Cyanogenic Research Articles

Cyanide and Cyanogenic Compounds—Toxicity, Molecular Targets, and Therapeutic Agents

Cyanide (CN) is a well-known mitochondrial poison. CN poisoning may result from acute or long-term exposure to a number of CN compounds. Recent insight into the chemical affinities of the CN anion has increased our understanding of its toxicity and the mechanisms of antidotal actions, which, together with information on various exposure sources, are reviewed in the present article. A literature search in Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar for the period 2001–2024 revealed that the CN anion after exposure or degradation of CN compounds is distributed to vulnerable copper and iron-containing targets, especially in mitochondria, thus blocking the electron transport chain. Intake of cyanogenic compounds may exert subacute or chronic toxic effects, also because of the interaction with cobalt in vitamin B12. Antidotal agents exert their effects through the affinity of CN for cobalt- or iron-containing compounds. Research on CN interactions with metalloproteins may increase our insight into CN toxicity and efficient antidotal regimens.

Variability of amylose content and its correlation with the paste properties of cassava starch.

The amylose content can significantly impact the diverse industrial applications of cassava starch. This study aimed to assess the variability of cassava germplasm concerning amylose content and other attributes pertinent to root quality, alongside its correlation with paste properties. Starch extracted from 281 genotypes, obtained in germplasm evaluation trials, was evaluated for amylose content, with additional analysis of parameters such as pasting temperature, time to peak viscosity (TPV), viscosity breakdown (BrD), retrogradation tendency, and maximum, minimum, and final viscosities. The genotypes exhibited considerable variation in dry matter content (ranging from 27.06% to 41.02%), starch content (from 14.61% to 25.67%), cyanogenic compounds (1.77 to 7.81), and amylose content (0.05% to 33.23%). High phenotypic variability in paste properties was observed, alongside a low residual effect for most traits, resulting in high broad-sense heritabilities (>0.95). Strong correlations of significant magnitude (>0.80) were found between parameters such as peak viscosity × viscosity breakdown, minimum viscosity × final viscosity, and final viscosity × retrogradation tendency. Moderate correlations were also identified, such as between dry matter content × starch content (0.56). While positive, correlations between amylose content and paste properties were of low magnitude (ranging from 0.13 to 0.35), except for TPV and BrD. Principal component discriminant analysis clustered the germplasm into six distinct groups based on root quality and paste properties, with most improved genotypes falling into two clusters characterized by high starch and dry matter contents. This study underscores the necessity of simultaneous evaluation of amylose content and paste properties in the breeding pipeline. Additionally, clustering cassava genotypes proves beneficial in identifying those that fulfill specific requirements in industrial and breeding applications.

Monitoring of cyanogenic compounds behavior during the manufacturing process of sweetened bean paste

To ensure food safety, food business operators must eliminate or reduce hazardous factors in manufacturing processes by implementing effective process controls. Since some beans are known to contain cyanogenic compounds, their distribution and use are permitted only as a raw bean paste material. Therefore, from the perspective of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), the purpose of this study is to demonstrate the validity of establishing CCPs and to determine the cyanogenic compounds in intermediate products for effectively managing hazardous substances in the manufacturing process. The previously reported method, post-column HPLC with fluorescence detection, was used for determine cyanogenic compounds in CCPs.While free cyanide ions were only detected at CCP#1, cyanoglycoside analysis was crucial throughout the manufacturing process. Results indicated a decrease in cyanoglycoside concentration as manufacturing progressed, with levels below 10 ppm in the final product. Notably, cyanoglycosides decreased significantly during the shibukiri process (soaking, boiling, and discarding water). The concentration of cyanogenic compounds in raw beans were below the regulated 500 ppm, and the concentrations in the final product were below regulated 10 ppm. In conclusion, it was found that proposed method is very useful for HACCP management to monitor the decrease of cyanide compounds in the manufacturing process.

Plant Cyanogenic-Derived Metabolites and Herbivore Counter-Defences.

