Phytochemical screening of Cordia glabrata (MART.) A.DC. extracts and its potential antioxidant, photoprotective, antimicrobial and antiviral activities / Triagem fitoquímica de extratos de Cordia glabrata (MART.) A.DC. e sua potencial atividade antioxidante, fotoprotetora, antimicrobiana e antiviral

Species of the genus Cordia have shown biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antiviral, and antifungal activities. The species Cordia glabrata (MART) A.DC. Has no information concerning its phytochemical profile and possible biological activities. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate this profile in ethanolic extracts of young, adult and senescent leaves, as well as their antioxidant, photoprotective, antimicrobial, and virucidal potentials. Phytochemical analysis was performed by TLC (thin-layer chromatography) and showed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, and terpenes. The evaluation by UPLC-MS/MS (Ultra performance liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometer) evidenced the presence of caffeic (3.89 mgL-¹), p-cumaric (6.13 mgL-¹), and ferulic (0.58 mgL-¹) acids, whilst, in GC/MS (Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry) analysis there was a greater amount of palmitic (51.17%), stearic (20.34%), linoleic (9.62%), and miristic (8.16%) fatty acids. The DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS+ (2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) radicals were used to verify the potential antioxidant activity, observing a better activity for the leaf extract in the adult phenological stage: 54.63 ± 1.06 µgmL-¹ (DPPH) and 44.21 ± 1.69 mM (ABTS). The potential photoprotective activity of the extracts was determined by spectrophotometry and the in vitro values of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) in young and adult leaves (5.47 and 5.41, respectively) showed values close to the minimum SPF of 6.0 required by ANVISA (Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency). It was not observed an antimicrobial activity for Staphylococcus aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 2000 µgmL-¹, however the anti-herpetic assay against the Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) showed a potent virucidal activity at the tested concentrations with CV50 value <0.195 µgmL-¹ and a Selectivity Index (SI = CC50 / CV50) greater than 448. The results [...].

Espécies do gênero Cordia apresentam atividades biológicas, como anti-inflamatória, analgésica, antioxidante, antiviral e antifúngica. Para a espécie Cordia glabrata (MART) A.DC., ainda não existem informações sobre seu perfil fitoquímico e possíveis atividades biológicas, deste modo, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar este perfil em extratos etanólicos de folhas jovens, adultas e senescentes, bem como o potencial antioxidante, fotoprotetor, antimicrobiano e virucida. A análise fitoquímica foi realizada por CCD (Cromatografia em Camada Delgada), mostrando a presença de flavonóides, taninos e terpenos. Na avaliação por CLAE EM/EM (Cromatografia Líquida de Ultra Eficiência acoplada a Espectrometria de Massas) foi evidenciado a presença dos ácidos caféico (3,89 mgL-¹), p-cumárico (6,13 mgL-¹) e ferúlico (0,58 mgL-¹), paralelamente, na CG/EM (Cromatografia Gasosa acoplada a Espectrometria de Massas) verificou-se maior quantidade dos ácidos graxos palmítico (51,17%), esteárico (20,34%), linoléico (9,62%) e mirístico (8,16%). Os radicais DPPH (2,2-Difenil-1-picrilhidrazil) e ABTS+ (2′-Azino-bis (ácido 3-etilbenzotiazolina-6-sulfônico)) foram utilizados para verificar o potencial antioxidante, observando se uma atividade superior para o extrato da folha em sua fase fenológica adulta: 54,63 ± 1,06 µgmL-¹ (DPPH) e 44,21 ± 1,69 mM (ABTS+). A potencial atividade fotoprotetora dos extratos foi determinada espectrofotometricamente e os valores in vitro de FPS (Fator de Proteção Solar) em folhas jovens e adultas (5,47 e 5,41 respectivamente) apresentaram valores próximos ao FPS mínimo de 6,0 exigido pela ANVISA (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária). Não foi observada atividade antimicrobiana para Staphylococcus aureus sendo a concentração inibitória mínima de 2000 µgmL-¹, no entanto o ensaio anti-herpético contra o vírus Herpes simplex tipo 2 (HSV-2) mostrou uma potente atividade virucida nas concentrações testadas [...].

Applicability of an HPLC method for analysis of alcoholic and glycolic Brazilian green-propolis extracts

Abstract Brazilian green propolis has been widely used in food and pharmaceutical products due to its valuable source of phenolic compounds and versatile biological activities. The development and validation of analytical methods are extremely useful for the characterization and quality control of products containing propolis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to optimize, validate and investigate the applicability of a reversed-phase HPLC method for analysis of different types of Brazilian green propolis extracts (glycolic and ethanolic). The method showed to be selective for the propolis phenolic markers. The analysis of variance and residues demonstrated that the method had significant linear regression, without lack of fit. It was also a precise, accurate and robust method, which was of utmost importance to analyze both glycolic and ethanolic extracts and at different concentrations. Moreover, as these products can display most complex matrices to analyze, a valid HPLC method can also prove to be specific and versatile.

Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antifungal and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oil of Fruits from Juniperus oxycedrus L. Obtained from Morocco

Abstract The present study was aimed at conducting phytochemical analysis and evaluating the in vitro antifungal and antioxidant activities of the essential oil obtained from the fruits of J. oxycedrus L. Hydro-distillation was used to extract the essential oil from the fruits of Juniper oxycedrus. The essential oil was analyzed using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The antioxidant activity of the essential oil against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals was determined in vitro using varying concentrations of the essential oil and vitamin C as a standard antioxidant compound. A disc diffusion test was employed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the essential oil against two test fungal strains, Penicillium citrinum, and Aspergillus niger. The results revealed that 49 constituents were identified in fruit oil, representing 91.56% of the total oil and the yield was 1.58%. Juniper fruit oil was characterized by having high contents of ß-pinene (42.04%), followed by limonene (15.45%), sabinene (9.52%), α-pinene (5.21%), (E)-caryophyllene (3.77%), ρ-cymene (1.56%), caryophyllene oxide (2.02%), and myrcene (1.02%). The radical scavenging activity (% inhibition) of the essential oil was highest (81.87± 2.83%) at a concentration of 200 µg/mL. The essential oil of J. oxycedrus exhibited antifungal activity against A. niger and P. citrinum with minimum inhibitory concentration values (MIC) ranging from 2.89 to 85.01 µl/mL. The findings of the study reveal that the antioxidant and antifungal properties of J. oxycedrus essential oil and their chemical composition are significantly correlated

Estudo do potencial antiviral sobre o Sars-Cov-2 dos compostos identificados no extrato bruto das folhas de Tetradenia riparia / Study of antiviral potential on Sars-Cov-2 of compounds identified in Tetradenia riparia leaves crude extract / Estudio del potencial antiviral sobre el Sars-Cov-2 de los componentes identificados en el extracto crudo de las hojas de Tetradenia riparia

A COVID-19 surgiu de forma repentina, acometendo milhões de pessoas e causando muitas mortes no mundo todo. Diante disso, torna-se necessário a busca de substâncias bioativas com propriedades antivirais. No Brasil, a espécie Tetradenia riparia foi inserida como planta ornamental exótica, com aroma intenso e agradável, sendo cultivada em parques, jardins, residenciais e hortos. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar compostos presentes no extrato bruto das folhas de Tetradenia riparia com interesse antiviral. O extrato bruto das folhas secas foi obtido por maceração dinâmica por esgotamento do solvente e após, concentrado em evaporador rotativo. A composição química do extrato bruto foi analisada por cromatografia líquida de ultra eficiência acoplada à espectrometria de massas de alta resolução (UHPLC-ESI/qTOF). Foram identificados 31 compostos que foram investigados por meio de levantamento bibliográfico quanto ao seu potencial anti- SARS-CoV-2. Os compostos rosmanol, procianidina, cianidina, betulina, ácido betulínico e o ácido sagerínico, apresentaram potencial atividade antiviral sobre o SARS-CoV-2. Esta investigação é promissora, indicando possivelmente que no extrato bruto das folhas de T. ripária existem compostos que podem combater o SARS-CoV-2. Neste sentido, estudos de ancoramento molecular (docking) e análises in silico sobre a proteína Mpro do vírus devem ser realizadas corroborando desta forma a ação dos compostos identificados.

COVID-19 appeared suddenly, affecting millions of people and causing many deaths worldwide. Therefore, it is necessary to search for bioactive substances with antiviral properties. In Brazil, Tetradenia riparia was inserted as an exotic ornamental plant, with an intense and pleasant aroma, cultivated in parks, residential and vegetable gardens. This study aimed to identify compounds present in the crude extract of Tetradenia riparia leaves with antiviral interest. The crude extract of the dried leaves was obtained by dynamic maceration with solvent exhaustion and then concentrated in a rotary evaporator. The chemical composition of the crude extract was analyzed by ultra- performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC- ESI/qTOF). We identified 31 compounds investigated through a literature review for their anti- SARS-CoV-2 potential. The compounds rosmanol, procyanidin, cyanidin, betulin, betulinic acid, and sagerinic acid showed potential antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, this investigation is promising, possibly indicating that in the crude extract of T. riparia leaves, there are compounds that can fight SARS-CoV-2. In this sense, molecular docking studies and in silico analyzes on the virus Mpro protein must be carried out, thus corroborating the action of the identified compounds.

