Polyscias filicifolia (Araliaceae) Hairy Roots with Antigenotoxic and Anti-Photogenotoxic Activity

Hairy root cultures are considered as a valuable source of bioactive phytoconstituents with expanding applicability for their production. In the present study, hairy root cultures of Polyscias filicifolia (Araliaceae), a traditional Southeast Asian medicinal plant, were established. The transformation with Agrobacterium rhizogenes ATCC 15834 allowed to obtain 15 root lines. The K-1 line, demonstrating the highest growth capabilities, was subjected to further investigations. To enhance the biosynthetic potential of hairy roots, methyl jasmonate elicitation approach was applied (MeJA; at different doses and exposure time), with subsequent transfer of elicited roots to control medium. This strategy resulted in chlorogenic acid production up to 1.59 mg/g dry weight. HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS analysis demonstrated variation in extracts composition and allowed to identify different caffeic and ferulic acid derivatives. Next, cytotoxic, antigenotoxic, and anti-photogenotoxic properties of hairy roots extracts were determined. None of the tested extracts were cytotoxic. In addition, they demonstrated significant antigenotoxic activity with the highest protective potential; up to 52% and 49% of inhibition of induction ratio (IR) induced by the 2-aminoanthracene was revealed for extracts derived from hairy roots elicited for 3 days with 50 µM MeJA and roots elicited for 7 days with 100 µM MeJA and then transferred for 30 days to control medium, respectively. These same extracts exhibited the highest anti-photogenotoxic potential, up to 36% of inhibition of chloropromazine-induced genotoxicity.

Dendropanoxide, a Triterpenoid from Dendropanax morbifera, Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis by Inhibiting Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells through Autophagy Inhibition

Hepatic fibrosis results from chronic liver damage and is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we showed that dendropanoxide (DPX), isolated from Dendropanax morbifera, had anti-fibrotic effects on hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. DPX suppressed mRNA and protein expression of α-SMA, fibronectin, and collagen in activated HSCs. Moreover, DPX (40 mg/kg) treatment significantly lowered levels of liver injury markers (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase), expression of fibrotic markers, and deposition of ECM in a carbon tetrachloride-induced mouse model. Anti-fibrotic effects of DPX were comparable to those of silymarin in a hepatic fibrosis mouse model. As a possible mechanism of anti-fibrotic effects, we showed that DPX inhibited autophagosome formation (LC3B-II) and degradation of p62, which have important roles in HSC activation. These findings suggest that DPX inhibits HSC activation by inhibiting autophagy and can be utilized in hepatic fibrosis therapy.

The genus Schefflera: A review of traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Schefflera is the largest genus in the family Araliaceae, which contains 602 known species indigenous to Asia, Africa, and the southwest Pacific region, several of which are used in traditional medicine.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The review discusses current knowledge of the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of Schefflera species, to assess the medicinal potential of this genus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature were explored using the keyword "Schefflera" in SciFinder®, Google Scholar®, and PubMed® databases. The taxonomy of all reported plants was authenticated using "The Plant List". Additional data on traditional uses was obtained from secondary references including books and online resources.

RESULTS

Fourteen species were documented as traditional medicines in China, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, specifically to manage rheumatism, pain, and trauma. Other species are used in the treatment of liver disorders, skin conditions, respiratory infections, cancer, diarrhea, malaria, paralysis, and many other conditions. The main phytochemical constituents identified were triterpenoids and saponins, with sesquiterpenes, phenylpropanoids, and lignans. Pharmacological properties of extracts and pure isolated compounds included analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antimalarial, and antiallergic effects.

CONCLUSION

The reported biological activities of Schefflera species support their traditional uses, although the available data, even for medicinal species, was limited. Reports of chemical constituents or biological activities could be found for only about 20 species, but suggest that further investigation of efficacy and safety of the largely unexplored genus Schefflera is necessary.

In Vivo Evaluation of Dendropanax morbifera Leaf Extract for Anti-Obesity and Cholesterol-Lowering Activity in Mice

Metabolic syndrome is a worldwide health problem, and obesity is closely related to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and cancer. According to WHO in 2018, the prevalence of obesity in 2016 tripled compared to 1975. D. morbifera reduces bad cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood and provides various antioxidant nutrients and germicidal sub-stances, as well as selenium, which helps to remove active oxygen. Moreover, D. morbifera is useful for treating cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Therefore, we study in vivo efficacy of D. morbifera to investigate the prevention effect of obesity and cholesterol. The weight and body fat were effectively reduced by D. morbifera water (DLW) extract administration to high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6 mice compared to those of control mice. The group treated with DLW 500 mg∙kg-1∙d-1 had significantly lower body weights compared to the control group. In addition, High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol increased in the group treated with DLW 500 mg∙kg-1∙d-1. The effect of DLW on the serum lipid profile could be helpful to prevent obesity. DLW suppresses lipid formation in adipocytes and decreases body fat. In conclusion, DLW can be applied to develop anti-obesity functional foods and other products to reduce body fat.

Dendropanax dentiger (Harms) Merr. root and its major constituents exert therapeutic effect on adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The root of Dendropanax dentiger (Harms) Merr. is a pivotal folk Chinese medicine against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with no scientific validation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted to explore the anti-RA effect of the D. dentiger extract on complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) in rats and identified its major bio-constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dendropanax dentiger roots extracts (127.5, 255.0 and 510.0 mg/kg, once daily) were orally at day 7 post-administration adjuvant and lasting for 22 days. The therapeutic effects of D. dentiger roots extract on AIA rats were investigated by body weight growth, arthritis score, thymus and spleen indices, and histopathological analysis. Moreover, the levels of rheumatoid factor (RF), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) were also evaluated. Finally, the major constituents were isolated and identified from D. dentiger roots extract with COX-2 inhibitory and antioxidant activities.

RESULTS

Dendropanax dentiger roots extract remarkably alleviated the histological lesions of knee joint, increased body weight growth, decreased arthritis score, and reduced thymus and spleen indices in model rats. In parallel, the levels of RF, CRP, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, COX-2, 5-LOX and MMP-2 were observably downregulated, while the levels of IL-4 and IL-10 were prominently upregulated in D. dentiger roots extract-treated rats. Meanwhile, 14 compounds were isolated and identified from D. dentiger roots extract, and four phenol derivatives (1, 4, 6 and 7) exhibited remarkable COX-2 inhibitory and antioxidant activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Dendropanax dentiger roots extract possessed persuasive anti-RA effect may be partly responsible for phenol derivatives via modulation of inflammatory biomarkers, and supports the traditional folk use of D. dentiger in China.