The release of cyanide from cyanogenic precursors is the central core of the plant defences based on the cyanogenesis process. Although cyanide is formed as a coproduct of some metabolic routes, its production is mostly due to the degradation of cyanohydrins originating from cyanogenic glycosides in cyanogenic plants and the 4-OH-ICN route in Brassicaceae. Cyanohydrins are then hydrolysed in a reversible reaction generating cyanide, being both, cyanohydrins and cyanide, toxic compounds with potential defensive properties against pests and pathogens. Based on the production of cyanogenic-derived molecules in response to the damage caused by herbivore infestation, in this review, we compile the actual knowledge of plant cyanogenic events in the plant-pest context. Besides the defensive potential, the mode of action, and the targets of the cyanogenic compounds to combat phytophagous insects and acari, special attention has been paid to arthropod responses and the strategies to overcome the impact of cyanogenesis. Physiological and behavioural adaptations, as well as cyanide detoxification by β-cyanoalanine synthases, rhodaneses, and cyanases are common ways of phytophagous arthropods defences against the cyanide produced by plants. Much experimental work is needed to further understand the complexities and specificities of the defence-counter-defence system to be applied in breeding programs.

Cassava waste (stem and leaf) analysis for reuse

Cassava is an important crop for developing countries. In addition to its roots, the leaves are rich in proteins and minerals that could substantially supplement diets if treated properly, as they contain some anti-nutritional factors. Plant residues can be used as raw material in the food industry and as bioenergy. This work aimed to characterize the profile of macronutrients and polysaccharides in leaves and stems of two cassava clones generated by the breeding program (classical genetic improvement/grafting) of Embrapa Mandioca & Fruticultura. Dehydrated and crushed leaves and stems evaluated for chemical composition, in addition to the determination of cyanogenic compounds and polysaccharides. Macronutrients were similar between the two studied clones in stem and leaves. Moisture values of approximately 8.5 %, a protein content of 20.44 % and small amounts of soluble sugars and starch, overlapping the fiber content that approaches 25 %, containing a low concentration of pectins but high levels of lignin, which gives the material potential for saccharification mainly in the trunk. The results also showed that these foods, used in animal feed, represent potential raw materials for the food and bioenergy industry with high added value.

Rhizobia-legume symbiosis mediates direct and indirect interactions between plants, herbivores and their parasitoids

Microorganisms associated with plant roots significantly impact the quality and quantity of plant defences. However, the bottom-up effects of soil microbes on the aboveground multitrophic interactions remain largely under studied. To address this gap, we investigated the chemically-mediated effects of nitrogen-fixing rhizobia on legume-herbivore-parasitoid multitrophic interactions. To address this, we initially examined the cascading effects of the rhizobia bean association on herbivore caterpillars, their parasitoids, and subsequently investigated how rhizobia influence on plant volatiles and extrafloral nectar. Our goal was to understand how these plant-mediated effects can affect parasitoids. Lima bean plants (Phaseoulus lunatus) inoculated with rhizobia exhibited better growth, and the number of root nodules positively correlated with defensive cyanogenic compounds. Despite increase of these chemical defences, Spodoptera latifascia caterpillars preferred to feed and grew faster on rhizobia-inoculated plants. Moreover, the emission of plant volatiles after leaf damage showed distinct patterns between inoculation treatments, with inoculated plants producing more sesquiterpenes and benzyl nitrile than non-inoculated plants. Despite these differences, Euplectrus platyhypenae parasitoid wasps were similarly attracted to rhizobia- or no rhizobia-treated plants. Yet, the oviposition and offspring development of E. platyhypenae was better on caterpillars fed with rhizobia-inoculated plants. We additionally show that rhizobia-inoculated common bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris) produced more extrafloral nectar, with higher hydrocarbon concentration, than non-inoculated plants. Consequently, parasitoids performed better when fed with extrafloral nectar from rhizobia-inoculated plants. While the overall effects of bean-rhizobia symbiosis on caterpillars were positive, rhizobia also indirectly benefited parasitoids through the caterpillar host, and directly through the improved production of high quality extrafloral nectar. This study underscores the importance of exploring diverse facets and chemical mechanisms that influence the dynamics between herbivores and predators. This knowledge is crucial for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the ecological implications of rhizobia symbiosis on these interactions.

