Total Saponin Content Research Articles

Alternate micro-sprinkler irrigation synergized with organic fertilizer: A sustainable water-fertilizer management technology of improving quality and increasing efficiency in Panax notoginseng production

The yield of Panax notoginseng (BurK.) F. H. Chen in Yunnan Province accounted for more than 90% of China's total yield, but extensive water and fertilizer management restricted improvement of yield, quality, and economic benefits of Panax notoginseng. Therefore, this study tried to propose an adaptive irrigation and fertilizer management strategy for Panax notoginseng production. A two-year (2017 and 2018) rain-shelter cultivation study in Yunnan Province of southwest China was conducted to analyze the influences of irrigation and organic fertilizer application on soil water distribution, root growth, water-fertilizer productivity, quality, and economic benefits of Panax notoginseng in four organic fertilizer application rates [500 (F1), 1000 (F2), 1500 (F3), and 2000 (F4) kg ha−1] combined with three micro-sprinkler irrigation schedules [I1: moderate deficit micro-sprinkler irrigation, (70–75%) θFC; I2: alternate micro-sprinkler irrigation, (70–75%) θFC / (80–85%) θFC; I3: slight deficit micro-sprinkler irrigation, (80–85%) θFC]. The results indicated that the increasing micro-sprinkler irrigation levels enhanced soil water content in 0–40 cm soil layer, but resulted in a reduction irrigation water productivity (IWP). Moreover, the increasing organic fertilizer application significantly led to reduced partial fertilizer productivity (PFP). Under the interaction of micro-sprinkler irrigation schedules and organic fertilizer application in 2017 and 2018, the I2F3 significantly obtained the highest soil water storage (SWS), root hydraulic conductivity, root morphological characteristics, root-shoot ratio, lowest root rot rate (4.68% in 2017 and 6.59% in 2018), largest yield (3614.5 kg ha−1 in 2017 and 3981.5 kg ha−1 in 2018), total saponin content (20.23% in 2017 and 23.28% in 2018), and economic benefits (25.28 × 104 $ ha−1 in 2017 and 32.6 × 104 $ ha−1 in 2018) of Panax notoginseng. Based on the above results, the comprehensive evaluation of five saponin contents and the comprehensive evaluation of the yield, IWP, PFP, economic benefits, and total saponin content of Panax notoginseng were analyzed by using a TOPSIS model in 2017 and 2018. We found that synergistic of alternate micro-sprinkler irrigation [I2, (70–75%) θFC / (80–85%) θFC] and organic fertilizer application (F3, 1500 kg ha−1) could decrease root rot, improve root growth, water-fertilizer productivity, quality, and economic benefits of Panax notoginseng.

Arbuscular mycorrhiza and plant growth promoting endophytes facilitates accumulation of saponin under moderate drought stress

ObjectiveParis polyphylla var. yunnanensis, one of the important medicinal plant resources in Yunnan, China, usually takes 6–8 years to be harvested. Therefore, it is urgent to find a method that can not only shorten its growth years, but also improve its quality. In this study, we examined the effects of a combination treatment of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and plant growth-promoting endophytes (PGPE) and drought stress on the accumulation of saponins in it. MethodsP. polyphylla var. yunnanensis was infected with a mixture of AMF and PGPE under drought stress. The content of saponins, as well as morphological, physiological, and biochemical indicators, were all measured. The UGTs gene related to saponin synthesis was obtained from transcriptome data by homologous comparison, which were used for RT-PCR and phylogenetic analysis. ResultsRegardless of water, AMF treatment could infect the roots of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis, however double inoculation with AMF and PGPE (AMF + PGPE) would reduce the infection rate of AMF. Plant height, aboveground and underground fresh weight did not differ significantly between the single inoculation AMF and the double inoculation treatment under different water conditions, but the inoculation treatment significantly increased the plant height of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis compared to the non-inoculation treatment. Single inoculation with AMF considerably increased the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis leaves under various water conditions, but double inoculation with AMF + PGPE greatly increased the intercellular CO2 concentration and chlorophyll fluorescence parameter (Fv/Fm). Under diverse water treatments, single inoculation AMF had the highest proline content, whereas double inoculation AMF + PGPE may greatly improve the amount of abscisic acid (ABA) and indoleacetic acid (IAA) compared to normal water under moderate drought. Double inoculation AMF + PGPE treatment improved the proportion of N, P, and K in the rhizome of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis under various water conditions. Under moderate drought stress, AMF + PGPE significantly enhanced the contents of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis saponins I, II, VII, and total saponins as compared to normal water circumstances. Farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS), Geranyl pyrophosphate synthase (GPPS), Cycloartenol synthase (CAS), and Squalene epoxidase (SE1) were the genes that were significantly up-regulated at the same time. The amount of saponins was favorably linked with the expression of CAS, GPPS, and SE1. Saponin VI content and glycosyl transferase (UGT) 010922 gene expression were found to be substantially associated, as was saponin II content and UGT010935 gene expression. ConclusionUnder moderate drought, AMF + PGPE was more conducive to the increase of hormone content, nutrient absorption, and total saponin content in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis, and AMF + PGPE could up regulate the expression of key genes and UGTs genes in one or more steroidal saponin synthesis pathways to varying degrees, thereby stimulating the synthesis and accumulation of steroidal saponins in the rhizome of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis. The combination of AMF and PGPE inoculation, as well as adequate soil drought, reduced the buildup of saponins in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis and increased its quality.