SARS-CoV-19 ha aparecido repentinamente, afectando a millones de personas y causando muchas muertes en todo el mundo. Por ello, se hace necesaria la búsqueda de sustancias bioactivas con propiedades antivirales. En Brasil, la especie Tetradenia riparia ha sido introducida como planta ornamental exótica, con un aroma intenso y agradable, siendo cultivada en parques, jardines, residencias y centros de jardinería. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los compuestos presentes en el extracto crudo de las hojas de Tetradenia riparia con interés antiviral. El extracto crudo de las hojas secas se obtuvo por maceración dinámica por agotamiento del disolvente y después, se concentró en el evaporador rotatorio. La composición química del extracto crudo se analizó mediante cromatografía líquida de ultra rendimiento acoplada a espectrometría de masas de alto rendimiento (UHPLC-ESI/qTOF). Se identificaron 31 compuestos y se investigó su potencial anti-SARS-CoV-2 mediante un estudio bibliográfico. Los compuestos rosmanol, procianidina, cianidina, betulina, ácido betulínico y ácido sagerínico, mostraron una potencial actividad antiviral sobre el SARS-CoV-2. Esta investigación es prometedora, pues posiblemente indica que en el extracto crudo de las hojas de T. riparia hay compuestos que pueden combatir el SARS-CoV-2. En este sentido, deben realizarse estudios de docking y análisis in silico sobre la proteína Mpro del virus para corroborar la acción de los compuestos identificados.

Análisis fitoquímico preliminar y actividad antifúngica In vitro del extracto etanólico de las hojas de Solanum hispidum pers. Colectadas en la localidad Obraje - Perú / Preliminary phytochemical analysis and in vitro antifungal activity of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Solanum hispidum pers. collected in the locality in Obraje - Peru

RESUMEN Objetivo . Analizar y determinar la actividad antifúngica in vitro del extracto etanólico de las hojas de Solanum hispidum Pers. Materiales y métodos . Se realizó el análisis fitoquímico preliminar cualitativo mediante reacciones de color y precipitación. Se investigó la actividad antifúngica in vitro frente a Candida albicans, Aspergillus brasilensis y Trichophyton mentagrophytes usando el método de difusión en pozo de agar y el ensayo de la concentración mínima inhibitoria (CMI). Resultados . El análisis fitoquímico preliminar cualitativo mostró la presencia de compuestos fenólicos, taninos, flavonoides, esteroides, alcaloides y saponinas. La actividad antifúngica in vitro fue demostrada para todos cultivos fúngicos con halos de inhibición entre 23 a 26 mm. Los valores de la CMI fueron de 125, 250 y 125 µg/mL para C. albicans, A. brasilensis y T. mentagrophytes, respectivamente. Conclusiones. El extracto etanólico de las hojas de Solanum hispidum Pers contiene importantes metabolitos secundarios y tiene moderada actividad antifúngica.

ABSTRACT Objective. To analyze and determine the in vitro antifungical activity of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Solanum hispidum Pers. Materials and methods. We carried out a preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis by color and precipitation reactions. We evaluated the in vitro antifungical activity against Candida albicans, Aspergillus brasilensis and Trichophyton mentagrophytes by using the agar well diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay. Results. Preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids and saponins. In vitro antifungal activity was demonstrated for all fungal cultures with inhibition halos between 23 to 26 mm. The MIC values were 125, 250, and 125 μg/mL for C. albicans, A. brasilensis, and T. mentagrophytes, respectively. Conclusions. The ethanolic extract of the leaves of Solanum hispidum Pers. contains important secondary metabolites and has moderate antifungical activity.

Broad-spectrum survey of medicinal plants as a potential source of anticancer agents / Estudio de amplio espectro de plantas medicinales como fuente potencial de agentes contra el cáncer

Cancer is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells that spreads through cell division. There are different types of medicines available to treat cancers, but no drug is found to be fully effective and safe for humans. The major problem involved in the cancer treatments is the toxicity of the established drug and their side effects. Medicinal plants are used as folk medicines in Asian and African populations for thousands of years. 60% of the drugs for treating cancer are derived from plants. More than 3000 plants have anticancer activity. The present review aims at the study of a broad spectrum survey of plants having anticancer components for different type of cancers. This article consists of 364 medicinal plants and their different parts as potential Source of Anticancer Agents.

El cáncer es un crecimiento anormal y descontrolado de células que se disemina a través de la división celular. Hay diferentes tipos de medicamentos disponibles para tratar el cáncer, pero no se ha encontrado ningún medicamento que sea completamente efectivo y seguro para los seres humanos. El principal problema involucrado en los tratamientos del cáncer es la toxicidad del fármaco establecido y sus efectos secundarios. Las plantas medicinales se utilizan como medicinas populares en poblaciones asiáticas y africanas durante miles de años. El 60% de los medicamentos para el tratamiento del cáncer se derivan de plantas. Más de 3000 plantas tienen actividad anticancerígena. La presente revisión tiene como objetivo el estudio de un estudio de amplio espectro de plantas que tienen componentes anticancerígenos para diferentes tipos de cánceres. Este artículo consta de 364 plantas medicinales y sus diferentes partes como fuente potencial de agentes anticancerígenos.

