Seasonal effect on phenolic content and antioxidant activity of young, mature and senescent leaves from Anredera cordifolia (Ten. ) Steenis (Basellaceae) / Efeito sazonal no conteúdo de fenólicos e ação antioxidante de folhas jovens, maduras e senescentes de Anredera cordifolia (Ten. ) Steenis (Basellaceae)

Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis is a vine species native to Brazil that is considered an unconventional food plant and a medicinal species whose phenolic compounds exert antioxidant activity. Since the production of metabolites is determined by environmental factors and leaf maturity, it is important to track these changes in order to determine the best time to harvest. This study aimed to verify whether leaf phenology and seasonality cause variations in the amount of phenolic compounds and in the antioxidant activity of this species. The leaves were collected in different seasons between September 2018 and April 2019, and separated according to maturity: young, mature, and senescent. Daily atmospheric temperature and rainfall data were used to characterize the collection period. The total phenolic content (TPC), determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method, was significantly higher in the young leaves collected in winter, a season of lower temperatures. These leaves showed 54.4 mg of gallic acid equivalents per 100 g of dry matter (mg GAE 100 g-1DM). Other results averaged 25.6 mg GAE 100 g-1DM. The highest antioxidant activity, assessed via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, regardless of leaf phenology, was observed in leaves harvested in autumn (73.7%) and winter (71.1%), seasons with lower rainfall. Leaves harvested in summer and spring had lower antioxidant action rates (54.3 e 37.5%, respectively). There was no significant correlation between the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Thus, the phenolic composition of A. cordifolia, and consequently its activity on free radicals, varies seasonally in response to temperature and rainfall, and may or may not interact with the age of the leaves.

Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis é uma trepadeira nativa do Brasil considerada uma planta alimentícia não convencional e uma espécie medicinal, cujos compostos fenólicos exercem ação antioxidante. Como a produção de metabólitos é determinada por fatores ambientais e pela maturidade das folhas, é importante acompanhar essas mudanças a fim de determinar a época de colheita. Neste estudo objetivou-se verificar se a fenologia foliar e a sazonalidade ocasionam variação na quantidade de compostos fenólicos e na ação antioxidante dessa espécie. As folhas foram coletadas em diferentes estações, entre setembro de 2018 e abril de 2019, e separadas conforme a maturidade: jovens, maduras e senescentes. Os dados diários de temperatura atmosférica e pluviosidade foram usados para caracterizar o período de coleta. O conteúdo de fenólicos totais (TPC), determinado pelo método Folin-Ciocalteu, foi significativamente maior nas folhas jovens coletadas no inverno, período caracterizado por temperaturas mais baixas. Estas folhas apresentaram 54,4 mg equivalentes de ácido gálico por 100 g de matéria seca (mg GAE 100 g-1DM) . A média dos outros resultados foi de 25,6 mg GAE 100 g-1DM. A maior ação antioxidante, avaliada pelo método do radical livre 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazil (DPPH), foi observada em folhas colhidas no outono (73,7%) e inverno (71,1%), independentemente da fenologia foliar. Nestes períodos a pluviosidade foi menor. Folhas colhidas no verão e na primavera apresentaram menores percentuais de ação antioxidante (54,3 e 37,5%, respectivamente). Não houve correlação significativa entre o conteúdo de fenólicos totais e a atividade antioxidante. Conclui-se que a composição fenólica de A. cordifolia e, consequentemente, sua ação sobre radicais livres, varia sazonalmente em resposta à temperatura e pluviosidade, podendo ou não interagir com a idade das folhas.

Seasonal effect on phenolic content and antioxidant activity of young, mature and senescent leaves from Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis (Basellaceae)

Abstract Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis is a vine species native to Brazil that is considered an unconventional food plant and a medicinal species whose phenolic compounds exert antioxidant activity. Since the production of metabolites is determined by environmental factors and leaf maturity, it is important to track these changes in order to determine the best time to harvest. This study aimed to verify whether leaf phenology and seasonality cause variations in the amount of phenolic compounds and in the antioxidant activity of this species. The leaves were collected in different seasons between September 2018 and April 2019, and separated according to maturity: young, mature, and senescent. Daily atmospheric temperature and rainfall data were used to characterize the collection period. The total phenolic content (TPC), determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method, was significantly higher in the young leaves collected in winter, a season of lower temperatures. These leaves showed 54.4 mg of gallic acid equivalents per 100 g of dry matter (mg GAE 100 g-1DM). Other results averaged 25.6 mg GAE 100 g-1DM. The highest antioxidant activity, assessed via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, regardless of leaf phenology, was observed in leaves harvested in autumn (73.7%) and winter (71.1%), seasons with lower rainfall. Leaves harvested in summer and spring had lower antioxidant action rates (54.3 e 37.5%, respectively). There was no significant correlation between the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Thus, the phenolic composition of A. cordifolia, and consequently its activity on free radicals, varies seasonally in response to temperature and rainfall, and may or may not interact with the age of the leaves.

