Dill Research Articles

Optical, Structural and Biological Properties of Reduced Silver Oxide Nanoparticles from Anethum Graveolens Leaf Extract by Nonthermal Plasma

This research aims to develop a novel approach, employing cold plasma technology for preparing nanoparticles of silver oxide by Anethum graveolens (dill) leaf extract as a natural reducing agent. This investigation evaluated the properties of antibacterial and antibiofilm-prepared nanoparticles. Initially, dill leaf extract was prepared to stabilize and reduce the size of silver oxide nanoparticles. Improved synthesis and optimal conditions for nanoparticle formation were achieved through the application of cold plasma technology. The results obtained showed that the prepared silver oxide nanoparticles have strong antibacterial properties and that they have antibacterial activity against a different group of bacteria that cause diseases such as Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The results also showed the effectiveness of nanoparticles in preventing the formation of bacterial biofilms, as the highest rate of inhibition was for gram-positive bacteria S. aureus. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of plant extracts and cold plasma technology when combined in producing nanoparticles with improved properties, which may push toward the employment of these materials in developing innovative and sustainable solutions in various scientific and applied fields.

Cytotoxic activity, selectivity, and clonogenicity of fruits and resins of Saudi medicinal plants against human liver adenocarcinoma.

Edible fruits and resins provide various benefits to mankind including potential medicinal applications. This study aimed to determine the cytotoxicity, selectivity, and clonogenicity of fruits and exudates of certain Saudi medicinal plants (Anethum graveolens (BEP-09), Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller (BEP-10), Boswellia serrata Roxb. ex Colebr. (BEP-11), and Commiphora myrrha (BEP-12)) against human liver adenocarcinoma (HepG2). Initial cytotoxicity and cell line selectivity against different cell lines were screened using MTT assay. The most promising extract was subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to determine the main phytoconstituents. Clonogenicity was checked for the most active extract. The selected plants' fruits and resins possess a significant cytotoxic activity estimated as IC50. The fruit of BEP-10 was found to be the most active extract against liver cancer cells (IC50 = 2.82) comparable to both doxorubicin (IC50 = 1.40) and camptothecin (IC50 = 1.11). It showed a selectivity index of 4.47 compared to the normal human foetal lung fibroblast (MRC5) cells. BEP-10 showed a dose-dependent clonogenic effect against HepG2 cells comparable to the effect of doxorubicin. The GC-MS chromatogram of BEP-10 extract revealed the presence of eight small polar molecules, representing 73% of the total identified compounds and the rest three molecules (27%) were non-polar constituents. The furan derivatives represent the chief components in BEP-10 (16.3%), while the aldehyde 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2-furancarboxaldehyde was found to be the main molecule (13.2%). The fruits of BEP-10 have a potential cytotoxic effect particularly against HepG2. The identified phytoconstituents in the tested plant extract might contribute to the investigated cytotoxic activity.

Antibacterial and anticancer potential of bioactive compounds and secondary metabolites of endophytic fungi isolated from Anethum graveolens.

Fungal endophytes are known to produce bioactive chemicals and secondary metabolites that are often identical to those produced by their host plants. The main objective of the current study was to isolate and identify endophytic fungi associated with the medicinal plant Anethum graveolens, and to investigate their potential antibacterial and anticancer properties. The ethyl acetate extracts from the isolated endophytic fungi, as well as the host plant A. graveolens, were subjected to bioactivity assays to evaluate their antibacterial and anticancer potential against multi-drug resistant bacterial strains and the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2. The endophytic fungi isolated and identified from the A. graveolens samples included Diaporthe, Auxarthron, Arthrinium, Aspergillus, Microsporum, Dothiorella, Trichophyton, Lophiostoma, Penicillium, and Trichoderma species. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay revealed that the A. graveolens extract exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, with an MIC value of 4 μg/ml, followed by the Trichoderma sp. (5 μg/ml) and Penicillium sp. (6 μg/ml) extracts. Additionally, the crude extracts of Trichoderma sp., Penicillium sp., and Fusarium sp. demonstrated high anticancer activity against HepG2 cells, with inhibition rates ranging from 89 to 92% at a concentration of 50 μg/ml. Interestingly, the A. graveolens extract showed the most potent anticancer activity, with a 95% inhibition rate against HepG2 cells at the same concentration. These findings highlight the significant potential of endophytic fungi associated with A. graveolens, as a source of bioactive compounds with promising antibacterial and anticancer properties. The results reinforce the hypothesis that medicinal plants and their endophytic fungi can serve as an attractive alternative for the development of novel therapeutic agents, potentially offering a more sustainable and less harmful approach to disease management compared to traditional chemical-based methods.

