Phytochemical Research Articles

Secondary Metabolite Profiling and Antibacterial Activities of Indigenous Serratia marcescens

Serratia marcescens produces secondary metabolites, which are bioactive chemicals generated during its non-essential metabolic activities. These secondary metabolites are renowned for their antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer capabilities. This work analyzed the chemical composition and antibacterial properties of the secondary metabolite of Serratia marcescens isolated from the local environment. Serratia marcescens was isolated using standard microbiological techniques and identified based on morphological and biochemical characteristics. Gas chromatographymass spectrometric analysis revealed the presence of eighteen (18) bioactive compounds, comprising oleic acid as the most abundant compound (21.9013 %), 9,12-Octadecadien-1-ol, (Z, Z)- (11.9854 %), and other compounds with less than 6 % abundance. The metabolite has antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, and Bacillus subtilis. Antibacterial activity was higher against Bacillus subtilis (42.00±2.65 mm) and Proteus vulgaris (32.67±1.15 mm), and least with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (10.00±2.00 mm) at 400 mg metabolite concentration. The antibacterial effect decreased with a decrease in the concentration of the metabolite. The results show that Serratia marcescens exhibits potential as an antibacterial agent within the pharmaceutical and food sectors.

СОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАНИЕ СПОСОБА ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ УСНИНОВОЙ КИСЛОТЫ ИЗ РАСТИТЕЛЬНОГО СЫРЬЯ ИСЛАНДСКОГО МХА

Relevance. Contemporary pharmaceutical industry requires constant search and development of new technologies for the production of pharmacological products. At the same time, the processing of plants, which contain substances with a therapeutic effect, is a promising direction. Their use in terms of economic and therapeutic effectiveness is sometimes very beneficial. It has been proven that lichen plants contain substances that have a therapeutic effect. Organisms of the genus Cladonia, which synthesize usnic acid, among them have a special significance and application. The extraction of usnic acid from lichen biomass is carried out using various organic solvents. At the same time, it is preferable to use techniques with the lowest cost with a high quantitative yield of extractives. In addition, extracts containing bioactive substances should exhibit significant biological activity. The aim is improving the technology of extraction of usnic acid from the vegetable raw materials of Cladonia rangiferina Hoff by determining the optimal components for its extraction. Materials and methods. The material for the study is raw material of Yagel (Deer Moss)/Cladonia rangiferina Hoff. The extractive properties of the most commonly used solvents (purified water, ethyl alcohol 40, 70 and 95%) were studied, among which the most effective was identified. The content of extractive substances was determined by the gravimetric analysis method. The results of the study. According to the results of a series of experiments to study extractive capabilities, of all solvents, the maximum extractive ability of extractive substances from Cladonia rangiferina Hoff was noted for 95% ethyl alcohol (7.38%). Ethyl alcohol 70% was produced with a high extraction capacity, however, it turned out to be less effective. The conclusion was made about these methods can be used to detect biologically active substances obtained from the raw materials of Cladonia rangiferina Hoff. The obtained developments create prerequisites for the development of regulatory documentation on the procedure and position of the relevant standard or a temporary pharmacopoeia article.

Optimization of Production Process of Alcohol Vinegar Macerated With Acai (Euterpe Precatoria) Using RSM to Add Colour and Functional Compounds to Vinegar

In Brazil, the alcohol vinegar is the cheapest vinegar found in the market and it has the lowest nutritional quality. The acai, a native Amazon fruit, is globally recognized as a super fruit and it is highly perishable. Research has been performed to deliver bioactive compounds and to substitute synthetic by the natural colourants in finished foods.

Inoculation of Arthrobacter sp. improves the growth of Acanthocalycium sp. and the fruits nutraceutical quality and the flowers longevity

