Q-biomarker for comprehensive evaluation of the quality of tripterygium glycoside tablets based on chemical references

BACKGROUND

As first-line clinical drugs, tripterygium glycoside tablets (TGTs) often have inconsistent efficacy and toxic side effects, mainly due to inadequate quality control. Therefore, clinically relevant quality standards for TGTs are urgently required.

PURPOSE

Based on chemical substances and considering pharmacological efficacy, we aimed to develop an effective quality evaluation method for TGTs.

METHODS

Representative commercial samples of TGTs were collected from different manufacturers, and qualitative UHPLC/LTQ-Orbitrap-MS and quantitative UHPLC-MS/MS analysis methods were successfully applied to evaluate their quality similarities and differences based on their chemical properties. Then the anti-immunity, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities of TGTs and related monomers were evaluated using Jurkat, RAW264.7, MIA PaCa-2, and PANC-1 as cellular models. Subsequently, we predicted and verified small molecule-DCTPP1 interactions via molecular docking using the established DCTPP1 enzymatic activity assay. Finally, we performed a gray relational analysis to evaluate the chemical characteristics and biological effects of TGTs produced by different manufacturers.

RESULTS

We collected 24 batches of TGTs (D01-D24) from 5 manufacturers (Co. A, Co. B, Co. C, Co. D, Co. E) for quality evaluation. The chemical composition analysis revealed significant differences in the substance bases of the samples. The D02, D18-D20 samples from Co. B constituted a separate group that differed from other samples, mainly in their absence of diterpenoids and triterpenoids, including triptolide, triptophenolide, and triptonide. In vitro anti-immunity, antitumor and anti-inflammatory tests using the same TGT concentration revealed that, except for D02, D18-D20, the remaining 20 samples exhibited different degrees of anti-immunity, antitumor and anti-inflammatory activity. Our experiments verified that triptolide, triptophenolide, and triptonide were all DCTPP1 inhibitors, and that TGTs generally exhibited DCTPP1 enzyme inhibitory activity. Moreover, the inhibitory activity of D02, D18-D20 samples from Co. B was much lower than that of the other samples, with a nearly tenfold difference in IC50. Further comprehensive analysis revealed a high correlation between DCTPP1 enzyme inhibition activity and the anti-immunity and antitumor and anti-inflammatory activities of these samples.

CONCLUSION

The established DCTPP1 enzymatic activity assay proved suitable for quantitative pharmacological and pharmaceutical analysis to complement the existing quality control system for TGTs and to evaluate their effectiveness.

Enhanced efficacy with reduced toxicity of tripterygium glycoside tablet by compatibility with total glucosides of paeony for rheumatoid arthritis therapy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Drug-induced liver injury remains a critical issue to hinder clinical application of Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets (TGTs) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. Combination of TGTs with Total Glucosides of Peony (TGP) may be the most common therapeutic strategy for enhancing TGTs' efficacy and reducing its toxicity. Herein, we aimed to investigate the efficacy-enhancing and toxicity-reducing properties and mechanisms of TGT-TGP combination.

METHODS

Both TGT-induced acute and chronic liver injury animal models were established. ELISA, transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, western blot and quantitative PCR were performed to determine the efficacy, toxicity and regulatory mechanisms of TGT-TGP combination.

RESULTS

The compatibility of TGP significantly reduced the abnormal serum ALT and AST levels, and improved liver histopathological changes in both acute and chronic DILI animal models induced by TGTs, with the most effective dosage of TGP-M (medium-dose TGP, 450 mg/kg). Additionally, TGP and TGT synergistically alleviated joint swelling and improved the elevation of serum inflammatory factors, in line with the positive changes in joint histopathological features of collagen induced arthritis mice, with the same effective dosage of TGP-M following 5 weeks' drug combination treatment. Mechanically, TGT significantly increased the number of autophagosomes and the expression of LC3II protein while reducing p62 protein expression in the liver tissues, which were significantly reversed by the compatibility with TGP, similar to the findings based on the inflamed joint tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest an enhanced efficacy with reduced toxicity of TGT by the compatibility with TGP for RA therapy, possibly through regulating various autophagy-related proteins.

