Rhus Verniciflua Research Articles

Optimising the analysis of Anacardiaceae (Asian lacquer) polymers using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

The identification and differentiation of Anacardiaceae or Asian lacquer polymers is a challenging task, however, the characterisation of these lacquers is highly relevant, especially there is a need to understand the degradation of the polymers and the effects of conservation treatments. To improve the characterisation of artificially light aged polymers from Gluta usitata, Toxicodendron succedaneum and Toxicodendron vernicifluum, using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS), the effects of pyrolysis temperature and the use of online derivatisation were studied in detail. Derivatisation was based on trimethylsilylation with hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) and hydrolysis and methylation with tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH). The results showed that stepwise increasing the flash pyrolysis temperature is helpful to differentiate between primary pyrolysis reactions and the formation of secondary products. This approach was invaluable to reconstruct the polymeric structure of these lacquers, based on the identified pyrolysates, and the peak areas obtained at specific pyrolysis temperature ranges. Derivatisation of polar compounds in the samples proved a requirement to obtain reliable data. Even though the HMDS based results were found to be inferior to the obtained TMAH data, in terms of derivatisation efficiency and overall analytical repeatability, HMDS was more selective towards alkenylcatechols. This appeared primarily for alkenylcatechols comprising the T. succedaneum polymer and for the analysis of carbohydrates, in samples of all polymeric types. Lowering the split flow, showed that the derivatisation efficiency with HMDS was much improved. Using the reduced split flow method also allowed for e.g., better identification of resorcinol isomers in G. usitata polymers.

Preparation and Properties of Chinese Lacquer Modified by Methylolureas

In this study, different molar of methylolureas (MMU) were used to improve the properties and drying speed of the raw lacquer (RL). The drying time, gloss, pencil hardness and impact resistance of the lacquer film were tested. The thermal behaviors and chemical structures of the lacquer membrane were also discussed by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), fourier infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis, respectively. The results demonstrated that lower molar ratio MMU can significantly improve the properties of lacquer. The TGA analysis showed that the modified lacquer had high thermal stability than that of the control. The FT-IR and 13C NMR analysis revealed that the structures of the modified lacquer were significantly improved by cross-linking with the hydroxymethyl groups and methylene methyl ethers of MMU. In addition, through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization, it was found that the introduction of MMU can effectively improve the surface smoothness of the lacquer film.

Eco-Friendly, Colored Lacquer Palettes Derived from Catechol Lipid-Based Bioresin

We report the method of production of eco-friendly, colored lacquer palettes that are characterized by excellent adhesion strength and strong durability from waterborne catechol lipid-based bioresin extracted from lacquer trees. We focused on the saturation behavior of the color of the coated surface based on the amount of the added pigments. The optical properties and colors of the pigment-containing lacquer were studied using Kubelka–Munk theory and the CIE L*a*b* color space, respectively. Color saturation for the colored lacquer-coated surfaces was achieved at the pigment content of 50 wt % for red and blue. When the pigment content was 40 wt %, color saturation was achieved for green and yellow. The materials exhibited excellent adhesive properties (5B), and the hardness was 2–3H. In addition, it was observed that with the progress of the aging time over 2 years, the color of the lacquer-coated surfaces changed, and a bright and intense surface was formed. The change in color could be attributed to the bleaching effect of the oriental lacquer binder. The results reported herein can potentially help in obtaining a green solution for preparing eco-friendly colored lacquer palettes and predicting the color development observed for highly decorative and protective coatings.

Developing fisetin-AgNPs incorporated in reinforced chitosan/pullulan composite-film and its application of postharvest storage in litchi fruit

In this study, Toxicodendron vernicifluum fisetin chelated silver nanoparticles (FT-AgNPs) with outstanding antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were constructed via self-assembly. To surprise, 0.6 wt% FT-AgNPs was compatibly dispersed into the 1:1 chitosan/pullulan (CS/PUL, CP) matrix. The hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction between FT-AgNPs and CP, slightly increased the CP thermal stability, and greatly enhanced the tensile strength to 61.2 MPa, water vapor permeability below 20 kg/m2•d. Furthermore, after treated with the composite hydrocolloid film (FT-AgNPs/CP), the reactive oxygen species level of the treated Aspergillus niger cells was significantly increased, and the membrane permeability was enhanced. It effectively slowed down the decay of litchi fruit induced by microbial infection under the storage at 25 °C (15 d of the 0.6 % FT-AgNPs/CP treatment vs 9 d of the control). In addition, 0.024 μg/kg Ag+ residual in lichi pulp verified the qualified safety of the application of the 0.6 % FT-AgNPs/CP.