Biodegradation of Mandelonitrile Using Bacillus sp.: A Potential Approach for Environmental Remediation

Mandelonitrile, a cyanogenic compound, poses environmental risks due to its toxicity and potential to release hydrogen cyanide. The potential technique for removing mandelonitrile from polluted environments is biodegradation. In this study, we investigated the isolation and identification of bacterial strains from soil samples for the biodegradation of mandelonitrile. The selective enrichment culture technique was used for isolation, using mandelonitrile as the sole carbon and nitrogen source. The isolated strain was identified and named Bacillus sp based on morphological studies and biochemical analysis. MN1. Further degradation studies demonstrated the efficiency of the isolated strain in degrading mandelonitrile under optimum conditions. Bacillus sp. MN1 can degrade 0.5% v/v mandelonitrile completely into mandelic acid and ammonia under optimum conditions of 30 °C and pH 7.5 within five days of incubation. The enzyme assay and HPLC analysis show that mandelonitrile degradation by Bacillus sp. MN1 follows the Nitralase pathway, mandelic acid, and ammonia. This research study reveals the potential application of Bacillus sp. in the bioremediation of mandelonitrile-contaminated sites, highlighting the importance of microbial biodegradation in environmental management strategies.

Content and distribution of cyanogenic compounds in cassava roots and leaves in association with physiological age.

Cassava roots are widely consumed in tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Although the protein, vitamin, carotenoid, and mineral content in the leaves makes them a nutritionally attractive option, their consumption is limited due to their high levels of cyanogenic compounds (CCs). In this study, the CC content in different parts of the plant (leaves, storage root cortex, and parenchyma) was assessed at harvest for 50 landrace genotypes representative of cassava diversity in Latin America. The changes in CC in leaves at different physiological ages (3, 6, 9, and 11 months after planting) were also investigated. The average CC was higher in the cortex (804 ppm) and leaves (655 ppm) than in root parenchyma (305 ppm). Genotypes from different regions of Latin America, as identified by seven genetic diversity groups, differed significantly in CC levels. The Andean and Amazon groups had, respectively, the lowest (P = 0.0008) and highest (P < 0.0001) CC levels in all three parts of the plants. Cyanogenic compound concentrations were higher in leaves from young plants (P < 0.0001) and decreased with increasing physiological age. The results help to guide the selection of parental lines with low CC levels for breeding and to contribute to the expanded use of cassava and its by-products for food and feed. Cassava for fresh consumption, especially, requires varieties with low total CC content, especially in the root cortex and parenchyma. COL1108 (204, 213, and 174 ppm, respectively, in the parenchyma, cortex, and leaves) and PER297 (83, 238, and 299 ppm, respectively, in the parenchyma, cortex, and leaves) can fulfill this requirement. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Harnessing the anti-cancer potential of linamarin: A computational study on design and hydrolysis mechanisms of its derivatives

Cassava extracts containing cyanogenic compounds demonstrate anticancer properties. The cyanogenic glucoside linamarin found abundantly in cassava can release hydrogen cyanide (HCN) upon hydrolysis, a potent cytotoxin. However, linamarin's hydrolysis mechanism by human enzymes is poorly delineated and constitutes a bottleneck for therapeutic development. This study aimed to investigate linamarin's hydrolysis mechanism by human β-glucosidase and identify structural derivatives with enhanced hydrolytic potential using density functional theory calculations. Results revealed α-anomeric derivatives as promising, with leaving group ability and steric bulk strongly governing hydrolysability. We identified several linamarin analogs with predicted rapid hydrolysis kinetics that may enable swift cytotoxic HCN release against cancer cells. This investigation enriches understanding of cyanogenic glycoside reactivity to facilitate their development as targeted antineoplastic agents. The identified derivatives set the groundwork for experimental evaluation of enhanced linamarin-inspired compounds as innovative cancer therapeutics.

