Ardisia gigantifolia stapf (Primulaceae): A review of ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, clinical application, and toxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ardisia gigantifolia Stapf, known as Zou-ma-tai (in Chinese), is a traditional folk medicine, which was commonly used by Dong, Jing, Li, Maonan, Miao, Mulam, Yao, and Zhuang people. The main use of A. gigantifolia is the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, fractures, osteoproliferation, traumatic injuries, gynecological, and neurological diseases. Current studies have shown that the plant has various bioactive components, especially gigantifolinol, which has anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-tuberculosis, and neuroprotective activities. However, to date, few reviews have been made to summarize A. gigantifolia's related studies.

AIMS OF THE REVIEW

This review aimed to summarize the traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, clinical applications, and toxicity of A. gigantifolia, which expect to provide theoretical support for future utilization and highlight the further investigation of this vital plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The information related to A. gigantifolia were collated by surveying the traditional medicine books, ethnomedicinal publications, and searching academic resource databases including Web of Science, SciFinder, Springer Link, Pub Med, Science Direct, CNKI, and CQVIP database.

RESULTS

A. gigantifolia has been used as a traditional folk medicine for more than 400 years in China. Different parts of the plant, including the aerial part, root, rhizome, and leaf, are mainly used as herbal medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injuries, gynecological, etc. Currently, 165 compounds have been identified from the plant, including triterpenes, phenolics, coumarins, quinones, volatile oil, and sterols, 137 of which were identified from the rhizome parts. Pharmacological research showed that A. gigantifolia has various bioactivities, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-thrombus, anti-tuberculosis, cough expectorant, and neuroprotective activities. Clinical studies have shown that the plant has no toxic side effects. In vivo administration at the maximum dose was not lethal, indicating the plant's safety.

CONCLUSION

To date, most bioactive compounds are identified from the rhizomes of A. gigantifolia, which pharmacological activity and clinical observational studies have validated the plant's traditional use as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. It would be helpful to verify the mechanism of some components in vivo, such as gigantifolinol. Moreover, the plant's triterpenoid saponins demonstrated valid anti-tumor effects, especially the AG4 and AG36 compounds, which were shown to have anti-breast cancer effects both in vitro and in vivo. Further research on these components, including molecular mechanisms and in vivo metabolic regulation, needs to be confirmed.

Coordinated pattern of multiple element variability in Aegiceras corniculatum propagule in shrimp aquaculture effluent habitats

Human activities and environment changes have changed river estuary ecosystems, which impacts element changes in coastal sediments and mangroves. Mangrove propagule chemical traits showed a systematic shift along environmental gradients. But knowledge about how the pattern of multi-element variability is coordinated in propagule remains limited, and the conservation of macro and trace elements in propagules is also unknown. In this study, the concentrations, variability and coordinated pattern variation of 13 elements in Aegiceras corniculatum propagule across shrimp aquaculture effluent habitats, as well as the relationship between propagule element and environment factors were explored. We used CV to quantify the variability of each element, and then explore the pattern of multi-element variability. The results showed that: (1) in the habitats affected by shrimp aquaculture, the elements content shows: C > K > Cl > N > Na > P > S > Mg > Ca > Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu, and the coefficient variation shows: Mn > Cu > Fe > Zn > S > N > P > Cl > Na > K > Mg > Ca > C, which means that the element concentration are negatively correlated with the element variability and the variability of macro-elements was more conservative than micro-elements in these habitats; (2) pH, OM, C:P, and SiO₃^2- were the four important environmental factors explaining the A. corniculatum propagule variation. In conclusion, effluent from shrimp aquaculture does affect the coordinated pattern of multiple element variability in A. corniculatum propagules. These results provide a strong evidence for assessing the impact of shrimp aquaculture effluent discharges on mangrove and provide an important theoretical basis for mangrove conservation and restoration.

In Vitro Screening for Anti-Acetylcholinesterase and Antioxidant Activities of Hottonia palustris L. Extracts and Their Unusual Flavonoids

Hottonia palustris L. is from the genus Hottonia (Primulaceae), and the understanding of its phytochemical and pharmacological properties is limited. In this study, the use of chromatographic techniques led to the isolation of a further eleven compounds, including three new flavonoids: 2',5-dihydroxyflavone 2'-O-β-glucopyranoside, 5,6-dihydroxyflavone 6-O-(6"-O-glucopyranosyl)-β-glucopyranoside (hottonioside A), and 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone 7-O-(2"-O-β-glucuronide)-β-glucopyranoside. Their structures were determined using extensive 1D and 2D NMR data and mass spectrometry (HRMS). The qualitative assessment of the chemical composition of the investigated extracts and fractions was performed using the LC-HRMS technique. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of extracts, fractions, and compounds and their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase were also evaluated. Thus, we may conclude that the observed biological effects are the result of the presence of many biologically active compounds, of which dibenzoylmethane is the most active. Therefore, H. palustris is a source of substances with desirable properties in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Hara (Primulaceae)

Two undescribed anthocyanins and two undescribed flavonols were isolated from the flowers of Primula ×polyantha Mill., along with five known anthocyanins and four known flavonols. The two undescribed anthocyanins and the two undescribed flavonols were determined to be hirsutidin 3-O-β-galactopyranoside-5-O-β-glucopyranoside, 7-O-methyl-petunidin 3-O-β-galactopyranoside-5-O-β-glucopyranoside, quercetin 3-O-β-[(6""-acetylglucopyranosyl)-(1 → 2)-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-glucopyranoside], and kaempferol 3-O-β-[(6""-acetylglucopyranosyl)-(1 → 2)-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-glucopyranoside] using chemical and spectroscopic methods. They were also found in the flowers of the Himalayan wild species, Primula primulina (Spreng.) H. Hara except for quercetin 3-O-β-[(6""-acetylglucopyranosyl)-(1 → 2)-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-glucopyranoside]. The flower color variations of P. ×polyantha cultivars, reflected by the hue values (b*/a*) of the colors, were due to the glycosidic patterns in the anthocyanins and their concentrations in the petals. Moreover, in the P. ×polyantha cultivars with violet-blue flowers, both the intermolecular copigmentation occurs between hirsutidin 3-O-β-galactopyranoside-5-O-β-glucopyranoside and another flavonol, quercetin 3-O-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-glucopyranoside. Moreover, the flower color variation was affected by the pH value.

