Diterpenoids and flavonoids from the fruits of Vitex agnus-castus and antioxidant activity of the fruit extracts and their constituents

Diversity analysis of endophytes with antimicrobial and antioxidant potential from Viola odorata: an endemic plant species of the Himalayas

Viola odorata, also known as "Banafshah" in high altitudes of Himalayas, is well known for its pharmaceutical importance in Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal system. The plant is a source of various drugs for its anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, antipyretic, and laxative properties. The endophytes of plants have been reported for their role in modulating various physiological and biological processes of the host plants. In the present study, a total of 244 endophytes were isolated in pure cultures from the roots of Viola odorata, and genetic diversity was evaluated using amplified ribosomal DNA restriction analysis (ARDRA) and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC). The molecular fingerprinting revealed variation among various rRNA types among morphologically different endophytes based on ARDRA and ERIC-PCR. The screening of endophytes showed antimicrobial activity of 11 bacterial isolates and one actinomycete SGA9 against various pathogens Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The antioxidant activity revealed the majority of the bacterial isolates able to scavenge the free radical in the range of 10-50% and 8 bacterial isolates in the range of 50-85%. Principal component analysis separated eight isolates away from the central eclipse and form a separate group based on antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. The identification of these eight isolates showed affiliation with different species of the genus Enterobacter, Microbacterium, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium, and Streptomyces. This is the first report on the characterization of endophytic bacteria and actinomycetes from endemic Viola odorata. Results suggested that these endophytes could be explored for the production of antimicrobial and antioxidant products.

The Protective Effect of Vitexin Compound B-1 on Rat Cerebral I/R Injury through a Mechanism Involving Modulation of miR-92b/NOX4 Pathway

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have uncovered that vitexin compound B-1 (VB-1) can protect neurons against hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced oxidative injury through suppressing NOX4 expression.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study are to investigate whether VB-1 can protect the rat brain against ischemia/ reperfusion (I/R) injury and whether its effect on NOX4 expression is related to modulation of certain miRNAs expression.

METHODS

Rats were subjected to 2 h of cerebral ischemia followed by 24 h of reperfusion to establish an I/R injury model, which showed an increase in neurological deficit score and infarct volume concomitant with an upregulation of NOX4 expression, increase in NOX activity, and downregulation of miR-92b.

RESULTS

Administration of VB-1 reduced I/R cerebral injury accompanied by a reverse in NOX4 and miR-92b expression. Similar results were achieved in a neuron H/R injury model. Next, we evaluated the association of miR-92b with NOX4 by its mimics in the H/R model. H/R treatment increased neurons apoptosis concomitant with an upregulation of NOX4 and NOX activity while downregulation of miR-92b. All these effects were reversed in the presence of miR-92b mimics, confirming the function of miR-92b in suppressing NOX4 expression.

CONCLUSION

We conclude the protective effect of VB-1 against rat cerebral I/R injury through a mechanism involving modulation of miR-92b/NOX4 pathway.

Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, and DNA Damage Protection Activities of Endophytic Fungus Pestalotiopsis neglecta Isolated from Ziziphus spina-christi Medicinal Plant

Fungal endophytes are friendly microorganisms that colonize plants and are important in the interactions between plants and their environment. They generate valuable secondary metabolites that are valuable to both plants and humans. Endophytic fungi with bioactivities were isolated from the leaves of the medicinal plant Ziziphus spina-christi. An efficient isolate was selected and identified as Pestalotiopsis neglecta based on nucleotide sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS 1-5.8S-ITS 2) of the 18S rRNA gene (NCBI accession number OP529850); the 564 bp had 99 to 100% similarity with P. neglecta MH860161.1, AY682935.1, KP689121.1, and MG572407.1, according to the BLASTn analysis, following preliminary phytochemical and antifungal screening. The biological activities of this fungus' crude ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract were assessed. With an efficient radical scavenging activity against 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and an IC₅₀ value of 36.6 µg mL^-1, P. neglecta extract has shown its potential as an antioxidant. Moreover, it displayed notable cytotoxic effects against MCF-7 (breast carcinoma, IC₅₀ = 22.4 µg mL^-1), HeLa (cervical carcinoma, IC₅₀ = 28.9 µg mL^-1) and HepG-2 (liver carcinoma, IC₅₀ = 28.9 µg mL^-1). At 10 µg mL^-1, EtOAc demonstrated significant DNA protection against hydroxyl radical-induced damage. Based on FT-IR and GC-MS spectral analysis, it was detected that the EtOAc of P. neglecta product contains multiple bioactive functional groups. Subsequently, this validated the features of major different potent compounds; tolycaine, 1H-pyrazol, 1,3,5-trimethyl-, eugenol, 2,5-cyclohexadiene-1,4-dione, 2,6-bis(1,1-dimethyl), and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. Since these compounds are biologically relevant in various aspects, and distinct biological activities of fungal extract were acceptable in vitro, this suggests that endophytic fungus P. neglecta may be a viable source of bioactive natural products. This could be a good starting point for pharmaceutical applications.

Anticholinergic, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of Vitex agnus-castus L. seed extract : Assessment of its phenolic content by LC-MS/MS

In this current study, Vitex agnus-castus seed ethanol extracts were analyzed for their phytochemical component content, anticholinergic and antioxidant activities, and antibacterial properties. The phenolic compound composition of these seeds was determined by using LC-MS/MS. Antioxidant activity of the seeds was examined by the DPPH, ABTS, Fe 3+ -Fe 2+ reducing, and CUPRAC. Also, the anticholinergic activity was measured by the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The antibacterial activity was performed by disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration methods. The main phenolic compound was vanillic acid (22812.05 µg/L ) and followed by luteolin, fumaric acid, quercetin, caffeic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid, kaempferol, bütein, ellagic acid, resveratrol, catechin hydrate, phloridzin dehydrate, naringenin, respectively. The DPPH free radical scavenging value of ethanol extract of plant seeds was 9.41%, while the ABTS radical scavenging activity was determined as 12.66%. The ethanol extract of the seeds exhibited antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus , and Salmonella Typhimurium, differently. S. aureus was found to be more susceptible to the extract than other bacteria. Also, the inhibition effect of seed ethanolic extract on the AChE with IC 50 values were 36.34±5,6 µg/mL. From the results, V. agnus-castus seed can be suggested as a promising natural antioxidant and antibacterial candidate for the preservation of foods.

Phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity of an endophytic fungus Nigrospora sphaerica (EHL2), inhabiting the medicinal plant Euphorbia hirta (dudhi) L

Since endophytic fungi are pivotal sources of various bioactive natural compounds, the present study is aimed to investigate the antioxidant compounds of the endophytic fungus Nigrospora sphaerica isolated from a pantropical weed, Euphorbia hirta L. The fungus was fermented in four different media and each filtered broth was sequentially extracted in various solvents. Crude extracts collected from different solvents were subjected to phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were maximal in ethyl acetate crude extract (EtOAcE) of endophyte fermented in potato dextrose broth (PDB) medium (77.74 ± 0.046mgGAE/g and 230.59 ± 2.0 mgRE/g) with the highest 96.80% antioxidant activity. However, TPC and TFC were absent in hexane extract of Czapek Dox broth (CDB) medium exhibiting the lowest 4.63 ± 2.75% activity. The EtOAcE (PDB) showed a positive correlation between TFC and antiradical activity (R² = 0.762; P < 0.05), whereas a high positive correlation was noticed between TPC and antioxidant activity (R² = 0.989; P < 0.05). Furthermore, to determine the antioxidant activity, EtOAcE (PDB) was subjected to TLC bioautography-based partial purification, while GC/MS analysis of the partial purified extract was done to confirm the presence of phenolics along with antioxidant compounds that resulted in the detection of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (13.83%), a phenolic compound accountable for the antioxidant potential. Conclusively, N. sphaerica is a potential candidate for natural antioxidant.

Phytochemical screening and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of crude extracts of different filamentous fungi

Five filamentous fungal strains that grew in different whey-based media under submerged fermentation were investigated for antioxidant properties and phytochemicals. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannin, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, saponins, and terpenes in the crude intra- and extracellular ethyl acetate extracts of different strains. All fungal extracts exhibited effective antioxidant activities in terms of TPC, TFC, DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, reducing power, and metal chelating capacity. The activities of intracellular extracts were higher than the extracellular metabolites. Fermentation media with sugar and salt supplementation significantly influenced antioxidant production. Aspergillus niger in glucose-supplemented whey medium was found to exhibit the highest antioxidant properties. The antimicrobial activity of A. niger and Penicillium expansum extracts by microtiter plate assay showed a promising result against some pathogenic bacterial strains. Chromatographic analysis of the fungal extracts revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, ferulic acid quercetin, myricetin, kaempferol, and catechin which are known for their antioxidant properties. Accumulation of nutrients in fungal biomass under constraint environment produces secondary metabolites which has demonstrated efficacy towards alleviation of several degenerative diseases. The antioxidative enriched phytochemicals present in these five different fungal strains will provide a breakthrough in the utilisation of whey as inexpensive source of substrate for the growth of these fungi. Moreover, phytochemicals could be utilized as therapeutic agents in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner.

Protective effect of Callistemon citrinus on oxidative stress in rats with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer

Callistemon citrinus has terpenes effective in inducing antioxidant enzymes, an important mechanism involved in cancer chemoprevention. This study investigated the chemopreventive efficacy of herbal preparation of C. citrinus leaves against the oxidative stress produced during the colorectal cancer (CRC) in male Wistar rats. The amelioration of toxicity in a model of CRC induced with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) was determined by assessing antioxidant enzymes, phase II enzymes activities and lipid peroxidation (LPO) products after 22 weeks of treatment. C. citrinus was administered at a daily oral dose of 250 mg/kg. The activities in proximal, middle and distal colon, liver, kidney and heart were determined. C. citrinus showed a strong antioxidant activity that correlated with the high content of phenolics and terpenoids. DMH treated animals showed a decrease of the enzymes activity in most tissues and the level of reduced glutathione (GSH). Conversely, the levels of lipid peroxidation products were increased. Macroscopic examination revealed the protective effect of C. citrinus in damaged organs caused by DMH. Moreover, histopathological examination of the liver displayed normal structure in the C. citrinus-treated group, unlike the DMH-treated group. C. citrinus supplementation significantly maintained or increased the antioxidant enzyme activities, whereas lipid peroxidation products levels were reduced to values similar to the level of control group. The ability of C. citrinus to induce the antioxidant system reduced the damage of oxidative stress, which makes this plant a good candidate to be used as a prevention agent in treatment of diseases such as colorectal cancer.

UHPLC-MS Chemical Fingerprinting and Antioxidant, Antiproliferative, and Enzyme Inhibition Potential of Gaultheria pumila Berries

Gaultheria pumila (Ericaceae) (known as Chaura or Mutilla) is a Chilean native small shrub that produces berry fruits consumed by local Mapuche people. In this study, the chemical fingerprinting and antioxidant, enzyme inhibition, and antiproliferative activities of the berries were investigated for the first time. Thirty-six metabolites were identified in the fruits by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection, hyphenated with Orbitrap mass spectrometry analysis (UHPLC-DAD-Orbitrap-MS). Metabolites, included anthocyanins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, iridoids, diterpenes, and fatty acids. Moderate inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (7.7 ± 0.3 µg/mL), butyrylcholinesterase (34.5 ± 0.5 µg/mL), and tyrosinase (3.3 ± 0.2 µg/mL) enzymes were found. Moreover, selected major compounds were subjected to docking assays in light of their experimental inhibition. Results indicated that hydrogen bonding, π–π interaction, and a salt bridge interaction contributed significantly. Gaultheria pumila berries showed a total phenolic content of 189.2 ± 0.2 mg of gallic acid equivalents/g, total flavonoid content of 51.8 ± 0.1 mg quercetin equivalents/g, and total anthocyanin content of 47.3 ± 0.2 mg of cianydin-3-glucoside equivalents/g. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH (92.8 ± 0.1 µg/mL), FRAP (134.1 ± 0.1 μmol Trolox equivalents/g), and ORAC (4251.6 ± 16.9 μmol Trolox equivalents/g) assays. Conversely, Gaultheria pumila showed a scarce antiproliferative potential against several solid human cancer cells. Our findings suggest that Gaultheria pumila berries have several bioactive metabolites with inhibitory effects against acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and tyrosinase, and have the potential for use in food supplements.

