Hexadecanoic Acid Ethyl Ester Research Articles

Isolation and Structural Elucidation of Antimicrobial Molecules from Crinum ornatum (Aiton) Rhizome of Dutsin-Ma

Crinum ornatum is a well-known traditional herb used used traditionally to treat various diseases including wounds, sores, vomiting, ear-aches, urinary tract infection, coughs and cold, renal and hepatic conditions, sexually transmitted diseases and backaches. The rhizomes of C. ornatum were collected, identified, air-dried and pulverized and subjected to cold extraction using hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and methanol (MeOH) respectively. Antimicrobial activity of the extracts was determined using standard antimicrobial tests with Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Baccilus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as test microorganisms. The most active extract was thereafter subjected to Gas chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) analysis, the Structural elucidation of the isolated molecule was performed using advanced spectroscopic techniques, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Results of the antimicrobial activity test of the extracts showed appreciable antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi (with MIC value ranging from 200 mg/ml to 25 mg/ml). The results demonstrated significant inhibitory effects, highlighting the potential of the compound as an antimicrobial agent. GCMS analysis identified 45 compounds in the most active (DCM) extract. Out of these, eight (8) compounds were most abundant (revealed >5% peak areas on GC chromatogram). These are: n-hexanedecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z),oleic acid, linoleic acid ethyl ester, ethyl oleate, squalene and tetrapentacontane. Antibacterial activity exhibited by the plant could be ascribed to the presence of the major phytocompounds in the plant and this provides scientific proof of some of ethnomedicinal uses of Crinum ornatum rhizome.

Phytochemical profiling and mechanistic evaluation of black garlic extract on multiple sclerosis rat model

Black garlic aqueous-ethanol extract (BGE) was evaluated for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in multiple sclerosis induced-rat model. It was also analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), where fifteen compounds were identified, as aminobutyric acid and S-allyl-cysteine. The extract was standardized to citric acid content (4.77 mg/g extract), and its hexane fraction was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing mainly methyl 9E,12E-octadecadienoate, and ethyl palmitate. BGE administration in MS-induced groups showed significant amelioration in biochemical parameters through ELISA assessment of brain IL-10, TNF, α-2 macroglobulin, ERK1, ERK2, MAP2, MBP, and Nrf2 markers; decreased pro-inflammatory markers and elevated antioxidant parameters. Histopathological assessment of BGE-receiving rats’ brains showed less demyelination, and enhanced cognition. A molecular docking study showed that γ-glutamyl-S-methyl-cysteine sulfoxide, S-allyl cysteine, aminobutyric acid, and palmitic acid ethyl ester have good affinities to inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). BG can be further investigated for beneficial potential in MS disease.

Exploring the Profile Contributions in Meyerozyma guilliermondii YB4 under Different NaCl Concentrations Using GC-MS Combined with GC-IMS and an Electronic Nose.

Using Meyerozyma guilliermondii YB4, which was isolated and screened from southern Sichuan pickles in the laboratory, as the experimental group, we investigated the changes in growth, total ester content, and volatile flavor substances of M. guilliermondii YB4 under different NaCl concentrations. The growth of M. guilliermondii YB4 was found to be inhibited by NaCl, and the degree of inhibition increased at higher NaCl concentrations. Additionally, the total ester content of the control group (CK) was significantly lower compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The application of NaCl also resulted in distinct changes in the volatile profile of YB4, as evidenced by E-nose results. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) were employed to analyze the volatile compounds. A total of 148 and 86 volatiles were detected and identified using GC-MS and GC-IMS, respectively. Differential volatiles among the various NaCl concentrations in YB4 were determined by a variable importance in projection (VIP) analysis in partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). These differentially expressed volatiles were further confirmed by their relative odor activity value (ROAV) and odor description. Ten key contributing volatiles were identified, including ethanol, 1-pentanol, nonanal, octanal, isoamyl acetate, palmitic acid ethyl ester, acrolein, ethyl isobutanoate, prop-1-ene-3,3'-thiobis, and 2-acetylpyrazine. This study provides insights into the specificities and contributions of volatiles in YB4 under different NaCl concentrations. These findings offer valuable information for the development of aroma-producing yeast agents and the subsequent enhancement in the flavor of southern Sichuan pickles.

