Rapid determination of geographical authenticity and pungency intensity of the red Sichuan pepper (Zanthoxylum bungeanum) using differential pulse voltammetry and machine learning algorithms

The development of an analytical method for assessing pungency intensity and determining geographical origins is crucial for evaluating the quality of visually similar Zanthoxylum bungeanum pericarp (PZB). This study analyzed 210 PZB samples from 14 origins across China, focusing on origin adulteration identification and pungency intensity using a combination of differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and machine learning algorithms. The artificial neural network (ANN) and K-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithms provided the highest accuracy in origin identification (100 %) and adulteration detection (97.9 %) respectively. Moreover, the ANN excelled in predicting pungency intensity (R2 = 0.918). Assessment via feature importance analysis of DPV features revealed that segments of polyphenols (0.34-0.52 V and 1.0-1.2 V) and alkylamides (1.0-1.2 V) contributed significantly to the PZB pungency intensity. These findings highlight the potential of DPV as a reliable method for assessing the quality of PZB, and offer a promising solution for ensuring the geographical authenticity of this important crop.

Structure, physicochemical properties, and biological activities of protein hydrolysates from Zanthoxylum seed

BACKGROUND

Zanthoxylum seed, as a low-cost and easily accessible plant protein resource, has good potential in the food industry. But protein and its hydrolysates from Zanthoxylum seed are underutilized due to the dearth of studies on them. This study aimed to investigate the structure and physicochemical and biological activities of Zanthoxylum seed protein (ZSP) hydrolysates prepared using Protamex®, Alcalase®, Neutrase®, trypsin, or pepsin.

RESULTS

Hydrolysis using each of the five enzymes diminished average particle size and molecular weight of ZSP but increased random coil content. ZSP hydrolysate prepared using pepsin had the highest degree of hydrolysis (24.07%) and the smallest molecular weight (<13 kDa) and average particle size (129.80 nm) with the highest solubility (98.9%). In contrast, ZSP hydrolysate prepared using Alcalase had the highest surface hydrophobicity and foaming capacity (88.89%), as well as the lowest foam stability (45.00%). Moreover, ZSP hydrolysate prepared using Alcalase exhibited the best hydroxyl-radical scavenging (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 ) 1.94 mg mL-1 ) and ferrous-ion chelating (IC50 0.61 mg mL-1 ) activities. Additionally, ZSP hydrolysate prepared using pepsin displayed the highest angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition activity (IC50 0.54 mg mL-1 ).

CONCLUSION

These data showed that enzyme hydrolysis improved the physicochemical properties of ZSP, and enzymatic hydrolysates of ZSP exhibited significant biological activity. These results provided validation for application of ZSP enzymatic hydrolysates as antioxidants and antihypertensive agents in the food or medicinal industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

The Zanthoxylum armatum fruit's oil exterminates Candida cells by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis without generating reactive oxygen species

Candida spp. is a significant cause of topical and fungal infections in humans. In addition to Candida albicans, many non-albicans species such as C. krusei, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. guilliermondii cause severe infections. The main antifungal agents belong to three different classes, including azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins. However, resistance to all three categories of drugs has been reported. Therefore, there is an urgent need to search for other alternatives with antifungal activity. Many herbal extracts and compounds from natural sources show excellent antifungal activity. In this study, we used an oil extract from the fruits of Zanthoxylum armatum, which showed significant antifungal activity against various Candida spp. by two different methods-minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and agar diffusion. In addition, we attempted to explore the possible mechanism of action in C. albicans. It was found that the antifungal activity of Z. armatum oil is fungicidal and involves a decrease in the level of ergosterol in the cell membrane. The decrease in ergosterol level resulted in increased passive diffusion of a fluorescent molecule, rhodamine6G, across the plasma membrane, indicating increased membrane fluidity. The oil-treated cells showed decreased germ tube formation, an important indicator of C. albicans' virulence. The fungal cells also exhibited decreased attachment to the buccal epithelium, the first step toward invasion, biofilm formation, and damage to oral epithelial cells. Interestingly, unlike most antifungal agents, in which the generation of reactive oxygen species is responsible for killing, no significant effect was observed in the present study.

Application of chitosan films incorporated with Zanthoxylum limonella essential oil for extending shelf life of pork

This study aimed to produce chitosan films incorporated with Zanthoxylum limonella essential oil for extending shelf life. The volatile compounds of Z. limonella essential oil were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry consisting of limonene, α-phellandrene, ρ-cymene, and sabinene as major compounds. In this study, the addition of Z. limonella essential oil at concentrations of 0 %, 2 %, and 4 % in chitosan film was assessed for its antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Chitosan film incorporated with 4 % essential oil demonstrated the most significant antibacterial effect against E. coli and S. aureus in comparison to the chitosan film without essential oil due to the synergistic effects on antibacterial activity. The physical and mechanical properties of the chitosan films incorporated with Z. limonella oil developed were also assessed. The addition of essential oil to chitosan films led to improvements in mechanical strength and flexibility, while minimal changes were observed in terms of water solubility, water vapor permeability, and thermal stability. The findings emphasize that this innovative film not only extends the shelf life of pork without chemical preservatives but is also a fully bio-based material. Consequently, it shows great potential to be used as active packaging within the food industry.

Chitosan/oxidized Konjac Glucomannan films incorporated with Zanthoxylum Bungeanum essential oil: A novel approach for extending the shelf life of meat

In this study, a novel edible composite film was prepared by chitosan, konjac glucomannan oxidized with ozone for 60 min (OKGM), and Zanthoxylum Bungeanum essential oil (ZEO). The chitosan/OKGM film was fortified with ZEO to assess the physical properties, structure, antioxidant and antibacterial abilities, and pork preservation systematically. Compared to the control group, the addition of 1 % ZEO increased tensile strength by 18.92 % and decreased water solubility, water vapor permeability, and moisture content by 10.05 %, 6.60 %, and 1.03 %, respectively. However, the treatment with ZEO (1.5 % and 2 %) decreased mechanical properties and increased the water vapor permeability. The ultraviolet barrier, antioxidant, and antibacterial abilities of composite films were enhanced by increasing the ZEO addition. Moreover, the COZ-1 film was used to protect the freshness of pork with slow-release behavior of ZEO. The results showed that addition of ZEO significantly decreased the pH value, total viable count, redness, total volatile basic nitrogen, and thiobarbituric acid and increased the hardness of pork after preservation for 10 days. Therefore, the chitosan/OKGM loaded with ZEO film can potentially be used as food packaging, providing new ideas for the research on active packaging materials.

Evolution and function analysis of auxin response factors reveal the molecular basis of the developed root system of Zygophyllum xanthoxylum

BACKGROUND

As a xerophytic shrub, forming developed root system dominated with lateral roots is one of the effective strategies for Zygophyllum xanthoxylum to adapt to desert habitat. However, the molecular mechanism of lateral root formation in Z. xanthoxylum is still unclear. Auxin response factors (ARFs) are a master family of transcription factors (TFs) in auxin-mediated biological processes including root growth and development.

RESULTS

Here, to determine the relationship between ARFs and root system formation in Z. xanthoxylum, a total of 30 potential ZxARF genes were first identified, and their classifications, evolutionary relationships, duplication events and conserved domains were characterized. 107 ARF protein sequences from alga to higher plant species including Z. xanthoxylum are split into A, B, and C 3 Clades, consisting with previous studies. The comparative analysis of ARFs between xerophytes and mesophytes showed that A-ARFs of xerophytes expanded considerably more than that of mesophytes. Furthermore, in this Clade, ZxARF5b and ZxARF8b have lost the important B3 DNA-binding domain partly and completely, suggesting both two proteins may be more functional in activating transcription by dimerization with AUX/IAA repressors. qRT-PCR results showed that all A-ZxARFs are high expressed in the roots of Z. xanthoxylum, and they were significantly induced by drought stress. Among these A-ZxARFs, the over-expression assay showed that ZxARF7c and ZxARF7d play positive roles in lateral root formation.

CONCLUSION

This study provided the first comprehensive overview of ZxARFs and highlighted the importance of A-ZxARFs in the lateral root development.

extract-induced liver injury in mice based on lipidomics

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum armatum DC. (Z. armatum) is an herbal medicine with various active ingredients and pharmacological effects. However, modern studies found that Z. armatum is hepatotoxic. The liver is the target organ for toxic effects and an important site for lipid metabolism. The effects of Z. armatum on lipid level and metabolism in the liver are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to analyze hepatic lipid levels, lipid metabolites and metabolic pathways of action of Z. armatum based on lipidomics, to investigate the potential hepatotoxic mechanism of Z. armatum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Different doses (62, 96, and 150 mg/kg) of the methanolic extract of Z. armatum (MZADC) were administered to ICR mice by gavage. The hepatotoxicity of MZADC was assessed by the liver index, serum biochemical measurements, and histopathological examination. Lipid levels measured by the serum lipid index were evaluated in the mice. Lipidomics was used to screen for differential lipid metabolism markers and lipid metabolism pathways in the liver. Western blot analysis was performed to investigate the effects of MZADC on the liver.