Phytochemical Analysis, Anti-inflammatory, and Antioxidant Activities of Dendropanax dentiger Roots

Dendropanax dentiger root is a traditional medicinal plant in China and used to treat inflammatory diseases for centuries, but its phytochemical profiling and biological functions are still unknown. Thus, a rapid, efficient, and precise method based on ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) was applied to rapidly analyse the phytochemical profiling of D. dentiger with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in vitro. As a result, a total of 78 chemical compositions, including 15 phenylpropanoids, 15 alkaloids, 14 flavonoids, 14 fatty acids, 7 phenols, 4 steroids, 4 cyclic peptides, 3 terpenoids, and 2 others, were identified or tentatively characterized in the roots of D. dentiger. Moreover, alkaloid and cyclic peptide were reported from D. dentiger for the first time. In addition, the ethanol crude extract of D. dentiger roots exhibited remarkable anti-inflammatory activity against cyclooxygenase- (COX-) 2 inhibitory and antioxidant activities in vitro. This study is the first to explore the phytochemical analysis and COX-2 inhibitory activity of D. dentiger. This study can provide important phytochemical profiles and biological functions for the application of D. dentiger roots as a new source of natural COX-2 inhibitors and antioxidants in pharmaceutical industry.

Cyperane-Type and Related (Nor)Sesquiterpenoids from the Root Bark of Acanthopanax gracilistylus and Their Inhibitory Effects on Nitric Oxide Production

An enantiomeric pair of rare cyperane-type sesquiterpenoids, (+)- and (-)-gracilistones C (1a, 1b), together with a novel norsesquiterpenoid, gracilistone D (2), bearing a bicyclic lactone system were isolated from the root bark of Acanthopanax gracilistylus using LC-MS-IT-TOF analyses. The structures and absolute configurations of 1a, 1b, and 2 were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and ECD spectroscopic methods. Intermediate 1b suggests a possible biosynthesis process involving compound 2. The bioassay results showed that compounds 1a, 1b, and 2 exhibited significant inhibitory effects against lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 cells, with IC₅₀ values of 7.7 ± 0.6, 6.8 ± 1.5, and 2.6 ± 0.4 μM, respectively. Additional docking analyses provided some perspective of this activity in human inducible nitric oxide synthase.

Antimicrobial pentacyclic triterpenes and glycosides from the stem bark of Cussonia bancoensis

The stem bark of Cussonia bancoensis is used traditionally for the treatment of different types of infection and pain. A bioassay guided fractionation of the methanol stem bark extract led to the isolation of five pentacyclic triterpenes and glycosides identified based on spectroscopic data as 23-hydroxyursolic acid (CB1), hederagenin (CB2), 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-echinocystic acid (CB3), 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl- oleanolic acid (CB4) and 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-ursolic acid (CB5). CB2 - CB5 are being reported for the first time from this species. The compounds were evaluated for antimicrobial activity against ten microorganisms using the HT-SPOTi method. CB3 demonstrated remarkable antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, S. pyogens, E. faecalis, S. typhi and C. albicans at MICs between 3.12 and 12.5 µg/mL. Among the studied compounds, it was observed that hydroxylation of position C-16 of the oleanane skeleton may enhance antimicrobial activity. This study gives insight into the anti-infective constituents of the stem bark of C. bancoensis and justifies its use in ethnomedicine.[Formula: see text].

Coagulant Effects and Mechanism of Schefflera heptaphylla (L.) Frodin

Schefflera heptaphylla (L.) Frodin, are commonly used in anti-inflammatory, analgesic, traumatic bleeding and hemostasisas. In this paper, the coagulation effect of the ethanol extract (Set), ethyl acetate phase (Sea) and n-butanol phase (Sbu) was evaluated by prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT) and fibrinogen content (FIB) assays in vitro. Then, Three main lupanine triterpenes (compounds A-C) were isolated and identified from Sea and Sbu by a bioassay-guided method and their structure were identified as 3α-Hydroxy-lup-20(29)-ene-23, 28-dioic acid, betulinic acid 3-O-sulfate and 3α-Hydroxy-lup-20(29)-ene-23, 28-dioic acid 28-O-(α-l-rhamnopyranosyl(1→4)-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl(1→6))-β-d-glucopyranoside) by spectroscopic data analysis. Among of them, compound B was confirmed to have significant coagulant effect in vitro. Furthermore, the pro-coagulation mechanism of S. heptaphylla extracts and compound B were investigated by measuring whole blood viscosity (WBV), plasma viscosity (PV), erythrocyte sedimentetion rate (ESR), pack cell volume (PCV), APTT, PT, TT, and FIB in vivo. Meanwhile, the levels of thromboxane B2 (TXB2), 6-keto prostaglandin F1α (6-keto-PGF1α), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and (endothelin-1) ET-1 were detected. The bleeding time (BT) was tested by tail bleeding method, which proved the traumatic bleeding and hemostasis activities of S. heptaphylla. The pharmacology experiments showed that the Set, Sea, Sbu and compound B has significant pro-coagulation effect. In addition, compound B might be the main constituent of pro-coagulation in S. heptaphylla These results could support the fact that S. heptaphylla could be used traditionally to cure traumatic bleeding, and the pro-coagulation effects were associated with the regulation of vascular endothelium active substance and hemorheology parameters.

Efficient Extraction of Anti-Inflammatory Active Ingredients from Schefflera octophylla Leaves Using Ionic Liquid-Based Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction Coupled with HPLC

Schefflera octophylla (Lour.) Harms, a kind of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is commonly used for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, rheumatism, fever, and hemostasis therapy. In our previous studies, two major triterpenoids were isolated and identified from leaves of S. octophylla, and evaluated for their inhibitory effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells; both of them displayed significant anti-inflammatory activities at their noncytotoxic concentrations. Therefore, it is very useful to establish an efficient and green extraction method to isolated the two major triterpenoids from leaves of S. octophylla. In this paper, ionic liquid based ultrasonic-assisted extraction (ILUAE) was successfully applied to extract the two major triterpenoids from leaves of S. octophylla. Four single factors (ionic liquids (ILs) concentration, solid–liquid ratio, centrifugal speed, mesh number), with a greater impact on extraction rate, were selected from a variety of influencing factors, and the optimal conditions were obtained by Box–Behnken response surface methodology (RSM). Under optimal conditions, the total extraction yield and extraction rate of two triterpenoids were 288.03 mg/g and 28.80%, respectively, which was 6.80% higher than that of 70% Ethanol (220 mg/g and 22%, respectively).

Anti-inflammatory terpenes from Schefflera rubriflora C. J. Tseng & G. Hoo with their TNF-α and IL-6 inhibitory activities

The 95% ethanol extract and its EtOAc and n-BuOH fractions obtained from the leaves and twigs of Schefflera rubriflora C. J. Tseng & G. Hoo showed significant inhibitory activities (33.6%, 35.7% and 40.6%, respectively) against croton oil-induced ear inflammation in mice. Bioactivity-guided isolation and separation gave eight previously undescribed terpenes or terpene glycosides. Structural elucidation was based on UV, IR, and NMR spectroscopy, MS, experimental and calculated ECD data, and Mosher's method. To identify anti-inflammatory components from the extract, all the compounds were evaluated for tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukine-6 (IL-6) inhibitory activities. Four undescribed compounds inhibited mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6 with IC₅₀ values of 15.3-52.4 μM.