Bio-synthesized AGS@AgNPs for wound healing, antioxidant support, antibacterial defense, and anticancer intervention

Slow wound healing and wound infections are significant challenges for burn patients. Biosynthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using plant extracts offers a rapid, facile, and safe method for producing biocompatible NPs. In this study, Anethum graveolens seed (AGS) extract served as a masking and reducing agent for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AGS@AgNPs). Initially, the parameters influencing AGS@AgNPs synthesis, including silver nitrate concentration, reaction time, temperature, and pH, were optimized. Subsequently, AGS@AgNPs structural and biological characteristics were evaluated. Observation of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the AGS@AgNPs at approximately 420 nm, accompanied by a color change of the suspension to dark brown, confirmed AGS@AgNPs synthesis. Analysis via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the production of pure, homogeneous, spherical, and stable silver NPs with sizes ranging from 20 to 40 nm using Anethum graveolens extract. Antibacterial assays revealed significant activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Antioxidant assessments demonstrated that AGS@AgNPs at a concentration of 250 μg/ml exhibited 92% inhibition of DPPH free radicals and in FRAP test, A. graveolens seed extract and AGS@AgNPs reduced Fe3+ ions to Fe2+ by 48.7% and 73.1%, respectively. Investigation of anticancer properties against the lung cancer cell line (A-549) revealed an IC50 value of 242 μg/ml. The results of the flow cytometry test and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay demonstrated the death of cancer cells. Moreover, wound healing assays demonstrated a significant acceleration in burn wound closure rates in rats on days 3, 7, and 14 following treatments with AGS@AgNPs. Overall, these findings highlight the favorable biological activities of AGS@AgNPs, suggesting their potential utility in nanomedicine applications.

Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Properties of Different Parts of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) and Their Effects on in vitro Digestibility in Ruminants

Introduction: At the interface between man, animal and environment, the use of phytobiotics in agroecology practices has been developed as one of the most effective nutritional strategies for animal performance, health, and well-being. This study aimed to determine the effect of extracts from different parts (leaves, flowers and fruits) of a medicinal and food plant, dill ( Anethum graveolens L.) on in vitro digestibility in small ruminants. Methods: Chemical and parietal composition and antioxidant activity were determined, and nutritional and energy values were predicted. Substrate fermentation was studied using in vitro gas production techniques in sheep and goat intestines. Results: Flowers were rich in secondary metabolites, while fruits were rich in fiber and showed the best antioxidant activity against DPPH (IC50 = 41.71 μg/ml). The studied dill plant parts were digestible and nutritious, mainly fruits, with lower gas production rates compared to leaves and flowers in sheep and goats. The methane gas produced by fermentation was not significant in the leaves of either species. Conclusion: In summary, A. graveolens fruits can be considered a natural source of antioxidants that improve animal nutrition and health. Moreover, A. graveolens leaves can play an ecological role in the environment.

