Meadowsweet Teas as New Functional Beverages: Comparative Analysis of Nutrients, Phytochemicals and Biological Effects of Four Filipendula Species

Total Content and Composition of Phenolic Compounds from Filipendula Genus Plants and Their Potential Health-Promoting Properties

This current article was dedicated to the determination of the composition of phenolic compounds in extracts of four species of the genus Filipendula in order to establish a connection between the composition of polyphenols and biological effects. A chemical analysis revealed that the composition of the extracts studied depended both on the plant species and its part (leaf or flower) and on the extractant used. All four species of Filipendula were rich sources of phenolic compounds and contained hydrolyzable tannins, condensed tannins, phenolic acids and their derivatives, and flavonoids. The activities included data on those that are most important for creating functional foods with Filipendula plant components: the influence on blood coagulation measured by prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin time, and on the activity of the digestive enzymes (pancreatic amylase and lipase). It was established that plant species, their parts, and extraction methods contribute meaningfully to biological activity. The most prominent result is as follows: the plant organ determines the selective inhibition of either amylase or lipase; thus, the anticoagulant activities of F. camtschatica and F. stepposa hold promise for health-promoting food formulations associated with general metabolic disorders.

Transcriptome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Genes Encoding Defense-Related Peptides of Filipendula ulmaria in Response to Bipolaris sorokiniana Infection

Peptides play an essential role in plant development and immunity. Filipendula ulmaria, belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a medicinal plant which exhibits valuable pharmacological properties. F. ulmaria extracts in vitro inhibit the growth of a variety of plant and human pathogens. The role of peptides in defense against pathogens in F. ulmaria remains unknown. The objective of this study was to explore the repertoire of antimicrobial (AMPs) and defense-related signaling peptide genes expressed by F. ulmaria in response to infection with Bipolaris sorokiniana using RNA-seq. Transcriptomes of healthy and infected plants at two time points were sequenced on the Illumina HiSeq500 platform and de novo assembled. A total of 84 peptide genes encoding novel putative AMPs and signaling peptides were predicted in F. ulmaria transcriptomes. They belong to known, as well as new, peptide families. Transcriptional profiling in response to infection disclosed complex expression patterns of peptide genes and identified both up- and down-regulated genes in each family. Among the differentially expressed genes, the vast majority were down-regulated, suggesting suppression of the immune response by the fungus. The expression of 13 peptide genes was up-regulated, indicating their possible involvement in triggering defense response. After functional studies, the encoded peptides can be used in the development of novel biofungicides and resistance inducers.

Comparative and phylogenetic analyses of the chloroplast genomes of Filipendula species (Rosoideae, Rosaceae)

Genus Filipendula (Rosoideae, Rosaceae) comprises about 15 species and mainly distributed in Northern Hemisphere. The phylogenetic relationships based on the nrITS marker are not consistent with the traditional taxonomic systems of the genus. Here, we first analysed the complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of seven Filipendula species (including two varieties of F. palmate). Our results indicated that the cp genomes of Filipendula species had few changes in size, ranging from 154,205 bp to 154,633 bp and the average of 36.63% GC content. A total of 126 annotated genes had the identical order and orientation, implying that the cp genome structure of Filipendula species was rather conserved. However, the cp genomes of Filipendula species exhibited structural differences, including gene loss, transposition and inversion when compared to those of other genera of Rosoideae. Moreover, SSRs with the different number were observed in the cp genome of each Filipendula species and sequence divergence mainly occurred in noncoding regions, in which four mutational hotspots were identified. In contrast, only two positive selection genes (matK and rps8) were found. Phylogenetic and molecular-dating analysis indicated that Filipendula species were divergent from other genera of Rosoideae at about 82.88 Ma. Additionally, Filipendula species from East Asia were split at about 9.64 Ma into two major clades. These results provide a basis for further studying the infrageneric classification of Filipendula.

Hogweed Seed Oil: Physico-Chemical Characterization, LC-MS Profile, and Neuroprotective Activity of Heracleum dissectum Nanosuspension

The seeds of dissected hogweed (Heracleum dissectum Ledeb., Apiaceae) are the source of hogweed oil (HSO), which is still underexplored and requires careful chemical and biological studies. The performed physico-chemical analysis of HSO elucidated basic physical characteristics and revealed the presence of fatty acids, essential oil components, pigments, and coumarins. High-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometric detection (HPLC-PDA-ESI-tQ-MS/MS) identified 38 coumarins that were characterized and quantified. Various furanocoumarins were the major components of HSO polyphenolics, including imperatorin, phellopterin, and isoimperatorin, and the total coumarin content in HSO varied from 181.14 to 238.42 mg/mL. The analysis of storage stability of the selected compounds in HSO indicated their good preservation after 3-year storage at cold and freezing temperatures. The application of the CO₂-assisted effervescence method allowed the production of an HSO nanosuspension, which was used in a brain ischemia model of rats. The HSO nanosuspension enhanced cerebral hemodynamics and decreased the frequency of necrotic processes in the brain tissue. Thus, H. dissectum seeds are a good source of coumarins, and HSO nanosuspension promotes neuroprotection of the brain after lesions, which supports earlier ethnopharmacological data.