RESULTS

Liver index values and serum alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels were increased in the MZADC group. Histopathology examination revealed hepatocyte necrosis, watery degeneration of the hepatocytes, and hepatic cord rupture in the livers of mice. Serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, cholesterol, and triglycerides were elevated, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were decreased. Lipidomics screening for markers of differential lipid metabolism in the liver, and altered profiles of differential metabolites indicated that glycerophospholipid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored biosynthesis, sphingolipid metabolism and arachidonic acid metabolic pathways were significantly associated with MZADC-induced liver injury. Western blots confirmed that the protein expression of LC3, Beclin-1, ATG5, ATG12 and ATG16L1 was decreased, and p62 was increased in the MZADC group. The proportion of p-PI3K/PI3K and p-AKT/AKT was increased.

CONCLUSIONS

The liver injury induced by MZADC involved many different lipid metabolites and lipid metabolic pathways, which may be related to autophagy. This study provides a new perspective on the hepatotoxicity study of Z. armatum and provides a reference for the safe application of Z. armatum in the medicine and food fields.

on SH-SY5Y based on ROS mediated mitochondrial apoptosis pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum armatum DC. (ZADC) is a traditional medicinal plant with various pharmacological activities and is widely used in China, Japan, India, and other regions. Previous studies have revealed that the methanol extract of ZADC can cause neurotoxicity symptoms in rats, such as drooling, decreased appetite, decreased movement, and increased respiratory rate. However, the basis of these toxic substances and the mechanism of neurotoxicity remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the effects of ZADC on nerve cells and their damage mechanisms and discuss the possible toxic substance basis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ethyl acetate extract of ZADC is obtained by extracting the methanol extract of ZADC with ethyl acetate. The Q-Orbitrap LC-MS/MS method was employed to analyze the chemical composition of the EA extract of ZADC. SH-SY5Y cells were incubated with different concentrations of the ethyl acetate extract of ZADC. The cytotoxicity of the extract was evaluated using CCK-8, LDH, and ROS assays, and the oxidative stress status of cells was assessed using MDA, GSH, and SOD. Cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry. Damage to mitochondrial function was evaluated by labeling mitochondria, ATP, and MMP with fluorescence. Cyto-C, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Apaf-1, Bax, and reduced Bcl2 expression were measured to evaluate the activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Finally, NAC intervention was used to detect changes in the relevant indicators. The activation of mitochondrial apoptosis pathway was evaluated by measuring Cyto-C, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Apaf-1, and Bax and Bcl2 expression. Finally, NAC intervention was utilized to detect changes in the relevant indicators.

RESULTS

After treating SY-SY5Y cells with EA extract from ZADC, cell viability decreased significantly, and the intracellular ROS level increased in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, ZADC can cause cellular oxidative stress and increase MDA and SOD concentrations while decreasing GSH concentrations. It can also shorten the mitochondrial cristae and decrease the number of mitochondria. In contrast, it can reduce ATP synthesis in the mitochondria and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Furthermore, it increased the apoptosis rate and the expression of Cyto-C, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Apaf-1, and Bax and reduced Bcl2 expression. NAC intervention alleviated the reduction in SH-SY5Y cell survival and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species induced by the EA extract in ZADC. It also inhibits signaling pathways dominated by proteins, such as Cyto-C, reducing cell apoptosis and cytotoxicity. A total of 46 compounds were identified in the extracts.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that EA extract of ZADC can induce the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway by accumulating ROS in cells, leading to apoptosis. Antioxidants had a good inhibitory and protective effect against cell damage caused by the EA extract of ZADC. The neurotoxic components of ZADC may be organic acids and compounds containing amino groups.

Research advances of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. polyphenols in inflammatory diseases

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim., commonly known as Chinese prickly ash, is a well-known spice and traditional Chinese medicine ingredient with a rich history of use in treating inflammatory conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the botanical classification, traditional applications, and anti-inflammatory effects of Z. bungeanum, with a specific focus on its polyphenolic components. These polyphenols have exhibited considerable promise, as evidenced by preclinical studies in animal models, suggesting their therapeutic potential in human inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis, arthritis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. This positions them as a promising class of natural compounds with the potential to enhance human well-being. However, further research is necessary to fully elucidate their mechanisms of action and develop safe and effective therapeutic applications.

Zanthoxylum bungeanum amides ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver via regulating gut microbiota and activating AMPK/Nrf2 signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. (Rutaceae) is a known herbal medicine with various bioactivities, including anti-obesity, lipid-lowering, learning & memory improving and anti-diabetes, and amides in Z. bungeanum (AZB) are considered as the major active agents for its bioactivities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This research was carried out to uncover the anti-NAFL effect of AZB and its corresponding molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

The central composite design-response surface methodology (CCD-RSM) was utilized to optimize the AZB extraction process, and the anti-NAFL effect of AZB was investigated on high fat diet (HFD) fed mice (HFD mice). The levels of ROS in liver tissues were determined using laser confocal microscopy with DCFH-DA probe staining, and anti-enzymes (such as HO-1, SOD, CAT & GSH-PX) and MDA in liver tissues were measured using commercial detecting kits. GC-MS was used to determine the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) contents in feces and blood of mice. 16S high-throughput sequencing, western blotting (WB) assay and immunofluorescence (IF) were used to explore the intestinal flora changes in mice and the potential mechanisms of AZB for treatment of NAFL.

RESULTS

Our results showed AZB reduced body weight, alleviated liver pathological changes, reduced fat accumulation, and improved oxidative stress in HFD mice. In addition, we also found AZB improved OGTT and ITT, reduced TG, TC, LDL-C, whereas increased HDL-C in HFD mice. AZB increased total number of the species and interspecies kinship of gut microbiota and reduced the richness and diversity of gut microbiota in HFD mice. Moreover, AZB decreased the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidota, whereas increased the abundance of Allobaculum, Bacteroides and Dubosiella in feces of HFD-fed mice. Furthermore, AZB increased the production of SCFAs, and up-regulated the phosphorylation of AMPK and increased the nuclear transcription of Nrf2 in liver of HFD mice.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results suggested AZB can improve NAFL, which could reduce body weight, reverse liver lesions and fat accumulation, improve oxidative stress in liver tissues of HFD mice. Furthermore, the mechanisms are related to increase of the abundance of high-producing bacteria for SCFAs (e.g. Allobaculum, Bacteroides and Dubosiella) to activate AMPK/Nrf2 signaling.

Combining with volatilomic profiling and chemometrics to explore the volatile characteristics in five different dried Zanthoxylum bungeanum maxim

Owing to the short picking period of the fresh Zanthoxylum bungeanum, the postharvest drying has become an essential operation before the storage and transportation of Z. bungeanum. To explore the effects of drying methods on volatile characteristics, the volatilomic profiling of five different dried Z. bungeanum was investigated by E-nose, HS-SPME-GC/MS, GC-IMS in combination with chemometrics. The results indicated that W1W, W2W and W5S sensors within E-nose analysis showed the strongest responses in both fresh and dried Z. bungeanum. According to the identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), terpenes, esters and alcohols played the major roles in the volatile formation of the fresh and dried Z. bungeanum. The samples derived from hot air drying showed the relatively similar features with the fresh sample based on the relative abundances of these major VOCs. According to the results of multiple factor analysis (MFA), GC-IMS showed the strongest ability in distinguishing the fresh and different dried samples. Compared with the high levels of terpenes in fresh group, the significant increasement of terpene alcohols and terpene esters from the degradation and transformation of bound terpenoids was the main characteristics of all dried Z. bungeanum. Using the GC-IMS datasets, a weighted correlation network analysis (WCNA) model was constructed to clarify the VOC characteristics in all detetected samples. Thereinto, 6 significantly correlated modules were identified in fresh and five different dried samples. Additionally, a total of 23 hub VOCs can be recognized as the potential biomarkers for better distinguishing the fresh and five different dried Z. bungeanum.

Effect of emulsifiers on the properties of corn starch films incorporated with Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil

The use of natural and safe ingredients in green food packaging material is a hot research topic. This study investigated the effect of different emulsifiers on starch film properties. Three types of emulsifiers, including Tween 80 as a small-molecule surfactant, sodium caseinate (CAS), whey protein isolate (WPI), and gelatin (GE) as macromolecule emulsifiers, whey protein isolate fibril (WPIF) as a particle emulsifier, were utilized to prepare Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil (ZBO) emulsions. The mechanical, physical, thermal, antibacterial properties, microstructure and essential oil release of starch films were investigated. CAS-ZBO nanoemulsion exhibited the smallest particle size of 198.6 ± 2.2 nm. The film properties changed with different emulsifiers. CAS-ZBO film showed the highest tensile strength value. CAS-ZBO and WPIF-ZBO films exhibited lower water vapor permeability than Tween-ZBO. CAS-ZBO film showed good dispersion of essential oil, the slowest release rate of essential oils in all food simulants, and the best antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. The films composed of CAS-ZBO nanoemulsion, corn starch, and glycerol are considered more suitable for food packaging. This work indicated that natural macromolecule emulsifiers of CAS and WPIF are expected to be used in green food packaging material to offer better film properties.

