Phytochemical Characterization Research Articles

Phytochemical characterization and bioactivity assessment of Avicennia officinalis L. bark extracts

The study aimed at phytochemical profiling and evaluating the bioactive potentials of aqueous bark extracts of a mangrove plant Avicennia officinalis by in vitro and in silico techniques. The quantitative phytochemical study exhibited total phenol and total flavonoid content as 16.6 mg GAE/g and 82 mg QE/g respectively. The GC-MS study indicated presence of five major compounds viz. 2,6-dimethoxy phenol; 4-[(1E)-3-hydroxy-1-propenyl)- 2-methoxy phenol; 2,5-dimethoxybenzyl acetate; vitamin-E; stigmasterol. The in silico molecular docking of compounds 2,6-dimethoxy phenol; 2,5-dimethoxy benzene methanol acetate and stigmasterol indicated strong binding interactions, validating the antiradical, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. The extract exhibited DPPH, ABTS, α-glucosidase and protein denaturation inhibition activities with IC50 values of 112.78, 76.34, 257.4, 99.86 μg/mL respectively suggesting the antioxidant, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory potential of the plant. The antiglycation study exhibited inhibition of fructosamine and congo red with 50.63% and 64.39% at 200 μg/mL concentration. The biofilm inhibitory concentration required to reduce biofilm coverage by 50% values for the extract was 625 μg/mL. The results provide a basis for new pharmacological avenues and further research of this plant.

Influence of Cold Stress on Physiological and Phytochemical Characteristics and Secondary Metabolite Accumulation in Microclones of Juglans regia L.

The current study investigated the impact of cold stress on the morphological, physiological, and phytochemical properties of Juglans regia L. (J. regia) using in vitro microclone cultures. The study revealed significant stress-induced changes in the production of secondary antioxidant metabolites. According to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, the stress conditions profoundly altered the metabolism of J. regia microclones. Although the overall spectrum of metabolites was reduced, the production of key secondary antioxidant metabolites significantly increased. Notably, there was a sevenfold (7×) increase in juglone concentration. These findings are crucial for advancing walnut metabolomics and enhancing our understanding of plant responses to abiotic stress factors. Additionally, study results aid in identifying the role of individual metabolites in these processes, which is essential for developing strategies to improve plant resilience and tolerance to adverse conditions.

Improving marketable yield and phytochemical characteristics of N-fertilized tomato fruits with soil organic amendments through Azolla

ABSTRACT There is a growing demand for organic vegetable products. Increasing the marketable yield and quality of tomatoes through the use of optimal organic and inorganic fertilizers is a critical agronomic measure for crop productivity and soil health. However, little is known about the effects of Azolla on tomato productivity, fruit quality and soil organic changes. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of organic and inorganic fertilization on marketable yield and quality characteristics of tomato fruits. A pot experiment was conducted with four concentrations of Azolla and nitrogen in a completely randomized design. The results showed that Azolla has the potential to replace nitrogen and has a significant impact on fruit quality. The interactions of Azolla and nitrogen on the number of clusters per plant, the number of flowers per cluster, the proportion of fruit set, the number of fruits per cluster and the marketable fruit yield were significant. It can be concluded that the combination of Azolla and inorganic nitrogen fertilizer linearly increased the marketable yield and quality of tomato fruits.

Traditional Uses, Phytochemical Constituents and Ethnopharmacological Properties of Mistletoe from Phoradendron and Viscum Species.

Plants from the genus Phoradendron and Viscum, also known as American and European mistletoe, are a group of hemiparasitic plants traditionally used to treat many diseases. Mistletoes have a rich content of natural compounds like terpenes, alkaloids, proteins, and phenolic compounds associated with their potential medicinal properties. In this sense, mistletoes have shown antiproliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity, which has been attributed to their phytochemical constituents. The mechanisms in which mistletoe plants act vary and depend on their phytochemical content and distribution, which in part will depend on the mistletoe species. In this sense, recent literature research is needed to visualize state of the art in the ethnopharmacological potential of mistletoe. Thus, this literature review aims to systematically report recent studies (2010-2023) on the phytochemical characterization and bioactive studies of mistletoe plants, mainly the Viscum and Phoradendron genera. We gather recent information of 140 references selected in our research. Here we report that although there are several bioactivity studies of mistletoe species, bioavailability studies are still scarce, and the precise mechanisms of action are not fully known. We encourage that further studies include a systematic strategy to cover these areas of opportunity.