Theoretical study on the glycosidic C-C bond cleavage of 3''-oxo-puerarin

Puerarin, daidzein C-glucoside, was known to be biotransformed to daidzein by human intestinal bacteria, which is eventually converted to (S)-equol. The metabolic pathway of puerarin to daidzein by DgpABC of Dorea sp. PUE strain was reported as puerarin (1) → 3''-oxo-puerarin (2) → daidzein (3) + hexose enediolone (C). The second reaction is the cleavage of the glycosidic C-C bond, supposedly through the quinoid intermediate (4). In this work, the glycosidic C-C bond cleavage reaction of 3''-oxo-puerarin (2) was theoretically studied by means of DFT calculation to elucidate chemical reaction mechanism, along with biochemical energetics of puerarin metabolism. It was found that bioenergetics of puerarin metabolism is slightly endergonic by 4.99 kcal/mol, mainly due to the reaction step of hexose enediolone (C) to 3''-oxo-glucose (A). The result implied that there could be additional biochemical reactions for the metabolism of hexose enediolone (C) to overcome the thermodynamic energy barrier of 4.59 kcal/mol. The computational study focused on the C-C bond cleavage of 3''-oxo-puerarin (2) found that formation of the quinoid intermediate (4) was not accessible thermodynamically, rather the reaction was initiated by the deprotonation of 2''C-H proton of 3''-oxo-puerarin (2). The 2''C-dehydro-3''-oxo-puerarin (2a2C) anionic species produced hexose enediolone (C) and 8-dehydro-daidzein anion (3a8), and the latter quickly converted to daidzein through the daidzein anion (3a7). Our study also explains why the reverse reaction of C-glycoside formation from daidzein (3) and hexose enediolone (C) is not feasible.

MS/MS fingerprint comparison between adjacent generations enables substructure identification: Flavonoid glycosides as cases

MS/MS spectrum matching currently serves as a favored means to identify the concerned metabolites attributing to the accessibility of several famous databases. However, the rule that takes the entire structure into account frequently leads to "0 hit" when inquiring MS/MS (usually MS2) spectrum in the databases. Conjugation plays an important role for the high-level structural diversity of metabolites in all organisms, and a given conjugate usually consists of two or more substructures. If MS3 spectra participate in database retrieval, the structural annotation potential of those databases should be dramatically expanded via identifying substructures. Attributing to the ubiquitous distribution pattern, flavonoid glycosides were deployed as the representative family to justify whether the primary fragment ion termed as Y0+, resulted from neutral loss of glycosyl residue(s), generated identical MS3 spectrum with MS2 spectrum of the aglycone cation namely [A+H]+. Because of owning unique ability to measure MS/MS spectrum with the exactly desired exciting energy, linear ion trap chamber of Qtrap-MS was responsible for generating the desired MS3 and MS2 spectra. When taking both m/z and ion intensity features into consideration, the findings included: 1) glycosides sharing identical aglycones produced the same MS3 spectra for Y0+; 2) different MS3 spectra for Y0+ occurred amongst glycosides bearing distinct, even isomeric, aglycones; 3) isomeric aglycones generated different MS2 spectra; and 4) MS3 spectra for Y0+ agreed with MS2 spectra of [A+H]+ when comparing paired glycoside and aglycone. Together, fingerprint comparison between MS3 and MS2 spectra could structurally annotate the substructures and further advance MS/MS spectrum matching towards the identification of, but not limited to, aglycones for flavonoid glycosides.

Cloning, expression, and molecular modification of glycoside hydrolase family 5 genes from Thermoascus aurantiacus

In this paper, a novel bifunctional cellulase gene cel1 was cloned from Thermoascus aurantiacus by PCR and heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris GS115. Bioinformatics and other related tools were used to compare the nucleotide homology of target genes, and analyze the signal peptide, transmembrane domain, hydrophilicity, secondary and tertiary structure of proteins. It was concluded that cel1 has similar endoglucanase nucleotide sequences and falls under the GH5 family. It was also found that cel1 has nucleotide sequences similar to glucosidase, which can infer that cel1 may have the properties of glucosidase, indicating that cel1 is multifunctional. At the same time, a part of the nucleotide sequence of the gene was removed to obtain a new gene cel2, and after highly efficient heterologous expression, its specific activity was found to be 2.1 times higher. Its enhancement is related to the exposure of the protein's hollow three-dimensional structure. This paper provides good material for exploring the relationship between the structure of bifunctional enzymes and their functions, which lays a solid foundation for further research and applications, and provides useful insight for gene mining of other novel enzymes.