Effect of Enoxaparin and Daikenchuto Coadministration on Hepatic Disorder Markers in Gynecological Cancer Patients after Abdominal Surgery

Enoxaparin and daikenchuto are commonly administered to prevent venous thromboembolism and intestinal obstruction after gynecological malignancy surgery. However, the effects of their combined use on hepatic function are not well studied. This study aimed to clarify the effects of the coadministration of enoxaparin and daikenchuto on hepatic function. First, Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) data were analyzed to identify signals of hepatic disorders. Second, a retrospective observational study of patients who underwent surgery for gynecological malignancies was conducted. This study defined hepatic disorders as an increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) levels above the reference values, using 1-h postoperative values as the baseline. The analysis of JADER data revealed an increased risk for hepatic disorders with the coadministration of enoxaparin and daikenchuto. An observational study also showed higher odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for the occurrence of hepatic disorders in the coadministration group (4.27; 2.11-8.64) and enoxaparin alone group (2.48; 1.31-4.69) than in the daikenchuto alone group. The median increase in the ALT level was also higher in the coadministration group (34; 15-59) than in the enoxaparin alone (19; 6-38) and daikenchuto alone groups (8; 3-33). In conclusion, our study suggests that compared with the use of enoxaparin or daikenchuto alone, enoxaparin and daikenchuto coadministration increases the risk of hepatic disorders, with more significant increases in AST and ALT levels. Healthcare workers need to be aware of these potential side effects when combining these drugs after surgery for gynecological malignancies.

Soy protein isolate-based active films functionalized with Zanthoxylum bungeanum by-products: Effects on barrier, mechanical, antioxidant and cherry tomato preservation performance

In this work, soy protein isolate (SPI)-based films enriched with naturally sourced Zanthoxylum bungeanum leaf extract (ZBLE) were prepared. Different ZBLE contents (0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 % w/w SPI) were incorporated into the SPI matrix to investigate the effect of ZBLE on various properties of the obtained films. ZBLE exhibited excellent compatibility with SPI in terms of tensile strength, water barrier properties, UV-light resistance capability, and antioxidant activities. The films with 5 % ZBLE addition presented the most comprehensive performance. The release of total phenolic compounds in two different aqueous food simulants was analyzed. Furthermore, the films were employed to preserve fresh cherry tomatoes at 25 ± 1 °C for 18 days. The changes in the physicochemical properties (mass loss rate, decay rate, and vitamin C content) of cherry tomatoes revealed that the addition of ZBLE to films significantly extended the storage time. Therefore, the SPI/ZBLE composite film has the potential as an eco-friendly active packaging material for food preservation.

Seeds

Accumulating experimental data have shown that endogenous hormones play important roles in regulating seed dormancy and germination. Zanthoxylum nitidum is a medicinal plant that propagates via seeds, which require a long dormancy period for normal germination, and complex changes in metabolites occur during the germination process. However, the regulatory network of endogenous hormones and metabolites during the germination of Z. nitidum seeds remains unclear. This study investigated the dynamic changes in the levels of metabolites and endogenous hormones during the germination of Z. nitidum seeds. The results revealed an increase in the levels of gibberellin 3 (GA3), 12-oxophytodienoic acid (OPDA), 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) and trans-zeatin (TZ) and decrease in the levels of abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), N-[(-)-jasmonoyl]-(S)-isoleucine (JA-Ile) and trans-zeatin riboside (TZR). Overall, 112 differential metabolites (DAMs) were screened from 3 seed samples (Sa, Sb and Sc), most of which are related to primary metabolism. A total of 16 DAMs (including 3 monosaccharides, 3 phosphate lipids, 3 carboxylic acids, 1 amino acid, 2 pyrimidines, and 4 nucleotides) were identified in the three sample comparison pairs (Sa vs Sb, Sa vs Sc, and Sb vs Sc); these DAMs were significantly enriched in purine metabolism; glycerophospholipid metabolism, citrate cycle (TCA cycle), alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism and pyruvate metabolism. OPDA, ACC and GAs were significantly positively correlated with upregulated metabolites, whereas ABA and JA were significantly positively correlated with downregulated metabolites. Finally, a hypothetical metabolic network of endogenous hormones that regulate seed germination was constructed. This study deepens our understanding of the importance of endogenous hormonal profiles that mediate seed germination.

Bacterial cellulose impregnated with andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium) microencapsulation as diabetic wound dressing

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus which can cause infection, amputation and even death. One of many treatments that can be applied to support the DFU healing processes is by using wound dressings. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a good material to be used as a wound dressing. However, some of the limitations of BC to be applied as wound dressing are does not possess antibacterial properties and support the healing process. Andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium) is known to have antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory abilities that can support BC as a wound dressing. This research focused on the manufacture of BC/Z. acanthopodium microencapsulated wound dressing composites and evaluate their potential as a DFU wound dressing with a variety of gelatin composition in microencapsulation. The results of FTIR and SEM analysis showed that the Z. acanthopodium impregnation process in BC was successful. The variation of gelatine that used in microencapsulation affected the morphological and effectiveness of the wound dressing. However, overall, the wound dressings showed good antibacterial effect on E. coli and S. aureus bacteria and accelerating the wound closure process 8 times faster (BCAMc12) on the 17th day compared to wounds that did not receive any treatment.

promotes browning of white fat by activating TRPV1 to induce PPAR-γ deacetylation

BACKGROUND

Accumulating evidence suggested increasing energy expenditure is a feasible strategy for combating obesity, and browning of white adipose tissue (WAT) to promote thermogenesis might be one of the attractive ways. Hydroxy-α-sanshool (HAS), a natural amide alkaloid extracted from the fruits of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim, possesses lots of benefits in lipid metabolism regulation.

METHODS

The anti-obesity effect of HAS was investigated by establishing an animal model of obesity and a 3T3-L1 differentiation cell model. Effects of HAS on the whole-body fat and liver of obese mice, and the role of HAS in inducing browning of white fat were studied by Micro CT, Metabolic cage detection, Cell mitochondrial pressure detection, transmission electron microscopy and cold exposure assays. Furthermore, the Real-time PCR (qPCR), digital PCR (dPCR), western blot, Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), molecular docking, drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), Cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and other methods were used to investigate the target and mechanisms of HAS.

RESULTS

We found that treatment with HAS helped mice combat obesity caused by a high fat diet (HFD) and improve metabolic characteristics. In addition, our results suggested that the anti-obesity effect of HAS is related to increase energy consumption and thermogenesis via induction of browning of WAT. The further investigations uncovered that HAS can up-regulate UCP-1 expression, increase mitochondria number, and elevate the cellular oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) of white adipocytes. Importantly, the results indicated that browning effects of HAS is closely associated with SIRT1-dependent PPAR-γ deacetylation through activating the TRPV1/AMPK pathway, and TRPV1 is the potential drug target of HAS for the browning effects of WAT.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested the HAS can promote browning of WAT via regulating AMPK/SIRT-1/PPARγ signaling, and the potential drug target of HAS is the membrane receptor of TRPV1.

Improvement of the emulsifying properties of Zanthoxylum seed protein by ultrasonic modification

The influence of ultrasonic treatment (100-500 W, 30 min) on the molecular structures and emulsifying properties of Zanthoxylum seed protein (ZSP) was explored for the first time in this work. Research results indicated that the all ultrasonic treatments at different power levels decreased the particle size but increased the surface charge of ZSP. In addition, the ultrasonic treatments induced the structural unfolding of the ZAP, as indicated by the increase in α-helix, ultraviolet-visible absorbance, surface hydrophobicity and the amount of surface free sulfhydryl groups, as well as the decrease in β-sheet and intrinsic fluorescence intensity. As a result, the significantly (p < 0.05) increased emulsifying activity index (EAI) and emulsion stability index (ESI) of ZSP were observed after ultrasonic treatment. In addition, the emulsion prepared by ultrasonically treated ZSP exhibited the smaller and more uniform droplets with significantly improved stability against environmental stress (temperature, salt concentration, pH), creaming and oxidation due to the increased ratio of interfacially adsorbed ZSP. Furthermore, ultrasonic treatment at 400 W was found to be the optimum condition for modification. These findings will provide a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ultrasound in enhancing the emulsifying properties of ZSP and promoting its application in the field of food processing.

Activated carbon with high mesopore ratio derived from waste Zanthoxylum bungeanum branches by KNO3-assisted H3PO4 staged activation for toluene adsorption

Waste Zanthoxylum bungeanum branches were used to prepare activated carbon adsorbents with high mesopore ratio by H3PO4 staged activation method with adding KNO3 additive. The prepared activated carbon adsorbents were characterized by SEM, BET, FT-IR, and XRD. The adsorption properties of the prepared activated carbon adsorbents were evaluated by the toluene adsorption/desorption in air. The quasi-first-order, quasi-second-order, and Bangham models were used to fit the obtained toluene adsorption results. The oxidative etching of KNO3 additive improved the pore-forming ability of the H3PO4 activator to enhance the activation pore-forming effects of the selected biomass raw material. The secondary pore-forming effects of K atoms promoted the effective expansion of the pore diameter in the activated carbon preparation process to prepare activated carbon adsorbents with high mesopore proportion. The specific surface area and mesopore proportion of the activated carbon adsorbents prepared by adding KNO3 additive exceeded 1100 m2/g and 71.00%, respectively, and the toluene adsorption capacity exceeded 370.00 mg/g. The rich mesopore structures can effectively reduce the toluene mass transfer resistance, which can promote the corresponding activated carbon adsorbent to be regenerated by low-temperature (40 °C) thermal desorption. The toluene adsorption on the prepared activated carbon adsorbents includes surface adsorption and diffusion in pore structures, and the toluene adsorption mechanism is more consistent with the Bangham kinetic model.

