Molecular characterization and incidence of new tospovirus: Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus (SVNV) in Egypt / Caracterização molecular e incidência de novo tospovírus: Vírus da Necrose da Veia da Soja (SVNV) no Egito

Abstract Field survey study was conducted season (2017). Soybeans and weeds were weekly sampled randomly. Thrips adults were identified and counted. Detection of the virus isolate and the natural incidence was determined using; Mechanical transmission, host range, DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR. The natural incidence thrips individuals was detected depending on the SVNV% in thrips individuals and weeds hosts. Ten thrips species were associated with soybean plants in the field. The most abundant species was T. tabaci, average 256.5 average no.of individuals, followed by F. occidentalis (142.5 average no. of individuals), then N. variabilis (86.6/ average no. of individuals). Fourteen thrips species occurred on 5 legumes field crops and 41 weed plant species within soybean field. The highest average number 40.6.of individuals were recorded on Ammi majus. While the lowest one 3.3 average no. of individuals were on Urtica urens. Only 21diagnostic plant species were susceptible to infection with SVNV. G. max and Vigna radiate, were the highest percentage of infection 80% followed by V. unguilata & N. benthamiana, 75%. Egyptian isolate of Soybean vein necrosis virus (SVNV) in this study showed a high degree of similarity and it is closely related to TSWV from Egypt (DQ479968) and TCSV from USA (KY820965) with nucleotide sequence identity of 78%. Four thrips species transmitted SVNV (F. fusca 4.0%, F. schultzei 4.3%, F. tritici 3.3% and N. variabilis 68.0% transmission). Both C. phaseoli and M. sjostedti can acquire the virus but unable to transmit it. The following species; T. tabaci, F. occidentalis, S. dorsallis and T. palmi cannot acquire or transmit SVNV. The incidence of SVNV in the field started by the end of July then increased gradualy from 12.7 to 71.3% by the end of the season. In conclusion, few thrips individuals invaded soybean crops are enough to transmit high rate of SVNV within the crop. Furthermore, several vector species are also abundant on weeds, which are the major sources of soybean viruses transmitted to the crops. This information might be important for control and reduce the incidence of SVNV infection.

Resumo O estudo de pesquisa de campo foi realizado na temporada (2017). A soja e as ervas daninhas foram amostradas semanalmente de forma aleatória. Tripes adultos foram identificados e contados. A detecção do vírus isolado e a incidência natural foram determinadas usando transmissão mecânica, gama de hospedeiros, DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR. A incidência natural de tripes em indivíduos foi detectada dependendo da % de SVNV em tripes e hospedeiros infestantes. Dez espécies de tripes foram associadas a plantas de soja no campo. A espécie mais abundante foi T. tabaci, com média de 256,5 número médio de indivíduos, seguida por F. occidentalis (142,5) e N. variabilis (86,6 / número médio de indivíduos). Catorze espécies de tripes ocorreram em 5 culturas de leguminosas e 41 espécies de plantas daninhas dentro de campos de soja. O maior número médio de 40,6 indivíduos foi registrado em Ammi majus. Enquanto o mais baixo, 3,3 número médio de indivíduos, foi no Urtica urens. Apenas 21 espécies de plantas diagnosticadas foram suscetíveis à infecção com SVNV. G. max e Vigna radiate foram os maiores percentuais de infecção, 80%, seguidos por V. unguilata e N. benthamiana, 75%. O isolado egípcio neste estudo mostrou um alto grau de similaridade e está intimamente relacionado ao TSWV do Egito (DQ479968) e ao TCSV dos EUA (KY820965), com identidade de sequência de nucleotídeos de 78%. Quatro espécies de tripes transmitiram SVNV (F. fusca 4,0%, F. schultzei 4,3%, F. tritici 3,3% e N. variabilis 68,0% de transmissão). Tanto C. phaseoli quanto M. sjostedti podem adquirir o vírus, mas não podem transmiti-lo. As seguintes espécies, T. tabaci, F. occidentalis, S. dorsallis e T. palmi não podem adquirir ou transmitir SVNV. A incidência de SVNV no campo, iniciada no final de julho, aumentou gradativamente de 12,7 para 71,3% no final da temporada. Em conclusão, poucos indivíduos de tripes invadiram a cultura da soja e são suficientes para transmitir alta taxa de SVNV dentro da cultura. Além disso, várias espécies de vetores também abundam em ervas daninhas, que são as principais fontes dos vírus da soja transmitidos às lavouras. Essas informações podem ser importantes para controlar e reduzir a incidência de infecção por SVNV.