Variations in Yield, Essential Oil, and Salicylates of Filipendula ulmaria Inflorescences at Different Blooming Stages

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is an essential oil-bearing, pharmacologically valuable medicinal plant growing wild in floodlands that are either not usually used for agriculture or have low economic value. The aim of this work was to understand the relationship between the yield of F. ulmaria inflorescences and the qualitative and quantitative composition of the essential oil during flowering stages in different habitats. Five different habitats of F. ulmaria were investigated for evaluation of inflorescence characteristics (length and weight) and the quantitative and qualitative composition of essential oils in early and late blooming stages (growing stage BBCH 62−63 and BBCH 65−67/72−73, respectively). The results showed significant (p < 0.05) positive correlations between the length and weight of inflorescences both in early and in late blooming stages (r = 0.73 and r = 0.72, respectively). The early blooming stage was observed to have 1.2−2 times greater quantity of volatile oils in comparison with the late blooming stage. Salicylaldehyde and methylsalicylate were the main salicylates in both blooming stages. Spearman’s correlation showed statistically significant relationship between percentages of salicylaldehyde and methylsalicylate (r = −0.94, p < 0.05). An increase in salicylaldehyde was accompanied by a decrease in methylsalicylate in essential oils. Statistically significant relations between the investigated parameters of plant and the parameters of habitat were not detected. The dried raw material yield of F. ulmaria in 1 ha in the late blooming stage was 18−56% higher than in the early blooming stage; however, the yield of essential oil in the early flowering stage was 1.5−1.6 times higher than in the late flowering stage. The obtained research data suggest that the low economic value of floodlands—the habitats of F. ulmaria—can be increased by using these areas as natural industrial plots.

Evaluation of chemical composition, in vitro antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of solvent extracts of Irvingia gabonensis leaves

Irvingia gabonensis commonly referred to as wild mango or ogbono is a tropical plant with both nutritional and medicinal uses. The present study was designed to evaluate the chemical composition, in vitro antioxidant activity, and inhibitory activity of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes related to diabetes by different extracts of the plant. From the results of the study, Total Phenolic Content (TPC) was highest in the aqueous and ethanol extracts (367.30 ± 00 mg/100g GAE) compared to the chloroform and n-hexane extracts whereas the Total Flavonoid Content (TFC) was highest (230.69 ± 0.18 mg/100g QE) in the ethanol extract. Analysis of the in vitro antioxidant activity showed that the ethanol extract also possessed the highest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀: 21.42 ± 0.05 μg/ml) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (81.43 ± 0.11%) compared to other solvent extracts. The aqueous extract had the highest (23.91 ± 0.04 mM Fe++ equivalent) ferric antioxidant reducing power (FRAP). However, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was significantly lower than that of the reference compounds used for the study (butylated hydroxytoluene and Gallic acid). In vitro antidiabetic activity of the extracts was measured based on inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The aqueous extract had the highest α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity followed by the ethanol extract compared to the chloroform and n-hexane extracts. The inhibitory activity of the aqueous extract against both enzymes was higher compared to the reference compound Acarbose. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis of the extracts revealed the presence of chemical constituents including fatty acids, vitamin, phytosterols, aromatic compounds, glycosides. The interaction of these compounds with α-amylase and α-glucosidase was evaluated in silico by molecular docking. Phytosterols namely, campesterol, stimasterol and γ-sitosterol had the best binding affinities to α-amylase and α-glucosidase. In conclusion, the results of this study revealed that the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Irvingia gabonensis had the highest phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and in vitro antidiabetic activity. These results offer a scientific explanation for the mode of preparation and traditional use of the plant in the treatment of diabetes.