Waterman

Microbial resistance is facilitated by biofilm formation and quorum-sensing mediated processes. In this work, the stem bark (ZM) and fruit extracts (ZMFT) of Zanthoxylum gilletii were subjected to column chromatography and afforded lupeol (1), 2,3-epoxy-6,7-methylenedioxyconiferyl alcohol (3), nitidine chloride (4), nitidine (7), sucrose (6) and sitosterol-β-D-glucopyranoside (2). The compounds were characterized using MS and NMR spectral data. The samples were evaluated for antimicrobial, antibiofilm and anti-quorum sensing activities. Highest antimicrobial activity was exhibited by compounds 3, 4 and 7 against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 200 µg/mL), compounds 3 and 4 against Escherichia coli (MIC = 100 µg/mL) and compounds 4 and 7 against Candida albicans (MIC = 50 µg/mL). At MIC and sub-MIC concentrations, all samples inhibited biofilm formation by pathogens and violacein production in C. violaceum CV12472 except compound 6. Good disruption of QS-sensing in C. violaceum revealed by inhibition zone diameters were exhibited by compounds 3 (11.5 ± 0.5 mm), 4 (12.5 ± 1.5 mm), 5 (15.0 ± 0.8 mm), 7 (12.0 ± 1.5 mm) as well as the crude extracts from stem barks (16.5 ± 1.2 mm) and seeds (13.0 ± 1.4 mm). The profound inhibition of quorum sensing mediated processes in test pathogens by compounds 3, 4, 5 and 7 suggests the methylenedioxy- group that these compounds possess as the possible pharmacophore.

Ethylene-induced improvement in photosynthetic performance of Zanthoxylum armatum under reoxygenation conditions

In this study, we evaluated the photosynthetic performance of Zanthoxylum armatum seedlings to test the tolerance to reoxygenation after waterlogging. The experiment included a control group without waterlogging (NW) and three reoxygenation groups with reoxygenation after 1day (WR1), 2days (WR2) and 3days (WR3). Seedlings were pretreated with concentrations of 0, 200 and 400μmolL-1 of ethylene. The results showed that reoxygenation after waterlogging for 1-3days decreased photosynthetic pigments content, enzymes activity, stomatal conductance (G s ), net photosynthetic rate (P n ), transpiration rate (T r ) and water-use efficiency (WUE). However, pretreatment with ethylene increased photosynthetic pigments content, enzymes activity and gas exchange parameters under both NW and WR3 treatments. The chlorophyll fluorescence results showed that the maximum quantum yield of PSII (F v /F m ) and actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (Φ PSII ) remained no significant changes under the NW and WR1 treatments, while they were significantly reduced with an increase in waterlogging days followed by reoxygenation under WR2 and WR3 treatments. Exogenous ethylene inhibited F v /F m and the non-photochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ), while enhanced Φ PSII and electron transfer efficiency (ETR) under WR2 treatments. Moreover, the accumulation of exogenous ethylene reduced photosynthetic ability. These findings provide insights into the role of ethylene in enhancing the tolerance of Z. armatum to reoxygenation stress, which could help mitigate the impact of continued climate change.

Optimization of enzyme-assisted microwave extraction of Zanthoxylum limonella essential oil using response surface methodology

Zanthoxylum limonella essential oil possesses potential antimicrobial activity and is of considerable interest as food flavouring and traditional herb. In this study, an enzymolysis-pretreatment-microwave-assisted extraction (EP-MAE) method was used to extract Z. limonella essential oil. The response surface methodology (RSM) with Plackett-Burman design (PBD) and Box-Behnken design (BBD) models were employed to optimize conditions in the EP-MAE method. Seven variables including water to plant ratio, enzyme amount, incubation temperature, incubation time, shaking speed, microwave time, and microwave power were selected to determine the optimal values for extracting Z. limonella essential oil. As the results, four variables including water to plant ratio, enzyme amount, microwave time and power were evaluated as significant variables affecting on yield and volatile compounds of Z. limonella essential oil from both PBD and BBD experiments. The optimum conditions of EP-MAE was obtained as follows: water to plant ratio (11.16 mL/g), enzyme amount (0.68%), microwave time (36.73 min), and power (1665 W). The Z. limonella essential oil composition and its yield from EP-MAE was compared to those extracted from MAE and hydrodistillation. The optimal extraction conditions in the EP-MAE method enhanced significantly higher essential oil yield (7.89 ± 0.08 mg/g) compared to those found by MAE (7.26 ± 0.04 mg/g) and hydrodistillation (7.04 ± 0.03 mg/g), respectively. Fifty-one volatile components were identified among these methods, with similar major compounds of limonene, β-pinene, and α-phellandrene, showing percentage ranging between 34.59-35.78%, 19.91-22.67%, 8.47-8.75%, respectively. However, an extremely higher content of compounds was detected using the EP-MAE method. This study demonstrates the significance of EP-MAE, which may be applied as a more potent extraction method for essential oils in aromatic plants compared to MAE and hydrodistillation.

Koch stem cutting: Histo-physiological and phytohormonal investigation

Poor rooting performance of Chinese pepper (Zanthoxylum beecheyanum K. Koch) shrub is a restriction for its commercial production. This investigation was carried out to assess the effectiveness of the exogenous application of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) on adventitious root (AR) formation and some morpho-physiological, biochemical, and histological alterations associated with rhizogenesis events. IBA, at 1500 or 2000 mg kg^-1, gave comparable effects for improving the performance of rooting architecture compared to the control treatment. The AR primordia of Z. beecheyanum originated from two distinct developmental pathways: (i) direct genesis from cells in the cambial zone and nearby tissues, and (ii) indirect genesis from cells in callus tissues. Rooting process involved four phases: (i) induction at 0-10 days after planting (DAP), (ii) initiation at 10-15 DAP, (iii) formation of the root primordia (Rp) at 15-20 DAP, and (iv) root extension at 20-30 DAP. Cuttings' inductive phase correlated temporarily with intensive cell divisions, high levels of endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellins (GA₃). However, IBA application led to a pronounced increase in soluble sugars and phenolic content. The initiation phase was accompanied by a histological appearance of meristemoids. This phase was also stimulated by the subsequent generation of low IAA and high GA₃ contents. In the development of Rp and root extension phases, prominent Rp formation in the cambium and complete differentiation with vascular tissues continued with that of the stem cuttings. In essence, the current study provides insights into the morphological, histo-physiological, and phytohormonal alterations in stem cuttings.

(Rutaceae): An update

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Plants have been used in various parts of the world to treat various diseases. The genus Zanthoxylum L. (Rutaceae) is the second largest genus of this family and comprises approximately 225-549 species distributed in the tropical and temperate regions of the world. Plants of this genus are trees and shrubs with various applications in folklore medicine for food, medicine, construction, and other uses.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The goal of this review is to give an updated data on the ethnobotanical applications, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of the Zanthoxylum species to investigate their medicinal potential and identify research gaps for future research studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was obtained through a systematic search of published literature and online databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, and Sci-Finder. The botanical names were confirmed using the World Flora Online and chemical structures were drawn using the ChemBio Draw Ultra Version 14.0 Software.

RESULTS

The Zanthoxylum species have a wide use in different parts of the continents as a remedy for various diseases such as digestive diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, venereal diseases, respiratory diseases, rheumatism, bacterial diseases, viral, and other diseases. Various parts of the plant comprising fruits, seeds, twigs, leaves, oils, and stems are administered singly or in the form of decoction, infusion, powder, paste, poultice, juice, or mixed with other medicinal plants to cure the disease. More than 400 secondary metabolites have been isolated and characterized in this genus with various biological activities, which comprise alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, lignans, alcohols, fatty acids, amides, sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, and hydrocarbons. The crude extracts, fractions, and chemical compounds isolated from the genus have demonstrated a wide range of biological activities both in vivo and in vitro, including; anti-cancer, antimicrobial, anti-sickling, hepatoprotective, antipyretic, antitumor, and other pharmacological activities.

CONCLUSION

This genus has demonstrated an array of phytoconstituents with therapeutic potential. The ethnobotanical uses of this genus have been confirmed in modern pharmacological research. This genus is a potential source for modern drug discovery and health care products. Further and extensive research is therefore required on the safety approval and therapeutic application of the species of this genus as well as clinical trials and pharmacokinetic studies.

Insecticidal and Repellent Effects of the Essential Oils Extract from Zanthoxylum myriacanthum against Three Storage Pests

The co-storage of two or more Chinese herbal medicines can effectively prevent the herbs from the damage by pests. Thus, it is important to protect herbs and crops to study Chinese herbal medicines and their medicinal components against storage pests. This study aimed to assess the insecticidal activities and repellent effect of essential oils (EOs) extracted from fruits at different periods from Zanthoxylum myriacanthum Wall. ex Hook. f. (1 h, 2 h, 3-5 h and 5-7 h), and their major compounds against three kinds of pests (Tribolium castaneum, Lasioderma serricorne, and Liposcelis bostrychophila). The results of gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis revealed homomyrtenol (22.56 %, 28.01 %, 28.48 % and 28.41 %, respectively) and p-cymene (30.58 %, 13.95 %, 24.97 % and 6.85 %, respectively) were the common major compounds of the EOs at 1 h, 2 h, 3-5 h, and 5-7 h. m-Cymene contents in EOs of fruits, 1 h, 2 h and 3-5 h were 3.85 %, 0.95 %, 6.71 %, and 6.15 %, respectively. According to Principal component analysis (PCA), the composition of fruits' EO was significantly different from other EOs due to the different collection times. The bio-assays showed that EOs and major compounds were toxic to all three pests, but the fumigation effect on L. bostrychophila was not noticeable. EOs extracted at different times had a repellent effect on the three pests at the highest concentration (78.63 nL/cm2 ), but the attractive effects of the EOs of 3-5 h, 5-7 h, and p-cymene were observed at the low concentrations (3.15, 0.63 and 0.13 nL/cm2 ). Our results suggest that Z. myriacanthum have the potential to be developed as biological insecticides.

on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

The effect of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. (ZBM) on anti-obesity, lipid-lowering and liver protection has been identified, but the effect on the development of NAFLD induced by high-fat diet remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the alleviation effect of ZBM on NAFLD in vivo and explore the mechanisms by analyzing the liver transcriptome, microbiota and fecal metabolites.

