Ferulic acid as major antioxidant phenolic compound of the Tetragonisca angustula honey collected in Vera Cruz - Itaparica Island, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.

Ferulic acid as major antioxidant phenolic compound of the Tetragonisca angustula honey collected in Vera Cruz - Itaparica Island, Bahia, Brazil / Ácido ferúlico como principal composto fenólico antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula coletado em Vera Cruz - Ilha de Itaparica, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH● assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS●+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH● e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS●+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.

Deciphering chemical and metabolite profiling of Chang-Kang-Fang by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and its potential active components identification / 中国天然药物

Chang-Kang-Fang (CKF) formula, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescription, has been widely used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, its potential material basis and underlying mechanism remain elusive. Therefore, this study employed an integrated approach that combined ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS) with network pharmacology to systematically characterize the phytochemical components and metabolites of CKF, as well as elucidating its underlying mechanism. Through this comprehensive analysis, a total of 150 components were identified or tentatively characterized within the CKF formula. Notably, six N-acetyldopamine oligomers from CicadaePeriostracum and eight resin glycosides from Cuscutae Semen were characterized in this formula for the first time. Meanwhile, 149 xenobiotics (58 prototypes and 91 metabolites) were detected in plasma, urine, feces, brain, and intestinal contents, and the in vivo metabolic pathways of resin glycosides were elaborated for the first time. Furthermore, network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses revealed that alkaloids, flavonoids, chromones, monoterpenes, N-acetyldopamine dimers, p-hydroxycinnamic acid, and Cus-3/isomer might be responsible for the beneficial effects of CKF in treating IBS, and CASP8, MARK14, PIK3C, PIK3R1, TLR4, and TNF may be its potential targets. These discoveries offer a comprehensive understanding of the potential material basis and clarify the underlying mechanism of the CKF formula in treating IBS, facilitating the broader application of CKF in the field of medicine.

Rabdosia serra alleviates dextran sulfate sodium salt-induced colitis in mice through anti-inflammation,regulating Th17/Treg balance,maintaining intestinal barrier integrity,and modulating gut microbiota / 药物分析学报

Rabdosia serra(R.serra),an important component of Chinese herbal tea,has traditionally been used to treat hepatitis,jaundice,cholecystitis,and colitis.However,the chemical composition of R.serra and its effect against colitis remain unclear.In this study,the chemical composition of the water extract of R.serra was analyzed using ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with a hybrid linear ion trap quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometer(UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS).A total of 46 compounds,comprising ent-kaurane diterpenoids,flavonoids,phenolic acids,and steroids,were identified in the water extract of R.serra,and the extract could significantly alleviate dextran sulfate sodium salt-induced colitis by improving colon length,upregulating anti-inflammatory factors,downregulating proinflammatory fac-tors,and restoring the balance of T helper 17/T regulatory cells.R.serra also preserved intestinal barrier function by increasing the level of tight junction proteins(zonula occludens 1 and occludin)in mouse colonic tissue.In addition,R.serra modulated the gut microbiota composition by increasing bacterial richness and diversity,increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria(Muribaculaceae,Bacteroides,Lactobacillus,and Prevotellaceae_UCG-O01),and decreasing the abundance of pathogenic bacteria(Turi-cibacter,Eubacterium_fissicatena_group,and Eubacterium_xylanophilum_group).Gut microbiota depletion by antibiotics further confirmed that R.serra alleviated colitis in a microbiota-dependent manner.Overall,our findings provide chemical and biological evidence for the potential application of R.serra in the management of colitis.

