Chemical composition, in vitro larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of the essential oil from Citrus reticulata Blanco fruit peel / Composição química, atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial da casca do fruto de Citrus reticulata Blanco

Abstract Numerous studies have investigated the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from different Citrus species fruit peel, leaves and flowers. This paper aims to investigate the chemical composition, larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of essential oil from Citrus reticulata fruit peel (CR-EO). CR-EO was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and its chemical composition was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. Limonene (85.7%), ɣ-terpinene (6.7%) and myrcene (2.1%) were identified as its major components. CR-EO showed high activity against promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis (IC50 = 8.23 µg/mL). CR-EO also exhibited high larvicidal activity against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a lethal concentration (LC50 = 58.35 µg/mL) and 100% mortality at 150 µg/mL. This study suggests, for the first time, the potential use of CR-EO against this important mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the genus Aedes.

Resumo Numerosos estudos têm investigado a composição química e as atividades biológicas de óleos essenciais extraídos de cascas dos frutos, folhas e flores de diferentes espécies de Citrus. Este trabalho tem como objetivo investigar a composição química e as atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial das cascas dos frutos de Citrus reticulata (CR-EO). CR-EO foi obtido pela técnica de extração em aparelho Clevenger e sua composição química foi determinada por CG-EM e CG-DIC. Limoneno (85,7%), ɣ-terpineno (6,7%) and mirceno (2,1%) foram identificados como os constituintes majoritários. CR-EO mostrou alta atividade contra as formas promastigota de Leishmania amazonensis (CI50 = 8,23 µg/mL). CR-EO também exibiu alta atividade larvicida contra as larvas do terceiro estágio do Aedes aegypti com concentração letal (CL50 = 58,35 µg/mL) e mortalidade de 100% em 150 µg/mL. Este estudo sugere, pela primeira vez, o uso potencial de CR-EO contra esta importante doença viral transmitida por mosquitos do gênero Aedes.

Efeitos do D-limoneno no metabolismo energético de camundongos C57/Bl6 com obesidade induzida pela dieta / Effects of D-limonene on the energy metabolism of C57/Bl6 mice with diet-induced obesity

A obesidade está associada ao desenvolvimento de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis como hipertensão, resistência insulínica, dislipidemia e esteatose hepática. O consumo de compostos bioativos impacta na manutenção da saúde e na prevenção de risco de desenvolvimento dessas doenças. Entre os compostos bioativos, os monoterpenos são pouco investigados, apesar da literatura demonstrar efeitos promissores desses compostos sobre o metabolismo. O D-limoneno, o principal monoterpeno encontrado na laranja, é caracterizado por possuir efeitos hipolipemiantes, anti-inflamatórios e anti-obesogênicos. Estudos in vitro e in vivo descrevem sua capacidade de promover a ß-oxidação de ácidos graxos em adipócitos e redução da inflamação. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o efeito do D-limoneno no metabolismo e inflamação em um modelo de obesidade induzida por dieta. Para isso, quarenta camundongos machos (C57/Bl6) de 11 semanas de idade, foram distribuídos em 4 grupos, sendo que um dos grupos recebeu ração normolipídica e os demais, ração hiperlipídica. O D-limoneno foi suplementado na ração de dois grupos que receberam dieta hiperlipídica nas concentrações de 0,1%, e 0,8%. Considerando-se a ingestão alimentar dos animais, a ração suplementada com 0,1% D-limoneno correspondeu à ingestão de 0,15 g/kg/dia e ração com 0,8% de D-limoneno correspondeu a 1,3 g/kg/dia. Os animais tiveram o peso e a ingestão alimentar monitorados ao longo da intervenção com duração de 7 semanas. Os camundongos que receberam D-limoneno a 0,1% apresentaram menor ganho de peso e de acúmulo de tecido adiposo, comparado com os animais sem suplementação alimentados com a dieta hiperlipídica. Além disso, o D-limoneno promoveu a diminuição da concentração plasmática de marcadores inflamatórios incluindo TNF-α, INF-γ e IL-6 nos animais dos grupos que foram suplementados com D-limoneno. Entretanto, não houve diferença nos marcadores bioquímicos e metabólicos. Uma limitação do estudo foi o fato das complicações metabólicas associadas ao modelo de obesidade não terem sido plenamente estabelecidas, dados o alojamento individual, à curta duração da exposição à ração hiperlipídica e idade dos animais no início da suplementação. Esse fato pode ter dificultado a observação dos efeitos do D-limoneno na reversão dos parâmetros que seriam normalmente deteriorados pelo desenvolvimento da obesidade. Concluímos que o D-limoneno pode interferir no metabolismo energético, com possível efeito anti-obesogênico e anti-inflamatório. Devido às limitações do modelo, são necessários mais estudos para confirmar esses resultados