Phenolic Compound Analysis and Pharmacological Screening of Vitex agnus-castus Functional Parts

Vitex agnus-castus is a medicinal plant of the Verbenaceae family, widely used in traditional medicine. This study is aimed at investigating the functional variability of phenolic compounds in different parts (leaves, stems, flowers, roots, and seeds) of Vitex agnus-castus methanolic extracts and at assessing their in vitro antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. The results of HPLC-DAD-QTOF-MS indicated the presence of 25 phenolic compounds with a remarkable variability between plant parts; high levels were registered in chlorogenic, vanillic, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic, and 3-hydroxybenzoic acids; hesperidin; and luteolin. V. agnus castus fruits and stems presented higher antioxidant activities. The extracts inhibited the growth of five pathogenic bacteria with MIC values documented between 7.81 and 31.25 mg/mL. In vitro antihyperglycemic effect revealed higher effect in flowers (2921.84 μg/mL) and seeds (2992.75 μg/mL) against α-glucosidase and of leaves (2156.80 μg/mL) and roots (2357.30 μg/mL) against α-amylase. The findings of this showed that V. agnus castus is a promising source for antidiabetic bioactive compounds. However, further investigations regarding the evaluation of in vivo antidiabetic effects of these compounds are needed.

Rapid Profiling and Identification of Vitexin Metabolites in Rat Urine, Plasma and Faeces after Oral Administration Using a UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer Coupled with Multiple Data-mining Methods

BACKGROUND

Vitexin is a natural flavonoid compound with multiple pharmacological activities and is extracted from the leaves and seeds of Vitex negundo L. var. cannabifolia (Sieb. et Zucc.) Hand.-Mazz. However, the metabolite characterization of this component remains insufficient.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a rapid profiling and identification method for vitexin metabolites in rat urine, plasma and faeces after oral administration using a UHPLC-Q-Exactive orbitrap mass spectrometer were coupled with multiple data-mining methods.

METHODS

In this study a simple and rapid systematic strategy for the detection and identification of constituents was proposed based on UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry in parallel reaction monitoring mode combining diagnostic fragment ion filtering techniques.

RESULTS

A total of 49 metabolites were fully or partially characterized based on their accurate mass, characteristic fragment ions, retention times, corresponding ClogP values, and so on. It is obvious that C-glycosyl flavonoids often display an [M+H-120]⁺ ion that represents the loss of C₄H₈O₄. As a result, these metabolites were presumed to be generated through glucuronidation, sulfation, deglucosylation, dehydrogenation, methylation, hydrogenation, hydroxylation, ring cleavage and their composite reactions. Moreover, the characteristic fragmentation pathways of flavonoids, chalcones and dihydrochalcones were summarized for the subsequent metabolite identification.

CONCLUSION

The current study provided an overall metabolic profile of vitexin which will be of great help in predicting the in vivo pharmacokinetic profiles and understanding the action mechanism of this active ingredient.

Multitargeted Effects of Vitexin and Isovitexin on Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

BACKGROUND

Till date, there is no known antidote to cure diabetes mellitus despite the discovery and development of diverse pharmacotherapeutic agents many years ago. Technological advancement in natural product chemistry has led to the isolation of analogs of vitexin and isovitexin found in diverse bioresources. These compounds have been extensively studied to explore their pharmacological relevance in diabetes mellitus. Aim of the Study. The present review was to compile results from in vitro and in vivo studies performed with vitexin and isovitexin derivatives relating to diabetes mellitus and its complications. A systematic online literature query was executed to collect all relevant articles published up to March 2020.

RESULTS

In this piece, we have collected data and presented it in a one-stop document to support the multitargeted mechanistic actions of vitexin and isovitexin in controlling diabetes mellitus and its complications.

CONCLUSION

Data collected hint that vitexin and isovitexin work by targeting diverse pathophysiological and metabolic pathways and molecular drug points involved in the clinical manifestations of diabetes mellitus. This is expected to provide a deeper understanding of its actions and also serve as a catapult for clinical trials and application research.

The Effect of Jazar Supplement on Quality of Life and Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background

Menopause is one of the most critical stages of a woman's life and is accompanied by symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sexual dysfunction, mucus atrophy, and vaginal dryness. Women tend to use complementary and alternative medicine such as herbs rather than hormone replacement therapy to alleviate these symptoms. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of Jazar supplement (herbal supplement comprising Vitex, fennel, and carrot seeds) on sexual function, quality of life, and vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women.

Methods

This study was a randomized clinical trial conducted on ninety postmenopausal women. Participants were randomized to intervention/control groups using block randomization. The intervention group received four Jazar capsules (500 mg each) daily, while the control group received a placebo for eight weeks. Data were gathered using a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) before the intervention and at weeks 4, 8, and 10. Vaginal pH and vaginal maturation index (VMI) were measured before and at the end of the study.

Results

Eighty-four women completed the trial, and six women withdrew. There were no remarkable differences between the two groups in terms of quality of life, sexual function, VMI, and vaginal pH at baseline. At the end of the study, participants in the intervention group had a significantly lower score in terms of quality of life (P < 0.001) and vaginal pH (P=0.001), and a higher FSFI (P < 0.001) and VMI (P=0.030) score compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of the present study on menopausal women, the Jazar supplement significantly improved quality of life and sexual function and prevented or delayed vaginal atrophy.

A new phytoecdysteroid from the stem bark of Vitex cienkowskii

To investigate differences in the metabolome of the stem bark of Vitex cienkowskii harvested at three different locations and three different seasons, their extracts were analyzed by means of UPLC–ESI–IMS–TOF MSe. One marker metabolite was isolated and chemically characterized, which was identified as the new compound 20,24-dihydroxy,24-hydroxymethylecdysone (1). IMS showed two drift time species for 1 which could be used as new and additional characteristic compound parameters in compound identification to reduce dereplication and false positives.