Trichoderma species from rhizosphere of Oxalis corymbosa release volatile organic compounds inhibiting the seed germination and growth of Echinochloa colona

Trichoderma spp. have the potential to act as biocontrol agents for regulating plant growth. In this study, Trichoderma spp. were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Oxalis corymbosa in sugarcane fields, and six strains were identified as T. koningiopsis, T. afroharzianum, T. atroviride, T. virens and T. asperelloides through morphology and phylogenetic analysis of ITS and tef 1 gene sequences. The activity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by Trichoderma spp. was determined using the double-plate chamber method, revealing that five strains significantly inhibited the seed germination and growth of Echinochloa colona. Subsequently, SMPE-GC–MS and Venn analyses unveiled the presence of five common VOCs, namely phenylethyl alcohol, 2,4,6-trichloroanisole, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, 10(E),12(Z)-conjugated linoleic acid, and linoleic acid ethyl ester, within Trichoderma spp.. Independently, five compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory effect on the shoot growth of E. colona. Additionally, the results demonstrated that linoleic acid ethyl ester exhibited the highest inhibitory activity, while hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester was the least effective. The inhibitory effect of 2,4,6-trichloroanisole increased with concentration. Hormone analysis results indicated that VOCs influenced the concentration of abscisic acid, resulting in the maintenance of dormancy in E. colona. This study provides compelling evidence for the potential use of Trichoderma as bioherbicides.

Metabolomics-guided identification of compounds with antibacterial and antioxidant activities from Polygonatum sibiricum-derived endophytic fungi

BackgroundInfections caused by multidrug resistant bacterial pathogens have been recognized as major global healthcare threat to medicinal, agricultural and pharmaceutical industries by World Health Organization. In this regard, the present study was aimed to isolate endophytes from medicinal plant Polygonatum sibiricum (P. sibiricum) and to investigate their antibacterial efficacy, radical scavenging ability and chemical fingerprinting using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrum (GC–MS) analysis.ResultsTwo endophytic fungi Talaromyces assiutensis HJ.14 (T. assiutensis) and Fusarium oxysporum HJ.15 (F. oxysporum) were isolated and identified from the rhizomes of P. sibiricum. Among the extracts screened, ethyl acetate extract of F. oxysporum HJ.15 showed maximum antibacterial activity with the zones of inhibition ranging from 10.98 ± 0.19 to 15.66 ± 1.49 mm and the MIC values ranging from 0.24 to 1.88 µg/mL against the tested bacterial pathogens. In addition, it showed significant antioxidant activity with EC50 values of 6.21–17.97 µg/mL. Further, GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of propanoic acid ethyl ester, hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-methyl ester, 1-Octanol, 2-Undecenal, butanoic acid, 3-hydroxy- and hexanoic acid were the most abundant compounds in the active crude extract which was responsible for the significant antibacterial and antioxidant properties.ConclusionsIn summary, our results clearly suggest that the F. oxysporum HJ.15 will be a promising starting point for the isolation of active antibacterial compounds with antioxidant properties.

GC-MS Analysis, Antiglycation, Antioxidant and Anti-lipid Peroxidation Activities of Harungana madagascariensis Methanolic Stem Bark Extract