Micropropagation and elicited production of triterpenoid saponin glycosides and stigmasterol via precursor and elicitor feeding in Bacopa floribunda (R.Br.) Wettst.-A potential nootropic herb.

Bacopa floribunda (Family: Plantaginaceae) is used in folklore medicines for the management of cognitive dysfunction. It has nootropic, antiaging, anti-inflammatory, anti-cholinesterase, and antioxidant properties. We developed an efficient and reproducible protocol for in vitro propagation of B. floribunda using the nodal explants. We assessed the effects of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium fortified with various plant growth regulatory substances (PGRs), a precursor, and elicitors and their optimal combinations on regeneration and production of total saponins, triterpenoid saponin glycosides (bacoside A3, bacopaside X, bacopaside II, and bacosaponin C), and stigmasterol content in in vitro grown biomass of B. floribunda. The growth of the shoots and roots was stimulated by MS + 2.0 mg/l BAP + 2.0 mg/l KIN and MS + 0.5 mg/l IAA + 0.5 mg/l IBA + 1.0 mg/l NAA, respectively. After 10 weeks of acclimatization, plantlets of B. floribunda had a survival rate of 95%. The highest total saponin content (35.95 ± 0.022 mg DE/g DW) was noted in the treatment of MS + 2.0 mg/l BAP + 1.5 μM SQ. Similarly, total triterpenoid saponin glycosides and stigmasterol were found maximum in biomass derived from MS + 2.0 mg/l BAP + 1.5 μM SQ and MS + 2.0 mg/l BAP, respectively. At the same treatments, bacoside A3 (1.01 ± 0.195 mg/g DW), bacopaside II (43.62 ± 0.657 mg/g DW), bacopaside X (1.23 ± 0.570 mg/g DW), bacosaponin C (0.19 ± 0.195 mg/g DW), and stigmasterol (7.69 ± 0.102 mg/g DW) were reported. The present findings will help to highlight B. floribunda as a potent memory-enhancing herb, and in future also, it could be a potential substitute to B. monnieri. The current work is the first to describe the micropropagation and the elicited production of bioactive metabolites from the in vitro grown biomass of B. floribunda. In addition, further research is needed on production of bioactives, their pharmacological effects, and the elicited production using callus, cell suspension, and hairy root cultures.

Effects of Organophosphate-Degrading Bacteria on the Plant Biomass, Active Medicinal Components, and Soil Phosphorus Levels of Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis.

Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis, a medicinal plant that originated in Yunnan (China), has been over-harvested in the wild population, resulting in its artificial cultivation. Given the negative environmental impacts of the excessive use of phosphorus (P) fertilization, the application of organophosphate-degrading bacteria (OPDB) is a sustainable approach for improving the P use efficiency in Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis production. The present work aimed to analyze the effects of three organic phosphate-solubilizing bacteria of Bacillus on the yield and quality of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis and the P concentrations in the soil. All the inoculation treatments distinctly increased the rhizome biomass, steroidal, and total saponin concentrations of the rhizomes and the Olsen-P and organic P in the soil. The highest growth rate of rhizomes biomass, steroidal saponins, available phosphorus, and total phosphorus content was seen in the S7 group, which was inoculated with all three OPDB strains, showing increases of 134.58%, 132.56%, 51.64%, and 17.19%, respectively. The highest total saponin content was found in the group inoculated with B. mycoides and B. wiedmannii, which increased by 33.68%. Moreover, the highest organic P content was seen in the group inoculated with B. wiedmannii and B. proteolyticus, which increased by 96.20%. In addition, the rhizome biomass was significantly positively correlated with the saponin concentration, together with the positive correlation between the Olsen-P and organic P and total P. It is concluded that inoculation with organophosphate-degrading bacteria improved the biomass and medicinal ingredients of the rhizome in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis, coupled with increased soil P fertility, with a mixture of the three bacteria performing best.