METHODS

NAFLD model was induced in C57BL/6J mice by feeding with high-fat diet (HFD). The potential mechanism of ZBM in improving NAFLD was studied by liver transcriptome analysis, real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, 16s rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabonomics.

RESULTS

ZBM has alleviation effects on HFD-induced NAFLD. The liver transcriptome, real-time PCR and immunofluorescence analysis showed that ZBM could efficiently regulate fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism. The 16S rRNA sequencing and LC-MS based metabonomic demonstrated that ZBM could rebalance gut microbiota dysbiosis and regulate metabolic profiles in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a strong correlation between gut microbiota and biochemical, pathological indexes and differential metabolic biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

ZBM ameliorates HFD-induced NAFLD by regulating fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism, gut microbiota and metabolic profile.

Undescribed isoquinolines from Zanthoxylum nitidum and their antiproliferative effects against human cancer cell lines

Eleven previously undescribed alkaloids, including three pairs of enantiomers nitidumalkaloids A-C, a pair of scalemic mixtures nitidumalkaloid D and three optically pure or achiral alkaloids, nitidumalkaloids E-G, along with 20 known alkaloids, were isolated from an ethanolic extract of the whole Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC plant. The chemical structures of the alkaloids were elucidated using a combination of comprehensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution electro-spray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS) analyses. The configuration of the stereogenic centers of all undescribed compounds was precisely established based on single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Racemic mixtures of nitidumalkaloids A-D were purified, and their enantiomers were analyzed via chiral-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection measurements (HPLC-ECD). Twelve compounds exhibited significant antiproliferative activities against a panel of cancer cell lines. Further studies were designed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism of (1'S, 6R)-nitidumalkaloid B, which was the most active antiproliferative agent against human cancer A549 cells. G2/M cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis, and suppression of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were in part associated with the antiproliferative activity of (1'S, 6R)-nitidumalkaloid B. Moreover, (1'S, 6R)-nitidumalkaloid B inhibited cell migration by downregulating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in A549 cells. These data suggest that the antiproliferation activity of (1'S, 6R)-nitidumalkaloid B was correlated with the stereoselectivity of the stereoisomers, and (1'S, 6R)-nitidumalkaloid B was prioritized as a potential leading compound for the management of aggressive human non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from natural products.

Phytochemical Analysis by FTIR of Zanthoxylum Acanthopodium, DC Fruit Ethanol Extract, N-hexan, Ethyl Acetate and Water Fraction

Background

Andaliman fruit is used as spice in Batak cuisine, North Sumatera, Indonesia. The potency of andaliman fruit extract as herbal medicine is widely studied. Many studies elaborate the benefits of andaliman fruit extract as an antioxidant, antibacterial or anticancer.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the phytochemical compounds of andaliman fruit extract and its fractions.

Methods

The andaliman fruit was originated from Balige city, Tobasa Regency, North Sumatera. The extract was made by maceration within ethanol and followed by fractionation with n-hexan, ethyl acetate and water. The phytochemical screening by chemical reactions, thin layer chromatography, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer were performed.

Results

This study found andaliman fruit ethanol extract consists of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, triterpens, and steroids. The n-hexan fraction consists of triterpens and steroids, ethyl acetate fraction consists of flavonoids and glycosides, and water fraction consists of alkaloid, flavonoid, and glycosides. Andaliman fruit ethanol extract had eight color spots, n-hexan and ethyl acetate fraction had five color spots and water fraction had two color spots. Andaliman fruit ethanol extract had functional group of C-H alkanes, =C-H alkenes (aliphatic), O-H, C=C alkenes, C=C aromatics, C≡C alkynes, C-O, C=O, and NO2. The n-hexan fraction had C-H alkanes, =C-H alkenes (aliphatic), O-H, C=C alkenes, C-O, C=O, and NO2. The ethyl acetate fraction had C-H alkanes, =C-H alkenes (aliphatic), O-H, C=C alkenes, C=C aromatics, C-O, C=O, and NO2. The water fraction had C-H alkanes, =C-H alkenes (aliphatic), O-H, C=C aromatics, C≡C alkynes, and C-O.

Conclusion

Phytochemical screening found that andaliman fruit ethanol extract, n-hexan, ethyl acetate and water fraction positive of phytochemical compounds. The FTIR of andaliman fruit ethanol extract, n-hexan fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, and water fraction showed the absorbance of C-H alkanes, O-H, C-O, and C=C alkenes indicating the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoid saponin.

Leaves: Characterization and Effects on Bemisia tabaci Middle-East Asia Minor 1

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Middle-East Asia Minor 1 is a major pest of agricultural production systems. It is controlled by synthetic insecticides. Essential oils are promising eco-friendly alternatives. This study developed and characterized nanoparticles loaded with essential oils of Zanthoxylum riedelianum Engl. (Rutaceae) leaves and evaluated their potential for B. tabaci management. The essential oil exhibited an average yield of 0.02% (w w^-1) and showed as major components γ-elemene (24.81%), phytol (18.16%), bicyclogermacrene (16.18%), cis-nerolidol (8.26%), and D-germacrene (6.52%). Characterization of the nanoparticles showed a pH between 4.5 and 6.7, a zeta potential of approximately - 25 mV, particle-size distribution ranging from 450 to 550 nm, and encapsulation efficiency close to 98%. The nanoencapsulation was an efficient process that provided photostability against photodegradation. Bioassays with crude and nanoencapsulated essential oils significantly reduced the number of nymphs and eggs of B. tabaci, with the best results observed at concentrations of 5 and 2% (v v^-1). Our results demonstrated that essential oils from Z. riedelianum can be nanoformulated resulting in a stable product while maintaining their biological activity against B. tabaci Middle-East Asia Minor 1.

Sanguinarine, a major alkaloid from Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC., inhibits urease of Helicobacter pylori and jack bean: Susceptibility and mechanism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC. (Z. nitidum) is a traditional Chinese medicine and mainly adopted to treat gastric ulcer, gastritis and stomach cancer. Sanguinarine (SNG), a natural alkaloid isolated from Z. nitidum, possesses significant anti-Helicobacter pylori and gastric protection effects. However, the underlying mechanism is sparsely elucidated.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

The present study aims to explore the inhibition effect, kinetics and potential mechanism of SNG against H. pylori urease (HPU) and jack bean urease (JBU).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The improved spectrophotometric berthelot method was applied to estimate the inhibitory effect of SNG against HPU and JBU. The Lineweaver-Burk plots were adopted for investigating the inhibitory pattern in enzymatic kinetics. Sulfydryl-containing compounds and competitive active-site Ni²⁺ binding depressors were used for mechanism research.

RESULTS

SNG remarkably suppressed the activities of HPU and JBU in concentration-and time-dependent mode with IC₅₀ of 0.48 ± 0.14 mM and 0.11 ± 0.02 mM, respectively, in comparison with urease retardant acetohydroxamic acid (0.06 ± 0.01 mM for HPU and 0.03 ± 0.00 mM for JBU, respectively). Kinetic analysis demonstrated that the inhibition of SNG against HPU and JBU were separately characterized by slow-binding, mixed-type and slow-binding, non-competitive type. Addition of sulfydryl-containing reagents (dithiothreitol, glutathione and L-cysteine) and competitive Ni²⁺ binding restrainers (boric acid and sodium fluoride) significantly abrogated the urease inhibitory effect of SNG, suggesting the significant role of the thiols and Ni²⁺ for the urease inhibition by SNG. By contrast, interaction with thiol groups possibly contributed to the repression of SNG on JBU. Furthermore, the urease suppression was proved to be partially reversible since the SNG-blocked enzyme could be partly reactivated by glutathione.

CONCLUSION

SNG could observably inhibit H. pylori urease targeting the thiols and Ni²⁺, which indicated that SNG was a new urease suppressant with great promise. The present research also provided scientific evidence for the application of SNG and Z. nitidum treating H. pylori-associated gastrointestinal diseases.

Acute toxicity of Zanthoxylum bungeanum against two stored product insects and synergistic interactions between two major compounds limonene and linalool

In order to find and develop new botanical pesticides against storage pests, components of the essential oil (EO) from Zanthoxylum bungeanum were identified by GC-MS and their insecticidal activity against the stored product pests were studied. The EO was obtained by steam distillation. Results showed that EO was rich in limonene (23.67), linalool (21.76) and linalyl anthranilate (10.87). In contact assays, linalool exhibited strongest toxicity to red flour beetle adult (LD₅₀ = 17.06 μg/adult) and larvae (LD₅₀ = 16.42 μg/larvae), and linalool was the most active one against the Lasioderma serricorne (LD₅₀ = 15.36 μg/larvae). Then limonene and linalool showed different levels of fumigant activities against the two insect species. Synergism effect existed in the proportion of contact assays against Tribolium castaneum adults, and additive was observed in the proportion of 7:1 against T. castaneum larvae. This work provides important information for the development and utilization of Z. bungeanum and suggests that the EO of Z. bungeanum has the potential to serve as bio-insecticides for controlling pest damage in stored products.

