Showing papers in "Phytochemistry Reviews in 2017"
TL;DR: The article presents latest available information on the chemical composition of this plant species and gives a short resume of their beneficial effects in biological systems in vitro, in animals, and in humans, thus underlining their medicinal potential.
Abstract: Schisandra chinensis Turcz. (Baill.) is a plant species whose fruits have been well known in Far Eastern medicine for a long time. However, schisandra seems to be a plant still underestimated in contemporary therapy still in the countries of East Asia. The article presents latest available information on the chemical composition of this plant species. Special attention is given to dibenzo cyclooctadiene lignans. In addition, recent studies of the biological activity of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans and schisandra fruit extracts are recapitulated. The paper gives a short resume of their beneficial effects in biological systems in vitro, in animals, and in humans, thus underlining their medicinal potential. The cosmetic properties are depicted, too. The analytical methods used for assaying schisandra lignans in the scientific studies and also in industry are also presented. Moreover, special attention is given to the information on the latest biotechnological studies of this plant species. The intention of this review is to contribute to a better understanding of the huge potential of the pharmacological relevance of S. chinensis.
195 citations
TL;DR: Integration of transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics with system biology can aid in discovery of novel genes, transcriptional factors and several biosynthetic pathways which in turn can serve as a valuable tool for metabolic engineering and gene manipulation for enhancing the yield and productivity of secondary metabolites.
Abstract: Higher plants undergo a variety of stresses and to combat those stresses they acclimatize themselves by producing diverse secondary metabolites. These secondary metabolites also have a wide range of industrial applications and hence they serve as candidates for commercialization. Owing to the constraints faced by natural plant extraction, plant cell/tissue culture has emerged as an alternative platform for the in vitro production of value added bioactive secondary metabolites. Implementation of several productivity enhancement strategies, including elicitation, can overcome the limitations faced by plant cell technology that hampers its extensive commercialization. Elicitation is a technique that involves exogenous addition of elicitors (abiotic or biotic) in the growth medium which consequently triggers stress response with concomitant enhancement in secondary metabolite production. Elicitor induced stress results in the activation of several defense-related genes or inactivation of non-defense-related genes, transient phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of proteins, expression of enzymes whose information can be used to ascertain the biosynthetic pathways of many secondary metabolites. Furthermore, integration of transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics with system biology can aid in discovery of novel genes, transcriptional factors and several biosynthetic pathways which in turn can serve as a valuable tool for metabolic engineering and gene manipulation for enhancing the yield and productivity of secondary metabolites.
189 citations
TL;DR: Five distinct dereplication workflows that can be characterized by the nature of starting materials, by the selected analytical technique, and above all by the final objective are brought to light.
Abstract: The development of new drugs will certainly benefit from an ever improving knowledge of the living beings chemistry. However, identification of drugable molecules within the immense biodiversity of forests, soils or oceans still requires considerable investments in technical equipments, time and human resources. An important part of this process is the quick identification of known substances in order to concentrate the efforts on the discovery of new ones. A range of “dereplication” procedures are currently emerging to meet this challenge as key strategies to improve the performance of natural product screening programs. Initially defined in 1990 as “a process of quickly identifying known chemotypes”, dereplication is today a not so univocal concept and has evolved over the last years in different ways. The present review covers all dereplication-related sudies in natural product research from 1990 to 2014. Its writing brought to light five distinct dereplication workflows that can be characterized by the nature of starting materials, by the selected analytical technique, and above all by the final objective. Dereplication can be used as an untargeted workflow for the rapid identification of the major compounds whatever their chemical class in a single sample or for the acceleration of bioactivity-guided fractionation procedures. In other cases dereplication is fully integrated in metabolomic studies for the untargeted chemical profiling of natural extract collections or for the targeted identification of a predetermined class of metabolites. Finally a quite distinct dereplication approach mainly based on gene-sequence analyses is frequently used for the taxonomic identification of microbial strains.
173 citations
TL;DR: An updated review of the literature on the occurrence, chemotaxonomy and physiological activity of fern secondary metabolites is provided, covering recent findings concerning the bioactive phytochemicals and pharmacology of f Fern species.
Abstract: Ferns are an important phytogenetic bridge between lower and higher plants. Historically they have been used in many ways by humans, including as ornamental plants, domestic utensils, foods, and in handicrafts. In addition, they have found uses as medicinal herbs. Ferns produce a wide array of secondary metabolites endowed with different bioactivities that could potentially be useful in the treatment of many diseases. However, there is currently relatively little information in the literature on the phytochemicals present in ferns and their pharmacological applications, and the most recent review of the literature on the occurrence, chemotaxonomy and physiological activity of fern secondary metabolites was published over 20 years ago, by Soeder (Bot Rev 51:442–536, 1985). Here, we provide an updated review of this field, covering recent findings concerning the bioactive phytochemicals and pharmacology of fern species.