Processing tomato waste as a potential bioactive compounds source: phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity and bioacessibility studies / Resíduo do processamento do tomate como potencial fonte de compostos bioativos: compostos fenólicos, capacidade antioxidante e bioacessibilidade

A comparative study was perfomed with conventional and ultrasound assisted extraction on tomato processing waste. Ultrasound extraction exhibited slightly higher phenolic and flavonoids content, as well as higher ABTS + radical scavenging capacity (4.63 mg GAE.g-1, 0.96 mg RUE.g-1 and 27.90 µmol TE.g -1 respectively). On both extracts, a high percentage of flavonoids was lost during simulated digestion, resulting on a bioacessibility of approximately 13 %. Extracts presented good stability during storage conditions, which indicates a possible technological application.

Foi realizado um estudo comparativo com a extração convencional e assistida por ultrassom em resíduos do processamento de tomate. A extração ultrassônica exibiu teor de fenólicos e flavonóides ligeiramente maiores, bem como maior capacidade antioxidante ABTS + (4,63 mg AG.g-1, 0,96 mg RUE.g-1 e 27,90 µmol TE.g -1, respectivamente). Em ambos os extratos, uma alta porcentagem de flavonóides foi perdida durante a digestão simulada, resultando em uma bioacessibilidade de aproximadamente 13%. Os extratos apresentaram boa estabilidade durante as condições de armazenamento, o que indica uma possível aplicação tecnológica.

Nanoformulations of quercetin: a potential phytochemical for the treatment of uv radiation induced skin damages

Abstract The continuous prolonged exposures of sun light especially the ultra violet (UV) radiation present in it, cause not only the risk of skin cancer but also it may cause premature skin aging, photodermatoses and actinic keratoses. Flavonoids (including Flavane, Flavanone, Flavone, Flavonol, Isoflavone, Neoflavone etc.) having potent antioxidant activity, used as topical applications for protection against UV induced skin damages as well as for skin care. Most commonly used flavonoid is quercetin (Flavonol), which is present in fruits, vegetables, and herbs. We aim to review the research focused on development of different novel formulations to treat UV radiations induced skin diseases. In this review, several formulations of flavonoid quercetin were discussed and their outcomes were compiled and compared in context to solubility, stability and efficiency of application. On the basis this comparative analysis we have concluded that three formulations, namely glycerosomes, nanostructured lipid carriers and deformable liposomes hold good applications for future aspects for topical delivery of quercetin. These formulations showed enhanced stability, increased quercetin accumulation in different skin layers, facilitated drug permeation in skin and long-lasting drug release.

Effects of thymoquinone in a rat model of reserpine-induced depression

The objective of this study is to examine the antidepressant and antioxidant effects of thymoquinone (TQ) on reserpine-induced depression, and to investigate the antidepressant and antioxidant activity of combined treatment of TQ+citalopram. In total, 36 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: 1)control1, 2)control2, 3)reserpine, 4)reserpine+TQ 5)reserpine+citalopram and 6)reserpine+TQ+citalopram. Depression was induced by administering intraperitoneal reserpine of 0.2mg/kg/14days. For antidepressant effects, 10 mg/kg TQ and/or 10 mg/kg citalopram was administered intragastrically 30 minutes prior to the administration of reserpine. Rat behavior was examined using the Behavioral Test following the completion of treatment protocol. Total nitric oxide (NOx) levels, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, total oxidants status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS) in brain cortex, plasma as well as brain cortex glutathione (GSH) and levels of plasma total sulfhydryl groups (RSH) were examined. Treatment with TQ ameliorated the reserpine-induced changes in the Behavioral Test (p<0.05). TQ treatment significantly increased dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) expressions when compared to the R group (p<0.01). Serotonin (5-HT) expression also increased significantly (p<0.05). Brain cortex and plasma TOS, MDA and NOx levels decreased, whereas TAS, GSH and RSH levels increased (p< 0.05). TQ has the ability to prevent depression induced by reserpine. The combination of TQ+citalopram can be used in the treatment of depression with a stronger antioxidant effect

In vitro and in vivo antioxidant potentials of the methanolic crude extract from Inula glomerata Oliv. & Hiern (Asteraceae) and Salacia kraussii (Harv) Harv (Celastraceae) / Potenciales antioxidantes in vitro e in vivo del extracto crudo metanólico de Inula glomerata Oliv. & Hiern. (Asteraceae) y Salacia kraussii (Harv) Harv (Celastraceae)

