Ailanthone inhibits non-small cell lung cancer growth and metastasis through targeting UPF1/GAS5/ULK1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Targeting long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) is a novel and promising approach in cancer therapy. In our previous study, we investigated the effects of ailanthone (aila), the main active compound derived from the stem barks of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, on the growth of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Although we observed significant inhibition of NSCLC cell growth of aila, the underlying mechanisms involving LncRNAs, specifically LncRNA growth arrest specific 5 (GAS5), remain largely unknown.

METHODS

To further explore the impact of aila on NSCLC, we performed a series of experiments. Firstly, we confirmed the inhibitory effect of aila on NSCLC cell growth using multiple assays, including MTT, wound healing, transwell assay, as well as subcutaneous and metastasis tumor mice models in vivo. Next, we utilized cDNA microarray and RT-QPCR to identify GAS5 as the primary target of aila. To verify the importance of GAS5 in aila-induced tumor inhibition, we manipulated GAS5 expression levels by constructing GAS5 over-expression and knockdown NSCLC cell lines. Furthermore, we investigated the upstream and downstream signaling pathways of GAS5 through western blot and RT-QPCR analysis.

RESULTS

Our results showed that aila effectively increased GAS5 expression, as determined by microarray analysis. We also observed that aila significantly enhanced GAS5 expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner across various NSCLC cell lines. Notably, over-expression of GAS5 led to a significant suppression of NSCLC cell tumor growth; while aila had minimal inhibitory effect on GAS5-knockdown NSCLC cells. Additionally, we discovered that aila inhibited ULK1 and autophagy, and this inhibition was reversed by GAS5 knockdown. Moreover, we found that aila up-regulated GAS5 expression by suppressing UPF1-mediated nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD).

CONCLUSION

In summary, our findings suggest that aila promotes GAS5 expression by inhibiting UPF1-mediated NMD, leading to the repression of ULK1-mediated autophagy and subsequent inhibitory effects on NSCLC cells. These results indicate that aila is a potent enhancer of GAS5 and holds promising potential for application in NSCLC therapy. However, our research is currently focused only on NSCLC. It remains to be determined whether aila can also inhibit the growth of other types of tumors through the UPF1/GAS5/ULK1 signaling pathway. In future studies, we can further investigate the mechanisms by which aila suppresses other types of tumors and potentially broaden the scope of its application in cancer therapy.

Discovery of Michael reaction acceptors from the leaves of Ailanthus altissima by a modified tactic

Structural characteristics-guided investigation of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle resulted in the isolation and identification of seven undescribed potential Michael reaction acceptors (1-7). Ailanlactone A (1) possesses an unusual 1,7-epoxy-11,12-seco quassinoid core. Ailanterpene B (6) was a rare guaianolide-type sesquiterpene with a 5/6/6/6-fused skeleton. Their structures were determined through extensive analysis of physiochemical and spectroscopic data, quantum chemical calculations, and single crystal X-ray crystallographic technology using Cu Kα radiation. The cytotoxic activities of isolates on HepG2 and Hep3B cells were evaluated in vitro. Encouragingly, ailanaltiolide K (4) showed significant cytotoxicity against Hep3B cells with IC50 values of 1.41 ± 0.21 μM, whose covalent binding mode was uncovered in silico.

Chouchunsteride A-D, four new steroids from the leaves of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle

Four new steroids, chouchunsteride A-D (1-4), together with four known steroids (5-8), were isolated from the leaves of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic data analysis, while the relative and absolute configurations were determined via acetonide analysis and quantum chemical ECD calculations. All isolated steroids were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against two hepatoma carcinoma cell lines (HepG2, Hep3B). Among them, 1 exhibited the most potent cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 4.03 μM.

Anti-inflammatory effect of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle leaves in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated astrocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Activated astrocytes are involved in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Traditionally, Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, widely distributed in East Asia, has been used as a medicine for the treatment of fever, gastric diseases, and inflammation. Although A. altissima has been reported to play an anti-inflammatory role in peripheral tissues or cells, its role in the central nervous system (CNS) remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanism of action of A. altissima in primary astrocytes stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A nitrite assay was used to measure nitric oxide (NO) production, and the tetrazolium salt 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed to determine cytotoxicity. The expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were determined with western blotting. Reverse-transcription PCR was used to assess the expression of inflammatory cytokines. The levels of reactive oxygen species were measured using 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. Luciferase assay and immunocytochemistry were used for assessing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) transcription and p65 localization, respectively. Memory and social interaction were analyzed using the Y-maze and three-chamber tests, respectively.

RESULTS

The ethanol extract of A. altissima leaves (AAE) inhibited iNOS and COX-2 expression in LPS-stimulated astrocytes. Moreover, AAE reduced the transcription of various proinflammatory mediators, hindered NF-κB activation, and suppressed extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation without p38 activation. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry analysis revealed that AAE comprised ethyl gallate, quercetin, and kaempferol, along with luteolin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and repressed LPS-induced nitrite levels and the nuclear translocation of p65. Finally, oral administration of AAE attenuated LPS-induced memory and social impairment in mice and repressed LPS-induced ERK and JNK activation in the cortices of mice.