Chemome profiling and comparison of three Orobanche medicinal plants / 中国中药杂志

Several Orobanche medicinal plants sometimes served as alternative sources of Cistanches Herba, attributing to the benefits such as tonifying kidney, strengthening tendons and bones. Among them, O. coerulescens, O. cernua and O. pycnostachya have been widely utilized in northern China for treatments of pains in the loins and knees, impotence, and spermatorrhea. However, their chemical profiles haven't been elucidated. In the present study, UHPLC-IT-TOF-MS was implemented to conduct in-depth chemome profiling of O. coerulescens, O. cernua and O. pycnostachya, aiming to achieve a comprehensive chemical characterization and to provide pronounced information for the quality control and clinical applications. An ACE Ultra-Core 2.5 Super C_(18)(3.0 mm×150 mm, 2.5 μm) column was deployed for chromatographic separations, and high-resolution MS~n spectra were recorded by IT-TOF-MS. Forty-eight components, in total, were observed, and thirty-eight ones were structurally annotated according to proposing mass fragmentation patterns, matching with relevant databases. Particularly, nine ones were confirmed by reference compounds. Overall, the chemical compositions of O. coerulescens and O. cernua are quite similar, and differences occur between O. pycnostachya and the prior two ones; primary chemical family is phenylethanoid glycosides, and several lignan glycosides as well as iridoid glycosides are also observed; the primary components include acteoside, isoacteoside, crenatoside and 2'-acetylacteoside, etc.

Identification of chemical constituents in Guizhi Fuling Capsules by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS / 中国中药杂志

To qualitatively characterize the chemical composition of Guizhi Fuling Capsules using UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS. The analysis was performed on Agilent ZORBAX RRHD Eclipes Plus C_(18)(2.1 mm×100 mm, 1.8 μm) column,that was eluted with mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in a gradient mode. The flow rate was 0.4 mL·min~(-1), and column temperature was 30 ℃. Tandem mass spectrometry was acquired in both negative and positive ESI modes. These components were further analyzed based on high-resolution mass-to-charge ratios, fragment ion species, reference substances and literature data. In conclusion, a total of 200 compounds were identified, in which 40 were verified with reference substances. The current study laid a foundation for in-depth studies of its mass balance and pharmacodynamics.

Research on Profile Differences of Chemical Components in Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex from Different Varieties and Habitats by LC-TOF-MS / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To study on the differences of profile spectra among chemical components in Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex from different varieties and habitats,and to screen and identify the characteristic components affecting the quality difference of this herb. Method:The chromatogram data sets of Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex from different varieties and habitats were obtained by liquid chromatography-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry(LC-TOF-MS).Principal component analysis,partial least squares-discriminant analysis and cluster analysis were used to compare the differences in chemical profiles among Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex from different varieties and habitats,and adopted to screen out the characteristic chemical constituents that resulted in these differences and to perform mass spectrometry analysis and comparison. Result:Eleven characteristic peaks were identified by LC-TOF-MS chromatographic data and reported in the literature.The use of chemical profile could distinguish different habitats of Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex,but could not completely distinguish different varieties of this herb. Conclusion:LC-TOF-MS can easily and quickly study on the profile differences of chemical substances in Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex from different varieties and different habitats,the results of this study can provide a theoretical basis for the quality evaluation and pharmacodynamic material basis of this herb.

Zaluzania montagnifolia: essential oil composition and biological properties / Zaluzania montagnifolia: composición del aceite esencial y actividades biológicas

The chemical composition of the seasonal essential oils (2015-2016) from the leaves and flowers of Zaluzania montagnifolia is presented. The chemical content of those oils showed quantitative and qualitative differences. Germacrene D (19.9-29.8%), camphor (12.4- 19.4%) and ß-caryophyllene (13.7-18.5%) were the most abundant volatiles in the leaves. The essential oils from the flowers contained high amounts of camphor (32.7-37.2%) limonene (19.8-24.9%) and germacrene D (3.2-7.3%). All the seasonal essential oils showed a potent in vitro inhibition against HMG-CoA reductase. The essential oils from flowers (IC50, 40.5-55.1 µg mL-1) showed better inhibition properties than those of leaves (IC50, 84.4-123.5 µg mL-1). Camphor (IC50, 72.5 µg mL-1) and borneol (IC50, 84.4 µg mL-1) exerted a non-competitive inhibition on the enzyme. Additionally, the hydrodistillates exhibited antibacterial activity against the phytopathogenic Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci TBR2004 (MIC, 62.7-76.5 µg mL-1) P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (MIC, 45.4-50.4 µg mL-1) and P. syringae pv. phaseolicola NPS3121 (MIC, 26.7-31.9 µg mL-1). Germacrene D (MIC, 35.4-66.2 µg mL-1) and ß-caryophyllene (MIC, 36.5-54.2 µg mL-1) were the strongest anti-Pseudomonas syringae agents.