Research objective: The aim of this work is on the inoculation in the growing medium of Arthrobacter sp. and its effects on the growth, flower quality and longevity of cactus plants. To this end, the study of biometric parameters, i.e. plants and flowers (height, weight, number and duration), as well as root growth (weight), and the presence of disease were quantified as measures of plant productivity and compared with those obtained from non-inoculated plants. The use of alginate microspheres as a means of bacterial inoculation was also considered. Materials and Methods: Seedlings of Acanthocalycium (2 years old) Ferrarii, A. Glaucum and A. Violaceum were immediately planted in pots after purchase, in substrate containing (sand 20%, pumice 20% and peat 60%; pH 7; electrical conductivity 0.7 dS/m; total porosity 80% (v/v). A randomised complete block design was applied for the experiments: the pots were randomly divided into two series, one series was inoculated with the bacteria and the other non-inoculated was used as a control. Each month, plant growth was assessed according to (1) plant height, (2) vegetative and root weight, (3) number of flowers per plant (4) flower duration. In addition, the occurrence of possible diseases, in particular Fusarium sp. and Verticillium sp., was assessed. Total flavonoids, total phenols and antioxidant activity were also analysed. Results and Discussion: The experiment showed that the use of Arthrobacter sp. can indeed significantly improve the vegetative and root growth of Acanthocalycium sp. cacti. In addition, there was a significant improvement in the number and floral longevity as well as in the phenol, flavonoid and antioxidant content of the fruits of the inoculated plants compared to the untreated control. The experiment also showed that mortality due to the pathogens Fusarium sp. and Verticillium sp. was significantly reduced in the treated plant. In agreement with these authors, we found that PGPB treatments increased agronomic parameters and improved Fusarium and Verticillium resistance. In general, the application of biostimulants can increase the synthesis of bioactive compounds in plants by increasing resistance to phytopathologies. Inoculation with Arthrobacter sp. led to a significant reduction in the number of dead plants with respect to the diseases analysed. As a result of the stimulating action demonstrated in Acanthocalycium, bioproducts suitable for nutraceutical purposes may be developed in the future. Therefore, new microbe-assisted technologies can help plants to resist stress conditions, improving their tolerance and productivity. Conclusions: Due to its ‘multifunctionality’, the genus Acanthocalycium is considered as one of the species of the future, for ornamental use and medicinal aspects, and new results may help reveal its potential in the context of the bio-economy and circular economy. As natural resources and cultural practices are crucial in defining the quality of flowers when destined for food/nutraceutical applications, the inoculation of Acanthocalycium with Arthrobacter sp. can be envisaged to provide better plant growth under conditions of environmental stress, or as a soil fertiliser, but also to improve the synthesis of natural products used for therapeutic applications.

Exploring Ganoderma lucidum: morphology, cultivation and market potential.

Ganoderma lucidum, known as the "mushroom of immortality," is a white rot fungus renowned for its medicinal properties, attributed to its bioactive compounds. Although species with similar morphological traits to G. lucidum are found across the globe, precise identification is made possible through DNA barcoding and molecular phylogenetic analysis. Global cultivation and wild harvesting of G. lucidum are both done in response to the growing market needs. Artificial cultivation is typically performed on sawdust, but other woody substrates and the wood log method are also employed. This cultivation leverages the fungus's ecological role in converting industrial and agricultural solid wastes into biomass, thereby producing functional food and potential pharmaceutical sources. The review consolidates research on various aspects of, including cultivation methods (sawdust, agricultural waste, wood logs, and submerged fermentation), and the current global market conditions.

Exploring the Benefits of Herbal Medicine Composite 5 (HRMC5) for Skin Health Enhancement

The skin, as the body’s largest organ, is vital for protecting against environmental stressors, regulating temperature, and preventing water loss. Here, we examined the potential of a mixture of five traditional Korean herbal extracts—Cimicifuga racemosa, Paeonia lactiflora, Phellodendron amurense, Rheum rhaponticum, and Scutellaria baicalensis—referred to as herbal medicine composite 5 (HRMC5) for enhancing skin health and managing menopausal symptoms. High-performance liquid chromatography identified 14 bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, anthraquinones, and alkaloids. In vitro studies revealed an optimal concentration of 0.625 g/L for cell survival and UV protection, with the mixture demonstrating significant wound-healing properties comparable to epidermal growth factor. HRMC5 exhibited anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating COX2 expression and upregulating the key skin barrier proteins. A 4-week clinical trial involving 20 postmenopausal women showed significant improvements in skin redness, hemoglobin concentration, and skin moisture content. Visual analog scale assessments indicated substantial reductions in facial flushing severity and the associated sweating. The topical application of HRMC5 cream offered potential advantages over ingested phytoestrogens by reducing the systemic side effects. These findings suggest that HRMC5 is a promising non-invasive treatment for vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women and overall skin health, warranting further research on its long-term efficacy and safety in larger populations.