Ethanol extract of Polyscias fruticosa leaves suppresses RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis in vitro and LPS-induced bone loss in vivo

BACKGROUND

Many bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis are commonly associated with the excessive activity of osteoclasts. Polyscias fruticosa has been used as traditional medicine for the treatment of ischemia and inflammation and also eaten as a salad. However, its effect on the bone related diseases has not been investigated yet.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of ethanol extract of P. fruticosa on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro and LPS-induced bone loss in mouse, and evaluate anti-osteoclastogenic activities of its major constituents.

METHODS

BMMs or RAW264.7 cells were treated with ethanol extract from P. fruticose leaves (EEPL), followed by an evaluation of cell viability, RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation, actin-ring formation, and resorption pits activity. Effects of EEPL on RANKL-induced phosphorylation of MAPKs were evaluated by Western blotting. The expression levels of NFATc1 and c-Fos were evaluated by Western blotting or immunofluorescence assay. The expression levels of osteoclast-specific marker genes were evaluated by Western blotting and reverse transcription-qPCR analysis. A LPS-induced murine bone loss model was used to evaluate the protective effect of EEPL on inflammation-induced bone loss. HPLC analysis was performed to identify the major constituents of EEPL.

RESULTS

EEPL significantly inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation by decreasing the number of osteoclasts, osteoclast actin-ring formation, and bone resorption. EEPL suppressed RANKL-induced phosphorylation of p38 and JNK MAPKs, as well as the expression of c-Fos and NFATc1. EEPL decreased the expression levels of osteoclast marker genes, including MMP-9, TRAP and CtsK. Mice treated with EEPL significantly protected the mice from LPS-induced osteoclast formation and bone destruction as indicated by micro-CT and histological analysis of femurs. We also identified 3-O-[β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-d-glucuronopyranosyl] oleanolic acid 28-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl ester (1) and quercitrin (3) as the active constituents in EEPL for inhibiting RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that EEPL exerted anti-osteoclastogenic activity in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and function, and suggested that EEPL could have beneficial applications for preventing or inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone diseases.

Ameliorative Effects of Dendropanax morbifera on Cognitive Impairment Via Enhancing Cholinergic Functions and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in β-Amyloid-Induced Mice

Alzheimer's disease accounts for the majority of dementia and shows hallmarks such as sequential cognitive dysfunction and abnormal behavior. Dendropanax morbifera (DM) has traditionally been used to treat a variety of diseases in East Asia. The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic effects of DM on brain neuron damage and on cognitive deficit in neuronal cell induced by Aβ_1-42 in mice. Treatment with DM reduced the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and protected against the death of neuronal cells induced by Aβ_1-42 peptide. In addition, it was also found that pretreatment with DM decreased cognitive damage induced by Aβ peptide via enhancing the cholinergic system and antioxidant defense system in mice. Furthermore, the study verified that the change in the expression of both cyclic-adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein and of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus in Aβ peptide-treated mice was significantly ameliorated after treatment with DM. Accordingly, these results suggest that pretreatment with DM defends against oxidative stress and cognitive impairment caused by Aβ peptide.

Chemical components from Metapanax delavayi leaves and their anti-BHP activities in vitro

Two previously undescribed oleanane-type triterpene saponins named liangwanosides III-IV, and one undescribed eudesmane glycoside named liangwanoside A were obtained from the leaves of Metapanax delavayi, a Chinese folk medicine especially for tea used in Yunnan, together with four known compounds. The structures of the undescribed compounds were determined by detailed spectroscopic (1D/2D NMR), HR-ESI-MS data analysis and chemical evidence. The activity against human benign prostate hyperplasia was evaluated with BPH-1 cell line. Most of the isolated compounds showed moderate inhibitory activity against BPH-1 cells at 100 and 50 μM in vitro.

In vitro and in vivo androgen regulation of Dendropanax morbiferus leaf extract on late-onset hypogonadism

Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) is associated with advancing age and is caused by a deficiency in serum testosterone levels. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a Dendropanax morbiferus H.Lév. leaf extract (DME) on LOH using TM3 cells and aging male rats as in vitro and in vivo models, respectively. The in vitro effects of DME on testosterone levels and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) protein expression in TM3 cells were analyzed. In the in vivo experiments, DME was orally administered to rats at three doses (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. DME significantly increased the testosterone levels and 3β-HSD protein expression in TM3 cells. The DME groups showed significantly increased levels of androgenic hormones such as testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. The sex hormone-binding globulin production was significantly lower in the DME groups than that in the control group, while the neurohormone levels in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis markedly increased. No significant differences were observed in the glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and prostate-specific antigen levels among the DME and control groups. The triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly lower, while the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly higher in the DME groups than those in the control group. The latency time in the rotarod, treadmill, and swimming tests increased with the DME treatment. Furthermore, the sperm counts in the epididymis markedly increased. These results suggest that DME can be effectively used to alleviate the symptoms of LOH.

Immunomodulatory activities of isolated compounds from the root-bark of Cussonia arborea

CONTEXT

Cussonia arborea Hochst. ex A. Rich (Araliaceae) is a folk medicine used to treat various diseases. However, there is no report of the root phytochemistry.

OBJECTIVE

This study isolates and identifies the immunomodulatory compounds from root-bark of C. arborea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The methanol extract (18 g) was subjected to repeated column chromatography resulting in isolation of five compounds (1-5). Structure determination was achieved by analysis of their 1 D and 2 D NMR, and mass spectroscopy. The compounds (100-1.0 μg/mL) were examined immunomodulatory for effect on production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from whole blood phagocytes and on proliferation of T-cells. The compounds cytotoxicity (100-1.0 μg/mL) was evaluated on NIH-3T3 normal fibroblast cells.

RESULTS

Three pentacyclic triterpenoids [3, 23-dihydroxy-12-oleanen-28-oic acid (1), 3β-hydroxylolean-12-en-28-oic (2) and 23-hydoxy-oxo-urs-12-en-28-oic acid (5)], two phytosterols: [stigmasterol (3)] and [3-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl stigmasterol (4)] were all isolated from the methanol soluble extract. All the tested compounds (1-4) were found to be nontoxic on NIH-3T3 cells. Compound 1 and 2 moderately inhibited the production of ROS (IC₅₀ = 24.4 ± 4.3 and 37.5 ± 0.1 μg/mL, respectively) whereas compound 2 exhibited the highest inhibitory effect (IC₅₀ = 12.6 ± 0.4 μg/mL) on proliferation of phytoheamagglutinin (PHA) activated T-cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The isolated compounds (1-5) are reported for the first time from this species. In addition, compound 2 with suppressive potential on production of intracellular ROS and proliferation of T-cells could be of immense value in control of autoimmune diseases as well as in immune compromised patients.