Resumo Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis é uma trepadeira nativa do Brasil considerada uma planta alimentícia não convencional e uma espécie medicinal, cujos compostos fenólicos exercem ação antioxidante. Como a produção de metabólitos é determinada por fatores ambientais e pela maturidade das folhas, é importante acompanhar essas mudanças a fim de determinar a época de colheita. Neste estudo objetivou-se verificar se a fenologia foliar e a sazonalidade ocasionam variação na quantidade de compostos fenólicos e na ação antioxidante dessa espécie. As folhas foram coletadas em diferentes estações, entre setembro de 2018 e abril de 2019, e separadas conforme a maturidade: jovens, maduras e senescentes. Os dados diários de temperatura atmosférica e pluviosidade foram usados para caracterizar o período de coleta. O conteúdo de fenólicos totais (TPC), determinado pelo método Folin-Ciocalteu, foi significativamente maior nas folhas jovens coletadas no inverno, período caracterizado por temperaturas mais baixas. Estas folhas apresentaram 54,4 mg equivalentes de ácido gálico por 100 g de matéria seca (mg GAE 100 g-1DM) . A média dos outros resultados foi de 25,6 mg GAE 100 g-1DM. A maior ação antioxidante, avaliada pelo método do radical livre 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazil (DPPH), foi observada em folhas colhidas no outono (73,7%) e inverno (71,1%), independentemente da fenologia foliar. Nestes períodos a pluviosidade foi menor. Folhas colhidas no verão e na primavera apresentaram menores percentuais de ação antioxidante (54,3 e 37,5%, respectivamente). Não houve correlação significativa entre o conteúdo de fenólicos totais e a atividade antioxidante. Conclui-se que a composição fenólica de A. cordifolia e, consequentemente, sua ação sobre radicais livres, varia sazonalmente em resposta à temperatura e pluviosidade, podendo ou não interagir com a idade das folhas.

Trichoderma spp., una alternativa para la agricultura sostenible: una revisión

En la actualidad uno de los retos a los que se enfrentan los agricultores es producir alimentos bajo las inclemencias climáticas. Para el 2050, se estima un aumento en la demanda en producción de alimentos básicos a causa del incremento demográfico, aumentando con ello el detrimento de los recursos naturales. Dentro de las alternativas biológicas está el uso de insumos a base de microorganismos benéficos, como el género Trichoderma. Los cuales se han utilizado en los campos agrícolas para el control biológico contra un gran número de fitopatógenos. Sin embargo, aún son poco conocidas otras propiedades benéficas de este género para las plantas que coloniza y el ecosistema. Se realizó una búsqueda de artículos científicos en Academic Search Ultimate, BioOne, Acsess, Esmerald, Fuente Académica, ScienceDirect y Springer, entre 2015 y 2023, con dos excepciones de años anteriores. Se utilizó la palabra clave "Trichoderma" y aquellas relacionadas con interacciones microbianas y su aplicación agrícola. Esta revisión resume los hallazgos bibliográficos actuales de este género que muestran su alta capacidad hacia el desarrollo sostenible de los agroecosistemas. Varias investigaciones reportan su capacidad de inducir la defensa vegetal, la promoción del crecimiento y desarrollo radicular, así como la estimulación y síntesis de sustancias que contribuyen a fortalecer la fertilidad del suelo. Con ello mejora los rendimientos de los cultivos a los que se encuentra asociado. En definitiva, la aplicación de Trichoderma puede coadyuvar a disminuir los efectos negativos ocasionados por el uso de agroquímicos y fertilizantes sintéticos, contribuyendo a una producción más sostenible.

Currently, one of the most critical challenges facing farmers is the production of food under adverse weather conditions. By 2050, an increase in the production of staple foods is estimated due to demographics, thereby increasing the depletion of natural resources. Among the biological alternatives is the use of inputs based on beneficial microorganisms such as the Trichoderma genus, which have been used in agricultural fields for biological control against a large number of phytopathogens. However, other beneficial properties of this genus for the plants it colonizes, and the ecosystem are still little known. Therefore, a search for scientific articles was carried out in Academic Search Ultimate, BioOne, Acsess, Esmerald, Fuente Academic, ScienceDirect and Springer, between 2015 and 2023, with two exceptions from previous years. The keyword "Trichoderma" was used and those related to microbial interactions and their agricultural application. Therefore, this review summarizes the current bibliographic findings of this genus, that shows its high capacity towards the sustainable development of agroecosystems. Several investigations report its ability to induce plant defense, promote growth and root development, and stimulate and synthesize substances that help strengthen soil fertility. This improves the yields of the crops to which they are associated. With this, the application of Trichoderma can reduce the negative effects caused by the use of agrochemicals and synthetic fertilizers, contributing to a more sustainable production.