New Data on Phytochemical and Morphophysiological Characteristics of Platycladus orientalis L. Franco and Thuja occidentalis L. Conifer Trees in Polluted Urban Areas of Kazakhstan

The adaptive potential of plants in urban environments, responding to factors like air pollution, electromagnetic radiation, and specific microclimates, remains insufficiently understood. Our study focused on two evergreen Cupressaceae family species, Thuja occidentalis L. and Platycladus orientalis L. Franco, which are commonly found in Kazakhstan’s urban landscapes. Conducted in Almaty, one of Kazakhstan’s most polluted cities, our comparative analysis examined the anatomical features, photosynthetic activity, and secondary metabolite composition of these conifers. Both species exhibited xeromorphic traits, such as submerged stomata, resin passages, and a prominent leaf cuticle. T. occidentalis displayed higher photosynthetic activity values (quantum yield of photosystem II (YII), electron transport rate (ETR), and quantum yield of non-photochemical quenching (Y(NPQ))) than P. orientalis, while P. orientalis exhibited a higher quantum yield of non-regulated energy dissipation in PSII (Y(NO)) values. Chemical analysis revealed 31 components in T. occidentalis and 33 in P. orientalis, with T. occidentalis containing three times more thujone (16.42% and 5.18%, respectively) and a higher monosaccharide content (17.33% and 6.98%, respectively). T. occidentalis also contained 14.53% steroids, whereas P. orientalis showed no steroid presence. The cytotoxic activity of essential oils was determined by the survival of Artemia salina aquatic crustaceans, whereas tested essential oils from both species exhibited acute lethal toxicity to A. salina aquatic crustaceans across all tested concentrations. The connection between physiological traits, adaptation strategies, and cytotoxic effects offers a comprehensive view of the ecological and pharmacological importance of these two observed conifer species, highlighting their diverse roles in urban environments, as well as their potential medical uses.

Network pharmacology and in vivo experiment-based strategy for investigating the mechanism of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome in QianLieJinDan tablets

BackgroundChronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a common urinary system disease that is prone to recurrence. It typically leads to varying degrees of pelvic pain and discomfort, as well as symptoms related to the urinary system in affected patients. QianLieJinDan tablets (QLJD), a traditional Chinese medicine, have shown promising therapeutic effects on CP/CPPS in clinical practice, but the underlying mechanisms of QLJD in treating CP/CPPS have not been determined. ObjectiveTo reveal the phytochemical characterization and multitarget mechanism of QLJD on CP/CPPS. MethodsThe concentrations of the components of QLJD were determined using UHPLC-Q Exactive Orbitrap-MS. Utilizing network pharmacology approaches, the potential components, targets, and pathways involved in the treatment of CP/CPPS caused by QLJD were screened. Molecular docking calculations were employed to assess the affinity between the components of the QLJD and potential targets, revealing the optimal molecular conformation and binding site. Finally, the therapeutic efficacy and potential underlying mechanisms of QLJD were investigated through pharmacological experiments. ResultsIn this study, a total of 35 components targeting 29 CP-related genes were identified, among which quercetin, baicalin, icariin, luteolin, and gallic acid were the major constituents. Enrichment analysis revealed that the potential targets were involved mainly in the regulation of cytokines, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and the oxidative stress response and were primarily associated with the cytokine‒cytokine receptor interaction pathway, the IL-17 signaling pathway, the Th17 cell differentiation pathway, and the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. In vivo experiments demonstrated that QLJD effectively attenuated the infiltration of CD3+ T cells and the expression of ROS in a CP/CPPS model rat prostate tissue. Furthermore, through the inhibition of IL-6 and STAT3 expression, QLJD reduced the differentiation of Th17 cells, thereby ameliorating pathological injury and prostatic index in prostate tissue. ConclusionThe potential of QLJD as an anti-CP/CPPS agent lies in its ability to interfere with the expression of IL-6 and STAT3, inhibit Th17 cell differentiation, reduce inflammatory cell infiltration in rat prostate tissue, and alleviate oxidative stress damage through its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway effects.