Ethyl acetate fraction of Fagara zanthoxyloides root-bark possess antidiabetic property against alloxan-induced diabetes and its complications in Wistar rat model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fagara zanthoxyloides Lam., an African traditional medicinal plant, is used for treatment of malaria and diabetes.

AIM

To investigate the antidiabetic property of ethyl acetate fraction of F. zanthoxyloides root-bark (EAFFZRB) on alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Extraction, isolation, preliminary phytochemical analysis, and acute toxicity study of ethanol extract and fractions of F. zanthoxyloides root-bark were achieved using standard methods. Phyto-constituents in EAFFZRB were identified using HPLC technique. Forty-eight male Wistar rats (140-185 g) were randomized into 6 groups (n = 8). Groups 1 and 2 served as normal and negative controls, respectively. Diabetes was induced in test groups (2-6) using 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w) Alloxan monohydrate. Rats in groups 4-6 received of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg b.w. EAFFZRB orally, respectively, for 21 days. Group 3 rats received 5 mg/kg b.w Glibenclamide. The effect of EAFFZRB on alterations in hematological, biochemical, and histological indices of study rats were assessed.

RESULTS

Extraction of 3500 g ethanol extract yielded 15.71 g EAFFZRB. HPLC fingerprint of EAFFZRB indicated presence of luteolin, rutin, quercetin, apigenin, cinnamic acid and catechin. Diabetes triggered significant (p < 0.05) alterations in b.w., hematological, biochemical and histological indices of test rats relative to normal control. Treatment with EAFFZRB (LD₅₀ = 3807.9 mg/kg b.w.) resulted in remarkable improvements in altered b.w. changes, hematological, biochemical and histological parameters of diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated the antidiabetic potential of EAFFZRB, providing scientific basis for traditional use of the plant in treatment of diabetes and its complications.

Hierarchical porous activated carbon from waste Zanthoxylum bungeanum branches by modified H3PO4 activation for toluene removal in air

Activated carbon adsorbents were prepared by chemical activation with waste Zanthoxylum bungeanum branches as raw materials and H₃PO₄/H₂SO₄ as composite activator under different dosages of the auxiliary activator H₂SO₄. The prepared samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area test, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The adsorption/desorption performances of low concentration toluene in the air were evaluated, and its reusability was evaluated by the adsorption/desorption cycle. Adsorption results were fitted using the quasi-first, quasi-second, and Bangham models. The adsorption properties of activated carbon adsorbent for toluene in the air show a "volcanic-type change trend" with the increase of H₂SO₄ dosage. The toluene adsorption properties of the prepared activated carbon adsorbents from high to low are as follows: BAC02 > BAC05 > BAC01 > BAC10 > BAC00. When the mass fraction of auxiliary activator H₂SO₄ was 2.0%, the adsorption amount of toluene on the prepared BAC02 activated carbon adsorbent increased by 51%, reaching 511 mg/g. After thermal desorption at 200℃, the adsorption performance of toluene was regenerated. The adsorption process of toluene conforms to the quasi-first-order model and Bangham model. The whole adsorption process can be divided into three stages: outer surface adsorption, intra-channel diffusion, and adsorption equilibrium. The addition amount of H₂SO₄ significantly affected the specific surface area, pore volume, and pore size distribution of the prepared activated carbon adsorbent.

Phytochemical and anti-MRSA constituents of Zanthoxylum nitidum

Infectious diseases caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, pose a significant threat to humanity. Persistent and repeated invasive infection with MRSA led to higher morbidity and mortality, and required comprehensive measures in treatment and prevention. Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC. is used as detoxifying, analgesic, and hemostatic herbal medicine for thousands of years. Previously pharmacological studies showed that Z. nitidum had antibacterial bioactivity, but only the MIC of a few compounds, crude extracts, and fractions were reported. In our ongoing endeavor to explore bioactive compounds, two new coumarins, 6-(3-oxo-butyl)-limettin (1) and toddalin I (2), and 24 known compounds were isolated from the roots of Z. nitidum, in which two isoquinoline alkaloids, 6-acetonyl-dihydrofagaridine (16) and 6-acetonyl-dihydrochelerythrine (17) showed anti-MRSA bioactivity in vitro and in vivo. Both 16 and 17 showed synergistic action with ampicillin, which decreased the MIC significantly, and both compounds had a significant ability to destroy bacterial biofilm combined with ampicillin. The combined administration showed a strong scavenging effect on the planktonic bacteria in vitro and cleared skin infection effectively in the model of wound infection in vivo. Furthermore, compound 16 inhibited the efflux of the drug by combining with ampicillin or EtBr, resulting in the MIC decreased obviously. Our investigation supported the traditional use of Z. nitidum in treating infections caused by bacteria, and might provide new natural products to reduce the use of antibiotics and the treatment of drug-resistance bacteria.

Use of mineral element profiling coupled with chemometric analysis to distinguish Zanthoxylum bungeanum cultivars and health risks of potentially toxic elements in pericarps

BACKGROUND

Zanthoxylum bungeanum pericarps (ZBP) are commonly used as food additives and traditional herbal medicines. Several mineral elements are known to have important physiological functions in organisms, whereas others are reported to have toxic effects. We determined levels of macro elements (Mg, S and Ca), essential trace elements (B, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Se and Mo) and toxic elements (Ni, Al, Cr, As, Cd, Hg and Pb) in the pericarps of 19 Z. bungeanum cultivars. Hazard index values and incremental lifetime cancer risks were calculated to express health risks associated with pericarp consumption. Moreover, several chemometric analyses based on the mineral elements were used to distinguish Z. bungeanum cultivars.

RESULTS

The concentrations of 17 determined elements in the pericarps were ranked: Ca > Mg > S > Fe > Al > Mn > Zn > B > Cu > Ni > Pb > Cr > Mo > As > Cd > Hg > Se. The elements Zn, Cr and As had the highest variations in their concentrations. Cu, Mn, Se, Zn, Al, As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni and Pb posed some non-cancer risks, while As and Cd posed cancer risks. Mn, Fe, Zn, and Al were chosen as critical element markers for assessing ZBP using chemometric analyses.

CONCLUSION

Chemometric analyses could highlight mineral concentration differentiation among the 19 cultivars. The Z. bungeanum cultivar Z12 (from Wudu, Gansu) is best for producing ZBP, and cultivar Z18 (Guanling, Guizhou) can be a reference to classify and evaluate ZBP quality. The results provide valuable information for evaluating the potential safety risks of ZBP and contribute to inter-cultivar discrimination. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Preclinical evaluation of Zanthoxylum piperitum Benn., traditional muscle pain remedy, for joint inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum piperitum has been used as a traditional Asian medicine to treat hypertension, stroke, bruise and muscle pain. It has been known to induce detoxification; affect anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, and tyrosinase activity; inhibit osteosarcoma proliferation; anti-osteoarthritis inflammation. In this study, we aim to identify the therapeutic effect of Z. piperitum 90% EtOH extract (ZPE-LR) on rheumatoid arthritis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We investigated the anti-rheumatoid arthritis and -immunomodulatory activities of the ZPE-LR in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) mice, a rheumatoid arthritis animal model. In order to assess the analgesic effects of ZPE-LR in vivo, acetic acid injection, formaldehyde injection, hot plate model was used. The mechanism for anti-inflammatory activity of ZPE-LR was identified with LPS-stimulated Raw 264.7 cells.

RESULTS

Pharmacologically, oral administration of ZPE-LR into CIA mice resulted in a significant and dose-dependent decrease in clinical arthritis score and paw swelling compared to untreated negative control. Pathologic examination showed that ZPE-LR prevented morphological change in cartilage and destruction of phalanges in CIA mice. This protective effect was associated with reduced pain, inflammatory mediators such as NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as COX-2 and iNOS expression. Furthermore, reduction of phosphor-ERK and BDNF indicates a novel rheumatoid arthritis-regulating mechanism by ZPE-LR treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the administration of ZPE-LR remarkably inhibited CIA progression and might be helpful in suppressing inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

A Real-Time Zanthoxylum Target Detection Method for an Intelligent Picking Robot under a Complex Background, Based on an Improved YOLOv5s Architecture

The target recognition algorithm is one of the core technologies of Zanthoxylum pepper-picking robots. However, most existing detection algorithms cannot effectively detect Zanthoxylum fruit covered by branches, leaves and other fruits in natural scenes. To improve the work efficiency and adaptability of the Zanthoxylum-picking robot in natural environments, and to recognize and detect fruits in complex environments under different lighting conditions, this paper presents a Zanthoxylum-picking-robot target detection method based on improved YOLOv5s. Firstly, an improved CBF module based on the CBH module in the backbone is raised to improve the detection accuracy. Secondly, the Specter module based on CBF is presented to replace the bottleneck CSP module, which improves the speed of detection with a lightweight structure. Finally, the Zanthoxylum fruit algorithm is checked by the improved YOLOv5 framework, and the differences in detection between YOLOv3, YOLOv4 and YOLOv5 are analyzed and evaluated. Through these improvements, the recall rate, recognition accuracy and mAP of the YOLOv5s are 4.19%, 28.7% and 14.8% higher than those of the original YOLOv5s, YOLOv3 and YOLOv4 models, respectively. Furthermore, the model is transferred to the computing platform of the robot with the cutting-edge NVIDIA Jetson TX2 device. Several experiments are implemented on the TX2, yielding an average time of inference of 0.072, with an average GPU load in 30 s of 20.11%. This method can provide technical support for pepper-picking robots to detect multiple pepper fruits in real time.