Gut Microbiota of Pigs Metabolizes Extracts of Filipendula ulmaria and Orthosiphon aristatus-Herbal Remedies Used in Urinary Tract Disorders

Urinary tract infections influence the mortality rate in pigs and are linked to extensive antibiotic usage in the farm industry. Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. are widespread medicinal plants traditionally used to treat urinary tract disorders. As their preparations are orally administered, the metabolism of their constituents by gut microbiota before absorption should be considered. Until now, no experiments had been performed to describe the biotransformation of tthose plants' extracts by animal gut microbiota. The study evaluates the influence of pig intestinal microbiota on the structure of active compounds in flowers of F. ulmaria and leaves of O. aristatus. The incubations of the extracts with piglet gut microbiota were performed in anaerobic conditions, and the samples of the batch culture were collected for 24 h. In F. ulmaria, the main metabolites were quercetin and kaempferol, which were products of the deglycosylation of flavonoids. After 24 h incubation of O. aristatus extract with the piglet gut microbiota, 2 main metabolites were observed. One, tentatively identified as 3-(3-dihydroxyphenyl)propionic acid, is likely the primary metabolite of the most abundant depsides and phenolic acids. The results confirm the formation of the compounds with anti-inflammatory and diuretic activity in the microbiota cultures, which might suggest F. ulmaria and O. aristatus for treating urinary tract disorders in piglets. Based on the similarities of human and pig gut microbiota, the pig model can help estimate the metabolic pathways of natural products in humans.

Optimization of parameters for obtaining callus, suspension, and root cultures of meadowsweet (filipendula ulmaria) to isolate the largest number of biologically active substances with geroprotective properties

The study of biologically active substances-secondary metabolites of plants that exhibit geroprotective properties is an actual and popular direction in medicine to prevent early aging. This work aims to select the cultivation parameters for obtaining in vitro cell cultures of meadowsweet containing the largest amount of biologically active substances (BAS) for their further extraction as candidate substances for geroprotectors. To specify the effectiveness of the selected cell culture cultivation parameters, biomass growth for callus and root cultures, growth index, specific growth rate, and viability for suspension cultures was carried out. The study results made it possible to select the nutrient media for the cultivation of cell cultures of meadowsweet. It has been found that the greater the antioxidant activity of the extracts, the greater the antimicrobial properties it exhibits. In this study, cell cultures in vitro and alcohol extracts from the plant Filipendula ulmaria were considered as raw materials rich in candidate substances for geroprotectors. According to the data obtained, the plant is rich in hydroxybenzoic and salicylic acids, spireoside, avicularin, and hyperoside.

Insight into the Way the Content of Biologically Active Compounds in Meadowsweet Inflorescences (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) Is Shaped by Phytosociological Habitats

A collection of herbs from the natural environment remains not only a source of raw material but also provides evidence of chemical differentiation of the local populations. This work aimed at performing a phytosociological analysis of seven different stands of meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) occurrence. A determination of total phenolic compounds and salicylates and the antioxidant activity of dried meadowsweet inflorescences (Flos ulmariae) was also performed. Active chemical compounds in F. ulmaria inflorescences were related to chemotype and diversified between investigated populations. Geographical distance and variation in phytosociological locations affected chemical composition in different ways, shaping the content of biochemical compounds crucial for herbal material quality. The obtained results can be a valuable indicator for Nexo and Baligród populations, which are good genetic material for research, breeding, and cultivation due to their biochemical composition, especially with respect to salicylates, as major compounds of determining market quality of Flos ulmariae.

Effect-Directed Profiling of 17 Different Fortified Plant Extracts by High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography Combined with Six Planar Assays and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry

An effect-directed profiling method was developed to investigate 17 different fortified plant extracts for potential benefits. Six planar effect-directed assays were piezoelectrically sprayed on the samples separated side-by-side by high-performance thin-layer chromatography. Multipotent compounds with antibacterial, α-glucosidase, β-glucosidase, AChE, tyrosinase and/or β-glucuronidase-inhibiting effects were detected in most fortified plant extracts. A comparatively high level of antimicrobial activity was observed for Eleutherococcus, hops, grape pomace, passiflora, rosemary and Eschscholzia. Except in red vine, black radish and horse tail, strong enzyme inhibiting compounds were also detected. Most plants with anti-α-glucosidase activity also inhibited β-glucosidase. Green tea, lemon balm and rosemary were identified as multipotent plants. Their multipotent compound zones were characterized by high-resolution mass spectrometry to be catechins, rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid and gallic acid. The results pointed to antibacterial and enzymatic effects that were not yet known for plants such as Eleutherococcus and for compounds such as cynaratriol and caffeine. The nontarget effect-directed profiling with multi-imaging is of high benefit for routine inspections, as it provides comprehensive information on the quality and safety of the plant extracts with respect to the global production chain. In this study, it not only confirmed what was expected, but also identified multipotent plants and compounds, and revealed new bioactivity effects.

Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Cytotoxic Properties and Chemical Compositions of Filipendula palmata (Pall.) Maxim

Filipendula palmata (Pall.) Maxim. remains unexplored and underutilized resources with a high potential to improve human health. In this study, a new ursane-type triterpenoid, namely, 2α, 3β-dihydroxyurs-12-en-28-aldehyde (compound 10), and other 23 known compounds were isolated. 5 triterpenoids (compounds 6, 8, and 10-12), 11 flavonoids (compounds 13-15 and 17-24), 6 phenolic compounds (compounds 1, 2, 4, 5, 9, and 16), 2 sterols (compounds 3 and 7) were isolated from the aqueous solution extract of the aerial parts of F. palmata. The structures of all compounds were elucidated by the use of extensive spectroscopic methods such as infrared spectroscopy (IR), high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS), ¹H-NMR, and ¹³C-NMR. The solvent extractions of ethyl acetate fraction were evaluated for antioxidant activities using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS⁺ (2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) methods. The anti-inflammatory effects of the compounds were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. The extract cytotoxicity on the cancer cell lines MCF-7, HeLa, 4T1, and A549 was determined by MTT assay. As a result, compounds 10, 11, and 12 exhibited better antioxidant activity compared to the other compounds. Compounds 8-24 had different inhibitory effects on the release of NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. The new compound has shown a significant inhibiting effect on cancer cells, and the cell inhibition rate increased in a dose-dependent manner. Further research to elucidate the chemical compositions and pharmacological effects of F. palmata is of major importance towards the development and foundation of clinical application of the species.

Phenolome of Asian Agrimony Tea (Agrimonia asiatica Juz., Rosaceae): LC-MS Profile, α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Potential and Stability

Functional beverages constitute the rapidly increasing part of the functional food section and represent an area with a wide range of products including herbal-based beverages. We carried out screening investigations of the extracts of 85 Rosaceous tea plants. Among the extracts analyzed Agrimonia asiatica herb extract demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity against the enzyme α-glucosidase (20.29 µg/mL). As a result of chromato-mass-spectrometric profiling of A. asiatica herb with high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array and electrospray triple quadrupole mass-spectrometric detection (HPLC-PDA-ESI-tQ-MS) 60 compounds were identified, including catechins, ellagitannins, flavones, flavonols, gallotannins, hydroxycinnamates, procyanidins, most for the very first time. The analysis of the seasonal variation of metabolites in A. asiatica herb demonstrated that the phenolic content was highest in summer samples and lower in spring and autumn. HPLC activity-based profiling was utilized to identify compounds of A. asiatica herb with the maximal α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The most pronounced inhibition of α-glucosidase was observed for agrimoniin, while less significant results of inhibition were revealed for ellagic acid and isoquercitrin. The evaluation of phenolic content in A. asiatica herbal teas with the subsequent determination of α-glucosidase inhibiting potential was discovered. Maximum inhibition of α-glucosidase was observed for hot infusion (75.33 µg/mL) and the minimum for 30 min decoction (159.14 µg/mL). Our study demonstrated that A. asiatica herbal tea is a prospective functional beverage in which dietary intake may help to reduce blood glucose.

Fragaria viridis Fruit Metabolites: Variation of LC-MS Profile and Antioxidant Potential during Ripening and Storage

Fragaria viridis Weston or creamy strawberry is one of the less-known species of the Fragaria genus (Rosaceae family) with a wide distribution in Eurasia and is still in the shadow of more popular relatives F. ananassa (garden strawberry) or F. vesca (wild strawberry). Importantly, there is a lack of scientific knowledge on F. viridis compounds, their stability in the postharvest period, and bioactivity. In this study, metabolites of F. viridis fruits in three ripening stages were characterized with high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array and electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometric detection (HPLC-PAD-ESI-tQ-MS). In total, 95 compounds of various groups including carbohydrates, organic acids, phenolics, and triterpenes, were identified for the first time. The quantitative content of the compounds varied differently during the ripening progress; some of them increased (anthocyanins, organic acids, and carbohydrates), while others demonstrated a decrease (ellagitannins, flavonols, etc.). The most abundant secondary metabolites of F. viridis fruits were ellagitannins (5.97–7.54 mg/g of fresh weight), with agrimoniin (1.41–2.63 mg/g) and lambertianin C (1.20–1.86 mg/g) as major components. Antioxidant properties estimated by in vitro assays (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) cation radical (ABTS), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC)) showed good antioxidant potential in all ripening stages of F. viridis fruits. The pilot human experiment on the effect of F. viridis fruit consumption on the serum total antioxidant capacity confirmed the effectiveness of this kind of strawberry. Postharvest storage of ripe fruits at 4 °C and 20 °C lead to declining content in the majority of compounds particularly ascorbic acid, ellagitannins, and flavonols, with the most significant loss at room temperature storage. These results suggest that F. viridis fruits are a prospective source of numerous metabolites that have potential health benefits.