Obesity is associated with the development of chronic non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis. The intake of dietary bioactive compounds is associated with the maintenance of health and the prevention of chronic diseases. Among the group of bioactive compounds, monoterpenes are poorly investigated, in spite of several reports of their promising effects on metabolism. D-limonene is the main monoterpene found in oranges, known for its hypolipemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesogenic effects. in vitro and in vivo studies associate D-limonene to increased ß-oxidation of fatty acids in adipocytes and reduced inflammation. This study aimed at investigating the effects of D-limonene on metabolism and inflammation in a diet-induced obesity model. For this purpose, forty male mice (C57/Bl6) were distributed in 4 groups, with one group receiving a normolipidic diet and the others, a high-fat diet. D-limonene was supplemented in the diets of two groups that received high-fat diet at the concentrations of 0.1% and 0.8%. Considering the feed intake, mice receiving D-limonene supplementation at 0.1% ingested in average 0.15 g/kg/day, while the mice receiving the supplemmentation at 0.8%, ingested approximately 1.3 g of D-limonene /kg/day. The animals had their weight and food intake monitored throughout the intervention. Mice that received Dlimonene supplementation at 0.1% showed reduced weight gain and accumulation of adipose tissue compared to the non-supplemented mice fed the high-fat diet. In addition, D-limonene promoted a decrease in hepatic inflammatory markers including TNF-α, INF-γ, and IL-6. However, there was no difference in biochemical and metabolic markers. A limitation of the study was that the metabolic complications associated with the obesity model were not fully established, probably due to the age at the start of the protocol (11 weeks), individual housing and short duration of the exposure to the high-fat feed. This fact may have prevented the observation of the positive effects of D-limonene in reversing parameters that would normally be impaired by the development of obesity. We conclude that D-limonene may interfere in energy metabolism, with a possible anti-obesogenic and anti-inflammatory effect. Due to the limitations of the model, further studies are needed to confirm these findings

Chemical composition, in vitro larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of the essential oil from Citrus reticulata Blanco fruit peel / Composição química, atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial da casca do fruto de Citrus reticulata Blanco

Numerous studies have investigated the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from different Citrus species fruit peel, leaves and flowers. This paper aims to investigate the chemical composition, larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of essential oil from Citrus reticulata fruit peel (CR-EO). CR-EO was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and its chemical composition was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. Limonene (85.7%), ɣ-terpinene (6.7%) and myrcene (2.1%) were identified as its major components. CR-EO showed high activity against promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis (IC50 = 8.23 µg/mL). CR-EO also exhibited high larvicidal activity against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a lethal concentration (LC50 = 58.35 µg/mL) and 100% mortality at 150 µg/mL. This study suggests, for the first time, the potential use of CR-EO against this important mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the genus Aedes.

Numerosos estudos têm investigado a composição química e as atividades biológicas de óleos essenciais extraídos de cascas dos frutos, folhas e flores de diferentes espécies de Citrus. Este trabalho tem como objetivo investigar a composição química e as atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial das cascas dos frutos de Citrus reticulata (CR-EO). CR-EO foi obtido pela técnica de extração em aparelho Clevenger e sua composição química foi determinada por CG-EM e CG-DIC. Limoneno (85,7%), ɣ-terpineno (6,7%) and mirceno (2,1%) foram identificados como os constituintes majoritários. CR-EO mostrou alta atividade contra as formas promastigota de Leishmania amazonensis (CI50 = 8,23 µg/mL). CR-EO também exibiu alta atividade larvicida contra as larvas do terceiro estágio do Aedes aegypti com concentração letal (CL50 = 58,35 µg/mL) e mortalidade de 100% em 150 µg/mL. Este estudo sugere, pela primeira vez, o uso potencial de CR-EO contra esta importante doença viral transmitida por mosquitos do gênero Aedes.

Chemical composition, in vitro larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of the essential oil from Citrus reticulata Blanco fruit peel

Abstract Numerous studies have investigated the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from different Citrus species fruit peel, leaves and flowers. This paper aims to investigate the chemical composition, larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of essential oil from Citrus reticulata fruit peel (CR-EO). CR-EO was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and its chemical composition was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. Limonene (85.7%), -terpinene (6.7%) and myrcene (2.1%) were identified as its major components. CR-EO showed high activity against promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis (IC50 = 8.23 µg/mL). CR-EO also exhibited high larvicidal activity against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a lethal concentration (LC50 = 58.35 µg/mL) and 100% mortality at 150 µg/mL. This study suggests, for the first time, the potential use of CR-EO against this important mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the genus Aedes.

Resumo Numerosos estudos têm investigado a composição química e as atividades biológicas de óleos essenciais extraídos de cascas dos frutos, folhas e flores de diferentes espécies de Citrus. Este trabalho tem como objetivo investigar a composição química e as atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial das cascas dos frutos de Citrus reticulata (CR-EO). CR-EO foi obtido pela técnica de extração em aparelho Clevenger e sua composição química foi determinada por CG-EM e CG-DIC. Limoneno (85,7%), -terpineno (6,7%) and mirceno (2,1%) foram identificados como os constituintes majoritários. CR-EO mostrou alta atividade contra as formas promastigota de Leishmania amazonensis (CI50 = 8,23 µg/mL). CR-EO também exibiu alta atividade larvicida contra as larvas do terceiro estágio do Aedes aegypti com concentração letal (CL50 = 58,35 µg/mL) e mortalidade de 100% em 150 µg/mL. Este estudo sugere, pela primeira vez, o uso potencial de CR-EO contra esta importante doença viral transmitida por mosquitos do gênero Aedes.