Cassava cell wall disruption methods: A review

Cyanogenic compounds such as linamarin, lotaustralin and linustatin are found in roots of cassava (Manihot Esculenta, Crantz). Those compounds are located in cell vacuoles while their hydrolytic enzyme, the linamarase is present in cell wall. Once the cell wall is disrupted, the cyanogenic compounds are hydrolyzed by the linamarase, producing glucose, acetone and hydrocyanic acid under favorable conditions. The main condition for cyanide production and elimination is the disruption of cassava cell wall, to promote the contact of cyanogenic glycosides and the linamarase. The cell wall disruption can be obtained by mechanical methods that are: shear grating, grating by pounding and grating by impacting. Cellwall disruption can also be done by solid-state fermentation or submerged fermentation that are chemical methods. Itcan finally be done by the combination of mechanical method for cassava division, followed by fermentation in hot water.

Hormetic action of cyanide: plant gasotransmitter and poison

AbstractHydrogen cyanide (HCN) occurs in living organisms and in the environment. This is a widely known poison but is also considered as a gasotransmitter. For most higher plants, microorganisms and animals HCN is toxic, especially at elevated concentrations. However, plants’ sensitivity to this compound is lower than animals’ due to the activity of an alternative oxidase in the mitochondrial respiration chain. All higher plants synthesize HCN as a co-product during the final step of ethylene biosynthesis, whilst some plant species release it from cyanogenic compounds, accumulated for diverse physiological purposes. This molecule is used as a toxic bomb against herbivores, as a source of nitrogen in N-deficient plants, or as a regulator of seed dormancy state. The toxicity of HCN is mainly due to the inhibition of the activity of several metalloenzymes: iron-containing enzymes, molybdoenzymes and enzymes that contain zinc or copper. HCN impacts cellular metabolism by modulation of the reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species levels, and via modifications of proteins (S-cyanylation, oxidation). The aim of this work is to describe the dual (toxic and signalling) mode of cyanide action in plants at a cellular level.

Chemistry and Biology of Cyanides: A Literature Review

The term cyanide is used to describe compounds that contain the cyano, -C≡N, group. The cyanides exist in nature as inorganic as well as organic compounds in the forms of gas or liquid such as HCN, CNCl and acetonitrile, or solids such as NaCN, KCN, and Ca(CN)2. Cyanide compounds are also found in addible plants as cyanogenic glycosides. Compounds that can release cyanide are known as cyanogenic compounds. HCN has a low boiling point (25.63 oC) and is as weakly acidic with a pKa 9.2. It partially ionizes in water to give the cyanide anion, -CN. Cyanide ion from salt reacts with acid to give HCN, but at high pH (8-10), it remains as cyanide ion even if the temperature of the water is 80.0-100.0 °C. Cyanide is one of the deadliest poisons, LC50 is 1.1 and 5.0 mg/kg for HCN and NaCN, which can cause death to those who come into contact within a few minutes or hours of exposure, depending on the level and route of exposure. It is a rapidly acting, potentially deadly chemical that interferes with the body’s ability to use oxygen. Due to its toxicity, cyanide has many roles in industry such as pesticides and medicines as nitrile-containing pharmaceuticals. Organic compounds that have a −C≡N functional group are called nitriles. Over 30 nitrile-containing pharmaceuticals are currently marketed for a diverse variety of medicinal indications with more than 20 additional nitrile-containing leads in clinical development. In addition, over 120 naturally occurring nitriles have been isolated from terrestrial and marine sources. In plants, cyanides are usually bound to sugar molecules in the form of cyanogenic glycosides. Hydrogen cyanide can be released from hydrolysis of cyanogenic glycosides which are commonly present in edible plants. Because it is a relatively common toxin in the environment, the body can detoxify a small amount of cyanide. The major route of metabolism for cyanides is detoxification in the liver by the mitochondrial enzyme rhodanese, which catalyzes the transfer of the sulfane sulfur of thiosulfate to the cyanide ion to form thiocyanate. Ingested cyanide may be countered by administering antidotes, such as natural vitamin B12 and sodium thiosulfate, that detoxify cyanide or bind to it.

