Plant Compounds Research Articles

Nanofertilizers and plant metabolites: Investigating their influence on trophic interactions in the cucumber-melon aphid-green lacewing

The role of fertilizers in increasing nutritional content and making host plants more attractive to herbivores has been repeatedly proved. This study investigated the effect of applying three levels of nano-chelated fertilizer (vegetables and summer crops specific fertilizer) (2, 3, and 4 kg/ha) on the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), catalase (CAT), ascorbic acid (ASA), flavonoid, and phenolic compounds in cucumber plant (Cucumis sativus L.). Additionally, the research surveyed the influence of fertilization and cucumber metabolite compounds on the life history of Aphis gossypii (Glover) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) in a tri-trophic context. Host plant content analysis showed that biotic stress resulting from the aphid infestation in cucumber plants increased the POD, PPO, CAT activity, and MDA contents. However, it decreased PAL activity, flavonoid, and phenol contents in the control treatment and 2, 3, and 4 kg/ha of nano-chelated fertilizer levels. Moreover, plant fertilization increased the herbivore population growth rates and decreased the predator population growth rates by affecting the nutritional contents and quality of the host plant. Accordingly, the aphid's intrinsic rate of increase (r) was ranged from 0.319 to 0.365 day−1. While finite rate of increase (λ) was estimated as 1.376 to 1.441 day−1 on control to 2 kg/ha nano-chelated fertilizer treatment. In addition, the intrinsic rate of increase of C. carnea was 0.116 to 0.131 and the finite rate of increase was 1.123 to 1.139 day−1 on 2 kg/ha nano-chelated fertilizer and control treatments, respectively. The maximum and minimum net reproductive rate (R0) values of the aphid were recorded on 3 kg/ha nano-chelated fertilizer and control treatments as 46.34 and 37.18 offsprings, respectively, whilst these values ranged from 145.51 on 2 kg/ha to 196.93 offsprings on 4 kg/ha regimes for the green lacewing. Notably, the utilization of 2, 3, and 4 kg/ha of nano-chelated fertilizer promotes cucumber defensive metabolites compounds such as PAL, POD, CAT, flavonoid, and ASA and induces the plant's resistance to melon aphids directly. It can be concluded that the utilization of nano-chelated fertilizer potentially can enhance cucumber plant resistance to A. gossypii by improving the antioxidant metabolite compounds, and be an effective part of integrated pest management programs.

Perspective: Observational Studies Involving Low-Soy Intake Populations Have Limited Ability for Providing Insight into the Health Effects of Soybean Isoflavones

Isoflavones are naturally occurring plant compounds found in uniquely high amounts in soybeans and foods made from this legume. These soybean constituents have been proposed to exert several health benefits and as such they have been the subject of an enormous amount of research. This research includes randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and epidemiologic investigations. Although statistically significant associations between isoflavone intake and a wide range of health outcomes have been identified in cohorts involving low-isoflavone intake populations, we suggest that these associations are unlikely to have a causal basis because exposure is too low for isoflavones to exert physiologic effects. In cohorts involving predominantly non-Asian, non-vegetarian populations, the highest isoflavone intake category is typically ≤3 mg/d, an amount of isoflavones provided by ∼30 mL (2 tablespoons) of soymilk made from whole soybeans. In comparison, mean isoflavone intake in the upper intake categories in observational studies involving high-isoflavone intake populations is typically ≥50 mg/d. In RCTs, intervention doses of isoflavones typically range between 40 and 100 mg/d. Health professionals advising patients and clients about soy food and isoflavone intake need to be aware of the limitations of epidemiologic research involving low-isoflavone intake populations. Intake recommendations are best based on the results of RCTs using clinically relevant doses of isoflavones and epidemiologic studies involving populations for whom soy foods are a habitual part of the diet.

