A Metabolomic Approach to Target Compounds from the Asteraceae Family for Dual COX and LOX Inhibition

Untargeted Metabolomic to Access Chemical Differences Induced by Dual Endophyte Cultures Isolated from Euphorbia Umbellata

Endophytic fungi live asymptomatically inside vegetal tissues, and such uncommon habitat contributes to their exceptional chemical diversity. Isolating natural products from endophytic fungi could fail due to silent biosynthetic gene clusters under ordinary in vitro culture conditions, and co-culturing has been assayed to trigger their metabolism. We carried out single and dual cultures with 13 endophyte strains isolated from Euphorbia umbellata leaves. Multivariate statistics applied to untargeted metabolomics compared the chemical profiles of all endophyte cultures. PCA analysis guided the selection of the Aspergillus pseudonomiae J1 - Porogramme brasiliensis J9 dual culture for its most significant chemical differentiation: Five compounds were putatively annotated in the J1-J9 culture according to UHPLC-HRMS data, kojic acid, haliclonol and its diastereoisomer, caffeic acid, and 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)acetaldehyde. Analysis by PLS-DA using VIP score showed that kojic acid displayed the most significative importance in discriminating single and dual J1-J9 cultures.

LC-MS/DIA-based strategy for comprehensive flavonoid profiling: an Ocotea spp. applicability case

We introduce a liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry with data-independent acquisition (LC-MS/DIA)-based strategy, specifically tailored to achieve comprehensive and reliable glycosylated flavonoid profiling. This approach facilitates in-depth and simultaneous exploration of all detected precursors and fragments during data processing, employing the widely-used open-source MZmine 3 software. It was applied to a dataset of six Ocotea plant species. This framework suggested 49 flavonoids potentially newly described for these plant species, alongside 45 known features within the genus. Flavonols kaempferol and quercetin, both exhibiting O-glycosylation patterns, were particularly prevalent. Gas-phase fragmentation reactions further supported these findings. For the first time, the apigenin flavone backbone was also annotated in most of the examined Ocotea species. Apigenin derivatives were found mainly in the C-glycoside form, with O. porosa displaying the highest flavone : flavonol ratio. The approach also allowed an unprecedented detection of kaempferol and quercetin in O. porosa species, and it has underscored the untapped potential of LC-MS/DIA data for broad and reliable flavonoid profiling. Our study annotated more than 50 flavonoid backbones in each species, surpassing the current literature.

Metabolomic approaches to explore chemodiversity in seeds of guaraná (Paullinia cupana) using UPLC-QTOF-MSE and NMR analysis

The growing interest in health and well-being has spurred the evolution of functional foods, which provide enhanced health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Guaraná seeds (Paullinia cupana) have been widely studied and used as a functional food due to their richness in caffeine, phenolic compounds, amino acids, and other nutrients. This has established guaraná as a significant food supplement, with Brazil being the largest producer of the world. This study aims to propose a set of analytical methods to chemically evaluate fifty-six different guaraná clones, from the Guaraná Germplasm Active Bank, to accommodate the diverse requirements of the food industry. Metabolomic approaches were employed, in which a non-target metabolomic analysis via UPLC-QTOF-MSE led to the annotation of nineteen specialized metabolites. Furthermore, targeted metabolomics was also used, leading to the identification and quantification of metabolites by NMR. The extensive data generated were subjected to multivariate analysis, elucidating the similarities and differences between the evaluated guaraná seeds, particularly concerning the varying concentration levels of the metabolites. The metabolomics approach based on the combination of UPLC-QTOF-MSE, NMR and chemometric tools provided sensitivity, precision and accuracy to establish the chemical profiles of guaraná seeds. In conclusion, evaluating and determining the metabolic specificities of different guarana clones allow for their application in the development of products with different levels of specific metabolites, such as caffeine. This caters to various purposes within the food industry. Moreover, the recognized pharmacological properties of the annotated specialized metabolites affirm the use of guarana clones as an excellent nutritional source.

Phytochemical investigation of Nigrospora zimmermanii isolated from Poincianella pluviosa (Sibipiruna): metabolites characterisation and screening for anti-inflammatory activity

Endophytic fungi residing symbiotically in plant tissues are promising sources of bioactive natural products. This study explored the anti-inflammatory potential of an endophytic fungus isolated from the Brazilian medicinal plant Poincianella pluviosa (Sibipiruna). The extract from the endophyte FPD13 exhibited potential ex vivo anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release by 75.22%. Phytochemical analysis using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC-HRMS) enabled the isolation and identification of three compounds, including the macrolide Nigrosporolide, the phenyl-propanol Tyrosol, and the terpene Decarestrictine A. Morphological characteristics and Internal Transcribed Spacers region (ITS) sequencing classified fungus FPD13 as Nigrospora zimmermanii. The results reveal the anti-inflammatory potential and chemical diversity of P. pluviosa endophytes, warranting further investigation into the bioactivity and structure elucidation of their bioactive metabolites.

UPLC-QTOF-MSE based metabolomics and chemometrics study of the pitaya processing

The search for knowledge related to the Pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus [F.A.C. Weber] Britton & Rose, family Cactaceae) is commonly due to its beneficial health properties e aesthetic values. But process to obtain pitaya pulp is a first and important step in providing information for the subsequent use of this fruit as colorant, for example. Therefore, the effects of the pulping process on the metabolomic and chemometric profile of non-volatile compounds of pitaya were assessed for the first time. The differences in metabolic fingerprints using UPLC-QTOF-MSE and multivariate modeling (PCA and OPLS-DA) was performed in the following treatments: treatment A, which consists of pelled pitaya and no ascorbic acid addition during pulping; treatment B, use of unpelled pitaya added of ascorbic acid during pulping; and control, unpelled pitaya and no ascorbic acid addition during pulping. For the metabolomic analysis, UPLC-QTOF-MSE shows an efficient method for the simultaneous determination of 35 non-volatile pitaya metabolites, including isorhamnetin glucosyl rhamnosyl isomers, phyllocactin isomers, 2'-O-apiosyl-phylocactin and 4'-O-malonyl-betanin. In addition, the chemometric analysis efficiently distinguished the metabolic compounds of each treatment applied and shows that the use of unpelled pitaya added of ascorbic acid during pulping has an interesting chemical profile due to the preservation or formation of compounds, such as those derived from betalain, and higher yields, which is desirable for the food industry.