Se presenta la composición química de los aceites esenciales estacionales (2015-2016) provenientes de hojas y flores de Zaluzania montagnifolia. El contenido químico de los aceites esenciales mostró diferencias cualitativas y cuantitativas. El germacreno D (19.9-29.8%), alcanfor (12.4-19.4%) y ß-cariofileno (13.7-18.5%) fueron los volátiles más abundantes en las hojas. Los aceites esenciales de las flores contuvieron altas concentraciones de alcanfor (32.7-37.2%), limoneno (19.8-24.9%) y germacreno D (3.2-7.3%). Todos los aceites esenciales estacionales mostraron una potente inhibición in vitro contra la HMG-CoA reductasa. Los aceites esenciales de las flores (IC50, 40.5-55.1 µg mL-1) mostraron mejores propiedades inhibitorias que aquellos de las hojas (IC50, 84.4-123.5 µg mL-1). El alcanfor (IC50, 72.5 µg mL-1) y el borneol (IC50, 84.4 µg mL-1) ejercieron una inhibición no competitiva sobre la enzima. Adicionalmente, los hidrodestilados exhibieron una actividad antibacterial contra los fitopatógenos Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci TBR2004 (MIC, 62.7-76.5 µg mL-1) P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (MIC, 45.4-50.4 µg mL-1) y P. syringae pv. phaseolicola NPS3121 (MIC, 26.7-31.9 µg mL-1). El germacreno D (MIC, 35.4-66.2 µg mL-1) y ß-cariofileno (MIC, 36.5-54.2 µg mL-1) fueron los agentes más fuertes contra los patovares de Pseudomonas syringae.

Metabolic profile of danshen in rats by HPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap mass spectrometry / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Danshen, the dried root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Lamiaceae), is one of the traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) most commonly used for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, little is known about the chemical and metabolic profiles of danshen in vitro or in vivo. In particular, more information is needed in relation to the 50% ethanol extracts usually used in danshen formulations such as Fufang Xueshuantong Capsules and Fufang Danshen tablets. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a linear ion trap-Orbitrap mass spectrometer (HPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap) provides a sensitive and accurate method for analyzing the composition of samples. This method was used to determine the in vitro and in vivo chemical and metabolic profiles of danshen. Sixty-nine components of danshen extract and 118 components of danshen in rat plasma, urine, feces, and bile were unambiguously or tentatively identified. These results not only revealed the material composition of danshen, but also provided a comprehensive research approach for the identification of multi-constituents in TCMs.

Chemical profile characterization of Marsdenia tenacissima using HPLC-IT-TOF-MS / 中草药

Objective To in depth analyze the chemical profile of Marsdenia tenacissima using HPLC-IT-TOF-MS. Methods The pulverized materials were exacted with methanol in an ultrasonication manner and then separated on a Waters Acquity UPLC HSS T3 column (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm, Milford, MA, USA) that was eluted in gradient with 0.1% formic acid-acetonitrile. The data was collected using automatically triggered tandem mass spectrometric mode in positive/negative ionization polarities. The mass fragmentation patterns of polyoxypregnane derivatives were proposed using some authentic compounds. Results Six chlorogenic acid derivatives and 15 polyoxypregnane derivatives were definitely assigned by referring to reference components, whereas the other signals, including 100 polyoxypregnane derivatives, four flavonoids, and two chlorogenic acid derivatives were tentatively annotated via matching the acquired information with those achieved information and the proposed mass fragmentation rules. Conclusion The research efficiently and accurately analyzed the chemical profile of M. tenacissima using HPLC-IT-TOF-MS, which will provide meaningful information for the quality evaluation and the therapeutic mechanism investigation of M. tenacissima as well as its preparation Xiao-Ai-Ping.