Screening and classification of rosehip (Rosa canina L.) genotypes based on horticultural characteristics

BackgroundDuring the pandemic, the interest in colorful wild small fruits increased due to their positive effects on health. Also it has become very important to offer species with high nutritional value as fresh or processed products for human consumption due to increasing world population and decreasing arable land. In this context, we characterized the horticultural characteristics of 11 rosehip genotypes grown from seeds.ResultsCitric acid was determined as the main organic acid in all the genotypes investigated. The mean values of the organic acids obtained from all the genotypes were found to be as follows: citric acid (7177 mg L–1), malic acid (3669 mg L–1), tartaric acid (1834 mg L–1), oxalic acid (1258 mg L–1), carboxylic acid (631.9 mg L–1), shikimic acid (157.8 mg L–1), ascorbic acid (155 mg L–1), and acetic acid (20.9 mg L–1). Ellagic acid was the dominant phenolic compound (90.1 mg L–1 – 96.2 mg L–1) in all genotypes. The average values obtained from all genotypes for total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity were 37 261 mg GAE L–1, 526.2 mg quercetin L–1, and 93.6%, respectively. These characteristics had the lowest coefficients of variation, which indicated that all genotypes were similar regarding high biochemical with antioxidant effect. In addition, fruit width, fruit length, and fruit weight varied between 13.0 and 17.3 mm, 20.7 and 25.5 mm, and 1.4 and 2.7 g, respectively.ConclusionsThe genotypes were categorized according to different purposes, such as suitability for wine production, making vinegar, etc. While the pomological characteristics were strongly positively correlated among themselves, they were generally found to be negatively correlated with the phytochemical characteristics. Categorizing genotypes according to different usage purposes can improve the agricultural and industrial application of rosehip and enhance their breeding efficacy.

Bioactive components in Psidium guajava extracts elicit biotoxic attributes and distinct antioxidant enzyme modulation in the larvae of vectors of lymphatic filariasis and dengue

Control of mosquito vectors, which have caused a global disease burden, has employed various methods. However, the challenges posed by current physical and chemical methods have raised concerns about vector control programs, leading to the search for alternative methods that are less toxic, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. This study investigated the larvicidal potential of aqueous, methanol, and ethylacetate extracts of Guava (Psidium guajava) against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae. Functional group and phytochemical characterization were performed using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and GC-MS analysis to identify the bioactive compounds in the extracts. Larval bioassays were conducted using WHO standard procedures at concentrations of 12.5, 25, 50, 125, and 250 mg/L, and mortality was recorded after 24, 48, and 72 h. Additionally, antioxidant enzyme profiles in the larvae were studied. All of the solvent extracts showed larvicidal activity, with the methanol extract exhibiting the highest mortality against Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae, followed by aqueous and ethylacetate extracts. FTIR spectroscopic analysis revealed the presence of OH, C–H of methyl and methylene, CO and CC. The GC-MS analysis indicated that the methanol, aqueous, and ethylacetate extracts all had 27, 34, and 43 phytoactive compounds that were effective at causing larvicidal effects, respectively. Different concentrations of each extract significantly modulated the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and reduced glutathione in larvae. This study's findings indicate the potential for developing environmentally friendly vector control products using the bioactive components of extracts from P. guajava leaves.

In vitro Inhibitory effects of Polyherbal Formulation on Biofilm-forming bacteria in Chronic wounds

Biofilm is a complex microbial community highly resistant to antimicrobials. The formation of biofilms in biotic and abiotic surfaces is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The aim of the present study was to develop a polyherbal formulation for antibacterial activity and inhibition of biofilm formation. Andrographis paniculata (leaves), Cassia fistula (flower), Gymnema sylvestre (leaves), Ocimum tenuiflorforum (leaves), Cinnamomum verum (bark)were the herbs chosen for the study. The extraction of the herbal samples was carried out using the cold extraction method and their phytochemical characterization was carried out by GC-MS analysis. The anti-microbial activity and antibiofilm activity of polyherbal formulation was carried out using the agar well diffusion method and microtitre plate assay. The phytochemical results showed the presence of resins, carbohydrates, proteins, saponin and phenol. The agar well diffusion assay results and microtitre plate assay showed the highest activity exhibited with 500µg/ml of polyherbal extract against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and lowest against Escherichia coli. The results confirm the differences in antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of polyherbal formulation of various concentration. Larger concentration of formulation showed to be more effective against biofilm cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-biofilm properties and inhibitory impact of ACGOC extracts against the most prevalent clinical isolates such as S. aureus,B.pumilusand P. aeruginosa and so the hypothesis of synergistic interaction of biologically active compounds from five different herbal extracts was proved for its antibiofilm assays.