Yellow oleander (Thevetia peruviana) toxicosis in 4 goats

Four alpine goats developed diarrhea soon after the owner placed plant clippings believed to be yellow oleander (Thevetia peruviana) into their pen on a suburban property near Palm Desert, CA, USA. A 1-y-old female goat died suddenly ~1 h after eating the plant clippings and was submitted to the San Bernardino Branch of the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System for postmortem examination. The main autopsy and histopathologic findings were myocardial hemorrhage and necrosis, consistent with cardiac glycoside intoxication. Rumen contents were analyzed by LC-MS/MS; peruvoside, a cardiac glycoside, was detected, but oleandrin, the cardiac glycoside of common oleander (Nerium oleander), was not. An LC-high-resolution MS (LC-HRMS) analysis revealed the presence of peruvoside and neriifolin in the rumen contents and in a tested plant fragment, indicating that the plant was a member of the Thevetia genus. A clipping from the plant fed to the goats and submitted by the owner was identified as yellow oleander, Thevetia peruviana (also known as Cascabela thevetia).

Determination of Structure and Cytotoxicity of Ten Undescribed Steroidal Glycosides from Allium cristophii × A. macleanii 'Globemaster'

'Globemaster' is an ornamental hybrid cultivar whose parent plants are Allium cristophii and A. macleanii. The chemical constituents of 'Globemaster' bulbs have not yet been examined; thus, a systematic phytochemical investigation was undertaken herein. A series of chromatographic separations of the MeOH extract of 'Globemaster' bulbs afforded 27 steroidal glycosides (1-27), which are classified into 23 spirostanol glycosides (1-8 and 11-25), two furostanol glycosides (9 and 26), a pregnane glycoside (10), and a cholestane glycoside (27). The structures of the hitherto undescribed compounds (1-10) were determined from the two-dimensional NMR spectroscopic data and hydrolysis. The cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds (1-27) toward HL-60 human promyelocytic leukemia cells, A549 human adenocarcinoma lung cancer cells, and SBC-3 human small-cell lung cancer cells was evaluated. Compounds 8, 22, 23, 24, and 26 exhibited cytotoxicity toward all cell lines in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 values in the 1.3-49 µM range.

Tolyporphins-Exotic Tetrapyrrole Pigments in a Cyanobacterium-A Review

Tolyporphins were discovered some 30 years ago as part of a global search for antineoplastic compounds from cyanobacteria. To date, the culture HT-58-2, comprised of a cyanobacterium-microbial consortium, is the sole known producer of tolyporphins. Eighteen tolyporphins are now known-each is a free base tetrapyrrole macrocycle with a dioxobacteriochlorin (14), oxochlorin (3), or porphyrin (1) chromophore. Each compound displays two, three, or four open β-pyrrole positions and two, one, or zero appended C-glycoside (or -OH or -OAc) groups, respectively; the appended groups form part of a geminal disubstitution motif flanking the oxo moiety in the pyrroline ring. The distinct structures and repertoire of tolyporphins stand alone in the large pigments-of-life family. Efforts to understand the cyanobacterial origin, biosynthetic pathways, structural diversity, physiological roles, and potential pharmacological properties of tolyporphins have attracted a broad spectrum of researchers from diverse scientific areas. The identification of putative biosynthetic gene clusters in the HT-58-2 cyanobacterial genome and accompanying studies suggest a new biosynthetic paradigm in the tetrapyrrole arena. The present review provides a comprehensive treatment of the rich science concerning tolyporphins.