Protective Effect of Fustin against Huntington's Disease in 3-Nitropropionic Treated Rats via Downregulation of Oxidative Stress and Alteration in Neurotransmitters and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Activity.

Researchers have revealed that Rhus verniciflua heartwood, which contains fustin as an important component, possesses antioxidant-mediated, anti-mutagenic, and anti-rheumatoid arthritis characteristics. Additionally, out of the numerous plant-derived secondary metabolites, there are various research papers concentrating on flavonoids for potential advantages in neurological illnesses. The current study aims to assess the neuroprotective potential of fustin in rodents over 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA)-induced Huntington's disease (HD)-like consequences. The efficacy of fustin 50 and 100 mg/kg was studied with multiple-dose administrations of 3-NPA, which experimentally induced HD-like symptoms in rats for 22 days. At the end of the study, several behavioral tests were performed including a beam walk, rotarod, and grip strength tests. Similarly, some biochemical parameters were assessed to support oxidative stress (reduced glutathione-GSH, superoxide dismutase-SOD, catalase-CAT, and malondialdehyde-MDA), alteration in neurotransmitters (gamma-aminobutyric acid-GABA-and glutamate), alteration in brain-derived neurotrophic factor activity, and nitrite levels. Additionally, pro-inflammatory parameters were carried out to evaluate the neuroinflammatory responses associated with streptozotocin such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX in the perfused brain. The fustin-treated group exhibited a significant restoration of memory function via modulation in behavioral activities. Moreover, 3-NPA altered biochemical, neurotransmitters, brain protein levels, and neuroinflammatory measures, which fustin efficiently restored. This is the first report demonstrating the efficacy of novel phytoconstituent fustin as a potential future candidate for the treatment of HD via offering neuroprotection by subsiding the oxidative and enzymatic activity in the 3-NPA experimental animal paradigm.

Lost and Found: Documentary Evidence and Scientific Examination of a Mid-Eighteenth Century Japanese Urushi Box

ABSTRACT This paper discusses a Japanese urushi box in the collection of the Swedish Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, inventory number TEMP-0030. It documents a study that included scientific analyses by five different processes: sectional optical microscopy (OM/POL), wood taxonomy (WT), pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS), X−ray fluorescence microscopy (XRF), and radiocarbon dating (14C). To a lesser degree, the investigation also included an examination of the inscribed information on a paper label. The scientific results show that the box substrate is hinoki (Chamaecyparis obtusa Engl.), assembled with a proteinaceous glue. A cloth made from ramie fibres (Boehmeria nivea) covers the wood body. The main constituent in the coating is urushiol, derived from Toxicodendron vernicifluum trees. The black appearance on the exterior faces is due to a pigment of soot. The makie and nashiji decorations, on both exterior and interior faces, are composed of brass, silver, and gold, in flakes and powders. Radiocarbon dating suggests the time of manufacture as 1728–1764 CE, or the mid-Edo period. The information on the paper label suggests 1745 CE and the Zohiko, Kyoto, as the time and place of manufacture. Indirectly, this study emphasises the potential of these analytical techniques and a forensic approach in learning about other ‘lost and found’ objects.

Laccase Immobilization on Copper-Magnetic Nanoparticles for Efficient Bisphenol Degradation.

Laccase activity is influenced by copper (Cu) as an inducer. In this study, laccase was immobilized on Cu and Cu-magnetic (Cu/Fe2O4) nanoparticles (NPs) to improve enzyme stability and potential applications. The Cu/Fe2O4 NPs functionally activated by 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane and glutaraldehyde exhibited an immobilization yield and relative activity (RA) of 93.1 and 140%, respectively. Under optimized conditions, Cu/Fe2O4 NPs showed high loading of laccase up to 285 mg/g of support and maximum RA of 140% at a pH 5.0 after 24 h of incubation (4°C). Immobilized laccase, as Cu/Fe2O4-laccase, had a higher optimum pH (4.0) and temperature (45°C) than those of a free enzyme. The pH and temperature profiles were significantly improved through immobilization. Cu/Fe2O4-laccase exhibited 25-fold higher thermal stability at 65°C and retained residual activity of 91.8% after 10 cycles of reuse. The degradation of bisphenols was 3.9-fold higher with Cu/Fe2O4-laccase than that with the free enzyme. To the best of our knowledge, Rhus vernicifera laccase immobilization on Cu or Cu/Fe2O4 NPs has not yet been reported. This investigation revealed that laccase immobilization on Cu/Fe2O4 NPs is desirable for efficient enzyme loading and high relative activity, with remarkable bisphenol A degradation potential.

