N-hexadecanoic Acid Research Articles

Comprehensive analysis of metabolites in Pleurolobus gangeticus using the two-dimensional gas-chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Pleurolobus gangeticus, also known as ‘Salparni’, is a valuable herb with significant medicinal properties. Previous studies on the plant have only used conventional GC-MS to analyse its metabolites. In this study, we utilised two-dimensional gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry to precisely characterise the shoot and root volatiles of Pleurolobus gangeticus. The ethyl acetate extract of both tissues revealed 50 prominent volatile phytoconstituents in each, accounting for 99.9% and 100.1% of the total volatiles, respectively. The most abundant chemicals found in the root were alcohols (19%) and fatty acids (17%), while the shoot primarily contained organic compounds (24%) and esters (20%). The major phytoconstituents in the root were hexadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1ethyl ester (16.1%), octadecanoic acid, and 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester (10.5%). Conversely, the shoot was dominated by n-hexadecanoic acid (9.1%), linoleic acid (7.4%), and neophytadiene (5.6%). These findings highlight the potential of Pleurolobus gangeticus for further research and development in medicinal applications.

GC-MS Analysis of Diospyros montana (Roxb.) Leaves: A Medicinal and Poisonous Plant

Diospyros montana (Roxb.) is a plant that contains significant levels of flavonoids, phenol, reducing sugars, terpenoids and other phytochemicals. This plant is belonging to the Ebenaceae family. This plant is known as Bistendu (Poisonous tendu) due to its dual medicinal and poisonous characteristics; hence, it was considered essential to understand its whole phytochemical profile. In the current investigation, metabolites in the methanolic extract of leaves from the D. montana (Roxb.) plant were thoroughly screened phytochemically using the GC-MS technique with an emphasis on forensics. The plant's fresh leaves methanolic extract contained 13major compounds and identified are Phenol, 4-ethenyl-2,6- dimethoxy- Sucrose, (E)-4-(3-Hydroxyprop-1- en-1-yl) -2-methoxyphenol, 4-((1E)-3-Hydroxy-1-propenyl)-2- methoxyphenol, Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, Pentadecanoic acid, 14-methyl-, methyl ester, n-Hexadecanoic acid, Phytol, Linoelaidic acid, Hexadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethyl ester, Octadecanoic acid, Octadecanoic acid, 2-(2- hydroxyethoxy)ethyl ester, Glycerol 1-palmitate, 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid, (Z,Z,Z)-, 2H-1-Benzopyran-3,4-diol, 2- (3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3, 4-dihyd.Therefore, a thorough phytochemical evaluation of metabolites may be helpful to forensic toxicologists investigating cases of plant poisoning. Moreover, because of the existence of phytochemicals and bioactive substances leaves can be utilized as a novel potential source of pharmaceutical drugs. The plant’s leaves were chemically profiled using the GC-MS method

Mechanism of Jizhi syrup’s prevention and treatment of acute bronchitis based on LPS-iNOS inflammatory mediators’ signalling