Ecological attributes promoting intra-continental range-expansion of a native annual forb triggered by intensified land-use

Intra-continental range-expansion of native species tracking human-induced environmental changes has become an important phenomenon, and recently has been suggested to be recognized as a distinct biogeographic category, namely neonative. However, it remains difficult to analyze how range-expansions are triggered by certain environmental changes and which biological and ecological species attributes are involved. We compared biological and ecological attributes and the performance in different test environments during the entire life cycle of a range-expanding neonative in Romania, Xeranthemum cylindraceum, with a congeneric resident native, X. annuum, through a series of controlled experiments. Both species proved to share several biological and ecological attributes, e.g. high potential for long-distance dispersal by multiple vectors, biochemical defense against herbivores by means of cyanogenic compounds, and surprisingly, they were found to have similar germination and performance niches throughout the range of climatic environments tested by us. Differences between the two species, a broader climatic and habitat niche, higher germination rate and viability of seeds can give explanation to the successful spread beyond the historical range of X. cylindraceum. However, based on shared biological attributes between the two species, which confer the potential to spread, and the considerably higher seed output found in the case of the resident native, X. annuum is equally prepared to expand its range. With changing climate and persisting human-induced disturbance, in this case intensive grazing by sheep, we may expect the spread of this species after passing the presumed migration lag phase.

Amygdalin as a Promising Anticancer Agent: Molecular Mechanisms and Future Perspectives for the Development of New Nanoformulations for Its Delivery.

Cancer rates are increasing, and cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide. Amygdalin, also known as vitamin B17 (and laetrile, a synthetic compound), is a cyanogenic glycoside compound that is mainly found in the kernels and pulps of fruits. This compound has been proposed for decades as a promising naturally occurring substance which may provide anticancer effects. This is a comprehensive review which critically summarizes and scrutinizes the available studies exploring the anticancer effect of amygdalin, highlighting its potential anticancer molecular mechanisms as well as the need for a nontoxic formulation of this substance. In-depth research was performed using the most accurate scientific databases, e.g., PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, applying effective, characteristic, and relevant keywords. There are several pieces of evidence to support the idea that amygdalin can exert anticancer effects against lung, breast, prostate, colorectal, cervical, and gastrointestinal cancers. Amygdalin has been reported to induce apoptosis of cancer cells, inhibiting cancer cells' proliferation and slowing down tumor metastatic spread. However, only a few studies have been performed in in vivo animal models, while clinical studies remain even more scarce. The current evidence cannot support a recommendation of the use of nutritional supplements with amygdalin due to its cyano-moiety which exerts adverse side effects. Preliminary data have shown that the use of nanoparticles may be a promising alternative to enhance the anticancer effects of amygdalin while simultaneously reducing its adverse side effects. Amygdalin seems to be a promising naturally occurring agent against cancer disease development and progression. However, there is a strong demand for in vivo animal studies as well as human clinical studies to explore the potential prevention and/or treatment efficiency of amygdalin against cancer. Moreover, amygdalin could be used as a lead compound by effectively applying recent developments in drug discovery processes.

Development, Characterisation, and Performance Evaluation of Some Indigenous Plants for Faecal Sludge Treatment in Ghana