Composición química y actividad AChE-BuChE del aceite esencial de palo santo Bursera graveolens (Kunth) Triana & Planch de Jipijapa, Ecuador / Chemical composition and AChE-BuChE activities of the essential oil of palo santo Bursera graveolens (Kunth) Tr iana & Planch from Jipijapa, Ecuador

Abstract: This article describes the chemical composition, physical properties and acetylcholinesterase (A ChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) activity of stem - distilled essential oil (E O ) from Bursera graveolens wood chips, Burseraceae. The plant material was acquired in Quimis (Bosque de Sancán), city of Jipijapa in the province of Manabí, coastal region o f Ecuador. Thirty - six components were identified by CG - MS, which represented 98.54% of the volatile oil. The main components were limonene (68.52%) and mentofuran (20.37%). The hydrocarbon monoterpenes constituted the most abundant fractions. The average y ield of the E O was 1.26%. Regarding the physical properties of E O , the following values were obtained: relative density (1,029 g/mL), refractive index (1,477) and specific rotation (+4,567). The E O presented IC 50 inhibition values of 47.2 and 51.9 µg/mL fo r the enzymes AChE and BuChE, respectively.

Resumen: Este artículo describe la composición química, propiedades físicas y actividad acetilcolinesterasa (AChE) y butirilcolinesterasa (BuChE) del aceite esencial (AE) destilado a vapor de astillas de madera de Bursera graveolens , Burseraceae. La materia vegetal fue adquirida en Quimis (Bosque de Sancán), ciudad de Jipijapa en la provincia de Manabí, región costera d e Ecuador. Treinta y seis componentes fueron identificados por CG - MS, que representaron al 98.54 % del aceite volátil. Los componentes principales fueron limoneno (68.52%) y mentofurano (20.37%). Los monoterpenos hidrocarburos constituyeron las fracciones m ás abundantes. El rendimiento medio del AE fue de 1.26%. Con respecto a las propiedades físicas del AE se obtuvo los siguientes valores, densidad relativa (1.029 g/mL), índice de refracción (1.477) y rotación específica (+4.567). El AE presentó valores de inhibición IC 50 de 47.2 y 51.9 µg/mL para las enzimas AChE y BuChE, respectivamente.

Predictive Analysis of Quality Markers of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus Based on Fingerprint and Network Pharmacology / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo analyze and predict the potential quality markers （Q-Marker） in the Genuine medicinal materials Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus based on fingerprints and network pharmacology. MethodUltra-high performance liquid chromatography （UPLC） and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry （GC-MS） fingerprints were established for 18 batches of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus ，combined with chemometric methods to screen out candidate Q-Marker components.Use network pharmacology to construct a "core component-target-pathway" network to predict the Q-Marker and core targets of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus，and then verify the biological activity of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus Q-Marker by molecular docking method. ResultThe 18 batches of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus use UPLC，GC-MS fingerprints combined with chemometric analysis，a total of 9 Q-Marker candidate components were screened out.Through network pharmacological analysis，it is predicted that nobiletin，neohesperidin，meranzin，naringin and D-limonene are the Q-Marker of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus，acting on the core targets transforming protein p21/H-Ras-1（HRAS），cellular tumor antigen p53 （TP53），mitogen-activated protein kinase 8 （MAPK8），transcription factor AP-1（JUN），glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta（GSK3B），tumor necrosis factor（TNF），cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1（CDKN1A），cAMP-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit alpha（PRKACA），cysteine aspartate-specific protease-9（Caspase-9），cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein 1（CREB1），exerting gastrointestinal motility and antidepressant，anti-inflammatory，anti-tumor，etc.； molecular docking shows that nobiletin，neohesperidin，meranzin，naringin and D-limonene and the selected 10 core targets have good binding ability，reflecting the better biological activity of the Q-Marker of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus. ConclusionThe Q-Marker of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus can be comprehensively predicted from the two aspects of volatile and non-volatile components，providing a reference for the quality control of Jiangxi Aurantii Fructus and the further study of its pharmacodynamic mechanism.

Induced volatiles in the interaction between soybean (Glycine max) and the Mexican soybean weevil (Rhyssomatus nigerrimus) / Voláteis induzidos na interação entre soja (Glycine max) e gorgulho da soja mexicana (Rhyssomatus nigerrimus)

Abstract The present study analyzed the volatile compounds emitted by Glycine max (cv. FT-Cristalina-RCH) soybean plants: healthy plants and plants damaged mechanically or by the Mexican soybean weevil Rhyssomatus nigerrimus. The SPME method was used to compare the volatile profile of soybean plants in four different conditions. The volatile profile of G. max plants infested by R. nigerrimus was qualitatively and quantitatively different from that of healthy and mechanically damaged plants. Emission of 59 compounds was detected in the four treatments. Of these compounds, 19 were identified by comparison of the Kovats index, mass spectrum and retention times with those of synthetic standards. An increase in concentration of the volatiles (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate and the compound 1-octen-3-ol was observed when the soybean plants were mechanically damaged. The compounds mostly produced by the soybean plant during infestation by male and female R. nigerrimus were 1-octen-3-ol, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, (E)-β-ocimene, salicylaldehyde, unknown 10, linalool, methyl salicylate, (Z)-8-dodecenyl acetate (ester 5), ketone 2 and geranyl acetone. Behavioral effects of the identified compounds during the insect-plant interaction and their conspecifics are discussed.