LC-MS Profile, Gastrointestinal and Gut Microbiota Stability and Antioxidant Activity of Rhodiola rosea Herb Metabolites: A Comparative Study with Subterranean Organs

Golden root (Rhodiola rosea L., Crassulaceae) is a famous medical plant with a one-sided history of scientific interest in the roots and rhizomes as sources of bioactive compounds, unlike the herb, which has not been studied extensively. To address this deficiency, we used high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array and electrospray triple quadrupole mass detection for comparative qualitative and quantitative analysis of the metabolic profiles of Rhodiola rosea organs before and after gastrointestinal digestion in simulated conditions together with various biochemical assays to determine antioxidant properties of the extracts and selected compounds. R. rosea organs showed 146 compounds, including galloyl O-glucosides, catechins, procyanidins, simple phenolics, phenethyl alcohol derivatives, (hydroxy)cinnamates, hydroxynitrile glucosides, monoterpene O-glucosides, and flavonol O-glycosides, most of them for the first time in the species. The organ-specific distribution of compounds found for catechins, procyanidins, and cinnamyl alcohols and glucosides was typical for underground organs and flavonoids and galloylated glucoses concentrated in the herb. Extracts from rhizomes, leaves and flowers showed high phenolic content and were effective scavengers of free radicals (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+), O2•-, •OH) and protected β-carotene in a bleaching assay. Digestion in the gastric and intestine phase influenced the composition of R. rosea extracts negatively, affecting the content of catechins, procyanidins, and galloyl glucoses, and therefore, the antioxidativity level. After gut microbiota treatment, the antioxidant capacity of rhizome extract was lower than leaves and flowers due to the aglycone composition found in the colonic phase of digestion. Our study demonstrated that the herb of R. rosea is a rich source of metabolites with high antioxidant properties and could be a valuable plant for new bioactive products.

Antimicrobial polyphenol-rich extracts: Applications and limitations in the food industry

One of the common ways to prevent food spoilage throughout product's shelf life is by using artificial/synthetic preservatives. However, the growing negative perception of consumers over synthetic preservatives has encouraged the food industry to consider their natural alternatives. Plant extracts, increasingly recognized as consumer-friendly, represent a valuable source of active compounds, mostly polyphenols, with potent antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. Hence, this article focuses mainly on the antimicrobial activity of plant-based polyphenol-rich extracts as well as on their potential use and limitations in the food industry. Some new trends such as antimicrobial food packaging combined with plant extracts and photodynamic inactivation (PDI) combined with a natural photosensitiser, curcumin, are discussed as well.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Phenolic Metabolites from Traditionally Used Mediterranean Herbs and Spices

The phenolic extracts of fifteen Mediterranean medicinal plants, as well as their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were investigated to grade their potential as additives in the food industry. Phenolic profiles of plant extracts were determined spectrophotometrically (total phenolics and phenolic subgroups) while individual compounds were identified using chromatographic assays. The biological activity of samples was determined using five antioxidant assays, while the antibacterial potential was determined against six foodborne pathogens (Camplyobacter coli, Escherichia coli, Salmonela Infantis, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus). The results showed significant variations in phenolic profile of plants and consequently their biological activity. Bearberry contained the highest concentration of phenolics, was extremely rich in non-flavonoids and also had the highest amount of catechins that resulted with good reducing and free radical scavenging properties and low chelating activity. All extracts were not effective against tested microorganisms with Gram-positive bacteria being more sensitive (especially S. aureus). The most effective extracts were St. Johns wort against S. aureus with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1.00 mg/mL), bay laurel and nettle against B. cereus (MICs of 1.67 mg/mL), and woodland strawberry against L. monocytogenes (MIC of 3.33 mg/mL).

Caucasian Gentiana Species: Untargeted LC-MS Metabolic Profiling, Antioxidant and Digestive Enzyme Inhibiting Activity of Six Plants

The members of Gentiana genus are widely distributed in the Caucasus region where they are used as phytoremedies, but they still have not been studied for their chemical composition and bioactivity. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array and electrospray triple quadrupole mass detection (HPLC-DAD-ESI-QQQ-MS) was used to investigate metabolites of herb and roots of six gentians (Gentiana asclepiadea, G. cruciata, G. gelida, G. paradoxa, G. pneumonanthe, G. septemfida) grown in the Caucasus. In total, 137 compounds were found including three carbohydrates, 71 iridoid glycosides (mostly loganic acid), loganin, swertiamarin, gentiopicroside and sweroside derivatives, 40 flavones C-, O-, C,O-glycosides (such as luteolin, apigenin, chrysoeriol, and acacetin derivatives), two phenolic O-glycosides, five hydroxycinnamates, eight xanthones, and seven triterpene glycosides. Most of these compounds were identified in gentian samples for the first time. Quantitative differences were found in levels of seven iridoid glycosides, nine glycosylflavones, and two xanthones obtained by HPLC-DAD assay. The gentian extracts were evaluated for their radical-scavenging properties against DPPH and superoxide anion radicals, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and α-amylase/α-glycosidase inhibition. The herb extracts showed higher activity than root extracts. Positive correlations were found between the content of quantified phenolics and antioxidant and digestive enzymes inhibiting activity. The findings presented in our work suggest that the Caucasian gentians are a good source of bioactive phytocompounds with antioxidant and antidiabetic potential.