Computer-aided drug discovery of c-Abl kinase inhibitors from plant compounds against chronic myeloid leukemia

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by the neoplastic transformation of hematopoietic stem cells, driven by the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome resulting from a translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22. This Ph chromosome harbors the breakpoint cluster region (BCR) and the Abelson (ABL) oncogene (BCR-ABL1) which have a constitutive tyrosine kinase activity. However, the tyrosine kinase activity of BCR-ABL1 have been identified as a key player in CML initiation and maintenance through c-Abl kinase. Despite advancements in tyrosine kinase inhibitors, challenges such as efficacy, safety concerns, and recurring drug resistance persist. This study aims to discover potential c-Abl kinase inhibitors from plant compounds with anti-leukemic properties, employing drug-likeness assessment, molecular docking, in silico pharmacokinetics (ADMET) screening, density function theory (DFT), and molecular dynamics simulations (MDS). Out of 58 screened compounds for drug-likeness, 44 were docked against c-Abl kinase. The top hit compound (isovitexin) and nilotinib (control drug) were subjected to rigorous analyses, including ADMET profiling, DFT evaluation, and MDS for 100 ns. Isovitexin demonstrated a notable binding affinity (-15.492 kcal/mol), closely comparable to nilotinib (-16.826 kcal/mol), showcasing a similar binding pose and superior structural stability and reactivity. While these findings suggest isovitexin as a potential c-Abl kinase inhibitor, further validation through urgent in vitro and in vivo experiments is imperative. This research holds promise for providing an alternative avenue to address existing CML treatment and management challenges. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamic Studies of Secondary Metabolites from Momordica Charantia as Natural Antidiabetic

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is a non-contagious disease characterized by hyperglycemia. Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body cannot receive or use insulin properly. If you already have diabetes, then the patient must take medication continuously because diabetes mellitus is a lifelong disease. Because medicines are quite expensive, alternative ways to cure the disease are needed by consuming traditional medicines, one of which is bitter melon (Momordica charantia). Objectives: This research aims to predict the secondary metabolite compounds in the bitter melon plant, analyze molecular interactions, and identify compounds that can lower blood sugar levels. Material and Methods: 12 compounds from the Momordica charantia plant and six proteins (1IR3, 1RHF, 1XU7, 4PNZ, 4YVP, 2NT7) that will be docked using Pyrx and Yasara Dynamics applications. Results: From the molecular docking results, three compounds with the highest binding affinity were found in Momordica charantia: momordenol, oleanolic acid, and momordicin. Based on molecular dynamics simulations, these three compounds were stable in their interactions with the six proteins tested, namely 1IR3, 1RHF, 4PNZ, 4YVP, 1XU7, and 2NT7. Momordenol and momordicin showed the most stable interaction profiles. Furthermore, ADMET tests showed that momordenol, oleanolic acid, and momordisin have drug-like characteristics. Conclusions: The Momordica charantia plant has the potential to act as an antidiabetic agent.

Linear enamel hypoplasia in Homo naledi reappraised in light of new Retzius periodicities.

Among low-latitude apes, developmental defects of enamel often recur twice yearly, linkable to environmental cycles. Surprisingly, teeth of Homo naledi from Rising Star in South Africa (241-335 kya), a higher latitude site with today a single rainy season, also exhibit bimodally distributed hypoplastic enamel defects, but with uncertain timing and etiology. Newly determined Retzius periodicities for enamel formation in this taxon enable a reconstruction of the temporal patterning of childhood stress. Using high resolution casts of 31 isolated anterior teeth from H. naledi, 82 enamel defects (linear enamel hypoplasia [LEH]) were identified. Seventeen teeth are assigned to three individuals. Perikymata in the occlusal wall of enamel furrows and between the onsets of successive LEH were visualized with scanning electron microscopy and counted. Defects were measured with an optical scanner. Conversion of perikymata counts to estimates of LEH duration and inter-LEH interval draws upon Retzius periodicities of 9 and 11 days. Anterior teeth record more than a year of developmental distress, expressed as two asymmetric intervals centered on 4.5 and 7.5 months bounded by three LEH. Durations, also, show bimodal distributions, lasting 3 or 12 weeks. Short duration LEH are more severe than long duration. Relative incisor/canine rates of formation are indistinguishable from modern humans. We invoke a disease and dearth model, with short episodes of distress reflecting onset of disease in young infants, lasting about 3 weeks, followed by a season of undernutrition, possibly intensified by secondary plant compounds, spanning about 12 weeks, inferably coincident with austral winter.