Plants’ natural products make excellent lead for the development of new drugs used for prevention, management and treatment of communicable and non-communicable diseases. The specific aim of the study was to investigate the antioxidant and antiglycation activities of Harungana madagascariensis methanolic stem bark extract. The active compounds present in the plant were extracted using methanol by maceration and resulting extract was subjected to phytochemical screening, antioxidant and antiglycation analysis. The extract was fractioned on silica gel to isolate the antioxidant compounds domiciled in the extract and fractions were identified by bioautography. The H. madagascariensis methanolic stem bark extract showed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, saponins, steroids and flavonoids. From the antioxidant assays, the extract scavenged 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide radicals, inhibited lipid peroxidation in a dose dependent manner showing IC50 higher than ascorbic acid while it inhibited albumin glycation with IC50 lower than ascorbic acid. From the 12 fractions obtained only 7 fractions showed antioxidant activity and quercetin, flavone, 6-hydroxyflavone, ferulic and o-coumaric acid were inferred. From the GC-MS analysis, fatty acids and their esters, terpenoids and steroids were identified such as Hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (6.53 %), 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid (5.92 %), 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid methyl ester (0.95 %), vitamin E (1.22 %), phytol (3.87 %), squalene (1.66 %) and Pregn-5-en-3-ol, 21-bromo-20-methyl-(3.beta.)- (1.94 %). In conclusion, H. madagascariensis methanolic stem bark extract possessed antioxidant and antiglycation activities, thus, can be used for new drug development to reduce or combat oxidative stress related diseases in humans. HIGHLIGHTS The methanolic stem bark extract of Harungana madagascariensis exhibited strong antiglycation and antioxidant activities Antioxidant compounds including flavonoids and phenolic acids (quercitin, flavone, 6-hydroxyflavone, ferulic and o-coumaric acid), terpenoids (vitamin E, phytol and squalene) fatty acids and their esters were found in the extract The stem bark extract of Harungana madagascariensis could be used as a source of antiglycation and antioxidant activity for new drug development in preventing oxidative stress related diseases and diabetic complications GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Salinity plays a dual role in broad bean paste-meju fermentation

Chinese have learned to regulate salinity for broad bean paste-meju preparation over hundreds of years, yet the mechanisms of salinity in regulating the aroma and safety have not been identified. Here, we explored the effects of salt concentration (6%, 9%, 12%, and 15%, w/w) on the broad bean paste-meju fermentation. Results showed that low salt meju fermented rapidly, flavors such as OAs and FFAs were produced more quickly, and monosaccharides were consumed much more quickly by microorganisms. There was abundant linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid in fermented meju. Salt concentration resulted in an entirely different flavor of meju. Some acids and phenols compounds were prominent in the low salt group. Whereas the compounds that contributed to sauce aromas such as ethanol, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, and 4-ethyl-guaiacol were mainly detected in the high salt group. On the other hand, the low salt condition is beneficial for BAs production, contents of BAs in the 6% salt content broad bean paste-meju was much higher than in other groups (reached 2599.18 ± 725.75 mg/kg). In brief, salt plays an important role in broad bean paste-meju fermentation. Through this study, we would recommend 9%-12%, especially 12% as appropriate salt content for broad bean paste-meju fermentation.

Isolation, Characterization and Anticancer Activity of Two Bioactive Compounds from Arisaema flavum (Forssk.) Schott.

Medicinal plants play important role in the public health sector worldwide. Natural products from medicinal plants are sources of unlimited opportunities for new drug leads because of their unique chemical diversity. Researchers have focused on exploring herbal products as potential sources for the treatment of cancer, cardiac and infectious diseases. Arisaema flavum (Forssk.) is an important medicinal plant found in the northwest Himalayan regions of Pakistan. It is a poisonous plant and is used as a remedy against snake bites and scorpion stings. In this study, two bioactive compounds were isolated from Arisaema flavum (Forssk.) and their anticancer activity was evaluated against human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 using an MTT assay. The crude extract of Arisaema flavum (Forssk.) was subjected to fractionation using different organic solvents in increasing order of polarity. The fraction indicating maximum activity was then taken for isolation of bioactive compounds using various chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques such as column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Crude extract of Arisaema flavum (Forssk.), as well as various fractions extracted in different solvents such as n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate, were tested against human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 using an MTT assay. The crude extract exhibited significant dose-dependent anticancer activity with a maximum activity of 78.6% at 500 µg/mL concentration. Two compounds, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester with molecular formula C18H36O7 and molar mass 284 and 5-Oxo-19 propyl-docosanoic acid methyl ester with molecular formula C26H50O3 and molecular mass 410, were isolated from chloroform fraction. These compounds were tested against the MCF-7cell line for cytotoxic activity and exhibited a significant (p &lt; 0.00l) decrease in cell numbers for MCF-7 cells with IC50 of 25 µM after 48 h of treatment. Results indicated that Arisaema flavum (Forssk.) possesses compounds with cytotoxic activity that can further be exploited to develop anticancer formulations.