Chloroplast genomic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of Pellionia scabra / 生物工程学报

Pellionia scabra belongs to the genus Pellionia in the family of Urticaceae, and is a high-quality wild vegetables with high nutritional value. In this study, high-throughput techniques were used to sequence, assemble and annotate the chloroplast genome. We also analyzed its structure, and construct the phylogenetic trees from the P. scabra to further study the chloroplast genome characteristics. The results showed that the chloroplast genome size was 153 220 bp, and the GC content was 36.4%, which belonged to the typical tetrad structure in P. scabra. The chloroplast genome encodes 130 genes, including 85 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes in P. scabra. Among them, 15 genes contained 1 intron, 2 genes contained 2 introns, and rps12 had trans-splicing, respectively. In P. scabra, chloroplast genomes could be divided into four categories, including 43 photosynthesis, 64 self-replication, other 7 coding proteins, and 4 unknown functions. A total of 51 073 codons were detected in the chloroplast genome, among which the codon encoding leucine (Leu) accounted for the largest proportion, and the codon preferred to use A and U bases. There were 72 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in the chloroplast genome of P. scabra, containing 58 single nucleotides, 12 dinucleotides, 1 trinucleotide, and 1 tetranucleotide. The ycf1 gene expansion was present at the IRb/SSC boundary. The phylogenetic trees showed that P. scabra (OL800583) was most closely related to Elatostema stewardii (MZ292972), Elatostema dissectum (MK227819) and Elatostema laevissimum var. laevissimum (MN189961). Taken together, our results provide worthwhile information for understanding the identification, genetic evolution, and genomics research of P. scabra species.

Three first records of stick insects attacking plants (Inseect: Phasmida) in Tibet / Três primeiros registros de insetos-pau atacando plantas (Inseect: Phasmida) no Tibet

Except for a few stick insects that are economically valuable, most species be considered to be forest pests, so it is extremely important to obtain plant host-use information of more stick insects. In this paper, the plant hosts of three species of stick insects were recorded for the first time. We also discovered these stick insects can feed upon the flowers or leaves of plants. Lopaphus unidentatus (Chen & He, 1995) (Phasmida: Lonchodidae) attacked Hypericum choisianum Wall. ex N. Robson, 1973 (Hypericaceae), Leurophasma dolichocercum Bi, 1995 (Phasmida: Aschiphasmatidae) attacked Antenoron filiforme (Thunb.) Roberty & Vautier, 1964 (Polygonaceae) and Megalophasma granulatum Bi, 1995 (Phasmida: Lonchodidae) attacked Debregeasia orientalis C. J. Chen, 1991 (Urticaceae). Finally, we were lucky enough to also obtain photographs of them mating and feeding.

Exceto por alguns insetos-pau que são economicamente valiosos, a maioria das espécies pode ser considerada praga florestal, por isso é extremamente importante obter informações sobre o uso de hospedeiros de plantas de mais insetos-pau. Neste artigo, as plantas hospedeiras de três espécies de bicho-pau foram registradas pela primeira vez. Também descobrimos que esses bichos-pau podem se alimentar de flores ou folhas de plantas. Lopaphus unidentatus (Chen & He, 1995) (Phasmida: Lonchodidae) atacou a parede de Hypericum choisianum. ex N. Robson, 1973 (Hypericaceae), Leurophasma dolichocercum Bi, 1995 (Phasmida: Aschiphasmatidae) atacou Antenoron filiforme (Thunb.) Roberty & Vautier, 1964 (Polygonaceae) e Megalophasma granulatum Bi, 1995 (Phasmida: Lonchodidae orientaled) atacou Chen, 1991 (Urticaceae). Finalmente, tivemos a sorte de também obter fotos deles se acasalando e se alimentando.

Active constituents of Urtica fissa in inhibition of benign prostatic hyperplasia / 中国中药杂志