Danggui Shaoyao San: comprehensive modulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis for attenuating Alzheimer's disease-related pathology

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD), an age-associated neurodegenerative disorder, currently lacks effective clinical therapeutics. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds promising potential in AD treatment, exemplified by Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS), a TCM formulation. The precise therapeutic mechanisms of DSS in AD remain to be fully elucidated. This study aims to uncover the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of DSS in AD, employing an integrative approach encompassing gut microbiota and metabolomic analyses. Methods: Thirty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were allocated into three groups: Blank Control (Con), AD Model (M), and Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS). AD models were established via bilateral intracerebroventricular injections of streptozotocin (STZ). DSS was orally administered at 24 g·kg-1·d-1 (weight of raw herbal materials) for 14 days. Cognitive functions were evaluated using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. Pathological alterations were assessed through hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Bloodstream metabolites were characterized, gut microbiota profiled through 16S rDNA sequencing, and cortical metabolomics analyzed. Hippocampal proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) were quantified using RT-qPCR, and oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH-PX, MDA) in brain tissues were measured with biochemical assays. Results: DSS identified a total of 1,625 bloodstream metabolites, predominantly Benzene derivatives, Carboxylic acids, and Fatty Acyls. DSS significantly improved learning and spatial memory in AD rats and ameliorated cerebral tissue pathology. The formulation enriched the probiotic Ligilactobacillus, modulating metabolites like Ophthalmic acid (OA), Phosphocreatine (PCr), Azacridone A, Inosine, and NAD. DSS regulated Purine and Nicotinate-nicotinamide metabolism, restoring balance in the Candidatus Saccharibacteria-OA interplay and stabilizing gut microbiota-metabolite homeostasis. Additionally, DSS reduced hippocampal IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α expression, attenuating the inflammatory state. It elevated antioxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-PX) while reducing MDA levels, indicating diminished oxidative stress in AD rat brains. Conclusion: DSS addresses AD pathology through multifaceted mechanisms, encompassing gut microbiome regulation, specific metabolite modulation, and the mitigation of inflammation and oxidative stress within the brain. This holistic intervention through the Microbial-Gut-Brain Axis (MGBA) underscores DSS's potential as an integrative therapeutic agent in combatting AD.

Ex vivo inhibition of PGE2 formation in human blood by four bicyclico [3.2.1] octane neolignans isolated from Aniba firmula bark, two with unusual structural pattern

The phytochemical investigation of the stem bark crude extract of Aniba firmula (Lauraceae) led to the isolation of undescribed bicyclic [3.2.1] octane neolignans, 1 and 2, characterized by unusual bicyclic patterns and two other known bicyclic neolignans 3 and 4. Anti-inflammatory bicyclic [3.2.1] octane neolignans metabolites were previously reported in the literature, and the A. firmula stands out in the Lauraceae family as a source of potentially bioactive compounds. Thus, herein the anti-inflammatory potential of four isolated compounds from A. firmula was accessed via an ex vivo anti-inflammatory model that included plasmatic quantification of the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) inflammatory mediator. Compounds 2 and 3 exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of PGE2 in plasma samples, thus by interference with the cyclooxygenase (COX) inflammatory pathway. Therefore, these findings demonstrate that the bicyclic octane neolignan classes [3.2.1] can present anti-inflammatory potential.

Bioprospecting-based untargeted metabolomics identifies alkaloids as potential anti-inflammatory bioactive markers of Ocotea species (Lauraceae)

BACKGROUND

Species within the Ocotea genus (Lauraceae), have demonstrated an interesting profile of bioactivities. Renowned for their diverse morphology and intricate specialized metabolite composition, Ocotea species have re-emerged as compelling candidates for bioprospecting in drug discovery research. However, it is a genus insufficiently studied, particularly regarding anti-inflammatory activity.

PURPOSE

To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of Ocotea spp. extracts and determine the major markers in this genus.

METHODS

Extracts of 60 different Ocotea spp. were analysed by an ex vivo anti-inflammatory assay in human whole blood. The experiment estimates the prostaglandin E2 levels, which is one of the main mediators of the inflammatory cascade, responsible for the classical symptoms of fever, pain, and other common effects of the inflammatory process. Untargeted metabolomics analysis through liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry was performed, along with statistical analysis, to investigate which Ocotea metabolites are correlated with their anti-inflammatory activity.

RESULTS

The anti-inflammatory screening indicated that 49 out of 60 Ocotea spp. extracts exhibited significant inhibition of PGE2 release compared to the vehicle (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 10 of these extracts showed statistical similarity to the reference drugs. The bioactive markers were accurately identified using multivariate statistics combined with a fold change (> 1.5) and adjusted false discovery rate analysis as unknown compounds and alkaloids, with a majority of aporphine and benzylisoquinolines. These alkaloids were annotated with an increased level of confidence since MSE spectra were compared with comprehensive databases.

CONCLUSION

This study represents the first bioprospecting report revealing the anti-inflammatory potential of several Ocotea spp. The determination of their anti-inflammatory markers could contribute to drug discovery and the chemical knowledge of the Ocotea genus.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Lauraceae Plant Species and Prediction Models Based on Their Metabolomics Profiling Data

The Lauraceae is a botanical family known for its anti-inflammatory potential. However, several species have not yet been studied. Thus, this work aimed to screen the anti-inflammatory activity of this plant family and to build statistical prediction models. The methodology was based on the statistical analysis of high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry data and the ex vivo anti-inflammatory activity of plant extracts. The ex vivo results demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity for several of these plants for the first time. The sample data were applied to build anti-inflammatory activity prediction models, including the partial least square acquired, artificial neural network, and stochastic gradient descent, which showed adequate fitting and predictive performance. Key anti-inflammatory markers, such as aporphine and benzylisoquinoline alkaloids were annotated with confidence level 2. Additionally, the validated prediction models proved to be useful for predicting active extracts using metabolomics data and studying their most bioactive metabolites.

Dereplication of Lantana trifolia L. leaves and fruits by UFLC-DAD-(+)-ESI-MS/MS and its antifungal and cytotoxic activities

INTRODUCTION

Lantana trifolia L. (Verbenaceae) is a shrubby plant. In folk medicine, its leaves are used in the form of infusions and syrups to treat angina, coughs, and colds; they are also applied as tranquilizer. Previous studies have reported the antimicrobial potential of the compounds present in L. trifolia leaves.

OBJECTIVES

To report the anti-Candida activities of the fractions obtained from the fruits and leaves of two L. trifolia specimens.

METHODS

The L. trifolia fractions were submitted to UFLC-DAD-(+)-ESI-MS/MS, and the data were analyzed by using multivariate statistical tools (PCA, PLS-DA) and spectral similarity analyses based on molecular networking, which aided dereplication of the bioactive compounds. Additionally, NMR analyses were performed to confirm the chemical structure of some of the major compounds in the fractions.

RESULTS

The ethyl acetate fractions presented MIC values lower than 100 µg mL-1 against the three Candida strains evaluated herein (C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata). Fractions FrPo AcOEt, FrPe AcOEt, and FrPe nBut had MIC values of 1.46, 2.93, and 2.93 µg mL-1 against C. glabrata, respectively. These values resembled the MIC value of amphotericin B, the positive control (0.5-1.0 µg mL-1), against this same strain. Cytotoxicity was measured and used to calculate the selectivity index.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of our data, the most active fractions in the antifungal assay were more selective against C. glabrata than against non-infected cells. The analytical approach adopted here allowed us to annotate 29 compounds, nine of which were bioactive (PLS-DA results) and belong to the class of phenolic compounds.