Ethnopharmacological relevanceJizhi syrup (JZTJ) is composed of eight medicinal herbs, including Houttuynia cordata, Fagopyrum dibotrys, Ilex chinensis, Ephedra sinica, Aster tataricus, Peucedanum praeruptorum, Citrus aurantium and Glycyrrhiza uralensis. It is mainly used for coughing caused by exogenous wind heat. Symptoms include fever, aversion to cold, chest and diaphragm tightness, cough and sore throat; and acute bronchitis and acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis with the above symptoms. PurposeThis study aimed to preliminary analyse the chemical components in the liposoluble part of JZTJ, evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of JZTJ by using six animal and cell models and predict the target and mechanism of acute bronchitis prevention and treatment with JZTJ. MethodsThe chemical components in the liposoluble fraction of JZTJ (extracted by cyclohexane) were quantitatively analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Classic non-specific inflammation models and acute bronchitis models were established to systematically evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of JZTJ. The anti-inflammatory intensity and characteristics of three doses of JZTJ were comprehensively compared on the basis of principal component analysis method at the cellular and overall animal levels. By using lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) as modelling factors, a RAW264.7 macrophage inflammatory response model and a rat acute bronchitis model were created to study the effect of JZTJ on the in-vitro and - vivo LPS-iNOS-inflammatory mediators’ inflammatory signalling pathway to reveal the mechanism of acute bronchitis prevention and treatment by JZTJ at the levels of genes, proteins, and inflammatory mediators. ResultsSeventeen alkane and ester compounds were preliminarily qualitatively identified from the lipid soluble fraction of JZTJ: dibutyl phthalate, tetradecane, ridecane, n-hexadecanoic acid, pentadecane, n-decanoic acid, 2,6,10,14,18,22-tetracosahexaene, 2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyl-(all-E)-; phenol, 2,2ʹ-methylenebis[6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methyl-; hexadecane. JZTJ has a significant inhibitory effect on acute non-specific inflammation, specifically inhibiting ‘xylene-induced ear swelling in mice’, ‘acetic acid-induced increased permeability of abdominal capillaries in mice’ and ‘egg white-induced foot swelling in rats’. The above effects are most evident in high doses, followed by medium doses, whereas low doses have poorer or no effects. JZTJ can prevent and treat acute bronchitis induced by LPS in mice and rats, significantly improve the pathological changes in patchy interstitial and alveolar bleeding with excessive neutrophil infiltration and inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators by LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. Its mechanism of action may be by downregulating the phosphorylation level of p-ERK1/2 protein, thereby inhibiting inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α mRNA and IL-1β. The expression levels of genes, such as mRNA and IL-6 mRNA, thereby reducing iNOS, TNF-α and IL-1β. The expression of proteins in the cytoplasm of lung and bronchial tissue cells reduced the release of downstream inflammatory mediators NO and IL-6. ConclusionPreliminary analysis of the chemical components in the lipid soluble fraction of JZTJ can lay the foundation for subsequent research on its effective components. Evaluating the anti-inflammatory effect of JZTJ is helpful for further research on its mechanism of action. The anti-inflammatory effects are exerted by regulating the inflammatory signalling pathway of LPS-iNOS inflammatory mediators, providing a scientific basis for their clinical application.

Antimicrobial activities and metabolites profiling of Heliotropium bacciferum Forssk. methanolic extract

In the present study, Heliotropium bacciferum Forssk. methanolic extract was tested for its antibacterial activities against Pectobacterium carotovorum, P. atrosepticum, Ralstonia solanacearum, and Streptomyces scabiei bacterial strains. The plant extract was also tested for its antifungal properties against strains of Fusarium oxysporum, Botrytis cinerea, and Rhizoctonia solani. The potent antibacterial activities were recorded against R. solanacearum after treatment with the extract at a concentration of 1000 µg/mL with an inhibition zone of 9.67 ±0.57 mm. The methanolic extract also showed promising antifungal effects against B. cinerea and F. oxysporum, with fungal growth inhibition percentages of 86.22 ±0.33% and 82.00 ±0.55%, respectively, which were higher than the standard antifungal drug. The plant extract’s HPLC analysis identified 12 phenolic compounds and 6 flavonoid compounds, with HPLC peaks matching the used standards. Gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, coffeic acid, ellagic acid, coumaric acid, syringic acid, methyl gallate, ferulic acid, vanillin, pyrocatechol, and cinnamic acid were the phenolic compounds that were identified. The flavonoid compounds found in the extracts were daidzein, naringenin, quercetin, kaempferol, hesperetin, apigenin, and rutin, arranged from high to low abundance. Furthermore, according to the GC-MS analysis, the most abundant compounds detected in the plant extract were n-hexadecanoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (z,z), á-sitosterol, betulin, phorbol, cis-13-octadecenoic acid, and octadecanoic acid. These compounds in HPLC and GC-MS analyses were proven to have antibacterial as well as antifungal properties. Based on the obtained antimicrobial results, H. bacciferum methanolic extracts could be recommended as a promising antibacterial and antifungal agent, as well as a safe alternative to many antimicrobial pesticides for the environment and human health.

Treasures in our backyard: unleashing the biotechnological potentials of endophytic fungi from Tanzanian mangroves

Endophytic fungi are useful in a variety of biological processes and may find value in pharmaceutical settings. However, there hasn’t been much research done on the bioactive compounds produced by mangrove fungal endophytes from the East African coast. Our previous research revealed a significant number of mangrove endophytic fungi in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This study explores the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of these endophytic fungi. Crude extracts of 34 mangrove endophytic fungal isolates were screened, with thirteen showing antimicrobial activity against tested microorganisms. MIC and cytotoxicity tests revealed varying bioactivity. Aspergillus fumigatus (HMD45) was particularly potent against tested organisms (MIC = <0.195 to 0.391 mg/ml) and (LC50 = 36.001). GC-MS evaluation of HMD45 extracts indicated the existence of compounds including dodecanoic acid, n-heptadecanol-1, and n-hexadecanoic acid, which may contribute to its bioactivity. These findings offer insight into the bioactivity of mangrove endophytic fungi and trigger interest for further research.