Caffeoylquinic Acids and Flavonoids of Fringed Sagewort (Artemisia frigida Willd.): HPLC-DAD-ESI-QQQ-MS Profile, HPLC-DAD Quantification, in Vitro Digestion Stability, and Antioxidant Capacity

Fringed sagewort (Artemisia frigida Willd., Compositae family) is a well-known medicinal plant in Asian medical systems. Fifty-nine hydroxycinnamates and flavonoids have been found in A. frigida herbs of Siberian origin by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array and electrospray triple quadrupole mass detection (HPLC-DAD-ESI-QQQ-MS). Their structures were determined after mass fragmentation analysis as caffeoylquinic acids, flavone O-/C-glycosides, flavones, and flavonol aglycones. Most of the discovered components were described in A. frigida for the first time. It was shown that flavonoids with different types of substitution have chemotaxonomic significance for species of Artemisia subsection Frigidae (section Absinthium). After HPLC-DAD quantification of 16 major phenolics in 21 Siberian populations of A. frigida and subsequent principal component analysis, we found substantial variation in the selected compounds, suggesting the existence of two geographical groups of A. frigida. The antioxidant activity of A. frigida herbal tea was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH•) and hydrophilic/lipophilic oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays and DPPH•-HPLC profiling, revealing it to be high. The effect of digestive media on the phenolic profile and antioxidant capacity of A. frigida herbal tea was assessed under simulated gastrointestinal digestion. We found a minor reduction in caffeoylquinic acid content and ORAC values, but remaining levels were satisfactory for antioxidant protection. These results suggest that A. frigida and its food derivate herbal tea could be recommended as new plant antioxidants rich in phenolics.

Khellactone Derivatives and Other Phenolics of Phlojodicarpus sibiricus (Apiaceae): HPLC-DAD-ESI-QQQ-MS/MS and HPLC-UV Profile, and Antiobesity Potential of Dihydrosamidin

With obesity, the consumption of phenolic-enriched food additives as a part of traditional nutrition avoids the negative implications of eating high-calorie products. This study investigated the new herbal food additive, Phlojodicarpus sibiricus roots and herb, ubiquitously used in Siberia as a spice. Chromatographic techniques such as HPLC-DAD-ESI-QQQ-MS/MS and microcolumn HPLC-UV were the basic instruments for component profiling and quantification, and antiobesity potential was investigated using a differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes assay. We found that the roots and herb of P. sibiricus were high-coumarin-containing additives inhibiting triacylglycerol accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Forty-one phenolics were detected in P. sibiricus extracts, and 35 were coumarins, including 27 khellactone derivatives present as esters and glucosides. Total coumarin content varied from 36.16 mg/g of herb to 98.24 mg/g of roots, and from 0.32 mg/mL to 52.91 mg/mL in P. sibiricus preparations. Moreover, Siberian populations of P. sibiricus were characterised by a different HPLC-based coumarin profile. The most pronounced inhibiting effect on triacylglycerol accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes was shown for dihydrosamidin (khellactone 3′-O-isovaleroyl-4′-O-acetyl ester), which was more active than other khellactone esters and glucosides. The results demonstrated that if used as a food additive Phlojodicarpus sibiricus could be a source of bioactive coumarins of the khellactone group with high antiobesity potential.

The inhibitory effect of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. on colorectal carcinogenesis induced in rats by methylnitrosourea

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) is a medicinal plant with a variety of therapeutic properties, traditionally used in various diseases including treatment and prevention of tumors. The aim of this study was to present an ethnomedicinal justification that a meadowsweet decoction is able to inhibit colorectal carcinogenesis induced by the methylnitrosourea (MNU) in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical composition of meadowsweet extracts was studied by traditional methods. In animal experiments adult outbred female rats received four intrarectal instillations of MNU, one per week, at dose 4 mg in 0.5 ml saline (the total dose of MNU during the 4-week exposure was 16 mg/rat). After carcinogenic exposure one group (MNU) of rats continued to receive standard feed and tap water throughout life. In another group (MNU+meadowsweet), rats were given daily a decoction of the meadowsweet instead of drinking water and standard feed.