Fatty-Acid-Rich Agave angustifolia Fraction Shows Antiarthritic and Immunomodulatory Effect.

Agave angustifolia is a xerophytic species widely used in Mexico as an ingredient in sweet food and fermented beverages; it is also used in traditional medicine to treat wound pain and rheumatic damage, and as a remedy for psoriasis. Among the various A. angustifolia extracts and extract fractions that have been evaluated for their anti-inflammatory effects, the acetonic extract (AaAc) and its acetonic (F-Ac) and methanolic (F-MeOH) fractions were the most active in a xylene-induced ear edema model in mice, when orally administered. Four fractions resulting from chemically resolving F-Ac (F1-F4) were locally applied to mice with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (TPA)-induced ear inflammation; F1 inhibited inflammation by 70% and was further evaluated in a carrageenan-induced mono-arthritis model. When administered at doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg, F1 reduced articular edema and the spleen index. In addition, it modulated spleen and joint cytokine levels and decreased pain. According to a GC-MS analysis, the main components of F1 are fatty-acid derivatives: palmitic acid methyl ester, palmitic acid ethyl ester, octadecenoic acid methyl ester, linoleic acid ethyl ester, and oleic acid ethyl ester.

Olive leaf (Olea europaea L. folium) extract influences liver microsomal detoxifying enzymes in rats orally exposed to 2-amino-l-methyI-6-phenyI-imidazo pyridine (PhIP).

Olive tree (Olea europaea, Oleaceae) leaf extract (OLE) exerts many biological activities. One of the most common polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that pollute the environment is 2-amino-l-methyI-6-phenyI-imidazo pyridine (PhIP). It is a food-derived carcinogen that is present in fish and meat that has been cooked at high temperatures. Due to the generation of reactive electrophilic species, phase I enzymes have the potential to cause oxidative damage. In order to safely remove these reactive species from the body, phase II detoxification (conjugation) enzymes are necessary. It is not known whether OLE could influence their activities and hence reduce the carcinogenic effects of PhIP. This study evaluated whether OLE could modulate phase I detoxifying enzymes as well as phase II enzymes that metabolize PhIP in rat liver microsomes. Four groups of rats were used: group I: no treatment; group II: OLE (10mg/kg bw orally); group III: PhIP (0.1mg/kg bw orally); and group IV: PhIP followed by OLE. After 4weeks, the activities of phase I enzymes such as CYP1A1 (ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase), CYP2E1 (p-nitrophenol hydroxylase), CYP1A2 (methoxyresorufin O-demethylase), UDP-glucuronyl transferase, sulphotransferase, and glutathione-S transferase were evaluated in rat liver microsomes. Analysis of OLE by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) showed various active ingredients in OLE, including 3,5-Heptadienal (C10H14O), 3,4-dimethoxy benzoic acid (C8H10O3), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy (C8H8O4), 1,3,5-Benzenetriol (C6H6O3), hexadecanoic acid (C16H32O2), and hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (C18H36O2). Our results showed that rats given PhIP were found to have a statistically significant (p < 0.001) reduction in the activities of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP2E1 in comparison with the control group. However, treatment with OLE enhanced their activities but not to a normal level compared with untreated groups. Administration of PhIP decreased the activities of phase II enzymes (glutathione S-transferase, UDP-glucuronyltransferase, or sulphotransferase) (p < 0.01) in comparison with the control group. Histological examination of rat livers was consistent with the biochemical changes. The administration of OLE improved the phase II enzyme activities in animals injected with PhIP. We conclude that OLE influences phase I and phase II detoxification enzymes exposed to PhIP, which may represent a new approach to attenuating carcinogenesis induced by it.