Ultrasound assisted extraction of sappan wood (Caesalpinia sappan L.) using different solvents

Caesalpinia sappan L. or known as sappan wood is a plant that had been used in traditional food, beverages and traditional medicine. It contains many active phytochemicals compound such as brazilin, sappanchalcone, xanthone, coumarin and flavones. Extraction is the common method to get the active compounds in plants and the use of new method of extraction is very recommended. The research was aimed to analyze the effect of different solvent (ethanol, water and 2-propanol) to the characteristic of sappan wood extract obtained from ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) process. Approximately 10 g of sappan wood was mixed with 100 ml solvent and extracted using probe type of ultrasound extractor for 15 mins and 500C. Extracts were analyzed for their yield, color, phytochemical compound, total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity. Ethanol gives the highest yield (6.125%) with the color tends to be between ruby red and traffic red. This result is in accordance with the calculation of Hansen solubility parameter (HSP). All of the three extracts contained saponin, tannin, flavonoid and triterpenoid. Ethanol also gives the highest TPC (254.14 mg GAE/100 g) and lowest IC50 (3.19). It can be concluded that ethanol is better solvent to extract phytochemical component in sappan wood.

Cytotoxic tirucallanes from Dysoxylum alliaceum stem barks in human cancer and normal cells lines

The Dysoxylum genus that belongs to the Meliaceae family is widely distributed from India and Sri Lanka throughout Malaysia and Indonesia to Australia and New Zealand. Numerous types of compounds have been reported, including sesquiterpenoids, limonoids, triterpenoids, and alkaloids. One of the members of this genus is Dysoxylum alliaceum. Reports on the phytochemical constituents of this species are limited. During our search for naturally occurring tropical plant compounds with intriguing structures and biological properties, the stembark of D. alliaceum, which showed cytotoxic activity against MCF-7, A549 and CV-1 cell lines, was investigated. This paper also describes the chemical structure of the isolated compounds using HR-ESI-MS, FTIR, and NMR. As a result, eight triterpenoid compounds belonging to tirucallane-type (1-8) were identified, including cneorin-NP36 (1) toonapubesin A (2), toonapubesin B (3), chisopanin M (4), 21 α-methylmelianodiol (5), 21 β-methylmelianodiol (6), hispidone (7), and odoratone (8). These compounds are newly discovered in this plant. Furthermore, toonapubesin A (2) showed the highest selectivity against A549 cancer cell lines with IC50 value of 7.81±0.02 μM, resulting in no activity towards CV-1 cells. The current result could indicate that this plant produces potential natural product compounds with anticancer properties.

7 Environmental sustainability of livestock systems in the southeastern U.S.: Opportunities and research gaps

Abstract According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), enteric methane (CH4) was the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture in 2021 behind nitrous oxide emissions from soil management. Cattle production in the southeastern U.S. represent a significant source of enteric CH4. In 2021, 31.5% of all cattle derived enteric CH4 arose from the southeastern U.S., representing 43.3% of cow-calf, 27.4% of stocker, 23.1% of feedlot, and 12.1% of dairy derived enteric CH4, according to the EPA. Previous work has demonstrated that reducing CH4 emissions represents the most promising means to limit climate change in the short-term, due to the short atmospheric lifespan of CH4. As such, developing enteric CH4 mitigation strategies for southeastern cattle producers is imperative. Enteric CH4 mitigation strategies can be grouped into diet formulations (e.g., lipid additions; feeding more grains; protein source and inclusion), feed management (e.g., grain and forage processing; grazing management; forage species), rumen manipulations [e.g., feed additives (ionophores or inhibitors); secondary plant compounds (tannins, essential oils, saponins)], and breeding strategies (e.g., selecting for low CH4 emitters; selecting for low residual feed intake). Of these options, the direct CH4 inhibitors appear to be the most promising. The largest source of enteric CH4 from the southeastern U.S. is from cow-calf production, representing 71.6% of the total. Furthermore, a 13.6% reduction in enteric CH4 from the southeastern cow-calf herd would offset more emissions than a 100% reduction in the southeastern dairy, stocker, or feedlot sectors. Despite the large gains in emission reductions that could be achieved by focusing on enteric CH4 mitigation strategies from southeastern pastoral systems, there has been relatively little research efforts in this area. For example, there has yet to be any investigation into the mitigation potential of CH4 inhibitors when fed to grazing cattle. This is especially important, because the mitigation potential of inhibitors is likely much greater for grazing than for confined fed cattle. Additionally, there are limited and aging research into grazing management strategies effects on enteric CH4 emissions. There also exists a gap-in-knowledge of how common (e.g., supplementation) or changes in management (e.g., selecting for smaller mature cow sizes) practices could potentially influence enteric CH4 emissions. Future research is still needed to further develop enteric CH4 mitigation strategies, with efforts needed in grazing systems, especially for the southeastern U.S.