Potencial antiinflamatorio del plátano Musa spp. ABB para la elaboración de fitofármacos

Los plátanos pertenecientes al género Musa spp. ABB han sido utilizados para el tratamiento de la inflamación y el dolor. La búsqueda de antiinflamatorios de origen natural, más que una alternativa, constituye una terapia complementaria del tratamiento de la inflamación, ya que los antiinflamatorios no esteroideos son los más utilizados para enfermedades inflamatorias agudas o crónicas, pero a la vez presentan efectos secundarios gastrointestinales, cardiovasculares y renales, por lo que no es recomendable su uso prolongado. En este trabajo se ofrece información actualizada sobre los efectos farmacológicos y los metabolitos secundarios del grupo Musa spp. ABB, para su uso en la elaboración de un medicamento antiinflamatorio. Los procedimientos realizados incluyen el análisis documental y bibliográfico -en bases de datos- de artículos científicos, tesis doctorales y comunicaciones científicas; el registro de la información, y la elaboración del artículo científico, teniendo en cuenta la actualización de la información y los sitios donde se promueve la misma. Se han comprobado, a partir de extractos acuosos y alcohólicos de la planta, efectos farmacológicos tales como antiinflamatorio, antioxidante, analgésico, gastroprotector, inmunomodulador, antidiabético, anticancerígeno, antibacteriano, antiviral, hipolipemiante, antidiarreico, antihipertensivo, hepatoprotector, cicatrizante, antiulceroso y antifúngico. Los efectos antiinflamatorios y antioxidantes están relacionados con la presencia de fenoles, ácidos fenólicos, flavonoides, fitoesteroles y carotenos. Es muy limitado el empleo de extractos del grupo Musa spp. ABB en medicamentos, de ahí la propuesta de desarrollar una crema antiinflamatoria como alternativa o complemento para el tratamiento de múltiples enfermedades inflamatorias.

Plantains belonging to the genus Musa spp. ABB have been used for the treatment of infection and pain. The search for anti-inflammatories of natural origins, more than an alternative, is a complementary therapy for the treatment of inflammation, since non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are the most used for acute or chronic inflammatory diseases, but at the same time they present gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and renal side effects, so their prolonged use is not recommended. In this paper, updated information is provided on the pharmacological effects and secondary metabolites of the Musa ssp. ABB group, for its use in elaborating an anti-inflammatory drug. The procedures carried out include documental and bibliographic analysis -in databases-of scientific articles, doctoral theses and scientific communications; the information record and preparation of the article taking into account the information updating and the sites where it is supported. From aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the plant, the following effects were proven: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, gastro-protective, inmuno-modulator, antidiabetic, anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, lipid-lowering, antidiarrheal, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, healing, anti-ulcerative and antifungal. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are related to the presence of phenols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, phytosterols and carotenes. The use of Musa spp. ABB group in drugs is very limited, therefore the proposal of developing an anti-inflammatory cream to treat multiple inflammatory diseases.

Atividade in vitro de extratos e frações de Copernicia prunifera (Arecaceae) contra bactérias de importância clínica em saúde pública / In vitro activity of extracts and fractions of Copernicia prunifera (Arecaceae) against bacteria of clinical importance in public health / Actividad in vitro de extractos y fracciones de Copernicia prunifera (Arecaceae) frente a bacterias de importancia clínica en salud pública

Introdução: O aumento contínuo da resistência bacteriana aos antibióticos convencionais é um problema de importância global. Encontrar produtos como alternativas terapêuticas naturais é essencial. As plantas medicinais possuem uma composição química muito rica, que podem ser estruturalmente otimizadas e processadas em novos antimicrobianos. Objetivo: Avaliar o potencial antibacteriano frente a microrganismos humanos potencialmente patogênicos do extrato etanólico e frações de Copernicia prunifera. Metodologia: A triagem fitoquímica de plantas foi realizada usando métodos de precipitação e coloração e a atividade antibacteriana utilizando o método de difusão em disco e microdiluição em caldo contra cepas padronizadas de Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa e Staphylococcus aureus. Resultados: A triagem fitoquímica revela a presença de taninos, flavonoides, esteroides, triterpernóides, saponinas e alcaloides. Os extratos etanólico e frações da casca do caule e folhas tiveram atividade inibitória contra S. aureus e K. pneumonie com zona de inibição que variou de 7,0±1,73 a 9,33±0,58 mm pelo método de difusão em disco. Pelo método de microdiluição em caldo os extratos foram satisfatórios somente contra K. pneumoniae (CIM = 125 a 1000 µg/mL) S. aureus, P. aeruginosa e E. coli se mostraram resistentes aos testes (CIM > 1000 µg/mL). Conclusão: Esses resultados fornecem uma base para futuras investigações em modelos in vivo, para que os compostos de C. prunifera possam ser aplicados no desenvolvimento de novos agentes antimicrobianos contra K. pneumoniae.

Introduction: The continuous increase in bacterial resistance to conventional antibiotics is a problem of global importance. Finding products as natural therapeutic alternatives is essential. Medicinal plants have a very rich chemical composition, which can be structurally optimized and processed into novel antimicrobials. Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial potential against potentially pathogenic human microorganisms of the ethanolic extract and fractions of Copernicia prunifera. Methodology: Phytochemical screening of plants was performed using precipitation and staining methods and antibacterial activity using the disk diffusion and broth microdilution method against standardized strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Results: Phytochemical screening reveals the presence of tannins, flavonoids, steroids, triterpernoids, saponins and alkaloids. The ethanolic extracts and fractions of stem bark and leaves had inhibitory activity against S. aureus and K. pneumonie with zone of inhibition ranging from 7.0±1.73 to 9.33±0.58 mm by disc diffusion method. By broth microdilution method the extracts were satisfactory only against K. pneumoniae (MIC = 125 to 1000 µg/mL) S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and E. coli were resistant to the tests (MIC > 1000 µg/mL). Conclusion: These results provide a basis for further investigation in in vivo models, so that compounds from C. prunifera can be applied in the development of new antimicrobial agents against K. pneumoniae.