In-vitro antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of modified solvent evaporated ethanolic extract of Calocybe indica: GCMS and HPLC characterization

Recent interest in the utilization of mushroom-based bioactive compounds has increased due to their potential bioactivities and as alternatives in the reduction of high concentrations of chemical utilization. Therefore, we evaluated the physicochemical, functional, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activity of the Calocybe indica. The nutritional composition of the mushroom was found to be a good source of proteins (12.48%) and fiber (6.87%). Polysaccharide and protein moiety showed both hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains and the sample showed higher water (3.01 g/g), oil binding (2.45 g/g) emulsifying (68.94), and foaming properties (59.39%). Structural characterization revealed the porous and small crystalline structure of the mushroom powder. Ethanolic extract was quantified for total phenolics and flavonoids and revealed 11.1534 ppm caffeic acid, 0.057 ppm syringic acid, 1.6385 ppm p-coumaric acid, and 0.3495 ppm rutin, respectively. Presence of ethyl tridecanoate, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, pentadecanoic acid ethyl ester, undecanoic acid ethyl ester, N, α, α′-trimethyl diphenethylamine, nicotinonitriles, phosphonic acid decyl-, 1-hexyl-2-nitrocyclohexane, diallyl divinylsilane, 3-phenyl-pyrrolo(2,3-β) pyrazine was confirmed during GC–MS analysis. Furthermore, the mushroom extract showed effective antimicrobial against Gram-positive (23.67 mm) and negative bacteria (20.33 mm) in terms of zone of inhibition. Significantly comparable anti-inflammatory activity was observed for mushroom extract during protein denaturation (43.72–85.69%) and membrane stabilization. In conclusion, the mushroom extract has shown good functional properties and potential bioactivity, therefore, it can be scaled up as an effective food preservative, potential anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent at the industrial level.

Lotus essential oil improves neurite elongation and facilitates functional recovery after peripheral nerve injury.

Injury to the peripheral nerve may lead to deficits in nerve function. An increase in the levels of free radicals plays a role in inhibition of nerve regeneration following damage. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of lotus essential oil (LEO) on neurite outgrowth in vitro and nerve regeneration in vivo in a rat model of sciatic nerve crush injury. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed that the principal constituent of LEO was palmitic acid ethyl ester (25.12%). The radical scavenging activity of LEO was evaluated using the DPPH method, and was determined to be IC50=29.01±2.93 µg/ml. LEO-treated sensory neurons exhibited increased neurite outgrowth and upregulated levels of phospho-ERK. Sensory and motor functions were improved in rats treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg LEO, and this was accompanied by an increase in the number of neurons in the dorsal root ganglia, as well as an increase in the nerve axon diameters following nerve injury. Taken together, these results suggests that LEO may serve as a novel pharmacological option for the management of peripheral nerve injury.

THE ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF ACID HYDROLYSIS OF κ-Carrageenan

Carrageenans are naturally sulphated polysaccharides produced by primary metabolism in red seaweed (Rhodophyceae). Carrageenans are thought to be a good source of antioxidants. The antioxidant activity of commercial κ-Carrageenan and degraded κ-Carrageenan will be determined in this investigation. Hydrochloric acid was used to hydrolyzed κ-Carrageenan. A 3500 Da molecular weight dialysis tube was also used to separate the filtrate (MW 3500 Da). UV-Vis, FTIR, and GC-MS spectroscopies were used to analyze the chemical and spectral properties of commercial Carrageenan and its degradation products. The antioxidant activity of the compounds was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and compared to vitamin C as a standard using UV at a wavelength of 517 nm in the concentration range of 200 - 800 ppm. The chemical structure of the degraded κ-Carrageenan was disclosed by FTIR analysis, which demonstrated a decrease in the intensity of the sulfate peak and the production of new carbonyl groups. Hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, 9,19-Cyclo-9β-lanostan-3β-ol, 24-methylene-, and (E,E,E,E,E,E)-(1)-2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosa-1,6,10,14,18,22-hexaen-3-ol were found in the GC-MS. Analysis antioxidant activities of commercial κ-Carrageenan, degraded κ-Carrageenan with a molecular weight over 3500 Da, and κ-Carrageenan with a molecular weight below 3500 Da, respectively, have range percent inhibition from 7.83 - 13.58%, 32.64 - 42.28%, and 26.63% - 34.99%. Vitamin C, on the other hand, has a percent inhibition of 97.65% - 99.48%