Nutrimental, physicochemical and sensory properties of creole avocado fruits from Parras de la Fuente, Coahuila

The city of Parras de la Fuente, Coahuila is characterized by having criollo avocado trees with different morphological properties. However, very little information is available on their fruit nutritional and sensory characteristics. The objective of this work was to perform the bromatological, mineral, phytochemical and sensory characterization of 7 avocado landraces. The proximal analysis was carried out using standardized tests by the AOAC (2019), while the phytochemical content was determined using HPLC/MS equipment. Subsequently, the samples were evaluated using a hedonic test. The bromatological analysis showed significant differences in the total of the samples for the different response variables, which indicates the great genetic diversity among the sampled trees. The mineral that were determined in the highest concentration were Potassium, Magnesium and Calcium. Thirty-eight different phytochemical compounds were identified in the fruits, with a greater presence of flavones. While the sensory analysis showed a significant difference among the avocado landraces for the evaluated attributes. The flavor and texture attributes were the most important for the consumer preference. Different environmental factors (soil, climate, altitude, latitude, maturity) modify the nutritional composition of the avocado and its organoleptic characteristics. The results of this work may help propagation, fruit diversification and development of companies focused on this fruit in Parras de la Fuente, Coahuila.

Content of saponin, tannin, and flavonoid in the leaves and fruits of Iranian populations from Rhamnus persica Boiss. (Rhamnaceae)

To study the phytochemical properties in the leave and fruit of Iranian populations of Rhamnus persica Boiss, eighteen different populations from six geographical regions of Kermanshah province were studied. The results showed that the highest and lowest leaf saponin was present in Aliabad (6.40 mg/g) in Eslamabad-e Gharb and Chaharzebar in Mahidasht (3.29 mg/g), respectively. In fruit saponin, the highest content was in the population of Arkavazi in Eslamabad-e Gharb (4.33 mg/g) and the lowest being in Mahidasht population (Chaharzebar) and Sarpol-e Zahab (Galin) each with 2.20 mg/g. About the leaf tannin, the highest and lowest values were available in Barf-Abad population in Eslamabad-e Gharb (4.57 mg/g) and Chaharzebar in Mahidasht (1.83 mg/g), respectively. In addition, in the case of fruit tannin, the highest amount in Meleh-Sorkh population belonged to Homeil (2.74 mg/g) and the lowest being in of Changizeh population (Sonqor) in 2.28 mg/g. Moreover, the highest and lowest leaf flavonoids were obtained in two populations including Gordi in Eslamabad-e Gharb (6.14 mg/g) and Changizeh from Sonqor (4.09 mg/g), respectively. Regarding fruit flavonoids, the highest and lowest amounts were observed in populations of Meleh-Sorkh from Homeil (3.45 mg/g) and Banganjab in Mahidasht (2.13 mg/g). These findings confirmed the effect of geographical location on changing the phytochemical characteristics of Rhamnus populations in Kermanshah province from Iran.

Comparative morphoanatomic, histochemical, and phytochemical characterization of leaves of two species of the genus Cynophalla (DC.) J. Presl

Considering the morphological similarities, taxonomic complexity of the genus Cynophalla of the family Capparaceae A. Juss. an the medicinal use of its species and its potential as green energy, this study aimed to compare potential morphoanatomical diagnostic characters of the species Cynophalla flexuosa and Cynophalla hastata to determine authenticity parameters. Furthermore, it aimed to perform a histochemical study of the leaf blades due to their medicinal use. The morphological analysis was carried out using different characters, such as phyllotaxis, shape, among others. For microscopic analyzes semi-permanent slides were prepared containing cross-sections of the stems, petioles and leaf blades. We also prepared paradermal sections of the leaf blades. The analyses were carried out using light microscopy. For the histochemical analysis, we used different reagents according to the target metabolite and analyzed them using light microscopy. Phytochemical tests of the methanolic extracts of the leaves were performed using Thin Layer Chromatography. C. flexuosa has erect branches, elliptical to obtuse leaves with an obtuse to acute apex and obtuse base, globose flower buds, and fruit in a follicular, torulous capsule shape. C. hastata has gently curved branches, oblong-elliptical leaves with a rounded apex and obtuse base, corymb axillary inflorescences with quadrangular flower buds, and cylindrical foliolate capsular fruit. The anatomical characterization showed the characters of general occurrence in the Capparaceae family and those that allow the differentiation of C. flexuosa and C. hastata. The histochemical and phytochemical characterization revealed the sites of synthesis and/or storage of metabolites. Thus, the results presented comparative data on the anatomical characters and histochemical and phytochemical characterization of the species, thus increasing the taxonomic knowledge of the genus Cynophalla and contributing data for future in-depth studies on the species’ potential as renewable energy.