Unleashing the potential of vanillic acid: A new twist on nature's recipe to fight inflammation and circumvent azole-resistant fungal infections

Vanillic acid (VA) — a naturally occurring phenolic compound in plants — is not only used as a flavoring agent but also a prominent metabolite post tea consumption. VA and its associated compounds are believed to play a significant role in preventing diseases, underscoring the need for a systematic investigation. Herein, we report a 4-step synthesis employing the classical organic reactions, such as Willamson’s alkylation, Fischer-Spier reaction, and Steglich esterification, complemented with a protection-deprotection strategy to prepare 46 VA derivatives across the five series (1a–1i, 2a–2i, 3, 3a–3i, 4a–4i, 5a–5i) in high yields. The synthesized compounds were investigated for their antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and toxic effects. Notably, compound 1a demonstrated remarkable ROS inhibition with an IC50 value of 5.1 ± 0.7 µg/mL, which is more than twice as effective as the standard ibuprofen drug. A subset of the synthesized derivatives (2b, 2c, 2e, 3b–3d, 4a–4c, 5a, and 5e) manifested their antifungal effect against drug-resistant Candida strains. Compound 5g, in particular, revealed synergism with the established antifungal drugs amphotericin B (AMB) and fluconazole (FLZ), doubling FLZ's potency against azole resistant Candida albican ATCC 36082. Furthermore, 5g improved the potency of these antifungals against FLZ-sensitive strains, including C. glabrata ATCC 2001 and C. parapsilosis ATCC 22019, as well as various multidrug-resistant (MDR) Candida strains, namely C. albicans ATCC 14053, C. albicans CL1, and C. krusei SH2L OM341600. Additionally, pharmacodynamics of compound 5g was examined using time-kill assay, and a benign safety profile was observed with no hemolytic activity in whole blood, and no cytotoxicity towards the normal BJ human cell line. The synergistic potential of 5g was further investigated through both experimental methods and docking simulations.These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of VA derivatives, particularly in addressing inflammation and circumventing FLZ resistance in Candida albicans.

Lipase Enzyme Inhibitory Activity of Jombang Leaves Extract (Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wigg)

Background: Obesity is a condition that occurs due to an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. Lipase enzymes play an important role in the process of fat metabolism, making it a target in obesity treatment strategies. Jombang plant has been used for generations as an alternative treatment for various diseases. The main content of secondary metabolite compounds in jombang plants are phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Objective: This study was conducted to determine the activity and potential inhibition of jombang plant (Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wigg.) against lipase enzyme in vitro. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical screening was determined by a color change reaction with certain reagents, while total phenolic content was carried out using Folin-Ciocalteau reagent spectrophotometrically. The inhibitory activity of 96% ethanol extract of jombang leaves as well as orlistat as positive control was measured by titration method and using olive oil substrate. The extract concentrations used were 125 ppm, 250 ppm, and 500 ppm. Results: Jombang leaf extract contains alkaloid, phenolic, flavonoid and terpenoid compounds qualitatively. Determination of total phenolic content in 96% ethanol extract of jombang leaves was obtained at 12.69 ± 0.91 mgGAE/g. The highest percentage of inhibition was found at a concentration of 500 ppm which amounted to 103.85%. The difference in the percentage of inhibition in all groups showed no significant difference (Sig>0.05). Conclusion: This study shows that jombang leaf extract is able to inhibit lipase enzyme activity with the highest percentage of inhibition was 103,85%.

Physiological and molecular insights into the allelopathic effects on agroecosystems under changing environmental conditions.

Allelopathy is a natural phenomenon of competing and interfering with other plants or microbial growth by synthesizing and releasing the bioactive compounds of plant or microbial origin known as allelochemicals. This is a sub-discipline of chemical ecology concerned with the effects of bioactive compounds produced by plants or microorganisms on the growth, development and distribution of other plants and microorganisms in natural communities or agricultural systems. Allelochemicals have a direct or indirect harmful effect on one plant by others, especially on the development, survivability, growth, and reproduction of species through the production of chemical inhibitors released into the environment. Cultivation systems that take advantage of allelopathic plants' stimulatory/inhibitory effects on plant growth and development while avoiding allelopathic autotoxicity is critical for long-term agricultural development. Allelopathy is one element that defines plant relationships and is involved in weed management, crop protection, and microbial contact. Besides, the allelopathic phenomenon has also been reported in the forest ecosystem; however, its presence depends on the forest type and the surrounding environment. In the present article, major aspects addressed are (1) literature review on the impacts of allelopathy in agroecosystems and underpinning the research gaps, (2) chemical, physiological, and ecological mechanisms of allelopathy, (3) genetic manipulations, plant defense, economic benefits, fate, prospects and challenges of allelopathy. The literature search and consolidation efforts in this article shall pave the way for future research on the potential application of allelopathic interactions across various ecosystems.