(Primulaceae) wax

Herein, the results of the first study of non-flavonoid constituents of aboveground surface-wax washings of Primula veris L. (Primulaceae) are presented. Chromatography of the washings yielded a minor fraction composed of n-, iso-, and anteiso-series of long-chained syn-1-phenylalkane-1,3-diyl diacetates, 3-oxo-1-phenylalkan-1-yl acetates, 1-phenylalkane-1,3-diones, 1-hydroxy-1-phenylalkan-3-ones, sec-alcohols (2- to 10-alkanols), and n-, iso-, anteiso-, 2-methylalkanoic and 3-methylalkanoic acids; 118 of these constituents represent up to now unreported natural compounds. The structural/stereochemical elucidation was accomplished by the synthesis of authentic standards, derivatization reactions, the use of gas chromatographic retention data and detailed 1D and 2D-NMR analyses of the obtained complex chromatographic fraction. Primula veris produces unusually high amounts of branched long-chained metabolites (>60%) except for the fatty acids where the percentage of branched isomers is comparable to the ones with n-chains. Noteworthy is the fact that long-chained α- and β-methyl substituted fatty acids were detected herein for the first time in the kingdom Plantae.

Higher soil organic carbon sequestration potential at a rehabilitated mangrove comprised of Aegiceras corniculatum compared to Kandelia obovata

The present study compared the ecosystem organic carbon (OC) stocks and soil OC sources between two 12-year-old monospecific mangrove sites comprised of different species (Kandelia obovata in tree form and Aegiceras corniculatum in shrub form). We tested whether the carbon sequestration performance following rehabilitation varied with plantation of species in different forms and whether mangrove vegetation sequestrate OC more rapidly than soil pool. The results showed that mangrove rehabilitation increased the ecosystem OC stock relative to that of a non-vegetated bare flat. The accumulation of soil carbon was accompanied by increased soil total nitrogen contents and decreased δ¹³C values of soil OC, indicating that the increases in OC and TN contents were a function of accumulation of ¹³C-depleted mangrove materials in the soil. The sequestrated OC over the 12 years was considerably less in soil than in biomass at each mangrove site, suggesting that mangrove vegetation contributes more rapidly than the soil to ecosystem OC sequestration following rehabilitation before the vegetation has reached maturity. Compilation of the carbon stocks from worldwide rehabilitated mangrove forests with various ages further supports this finding. The K. obovata site had an apparently higher biomass OC stock but less OC in the soil than those at the A. corniculatum site. There was a higher standing leaf litter stock on the forest floor and more mangrove materials incorporated into the top 15 cm soil at the A. corniculatum site. These results suggested that the two rehabilitated mangrove sites had different development trajectories of both biomass and soil OC sequestration. Moreover, the performance of ecosystem carbon sequestration was related to plantation of different mangrove species. These carbon sequestration feature of rehabilitated mangrove forests therefore deserve attention in future rehabilitation programs to promote carbon sequestration performance.

Xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity of a new isocoumarin obtained from Marantodes pumilum var. pumila leaves

BACKGROUND

In traditional Malay medicine, Marantodes pumilum (Blume) Kuntze (family Primulaceae) is commonly used by women to treat parturition, flatulence, dysentery, dysmenorrhea, gonorrhea, and bone diseases. Preliminary screening of some Primulaceae species showed that they possess xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity of three varieties of M. pumilum and their phytochemical compounds.

METHOD

Dichloromethane, methanol, and water extracts of the leaves and roots of M. pumilum var. alata, M. pumilum var. pumila, and M. pumilum var. lanceolata were tested using an in vitro xanthine oxidase inhibitory assay. Bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation were carried out on the most active extract using chromatographic techniques. The structures of the isolated compounds were determined using spectroscopic techniques.

RESULTS

The most active dichloromethane extract of M. pumilum var. pumila leaves (IC50 = 161.6 μg/mL) yielded one new compound, 3,7-dihydroxy-5-methoxy-4,8-dimethyl-isocoumarin (1), and five known compounds, viz. ardisiaquinone A (2), maesanin (3), stigmasterol (4), tetracosane (5), and margaric acid (6). The new compound was found to be the most active xanthine oxidase inhibitor with an IC50 value of 0.66 ± 0.01 μg/mL, which was not significantly different (p > 0.05) from that of the positive control, allopurinol (IC50 = 0.24 ± 0.00 μg/mL).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that the new compound 3,7-dihydroxy-5-methoxy-4,8-dimethyl-isocoumarin (1), which was isolated from the dichloromethane extract of M. pumilum var. pumila leaves, could be a potential xanthine oxidase inhibitor.

Dynamics of radial oxygen loss in mangroves subjected to waterlogging

Tidal flooding can directly result in oxygen (O₂) shortage, however the functions of root aeration in flooding tolerance and O₂ dynamics within mangroves are still poorly understood. Thus, in this study, the correlations among waterlogging tolerance, root porosity and O₂ movement within the plants were investigated using two mangrove species (Aegiceras corniculatum and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza) and a semi-mangrove Heritiera littoralis. Based on the present data, the species A. corniculatum and B. gymnorrhiza, which possessed higher root porosity, exhibited higher waterlogging tolerance, while H. littoralis is intolerant. Increased root porosity, leaf stoma, and total ROL were observed in the roots of A. corniculatum and B. gymnorrhiza growing in stagnant solution when compared to respective aerated controls. As for ROL spatial pattern along roots, external anaerobic condition could promote ROL from apical root regions but reduce ROL from basal roots, leading to a 'tighter barrier'. In summary, the present study indicated that the plants (e.g., A. corniculatum and B. gymnorrhiza) prioritized to ensure O₂ diffusion towards root tips under waterlogging by increasing aerenchyma formation and reducing O₂ leakage at basal root regions.

Water Extract of Lysimachia christinae Inhibits Trabecular Bone Loss and Fat Accumulation in Ovariectomized Mice

In Asia, extracts of Lysimachia christinae have been used for liver or urinogenital system-related diseases in traditional medicine. In this study, we investigated the effects of the water extract of L. christinae (WELC) on receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa Β ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastic differentiation of bone marrow macrophages, and on osteoporosis and obesity in ovariectomy mice. RANK signaling pathways related to osteoclast differentiation were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blot analysis. Additionally, we performed micro-computed tomography to assess trabecular bone loss, histological analysis for fat accumulation in adipose, liver, and bone tissues, and phytochemical profiling for WELC characterization. WELC significantly inhibited osteoclast differentiation by downregulating RANKL-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/c-Fos/nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) signaling in osteoclast precursors and ovariectomy-induced trabecular loss by suppressing osteolcastic bone resorption. WELC markedly decreased ovariectomy-induced body weight gain and fat accumulation in adipose, liver, and bone tissues. Furthermore, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) identified 16 phytochemicals in WELC when compared with the mass fragmentation of standard chemicals. Collectively, these results suggest that WELC might possess beneficial effects on postmenopausal osteoporosis by inhibiting osteoclast differentiation and obesity by suppressing fat accumulation.