The present study investigated the material basis of Urtica fissa for the inhibition of benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH). The active fractions were screened, and the extracts of dichloromethane and ethyl acetate exhibited significantly inhibitory activities against 5α-reductase in vitro and BPH in model rats. The chemical constituents in the active fractions were systematically investigated, and 28 compounds were obtained, which were identified as lobechine methyl ester(1), dibutyl-O-phthalate(2), 1-monolinolein(3), epipinoresinol(4), 5-hydroxy-3,4-dimethyl-5-pentanyl-2(5H)-furanone(5), E-7,9-diene-11-methenyl palmitic acid(6), evofolin B(7), ficusal(8), threo-2,3-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3-ethoxypropan-1-ol(9), α-viniferin(10),(9R,7E)-9-hydroxy-5,7-mengatigmadien-4-one-9-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(11), indole-3-carboxaldehyde(12), p-hydroxy ethyl cinnamate(13), benzyl alcohol-O-β-D-glucoside(14), L-methionine(15), 4-methoxyaniline(16), 6-aminopurine(17), 8'-acetyl oilvil(18), 4-methoxyl-8'-acetyl oilvil(19), vanillic acid(20), β-hydroxypropiovanillone(21), 7-hydroxy-6-methoxycoumarin(22), p-hydroxybenzaldehyde(23), pinoresinol(24), erythro-1,2-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,3-propanediol(25), urticol(26), urticol-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(27), and lobechine(28). Compounds 1-17 were isolated from U. fissa for the first time. Meanwhile, compound 1 was a new natural product. Compounds 10, 11, 19, 21, and 27 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on 5α-reductase.

Lignans with inhibitory effect on 5α-reductase from Urtica cannabina / 中国中药杂志

The lignans in Urtica cannabina were isolated by preparative HPLC, silica, and ODS column chromatographies, and identified by NMR and HR-MS. The inhibitory activities on 5α-reductase were evaluated in vitro. As a result, ten secolignans,(2R,4S)-2,4-bis(3-methoxyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-butoxypropanol(1), 3,4-trans-3-hydroxymethyl-4-[bis(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl] butyrolactone(2), 3,4-trans-3-hydroxymethyl-4-[(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)(3-methoxyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl] butyrolactone(3), 3,4-trans-3-hydroxymethyl-4-[bis(3-methoxyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl] butyrolactone(trans urticol, 4), 3,4-trans-3-hydroxymethyl-4-[bis(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl] butyrolactone-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(5), 3,4-trans-3-hydroxymethyl-4-[(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)(3-methoxyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl]butyrolactone-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(6), 3,4-trans-3-hydroxymethyl-4-[bis(3-methoxyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl]butyrolactone-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(trans-urticol-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, 7), cycloolivil-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(8), isolariciresinol-4'-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(9), and olivil-4'-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(10), together with a polyphenol [α-viniferin(11)], were isolated from U. cannabina for the first time. Compound 1 was a new lignan. Compound 7 was potent in inhibiting 5α-reductase.

Study on metabolites of Laportea bulbifera extract in rat feces based on UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS~E technique / 中国中药杂志

This project is to study the metabolites of Laportea bulbifera extract in rat feces. After the SD rats were gavaged with the extract(136 g·kg~(-1), according to the crude drug dose), the metabolites in their feces were detected by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS~E technique, and the obtained mass spectrometry data was combined with UNIFI software for prediction. The prototype components and metabolites in rat feces were identified with reference materials and related literature. A total of 43 metabolites were identified(including 8 prototype components and 35 metabolites). The metabolic pathways mainly include monocaffeoylquinic acid(hydrogenation reduction, ring-opening cracking, sulfation, hydroxylation, glucuronidation), quercetin(O-C2 bond ring-opening cleavage, C2-C3 double bond reduction, rutin carbonylation) and so on. The metabolites and metabolic process of L. bulbifera extract in rat feces were clarified, which provided a basis for the study of the active substances and its mechanism of action.

Pilea umbrosa ameliorate CCl induced hepatic injuries by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress, pro-inflammatory and fibrosis genes in rat

BACKGROUND@#Pilea umbrosa (Urticaceae) is used by local communities (district Abbotabad) for liver disorders, as anticancer, in rheumatism and in skin disorders.@*METHODS@#Methanol extract of P. umbrosa (PUM) was investigated for the presence of polyphenolic constituents by HPLC-DAD analysis. PUM (150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg) was administered on alternate days for eight weeks in rats exposed with carbon tetrachloride (CCl). Serum analysis was performed for liver function tests while in liver tissues level of antioxidant enzymes and biochemical markers were also studied. In addition, semi quantitative estimation of antioxidant genes, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) induced stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis related genes were carried out on liver tissues by RT-PCR analysis. Liver tissues were also studied for histopathological injuries.@*RESULTS@#Level of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and glutathione (GSH) decreased (p < 0.05) whereas level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), HO and nitrite increased in liver tissues of CCl treated rat. Likewise increase in the level of serum markers; alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total bilirubin was observed. Moreover, CCl caused many fold increase in expression of ER stress markers; glucose regulated protein (GRP-78), x-box binding protein1-total (XBP-1 t), x-box binding protein1-unspliced (XBP-1 u) and x-box binding protein1-spliced (XBP-1 s). The level of inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) was aggregated whereas suppressed the level of antioxidant enzymes; γ-glutamylcysteine ligase (GCLC), protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) and nuclear erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf-2). Additionally, level of fibrosis markers; transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Smad-3 and collagen type 1 (Col1-α) increased with CCl induced liver toxicity. Histopathological scrutiny depicted damaged liver cells, neutrophils infiltration and dilated sinusoids in CCl intoxicated rats. PUM was enriched with rutin, catechin, caffeic acid and apigenin as evidenced by HPLC analysis. Simultaneous administration of PUM and CCl in rats retrieved the normal expression of these markers and prevented hepatic injuries.@*CONCLUSION@#Collectively these results suggest that PUM constituted of strong antioxidant chemicals and could be a potential therapeutic agent for stress related liver disorders.