Silencing of PKG1 Gene Mimics Effect of Aging and Sensitizes Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells to Cardiotonic Steroids: Impact on Fibrosis and Salt Sensitivity

Background Marinobufagenin, NKA (Na/K-ATPase) inhibitor, causes vasoconstriction and induces fibrosis via inhibition of Fli1 (Friend leukemia integration-1), a negative regulator of collagen synthesis. In vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide), via a cGMP/PKG1 (protein kinase G1)-dependent mechanism, reduces NKA sensitivity to marinobufagenin. We hypothesized that VSMC from old rats, due to downregulation of ANP/cGMP/PKG-dependent signaling, would exhibit heightened sensitivity to the profibrotic effect of marinobufagenin. Methods and Results Cultured VSMC from the young (3-month-old) and old (24-month-old) male Sprague-Dawley rats and young VSMC with silenced PKG1 gene were treated with 1 nmol/L ANP, or with 1 nmol/L marinobufagenin, or with a combination of ANP and marinobufagenin. Collagen-1, Fli1, and PKG1 levels were assessed by Western blotting analyses. Vascular PKG1 and Fli1 levels in the old rats were reduced compared with their young counterparts. ANP prevented inhibition of vascular NKA by marinobufagenin in young VSMC but not in old VSMC. In VSMC from the young rats, marinobufagenin induced downregulation of Fli1 and an increase in collagen-1 level, whereas ANP blocked this effect. Silencing of the PKG1 gene in young VSMC resulted in a reduction in levels of PKG1 and Fli1; marinobufagenin additionally reduced Fli1 and increased collagen-1 level, and ANP failed to oppose these marinobufagenin effects, similar to VSMC from the old rats with the age-associated reduction in PKG1. Conclusions Age-associated reduction in vascular PKG1 and the resultant decline in cGMP signaling lead to the loss of the ability of ANP to oppose marinobufagenin-induced inhibition of NKA and fibrosis development. Silencing of the PKG1 gene mimicked these effects of aging.

Digoxin as an emerging therapy in noncardiac diseases

The cardiac glycoside (CG) digoxin is a generic drug approved for the treatment of heart failure and supraventricular arrhythmias. Over the past few decades, substantial strides have been made toward repurposing digoxin to treat various noncardiac diseases. Here, we evaluate recent insights into basic and clinical work related to noncardiac use of digoxin.

Four new resin glycosides, calyhedins VII-X, from the rhizomes of Calystegia hederacea

Four new resin glycosides with macrolactone structures (jalapins), namely, calyhedins VII (1)-X (4), were isolated from the rhizomes of Calystegia hederacea Wall. (Convolvulaceae). The structures of 1-4 were determined based on spectroscopic data. They were classified into three ring types: a 27-membered ring (1), a 22-membered ring (2, 3), and a 23-membered ring (4). Their sugar moieties were partially acylated using five organic acids, including (E)-2-methylbut-2-enoic acid, 2S-methylbutyric acid, and 2 R-methyl-3R-hydroxybutyric acid. Compound 4 was the first genuine resin glycoside with calyhedic acid F as the glycosidic acid component. Additionally, the cytotoxic activities of 1, 2, and 4 towards HL-60 human promyelocytic leukaemia cells were evaluated. All compounds demonstrated almost the same activity as the positive control, cisplatin.

Cardiac glycoside neriifolin exerts anti-cancer activity in prostate cancer cells by attenuating DNA damage repair through endoplasmic reticulum stress

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in men. Patients with recurrent disease initially respond to androgen-deprivation therapy, but the tumor eventually progresses into castration-resistant PCa. Thus, new therapeutic approaches for PCa resistance to current treatments are urgently needed. Here, we report that cardiac glycoside neriifolin suppresses the malignancy of cancer cells via increasing DNA damage and apoptosis through activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in prostate cancers. We found that cardiac glycoside neriifolin markedly inhibited the cell growth and induced apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. Transcriptome sequence analysis revealed that neriifolin significantly induced DNA damage and double strand breaks (DSBs), validated with attenuation expression of genes in DSBs repair and increasing phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ-H2AX) foci formation, a quantitative marker of DSBs. Moreover, we found that neriifolin also activated ERS, evidenced by upregulation and activation of ERS related proteins, including eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) as well as downregulation of CCAATenhancerbinding protein alpha (C/EBP-α), a transcriptional factor that forms heterodimers with CHOP. In addition, neriifolin treatment dramatically inhibited the by tumor growth, which were reversed by CHOP loss or overexpression of C/EBP-α in nude mice. Mechanistically, neriifolin suppressed the tumor growth by increasing DNA damage and apoptosis through CHOP-C/EBP-α signaling axis of ERS in prostate cancers. Taken together, these results suggest that cardiac glycoside neriifolin may be a potential tumor-specific chemotherapeutic agent in prostate cancer treatment.