Reactive oxygen species are implicated in multiple pathological conditions including erectile dysfunction. This study evaluated the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential of the methanolic extracts of Inula glomerata and Salacia kraussii. The plant materials were pulverized and extracted with methanol. The phytochemical analysis, ability of the crude extracts to scavenge free radicals (ABTS, DPPH, NO.) in vitroas well as the total phenolic and flavonoid contents was investigated. In vivo, antioxidant potentials of the crude extracts (50/250 mg/kg body weight) were determined in an erectile dysfunction rat model. The phytochemical analysis revealed that both plants contain flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and alkaloids. The crude extracts at varying degree of efficiency, scavenged ABTS and DPPH radicals. The crude extracts at low concentrations (50 mg/kg b.w) significantly (p<0.05) diminished the level of malondialdehyde, augmented catalase activities and elevated glutathione levels. However, SOD activities were significantly boosted in a dose-dependent manner by the crude extracts. Therefore, I. glomerataand S. kraussiipossess antioxidant properties, hence, can serve as a therapeutic modality in the treatment of oxidative stress-induced erectile dysfunction.

Las especies reactivas de oxígeno están implicadas en múltiples condiciones patológicas, incluyendo la disfunción eréctil. Este estudio evaluó el potencial antioxidante in vitro e in vivo de extractos metanólicos de Inula glomeratay Salacia kraussii. Los materiales vegetales fueron pulverizados y extraídos con metanol. A estos extractos crudos se les llevó a cabo el análisis fitoquímico junto con el contenido total de fenólicos y flavonoides, así como se les investigó la capacidad in vitro para atrapar radicales (ABTS, DPPH, NO.). Los potenciales antioxidantes in vivo de los extractos crudos (50/250 mg/kg de peso corporal) se determinaron en un modelo en ratas con disfunción eréctil. El análisis fitoquímico reveló que ambas plantas contuvieron flavonoides, taninos, terpenoides y alcaloides. Los extractos crudos con un grado variable de eficiencia, atraparon a los radicales ABTS y DPPH. Los extractos crudos a bajas concentraciones (50 mg/kg p.c) significativamente (p<0.05) disminuyeron el nivel de malondialdehído, aumentaron las actividades de catalasa y elevaron los niveles de glutatión. Sin embargo, las actividades de SOD por los extractos crudos fueron significativamente dosis-dependientes. Así, los extractos de I. glomeratay S. kraussii mostraron propiedades antioxidantes, y por lo tanto, podrían servir como una alternativa terapéutica en el tratamiento de disfunción eréctil inducida por estrés oxidativo.

Evaluation of the production of antifungal metabolites against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in Streptomyces 5.1 by random mutagenesis

Streptomyces 5.1 is a bacterium isolated from rice soils in the south of the Tolima department (Colombia). This microorganism is characterized by its antagonistic activity against rubber tree phytopathogens like Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, the causal agent of leaf anthracnose. The antifungal activity of this Streptomyces isolate has been associated with secondary metabolites production. However, the identity of those metabolites is unknown because its purification and identification have not been possible through classic chemical studies. Therefore, aiming to contribute in the study of the secondary metabolites produced by 5.1 from a molecular approach, this research seeks to identify -preliminarily- the genomic fingerprint changes associated with the production of antifungal secondary metabolites produced by Streptomyces 5.1 through the evaluation of a mutant library of 5.1 obtained by random mutagenesis using controlled ultraviolet light exposure. The antifungal activity of obtained mutants was evaluated using Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (C1) fungus as a biosensor, isolated by the Biotechnology Institute of Universidad Nacional de Colombia. In this way, the library of mutants of 5.1, initially formed by 300 isolations, was classified into two phenotypic groups of interest: enhanced mutants (1 isolate) and null mutants (11 isolates) of secondary metabolites. The genomic changes in both groups were analyzed by obtaining the genomic profile of the isolates using Repetitive Extragenic Palindromic (Rep-PCR). The obtained profiles evidenced the presence of one additional band in the enhanced mutant, and the absence of a specific band in the non-producing mutants, both in comparison with the original strain. These bands are proposed for a future sequencing study which will define their role in the production process of metabolites with antifungal activity in Streptomyces 5.1.

Antidiabetic activities of alkaloids isolated from medicinal plants

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder affecting a great part of population around the world. It is the fifth leading death causing disease in the world and its cases are increasing day by day. Traditional medicine is thought to have promising future in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. In contrast to synthetic drugs phytochemicals are considered to be free from side effects. As one of the main class of natural products, alkaloids and their derivatives have been widely used as sources of pharmacological agents against a variety of medical problems. Many studies confirmed the role of alkaloids in the management of diabetes and numerous alkaloids isolated from different medicinal plants were found active against diabetes. Like other natural products, alkaloids regulate glucose metabolism either by inhibiting or inducing multiple candidate proteins including AMP-activated protein kinase, glucose transporters, glycogen synthase kinase-3, sterol regulatory element-binding proteins 1, glucokinase, glucose-6-phosphatase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase among the others. A comprehensive review of alkaloids reported in the literature with anti-diabetic activities and their target enzymes is conducted, with the aim to help in exploring the use of alkaloids as anti-diabetic agents. Future work should focus on rigorous clinical studies of the alkaloids, their development and relevant drug targets.