Quality Assessment and Classification of Codonopsis Radix Based on Fingerprints and Chemometrics

In China, Codonopsis Radix (CR) is frequently consumed both as food and medicine. Here, a comprehensive strategy based on fingerprinting and chemometric approaches was created to explore the influence of origins, storage time and kneading processing on the quality of CR. Firstly, high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection was used to obtain the fingerprints of 35 batches of CR from six different origins and 33 batches of CR from varying storage times or kneading procedures. Secondly, chemometric methods including similarity analysis (SA), principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA), and two-way orthogonal partial least square with discriminant analysis (O2PLS-DA) were used to evaluate the differences of chemical components in CR so as to identify its source and reflect its quality. Moreover, 13 and 16 major compounds were identified as marker compounds for the discrimination of CR from different origins, storage time and kneading processing, respectively. Furthermore, the relative content of the marker components and the exact content of Lobetyolin were measured, indicating that the contents of these components vary significantly between various CR samples. Meanwhile, the chemical components of CR were identified using Mass spectrometry. According to the findings of our investigation, the quality of CR from Gansu was the best, followed by Shanxi and then Sichuan. The quality of CR from Chongqing and Guizhou was poor. At the same time, the quality of CR was the best when it was kneaded and stored for 0 years, indicating that the traditional kneading process of CR is of great significance. Conclusively, HPLC fingerprint in conjunction with chemical pattern recognition and component content determination can be employed to differentiate the raw materials of different CR samples. Additionally, it is also a reliable, comprehensive and prospective method for quality control and evaluation of CR.

Diet Restriction Impact on High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obesity by Regulating Mitochondrial Cardiolipin Biosynthesis and Remodeling

Diet restriction (DR) ameliorates obesity by regulating mitochondrial function. Cardiolipin (CL), a mitochondrial phospholipid, is closely associated with mitochondrial function. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-obesity effects of graded levels of DR based on mitochondrial CL levels in the liver. Obese mice were treated with 0%, 20%, 40%, and 60% reductions in the normal diet compared to normal animals (0 DR, 20 DR, 40 DR, and 60 DR groups, respectively). Biochemical and histopathological analyses were performed to evaluate the ameliorative effects of DR on obese mice. The altered profile of mitochondrial CL in the liver was explored using a targeted metabolomics strategy by ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography MS/MS coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Finally, gene expression associated with CL biosynthesis and remodeling was quantified. Tissue histopathology and biochemical index evaluations revealed significant improvements in the liver after DR, except for the 60 DR group. The variation in mitochondrial CL distribution and DR levels showed an inverted U-shape, and the CL content in the 40 DR group was the most upregulated. This result is consistent with the results of the target metabolomic analysis, which showed that 40 DR presented more variation. Furthermore, DR led to increased gene expression associated with CL biosynthesis and remodeling. This study provides new insights into the mitochondrial mechanisms underlying DR intervention in obesity.

Assessment of metabolic, mineral, and cytotoxic profile in pineapple leaves of different commercial varieties: A new eco-friendly and inexpensive source of bioactive compounds

Pineapple is among the most produced and consumed fruits worldwide, and consequently, its agroindustrial production/processing generates high amounts of agricultural waste, which are routinely discarded. Thus, it is crucial to seek alternatives to reuse this agricultural waste that are in high availability. Therefore, this work aims to evaluate the chemical composition of a specific residue (leaves) of seven commercial varieties of pineapples, to attribute high added value uses, and to evaluate its potential as a source of secondary metabolites and minerals. Thereby, twenty-eight metabolites were annotated by UPLC-QTOF-MS^E, including amino acids, organic acids, and phenolic compounds. The following minerals were quantitatively assessed by ICP-OES: Zn (5.30-19.77 mg kg^-1), Cr, Cd, Mn (50.80-113.98 mg kg^-1), Cu (1.05-4.01 mg kg^-1), P (1030.77-6163.63 mg kg^-1) and Fe (9.06-70.17 mg kg^-1). In addition, Cr and Cd (toxic materials) present concentration levels below the limit of quantification of the analytical method (LOQ_Cr and LOQ_Cd = 0.02 mg kg^-1) for all samples. The multivariate analysis was conceived from the chemical profile, through the tools of PCA (principal component analysis) and HCA (hierarchical cluster analysis). The results show that pineapple leaves have similarities and differences concerning their chemical composition. In addition, the cytotoxicity assays of the extracts against tumor and non-tumor strains shows that the extracts were non-toxic. This fact can corroborate and enhance the prospection of new uses and applications of agroindustrial co-products from pineapple, enabling the evaluation and use in different types of industries, such as pharmacological, cosmetic, and food, in addition to the possibility of being a potential source of bioactive compounds.

Phenolic Acid Patterns in Different Plant Species of Families Asteraceae and Lamiaceae: Possible Phylogenetic Relationships and Potential Molecular Markers

Nowadays, investigations of some specific secondary metabolites estimated near 10,000 various compounds of phenolic nature in different plant species. The interest in natural compounds is not only due to their antioxidant potential, but also to their economic impact, as most of them may be extracted from underexploited plant species. The presented research work presents an extended analysis of the most important phenolic acids of the selected known and underexploited plant species from the families Asteraceae and Rosaceae with the development of phylogenic tree analysis according to the nonparametric rate smoothing (NPRS) methods. HPLC-UV analysis revealed the original spectrum of phenolic acids in selected known and underexploited plant species of the families Rosaceae and Asteraceae. The analysis of phenolic acid’s contribution from their total amount in the methanolic extract in Asteraceae found the high percentage of syringic acid in leaves varied between 64.13% and 95.13%. The detected high contribution of syringic acid among estimated phenolic acids in Asteraceae leaves suggests its possible prevalence in the representatives of the family Asteraceae. The content of draconic acid in the leaves of most representatives of the family Rosaceae which represented more than 30% of total phenolic acid content. The high presence of such phenolic acids may relate to the antioxidant activity of the studied herbal extracts.

Lepidium meyenii (Maca) Roots: UPLC-HRMS, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics

Lepidium meyenii or Maca is widely cultivated as a health care food supplement due to its nutritional and medicinal properties. Although there are a few in-depth studies evaluating Maca antihypertensive effects, the correlations between the chemical constituents and bioactivity of the plant have not been studied before. Thus, the roots were extracted using different solvents (aqueous, methanol, 50% methanol, and methylene chloride) and investigated for their antihypertensive and antioxidant activities through several in vitro assays. The methanolic extract exhibited the best renin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ values of 24.79 ± 1.3 ng/mL and 22.02 ± 1.1 ng/mL, respectively, along with the highest antioxidant activity. In total, 120 metabolites from different classes, e.g., alkylamides, alkaloids, glucosinolates, organic acids, and hydantoin derivatives, were identified in the methanolic extract using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC/HRMS). Molecular docking simulations were used to investigate the potential binding modes and the intermolecular interactions of the identified compounds with ACE and renin active sites. Glucotropaeolin, β-carboline alkaloids, succinic acid, and 2,4-dihydroxy-3,5-cyclopentyl dienoic acid showed the highest affinity to target the ACE with high docking scores (S ranging from -35.32 to -22.51 kcal mol^-1) compared to lisinopril (S = -36.64 kcal mol^-1). Interestingly, macamides displayed the greatest binding affinity to the active site of renin with docking scores (S ranging from -22.47 to -28.25 kcal mol^-1). Further, β-carbolines achieved docking scores comparable to that of the native ligand (S ranging from -13.50 to -20.06 kcal mol^-1). Molecular dynamics simulations and MMPBSA were also carried out and confirmed the docking results. Additionally, the computational ADMET study predicted that the compounds attaining promising docking results had proper pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness characteristics, and safe toxicological profiles. Ultimately, our findings revealed that Maca roots could be considered a promising candidate as an antihypertensive drug.