Stimulatory effect of dietary chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) extract on immunity, some immune-related gene expression, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in goldfish (Carassius auratus)

Chasteberry is highly recommended as an herbal medicine across the globe for treating of many gynaecological disorders. In this study, chasteberry extract (CBE) was supplemented in goldfish diet to evaluate the immunity responses at the cellular and molecular levels. Moreover, after the feeding trial, the fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. The fish (300 individuals, 2.4 ± 0.12 g initial weight) were randomly distributed in 12 tanks and were fed with 0 (control), 5, 10, and 15 g CBE per kg of feed for 8 weeks. Based on the results, lysozyme activity, alkaline phosphatase, and total immunoglobulin (Ig) in the skin mucus samples were significantly enhanced in the fish fed with 15 g/kg CBE (P < 0.05). Moreover, dietary CBE positively affected lysozyme activity, complement components, and IgM content of the serum samples compared to the control group. Also, the number of monocytes and lymphocytes were increased significantly with increasing CBE in the diet (P < 0.05). The highest mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factors (TNF-α, TNF-2α) and Lysozyme were observed in 15 g/kg CBE treatment. After the challenge test, the highest relative percentage survival value (60%) was observed in the fish fed with 15 g/kg CBE. We concluded that dietary CBE especially at 15 g/kg has an immunomodulatory effect in goldfish by stimulating the innate immunity and some inflammatory cytokines as well as disease resistance against A. hydrophila.

Production and characterization of starch nanoparticles by mild alkali hydrolysis and ultra-sonication process

In this report, synthesis of the starch nanoparticles from underutilized and cheap sources viz: Horse chestnut (HS), Water chestnut (WS) and Lotus stem (LS) by using mild alkali hydrolysis and ultra-sonication process has been presented. The particles were characterized by Differential scanning colorimeter (DSC), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Rheology, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infra-spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The particle size measurements, functional properties and antioxidant potential of starch nanoparticles were also analyzed. The experimental results revealed that the average particle size diameter of Horse chestnut starch nanoparticles (HSP), Water chestnut starch nanoparticles (WSP) and Lotus stem starch nanoparticles (LSP) was found to be 420, 606 and 535 nm, respectively. We observed a notable increase in the water absorption capacity but decreased capacity for oil absorption in the starch nano-particles. SEM images revealed damaged starch granules after size reduction. Additionally, loss of crystallinity and molecular order was observed from XRD and ATR-FTIR spectra. It was concluded that the starch nanoparticles have better thermal stability, increased viscosity and antioxidant properties.

Antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of vitexilactone on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Cisplatin (CP) is an antineoplastic drug; however, owing to its nephrotoxicity, its clinical use is limited. We investigated whether vitexilactone (vitex) is a safe and effective treatment for CP induced kidney injury. We allocated Sprague-Dawley rats into six groups: control group, low dose-high dose vitex groups (40 and 80 mg/kg vitex for 6 days before administration of CP), CP group (single 6 mg/kg dose on day 6) and CP + low dose vitex-CP + high dose vitex group (40 and 80 mg/kg vitex for 6 days, and a single 6 mg/kg dose of CP on day 6. Rats were euthanized 5 days after CP treatment. After exposure to CP and/or vitex, total oxidative stress and total antioxidant status were assessed. The histology of the kidney was examined using hematoxylin and eosin, and periodic acid-Schiff. We used immunohistochemical and fluorescence staining to detect expression of caspase-3. We also measured blood urea nitrogen, uric acid and creatinine levels. Nephroprotective effects of vitex were associated with decreased serum toxicity markers and increased antioxidant activity. Vitex also reduced the expression of the apoptosis marker, caspase-3. Treatment with CP increased blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, creatinine levels and total antioxidant status, and decreased total antioxidant status compared to the control group. Use of vitex for protection from CP induced nephrotoxicity appears to be a safe and efficacious alternative for treatment of kidney injury.

Inhibition of Fusarium culmorum, Penicillium chrysogenum and Rhizoctonia solani by n-hexane extracts of three plant species as a wood-treated oil fungicide

AIMS

Wood as a packing tool is used for packaging and transportation of fruits and vegetables for a time period varying from hours to days. During transportation, fruits and vegetables can be affected by moulds with significant postharvest problems. The present study describes the possibility of using wood-treated oil fungicide of n-hexane extracts from Eucalyptus camaldulensis (aerial parts), Vitex agenus-castus (leaves) and Matricaria chamomilla (flowers) against the infestation of Fusarium culmorum, Rhizoctonia solani and Penicillium chrysogenum.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Air-dried wood samples of Melia azedarach were prepared with the dimensions of 0·5 × 1 × 2 cm and treated with the oily extracts at the concentrations of 0, 1, 2 and 3%. Oils extracted with n-hexane from E. camaldulensis and V. agenus-castus showed promising antifungal activities against the isolated and molecularly identified three fungi F. culmorum, R. solani and P. chrysogenum, while M. chamomilla observed the lowest activity against the studied fungi. GC/MS analysis of oils reported that the major components in E. camaldulensis were β-fenchol (25·51%), Cyclobuta[1,2:3,4]dicyclooctene-1,7(2H,6bH)-dione,dodecahydro,(6αβ,6βα,12αα,12ββ)- (17·05), 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) (12·01%) and sabinene (9·45%); in V. agenus-castus were eucalyptol (22·17%), (E)-β-caryophyllene (18·39%), and β-sitosterol (12·44%); while in M. chamomilla were bisabolol oxide A (27·87%), (Z)-β-farnesene (16·11%), D-limonene (14·18%) and chamazulene (11·27%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest using n-hexane oily extracts from E. camaldulensis and V. agenus-castus as a biofungicide for wood protection.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study highlights the importance of using bio-friendly fungicide agents to protect wood against most common moulds occurring during handling of food packaging.