CONCLUSION

AAE could have therapeutic uses in the treatment of neuroinflammatory diseases via suppression of astrocyte activation.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle bark: A comprehensive review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The dried bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (BAA), commonly designated as "Chunpi" in Chinese, is extensively used as a common traditional medicine in China, Korea, and India. It has been used to treat multiple ailments, including asthma, epilepsy, spermatorrhea, bleeding, and ophthalmic diseases, for thousands of years.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

To present a comprehensive and constructive review on the phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, traditional uses, quality control, and toxicology of BAA; to aid the assessment of the therapeutic potential of BAA; to guide researchers working on the development of novel therapeutic agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information related to BAA (from 1960 to 2020) was retrieved from a wide variety of electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, and Google Scholar. Additional information and materials were acquired from Chinese Medicine Monographs, the 2020 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, and several web sources, such as the official website of The Plant List and Flora of China. Additionally, perspectives for future investigations and applications of BAA were extensively explored.

RESULTS

Approximately 221 chemical compounds, including alkaloids, quassinoids, phenylpropanoids, triterpenoids, volatile oils, and other compounds, have been isolated and characterized from BAA; among these, the quassinoid ailanthone is the most typical. The crude extracts and active compounds of BAA have been reported to exert a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, herbicidal, and insecticidal activities. Although BAA is safe when administered at a conventional dose, at higher doses, it exhibits toxicity due to the presence of quassinoids. Thus, more studies are required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BAA.

CONCLUSION

Modern pharmacological studies have revealed that BAA, as a valuable medicinal resource, possesses the potential to treat a wide variety of ailments, especially, cancer and gastrointestinal inflammation. These studies present a wide range of perspectives for the development of new drugs related to BAA. However, only a few traditional uses are associated with the reported pharmacological activities of BAA and have been confirmed by preclinical and clinical studies. Moreover, the pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and quality control of BAA should be considered indispensable research topics.

Quantitative proteomics reveals the antifungal effect of canthin-6-one isolated from Ailanthus altissima against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum in vitro

Canthin-6-one, one of the main alkaloid compounds extracted from Ailanthus altissima, has recently attracted increasing interest for its antifungal activity. To evaluate the potential of canthin-6-one in controlling plant fungal diseases, we investigated the antifungal activity of canthin-6-one isolated from A. altissima against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum (Foc) in vitro. The mycelial growth rate and micro-broth dilution were used to test antifungal activity. Furthermore, label-free quantitative proteomics and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) techniques were applied to analyze the antifungal mechanism. It was found that canthin-6-one significantly inhibited the growth of Foc, and had higher inhibitory action than chlorothalonil at the same concentration. Proteomic analysis showed that the expression of 203 proteins altered significantly after canthin-6-one treatment. These differentially expressed proteins were mainly involved in amino acid biosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism pathways. These results suggest that canthin-6-one significantly interferes with the metabolism of amino acids. Therefore, it affects nitrogen nutrients and disturbs the normal physiological processes of fungi, and ultimately leads to the death of pathogens. This study provides a natural plant antifungal agent and a new perspective for the study of antifungal mechanisms.

Two Novel Quassinoid Glycosides with Antiviral Activity from the Samara of Ailanthus altissima

Phytochemistry investigations on Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, a Simaroubaceae plant that is recognized as a traditional herbal medicine, have afforded various natural products, among which C20 quassinoid is the most attractive for their significant and diverse pharmacological and biological activities. Our continuous study has led to the isolation of two novel quassinoid glycosides, named chuglycosides J and K, together with fourteen known lignans from the samara of A. altissima. The new structures were elucidated based on comprehensive spectra data analysis. All of the compounds were evaluated for their anti-tobacco mosaic virus activity, among which chuglycosides J and K exhibited inhibitory effects against the virus multiplication with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 56.21 ± 1.86 and 137.74 ± 3.57 μM, respectively.

Year-to-year variation of the elemental and allergenic contents of Ailanthus altissima pollen grains: an allergomic study

The Ailanthus altissima pollen (AAP) has been reported as an emerging aeroallergen worldwide. This paper aims at examining the allergen pattern and the elemental composition of A. altissima pollen collected during two consecutive seasons (2014 and 2015). A gel-based allergomic study and SEM coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis have been carried out in order to evaluate the allergenic and elemental composition of AAP in two consecutive years. The IgE reactive patterns of 2014 and 2015 AAP PBS extracts were compared using the serum of a 31-year-old woman suffering from severe pollinosis symptoms to AAP. The EDX analysis revealed an important year-to-year variation in the ratios of some polluting elements such as nickel, sulfur, aluminum, lead, and copper. Gel alignments and comparative immunoproteomic analyses showed differential protein expression and IgE reactive patterns between AAPs collected in 2014 and 2015 pollinating seasons. From 20 distinct IgE-reactive spots detected in AAP extracts, 13 proteins showed higher expression in 2014 sample, while 7 allergen candidates exhibited an increased expression in AAP collected in 2015. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-MS/MS analyses led to the identification of 13 IgE-binding proteins with confidence, all belonging to well-known allergenic protein families, i.e., enolase, calreticulin, and pectate lyase. Overall, the 2014 AAP showed higher concentrations of urban polluting elements as well as an increased expression of allergenic pectate lyase isoforms of about 52 kDa. This study demonstrates that the implementation of allergomic tools for the safety assessment of newly introduced and invasive plant species would help to the comprehensive monitoring of proteomic and transcriptomic alterations involving environmental allergens.