Determination of Physicochemical Characteristics, Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Various Clover Honeys.

This paper reports on some physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics (i. e. pH, electrical conductivity, colour, moisture content, total phenolic content, sugar profile) and in vitro antioxidant activity of honeys harvested from five legume species, red clover (Trifolium pratense), balansa clover (T. michelianum), Persian clover (T. resupinatum), purple clover (T. purpureum) and sanfoin, also known as holy clover (Onobrychis viciifolia), that were grown in enclosed shade houses to ensure that the honeys' characteristics are reflective of a truly monofloral honey. Glucose and fructose, determined via High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) analysis, were found as the main sugars in all investigated honeys with the ratio of fructose to glucose ranging from 1 : 1.2 to 1 : 1.6. The honeys' pH values ranged from 3.9 to 4.6 which met Codes Alimentarius (CA) requirements. The moisture content was found to be between 17.6 and 22.2 % which in some cases was slightly higher than CA requirements (≤20 %). The honeys' colour values, prior and after filtration, were between 825.5-1149.5 mAU and 532.4-824.8 mAU respectively, illustrating golden yellow to deep yellow hues. The total phenolic content (TPC) of the honeys was determined using a modified Folin-Ciocalteu assay. Their antioxidant activity was captured by the Ferric Reducing-Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay as well as HPTLC analysis coupled with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) derivatisation. The highest total phenolic content was found in red clover honey (45.4 mg GAE/100 g) whereas purple clover honey showed the highest level of activity in the FRAP assay (7.3 mmol Fe2+/kg). HPTLC-DPPH analysis of the honeys' organic extracts demonstrated the presence of various bioactive compounds that contribute to their overall antioxidant activity. This study developed a methodology for producing monofloral clover honeys in a space limited, enclosed production system, which allowed to collate important baseline data for these honeys that can serve as the foundation for their potential future development into commercial honeys, including honeys that can be used for medicinal purposes.

Phytochemical characterization and antifungal activity of Marchantia polymorpha L. against Rhizoctonia solani

IntroductionMarchantia polymorpha L. is a common liverwort in the family Marchantiaceae. It is used in traditional Chinese herbal medications to heal cuts, scalds, snake bites, fractures, burns and open wounds. Chinese people used it to treat jaundice and inflammation also. Polyphenols (bis-bibenzyls and flavonoids), long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and terpenoids have been identified as the primary metabolites in M. polymorpha by phytochemical studies. The present study was aimed to explore the phytochemicals and the fungicidal properties of M. polymorpha extracts against Rhizoctonia solani by Poisoned Food Technique. MethodsThe plant was extracted in four different solvents (Acetone, Methanol, Hexane and Di-ethyl ether) for assessing antifungal activity by Poisoned Food Technique and for phytochemical characterization by GC–MS and LC-MS. The extract with best antifungal activity was further examined for its mode of action using FE-SEM and Fluorescence microscopy. ResultsSignificant fungal growth inhibition was caused by M. polymorpha extracts. The highest inhibition was shown by di-ethyl ether extract (PI= 77.25±0.68). Field Emission Scanning electron microscopy and Fluorescence microscopy depicted the ultrastructural changes in the fungal species induced after treatment with the plant extract. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds in di –ethyl ether extracts such as n- Hexadecanoic acid, Stigmasterol and Phytol with reported pharmacological properties. LC-MS revealed the presence of three antifungal compounds: Marchantin A, Marchantin B. and Plagiochin E. DiscussionThe antifungal properties of M. polymorpha were equivalent to the standard, Amphotericin, which had significant effects against R. solani, indicating good efficacy of the plant extract. The damaging effect of plant extract was further confirmed by FE-SEM and Confocal microscopy. Thus, the present study potentially introduces a solution to the existing dilemma caused by antifungal agrochemicals.

The alphabet of sea fennel: Comprehensive phytochemical characterisation of Croatian populations of Crithmum maritimum L.