The role of lateral and vertical herkogamy in the divergence of the blue- and red-flowered lineages of Lysimachia arvensis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Herkogamy, or anther-stigma separation, is known to reduce self-pollen deposition, but little is known about the relative efficacy of different modes or conformations of herkogamy. We assessed the effectiveness of vertical versus lateral herkogamy in preventing or promoting self-pollen deposition in the annual herb Lysimachia arvensis, a plant with lineages that differ in flower colour, and in which flowers first display lateral and then vertical herkogamy. Because mating between the two lineages compromises fitness through the production of low-quality hybrid offspring, we tested the prediction that individuals sampled from sites occupied by both lineages should have flowers that promote autonomous self-pollen deposition and self-fertilization as a result of selection to reduce deleterious reproductive interference.

METHODS

We characterized variation in herkogamy within and among 25 pure and mixed populations of L. arvensis in its European range and assessed the effectiveness of lateral versus vertical herkogamy in avoiding self-pollen deposition.

RESULTS

Lateral herkogamy was more effective than vertical herkogamy in limiting self-pollen deposition. In the case of vertical herkogamy, only approach herkogamy was effective. Lineages showed consistent differences in herkogamy traits. In general, angles were smaller for blue than red flowers in most populations, and blue flowers showed approach herkogamy, while red flowers showed predominantly reverse herkogamy. In sympatry, the red lineage showed a reduction of both herkogamy traits while for the blue lineage only lateral herkogamy was reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that pollen deposition is affected not only by the degree but also the spatial conformation of herkogamy. They also highlight reduced herkogamy as a potential mechanism for promoting reproductive assurance under pollen limitation, as well as for avoiding reproductive interference between genetically divergent lineages.

Marantodes pumilum (Blume) Kuntze (Kacip Fatimah) stimulates uterine contraction in rats in post-partum period

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Marantodes pumilum (Blume) Kuntze has traditionally been used to firm the uterus after delivery, however scientific evidences behind this claim is still lacking.

AIMS OF STUDY

To demonstrate Marantodes pumilum leaves aqueous extract (MPE) has an effect on uterine contraction after delivery and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved.

METHODS

Day-1 post-delivery female rats were given MPE (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg/day) orally for seven consecutive days. A day after the last treatment (day-8), rats were sacrificed and uteri were harvested and subjected for ex-vivo contraction study using organ bath followed by protein expression and distribution study by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry techniques, respectively. The proteins of interest include calmodulin-CaM, myosin light chain kinase-MLCK, sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA), G-protein α and β (Gα and Gβ), inositol-triphosphate 3-kinase (IP3K), oxytocin receptor-OTR, prostaglandin (PGF)2α receptor-PGFR, muscarinic receptor-MAChR and estrogen receptor (ER) isoforms α and β. Levels of estradiol and progesterone in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Ex-vivo contraction study revealed the force of uterine contraction increased with increasing doses of MPE. In addition, expression of CaM, MLCK, SERCA, Gα, Gβ, IP3K, OTR, PGF2α, MAChR, Erα and ERβ in the uterus increased with increasing doses of MPE. Serum analysis indicate that estradiol levels decreased while progesterone levels remained low at day-8 post-partum in rats receiving 250 and 500 mg/kg/day MPE.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the claims that MPE help to firm the uterus and pave the way for its use as a uterotonic agent after delivery.

Changes in mangrove community structures affecting sediment carbon content in Yingluo Bay of South China

This study aimed to assess how sediment organic carbon (SOC) dynamics were affected by mangrove community structures. Sediment attributes and community structures of the Avicennia marina, Aegiceras corniculatum, Rhizophora stylosa, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza communities were analyzed, based upon field investigation in Yingluo Bay of South China. Aboveground biomass (AGB), belowground biomass (BGB) and tree height obviously increased with the self-thinning process, while basal area significantly decreased. The self-thinning exponent was 1.382 for AGB and 1.254 for BGB, conforming to the 4/3 self-thinning rule. However, self-thinning exponent for basal area was only 0.4866. SOC content non-linearly increased with the increase of AGB, BGB, and tree height. Mangrove-derived carbon increased through in situ organic material inputs with mangrove growth. The negative correlation between tree density and SOC content was not in line with the previous studies for planted mangroves. SOC dynamics of natural mangroves may be partially different from planted mangroves.

Ex-vivo abortifacient activity of Androsace foliosa n-hexane leaves extract on isolated rabbit uterus

Androsace foliosa is a medicinal herb utilized in different areas of Pakistan for abortifacient, diabetic and liver complications. In the current research, the possible action of the n-hexane leaves extract of the Androsace foliosa on isolated rabbit uterus was examined. Abortifacient activity was examined in the existence of standard antagonist e.g. atropine and salbutamol and a uterine tonic like oxytocin. The isolated rabbit uterus is initially treated with 1mg/kg stilboesterol for 1 complete day. The consequence of oxytocin as uterine contraction agonist was observed. Additionally, antagonists e.g. salbutamol (2μg) and atropine (1-2mg) on the uterine contractile action of the extract were also examined. The A. foliosa n-hexane leaves extract fashion dose correlated amplification in the force of uterine contraction comparable to oxytocin. The drug oxytocin was pragmatic to amplify the uterine contractile action of the extract. Meanwhile pre-treating the tissue with either atropine or salbutamol earlier than administrating the extract indicates the inhibitory action of the drugs on the action of the extract.

The effects of Labisia pumila extracts on bone microarchitecture of ovariectomized-induced osteoporosis rats: A micro-CT analysis

BACKGOUND

Labisia pumila (LP) is a popular herb used by women over the past few decades. This herb has shown potentials as an alternative agent for treatment and prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis. It was observed in previous studies that supplementation to ovariectomized rats were associated with increased bone antioxidative enzymes and reduced lipid peroxidation activity. It had also improved bone formation markers in ovariectomized rats. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of giving different forms of LP extracts on the trabecular bone microarchitecture of ovariectomised rats.

METHODS

Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham-operated (Sham), ovariectomized control (OVX), ovariectomized and given estrogen at 64.5 μg/kg (ERT), ovariectomized and given LP aqueous extract (LPaq), LP methanol extract (LPmet) and LP ethanol extract (LPet) at 100 mg/kg, respectively. Treatments were given daily via oral gavages for nine weeks. Following sacrifice, femora were dissected out for bone microarchitectural analysis using an in vitro micro-CT, which provided three dimensional informations on bone microarchitecture.

RESULTS

LPaq was the most effective extract found to improve the bone microarchitectural paramaters which comprised ofBone volume fraction (BV/TV), Trabecular separation (Tb.Sp), Trabecular number (Tb.N), Connective density (Conn.dens), Structure model index (SMI) and Degree of anisotropy (DA).