GC-MS Analysis and Biomedical Therapy of Oil from n-Hexane Fraction of Scutellaria edelbergii Rech. f.: In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Approach.

The current study aimed to explore the crude oils obtained from the n-hexane fraction of Scutellaria edelbergii and further analyzed, for the first time, for their chemical composition, in vitro antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and in vivo anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities. For the phytochemical composition, the oils proceeded to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and from the resultant chromatogram, 42 bioactive constituents were identified. Among them, the major components were linoleic acid ethyl ester (19.67%) followed by ethyl oleate (18.45%), linolenic acid methyl ester (11.67%), and palmitic acid ethyl ester (11.01%). Tetrazolium 96-well plate MTT assay and agar-well diffusion methods were used to evaluate the isolated oil for its minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50), and zone of inhibitions that could determine the potential antimicrobial efficacy’s. Substantial antibacterial activities were observed against the clinical isolates comprising of three Gram-negative bacteria, viz., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and one Gram-positive bacterial strain, Enterococcus faecalis. The oils were also effective against Candida albicans and Fusarium oxysporum when evaluated for their antifungal potential. Moreover, significant antioxidant potential with IC50 values of 136.4 and 161.5 µg/mL for extracted oil was evaluated through DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl) and ABTS assays compared with standard ascorbic acid where the IC50 values were 44.49 and 67.78 µg/mL, respectively, against the tested free radicals. The oils was also potent, inhibiting the α-glucosidase (IC50 5.45 ± 0.42 µg/mL) enzyme compared to the standard. Anti-glucosidase potential was visualized through molecular docking simulations where ten compounds of the oil were found to be the leading inhibitors of the selected enzyme based on interactions, binding energy, and binding affinity. The oil was found to be an effective anti-inflammatory (61%) agent compared with diclofenac sodium (70.92%) via the carrageenan-induced assay. An appreciable (48.28%) analgesic activity in correlation with the standard aspirin was observed through the acetic acid-induced writhing bioassay. The oil from the n-hexane fraction of S. edelbergii contained valuable bioactive constituents that can act as in vitro biological and in vivo pharmacological agents. However, further studies are needed to uncover individual responsible compounds of the observed biological potentials which would be helpful in devising novel drugs.

Characterization of allelochemicals from Pistia stratiotes extracts and their effects on the growth and physiology of Microcystis aeruginosa.

Due to the public and environmental health impact of cyanotoxins, investigations have been focused on finding environmental friendly algaecides from aquatic plants. The present study had the objective to evaluate the population control and physiological response of Microcystis aeruginosa (Kützing) Kützing (strain BCCUSP232) exposed to Pistia stratiotes L. extracts. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of P. stratiotes at different concentrations (10, 25, and 50 mg L-1) were submitted to M. aeruginosa and reduced significantly (p<0.05) the cyanobacterium cell density. The ethanolic extract presented the greatest growth inhibition of the strain at the highest concentration. During exposure to P. stratiotes extracts, intracellular hydrogen peroxide levels, malondialdehyde content, and antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase) activities increased in M. aeruginosa, while total protein concentration decreased when compared to the control group. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities presented a sharp decline, suggesting superoxide radical and peroxide accumulation. This implied that SOD was a target for bioactive substance(s) from aqueous and ethanolic extracts of P. stratiotes. Phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed that the ethanolic extract presented 93.36 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per gram dry weight (g-1 DW) total polyphenols and 217.33 mg rutin equivalent (RE) per gram dry weight total flavonoids, and for the aqueous extract, 5.19 mg GAE g-1 DW total polyphenols and 11.02 mg RE g-1 DW total flavonoids were detected. Gas chromatography (GC)/mass spectrometry (MS) analyses of the ethanolic and aqueous extracts presented palmitic acid ethyl ester as major allelochemical. In view of these results, it can be concluded that P. stratiotes showed potential in controlling M. aeruginosa populations.