Antioxidant capacity, flavor and physicochemical properties of FH06 functional beverage fermented by lactic acid bacteria: a promising method to improve antioxidant activity and flavor of plant functional beverage

The ability of natural plants to treat chronic diseases is closely related to their antioxidant function. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation is an effective way to improve the nutritional value, biological activity and flavor of food. This study investigated the pH, titratable acidity, total polysaccharide, total flavone, total saponin, total polyphenol, and antioxidant activity of the FH06 beverage before and after probiotic fermentation. Results: After fermentation, FH06 had lower contents of total polysaccharides, total flavonoids, total saponins and total polyphenols but higher titratable acidity. The antioxidant activity was tested by total antioxidant capacity (FRAP method) and DPPH· scavenging ability. The FRAP value significantly increased after fermentation (P < 0.05), and the maximum increase was observed for Lactobacillus fermentum grx08 at 25.87%. For DPPH· scavenging ability, the value of all fermentations decreased, and L. fermentum grx08 had the smallest reduction at 2.21% (P < 0.05). The results of GC–MS and sensory analysis showed that fermentation eliminated bad flavors, such as grass, cassia and bitterness, and highlighted the fruit aroma and soft sour taste. Conclusion: The FRAP value and sensory flavor of FH06 fermentation by L. fermentum grx08 were significantly improved, indicating its great potential as a functional food with both strong antioxidant activity and good flavor.Graphical

Investigation of phytochemical constituents, GC-MS, DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and mineral contents of Glochidion sphaerogynum (Mull. Arg.) Kurz bark extract

The aim of the present study was to assess phytochemical constituents, chemical composition, DPPH free radical scavenging assay and mineral contents of Glochidion sphaerogynum (Mull.Arg.) Kurz bark extract. Standard procedures were used to test preliminary phytochemical constituents as well as quantitative analysis for total alkaloid, flavonoid, saponin, tannin, phenolic and terpenoid content. The extract was examined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to know the biologically active compound. In-vitro antioxidant potential was investigated using DPPH free radical scavenging assay and the IC50 value for the antioxidant activity of bark extract was 37.4479 ?g/mL. The qualitative phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of important phytochemical constituents as well as considerable amounts of total alkaloid, flavonoid, saponin, tannin, phenolic and terpenoid content. GC-MS revealed the presence of biologically active compounds like 1,1,6-Trimethyl-3-methylene-2-(3,6,10,13,14-pentamethyl-3-ethenyl-pentadec-4-enyl)cyclohexane; Benzenepropanoic acid, 3,5-bis(1,1-dimethyl ethyl)-4-hydroxy-, methyl ester; Neophytadiene etc which would be important for medicinal industries. Mineral contents were determined by using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The result revealed the presence of a good concentration of Na (10.552±0.343 ppm) and Ca (8.973±0.310 ppm) elements followed by K, Fe, Mg and Mn and very less concentrations of heavy metals such as Cd, Cr and Pb indicated the species was devoid of harmful metals.