Correlation of Myc Expression with Wee1 Expression by Zanthoxylum acanthopodium in Cervical Carcinoma Histology

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; Natural herbs and molecular therapy can be used to treat cervical cancer. The Myc and Wee1 control tumour cell fate and microenvironmental changes like angiogenesis activation and host immune response suppression. The study aims to know about the correlation of Myc and Wee1 expressions as a molecular therapy given by &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt;. &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; There are five rat groups: Group K&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt; is the untreated group, Group K&lt;sup&gt;+&lt;/sup&gt; is the rats injected with benzopyrene, Group P&lt;sub&gt;1&lt;/sub&gt; is the administration of &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; 100 mg kg&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt; b.wt., Group P&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; is the administration of &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; 200 mg kg&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt; b.wt. and Group P&lt;sub&gt;3&lt;/sub&gt; is the administration of &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; 400 mg kg&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt; b.wt. The rats are dissected 30 days after receiving &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt;. To stain the cervical tissues, immunohistochemistry is performed. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; administration caused epithelial thickening and decreased Myc expression in previously uncontrolled carcinomas from untreated malignancies, which now slowed and stopped growing into the normal epithelium. Wee1 expression revealed that this herb could repair tissue by drastically reducing Wee1 expression at a dose of 100-400 mg kg&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt; b.wt. Similarly, at the highest dose, cervical carcinoma stops growing and the nucleus begins to form normally (p<0.01). &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; The higher Myc expression on andaliman administration in cervical carcinoma decreases Wee1 expression in cervical carcinoma so these two proteins have a strong and significant correlation. &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; can be administered at various dosages to lower the number of positive indexes of Myc and Wee1 expression in cervical carcinoma.

EGFL7 and HIF-1a Expression on Human Trophoblast Placental by Rhodomyrtus tomentosa and Zanthoxylum acanthopodium

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;i&gt;HIF-1α&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;EGFL7&lt;/i&gt; are genes found in the placenta that play an important role in the regulation of trophoblast differentiation, hypoxia is glycolysis, red blood cell production and angiogenesis. Indonesia has antioxidant plants such as andaliman (&lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt;) and haramonting (&lt;i&gt;Rhodomyrtus tomentosa&lt;/i&gt;). This study aimed to analyze the role of &lt;i&gt;EGFL7&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;HIF-1α&lt;/i&gt; genes on human trophoblast after administration of these 2 herbs. &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; This study used HTR8 trophoblast cells with 4 incubation times, namely 30 min 1, 3 and 16 hrs (overnight) with a total of 48 weeks and then observed the cells. Cells were cultured in RPMI1640, then RNA isolation was performed, mRNA was reverse transcribed and analyzed using RT-PCR. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; Nanoherbal &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; (NZA) to the &lt;i&gt;EGFL7&lt;/i&gt; gene, the longer the incubation time of human trophoblast cells, the less expression of the &lt;i&gt;EGFL7&lt;/i&gt; gene (p<0.05). On the other hand, in the administration of Nanoherbal &lt;i&gt;Rhodomyrtus tomentose&lt;/i&gt; (NRT), the longer the incubation time of human trophoblast cells, the higher the expression of the &lt;i&gt;EGFL7&lt;/i&gt; gene. In the &lt;i&gt;HIF-1α&lt;/i&gt; gene, only incubation time >16 hrs of human trophoblast cells treated with Nanoherbal &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt; (NZA) can reduce &lt;i&gt;HIF-1α&lt;/i&gt; gene expression. However, the longer the incubation time of human trophoblast cells on the administration of Nanoherbal &lt;i&gt;Rhodomyrtus tomentosa&lt;/i&gt; (NRT), the more the &lt;i&gt;HIF-1α&lt;/i&gt; gene expression decreased (p<0.01). &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;i&gt;Rhodomyrtus tomentosa&lt;/i&gt; gave a more significant effect than &lt;i&gt;Zanthoxylum acanthopodium&lt;/i&gt;.

Dissipation of imidacloprid and its metabolites in Chinese prickly ash (Zanthoxylum) and their dietary risk assessment

Dissipation of imidacloprid (IMI) and its metabolites (urea, olefin, 5-hydroxy, guanidine, 6-chloronicotinic acid) in Chinese prickly ash (CPA) was investigated using QuEChERS combined with UPLC-MS/MS. Good linearity (r² ≥0.9963), accuracy (recoveries of 71.8-104.3%), precision (relative standard deviations of 0.9-9.4%), and sensitivity (limit of quantification ≤0.05 mg kg^-1) were obtained. After application of IMI at dosage of 467 mg a.i. L^-1 for three times with interval of 7 d, the dissipation dynamics of IMI in CPA followed first-order kinetics, with half-life of 6.48-7.29 d. IMI was the main compound in CPA, followed by urea and guanidine with small amounts of olefin, 5-hydroxy, and 6-chloronicotinic acid. The terminal residues of total IMI and its metabolites at PHI of 14-21 d were 0.16-7.80 mg kg^-1 in fresh CPA and 0.41-10.44 mg kg^-1 in dried CPA, with the median processing factor of 3.62. Risk assessment showed the acute (RQa) and chronic dietary risk quotients (RQc) of IMI in CPA were 0.020-0.083% and 0.052-0.334%, respectively. Based on the dietary structures of different genders and ages of Chinese people, the whole dietary risk assessment indicated that RQc was less than 100% for the general population except for 2- to 7-year-old children (RQc of 109.9%), implying the long-term risks of IMI were acceptable to common consumers except for children.

Two new prenylated coumarins from roots of Zanthoxylum nitidum

Two new prenylated coumarins, 3'-hydroxytoddanone (1), and isotoddalolactone (2), along with four known analogues (3-6) were isolated from the roots of Zanthoxylum nitidum. Their chemical structures were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic interpretation and HR-ESI-MS analysis. The absolute configuration of compound 2 was determined by comparing experimental ECD spectrum with that calculated by the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) method. Compounds 4-6 were isolated from the Zanthoxylum genus for the first time. The two new compounds were tested for antiproliferative activities in vitro on the HL-60, K562 and THP-1 cell lines. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited moderate cell growth inhibitory activities in vitro against human leukemic HL-60 cell lines, with IC₅₀ values of 32.64 and 33.15 µM, respectively.

Sesquiterpene Synthases of Zanthoxylum ailanthoides: Sources of Unique Aromas of a Folklore Plant in Taiwan

Zanthoxylum ailanthoides is a traditional spice crop in Taiwan with unique smells and tastes that differ between prickly (young) and nonprickly (mature) leaves. Different volatile terpenes between prickly young and nonprickly mature leaves were identified and considered to be one of the sources of their aromas. A transcriptome database was established to explore the biosynthesis of these compounds, and candidate terpene synthase genes were identified. The functions of these synthases were investigated using recombinant protein reactions in both purification and coexpression assays. ZaTPS1, ZaTPS2, and ZaTPS3 are germacrene D synthases, with different amino acid sequences. The main products of ZaTPS4 are trans-α-bergamotene and (E)-β-farnesene, whereas ZaTPS5 forms multiple products, and ZaTPS6 produces β-caryophyllene. ZaTPS7 forms monoterpene (E)-β-ocimene and sesquiterpene (E,E)-α-farnesene. Reverse transcription PCR of ZaTPS gene expression in young and mature leaves revealed that ZaTPS1 was responsible for the mellow aroma in mature leaves. The expression of ZaTPS6 suggested that it plays a role in the background aromas of both types of leaves. Our findings deepened the understanding of the volatile compounds of Z. ailanthoides and revealed the source of its unique aromas by clarifying the biosynthesis of these compounds.

Composition, structure and flavor mechanism of numbing substances in Chinese prickly ash in the genus Zanthoxylum: A review

Chinese prickly ash is known for producing a typical pungent sensation in Sichuan Cuisine. Accumulating evidence suggest a series of health benefits and pharmacological effects associated with prickly ash. Therefore, a systematic analysis of the composition, structural properties, detection, and flavor mechanism of numbing substances is highly necessitated to address their future application. Sanshool-based unsaturated amides are the primary cause of tingling. The numbing substances have poor stability and are prone to oxidation and decomposition reactions due to their highly unsaturated conjugated diene structures. Pungent sensations evoked by different sanshools are distinct, which is attributed to different mechanisms of interaction with membrane ion channels (TRPV1, TRPA1, and KCNK). In this paper, the composition, structural properties (such as isomerization, oxidation), detection, and flavor mechanism of numbing substances of prickly ash were summarized. The prospective application and future research direction of numbing substances in the prickly ash industry were also proposed.

Neurotoxic Zanthoxylum chalybeum root constituents invoke mosquito larval growth retardation through ecdysteroidogenic CYP450s transcriptional perturbations

Intracellular effects exerted by phytochemicals eliciting insect growth-retarding responses during vector control intervention remain largely underexplored. We studied the effects of Zanthoxylum chalybeum Engl. (Rutaceae) (ZCE) root derivatives against malaria (Anopheles gambiae) and arbovirus vector (Aedes aegypti) larvae to decipher possible molecular targets. We report dose-dependent biphasic effects on larval response, with transient exposure to ZCE and its bioactive fraction (ZCFr.5) inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, inducing larval lethality and growth retardation at sublethal doses. Half-maximal lethal concentrations (LC₅₀) for ZCE against An. gambiae and Ae. aegypti larvae after 24-h exposure were 9.00 ppm and 12.26 ppm, respectively. The active fraction ZCFr.5 exerted LC₅₀ of 1.58 ppm and 3.21 ppm for An. gambiae and Ae. aegypti larvae, respectively. Inhibition of AChE was potentially linked to larval toxicity afforded by 2-tridecanone, palmitic acid (hexadecanoic acid), linoleic acid ((Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic acid), sesamin, β-caryophyllene among other compounds identified in the bioactive fraction. In addition, the phenotypic larval retardation induced by ZCE root constituents was exerted through transcriptional modulation of ecdysteroidogenic CYP450 genes. Collectively, these findings provide an explorative avenue for developing potential mosquito control agents from Z. chalybeum root constituents.