CONCLUSION

LPaq was effective in protecting the bone of postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model against microarchitectural deterioration.

In situ visualization and quantitative investigation of the distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the micro-zones of mangrove sediment

The distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the micro-zones of mangrove sediment is a predominant factors determining PAH bioavailability. In this study, a novel method for the in situ visualization (via microscope) and quantitative investigation of the PAH distribution in the micro-zones of mangrove sediment was established using microscopic fluorescence spectral analysis combined with derivative synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (MFSA-DSFS). The MFSA-DSFS method significantly suppressed the background fluorescence signal of the sediment (the S/N values increased by over two orders of magnitude). The proportion of the nonpolar organic carbon content in the particulate organic matter (POM) rather than its content in the total organic matter (TOM) showed a significantly positive correlation with the uneven PAH distribution (Relative DC-M values) evaluated using the established method (p < 0.05). The extent of the uneven PAH distribution in the micro-zones of aged sediment was higher than that in the spiked sediment. Moreover, the distribution pattern of the PAHs within the mangrove sediment changed to become more homogeneous in the presence of low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs), which primarily contribute to increasing the POM content.

[Comparison between Lysimachiae Herba and Desmodii Styracifolii Herba in pharmacological activities]

Lysimachiae Herba and Desmodii Styracifolii Herba are common traditional Chinese medicines for treating lithiasis. Both of them have efficacies of clearing heat, diuresis and eliminating calculi. However, there are some differences in their clinic applications. The former is mainly used to treat hepatolithiasis, gallstones, jaundice, stranguria and gout; Whereas the latter is mainly used to treat urinary calculus. In this paper, the pharmacological effects of Lysimachiae Herba and Desmodii Styracifolii Herba on removing calculus, choleresis, anti-inflammation and oxidation resistance were compared and analyzed based on document retrieval. In conclusion, both of them show the preventive and therapeutic effects on kidney stones and gallstones. Particularly, Desmodii Styracifolii Herba has a better effect in treating the kidney stones, while Lysimachiae Herba has a better effect in treating cholesterol gallstones.

Time and dose-dependent effects of Labisia pumila on the bone strength of postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model

BACKGROUND

Post-menopausal osteoporosis has long been treated and prevented by estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). Despite its effectiveness, ERT is associated with serious adverse effects. Labisia pumila var. alata (LP) is a herb with potential as an alternative agent to ERT due to its phytoestrogenic, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects on bone. This study aimed to determine the effects of LP supplementation on bone biomechanical strength of postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model.

METHODS

Ninety-six female Sprague-Dawley rats aged 4 to 5 months old were randomly divided into six groups; six rats in the baseline group (BL) and eighteen rats in each group of; Sham- operated (Sham), ovariectomised control (OVXC) and ovariectomised with daily oral gavages of Premarin at 64.5 μg/kg (ERT), LP at 20 mg/kg (LP20) and LP at 100 mg/kg (LP100) respectively. These groups were subdivided into three, six and nine weeks of treatment periods. Rats in BL group were euthanized before the start of the study, while other rats were euthanized after completion of their treatments. Femora were dissected out for biomechanical strength analysis using Instron Universal Model 5848 Micro Tester.

RESULTS

OVXC group showed deterioration in the bone biomechanical strength with time. Both ERT and LP supplemented rats showed improvements in bone strength parameters such as maximum load, displacement, stiffness, stress, and Young Modulus. The most improved bone strength was seen in rats given LP at the dose of 100 mg/kg for nine weeks.

CONCLUSION

LP supplementation at 100 mg/kg was more effective than ERT in reversing ovariectomy-induced bone biomechanical changes.

Environmental and ecological impacts of water supplement schemes in a heavily polluted estuary

Water supplement has been used to improve water quality in a heavily polluted river with small base flow. However, its adverse impacts particularly on nearby sensitive ecosystems have not been fully investigated in previous studies. In this paper, using the Shenzhen River estuary in China as a case study, the impacts of two potential water supplement schemes (reclaimed water scheme and seawater scheme) on water quality improvement and salinity alteration of the estuary are studied. The influences of salinity alteration on the dominant mangrove species (Aegiceras corniculatum, Kandelia candel, and Avicennia marina) are further evaluated by comparing the alteration with the historical salinity data and the optimum salinity range for mangrove growth. The results obtained indicate that the targets of water quality improvement can be achieved by implementing the water supplement schemes with roughly the same flow rates. The salinity under the reclaimed water scheme lies in the range of historical salinity variation, and its average value is close to the optimum salinity for mangrove growth. Under the seawater scheme, however, the salinity in the estuary exceeds the range of historical salinity variation and approaches to the upper bound of the survival salinity of the mangrove species which have a relatively low salt tolerance (e.g. A. corniculatum). Therefore, the seawater scheme has negative ecological consequences, while the reclaimed water scheme has less ecological impact and is recommended in this study.

Myrsine seguinii ethanolic extract and its active component quercetin inhibit macrophage activation and peritonitis induced by LPS by targeting to Syk/Src/IRAK-1

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Myrsine seguinii H. LÉVEILLÉ (syn. Rapanea neriifolia) (Myrsinaceae) is a medicinal plants traditionally used in Myanmar to treat infectious and inflammatory diseases. Since none of reports have systematically demonstrated the anti-inflammatory activity of this plant, we aimed to mechanistically understand the regulatory roles of the plant in inflammatory responses using the ethanolic extract of Myrsine seguinii (Ms-EE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Activated macrophages and peritonitis symptoms induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were employed. HPLC analysis was used to identify active components. To characterize direct target enzymes, kinase assay was established.

RESULTS

Ms-EE inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PG)E2 in RAW264.7 cells and peritoneal macrophages stimulated by LPS. This extract suppressed the mRNA expression of the inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 genes by down-regulating the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and activator protein (AP-1). Interestingly, it was found that Ms-EE can directly suppress the enzyme activities of Syk, Src, and interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase-1 (IRAK-1). Similarly, orally administered Ms-EE inhibited the phosphorylation of Src and Syk in peritoneal exudate-derived cells prepared from peritonitis. Finally, HPLC analysis clearly demonstrated that quercetin is a major active component with suppressing activity on the release of inflammatory mediators (NO and PGE2), and the enzyme activities of Src, Syk, and IRAK-1.

CONCLUSION

Ms-EE containing quercetin negatively modulates macrophage-mediated in vitro inflammatory responses and LPS-induced peritonitis by blocking the Src/Syk/NF-κB and IRAK-1/AP-1 pathways, which contributes to its major ethnopharmacological use as an anti-inflammatory herbal medicine.