99 citations
TL;DR: This review will highlight the bioactive metabolites reported in recent years from endolichenic fungi, as well as discussing the potential of these symbiotic fungi as sources of new, diverse natural products with varying bioactivities.
Abstract: Endolichenic fungi are diverse groups of predominantly filamentous fungi that reside asymptomatically in the interior of lichen thalli. Natural products from endolichenic fungi, isolated from a variety of different lichen species, have been attracting increased attention for their potential to produce bioactive metabolites possessing new structures and representing different structural classes. This is evident from the steady increase of publications devoted to endolichenic fungal metabolites over the past decade, since the first report of endolichenic secondary metabolites. The bioactive metabolites produced by endolichenic fungi originate from multiple biosynthetic pathways and occupy different chemical structure classes, including steroids, quinones, terpenoids, peptides, xanthones, sulfur-containing chromenones, etc. Endolichenic fungal metabolites possess a diverse array of bioactivities, such as anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-Alzheimer’s disease. This review provides the first thorough assessment of endolichenic fungi, their biodiversity, secondary metabolites, and associated bioactivity. This review will highlight the bioactive metabolites reported in recent years from endolichenic fungi, as well as discussing the potential of these symbiotic fungi as sources of new, diverse natural products with varying bioactivities.
94 citations
TL;DR: This review summarizes the current knowledge on the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of the seeds of this plant, with special emphasis on the nutritional, and phytochemical analysis of the plant, including the recently developed metabolomic studies.
Abstract: Chia, Salvia hispanica L., is a medicinal and dietary plant species used since ancient times by Mayan and Aztec. Its product is a dry indehiscent fruit which is commonly called seed. In recent times, there was an increasing attention and diffusion of the seeds of the plant for their health benefits and uses in cooking. In fact, seeds are a rich source of nutrients first of all the polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids that protect from inflammation, enhance cognitive performance and reduce the level of cholesterol. Seeds are also rich in polyphenols derived from caffeic acid that are antioxidant compounds protecting the body from free radicals, aging and cancer. In addition, carbohydrate based fibers, present at high concentration levels, are associated with reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol and regulating bowel function. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of the seeds of this plant, with special emphasis on the nutritional, and phytochemical analysis of the plant, including the recently developed metabolomic studies.
93 citations
TL;DR: P pesticidal products based on Madhuca indica (Mahua), Sapindus mukorossi (soapnut), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Pongamia glabra (karanja), Eupatorium adenophorum (Crofton weed), Tagetes erecta (marigold) and essential oil bearing plants have been discussed.
Abstract: Synthetic pesticides in general, are highly toxic, persistent and their harmful residues contaminate crops, food commodities and pollute soils and groundwater. They adversely affect non-target organisms like pollinators, fish, birds, animals, and their excessive use results in increased resistance in pests. Phytochemical biopesticides on the other hand are less toxic, least persistent, environment friendly and safe to humans and non target organisms. Several phytochemical biopesticides like azadirachtin, nicotine, pyrethrins, rotenone, veratrum, annonins, rocaglamides, isobutylamides etc. have been successfully commercilalized in the past. In this review pesticidal products based on Madhuca indica (Mahua), Sapindus mukorossi (soapnut), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Pongamia glabra (karanja), Eupatorium adenophorum (Crofton weed), Tagetes erecta (marigold), Rheum emodi (Himalayan Rhubarb) and essential oil bearing plants have been discussed. Natural insecticide synergists derived from Anethum sowa and their semisynthetic derivatives have been used to prolong efficacy and counter resistance in insect pests.
77 citations
TL;DR: The main health-related properties of Citrus flavonoids are outlined, with a focus on antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammation, and cardiovascular protection activities.
Abstract: Epidemiological studies have suggested an inverse relationship between increased consumption of fruits and reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Citrus fruit is one of the mostly consumed fruits worldwide, and numerous studies have revealed its remarkable health-promoting activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular protection activities. These activities largely depend upon the diverse chemical constituents of Citrus fruits, including vitamins, minerals, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Notably, dietary flavonoids occurring in Citrus fruits have attracted growing interest due to their distinct beneficial effects on human health. In this review, we outlined the main health-related properties of Citrus flavonoids, with a focus on antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammation, and cardiovascular protection activities. Also the bioavailability, a critical factor that influences the biological efficacy, of Citrus flavonoids was discussed. It was believed that insights about these advances may encourage researchers to discover new phytochemical components and further study specific bioactivities from Citrus fruits.
77 citations
TL;DR: The review presents the characteristic chemical constituents and chemotypes of seventeen Lavandula species and biosynthesis of lavender terpenes is presented.