RESULTS

Meadowsweet extracts showed a sufficiently high content of flavonoids and tannins and also some individual phenolic compounds and salicylic acid. In rats after administration of MNU the overall incidence of tumors was 91% with tumor multiplicity of 3.5. The majority of rats (86%) developed multiple tumors of large intestine (most often adenocarcinomas:88 from 107; index of multiplicity - 2.0). In rats from the group MNU+meadowsweet there was a statistically significant decrease of the overall tumor incidence and multiplicity-by 1.4 and 2.9 times, respectively, and the incidence and multiplicity of colon tumors - by 2.0 and 2.8 times, respectively; the incidence and multiplicity of malignant tumors of other localizations was also reduced-by 2.2 and 3.0 times, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Meadowsweet extract is an effective inhibitor of colorectal carcinogenesis in experiment, that provides support for the traditional use of this plant in the oncology.

Bioactive Phenolics of the Genus Artemisia (Asteraceae): HPLC-DAD-ESI-TQ-MS/MS Profile of the Siberian Species and Their Inhibitory Potential Against α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase

Artemisia genus of Asteraceae family is a source of medicinal plants known worldwide and used as ethnopharmacological remedies for the treatment of diabetes in Northern Asia (Siberia). The aim of this study was to determine the phenolic profile of 12 Siberian Artemisia species (A. anethifolia, A. commutata, A. desertorum, A. integrifolia, A. latifolia, A. leucophylla, A. macrocephala, A. messerschmidtiana, A. palustris, A. sericea, A. tanacetifolia, A. umbrosa) and to test the efficacy of plant extracts and pure compounds for antidiabetic potential. Finally, by HPLC-DAD-ESI-TQ-MS/MS technique, 112 individual phenolic compounds were detected in Artemisia extracts in a wide range of concentrations. Some species accumulated rare plant phenolics, such as coumarin-hemiterpene ethers (lacarol derivatives) from A. latifolia and A. tanacetifolia; melilotoside from A. tanacetifolia; dihydrochalcones (davidigenin analogs) from A. palustris; chrysoeriol glucosides from A. anethifolia, A. sericea, and A. umbrosa; eriodictyol glycosides from A. messerschmidtiana; and some uncommon flavones and flavonols. The predominant phenolic group from Artemisia species herb was caffeoylquinic acid (CQAs), and in all species, the major CQAs were 5-O-CQA (20.28-127.99 μg/g) and 3,5-di-O-CQA (7.35-243.61 μg/g). In a series of in vitro bioassays, all studied Artemisia extracts showed inhibitory activity against principal enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism, such as α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 150.24-384.14 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 214.42-754.12 μg/mL). Although many phenolic compounds can be inhibitors, experimental evidence suggests that the CQAs were key to the biological response of Artemisia extracts. Mono-, di- and tri-substituted CQAs were assayed and showed inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, with IC₅₀ values of 40.57-172.47 μM and 61.08-1240.35 μM, respectively, and they were more effective than acarbose, a well-known enzyme inhibitor. The results obtained in this study reveal that Siberian Artemisia species and CQAs possess a pronounced inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase and could become a complement to synthetic antidiabetic drugs for controlling blood glucose level.

Tea Polysaccharides Inhibit Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer via Interleukin-6/STAT3 Pathway

The interleukin-6 (IL-6)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 signaling pathway regulates proliferation and survival of intestinal epithelial cells and has profound impact on the tumorigenesis of colitis-associated cancer (CAC). Tea polysaccharides (TPS) are the major nutraceutical component isolated from tea-leaves and are known to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor bioactivities. Here, we investigated the antitumor activities of TPS on CAC using the azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS) mouse model and IL-6-induced colorectal cancer cell line (CT26) and determined whether TPS exerted its antitumor effects through the IL-6/STAT3 pathway. Results demonstrated that TPS significantly decreased the tumor incidence, tumor size, and markedly inhibited the infiltration of pro-inflammatory cells and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines via balancing cellular microenvironment. Furthermore, we found that TPS suppressed the activation of STAT3 and transcriptionally regulated the expressions of downstream genes including MMP2, cyclin Dl, survivin, and VEGF both in vivo and in vitro. Thus, it was concluded that TPS attenuated the progress of CAC via suppressing IL-6/STAT3 pathway and downstream genes' expressions, which indicated that TPS may be a hopeful antitumor agent for the prevention and treatment of colon cancer.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activity of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and Filipendula vulgaris Moench

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) and dropwort (Filipendula vulgaris Moench) are herbaceous perennials employed in folk medicine for their antirheumatic, antipyretic and anti-ulcer properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess ethnomedicinal claims through investigation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects of F. ulmaria and F. vulgaris lyophilized flower infusions (LFIs) as well as the F. vulgaris isolated flavonoids spiraeoside, kaempferol 4'-O-glucoside, astragalin 2'-O-gallate, mixture of hyperoside 2'-O-gallate and isoquercitrin 2'-O-gallate, and a tannin tellimagrandin II.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Free radical scavenging activity of the tested samples was determined by examining their ability to neutralize DPPH and OH radicals in vitro, whereas reducing properties were assessed in Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was studied ex vivo in human platelets by monitoring the effect on eicosanoid biosynthesis. Gastroprotective action was estimated in animal model of acute gastric injury induced by ethanol.