Enhancing the Nutritional and Bioactive Properties of Bee Pollen: A Comprehensive Review of Processing Techniques

Bee pollen is recognized as a superfood due to its high content of nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, its bioavailability is restricted by a degradation-resistant outer layer known as exine. Physical and biotechnological techniques have recently been developed to degrade this layer and improve pollen’s nutritional and functional profile. This review examines how processing methods such as fermentation, enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrasound, and drying affect pollen’s chemical profile, nutrient content, and bioactive compounds. The review also considers changes in exine structure and possible synergistic effects between these methods. In addition, the challenges associated with the commercialization of processed bee pollen are examined, including issues such as product standardization, stability during storage, and market acceptance. The objective was to provide a understanding of the efficacy of these techniques, their physicochemical conditions, and their effect on the nutritional value of the pollen. The work also analyzes whether pollen transformation is necessary to maximize its benefits and offers conclusions based on the analysis of available methods, helping to determine whether pollen transformation is a valid strategy for inclusion in functional foods and its impact on consumer health. Although the literature reports that pollen transformation influences its final quality, further studies are needed to demonstrate the need for pollen exine modification, which could lead to greater market availability of pollen-based products with functional properties.

Mechanistic exploration of bioactive constituents in Gnetum gnemon for GPCR-related cancer treatment through network pharmacology and molecular docking

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are integral membrane proteins that have gained considerable attention as drug targets, particularly in cancer treatment. In this study, we explored the capacity of bioactive compounds derived from Gnetum gnemon (GG) for the development of of pharmaceuticals targeting GPCRs within the context of cancer therapy. Integrated approach combined network pharmacology and molecular docking to identify and validate the underlying pharmacological mechanisms. We retrieved targets for GG-derived compounds and GPCRs-related cancer from databases. Subsequently, we established a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network by mapping the shared targets. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were employed to predict the mechanism of action of these targets. Molecular docking was conducted to validate our findings. We identified a total of 265 targets associated with GG-derived bioactive compounds for the treatment of GPCRs-related cancer. Functional enrichment analysis revealed the promising therapeutic effects of these targets on GPCRs-related cancer pathways. The PPI network analysis identified hub targets, including MAPK3, SRC, EGFR, STAT3, ESR1, MTOR, CCND1, and PPARG, which demonstrate as treatment targets for GPCRs-related cancer using GG-derived compounds. Additionally, molecular docking experiments demonstrated the strong binding affinity of gnetin A, gnetin C, (-)-viniferin, and resveratrol dimer, thus inhibiting MAPK3, SRC, EGFR, and MTOR. Survival analysis established the clinical prognostic relevance of identified hub genes in cancer. This study presents a novel approach for comprehending the therapeutic mechanisms of GG-derived active compounds and thereby paving the way for their prospective clinical applications in the field of cancer treatment.

Supplementation of Chlorella vulgaris Extracts During Brewing: The Effects on Fermentation Properties, Phytochemical Activity and the Abundance of Volatile Organic Compounds

Chlorella vulgaris, a microalga rich in secondary metabolites and nutrients, offers a promising alternative for promoting microbial growth in food fermentation processes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of C. vulgaris extracts on fermentation kinetics, sensory characteristics, phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and the abundance of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in treated versus control beers. The bioactive compounds from C. vulgaris were extracted using an ultrasound-assisted method with water as the solvent. A German Pilsner-style lager beer (GPB) was brewed and supplemented with 0.5, 1, and 5 g/L of C. vulgaris extracts prior to primary fermentation. Yeast viability, °Brix, and pH levels were monitored to assess fermentation progress. Phytochemical composition was analyzed by quantifying total polyphenols and flavonoids. The antioxidant activity of the beer was evaluated using both the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH●) and hydrogen peroxide assays. The addition of C. vulgaris extracts resulted in increased yeast viability and slight variations in gravity during the 7-day fermentation period. Moreover, the beers supplemented with C. vulgaris extracts demonstrated higher levels of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity compared to the GPB. Specific volatile organic compounds, including 2-methyl-1-propanol, 1-hexanol, isopentyl hexanoate, 2-methylpropyl octanoate, β-myrcene, and geranyl acetate, were significantly more abundant (p < 0.05) in the treated beers than in the control. Sensory evaluations revealed a favorable impact of the treatment on aroma scores compared to the GPB. Overall, the findings indicate that C. vulgaris extracts could be a valuable ingredient for developing functional beers with enhanced health benefits, particularly regarding antioxidant activity. Additionally, the results underscore the importance of exploring innovative approaches that utilize natural sources like Chlorella to enrich the nutritional profile and sensory qualities of fermented products.