The search for alternative solutions for sustainable management of faecal sludge in the area of dewatering with biocoagulants/bioflocculants remains unfulfilled. Some available and accessible indigenous plants in the northern part of Ghana have been characterised and subsequently evaluated in their suitability for use as biocoagulant/bioflocculants. The Yila (Crossopteryx febrifuga) and the Voulo (Grewia mollis) plants were the indigenous plants used in this study. Three applications from the Yila wooden stem, the Yila bark, and the Voulo at different treatment concentrations with faecal sludge were monitored. The Yila wooden stem gave a potential of pollutant removal up to about 83.99%, 93.79%, and 91.54% for Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and turbidity, respectively. Application of the Yila bark gave a respective removal efficiency of up to about 77.39%, 82.02%, and 54.60% for COD, TSS, and turbidity. The efficiency of the Voulo plant obtained for COD, TSS, and turbidity was up to about 80.43%, 86.83%, and 72.55%, respectively. No cyanogenic or toxic compounds were identified in the characterised raw materials used for this study. The study has revealed the potential of producing biocoagulants that can perform as effectively as synthetic/chemical coagulants using locally natural raw materials but the use of it at large scale will only be applicable for batch or semi-batch systems. Some interesting constituents identified in the plants under consideration, such as trialkyl bismuthine and furan derivative, can open up opportunities to elucidate the potential applications of these identified plants in the areas of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, glass and ceramics, rubber production, and other applicable medicinal advantageous areas.

In-Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Kelubut Leaf Ethyl Acetate Extract (Passiflora foetida L.) from Samarinda City

Kelubut (Passiflora foetida L.), as an anti-inflammatory, is widely found in various regions in Indonesia, including in Central Kalimantan. Its main chemical compounds include alkaloids, phenols, glycosides, flavonoids, and cyanogenic compounds. Flavonoids show more than a hundred kinds of bioactivity, including antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory. This study aims to determine the anti-inflammatory activity of kelubut leaf extract (Passiflora foetda L.) against mice (Mus musculus). This research went through a Pretest and Posttest Control Group Design with 5 treatment groups, negative control, positive control, and ethyl acetate extract of kelubut leaves with 3 doses of 250 mg/KgBW, 125mg/KgBW and 62.5 mg/KgBB. Before being given treatment, each treatment group was induced by carrageenin by sub-planar injection into the sole of the left leg of the mouse. Then, the edema developed rapidly and persisted for 6 hours. After being induced by carrageenin, the researchers waited for 30 minutes and measured the volume of edema every 30 minutes to 120 minutes. The inhibition of all groups of ethyl acetate extract of kelubut leaves showed anti-inflammatory activity, but the resulting abilities were different. Inflammation inhibition by ethyl acetate extract at a dose of 250 mg/KgBW was 92.78%, at a dose of 125 mg/KgBW, was 91.76%, and at a dose of 62.5 mg/KgBW was 84.61%. From the results obtained, the ethyl acetate extract group of kelubut leaves at a dose of 250 mg/KgBW had the greatest inflammatory inhibition activity compared to a dose of 125 mg/KgBW and 62.5 mg/KgBW.

Phytochemical screening and in vitro antioxidant activities of Mentha suaveolens Ehrh. extract

Within the framework of the valorization of the medicinal and aromatic plants of Morocco, we were interested during this study in the characterization and the phytochemical identification of some secondary metabolites present in Mentha suaveolens Ehrh. and the evaluation of the antioxidant activity of this species using four methods: DPPH free radical scavenging test, 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, (ABTS) radical cation scavenging test, FRAP test measuring antioxidant power, and β bleaching-carotene. Mentha suaveolens is a species belonging to the Lamiaceae family, harvested in southern Morocco, and widely used in traditional medicine for its biological properties attributed mainly to phenolic compounds. Just as they protect plants, secondary metabolites also have a protective role in the human body and are therefore beneficial to our health. They are attributed, in particular, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. In this regard, characterization and identification tests of secondary metabolites revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, catechic tannins, and terpenes in this plant, whereas, the aerial parts of this species are devoid of coumarins, cyanogenic compounds, saponins and free quinones. The quantification of the phenolic compounds gave high contents, with contents of total phenols (54.75 ± 5.62) μg GAE/mg, total flavonoids (32.41 ± 0.41) μg QE/mg, and total condensed tannins (27 ± 1) μg CE/mg. In addition, the results obtained show that Mentha suaveolens extract has stronger antioxidant activity using the β-Carotene method with IC50 (0.24 ± 0.06) mg/mL against IC50 (0.021 ± 0.001) mg/mL for the standard antioxidant by the DPPH free radical scavenging test.