Anti-Inflammatory Markers of Hops Cultivars (Humulus lupulus L.) Evaluated by Untargeted Metabolomics Strategy

Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) are edible flowers commonly used to add flavour and aroma to beer, besides they have rich chemical diversity and medicinal potential. In this work, an ex vivo anti-inflammatory assay via the LPS-induced signalling pathway and metabolomics approaches were performed to evaluate the ability of hops to inhibit the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) inflammatory mediator and analyze which metabolites produced by the nine different hop cultivars are potential anti-inflammatory markers. Columbus, Chinook and Hallertau Mittelfrüh hop cultivars yielded extracts with PGE2 release inhibition rates of 86.7, 92.5 and 73.5 %, respectively. According to the multivariate statistical analysis, the majority of the metabolites correlated with the activity were prenylated phloroglucinol and phenolic homologs. These results suggest promissory anti-inflammatory hop metabolites.

Changes in Triterpenes in Alismatis rhizoma after Processing Based on Targeted Metabolomics Using UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS

Alismatis rhizoma (AR) has been used as an herbal medicine in China for over a thousand years. Crude AR, salt-processed AR (SAR), and bran-processed AR (BAR) are recorded in the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China. However, the differences of chemical composition between crude AR and its processing products remain limited. In this study, triterpenes were identified from crude AR, SAR, and BAR by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometer (UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS). Subsequently, the differences of triterpenes between the crude AR and processed ARs were compared via a targeted metabolomics approach. Finally, a total of 114 triterpenes were identified, of which 83, 100, and 103 triterpenes were found in crude AR, SAR, and BAR, respectively. After salt-processing, there were 17 triterpenes newly generated, 7 triterpenes with trends of increasing, and 37 triterpenes decreased. Meanwhile, 56 triterpenes including 21 newly generated and 35 with significant increases were observed in BAR. This study could be benefit to investigate the processing mechanism of AR, as well as support their clinical applications.

Chemometric-Guided Approaches for Profiling and Authenticating Botanical Materials

Botanical supplements with broad traditional and medicinal uses represent an area of growing importance for American health management; 25% of U.S. adults use dietary supplements daily and collectively spent over $9. 5 billion in 2019 in herbal and botanical supplements alone. To understand how natural products benefit human health and determine potential safety concerns, careful in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies are required. However, botanicals are innately complex systems, with complicated compositions that defy many standard analytical approaches and fluctuate based upon a plethora of factors, including genetics, growth conditions, and harvesting/processing procedures. Robust studies rely upon accurate identification of the plant material, and botanicals' increasing economic and health importance demand reproducible sourcing, as well as assessment of contamination or adulteration. These quality control needs for botanical products remain a significant problem plaguing researchers in academia as well as the supplement industry, thus posing a risk to consumers and possibly rendering clinical data irreproducible and/or irrelevant. Chemometric approaches that analyze the small molecule composition of materials provide a reliable and high-throughput avenue for botanical authentication. This review emphasizes the need for consistent material and provides insight into the roles of various modern chemometric analyses in evaluating and authenticating botanicals, focusing on advanced methodologies, including targeted and untargeted metabolite analysis, as well as the role of multivariate statistical modeling and machine learning in phytochemical characterization. Furthermore, we will discuss how chemometric approaches can be integrated with orthogonal techniques to provide a more robust approach to authentication, and provide directions for future research.

In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Fabaceae species extracts screened by a new ex vivo assay using human whole blood

INTRODUCTION

Plants have been considered a promising source for discovering new compounds with pharmacological activities. The Fabaceae family comprises a large variety of species that produce substances with diverse therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory activity. The limitations of current anti-inflammatories generate the need to research new anti-inflammatory structures with higher efficacy as well as develop methods for screening multiple samples, reliably and ethically, to assess such therapeutic properties.

OBJECTIVE

Validate and apply a quantification method for prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂ ) production from an ex vivo assay in human blood in order to screen anti-inflammatory activity present in many Fabaceae species extracts.

METHODS

Human blood was incubated with extracts from 47 Fabaceae species. After lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation, PGE₂ was quantified in the plasma by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The extracts that presented PGE₂ production inhibition were further assessed through in vivo assay and then chemically characterised through an analysis of ultra-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionisation quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS² ) data.

RESULTS

The new ex vivo anti-inflammatory assay showed that five out of the 47 Fabaceae species inhibited PGE₂ production. Results from an in vivo assay and the metabolic profile of the active extracts supported the anti-inflammatory potential of four species.

CONCLUSION

The quantification method for PGE₂ demonstrated fast, sensitive, precise, and accurate results. The new ex vivo anti-inflammatory assay comprised a great, reliable, and ethical approach for the screening of a large number of samples before an in vivo bioassay. Additionally, the four active extracts in both ex vivo and in vivo assays may be useful for the development of more efficient anti-inflammatory drugs.

Anti-Inflammatory, Antipyretic, and Analgesic Properties of Potamogeton perfoliatus Extract: In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Natural antioxidants, especially those of plant origins, have shown a plethora of biological activities with substantial economic value, as they can be extracted from agro-wastes and/or under exploited plant species. The perennial hydrophyte, Potamogeton perfoliatus, has been used traditionally to treat several health disorders; however, little is known about its biological and its medicinal effects. Here, we used an integrated in vitro and in vivo framework to examine the potential effect of P. perfoliatus on oxidative stress, nociception, inflammatory models, and brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia in mice. Our results suggested a consistent in vitro inhibition of three enzymes, namely 5-lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenases 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2), as well as a potent antioxidant effect. These results were confirmed in vivo where the studied extract attenuated carrageenan-induced paw edema, carrageenan-induced leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity by 25, 44 and 64% at 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg, p.o., respectively. Moreover, the extract decreased acetic acid-induced vascular permeability by 45% at 600 mg/kg, p.o., and chemical hyperalgesia in mice by 86% by 400 mg/kg, p.o., in acetic acid-induced writhing assay. The extract (400 mg/kg) showed a longer response latency at the 3 h time point (2.5 fold of the control) similar to the nalbuphine, the standard opioid analgesic. Additionally, pronounced antipyretic effects were observed at 600 mg/kg, comparable to paracetamol. Using LC-MS/MS, we identified 15 secondary metabolites that most likely contributed to the obtained biological activities. Altogether, our findings indicate that P. perfoliatus has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and antipyretic effects, thus supporting its traditional use and promoting its valorization as a potential candidate in treating oxidative stress-associated diseases.

Confirmation of ethnopharmacological anti-inflammatory properties of Ocotea odorifera and determination of its main active compounds

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ocotea odorifera (Vell.) Rohwer has been used in traditional medicine in the south of Brazil for the treatment of inflammatory-related conditions, such as rheumatism. However, there is not any scientific evidence for popular use.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

To investigate the O. odorifera anti-inflammatory potential and identification of the main active compounds through metabolomic approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In order to in vivo evaluate the inhibition of the main inflammatory pathways, the leaf decoction, leaf extract, its fractions and the essential oils from leaves and branches were submitted to the ear oedema and the neutrophils recruitment assays. The samples were chemically investigated by UHPLC-HRMS or GC-MS. The multivariate statistical analysis (PLS-DA) was used to determine the substances correlated with the anti-inflammatory properties.