Ailanthus altissima (Miller) Swingle seed oil: chromatographic characterization by GC-FID and HS-SPME-GC-MS, physicochemical parameters, and pharmacological bioactivities

This study aimed to identify the physicochemical and the chemical properties of Ailanthus altissima (Miller) Swingle seed oil and to evaluate its in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities and in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. The fatty acids' composition was determined using GC-FID. The oil was screened for antioxidant activity by DPPH test. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were determined using the acetic acid writhing test in mice and the carrageenan-induced paw edema assay in rats, respectively. Volatile compounds were characterized by HS-SPME-GC-MS. A. altissima produces seeds which yielded 17.32% of oil. The seed oil was characterized by a saponification number of 192.6 mg KOH∙g of oil, a peroxide value of 11.4 meq O₂∙kg of oil, a K₂₃₂ of 4.04, a K₂₇₀ of 1.24, and a phosphorus content of 126.2 ppm. The main fatty acids identified were palmitic (3.06%), stearic (1.56%), oleic (38.35%), and linoleic acids ones (55.76%). The main aroma compounds sampled in the headspace were carbonyl derivatives. The oil presents an important antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 24.57 μg/mL) and a modest antimicrobial activity. The seed oil at 1 g/kg showed high analgesic (91.31%) and anti-inflammatory effects (85.17%). The presence of high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and the noteworthy antioxidant capacity of the seed oil can hypothesize its use as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Structurally Diverse Highly Oxygenated Triterpenoids from the Roots of Ailanthus altissima and Their Cytotoxicity

Ten new triterpenoids, ailanaltiolides A-J (1-10), and three known analogues (11-13) were isolated from the roots of Ailanthus altissima. Compounds 1-7 are apotirucallane-type, compounds 8 and 9 are tirucallane-type, and compound 10 is a trinordammarane-type triterpenoid. This is the first study indicating the genus Ailanthus as a potential source for apotirucallane derivatives, which contain an α,β-unsaturated-ε-lactone A-ring and diversely modified C-17 side chains. Spectroscopic data interpretation, electronic circular dichroism analysis, and X-ray crystallographic data defined the structures and absolute configurations of these triterpenoids. Compounds 2, 7, and 8 showed cytotoxicity against four tumor cell lines (HeLa, 786-O, HepG2, and A549). In particular, compound 2 exhibited the highest activity against 786-O cells with an IC₅₀ value of 8.2 μM in vitro.

Anti-Tobacco Mosaic Virus Quassinoids from Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle

Quassinoids are bitter constituents characteristic of the family Simaroubaceae. A total of 18 C20 quassinoids, including nine new quassinoid glycosides, named chuglycosides A-I (1-6 and 8-10), were identified from the samara of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. All of the quassinoids showed potent anti-tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) activity. A preliminary structure-anti-TMV activity relationship of quassinoids was discussed. The effects of three quassinoids, including chaparrinone (12), glaucarubinone (15), and ailanthone (16), on the accumulation of TMV coat protein (CP) were studied by western blot analysis. Ailanthone (16) was further investigated for its influence on TMV spread in the Nicotiana benthamiana plant.

Anti-inflammatory Effects of Canthin-6-one Alkaloids from Ailanthus altissima

Canthin-6-one (CO) alkaloids possess various biological activities, including antibacterial, antitumor, antifungal, and antiviral activities. However, their anti-inflammatory effects and underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly characterized. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of CO and its derivative 5-(1-hydroxyethyl)-canthin-6-one (5-HCO), isolated from the stem barks of Ailanthus altissima in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages. CO (1 and 5 µM) and 5-HCO (7.5 and 15 µM) significantly inhibited the LPS-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase. In addition, CO (1 and 5 µM) and 5-HCO (15 µM) markedly suppressed the production of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and expression of cyclooxygenase-2, a key enzyme in PGE₂ synthesis, in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, CO treatment significantly reduced monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression, whereas 5-HCO inhibited MCP-1, but not TNF-α expression. Both CO and 5-HCO inhibited the phosphorylation of inhibitor kappa B and transcriptional activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in LPS-stimulated macrophages. In addition, CO, but not 5-HCO, markedly reduced Akt phosphorylation. Taken together, these data suggest that CO, but not 5-HCO with a hydroxyethyl moiety on the D ring, has potent anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated macrophages through the downregulation of both the NF-κB and the Akt pathway.