Variation of cuticular chemical compounds in three species of Mischocyttarus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) eusocial wasps

Abstract The social wasps have a remarkable system of organization in which chemical communication mediate different behavioral interactions. Among the compounds involved in this process, cuticular hydrocarbons are considered the main signals for nestmate recognition, caste differentiation, and fertility communication. The aims of this study were to describe the cuticular chemical compounds of the species Mischocyttarus consimilis, Mischocyttarus bertonii, and Mischocyttarus latior, and to test whether these chemical compounds could be used to evaluate differences and similarities between Mischocyttarus species, using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Workers from these three species presented a variety of hydrocarbons ranging from C17 to C37, and among the compounds identified, the most representative were branched alkanes, linear alkanes and alkenes. The results revealed quantitative and qualitative differences among the hydrocarbon profiles, as confirmed by discriminant analysis. This study supports the hypothesis that cuticular chemical profiles can be used as parameters to identify interspecific and intercolony differences in Mischocyttarus, highlighting the importance of these compounds for differentiation of species and populations.

Morpho-anatomical study of Stevia rebaudiana roots grown in vitro and in vivo

ABSTRACT Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni, Asteraceae, is used as a food additive because its leaves are a source of steviol glycosides. There are examples of tissue culture based on micropropagation and phytochemical production of S. rebaudiana leaves but there are few studies on adventitious root culture of S. rebaudiana. More than 90% of the plants used in industry are harvested indiscriminately. In order to overcome this situation, the development of methodologies that employ biotechnology, such as root culture, provides suitable alternatives for the sustainable use of plants. The aim of this study was to compare morpho-anatomical transverse sections of S. rebaudiana roots grown in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro system used to maintain root cultures consisted of a gyratory shaker under dark and light conditions and a roller bottle system. Transverse sections of S. rebaudiana roots grown in vitro were structurally and morphologically different when compared to the control plant; roots artificially maintained in culture media can have their development affected by the degree of media aeration, sugar concentration, and light. GC–MS and TLC confirmed that S. rebaudiana roots grown in vitro have the ability to produce metabolites, which can be similar to those produced by wild plants.

Chemical diversity and antileishmanial activity of crude extracts of Laurencia complex (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) from Brazil

Chemical profiles of extracts of four species from Laurencia complex (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) from different populations collected along Southeast Brazilian coast were assessed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with a Diode Array Detector in order to observe geographic chemical variability. Aiming to evaluate the impact of chemical diversity on potential pharmaceutical uses, the extracts were tested against the promastigote form of Leishmania amazonensis. The most active extracts were submitted to anti-amastigote and cytotoxicity assays. Principal Component Analysis of the chromatograms resulted in four major groups of chemical profiles according to the presence of leishmanicidal chamigranes (-)-elatol and obtusol. The existence of chemotypes, displaying variable pharmacological action, is proposed for the differences observed in L. dendroidea samples. Although all extracts were found active against promastigote form of L. amazonensis, their efficacy was remarkably different and not related to the variation of (-)-elatol and obtusol, which indicates the presence of additional compounds with antileishmanial activity. Moreover, the active extracts also displayed anti-amastigote activity and none of them were considered cytotoxic. The results highlight that the knowledge of chemical geographic variability can be valuable in the search of new antileishmanial compounds from marine sources.

Sildenafil Determination by Using UPLC in Different Italian Viagra Tablets.