Antimicrobial potentials of Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb.: Phytochemical profiling, antioxidant, and molecular docking studies.

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance has led to an urgent need for novel antimicrobial drugs. This study aimed to determine the antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials in silico and in vitro of Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. ethanolic extract. The extracts were subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to identify the compounds. In silico antimicrobial studies were performed to gain insights into the possible mechanism of action of the active compounds as antimicrobials. The antimicrobial activities of the ethanolic extracts were assessed using the agar well diffusion method against the Surabaya strain of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Antioxidant properties of the extract were done using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) and ABTS [2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)] inhibition assays. The phytochemical screening revealed that the extract has high flavonoids and polyphenols contents. The GC-MS analysis detected the presence of 52 bioactive substances, with n-hexadecanoic acid, 9, 12, 15-octadecatrienoic acid, benzofuran 2,3-dihydro-. quinic acid, neophytadiene as major compound. Molecular docking studies showed that these compounds have a high binding affinity towards the target proteins, thereby inhibiting their activities. The ethanolic extract of P. amaryllifolius Roxb. exhibited antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The IC50 were 11.96 ± 4.01 μg/ml and 26.18 ± 7.44 μg/ml for DPPH and ABTS. The diameters of inhibition zones (DIZ) and percentage of inhibition (PI) were calculated and varied for every single pathogen 16.44 ± 1.21mm/66.76 ± 4.92% (50%) and 21.22 ± 0.11mm/82.49 ± 3.91% (50%) for E. coli and S. aureus (DIZ/PI) respectively. Overall, this study provides information on the mechanism responsible for P. amaryllifolius Roxb. extract as a natural antimicrobe and lays the foundation for further studies to isolate and characterize the active compounds as antimicrobial candidates.

Optimization of bioactivities of solvent extracts of bark and heartwood of Pterocarpus marsupium and exploration of neuroprotective effect linking to the major Phytoconstituents

The study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective properties of Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. The bioactive optimized hydroalcohol-extracted fractions of bark (PMBHA) and heartwood (PMHHA) at 300 and 400 mg/kg were examined in rats with scopolamine-induced neurotoxicity to study oxidative, neurochemical, and neuroinflammation biomarkers. Phenol and flavonoid-rich radical scavengers in contributing total antioxidant capacities of PMBHA and PMHHA quenched peroxyl radicals and protected the cellular membrane and lipoproteins from ROS in DPPH, ORAC, and CAP-e tests. In anticholinesterase activities, PMBHA inhibited AChE (IC50: 54.40 ± 0.98 µg/mL) and BChE (IC50: 50.95 ± 0.98 µg/mL) mixed-competitively, while PMHHA inhibited cholinesterase activities (AChE: 42.23 ± 0.54, and BChE: 47.19 ± 0.65 µg/mL) competitively. Dosage at 300 and 400 mg/kg of PMBHA and PMHHA improved serum and brain oxidative indicators (MDA, SOD, CAT, and GSH), and restored proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, and IL-6) leading to enhanced brain cholinesterase and β-secretase levels in neurotoxic rats. GC-MS reported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective compounds of PMBHA catechol, thiamet-G, d-Gala-l-ido-octonic amide, falcarinol, D-mannose, ribitol, 1,2,4-cyclopentanetrione, 3-(2-pentenyl)-, hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, n-hexadecanoic acid, oleic acid, and 3,5-Dimethoxybenzyl alcohol, α-epi-7-epi-5-Eudesmol, 1 R,4aR,7 R,8aR)-7-(2-Hydroxypropan-2-yl)-1,4a-dimethyldecahydro naphthalen-1-ol, arctiol, 1,1,4,7-tetramethyldecahydro-1 H-cyclopropa[e]azulene-4,7-diol, 2-Propen-1-ol, 3-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl), 4-t-Butyl-2-[4-nitrophenyl]phenol in PMHHA were responsible in neuroprotection in neurotoxic rats. However, heartwood demonstrated better neuroprotective activities than the bark of P. marsupium due to some of the key compounds (1 R,4aR,7 R,8aR)-7-(2-Hydroxypropan-2-yl)-1,4a-dimethyldecahydronaphthalen-1-ol, 2-Propen-1-ol, 3-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-, 4-t-Butyl-2-[4-nitrophenyl]phenol, 1,1,4,7-Tetramethyldecahydro-1 H-cyclopropa[e]azulene-4,7-diol.