Introducción: El continuo aumento de la resistencia bacteriana a los antibióticos convencionales es un problema de importancia mundial. Es esencial encontrar productos como alternativas terapéuticas naturales. Las plantas medicinales tienen una composición química muy rica, que puede optimizarse estructuralmente y transformarse en nuevos antimicrobianos. Objetivo: Evaluar el potencial antibacteriano frente a microorganismos humanos potencialmente patógenos del extracto etanólico y fracciones de Copernicia prunifera. Metodología: Se realizó el cribado fitoquímico de las plantas mediante los métodos de precipitación y tinción y la actividad antibacteriana mediante el método de difusión en disco y microdilución en caldo frente a cepas estandarizadas de Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Staphylococcus aureus. Resultados: El cribado fitoquímico revela la presencia de taninos, flavonoides, esteroides, triterpernoides, saponinas y alcaloides. Los extractos etanólicos y las fracciones de la corteza del tallo y las hojas presentaron actividad inhibitoria contra S. aureus y K. pneumonie con una zona de inhibición que osciló entre 7,0±1,73 y 9,33±0,58 mm por el método de difusión en disco. Por el método de microdilución en caldo, los extractos sólo fueron satisfactorios frente a K. pneumoniae (CMI = 125 a 1000 µg/mL). S. aureus, P. aeruginosa y E. coli fueron resistentes a las pruebas (CMI > 1000 µg/mL). Conclusiones: Estos resultados proporcionan una base para futuras investigaciones en modelos in vivo, de modo que los compuestos de C. prunifera puedan aplicarse en el desarrollo de nuevos agentes antimicrobianos contra K. pneumoniae.

Variation and interaction mechanism between active components in Rheum officinale and rhizosphere soil microorganisms under drought stress / 中国中药杂志

To explore the changes and the reaction mechanisms between soil microecological environment and the content of secon-dary metabolites of plants under water deficit, this study carried out a pot experiment on the 3-leaf stage seedlings of Rheum officinale to analyze their response mechanism under different drought gradients(normal water supply, mild, moderate, and severe drought). The results indicated that the content of flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids in the root of R. officinale varied greatly under drought stresses. Under mild drought stress, the content of substances mentioned above was comparatively high, and the content of rutin, emodin, gallic acid, and(+)-catechin hydrate in the root significantly increased. The content of rutin, emodin, and gallic acid under severe drought stress was significantly lower than that under normal water supply. The number of species, Shannon diversity index, richness index, and Simpson index of bacteria in the rhizosphere soil were significantly higher than those in blank soil, and the number of microbial species and richness index decreased significantly with the aggravation of drought stresses. In the context of water deficit, Cyanophyta, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadetes, Streptomyces, and Actinomyces were the dominant bacteria in the rhizosphere of R. officinale. The relative content of rutin and emodin in the root of R. officinale was positively correlated with the relative abundance of Cyanophyta and Firmicutes, and the relative content of(+)-catechin hydrate and(-)-epicatechin gallate was positively correlated with the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. In conclusion, appropriate drought stress can increase the content of secondary metabolites of R. officinale from physiological induction and the increase in the association with beneficial microbe.

Phenylpropanoid pathway in plants and its role in response to heavy metal stress: a review / 生物工程学报

Phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway is one of the most important secondary metabolic pathways in plants. It directly or indirectly plays an antioxidant role in plant resistance to heavy metal stress, and can improve the absorption and stress tolerance of plants to heavy metal ions. In this paper, the core reactions and key enzymes of the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway were summarized, and the biosynthetic processes of key metabolites such as lignin, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins and relevant mechanisms were analyzed. Based on this, the mechanisms of key products of phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway in response to heavy metal stress were discussed. The perspectives on the involvement of phenylpropanoid metabolism in plant defense against heavy metal stress provides a theoretical basis for improving the phytoremediation efficiency of heavy metal polluted environment.

Insecticidal potential of organic extracts of Calotropis procera to Spodoptera frugiperda

This study evaluated the toxic effects of organic extracts of Calotropis proceraleaves on the survival, development, and reproduction of Spodoptera frugiperda. Solutions of crude methanol extract and hexane and methanol fractions of C. proceraleaves were added at 1.15% and 2.14% concentrations to the artificial diet of S. frugiperda. The mortality and duration of larval and pupal phases, weights of female and male pupae, deformations of pupae and adults, the reduction of adults able to reproduce, pre-oviposition and oviposition periods, the number of postures per female, and the fecundity and fertility of S. frugiperdafemales were also evaluated. The extracts harmed the survival, development, and reproduction of S. frugiperda. The ingestion of extracts and fractions by caterpillars affected adults by decreasing the oviposition period, the number of postures, fecundity, and fertility. The crude MeOH extract at a2.14% concentration harmed the evaluated parameters of the insect, except for pupal mortality, female pupae weight, and pre-oviposition period. The MeOH fraction at 2.14% caused a 50.0% mortality of caterpillars and 16.0% deformation in pupae and 33.0% inadults, reducing by 72.0% the population able to reproduce. The MeOH fraction at the 2.14% concentration caused 25.0% and 38.0% of pupal mortality and deformation, respectively. Calotropis procerahas promising insecticidal properties for a biological insecticide, a convenient and sustainable strategy for protecting plants against S. frugiperda.