RESULTS

The in vivo studies indicated a promissory anti-inflammatory effect on both oedema and neutrophil recruitment for some samples including the decoction; hydroethanolic, ethyl acetate, and chloroform fractions; and the essential oils. According to the PLS-DA, the S-(+)-reticuline was evidenced as one of the three compounds of the plant most correlated with both anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Thus, S-(+)-reticuline was isolated and the anti-inflammatory activity was confirmed. Moreover, for the first time, the dual inhibition of oedema and neutrophil recruitment was uncovered and reported. Another compound positively correlated with the anti-inflammatory activity is likely to be a new compound since zero hit on the comprehensive mass database were encountered. The compounds found in the essential oils also showed significant anti-inflammatory activity, and thus indeed the plant has different classes of active substances.

CONCLUSIONS

The decoction of O. odorifera and different fractions from its ethanolic extract demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity through dual inhibition of oedema and neutrophil recruitment. Thus, corroborating the popular medicinal use of the decoction of leaves from O. odorifera as an anti-inflammatory medicine. Besides, reticuline, one of the main active compounds, was isolated and proved to display the dual mechanism of action, indicating the O. odorifera as a promising source of active compounds for the treatment of inflammatory conditions.

Tagitinin F has anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive and anti-matrix metalloproteinase properties: An in silico, in vitro and in vivo study

Sesquiterpene lactones (SL) are natural bioactive molecules indicated as potential scaffolds for anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug design. However, their anti-inflammatory applicability remains underestimated since the impact of SL on inflammatory nociception and tissue repair are overlooked. Thus, we used an integrated in silico, in vitro and in vivo framework to investigate the impact of tagitinin F (TAG-F) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged macrophages, excisional skin wounds, and carrageenan-induced paw edema and mechanical hyperalgesia in mice. RAW 264.7 macrophages in culture were challenged with LPS and treated with TAG-F (5, 10, 50 and 100 μM). The paw of BALB/c mice was injected with carrageenan and treated with 0.5% and 1% TAG-F. Excisional wounds were also produced in BALB/c mice and treated with 0.5% and 1% TAG-F. Our results indicated a consistent concentration-dependent downregulation in 5-lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2), matrix metalloproteinase 1 and 2 (MMP-1 and MMP-2) activities; as well as attenuation in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production in both in vitro and in vivo models. In vivo, TAG-F also attenuated carrageenan-induced paw edema and mechanical hyperalgesia in mice. From the excisional skin wound, TAG-F was still effective in reducing neutrophils and macrophages infiltration and stimulating collagen deposition in the scar tissue, accelerating tissue maturation. Together, our findings indicate that the anti-inflammatory effect of TAG-F is more comprehensive than previously suggested, exerting a significant impact on the control of edema, inflammatory pain and modulating central metabolic processes linked to skin wound healing.

Neuroprotective potential of Ayahuasca and untargeted metabolomics analyses: applicability to Parkinson's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Ayahuasca is a tea produced through decoction of Amazonian plants. It has been used for centuries by indigenous people of South America. The beverage is considered to be an ethnomedicine, and it is traditionally used for the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including neurological illness. Besides, some scientific evidence suggests it may be applicable to Parkinson's disease (PD) treatment. Thus, Ayahuasca deserves in depth studies to clarify its potential role in this disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to use an untargeted metabolomics approach to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of the Ayahuasca beverage, the extracts from its matrix plants (Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis), its fractions and its main alkaloids on the viability of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells in an in vitro PD model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The cytotoxicity of Ayahuasca, crude extracts, and fractions of B. caapi and P. viridis, as well as neuroprotection promoted by these samples in a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced neurodegeneration model, were evaluated by the MTT assay at two time-points: 48 h (T1) and 72 h (T2). The main alkaloids from Ayahuasca matrix plants, harmine (HRE) and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), were also isolated and evaluated. An untargeted metabolomics approach was developed to explore the chemical composition of samples with neuroprotective activity. Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled to Electrospray Ionisation and Time-of-Flight (UPLC-ESI-TOF) metabolome data was treated and further analysed using multivariate statistical analyses (MSA): principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). The metabolites were dereplicated using the Dictionary of Natural Products and an in house database. The main alkaloids were also quantified by UPLC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

The samples did not cause cytotoxicity in vitro and three of samples intensely increased cell viability at T1. The crude extracts, alkaloid fractions and HRE demonstrated remarkable neuroprotective effect at T2 while the hydroalcoholic fractions demonstrated this neuroprotective effect at T1 and T2. Several compounds from different classes, such as β-carbolines and monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) were revealed correlated with this property by MSA. Additionally, a total of 2419 compounds were detected in both ionisation modes. HRE showed potent neuroprotective action at 72 h, but it was not among the metabolites positively correlated with the most efficacious neuroprotective profile at either time (T1 and T2). Furthermore, DMT was statistically important to differentiate the dataset (VIP value > 1), although it did not exhibit sufficient neuroprotective activity by in vitro assay, neither a positive correlation with T1 and T2 neuroprotective profile, which corroborated the MSA results.

CONCLUSION

The lower doses of the active samples stimulated neuronal cell proliferation and/or displayed the most efficacious neuroprotection profile, namely by preventing neuronal damage and improving cell viability against 6-OHDA-induced toxicity. Intriguingly, the hydroalcoholic fractions exhibited enhanced neuroprotective effects when compared to other samples and isolated alkaloids. This finding corroborates the significance of a holistic approach. The results demonstrate that Ayahuasca and its base plants have potential applicability for PD treatment and to prevent its progression differently from current drugs to treat PD.

Anti-urolithiatic and anti-inflammatory activities through a different mechanism of actions of Cissus gongylodes corroborated its ethnopharmacological historic

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Species Cissus gongylodes has been used in the traditional medicine in South America and India for the treatment of urolithiasis, biliary and inflammatory problems without any scientific evidence.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work was developed to investigate for the first time the anti-inflammatory and anti-urolithiatic activities of leaf decoction of C. gongylodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Decoction was subjected to anti-inflammatory evaluation by the in vivo assay of ear oedema and quantification of the main mediators of inflammation PGE₂ and LTB₄, and the cytokine TNF-α. The decoction's anti-urolithiatic activity was determined by different in vitro assays to evaluate the inhibition and dissolution of the most prevalent types of kidney stones: calcium oxalate (CaOx) and struvite. Diffusion in gel technique and fresh urine of a patient with renal stone were used to investigate the inhibition and dissolution of CaOx, respectively, and the single diffusion gel growth technique was used to evaluate the inhibition and dissolution of struvite crystals. The decoction was chemically characterized by UHPLC-ESI-HRMS analysis.

RESULTS

Decoction showed in vivo anti-inflammatory activity by potent decreasing the level of both the main mediators of inflammation and dose-dependent in vitro anti-urolithiatic action by inhibition and dissolution of both type of crystals, CaOx and struvite.

CONCLUSIONS

Results obtained corroborate the reports of the traditional use of the decoction of Cissus gongylodes. Besides, it showed multi-target mechanisms actions, inhibition of the main inflammatory pathways, and inhibition/dissolution of the most prevalent types of crystals on urolithiasis. These actions make the decoction a promissory source to the development of new and more efficient drugs.

