Products Of Plant Origin Research Articles

Anti-invasive effect of Cyclamen pseudibericum extract on A549 non-small cell lung carcinoma cells via inhibition of ZEB1 mediated by miR-200c.

Scientists are increasingly focusing attention on natural products of plant origin for use as agents in cancer protection and treatment. Cyclamen L. tuber extracts contain saponin glycosides that have been shown to have anti-cancer and other biological activities. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is thought to enhance malignant tumour progress. The transcriptional repressor zinc-finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) is an important inducer of EMT in different human tumours and has recently been shown to boost invasion by tumour cells. In this study, we investigated the effects of endemic Cyclamen pseudibericum (CP) saponin-rich tuber extract on the capacity of non-small cell lung cancer line A549 cells to proliferate, invade and migrate and also examined the expression levels of several invasion-migration-related microRNAs (miRNAs) to identify those which directly targeted ZEB1. The cytotoxicity effect of the CP extract on the A549 cancer cells was determined by the luminometric method. The half-minimal (50%) inhibitory concentration dose in the A549 cells was determined to be 41.64 ± 2.35µg/mL. Using the Matrigel invasion chamber system and the wound healing assay we observed that the CP extract suppressed the invasion and migration capacity of A549 cells, respectively. The expression of miRNAs in A549 cells was evaluated by real-time PCR. Our data showed that overexpression of miRNA miR-200c hindered the EMT by increasing the expression of E-cadherin and decreasing the expression of both N-cadherin and vimentin through the direct targeting of ZEB1. These findings suggest that the saponin-rich tuber extract of CP may have considerable anti-cancer properties in lung cancer. Further studies are required to examine in detail the molecular-based mechanism involved in the EMT process of the extract along with isolation and identification of active saponin components.

Evaluation of the content of selected heavy metals in products of plant origin as a result of differentiated ratios of fertilizers

Evaluation of the content of selected heavy metals in products of plant origin as a result of differentiated ratios of fertilizers

Ginger polyphenols attenuate cyclosporine-induced disturbances in kidney function: Potential application in adjuvant transplant therapy

Cyclosporine (CYA), a common immuno-suppressant drug that is used in organ transplants, is associated with nephrotoxic effects. Scientific exploration of natural products of plant origin should be considered; especially, in a world with increasing prevalence of kidney diseases. Effects of ginger polyphenols (GP) in Wistar rats with CYA-induced perturbations in electrolyte balance and kidney function was determined. Fifty Wistar rats were recruited for this study such that graded doses of GP were administered following CYA-induced kidney injury and comparisons were made against control and toxic groups at p < 0.05. Distilled water, CYA (50 mg/kg p.o. for 10 days) and GP (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days) were administered to the rats at 0.2 ml/100 g. CYA administration induced kidney injury as characterized by significant deleterious alterations in plasma and urine levels of creatinine, urea, Na+ and K+ electrolyte balance as well as creatinine clearance. Also, there was a significant derangement in feeding pattern and relative kidney weight. Using GSH and SOD as antioxidant indicators, there was significant disturbance of the anti-oxidant system while histopathological results showed evidence of interstitial vacuolations with atrophic glomeruli. These conditions were significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) following administration of graded doses of GP. It was, therefore, concluded that GP could potentially be a therapeutic choice for patients with CYA-induced kidney injury.

Aflatoxin M1 levels in sow milk

Aflatoxins (AFs) are one of the most known and investigated group of mycotoxins, which can be found as contaminants in different types of food and feed. Animals are exposed to AFs mainly through the consumption of contaminated feed, particularly products of plant origin. Among AFs, aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is the monohydroxylated derivative of AFB1 formed in the liver and excreted into the milk of lactating animals. This study encompassed the Vojvodina region of Serbia and was aimed at determining the levels of AFM1 excretion in sows’ milk in the first 3‒5 days of lactation, after consumption of naturally contaminated with AFB1 maize. A total of 110 sows’ milk samples from 11 swine farms in the specific region were analyzed by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Different levels of AFM1 were detected in the majority (97%) of the examined milk samples. The obtained results showed AFM1 levels ranging from 5 to 165.4 ng/L. The results of this study pose special health concern associated with aflatoxin contamination of swine feed raw materials in this particular part of Serbia. Moreover, such high incidence of AFM1 detection in sows’ milk may suggest the occurrence of long-term low level aflatoxicosis clinical cases.