Comparison of Nutritional and Functional Components and Total Antioxidant Capacity of Different &lt;i&gt;Momordica charantia&lt;/i&gt; Varieties

The differences of nutrient content, functional component content and total antioxidant capacity of 25 different varieties (lines) of Momordica charantia &nbsp;were compared, and the correlation between functional components and the total antioxidant capacity of Momordica charantia &nbsp;was analyzed, so as to provide the basis for the breeding of fresh and processed Momordica charantia &nbsp;varieties and the development of functional food of Momordica charantia . The results showed that the contents of vitamin C, soluble protein, cellulose, amino acid and total acid in pulp of different varieties (lines) were significantly different, the average values were 85.71 &mu;g/g, 7.98 mg/g, 319.04 mg/g, 1.45 mg/g, 0.41%, and the coefficient of variation were 28.47%, 29.07%, 11.05%, 43.45% and 12.20%, respectively. There were significant differences in the contents of total saponins, polysaccharides, flavonoids and total phenols in different varieties (lines), with the average values of 5.02 &micro;g/g, 38.36 mg/g, 2.64 mg/g and 7.68 mg/g, respectively. The number of variation lines was 45.62%, 25.47%, 21.97% and 18.49%, respectively. The average antioxidant capacity of DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazy), ABTS +&middot; (2,2&rsquo;-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid diammonium salt) and FRAP (Ferric reducing/antioxidant power) were 1.73 &mu;mol Trolox/g, 67.38 &mu;mol Trolox/g and 11.62 &mu;mol Trolox/g, respectively, and the variation coefficients were 19.65%, 17.25% and 31.50%, respectively. There was a significant correlation between total phenol content and total antioxidant capacity of Momordica charantia . Over all, there were significant genotypic differences in the contents of nutrients, functional components and antioxidant value in the pulp of 25 varieties (lines), and the total phenol content in the pulp was the main material basis for the antioxidant activity of &nbsp;Momordica charantia . In the breeding and cultivation of new bitter gourd varieties, the corresponding varieties should be selected according to different uses, which is conducive to the development of the advantages and commercial value of the varieties.

In Vitro Anticancer and Antioxidant Potential of Pittosporum dasycaulon Leaves extract Against the Human Liver and Lymphoma Cancer

Cancers are the uncontrolled growth of cells or tumors, and it is one of the leading causes of death all over the world. Currently, available synthetic drugs such as cisplatin, doxorubicin and fluorouracil are reported to have notable side effects in living tissues (skin irritations, dry and cracked skin, and mouth sores). So researchers are scrutinizing for alternative medications to overcome these side effects. Plants are one of the vital sources of alternative medicines with less toxicity and may overcome these side-effects of synthetic drugs. The study evaluated cytotoxicity and antioxidant potential on methanolic and aqueous extract of Pittosporum dasycaulon leaves. In the present study of cytotoxicity, the selected extracts were screened against two cancer cell lines (human liver cancer cells and Lymph cancer cell-Dalton's lymphoma ascites ascites). Two normal cells, intestinal epithelial-6, and Rat spleen were used to test cytotoxicity by using the trypan blue exclusion method and 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The antiradical activity was also evaluated with its half maximal inhibitory concentration. The content of total phenolic, flavonoid and saponins was also estimated. The present study displayed leaves methanolic extract found to have a significant rate of cell death against cancer cell lines (Dalton's lymphoma ascites and human liver cancer cells) with lethal concentration 50 values ranging from 8.21±0.3 to 55.65±0.11 μg/ml. However, the same extract had very less cytotoxicity even in higher doses against non- cancerous intestinal cell lines (intestinal epithelial-6) and rat spleen cell lines ranging from 389.50±0.6 to 1800.00±0.1 μg/ml. The quantitative analysis of leaf methanolic extract showed a high level of saponins and phenolic compounds. Therefore, leaves of Pittosporum dasycaulon Miq are a promising candidate for natural antioxidant as well as anticancer components. Hence, further extensive study urges to evaluate the mechanism as well as to investigate of individual components responsible for cytotoxicity and antiradical potential.

Enterococcus faecalis-Induced Biochemical Transformation during Fermentation of Underutilized Solenostemon monostachyus Leaves

Solenostemon monostachyus is an underutilized plant that is yet to be explored for consumption. This study assessed the biochemical impacts of a probiotic Enterococcus faecalis as an agent of fermentation, promoting the edible properties of the leaves from S. monostachyus using either an unfermented water leaf or S. monostachyus. The results with p &lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The α-amylase activity, proteins, carbohydrates, and ash, iron, and copper contents significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05), while fats, crude fiber, cadmium, and manganese contents of the fermented S. monostachyus leaves were significantly reduced (p &lt; 0.05), compared to the control (unfermented water leaves). The total phenol and saponin contents of the leaves were 1.98 ± 0.03 and 2.77 ± 0.04 mg GAE/mL for the S. monostachyus, 2.20 ± 0.01 and 2.39 ± 0.51 mgGAE/mL for water leaf, respectively on Day 5. Spirostanol (20.7343 mg/10 g) and two possible yet-to-be-identified saponin compounds P-S1 (33.5773 mg/10 g) and P-S2 (23.5718 mg/10 g) were newly synthesized along with one possible novel volatile compound by the fermentation process. Furostanol (19.873–29.420), gallic acid (88.111–98.949 mg/10 g), luteolin (0.954–11.712 mg/10 g) were retained, and aescin (69.510 mg/10 g) was completely consumed by the fermentation process. E. faecalis derived some micronutrients to drive the α-amylase catalyzed biotransformation of phytochemicals to improve the health benefits in the leafy vegetable.