Metabolomic tools used in marine natural product drug discovery

Introduction: The marine environment is a very promising resource for natural product research, with many of these reaching the market as new drugs, especially in the field of cancer therapy as well as the drug discovery pipeline for new antimicrobials. Exploitation for bioactive marine compounds with unique structures and novel bioactivity such as the isoquinoline alkaloid; trabectedin, the polyether macrolide; halichondrin B, and the peptide; dolastatin 10, requires the use of analytical techniques, which can generate unbiased, quantitative, and qualitative data to benefit the biodiscovery process. Metabolomics has shown to bridge this understanding and facilitate the development of new potential drugs from marine sources and particularly their microbial symbionts.Areas covered: In this review, articles on applied secondary metabolomics ranging from 1990-2018 as well as to the last quarter of 2019 were probed to investigate the impact of metabolomics on drug discovery for new antibiotics and cancer treatment.Expert opinion: The current literature review highlighted the effectiveness of metabolomics in the study of targeting biologically active secondary metabolites from marine sources for optimized discovery of potential new natural products to be made accessible to a R&D pipeline.

Bioassay- and metabolomics-guided screening of bioactive soil actinomycetes from the ancient city of Ihnasia, Egypt

Literature surveys, taxonomical differences, and bioassay results have been utilized in the discovery of new natural products to aid in Actinomycetes isolate-selection. However, no or less investigation have been done on establishing the differences in metabolomic profiles of the isolated microorganisms. The study aims to utilise bioassay- and metabolomics-guided tools that included dereplication study and multivariate analysis of the NMR and mass spectral data of microbial extracts to assist the selection of isolates for scaling-up the production of antimicrobial natural products. A total of 58 actinomycetes were isolated from different soil samples collected from Ihnasia City, Egypt and screened for their antimicrobial activities against indicator strains that included Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. A number of 25 isolates were found to be active against B. subtilis and/or to at least one of the tested indicator strains. Principal component analyses showed chemical uniqueness for four outlying bioactive actinomycetes extracts. In addition, Orthogonal Projections to Latent Structures Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA) and dereplication study led us to further select two outlying anti-MRSA active isolates MS.REE.13 and 22 for scale-up work. MS.REE.13 and 22 exhibited zones of inhibition at 19 and 13 mm against MRSA, respectively. A metabolomics-guided approach provided the steer to target the bioactive metabolites (P<0.01) present in a crude extract or fraction even at nanogram levels but it was a challenge that such low-yielding bioactive natural products would be feasible to isolate. Validated to occur only on the active side of OPLS-DA loadings plot, the isolated compounds exhibited medium to weak antibiotic activity with MIC values between 250 and 800 μM. Two new compounds, P_24306 (C₁₀H₁₃N₂) and N_12799 (C₁₈H₃₂O₃) with MICs of 795 and 432 μM, were afforded from the scale-up of MS.REE. 13 and 22, respectively.

Anti-Inflammatory Derivatives with Dual Mechanism of Action from the Metabolomic Screening of Poincianella pluviosa

Metabolomics approaches have become fundamental strategies for the analysis of complex mixtures, guiding the isolation of target compounds by focusing on unpublished or promising pharmacological properties. The discovery of novel anti-inflammatory agents is important due to several limitations regarding their potency, efficacy, and adverse effects. Thus, novel anti-inflammatory candidates are essential, aiming to find agents with better mechanisms of action. In this context, extracts from Poincianella pluviosa var. peltophoroides demonstrated significant in vivo anti-inflammatory potential. Thus, metabolomics analysis based on UHPLC-UV-HRFTMS data was performed for the identification of biomarkers with anti-inflammatory properties. Metabolomics-guided chromatographic process led to the isolation of novel compounds 4‴-methoxycaesalpinioflavone and 7-methoxycaesalpinioflavone, as well as known derivatives rhuschalcone VI and caesalpinioflavone. Isolated compounds caused edema inhibition and neutrophil recruitment. Two of them showed better efficacy than reference drugs (indomethacin and dexamethasone). Results of in vivo experiments corroborated those obtained through metabolomics and statistical analyses guiding the isolation of substances of interest.

Effects of Tithonia diversifolia (Asteraceae) extract on innate inflammatory responses

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tithonia diversifolia (Helms.) A. Gray, popularly known in Brazil as "margaridão" or "mão-de-Deus" has been used in the folk medicine as anti-inflammatory and against other illnesses in several countries. Indeed, many studies show de effect of T. diversifolia in the inflammatory process, however, any of them have demonstrated the mechanism of cell migration.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this investigation was to show the in vivo and in vitro effects of T. diversifolia leaves ethanol extract on neutrophil trafficking from the blood to the inflamed tissue and on cell-derived secretion of chemical mediators, as well as, the effects on inflammatory resolution and inflammatory pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory activity was investigated using carrageenan-induced inflammation in the subcutaneous tissue of male Swiss mice orally treated with the T. diversifolia extract (0.1, 1 or 3 mg/kg). The leukocyte influx (optical microscopy) and the secretion of chemical mediators (TNF, IL-6, IL-1β and CXCL1, by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) were quantified in the inflamed exudate. Histological analysis of the pouches was performed. N-Formyl-methionine-leucine-phenylalanine-induced chemotaxis, lipopolysaccharide-induced TNF, IL-6, IL-1β, CXCL1 and NO production, and adhesion molecule expression (CD62L and CD18, flow cytometry) were in vitro quantified using oyster glycogen recruited peritoneal neutrophils previous treated with the extract (1, 10, or 100 μg/mL). The resolution of inflammation was accessed by efferocytosis assay, and the antinociceptive activity was investigated using carrageenan-induced mechanical hypersensitivity.

RESULTS

The oral treatment with T. diversifolia promoted reduction in the neutrophil migration as well as the decrease in total protein, TNF, IL-1β and CXCL1 levels in the inflamed exudate. In vitro treatment with T. diversifolia shedding of β2 integrin expressions, without alter CD62L expression. The extract was able to increase the efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils, and the increase of the IL-10 and the decrease of TNF secretion. Additionally, the extract reduced the hypersensitivity induced by carrageenan.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, the data herein obtained showed that T. diversifolia extract presented anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the cytokine and NO production, and also the leukocyte migration. The mechanisms involved in the extract anti-inflammatory effects include the impairment in the leukocyte migration to the inflamed tissue, the pro-resolution activity, and consequently the anti-hypersensitivity.

Fast and Efficient Method to Obtain Tagitinin F by Photocyclization of Tagitinin C

There is some evidence in the literature of the photocyclization reaction of Tagitinin C (1) to Tagitinin F (2). Compound 2 has high pharmacological potential, but it is not easy to obtain, while compound 1 is easily obtained from a widespread plant, Tithonia diversifolia. Among different reaction conditions monitored, one was found that allowed the cyclization of 1 into 2 in <15 min in a photo-dependent reaction. Scaling-up the photocyclization of the pure compound 1 into 2 demonstrated 100% yield, and the isolation of 2 from a UV-irradiated extract was eight-fold higher than the quantity isolated from the non-UV-irradiated extract. We were also able to better understand the process of photoconversion and determine methods to isolate and quantify these compounds, which are known for their important antitumoral activities among other important pharmacological properties.