Resumo O presente estudo analisou os compostos voláteis emitidos pelas plantas de soja Glycine max (cv. FT-Cristalina-RCH): plantas e plantas sadias danificadas mecanicamente ou pelo gorgulho da soja mexicana Rhyssomatus nigerrimus. O método SPME foi utilizado para comparar o perfil volátil de plantas de soja em quatro diferentes condições. O perfil volátil das plantas de G. max infestadas por R. nigerrimus foi qualitativa e quantitativamente diferente do das plantas saudáveis e danificadas mecanicamente. Foi detectada, nos quatro tratamentos, emissão de 59 compostos, dos quais 19 foram identificados por comparação do índice de Kovats, espectro de massa e tempos de retenção com aqueles de padrões sintéticos. Um aumento na concentração dos voláteis acetato de (Z)-3-hexil e do composto 1-octeno-3-ol foi observado quando as plantas de soja foram mecanicamente danificadas. Os compostos produzidos principalmente pela planta de soja durante a infestação por R. nigerrimus macho e fêmea foram 1-octeno-3-ol, 6-metil-5-hepteno-2-ona, (E)-β-ocimeno, salicilaldeído, desconhecido 10, linalol, salicilato de metila, acetato de (Z)-8-dodecenila (éster 5), cetona 2 e geranil acetona. Foram discutidos os efeitos comportamentais dos compostos identificados durante a interação inseto-planta e seus coespecíficos.

Prediction of Q-markers of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil and GC-MS based quantitative analysis / 中国中药杂志

This study was designed to predict the Q-markers of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil and conduct quantitative analysis by GC-MS. The common components of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil were detected by GC-MS. The network pharmacology approaches were utilized for constructing the component-target network and protein-protein interaction(PPI) network, followed by the GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis to clarify the pharmacological effects of common components. Molecular docking was conducted to observe the biological activities of common components, thus identifying the Q-markers of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil. The obtained Q-markers were subjected to quantitative analysis by GC-MS. The GC-MS analysis of 19 batches of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil revealed three common components, namely, D-limonene, γ-terpinene, and myrcene. The common components were analyzed based on network pharmacology, and the results showed that Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil mainly acted on the core targets GABRA1, GABRA6, GABRA5, GABRA3, and GABRA2 through D-limonene and γ-terpinene, with five important pathways such as nicotine addiction and GABAergic synapse involved. The core targets were mainly distributed in olfactory region, cerebral cortex, cerebellum, basal ganglia, hippocampus, and amygdala to exert the pharmacological effects. As revealed by molecular docking, D-limonene and γ-terpinene exhibited good biological activities, so they were identified as the Q-markers of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil. The results of quantitative analysis showed that the volume fraction of D-limonene was within the range of 0.77-1.03 μL·mL~(-1), and that of γ-terpinene within the range of 0.04-0.13 μL·mL~(-1). The prediction of D-limonene and γ-terpinene as the Q-markers of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil has laid an experimental foundation for the establishment of the quality evaluation standard for Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium volatile oil.

Gene Cloning and Bioinformatics Analysis of Limonene-3-hydroxylase from Schizonepeta tenuifolia / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:This paper aims to clone the cDNA sequence of<italic> limonene</italic>-3-<italic>hydroxylase</italic>（<italic>StL</italic>3<italic>OH</italic>） in <italic>Schizonepeta tenuifolia</italic> and analyze its sequence by bioinformatics. Method:Specific primers were designed based on sequences of<italic> StL</italic>3<italic>OH </italic>gene screened from transcriptome sequencing data of <italic>S. tenuifolia</italic> and the cDNA sequence of <italic>StL</italic>3<italic>OH </italic>gene was cloned by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） and analyzed for its bioinformatics. Result:The <italic>StL3OH</italic> gene cDNA sequence length was 1 598 bp，containing a 1 497 bp long complete open reading frame which encoded 498 amino acids. StL3OH protein had a theoretical relative molecular mass of 56.40 kDa，with a hydrophilic and unstable nature. Bioinformatics analysis showed that StL3OH protein had no signal peptide but had a transmembrane domain which might be located in endoplasmic reticulum. Multiple sequence alignment and cluster analysis showed that the amino acid sequence of MsL3OH protein had a high similarity with StL3OH protein，both of which contained cytochrome P450 heme binding region，belonging to the D subfamily of cytochrome CYP71 family. Codon bias analysis showed that <italic>StL</italic>3<italic>OH</italic> gene preferred guanine/cytosine（G/C） ending codon，with 27 skewed codons， and Nicotiana benthamiana was proven to be the most suitable host for exogenous expression of <italic>StL</italic>3<italic>OH</italic> gene. Conclusion:The cDNA sequence of<italic> StL3OH</italic> gene was cloned from <italic>S. tenuifolia</italic> for the first time，which will provide a basis for further study on the structure and function of StL3OH protein and the regulation mechanism of <italic>StL3OH </italic>gene in the accumulation and biosynthesis of monoterpenes in<italic> S. tenuifolia</italic>.