Synthesis of lipophilic arbutin ester by enzymatic transesterification in high pressure carbon dioxide

In this study, a novel one-step enzymatic acylation was developed for the synthesis of hydrophobic arbutin ester, by using supercritical carbon dioxide (SC−CO2) as the reaction solvent. Immobilized Novozym 435 from Candida antarctica was identified as the best biocatalyst for producing arbutin palmitate through transesterification between arbutin and palmitic acid ethyl ester in SC−CO2. A transesterification yield of 85.21 % was obtained in batch operation using palmitic acid ethyl ester as the acyl donor, hexane/propylene glycol as the co-solvent and Novozym 435 as the enzyme at 10 MPa and 60 °C for 20 h in SC−CO2. The yield of arbutin palmitate increased with increasing temperature over the range of 40–60 °C in the current study. Operating at an arbutin/palmitic acid ethyl ester molar ratio of 5.0, the conversion of arbutin decreased, probably due to an inhibitory effect of the high concentration of palmitic acid ethyl ester on the enzyme. The 38 % original enzyme activity of Novozym 435 was maintained after being used for 3 cycles (60 h) under optimized conditions.

A Rare Stinkhorn Fungus Itajahya rosea Attract Drosophila by Producing Chemical Attractants

Itajahya rosea was found growing in association with Leucaena leucocephala plants at Savitribai Phule Pune University campus in India. The species identity was confirmed by phylogenetic analysis based on ITS and LSU regions of rDNA, wherein, our fugus was placed along with I. rosea in phylogenetic tree. It represents first record of I. rosea from India. Frequent visitation by Drosophila species on I. rosea fruiting body particularly on gleba was observed. The Drosophila got attracted to the detached gleba under the laboratory conditions and even sometimes, they prefer to sit over the gleba as compare to their food banana. It suggested that I. rosea gleba or pseudostipe produces some compounds for attraction and feeding behavior of Drosophila species. Therefore, we characterized the volatile attractants produced by gleba and pseudostipe of I. rosea by GC-MS analysis. Nineteen compounds were identified from gleba while nine compounds were recovered from the pseudostipe. Out of them, blends of three abundant odor producing volatile compounds were reported namely, Hexadecane, Pentadecane and Nonadecane, which are responsible for attraction of Drosophila toward the gleba. Three fatty acids namely 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z), hexadecanoic acid and benzoic acid ethyl ester produced are served as an appetitive signal through olfactory response of Drosophila, so the flies were feed on the gleba. Two pheromones’ compounds, heneicosane and (+)-(5S,9S)-5,9-dimethylpentadecane, were also reported in pseudostipe and gleba, respectively, which play a role in Drosophila for breeding. Our study highlights an intriguing chemical ecology of fungus–Drosophila interaction.