Tucupi: a review of uses, physical-chemical, nutritional properties and technologies

Tucupi is a beverage resulting from the fermentation process of manipueira, a by-product of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz); it has sensory characteristics and eccentric composition, marked by yellowish color, acidic flavor, characteristic aroma, and numerous forms of culinary preparation, which range from sauces, risottos de tucupi with jambu, even tacacá, which is the combination of indigenous soup, mani poi, enriched with ingredients from colonizers and African peoples. This food has high levels of cyanogenic compounds, bacteria (BAL), and yeasts that participate in the symbiosis of its fermentation. In addition to its production generate income for the population. The objective of this work was to carry out a complete literature review on tucupi, exploring the literature to date about the physical-chemical, nutritional characteristics, toxic and beneficial properties, and even its origin and method of preparation. Highlighting the knowledge and technologies used to prepare this drink, as well as the pre-established safety parameters and standardization of the production of tucupi by the Agricultural Defense Agency of Pará.

Phytochemical composition and potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms of leaf extracts of Sida linifolia L. (Malvaceae)

IntroductionThe classes of phytocompounds and in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials of crude aqueous extract (CAE) and ethanol extract (CEE) of Sida linifolia L. leaves were studied. MethodsThe assayed in vitro anti-inflammatory parameters were phospholipase A2 activity, platelet aggregation, albumin denaturation, membrane stabilization, protease inhibition, and heat-induced membrane hemolysis using the human red blood cells (HRBCs) method. Also, antioxidant properties of extracts were determined using reducing power assay, nitric oxide assay, total antioxidant capacity assay, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The anti-inflammatory study used aspirin and prednisolone as reference drugs, while the antioxidant assay deployed butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), gallic acid, and ascorbic acid as standard drugs. All parameters were determined following conventional procedures. Results and discussionPhytochemical screening of both extracts showed varying amounts of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, cyanogenic compounds, glycoside, alkaloids, phenolics, and terpenoids. At various concentrations (0.2–1.0 mg/ml), the CAE and CEE exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) high % anti-inflammatory activities similar to the standard drugs (aspirin/prednisolone), and these correlated positively with concentration. However, CAE exhibited better anti-inflammatory activities than CEE across all the parameters assayed. The in vitro antioxidant study revealed that both extracts demonstrated good antioxidant activities, which increased with concentrations. The ranges of IC50 values (in mg/ml) for CAE (0.64–0.92) and CEE (0.51–0.62) showed that CEE possesses more antioxidant potential compared with CAE; however, both extracts were less potent compared with gallic acid (0.47), ascorbic acid (0.32–0.50), and BHT (0.30). ConclusionsThis study suggests that Sida linifolia leaf extracts are rich in some classes of biologically active phytocompounds and exhibit good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Isolation and Quantification of Mandelonitrile from Arabidopsis thaliana Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry.

Mandelonitrile is a nitrogen-containing compound, considered an essential secondary metabolite. Chemically, it is a cyanohydrin derivative of benzaldehyde, with relevant functions in different physiological processes including defense against phytophagous arthropods. So far, procedures for detecting mandelonitrile have been effectively applied in cyanogenic plant species such as Prunus spp. Nevertheless, its presence in Arabidopsis thaliana , considered a non-cyanogenic species, has never been determined. Here, we report the development of an accurate protocol for mandelonitrile quantification in A. thaliana within the context of A. thaliana -spider mite interaction. First, mandelonitrile was isolated from Arabidopsis rosettes using methanol; then, it was derivatized by silylation to enhance detection and, finally, it was quantified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The selectivity and sensitivity of this method make it possible to detect low levels of mandelonitrile (LOD 3 ppm) in a plant species considered non-cyanogenic that, therefore, will have little to no cyanogenic compounds, using a small quantity of starting material (≥100 mg).