Phytochemistry and anti-inflammatory activities of Piper kadsura (Choisy) Ohwi ­ a review / Actividades fitoquímicas y antiinflamatorias de Piper kadsura (Choisy) Ohwi - una revisión

Piper kadsura (Choisy) Ohwi which belongs to the family Piperaceae, is a well-known medicinal plant possessing high medicinal and various therapeutic properties. It is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of asthma and rheumatic arthritis. Numerous studies on this species have also corroborated the significant anti-inflammatory potential of its extracts and secondary metabolites. The main chemical constituents which have been isolated and identified from P. kadsura are lignans and neolignans, which possess anti-inflammatory activities. The present article aims to provide a review of the studies done on the phytochemistry and antiinflammatory activities of P. kadsura. The scientific journals for this brief literature review were from electronic sources, such as Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. This review is expected to draw the attention of the medical professionals and the general public towards P. kadsura and to open the door for detailed research in the future.

Piper kadsura (Choisy) Ohwi, perteneciente a la familia Piperaceae, es una planta medicinal conocida que posee importantes propiedades medicinales y diversas propiedades terapéuticas. Es ampliamente utilizada en la medicina tradicional china para el tratamiento del asma y la artritis reumática. Numerosos estudios sobre esta especie también han corroborado el destacado potencial antiinflamatorio de sus extractos y metabolitos secundarios. Los principales componentes químicos que se han aislado e identificado de P. kadsura son los lignanos y los neolignanos, que poseen actividades antiinflamatorias. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo proporcionar una revisión de los estudios realizados sobre las actividades fitoquímicas y antiinflamatorias de P. kadsura. Las revistas científicas para esta breve revisión de literatura fueron de fuentes electrónicas, como Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus y Web of Science. Se espera que esta revisión atraiga la atención de los profesionales médicos y el público en general respecto de P. kadsura y abra la puerta a una investigación detallada en el futuro.

Clinopodium mexicanum: potential and difficulties for the sustainable use of a Mexican medicinal plant / Clinopodium mexicanum: potencial y dificultades para el uso de una planta medicinal mexicana

Clinopodium mexicanum (Benth.) Govaerts (Lamiaceae) is a native plant of Mexico. This plant is used in traditional Mexican medicine for the treatment of cultural specific syndromes such as "susto", "nervios" or "espanto", conditions related to anxiety and depression. In addition, it has a high biocultural value for its medicinal and culinary use and for its exchange value in various indigenous areas of México. This review aims to compile updated information about the ethnobotanical, phytochemistry and commercialization aspects of Clinopodium mexicanum, and it focuses on the potential use of this species as a raw material in the phytopharmaceutical industry for the treatment of anxiety and pain. Moreover, it would be a viable productive alternative for many rural communities, which could not only produce the raw material but who could also add value to the sale of the plant.

Clinopodium mexicanum (Benth.) Govaerts, es una planta nativa de México. Es usada en la medicina tradicional mexicana para tratar síndromes de filiación cultural como "susto", "nervios" o "espanto", los cuales están asociados a la ansiedad y depresión. Además, la planta presenta un alto valor biocultural por sus usos: medicinal, culinario y por el valor de cambio que tiene en áreas indígenas de México. La revisión presentada tiene como objetivo compilar información actualizada sobre aspectos etnobotánicos, fitoquímicos y comercialización de Clinopodium mexicanum. Igualmente señalar el potencial uso de esta especie como materia prima para la elaboración de productos para la ansiedad y el dolor por parte de la industria fitofarmacéutica. Además de ser una alternativa productiva para muchas comunidades rurales, las cuales pueden venderla como materia prima o como producto derivado.

Bioactive compounds in fruits from different regions of Brazil / Compuestos bioactivos en frutas de diferentes regiones del Brasil

It is important to determine the chemical composition of fruits in order to establish their potential health benefits for human nutrition and thus stimulate their cultivation and consumption. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the physical and chemical parameters, vitamin C content, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and carotenoids, fatty acid profile and antioxidant activity of fruits from different regions of Brazil. We observed that the different regions and fruits studied presented very distinct characteristics. For example, the cupuaçu pit is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, while the genipap and java plum presented high flavonoid content and the butia had a high concentration of carotenoids. Guava was the fruit with the highest antioxidant activity through the ABTS radical, while the yellow mombim presented the best response when the activity was determined by FRAP.