Study on effect of extract from Tibetan medicine Urtica hyperborean on anti-prostatic hyperplasia / 中国中药杂志

In this study,mouse models of benign prostatic hyperplasia induced by subcutaneous injection of testosterone propionate was used to investigate the therapeutic effect and mechanism of Urtica hyperborean( UW) extracts on prostate hyperplasia in mice. The effects of UW extracts on prostate index,serum epidermal growth factor( EGF) and dihydrotestosterone( DHT) in model mice were observed,and the EGF and anti-apoptotic factor( Bcl-2) mRNA expression levels were detected as well as pathological changes in prostate tissue. The results showed that the ethyl acetate extraction and alcohol soluble fraction of the UW could significantly reduce the prostate index,reduce the serum DHT and EGF levels( P<0. 01),and significantly decrease the EGF and Bcl-2 mRNA expression( P<0. 01),significantly improved the morphological structure of prostate tissue. The above results confirmed that ethyl acetate extract and alcohol-soluble parts of UW have a good preventive effect on mice prostatic hyperplasia model,and its mechanism may be to reduce androgen levels by regulating polypeptide growth factors and/or inhibiting cell hyperproliferation and promoting apoptosis. This study laid the foundation for the further research on UW.

Rapid identification of constituents of Urtica hyperborea using UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS method / 中国中药杂志

This paper deals with the application of ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry(UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS) method to rapidly determine and analyze the chemical constituents of methanol extract of Urtica hyperborea. We employed UPLC YMC-Triart C18(2. 1 mm×100 mm,1. 9 μm) column to UPLC analysis with acetonitrile-water(containing 0. 4% formic acid) in gradient as mobile phase. The flow rate was 0. 3 m L·min-1 gradient elution and column temperature was 30℃; the injection volume was 4 μL. ESI ion source was used to ensure the data collected in anegative ion mode. The chemical components of U. hyperborea were identified through retention time,exact relative molecular mass,cleavage fragments of MS/MS and reported data.The results indicated that a total of 31 compounds were identified,including 8 flavonoids,14 phenolic compounds,8 phenylpropanoids(4 coumarins and 4 lignans),and 1 steroidal compound,13 of which were confirmed by comparison. The UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS method could rapid identify the chemical components of U. hyperborea. The above compounds were discovered in U. hyperborea for the first time,which could provide theoretical foundation for further research on the basis of the pharmacodynamics of U. hyperborea.

Imagem / Image

A Urticária de Pressão Tardia é considerada uma doença rara, cujo quadro clínico é diferente da urticária clássica e pode envolver manifestações sistêmicas. Sendo assim, o diagnóstico é pouco frequente, até mesmo pelos especialistas. Neste artigo, apresentamos um paciente, com história típica de lesões desencadeadas por pressão. (AU)

Delayed Pressure Urticaria is considered a rare disease, with clinical diagnosis different from classi- cal urticaria, with possible systemic manifestations. Therefore, it is frequently underdiagnosed, even by specialists. In this article, the case of a patient with a typical history of pressure-induced lesions is presented. (AU)

Phytochemical Identification from Boehmeria nivea Leaves and Analysis of (-)-Loliolide by HPLC

Phytochemicals were isolated from leaves of the fiber crop, ramie (Boehmeria nivea, Bn), using open column chromatography and medium pressure liquid chromatography. Their structures were identified as β-sitosterol, (-)-loliolide, rutin, and pyrimidinedione by MS, ¹H-, and ¹³C-NMR spectroscopic analysis. Among them, (-)-loliolide was isolated for the first time from B. nivea. A content analysis of (-)-loliolide in B. nivea collected from different regions and harvest times was conducted by HPLC. The highest content of (-)-loliolide was found in Bn-23 harvested in September. These results will be helpful to use the plant which harvest in September as a high content phytochemical additive in food, health supplements, and medicinal products.