Extreme environmental conditions affect the synthesis and accumulation of bioactive metabolites in halophytic plants. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and quantity of key health-promoting phytochemicals in Croatian sea fennel, one of the most popular Mediterranean halophytes with a wide range of uses. The EOs were characterised by a high content of limonene (up to 93%), while the fatty acid profile shows a low content of oleic acid and the presence of valuable linoleic acid (ω-6) and linolenic acid (ω-3) in high percentages. The dominances of lutein and α-tocopherol were also confirmed in all samples. The results confirm the great variability in the chemistry of sea fennel populations in the Mediterranean region, with significant differences in the composition of the Croatian samples compared to the others, as well as the presence and high concentrations of the analysed bioactive compounds that contribute to the plant's health-promoting attributes.

In vitro Evaluation of Skin Related Enzyme Inhibitory Effect and Emulgel Formulation Development Studies of Onobrychis Argyrea subsp. Argyrea with Phytochemical Analysis.

Species of Onobrychis have been used to treat skin disorders such as wounds and cuts in folk medicine and Onobrychis argyrea subsp. argyrea (OA) commonly known as 'silvery sainfoin', is a member of this genus. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the skin-related biological activities and phytochemical characterization of OA. Moreover, an emulgel formulation was developed from the main methanolic extract of the plant (OAM). Initially, to identifiy of the active fractions, aerial parts of the plant material was extracted with methanol and fractionated by n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol, respectively. Antioxidant activity was determined by CUPRAC, TOAC, FRAP and DPPH assays. Thereafter, the inhibition potential of OAM, novel formulation and all fractions was measured against elastase, collagenase, tyrosinase and hyaluronidase enzymes. OAM was analyzed and characterized by LC/MS-MS. The major bioactive flavonoids which are rutin and isoquercetin were measured and compared as qualitative and quantitative via high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis in OAM and fractions. The results showed that extracts of OA can be a potential cosmeceutical agent for skin related problems.

Phytochemical and Pharmaceutical Characterization of Seseli L. Species From Georgia

The Apiaceae family, formerly known as Umbelliferae, is one of the largest plant families, composed of 466 genera and nearly 3800 species worldwide. According to the Royal Kew Garden, it is also one of 12 plant families with a higher than-normal percentage of medicinal species, ranking 6th with 15% of its plants counted as medicinal. Seseli species, known for their high coumarin content as well as terpenoids, flavonoids, essential oils, and more, have been extensively investigated and found to possess various pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, etc. Some Seseli species have also been used in treating central nervous system disorders such as anxiety. From 135 species 12 are distributed in Georgia (original name of the country is Sakhartvelo), from which 3 are endemics. Despite numerous studies on the chemical composition and pharmacological properties of various Seseli species, some remain unexplored, especially those found in Georgia, where data is limited and out of date. Therefore, further extensive research is necessary to improve understanding of the pharmacological activities, chemical constituents, and efficacy of plants from the Georgian Seseli species. The presented review draws attention to Seseli species distributed in Georgia, their phytochemistry, botanical characterisation and traditional use. However, as the information on biological activity of Georgian Seseli spp. is limited, we discussed potential pharmacological properties expected based on their chemical composition, also in relation with the same species from other countries or botanical gardens.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity and clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine Cynoglossum amabile: a review.

Cynoglossum amabile, a member of the Boraginaceae family, is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine and ethnomedicine known as Daotihu. Despite several studies confirming the presence of bioactive pyrrolizidine alkaloids such as amabiline, ambelline, echinatine, europine, and others in C. amabile, there has been no comprehensive review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology thus far. This review was conducted by thoroughly examining the literature and analyzing network databases. It covers various aspects of C. amabile, including botanical characteristics, geographical distribution, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and clinical applications. The results have shown that C. amabile has been traditionally used for medicinal, edible, and ornamental purposes in China for many centuries. The whole plant, root, and leaf of C. amabile are used by different ethnic groups, such as Lisu, Bai, Naxi, Yi, Jinuo, and Han, to treat malaria, hepatitis, dysentery, leucorrhea, tuberculosis cough, fracture, joint dislocation, trauma bleeding, and skin carbuncle abscess. A total of 47 chemical components, including alkaloids (pyrrolizidine alkaloids, PAs), sterols, organic acids, and saccharides, were isolated from C. amabile. Pharmacological studies show that the chemical extracts of C. amabile possess various biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-microbial, cardiovascular effects, ganglionic action, and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. However, it is important to note that C. amabile exhibits hepatotoxicity, with its toxicity being linked to its primary PAs components. Although preliminary studies suggest potential applications in the treatment of prostate diseases and alopecia, further research is needed to validate these clinical uses. Our review highlights the traditional uses, phytochemistry, biological activity, toxicity, and clinical applications of C. amabile. It emphasizes the essential guiding role of the indigenous medicinal knowledge system in developing new drugs. Previous studies have shown that the phytochemical and pharmacological characteristics of C. amabile are significantly related to its traditional medicinal practices. Cynoglossum amabile has excellent market potential and can be further analyzed in terms of phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology, which are critical for its clinical drug safety, quality evaluation, and resource development.