Effect of fermentation methods on the quality and in vitro antioxidant properties of Lycium barbarum and Polygonatum cyrtonema compound wine

Lycium barbarum and Polygonatum cyrtonema are known for their medicinal, edible, and ornamental properties. The sensory indices of the novel high-quality L. barbarum and P. cyrtonema compound wine (LPCW) fermented by Saccharomyces cerevisiae RW and Debaryomyces hansenii AS2.45 under different inoculation methods were analyzed. The alcohol content of the LPCW ranged from 3.88 to 4.75 % under three mixed inoculations. The total saponin and total polysaccharide contents in LPCW inoculated with D. hansenii first and S. cerevisiae after 24 h were 4.39 mg/mL and 0.21 mg/mL, respectively. Ethyl butyrate, citronellol, and 3-(methylthio) propanol were unique metabolites of D. hansenii. 4-Methoxybenzoic acid was the core product of brewing of by S. cerevisiae. Except for wine inoculated with S. cerevisiae only, the acceptability scores of all the LPCW samples were higher than 7.3. Our data provided the foundation for the development and application of medicinal and food homologous substances in food fermentation.

Identification of possible bioactive compounds and a comparative study on in vitro biological properties of whole hemp seed and stem

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a crop with potential applications in the food industry. Hemp seed is the most promising functional food item from hemp plant, which displays a number of applications in foods. However, there is a limited knowledge regarding its health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the metabolite profile and in vitro biological activities of ethanol extracts of ‘Cheongsam’ hemp seed and stem. In vitro antioxidant capacity (measured by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP), anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanol extracts of hemp seed and stem were evaluated. Hemp seed extract exhibited higher antioxidant and anti-inflammation capacities than hemp stem (61.20% versus 38.73%). Similarly, the lipase inhibitory activity (83.70% versus 70.19%) and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (76.14% versus 61.61%) were significantly higher in the seed than in the stem extract. Moreover, phytochemical profiling of the ethanol extracts revealed that total phenolic, condensed tannin, and saponin contents were significantly higher in hemp seed than in hemp stem. Quercetin (42.50 μg/g), apigenin (15.55 μg/g), and rutin (5.22 μg/g) were considered the major polyphenolic compounds in hemp seed, whereas ferulic acid (1.71 μg/g), caffeic acid (0.25 μg/g), and p-coumaric acid (2.85 μg/g) were the minor polyphenols in the seed extract. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that ‘Cheongsam’ hemp seed is rich in beneficial bioactive compounds and also possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic activities, which could make it applicable as a suitable raw material in the food industry.

Assessment of phytochemicals, antioxidant, antibacterial activity, and profiling of functional molecules in a freshwater fern, Salvinia cucullata Roxb.

Salvinia cucullata is a freshwater weed available abundantly in nature and also a troublesome aquatic weed globally. This study was conducted to know the chances of using invasive waste fern S. cucullata as a useful product in different biological applications and to explore the functional molecules and the biological properties of ethanolic extracts of S. cucullata (EESC) . The highest yield of total phenolic, flavonoid, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins content and maximum antioxidant activity (Qualitative assay) are observed in ethanolic extract of S. cucullata than other solvents used in this study. Hence, EESC was chosen for further quantitative antioxidant activity. The ROS scavenging activity of EESC was found to be dose-dependent in assays like 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6- sulfonic acid) (ABTS), hydroxyl, superoxide anion racial scavenging assays, and the ferric reducing power assay. Antibacterial activity of EESC was tested against various gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, where the zone of inhibition was recorded against Bacillus subtilis as high (16.76 mm) and lowest (10.96 mm) on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The presence of many functional groups including alkanes, aldehydes, esters, and amides in EESC is revealed by Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The volatile phytochemical compounds including pentacosadiynoic acid, diazoprogesterone, neophytadiene, heptacosane, and vitamin E were revealed by Gas Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. These compounds have been identified to hold pharmacological values accountable for the antibacterial and antioxidant activity of EESC. The findings of the present study are a value-added asset in the path to search of unexplored natural resources as biological agents in clinical applications.