Microbiological evaluation of shelflife indices of fermented African locust bean cake stored under different preservative treatments

This study was carried out on the preservation of fermented Parkia biglobosa Seeds sourced from Local Producers and laboratory produced. The local and fermented laboratory controlled samples were treated with 0.5ml of freshly prepared ginger extract. Another set of control was left untreated. The samples were stored at ambient temperature for 30 and 120 days. Contaminant isolates were identified from locally produced, laboratory treated and untreated (Control) using standard procedure. The analysis consisted of Aerobic and Anaerobic mesophilic count, Staphylococcus count and fungal count, detection of E. coli, S. aureus, Salmonella sp, Mucor sp and Rhizopus sp. The proximate analysis and organoleptic assessment of the purchased, Laboratory treated and laboratory untreated (control) were carried out using standard procedure at 30 and 120 days. Isolated and characterized bacterial isolates at 30 and 120 days in the treated and control locust bean cake were E.coli only isolated in Kwanar yandaddawa, Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in all the purchased Locust bean cake, Salmonella sp was not detected and a predominant fungal species were Mucor and Rhizopus. There was log reduction between 30 and 120 days reated locust bean cake; the Control shows Log increase. The mean proximate composition percentage differences between 30 and 120 days shows nutritional quality of treated locust bean cake. Organoleptically, the judges rejected control daddawa as a result of what the panelist termed as “unpalatable taste and partially pleasant aroma” due to off flavor. The growing interest in use of natural products of plant origin therefore gives Ginger extract an advantage in developing a practical approach for the preservation of African locust bean cake. Keywords : African locust bean cake, preservatives, log reduction, nutritional quality, shelf life.

Assessment of quality of life in women using Femelis Meno.

Over 30% of women suffering from menopausal symptoms use products of plant origin. This paper presents the results of a study devoted to evaluation of the efficacy of the Femelis Meno dietary supplement containing standardized flower pollen and pistil extracts (PI 82-GC FEM).

Vernonia amygdalina Del: A Mini Review

Phytomedicines are medicinal products of plant origin that have been used since ancient times till date for the prophylaxis and treatment of various ailments. Vernonia amygdalina Del (Asteraceae) is a perennial shrub that is widely distributed in tropical parts of Africa. It is popularly known as bitter leaf and consumed as a vegetable and for medicinal purposes. The plant has been used in folkloric medicine for the treatment of several diseases owing to its diverse pharmacological applications. The plant has low toxicity profile; thus, making it a potential drug candidate. Scientific investigations have shown that, V. amygdalina Del possesses potent pharmacological activities such as antidiabetic, anthelminthic, antiplasmodial, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antianaemic activities. Moreover, V. amygdalina Del contains various phytochemical compounds which may be associated with its potent pharmacological properties. The present study is a review of the therapeutic benefits as well as phytochemicals isolated from V. amygdalina Del.

Spożycie nasion roślin strączkowych w Polsce jako element modelu zrównoważonej konsumpcji żywności

The sustaintable food consumption model, developed by such organisations as FAO, WHO and WWF assumes an increased share of products of plant origin in everyday nutrition. It is essential to promote new consumption patterns due to the impact that overconsumption and industrial production, especially of animal products has on the natural environment, including climate. The model points out an urgent need to increase the consumption of pulses – rich and affordable source of protein. In Poland their intake is very low, according to GUS household budget data – 0,9 kg/capita/year. Results of a study conducted among students shows that the consumption of pulses is mainly determined by taste and the product is seen as an available and cheap. It is important for young people to gain knowledge about the nutritional value and beneficial influence of pulses on the environment in order for them to become more motivated to choose to eat pulses every day.