Casticin inhibits esophageal cancer cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis by regulating mitochondrial apoptotic and JNK signaling pathways

Casticin, a flavonoid isolated from Vitex species, has been found to have anti-tumor property in multiple human cancers. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of casticin on the proliferation and apoptosis of esophageal cancer (EC) cells, and further illustrate the underlying mechanisms. In in vitro studies, human EC cell lines TE-1 and ECA-109 were treated with various concentrations of casticin (low-, middle-, and high-dose groups). The results showed that casticin dose-dependently inhibited the proliferation and clonogenicity of EC cells and induced cell cycle arrest in sub-G1 and G2 phases. Furthermore, casticin markedly enhanced EC cell apoptosis as detected by flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342 staining. The level of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein was decreased, while the levels of pro-apoptotic Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-caspase-9, and cleaved-PARP were conversely increased in casticin-treated TE-1 and ECA-109 cells. Moreover, casticin decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and increased the release of mitochondrial cytochrome C into cytoplasm. In addition, the JNK signaling pathway was involved in casticin-medicated anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis. Cells pretreated with SP600125, a JNK pathway inhibitor, partially abolished the effect of casticin. Finally, the anti-tumor property of casticin was confirmed in in vivo xenograft models. Overall, we provided both in vitro and in vivo evidences that casticin inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis of EC cells, and the anti-tumor action of casticin was mediated, in part, by the mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis and the activation of JNK signaling pathway.

Botanical Sources for Alzheimer's: A Review on Reports From Traditional Persian Medicine

Herbal medicines for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) have attracted considerable attention nowadays. Alzheimer's disease is described in traditional Persian medicine (TPM) by the term Nesyān. In this study, 5 main medicinal medieval Persian manuscripts were reviewed to filter plants reported for the treatment of Nesyān. Databases were searched for related possible mechanisms of action of these medicinal plants. Each herb was searched for along with these keywords: "acetyl and butyryl cholinesterase inhibition," "antioxidant," "anti-inflammatory," and "anti-amyloidogenic." In Total, 44 herbs were used for the treatment of Nesyān; 40 of those were authenticated. Also, 30 plants had at least one of the mechanisms of action that were searched for or related pharmacological functions known for the treatment of AD. In this work, we introduce promising candidates in TPM that could undergo further investigation for identification of their active compounds and clinical validation in the treatment of AD.

C-Glycosyl Flavonoids from Beta vulgaris Cicla and Betalains from Beta vulgaris rubra: Antioxidant, Anticancer and Antiinflammatory Activities-A Review

The green beet (Beta vulgaris var. cicla L.) and red beetroot (B. vulgaris var. rubra L.) contain phytochemicals that have beneficial effects on human health. Specifically, the green beet contains apigenin, vitexin, vitexin-2-O-xyloside and vitexin-2-O-rhamnoside, while the red beetroot is a source of betaxanthins and betacyanins. These phytochemicals show considerable antioxidant activity, as well as antiinflammatory and antiproliferative activities. Vitexin-2-O-xyloside, in combination with betaxanthins and betacyanins, exerts antiproliferative activity in breast, liver, colon and bladder cancer cell lines, through the induction of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. A significant body of evidence also points to the role of these phytochemicals in the downregulation of the pro-survival genes, baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis repeat-containing 5 and catenin beta-1, as well as the genes controlling angiogenesis, hypoxia inducible factor 1A and vascular endothelial growth factor A. The multi-target action of these phytochemicals enhances their anticancer activity. Vitexin-2-O-xyloside, betaxanthins and betacyanins can be used in combination with conventional anticancer drugs to reduce their toxicity and overcome the multidrug resistance of cancer cells. In this review, we describe the molecular mechanisms that enable these dietary phytochemicals to block the proliferation of tumor cells and inhibit their pro-survival pathways. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pancreatic protective and hypoglycemic effects of Vitex agnus-castus L. fruit hydroalcoholic extract in D-galactose-induced aging mouse model

D-galactose induces pancreatic disorder along with aging mouse model. Vitex agnus-castus (VAC) has potential pancreatic protective effect. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the hypoglycemic and pancreas protective effects of VAC hydroalcoholic extract in D-galactose-induced aging female mice. In the present experimental study, 72 adult female Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) mice (weighing 30–35 g) were divided into 6 groups of control, VAC hydroalcoholic extract, D-galactose, D-galactose + VAC hydroalcoholic extract, aged, aged + VAC hydroalcoholic extract. The aged model was prepared by subcutaneous injection of D-galactose for 45 days and, VAC hydroalcoholic extract was gavaged twice a day in the last 7 days. 24 h after the last drug and extract administrations, serum samples and pancreatic tissues were removed to evaluate experimental and histological determinations. Serum glucose level decreased in VAC, D-galactose and, aged-treated groups compared to the control (P < 0.05). Insulin level increased in VAC and decreased in D-galactose and aged VAC-treated mice compared to the control (P < 0.05). Homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) increased in D-galactose, aging, and VAC hydroalcoholic extract groups (P < 0.05) and, administration of VAC hydroalcoholic extract improved HOMA-IR in D-galactose and aging treated animals. Despite the size of pancreatic islets decreased in aged and D-galactose groups, VAC administration recovered it. Present data showed that VAC hydroalcoholic extract has hypoglycemic and pancreatic protective effects in natural aged and aging model mice.

The LC/ESI-MSMS Profiles and Biological Potentials of Vitex agnus castus Extracts

The chemical profile, cytotoxic and apoptotic effect, and antioxidant activity were determined of ethanolic extracts of Vitex agnus-castus L. (chaste tree). Ripened fruits and fruitless aerial parts were extracted with ethanol, and the chemical characterization of the extracts was determined by LC/ESI-MS-MS. Twelve compounds were tentatively identified in the extracts. The dose-dependent cytotoxic effects of the extracts were tested on C6, A549 and MCF-7 cells by using MTT assay; inhibition of DNA synthesis, and apoptotic and caspase-3 activation effects of the extracts were determined. The potential antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated by in vitro methods such as DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity, reducing power and β-carotene bleaching assays. The fruit extract showed noticeable cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells with an IC50 value of 88 μg/mL. Both extracts showed similar DPPH scavenging activity comparably with that of the standard.