The effect of dill (Anethum graveolens) seeds on labor pain and progress: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundIn recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring the potential benefits of dill (Anethum graveolens) seeds in managing labor pain and promoting labor progress. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to gather and analyze all available evidence on the efficacy of dill seeds in reducing labor pain and facilitating labor progress. MethodsThe databases of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and ScienceDirect have been searched since their inception until June 20, 2023. The risk of bias for clinical trials was evaluated using the Cochrane tool and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) quality assessment tool was used for the evaluation of cohort studies. Meta-analysis was performed on the extracted data. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Chi2 and I2 index. Meta-analyses of all the data were done using RevMan 5.4. ResultsA total of 341 studies were identified through the primary search and after data reduction, finally, five articles remained for assessment. The results showed that the duration of the first stage (MD = −1.71, 95 % CI −2.94--0.48, P = 0.006), second stage (MD = −9.90, 95 % CI −15.51--4.29, p = 0.0005), and third stage (MD = −1.34, 95 % CI −2.14--0.54, p = 0.001) of labor were statistically shorter in the dill seed group, compared with that in the control group. Also, regarding pain intensity during the active stage of labor, the results indicated a favorable outcome for dill seed both overall and in the subgroup analyses of cohort and RCT studies. However, the significant finding was present only in the cohort subgroup (p < 0.00001). ConclusionUsing dill seeds in the active phase of labor in low-risk childbearing women could be an effective and low-cost intervention to reduce labor pain and accelerate labor progress. However, more high-quality clinical trials are needed to provide stronger scientific evidence.

Hepato-renal protective impact of nanocapsulated Petroselinum crispum and Anethum graveolens essential oils added in fermented milk against some food additives via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: In silico and in vivo studies

The study assessed the efficacy of parsley and dill essential oils (EOs) nanocapsules incorporated into fermented milk in hepato-renal protection against specific food additives. A molecular docking assay was conducted between parsley and dill EOs bioactive molecules and inflammatory cytokines. Freeze-dried parsley and dill EOs nanocapsules were developed, characterized for their morphological structure, particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index and encapsulation efficiency and assessed in fast green dye and sodium benzoate (SB) combination-treated rats. The docking results revealed that the primary constituents of parsley and dill EOs (apiol, myristicin, α-pinene, (−)-carvone, and d-limonene) interacted with the active sites of TNF-α, IL-1β and TGF-1β cytokines with hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions. D-limonene had the highest binding affinity (6.4 kcal/mol) for the TNF-α. Apiol and myristicin had the highest binding affinity (5.1, 5.0, 5.0 and 5.0 kcal/mol, respectively) for the IL-1β and TGF-β1 receptors. Biochemically and histopathologically, the excessive co-administration of fast green and SB revealed adverse effects on the liver and the kidney. Whereas the treatment with parsley and dill EOs nanocapsules afford hepato-renal protective effects as manifested by suppression the elevated liver and kidney functions. Parsley and dill EOs nanocapsules showed a significant reduction of the liver (64.08 and 80.5 pg/g, respectively) and kidney (59.3 and 83.6 pg/g, respectively) ROS. Moreover, parsley and dill EOs nanocapsules down-regulated the liver and the kidney inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β and TGF-1β) and lipid peroxidation and up-regulated the antioxidant enzymes. In conclusion, the data suggest a potential hepato-renal protective effects of parsley and dill EOs nanocapsules.

In vitro anticancer potential of dill seed extract against human hepatocellular carcinoma (Huh-7) cells

BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma is the most prevalent type of primary liver cancer and remains the foremost cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Dill (Anethum graveolens) seeds, rich in phytoconstituents, is renowned for their pharmacological properties. ObjectivesThis study performed an in vitro evaluation to assess the cytotoxic effects of dill seed extract (DS-EE) on the Huh-7 hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. Moreover, the study investigated its effects on cell viability, cellular morphology, oxidative damage, levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and the expression of apoptosis-related genes in Huh-7 cells. MethodsHuh-7 cells were treated with DS-EE at concentrations ranging from 5 to 100 μg/mL for a duration of 24 h. ResultsThe cytotoxicity findings showed that DS-EE decreased cell viability and suppressed the growth of Huh-7 cells in a dose-dependent way, with an IC50 value of 60 μg/mL. Exposure to DS-EE extract for 24 h resulted in a significant elevation in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and a notable decrease in glutathione (GSH) content compared to the control. Furthermore, DS-EE significantly increased ROS production while notably decreasing the MMP level in Huh-7 cells. Moreover, DS-EE induces cell apoptosis by upregulating the expression of proapoptotic genes (p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax) and downregulating the expression of the antiapoptotic gene, Bcl-2. Conclusion: DS-EE exhibited a notable cytotoxic effect on Huh-7 cells by increasing oxidative damage and subsequently modulating the expression of apoptosis-related genes. The results of this study highlight the anticancer effectiveness of DS-EE, indicating its potential as a promising agent for hepatocellular carcinoma management.

Investigation of physicochemical and antibacterial properties of dill (Anethum graveolens L.) microencapsulated essential oil using fluidized bed method

The present study delves into the encapsulation of dill essential oil utilizing the fluidized bed coating methodology. The investigation focused on the impact of essential oil concentration and the application of maltodextrin and arabic gum as the primary and secondary coating agents. The dominant compounds in the dill essential oil were identified as limonene (32.32%), carvone (35.43%), and cis-dihydrocarvone (5.43%). The antimicrobial potency of the dill essential oil was evaluated, demonstrating notable inhibition against Streptococcus mutans with inhibition zone diameters ranging from 5.4 mm to 16 mm for concentrations between 250 μg/mL and 2000 μg/mL. For Streptococcus sobrinus, the inhibition zones measured from 6.6 mm to 18 mm across the same concentration gradient. An increase in maltodextrin concentration was associated with a decrease in moisture content, bulk density, and tapped density, while it improved microencapsulation efficiency and loading capacity. In contrast, a higher concentration of arabic gum increased moisture content, loading capacity, and encapsulation efficiency, but reduced bulk density and tapped density. Elevating the essential oil concentration increased all physicochemical properties of the microcapsules, except for tapped density. The optimal conditions for microencapsulation involve using a 2000 ppm concentration of dill essential oil with 75% maltodextrin and 0.1% arabic gum as carrier agents. Scanning electron microscopy images indicated that the microcapsule particles were nearly spherical with a smooth, intact surface. The release rate of phenolic compounds in a simulated saliva environment reached its maximum at 98.32% after 20 min, showcasing an efficient release profile.

Cytological Assessment of Gamma Induced Multiple Translocation Heterozygote in Sowa (Anethum graveolens L.)

Cytological Assessment of Gamma Induced Multiple Translocation Heterozygote in Sowa (Anethum graveolens L.)

Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oils and Seed Extracts of Anethum graveolens from Southern Morocco: In Vitro and In Silico Approach for a Natural Alternative to Synthetic Preservatives.