Safety assessment of oil extracted from lacquer (Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F.A. Barkley) seed: acute and subchronic toxicity studies in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceToxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F.A. Barkley (RVS) is an economic tree species and widely distributed in East Asia. Wood parts and raw lacquers of RVS have been used in coatings, herbal medicines or food supplements, and the leaves, flowers, roots, and fruits of RVS are also widely used in medicine traditionally. Lacquer seed oil (LSO) has potential health benefits and has not previously been evaluated for safety. Aim of the studyThe aim of the present study was to investigate the toxicological potential of LSO by acute and subchronic toxicity tests. Materials and methodsThe characterization of fatty acids of the LSO was carried out by gas chromatography. In the acute toxicity study, LSO was administered at single doses of 5000 or 10000 mg/kg by oral gavage. The subchronic toxicity study was conducted by daily oral administration of LSO at doses of 1250, 2500 and 5000 mg/kg/day for 30 consecutive days. The animals were evaluated for clinical observations, body weight, organ weight, feed consumption, biochemical and hematological parameters, and liver, lung, and kidney histology. ResultsThere were no mortality and toxic changes were observed in acute toxicity study. The results of subchronic toxicity showed no toxicologically significant changes in clinical observations, body weight, organ weight, biochemical or hematological parameters. Histopathologic results indicated slight hepatic steatosis and inflammatory infiltration in the rats of 5000 mg/kg/day LSO treated group. However, the histopathologic observation was not confirmed by hepatic biochemical analysis. ConclusionsThese results suggested that the LD50 of LSO is over 10000 mg/kg and LSO is non-toxic for SD rats in acute toxicity study. The no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of LSO in rats is considered to be 5000 mg/kg/day, and liver is the potential target organ of LSO for 30-day subchronic toxicity study.

Qualitative profiling and relative quantitative analysis of compounds in light-harvested and shading-treated sumac (Toxicodendron vernicifluum) leaves and their antibacterial activity

Sumac ( Toxicodendron vernicifluum ) is a highly valuable industrial tree species. The leaves are rich in secondary metabolites such as urushiol and flavonoids , which have a wide range of industrial uses. In this study, HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS was used to analyze the compounds in the ethyl acetate extracts of light-harvested and shading-treated sumac leaves. A total of 110 compounds were identified, including 10 urushiol compounds, 57 flavonoids and 43 other compounds. Most of the compounds were not reported in sumac to date. Light was an important environmental factor correlated with the presence of different compound categories and their relative content. The content of all the urushiol compounds in shading-treated leaves decreased compared with the light-harvested leaves, while the content of 33 flavonoids and the total flavonoid content in shading-treated leaves increased. The content of most alkaloids and terpenoids in shading-treated leaves was lower than the light-harvested leaves. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) assays showed that extracts from sumac leaves had obviously antibacterial activity, although the antibacterial activity of the shading-treated leaves was decreased. This study offers a new perspective for regulating the synthesis of substances through light management to enable the full utilization of sumac leaf resources. • Urushiol(triene) was the most abundant compound in Toxicodendron vernicifluum leaves. • 110 compounds were identified in sumac leaves and most were first reported in sumac. • Shading treatment decreased the urushiol content and increased flavonoids content. • The extracts from Toxicodendron vernicifluum leaves had strong antibacterial activity.