COMPETITIVENESS OF POLISH AGRI-FOOD EXPORT ON WORLD AND V4 MARKET

At work, an issue of the competitiveness of Polish agri-food exports was analysed. Purpose of the study was to estimate the level of competitiveness of the Polish export commodity groups related to the agri-food sector on the markets of the Visegrad Group countries and the world market and an indication of the groups and markets with potential for development in the future as also those losing market shares. In the framework of the implementation of the aim, it was decided to make the indicator analysis and estimate the comparative advantage by using a RCA ratio and absolute advantage using AGE. Polish export in the year 2015 measured indicator of RCA, was competitive on the world market in the case of animals and products of animal origin and food and beverages. RCA &lt; 1 was for plant and products of plant origin. In the case of animals Polish exports grew at the same rate as world exports, in the case of plants were large fluctuations in AGE. The best situation was in a group of food and beverages, where AGE in most years were above zero.

Determination of the need for medicinal products of plant origin used for treating cardiovascular diseases

Aim of the study is to determine the need for medicinal products of plant origin for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Materials and methods. Forecasting the need for cardiac medicines ingeneral, and in medicinal products of plant origin (MP PO), in particular, is increasing as the population, life expectancy, under the influence of socio-demographic factors, and, most importantly, with the increase in the number of elderly people. Results. On the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine, among medicinal products of plant origin, domestically produced drugs, which significantly reduces the cost of therapy and makes many medicines available to socially unprotected populations. Conclusions. Taking into account the peculiarities of modern social and economic conditions, the inadequacy of financial drug assistance at the expense of the state budget and the need to address the problems of improving the organization of medicinal care for patients with cardiovascular pathology, we have forecasted the long-term demand for medicinal products of plant origin. An important stage in the choice of forecasting methods is the possibility of attracting the necessary number of indicators that are characteristic of the normative method, the availability and simplicity of which allow using it by specialists who do not have special mathematical training at the level of medical and pharmaceutical organizations. Prevention of diseases should be based on the implementation of government programs for prevention and promotion of health. This will improve and actively use methods of early detection of social and economic factors that are a threat to the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system

Medicinally important aromatic plants with radioprotective activity.

Aromatic plants are often used as natural medicines because of their remedial and inherent pharmacological properties. Looking into natural resources, particularly products of plant origin, has become an exciting area of research in drug discovery and development. Aromatic plants are mainly exploited for essential oil extraction for applications in industries, for example, in cosmetics, flavoring and fragrance, spices, pesticides, repellents and herbal beverages. Although several medicinal plants have been studied to treat various conventional ailments only a handful studies are available on aromatic plants, especially for radioprotection. Many plant extracts have been reported to contain antioxidants that scavenge free radicals produced due to radiation exposure, thus imparting radioprotective efficacy. The present review focuses on a subset of medicinally important aromatic plants with radioprotective activity.

P19 Intracerebral microdialysis studies on the role of Pinocembrin on CYP3A in rat

Propolis is one of the most heterogeneous natural product of plant origin. Research on the flavonoids in propolis has been prompted by their beneficial effects on health. In propolis, pinocembrin (5,7-dihydroxyflavanone) is the flavonoid that is present in the highest concentration. As flavonoids have a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, more and more biological actions of pinocembrin have been reported, including anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, vasorelaxant, and neuroprotective effects, etc. The current study focused on investigating the effects of pinocembrin on CYP3A in the rat brain using intracerebral microdialysis. To investigate the pharmacokinetic profiles of midazolam and 1 ′ -hydroxymidazolam in the rat brain before and after intravenous administration of pinocembrin, microdialysates from rat brains were collected and analysed. For microdialysis, a probe was inserted into rats’ paracele and then the animals were administrated either 5% of β-cyclodextrin (control group) or pinocembrin at 3.75, 7.5, 15 mg/kg (treatment groups) via the femoral vein. Rats were then administrated 5 mg/kg midazolam. In the presence of pinocembrin, the pharmacokinetic parameters of midazolam and 1 ′ -hydroxymidazolam varied significantly ( P t 1 / 2 , MRT and Vd were changed from 0.73 ± 0.09 h −1 , 0.96 ± 0.12 h, 1.63 ± 0.16 h and 52.02 ± 8.61 L · kg −1 to 0.55 ± 0.12 h −1 , 1.29 ± 0.19 h, 1.98 ± 0.30 h and 65.1 ± 10.7 L · kg −1 , respectively. The results indicated that pinocembrin induced alterations in the pharmacokinetic profiles of midazolam/ 1 ′ -hydroxymidazolam. Our other experimental data showed that both protein expression and mRNA level of CYP3A were also decreased. So pinocembrin could slow the midazolam metabolism process by inhibiting CYP3A in the rat brain.