Secondary metabolites of endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp. J218 from Anectochilus roxburhii / 药学实践杂志

Objective To isolate the secondary metabolites of endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp. J218 from Anectochilus roxburhii. Methods Different chromatographic methods, including Sephadex LH-20 and silica gel chromatography as well as HPLC, were used to isolate compounds from the EtOAc fraction of the solid fermentation of J218, and their structures were identified by spectral methods. Results Ten compounds were isolated from the fermentation of J218 and their structures were individually identified as kotanin（1）, flavasperone（2）, aurasperone B（3）, fonsecinone B（4）, fonsecinone D（5）, ensidol A（6）, fonsecinone A（7）, fonsecinone C（8）, aurasperone A（9）, and fonsecinone F（10）. Conclusion Most compounds isolated from endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp. J218 in Anectochilus roxburhii were identified as dimeric naphthopyrones. These results suggest that this strain contains rich dimerization synthase, which could provide clues for the further exploration of the rational biosynthesis pathway of dimeric naphthopyrones in this strain.

Biological Mechanism of Drought Improving Quality of Rhizoma Atractylodis Chinensis / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the biological mechanism of drought improving the quality of Rhizoma Atractylodis Chinensis and establish a new method for the production of high-quality medicinal materials. MethodThe fresh roots of Atractylodes chinensis were soaked in 0 （control）， 5%， 10%， and 20% PEG-6000 solutions. The changes in reactive oxygen species （ROS） level， antioxidant enzyme activity， activities of key enzymes in primary metabolism and secondary metabolism， and content of secondary metabolites were compared. ResultCompared with the control group， the treatment with 20% PEG for 2 days elevated the levels of superoxide anion radicals （O2-·）， hydrogen peroxide （H2O2）， and malondialdehyde （MDA） by 172.5%， 56.9%， and 14.7%， respectively. The treatment did not change the activity of superoxide dismutase （SOD）， reduced the peroxidase （POD） activity， and increased the catalase （CAT） activity by 10.8%. It increased the activities of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase （HMGR）， phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase （PEPC）， and acetyl-CoA carboxylase （ACC） by 49.9%， 12.1%， and 19.0%， respectively. Furthermore， the content of atractylodin， β-eudesmol， atractylone， and atractylenolide Ⅱ was increased by 51.0%， 36.9%， 47.1%， and 91.5%， respectively. The simulated drought stress can cause the burst of ROS in the fresh roots of A. chinensis， induce the physiological state of plants under drought， change the antioxidant system， and promote the massive synthesis of secondary metabolites in a short time. ConclusionPEG-6000-simulated drought stress can greatly improve the quality of A. chinensis in cultivation.

Cultivo in vitro de raíces pilosas del arbusto Phyllanthus acuminatus (Phyllanthaceae) / In vitro culture of hairy roots of the shrub, Phyllanthus acuminatus (Phyllanthaceae)

Introducción: En condiciones naturales, las raíces del arbusto, Phyllanthus acuminatus, producen bajas concentraciones de metabolitos secundarios de interés medicinal. Esto abre una oportunidad para el cultivo in vitro, para aumentar la concentración de metabolitos. Objetivo: Determinar las condiciones óptimas de cultivo líquido para raíces pilosas de P. acuminatus. Métodos: Se utilizó la evaluación del crecimiento de la biomasa según porcentaje de inóculo inicial (0.50 y 0.10 %), porcentaje de nutrientes de los medios (100, 50 y 25 %) y tasa de agitación (90, 100 y 110 min-1) (N= 15 repeticiones). Resultados: Las mejores condiciones de cultivo líquido fueron: 0.10 % de inóculo inicial, nutrientes al 25 % y 90 min-1 para la tasa de agitación. Hay diferencias entre las raíces pilosas y las raíces no transformadas. Conclusiones: es factible producir raíces pilosas de P. acuminatus a gran escala, aplicando e implementando las condiciones evaluadas de porcentaje de inóculo, nutrientes en el medio y tasas de agitación utilizadas en este estudio.

Introduction: Under natural conditions, the roots of the shrub, Phyllanthus acuminatus, produce low concentrations of secondary metabolites of medicinal interest. This opens an opportunity for in vitro culture, to increase metabolite concentration. Objective: To determine the optimal liquid culture conditions for hairy roots of P. acuminatus. Methods: We used biomass growth evaluation according to initial inoculum percentage (0.50 and 0.10 %), percentage of medium nutrients (100, 50 and 25 %) and agitation rate (90, 100 and 110 min-1) (N=15 replications). Results: The best liquid culture conditions were: 0.10 % of initial inoculum, nutrients at 25 % and 90 min-1 for the agitation rate. There are differences among hairy roots and non-transformed roots. Conclusions: It is feasible to produce P. acuminatus hairy roots at a large scale, applying and implementing the evaluated conditions of inoculum percentage, nutrients in the medium and agitation rates.