Cloning, Expression, and Functional Analysis of the Full-Length cDNA of Acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase (AACT) Genes Related to Terpenoid Synthesis in Platycodon grandiflorus.

The objective of this study was to clone and identify the PgAACT function in P. grandiflorus. The full-length sequence of PgAACT genes was isolated and cloned from P. grandiflorus by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The recombinant plasmid was constructed using the pET-32a vector and expressed in E. coli Transetta (DE3) cells. Subcellular localization of AACT was observed in the epidermal cells of N. tabacum. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to identify the PgAACT gene transcription levels. After MeJA treatment, the changes in AACT gene expression were observed, and UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS/MS was used to detect the changes in P. grandiflorus saponins. In this study, two full-length cDNAs encoding AACT1 (PgAACT1) and AACT2 (PgAACT2) were isolated and cloned from P. grandiflorus. The deduced PgAACT1 and PgAACT2 proteins contain 408 and 416 amino acids, respectively. The recombinant vectors were constructed, and the protein expression was improved by optimizing the reaction conditions. Sodium dodecyl sulphate-polycrylamide gel electrophloresis and western blot analysis showed that the PgAACT genes were successfully expressed, with molecular weights of the recombinant proteins of 61 and 63 kDa, respectively. Subcellular localization showed that the PgAACT genes were localized in the cytoplasm. Tissue specificity analysis of P. grandiflorus from different habitats showed that PgAACT genes were expressed in the roots, stems, and leaves. After MeJA treatment, the expression level of PgAACT genes and the content of total saponins of P. grandiflorus were significantly increased, suggesting that PgAACT genes play an important role in regulating plant defense systems. Cloning, expression, and functional analysis of PgAACT1 and PgAACT2 will be helpful in understanding the role of these two genes in terpene biosynthesis.

Yield, phenology and triterpene saponins in Colombian quinoa

Exploring yield, phenology and their relationship with secondary metabolites in seeds provides a fundamental analysis that expands knowledge on the nutritional quality of seeds and the effect on productive potential. This knowledge is fundamental when improving or selecting nutritionally important crops, including Chenopodium quinoa Willd, which has excellent nutritional properties and contributes to global food security. This species contains saponins, a metabolite that imparts a bitter taste and can be highly toxic to consumers in large quantities. Therefore, the identification and selection of genotypes according to their saponin contents and outstanding agronomic characteristics are fundamental objectives for the genetic improvement programs of these species. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the characteristics of the grain, the phenology and the saponin content of 30 C. quinoa accessions with an aim to select or relate genotypes according to their yield and grain quality. The accessions were sown using randomized complete blocks (RCB) with nine repetitions for each material. Seven FAO-defined descriptors were evaluated to characterize the grain and physiological maturity. Saponin was extracted using microwave, and the quantification was done with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) which a UV-VIS detector at 277 nm wavelength. The accessions were classified according to their phenology: semi-late (56.7%), late (36.7%), and semi-early (3.3%). The total triterpene saponin content varied from 0.018 to 0.537%. The multivariate and cluster analyses formed groups of accessions with good yields (&amp;gt;62.02 g of seeds per plant) and desirable grain morphological characteristics. The more suitable accessions for the production of saponins are Quinoa semiamarga (0.537%), Quinoa peruana (0.412%) and Amarilla de maranganí (0.305%). Quinoa real and Quinoa primavera are more suitable for food products, which can be used as parents in future quinoa genetic improvement programs in Colombia.