Identification and Characterization of Daurichromenic Acid Synthase Active in Anti-HIV Biosynthesis.

Daurichromenic acid (DCA) synthase catalyzes the oxidative cyclization of grifolic acid to produce DCA, an anti-HIV meroterpenoid isolated from Rhododendron dauricum We identified a novel cDNA encoding DCA synthase by transcriptome-based screening from young leaves of R. dauricum The gene coded for a 533-amino acid polypeptide with moderate homologies to flavin adenine dinucleotide oxidases from other plants. The primary structure contained an amino-terminal signal peptide and conserved amino acid residues to form bicovalent linkage to the flavin adenine dinucleotide isoalloxazine ring at histidine-112 and cysteine-175. In addition, the recombinant DCA synthase, purified from the culture supernatant of transgenic Pichia pastoris, exhibited structural and functional properties as a flavoprotein. The reaction mechanism of DCA synthase characterized herein partly shares a similarity with those of cannabinoid synthases from Cannabis sativa, whereas DCA synthase catalyzes a novel cyclization reaction of the farnesyl moiety of a meroterpenoid natural product of plant origin. Moreover, in this study, we present evidence that DCA is biosynthesized and accumulated specifically in the glandular scales, on the surface of R. dauricum plants, based on various analytical studies at the chemical, biochemical, and molecular levels. The extracellular localization of DCA also was confirmed by a confocal microscopic analysis of its autofluorescence. These data highlight the unique feature of DCA: the final step of biosynthesis is completed in apoplastic space, and it is highly accumulated outside the scale cells.

A mystery of a cup of coffee; an insight look by chemist.

Fruits, vegetables as well as processed food products of plant origin are a rich source of beneficial for human health constituents. Among them the polyphenols constitute a large group of compounds. The presented literature survey is devoted to chlorogenic acid the most abundant representative of cinnamate acids esters. Its chemical as well as biological properties are described. © 2017 BioFactors, 43(5):621-632, 2017.

Import Price Rigidity and Invoice Currency in Russia

This paper examines the relationship between the import price rigidity and the invoice currency of goods imported to Russia. Microdata on the import of goods to Russia over a period from 2002 to 2015 allowed to assess the degree of price rigidity to the exchange rate fluctuations at a disaggregated level, which is the first time this kind of research was applied to the Russian economy. The empirical estimates of prices of goods denominated in different currencies are in line with similar results available in the world literature on price rigidity and exchange rate pass-through. According to panel data analysis, prices of imported goods denominated in domestic currency (Russian ruble) show little reaction to exchange rate fluctuations, while prices of imported goods denominated in foreign currency (US dollar, euro) almost completely copy the dynamics of exchange rate movements. This paper also documents sector-dependent differences of influence of the invoice currency on the degree of the imported goods price rigidity to fluctuations in the exchange rate. Some imported goods denominated in Russian ruble do not show complete price rigidity to exchange rate fluctuations, for example, products of plant origin, textiles, and headgear. Deviation from zero rigidity to the exchange rate shocks for imported goods denominated in foreign currencies is observed only for fats and oils of animal or vegetable origin.

Parametric optimization of microwave reflux extraction of spice oleoresin from white pepper (Piper nigrum)

BackgroundWhite Piper nigrum is an important commodity crop containing a number of essential bioactive components with nutritional and medicinal properties when sufficiently extracted. Microwave refluxation is therefore a novel technique employed in the extraction of bioactive components from natural products of plant origin. This method doubled as classical and traditional solvent extraction techniques with reduced extraction time, higher selectivity, low solvent consumption, and higher extraction rate.MethodsThe Taguchi L9-orthogonal design was employed to determine a combination of extraction factors that jointly optimized the extraction yield. The use of this para metric design was due to its ability to mitigate inherent noise factor with minimal experimental trials.ResultsThe optimal extraction condition was attained at 90 min of irradiation time, 300 W of microwave power, 0.105 mm of particle size, and 10 ml/g of molar ratio. Under this condition, the corresponding optimum extraction yield of 4.278 (v/w)% was obtained. Moreover, the percentage contribution of each extraction factor on the response settings resulted in the decreasing order: irradiation time > molar ratio > power level > particle size. Phytochemical screening was condcuted on the oleoresin extracts and a total number of 26 bioactive compounds were identified. Also, the Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis (FTIR) and the Scanning Eectron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed the presence of seven presence of seven functional groups with an observable structural transformation.ConclusionsThe result of optimum design, phytochemical screening, and structural characterization therefore provided a better understanding on the potential of microwave refluxation in extracting spice oleoresin from white Piper nigrum.