Secondary Metabolites and Mineral Elements of Manotes expansa and Aframomum alboviolaceum Leaves Collected in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Background and Aims: Manotes expansa Sol. ex Planch. and Aframomum alboviolaceum (Ridl.) Schum. are two plants belonging respectively to the family Connaraceae R.Br. and Zingiberaceae Martino widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of eye diseases, fever, headaches, gastritis as well as asthma. The aim of the present study is the valorization of these two plants collected in the Democratic Republic of Congo by a quantitative and qualitative analysis of secondary metabolites and mineral elements in their leaves. Materials and Methods: The determination of secondary metabolites in the leaves of Manotes expansa and Aframomum alboviolaceum was carried out by UV-Visible spectrophotometry and X-ray fluorescence spectrophotometry for the identification and quantitative analysis of mineral elements. Results: The results showed that the leaves of these two plants are rich in phenolic compounds, i.e. 442.2 mgEqAG/g for the leaves of A. alboviolaceum, 370.64 mgEqAG/g for the red leaves and 282.64 mgEqAG/g green leaves of M. expansa. Although being part of the same plant, the red and green leaves of M. expansa presented a totally different phytochemical profile. The contents of condensed tannins, anthocyanins and flavonoids are respectively 0.3%, 0.68% and 3.29% for the leaves of A. alboviolaceum; 0.58%, 0.36% and 6.89% for the red leaves, and 0.65%, 0.26% and 7.55% for the green leaves of M. expansa. The mineral content in the leaves of both plants remains dominated by the high concentration of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Manganese (Mn) and Iron (Fe). Conclusion: The high content of phenolic compounds and essential trace elements makes the leaves of M. expansa and A. alboviolaceum potential candidates to alleviate several health problems in Africa in general and particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Aislamiento y elucidación estructural por resonancia magnética nuclear (RMN 1H, RMN 13C, DEPT135, COSY y HSQC) del compuesto (E)-1,3,5-trimetoxi-2-(prop-1-enil) benceno extraído de hojas de Piper patulum / Isolation and structural elucidation by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR, 13C NMR, DEPT135, COSY and HSQC) of compound (E) -1,3,5-trimethoxy-2- (prop-1-enyl) benzene extracted from Piper patulum

Guatemala es un país de gran diversidad biológica, la que ha permitido a diferentes investigadores de productos naturales, obtener resultados de interés y relevancia científica, principalmente sobre propiedades farmacológicas, sin embargo, hasta el momento se desconoce la estructura molecular, conformaciones y configuraciones exactas de muchos de los metabolitos secundarios responsables de dichas propiedades. Por lo tanto, en esta investigación se planteó como objetivo aislar y elucidar la estructura de un fenilpropanoide obtenido en las hojas de Piper patulum. El aislamiento se realizó por extracciones líquido-líquido y técnicas cromatográficas (cromatografía en columna -CC-), obteniendo .092 g del compuesto de interés. La elucidación se realizó por espectroscopía de masas, espectroscopia infrarroja -IR- y experimentos de resonancia magnética nuclear -RMN-, dando como resultado la estructura correspondiente a (E)-1,3,5-trimetoxi-2-(prop-1- enil) benceno. Posteriormente el fenilpropanoide presentó actividad antioxidante mediante la prueba cualitativa con 2,2- difenil-1-picrilhidrazilo -DPPH-.

Guatemala is a country of great biological diversity, which has led natural product researchers to obtain results of great interest and scientific relevance, mainly in pharmacological properties; However, the molecular structure, conformations, and configurations of many secondary metabolites responsible for these properties are unknown. In this research, the objective was to isolate and elucidate the structure of a phenylpropanoid obtained from in the leaves of Piper patulum. The isolation was carried out by liquid-liquid extractions and chromatographic techniques (Column Chromatography -CC-), obtaining .092 g. The elucidation was performed by mass spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy -IR- and nuclear magnetic resonance experiments-NMR-, the data obtained indicates the corresponding (E) -1,3,5-trimethoxy-2- (prop-1-enyl) benzene. Subsequently, the phenylpropanoid presented antioxidant activity through the qualitative test with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-DPPH

Actividad antioxidante y cuantificación de fenoles y flavonoides de plantas colombianas empleadas en infecciones urinarias / Antioxidant activity and quantification of phenols and flavonoids of Colombian plants used in urinary tract infections

RESUMEN Las plantas medicinales son de interés farmacéutico, debido a que tienen diferentes propiedades biológicas, entre las que se destaca, la actividad antioxidante y, de la cual, se conoce que existe una relación con la concentración de los compuestos fenólicos, por su capacidad de reducir los radicales libres. Es así, que se propuso evaluar la actividad antioxidante y la cuantificación de fenoles y flavonoides totales, de 11 extractos etanólicos de plantas, empleadas en la medicina tradicional, para el tratamiento de infecciones urinarias (IU). Se evaluó la actividad antioxidante, por los métodos de DPPH y FRAP y se cuantificó el contenido fenólico y de flavonoides, por el método Folin-Ciocalteu y tricloruro de aluminio, respectivamente. Se encontró que, de los 11 extractos evaluados, los que presentaron el mayor contenido de estos metabolitos y de potencial antioxidante fueron: Uncaria tomentosa, Sedum praealtum y Kohleria hirsuta. Este trabajo permitió contribuir al conocimiento fitoquímico y antioxidante de plantas, usadas para tratar IU y se sugiere que U. tomentosa, S. praealtum y K. hirsuta sean objeto de futuros estudios biodirigidos, así como la evaluación de otras actividades biológicas.