Anethum graveolens is an aromatic plant traditionally used as an antispasmodic and carminative. The objective of this study is to analyze the chemical composition of the essential oils and extracts obtained from seeds gathered in Errachidia, southern Morocco. Additionally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these oils and extracts will be evaluated. GC-MS analysis of the EO isolated by hydrodistillation revealed that its main compounds were E-anethole (38.13%), estragole (29.32%), fenchone (17.21%), and α-pinene (7.37%). The phenolic components were extracted using the methods of decoction and Soxhlet. The assay of the phenolic compounds showed that A. graveolens seeds contained considerable amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins, with variable levels depending on the extract analyzed. HPLC/UV-ESI-MS analyses performed on the decoction revealed a structural diversity of the molecules present in this extract, the most important of which were umbelliferone (12.35%), 3-hydroxyflavone (11.23%), rosmanol (8.95%), biotin (8.36%), emmotin H (4.91%), and coumarin (4.21%). The antioxidant activity, as determined by three techniques (DPPH•, FRAP, and CAT), demonstrated that the essential oils (EOs) and extracts had a potent capacity to counteract detrimental free radicals, control the generation of reactive oxygen species, and mitigate oxidative damages. The antimicrobial activity of the Eos and extracts was carried out in a liquid medium against five strains (E. cloacae, K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. aureus, and S. epidermidis) and four candidiasis (C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis) and Aspergillus niger. The results showed the effectiveness of the EOs compared to the aqueous, ethanolic, and decoction extracts against most of the microorganisms tested. In addition, the ethanolic extract showed antifungal activity that was distinguished from that of the other extracts. The antimicrobial efficacy of the essential oils under study can primarily be attributed to the synergistic interactions among its three principal constituents (E-anethole, estragole, and fenchone). Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation results reveal significant interactions and stability between the selected bioactive compounds and different target proteins involved in antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Compounds like 3-hydroxyflavone, emmotin H, trans-caftaric acid, methyl rosmarinate, 1-caffeoyl-beta-D-glucose, and kaempferol exhibited better binding energies with the explored proteins, indicating their potential as antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Finally, our findings emphasize the significance of A. graveolens seeds as a promising reservoir of advantageous health compounds that can serve as organic substitutes for the presently employed synthetic preservatives.

Insecticidal effects of some plant extracts against Khapra beetle [Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae)

The study aims to determine the toxicity of extracts in three different solvents (methanol, hot water, and cold water) obtained from 10 different plants [Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Lamiaceae), Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae), Laurus nobilis L. (Lauraceae), Anethum graveolens L. (Apiaceae), Origanum onites L. (Lamiaceae), Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (Lamiaceae), Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (Apiaceae), Hypericum perforatum L. (Clusiaceae), Mentha piperita L. (Lamiaceae), and Nicotiana tabacum L. (Solanaceae)] against the larvae of the third instar of Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) collected from different provinces of Türkiye. The results of the study varied depending on the plant species and the solvent used. Based on the observations, methanol was found to be the most effective solvent, followed by hot water and then cold water. On the 14th day of application, the highest mortality rate of 100% was observed when methanol was used as a solvent at a concentration of 20% (w/v) of the plant extracts. In contrast, this rate was 44% when cold water was used and 56% when hot water was used. According to the research results, extracts of A. graveolens, N. tabacum, and N. sativa showed a highly toxic effect on the pest, suggesting that these extracts are promising for the control of storage pests. However, more extensive studies are still needed to confirm the applicability and feasibility of these applications on an industrial scale.

Neuroprotection by Anethum graveolens (Dill) Seeds and Its Phytocompounds in SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cell Lines and Acellular Assays.

Neurodegeneration diseases (NDs) are a group of complex diseases primarily characterized by progressive loss of neurons affecting mental function and movement. Oxidative stress is one of the factors contributing to the pathogenesis of NDs, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). These reactive species disturb mitochondrial function and accelerate other undesirable conditions including tau phosphorylation, inflammation, and cell death. Therefore, preventing oxidative stress is one of the imperative methods in the treatment of NDs. To accomplish this, we prepared hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of Anethum graveolens (dill) and identified the major phyto-components (apiol, carvone, and dihydrocarvone) by GC-MS. The extracts and major bioactives were assessed for neuroprotective potential and mechanism in hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in the SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell model and other biochemical assays. The dill (extracts and bioactives) provided statistically significant neuroprotection from 0.1 to 30 µg/mL by mitigating ROS levels, restoring mitochondrial membrane potential, reducing lipid peroxidation, and reviving the glutathione ratio. They moderately inhibited acetylcholine esterase (IC50 dill extracts 400-500 µg/mL; carvone 275.7 µg/mL; apiole 388.3 µg/mL), displayed mild anti-Aβ1-42 fibrilization (DHC 26.6%) and good anti-oligomerization activity (>40% by dill-EA, carvone, and apiole). Such multifactorial neuroprotective displayed by dill and bioactives would help develop a safe, low-cost, and small-molecule drug for NDs.