Time-dependent Inhibition of CYP2C8 and CYP2C19 by Hedera helix Extracts, A Traditional Respiratory Herbal Medicine

The extract of Hedera helix L. (Araliaceae), a well-known folk medicine, has been popularly used to treat respiratory problems, worldwide. It is very likely that this herbal extract is taken in combination with conventional drugs. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of H. helix extract on cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme-mediated metabolism to predict the potential for herb–drug interactions. A cocktail probe assay was used to measure the inhibitory effect of CYP. H. helix extracts were incubated with pooled human liver microsomes or CYP isozymes with CYP-specific substrates, and the formation of specific metabolites was investigated to measure the inhibitory effects. H. helix showed significant inhibitory effects on CYP2C8, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 in a concentration-dependent manner. In recombinant CYP2C8, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 isozymes, the IC₅₀ values of the extract were 0.08 ± 0.01, 0.58 ± 0.03 and 6.72 ± 0.22 mg/mL, respectively. Further investigation showed that H. helix extract has a positive time-dependent inhibition property on both CYP2C8 and CYP2C19 with IC₅₀ shift value of 2.77 ± 0.12 and 6.31 ± 0.25, respectively. Based on this in vitro investigation, consumption of herbal medicines or dietary supplements containing H. helix extracts requires careful attention to avoid any CYP-based interactions.

Five New Triterpenoid Saponins from the Rhizomes of Panacis majoris and Their Antiplatelet Aggregation Activity

Five new triterpenoid saponins (1-5) and four known triterpenoid saponins, ginsenoside Re₅ (6), majonoside R₁ (7), 24(R)-majonoside R₁ (8), and ginsenoside Rf (9), were isolated from the rhizomes of Panacis majoris. The structures of new compounds were elucidated as (20S,24S,25R*)-6-O-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-dammar-20,24-epoxy-3β,6α,12β,25,26-pentaol (1), (20S,24R,25R)-6-O-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-dammar-20,24-epoxy-3β,6α,12β,25,26-pentaol (2), (20S)-6-O-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-dammar-20,25-epoxy-3β,6α,12β,24α-tetraol (3), 6-O-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-dammar-3β,6α,12β,20S,24R,25-hexaol (4), and 6-O-[β-D-glucop-yranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-dammar-25(26)-ene-3β,6α,12β,20S,24R-pentaol (5) on the basis of extensive spectral analysis and chemical methods. Ginsenoside Re₅ was isolated from the plant for the first time. The similarities of the nine compounds lie in the fact that their aglycones are conjoined with the same glucopyranose moieties, the same linkage of the glycosyl chains, and the same glycosylation sites, while they have a varied C-17 side chain. Compounds 3 and 5 exhibited moderate antiplatelet aggregation activities induced by adenosine diphosphate with IC₅₀ values of 23.24 and 18.43 µM, respectively. Compound 5 displayed moderate inhibition of arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation with an IC₅₀ value of 30.11 µM.

Seventeen steroids from the pith of Tetrapanax papyriferus

Two new steroidal ketones (1, 2), together with 10 known steroids (3-12) and five known steroidal saponins (13-17), have been obtained from the pitch of Tetrapanax papyrierus. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated as 3β-hydroxystigmast-8, 22-diene-7,11-dione and 3β-hydroxystigmast-8-ene-7,11-dione by IR, HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR techniques. Except for 4, 14, 15, 16, 13 compounds reported in this paper were isolated from Tetrapanax papyriferus for the first time.

Testing of Schefflera vinosa extract in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo for potential toxicity, genetic damage, and role of oxidation

The aim of this study was to examine the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of a hydroethanolic extract of Schefflera vinosa (SV), a plant with schistosomicidal activity, as well as its influence on DNA damage induced by different mutagens, methyl methane sulfonate (MMS) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), in V79 cells and Swiss mice. Schefflera vinosa extract produced cytotoxicity at concentrations of 312.5 µg/ml or higher using the XTT cell proliferation assay kit. Treatment of V79 cell cultures with the highest SV concentration tested (150 µg/ml) significantly increased the frequency of micronuclei (MN) compared to controls. All SV concentrations significantly reduced the frequency of MN induced by hydrogen peroxide in V79 cell cultures. Further, SV was able to scavenge free radicals in the DPPH assay. In the in vivo test system, treatment with the highest dose tested (1,000 mg/kg body weight) induced a significant rise in frequency of DNA damage using the comet assay. However, animals treated with different doses of SV demonstrated absence of genotoxicity in the bone marrow MN test. For assessment of modulatory effects, the lower concentration of SV (250 mg/kg body weight) administered to MMS-treated mice significantly reduced frequency of DNA damage compared to the positive control (MMS alone). In contrast, the highest concentration tested (1,000 mg/kg body weight) significantly increased the rate of MN induced by MMS. The lack of genotoxic damage at biologically relevant SV concentrations, as well as the SV-mediated antigenotoxic and antioxidant activities, indicate the potential therapeutic usefulness of this plant extract. These activities may be attributed, at least in part, to the flavonoid quercitrin, its major component.

Anti-asthmatic property and possible mode of activity of an ethanol leaf extract of Polyscias fruticosa

CONTEXT

Polyscias fruticosa (L.) Harms (Araliaceae) is used as a traditional remedy for asthma in Ghana.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to establish the anti-asthmatic property and a possible mode of activity of an ethanol leaf extract of P. fruticosa (PFE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The time (min) for pre-convulsive dyspnea, and time for recovery, after sensitization with 150 μg OVA and induction of bronchospasm with 1% acetylcholine or histamine in normal, and 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg PFE-treated Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs, were recorded. Atropine (0.1 mg), mepyramine (0.1 mg), and PFE (1 mg) effect on a contractile response of 2.0 × 10(-2) μg/ml acetylcholine and 5.8 × 10(-2) μg/ml histamine on the isolated guinea pig ileum was investigated. Cytological and histological studies were conducted using guinea pig peritoneal mast cells and mesenteric cells, respectively, to establish PFE effect on compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation.

RESULTS

PFE (100-500 mg/kg) prolonged the onset of pre-convulsive dyspnea by 76.1-180.2% (p ≤ 0.01-0.001), and decreased recovery time by 71.9-78.5% (p ≤ 0.01-0.001). It also enhanced percentage protection against histamine-induced bronchospasm by 15.8-80.1-fold (p ≤ 0.05-0.01), and decreased percentage recovery time 2.5-3.3-fold (p ≤ 0.05-0.01). PFE significantly inhibited (60.4 ± 8.3%) contractile responses of histamine and produced significant inhibition (56-79%: p ≤ 0.001) of mast cell degranulation.