Modulation of Caco-2 Colon Cancer Cell Viability and CYP2W1 Gene Expression by Hesperidin-treated Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) Cell-free Supernatants.

Ensuring colon homeostasis is of significant influence on colon cancer and delicate balance is maintained by a healthy human gut microbiota. Probiotics can modulate the diversity of the gut microbiome and prevent colon cancer. Metabolites/byproducts generated by microbial metabolism significantly impact the healthy colonic environment. Hesperidin is a polyphenolic plant compound well known for its anticancer properties. However, low bioavailability of hesperidin after digestion impedes its effectiveness. CYP2W1 is a newly discovered oncofetal gene with an unknown function. CYP2W1 gene expression peaks during embryonic development and is suddenly silenced immediately after birth. Only in the case of some types of cancer, particularly colorectal and hepatocellular carcinomas, this gene is reactivated and its expression is correlated with the severity of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the effects of hesperidin-treated Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) cell-free supernatants on CaCo2 colon cancer cell viability and CYP2W1 gene expression. Alamar Blue cell viability assay was used to investigate the cytotoxic effect of cell-free supernatant of LGG grown in the presence of hesperidin on CaCo2 cells. To observe the effect of cell-free supernatants of LGG on the expression of CYP2W1 gene, qRT-PCR was performed. Five times diluted hesperidin treated cell-free supernatant (CFS) concentration considerably reduced CaCo2 colon cancer cell viability. Furthermore, CYP2W1 gene expression was similarly reduced following CFS treatments and nearly silenced under probiotic bacteria CFS treatment. The CYP2W1 gene expression was strongly reduced by cell-free supernatants derived from LGG culture, with or without hesperidin. This suggests that the suppression may be due to bacterial byproducts rather than hesperidin. Therefore, the CYP2W1 gene in the case of deregulation of these metabolites may cause CYP2W1-related colon cancer cell proliferation.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Fractions of Adansonia Digitata Leaves on Carbon Tetrachloride (CCL4)- Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Phytochemicals, naturally occurring compounds in plants, offer health benefits to humans. This study aimed to determine the effects of fractions of ethanol extract of Adansonia digitata leaves on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced toxicity in wistar rats. The extraction was done using absolute ethanol, followed by fractionation with different solvent combination via column chromatography. Elution of extract was done with solvent system by gradually increasing polarity beginning from n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol, ethanol and finally water. In total, 22 fractions were collected in 200 mL beaker each. The fractions were subjected to total antioxidant analysis using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Total phenolics and total flavonoids content were analyzed by Folin-Ciocalteu. GC-MS, FTIR and HPLC analysis were also carried out. Thirty-six male albino rats were distributed into six groups of six (n = 6). The negative control group received CCl4 only. The standard control group was administered 2 CCl4/kg body weight + 25mg/kg body weight silymarin followed by different doses of ethyl acetate:ethanol fraction-20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg for 21 days. Induction and treatment were carried out in the beginning of a new week. The animals were fasted for 24 hours, sacrificed and blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis. The administered fraction led to the statistically insignificant (p> 0.05) and statistically significant (p< 0.05) reduction in the levels of Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) respectively, the reduction in the levels of total protein (TP) and albumin (ALB) were statistically not significant (p> 0.05) in the treated rats as compared to the untreated rats. The phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of antioxidant and phenolics. From the total antioxidant capacity, fraction 6b (ethyl acetate: ethanol) was selected for GC-MS, FTIR and HPLC analysis. The GC-MS analysis of fraction 6b revealed the presence of 14 compounds from which Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate had the highest percentage constituent (48.30%) while while 2-Methyl-Z,Z-3,13-octadecadienol had the lowest relative abundance of 0.14 %. Dichloroacetic acid, tridecyl este, d-Glycero-d-ido-heptose, Phthalic acid, ethyl pentyl ester, Trifluoroacetoxy hexadecane, 2-Hexene, 6-nitro-, 2-Tetradecanol, 3,5-Dimethyl-2-octanol, Cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 7,11-Hexadecadienal, 9-Octadecenamide, Squalene and E, E-1,9,17-Docasatriene were the other compounds found in the fraction. FTIR spectral analysis of the fraction showed peaks of various functional groups. The HPLC results showed the presence of quercetin in the fraction.

Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Modeling of the Antioxidant Activity of Some Plant Compounds on Graph of Molecular Descriptors

Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Modeling of the Antioxidant Activity of Some Plant Compounds on Graph of Molecular Descriptors

Selective Influence of Chromolaena odorata Extracts on the Germination and Growth of Vegetable Crops: A Comparative Study of Aqueous and Methanolic Solutions

This study conducted a thorough assessment of how germination and growth of shoots and roots in eight vegetable crops are influenced by aqueous and methanolic extracts from Chromolaena odorata. Findings reveal a broad spectrum of germination responses to leaf extracts (13.3% to 86.7%), signaling the intricate dynamics at play between the plant's chemical compounds and the germination mechanism. Notably, Cucumis sativus (70% at AQE 5%) and Phaseolus vulgaris (56.70% at AQE 10%), displayed remarkable resilience and even stimulation of germination under specific extract concentrations, suggesting a potential selective stimulatory effect. For root extracts, the introduction of AQE and MTE decreased germination percentages across crops. A. esculentus had the highest germination rate at AQE 20%, significantly lower than the control (60%). Solanum. melongena tolerated AQE 5% best, while MTE 20% was most inhibitory. Conversely, Solanum lycopersicum experienced complete germination inhibition in both AQE and MTE of leaf and root extracts, indicating species-specific vulnerability to the allelopathic compounds within the extracts. Shoot growth mostly declined with higher extract concentrations, except in Solanum melongena, Capsicum annuum, and Zea mays, which saw increased shoot lengths under certain conditions. Root growth responses were mixed; Abelmoschus esculentus and Zea mays showed growth increases at some concentrations, in contrast to Cucumis sativus and Solanum melongena, which had limited growth. Methanolic extracts had a stronger inhibitory effect, likely due to their potent bioactive compounds. These findings highlight the importance of extract type, concentration, and crop species in weed management, providing insights for sustainable agricultural practices.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles functionalized with cinnamic acid for targeting dental pathogens receptor and modulating apoptotic genes in human oral epidermal carcinoma KB cells.

Oral diseases are often attributed to dental pathogens such as S. aureus, S. mutans, E. faecalis, and C. albicans. In this research work, a novel approach was employed to combat these pathogens by preparing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) capped with cinnamic acid (CA) plant compounds. The synthesized ZnO-CA NPs were characterized using SEM, FTIR, and XRD to validate their composition and structural features. The antioxidant activity of ZnO-CA NPs was confirmed using DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging assays. The antimicrobial effects of ZnO-CA NPs were validated using a zone of inhibition assay against dental pathogens. Autodock tool was used to identify the interaction of cinnamic acid with dental pathogen receptors. ZnO-CA NPs exhibited potent antioxidant activity in both DPPH and ABTS assays, suggesting their potential as powerful antioxidants. The minimal inhibitory concentration of ZnO-CA NPs against dental pathogens was found 25µg/mL, indicating their effective antimicrobial properties. Further, ZnO-CA NPs showed better binding affinity and amino acid interaction with dental pathogen receptors. Also, the ZnO-CA NPs exhibited dose-dependent (5µg/mL, 15µg/mL, 25µg/mL, and 50µg/mL) anticancer activity against Human Oral Epidermal Carcinoma KB cells. The mechanism of action of apoptotic activity of ZnO-CA NPs on the KB cells was identified through the upregulation of BCL-2, BAX, and P53 genes. This research establishes the potential utility of ZnO-CA NPs as a promising candidate for dental applications. The potent antioxidant, anticancer, and effective antimicrobial properties of ZnO-CA NPs make them a valuable option for combating dental pathogens.

Hydrolyzable polyphenols contained in extracts from Mentha piperita L. and antioxidant capacity

Mentha piperita L., is one of the most popular and consumed species worldwide because of its secondary metabolites with antioxidant properties, among these metabolites are polyphenolic molecules. These molecules can be extracted using different methodologies. However, the range of bioactive compounds in an extract can vary because of different factors, including the extraction methodology. Recently, use of hybrid technologies for extraction of plant compounds has been increased since a empowerment of various properties in the obtained extracts has been demonstrated. In this study was performed an analysis of the polyphenolic compounds and antioxidants from Mentha piperita L. Polyphenolic compounds were extracted using different extraction techniques which are reported as efficient and friendly to the environment, like ultrasound and microwave, which were compared with the hybrid technology (ultrasound-microwave). Results showed a significant increase on the obtaining of hydrolyzable polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity, highlighting that using extraction by a hybrid technique (ultrasound-microwave) showed a greater % yield of extraction compared to ultrasound or microwave used separately.