Ailanthusins A-G and nor-lupane triterpenoids from Ailanthus triphysa

Bioactivity-guided chemical investigation of the CH₂Cl₂ and CH₂Cl₂MeOH extracts of the stem and stem bark material of Ailanthus tryphysa (Simaroubaceae) led to the isolation of five cycloapotirucallanes, ailanthusins A-E, two malabaricanes, ailanthusins F-G, and one nor-lupane triterpenoid, 29-nor-lup-1-ene-3,20-dione along with twenty known compounds. Their structures were elucidated through the application of extensive spectroscopic methods, and the structure of ailanthusin A was further confirmed by single crystal X-ray analysis. Several malabaricane derivatives were prepared from malabaricol and, together with some of the isolates, were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against human cancer and normal cell lines.

Antitumour activity of 2-dihydroailanthone from the bark of Ailanthus altissima against U251

Context The bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (Simaroubaceae) is traditionally used to treat ascariasis, diarrhoea, spermatorrhoea, bleeding and gastrointestinal diseases. Objective The objective of this study is to investigate the antitumour activity and mechanism of 2-dihydroailanthone isolated from A. altissima. Materials and methods The U251 cells were treated with 1.00, 4.00 and 8.00 μg/mL of 2-dihydroailanthone for 48 h and the normal cells treated with 20.00 μg/mL of 2-dihydroailanthone were tested as well. Proliferation inhibition of 2-dihydroailanthone on the cells was tested by MTT. Apoptosis and cell-cycle distribution in U251 cells with 1.00, 3.00 and 5.80 μg/mL of 2-dihydroailanthone for 48 h were determined by flow cytometry, respectively. The expression of the apoptosis-related genes and proteins was analysed by RT-PCR and Western blot method, respectively. Results MTT assay revealed that 2-dihydroailanthone inhibited U251 cells proliferation. The cell viability of U251 cells was 62.82, 31.34 and 25.58%, and that of three normal cells was 72.75, 82.74 and 44.92%, respectively. Flow cytometry assay showed that 2-dihydroailanthone induced apoptosis and G0/G1 phase cycle arrest towards U251 cells. The late apoptotic cells were 11.37, 21.73 and 33.83%, and the cells cycle distributed in the G0/G1 accounted for 48.85, 62.77 and 64.40%, respectively. The Western blot and RT-PCR assay showed that up-regulation of pro-apoptotic bax protein and down-regulation of anti-apoptotic bcl-2 protein as well as their mRNA on U251 cells might be related to the apoptosis induction and proliferation inhibition. Conclusion An important bioactive component, 2-dihydroailanthone, has antitumour effects, enlightening a novel source of phytomedicines in tumour therapy.

A New Canthinone-Type Alkaloid Isolated from Ailanthus altissima Swingle

The present investigation of the chemical constituents of the stem barks of Ailanthus altissima has resulted in the isolation of six canthinone-type alkaloids, including a new compound, (R)-5-(1-hydroxyethyl)-canthine-6-one (1), and five known compounds (2-6). Moreover, four phenyl propanoids (7-10), two lignans (11 and 12), two triterpenoids (13 and 14) and a fatty acid (15) having previously known chemical structures were isolated during the same course of this study. The structure of the new compound was elucidated by physical (m.p., [α]D) and spectroscopic data (¹H-NMR, (13)C-NMR, 2D NMR, and HR-DART-MS) interpretation and its absolute configuration was determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data and quantum chemical calculations. The inflammatory activities of the isolates were screened on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO), a proinflammatory mediator, in RAW 264.7 cells. Among these isolated compounds, six compounds exhibited significant inhibition of NO production, with IC50 values in the range of 5.92 ± 0.9 to 15.09 ± 1.8 μM.

Allelopathic effects of Ailanthus altissima extracts on Microcystis aeruginosa growth, physiological changes and microcystins release

The use of allelochemicals has been proved an environmentally friendly and promising method to control harmful algal blooms. This study was conducted to explore the application potential of Ailanthus altissima (A. altissima) extracts in Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa) control for the first time. Four treatments with A. altissima extractions (25mgL(-1), 50mgL(-1), 100mgL(-1), and 200mgL(-1) respectively) and a control group were built to investigate the effects of A. altissima on the growth, cellular microstructure and cell viability, physiological changes, and release of extracellular matters. Results showed that the cell density of M. aeruginosa was effectively inhibited by A. altissima extract, and the inhibition rates were dose-dependent within 5d. Especially for the treatment with 200mgL(-1) of extract, the inhibitory rates remains above 90% after 5d exposure. In addition, A. altissima effectively decreased the amount of extracellular cyanotoxin microcystins and destroyed the photosynthesis-related structure of algae cell during the experimental period. The results demonstrated the A. altissima extracts can be used as an effective and safe algicide to control algal blooms. However, it must be noted that specific compounds responsible for algicidal effect should be isolated and identified to explore inhibition mechanism of A. altissima in future study.

Constituents of the stem barks of Ailanthus altissima and their potential to inhibit LPS-induced nitric oxide production

Three new canthinone type alkaloids, canthin-6-one-1-O-β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→2)-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), canthin-6-one-1-O-[6-O-(3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl)]-β-D-glucopyranoside (2) and canthin-6-one-1-O-[2-β-D-apiofuranosyl-6-O-(3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl)]-β-D-glucopyranoside (3) were isolated from the stem barks of Ailanthus altissima together with four quassinoids (4-7), seven phenylpropanoids (8-14) and a lignan of previously known structure (15). The inflammatory activities of the 15 isolates were screened on LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO), a proinflammatory mediator, in RAW 264.7 cells.