Studies on Different Drying Techniques to Utilized it for Powder Properties for Dried Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Fresh dill (Anethum graveolens) was dried using a recirculating tray dryer (RTD) and cross flow dryer (CFD) at 35°C, 40°C and 45°C, respectively to determine the best drying treatment and temperature combination for the preparation of dried dill powder. The dried dill was subjected to a grinding process to obtain powder, its engineering properties and techno-functional properties were analysed. The dill powder displayed significant differences in techno-functional properties and engineering properties. The dill dried at 40°C using CFDT2 resulted in better technofunctional and engineering properties as bulk density - 114.4 kg/m3, tap density - 130.6 kg/m3, Carr Index - 12.40, Hausner Ratio - 1.141, swelling power - 0.29, dispersibility - 27.72, water holding capacity - 14.83, oil holding capacity - 35.65, foaming Capacity - 34.97, foam stability - 1.96, emulsion capacity - 55.14, water solubility index – 0.23 and water absorption index – 0.14, respectively. Compared to samples of RTDT1 (35°C), RTDT2 (40°C) RTDT3 (45°C), the samples CFDT1, and CFDT3 findings showed increasing and decreasing trends which kept on changing with drying technique and temperatures. However, it can be concluded that CFDT2 found better results compared to other samples.

The influence of nitrogen fertilizer treated with low-temperature, low-pressure glow plasma on the growth and quality of selected species

Water treated with low-pressure glow plasma of low frequency takes unique properties which might be utilized as a novel, benefi”cial nitrogen fertilizer. Th™at assumption is tested in this report. ™Thus, plantations of dill (Anethum graveolens) var. Moravan, grass Universal (5% westerwold ryegrass (Lolium multiWorum), 20% tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea), 40% perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), 35% red festuce (Festuca rubra) and strawberry ((Fragaria) var. Senga Sengana were watered with that nitrogen fertilizer (LPGPAm) prepared of 1% ammonia solution in tap water treated for 30 min with plasma generated at 38oC at 5x10-3 mbar, 800 V, 50 mA and 10 kHz frequency. Watering lasted from August 1th (sowing) till September 30th (harvesting) 2023 in a greenhouse.Th™e eff˜ect of the use of watering plants with LPGPAm was checked involving the following parameters: plant height, mass of stems, total mass of crops, content of fat, proteins, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, sulphur content chlorophyll, content of dry mass, and ash and bioaccumulation of cations and anions.

Exploration of Anethum graveolens diversity from North Western Himalayan

Anethum graveolens L., an aromatic plant grown during winter season belongs to the family Apiaceae. The leaves and seeds of the plants are widely consumed in India. The seeds of the plants are rich in aroma, due to the richness of essential oils whereas the leaves hold immense potential due to their antioxidant and heavy metal stress alleviation properties. However, the genetic diversity of A. graveolens from North Western Himalayan has not been explored so far. Therefore, the genetic diversity of A. graveolens was investigated using 33 random amplified polymorphic (RAPD) and 27 inter sequence specific region (ISSR) markers. Out of the 33 random primers, only 4 RAPD markers resulted in PCR amplification whereas 18 ISSR markers resulted in reproducible PCR amplification. Out of these ISSR markers, 11 markers accounted for 75–100 % of the polymorphism across all the accessions. Additionally, protein profiling was also used to investigate the diversity of A. graveolens landraces. Overall, the cluster analysis using Neighbor joining (N-J) and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) method followed by principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the accessions of A. graveolens irrespective to their geographic distribution shared the common group. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of the local landraces was also investigated based on the free radical scavenging potential using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The present current study on exploration of A. graveolens diversity can be helpful in developing conservation strategies of its local germplasm prevalent in North Western Himalayan region.