Saponin and Fatty Acid Profiling of the Sea Cucumber Holothuria atra, α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity and the Identification of a Novel Triterpene Glycoside

Saponin-rich sea cucumber extracts have shown antidiabetic effects in a few reports. Although the triterpene glycosides of sea cucumbers are commonly isolated from their Cuvierian tubules, these are absent in Holothuria atra Jaeger. Therefore, this study intended to investigate the saponin profile in the body wall of H. atra, as well as to assess the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the H. atra extracts. The chemical profiling of sea cucumber extracts was conducted by UPLC-HRMS analysis. This resulted in the tentative identification of 11 compounds, 7 of which have not been reported in the H. Atra body wall before. Additionally, two triterpene glycosides were purified and their structures were elucidated based on HRMS and NMR data: desholothurin B (1), and a novel epimer, 12-epi-desholothurin B (2). Moreover, the fatty acid profile of the H. atra body wall was investigated by GC-MS. It was found that the Me90 fraction of the H. atra body wall showed the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ value 0.158 ± 0.002 mg/mL), thus making it more potent than acarbose (IC₅₀ value 2.340 ± 0.044 mg/mL).

Sea Cucumber Derived Triterpenoid Glycoside Frondoside A: A Potential Anti-Bladder Cancer Drug

Bladder cancer is a highly recurrent disease and a common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite recent developments in diagnosis and therapy, the clinical outcome of bladder cancer remains poor; therefore, novel anti-bladder cancer drugs are urgently needed. Natural bioactive substances extracted from marine organisms such as sea cucumbers, scallops, and sea urchins are believed to have anti-cancer activity with high effectiveness and less toxicity. Frondoside A is a triterpenoid glycoside isolated from sea cucumber, Cucumaria frondosa. It has been demonstrated that Frondoside A exhibits anti-proliferative, anti-invasive, anti-angiogenic, anti-cancer, and potent immunomodulatory effects. In addition, CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) has also been shown to have potent anti-cancer effects in various tumors models, such as liver cancer, breast cancer, and bladder cancer. However, very few studies have investigated the effectiveness of Frondoside A against bladder cancer alone or in combination with CpG-ODN. In this study, we first investigated the individual effects of both Frondoside A and CpG-ODN and subsequently studied their combined effects on human bladder cancer cell viability, migration, apoptosis, and cell cycle in vitro, and on tumor growth in nude mice using human bladder cancer cell line UM-UC-3. To interrogate possible synergistic effects, combinations of different concentrations of the two drugs were used. Our data showed that Frondoside A decreased the viability of bladder cancer cells UM-UC-3 in a concentration-dependent manner, and its inhibitory effect on cell viability (2.5 μM) was superior to EPI (10 μM). We also showed that Frondoside A inhibited UM-UC-3 cell migration, affected the distribution of cell cycle and induced cell apoptosis in concentration-dependent manners, which effectively increased the sub-G1 (apoptotic) cell fraction. In addition, we also demonstrated that immunomodulator CpG-ODN could synergistically potentiate the inhibitory effects of Frondoside A on the proliferation and migration of human bladder cancer cell line UM-UC-3. In in vivo experiments, Frondoside A (800 μg/kg/day i.p. for 14 days) alone and in combination with CpG-ODN (1 mg/kg/dose i.p.) significantly decreased the growth of UM-UC-3 tumor xenografts, without any significant toxic side-effects; however, the chemotherapeutic agent EPI caused weight loss in nude mice. Taken together, these findings indicated that Frondoside A in combination with CpG-ODN is a promising therapeutic strategy for bladder cancer.