Insights into the physiology, biochemistry and ecological significance of the red seaweed Tricleocarpa fragilis in the Andaman Sea

The present study focused on the physiological and biochemical aspects of Tricleocarpa fragilis, red seaweed belonging to the phylum Rhodophyta, along the South Andaman coast, with particular attention given to its symbiotic relationships with associated flora and fauna. The physicochemical parameters of the seawater at the sampling station, such as its temperature, pH, and salinity, were meticulously analyzed to determine the optimal harvesting period for T. fragilis. Seaweeds attach to rocks, dead corals, and shells in shallow areas exposed to moderate wave action because of its habitat preferences. Temporal variations in biomass production were estimated, revealing the highest peak in March, which was correlated with optimal seawater conditions, including a temperature of 34 ± 1.1 °C, a pH of 8 ± 0.1, and a salinity of 32 ± 0.8 psu. GC‒MS analysis revealed n-hexadecanoic acid as the dominant compound among the 36 peaks, with major bioactive compounds identified as fatty acids, diterpenes, phenolic compounds, and hydrocarbons. This research not only enhances our understanding of ecological dynamics but also provides valuable insights into the intricate biochemical processes of T. fragilis. The established antimicrobial potential and characterization of bioactive compounds from T. fragilis lay a foundation for possible applications in the pharmaceutical industry and other industries.

Chemical composition, antioxidant activity, enzyme inhibitory effects, and network pharmacology analysis of essential oil from Bulbophyllum kwangtungense Schltr.

The present study investigates the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) from Bulbophyllum kwangtungense Schltr., evaluates its antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory activities, and analyzes its therapeutic mechanisms against oxidative damage through network pharmacology. The main components identified were n-hexadecanoic acid (9.95 %), linalool (9.17 %), 1-hexanol (5.16 %), pentadecanoic acid (4.66 %), (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol (3.39 %), phytol (2.67 %), linoleic acid (2.49 %), 1-hexadecanol (2.39 %), α-curcumene (2.28 %). The 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl radical (DPPH) free radical scavenging capacity was characterized by IC50 values of 0.43 ± 0.08 mg/mL and 3.87 ± 1.26 mg/mL. The ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) antioxidant value (Trolox equivalent antioxidant concentration) was 116.49 ± 0.26 μM/g. The EO exhibited anti-β-lactamase activity with an IC50 of 229.4 ± 18.7 μg/mL. The anti-acetylcholinesterase activity was 18.10 ± 2.71% at the 500 μg/mL concentration. The network pharmacology analysis was conducted to reveal potential targets and pathways of oxidative damage involved in the therapeutic effects of our EO.

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry profile and acute toxicity studies of Annona muricata leaf ethanol extract.

Medicinal plants are primary source of bio-active compounds applied in the management of diseases. The present work focuses on determining the acute toxicity of Annona muricata leaf ethanol extract and the volatile organic constituents using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The acute toxicity test of the extract of A. muricata was determined using standard method. The GC-MS profiling of the extract obtained 13 compounds at different retention times. The dominant chemical constituents in the extracts of A. muricata leaf include: Linoelaidic acid (30.69%), Oleic acid (12.98%), 6-octadecenoic acid (10.99%), n-Hexadecanoic acid (9.28%), Octadecanoic acid (7.73) and 10-Octadecanoic acid (6.69%). Acute toxicity studies showed that LD50 was &gt;5000 mg/kg body weight. The extracts of A. muricata are rich in a battery of bioa-active compounds that may be pharmacologically responsible for its known medicinal properties and considered generally safe.