Chemical composition and in vitro inhibitory effects of essential oils from fruit peel of three Citrus species and limonene on mycelial growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum / Composição química e efeito inibitório in vitro dos óleos essenciais das cascas dos frutos de três espécies de Citrus e do limoneno sobre o crescimento micelial de Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Abstract Essential oils (EO) from aromatic and medicinal plants generally perform a diverse range of biological activities because they have several active constituents that work in different mechanisms of action. EO from Citrus peel have an impressive range of food and medicinal uses, besides other applications. EO from Citrus reticulata, C. sinensis and C. deliciosa were extracted from fruit peel and analyzed by GC-MS. The major constituent of EO under evaluation was limonene, whose concentrations were 98.54%, 91.65% and 91.27% for C. sinensis, C. reticulata and C. deliciosa, respectively. The highest potential of inhibition of mycelial growth was observed when the oil dose was 300 μL. Citrus oils inhibited fungus growth in 82.91% (C. deliciosa), 65.82% (C. sinensis) and 63.46% (C. reticulata). Anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum activity of 90% pure limonene and at different doses (20, 50, 100, 200 and 300 μL) was also investigated. This monoterpene showed to be highly active by inhibiting 100% fungus growth even at 200 and 300 μL doses. This is the first report of the in vitro inhibitory effect of natural products from these three Citrus species and its results show that there is good prospect of using them experimentally to control S. sclerotiorum, in both greenhouse and field conditions.

Resumo Óleos essenciais de plantas aromáticas e medicinais geralmente exibem uma gama diversificada de atividades biológicas, pois possuem vários constituintes ativos que atuam por meio de vários mecanismos de ação. Os óleos essenciais das cascas de Citrus têm uma variedade impressionante de usos em alimentos, medicamentos entre várias outras aplicações. Os óleos essenciais (OE) de Citrus reticulata, C. sinenses e C. deliciosa foram extraídos das cascas dos frutos e analisados por CG-EM. O limoneno foi o constituinte majoritário encontrado nos óleos essenciais avaliados, nas concentrações de 98,54%, 91,65% e 91,27% para C. sinensis, C. reticulata e C. deliciosa, respectivamente. Os maiores potenciais de inibição do crescimento micelial foi observado na dose de 300 µL dos óleos. Os óleos de Citrus inibiram em 82,91% (C. deliciosa), 65,82% (C. sinensis) e 63,46% (C. reticulata) o crescimento do fungo. A atividade anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum do limoneno 90% puro e em diferentes doses (20, 50, 100, 200 e 300 µL) foi também investigada e este monoterpeno demonstrou-se altamente ativo inibindo 100% o crescimento do fungo inclusive nas doses de 200 e 300 µL. Este é o primeiro relato sobre o efeito inibitório in vitro dos óleos essenciais destas três espécies de Citrus e os resultados deste estudo mostram que existe uma boa perspectiva de uso destes produtos naturais experimentalmente para controlar o S. sclerotiorum tanto em condições de estufa como em condições de campo.

Synthesis of Renewable Poly(limonene): A Kinetic Modeling Study to Improve the Polymerization

Abstract Despite its potential in the production of polymers from renewable sources, D-limonene faces difficulties in its polymerization, resulting in low monomer conversion and molar mass. In order to investigate the non-ideality inherent kinetics, this work explores different modeling strategies for D-limonene radical polymerization, using benzoyl peroxide as initiator. The starting model considered the classical approach for conventional radical polymerization. This model was then corrected by including reaction orders different from the unit. After an analysis and choice of the best model, computer simulations were compared with experimental results from literature, validating the chosen approach. It was found that the process is drastically influenced by chain transfer reactions, presenting a non-ideal behavior. Finally, an analysis of distinct reaction conditions provided information on monomer conversion, molar mass and polymer dispersity, which could guide future research in the synthesis optimization. Higher molar mass poly(limonene) were obtained by simultaneously reducing the monomer and initiator concentrations.

Bradycardic and Antiarrhythmic Effects of the D-Limonene in Rats / Efeitos Bradicárdicos e Antiarrítmicos do D-Limoneno em Ratos

Abstract Background: D-limonene (DL) is a monoterpene and is the major component in the essential oil of citrus fruit. It presents antihyperglycemic and vasodilatation activities. Objectives: This study evaluated the cardiovascular effects and potential antiarrhythmic of DL in rats. Methods: Hemodynamic and electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters were measured in male Wistar rats, which under anesthesia had been cannulated in the abdominal aorta and lower vena cava and had electrodes subcutaneously implanted. In the in vitro approach, the heart was removed and perfused using the Langendorff technique. The significance level adopted was 5% (p < 0.05). Results: DL, in doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg (i.v), produced intense and persistent bradycardia associated with hypotension. Bradycardia with prolonged QTc was observed in the ECG in vivo recording. In the in vivo model of arrhythmia induced by Bay K8644, DL (10 mg/kg) decreased the arrhythmia score from 15.33 ± 3.52 to 4.0 ± 2.64 u.a (p < 0.05, n = 4). In isolated perfused hearts, DL (10-3 M) promoted significant reductions in heart rate (from 228.6 ± 8.5 ms to 196.0 ± 9.3 bpm; p < 0.05) and left ventricular development pressure (from 25.2 ± 3.4 to 5.9 ± 1.8 mmHg; n = 5, p < 0.05). Conclusions: DL produces bradycardia and antiarrhythmic activity in rat heart.