Morphometric and hormonal study of the effect of utrica diocia extract on mammary glands in rats / Estudio morfométrico y hormonal del efecto de extracto de utrica diocia en glándulas mamarias en ratas

Urtica diocia is a multipurpose herb in traditional medicine. Its hydroalcoholic extract (20, 50 and 100 mg/kg) administered interaperitoneally to Wistar female rats for 21 consequent days resulted in significant increase in the number of alveoli of mammary glands in doses of 20 and 50 mg/kg. Changes in serum prolactin and alveolar diameter were not significant in comparison with control group. Also, there was an increase in serum prolactin and alveolar diameter in doses of 20 and 50 mg/kg. Utrica diocia extract has positive effects on mammary glands.

Urtica diocia es una hierba de usos múltiples en la medicina tradicional. Su extracto hidroalcohólico (20, 50 y 100 mg/kg) administrado por vía intraperitoneal en ratas hembras Wistar de 21 días resultaron en un aumento significativo en el número de alvéolos de las glándulas mamarias en dosis de 20 y 50 mg/kg. Los cambios en la prolactina sérica y el diámetro alveolar no fueron significativos en comparación con el grupo control. Además, hubo un aumento en la prolactina sérica y en el diámetro alveolar en dosis de 20 y 50 mg/kg. El extracto de Urtica diocia tiene efectos positivos sobre las glándulas mamarias.

Vertical stratification and effect of petiole and dry leaf size on arthropod feeding guilds in Cecropia pachystachya(Urticaceae) / Estratificação vertical e efeito do tamanho de pecíolos e folhas secas de Cecropia pachystachya sobre guildas alimentares de artrópodes (Urticaceae)

AbstractThis study aimed to test for vertical stratification and the effects of dry leaf size on herbivore and predator arthropods and petiole length on insect borers in Cecropia pachystachya. The leaves were sampled in three strata: attached to the plant, suspended on the vegetation and on the ground. We detected vertical stratification only in the guild of predator arthropods associated with dry leaves, with lower richness and abundance in the attached stratum. In addition, larger leaves positively affected the insect herbivore fauna, whereas the richness and abundance of insect borers increased with petiole length. The greater isolation of leaves attached to trees relative to the surrounding vegetation likely creates greater difficulty for dispersal and colonization by non-winged predators such as spiders. Larger dry leaves provide more shelter against predators and climate variations for insect herbivores. Moreover, larger petioles increase the availability of resources and nesting sites for insect borers. These results are consistent with other studies that found a similarity in the structure of feeding guilds across vertical strata and with studies that showed an increase in species richness and abundance of free-feeding insect herbivores with increasing structural complexity of their host.

ResumoOs objetivos do presente trabalho foram testar as hipóteses de que existe estratificação vertical e efeito do tamanho de folhas secas de Cecropia pachystachya sobre artrópodes herbívoros e predadores, e efeito do tamanho dos pecíolos sobre insetos brocadores. As folhas foram amostradas em três estratos: presas à planta, caídas sobre a vegetação e no solo. Foi verificada estratificação vertical apenas para os artrópodes predadores, com menor riqueza e abundância no estrato presa. Além disso, folhas maiores afetam positivamente a fauna de insetos herbívoros, enquanto que a riqueza e abundância de brocadores aumentam com o tamanho do pecíolo. O maior isolamento das folhas presas em relação à vegetação do entorno provavelmente determina maior dificuldade de dispersão e colonização por predadores não alados, como aranhas. Folhas secas maiores oferecem maiores áreas de refúgio e abrigo contra predadores e variações climáticas para insetos herbívoros. Além disso, maiores pecíolos aumentam a disponibilidade de alimento e locais para nidificação dos insetos brocadores. Estes resultados são consistentes com estudos que encontraram uma similaridade na estrutura de guildas alimentares entre estratos verticais. Corroboram também estudos que mostram o aumento da riqueza e abundância de insetos herbívoros de vida livre com o aumento da complexidade estrutural do hospedeiro.