A Review on the Terpenes from Genus Vitex

The genus Vitex, which belongs to the Verbenaceae family, includes approximately 250 species. Some species of the genus Vitex have traditionally been used for the treatment of headaches, ophthalmodynia, coughs, asthma, premenopausal syndrome, etc. Chemical investigations indicate that the characteristic constituents of the genus Vitex are terpenes, and 210 of these compounds, including monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, diterpenoids and triterpenoids, have been obtained from 12 species. Pharmacological studies had shown that these terpenes possess anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial, antioxidant activities, and so on. In this paper, the identity of these terpenes and their pharmacological effects are reviewed, which can provide references for further research regarding the chemistry and utilization of the Vitex species.

Functional morphology of pituitary -thyroid and -adrenocortical axes in middle-aged male rats treated with Vitex agnus castus essential oil

We previously reported that Vitex agnus-castus L. essential oil (VACEO), when administered to middle-aged males, exerts a bone-protective effect, induces silencing of locomotor activities and decreases pituitary prolactin immunopositivity. To further assess the putative endocrine effects of VACEO, we examined the pituitary-thyroid and -adrenocortical axes in our model. Sixteen-month-old Wistar rats were subcutaneously administered 60mg/kg of VACEO dissolved in sterile olive oil, while the control group received the same amount of vehicle alone for three weeks. Pituitaries, thyroids and adrenals were analyzed by qualitative and quantitative histological approaches. Concentration of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total thyroxine and triiodothyronine (TH), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), corticosterone in serum and in adrenal tissue were measured. In VACEO-treated rats, the relative volume density of pituitary thyrotrophs increased (p<0.001), while intensity of cytoplasmic TSHβ immunostaining decreased (p<0.001), consistent with elevated TSH in serum (p<0.01). The thyroid tissue was characterized by a micro-follicular structure, increased relative volume of follicular epithelium (p<0.05), decreased volume of luminal colloid (p<0.001) and increased basolateral expression of sodium-iodide symporter-immunopositivity (p<0.05). Serum TH also increased (p<0.01). The relative volume density of pituitary corticotrophs decreased (p<0.05), compatible with decline in circulating ACTH (p<0.05). Neither tissue nor serum corticosterone levels were affected by VACEO treatment. In conclusion, the observed changes in TSH and ACTH strongly indicate central endocrine effects of prolonged VACEO treatment. In this respect, production of ACTH decreased without impact on corticosterone production. Increase in serum concentration of both TH and TSH are not compatible with a negative feedback loop and suggest a major change in set-point regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis.

Vitexin reduces neutrophil migration to inflammatory focus by down-regulating pro-inflammatory mediators via inhibition of p38, ERK1/2 and JNK pathway

BACKGROUND

Vitexin is a flavonoid found in plants of different genus such as Vitex spp. and Crataegus spp. Despite being an important molecule present in phytomedicines and nutraceuticals, the mechanisms supporting its use as anti-inflammatory remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in acute anti-inflammatory effect of vitexin with regard to neutrophil recruitment and macrophages activation.

METHODS

Anti-inflammatory properties of vitexin were evaluated in four models of neutrophil recruitment. The regulation of inflammatory mediators release was assessed in vivo and in vitro. Vitexin (5, 15 and 30 mg/kg p.o) effects on leukocytes migration to peritoneal cavity induced by zymosan (ZY), carrageenan (CG), n-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were evaluated in Swiss-Webster mice and the effects on the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 cytokines, and NO concentration were in the LPS-peritonitis. RAW 264.7 macrophages viability were determined by Alamar Blue assay as well as the capacity of vitexin in directly reducing the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10, NO and PGE2. Additionally, vitexin effects upon the transcriptional factors p-p38, p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK were evaluated by western blotting in cells activated with LPS.

RESULTS

Vitexin was not cytotoxic (IC50 > 200 µg/ml) in RAW 264.7 and at all doses tested it effectively reduced leukocyte migration in vivo, particularly neutrophils in the peritoneal lavage, independently of the inflammatory stimulus used. It also reduced TNF-α, IL-1β and NO releases in the peritoneal cavity of LPS-challenged mice. Vitexin had low cytotoxicity and was able to reduce the releases of TNF-α, IL-1β, NO, PGE2 and increase in IL-10 release by LPS activated RAW 264.7 cells. Vitexin was also able to regulate transcriptional factors for pro-inflammatory mediators, reducing the expression of p-p38, p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK in LPS-elicited cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitexin presented no in vitro cytotoxicity. Inhibition of neutrophil migration and pro-inflammatory mediators release contributes to the anti-inflammatory activity of vitexin. These effects are associated with the inactivation of important signaling pathways such as p38, ERK1/2 and JNK, which act on transcription factors for eliciting induction of inflammatory response.

Vitexin reduces hypoxia-ischemia neonatal brain injury by the inhibition of HIF-1alpha in a rat pup model

Previous studies have demonstrated that the early suppression of HIF-1α after hypoxia-ischemia (HI) injury provides neuroprotection. Vitexin (5, 7, 4-trihydroxyflavone-8-glucoside), an HIF-1α inhibitor, is a c-glycosylated flavone that has been identified in medicinal plants. Therefore, we hypothesized that treatment with vitexin would protect against HI brain injury. Newborn rat pups were subjected to unilateral carotid artery ligation followed by 2.5 h of hypoxia (8% O2 at 37 °C). Vitexin (30, 45 or 60 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally at 5 min or 3 h after HI. Vitexin, administered 5 min after HI, was neuroprotective as seen by decreased infarct volume evaluated at 48 h post-HI. This neuroprotection was removed when vitexin was administered 3 h after HI. Neuronal cell death, blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, brain edema, HIF-1α and VEGF protein levels were evaluated using a combination of Nissl staining, IgG staining, brain water content, immunohistochemistry and Western blot at 24 and 48 h after HI. The long-term effects of vitexin were evaluated by brain atrophy measurement, Nissl staining and neurobehavioral tests. Vitexin (45 mg/kg) ameliorated brain edema, BBB disruption and neuronal cell death; Upregulation of HIF-1α by dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) increased the BBB permeability and brain edema compared to HI alone. Vitexin attenuated the increase in HIF-1α and VEGF. Vitexin also had long-term effects of protecting against the loss of ipsilateral brain and improveing neurobehavioral outcomes. In conclusion, our data indicate early HIF-1α inhibition with vitexin provides both acute and long-term neuroprotection in the developing brain after neonatal HI injury.