Phytochemical Associes of Fungal Endophytes in Nigeria Riverine Mangrove Ecosystem

The interaction between endophytic fungi and phytochemicals in the dominant mangroves (Rhizophora mangle, Lacugularia racemosa, and Avicennia africana) of the Iko River Estuary in Nigeria was investigated. Standard analytical procedures were employed to measure antioxidant levels, while endophytic fungi were isolated, morphologically characterized, and identified using culture-dependent methods. The study identified various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, saponins, tannins/phenols, flavonoids, deoxy-sugars, cardiac glycosides, and steroids, with their concentrations varying depending on the mangrove species and plant parts. Alkaloids were present in all mangrove samples, with particularly high concentrations in the leaves of white (5%) and red (4.2%) mangroves. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to analyze the interaction between the endophytic fungi and phytochemicals, revealing a distinct affinity of certain fungal species for specific antioxidants in the mangroves. Fungal species such as Phoma sp., Rhizopus arrhizus, Aspergillus niger, and others exhibited a negative relationship with tannins, flavonoids, deoxysugars, and cardiac glycosides, but a positive affinity for saponins, alkaloids, and steroids. Conversely, Candida pseudotropicalis, Fusarium oxysporum, P. italicum, and others showed a positive affinity for tannins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, and deoxysugars, but a negative affinity for alkaloids, saponins, and steroids. Notably, Absidia sp. was the only frequently isolated species with a strong correlation (r value ≥75 at a 95% confidence limit) with deoxy-sugars, while Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, and Absidia sp. demonstrated significant relationships with alkaloids, saponins, and steroids. These phytochemicals, which serve as precursors to antioxidants with promising biotechnological applications, likely play a crucial role in determining the association of endophytic fungi with deltaic mangroves in Nigeria.

Co-frequency or contrary? The effects of Qiwei Baizhu Powder and its bioactive compounds on mucosa-associated microbiota of mice with antibiotic-associated diarrhea

Qiwei Baizhu Powder (QWBZP) has been proven effective in treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and the mechanism is associated with regulating the gut microbiota. However, the role of the bioactive compounds of QWBZP in regulating the gut microbiota is still unclear. In this study, 24 mice were divided into a normal control group (N), a model group (R), a QWBZP decoction group (TW), and a QWBZP-TG group (TG). AAD mouse models were established by mixed antibiotic administration. After modeling, mice in the TW group and TG group were treated with QWBZP decoction and QWBZP-TG, respectively. Mice in the N group and R group were gavaged with sterile water. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to investigate the changes of mucosa-associated microbiota (MAM) in the small intestine of mice. Moreover, the levels of diamine oxidase (DAO), D-Lactate, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The results showed that QWBZP-TG significantly altered the diversity, structure, and abundance of MAM in the AAD mice. QWBZP-TG exerted a stronger suppression effect on Escherichia and Clostridium compared with QWBZP decoction. Meanwhile, QWBZP-TG downregulated the abundance of Lactobacillus, which elicited an opposite effect to QWBZP decoction. Prevotella was the signature bacteria that responded to the QWBZP-TG intervention. Furthermore, both QWBZP decoction and QWBZP-TG decreased the levels of DAO, D-Lactate, sIgA, IL-6, and TNF-α in the AAD mice. The role of glycosides is to help QWBZP ameliorate diarrhea symptoms by inhibiting the proliferation of diarrhea-associated bacteria, reducing inflammation and regulating immunity.

Metabolome and Transcriptome Analyses Reveal Metabolomic Variations and Key Transcription Factors Involved in Lipid Biosynthesis During Seed Development in Carya illinoinensis