Identification of key genes involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis in Digitalis purpurea

The medicinal plant Digitalis purpurea produces cardiac glycosides that are useful in the pharmaceutical industry. These bioactive compounds are in high demand due to ethnobotany's application to therapeutic procedures. Recent studies have investigated the role of integrative analysis of multi-omics data in understanding cellular metabolic status through systems metabolic engineering approach, as well as its application to genetically engineering metabolic pathways. In spite of numerous omics experiments, most molecular mechanisms involved in metabolic pathways biosynthesis in D. purpurea remain unclear. Using R Package Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis, co-expression analysis was performed on the transcriptome and metabolome data. As a result of our study, we identified transcription factors, transcriptional regulators, protein kinases, transporters, non-coding RNAs, and hub genes that are involved in the production of secondary metabolites. Since jasmonates are involved in the biosynthesis of cardiac glycosides, the candidate genes for Scarecrow-Like Protein 14 (SCL14), Delta24-sterol reductase (DWF1), HYDRA1 (HYD1), and Jasmonate-ZIM domain3 (JAZ3) were validated under methyl jasmonate treatment (MeJA, 100 μM). Despite early induction of JAZ3, which affected downstream genes, it was dramatically suppressed after 48 hours. SCL14, which targets DWF1, and HYD1, which induces cholesterol and cardiac glycoside biosynthesis, were both promoted. The correlation between key genes and main metabolites and validation of expression patterns provide a unique insight into the biosynthesis mechanisms of cardiac glycosides in D. purpurea.

The Iridoid Glycoside Loganin Modulates Autophagic Flux Following Chronic Constriction Injury-Induced Neuropathic Pain

Autophagy facilitates the degradation of organelles and cytoplasmic proteins in a lysosome-dependent manner. It also plays a crucial role in cell damage. Whether loganin affects autophagy in chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain remains unclear. We investigated the neuroprotective effect of loganin on the autophagic-lysosomal pathway in the rat CCI model. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into sham, CCI, sham + loganin, and CCI + loganin. Loganin (5 mg/kg/day) was intraperitoneally injected once daily, and rats were sacrificed on day 7 after CCI. This study focused on the mechanism by which loganin modulates autophagic flux after CCI. CCI enhanced the autophagic marker LC3B-II in the ipsilateral spinal cord. The ubiquitin-binding protein p62 binds to LC3B-II and integrates into autophagosomes, which are degraded by autophagy. CCI caused the accumulation of p62, indicating the interruption of autophagosome turnover. Loganin significantly attenuated the expression of Beclin-1, LC3B-II, and p62. Double immunofluorescence staining was used to confirm that LC3B-II and p62 were reduced by loganin in the spinal microglia and astrocytes. Loganin also lessened the CCI-increased colocalization of both proteins. Enhanced lysosome-associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) and pro-cathepsin D (pro-CTSD) in CCI rats were also attenuated by loganin, suggesting that loganin improves impaired lysosomal function and autophagic flux. Loganin also attenuated the CCI-increased apoptosis protein Bax and cleaved caspase-3. Loganin prevents CCI-induced neuropathic pain, which could be attributed to the regulation of neuroinflammation, neuronal autophagy, and associated cell death. These data suggest autophagy could be a potential target for preventing neuropathic pain.

Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening of Nerium oleander L. extracts associated with toxicity profile

In this study, phytochemical analysis and toxicity profile of leaf and flower extracts of Nerium oleander L. species collected from Giresun province (Turkey) were investigated. In phytochemical analyzes, the cardiac glycoside, alkaloid, saponin and tannin contents of the extracts were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The physiological effects of extracts were determined by examining root elongation, weight gain and germination rates. Biochemical effects were determined by measuring the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), which are indicators of oxidative stress. Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects were investigated by mitotic index (MI), micronucleus (MN) and chromosomal abnormality (CA) tests. N. oleander leaf and flower extract applications caused significant decreases in the physiological parameters of Allium bulbs. SOD and CAT activity in root tip cells increased significantly after the application of leaf extract compared to the control group. Similar changes were observed in the application of flower extract, but these increases were found to be at a lower level compared to the increases induced by the leaf extract. An increase in MDA levels and a decrease in GSH levels were observed in groups treated with leaf and flower extracts. These changes show that the extracts cause deterioration in antioxidant/oxidant balance. It was determined that the extracts, which caused a decrease in MI rates and an increase in MN and CAs frequencies, showed the most prominent cytotoxic and genotoxic effects at 250 μg/mL doses. These toxic effects were associated with the phytochemical content of the extracts, and it was thought that cardiac glycosides and alkaloids, whose presence were detected in qualitative and quantitative analyzes, may play an important role in toxicity. Studies investigating the therapeutic properties of plants as well as their toxic effects are insufficient, which leads to the fact that plants exhibiting potential toxicity are not well known. Therefore, this study will lead many studies on the toxicity profile of the phytochemical contents of plants. Therefore, this study will draw attention to the investigation of the toxicity profile and phytochemical contents of plants and will lead to similar studies.