Chemical composition, antioxidant activity and bioactive constituents of six native endangered medicinal orchid species from north-eastern Himalayan region of India

Orchidaceae is one of the largest and most diversified group of flowering plants within the families of angiosperm. Medicinal properties of orchids are less explored, but it is drawing significant attention of the scientific communities recently. The north eastern Himalayan region of India is well-known orchid hotspot with prevalence of two-third of total orchid species of the country. In the present study, an attempt was made to investigate the phytochemical composition of six native, endangered medicinal orchid species of this region namely Dendrobium nobile, Dendrobium moschatum, Dendrobium densiflorum, Acampe papillosa, Coelogyne nitida and Arundina graminifolia . The nutritional as well as phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of the extracts were analyzed by spectrophotometric methods. Minerals were estimated by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and flame photometer. Quantification of phenolics and bioactive metabolites from methanol extracts of the selected orchid species were carried out by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) methods. Results revealed that Dendrobium moschatum contained highest total carbohydrate (6.49 g 100g −1 ) and protein (11.30 g 100g −1 ). Dendrobium densiflorum was rich in total flavonoid content (35.54 mg quercetin equivalent QE 100g −1 ) and total alkaloid content (11.70 g 100g −1 ). It also showed highest 2, 2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging activity (64.4 µg ml −1 ). Acampe papillosa exhibited maximum total phenol content (4.09 g gallic acid equivalent GAE 100g −1 ), tannin (3.17 g tannic acid equivalent TAE 100g −1 ) and saponin (7.20 g 100g −1 ) content whereas Coelogyne nitida showed 281.7 µg ml −1 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. Iron, zinc, copper, manganese, sodium, potassium and calcium contents were higher in the Dendrobium species compared to other medicinal orchids under study. Quercetin (4518.3 mg kg −1 in Dendrobium moschatum ) and catechin (1211.1 mg kg −1 in Dendrobium densiflorum ) were the major phenolic compounds present abundantly in these orchid species. Metabolite analysis by GCMS showed presence of total twenty-six major bio-active compounds (like dendroban-12-one, embramine, scoparone etc.) in these six orchid species. The current study presents scientific evidence in support of the traditional therapeutic application of the studied orchid species and proves that these are potential sources of biologically and pharmacologically active ingredients. • Phytochemical composition analysis and bio prospecting of six medicinal orchids were carried out . • Dendrobium leaves are rich in carbohydrate and minerals but stems are rich in protein content. • Dendrobium densiflorum is rich in flavonoid, alkaloid, zinc, bio active compounds and antioxidant activity. • Acampe papillosa is rich in total phenol, total tannin and total saponin content . • Coelogyne nitida exhibits higher antioxidant activity due to higher quercetin content.

Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Extracts of Yucca Baccata, a Plant of Northwestern Mexico, against Pathogenic Bacteria.

Bacterial agents and oxidative reactions are involved in health and food preservation issues, and Yucca baccata (Y. baccata) can be a source of compounds with practical applications in both areas, but its investigation remains limited. Butanolic (YBE) and aqueous (YAE) extracts were obtained from the stem of Y. baccata. The total saponin, phenolic, and flavonoid contents were analyzed in the YBE and YAE. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was determined by the DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, and ORAC assays. Seven Gram-positive and five Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria strains were used to determine the MIC and MBC. Saponin contents were 30% and 1.81% (w/w) in the YBE and YAE, respectively. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the extracts were 29.5 μg GAEmg-1 (2.95%) and 5.58 μg GAEmg-1 (0.56%) in the YBE and 69.92 μg QEmg-1 (7.0%) and 1.65 μg QEmg-1 (0.165%) in the YAE. The antioxidant capacity values of YBE were 29.18 μg TEmg-1, 121.8 μg TEmg-1, 33.41 μg TEmg-1, and 156.84 μg TEmg-1 by the DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, and ORAC assays, respectively. YAE had lower antioxidant values than YBE (P < 0.05). Values of 80 mgmL-1 and 100 mgmL-1 were estimated for MIC and MBC of YBE against the Gram-positive bacteria. Values of 100 mgmL-1 and 120 mgmL-1 for MIC and MBC of YBE were estimated against the Gram-negative bacteria. No MIC and MBC were obtained for YAE. YBE exhibited higher antioxidant activity than YAE. Apparently, antibacterial properties of the YBE tended to be higher than those of the YAE.