Mechanism analysis of essential oil from Radix Bupleuri for the treatment of asthma through regulation of ectopic olfactory receptor

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRadix Bupleuri is the root of Bupleurum chinense DC. (BC) and a classic aromatic traditional Chinese medicine. The traditional pharmacological effects of Radix Bupleuri are alleviating bronchial spasms, dilating airways, and promoting the resolution of respiratory inflammation, thereby reducing asthma symptoms. Aim of the studyStudies have demonstrated the efficacy of water extracts from BC in asthma treatment. However, the potential role of volatile oil, another active constituent in BC, remains unexplored with asthma. Notably, volatile oil is renowned for its ease of absorption and direct targeting of affected areas, offering distinct advantages in alleviating airway inflammation. This study aims to explain the anti-asthmatic mechanism of BC-oil through in vivo and in vitro pharmacological experiments. Materials and methodsFirstly, the OVA-induced SD rat asthma model was utilized to evaluate the pharmacological effect of BC-oil by lung function monitoring, HE staining, flow cytometry, ELISA, and RT-qPCR. The anti-asthmatic mechanism was further analyzed by combining transcriptomic analysis of lung tissue from rat model and airway smooth muscle tissue from public database. Initially, GC-MS was used to analyze the components of BC-oil. The anti-asthmatic activity was evaluated in 16-HBE, RBL-2H3, and ASMC cells using CAMKII inhibitors to explore of the critical signal transduction regulated by BC-oil. Furthermore, molecular docking and calcium flow assay were utilized to screen and identify the active components from BC-oil. ResultsOral administration of BC-oil significantly enhanced pulmonary function in asthmatic SD rats by reducing airway resistance and elastic resistance. Additionally, BC-oil inhibited inflammatory cytokines, including serum IL-2, pulmonary Il1b, Tnf, and Cxcl13, demonstrating potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. In this study, we analyzed the significant role of OR2W3 in asthma using public transcriptomic data. Furthermore, we indicated that BC-oil regulated the expression of Olr1433 and GNAL in rat lung tissue. BC-oil reduced degranulation and inhibited gene expression of Il3 and Tnf in RBL-2H3 cells and suppressed gene expression of IL8 and TNF in 16-HBE cells. BC-oil also attenuated airway smooth muscle cell proliferation and expression of Acta2 and Ccnd1. Furthermore, BC-oil regulates asthma-related cellular processes by activating CAMKII. GC-MS analysis identified 11 components of BC-oil, and n-hexadecanoic acid, linoleic acid and oleic acid from BC-oil were identified to interact with OR2W3 by molecular docking. The calcium flow assay revealed linoleic acid as a significant activator of OR2W3 and indicated that BC-oil alleviated asthma through the ectopic olfactory signaling pathway. ConclusionsThe mechanism of BC-oil in treating asthma through signal transduction of OR2W3 is revealed at the molecular and cellular levels.

In vivo and in silico elucidation of possible potential and mechanisms involved in the analgesic action of ethanolic extract of Lavandula Stoechas.

Our research focused on plant's ethanolic extract Lavandula stoechas flower part to investigate the potential analgesic effects and possible pathways involvements. Four experimental tests were performed on Swiss albino mice with five animals in each group at different doses (50, 100, and 200mg/kg); formalin test, tail-flick test, acetic acid-induced writhing, and hot-plate test. The opioidergic, noradrenergic, cholinergic, and K channel blockers in the analgesic actions were also carried out for the potential route involvement. The percentage inhibition for abdominal writhing's and formalin activity showed a dose-dependent manner for early and late phases reducing abdominal writhing's and time period of licking, respectively. Tail immersion and hot-plate test demonstrated a substantial and dose-dependent increase in the latency time and time period of paw liking and jumping response respectively. GC-MS showed the abundantly present compounds were octadecatrienoic acid (34.35%), n-hexadecanoic acid (12.98%). In silico analyses have revealed three compounds that had good interactions with 6y3c receptor proteins, demonstrating strong binding affinities and satisfying docking parameters. Overall, these studies showed that ethanolic extract of L. stoechas is an important medicinal plant, with both central and peripheral antinociceptive and analgesic activities supporting its traditional use for therapeutic purposes.