Plant oils are a large group of neutral lipids that play a vital role in the food and oleochemical industries. The pecan (Carya illinoinensis) is a promising woody oil crop known for its high-quality sources of essential fatty acids and various bioactive compounds that may aid in preventing heart diseases. However, there is still a lack of understanding regarding the accumulation of lipids and the molecular mechanism of lipid biosynthesis during seed development. This study aims to analyze the metabolite variations and molecular mechanisms of lipid biosynthesis by integrating untargeted metabolomics and transcriptomics during pecan seed development. A total of 293 differentially accumulated metabolites were identified and further categorized into 13 groups, with lipids and lipid-like molecules constituting the largest group. The oil content and fatty acid compositions of pecan embryos were assessed at three stages of seed development. Oleic acid (c18:1) and linoleic acid (c18:2n6) were found to be the most abundant unsaturated fatty acid components in pecan embryos. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis revealed 15,990 differentially expressed genes, with a focus on the key genes related to lipid metabolism. Furthermore, the study identified 1201 transcription factors from differentially expressed genes. These transcription factors were divided into 65 families, with different members in the same family exhibiting different expression patterns during seed development. The expression patterns of ten transcription factor genes during seed development were verified by qRT–PCR. Two key genes, CiABI3 and CiFUS3 were further cloned and found to be localized in the nucleus. This study used metabolome and transcriptome analysis during key periods of pecan seed development to identify the key genes associated with seed development and fatty acid biosynthesis.

Effect of the culture liquid of Antarctic yeast <i>Nadsoniella nigra</i> on rooting, growth, and biochemical composition of <i>in vitro</i> grapevine (<i>Vitis vinifera</i> L.), cultivar '<i>Karmrahyut</i>'

Background: Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is a globally significant fruit crop known for its nutritional and health benefits, including its role in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The bioactive compounds in grapes contribute to these benefits. Bioactive content changes due to grapevine variety and environmental conditions necessitate ongoing research. In vitro propagation provides a controlled environment for grapevine cultivation, minimizing disease risk and ensuring consistent quality. This study investigates the potential of Nadsoniella nigra (Nn), an Antarctic yeast, as a natural alternative to synthetic auxins like Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) in grapevine micro cutting propagation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the culture liquid of Nn as a natural alternative to auxin-class hormones, using IBA as an example, for promoting rooting in grapevine microcuttings and to assess its impact on chlorophyll content, vitamin C levels, and sugar concentrations. Materials and Methods: In vitro propagation of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivar 'Karmarhyt' was performed using half-strength Woody Plant Medium (WPM). Nn culture liquid was prepared at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 ml/L, and IBA was used at equivalent concentrations. Microcuttings were cultured on media supplemented with these treatments, with a control group maintained without growth regulators. Rooting was evaluated after 4 weeks by measuring rooting percentage, number of roots per shoot, and root length. Chlorophyll a (Chl a) and Chlorophyll b (Chl b) levels, vitamin C content, and sugar concentrations were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using standard error and t-tests. Results: Rooting performance of grapevine microcuttings varied with treatment. Nn culture liquid promoted rooting in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest values observed at 2.0 ml/L (97.0% rooting, 7.2 roots, 13.8 cm root length). IBA treatment resulted in peak rooting at 1.0 mg/L (100% rooting) but decreased at higher concentrations, accompanied by callus formation. Chlorophyll content was higher in Nn culture liquid treated microcuttings, with a maximum total chlorophyll of 2.20 mg/g at 2.0 mg/L, compared to a peak of 2.05 mg/g in IBA-treated microcuttings at 1.0 mg/L. Sugar and vitamin C content increased with Nn culture liquid concentrations, whereas IBA showed a less consistent effect. Conclusion: Nn culture liquid was an effective natural alternative to IBA for promoting rooting in grapevine microcuttings. It improved rooting efficiency, chlorophyll content, and increased sugar and vitamin C levels, while IBA led to growth inhibition and callus formation at higher concentrations. Nn culture liquid demonstrated consistent benefits, suggesting potential for sustainable viticulture. As a result of the conducted research, it was established that the mixture of secondary metabolites contained in the liquid culture medium of Nn possesses high biological activity and can be recommended for use in plant biotechnology in vitro to promote the growth of both underground and above-ground parts. Future research could explore its use in propagating other plant species. Keywords: ´Karmrahyut´, grapevine, culture liquid of Nadsoniella nigra. in vitro propagation, functional foods

Development of rapid methods to monitor nutritional standards in sustainable healthy public catering