Lysimachia clethroides Duby extract attenuates inflammatory response in Raw 264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide and in acute lung injury mouse model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lysimachia clethroides Duby (LC) is a traditional medicinal herb used to treat edema, hepatitis and inflammatory diseases in China and other Asian countries. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of LC extract and the mechanisms underlying were explored in both in vitro cell lines and acute lung injury (ALI) animal model of inflammation in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated Raw 264.7 murine macrophages were used to study the regulatory effects of LC extract on inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO) and proinflammatory cytokine expression. Western blotting or ELISA techniques were employed to estimate protein levels. RT-PCR was used for analyzing the interferon (IFN)-β production. LPS-induced ALI mouse model in vivo was employed to study the effect of LC extract. Further high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprinting technique was used to evaluate the active constituents present in LC extract, compared with reference standards.

RESULTS

Pre-treatment with LC extract inhibited the LPS-stimulated NO release, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 production in Raw 264.7 cells dose dependently. LC extract inhibited the LPS-stimulated IRF3 and STAT1 phosphorylation. Further, in vivo experiments revealed that LC extract suppressed the infiltration of immune cells into the lung and proinflammatory cytokine production in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in the LPS-induced ALI mouse model.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that LC extract attenuates LPS-stimulated inflammatory responses in macrophages via regulating the key inflammatory mechanisms, providing a scientific support for its traditional use in treating various inflammatory diseases.

Labisia pumila protects the bone of estrogen-deficient rat model: a histomorphometric study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Labisia pumila var. alata (LP) is a phytoestrogenic herb with potential as an alternative to Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. LP has been reported to produce similar effects to ERT on the bone markers, but could not match ERT in terms of maintaining the bone calcium in postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model. This study aimed to examine in detail the effects of LP on the bone of postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model using bone histomorphometry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty two female rats were randomly divided into groups of: Sham operated (Sham), ovariectomized control (OVXC), ovariectomized with Labisia pumila var. alata (LP) and ovariectomized with ERT (Premarin®) (ERT). The LP and ERT were administered through the route of oral gavage daily at the dose of 17.5 mg/kg and 64.5 μg/kg respectively. Following 2 months of treatment, rats were euthanized and the left femurs were dissected out and prepared for bone histomorphometry.

RESULTS

Histomorphometric analysis revealed osteoporotic changes for the ovariectomized rats. Supplementation of LP to ovariectomized rats could prevent these osteoporotic changes, as effective as ERT.

CONCLUSION

This confirmed that LP has potential as an alternative to ERT for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Evaluation of Lysimachia christinae Hance extracts as anticholecystitis and cholagogic agents in animals

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lysimachia christinae Hance is one of the herbs commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of cholecystitis and cholagogic efficiency.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

The water extract of Lysimachia christinae Hance was investigated to see if it possesses cholecystitis and cholagogic effects through traditional pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lithocholic acid (LCA) and Escherichia coli were used to induce cholecystitis in adult guinea pigs. The present study evaluated the cholagogic effects of LCHE treatment on bile secretion and bile emptying in Sprague-Dawley rats and male Kunming mice.

RESULTS

The results showed that LCHE not only produced excellent anticholecystitis effects but also improved lesion severity in gallbladders induced by LCA. Similarly, LCHE administered to animals in the high-dose group exhibited an antibacterial effect in acute cholecystitis, and treatment with a mid-range or a high dose of LCHE resulted in an antipyretic effect, however, three doses of LCHE treatment groups had no effect on pathological change induced by Escherichia coli in gallbladder. Treatment with a high dose of LCHE significantly promoted bile secretion (0-90min, P<0.01), and treatment with a mid-range dose also significantly promoted bile secretion (30-60min P<0.05). Furthermore, treatment with a high dose of LCHE significantly promoted bile emptying (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that LCHE exhibits a marked anticholecystitis and cholagogic activity in animals, which supports previous claims of its use in traditional Chinese medicine.

Labisia pumila var. alata reduces bacterial load by inducing uroepithelial cell apoptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Labisia pumila var. alata (LPva) is a traditional medicinal herb used by Malaysian women to treat many ailments of the genitourinary tract. Its phytoestrogenic properties suggest potential to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) in women post menopause. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the mechanisms of action of LPva in an in vitro model of UTI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bladder epithelial cell lines T24 and 5637 and uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strain CFT073 were used to model uroepithelial infection. The ability of LPva to induce programmed cell death was tested using the Annexin-V-FLUOS and TUNEL assays. Expression of caveolin-1, β1 integrin and antimicrobial peptides HBD-2 and LL-37 in response to LPva treatment and/or infection, was assessed using RT real-time PCR. Effects on protein expression were confirmed by Western blot analysis. Sensitivity and yeast agglutination assays were employed to determine if LPva had antimicrobial activities and/or interacted with type 1 fimbriae, respectively. Finally, bacterial adherence and invasion to cells treated with LPva was examined.

RESULTS

LPva induced uroepithelial apoptosis which was coupled with upregulated expression of caveolin-1 and downregulation of β1 integrin. LPva did not exhibit direct antimicrobial properties and did not influence antimicrobial peptide levels in cells. Additionally, LPva did not interact with type 1 fimbriae and did not affect adherence in comparison to non-treated control cells. However, LPva significantly reduced the number of intracellular UPEC in bladder epithelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that LPva has beneficial applications against UPEC infection due to its ability to induce programmed cell death and reduce bacterial invasion of the uroepithelium.

Growth inhibitory and apoptosis inducing by effects of total flavonoids from Lysimachia clethroides Duby in human chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lysimachia clethroides Duby is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb has been used in China to treat edema, jaundice diseases, hepatitis, tumor and inflammations, but the anti-tumor mechanisms are unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken to investigate if total flavonoids from Lysimachia clethroides Duby (ZE4) possesses anti-cancer effects through apoptotic pathways in human chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

K562 cells were treated with different concentrations of ZE4 at different time intervals. Cell viability was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry, Hoechst 33258 staining and COMET assay. Western blot analysis was used to detect Bcl-2, Trail and DR5 expressions.

RESULTS

15 flavonoids were isolated and identified from ZE4. ZE4 could inhibit the growth of K562 cells significantly by induction of apoptosis. Marked morphological changes of apoptosis, DNA fragmentation and single DNA strand breakages were observed clearly after treatment of ZE4. Bcl-2 expression was down-regulated remarkably while Fas, Trail and DR5 up-regulated when apoptosis occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

This result suggests that total flavonoids of Lysimachia clethroides Duby exert potential anti-cancer activity through growth inhibition and apoptosis in K562 cells.