Deciphering the therapeutic actions of Brenania brieyi (Rubiaceae) fractions on oxidoinflammatory anomalies

A decline in the antioxidant network during the inflammatory response plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. We designed this study to decipher the therapeutic efficacy of Brenania brieyi in reducing oxidative stress caused by the inflammatory response to cotton pellets. Graded doses of methanol and chloroform fractions of B. brieyi (MFBB and CFBB) and indomethacin were administered to Wistar rats for seven days after implanting sterilised cotton pellets (20 mg). Thereafter, biochemical indices of oxidative stress were determined using blood samples taken through cardiac puncture. Furthermore, molecular interactions, drug-likeness, and toxicity features of B. brieyi phytochemicals were also assessed. Compared with the untreated group, the groups treated with MFBB and CFBB had a significant (p &amp;lt; 0.05) decrease in granuloma tissue weight and MDA levels while increasing glutathione levels, SOD, and CAT activities. In addition, a substantial increase in inflammatory-induced changes in antioxidant nutrients, together with a decline in liver enzymes, was obtained in the treated groups. The docking tests revealed that the top-scoring phytoconstituents of B. brieyi, n-hexadecanoic acid, and 9-octadecanoic acid interacted well with catalase, having docking scores of -6.19 and -7.58 kcal/mol, respectively. Moreover, the hits had good oral drug-likeness features and a safe toxicity profile. The findings of the study provide evidence that B. brieyi has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that it could be used as an alternative therapy to regulate oxidative stress-related diseases.

Biochemical and nutritional analysis of seaweed (Iyengaria stellata) and its therapeutic significance, using antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hypoglycemic activities

Seaweeds have gained significant attention for their bioactive compounds and extensive use in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Therefore, comprehensive analysis was conducted to investigate the nutritional composition, identify and quantify the Phyco-chemicals and to evaluate the pharmacological potential using hypoglycemic, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Iyengaria stellata extract. The results of nutritional analysis revealed 39.72±2.60 % total ash, 14.54±0.44 % crude fat, 9.61±0.60 % proteins, 5.29±0.52 % crude fibers, 10.49±1.00 % moisture content, and total energy was 108.26±2.01 Kcal 100 g−1 of dry powder. Approximately, 15 compounds were tentatively detected in ethyl acetate extract with major compounds being Pentadecanoic acid, 14-methyl-, easter (31.62 %), (Z) -9- stearic acid, methyl easter (13.36 %), Elaidic acid, methyl easter (11.46 %), Phytol (6.31 %), n-Hexadecanoic acid (7.47 %), Linolelaidic acid, methyl ester (5.64 %) and 1-octadecyne (5.34 %). Similarly, n-butanol extract contained 16 compounds with primary compounds being Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (25.96 %), Elaidic acid methyl ester (21.39 %), Linolelaidic acid methyl ester (11.53 %), Octadecanoic acid, methyl ester (5.89 %), and Hexanedioic acid, dioctyl ester (5.26 %). FT-IR analysis revealed the presence of similar groups of compounds i.e. alcohols, phenols, lipids, carboxylic acids, amines, aromatics, ketones and halogens. Total phenolic contents (TPC) in ethyl acetate and n-butanol extract were measured as 2.982±0.876 mg GAEg−1 and 1.538±0.711 mg GAE g−1, whereas Total Flavonoids contents (TFC) were 2.058 ± 0.121 mg QE g−1 and 1.614 ± 0.643 mg QE g−1, respectively. Ethyl acetate extract exhibited more antioxidant potential with an IC50 (2.59±1.34) compared to n-butanol extract (2.75±1.60). Moreover, n-butanol extract exhibited strong antimicrobial activity. The most susceptible strains were E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. In terms of in-vivo hypoglycemic activity, the n-butanol extract proved to be more effective which significantly reduced the blood glucose level up to 226.17±3.43, 201.33±4.63 and 265.17±3.92 at 300, 200 and 100 mg kg−1 doses respectively after 24 h. In conclusion, the seaweed I. stellata exhibited significant potential in terms of its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hypoglycemic properties.

First Record of Endophytic fungi Thielavia basicola Isolated from Xerophyte Plants Suaeda aegyptiaca in Basra, Iraq

Abstract This study was conducted with the aim of isolating endophytic fungi from the xerophyte plant Suaeda aegyptiaca. In this study, Thielavia basicola was isolated from the stem of the plant S. aegyptiaca spread in Basrah city, fungus was identified basis on its morphological features and molecular based on amplification of the ITS gene region and the nucleotide sequence of the fungus was deposited in the Genebank under the accession number MT277121.1. The metabolites of the fungal filtrate T. basicola were identified using by GC-MS technology and the results showed that this fungus produces 40 compounds as extracellular secondary metabolites, the most important of which are 9-Octadecenamide, (Z)- and Tributylacetylcitrate and N-Hexadecanoic acid. This is the first study in which T. basicola is isolated from S. aegyptiaca from desert in Iraq.

Effect of Nigella sativa L. essential oil on oxidative stability and microbial growth of local white Feta cheese

Controlling the development of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms is critical for food manufacturers to preserve their products. Cheese provides favourable conditions for microbial growth and oxidative degradation due to the presence of water, fat, protein, and minerals. The present work thus aimed to determine the influence of Nigella sativa L. essential oil on microbial growth and oxidative stability of cheese made from fresh milk. The analysis of the chemical composition of N. sativa essential oil was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The main compounds detected were 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (27.96%), cis-vaccenic acid (20.69%), 6-epi-shyobunol (7.08%), benzene, 1-methyl-3-(1-methylethyl)- (6.33%), n-hexadecanoic acid (3.86%), o-cymene (2.77%), and cis-4-methoxy thujane (2.71%). The antioxidant activity of N. sativa essential oil was calculated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method with IC50 = 8.08 μg/mL. The microdilution test showed that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of N. sativa essential oil for all pathogens was 500 μg/mL, while the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was 1,000 μg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, and 2,000 μg/mL for Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The physicochemical properties of the cheese showed that the addition of essential oil did not affect the dry matter, but increased the pH, decreased the % acidity, and decreased the peroxide value compared to the control sample (sample without essential oil). In addition, the essential oil reduced the bacterial and fungal counts of the cheese compared to the control sample, and affected the sensory characteristics of the cheese during the 90-day storage period. Results also showed that the addition of 0.5% essential oil of N. sativa not only prevented microbial growth and oxidative degradation, but also improved the taste and overall acceptability of cheese.

Antibacterial Activity and Metabolite Content of Water and Methanolic Extracts of Purple and White Bougainvillea sp.

Bougainvillea sp. is a common ornamental plant grown all over Malaysia with several medicinal claims including the treatment for bacterial infection. This study investigated the extraction of the bracts and leaves of purple and white Bougainvillea sp. using methanol and water, tested the extracts' antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus, and identified the metabolites using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The extraction yields of the extracts ranged from 9.6% to 31.3% with the highest yield observed in purple Bougainvillea sp. methanolic leaf extract. No significant differences were observed between water and methanol extraction of the bract samples, while in leaf samples, significantly higher extraction yield can be achieved using 80% aqueous methanol. All the extracts exhibited mild antibacterial activities against E. coli and B. cereus and especially higher in the methanolic extracts of bracts of white and leaves of purple Bougainvillea sp. A total of 71 volatile compounds were identified using GC/MS, in which 55 and 60 compounds were identified in bract and leaf extracts, respectively. The two extracts with the highest antibacterial activities shared six similar metabolites which are pyridine, benzoic acid, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, methyl hexadecanoic acid, n-hexadecanoic acid and phytol. These compounds are known to possess antibacterial as well as other bioactivities. In conclusion, the metabolite identification and profile provide more insight into the antibacterial activity of the leaf and bract extracts of Bougainvillea sp., which might be further explored as a potential natural antibacterial agent source.

Analysis of GC-MS from Acetone Extract of Canarium odontophyllum Miq Stem Bark (Dabai)

Canarium odontophyllum or dabai is a natural plant found along the river banks of the Sarikei, Kapit and Kanowit in Sarawak and it comes from the 'Burseraceae' family. C. odontophyllum also known as 'dabai' and this dabai fruit is eaten by the community in Sarawak. The fruit is a seasonal natural fruit that is less used because of its short lifespan. A few studies show that acetone extract of Canarium odontophyllum stem bark (dabai) exhibit antiproliferative and cytotoxicity effect on cancer colorectal cells. However, there is currently no analysis of bioactive compounds in acetone extract of Canarium odontophyllum stem bark (dabai). The various bioactive compounds detected in acetone extract were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 24 phytoconstituents were detected in this acetone extract. It was found that major peaks represented bicyclo [3.1.0] hex-2-ene,2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-, bicyclo [3.1.0] hexane,4-methylene-1-(1-methylethyl)-, alpha cubebene, 1H cyclopenta [1,3] cyclopropa [1,2] benzene, octahydro-7-methyl-3-methylene-4-(1-methylethyl)-,[3aS-(3a.alpha., 3b.beta., 4.beta., 7.alpha., 7aS*)]-, phenol,2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-, spathulenol, copaene, 9-Eicosene, (E)-, hexadecane, 5-Octadecene, (E)-, hexadecane, 2,6,10,14-tetramethyl-, nonadecane, n-Hexadecanoic acid, heptacosane, 1-chloro-, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)-, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, ethyl ester, octadecanoic acid, 10-Heneicosene (c,t), heptafluorobutyric acid, hexadecyl ester, dehydroabietic acid, phenol, 2,4-bis(1-phenylethyl)-, beta sitosterol, beta-amyrin and alpha-amyrin. The highest peak area (%) for this acetone extract is alpha-amyrin (16.6644%) followed by beta-amyrin (4.6159%), beta sitosterol (3.3369%) and 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (3.2045%). In conclusion, various bioactive compounds detected in acetone extract of Canarium odontophyllum stem bark (dabai) were demonstrated various medicinal properties while alpha and beta-amyrin may be responsible for the cytotoxicity and apoptotic effect against HCT 116 cell.