Gold Nanoparticles in Parkinson's Disease Therapy: A Focus on Plant-Based Green Synthesis.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 1% of people over the age of 60 and 5% of those over the age of 85. Current drugs for Parkinson's disease mainly affect the symptoms and cannot stop its progression. Nanotechnology provides a solution to address some challenges in therapy, such as overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB), adverse pharmacokinetics, and the limited bioavailability of therapeutics. The reformulation of drugs into nanoparticles (NPs) can improve their biodistribution, protect them from degradation, reduce the required dose, and ensure target accumulation. Furthermore, appropriately designed nanoparticles enable the combination of diagnosis and therapy with a single nanoagent. In recent years, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been studied with increasing interest due to their intrinsic nanozyme activity. They can mimic the action of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase. The use of 13-nm gold nanoparticles (CNM-Au8®) in bicarbonate solution is being studied as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease and other neurological illnesses. CNM-Au8® improves remyelination and motor functions in experimental animals. Among the many techniques for nanoparticle synthesis, green synthesis is increasingly used due to its simplicity and therapeutic potential. Green synthesis relies on natural and environmentally friendly materials, such as plant extracts, to reduce metal ions and form nanoparticles. Moreover, the presence of bioactive plant compounds on their surface increases the therapeutic potential of these nanoparticles. The present article reviews the possibilities of nanoparticles obtained by green synthesis to combine the therapeutic effects of plant components with gold.

Linalool, a Fragrance Compound in Plants, Protects Dopaminergic Neurons and Improves Motor Function and Skeletal Muscle Strength in Experimental Models of Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), resulting in reduced dopamine levels in the striatum and eventual onset of motor symptoms. Linalool (3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-ol) is a monoterpene in aromatic plants exhibiting antioxidant, antidepressant, and anti-anxiety properties. The objective of this study is to evaluate the neuroprotective impacts of linalool on dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells, primary mesencephalic and cortical neurons treated with 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+), as well as in PD-like mice induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Cell viability, α-tubulin staining, western blotting, immunohistochemistry and behavioral experiments were performed. In MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cells, linalool increased cell viability, reduced neurite retraction, enhanced antioxidant defense by downregulation of apoptosis signaling (B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), cleaved caspase-3 and poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP)) and phagocyte NADPH oxidase (gp91phox), as well as upregulation of neurotrophic signaling (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF)) and nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway. In MPP+-treated primary mesencephalic neurons, linalool enhanced the expressions of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), Sirtuin 1 (SirT1), and parkin. In MPP+-treated primary cortical neurons, linalool upregulated protein expression of SirT1, γ-Aminobutyric acid type A-α1 (GABAA-α1), and γ-Aminobutyric acid type B (GABAB). In PD-like mice, linalool attenuated the loss of dopamine neurons in SNpc. Linalool improved the motor and nonmotor behavioral deficits and muscle strength of PD-like mice. These findings suggest that linalool potentially protects dopaminergic neurons and improves the impairment symptoms of PD.

An Oxidoreductase-like Protein is Required for Verticillium dahliae Infection and Participates in the Metabolism of Host Plant Defensive Compounds.

Verticillium dahliae, a notorious phytopathogenic fungus, is responsible for vascular wilt diseases in numerous crops. Uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenicity is crucial for controlling V. dahliae. Herein, we characterized a putative oxidoreductase-like protein (VdOrlp) from V. dahliae that contains a functional signal peptide. While the expression of VdOrlp was low in artificial media, it significantly increased during host infection. Deletion of VdOrlp had minimal effects on the growth and development of V. dahliae but severely impaired its pathogenicity. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant changes in organic heterocyclic compounds and phenylpropane compounds in cotton plants infected with ΔVdOrlp and V991. Furthermore, VdOrlp expression was induced by lignin, and its deletion affected the metabolism of host lignin and phenolic acids. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that VdOrlp plays an important role in the metabolism of plant phenylpropyl lignin and organic heterocyclic compounds and is required for fungal pathogenicity in V. dahliae.