Chemical composition and phytotoxic effects of essential oils obtained from Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) swingle cultivated in Tunisia

Ailanthus altissima Mill. Swingle (Simaroubaceae), also known as tree of heaven, is used in the Chinese traditional medicine as a bitter aromatic drug for the treatment of colds and gastric diseases. In Tunisia, Ailanthus altissima is an exotic tree, which was introduced many years ago and used particularly as a street ornamental tree. Here, the essential oils of different plant parts of this tree, viz., roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and samaras (ripe fruits), were obtained by hydrodistillation. In total, 69 compounds, representing 91.0-97.2% of the whole oil composition, were identified in these oils by GC-FID and GC/MS analyses. The root essential oil was clearly distinguishable for its high content in aldehydes (hexadecanal (1); 22.6%), while those obtained from flowers and leaves were dominated by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (74.8 and 42.1%, resp.), with caryophyllene oxide (4) as the major component (42.5 and 22.7%, resp.). The samara oil was rich in the apocarotenoid derivative hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (6; 58.0%), and the oil obtained from stems was characterized by sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (54.1%), mainly β-caryophyllene (18.9%). Principal component and hierarchical cluster analyses separated the five essential oils into four groups, each characterized by the major oil constituents. Contact tests showed that the germination of lettuce seeds was totally inhibited by all the essential oils except of the samara oil at a dose of 1 mg/ml. The flower oil also showed a significant phytotoxic effect against lettuce germination at 0.04 and 0.4 mg/ml (-55.0 ± 3.5 and -85.0 ± 0.7%, resp.). Moreover, the root and shoot elongation was even more affected by the oils than germination. The inhibitory effect of the shoot and root elongation varied from -9.8 to -100% and from -38.6 to -100%, respectively. Total inhibition of the elongation (-100%) at 1 mg/ml was detected for all the oils, with the exception of the samara oil (-74.7 and -75.1% for roots and shoots, resp.).

Acaricidal properties of an Ailanthus altissima bark extract against Psoroptes cuniculi and Sarcoptes scabiei var. cuniculi in vitro

The potential acaricidal properties of an Ailanthus altissima bark extract were assessed against two common species of animal ectoparasitic mites, Psoroptes cuniculi and Sarcoptes scabiei var. cuniculi, in vitro. A. altissima bark extract was obtained by ethanol thermal circumfluence and tested at four concentrations (1.0, 0.5, 0.25 and 0.125 g/ml) on mites collected from rabbits. Compared to the fenvalerate treatment group, the A. altissima bark exhibited significant acaricidal properties for both mite species treated. The extract of concentrations of 1.0, 0.5 and 0.25 g/ml killed all tested S. scabiei within 7 h, however, only 1.0 and 0.5 g/ml of extract killed all treated P. cuniculi. The median lethal time (LT50) values at 1, 0.5 and 0.25 g/ml were 0.60, 0.78, 1.48 h for S. scabiei and 0.74, 1.29, 3.33 h for P. cuniculi. The median lethal concentration (LC50) for P. cuniculi was approximately 1.6 times that for S. scabiei var. cuniculi at 4 h. The extract showed stronger toxicity against S. scabiei than against P. cuniculi. Mortality rates increased with increasing concentration of extract administered and with increasing time post-treatment, indicating that the acaricidal activity of A. altissima bark extract is both time-dependent and dose-dependent. This is the first report on acaricidal activity of A. altissima against P. cuniculi and S. scabiei var. cuniculi. It indicates that A. altissima contain potential acaricidal compounds. Our study is the first step to develop potentially novel compounds from A. altissima for the effective control of mites in livestock.

Foliar nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in trees in environmentally toxic plastic industry area

In plants, nitrogen deficiency causes stunted growth and chlorosis or yellowing of the leaves due to decreased levels of chlorophyll, while excess nitrogen uptake may cause dark green overly vigorous foliage which may have increased susceptibility to disease and insect attacks. Phosphorus is an important nutrient in crop production, since many soils in their native state do not have sufficient available phosphorus to maximize crop yield. Potassium deficiency may cause necrosis or interveinal chlorosis. Plastics are synthetic or semi-synthetic moldable organic solids that are organic polymers of high molecular mass, most commonly derived from petrochemicals; these polymers are based on chains of carbon atoms alone or with oxygen, sulfur, or nitrogen. Plastic is a non- biodegradable major toxic pollutant. It pollutes earth and leads to air pollution and water pollution. Merely there is any safe way to dispose the hazardous plastic wastes. The study was targeted to estimate foliar level of NPK content of three plant species, viz. Cassia tora (Herb), Ailanthus excelsa (Tree) and Dalbergia sissoo (Tree) from polluted areas associated to polythene-industries as well as control areas having least pollution, where all the parameters were found to be higher than the control experiments.