Pesticidal and pest repellency activities of a plant derived triterpenoid 2α, 3ß, 21ß, 23, 28-penta hydroxyl 12-oleanene against Tribolium castaneum

BACKGROUND: Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) is a major pest of stored grain-based products, and cause severe damage to cereal grains throughout the world. The present investigation was aimed to determine the pesticidal and pest repellent activities of 2α,3ß,21ß,23,28-penta hydroxyl 12-oleanene against T. castaneum. The compound 2α,3ß,21ß,23,28-penta hydroxyl 12-oleanene is a triterpenoid which was isolated from the roots of Laportea crenulata Gaud. Surface film technique was used for pesticidal screening, whereas, pest repellency property of the triterpenoid was determined by filter paper disc method. RESULTS: At 24 hours of exposure duration, significant mortality records (80% and 86%) were observed at doses 0.88 and 1.77 mg/cm². No significant change in mortality records was observed when duration of exposure was increased up to 48 hours. The triterpenoid showed significant repellency activity at doses 0.47 and 0.94 mg/cm². CONCLUSION: These data suggest that the triterpenoid 2α,3ß,21ß,23,28-penta hydroxyl 12-oleanene possess both pesticidal and pest repellency activities against T. castaneum and can be used in controlling the pest of grain-based products.

Efecto hipotensor in vivo del extracto seco acuoso de las partes aéreas de Urtica magellánica (ortiga) en ratas hipertensas inducidas por L-NAME y determinación de la toxidad aguda / Hypotensive effect in vivo of the aqueous dry extract of the aerial parts of magellian Urtica (nettle) in hypertensive rats induced by L-NAME and determination of acute toxicity

El objetivo de este estudio experimental ha sido evaluar el posible efecto hipotensor y tóxico del extracto acuoso de Urtica magel/anica (ortiga). Materiales y Métodos: se utilizó ratas albinas machos de raza Holtzmann para la determinación de los efectos, a quienes después de una semana de adaptación se les midió la presión arterial basal sistólica, diastólica y media. Para la determinación del efecto hipotensor se realizó la inducción con la administración de N-Nitro-L-Arginina Metíl Ester (L-NAME) a dosis de 40 mg/kg/día por vía oral durante 05 días y nuevamente se les midió la presión arterial postinducción, se dividió en 06 grupos de 06 animales; grupo control positivo (L-NAME) y control negativo (agua destilada), grupos experimentales a dosis de 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg de extracto seco acuoso de Urtica magellanica (ortiga) y Enalapril a dosis de 25 mg/kg. El tratamiento fue durante 30 días midiéndose la presión arterial cada 5 días. El estudio del efecto tóxico se determinó por el método de LORKE. Resultados: El extracto seco acuoso de Urtica m'agel/anica presentó efecto hipotensor, en donde el porcentaje de disminución de las presiones arteriales media, sistólica y diastólica de las ratas con hipertensión inducida fueron de 51 .20%, 49.76% y 49.44% respectivamente con las dosis de 50 mg/Kg; de 49.76%, 49.42% y 48.81% respectivamente con la dosis de 100 mg/Kg; de 47.82%, 49.78% y 45.66% respectivamente con la dosis de 200mg/Kg del extracto seco acuoso de Urtica magellanica y estos valores son comparables con el efecto obtenido con el Enalapril a una dosis de 25 mg/Kg. El extracto acuoso elevó los niveles séricos de óxido nítrico y disminuyo los niveles séricos de malondialdehido. No presentó efecto tóxico en el ensayo por el método de LORKE. Conclusiones: Se demostró que el extracto seco acuoso de Urtica magellanica presenta efecto hipotensor.

Chemical constituents of Pilea cavaleriei subsp. cavaleriei / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate chemical constituents from folk herb Pilea cavaleriei subsp. cavaleriei.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>The compounds were separated and purified by silica gel, Sephadex LH-20 and the like. The structures were identified by spectral methods such as (1)H, (13)C-NMR and MS.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Seventeen compounds were isolated and identified as benzoic acid (1), 4-hydroxy benzalde-hyde (2), coumaric acid(3), protocatechuic acid (4), gallic acid (5), 4-hydroxy benzoic acid (6), 3-indole carboxaldehyde (7), 3-indole carbo-xylicacid (8), 4-methyl-(1,2,3) -triazole(9), uracil(10), nicotinamide (11), (2S,E)-N-[2-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy phenyl) ethyl] ferulamide (12), (+) -dehydrovomifoliol (13), hentriantane (14), beta-sitosterol (15), palmitic acid (16), daucossterol (17) , respectively.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>All compounds were obtained from the genus for the first time.</p>