Pollination promotes ABA synthesis but not sexual reproduction in the apomictic species Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim

Apomixis is a form of reproduction that does not involve the fertilization of female gametes by male gametes but instead involves the production of offspring directly from the female parent. The offspring of apomixis are genetically identical to the female parent and inherit its traits. Therefore, apomixis has great potential for application to agricultural genetic breeding. However, it remains unclear whether apomictic species require pollination, and the impacts of pollination on such species are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of pollination on the apomictic species Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. by analyzing its fertilization process, assembling its transcriptome, and measuring hormone concentrations, fruit setting rate and gene expression levels. Transcriptome sequencing of pollinated and unpollinated fruits resulted in a total of 69,131 PacBio reads. Of these, 7102 genes were up-regulated and 6491 genes were down-regulated. Analysis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and construction of a weighted gene co-expression network showed that many DEGs were involved in plant hormone signal transduction, suggesting that hormonal signaling during development differs between pollinated and unpollinated fruit. The germination rate of Z. bungeanum pollen in vitro was only 11%, and pollen could not germinate in the embryo sac to complete fertilization. Although pollination did not enable Z. bungeanum to complete the sexual reproduction process, it significantly increased abscisic acid (ABA) concentration and fruit setting rate. Spraying 100 μg l-1 ABA also significantly increased the fruit setting rate. Therefore, ABA appears to be a key factor in the regulation of fruit setting in apomictic Z. bungeanum. Based on these results, we suggest that some male plants be cultivated in Z. bungeanum plantations or exogenous ABA be sprayed to increase the likelihood of pollination and thereby increase the fruit setting rate.

Biotransformation of alkylamides and alkaloids by lactic acid bacteria strains isolated from Zanthoxylum bungeanum meal

Zanthoxylum bungeanum meal (ZBM) is the by-product of Z. bungeanum seeds after pressing. It is restricted as a feed additive because it contains stimulating and potentially harmful substances, which are alkylamides and alkaloids. This study described the use of Lactobacillus paracasei and L. acidipiscis isolated from ZBM in solid-state fermentation of ZBM to reduce the concentration of undesirable alkylamides and alkaloids. By optimizing the substrate and fermentation conditions, the minimum contents of alkylamide and alkaloid were 2.96 and 3.20 mg/g, and the degradation rates reached 51.86% and 39.59%, respectively. Moreover, the biotransformation pathways of hydroxyl-α-sanshool and chelerythrine were established by identifying the metabolites. Bacterial diversity was shift significantly, and the relative abundance of Lactobacillus increased from 0.10% to 99.0% after fermentation. In conclusion, this study introduced a reliable strategy for processing ZBM as a feed additive.

ZxNHX1 indirectly participates in controlling K+ homeostasis in the xerophyte Zygophyllum xanthoxylum

The succulent xerophyte Zygophyllum xanthoxylum (Bunge) Engl. can absorb Na+ from the soil as an osmoticum in order to resist osmotic stress. The tonoplast Na+/H+ antiporter ZxNHX1 is essential for maintaining the salt-accumulation characteristics of Z. xanthoxylum by compartmentalizing Na+ into vacuoles. Previous results revealed that the silencing of ZxNHX1 greatly decreased Na+ accumulation in Z. xanthoxylum under 50 mM NaCl due to the weakened compartmentalisation; in addition, K+ concentration also significantly reduced in ZxNHX1-RNAi lines. Yet, whether the reduction of K+ concentration was directly triggered by the silencing of ZxNHX1 remains unclear. In this study, the growth parameters and expression levels of ZxSOS1, ZxHKT1;1, ZxAKT1 and ZxSKOR were measured in wild-type and ZxNHX1-RNAi lines under control or -0.5 MPa osmotic stress. The results showed that the silencing of ZxNHX1 inhibited the plant growth, decreased Na+ concentration in leaves, reduced the transcript abundance of ZxSOS1 and dramatically increased that of ZxHKT1;1 in roots of Z. xanthoxylum under osmotic stress; whereas tissue K+ concentrations and the expression level of ZxSKOR displayed no significant variations, and the expression of ZxAKT1 were significantly reduced in ZxNHX1-RNAi lines under osmotic stress, compared with the wild type. These results suggest that in Z. xanthoxylum, ZxNHX1 can maintain the normal growth by compartmentalizing Na+ into vacuoles, and regulate the spatial distribution of Na+ indirectly by affecting the expressions of ZxSOS1 and ZxHKT1;1. Moreover, the silencing of ZxNHX1 is not the main reason that led to the reduction of K+ concentration in ZxNHX1-RNAi lines under 50 mM NaCl, and ZxNHX1 might be indirectly involved in regulating K+ homeostasis.

Antiophidic activity of the secondary metabolite lupeol isolated from Zanthoxylum monogynum

Previous studies have demonstrated the potential antiophidic activity of Zanthoxylum monogynum A.St.-Hil. a tree from the Rutaceae family native to South America. In this present contribution, we demonstrate the activity of the metabolite lupeol, a triterpenoid isolated from the stem bark of Z. monogynum against the harmful effects of the Bothrops alternatus venom. We investigated the antiophidic properties of lupeol, for this purpose, and use crude venom (Pb) incubated with lupeol in different concentrations, testing in vitro experiments and inoculated in mice for inhibitory evaluations in vivo. Besides, we tried to elucidate through the molecular dynamics the mechanism of action of lupeol with the bothropic thrombin-like toxin Jararacussin-I; the acidic phospholipase A₂ toxin BthA-I from Bothrops jararacussu and the metalloproteinase toxin BmooMP-I from Bothrops moojeni. In our results, we demonstrated the potential inhibitory effect upon coagulant, phospholipasic and myotoxic activities of the bothropic venom, previously incubated with lupeol. We found that lupeol triterpenoid was able to partially inhibit local and systemic damage caused by snake venom toxins. Our in silico results demonstrate that lupeol is capable of interacting and altering the activity of the thrombin-like toxin Jararacussin-I, and capable of interacting with the BthA-I acidic PLA₂, both toxins present in Bothrops snakes venom, thus demonstrating the pharmacological potential of this compound for the treatment of bothropic accidents.

Daikenchuto increases blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery in humans: A comparison study between four-dimensional phase-contrast vastly undersampled isotropic projection reconstruction magnetic resonance imaging and Doppler ultrasound

Respiratory-gated four-dimensional phase-contrast vastly undersampled isotropic projection reconstruction (4D PC-VIPR) is magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technique that enables analysis of vascular morphology and hemodynamics in a single examination using cardiac phase resolved 3D phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging. The present study aimed to assess the usefulness of 4D PC-VIPR for the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) flowmetry before and after flow increase was induced by the herbal medicine Daikenchuto (TJ-100) by comparing it with Doppler ultrasound (DUS) as a current standard. Twenty healthy volunteers were enrolled in this prospective single-arm study. The peak cross-sectionally averaged velocity was measured by 4D PC-VIPR, peak velocity was measured by DUS, and flow volume (FV) of SMA and aorta were measured by 4D PC-VIPR and DUS 25 min before and after the peroral administration of TJ-100. The peak cross-sectionally averaged velocity, peak velocity, and FV of SMA measured by 4D PC-VIPR and DUS significantly increased after administration of TJ-100 (4D PC-VIPR: the peak cross-sectionally averaged velocity; p = 0.004, FV; p = 0.035, DUS: the peak velocity; p = 0.003, FV; p = 0.010). Furthermore, 4D PC-VIPR can analyze multiple blood vessels simultaneously. The ratio of the SMA FV to the aorta, before and after oral administration on the 4D PC-VIPR test also increased (p = 0.015). The rate of change assessed by 4D PC-VIPR and DUS were significantly correlated (the peak cross-sectionally averaged velocity and peak velocity: r = 0.650; p = 0.005, FV: r = 0.659; p = 0.004). Retrospective 4D PC-VIPR was a useful modality for morphological and hemodynamic analysis of SMA.

Effect of Daikenchuto On Spontaneous Intestinal Tumors in ApcMin/+ Mice

Daikenchuto (TU-100) is herbal medicine which predominantly contains ginger, Japanese pepper, and ginseng. We investigated whether TU-100 can affect the composition of gut flora and intestinal tumor development using Apc^Min/+ mice, a murine model of intestinal tumor. Bacterial 16S rRNA sequencing and short-chain fatty acid analysis were performed on faecal samples. Tumor number and size were analysed. Any change in gene expression of the tumor tissues was assessed by real-time PCR. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) showed that the faecal microbiota cluster of TU-100-fed mice was different from the microbiota of control mice. However, no significant difference was observed in the concentration of short-chain fatty acids, tumor number, and gene expression levels between the two groups. Our data showed that TU-100 can affect the intestinal environment; however, it does not contribute in tumor progression or inhibition in our setting.