Assessment on bioactive role of Moringa oleifera leaves as anthelmintic agent and improved growth performance in goats.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioactive effect of Moringa oleifera leaves hydroalcoholic extract as a dietary feed additive on helminths load and growth performances of goats. Initially, the availability of bioactive compounds in M. oleifera hydroalcoholic extract was analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which showed the presence of heneicosane (35.69%), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid (22.89%), heptacosane (18.26%), pentatriacontane (4.77%), and hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (3%) as predominant compounds in the leaves extract. The anthelmintic effect of M. oleifera extract (0 and 60 mL of extract animal-1) was evaluated against disparate nematodes using standard methodology. M. oleifera leaves extract exhibited significant (P = 0.002) anthelmintic activities against Trichuris sp. and Ostertagia sp. with reduced counts of eggs. A completely randomized experiment of 3 treatments comprised of 10 goats in each treatment was designed for the growth performance study. Treatments used in the present experiment were as follows: treatment 1 (T1), 0 mL of extract animal-1; treatment 2 (T2), 30 mL of extract animal-1; and treatment 3 (T3), 60 mL of extract animal-1. Growth performance parameters (body weight, daily weight gain, and feed intake values) of goats fed varied concentrations of M. oleifera extract were estimated as per standard protocols. The T2 and T3 groups' goats offered significant (P < 0.05) increment in body weight. Daily weight gain of the T2 and T3 groups' goats was also increased. Group T3 exhibited maximum feed intake value of 588, 678, 652, and 678 g d-1 at 0, 30, 45, and 60 days, respectively. Feed conversion efficiency was increased for T2 and T3 groups' goats versus T1. Findings of this study concluded that M. oleifera hydroalcoholic extract can be used not only as an effective anthelmintic agent against disparate nematodes but also as a prominent feed additive to improve growth performances of goats.

Phytochemicals, Antioxidant Profile and GC-MS Analysis of Ethanol Extract of Simarouba glauca Seeds

Medicinal plants acted as traditional medicine from the ancient time and recognized as scientific medicine in modern days. Simarouba glauca is an Indian traditional medicinal plant commonly called as “Paradise Tree or Lakshmi Taru” used for its various medicinal properties. The current study was carried out to know the phytochemicals, antioxidant profile and Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) of ethanol extract of the seed S. glauca. Qualitative analysis showed the presence of flavonoids and carbohydrates, lacked alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, triterpenoids and tannins. The total flavonoid, proanthocyanidin and phenol content were 25.20 ± 0.15mg quercetin equivalent/g extract, 57.08±1.51mg catechin equivalent/g extract and 41.75 ± 2.31mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract respectively. Antioxidants exhibited maximum 2, 2-Diphenyl- 1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging of 70% at 100 ?g/mL concentrations with an IC50 value 50.93?g/mL, decolourization potential of 2,2’-azino-bis - (3-ethyl benzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) was 65% at 203.87?g/mL concentration and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assay exhibited Ascorbic Acid Equivalents (AAE/ml).The relative contents of the fatty acids were calculated with area normalization by GC-MS. Out of the ten fatty acids, four of them were Ethyl oleate (24.20%), Oleic acid (16.13%), 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (12.69%) and Hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (12.22%) and other six fatty acids were present less than 11%

GC-MS analysis, adme toxicity and in silico studies of some isolated compounds from Melastoma malabathricum leaves against SPLA2 inhibition

The bioactive components of Melastoma malabathricum leaves and the chemical compositions of ethanol-based M. malabathricum leaf extract were studied using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Twelve compounds obtained were: phthalic acid hept-4-yl isobutyl ester, oleic acid, n-hexadecanoic acid, melezitose, hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, D-mannose, 9,10 secocholesta-5,7,10(19) triene-3,24,25, triol, (3β,5Z,7E), 2-myristynoyl pantetheine, propanamide, 3-[3,5di(tetra-butyl)-4hydroxyphenyl]-N-(2hydroxyethyl), cholesta 4,6- dien-3-ol and desulphosinigrin. These compounds were characterized and analyzed for sPLA2 inhibition by molecular docking using the standard inhibitors. Among these, 2-myristynoyl pantetheine showed better interactions with sPLA2 lIA enzyme with ‘e’ value of -8.62 (PubChem id: 535560), followed by desulphosinigrin (-7.19) and D-mannose (-4.96). ADME toxicity studies proved that 2-myristynoyl pantetheine is better for in vivo administration. The 2-myristynoyl pantetheine was found to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity.