Annona Reticulata Research Articles

Effect of Seed Treatments on Seed Germination Studies in Ramphal (Annona reticulata L.)

Annona reticulata L., commonly known as bullock's heart, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree belonging to the Annonaceae family. It is prized for its flavourful and nutritious fruit. The plants are used for anti-inflammatory, stress reliever, antimutagenic, curing wounds, anti-anxiety, and spasmolytic properties and have all been used. In this fruit, the seeds are poor due to seed dormancy, and viability is easily lost. To overcome this problem in bullock’s heart, an experiment was laid out in the Floriculture unit, Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu on seed germination studies in Ramphal (Annona reticulata L.). Amongst the different pre-sowing seed treatments, treatment with Gibberellic Acid @ 1000 ppm significantly improved the germination percentage (90.63%) and reduced the number of days taken for initiation of seed germination (17.02 days), days taken for 50 percent of seed germination (22.44 days), span of seed germination (25.09 days) as compared to control. This experiment concluded that Gibberellic Acid @ 1000 ppm treated seeds have better seed germination characteristics.

Comparative nutrient and chemometric analysis of leaf to fruits of Soursop (Annona muricata) and Bullock's heart (Annona reticulata): Implications for nutraceutical development

The study investigates comparative nutrient-chemo profiling of fruit genotypes (AM 02, AM 05, AM 06, AM 07, AM 08, AM 09, AM 10) from different locations of Tamil Nadu, India, to leaves (AM Leaf) of Soursop (Annona muricata) and fruits of Bullock's heart (Annona reticulata-AR 02) using various spectroscopic techniques. The concentration of annonacin is three times higher in AM Leaf than in AM and AR 02 fruits. AM Leaf is significantly rich in carbohydrates (27.1 %), proteins (18.88 %), crude fibers (32.51 %), phenols (1360.85 mg/100 g) and flavonoids (887.25 mg/100 g) along with annonacin (2283.77 mg/100 g). Among the fruits, AM 08 is rich in potassium (726.43 mg/100 g), AM 05 with Vitamin C (20.02 IU), and AR 02 in calcium (134.34 mg/100 g). GC-MS analysis identified 116 bioactives with a strong correlation among AM fruits (>90 %) followed by AR 02 and AM Leaf. PCA shows two distinct clusters of qualitative variation (51.2 %) in metabolites, with AM Leaf recording higher variation in metabolites than fruit genotypes. Seven (AM 02, AM 05), eight (AM 06 and AM Leaf), and nine (AM 07, AM 08, AM 09, AM 10, AR 02) metabolites show anti-cancer properties. These finding may help in developing supplementary nutraceutical products for cancer therapeutics.

Exploitation of Annona reticulata leaf extract for the synthesis of CeO2 nanoparticles as catalyst for the production of biodiesel using seed oil thereof

Annona reticulata plant components such as leaves and seeds are successfully employed as low-cost and environmentally-safe sustainable materials for the synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles and biodiesel production. The synthesized CeO2 NPs worked well as a catalyst to convert A. reticulata oil into biodiesel. At a methanol to oil molar ratio of 8.97:1, a catalyst (CeO2 NPs) loading of 2.97 wt %, and reaction time of 56.4 min, the maximum 96.8 % biodiesel yield was attained. A pseudo-first-order reaction with activation energy (Ea) of 49.77 kJ/mol and a frequency factor (A) of 1.8 x 105 min−1 is consistent with the Annona reticulata methyl ester (ARME) production. The performance and emission characteristics of diesel engines were found to be significantly impacted by the use of CeO2 NPs. While the BSFC of ARME20CeO250 and ARME20CeO2100 decreased by 2.04 % and 5.10 %, respectively, the BTE of ARME20CeO250 and ARME20CeO2100 increased by 1.8 % and 2.41 %, in contrast to ARME20 at maximum load. When CeO2 nano-additive (100 ppm) is added to the ARME20 blend, the CO, HC, and NOx are reduced by 42 %, 35.59 %, and 5.94 %, respectively, in comparison to the ARME20 fuel. Thus, the A. reticulata plant may be seen as an eco-friendly source from its leaves extract, and the oil extracted from its seeds may be used as a feedstock for the effective production of biodiesel.

Targeting human inosine 5’ monophosphate dehydrogenase type 2 for anti-dengue lead identification – a computational approach

Dengue is a rapidly evolving arboviral disease that mainly affects tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The lack of therapeutic drugs and effective vaccines suggests that further resources need to be investigated. The effectiveness of the existing dengue vaccine is improbable as its efficacy depends on prior exposure to the dengue virus(DENV). Although the mechanism underlying the action of bioactive compounds to limit viral replication is less studied and still needs to be further explored, medicinal plants are excellent alternatives to combat DENV infection. In the current study, an in silico screening of phytochemicals from Annona reticulata Linn. against human Impdh2 was performed using Autodock Vina. Daucosterol (−9.0 kcal/mol) and Kaurenoic acid (−8.5 kcal/mol) were chosen as the top hits based on molecular interaction analysis. The hits were further exposed to pharmacokinetics and toxicity properties to determine their drug-like parameters. Molecular dynamics simulation studies of the Impdh2-top hits were carried out to investigate their kinetic behaviour and structural stabilities. The binding free energies of the Impdh2-hit complexes were determined using MM-PBSA analysis. According to the overall conclusions of the study, Daucosterol showed good binding affinity and high structural stability to the binding site residues of the target, therefore it is recommended as a lead compound against dengue. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

In silico elucidation for the identification of potential phytochemical against ACE-II inhibitors.

The present study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of phytocompounds derived from Annona reticulata leaves for the treatment of hypertension, utilizing computational methodologies. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the molecular interactions between neophytadiene and γ-sitosterol holds significant importance in the advancement of innovative therapeutic approaches. This study aims to examine the inhibitory effects of neophytadiene and γ-sitosterol using molecular docking and dynamics simulations. Additionally, we will evaluate their stability and predict their drug-like properties as well as their ADME/toxicity profiles. Neophytadiene and γ-sitosterol have a substantial binding affinity with 1O8A, as shown by the docking study. The stability of the complexes was confirmed through molecular dynamics simulations, while distinct clusters were identified using PCA. These findings suggest the presence of potential stabilizers. The drug-likeness and ADME/toxicity predictions revealed positive characteristics, such as efficient absorption rates, limited distribution volume and non-hazardous profiles. The neophytadiene and γ-sitosterol exhibit potential as hypertension medication options. Computational investigations reveal that these compounds exhibit high affinity for binding, stability and favourable pharmacokinetic properties. The results of this study lay the groundwork for additional experimental verification and highlight the promising prospects of utilizing natural compounds in the field of pharmaceutical research. Target proteins (1O8A) were used to perform molecular docking with representative molecules. Stability, conformational changes and binding energies were assessed through molecular dynamics simulations lasting 100ns. Principal component analysis (PCA) was utilized to analyze molecular dynamics (MD) simulation data, to identify potential compounds that could stabilize the main protease. The safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of the compounds were evaluated through drug-likeness and ADME/toxicity predictions.

Unveiling Annona Reticulata's Bioactive Arsenal for Enhanced Antibiotic Effects.

To study the antibacterial and phytochemical activities of bioactive elements in the leaves of Annona reticulata Linn, a historically used Bangladeshi medicinal plant. Shade-dried and crushed plant leaves were soaked with various solvents to obtain samples for different chemical analyses. All extracts were selected for antimicrobial, physicochemical, and Pharmacological investigations. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using disc diffusion assay, and broth microdilution methods determined potentiation of the activities of the antibiotic antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was investigated using either gram-positive or gram-negative pathogenic wild-type bacteria. From the initial phytochemical and pharmacological studies, it was clear that all extracts, methanol, chloroform, and ethyl acetate, of the leaves of A. reticulata, were proven to process potent bioactive constituents. While differential antimicrobial properties were found to be possessed by all extracts, methanolic extract was the most potent one against all tested microorganisms. It also has potentiated the activities of antibiotics in E. coli. Bioactive constituents in the plant extracts were shown to possess phytochemical and antimicrobial activities. More investigation is needed to segregate the chemical components responsible for the respective phytochemical and antimicrobial activities.

In-Vitro and In-Silico Analysis of Antimicrobial Efficacy in Annona Muricata Leaf Extracts

Annona muricata and Annona reticulata, known for their traditional medicinal uses and antimicrobial properties, were investigated for their potential antibacterial effects. Extracts from fresh leaves were tested for antimicrobial activity, revealing that Annona muricata exhibited superior antibacterial properties compared to Annona reticulata, especially against E. coli strains. In silico analysis focused on 46 phytochemicals extracted from Annona muricata, which were docked with key bacterial proteins, including Gyrase, the 30S and 50S ribosomal subunits, Topoisomerase IV, and penicillin-binding protein. Notably, phytochemicals such as Quercetin 3–O-rutinoside (Rutin), Quercetin 3-O-neohesperidoside, Quercetin 3-O-glucoside (Isoquercetin), Luteolin 3´7-di-O-glucoside, and Homoorientin demonstrated strong docking scores and confidence score, indicating potential interactions that could lead to bacterial destruction. These findings suggest that certain phytochemicals of Annona muricata is a promising candidate for antibiotic development, opening avenues for further exploration in combating bacterial infections.

Chemopreventive Potential of Oils Extracted from Seeds of Three Annona Species

Annona fruit, leaves, seeds, roots, and bark have been conventionally used in many countries for medical treatments as they are considered ideal sources of pharmacologically active compounds, but Annona remains an underutilized fruit in many countries. The fruit of these plants is delicately flavored and is used in industrial products such as ready-to-serve beverages, wine, jellies, jam, and fruit-butter preserve, while the seeds generally go to waste. Annona seed oil contains numerous health-benefiting factors such as vitamins, minerals, bioactive compounds, fatty acids, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds, which are responsible for various biological activities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and antitumor activities. Cancer is a worldwide major health problem that remains unresolved. Even though the current treatments can manage to reduce tumor growth, there is an urgent need to investigate more efficient but less expensive novel techniques to overcome some of the restrictions in treating tumors. Annona might offer an indispensable choice besides chemotherapy and radiotherapy, especially for terminally ill patients, as the Annona genus contains secondary metabolites in nearly every component of Annona plants. Research has shown that many Annona species contain promising components that could potentially exhibit anticancer activity, but the information available is scarce and inconsistent. Annona muricata (Soursop, “Katuanoda”), Annona squamosa (Sweetsop, “Seenianoda”), and Annona reticulata (Custard apple, “Welianoda”) are three commonly cultivated edible Annona species in Sri Lanka. The main objective of the review was to present an updated comprehensive literature analysis of the putative chemopreventive functions against cancer cell lines/the anticancer effect on cancers, phytochemical properties, and antioxidant properties possessed by the seed oils of three selected common Annona species. Although there are some in vitro and in vivo experimental investigations supporting the benefits of Annona seed oils, clinical investigations are still needed to explore concealed areas, determine the effects on the human body, determine the safest concentration, and determine health-contributing benefits before they are submitted to clinical trials.

Prevalence of Phytochemical and PharmacologicalProperties; Furthermore, a Miraculous Healing Plant in theContemporary Time, Annona reticulata

Prevalence of Phytochemical and PharmacologicalProperties; Furthermore, a Miraculous Healing Plant in theContemporary Time, Annona reticulata

Facile hydrothermal synthesis of bio−inspired ZnO/Fe2O3/ZnFe2O4 heterostructure: Effect of microwave absorption properties

The advancement of technology has allowed us to create increasingly sophisticated materials, making it crucial to understand and manipulate their properties for specific applications. This is especially relevant in the development of materials with enhanced microwave absorption properties for Radar Absorbing Materials (RAMs). A cost−effective method of producing a bio−inspired ZnO/Fe2O3/ZnFe2O4 heterostructure for RAM applications using Ramphal (Annona reticulata) leaf extract is presented in this study. Structural characterization confirms the presence of a heterostructure composed of three different metal oxide nanoparticles: ZnO, Fe2O3, and ZnFe2O4, having a crystallite size of 138.7 nm. The optical absorption of the heterostructure was studied, revealing an optical band gap of 1.86 eV Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) results showed excellent coercivity of 116 Oe at room temperature. Interestingly, the ZnO/Fe2O3/ZnFe2O4 heterostructure exhibited exceptional microwave absorption properties, achieving a maximum reflection loss of −38.43 dB at 10.29 GHz at 8 mm thickness. A maximum of 100% EAB (Effective Absorbing Bandwidth) in the X−band was obtained at 9 mm thickness. Simulation results also demonstrated a maximum reflection loss of −58.11 dB at 16.35 GHz with 5.44 GHz EAB at 5 mm thickness, covering 81% of the Ku band.

Efficacy of Annona reticulata L. Seed Extract in Callosobruchus maculatus in the Laboratory

Extracts from the Annona muricata plant parts are known to have a broad-spectrum insecticidal potential against various species of insect pests. This study aimed to study the bioactive compounds of Annona reticulata fruit extract against Callosobruchus maculatus in the laboratory. The study used five extract treatments that were repeated three times. The treatment consisted of formulations with concentrations of 0.135%, 0.182%, 0.246%, 0.331%, and 0.450%, and controls. The test was carried out by the residual method on the petri dish and tested on the female insect C. maculatus, as well as testing the content of metabolites in the seeds. Phytochemical test results showed that A. reticulata seeds contain alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, and saponins. The results showed that paralysis already occurred as early as 1 day after treatment (dat) for all given concentrations of the extract, and the death of test insects tended to increase from the lowest concentration to the highest concentration. The mortality of test insects also tends to increase from the first day of observation to the third day after treatment. Mortality and paralysis tend to increase with increasing time. The lethal effect of A. reticulata seed extract is very high by reaching 100% at 3 dat (72 hours). The LC95 values of A. reticulata seed extract were 1.89% , 0.49% and 0.36% respectively for analysis times of 1, 2, and 3 hsp. Annona reticulata seed extract has a high insecticidal activity (knock down effect and toxicity) against Callosobruchus maculatus.Extracts from the Annona muricata plant parts are known to have a broad-spectrum insecticidal potential against various species of insect pests. This study aimed to study the bioactive compounds of Annona reticulata fruit extract against Callosobruchus maculatus in the laboratory. The study used five extract treatments that were repeated three times. The treatment consisted of formulations with concentrations of 0.135%, 0.182%, 0.246%, 0.331%, and 0.450%, and controls. The test was carried out by the residual method on the petri dish and tested on the female insect C. maculatus, as well as testing the content of metabolites in the seeds. Phytochemical test results showed that A. reticulata seeds contain alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, and saponins. The results showed that paralysis already occurred as early as 1 day after treatment (dat) for all given concentrations of the extract, and the death of test insects tended to increase from the lowest concentration to the highest concentration. The mortality of test insects also tends to increase from the first day of observation to the third day after treatment. Mortality and paralysis tend to increase with increasing time. The lethal effect of A. reticulata seed extract is very high by reaching 100% at 3 dat (72 hours). The LC95 values of A. reticulata seed extract were 1.89% , 0.49% and 0.36% respectively for analysis times of 1, 2, and 3 hsp. Annona reticulata seed extract has a high insecticidal activity (knock down effect and toxicity) against Callosobruchus maculatus.

Evaluation of plant species for air pollution tolerance and phytoremediation potential in proximity to a coal thermal power station: implications for smart green cities.