Es importante determinar la composición química de las frutas para establecer sus potenciales beneficios para la salud humana y, por lo tanto, estimular su cultivo y consumo. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar parámetros físicos y químicos, el contenido de vitamina C, los compuestos fenólicos, los flavonoides y los carotenoides, el perfil de ácidos grasos y la actividad antioxidante de las frutas de diferentes regiones de Brasil. De los resultados obtenidos en este estudio se pudo observar que las diferentes regiones y frutas estudiadas presentaban características muy distintas, ya que la semilla de cupuaçu es rica en ácidos grasos insaturados, mientras que el genipapo y la ciruela java presentaron un alto contenido de flavonoides y el butia presentó alta concentración de carotenoides. La guayaba fue la fruta con la mayor actividad antioxidante determinada por el radical ABTS, mientras que el mombim amarillo presentó la mejor respuesta cuando la actividad fue determinada por FRAP

Phytochemical Screening of Callus and Cell Suspensions Cultures of Thevetia peruviana

Abstract Thevetia peruviana is an ornamental shrub grown-up in many tropical region of the world. This plant produces secondary metabolites with biological properties of interest for the pharmaceutical industry. The objective was to determine the secondary metabolites profile of callus and cell suspension cultures of T. peruviana and compare them with those from explant (fruit pulp). Extracts in 50% aqueous ethanol and ethyl acetate were prepared. The phytochemical analysis was performed using standard chemical tests and thin layer chromatography. In addition, total phenolic and flavonoids compounds (TPC and TFC), total cardiac glycosides (TCG) and total antioxidant activity (TAA) was determined during the cell suspension growth. Phenolic chemical profile was also analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Common metabolites (alkaloids, amino acids, antioxidants, cardiac glycosides, leucoanthocyanidins, flavonoids, phenols, sugars and triterpenes) were detected in all samples. The maximum production of extracellular TCG, TPC, TFC and TAA in cells suspensions were at 6-12 days; in contrast, intracellular content was relatively constant during the exponential grown phase (0 to 12-days). HPLC analysis detected one compound with retention time at 11.6 min; this compound was tentatively identified as dihydroquercetin, a flavonoid with anti-cancer properties. These results provide evidence on the utility of the in vitro cell cultures of T. peruviana for valuable pharmaceutical compounds production.

Lindera aggregata (Sims) Kosterm: review on phytochemistry and biological activities / Lindera agreggata (Sims) Kosterm: revisión de su fitoquímica y actividades biológicas

The genus Lindera consists of approximately 100 species that are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas throughout the world. Most Lindera plants, particularly Lindera aggregata is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine that has important medicinal value and health benefits. Contemporary chemical and pharmacological studies have shown that L. aggregata are a source of structurally diverse molecules having pharmacological potential. In an effort to promote research on L. aggregata and develop therapeutic and pharmacological products, this review describes the structural diversity of its components and pharmacological and biological significance of L. aggregata. This review is based on a literature analysis of scientific journals from electronic sources, such as Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science. Thus, with the growing interest in traditional medicine and botanical drugs worldwide, L. aggregata will increasingly capture chemists' and pharmacologists' attention because they produce diverse and structurally novel compounds having pharmacological significance.

El género Lindera consta de aproximadamente 100 especies que están ampliamente distribuidas en áreas tropicales y subtropicales en todo el mundo. La mayoría de las plantas de Lindera, particularmente Lindera aggregata, es parte conocida de la medicina tradicional china con un importante valor medicinal y beneficios para la salud. Estudios químicos y farmacológicos contemporáneos han demostrado que L. aggregata es una fuente de moléculas estructuralmente diversas que con potencial farmacológico. En un esfuerzo por promover la investigación sobre L. aggregata y desarrollar productos terapéuticos y farmacológicos, esta revisión describe la diversidad estructural de sus componentes y la importancia farmacológica y biológica de L. aggregata. Esta revisión se basa en un análisis de literatura de revistas científicas de fuentes electrónicas, como Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus y Web of Science. Por lo tanto, con el creciente interés en la medicina tradicional y las drogas botánicas en todo el mundo, L. aggregata captará cada vez más la atención de los químicos y farmacólogos debido a que producen compuestos diversos y estructuralmente novedosos que tienen importancia farmacológica.