Verniciflavanol A, a profisetinidin-type-4-arylflavan-3-ol from toxicodendron vernicifluum protects SH-SY5Y cells against H2O2-Induced oxidative stress

Eleven undescribed derivatives of flavan, including flavan-3,4-diols vernicinosides A-H and profisetinidin-type-4-arylflavan-3-ols verniciflavanols A-C, together with eight known compounds were purified from the heartwood of Toxicodendron vernicifluum. The chemical structures of the undescribed compounds were characterized by spectroscopic data interpretation, including NMR (1H and 13C NMR HSQC and HMBC) and HRESIMS analysis. CD data analysis was conducted to assign the absolute configurations of the undescribed compounds and the active compound verniciflavanol A was also confirmed by ECD experiment. The absolute configuration of the sugar moiety was identified by GC analysis of chiral derivatives in the hydrolysate. MTT assay was applied to test these compounds against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Results found that verniciflavanol A demonstrated the best potential in protecting SH-SY5Y cells against H2O2-induced oxidative stress by inhibiting cell apoptosis and attenuate reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and mitochondrial dysfunction. And the underlying mechanism was confirmed to be associated with Nrf2-antioxidant response element signaling and IL-6 cell survival pathways.

Bioactive abietane diterpenes and benzofuran neolignans from the resins of Toxicodendron vernicifluum

Six new compounds (1–6), including two abietane diterpenes (1,2) and four benzofuran neolignans (3–6), along with five known compounds (7–11) were isolated and identified through phytochemical investigation on the resins of Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Toxicodendri Resina). The structures of the new compounds were fully elucidated by their 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS, UV, and IR spectroscopic data analyses. The absolute configurations of 1–4 were deduced by comparison of the experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data. The inhibitory effects of the isolates on myocardial fibrosis induced by TGF-β were examined, and compounds 1, 5, and 7–10 showed the anti-proliferation of myocardial fibroblasts at the concentrations of 10–40 μM in a dose-dependent manner.

Comparison of physicochemical properties by different parts of Rhus verniciflua and food properties of Rhus verniciflua seed

The goal of this study was to provide basic data for various parts of Rhus verniciflua (R. verniciflua), and based on these data, to suggest the parts thereof that may be used as food material along with the xylem. Analysis of the proximate compositions revealed that the leaves contained mainly carbohydrates; the shoots crude protein; and the stems and seeds contained mainly crude fiber. All these parts were found to be rich in potassium and magnesium in terms of their mineral content. The total urushiol content was the lowest in the seeds at 0.92 mg/100 g. The total polyphenol and flavonoid content were highest in the shoots and leaves, respectively. Physicochemical analysis indicated that the seeds may be used as a food material, along with the xylem. According to DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity analysis, 50% ethanol was considered appropriate as a solvent for seed extraction. Cytotoxicity analysis of the seeds extracted with 50% ethanol confirmed that none of the components were present at cytotoxic levels. The findings of this study provide basic information regarding the use of R. verniciflua seeds as a food source.

Methods to promote seed germination in the lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F.A. Barkley.

The lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum, is a common industrial crop in East Asia. However, T. vernicifluum seeds are extremely difficult to germinate, which poses a major obstacle to establishing seedlings for sap production. In this study, we examined the germination properties of T. vernicifluum seeds in order to establish an inexpensive and effective method to promote seed germination. The seeds are covered with a hard endocarp, which we degrade using conventional sulfuric acid-based methods. Although sulfuric acid was effective in promoting seed germination, the germination rate was less than 5%. In addition to treatment with sulfuric acid, co-treatment with cold temperatures or the phytohormone gibberellic acid increased the germination rate to 22–35%. Seed viability analysis combined with specific gravity-based seed selection revealed that more than half of the seeds housed embryos that were incapable of germination. In additions, specific gravity-based seed selection aided in the selection of seeds capable of germination and improved the germination rate to approximately 47%. Taken together, our results suggest that the low germination rate of T. vernicifluum seeds is due to deep seed dormancy—which is controlled by physical and physiological mechanisms—and low embryo viability. To improve the germination rate of T. vernicifluum seeds, we propose an effective method whereby seeds with good germination capacity are selected based on specific gravity, following which their physiological dormancy is inactivated through cold pretreatment.

Influence of polyethylene oxide (PEO) on the performance of Chinese lacquer films

The Chinese lacquer composite films were prepared by modifying raw lacquer with polyethylene oxide. The film was characterized via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The infrared spectra confirmed the interaction between the polyethylene oxide and urushiol. The heat-resistance of the film was found to have decreased due to the presence of polyethylene oxide via thermogravimetric analysis. Additional pores and wrinkles were observed in the scanning electron microscopy image of polyethylene oxide modified lacquer films. The mechanical properties were tested according to the national standard. The results indicated that the gloss and flexibility of the modified film was enhanced by the presence of polyethylene oxide. When the ratio of polyethylene oxide was 3%, the gloss was increased from 59.8 to 81.6 and the flexibility changed from 15 mm to 1 mm. The alkaline-resistance, hardness, and adhesion were also increased via the modification of polyethylene oxide.