CONCLUSION

PFE has anti-asthmatic, antihistaminic, and mast cell stabilization effect making it useful in traditional asthma management.

Triterpene saponins with α-glucosidase inhibition and cytotoxic activity from the leaves of Schefflera sessiliflora

From the leaves of Schefflera sessiliflora De P. V., two new triterpene saponins including one oleanane-type saponin, named scheffleraside C (1) and one lupane-type saponin scheffleraside D (2), together with six known triterpene saponins (3-8), were isolated by various chromatography methods. Among them, 3 was found for the first time from natural sources, while 6-8 were isolated for the first time from the genus Schefflera. Their structures were elucidated by IR, UV, HR-ESI-MS, NMR 1D and 2D experiments, and comparison of their NMR data with previously reported data. Their α-glucosidase inhibition and cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 human breast cancer cell lines were evaluated. The isolates (1, 3-5, 8) showed stronger α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 5.99-76.58 μM) than the standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 214.50 μM). At the concentration of 100 μg/ml, the isolates (1, 2) showed appreciable cytotoxic activity (67.92, 63.83%, respectively).

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Araucaria cookii and Brassaia actinophylla

Araucaria cookii is an ornamental plant, which are evergreen conifer found in India and in many other European countries. Similarly Brassaia actinophylla is also an ornamental plant with its native from Java, Australia and in U.S. Though these plants are used for various purposes, the medicinal properties of the plants were not investigated. In our study, the two ornamental plants were chosen for screening both antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The Leaves of the plants were used for preparing crude extract and was prepared by Soxhlet extraction method. For the extraction of the leave extracts, different solvents viz., methanol, chloroform and petroleum ether were used based on our preliminary data. The obtained extracts were condensed and stored. For the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, the extractions were prepared into various concentrations. For the antioxidant activity DPPH was used as scavenger of the free radicals which showed the inhibition of percentage for Araucaria cookii was 63% and the inhibition percentage for Brassaia actinophylla 41%. For the antimicrobial activity the extracts were checked against two bacterial and two fungal pathogens. The phytochemical analysis assists in the study of the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity as to the probable compounds responsible for the activity. The result thus obtained provides a report of Brassaia actinophylla as a possible source of antioxidants and also the use of both extracts as a probable antimicrobial agent.

Bioactive oleanane glycosides from Polyscias duplicata from the Madagascar dry forest

As part of the International Cooperative Biodiversity Group (ICBG) program, in a search for antiproliferative compounds, an ethanol extract of Polyscias duplicata was investigated due to its antiproliferative activity against the A2780 human ovarian cell cancer line (IC50 6 µg/mL). Seven known oleanane glycosides, 3β-[(α-L-arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-16α-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (1, IC50 8 µM), 3β-[(α-L-arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-16α,23-dihydroxyolean-12-en-18-oic acid (2, IC50 13 µM), 3β-[(O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(t-->3)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-16α-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (3, IC50 7 µM), 3β-[(O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-16α-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (4, IC50 2.8 µM), 3β-[(O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(l-->3)-α-L- arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-23-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (5, IC50 10 µM), β-[(O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(-1.2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-23-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (6, IC50 3.4 µM), and 3β-[(α-L-arabinopyranosyl)oxy]-23-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (7, IC50 3.4 µM) were isolated, and their structures determined using spectroscopic methods.

[Chemical Components from Leaves of Fatsia japonica and Their Antitumor Activities in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

To study the chemical components from the leaves of Fatsia japonica and their antitumor activities in vitro.

METHODS

All compounds were separated and purified by column chromatography over silica gel, Sephadex LH-20 and preparative HPLC. Their structures were identified by physical and chemical properties and spectral methods including 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR. Antitumor assay was measured by MTT method.

RESULTS

18 compounds were isolated and identified as palmitic acid (1), β-hydroxypropiovanillone (2), adenosine (3), β-sitosterol (4), daucosterol (5), oleanolic acid (6), echinocystic acid (7), betulinic acid (8), hederagenin(9), hederagenin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1-->2)-α-L-arabinopyranoside(10), acacetin(11), quercetin(12), quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(13), isovitexin(14), isovitexin-7-O-glucoside(15), astragalin(16), methylpluviatolide(17), and syringaresinol-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(18).

CONCLUSION

All compounds are isolated from the leaves of Fatsia japonica for the first time except compound 1. The ethyl acetate extract and compounds 6, 10, 12 and 18 at the concentration of 0. 5 mg/mL showed inhibitory effect against the proliferation of colon cell line A549 with the inhibitory rate over 90% in vitro.

Inhibitory Effects of Nano-Extract from Dendropanax morbifera on Proliferation and Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

The plant Dendropanax morbifera Léveille (D. morbifera), a subtropical broad-leaved evergreen tree, have been used in folk medicine for the treatment of infectious diseases, skin diseases, and other maladies. However, the effect of extracts from D. morbifera in vascuar diseases has not yet been reported. In this study, BrdU assay revealed that extracts from D. morbifera inhibit significantly the proliferation rate of Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells (RAoSMCs) by -40% in treated samples compared to controls. Notably, 2-D wound healing assay and 3-D boyden chamber assay showed the significant reduction of RAoSMCs migration induced by serum in nano extracts treated groups by -50%. We further observed that the phosphorylated levels of Akt and ERK were significantly reduced by 70% in extracts treated RAoSMCs. Moreover, the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and 9 were significantly reduced by extracts from D. morbifera. Our results suggest that extracts from D. morbifera inhibit proliferation and migration in RAoSMCs via the modulation of phosphorylated levels of Akt and ERK. Subsequently, the reduced MMP2 and 9 expression might result to reduced migration of RAoSMCs.

New triterpenoid saponins from the aerial parts of Comastomapedunculatum

Three new saikosaponin analogs, comastomasaponins I-K (1-3), were isolated from the aerial portions of Comastomapedunculatum. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data analysis, and their nitric oxide production inhibitory activity was evaluated invitro.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities of polyacetylene from Dendropanax dentiger

Dendropanax dentiger has been used as a folk medicine since ancient times. In our current study, we observed that D. dentiger exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity, which could efficiently inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage inflammation assay. (9Z,16S)-16-Hydroxy-9,17-octadecadiene-12,14-diynoic acid (HODA) was isolated from the leaves of D. dentiger following a bioactivity guided fractionation protocol. Our data indicated that HODA significantly inhibited the NO production in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells (IC50 = 4.28 μM). Consistent with these observations, the mRNA and protein expression levels of iNOS were also inhibited by HODA in a dose-dependent manner. HODA also reduced the translocation of NF-κB into nuclear fractions. Meanwhile, HODA enhanced Nrf-2 activation and its downstream antioxidant gene HO-1. We concluded that HODA possessed significant anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activity; the compound may have a potential for development as a chemoprevention agent.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of extracts from Cassia alata, Eleusine indica, Eremomastax speciosa, Carica papaya and Polyscias fulva medicinal plants collected in Cameroon

BACKGROUND

The vast majority of the population around the world has always used medicinal plants as first source of health care to fight infectious and non infectious diseases. Most of these medicinal plants may have scientific evidence to be considered in general practice.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to investigate the antioxidant capacities and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanol extracts of leaves of Cassia alata, Eleusine indica, Carica papaya, Eremomastax speciosa and the stem bark of Polyscias fulva, collected in Cameroon.