ABSTRACT Medicinal plants are of pharmaceutical interest because they possess different biological properties, among which their antioxidant activity stands out, and therefore it is known that there is a relationship with the concentration of phenolic compounds due to their ability to reduce free radicals. Therefore, it was proposed to evaluate the antioxidant activity and the quantification of phenols and flavonoids of 11 ethanolic extracts of plants used in traditional medicine for the treatment of urinary infections (UI). The antioxidant activity was evaluated by the DPPH and FRAP methods and the phenolic and flavonoid content was quantified by the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum trichloride method, respectively. It was found that of the 11 extracts evaluated, those with the highest content of these metabolites and antioxidant potential were three: Uncaria tomentosa, Sedum praealtum and Kohleria hirsuta. This work made it possible to contribute to the phytochemical and antioxidant knowledge of the plants used for the treatment of UI and it is suggested that U. tomentosa, S. praealtum and K. hirsuta be the object of future bio-directed studies, as well as the evaluation of other activities biological.

Tithonia diversifolia Powder and Compost Ameliorate Plant Growth Parameters, Essential Oils, Phenols and Flavonoids Content and Anticandida Activity of Ocimum gratissimum L.

Aims: Ocimum gratissimum is an aromatic and medicinal plant, well known for its medicinal values such as antifungal properties. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of T. diversifolia powder and compost use as biofertilizer on the growth parameters, essential oil (EO), total phenolic and flavonoid content and anticandida activity of O. gratissimum. Study Design: O. gratissimum plants were cultivated for 8 months in an experimental farm designed as a split plot into 4 blocks. Each block was amended (main factor) either with T. diversifolia compost (150 g/plant), powder (40 g/plant) or the synthetic fertilizer NPK (10 g/plant), respectively, followed by sprayed (second factor) with same fertilizer at 20 g/L, 20 g/L and 2 g/L or water every two weeks after transplantation. The control block received no amendment and was sprayed with water or the previous fertilizer. Place and Duration of Study: This work was carried out within August 2019 to October 2020 in Yaoundé-Cameroon. Methodology: Plant growth parameters (fresh and dry leaves weight, florescent weight and plant height) were evaluated at four and eight months after transplantation. The harvested fresh leaves were hydrodistillated for EO and the hot aqueous extract. Both extracts were used for the evaluation of the anticandida activity while the latter was submitted to total flavonoids and phenolic analyses. Results: At 4 and 8 months after transplantation, the synthetic fertilizer and T. diversifolia compost significantly increased plant growth parameters as compared to other treatments. The plants treated with T. diversifolia biofertilizer compost showed the highest total phenolic (53.16 µg GAE/µL), flavonoid (36.32 µg// GAE/µL) content, and EO yield (0.666%). The EO from O. gratissimum treated with T. diversifolia compost showed the best inhibitory activity on C. albicans NR-29451. Conclusion: This study showed that T. diversifolia compost was a promising organic fertilizer in optimizing the growth, secondary metabolites and anticandida activity of O. gratissimum.

Plant metabolite 5-pentadecyl resorcinol is produced by the Amazonian fungus Penicillium sclerotiorum LM 5679 / O metabólito vegetal 5-pentadecil resorcinol é produzido pelo fungo amazônico Penicillium sclerotiorum LM 5679

Since the classic studies of Alexander Flemming, Penicillium strains have been known as a rich source of antimicrobial substances. Recent studies have identified novel metabolites produced by Penicillium sclerotiorum that have antibacterial, antifouling and pharmaceutical activities. Here, we report the isolation of a P. sclerotiorum (LM 5679) from Amazonian soil and carry out a culture-based study to determine whether it can produce any novel secondary metabolite(s) that are not thus-far reported for this genus. Using a submerged culture system, secondary metabolites were recovered by solvent extract followed by thin-layer chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy. One novel secondary metabolite was isolated from P. sclerotiorum (LM 5679); the phenolic compound 5-pentadecyl resorcinol widely known as an antifungal, that is produced by diverse plant species. This metabolite was not reported previously in any Penicillium species and was only found once before in fungi (that time, in a Fusarium). Here, we discuss the known activities of 5-pentadecyl resorcinol in the context of its mode-of-action as a hydrophobic (chaotropicity-mediated) stressor.

Desde os estudos clássicos de Alexander Flemming, as cepas de Penicillium são conhecidas como uma fonte rica em substâncias antimicrobianas. Estudos recentes identificaram novos metabólitos produzidos pela espécie Penicillium sclerotiorum com atividades antibacteriana, anti-incrustante e farmacêutica. Aqui, relatamos o isolamento de uma colônia de P. sclerotiorum (LM 5679) do solo amazônico e relatamos também o estudo baseado em cultura para determinar se ele pode produzir qualquer novo metabólito (s) secundário (s) que não foram relatados até agora para este gênero. Usando um sistema de cultura submerso, os metabólitos secundários foram recuperados por extrato de solvente seguido por cromatografia em camada delgada, ressonância magnética nuclear e espectroscopia de massa. Um novo metabólito secundário foi isolado de P. sclerotiorum (LM 5679); o composto fenólico 5-pentadecil resorcinol que é amplamente conhecido como um antifúngico que é produzido por diversas espécies de plantas. Este metabólito não foi relatado anteriormente em nenhuma espécie de Penicillium, e foi encontrado apenas uma vez em fungos (Fusarium). Aqui, discutimos as atividades conhecidas do 5-pentadecil resorcinol no contexto de seu modo de ação como um estressor hidrofóbico (mediado pela caotropicidade).