An in silico investigation of phytochemicals as potential inhibitors against non-structural protein 1 from dengue virus 4

Dengue fever has emerged as a big threat to human health since the last decade owing to high morbidity with considerable mortalities. The proposed study aims at the in silico investigation of the inhibitory action against DENV4-NS1 of phytochemicals from two local medicinal plants of Pakistan. Non-Structural Protein 1 of Dengue Virus 4 (DENV4-NS1) is known to be involved in the replication and maturation of viron in the host cells. A total of 129 phytochemicals (50 from Tanacetum parthenium and 79 from Silybum marianum) were selected for this study. The tertiary structure of DENV4-NS1 was predicted based on homology modelling using Modeller 9.18 and the structural stability was evaluated using molecular dynamics simulations. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) along with the drug-likeness was also predicted for these phytochemicals using SwissADME and PreADMET servers. The results of ADMET and drug-likeness predictions exhibited that 54 phytochemicals i.e. 25 from Tanacetum parthenium and 29 from Silybum marianum showed effective druglikeness. These phytochemicals were docked against DENV4-NS1 using AutoDock Vina and 18 most suitable phytochemicals with binding affinities ≤ -6.0 kcal/mol were selected as potential inhibitors for DENV4-NS1. Proposed study also exploits the novel inhibitory action of Jaceidin, Centaureidin, Artecanin, Secotanaparthenolide, Artematin, Schizolaenone B, Isopomiferin, 6, 8-Diprenyleriodictyol, and Anthraxin against dengue virus. It is concluded that the screened 18 phytochemicals have strong inhibition potential against Dengue Virus 4.

Importancia nutricional y actividad biológica de los compuestos bioactivos de quelites consumidos en México / Nutritional importance and biological activity of bioactive compounds from quelites consumed in Mexico

Sólo un 30% de los hogares en México, presentan seguridad alimentaria, es decir, un gran porcentaje de los hogares y por ende de la población no satisfacen las necesidades básicas diarias de macro y micronutrimentos. Los quelites, que se definen como plantas silvestres comestibles (hojas, tallos y flores) son una fuente accesible, continua, económica y adecuada de nutrimentos. Sin embargo, su consumo ha disminuido por modificaciones en las preferencias alimentarias, derivadas de los cambios en estilos de vida. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue valorizar a los quelites como fuente de alimento. Los quelites, aportan proteínas, aminoácidos, minerales (Ca, Mg, Zn), vitaminas (E, C) y fibra. Además, son una excelente fuente de compuestos bioactivos, como ácidos fenólicos (ácido cafeico, ferúlico) y flavonoides (quercetina, kaempferol, espinacetina), carotenoides, ácido α-linolénico y betalainas, que presentan elevada actividad antioxidante. Su consumo habitual se ha relacionado con beneficios a la salud, tales como efectos antitumorales, antihiperlipidémicos y antidiabéticos. Los quelites, además de estar disponibles en forma silvestre, forman parte de las tradiciones culinarias de México, incorporados de forma cruda y cocida en los platillos regionales. Por lo tanto, la revalorización y reincorporación de los quelites en la dieta, puede coadyuvar a cubrir las necesidades nutrimentales, en poblaciones con poco acceso o inseguridad alimentaria, además de contribuir a proporcionar efectos adicionales a través de sus compuestos bioactivos.

Only 30% of households in Mexico present food security, which means a large percentage of households and the population does not meet their needs in terms of macro and micronutrients. Thus, quelites, which are defined as wild edible plants, are an accessible, continuous, economical and adequate source of nutrients. However, quelite consumption in Mexico has been decreasing in response to changes in food preferences and lifestyles, including increased exposure to hypercaloric foods. Therefore, the aim of this work was to discuss the value of quelites as a food source rich in nutrients, proteins, amino acids, minerals (Ca, Mg, Zn), vitamins (E, C) and fiber. We also discuss how quelites are good source of bioactive compounds, such as phenolic acids (caffeic acid, ferulic acid) and flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, spinacetin), carotenoids, α-linolenic acid and betalaines. There use have been mainly related to the anti-tumor, antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic benefits. We further discuss topics related to the culinary traditions of Mexico and the incorporation of quelites in the raw and cooked form in regional markets. The revaluation and the reincorporation of quelites in the diet can help meet nutritional needs, in addition to possibly providing additional health benefits.

Avaliação dos compostos bioativos de diferentes extratos das folhas e sementes de moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam) / Evaluation of bioactive compounds of different extracts of moringa seed and leaves (Moringa oleifera Lam)

A moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam) é uma hortaliça arbórea que apresenta uma grande versatilidade, sendo cultivada em vários países. No presente estudo, foi avaliado o teor de compostos bioativos de diferentes extratos das folhas e sementes e da mistura folhas e sementes (F+S) de moringa. Os extratos foram obtidos com água destilada e com os solventes acetona, metanol e etanol nas concentrações de 40% e 80%. Os extratos da junção de F+S de moringa extraídos com acetona a 80% apresentaram maior teor de compostos fenólicos (1.715,7 mg EAG/100g de resíduo em base seca), quando comparado aos extratos de folhas e sementes (1.479,7 mg EAG/100g de resíduo em base seca e 326,1mg QCA/100g de resíduo em base seca, respectivamente). Os solventes etanol e acetona foram os que apresentaram maior capacidade de extração de compostos fenólicos totais e flavonoides totais, nos resíduos estudados. Os resíduos de moringa demonstraram potencial para serem utilizados como fonte natural de compostos bioativos.