METHODS

Chemiluminescence was used to analyze the antioxidant activities of plant extracts against hydrogen peroxide or superoxide anion. Comet assays were used to analyze the protection against antioxidant-induced DNA damage induced in white blood cells after treating with hydrogen peroxide. Flow cytometry was used to measure γδ T cells proliferation and anti-inflammatory activity of γδ T cells and of immature dendritic cells (imDC) in the presence of different concentrations of plant extracts.

RESULTS

Ethanol extracts showed strong antioxidant properties against both hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anion. Cassia alata showed the highest antioxidant activity. The effect of plant extracts on γδ T cells and imDC was evidenced by the dose dependent reduction in TNF-α production in the presence of Cassia alata, Carica papaya, Eremomastax speciosa Eleusine indica, and Polyscias fulva. γδ T cells proliferation was affected to the greatest extent by Polyscias fulva.

CONCLUSION

These results clearly show the antioxidant capacity and anti-inflammatory activities of plant extracts collected in Cameroon. These properties of leaves and stem bark extracts may contribute to the value for these plants in traditional medicine and in general medical practice.

Essential Oils of the Leaves of the Raukaua Genus (Araliaceae)

The Raukaua genus of the family Araliaceae consists of 3 species, R. anomalus, R. edgerleyi and R. simplex, all endemic to New Zealand. The essential oil of R. edgerleyi and R. simplex consisted largely of monoterpenes. Limonene was the most abundant (23%) in R. edgerleyi and myrcene the most abundant (34%) in R. simplex. The oil of R. simplex lacked any significant sesquiterpenoids whereas bicyclogermacrene constituted 12% of the oil of R. edgerleyi. The oil of R. anomalus contained monoterpenes in low abundance and the sesquiterpenoids germacrene-B (15%) and γ-muurolene (16%) dominated the composition of this oil. The oil of R. edgerleyi had a pleasant fresh green aroma but the low yields of all three oils excluded them from potential commercial use.

[Chemical constituents from barks of Nothopanax delavayi]

Eleven compounds were isolated and purified from the barks extract of Nothopanax delavayi and their structures were identified as serratagenic acid-3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl-28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (1), serratagenic acid-3-0-alpha-L-arabi-nopyranosyl-28-O-[alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl] ester (2), serratagenic acid (3), serratagenic acid-3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside (4), serratagenic acid-beta-O-beta-(2', 4'-O-diacetyl) -D-xylopyranosyl-28-O-[alpha-L-rhamnopy-ranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->46)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl] ester (5), serratagenic acid-3-O-alpha-(4'-O-acetyl)-L-arabino pyrano-syl-28-0- [-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl] ester(6), serratagenic acid-3-O-alpha-(2'-O-acetyl)-L-arabinopyranosyl-28-O-[-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl- (1-->4) -beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl] ester(7), serratagenic acid-3-0-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-28-O-[-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl] ester (8), protocatechuic acid (9), ethyl caffeate (10) and caffeic anhydride (11) by physicochemical properties and spectroscopic data analysis. Among them, compounds 3-4 and 9-11 were firstly isolated from the genus Nothopanax, and compounds 5-8 were isolated from this plant for the first time.

Fatsioside A, a rare baccharane-type glycoside inhibiting the growth of glioma cells from the fruits of Fatsia japonica

A novel baccharane-type triterpenoid glycoside named fatsioside A (1), together with ten oleanane glycosides, were isolated from the fruits of Fatsia japonica. The structure of fatsioside A was assigned as 3β,15α,18α-trihydroxy-18,19-secolupane-12,19-dione 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranoside by extensive NMR and HRESIMS analyses. F. japonica is the third baccharane glycoside-containing species reported to date in the plant kingdom, while fatsioside A represents the first baccharane glycoside found in the Araliaceae family. Fatsioside A inhibited the growth of rat glioma C6 cells and human glioma U251 cells with IC50 values of 33.48 ± 2.01 µM and 77.58 ± 6.19 µM, respectively. Further investigation indicated that fatsioside A induced apoptosis and necrosis in glioma cells, and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase.

Hepatoprotective triterpenoids and saponins of Schefflera kwangsiensis

Seven new triterpenoid saponins, schekwangsiensides A-G (1-7), and a new triterpenoid, schekwangsienin (8), together with nine known triterpenoids and saponins (9-17), were isolated from the aerial parts of Schefflera kwangsiensis. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data analysis and chemical evidence. Furthermore, in in vitro assays, compounds 4, 8, 9, and 15 (10 µM) exhibited moderate hepatoprotective activities against D-galactosamine-induced HL-7702 cell damage.

Biological activity of oleanane triterpene derivatives obtained by chemical derivatization

Nine new derivatives of oleanane triterpenoids isolated from Fatsia polycarpa Hayata were synthesized through chemical transformations. Acetylation was effected by reaction with acetic anhydride in pyridine to afford compounds 1–5, while compound 6 was obtained using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC·HCl) in CH₂Cl₂. The others derivatives 7–9 were obtained in reactions of the corresponding triterpenoids with EDC·HCl, 4-N,N-dimethylaminopyridine hydrochloride and 4-N,N-dimethylaminopyridine in CH₂Cl₂. The structures of 1–9 were elucidated from extensive spectroscopic and HRESIMS data, while the structure of 9 was further confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The cytotoxic, anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV), antibacterial, hypoglycaemic and Wnt signaling activities of these derivatives were evaluated in vitro.

Triterpenoid saponins from the stem barks of Schefflera heptaphylla

Nine new triterpenoid saponins, including four ursane-type triterpenoid saponins named heptursosides A-D (1-4), four oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins named heptoleosides A-D (5-8), and one dammarane-type triterpenoid saponin, heptdamoside A (9), along with two known saponins, asiaticoside D (10) and scheffoleoside B (11), were isolated from the stem barks of Schefflera heptaphylla. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods. It is noteworthy in this study that the aglycone of 1-6 is reported for the first time, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report for the presence of the tetracyclic triterpenoid saponin from Schefflera. All the saponins were evaluated for their inhibitory effects on lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells, and 2, 6, 7, and 10 showed anti-inflammatory activities under their noncytotoxic concentrations.