Quantification of Cardiotonic Steroids Potentially Regulated by Paraoxonase 3 in a Rat Model of Chronic Kidney Disease Using UHPLC-Orbitrap-MS

Endogenous cardiotonic steroids (CTSs), such as telocinobufagin (TCB) and marinobufagin (MBG) contain a lactone moiety critical to their binding and signaling through the Na+/K+-ATPase. Their concentrations elevate in response to sodium intake and under volume-expanded conditions. Paraoxonase 3 (PON3) is an enzyme that can hydrolyze lactone substrates. Here, we examine the role of PON3 in regulating CTS levels in a rat model of chronic kidney diseases (CKD). TCB and MBG were extracted from rat urine samples, and the analyses were carried out using ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography−Orbitrap-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Orbitrap-MS). Ten-week-old Dahl salt-sensitive wild type (SS-WT) and Dahl salt-sensitive PON3 knockout (SS-PON3 KO) rats were maintained on a high-salt diet (8% NaCl) for 8 weeks to initiate salt-sensitive hypertensive renal disease characteristic of this model. CTS extraction recovery from urine >80% was achieved. For animals maintained on a normal chow diet, the baseline amount of TCB excreted in 24 h urine of SS-PON3 KO rats (6.08 ± 1.47 ng/24 h; or 15.09 ± 3.25 pmol) was significantly higher than for SS-WT rats (1.48 ± 0.69 ng/24 h; or 3.67 ± 1.54 pmol, p < 0.05). Similarly, for the same animals, the amount of excreted MBG was higher in the urine of SS-PON3 KO rats (4.74 ± 1.30 ng/24 h versus 1.03 ± 0.25 ng/24 h in SS-WT; or 11.83 ± 2.91 pmol versus 2.57 ± 0.56 pmol in SS-WT, p < 0.05). For animals on a high-salt diet, the SS-PON3 KO rats had significantly increased levels of TCB (714.52 ± 79.46 ng/24 h; or 1774.85 ± 175.55 pmol) compared to SS-WT control (343.84 ± 157.54 ng/24 h; or 854.09 ± 350.02 pmol, p < 0.05), and comparatively higher levels of MBG were measured for SS-PON3 KO (225.55 ± 82.61 ng/24 h; or 563.19 ± 184.5 pmol) versus SS-WT (157.56 ± 85.53 ng/24 h; or 393.43 ± 191.01 pmol, p > 0.05) rats. These findings suggest that the presence and absence of PON3 dramatically affect the level of endogenous CTSs, indicating its potential role in CTS regulation.

Recent Advances on Natural Aryl-C-glycoside Scaffolds: Structure, Bioactivities, and Synthesis-A Comprehensive Review

Aryl-C-glycosides, of both synthetic and natural origin, are of great significance in medicinal chemistry owing to their unique structures and stability towards enzymatic and chemical hydrolysis as compared to O-glycosides. They are well-known antibiotics and potent enzyme inhibitors and possess a wide range of biological activities such as anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, hypoglycemic effects, and so on. Currently, a number of aryl-C-glycoside drugs are on sale for the treatment of diabetes and related complications. This review summarizes the findings on aryl-C-glycoside scaffolds over the past 20 years, concerning new structures (over 200 molecules), their bioactivities-including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antivirus, glycation inhibitory activities and other pharmacological effects-as well as their synthesis.

The Norsesquiterpene Glycoside Ptaquiloside as a Poisonous, Carcinogenic Component of Certain Ferns