Beneficial metabolic effects of the Malaysian herb Labisia pumila var. alata in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome

AIM OF THE STUDY

New options are needed to prevent and treat metabolic disorders associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Labisia pumila var. alata (LPva)-a Malaysian herb thought to have phytoestrogenic effects-has shown promise in reducing body weight gain in ovariectomized rats. In this study, we investigated the effect of LPva on body composition and metabolic features in female rats treated continuously with dihydrotestosterone, starting before puberty, to induce PCOS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

At 9 weeks of age, the PCOS rats were randomly subdivided into two groups; PCOS LPva and PCOS control. PCOS LPva rats received a daily oral dose of LPva (50mg/kg body weight), dissolved in 1 ml of deionised water, for 4-5 weeks. PCOS controls received 1 ml of deionised water on the same schedule.

RESULTS

LPva increased uterine weight (27%) and insulin sensitivity (36%) measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp. Plasma resistin levels were increased and lipid profile was improved in LPva rats. In adipose tissue, LPva decreased leptin mRNA expression but did not affect expression of resistin and adiponectin. No effects on body composition, adipocyte size, or plasma leptin levels were observed.

CONCLUSION

LPva increases uterine weight, indicating estrogenic effects, and improves insulin sensitivity and lipid profile in PCOS rats without affecting body composition.

Vertical distribution and anaerobic biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in mangrove sediments in Hong Kong, South China

The vertical distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) at different sediment depths, namely 0-2 cm, 2-4 cm, 4-6 cm, 6-10 cm, 10-15 cm and 15-20 cm, in one of the most contaminated mangrove swamps, Ma Wan, Hong Kong was investigated. It was the first time to study the intrinsic potential of deep sediment to biodegrade PAHs under anaerobic conditions and the abundance of electron acceptors in sediment for anaerobic degradation. Results showed that the total PAHs concentrations (summation of 16 US EPA priority PAHs) increased with sediment depth. The lowest concentration (about 1300 ng g(-1) freeze-dried sediment) and the highest value (around 5000 ng g(-1) freeze-dried sediment) were found in the surface layer (0-2 cm) and deeper layer (10-15 cm), respectively. The percentage of high molecular weight (HMW) PAHs (4 to 6 rings) to total PAHs was more than 89% at all sediment depths. The ratio of phenanthrene to anthracene was less than 10 while fluoranthene to pyrene was around 1. Negative redox potentials (Eh) were recorded in all of the sediment samples, ranging from -170 to -200 mv, with a sharp decrease at a depth of 6 cm then declined slowly to 20 cm. The results suggested that HMW PAHs originated from diesel-powered fishing vessels and were mainly accumulated in deep anaerobic sediments. Among the electron acceptors commonly used by anaerobic bacteria, sulfate was the most dominant, followed by iron(III), nitrate and manganese(IV) was the least. Their concentrations also decreased with sediment depth. The population size of total anaerobic heterotrophic bacteria increased with sediment depth, reaching the peak number in the middle layer (4-6 cm). In contrast, the aerobic heterotrophic bacterial count decreased with sediment depth. It was the first time to apply a modified electron transport system (ETS) method to evaluate the bacterial activities in the fresh sediment under PAH stress. The vertical drop of the ETS activity suggested that the indigenous bacteria were still active in the anaerobic sediment layer contaminated with PAHs. The biodegradation experiment further proved that the sediment collected at a depth of 10-15 cm harbored anaerobic PAH-degrading bacterial strains (two Sphingomonas, one Microbacterium, one Rhodococcus and two unknown species) with some intrinsic potential to degrade mixed PAHs consisting of fluorene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene and pyrene under low oxygen (2% O(2)) and non-oxygen (0% O(2)) conditions. This is the first paper to report the anaerobic PAH-degrading bacteria isolated from subsurface mangrove sediment.

Ovicidal and larvicidal activity of crude extracts of Maesa lanceolata and Plectranthus punctatus against Haemonchus contortus

The widespread development of anthelmintic resistance and high cost of the conventional anthelmintic drugs, has limited the control of gastrointestinal nematode parasites of sheep and goats and hence led to evaluation of medicinal plants as an alternative source of anthelmintics. In the current study, in vitro ovicidal and larvicidal activity of the leaves and fruits of the aqueous and hydro-alcoholic extracts of Maesa lanceolata and aerial parts of Plectranthus punctatus were evaluated on the egg and larvae of Haemonchus contortus using egg hatch assay and larval development test. All extracts of plants tested have shown complete inhibition of egg hatching at or below 1 mg/ml. ED50 for egg hatch inhibition ranged from 0.11 to 0.29 mg/ml, for both the aqueous and hydro-alcoholic extracts of Plectranthus punctatus and Maesa lanceolata. All extracts have shown dose dependent inhibition of larval development with variable results. The complete inhibition (100%) at the maximum concentration tested (50 mg/ml) was obtained only for hydro-alcoholic extract of the fruits of Maesa lanceolata and the lowest inhibition (50.33%) was recorded for the hydro-alcoholic extract of the leaves of the same plant. The overall findings of the present study has shown that Plectranthus punctatus and Maesa lanceolata contain possible anthelmintic compounds and further evaluation of different extracts and fractions of these plants should be carried out.

A study on antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective actions of Aegiceras corniculatum (stem) extracts

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective potential of Aegiceras corniculatum Linn. Blanco (Aegicerataceae).

METHODS AND RESULTS

The n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts, derived from Aegiceras corniculatum stems, scavenged superoxide anions (O2*) and hydroxyl radicals (*OH) in nitro blue tetrazolium reduction and deoxyribose degradation assays, respectively. All the extracts inhibited the process of lipid peroxidation at its initiation step. Additionally, in rat liver microsomes n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts also caused termination of radical chain reaction supporting their scavenging action towards lipid peroxy radicals (LOO*). Moreover, increased production of O2* in human neutrophils, stimulated by phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and/or opsonized zymosan were also suppressed (IC50 approximately 3-20 microg/mL). Thereby, revealing the ability of plant extracts to antagonize the oxidative stress via interference with NADPH oxidase metabolic pathway. These in vitro results coincide with the reduction in the glucose oxidase-induced paw edema in mice in the presence of ethyl acetate and methanol extracts (10, 50, and 100mg/kg, i.p.). Plant extracts (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg, p.o.) also significantly protected the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced oxidative tissue injury in rat liver. This was reflected by a approximately 60% decline in the levels of serum aminotransferase enzymes.

CONCLUSION

Aegiceras corniculatum extracts found to possess pronounced antioxidant effect that may be at least in part related to its anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activities. This study provides a scientific basis for the ethnomedical claims that Aegiceras corniculatum is effective against inflammation and liver injury.