RESULTS

LFIs and spiraeoside exerted activities comparable to those of positive control in DPPH-radical scavenging and FRAP antioxidant assays, whereas notable hydroxyl radical scavenging ability was demonstrated only for spiraeoside (IC₅₀ = 5.1μg/mL). Among tested samples, astragalin 2″-O-gallate (IC₅₀ = 141.1μg/mL) and spiraeoside (IC₅₀ = 4.69μg/mL) the most markedly inhibited production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E₂ and 12(S)-hydroxy-(5Z,8Z,10E,14Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid in human platelets, respectively. Examination of LFIs (100-300mg/kg, p.o.) gastroprotective action in rats revealed their capacity to preserve mucosal integrity. In addition, spiraeoside (50mg/kg, p.o.) and tellimagrandin II (40mg/kg, p.o.) showed ulcer preventive ability.

CONCLUSION

Current study supports documented traditional use of investigated herbs and indicates that flavonoid and tannin components are partially responsible for the demonstrated pharmacological activities.

Effect of Low Temperature Cultivation on the Phytochemical Profile and Bioactivity of Arctic Plants: A Case of Dracocephalum palmatum

The influence of climatic factors, e.g., low temperature, on the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of the arctic plant Dracocephalum palmatum Steph. ax Willd. (palmate dragonhead), a traditional food and medical herb of Northern Siberia, was investigated. D. palmatum seedlings were grown in a greenhouse experiment at normal (20 °C, NT) and low (1 °C, LT) temperature levels and five groups of components that were lipophilic and hydrophilic in nature were characterized. The analyses indicated that D. palmatum under NT demonstrates high content of photosynthetic pigments, specific fatty acid (FA) profile with domination of saturated FA (53.3%) and the essential oil with trans-pinocamphone as a main component (37.9%). Phenolic compounds were identified using a combination of high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass-spectrometric detection (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS) techniques, as well as free carbohydrates and water soluble polysaccharides. For the first time, it was established that the cold acclimation of D. palmatum seedlings resulted in various changes in physiological and biochemical parameters such as membrane permeability, photosynthetic potential, membrane fluidity, leaf surface secretory function, reactive oxygen species-antioxidant balance, osmoregulator content and cell wall polymers. In brief, results showed that the adaptive strategy of D. palmatum under LT was realized on the accumulation of membrane or surface components with more fluid properties (unsaturated FA and essential oils), antioxidants (phenolic compounds and enzymes), osmoprotectants (free sugars) and cell wall components (polysaccharides). In addition, the occurrence of unusual flavonoids including two new isomeric malonyl esters of eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside was found in LT samples. Data thus obtained allow improving our understanding of ecophysiological mechanisms of cold adaptation of arctic plants.

Isorhamnetin and Quercetin Derivatives as Anti-Acetylcholinesterase Principles of Marigold (Calendula officinalis) Flowers and Preparations

Marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) is one of the most common and widespread plants used medicinally all over the world. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-acetylcholinesterase activity of marigold flowers, detect the compounds responsible and perform chemical analysis of marigold commercial products. Analysis of 23 varieties of C. officinalis flowers introduced into Siberia allowed us to select the Greenheart Orange variety due to the superior content of flavonoids (46.87 mg/g) and the highest inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ 63.52 µg/mL). Flavonoids, isorhamnetin and quercetin derivatives were revealed as potential inhibitors with the application of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) activity-based profiling. Investigation of the inhibitory activity of isorhamnetin glycosides demonstrated the maximal potency for isorhamnetin-3-O-(2′′,6′′-di-acetyl)-glucoside (IC₅₀ 51.26 μM) and minimal potency for typhaneoside (isorhamnetin-3-O-(2′′,6′′-di-rhamnosyl)-glucoside; IC₅₀ 94.92 µM). Among quercetin derivatives, the most active compound was quercetin-3-O-(2′′,6′′-di-acetyl)-glucoside (IC₅₀ 36.47 µM), and the least active component was manghaslin (quercetin-3-O-(2′′,6′′-di-rhamnosyl)-glucoside; IC₅₀ 94.92 µM). Some structure-activity relationships were discussed. Analysis of commercial marigold formulations revealed a reduced flavonoid content (from 7.18–19.85 mg/g) compared with introduced varieties. Liquid extract was the most enriched preparation, characterized by 3.10 mg/mL of total flavonoid content, and infusion was the least enriched formulation (0.41 mg/mL). The presented results suggest that isorhamnetin and quercetin and its glycosides can be considered as potential anti-acetylcholinesterase agents.