Previous studies related to the ptaquiloside molecule, a carcinogenic secondary metabolite known from the world of ferns, are summarised. Ptaquiloside (PTA) belongs to the group of norsesquiterpenes of the illudane type. The name illudane refers to the fungal taxa from which the first representatives of the molecular group were identified. Ptaquiloside occurs mainly in Pteridium fern species, although it is also known in other fern taxa. The species of the genus Pteridium are common, frequent invasive species on all continents, and PTA is formed in smaller or larger amounts in all organs of the affected species. The effects of PTA and of their derivatives on animals and humans are of great toxicological significance. Its basic chemical property is that the molecule can be transformed. First, with the loss of sugar moiety, ptaquilosine is formed, and then, under certain conditions, a dienone derivative (pteridienone) may arise. The latter can alkylate (through its cyclopropane groups) certain molecules, including DNA, in animal or human organisms. In this case, DNA adducts are formed, which can later have a carcinogenic effect through point mutations. The scope of the PTA is interdisciplinary in nature since, for example, molecules from plant biomass can enter the body of animals or humans in several ways (directly and indirectly). Due to its physico-chemical properties (excellent water solubility), PTA can get from the plant into the soil and then into different water layers. PTA molecules that enter the soil, but mainly water, undergo degradation (hydrolytic) processes, so it is very important to clarify the toxicological conditions of a given ecosystem and to estimate the possible risks caused by PTA. The toxicoses and diseases of the animal world (mainly for ruminant farm animals) caused by PTA are briefly described. The intake of PTA-containing plants as a feed source causes not only various syndromes but can also enter the milk (and meat) of animals. In connection with the toxicological safety of the food chain, it is important to investigate the transport of carcinogenic PTA metabolites between organisms in a reassuring manner and in detail. This is a global, interdisciplinary task. The present review aims to contribute to this.

One new phenylpropanoid glycoside from Myxopyrum smilacifolium with α-glucosidase inhibitory activity

One new phenylpropanoid glycoside, myxosmoside I (1) and six known compounds, arenarioside (2), verbacoside (3), 3-formylindole (4), 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (5), D-manitol (6), and glycerol monooleate (7) were isolated from the roots of Myxopyrum smilacifolium (Wall.) Blume. Their chemical structures were determined by 1D-, 2D-NMR, and mass spectra, chemical methods, and compared with those reported in the literature. All compounds were evaluated for α-glucosidase inhibitory effect. Among them, phenylpropanoid glycosides 1-3 significantly inhibited α-glucosidase activity with IC₅₀ values of 30.0 ± 0.9, 66.6 ± 2.3, and 36.9 ± 2.0 µM, respectively.

Centrantheroside F, a new ionone glycoside from Centranthera grandiflora

One new ionone glycoside, named centrantheroside F (1), together with 9 known compounds (2-10), were isolated from the roots of Centranthera grandiflora. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic data analyses and comparing with the literature data. The absolute configuration of 1 was confirmed via 2 D NMR and electronic circular dichroism (ECD). All isolated compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory activity on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production.

A new flavonoid glycoside from Tapinanthus sp. (Loranthaceae) and evaluation of anticancer activity of extract and some isolated compounds

The present work describes the isolation and anticancer activity of Tapinanthus sp. which is a hemi parasitic plant harvested on Combretum glutinosum, the host plant. Phytochemical study afforded a new flavonoid glycoside, tapinantoside (1) isolated for the first time from natural source, alongside six known compounds (2-7). Structure of compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses including 1 D and 2 D NMR, mass spectrometry and by comparison with literature data. The anticancer activity of extract and some isolated compounds were evaluated on glioblastoma (U87MG, C6) and prostate (PC-3) cancer cells. The methanol leaves extract showed good anticancer activity against U87 (IC50 = 21.40 µg/mL) and PC-3 cells (IC50 = 10.26 µg/mL). Compound 3 powerfully inhibits the proliferation of C6 (IC50 = 38.84 µM) and PC-3 cells (IC50 = 21.33 µM), while its effect was moderated on U87MG cells. Compound 1 and 7 were not active on all tested cancer cell lines.

Glycoside constituents with various antioxidant effects from fresh Cynomorium songaricum

Cynomorium songaricum Rupr. (CSR), an edible and medicinal material, is widely cultivated in desert regions of Eastern and Western Asia, Europe, and North Africa. Ten glycoside constituents 1-10 including one new songaricumone A (1) were isolated from the fresh C. songaricum. Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive NMR data analysis. Further, various antioxidant effects of isolated compounds (1-3 and 5-10) were comprehensively and comparatively investigated. In conclusion, it is obvious that different glycosides vary significantly toward different sources of free radicals, which are attributed to different aglycones and substituted positions of sugar unit in structures.