In vitro antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of endophytic fungi isolated from Eugenia jambolana Lam

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) of ethyl acetate extracts of endophytic fungi isolated from Eugenia jambolana by three different antioxidant assays.

METHODS

Twenty one different endophytic fungal extracts were screened for presence of various phytochemicals, TPC and in vitro antioxidant activity. TPC was tested by Folin-Ciocalteau reagent based assay. DPPH free radical scavenging, hydrogen peroxide scavenging and reducing power assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity.

RESULTS

Alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenes were the main phytochemicals presents in all 21 endophytes. A significant positive correlation was found between antioxidant activity and TPC in fungal extracts. There is 36% endophytic extracts having high phenolic content exhibited potent antioxidant activity. Chaetomium sp., Aspergillus sp., Aspergillus peyronelii and Aspergillus niger strain showed the highest antioxidant activity ranging from 50% to 80% having 58 mg/g to 60 mg/g GAE total phenolics. Ascorbic acid used as a standard showed 90% reducing potential.

CONCLUSIONS

The results reveal that metabolites produced by endophytic fungi isolated from Eugenia jambolana can be a potential source of novel natural antioxidant compounds.

Antioxidant, lipid peroxidation inhibition and free radical scavenging efficacy of a diterpenoid compound sugiol isolated from Metasequoia glyptostroboides

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antioxidant efficacy of a biologically active diterpenoid compound sugiol isolated from Metasequoia glyptostroboides (M. glyptostroboides) in various antioxidant models.

METHODS

An abietane type diterpenoid sugiol, isolated from ethyl acetate extract of M. glyptostroboides cones, was analyzed for its antioxidant efficacy as reducing power ability and lipid peroxidation inhibition as well as its ability to scavenge free radicals such as 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl, nitric oxide, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals.

RESULTS

The sugiol showed significant and concentration-dependent antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. Consequently, the sugiol exerted lipid peroxidation inhibitory effect by 76.5% as compared to α-tocopherol (80.13%) and butylated hydroxyanisole (76.59%). In addition, the sugiol had significant scavenging activities of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl, nitric oxide, superoxide and hydroxyl free radicals in a concentration-dependent manner by 78.83%, 72.42%, 72.99% and 85.04%, when compared to the standard compound ascorbic acid (81.69%, 74.62%, 73.00% and 73.79%) and α-tocopherol/butylated hydroxyanisole (84.09%, 78.61%, 74.45% and 70.02%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings justify the biological and traditional uses of M. glyptostroboides or its secondary metabolites as confirmed by its promising antioxidant efficacy.

Metabolic effects of mulberry leaves: exploring potential benefits in type 2 diabetes and hyperuricemia

The leaves of Morus alba L. have a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine and also became valued by the ethnopharmacology of many other cultures. The worldwide known antidiabetic use of the drug has been suggested to arise from a complex combination effect of various constituents. Moreover, the drug is also a potential antihyperuricemic agent. Considering that type 2 diabetes and hyperuricemia are vice-versa in each other's important risk factors, the use of mulberry originated phytotherapeutics might provide an excellent option for the prevention and/or treatment of both conditions. Here we report a series of relevant in vitro and in vivo studies on the bioactivity of an extract of mulberry leaves and its fractions obtained by a stepwise gradient on silica gel. In vivo antihyperglycemic and antihyperuricemic activity, plasma antioxidant status, as well as in vitro glucose consumption by adipocytes in the presence or absence of insulin, xanthine oxidase inhibition, free radical scavenging activity, and inhibition of lipid peroxidation were tested. Known bioactive constituents of M. alba (chlorogenic acid, rutin, isoquercitrin, and loliolide) were identified and quantified from the HPLC-DAD fingerprint chromatograms. Iminosugar contents were investigated by MS/MS, 1-deoxynojirimycin was quantified, and amounts of 2-O-alpha-D-galactopyranosyl-1-deoxynojirimicin and fagomine were additionally estimated.

Neuroprotective effects of vitexin by inhibition of NMDA receptors in primary cultures of mouse cerebral cortical neurons

The accumulation of glutamate can excessively activate the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and cause excitotoxicity. Vitexin (5, 7, 4-trihydroxyflavone-8-glucoside, Vit) is a c-glycosylated flavone which was found in the several herbs, exhibiting potent hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. However, little is known about the neuroprotective effects of Vit on glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. In present study, primary cultured cortical neurons were treated with NMDA to induce the excitotoxicity. Pretreatment with Vit significantly prevented NMDA-induced neuronal cell loss and reduced the number of apoptotic neurons. Vit significantly inhibited the neuronal apoptosis induced by NMDA exposure by regulating balance of Bcl-2 and Bax expression and the cleavages of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and pro-caspase 3. Furthermore, pretreatment of Vit reversed the up-regulation of NR2B-containing NMDA receptors and the intracellular Ca(2+) overload induced by NMDA exposure. The neuroprotective effects of Vit are related to inhibiting the activities of NR2B-containing NMDA receptors and reducing the calcium influx in cultured cortical neurons.

Low potency homeopathic remedies and allopathic herbal medicines: is there an overlap?

Classical homeopathy is based on the therapeutic application of highly diluted homeopathic stocks. The indications of such medicines are determined by proving, i.e. by applying the remedies in healthy subjects. However, there are several complex homeopathic medicinal products on the market with approved therapeutic indications. The efficacy of these medicines has been assessed in clinical trials on patients. There is no upper limit of dosing for such homeopathic remedies, and these products often contain undiluted mother tincture. The aim of our study was to compare an allopathic herbal medicine and a homeopathic product containing undiluted mother tincture based on the same plant. Two products (an allopathic herbal medicine and a homeopathic product) containing Vitex agnus-castus extract were analyzed by HPLC-DAD for their agnuside and casticin contents. The agnuside content of the allopathic product was approximately four times higher, while the amount of casticin was in the same order of magnitude. Our experiments revealed the presence of active ingredients in allopathic quantity in a homeopathic preparation, highlighting the controversy between the principles of classical and practice of contemporary homeopathy. According to the principles of classical homeopathy these remedies cannot be considered as homeopathic remedies but rather as (allopathic) herbal ones. This phenomenon necessitates a case-by-case approach towards the possible adverse effects and drug interactions of homeopathics in the daily medical practice. Homeopathic products containing active agents in allopathic doses should be treated the same way as allopathic medicines from the point of view of quality assurance and pharmacovigilance.