The introduction of generics drugs has brought the need for more control of their quality and purity. In Italy from June 23, 2013 the Pfizer® has no longer the patent for the Viagra’s production and other industries produce equivalent products containing Sildenafil citrate. Study design: Thus, in this work, the chemical profiles of both Viagra Italian Pfizer® and 3 Italian commercial Sildenafil citrate tables (generic pharmaceutical manufacturers) for male erectile dysfunction were obtained by using UltraPerformanceLiquid Chromatography (UPLC). Methodology: UPLC methodology was successfully used for the assay of Sildenafil citrate in different products in Italy which are under the cover of alternative systems of medicine. Results: The results show that: i) the chromatographic profiles obtained from Italian Sildenafil citrate tablets are identical and not present other active pharmaceutical ingredients; ii) the commercial samples have a quantity of Sildenafil citrate comparable with the corresponding labelled amounts. Conclusion: The UPLC method can be used for determination of Sildenafil citrate tables marketed by generic pharmaceutical manufacturers in Italy.

Chemical profiles and anticancer effects of saponin fractions of different polarity from the leaves of Panax notoginseng / 中国天然药物

AIM@#To evaluate the chemical profiles and cytotoxic effects among the total saponin fraction (TSF), 25% ethanol fraction (25EF), 50% ethanol fraction (50EF), and 85% ethanol fraction (85EF) prepared by macroporous resin from the leaves of Panax notoginseng.@*METHOD@#The simultaneous determination of thirteen main saponins, as well as the chemical profiles of saponin fractions of different polarity, was made by HPLC-DAD and LC-ESI-MS(n) analysis. The cytotoxic effects were determined against KP4 cells (human pancreatic cancer), NCI-H727 cells (human lung cancer), HepG2 cells (human hepatocellular cancer), and SGC-7901 cells (human gastric adenocarcinoma).@*RESULTS@#Chemical analysis indicated that 85EF possessed the most abundant cytotoxic protopanaxadiol saponins, including the marker saponins F2, 20(R)-Rg3, 20(S)-Rg3, and Rh2. The MTT assay showed that 85EF also had the strongest cytotoxic effects among the four fractions. 25EF showed no anti-proliferative effects, while 50EF and TSF exhibited weak anti-proliferative activity.@*CONCLUSION@#From the aspect of comprehensive utilization of resources, 85EF, enriched with low polarity PPD group saponins, is a new alternative source of anticancer saponins, and a promising botanical preparation for further anticancer studies.

Chemical profile, agaritine and selenium content of Agaricus bisporus

Chemical profile of the Agaricus bisporus samples were analyzed using GC/MS method in ethanolic extracts. A total of 174 metabolic products were detected, which included 13 significant metabolites between 1.2 to 83 % (w/w); other 13 metabolites at 1% (w/w) and 148 metabolites less than 1% classified into 12 categories. These metabolites had many medicinal activities, which included anti-cancer, anti-cardiovascular diseases, anti-hypercholesterol, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective, human health supporting and immune enhancer. HPLC analysis of water extracts of the A. bisporus samples showed that the spores and gills in the fresh adult mushroom had higher percentage of agaritine mycotoxin than the other parts. These contents were decreased by different treatments especially by boiling, preservation and cooking. The selenium contents (ppb) was measured by Galvanometric analysis and highest content was recorded in fresh whole mushroom sample (0.97) followed by cooked preserved (0.4) and fried sample (0.11).

Chemical profile studies on the secondary metabolites of medicinally important plant Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC using HPTLC

Objective: To establish the chemical fingerprint of various secondary metabolites of Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC, a medicinally important plant. Methods: Preliminary phytochemical screening for various secondary metabolites was carried out. HPTLC profiles of various individual secondary metabolites were done and profiles were developed for authentication. Result: The ethanolic extract of the fruit showed the presence of 8 Glycosides, 10 Flavonoids, 6 Essential Oils, 5 Anthraquinones, 9 bitter principles, 7 Coumarins and 8 Terpenoids. Conclusions: The development of such fingerprint for the fruits of Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC is useful in differentiating the species from the adulterant and also act as biomarker for this plant in the Pharmaceutical industry.