The rare cyanogen proteacin, and dhurrin, from foliage of Polyscias australiana, a tropical Araliaceae

The tyrosine-derived cyanogenic di-glucoside proteacin and related mono-glucoside dhurrin were identified as the cyanogens in foliage of the tropical tree species Polyscias australiana, present in the approximate ratio 9:1. To date cyanogenic glycosides have not been characterised from the Araliaceae or the Apiales. Concentrations of cyanogenic glycosides varied significantly between plant parts and with leaf age, with the highest concentrations in young emerging leaves (mean 2217.1 μg CN g(-1) dry wt), petioles (rachis; 1487.1 μg CN g(-1) dry wt) and floral buds (265.8 μg CN g(-1) dry wt). Between 2% and 10% of nitrogen in emerging leaves and petioles was present as cyanogenic glycosides. With the exception of floral buds, all tissues apparently lack a specific cyanogenic β-glucosidase to catalyse the first step in the breakdown of these cyanogenic glycosides. Only with the addition of emulsin, an exogenous non-specific β-glucosidase from almonds, were high concentrations of cyanogenic glycosides detected, as much as 20-fold greater than the low to negligible cyanogenic glycoside concentrations determined in the absence of exogenous enzyme. High concentrations of cyanogens in young tissues may confer protection, but may also be a nitrogen source during leaf expansion.

Anatomical and physical changes in leaves during the production of tamales

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

Tamale preparation has a long tradition in Mexico. To understand which material properties have been considered important for this purpose throughout the years, a study was conducted of the anatomical, chemical, and mechanical properties of the leaves of four plant species used in tamale preparation in Veracruz, Mexico: Calathea misantlensis, Canna indica, Musa paradisiaca, and Oreopanax capitatus.

METHODS

Four cooking treatments were considered: fresh (F), roasted (soasado, R), steamed (S), and roasted plus steamed (R/S). Chemical, anatomical, and mechanical analyses were conducted before and after each treatment. Leaf samples were tested for tensile strength at both parallel and perpendicular orientation relative to the fibers.

KEY RESULTS

Musa paradisiaca had the highest proportion of cellulose, while the remaining species shared similar lower proportions. Leaves were stronger and stiffer in the longitudinal direction of the fibers. Musa paradisiaca leaves had higher values of mechanical strength than the other species. The cooking process that most affected the mechanical properties was steaming.

CONCLUSIONS

The chemical constituents of the leaves are closely correlated with their physical properties. The treatment that caused the greatest decrease in leaf physical integrity was steaming, while the combination of roasting and steaming showed similar results to those of steaming alone. No evident anatomical changes are produced by any of the treatments. This is one of the few studies comparing physical, chemical, and anatomical characteristics of leaves used for human consumption, before and after cooking.

[Advances of chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of schefflera genus]

The genus Schefflera (Araliaceae) consists of 1100 species, 35 of which can be found in China. Some species of the genus have been used in traditional medicine to treat rheumatalgia, trauma, fracture, headache, and so on. Phytochemical studies of the genus have demonstrated the presence of large number of triterpenoids and their saponins, along with some long-chain compounds, steroids and sesquiterpenes. Furthermore, many pharmacological activities of the genus such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antiviral activities have been reported. In this article, new development of constituents and biological activities of Schefflera genus is reviewed and summarized for its further development and utilization.

Chemical constituents from Dendropanax dentiger

Nineteen compounds and an HPLC inseparable mixture, composed of compounds 20 and 21, were isolated from the leaves and twigs of Dendropanax dentiger (Harms ex Diels) Merr. Of these, syringin (1) is the most abundant, 6'-O-apiofuranosyl dendranthemoside A (16) is a new megastigmane glycoside, and 3-methoxy-D-mannono-1,4-lactone (21) is a new hexono-1,4-lactone. Their structures were elucidated based on NMR spectroscopic and MS analyses.

Antiproliferative oleanane saponins from Dizygotheca elegantissima

Four new oleanane saponins (1-4), together with three known saponins, were isolated from the aerial parts of Dizygotheca elegantissima R. Vig. & Guillaumin. Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR experiments including 1D TOCSY, DQF-COSY, HSQC, and HMBC spectroscopy, as well as ESIMS analysis. The antiproliferative activity of all isolated compounds was evaluated.

[Chemical constituents contained in Macropanax rosthornii]

OBJECTIVE

To study active constituents of Macropanax rosthornii in treating rheumatoid arthritis.

METHOD

Silica gel column chromatography, preparative HPLC and modern spectrum techniques were applied for a systematic study on chemical constituents contained in M. rosthornii.

RESULT

Twelve compounds were separated from M. rosthornii and identified as serratagenic acid (1), serjanic acid (2), betulinic acid (3), 6beta-hydroxy-3-oxo-olean-12-en-28-oic acid (4), 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl serratagenic acid (5), 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl serratagenic acid-29-methyl ester (6) , 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl serratagenic acid-28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (7), scopoletin (8), beta-sitosterol (9), daucosterol (10), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (11), and stearic acid (12).

CONCLUSION

Above compounds are separated from M. rosthornii for the first time.

[Study on the HPLC fingerprint and simultaneous determination of three triterpene glycosides in Schefflera heptaphylla]

OBJECTIVE

To establish the HPLC fingerprint and simultaneously determination three triterpene glycosides in Schefflera heptaphylla.

METHODS

The separation was carried out on an Agilent Zorbax SB-C18 (4.6 mm x 250 mm, 5 microm) column eluted with methanol--0.1% glacial acetic acid as the mobile phase, and samples were detected by an evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD). The similarity evaluation system for chromatographic fingerprint of traditional Chinese medicine (Version 2004 A) was used in data analysis.

RESULTS

Schefflera heptaphylla from different regions were similar and the separation of three triterpene glycosides was good.

CONCLUSION

This method is simple and reliable. The HPLC fingerprint and contents of three kinds of triterpene glycosides of Schefflera heptaphylla can be used for their quality control.

Oleifolioside A mediates caspase-independent human cervical carcinoma HeLa cell apoptosis involving nuclear relocation of mitochondrial apoptogenic factors AIF and EndoG

Apoptosis, the main type of programmed cell death, plays an essential role in a variety of biological events. Whereas "classical" apoptosis is dependent on caspase activation, caspase-independent death is increasingly recognized as an alternative pathway. To develop new anticancer agents, oleifolioside A was isolated from Dendropanax morbifera Leveille and the biochemical mechanisms of oleifolioside A-induced apoptosis in HeLa cells were investigated. Exposure to oleifolioside A resulted in caspase activation and typical features of apoptosis, although cell death was not prevented by caspase inhibition. Oleifolioside A treatment induced up-regulation of Bad, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, nuclear relocation of mitochondrial factors, apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), endonuclease G (EndoG), and apoptosis induction. This is the first report of anticancer activity of oleifolioside A, and nuclear translocation of AIF and EndoG in oleifolioside A-treated HeLa cells might represent an alternative death signaling pathway in the absence of caspase activity.