Tetracyclic triterpenoids and terpenylated coumarins from the bark of Ailanthus altissima ("Tree of Heaven")

Tetracyclic triterpenoids (named as altissimanins A-E, 1-5) and a terpenylated coumarin (denominated as altissimacoumarin G, 6), along with fifteen known compounds (7-21) were isolated from the bark of Ailanthus altissima. Structures of compounds 1-6 were established by spectroscopic methods and chemical transformations. Altissimanin A (1) is a tirucallane-type triterpenoid bearing an uncommon oxetane ring in the side-chain, while altissimanins D (4) and E (5) are two unprecedented dimers each consisting of one tirucallane-type and one dammarane-type triterpenoid moiety. All the isolates were evaluated for their cytotoxic effects against a small panel of human cancer cell lines.

[Study on chemical constituents from flowers of Ailanthus altissima]

OBJECTIVE

To isolate and identify the chemical constituents from the flowers of Ailanthus altissima.

METHODS

Macroporous adsorptive resins (DM130), Silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, ODS were employed for the isolation and purification of chemical constituents. The structures were identified on the basis of spectral data and physicochemical examination.

RESULTS

Eight compounds were isolated and identified as follows: brevifolin (1), brevifolin carboxylic acid (2), methyl brevifolin carboxylate (3), ellagic acid (4), diethyl-2,2',3,3',4,4'- hexahydroxybiphenyl-6,6'-dicarboxylate (5), rutin (6), gallic acid (7), ethyl gallate (8).

CONCLUSION

Compounds 1 -5 are isolated from this genus for the first time.

Terpenylated coumarins as SIRT1 activators isolated from Ailanthus altissima

Four new terpenylated coumarins (1-4) were isolated from the stem bark of Ailanthus altissima by bioactivity-guided fractionation using an in vitro SIRT1 deacetylation assay. Their structures were identified as (2'R,3'R)-7-(2',3'-dihydroxy-3',7'-dimethylocta-6'-enyloxy)-6,8-dimethoxycoumarin (1), 6,8-dimethoxy-7-(3',7'-dimethylocta-2',6'-dienyloxy)coumarin (2), (2'R,3'R,6'R)-7-(2',3'-dihydroxy-6',7'-epoxy-3',7'-dimethyloctaoxy)-6,8-dimethoxycoumarin (3), and (2'R,3'R,4'S,5'S)-6,8-dimethoxy-7-(3',7'-dimethyl-4',5'-epoxy-2'-hydroxyocta-6'-enyloxy)coumarin (4). Compounds 1-4 strongly enhanced SIRT1 activity in an in vitro SIRT1-NAD/NADH assay and an in vivo SIRT1-p53 luciferase assay. These compounds also increased the NAD-to-NADH ratio in HEK293 cells. The present results suggest that terpenylated coumarins from A. altissima have a direct stimulatory effect on SIRT1 deacetylation activity and may serve as lead molecules for the treatment of some age-related disorders.

Nematicidal activity of (E,E)-2,4-decadienal and (E)-2-decenal from Ailanthus altissima against Meloidogyne javanica

Methanol extracts of various plant parts of Ailanthus altissima were tested against the root knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica . Extracts of bark (ABE), wood (AWE), roots (ARE), and leaves (ALE) from A. altissima were investigated against freshly hatched second-stage juveniles (J(2)). AWE was the most active extract, with EC(50/3d) of 58.9 mg/L, while ALE, ARE, and ABE did not show nematicidal activity. The chemical composition of the extracts of A. altissima was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, (E)-2-undecenal, (E)-2-decenal, hexanal, nonanal, and furfural were the most prominent constituents. (E,E)-2,4-Decadienal, (E)-2-decenal, and furfural showed the highest nematicidal activity against M. javanica , with EC(50/1d) = 11.7, 20.43, and 21.79 mg/L, respectively, while the other compounds were inactive at the concentrations tested. The results obtained showed that AWE and its constituents (E,E)-2,4-decadienal and (E)-2-decenal could be considered as potent botanical nematicidal agents.

Herbicide activity of extracts from Ailanthus altissima (Simaroubaceae)

The purpose of the present study was to isolate and characterize ailanthone-rich materials from the bark of the deciduous tree Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle and to assess their herbicide activity on selected herbaceous species. Ailanthone-rich fractions were obtained from A. altissima bark by extraction with dichloromethane and ethyl acetate and subsequent purification of these crude extracts, and of the remaining water mixture after solvent extraction, by means of gel permeation chromatography. A number of fractions were isolated and characterized for ailanthone content. A dichloromethane fraction was shown to contain 92% w/w of ailanthone, as demonstrated by HPLC and NMR analysis. A significant pre-emergence herbicide activity was found for most of the extracts which was directly correlated to ailanthone concentration. A remarkable combined pre- and post-emergence herbicide activity was found for a specific fraction. These results indicate that the bark of A. altissima may represent an interesting source for the production of natural herbicides for use in agriculture.

[Chemical constituents from fruits of Ailanthus altissima]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the chemical constituents from the extract of the fruits of Ailanthus altissimrna.

METHOD

Twelve compounds were isolated by chromatography and identified by spectral data.