CARACTERIZACIÓN ANTIMICROBIANA Y FISICOQUÍMICA DE PROPÓLEOS DE Apis mellifera L. (HYMENOPTERA: APIDAE) DE LA REGIÓN ANDINA COLOMBIANA / Antimicrobial and Physico-Chemical Characterization of Propolis of Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) from the Colombian Andes

El propóleo es un material resinoso producido por las abejas a partir de diversos materiales vegetales. El objetivo de este trabajo fue caracterizar muestras de propóleos de Apis mellifera provenientes de la región Andina colombiana respecto a su perfil antimicrobiano y fisicoquímico. Fueron empleados extractos etanólicos de propóleos por la técnica de disco-difusión, frente a las especies Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus y Candida albicans. Para la caracterización fisicoquímica se evaluaron el porcentaje de extracto seco, contenido de cera, índice de oxidación y determinación cuantitativa de compuestos fenólicos y flavonoides. Todas las muestras presentaron actividad antibacteriana, con halos de inhibición comprendidos entre 8 y 12 mm para E. coli y entre 8,3 y 23,5 mm para S. aureus. No se observó ninguna actividad contra C. albicans. Los parámetros fisicoquímicos citados anteriormente presentaron una variación de 2,72 a 9,17%, 0 a 2%, 3 a 51s, 0,1 a 0,5 (p/p) y 0,02 a 0,95 (p/p), respectivamente. El perfil antimicrobiano observado, relacionado al fisicoquímico, sugiere la necesidad de nuevos estudios para la determinación del origen botánico y geográfico de las muestras estudiadas.

Propolis is a resinous material produced by bees from various plant sources. The objective of this study was to characterize propolis samples of Apis mellifera from the Colombian Andean region, regarding the antimicrobial and physicochemical profiles. We used the technique of disk diffusion with ethanol extracts of propolis against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. The physicochemical characterization included percentage of solids content, wax, oxidation index and quantitative determination of phenolic and flavonoids compounds. All samples showed antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones between 8,0 and 12,0 mm for E. coli and between 8,3 and 23,5 mm for S. aureus. We did not observe any activity against C. albicans. The physical and chemical parameters cited above showed a variation from 2.72 to 9.17%, 0 to 2%, 3 to 51 s, 0.1 to 0.5 (w/w) and 0.02 to 0.95 (p/p), respectively. The antimicrobial profile observed, related to the physicochemical profile, suggests the need for further studies to determine the geographical and botanical origin of the samples studied.

Influência do processo de beneficiamento na qualidade de amêndoas de castanha-do-brasil / Influence of Brazil nut processing on the quality of nuts

A castanha-do-brasil (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) é uma matéria-prima importante que constitui a base de subsistência para os povos da região Amazônica. Em razão do alto teor de lipídios insaturados, cerca de 60 a 70 por cento torna-se altamente perecível. Inadequadas práticas de beneficiamento fazem com que o descascamento resulte alto índice de amêndoas quebradas ou danificadas. Neste trabalho objetivou-se fazer um comparativo das propriedades físico-químicas, teor de minerais, ácidos graxos e perfil de aminoácidos essenciais de amêndoas que sofreram danos mecânicos em comparação a amêndoas intactas, que foram beneficiadas, embaladas e armazenadas nas mesmas condições. O teor de minerais totais de amêndoas danificadas e intactas, armazenadas durante três meses à temperatura ambiente, não apresentaram diferenças significativas entre si. Entretanto, resultou em perdas significativas de ácidos graxos insaturados, como o oléico e o linoléico, além de aminoácidos essenciais, principalmente a lisina. Isso pode implicar na redução do valor biológico da castanha, principalmente na sua qualidade sensorial.

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) is an important raw material. It constitutes a basic stable of the population living in the Amazon region. Due to high unsaturated lipid content, around 60 to 70 percent is highly perishable. Moreover, inadequate processing practices result in high broken or damaged nuts. The objective this work was to make a comparative study of the physicochemical properties, mineral contents, lipids, and essential amino acid profiles between intact and highly damaged Brazil nut. All samples were stored in the same conditions. Samples were stored during three months at room temperature.The mineral profile of both samples did not show significant variation in total contents. It resulted, however, in significant loss of unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acid, besides essential amino acid, specially lysine. This fact can imply a reduction in the nutritional and sensory properties of the nut.