Environmental impact evaluation of the stem bark extract of Maesa lanceolata used in Democratic Republic of Congo

This study has been carried out in order to evaluate new chemical drugs from plants for biocidal activity before use to avoid noxious effect on human beings and animals or plants and also to prevent the worsing of environment. In fact, many natural products endowed with biological active principles are obtained from plant material used in the holistic medicines. Presently, scientists pay attention to the study of plant extracts hoping to discover cheaper and efficient new drugs for health care and for pest control. On this point of view, the safety tests of extract from Maesa lanceolata (Myrsinaceae) candidate for snails control in the Democratic Republic of Congo, were undertaken. Portion of powdered steam barks was extracted with EtOH to obtain saponins that were submitted to tests. Saponins were fractionated by using TLC techniques and biocidal activity tests were performed on fishes, molluscs and mousquitoes. Saponins exhibited powerful biocidal activity against aquatic adult insects (Aeschnidae, Coenagrionidae, Hydrobidae), moustiquitoes (Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles funestus, Culex sp), snails (Biomphalaria pfeiffeiri and Lymnae natalensis), furcocercariae of Schistosoma mansoni and fish (Haplochromis sp, Oreochromis nilotica and Oreochromis macrochi)r. As results, Maesa lanceolata (Myrsinaceae) contains a saponin-mixture endowed with molluscicidal activity at a dose of 1mg/l. It may be a real candidate for snail control programs but it is harmful to aquatic biota. Attention must be paid to its utilization to avoid the ecological disturbance in the environment, especially when indigenous populations use it for fishing during the dry season.

Investigation of mangrove macroalgae as biomonitors of estuarine metal contamination

This study examined the potential use of macroalgae epiphytic on mangrove aerial roots as biomonitors of estuarine contamination. The metal concentrations of macroalgae were investigated in four estuaries in the vicinity of Sydney, Australia, and compared to water and sediment metal concentrations over three seasonal surveys. Macroalgal metal concentrations (copper, zinc, cadmium, chromium, lead, nickel, manganese and iron) appeared to be more associated with sediment metal concentrations than water concentrations, suggesting they may be useful biomonitors of estuarine sediment contamination. Algae in the more contaminated estuaries generally contained higher metal concentrations. However, concentrations of iron, nickel and manganese appeared to be similar in the algae despite the varying sediment concentrations, while accumulation of copper, zinc, lead and chromium appeared to be associated with ambient environmental concentrations. The uptake of metals also varied among the different species, suggesting that algal parameters, such as morphology, may also influence metal uptake and accumulation.

Conformational stabilization at the active site of molluskan (Rapana thomasiana) hemocyanin by a cysteine-histidine thioether bridge A study by mass spectrometry and molecular modeling

In some type-3 copper proteins (molluskan hemocyanin, catechol oxidase and fungal tyrosinase) one of the histidine residues, liganding the Cu(A) atom of the dinuclear copper active site, is covalently linked to a cysteine residue by a thioether bridge. The purpose of this study was to disclose the function of this bridge. Mass spectral analysis of a peptide, isolated from Rapana thomasiana (gastropodan mollusk) hemocyanin, indicated a stabilization of the peptide structure in the region of the bridge. Molecular modeling of three thioether containing type-3 copper proteins using the dead-end elimination method showed that the concerned histidine would be very flexible if not linked to the cysteine. Also, the side chain orientation of the histidine is rather exceptional, as evidenced by statistical data from the protein databank. It is suggested that the role of the bridge is to fix the histidine in an orientation that is optimal for coordination of the Cu(A) atom.

Investigation of mangrove macroalgae as bioindicators of estuarine contamination

This study examined the potential use of macroalgae epiphytic on mangrove aerial roots as indicators of estuarine contamination. The distribution and abundance of macroalgae was investigated in four estuaries in the vicinity of Sydney, Australia, and compared to water and sediment metal concentrations, nutrient concentrations and physicochemical parameters over four seasonal surveys. Macroalgal diversity and distribution appeared to be highly influenced by the ambient contaminant concentrations, while biomass appeared to be linked with nutrient concentrations. The distribution of the Rhodophyta species, Catenella nipae Zanardini significantly decreased as metal concentrations increased among the estuaries during all seasonal surveys. This species showed strong potential for use as a bioindicator of estuarine contamination.

Two new triterpene saponins from Lysimachia capillipes

Two new saponins, capilliposide G (1) and capilliposide H (2), were isolated from the whole plants of Lysimachia capillipes. Their structures were determined by 1D and 2D NMR, MS technique and chemical methods.

Analysing ethnobotanical and fishery-related importance of mangroves of the East-Godavari Delta (Andhra Pradesh, India) for conservation and management purposes

Mangrove forests, though essentially common and wide-spread, are highly threatened. Local societies along with their knowledge about the mangrove also are endangered, while they are still underrepresented as scientific research topics. With the present study we document local utilization patterns, and perception of ecosystem change. We illustrate how information generated by ethnobiological research can be used to strengthen the management of the ecosystem. This study was conducted in the Godavari mangrove forest located in the East-Godavari District of the state Andhra Pradesh in India, where mangroves have been degrading due to over-exploitation, extensive development of aquaculture, and pollution from rural and urbanized areas (Kakinada).One hundred interviews were carried out among the fisherfolk population present in two mangrove zones in the study area, a wildlife sanctuary with strong conservation status and an adjacent zone. Results from the interviews indicated that Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh., a dominant species in the Godavari mangroves, is used most frequently as firewood and for construction. Multiple products of the mangrove included the bark of Ceriops decandra (Griff.) Ding Hou to dye the fishing nets and improve their durability, the bark of Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco to poison and catch fish, and the leaves of Avicennia spp. and Excoecaria agallocha L. as fodder for cattle. No medicinal uses of true mangrove species were reported, but there were a few traditional uses for mangrove associates. Utilization patterns varied in the two zones that we investigated, most likely due to differences in their ecology and legal status. The findings are discussed in relation with the demographic and socio-economic traits of the fisherfolk communities of the Godavari mangroves and indicate a clear dependency of their livelihood on the mangrove forest.Reported changes in the Godavari mangrove cover also differed in the two zones, with significantly less perceptions of a decrease in the protected area, as compared to the adjacent non-protected area. A posteriori comparisons between sequential satellite imagery (retrospective till 1977) and respondents that were at least 15 years back then, revealed a mangrove decrease which was however perceived to different extents depending on the area with which the fishermen were familiar. While local needs had not been incorporated in the existing policy, we created a framework on how data on ethnobotanical traditions, fishery-related activities and local people's perceptions of change can be incorporated into management strategies.