RESULT

The compounds obtained were identified as (+)-isolariciresinol (1), isolariciresinol 9-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (2), gallic acid (3), D-sorbitol (4), vanillin (5), 6,7-dihydroxy-coumarin (6), stigmast-4-en-3-one (7), 5alpha, 8alpha-epidioxy-ergosta-6,9 (11), 22E-trien-3beta-ol (8), ergosta-4,6,8 (14), 22E-tetraen-3-one (9), cycloeucalenol (10), lupeol (11), betulinic acid (12).

CONCLUSION

Compounds 1-12 were isolated from this genus for the first time.

Quassinoid inhibition of AP-1 function does not correlate with cytotoxicity or protein synthesis inhibition

Several quassinoids were identified in a high-throughput screening assay as inhibitors of the transcription factor AP-1. Further biological characterization revealed that while their effect was not specific to AP-1, protein synthesis inhibition and cell growth assays were inconsistent with a mechanism of simple protein synthesis inhibition. Numerous plant extracts from the plant family Simaroubaceae were also identified in the same screen; bioassay-guided fractionation of one extract (Ailanthus triphylla) yielded two known quassinoids, ailanthinone (3) and glaucarubinone (4), which were also identified in the pure compound screening procedure.

Two new tetracyclic triterpenes from the heartwood of Ailanthus excelsa Roxb

Two new dammarane-type triterpenes, ailexcelone and ailexcelol, together with ocotillone, malabaricol, epoxymalabaricol, lupeol, and sitosterol-3-O-beta-D-glucoside were isolated from the heartwood of Ailanthus excelsa. The structures of the new compounds were established on the basis of 1D- and 2D-NMR data. Ocotillone, malabaricol and epoxymalabaricol were isolated for the first time from A. excelsa. All of the isolates were tested for their antifungal activity.

Two new alkaloidal glycosides from the root bark of Ailanthus altissima

Two new alkaloidal glycosides, canthin-6-one-5-o-beta-D-xylopyranosyl- (1 --> 6)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (1) and canthin-6-one-1-o-beta-D-xylopyranosyl- (1 --> 6)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (2) named ailantcanthinosides A and B, were isolated from the root bark of Ailanthus altissima. Their structures were elucidated by one-and two-dimensional (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR, FAB-MS, HRESI-MS spectra and chemical methods.

A new quassinoid, ailantinol H from Ailanthus altissima

A new quassinoid, ailantinol H, was isolated from a methanol extract of the aerial parts of Ailanthus altissima collected in Taiwan. Its structure was established on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR and HREIMS spectroscopic methods.

A new cerebroside from fruits of Ailanthus altissima Swingle

A new cerebroside and three known cycloartan triterpenes were isolated from fruits of Ailanthus altissima Swingle. Their structures were identified as 1-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(2S, 3R, 4E, 9E)-2-(2'R-hydroxyhexadecenoy)-4, 9-octadecadiene-1, 3-diol (1), 9, 19-cyclolanost-23 (Z)-ene-3beta, 25-diol (2), cycloart-25-ene-3beta, 24R-diol (3), and cycloart-25-ene-3beta, 24S-diol (4) by means of chemical and spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 2, 3, and 4 were isolated from genus Ailanthus for the first time. The analgesic activity of 1 was also evaluated.

A new quassinoid, ailantinol H, fromAilanthus altissima

A new quassinoid, ailantinol H, was isolated from the aerial parts of Ailanthus altissima. The structure was elucidated based on spectral evidence.

1-Methoxy-Canthin-6-One Induces c-Jun NH2-Terminal Kinase–Dependent Apoptosis and Synergizes with Tumor Necrosis Factor–Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand Activity in Human Neoplastic Cells of Hematopoietic or Endodermal Origin

We investigated the effects of 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one, isolated from the medicinal plant Ailanthus altissima Swingle, on apoptosis in human leukemia (Jurkat), thyroid carcinoma (ARO and NPA), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HuH7) cell lines. Cultures incubated with the compound showed >50% of sub-G1 (hypodiploid) elements in flow cytometry analysis; the apoptosis-inducing activity was evident at <10 micromol/L and half-maximal at about 40 micromol/L 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one. The appearance of hypodiploid elements was preceded by mitochondrial membrane depolarization, mitochondrial release of cytochrome c, and Smac/DIABLO and procaspase-3 cleavage. We subsequently investigated the effect of 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one in combination with human recombinant tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) in the four cell lines. Suboptimal concentrations (10 micromol/L 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one and 0.25 ng/mL TRAIL, respectively) of the two agents, unable to elicit apoptosis when used alone, induced mitochondrial depolarization, activation of caspase-3, and 45% to 85% of sub-G1 elements when added together to the cells. The synergism seemed to rely partly on the enhanced expression of TRAIL receptor 1 (TRAIL-R1; DR4), analyzed by immunofluorescence, by 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one. Cell incubation with 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one resulted in activating c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), as revealed by Western blotting; induction of apoptosis and TRAIL-R1 up-regulation by 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one were >80% prevented by the addition of the JNK inhibitor (JNKI) SP600125JNKI, indicating that both effects were almost completely mediated by JNK activity. On the other hand, synergism with TRAIL was reduced by about 50%, suggesting that besides up-regulating TRAIL-R1, 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one could influence other factor(s) that participated in TRAIL-induced apoptosis. These findings indicate that 1-methoxy-canthin-6-one can represent a candidate for in vivo studies of monotherapies or combined antineoplastic therapies.