The genus Vitex: A review

The review includes 161 references on the genus Vitex, and comprises ethnopharmacology, morphology and microscopy, phytoconstituents, pharmacological reports, clinical studies, and toxicology of the prominent species of Vitex. Essential oils, flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, diterpenoides and ligans constitute major classes of phytoconstituents of the genus. A few species of this genus have medicinal value, among these, leaves and fruits of V. agnus-castus Linn. (Verbenaceae) has been traditionally used in treatment of women complaints. V. agnus-castus has also been included in herbal remedies, which are in clinical use to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce premenstrual symptom tension and anxiety, treat some menopausal symptoms as well as to treat hormonally induced acne. Despite a long tradition of use of some species, the genus has not been explored properly. In the concluding part, the future scope of Vitex species has been emphasized with a view to establish their multifarious biological activities and mode of action.

Development and validation of a rapid ultra-high performance liquid chromatography diode array detector method for Vitex agnus-castus

A rapid ultra-high performance liquid chromatography diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of all classes of non-volatile phytochemicals (iridoids, flavonoids and diterpenes) in Vitex agnus-castus (Lamiaceae) fruits, a traditional medicinal plant used against premenstrual symptoms (PMS) and other disorders. Seven marker compounds, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, agnuside, 5-hydroxykaempferol-3,6,7,4'-tetramethylether, 1,2-dibenzoic acid glucose, methoxy-vitexilactone, and vitetrifolin D were isolated from the methanol extract of V. agnus-castus to be used as reference substances. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Zorbax Eclipse XDB-C18 (50mm×2.1mm) UHPLC column with 1.8μm particle size, within 20min. A solvent gradient from 0.5% acetic acid to acetonitrile at a flow rate of 0.6mL/min was used as mobile phase. Analyte detection and quantification was realized at 210nm and 260nm. The UHPLC-DAD assay was validated for the quantitative analysis of agnuside, isovitexin, casticin, 5-hydroxykaempferol-3,6,7,4'-tetramethylether and vitetrifolin D. It was found to be specific, accurate, precise, and reproducible for the quantification of these compound within a concentration range of 0.7-500.0μg/mL for casticin and 5-hydroxykaempferol-3,6,7,4'-tetramethylether, 1.4-1000.0μg/mL for isovitexin and agnuside, and 12.4-1000.0μg/mL for vitetrifolin D. Intra- and inter-day variations showed relative standard deviations (RSD) of less than 3.9% and 6.4%, respectively. Tentatively assignment of 62 chromatographic features found in the UHPLC-DAD assay was carried out by coupling the UHPLC instrument to a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer via an electrospray ionization interface (ESI-QTOF-MS) operated in positive and negative ion mode. By using the established quantitative UHPLC-DAD assay to asses agnuside, isovitexin, casticin, 5-hydroxykaempferol-3,6,7,4'-tetramethylether and vitetrifolin D in V. agnus-castus derived preparations as extracts, tinctures and tablets, the applicability of the developed assay to phytopharmaceuticals was successfully proven.

Vitamin, Trace Element, and Fatty Acid Levels ofVitex agnus-castusL.,Juniperus oxycedrusL., andPapaver somniferumL. Plant Seeds

The levels of fat-soluble vitamin, trace element and fatty acid ofVitex agnus-castusL.,Juniperus oxycedrusL., andPapaver somniferumL. seeds in Turkey were determined by using HPLC, ICP-OES, and GC, respectively. In theVitex agnus-castusL.,Juniperus oxycedrusL., andPapaver somniferumL. seeds, linoleic acid (18 : 2) was determined with the highest level rates (%54.11, %28.03, and %72.14, resp.). In theVitex agnus-castusL. seeds, R-tocopherol,α-tocopherol, and K1levels were determined as 9.70 μg/g, 18.20 μg/g, and 24.79 μg/g, respectively; In theJuniperus oxycedrusL. seeds, R-tocopherol,α-tocopherol, and K1were determined as 18.50 μg/g, 0.84 μg/g, and 5.00 μg/g, respectively, and in thePapaver somniferumL. seeds, R-tocopherol,α-tocopherol, K1, and D2levels were determined as 43.25 μg/g, 122.05 μg/g, 12.01 μg/g, and 0.62 μg/g, respectively. In theVitex agnus-castusL.,Juniperus oxycedrusL., andPapaver somniferumL. seeds, nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) were determined with the trace element level rates (4.42 mg/kg, 10.43 mg/kg, 3.71 mg/kg for Ni, 7.00 mg/kg, 7.70 mg/kg, and 24 mg/kg for Zn and 93.73 mg/kg, 187.95 mg/kg, and 149.64 mg/kg for Fe, resp.). These parameters in seeds are very important for human life.

Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry determination of chemical markers and principal component analysis of Vitex agnus-castus L. fruits (Verbenaceae) and derived food supplements

A validated analytical method for the quantitative determination of seven chemical markers occurring in a hydroalcoholic extract of Vitex agnus-castus fruits by liquid chromatography electrospray triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI/(QqQ)MSMS) is reported. To carry out a comparative study, five commercial food supplements corresponding to hydroalcoholic extracts of V. agnus-castus fruits were analysed under the same chromatographic conditions of the crude extract. Principal component analysis (PCA), based only on the variation of the amount of the seven chemical markers, was applied in order to find similarities between the hydroalcoholic extract and the food supplements. A second PCA analysis was carried out considering the whole spectroscopic data deriving from liquid chromatography electrospray linear ion trap mass spectrometry (LC/ESI/(LIT)MS) analysis. High similarity between the two PCA was observed, showing the possibility to select one of these two approaches for future applications in the field of comparative analysis of food supplements and quality control procedures.