Toxicity and phyto-bioactive constituent of Ficus aurea L. leaf extract: A trado-medicinal herb used in southeastern Nigeria

BackgroundThe intrinsic adroitness of medicinal plants as a therapy for several maladies is well-documented in African Herbal Pharmacopeia. Leaves of Ficus aurea L. ( Moraceae) are commonly used in folkloric medicine in southeastern Nigeria and other areas of the world to treat malaria, dermatitis, circulatory and intestinal parasitic health abnormalities. ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to explore the phytochemical composition and potential toxicity of the ethanolic leaf extract of F. aurea L. (herein afterwards referred to as ELEFA) in albino rats of both sexes. MethodsGas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was performed to analyze the chemical constituents of F. aurea. In the acute toxicity study, a single oral dose of up to 5000 mg/kg ELEFA was administered. For the sub-acute toxicity study, rats were randomly assigned to individual cages to eschew copulation. Male groups (A2-A4) and female groups (B2-B4) were administered varying doses of ELEFA (250, 500, 750 mg/kg) for 28 days, while control groups A1 and B1 received 1 mL/kg of distilled water. Standard analytical procedures were utilized to evaluate the biochemical and haematological profiles, as well as liver and kidney histopathology. ResultsThe GC–MS analysis identified 13 phyto-compounds, six of which possess known bioactive and pharmacological properties. These bioactive compounds include gamma-dodecalactone, n-hexadecanoic acid, methyl stearate, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, oleic acid, octadecanoic acid. In the acute toxicity, no death was recorded within 24 h following oral administration of ELEFA. Remarkably, haematological and renal biomarkers remained unaltered post-ELEFA administration. However, elevated levels of serum aspartate and alanine transaminases were detected in ELEFA-treated groups, indicating potential hepatotoxicity. A reduction in atherogenic lipid markers and a dose-dependent elevation in antioxidant concentrations were observed, suggesting a nuanced impact on oxidative stress. ConclusionThe study emphasized caution regarding higher ELEFA doses, highlighting potential hepatotoxic effects evident in liver histopathology at 500 mg/kg and 750 mg/kg. We recommend the prudent use of lower ELEFA doses for therapeutic purposes to mitigate potential adverse effects.

Phytochemical Compounds and the Antifungal Activity of Centaurium pulchellum Ethanol Extracts in Iraq

The current study included a variety of phytochemical substances that were extracted from Centaurium pulchellum and showed a wide range of medicinal properties from the plant's reproductive and vegetative parts against the pathogenic fungus Aspergillus flavus. The vegetative and reproductive components of Centaurium pulchellum were subjected to (GC-MS) analysis for phytochemical study. The data indicated that fungal activity was the highest. Four extract concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/ml were utilized in the investigation, and the diameter of the colonies measured at each concentration was 90.00, 36.00, 28.00, 18.00, and 0.00 mm, respectively. Nine bioactive phytochemical compounds were found in Centaurium pulchellum's vegetative and reproductive portions, according to GC-MS analysis of the chemicals. Another study reported phytochemical substances that: 1-H-Imidazole-2-carboxaldehyde, 1-methyl-;Acetaminophen; n-Hexadecanoic acid; Mercaptoacetic acid, 2TMS derivative; 1.2,3-Dimethyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1,4-benzenediol #; Mercaptoethanol, 2TMS derivative-; Bis-(3,5,5-trimethylhexyl) phthalate Tetrakis(trimethylsilyl) orthosilicate #;- 1.1-Isopropoxy-3,3,3-trimethyl-1-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]disiloxanyl tris(trimethylsilyl) orthosilicate #.