Abstract Background The WHO and FAO in the Second International Conference on Nutrition stress the role of nutrition standards for public facilities catering services (CS) and in the Sustainable Healthy Diet guiding principles (SHD) underline synergies among foods, nutrients present in dietary patterns and their bioavailability, degree of food processing, and subsequent health impact. In Italy almost one in 10 people eat a meal in CS every day. In accordance with SHD, the Italian Ministry of Health (MH) in the national guidelines for CS indicate activating procedures for the conservation of nutritional qualities (NQ) of micronutrients and bioactive substances. The central purchasing body of the Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia have applied these criteria, introducing the process of critical control points of nutrient analysis (NACCP) in the Public Procurement for the school catering of 69 municipalities and for all 18 regional hospital with more than 3 million meals per year served. The aim of the project was to develop rapid and cheap methods for monitoring the NQ of meals by applying the NACCP process. Methods 150 samples of pasta, milk and also vegetables, meat, fish with different degrees of processing, were taken from the CS and analysed both with chemical techniques and with optical rapid techniques (1300 analyses). Results The samples were subjected to conventional analyses to determine the oxidation state and the content of characterizing molecules such as polyphenols, histamine, and total compounds of Maillard. The same samples were then analyzed by color measurements. The results showed a good correlation between the two analytical systems, in particular the color measurements and the Maillard compounds and the color measurements and the oxidation state. Conclusions Project findings can be applied in the NACCP process to rapidly cost-effectively monitor the nutritional quality of CS meals, and adhere to WHO and FAO the SHD guiding principles and MH guidelines for CS. Key messages • The development of rapid methods of monitoring the nutritional standards of public catering can implement sustainable food systems thereby promoting the healthy diets recommended by the FAO and WHO. • Rapid methods of monitoring nutritional standards represent an innovative component in improving the culture of food and nutritional security in public catering.

Thiazoplanomicin, a new thiazolyl peptide antibiotic from the leaf-litter actinomycete Actinoplanes sp. MM794L-181F6.

A new bioactive substance was identified from a leaf-litter actinomycete strain by screening for antibacterial activity against Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The thiazolyl peptide antibiotic, named thiazoplanomicin, was isolated from the secondary metabolites of the leaf-litter actinomycetes Actinoplanes sp. MM794L-181F6 by extraction with n-butanol, silica gel column chromatography, Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography, and preparative HPLC. Thiazoplanomicin was characterized by LC-HR-ESI-MS, NMR, and X-ray analyses, along with analysis of the degradation products and chemical derivatives, and determined to be a nocathiacin-like multiple macrocyclic thiazolyl peptide. Thiazoplanomicin showed potent antimicrobial activity against gonococcal strains, including those resistant to known anti-gonococcal compounds such as telithromycin, azithromycin, and ceftriaxone, with MIC values ranging from 0.0312 to 0.125 µg ml-1. Such anti-gonococcal activity has not been reported on nocathiacin-like thiazolyl peptide antibiotic so far. Similar to other thiazolyl peptide antibiotics, thiazoplanomicin also showed potent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria with MIC values ranging from 0.0005 to 0.0156 µg ml-1 but showed no antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli.

Exploration of the Functional Constituents of the Substrate of Flammulina velutipes

After harvesting, the substrate of Flammulina velutipes (SFV) is repurposed for uses such as feed, fuel, and culture medium. This study identified four phenolic acids and one flavonoid from the SFV for the first time using solvent extraction and chromatography: ferulic acid (1), ρ-coumaric acid (2), vanillic acid (3), 3-methoxygallic acid (4), and tricin (5). They showed significant activity in the DPPH scavenging test with concentrations determined by HPLC as follows: ferulic acid (218.88 mg/kg), ρ-coumaric acid (157.31 mg/kg), vanillic acid (281.54 mg/kg), 3-methoxygallic acid (33.85 mg/kg), and tricin (713.42 mg/kg). These findings indicate that the SFV is a valuable source of bioactive compounds for medicinal and health-promoting applications.

Floral Elegance Meets Medicinal Marvels: Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of the Genus Lagerstroemia L.

The genus Lagerstroemia L. (Lythraceae), known for its exquisite flowers and prolonged flowering period, is commonly employed in traditional medicinal systems across Asian countries, where it has always been consumed as tea or employed to address ailments such as diabetes, urinary disorders, coughs, fevers, inflammation, pain, and anesthesia. Its diverse uses may be attributed to its rich active ingredients. Currently, at least 364 biological compounds have been identified from Lagerstroemia extracts, encompassing various types such as terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids. Extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments have examined the pharmacological activities of different extracts, revealing their potential in various domains, including but not limited to antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antitumor, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hepatoprotective effects. Additionally, 20 core components have been proven to be associated with antidiabetic and hypoglycemic effects of Lagerstroemia. Overall, Lagerstroemia exhibit substantial medicinal potential, and the alignment between its traditional applications and contemporary pharmacological findings present promising opportunities for further investigation, particularly in food and health products, drug development, herbal teas, and cosmetics. However, evidence-based pharmacological research has largely been confined to in vitro screening and animal model, lacking clinical trials and bioactive compound isolations. Consequently, future endeavors should adopt a more holistic approach.