Anti-inflammatory Activity of Ailanthus altissima in Ovalbumin-Induced Lung Inflammation

As part of an ongoing investigation to find bioactive medicinal herbs exerting anti-inflammation activity, the effect of an ethanol extract from the parts of Ailanthus altissima (Simaroubaceae) was evaluated in both in vitro and in in vivo system. The ethanol extract of A. altissima (EAa) inhibited generation of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) dependent phases of prostaglandin D2 in bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 214.6 microg/ml. However, this compound did not inhibit COX-2 protein expression up to a concentration of 400 microg/ml in the BMMC, indicating that EAa directly inhibits COX-2 activity. In addition, EAa inhibited leukotriene C4 production with an IC50 value of 25.7 microg/ml. Furthermore, this compound inhibited degranulation reaction in a dose dependent manner, with an IC50 value of 27.3 microg/ml. Ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice were orally pretreated with EAa before aerosol challenges. EAa reduced the eosinophil infiltration into the airway and the eotaxin, IL-4, and IL-13 mRNA expression levels. These results suggest that the anti-inflammation activity of A. altissima in OVA-induced lung inflammation may occur in part via the down regulation of T(H)2 cytokines and eotaxin transcripts as well as the inhibition of inflammatory mediators.

Antimicrobial constituents from fruits of Ailanthus altissima SWINGLE

A new naturally occurring sterol, compound 5, and six known stigmasterols were isolated from fruits of Ailanthus altissima Swingle by repeated column chromatography and RP-HPLC. Their structures were identified as, 5alpha-stigmastane-3,6-dione (1), 3beta-hydroxystigmast-5-en-7-one (2), stigmast-5-ene-3beta, 7alpha-diol (3), 6alpha-hydroxystigmast-4-en-3-one (4), 5alpha-stigmastane-3beta, 6beta-diol (5), stigmast-4-ene-3beta, 6alpha-diol (6), stigmast-5-ene-3beta, 7alpha, 20xi-triol (7) by spectral analysis and comparison with the published data. These compounds have not been reported from genus Ailanthus, whereas compound 7 was identified by NMR for the first time. In addition, the 95% ethanol extract and compounds from the fruits of Ailanthus altissima SWINGLE were assayed for in vitro antimicrobial activity. The extract was potent active against the assayed bacteria while compounds 3 and 7 exhibited moderate activity.

Isolation of phytotoxic compounds from tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima swingle)

The aqueous root extract of Ailanthus altissima showed allelopathic activity against radish (Raphanus sativus L. cv. "Saxa"), garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.), and purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) seeds. A bioassay-oriented purification of active extracts, chromatographic fractions, and compounds demonstrated dose-dependent activity on germination and radicle growth of test seeds; radish seed was the most sensitive to allelochemicals. Active compounds have been isolated: ailanthone, ailanthinone, chaparrine, and ailanthinol B (quassinoid derivatives); the alkaloid 1-methoxycanthin-6-one is not active. The compound with greatest inhibitory activity is ailanthone. The data obtained suggest a possible use of tree-of-heaven root extracts or of its active constituents as natural herbicides.

Quassinoids from Ailanthus excelsa

Three quassinoids, 1, 2 and 3, 4-dihydro excelsin 3 were isolated from the stem bark of Ailanthus excelsa, along with five known quassinoids excelsin, glaucarubine, ailanthinone, glaucarubinone and glaucarubolone. The glaucarubolone has been isolated for the first time from this plant. The structural elucidation is based on the analysis of spectroscopic data.

Plant growth regulatory effect and insecticidal activity of the extracts of the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima L.)

BACKGROUND

There is an urgent need to explore and utilize naturally occurring products for combating harmful agricultural and public health pests. Secondary metabolites in the leaves of the Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus altissima L. have been reported to be herbicidal and insecticidal. The mode of action, however, of the active compounds in A. altissima are not understood. In this paper, we report the chemical characteristics of the herbicidal and insecticidal components in this tree, and will discuss the effect of light on the bioactivity of the active components.

RESULTS

Extracts from the fresh leaves of A. altissima showed a strong plant germination/growth inhibitory effect in laboratory bioassays against alfalfa (Medicago sativa). The effect was dose-dependent. The growth inhibitory components were in the methylene chloride soluble fraction of the extract. The effect was greater in the light than in the dark. Other fractions had plant growth enhancing effect at lower concentrations. The extract was slightly insecticidal against yellow fever mosquito larvae (Aedes aegypti).

CONCLUSIONS

The extract or its semi-purified fractions of A. altissima were strong plant growth inhibitors, therefore good candidates as potential environmentally safe and effective agricultural pest management agents. The finding that light affects the activity will be useful in the application of such natural products.