High abrasion-resistant biobased composite coatings with improved hardness and corrosion resistance performance based on natural lacquer and SiC nanowires

In recent years, abrasion-resistant biobased coatings have attracted great attention because of their great potential in applications such as in the industry, biomedicine and military. In this study, new composite coatings (SiC/L) have been developed by introducing SiC nanowires into natural Chinese lacquer. The structures and the properties were characterized and evaluated by FT-IR spectroscopy, XRD analysis, and multiple performance tests. Results show that the conventional physico-mechanical properties of the composite films, such as adhesion, flexibility, impact strength, and tensile properties were intensively improved due to the presence of the SiC nanowires. The hardness of the composite films is as high as 9H, about 1.4 times that of the lacquer film (5H). Moreover, there are no serious wear marks even after 2500 cycles of reciprocating abrasion. The origin behind the excellent properties of the composites was intensively discussed and proven to be attributed to the strong interaction and labyrinth effect in the SiC/L composite coating. Thereby, the resultant composite coating is an environmentally friendly material with good performance which exhibits broad applications in abrasion-resistant fields.

Isolation and Identification of Fisetin: An Antioxidative Compound Obtained from Rhus verniciflua Seeds.

The goal of this study was to provide basic data for the development of functional food and health materials for Rhus verniciflua (R. verniciflua) seeds. We investigated an antioxidative compound obtained from these seeds. Solvent fractionation was carried out on a 50%-ethanol extract of the seeds. The DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging activity and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured, and high antioxidant activity was seen in the ethyl acetate fraction. The antioxidant compounds in the ethyl acetate fraction were isolated using silica-gel column chromatography by adjusting the solvent between chloroform and methanol. Fraction numbers 2–7 showed activity of more than 50%. Next, primary column chromatography was used to mix and concentrate the fractions that demonstrated antioxidant activity. The fractions were then subjected to secondary column chromatography to obtain subfraction 4, which showed high antioxidant activity. The separation of subfraction 4 was then performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Three peaks were identified and peak number 2 was judged to be the primary antioxidative compound, which was then isolated by pure separation. Finally, the purified subfraction peak number 2 was identified as a fisetin compound by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and HPLC.

Protective Effect of Fustin Against Ethanol-Activated Gastric Ulcer via Downregulation of Biochemical Parameters in Rats.

The fustin plant-derived bioflavonoid obtained from a common plant known as lacquer tree from family Anacardiaceae, formally known as Rhus verniciflua Stokes, is known to exert a variety of therapeutic properties. The current investigation proved the anti-ulcerative property of fustin on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in an experimental animal model. The fustin 50 and 100 mg/kg was studied in an experimental rat model by performing an 8 day protocol. The ulcer index, pH, total acidic content, and biochemical parameters such as glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-1β, prostaglandin E-2, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), myeloperoxidase, and nitric oxide (NO) in serum were measured. The gastric parameter such as ulcer index, pH, and acidic content was maintained in the fustin groups compared to the ethanol control group. Clinical presentation of gastric ulcers includes a significant increase in serum levels, GSH, SOD, and CAT and decreased MDA, TNF-α, interleukin-1β, and prostaglandin E-2 parameters in contrast to normal groups. The treatment regimen with fustin has significantly restored all serum parameters in test groups. The current study helps to develop reasonable phytochemical options for the innervations of chemical-induced gastric ulcers.