Structure-activity relationship study of antitrypanosomal chalcone derivatives using multivariate analysis

Chagas disease represents one of several neglected diseases with a reduced number of chemotherapeutical drugs including the highly toxic compounds benznidazole and nifurtimox. In this sense, natural products represent an import scaffold for the discovery of new biologically active compounds, in which chalcones are promising representatives due to their antitrypanosomal potential. In this work, a series of 36 chalcone derivatives were synthesized and tested against trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi. In addition, a detailed investigation on their molecular features was performed. The obtained results suggest that certain molecular features are fundamental for an efficient antitrypanosomal potential of chalcones, such as allylic groups, α,β-unsaturated carbonyl system, and aromatic hydroxyl groups. These results were obtained based on the interpretation of machine-learning and multivariate statistical methods, which revealed the essential characteristics of chalcone prototypes against trypomastigotes of T. cruzi.

Untargeted LC-MS metabolomic studies of Asteraceae species to discover inhibitors of Leishmania major dihydroorotate dehydrogenase

INTRODUCTION

Interesting data about the family Asteraceae as a new source of Leishmania major dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (LmDHODH) inhibitors are presented. This key macromolecular target for parasites causing neglected diseases catalyzes the fourth reaction of the de novo pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway, which takes part in major cell functions, including DNA and RNA biosynthesis.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to (1) determine LmDHODH inhibitor candidates, revealing the type of chemistry underlying such bioactivity, and (2) predict the inhibitory potential of extracts from new untested plant species, classifying them as active or inactive based on their LC-MS based metabolic fingerprints.

METHODS

Extracts from 150 species were screened for the inhibition of LmDHODH, and untargeted UHPLC-(ESI)-HRMS metabolomic studies were carried out in combination with in silico approaches.

RESULTS

The IC₅₀ values determined for a subset of 59 species ranged from 148 µg mL^-1 to 9.4 mg mL^-1. Dereplication of the metabolic fingerprints allowed the identification of 48 metabolites. A reliable OPLS-DA model (R² > 0.9, Q² > 0.7, RMSE_CV < 0.3) indicated the inhibitor candidates; nine of these metabolites were identified using data from isolated chemical standards, one of which-4,5-di-O-E-caffeoylquinic acid (IC₅₀ 73 µM)-was capable of inhibiting LmDHODH. The predictive OPLS model was also effective, with 60% correct predictions for the test set.

CONCLUSION

Our approach was validated for (1) the discovery of LmDHODH inhibitors or interesting starting points for the optimization of new leishmanicides from Asteraceae species and (2) the prediction of extracts from untested species, classifying them as active or inactive.

Physiological changes for drought resistance in different species of Phyllanthus

The Phyllanthus genus is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of the world and present several pharmacological applications. Drought is a restrictive factor for crop development and production, and is becoming a severe problem in many regions of the world. The species Phyllanthus amarus and Phyllanthus niruri were subjected to drought stress for varying periods of time (0, 3, 5, 7, and 10 days), and afterwards, leaves were collected and evaluated for physiological and biochemical responses, such as oxidative stress markers and drought-associated defense mechanisms. Results show that P. amarus has an endogenously higher level of variables of the oxidative/antioxidant metabolism, and P. niruri presents the most significant changes in those variables when compared to control and stressed plants. For both Phyllanthus species, drought stress induces higher levels of organic acids such as malic, succinic, and citric acids, and amino acids such as proline, GABA, alanine, and valine. Moreover, P. niruri plants respond with greater glucose and corilagin contents. Therefore, considering the evaluated metabolic changes, P. amarus is better adapted to drought-stress, while P. niruri presents an acclimation strategy that increases the corilagin levels induced by short-term drought stress.

Upregulation of Skin-Aging Biomarkers in Aged NHDF Cells by a Sucrose Ester Extract from the Agroindustrial Waste of Physalis peruviana Calyces

As part of a search for new sustainable plant sources of valuable compounds, the EtOAc extract of the discarded calyces of Physalis peruviana fruit was selected for its significant antiaging activity. Eight new sucrose esters (SEs), named peruvioses F-M (1-8), along with three known SEs, peruvioses A (9), peruviose B (10), and nicandrose D (11), were isolated. Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive analyses of their NMR and MS data. A global fragmentation pattern of these SEs was established from their MS data. The SE extract (SEE) at a concentration of 0.5 mg L^-1 upregulated multiple skin-aging biomarkers, namely, collagen I, elastin, and fibrillin-1, in aged normal human dermal fibroblast cells. A 36% increase in collagen I was observed. The elastin and fibrillin-1 contents were fully recovered, and an increase of at least 10% in the production of elastin was observed.

Design and Synthesis of New Benzophenone Derivatives with In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Activity through Dual Inhibition of Edema and Neutrophil Recruitment

A series of novel benzophenone derivatives containing a thiazole heterocyclic nucleus were designed by molecular hybridization. Molecular docking studies have demonstrated the inhibitory potential of the designed compounds against cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes. These compounds were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for their anti-inflammatory properties by the croton oil-induced ear edema assay to examine their effect on both prostaglandin (PG) production and neutrophils recruitment. The thiazole derivatives displayed a potent effect in terms of reducing ear edema. The analysis suggested that the presence of 4-phenyl-2-hydrazinothiazole and the absence of C4'-OCH₃ on the benzophenone derivative structure are strongly related to the inhibition of PG production. In addition, the derivatives 2e, 3a and 3c concomitantly inhibit PG production and neutrophil recruitment, which may be a mechanism of action better than of common NSAIDs due to their inability to inhibit the neutrophil recruitment. Thus, these compounds can be considered as potential lead compounds toward the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs with an innovating mechanism of action.

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray as a medicinal plant: A comprehensive review of its ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacotoxicology and clinical relevance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tithonia diversifolia (TD) is widely valued in several cultures for its medicinal properties. A comprehensive review of the current understanding of this plant species is required due to emerging concerns over its efficacy, toxicity and allergenic potential.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

We critically summarized the current evidence on the botany, traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacology and safety of TD, with the view to provide perspectives for developing more attractive pharmaceuticals of plant origin, but also to lay a new foundation for further investigations on this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A preliminary consultation of search engines such as Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect and other published/unpublished resources provided an overview of extant literature on TD. Then, we meticulously screened all titles, abstracts and full-texts to establish consistency in the application of inclusion criteria. Studies were considered for inclusion if they dealt with taxonomy, global distribution, local and traditional knowledge, phytochemistry, toxicity and biological effects.

RESULTS

1856 articles were retrieved among which 168 were revised and included. Several studies conducted on cell lines and animals provided supporting evidence for some ethnomedicinal claims of extracts from TD. Short-term use of Tithonia extracts were effective and well-tolerated in animals when taken at lower doses. Both the toxic and therapeutic effects were attributed to bioactive principles naturally occurring in this species including sesquiterpene lactones, chlorogenic acid and flavonoids.

CONCLUSIONS

T. diversifolia is a valuable source of bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic implications and favourable safety index. However, more rigorously designed investigations are needed to recommend the whole plant or its active ingredients as a medication, and should focus on understanding the multi-target network pharmacology of the plant, clarifying the effective doses as well as identifying the potential interactions with prescribed drugs or other chemicals.