In metropolitan areas, air pollution poses a significant threat, and it is crucial to carefully select plant species that can tolerate such conditions. This requires a scientific approach based on systematic evaluation before recommending them to executive bodies. This study aimed to determine the air pollution tolerance index (APTI), dust retention capacity, and phytoremediation ability of 10 plant species growing in and around a lignite-based coal thermal power station. The results showed that Ficus benghalensis L. had the highest APTI, followed by Mimusops elengi L., Ficus religiosa L., Azadirachta indica A. Juss., and Annona reticulata L. F. benghalensis also showed the highest pH of leaf extract, relative water content, total chlorophyll, and ascorbic acid content, as well as the highest dust capturing capacity. Among the ten plant species, F. benghalensis, M. elengi, F. religiosa, A. indica and F. racemosa were identified as a tolerant group that can be used for particulate matter suppression and heavy metal stabilization in and around thermal power plants. These findings can inform the selection of plants for effective green infrastructure in smart green cities, promoting the health and well-being of urban populations. This research is relevant to urban planners, policymakers, and environmentalists interested in sustainable urban development and air pollution mitigation.

Leaf epidermal characteristics of Annonaceae Juss. and its taxonomic evidence in Nigeria and the Cameroons

AbstractThis study describes the comprehensive micromorphology and taxonomic evidence of 28 species of Annonaceae from Nigeria and the Cameroons using light microscopy to provide additional anatomical and morphological diagnostic characters to complement the systematics boundaries of the infrafamilial and tribal clades. The epidermal cell shape varies from polygonal to irregular on both or either surface except Annona reticulata with isodiametric on the adaxial surface. The anticlinal wall patterns are either undulated, straight, or curved in the family. The constant generic feature encountered includes hypostomata which are mostly paracytic except in Cananga odorata, Isolona zenkeri, Uvaria angolensis and Letestudoxa bella possessing pericytic, 1 + 2 laterocytic and stephanocytic, respectively. Hemiparacytics, brachyamphiparacytic and brachyparacytic stomata, which are variables of paracytic are also present. These stomata complexes proved useful in species delimitation and diagnostic of the family Annonaceae. Other foliar epidermal features were crystals of different shapes and sizes mainly of druses and styloid, unicellular trichome type, and anticlinal wall pattern. The pattern of affinity among the species suggested evidence of similarity and differences in the micromorphological characters, which cumulated to the distinct identification of each species. Based on the most reliable characters within the family, the k‐means cluster, distance matrix, correlation coefficient, and UPGMA dendrogram tree were constructed.

First record of ‘Candidatus phytoplasma asteris’ (16SrI group) associated with Annona reticulata L. in India

First record of ‘Candidatus phytoplasma asteris’ (16SrI group) associated with Annona reticulata L. in India

Anti-Arthritic Activity of Annona Reticulata Leaves Methanolic Extract on Adjuvant Induced Arthritis in Rats

The research is expected to assess the effect of Annona Reticulata Methanolic leaves Extract (ARME) on progression of adjuvant induced arthritis in Wistar rats. ARME was obtained through bioactivity guided fraction by 5-Lipooxygenase inhibitory activity. ARME was administrated at 100 and 200mg/kg body weight via oral route for a period of 35 days to the experimental models. On day 8, via a single intra-plantar injection of 0.1mL suspension of heat killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis (100μg/animal) Arthritis was induced, in incomplete Freund’s adjuvant of left foot pads of Wistar rats (female). The paw volume was observed by recording the hematological and biochemical parameters, hind limb paw volume, pathological and radiography changes to evaluate the effect of the extract. On day 35, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-a, IL-1Β) and inflammatory mediators (PGE2, LTB4) was measured in serum samples. On the day of sacrifice, the liver was collected to record the stabilizing ability of lipid peroxide, activities of enzymatic antioxidants catalase, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and non-enzymatic antioxidants reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. ARME treated groups; 100 and 200mg/kg and prednisolone 10mg/kg significantly decreased hind paw volume, reduced serum levels of TNF-a, IL-1Β, PGE2 and LTB4, reduced MDA levels and increased levels of catalase, SOD and GSH in the liver. The promising results of serum biochemistry, haematology, histopathology and radiographic changes suggest that the administration of ARME was able to effectively modulate the inflammatory response and conquer the advancement of arthritis in the experimental animal model. Results obtained from the acute oral toxicity limit test establish that ARME (LD50>2000mg/kg) was safe in accordance to the OECD guideline 423. These findings may help to overcome some hurdles in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Valorization of Annona reticulata biochar by chitosan for the adsorption of Azo dye from Textile effluent