Products of plant origin – benefits and the potential risk for the consumer

Phytochemical compounds are widely used in traditional medicine in the treatment of many ailments. In recent years, an increasing interest is observed in the use of new natural bioactive substances and whole standardized extracts in the prevention and therapy of diseases. Some of these are the components of the diet, diet supplements or at higher doses are used as herbal medicines. Many phytochemicals have documented a beneficial effect on health, but they must be used properly. Therefore, it is important to inform about differentiating between herbal medicine and dietary supplement. Further, the possibility of interactions with synthetic drugs and the mechanisms of these effects is necessary to describe for the safety of phytotherapy. The goal of our paper is to show high prophylactic and medicinal potential of natural active compounds of plant origin. We also want to draw attention to the safety of their use by the consumer. Therefore, we present some studies on the benefical properties of natural active compounds, mainly in the prevention and treatment of cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. The results of the described studies are extensively discussed and their suitability for further testing in vivo and in clinical trials is examined. At the same time we show selected interaction of common medicinal plants or their raw materials with synthetic drugs.

New insights into the antiangiogenic and proangiogenic properties of dietary polyphenols.

Polyphenols can be found in natural products of plant origin, including vegetables, fruits, and beverages. A large number of these plant origin compounds are an integral part of the human diet and in the past decade evidence has shown their beneficial properties in human health, by acting in several cell signaling pathways. Among other beneficial effects, polyphenols have been associated with angiogenesis. Increasing evidence highlighting the ability of dietary polyphenols to influence angiogenesis by interfering with multiple signaling pathways is debated. Particular emphasis is given to the mechanisms that ultimately may induce the formation of capillary-like structures (by increasing endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion) or, conversely, may inhibit the steps of angiogenesis leading to the inhibition/regress of vascular development. Dietary polyphenols can, therefore, be viewed as promising nutraceuticals but important aspects have still to be further investigated, to deep knowledge concerning their concentration-mediated effects, effect of specific polyphenols, and respective metabolites, to ensure their appropriate and effective usefulness as proangiogenic or antiangiogenic nutraceuticals.

The safety and tolerance of phytotherapies in menopausal medicine - a review of the literature.

Phytoestrogens are polyphenol, non-steroidal substances of plant origin, resembling 17β-estradiol in structure. These substances can act as either agonists or antagonists of oestrogen receptors α and β. Phytoestrogens are widely used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats. Most of the currently available products of plant origin registered to soften climacteric symptoms consist of extracts obtained from soy, red clover, or black cohosh.Non-hormonal phytotherapy is a new alternative for patients suffering from menopausal symptoms. Active ingredients such as PI 82-GC FEM extract do not show any direct hormonal mechanisms of action typical for oestrogens and phytoestrogens.There are concerns about the safety and tolerability of phytoestrogens. In this review we summarise the current literature regarding the clinical aspect of safety and tolerance of different phytotherapies used to relieve menopausal symptoms.

Effect of Oxate and Phytate on Iron Bioavailability from Foods Commonly Consumed in China

The objectives of this research were to assess the bioavailability of iron in foodstuffs found in the China diet, to provide data on the content of iron absorption inhibitors present in plant origin products and to assess the inhibitory effect of these compounds and of cooking on iron bioavailability; therefore, total content and bioavailable iron, tannins, phytic and oxalic acid were determined in vegetables, legumes and animal products, before and after cooking. Vegetables, although rich in iron, have poor iron bioavailability and a high content of inhibitory factors; cooking reduced the content of iron and inhibitory factors, whereas in animal products the treatment of cooking did not significantly reduce it. Iron bioavailability, phytate content and the phytate to iron molar ratio predicted poor iron bioavailability and, therefore, a negative impact on the nutritional status of people who rely on them as staple foods could be expected.