Study on effect of total coumarins from Urtica dentata on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the effect of total coumarins (TC) from Urtica dentata on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>The colitis model was established by administering DSS. Having been treated with TC, their body weight was determined. Concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, TGF-beta1 and IFN-gamma were monitored by ELISA. Colon samples were collected for the histopathological examination. Western blot was used to detect TLR4 and NF-kappaB protein expression in colonic tissues.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>TCs from U. dentata effectively controlled the body weight loss of mice with colitis, down-regulated the concentration of IL-6 and IFN-gamma and increased the suppressive cytokines IL-10 and TGF-beta1 in the serum. Additionally, TC alleviated the mucosal damage and decreased the expressions of TLR4 and NF-kappaB in colonic tissues.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>TCs from U. dentata shows the anti-inflammatory effect on colitis in mice by reducing the expressions of TLR4 and NF-kappaB in colonic tissues and regulating pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines.</p>

Study on flavonoid chemical constituents contained in Memorialis hirta / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the chemical constituents of Memorialis hirta.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Compounds were isolated and purified by multiple methods, and their structures were identified based on physicochemical property and spectrum data.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>12 compounds were isolated from ethyl acetate from 95% ethanol extracts of M. hirta, they were isorhamnetin (1), kaempferol (2), quercetin (3), isorhamnetin-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (4), kaempferol-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (5), isorhamnetin-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (6), kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (7), quercetin-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (8), quercetin-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (9), isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside (10), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (11) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (12), respectively.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>All compounds were obtained from the genus Memorialis for the first time.</p>

Polyphenolic and biological activities of leaves extracts of Argemone subfusiformis (Papaveraceae) and Urtica urens (Urticaceae)

Nowadays there is a resurgence of interest in wild plants for their possible medicinal value in diets, since some epidemiological studies have demonstrated their effectiveness against important diseases. Generally, foods of plant origin contain many bioactive compounds, proteins, energy, vitamins and specific minerals; in addition, the popular wild plant species provide fibre, essential fatty acids and enhance the taste and colour in diets. We studied the nutritional and medicinal potential of leaves of A. subfusiformis and U. urens, collected in Alice, South Africa in November 2006. To asses this we analyzed the phytochemical, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of leaves in acetone, methanol and water extracts, using standard analytical methods. The proximate analysis showed that the leaves of both plant species contained appreciable percentages of moisture; ashes; carbohydrates; crude proteins, lipids and fibres. Elemental analysis of macro and microelements showed higher values for U. urens that contained in decreasing order: iron>manganese>zinc>copper>calcium>potassium>nitrogen>magnesium> phosphorus>sodium, for A. subfusiformis resulted in iron>zinc>manganese>coppe r>calcium>potassium>nitrogen>magnesium>phosphorus>sodium. Besides, the chemical composition showed higher concentration of alkaloids, saponins and phytates in A. subfusiformis. The extracts also caused 1, 1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2, 2-azinobis-3 ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activities which were comparable to those of ascorbic acid. The extracts of both plants contained appreciable levels of polyphenols and also caused varied inhibition of some bacterial strains used in this study. When the nutrient and chemical constituents of these plants were compared with recommended dietary allowance (RDA) values, the results revealed that the leaves contain an appreciable amount of nutrients, minerals, and phytochemicals and low levels of toxicants. Since the plants also exhibited some level of antibacterial activities, their use for medicinal purposes is to some extent being justified. Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (4): 1517-1531. Epub 2010 December 01.

En la actualidad se ha dado un resurgimiento del interés en las plantas silvestres por su posible valor en la dieta, como consecuencia de algunos estudios epidemiológicos que han demostrado efectividad contra importantes enfermedades. En general, los alimentos de origen vegetal contienen muchos compuestos bioactivos, proteínas, energía, vitaminas y minerales específicos; además, las especies silvestres populares proporcionan fibras, ácidos grasos esenciales y aditivos para mejorar el sabor y color de los alimentos. Estudiamos el potencial nutricional y medicinal de las hojas de A. subfusiformis y U. urens, recolectados en Alice, Sudáfrica, en noviembre de 2006. Analizamos los compuestos químicos y antioxidantes de estas plantas, la actividad antibacteriana de las hojas en extractos acuosos, con acetona y metanol, utilizando los métodos estándares de análisis. Encontramos que las hojas de ambas especies contienen apreciables porcentajes de humedad, cenizas, carbohidratos, proteínas, lípidos y fibras. El análisis de los macro y microelementos mostró valores altos para U. urens en el siguiente orden decreciente: >hierro>manganeso>zinc>cobre>calcio>potasio>nitrógeno>magnesio>fósforo>sodio y para A. subfusiformis fue: hierro>zinc>manganeso>cobre>calcio> potasio>nitrógeno>magnesio>fósforo>sodio. Además, la composición química mostró una alta concentración de alcaloides, saponinas y fitatos en A. subfusiformis. Estos extractos 1, 1 - difenil-2-picrilhidrazil (DPPH) y 2, 2-azinobis-3 ácido etilbenzotiazolina-6-ácido sulfúrico (ABTS) también causaron actividad en el barrido de radicales comparables con los del ácido ascórbico. Los extractos de ambas especies contienen niveles apreciables de polifenoles y también causaron una variada inhibición de algunas cepas bacterianas utilizadas en el estudio. Cuando los nutrientes y compuestos químicos de estas plantas se compararon con los valores dietéticos recomendados (RDA), los resultados revelaron que las hojas contenían una apreciable cantidad de nutrientes, minerales, compuestos químicos y bajos niveles de sustancias tóxicas. Dado que las plantas también mostraron un cierto nivel de actividad antibacteriana, su utilización para fines medicinales en cierta medida está justificada.