<p>Azo dye is a synthetic aromatic dye which are direct dye frequently used in textile industry to colour fibres. It also contributes to the damage of the environment. This study examines the adsorption biochar made from Annona reticulata to remove azo dye from textile wastewater. To improve the adsorption capacity, biochar valorized by chitosan molecules, Investigations were conducted on the use of chitosan-based materials that are acid-resistant for azo dye adsorption. In the batch experiment, basic operating parameters such as initial Azo dye concentrations, pH, contact time and bed height were assessed. The percentage removal efficiency for Azo dye was recorded as 67.18%, 75.88% and 94.37% for three dissimilar sized columns that were 6cm, 8cm, and 10cm. The UV–visible absorption spectroscopy was used to quantify the decolorization of dyes. The changed surface properties of the adsorbent produced from Annona reticulata were characterized by using SEM, XRD, and FTIR. The effectiveness of the column's adsorption was calculated mathematically by Yoon-Nelson, Thomas, and Adams-Bohart models. The model that best represents equilibrium isotherm data by adsorption had R2 values of 94.63, 86.67 and 96.35 respectively.</p>

Proximate Composition and Phytochemical Analysis of Six Minor Fruits of Bangladesh

Nutritional composition of six minor fruits of Bangladesh namely, Annona reticulata L., Manilkara zapota (L.) P.Royen, Aegle marmelos (L.) Corrêa, Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel., Averrhoa carambola L. and Garcinia pedunculata Roxb. ex Buch-Ham. were studied. Dry matter, ash, crude fat, crude protein, crude fibre and crude carbohydrate contents largely varied among the studied fruits. All fruits exhibited the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, phenols, and saponins. At premature stage, total phenolics and tannin contents varied from 14.59 to 1.32 and from 9.76 to 0.29 (mg GAE g–1 DW), respectively while at mature stage, these ranged from 9.82 to 0.87 and from 5.98 to 0.23. At premature and ripening stages, the maximum chlorophyll content was detected in A. reticulata and M. zapota, respectively. Based on the calorific value, Garcinia pedunculata performed better followed by M. zapota, and A. carambola the least among the studied fruits; although, A. reticulata possesses the largest amount of crude protein and crude fibre. Bangladesh J. Bot. 52(1): 111-118, 2023 (March)

Antibacterial activity of seed extracts of various species of the Annonaceae family cultivated in Colombia

Public health concerns increase due to microbial propagation and the resistance to existing drugs; therefore, new alternatives are sought, such as the use of natural sources that are antimicrobial agents. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial potential of ethanolic extracts of seeds of the species Annona muricata (L.), Annona cherimola (Miller), Annona glabra (L.), Annona reticulata (L.), Rollinia mucosa ([Jacq.] Baillon) and Annona montana (Macfad.) of the Annonaceae family cultivated in Colombia. The bacterial strains correspond to: Staphylococcus aureus (Rosenbach), Enterococcus faecalis ([Andrewes and Horder] Schleifer and Kilpper-Bölz), Bacillus subtilis ([Ehrenberg] Cohn), Escherichia coli ([Migula] Castellani and Chalmers) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ([J.Schröter] Migula). The antibacterial activity evaluation was performed using the agar diffusion method, each microorganism was inoculated in the medium in a concentration range of 0.2-0.5% v/v and the activity was measured by measuring the inhibition halo. A phytochemical assay was performed to identify the main metabolites to which the activity was attributed. Among the results obtained, it was found the extract of A. montana showed activity against the five bacterial strains, followed by A. glabra; the highest percentage of inhibition achieved was of A. cherimola with 79.86±3.81% activity against E. faecalis; A. reticulata and R. mucosa presented susceptibility only against two bacterial strains, the contrary, the extract of A. muricata did not present any response. The main types of metabolites identified and those attributed to antibacterial potential corresponded to alkaloids, saponins and terpenoids. The above indicates that the plants extract of Annonaceae showed antimicrobial effects. This suggest that species of this family are potential sources of compounds with antibacterial properties, which broadens the knowledge of natural extracts of Colombian materials for use in pharmacotherapy and as alternative for synthetic antibacterial agents.