Predictive metabolomic signatures of end-stage renal disease: A multivariate analysis of population-based data

The variability of molecular signatures and predictive low molecular weight markers of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in different populations are poorly understood. Thus, in a large sample with 4763 people we compare the molecular signatures and metabolites with diagnostic relevance in plasma and urine of CKD patients of different geographical origins. From an integrated model based on dynamic networks and multivariate statistics, metabolites with predictive value obtained from targeted and untargeted molecular analysis, interactions between metabolic pathways affected by CKD, and the methodological quality of metabolomic studies were analyzed. The metabolites 3-methylhistidine, citrulline, kynurenine, p-cresol sulfate, urea, and citrate presented consistent expression in all population groups. Only increased kynurenine and p-cresol sulfate in plasma samples obtained acceptable scores as CKD biomarkers, independent of geographic origin. Metabolites such as leucine, alanine, isoleucine, serine, histidine, and citrate were nodal points, indicating that protein metabolism pathways are similarly impaired in Asian, European and North American patients. Based on our integrated model, we show that the metabolome of CKD patients exhibits a strong geographic influence, leading to unique metabolic signatures. Contrary to the likelihood of molecular similarities between geographically distinct populations, metabolic convergences in protein metabolism pathways and the molecules kynurenine and p-cresol sulfate were relevant as general predictors of CKD. In general, the quality assessment indicated that the current evidence is based on research models with variable methodological quality, whose limitations described in this study should be considered in the refinement of molecular approaches.

Metabolomic analysis applied to chemosystematics and evolution of megadiverse Brazilian Vernonieae (Asteraceae)

Vernonia sensu lato is the largest and most complex genus of the tribe Vernonieae (Asteraceae). The tribe is chemically characterized by the presence of sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids. Over the years, several taxonomic classifications have been proposed for Vernonia s.l. and for the tribe; however, there has been no consensus among the researches. According to traditional classification, Vernonia s.l. comprises more than 1000 species divided into sections, subsections and series (sensu Bentham). In a more recent classification, these species have been segregated into other genera and some subtribes were proposed, while the genus Vernonia sensu stricto was restricted to 22 species distributed mainly in North America (sensu Robinson). In this study, species from the subtribes Vernoniinae, Lepidaploinae and Rolandrinae were analyzed by UHPLC-UV-HRMS followed by multivariate statistical analysis. Data mining was performed using unsupervised (HCA and PCA) and supervised methods (OPLS-DA). The HCA showed the segregation of the species into four main groups. Comparing the HCA with taxonomical classifications of Vernonieae, we observed that the groups of the dendogram, based on metabolic profiling, were in accordance with the generic classification proposed by Robinson and with previous phylogenetic studies. The species of the genera Stenocephalum, Stilpnopappus, Strophopappus and Rolandra (Group 1) were revealed to be more related to the species of the genus Vernonanthura (Group 2), while the genera Cyrtocymura, Chrysolaena and Echinocoryne (Group 3) were chemically more similar to the genera Lessingianthus and Lepidaploa (Group 4). These findings indicated that the subtribes Vernoniinae and Lepidaploinae are non-chemically homogeneous groups and highlighted the application of untargeted metabolomic tools for taxonomy and as indicators of species evolution. Discriminant compounds for the groups obtained by OPLS-DA were determined. Groups 1 and 2 were characterized by the presence of 3',4'-dimethoxyluteolin, glaucolide A and 8-tigloyloxyglaucolide A. The species of Groups 3 and 4 were characterized by the presence of putative acacetin 7-O-rutinoside and glaucolide B. Therefore, untargeted metabolomic approach combined with multivariate statistical analysis, as proposed herein, allowed the identification of potential chemotaxonomic markers, helping in the taxonomic classifications.

Biogeography shaped the metabolome of the genus Espeletia: a phytochemical perspective on an Andean adaptive radiation

The páramo ecosystem has the highest rate of diversification across plant lineages on earth, of which the genus Espeletia (Asteraceae) is a prime example. The current distribution and molecular phylogeny of Espeletia suggest the influence of Andean geography and past climatic fluctuations on the diversification of this genus. However, molecular markers have failed to reveal subtle biogeographical trends in Espeletia diversification, and metabolomic evidence for allopatric segregation in plants has never been reported. Here, we present for the first time a metabolomics approach based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for revealing subtle biogeographical trends in Espeletia diversification. We demonstrate that Espeletia lineages can be distinguished by means of different metabolic fingerprints correlated to the country of origin on a global scale and to the páramo massif on a regional scale. Distinctive patterns in the accumulation of secondary metabolites according to the main diversification centers of Espeletia are also identified and a comprehensive phytochemical characterization is reported. These findings demonstrate that a variation in the metabolic fingerprints of Espeletia lineages followed the biogeography of this genus, suggesting that our untargeted metabolomics approach can be potentially used as a model to understand the biogeographic history of additional plant groups in the páramo ecosystem.

Marine Actinobacteria as a source of compounds for phytopathogen control: An integrative metabolic-profiling / bioactivity and taxonomical approach

Marine bacteria are considered as promising sources for the discovery of novel biologically active compounds. In this study, samples of sediment, invertebrate and algae were collected from the Providencia and Santa Catalina coral reef (Colombian Caribbean Sea) with the aim of isolating Actinobateria-like strain able to produce antimicrobial and quorum quenching compounds against pathogens. Several approaches were used to select actinobacterial isolates, obtaining 203 strains from all samples. According to their 16S rRNA gene sequencing, a total of 24 strains was classified within Actinobacteria represented by three genera: Streptomyces, Micromonospora, and Gordonia. In order to assess their metabolic profiles, the actinobacterial strains were grown in liquid cultures, and LC-MS-based analyses from ethyl acetate fractions were performed. Based on taxonomical classification, screening information of activity against phytopathogenic strains and quorum quenching activity, as well as metabolic profiling, six out of the 24 isolates were selected for follow-up with chemical isolation and structure identification analyses of putative metabolites involved in antimicrobial activities.

Biodiversity, Anti-Trypanosomal Activity Screening, and Metabolomic Profiling of Actinomycetes Isolated from Mediterranean Sponges

Marine sponge–associated actinomycetes are considered as promising sources for the discovery of novel biologically active compounds. In the present study, a total of 64 actinomycetes were isolated from 12 different marine sponge species that had been collected offshore the islands of Milos and Crete, Greece, eastern Mediterranean. The isolates were affiliated to 23 genera representing 8 different suborders based on nearly full length 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Four putatively novel species belonging to genera Geodermatophilus, Microlunatus, Rhodococcus and Actinomycetospora were identified based on a 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of < 98.5% to currently described strains. Eight actinomycete isolates showed bioactivities against Trypanosma brucei brucei TC221 with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values <20 μg/mL. Thirty four isolates from the Milos collection and 12 isolates from the Crete collection were subjected to metabolomic analysis using high resolution LC-MS and NMR for dereplication purposes. Two isolates belonging to the genera Streptomyces (SBT348) and Micromonospora (SBT687) were prioritized based on their distinct chemistry profiles as well as their anti-trypanosomal activities. These findings demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of utilizing metabolomics tools to prioritize chemically unique strains from microorganism collections and further highlight sponges as rich source for novel and bioactive actinomycetes.