Compuestos volátiles libres y enlazados glicosídicamente en la pulpa de la uva Caimarona (Pourouma cecropiifolia Mart. ) / Compostos voláteis livres e enlaçados glicosídicamente na polpa da uva Caimarona (Pourouma cecropiifolia Mart. ) / Free and glycosidic-linked volatile compounds in the pulp of the Caimarona grape (Pourouma cecropiifolia Mart.)

Los componentes volátiles presentes en la pulpa de la uva Caimarona se estudiaron mediante GC-MS. Éstos se extrajeron por tres técnicas: evaporación del aroma asistida con solvente (Solvent Assisted Flavour Evaporation SAFE), extracción continua líquido-líquido (LL) y destilación por arrastre con vapor-extracción simultanea con solvente orgánico (DES). En general los componentes volátiles predominantes en la pulpa fueron alcoholes alifáticos y terpénicos. Las notas olfativas del extracto SAFE fueron descritas como floral tenue y verde herbal similares a las exhibidas por la pulpa fresca. Este extracto presentó como componentes mayoritarios linalol 1,2-propanodiol y salicilato de metilo. En contraste, el extracto LL presentó notas que recuerdan la uva pasa y el vino moscatel y sus componentes mayoritarios fueron el ácido acético, el salicilato de metilo y el 2,6-dimetil-2(Z),7-octadien-1,6-diol. El extracto DES fue descrito con notas fresca, floral, cereal y amargo y está constituido por un reducido número de componentes mostrando el efecto negativo de la temperatura en la extracción; sus componentes mayoritarios fueron 1,2-propanodiol, linalol y salicilato de metilo. Adicionalmente, los componentes volátiles mayoritarios liberados por hidrólisis enzimática (Rohapect D5L) de los glicósidos de la pulpa fueron ácido acético, ácido benzoico y vainillina. Cabe destacar que aunque el linalol no se encontró entre las agliconas volátiles, se detectaron los dioles biogenéticamente relacionados: 3,7-dimetil-1,5-octadien-3,7-diol y los isómeros E y Z del 2,6-dimetil-2,7-octadien-1,6-diol.

Os componentes voláteis presentes na polpa da uva Caimarona foram estudados mediante GC-MS. Estes foram extraídos por três técnicas: evaporação de aroma assistida com solvente (Solvent Assisted Flavour Evaporation SAFE), extração continua líquido-líquido (LL) e destilação por arraste com vapor-extração simultânea com solvente orgânico (DES). Em geral os componentes voláteis predominantes na polpa foram álcoois alifáticos e terpénicos. As notas olfactivas do extracto SAFE foram descritas como floral tenue e verde herbal similares às exibidas pela polpa fresca. Este extrato apresentou como componentes majoritários o linalol 1,2-propanodiol e o salicilato de metilo. Em contraste, o extrato LL apresentou notas de uva passa e vinho moscatel e seus componentes majoritários foram o ácido acético, o salicilato de metilo e o 2,6-dimetil-2(Z),7-octadien-1,6-diol. O extrato DES foi descrito com notas de fresco, floral, cereal e amargo, e foi constituído de um número reduzido de componentes mostrando um efeito negativo da temperatura na extração dos aromas; os componentes majoritários nesta extração foram o 1,2-propanodiol, o linalol e o salicilato de metilo. Adicionalmente, os componentes voláteis majoritários liberados por hidrólises enzimática (Rohapect D5L) dos glicósidos da polpa foram o ácido acético, ácido benzóico e a vanilina. Se deve destacar que ainda que o linalol não esteja entre as agliconas voláteis, notou-se a presença de três dióis biogenéticamente relacionados: o 3,7-dimetil-1,5-octadien-3,7-diol e os isómeros E y Z do 2,6-dimetil-2,7-octadien-1,6-diol.