Participation of cholinergic pathways in α-hederin-induced contraction of rat isolated stomach strips

The dry extract of Hedra helix leaves and its main active compounds, predominantly α-hederin and hederacoside C, has been traditionally believed to act spasmolytic. However, it has been recently proved that both, the extract of ivy and triterpenoid saponins, exhibit strong contractile effect on rat isolated stomach smooth muscle strips. It turned out that the most potent contractile agent isolated from the extract of ivy leaves is α-hederin. Thus, it seems reasonable to estimate the mechanism of the contractile effect of this saponin. The presented study was aimed at verifying the participation of cholinergic pathways (muscarinic and nicotine receptors) in α-hederin-induced contraction. The experiments were carried out on rat isolated stomach corpus and fundus strips under isotonic conditions. The preparations were preincubated with either atropine or hexamethonium and then exposed to α-hederin. All results are expressed as the percentage of the response to acetylcholine - a reference contractile agent. The obtained results revealed that the pretreatment of isolated stomach strips (corpus and fundus) with atropine neither prevented nor remarkably reduced the reaction of the preparations to α-hederin. Similarly, if the application of saponin was preceded by the administration of hexamethonium, the strength of the contraction of stomach fundus strips induced by α-hederin was not modified. Concluding, it can be assumed that the cholinergic pathways do not participate in α-hederin-evoked contraction of rat isolated stomach preparations.

[Study on the chemical constituents of the roots of Dendropanax chevalieri]

OBJECTIVE

To study the chemical constituents of the roots of Dendropanax chevalieri.

METHODS

The constituents were isolated by column chromatography with silica gel, Sephadex LH-20 gel and RP-18. Their structures were elucidated by analysis of spectral data and physicochemical properties.

RESULTS

Eight compounds were isolated and identified as palmitic acid (1), dibutylphthalate (2), beta-sitosterol (3), coniferaldehyde (4), scopoletin (5), beta-hydroxypropiovanillone (6), (+)-pinoresinol (7), (+)-syringaresinol (8).

CONCLUSION

Compounds 1-2, 4-8 are obtained from this genus for the first time.

Assessment of cytotoxic and genotoxic activity of alcohol extract of Polyscias filicifolia shoot, leaf, cell biomass of suspension culture and saponin fraction

Some medicinal plants are the object of biotechnologists' special interest owing to their content of secondary metabolites, which have a strong pharmacological effect. Polyscias filicifolia is a plant known for long in traditional medicine of the Southeast Asia. Literature data suggest that it acts on the endocrine system, has adaptogenic and antiulcerative activity, shows bactericidal and insecticidal properties, restores the activity of the protein synthesis system in the conditions of long- and short-term anoxia, as well as reduces the effect of many mutagens in vitro. The purpose of the studies was to assess the cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of ethanol extracts from Polyscias filicifolia dry shoots and leaves obtained in vitro, as well as cell biomass from suspension culture. Saponin fraction from dried shoots was also tested. Initially, the cytotoxic effect was evaluated using the murine connective tissue cell line C3H/AN - L929. The genotoxic properties of the extracts were assessed using standard screening tests: the Ames test and the micronucleus test. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that none of the extracts increases the number of revertants, both in tests with and without metabolic activation. The lack of in vitro genotoxic and mutagenic activity of tested shoot, dried leaf, cell biomass extracts, as well as the saponin fraction from dried shoots allows us to hope that Polyscias filicifolia could be used as a possible pharmaceutical raw material showing therapeutic properties.

Oleanane-type triterpenoids from the leaves and twigs of Fatsia polycarpa

Seven new oleanane-type triterpenoids (1-7), named fatsicarpains A-G, and the known compounds 3α-hydroxyolean-11,13(18)-dien-28-oic acid (8) and 3α-hydroxyolean-11-en-28,13β-olide (9) were isolated from the leaves and twigs of Fatsia polycarpa on the basis of bioassay-guided fractionation. The structures of compounds 1-7 were elucidated through spectroscopic analyses and single-crystal X-ray crystallography of 1, 8, and 9. Cytotoxicity against HepG2 2.2.15 and AGS cells and antihepatitis B virus (HBV) and antibacterial activities of 1-9 were also evaluated in vitro.

A new ursane-type triterpenoid from Schefflera heptaphylla (L.) Frodin

A new ursane-type triterpenoid (1), together with 15 known compounds (2-16), was isolated from the barks of Schefflera heptaphylla (L.) Frodin. The structure of the new compound was determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic data including IR, HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR, and further confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 2-6 were isolated from Schefflera genus for the first time.

Anticomplement activity of polyacetylenes from leaves of Dendropanax morbifera Leveille

The present study evaluated the anticomplement effect of polyacetylenes from Dendropanax morbifera (Araliaceae) in the classical pathway complement system. The leaves of D. morbifera were evaluated with regard to its anticomplement activity, and its active principles identified following activity-guided isolation. An aqueous CCl(4) fraction of the leaves of D. morbifera exhibited significant anticomplement activity on the classical pathway complement system, which was expressed as total hemolytic activity. Three polyacetylenes isolated from the leaves of D. morbifera, namely (3S)-falcarinol (1), (3S,8S)-falcarindiol (2) and (3S)-diynene (3). Compounds 1, 2 and 3 showed inhibitory activity against complement system with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC(50)) values of 87.3 µM, 15.2 µM and 39.8 µM. Among the compounds tested, 2 showed the most potent anticomplement activity (IC(50), 15.2 µM).

[Breathing activity of suspension culture of cells of Polyscias filicifolia Bailey, Stephania glabra (Roxb.) Miers, and Dioscorea deltoidea Wall]

Peculiarities of breathing of cultures of cells producing biologically active compounds (isoprenoids and alkaloids) were investigated in order to optimize productivity of culture growth and biosynthesis. It had been revealed that studied cultures of cells of Dioscorea deltoidea Wall (producer of furistanol glycosides), Stephania glabra (Roxb.) Miers (producer of stepharin alkaloid) and Polyscias filicifolia Bailey (complex of biologically active agents) differ both in joint breathing activity and in ratio between cytochrome and cyanide-resistant breathing, while changes of rate of total oxygen consumption and activity of alternative oxidase during growth were found to be individual for every investigated culture. Maximum rate of oxygen consumption for cells of D. deltoidea and S. glabra was marked in the period preceding active synthesis of secondary metabolites (lag phase for D. deltoidea and exponential phase for S. glabra). The revealed trends can be used for further monitoring and regulation of growth and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in producing cell cultures during deep cultivation.