Resumo Fundamento: O D-limoneno (DL) é um monoterpeno e o principal componente do óleo essencial de frutas cítricas. Ele apresenta atividades anti-hiperglicêmicas e vasodilatadoras. Objetivos: Este estudo avaliou os efeitos cardiovasculares e antiarrítmicos potenciais do DL em ratos. Métodos: Os parâmetros hemodinâmicos e eletrocardiográficos (ECG) foram mensurados em ratos Wistar machos que, sob anestesia, tiveram a aorta abdominal e a veia cava inferior canuladas e receberam eletrodos implantados subcutaneamente. Na abordagem in vitro, o coração foi removido e perfundido utilizando a técnica de Langendorff. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: DL, nas doses de 10, 20 e 40 mg/kg (i.v), produziu bradicardia intensa e persistente associada à hipotensão. A bradicardia com QTc prolongado foi observada no registro in vivo do ECG. No modelo in vivo de arritmia induzida por Bay K8644, DL (10 mg / kg) houve diminuição do escore da arritmia de 15,33 ± 3,52 para 4,0 ± 2,64 u.a (p < 0,05, n = 4). Em corações perfundidos isolados, o DL (10-3 M) promoveu reduções significativas na frequência cardíaca (de 228,6 ± 8,5 ms para 196,0 ± 9,3 bpm; p < 0,05) e na pressão desenvolvida do ventrículo esquerdo (de 25,2 ± 3,4 para 5,9 ± 1,8 mmHg; n = 5, p < 0,05). Conclusões: O DL produz bradicardia e atividade antiarrítmica no coração de ratos.

Comparison of Volatile Components in Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus from Guangdong Province Before and After Being Steamed by GC-MS / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To compare volatile components in raw products and steamed products of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus. Method:Volatile oil in different batch of raw products and steamed products of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus was extracted by steam distillation, and volatile components were identified by GC-MS.The determination was performed with injector temperature of 280℃, high pure helium(≥ 99.999%) as carrier gas, split ratio of 10:1, and sample size of 3 μL with temperature programming.Mass spectrum conditions included electron bombardment ion source, electron bombardment energy of 70 eV, ion source temperature of 230℃, acceleration voltage of 34.6 V, resolution of 2 500, scanning range of m/z 40-350.Peak matching, cutting and noise filtering were used in analyzing data based on GC-MS combined with orthogonal partial least square-discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA). Result:A total of 58 components were separated and identified from the different batches of raw Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus and their processed products, and 27 differential chemical components were identified by multivariate statistical analysis, among them, 15 common differential components presented different changing laws.The relative contents of α-pinene, β-pinene, p-cymene, β-linalool, L-4-terpinenol, α-terpineol, nerol, β-cyclocitral, geraniol and α-citral in raw products were higher than that of their corresponding processed products.The relative contents of β-caryophyllene, cis-α-bergamotene, γ-muurolene, γ-elemene and β-bisabolene in processed products were higher than that of their corresponding raw products. Conclusion:The content and composition of volatile components in Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus from Guangdong province have changed after being steamed.The results can provide experimental basis for expounding the processing principle and quality evaluation of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus, and have positive significance for promoting the research and development of this Lingnan characteristic decoction pieces.

Limonene Inhibits Methamphetamine-Induced Sensitizations via the Regulation of Dopamine Receptor Supersensitivity

Limonene is a cyclic terpene found in citrus essential oils and inhibits methamphetamine-induced locomotor activity. Drug dependence is a severe neuropsychiatric condition that depends in part on changes in neurotransmission and neuroadaptation, induced by exposure to recreational drugs such as morphine and methamphetamine. In this study, we investigated the effects of limonene on the psychological dependence induced by drug abuse. The development of sensitization, dopamine receptor supersensitivity, and conditioned place preferences in rats was measured following administration of limonene (10 or 20 mg/kg) and methamphetamine (1 mg/kg) for 4 days. Limonene inhibits methamphetamine-induced sensitization to locomotor activity. Expression of dopamine receptor supersensitivity induced by apomorphine, a dopamine receptor agonist, was significantly reduced in limonene-pretreated rats. However, there was no significant difference in methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preferences between the limonene and control groups. These results suggest that limonene may ameliorate drug addiction-related behaviors by regulating postsynaptic dopamine receptor supersensitivity.

Perillyl alcohol production by engineered heterologous mevalonate pathway in Escherichia coli / 生物工程学报

Perillyl alcohol, [4-isopropylene-1-cyclohexene] methanol, is a monocyclic monoterpene alcohol with special odorous similar to that of linalool and terpineol. It has application potential in pharmaceutical, daily chemical and food industries. In this study, one method for the synthesis of perillyl alcohol through the MVA pathway was studied. First, the MVA metabolic pathway originated from Enterococcus faecalis was constructed in Escherichia coli to synthesize limonene. Limonene was further transformed to perillyl alcohol by the hydroxylation of cytochrome P450 alkane hydroxylase. Furthermore, the shake flask fermentation condition of the engineered E. coli strain was optimized. The results showed that the engineered E. coli could produce about 50.12 mg/L perillyl alcohol through MVA pathway using glucose as raw material. In this study, the method of the MVA pathway for perillyl alcohol synthesis was constructed successfully in engineered E. coli, which provides both theoretical and technical support for terpenoids biosynthesis.