Mangroves, Fishponds, and the Quest for Sustainability

Aquaculture, the farming of shrimp and other useful aquatic and marine plants and animals in artificially confined and tended ponds, pens, and cages, ranks as a phenomenal success story in global food production. In 1975, aquaculture contributed 8% to the overall yield of the world's fish harvest; now it provides more than one-third of the yield. Total aquaculture production in 2003 was 54.8 million metric tons valued at 67.3 billion in U.S. dollars. More than 90% of this output comes from Asia, where aquaculture has its origins and where this month's essay author has lived and worked all of her life. In her essay, Jurgenne H. Primavera, senior scientist of the Aquaculture Department of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center based in Iloilo, Central Philippines, traces the recent history of aquaculture and the socioeconomic and environmental challenges that its rapid growth has wrought, especially for the mangrove ecosystems in which much of brackishwater pond aquaculture occurs. With an eye on all stakeholders, Primavera lays out how aquaculture is now falling short of the goal of sustainability and what steps might be taken to move the industry in that direction.

Embelin derivatives and their anticancer activity through microtubule disassembly

Biological activities of the 1,4-benzoquinone derivatives 5- O-ethylembelin ( 1) and 5- O-methylembelin ( 2) were investigated. Both of them showed antiproliferative activity against a panel of human tumor cell lines upon comparison to normal marsupial kidney cells (PtK2). They arrested HL-60 cells in the G(0)/G(1) phase of the cell cycle in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In HeLa cells, exposure to 100 microM of 1 or 2 for 6 h induced a complete disassembly of the microtubule network and an increased number of cells blocked in mitotic stages. Treatment with 10 microM of 1 and 2 for 24 h induced apoptosis in HL-60 cells. This evidence suggests that both 1 and 2 are promising novel antimitotic and anticancer molecules targeting microtubular proteins.

Five new triterpene glycosides from Lysimachia foenum-graecum and evaluation of their effect on the arachidonic acid metabolizing enzyme

Five new oleanane-type triterpene saponins, named foenumosides A ( 1), B ( 2), C ( 3), D ( 4) and E ( 5), were isolated from the aerial parts of Lysimachia foenum-graecum Hance. Their structures were identified on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR techniques, including H-H COSY, HMQC, HMBC, HMQC-TOCSY, ROESY experiments as well as chemical methods. We have evaluated the cytotoxity of 1 - 5 against rat and human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and the effect of 5 on the arachidonic acid metabolizing enzyme. All compounds showed a high degree of toxicity except for compound 5, while 5 notably reduced the production of leukotriene B (4) (LTB (4)) from rat peritoneal leukocytes with an IC (50) value of 74 microM without inhibiting human elastase. Compound 5 also reduced the production of 12-HHTrE and 12-HETE by 14 % and 50 % as a measurement for cyclooxygenase-1 and 12-lipoxygenase inhibition at 100 microM.

Oleanane triterpenes from Aegiceras corniculatum

A new oleanane triterpene, 16alpha-hydroxy-l3,28-epoxyoleanan-3-one 1, was isolated from the stem bark of Aegiceras corniculatum, together with protoprimulagenin, aegicerin, embelinone, syringic acid, gallic acid, isorhamnetin and isorhamnetin 3-O-alpha-L-rhamnofuranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranoside. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods.

Efficacy of Myrsine africana, Albizia anthelmintica and Hilderbrantia sepalosa herbal remedies against mixed natural sheep helminthosis in Samburu district, Kenya

Traditional livestock healers from Samburu and Turkana communities in Samburu District of Kenya were identified and recruited for participation in this study. Sheep with mixed gastrointestinal helminthosis were purchased from nomadic livestock owners in the area. Three herbal anthelmintic remedies, viz. Myrsine africana, Albizia anthelmintica and Hilderbrantia sepalosa were administered in the traditional way by the healers and their efficacy determined using percent fecal egg count reduction (percent FECR) test. The results indicate that all the herbal remedies had some efficacy against both nematodes and Monezia species of helminths. The group effect against nematodes was significantly different (P=0.002). Compared to an untreated control group, the efficacy against nematodes was 77, 89.8 and 90% for Myrsine afriacana, Albizia antihelmintica and Hilderbrantia sepalosa, respectively, while albendazole had 100% efficacy. The main nematodes encountered included Haemonchus spp., Trichostrogylus spp. and Oesophagostomum spp. With regard to Monezia species herbal remedies performed better than albendazole with an efficacy of 100% compared to 63% for albendazole. The group of sheep treated with Albizia anthelmintica showed a significant increase (P=0.003) in packed cell volume (PCV).

In vitro activities of Maesa lanceolata extracts against fungal plant pathogens

In vitro tests were carried out using extracts of Maesa lanceolata var. goulungensis weir against a broad range of fungal plant pathogens such as Phytophthora cryptogea, Trichoderma virens, Aspergillus niger, Phoma sp., Fusarium oxysporium, Pythium ultimum, Cochliobolus heterostrophus, Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii and Pyrenophora teres. M. lanceolata extracts were very active against all the pathogens tested except P. ultimum and R. solani.

Anthelmintic activity of preparations derived from Myrsine africana and Rapanea melanophloeos against the nematode parasite, Haemonchus contortus, of sheep

Myrsine africana L. and Rapanea melanophloeos L. belong to the plant family Myrsinaceae. Various rural communities in Kenya, such as smallholder farmers and pastoralists, use them to treat their livestock. The anthelmintic effects/activities of leaves and fruits of M. africana and fruits of R. melanophloeos were tested in sheep experimentally infected with the nematode parasite Haemonchus contortus. Male lambs were infected with 3000-5000 third stage larvae of H. contortus and treated 28 days after inoculation with concoctions made from leaves or fruits of the plants. No significant reduction in faecal nematode egg counts was observed with any of the concoctions at any of the doses tested. Packed red cell volume decreased and live weight increased at similar rates in treated and control groups, thus there was no significant effect of treatment. The results showed that the tested extracts of the M. africana and R. melanophloeos were not efficacious against H. contortus in sheep.

Inhibition of acute and chronic inflammatory responses by the hydroxybenzoquinonic derivative rapanone

Rapanone (2,5-dihydroxy-3-tridecyl-1,4-benzoquinone), a natural compound isolated from Myrsine guianensis growing in the Andean highlands of Colombia, was studied in different in vitro and in vivo models as a potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory drug. Rapanone showed a mild anti-lipoperoxidative profile in rat liver microsomes and inhibited potently degranulation (IC(50) of 9.8 microM) and superoxide chemiluminescence (IC(50) of 3.0 microM) in human neutrophils. In addition, rapanone is a selective and potent human synovial PLA(2) inhibitor (IC(50) of 2.6 microM). In vivo experiments using the carrageenan paw oedema and the zymosan air pouch model in mice as well as the adjuvant arthritis model in rats have proved that rapanone is very efficient in controlling the inflammatory process by different administration routes.