Cordycepin Activates Autophagy to Suppress FGF9-induced TM3 Mouse Leydig Progenitor Cell Proliferation.

Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) is a member of the human FGF family known for its pivotal roles in various biological processes, such as cell proliferation, tissue repair, and male sex determination including testis formation. Cordycepin, a bioactive compound found in Cordyceps sinensis, exhibits potent antitumor effects by triggering apoptosis and/or autophagy pathways. Our research has unveiled that FGF9 promotes proliferation and tumorigenesis in MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cells, as the phenomena are effectively countered by cordycepin through apoptosis induction. Moreover, we have observed FGF9-mediated stimulation of proliferation and tumorigenesis in TM3 mouse Leydig progenitor cells, prompting an investigation into the potential inhibitory effect of cordycepin on TM3 cell proliferation under FGF9 treatment. Hence, we hypothesized that cordycepin induces cell death via apoptosis and/or autophagy in FGF9-treated TM3 cells. TM3 cells were treated with cordycepin and/or FGF9, and the flow cytometry, immunofluorescent plus western blotting assays were used to determine how cordycepin regulated Leydig cell death under FGF9 treatment. Our findings reveal that cordycepin restricts cell viability and colony formation while inducing morphological alterations associated with cell death in FGF9-treated TM3 cells. Surprisingly, cordycepin fails to elicit the expression of key apoptotic markers, suggesting an alternate mechanism of action. Although the expression of certain autophagy-related proteins remains unaltered, a significant up-regulation of LC3-II, indicative of autophagy, is observed in cordycepin-treated TM3 cells under FGF9 influence. Moreover, the inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine reverses cordycepin-induced TM3 cell death, highlighting the crucial role of autophagy in this process. Our study demonstrates that cordycepin activates autophagy to induce cell death in TM3 cells under FGF9 treatment conditions.

From Orchard to Wellness: Unveiling the Health Effects of Sweet Cherry Nutrients

This review paper explores the multifaceted relationship between sweet cherry nutrients and human health, aiming to uncover the comprehensive impact of these bioactive compounds from orchard to wellness. Furthermore, it highlights how advanced crop techniques can be pivotal in optimizing these beneficial compounds. Synthesizing existing literature, the paper examines the diverse bioactive nutrients in sweet cherries, including antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, and elucidating their mechanisms of action and potential health benefits. From antioxidant properties to anti-inflammatory effects, the paper elucidates how these nutrients may mitigate chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions. Additionally, it explores their role in promoting gastrointestinal health, enhancing exercise recovery, and modulating sleep patterns. The review discusses emerging research on the potential anti-cancer properties of sweet cherry compounds, highlighting their promising role in cancer prevention and treatment. Furthermore, it delves into the impact of sweet cherry consumption on metabolic health, weight management, and skin health. By providing a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of sweet cherry nutrients and their health effects, this paper offers valuable insights for researchers, healthcare professionals, and consumers interested in utilizing nature’s bounty for holistic wellness.

Quantitative Characterization of Gene Regulatory Circuits Associated With Fungal Secondary Metabolism to Discover Novel Natural Products.

Microbial genetic circuits are vital for regulating gene expression and synthesizing bioactive compounds. However, assessing their strength and timing, especially in multicellular fungi, remains challenging. Here, an advanced microfluidic platform is combined with a mathematical model enabling precise characterization of fungal gene regulatory circuits (GRCs) at the single-cell level. Utilizing this platform, the expression intensity and timing of 30 transcription factor-promoter combinations derived from two representative fungal GRCs, using the model fungus Aspergillus nidulans are determined. As a proof of concept, the selected GRC combination is utilized to successfully refactor the biosynthetic pathways of bioactive molecules, precisely control their production, and activate the expression of the silenced biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). This study provides insights into microbial gene regulation and highlights the potential of platform in fungal synthetic biology applications and the discovery of novel natural products.