Evaluation of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) genotypes for growth and seed yield attributing characters

Evaluation of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) genotypes for growth and seed yield attributing characters

Chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils of seven Cultivated Apiaceae species

The Apiaceae family contains many species used as food, spice and medicinal purposes. Different parts of plants including seeds could be used to obtain essential (EO) oils from members of the Apiaceae family. In the present study, EOs were components obtained through hydrodistillation from the seeds of anise (Pimpinella anisum), carrot (Daucus carota), celery (Apium graveolens), dill (Anethum graveolens), coriander (Coriandrum sativum), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and cumin (Cuminum cyminum). EO constituents were determined with Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) and Gas Chromatography/Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) and their antioxidant capacities were determined with the cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) methods. The antimicrobial activity of EOs were tested against four pathogenic bacteria. Phenylpropanoids in anise (94.87%) and fennel (92.52%), oxygenated monoterpenes in dill (67.59%) and coriander (98.96%), monoterpene hydrocarbons in celery (75.42%), mono- (45.42%) and sesquiterpene- (43.25%) hydrocarbons in carrots, monoterpene hydrocarbon (34.30%) and aromatic hydrocarbons (32.92%) in cumin were the major compounds in the EOs. Anethole in anise and fennel, carotol in carrot, limonene in celery, carvone in dill, linalool in coriander, and cumin aldehyde in cumin were predominant compounds in these EOs. The high hydrocarbon content in cumin EO gave high CUPRAC activity (89.07 µmol Trolox g−1), and the moderate monoterpene hydrocarbon and oxygenated monoterpene content in dill EO resulted in higher DPPH activity (9.86 µmol Trolox g−1). The in vitro antibacterial activity of EOs against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli was evaluated using the agar diffusion method and the minimum bactericidal concentration was determined. Coriander, cumin and dill EOs showed inhibitory effect against all tested strains except P. aeruginosa. While fennel and celery EOs were effective against E. coli and B. cereus strains, respectively, anise and carrot EOs did not show any antibacterial effect against the tested bacteria. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) produced four groups based on EO constituents of seven species. The potential adoption of the cultivated Apiaceae species for EO extraction could be beneficial for the wild species that are endangered by over collection and consumption.

Comparative study of the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of volatile oils extracted from Pimpinella anisum L. and Anethum graveolens L. seeds grown in Syria

Comparative study of the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of volatile oils extracted from Pimpinella anisum L. and Anethum graveolens L. seeds grown in Syria

The Effect of Biotic Stress in Plant Species Induced by ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’—An Artificial Neural Network Approach

Infections with phytoplasma present one of the most significant biotic stresses influencing plant health, growth, and production. The phytoplasma ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’ infects a variety of plant species. This pathogen impacts the physiological and morphological characteristics of plants causing stunting, yellowing, leaf curling, and other symptoms that can lead to significant economic losses. The aim of this study was to determine biochemical changes in peony (Paeonia tenuifolia L.), mint (Mentha × piperita L.), and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) induced by ‘Ca. Phytoplasma solani’ in Serbia as well as to predict the impact of the biotic stress using artificial neural network (ANN) modeling. The phylogenetic position of the Serbian ‘Ca. Phytoplasma solani’ strains originated from the tested hosts using 16S rRNA (peony and carrot strains) and plsC (mint and dill strains) sequences indicated by their genetic homogeneity despite the host of origin. Biochemical parameters significantly differed in asymptomatic and symptomatic plants, except for total anthocyanidins contents in dill and the capacity of peony and mint extracts to neutralize superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals, respectively. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed a correlation between different chemical parameters and revealed a clear separation among the samples. Based on the ANN performance, the optimal number of hidden neurons for the calculation of TS, RG, PAL, LP, NBT, •OH, TP, TT, Tflav, Tpro, Tant, DPPH, and Car was nine (using MLP 8-9-13), as it produced high r2 values (1.000 during the training period) and low SOS values. Developing an effective early warning system for the detection of plant diseases in different plant species is critical for improving crop yield and quality.