Burial of the Pazyryk Elite Members at Khankarinsky Dol, Northwestern Altai

This article presents the results of an interdisciplinary study of kurgan 30 at Khankarinsky Dol, located on the left bank of the Inya River, 1–1.5 km southeast of Chineta, Krasnoshchekovsky District, Altai Territory (northwestern Altai). This is a Pazyryk kurgan, under which a looted double burial of a male and an adolescent was found. Their heads were apparently oriented toward the east. Along the northern wall of the grave, an accompanying burial of seven horses was found, placed in two rows, heads oriented to the east. The morphological analysis showed all of them to be stallions, resembling those from other mounds of this group. Morphological comparison with horses from other Pazyryk kurgans in the Altai revealed both similarities and differences. Analysis of the grave goods, including iron bits, a bone pipe-shaped bead, tiny bronze daggers in wooden scabbards, a pickaxe, numerous fragments of gold foil from the horse harness, and fragments of Chinese wooden lacquer ware, suggests that the burial was made no earlier than the 4th century BC – possibly in the late 4th to early 3rd century BC. Radiocarbon analysis was carried out at the Tomsk Institute for Monitoring Climatic and Ecological Systems of the SB RAS Center for Isotopic Studies. The funerary rite and the artifacts suggest that kurgan 30 was constructed for members of the nomadic elite of the northwestern Altai.

Comparative Lipidomic and Metabolomic Analyses Reveal the Mystery of Lacquer Oil from Toxicodendron vernicifluum for the Treatment of "Yuezi" Disease in Nujiang, China: From Anti-Inflammation and Anti-Postpartum Depression Perspective.

Background: In southwest China, especially in Nujiang, lacquer oil from the drupes of Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F. A. Barkley, including black lacquer oil (BLO) and white lacquer oil (WLO), is one of the most important edible oils for the local people. Through the field investigation, the locals believe that lacquer oil has benefits for parturient women and for the treatment of “Yuezi” disease. However, studies on bioactivities and the chemical compositions of lacquer oil are limited. Purpose: This study was designed to reveal the mystery of lacquer oil for the treatment of “Yuezi” disease by testing its anti-inflammatory and anti-postpartum depressant activities and related bioactive compounds. Methods: The anti-inflammatory effects of lacquer oil were examined by establishing a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cell inflammation model and detecting the level of pro-inflammatory factors such as NO, IL-6 and TNF-α. The antidepressant effects of lacquer oil were studied by building a mouse model of postpartum depression (PPD), and the animal behavior changes of PPD model mice were assessed by open field test (OFT), forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). The chemical profiles of BLO and WLO were detected by lipidomic and the untargeted metabolomic research methods based on UPLC-MS/MS. Results: The results showed that BLO and WLO exerted anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory factors and BLO had better anti-inflammatory effects than WLO. While only BLO had anti-postpartum depressant activities, as evidenced by the significantly reduced the immobility time of the BLO-treated PPD mice in TST and FST compared to the PPD model mice. The comparative lipidomic analysis revealed that BLO contained high levels of Diacylglycerols (DAG) and Diacylglyceryl trimethylhomoserines (DGTS) but low level of ceramides (Cer), sphingomyelines (SM), phosphatidylcholines (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamines (PE) compared with WLO. Metabolomics analysis showed that there were 57 chemical markers between BLO and WLO, of which 17 potential biomarkers have been declared to possess anti-inflammatory and/or antidepressant activities. Conclusion: The findings of this study furnish a scientific support for the traditional uses of lacquer oil for the treatment of “Yuezi” disease from anti-inflammation and anti-postpartum depression perspective.

Flavonoid-rich extract of Toxicodendron vernicifluum served as a natural neuroprotective agent

Lacquer tree [Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F. A. Barkley Stokes], an economically important tree species that contains flavonoids as its major biologically active constituents, is mainly used to produce raw lacquers. Due to its sizeable production, the accumulation of byproducts is extensive, especially of older trees that cannot produce raw lacquers. It is considerable to develop new applications for these waste materials. Herein, a flavonoid-rich extract from the heartwood of T. vernicifluum (FRET) was prepared, and its potent in vitro neuroprotective properties against H2O2-induced oxidative injury in SH-SY5Y cells were demonstrated for the first time. The main components of FRET were determined by UF-HPLC-QTOF/MS, and the underlying mechanism of the neuroprotective effect was revealed. The results showed that FRET pretreatment significantly attenuated H2O2-induced cell apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner by lowering ROS production and increasing the mitochondrial membrane potential. Mechanistically, the neuroprotective effects of FRET were confirmed to be associated with Nrf2/HO-1, PI3K/Akt/mTOR-GSK3β, IL-6/Src-Stat3 and MAPK pathways. This study suggested that FRET with promising neuroprotective properties might be developed as a functional food or potential drug candidate for the prevention or treatment of diseases caused by oxidative stress and also provided a novel strategy for the comprehensive utilization of T. vernicifluum.