Advances in metabolic engineering for the microbial production of naturally occurring terpenes-limonene and bisabolene: a mini review / 生物工程学报

Limonene (C₁₀H₁₆) and bisabolene (C₁₅H₂₄) are both naturally occurring terpenes in plants. Depending on the number of C₅ units, limonene and bisabolene are recognized as representative monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, respectively. Limonene and bisabolene are important pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products used in the prevention and treatment of cancer and many other diseases. In addition, they can be used as starting materials to produce a range of commercially valuable products, such as pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and biofuels. The low abundance or yield of limonene and bisabolene in plants renders their isolation from plant sources non-economically viable. Isolation of limonene and bisabolene from plants also suffers from low efficiency and often requires harsh reaction conditions, prolonged reaction times, and expensive equipment cost. Recently, the rapid developments in metabolic engineering of microbes provide a promising alternative route for producing these plant natural products. Therefore, producing limonene and bisabolene by engineering microbial cells into microbial factories is becoming an attractive alternative approach that can overcome the bottlenecks, making it more sustainable, environmentally friendly and economically competitive. Here, we reviewed the status of metabolic engineering of microbes that produce limonene and bisabolene including microbial hosts, key enzymes, metabolic pathways and engineering of limonene/bisabolene biosynthesis. Furthermore, key challenges and future perspectives were discussed.

Essential oil from leaves of Myrcianthes fragrans (Myrtaceae) from Costa Rica: a new chemotype? / Aceite esencial de las hojas de Myrcianthes fragrans (Myrtaceae) de Costa Rica: ¿Un nuevo quimiotipo?

Myrcianthes is a Myrtaceous genus of flowering plants of about 30 to 40 species, distributed in the American continent. The aim of this work was to study the chemical composition of the foliar essential oil from M. fragrans growing wild in central Costa Rica. The essential oil was obtained through the steam distillation process in a Clevenger type apparatus. The chemical composition of the oil was performed by capillary gas chromatography with a flame detector (GC-FID) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) using the retention indices on a DB-5 type capillary column in addition to mass spectral fragmentation patterns. A total of 98 compounds were identified, accounting for 98.8% of the total amount of the oil. The major constituents in the leaf oil were (E)-methyl cinnamate (39.6%), limonene (34.6%), α-pinene (6.8%), and linalool (6.8%). This is the first report of (E)-methyl cinnamate occurring in oils of this plant genus. These findings appear to suggest a new chemotype of M. fragrans.

Myrcianthes (Myrtaceae) consta de 30 a 40 especies, distribuidas en el continente americano. El objetivo del presente trabajo consistió en identificar la composición química del aceite esencial contenido en las hojas de M. fragrans, planta que crece en forma silvestre en el Valle Central de Costa Rica. La extracción del aceite se efectuó mediante el método de hidrodestilación usando un equipo de Clevenger modificado. La composición química del aceite se analizó mediante las técnicas de cromatografía gaseoso-líquida con detector de ionización de llama (GC-FID) y de cromatografía gaseoso-líquida acoplada a un detector de masas (GC-MS). Se utilizaron índices de retención obtenidos en una columna capilar tipo DB-5 y se compararon con los patrones de iones de fragmentación de masas. Se identificaron en total 98 compuestos, correspondientes a un 98.8% de los constituyentes totales. Los componentes mayoritarios del aceite resultaron ser (E)-cinamato de metilo (39.6%), limoneno (34.6%), α-pineno (6.8%) y linalol (6.8%). Este es el primer informe de la aparición de (E)-cinamato de metilo en aceite de hojas de este género de plantas. Los datos obtenidos parecen sugerir un nuevo quimiotipo de M. fragrans.

Chemical composition and in vitro inhibitory effects of essential oils from fruit peel of three Citrus species and limonene on mycelial growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Abstract Essential oils (EO) from aromatic and medicinal plants generally perform a diverse range of biological activities because they have several active constituents that work in different mechanisms of action. EO from Citrus peel have an impressive range of food and medicinal uses, besides other applications. EO from Citrus reticulata, C. sinensis and C. deliciosa were extracted from fruit peel and analyzed by GC-MS. The major constituent of EO under evaluation was limonene, whose concentrations were 98.54%, 91.65% and 91.27% for C. sinensis, C. reticulata and C. deliciosa, respectively. The highest potential of inhibition of mycelial growth was observed when the oil dose was 300 L. Citrus oils inhibited fungus growth in 82.91% (C. deliciosa), 65.82% (C. sinensis) and 63.46% (C. reticulata). Anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum activity of 90% pure limonene and at different doses (20, 50, 100, 200 and 300 L) was also investigated. This monoterpene showed to be highly active by inhibiting 100% fungus growth even at 200 and 300 L doses. This is the first report of the in vitro inhibitory effect of natural products from these three Citrus species and its results show that there is good prospect of using them experimentally to control S. sclerotiorum, in both greenhouse and field conditions.