Perfil físico-químico do soro de queijos mozarela e minas-padrão produzidos em várias regiões do estado de Minas Gerais / Physical-chemical profile of the whey of minas-padrão and mozzarella cheeses produced in some regions of Minas Gerais state

O perfil físico-químico de soros de queijos mozarela e minas-padrão foi analisado em quatro das cinco macrorregiões com maior produção desses queijos no estado de Minas Gerais: Alto São Francisco, Zona Metalúrgica, Zona da Mata e Sul de Minas. Os valores média+desvio padrão encontrados para os componentes do soro de queijo mozarela foram: -0,565+0,031ºH para crioscopia; 6,19+0,26 para pH; 13,16+3,08ºD para acidez; 6,33+0,43g/100g para sólidos totais; 93,67+0,43g/100g para umidade; 0,77+0,26g/100g para gordura; 0,84+0,04g/100g para proteína; 4,42+0,68g/100g para lactose; 0,47+0,04g/100g para cinzas; 0,18+0,01g/100g para cloretos e 1,0253+0,0006 para densidade. Para soro de queijo minas-padrão, foram encontrados: -0,555+0,030ºH para crioscopia; 6,30+0,31 para pH; 12,48+2,07ºD para acidez; 6,28+0,51g/100g para sólidos totais; 93,97+0,54 g/100g para umidade; 0,70+0,21g/100g para gordura; 0,49+0,03g/100g para cinzas; 4,12+0,36 g/100g para lactose; 0,80+0,04g/100g para proteínas; 0,20+0,01g/100g para cloretos e 1,0249+0,0009 para densidade. Não houve diferença significativa entre os dois tipos de soro, mas encontrou-se diferença entre os soros de diferentes regiões para crioscopia, sólidos totais, umidade e densidade, e observou-se interação tipo de soro versus região para proteínas, acidez, gordura e cloretos. Os teores de lactose e resíduo mineral fixo (cinzas) não apresentaram nenhuma diferença significativa. Por não existir um padrão de identidade e qualidade específico para soros de queijo, esses resultados podem ser tomados como base para se desenvolver tais padrões.

The physical-chemical profile of the whey of mozzarella and minas-padrão cheeses was studied in four regions ("Alto São Francisco", "Zona Metalúrgica", "Zona da Mata" and "Sul de Minas") which produce milk and cheese in Minas Gerais. Due to the lack of a specific identity and a quality pattern for cheese whey, the results can be taken as a base to develop such patterns. The mean values found for mozzarella cheese whey were: - 0.565± 0.031ºH for freezing point; 6.19± 0.26 for pH; 13.16± 3.08ºD for titratable acidity; 6.33± 0.43g/100g for total solids; 93.67± 0.43g/100g for moisture; 0.77± 0.26g/100g for fat; 0.84± 0.04g/100g for protein; 4.42± 0.68g/100g for lactose; 0.47± 0.04 g/100g for ashes; 0.18± 0.01g/100g for chlorine and 1.0253± 0.0006 for density. In relation to minas-padrão cheese whey, the following mean results were obtained: - 0.555± 0.030ºH for freezing point; 6.30± 0.31 for pH; 12.48± 2.07ºD for titratable acidity; 6.28± 0.51g/100g for total solids; 93.97± 0.54 g/100g for moisture; 0.70± 0.21g/100g for fat; 0.80± 0.04g/100g for protein; 4.12± 0.36g/100g for lactose; 0.49± 0.03g/100g for ashes; 0.20± 0.01g/100g for chlorine and 1.0249± 0.0009 for density. No statistical difference between those types of whey was observed, but difference among wheys from regions for freezing point, total solids, moisture and density as well as interaction whey x regions for protein, titratable acidity, fat, and chorine were found. Only lactose and ash contents did not present any statistical difference.