Antimicrobial Activity and Phytochemical Characterization of Baccharis concava Pers., a Native Plant of the Central Chilean Coast.

Few sclerophyllous plants from the central coast of Chile have been systematically studied. This work describes the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties of Baccharis concava Pers. (sin. B. macraei), a shrub found in the first line and near the Pacific coast. B. concava has been traditionally used by indigenous inhabitants of today's central Chile for its medicinal properties. Few reports exist regarding the phytochemistry characterization and biological activities of B. concava. A hydroalcoholic extract of B. concava was prepared from leaves and small branches. Qualitative phytochemical characterization indicated the presence of alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic, and tannin compounds. The antimicrobial activity of this extract was assessed in a panel of microorganisms including Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and pathogenic yeasts. The extract displayed an important antimicrobial effect against Gram-positive bacteria, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans but not against Gram-negatives, for which an intact Lipopolysaccharide is apparently the determinant of resistance to B. concava extracts. The hydroalcoholic extract was then fractionated through a Sephadex LH-20/methanol-ethyl acetate column. Afterward, the fractions were pooled according to a similar pattern visualized by TLC/UV analysis. Fractions obtained by this criterion were assessed for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The fraction presenting the most antimicrobial activity was HPLC-ESI-MS/MS, obtaining molecules related to caffeoylquinic acid, dicaffeoylquinic acid, and quercetin, among others. In conclusion, the extracts of B. concava showed strong antimicrobial activity, probably due to the presence of metabolites derived from phenolic acids, such as caffeoylquinic acid, and flavonoids, such as quercetin, which in turn could be responsible for helping with wound healing. In addition, the development of antimicrobial therapies based on the molecules found in B. concava could help to combat infection caused by pathogenic yeasts and Gram-positive bacteria, without affecting the Gram-negative microbiota.

Unveiling the transformations in phytochemicals and grape features: a thorough examination of 'Italia' and 'Bronx Seedless' cultivars throughout multiple berry development stages

Understanding the physical and phytochemical characteristics of grape cultivars across different berry development stages is crucial for optimizing grape production and quality in the agricultural and viticultural industries. The study, therefore, investigated the physical characteristics and phytochemical composition of 'Italia' and 'Bronx Seedless' grape cultivars harvested across six distinct periods. In grape cultivars displayed an intriguing journey in terms of resveratrol, ranging from 5.96 mg/kg in Period I to 11.59 mg/kg in Period VI. These vital compounds known for contributing to grape color and potential health benefits showed substantial variation across the grape cultivars and harvest periods. In addition, significant variations in phytochemical compositions were observed between 'Italia' and 'Bronx Seedless' grape cultivars, with 'Italia' generally exhibiting higher concentrations of key compounds such as resveratrol, pterostilbene, anthocyanidins, and flavonoids. The longitudinal analysis across six berry developmental periods highlighted a progressive increase in the concentrations of these phytochemicals in cultivar, indicating a dynamic evolution of grape biochemistry over time. Particularly, delphinidin-3-O-glycoside, cyanidin-3-O-glycoside, and petunidin-3-O-glycoside showed marked increases, indicating significant growth in anthocyanin content from Period I to Period VI. Utilizing PCA biplots and a hierarchical clustering heatmap, the study visually represented the relationships and variances among various phytochemical components. The insights revealed how certain compounds clustered together, suggesting similarities and dissimilarities. The positioning of compounds on these plots indicated their significance in characterizing grape cultivars and their maturation over time. In summary, the data underlined the strong influence of berry development time on phytochemical composition, emphasizing the importance of strategic grape harvesting to attain desired phytochemical profiles for wine or other grape products. The findings provide valuable insights for grape growers, winemakers, and researchers aiming to exploit the full potential of these compounds in grape-based products and for those interested in understanding the dynamics of grape phytochemistry.