Resumo Óleos essenciais de plantas aromáticas e medicinais geralmente exibem uma gama diversificada de atividades biológicas, pois possuem vários constituintes ativos que atuam por meio de vários mecanismos de ação. Os óleos essenciais das cascas de Citrus têm uma variedade impressionante de usos em alimentos, medicamentos entre várias outras aplicações. Os óleos essenciais (OE) de Citrus reticulata, C. sinenses e C. deliciosa foram extraídos das cascas dos frutos e analisados por CG-EM. O limoneno foi o constituinte majoritário encontrado nos óleos essenciais avaliados, nas concentrações de 98,54%, 91,65% e 91,27% para C. sinensis, C. reticulata e C. deliciosa, respectivamente. Os maiores potenciais de inibição do crescimento micelial foi observado na dose de 300 µL dos óleos. Os óleos de Citrus inibiram em 82,91% (C. deliciosa), 65,82% (C. sinensis) e 63,46% (C. reticulata) o crescimento do fungo. A atividade anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum do limoneno 90% puro e em diferentes doses (20, 50, 100, 200 e 300 µL) foi também investigada e este monoterpeno demonstrou-se altamente ativo inibindo 100% o crescimento do fungo inclusive nas doses de 200 e 300 µL. Este é o primeiro relato sobre o efeito inibitório in vitro dos óleos essenciais destas três espécies de Citrus e os resultados deste estudo mostram que existe uma boa perspectiva de uso destes produtos naturais experimentalmente para controlar o S. sclerotiorum tanto em condições de estufa como em condições de campo.

Induced volatiles in the interaction between soybean (Glycine max) and the Mexican soybean weevil (Rhyssomatus nigerrimus)

Abstract The present study analyzed the volatile compounds emitted by Glycine max (cv. FT-Cristalina-RCH) soybean plants: healthy plants and plants damaged mechanically or by the Mexican soybean weevil Rhyssomatus nigerrimus. The SPME method was used to compare the volatile profile of soybean plants in four different conditions. The volatile profile of G. max plants infested by R. nigerrimus was qualitatively and quantitatively different from that of healthy and mechanically damaged plants. Emission of 59 compounds was detected in the four treatments. Of these compounds, 19 were identified by comparison of the Kovats index, mass spectrum and retention times with those of synthetic standards. An increase in concentration of the volatiles (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate and the compound 1-octen-3-ol was observed when the soybean plants were mechanically damaged. The compounds mostly produced by the soybean plant during infestation by male and female R. nigerrimus were 1-octen-3-ol, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, (E)--ocimene, salicylaldehyde, unknown 10, linalool, methyl salicylate, (Z)-8-dodecenyl acetate (ester 5), ketone 2 and geranyl acetone. Behavioral effects of the identified compounds during the insect-plant interaction and their conspecifics are discussed.

Resumo O presente estudo analisou os compostos voláteis emitidos pelas plantas de soja Glycine max (cv. FT-Cristalina-RCH): plantas e plantas sadias danificadas mecanicamente ou pelo gorgulho da soja mexicana Rhyssomatus nigerrimus. O método SPME foi utilizado para comparar o perfil volátil de plantas de soja em quatro diferentes condições. O perfil volátil das plantas de G. max infestadas por R. nigerrimus foi qualitativa e quantitativamente diferente do das plantas saudáveis e danificadas mecanicamente. Foi detectada, nos quatro tratamentos, emissão de 59 compostos, dos quais 19 foram identificados por comparação do índice de Kovats, espectro de massa e tempos de retenção com aqueles de padrões sintéticos. Um aumento na concentração dos voláteis acetato de (Z)-3-hexil e do composto 1-octeno-3-ol foi observado quando as plantas de soja foram mecanicamente danificadas. Os compostos produzidos principalmente pela planta de soja durante a infestação por R. nigerrimus macho e fêmea foram 1-octeno-3-ol, 6-metil-5-hepteno-2-ona, (E)--ocimeno, salicilaldeído, desconhecido 10, linalol, salicilato de metila, acetato de (Z)-8-dodecenila (éster 5), cetona 2 e geranil acetona. Foram discutidos os efeitos comportamentais dos compostos identificados durante a interação inseto-planta e seus coespecíficos.

Advance in main functional ingredients and mechanism of anticancer plant essential oils / 中草药

Cancer is a serious threat to human health with a high fatality rate. Modern anticancer methods, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, commonly have more serious side effects. Anticancer plant essential oils which now attach great importance to cancer treatment, have many advantages such as multi-target, multi-effect, low adverse reaction, improving the body immunity, not easy to produce drug resistance, etc. The main active ingredients and the anticancer mechanism of essential oils were reviewed in this paper. Nineteen kinds of plant essential oils, including Cymbopogon flexuosus, Salvia officinalis, Lycopus lucidus, Lavandula angustifolia, Smyrnium olusatrum, peel of Citrus reticulate, leaves of Myrica rubra, and so on, displayed their prominent anti-cancer activities. Specifically, limonene, β-elemene, menthol, patchouli alcohol, thymol, eugenol, citral, β-caryophyllene, and their oxide may be the main anticancer composition of plant essential oils.