A novel approach to Cestrum intermedium (mata-boi): anatomical and physical-chemical characterization, in vitro biological activities, and metabolites of a Brazilian native species

Abstract The Brazilian native species Cestrum intermedium, known as mata-boi, induces hepatotoxicity and death when ingested by cattle. While most studies on this species focus on toxicological features, our study is the first to describe the anatomy and in vitro biological activities of Cestrum intermedium. We investigated adult leaves and stems by histochemistry, described their anatomy, performed physical-chemical analysis, determined in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and identified secondary metabolites. A few noteworthy anatomical features were the anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface and the absence of trichomes, in addition to the circular shaped petiole with two projections on the adaxial surface. Histochemical analysis showed chemical markers such as alkaloids, usually reported as toxic, and terpenoids. Potassium nitrate (ATR-FTIR) and lupeol palmitate (NMR) were detected on the crude stem extract. Thermogravimetric and physical-chemical analysis provided fingerprint parameters for the species. Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assay revealed that Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans were weakly inhibited by extract samples. Chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions presented high phenolic content, which resulted in in vitro antioxidant activity. These novel features expand the knowledge about this species, considering that previous studies mainly focused on its toxicity. Our study also provided characteristics that may help in avoiding misidentification between Cestrum members, especially when taxonomic keys cannot be employed, as in the absence of flowers and fruits.

Microorganisms: the secret agents of the biosphere, and their key roles in biotechnology / Micro-organismos: os agentes secretos da biosfera, e seus papéis determinantes na biotecnologia

Abstract We present a survey of projects that have been funded by FAPESP under the BIOTA-Microorganisms program. These projects generated a wide variety of results, including the identification of novel antibacterial-producing microorganisms, the characterization of novel microbial enzymes for industrial applications, taxonomic classification of novel microorganisms in several environments, investigation of the soil and mangrove microbial ecosystems and its influence on endangered plant species, and the sequencing of novel metagenome-assembled genomes. The results surveyed demonstrate the importance of microorganisms in environments that play important roles in human activities as well as the potential that many of these microorganisms have in contributing to biotechnological applications crucial for human survival in the 21st century.

Resumo Apresentamos um levantamento comentado de projetos financiados pelo programa BIOTA-Micro-organismos. Estes projetos geraram uma variada gama de resultados, incluindo a identificação de novos micro-organismos produtores de compostos antibacterianos, a caracterização de novas enzimas microbianas para usos industriais, classificação taxonômica de novos micro-organismos presentes em diversos ambientes, investigação de ecossistemas microbianos em solos e mangues e sua influência sobre plantas ameaçadas, e o sequenciamento de vários novos genomas microbianos derivados de metagenomas. Os resultados descritos demonstram o papel-chave de micro-organismos em ecossistemas importantes para atividades humanas, assim como o potencial que vários desses micro-organismos tem de contribuir para aplicações biotecnológicas cruciais para a sobrevivência humana no século 21.

Callus Induction, Proliferation, Enhanced Secondary Metabolites Production and Antioxidants Activity of Salvia moorcroftiana L. as Influenced by Combinations of Auxin, Cytokinin and Melatonin

Abstract: Tissue culture technique is one of the best methods to reproduce salvia plant Therefore, the aim of this research was to enhance the in-vitro callus proliferation and production of secondary metabolites of S. moorcroftiana using different combinations of auxin, cytokinin and melatonin. Initially, callus induction was optimized using indole acetic acid (IAA), 2, 4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D), and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) applied at different concentrations in combination with 1 mg L-1 of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). The results indicates that earliest days to callus induction (14.67 days) was occurred in the media fortified with 2, 4-D+BAP (2.0+1.0 mgL-1). Whereas the highest callus initiation (100%) was induced on MS medium incorporated with 2,4-D+BAP (1+1mgL-1). Furthermore, maximum fresh weight was obtained when 2,4- D + BAP at the rate of (1+ 1mg L-1) was incorporated and dry weight was attained when 2,4- D + BAP at the rate of (2+1 mg L-1) was added to MS media. The maximum fresh and dry weight was obtained when melatonin at rate of 1.5 mg L-1 was supplemented with MS media including 2,4-D + BAP (1+1mg L-1), moreover the maximum DPPH scavenging activity, total phenolic and flavonoid content was noted when supplemented with melatonin at rate of 1.5 mg L-1. In conclusion, among various concentrations of plant growth regulators, 2,4- D + BAP at the rate of (1+ 1mg L-1) along with 1.5 g L-1 melatonin was the best for callus growth and production of secondary metabolites of S. moorcroftiana.