Study on the Anti‐inflammatory activity of Saponin from Dioscorea bulbifera using in vitro and in silico methods

Dioscorea bulbifera is commonly known as Aerial Yam is a perennial, non-spiny, climbing plant consist of numerous medicinal benefits. It contains a large number of polyphenols including organic acids and saponins. Aim of the present study is to screen the anti-inflammatory activity of saponin from the aqueous methanol fruit extract of Dioscorea bulbifera. The presence of saponin was tested using the qualitative phytochemical screening and separated using TLC. Total saponin content was 30µg/g. The identification of saponin activity against inflammation was carried out using several assays such as Cyclooxygenase inhibition assay, Lipooxygenase Inhibition assay and Protein denaturation inhibition assay using Diclofenac sodium. In silico study was conducted for the evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity using the COX-2 as target. The docking results revealed that dioscin was predicted to have the highest binding efficacy with COX-2 receptor with a binding energy of -662.07 kcal/mol. Thus the study shows that the Dioscorea bulbifera fruit contain a safe and effective Anti-inflammatory activity.

Integrated Metabolome and Lipidome Strategy to Reveal the Action Pattern of Paclobutrazol, a Plant Growth Retardant, in Varying the Chemical Constituents of Platycodon Root.

Platycodon root, a medicinal food homology species which has been used in Asian countries for hundreds of years, is now widely cultivated in China. Treatment with paclobutrazol, a typical plant growth retardant, has raised uncertainties regarding the quality of Platycodon root, which have been rarely investigated. In the present study, metabolomic and lipidomic differences were revealed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to ion mobility-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-IM-QTOF-MS). A significant decrease of platycodigenin-type saponins was observed in the paclobutrazol-treated sample. Carrying out a comprehensive quantitative analysis, the contents of total saponins and saccharides were determined to illustrate the mode of action of paclobutrazol on Platycodon root. This study demonstrated an exemplary research model in explaining how the exogenous matter influences the chemical properties of medicinal plants, and therefore might provide insights into the reasonable application of plant growth regulators.

Optimization of Total Saponin Extraction from Polyscias fruticosa Roots Using the Ultrasonic-Assisted Method and Response Surface Methodology

Polyscias fruticosa (L.) Harms is commonly used for medicinal purposes in Vietnam. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to cure ischemia, reduce inflammation, and increase cerebral blood circulation. Triterpene saponins are the major chemical constituents found in the roots of P. fruticosa. This compound exhibited a broad spectrum of biological effects, including lowering blood sugar, suppressing tumor growth and inflammation. This study focused on optimizing the process of total saponins extraction from P. fruticosa roots using the ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) method, ethanol solvent and response surface methodology, and Box–Behnken design model, then evaluating the cytotoxic effect against some cancer cell lines. The results showed that under the optimal conditions, including an extraction temperature of 60 °C and ultrasonic power of 185 W in 65 min, the maximum extraction yield and total saponin content were 14.51 ± 1.15% and 41.24 ± 1.68 mg/g, respectively. Moreover, the saponin extract had cytotoxic effects against A549, HepG2, PC-3, and Hela. The results of this study confirmed that triterpene saponin is an important chemical component which is present in a high content in P. fruticosa roots and gives rise to significant biological activities. In addition, UAE can be used as a highly efficient method for triterpene saponins extraction from P. fruticosa roots.

Cloning and Characterization of the Gene Encoding HMGS Synthase in Polygonatum sibiricum.

The saponins of Polygonatum sibiricum had many pharmacological activities such as antitumor, antioxidation, and blood sugar lowering, which were synthesized by two pathways: mevalonate (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP). 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A synthase (HMGS) was the key enzyme in the MVA synthesis pathway, and its expression level may affect the accumulation of saponins which were the main active ingredients of P. sibiricum. In this study, we successfully cloned HMGS1 and HMGS2 from P. sibiricum and their sequence similarity was 93.71% with 89 different sites. The multiple sequence alignment results indicated that the N-terminal sequences of HMGS were conserved. Phylogenetic analysis showed that P. sibiricum, A. officinalis, N. tazetta, D. nobile, and other relatives had a common evolutionary ancestor. The expression levels of both HMGSs and the total saponin content in different tissues revealed that HMGS expression in rhizomes was positively correlated with total saponin content. Further study of the abiotic stress effect of Methyl Jasmonate (MeJA) demonstrated that the expression of HMGS1 and HMGS2 genes was induced by MeJA, peaked at 24 h, and fell by 48 h. Our present findings would provide a blueprint for future studies of HMGS and its role in triterpenoid biosynthesis in P. sibiricum.