Allelopathic Activity of Annona reticulata L. Leaf Extracts and Identification of Three Allelopathic Compounds for the Development of Natural Herbicides

Using plant-based allelopathic compounds might be a potent substitute to help mitigate the effects of synthetic herbicides. Annona reticulata L. is often planted for its fruit in residential gardens. This plant is well-documented for its diverse ethnomedicinal uses. However, there is no information in the literature on the allelopathic potential of A. reticulata leaves. Therefore, the allelopathic potential and relevant allelopathic compounds of A. reticulata leaves were investigated in this study. The bioassays were carried out using a completely randomized experimental layout (CRD), and the resulting data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at p ≤ 0.05. Aqueous methanol extracts of A. reticulata leaves significantly inhibited the growth of three dicots and three monocots (Lepidium sativum L., Medicago sativa L., Lactuca sativa L., Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv., Lolium multiflorum Lam., and Phleum pratense L., respectively). The level of growth inhibition was proportional to the A. reticulata extract concentration. Three compounds were purified through different chromatographic steps, and their structures were determined using spectroscopy and identified as loliolide, 5-hydroxy-3,4-dimethyl-5-pentylfuran-2(5H)-one, and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol. The 5-hydroxy-3,4-dimethyl-5-pentylfuran-2(5H)-one had the greatest effect on suppressing cress root growth, while loliolide had the greatest effect on suppressing timothy shoot growth. The values for 50% seedling growth suppression showed that the compound with the maximum inhibitory activity was loliolide, followed by 5-hydroxy-3,4-dimethyl-5-pentylfuran-2(5H)-one and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol. Therefore, this result suggests that the three compounds might be responsible for the allelopathic effects of A. reticulata leaf extracts, and these compounds have the potential to be used to develop effective bioherbicides.

New Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein from Indonesian Herbal Plants as Candidate Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease

BACKGROUND: There is a strong negative relationship between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) is a glycoprotein transporter that transfers cholesterol esters to very low-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The CETP inhibitor is a new strategy against CVD because of its ability to increase HDL-C. Various Indonesian plants have not been optimally used, and in silico phytochemical screening of these plants showing potential as CETP inhibitors is still limited. AIM: This study for exploring Indonesian phytochemicals as CETP inhibitors for new CVD treatments. METHODS: We screened 457 phytochemicals registered in the herbal database and met Lipinski’s rule of five. Their molecular structures were downloaded from the PubChem database. The three-dimensional structures of CETP and dalcetrapib (the CETP inhibitor standard) were obtained from a protein data bank (http://www.rcsb.org/pdb/) with the 4EWS code and ZINC database with the ZINC03976476 code, respectively. CETP–dalcetrapib binding complexes were validated 5 times using AutoDock Vina 1.1.2 software. Interactions between CETP and phytochemicals were molecularly docked with the same software and visualized using Pymol 1.8× software. RESULTS: Dalcetrapib had a docking score of −9.22 kcal/mol and bound to CETP at Ser230 and His232 residues. The 11 phytochemicals had lower binding scores than dalcetrapib, but only L-(+)-tartaric acid, chitranone, and oxoxylopine could interact with CETP at the Ser230 residue. These are commonly found in Tamarindus indica, Plumbago zeylanica, and Annona reticulata, respectively. CONCLUSION: L-(+)-Tartaric acid, chitranone, and oxoxylopine show potential as CETP inhibitors in silico.