Abstract: Lavandula species are one of the most useful aromatic and medicinal plants with a great economic value for pharmaceutical, food and flavor industries, cosmetics, perfumery, and aromatherapy. The pleasant fragrance, physiological effects, and commercial significance are due to the their essential oils, with a highly variable composition dependent on the genetic, environmental and processing factors. This paper provides a systematic view on the chemistry of lavender essential oils especially considering the studies in the last 15 years. The review presents the characteristic chemical constituents and chemotypes of seventeen Lavandula species. The intra- and interspecific variability is primarily discussed dependent on the geographic area, onto-and morphogenetic factors, and extraction methods. In addition, biosynthesis of lavender terpenes is presented.
76 citations
TL;DR: The mechanism of antidiabetic activity of dietary phytochemicals could be summarized as stimulation of insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cell, reduction of insulin resistance and increasing of insulin sensitivity, stimulation of glycogenesis and hepatic glycolysis, activation of PPARγ, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and inhibition of α-amylase, β-galactocidase and α-glucocidases.
Abstract: Diabetes are a serious metabolic diseases characterized by abnormally increased plasma glucose levels. Botanical food products have been used for combating human diseases for thousands of years, since they exhibit a wide range of biological properties that can be exploited for medical application. Phytochemicals from foods, including flavonoids, monoterpenes, terpenoids, stilbenes, lignans, coumarins, alkaloids, and others, have been proposed as effective supplements for diabetes management and prevention of its long-term complications in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of antidiabetic activity of dietary phytochemicals could be summarized as: stimulation of insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cell, reduction of insulin resistance and increasing of insulin sensitivity, stimulation of glycogenesis and hepatic glycolysis, activation of PPARγ, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, inhibition of α-amylase, β-galactocidase and α-glucocidase, and inhibition intestinal absorption of glucose. Therefore the anti-diabetic effects and their mechanism of action of phytochemicals from botanical foods used traditionally in the treatment of diabetes mellitus are critically reviewed.
68 citations
TL;DR: In this review, a critical evaluation of available literature is performed as far as phloretin beneficial effects and activation/block of intracellular signal cascade are of concern are concerned.
Abstract: Dihydrochalcones are a class of secondary metabolites, whose demand in biological and pharmacological applications is rapidly growing. Phloretin is one of the best known and abundant dihydrochalcone characterized by the presence of 2,6-dihydroxyacetophenone pharmacophore. It is a versatile molecule with anticancer, antiosteoclastogenic, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and estrogenic activities and able to increase the fluidity of biological membranes and penetration of administered drugs. In this review we have performed a critical evaluation of available literature as far as phloretin beneficial effects and activation/block of intracellular signal cascade are of concern. In addition, we supply useful information on its chemical properties, sources and bioavailability.
TL;DR: A further need is discussed and emphasized of studying the white cabbage phytochemicals using modern metabolomics platforms which will enable scientists to pinpoint the exact bioactive metabolites which are responsible for certain bioactivity.
Abstract: White cabbage (Brassica oleraceae var. capitata f. alba) is a cruciferous vegetable used worldwide as a food and in traditional medicine. Due to its common availability in local markets, affordability, and consumer preference, it represents a significant source of phytonutrients in the human diet. This review provides an overview of white cabbage origin, taxonomy, geographical distribution, botanical characteristics, and contemporary and traditional uses, as well as its phytochemicals and pharmacology. Special emphasis is placed on a health-promoting phytochemicals such as glucosinolates, polyphenols, and vitamins, as well as anticancerogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflamantory and cardioprotective effects. The majority of so far published research on white cabbage was focused on qualitative determination of phytochemicals (targeted analysis), while only few recent papers published data based on untargeted metabolomic profiling. Hence, this review discusses and emphasizes a further need of studying the white cabbage phytochemicals using modern metabolomics platforms which will enable scientists to pinpoint the exact bioactive metabolites which are responsible for certain bioactivity.
TL;DR: This review is meant to summarize the research works performed so far, by elucidating the molecular mechanisms of action of polyphenols in a bone regeneration context, aiming at a better understanding of a possible application in the development of medical devices for bone tissue regeneration.
Abstract: For millennia, in the different cultures all over the world, plants have been extensively used as a source of therapeutic agents with wide-ranging medicinal applications, thus becoming part of a rational clinical and pharmacological investigation over the years. As bioactive molecules, plant-derived polyphenols have been demonstrated to exert many effects on human health by acting on different biological systems, thus their therapeutic potential would represent a novel approach on which natural product-based drug discovery and development could be based in the future. Many reports have provided evidence for the benefits derived from the dietary supplementation of polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Polyphenols are able to protect the bone, thanks to their antioxidant properties, as well as their anti-inflammatory actions by involving diverse signaling pathways, thus leading to bone anabolic effects and decreased bone resorption. This review is meant to summarize the research works performed so far, by elucidating the molecular mechanisms of action of polyphenols in a bone regeneration context, aiming at a better understanding of a possible application in the development of medical devices for bone tissue regeneration.
TL;DR: The present review focuses on the available data on chemical structures of 31 compounds, biological properties and prospects for therapeutic use of bufadienolides from Kalanchoe species, and presents some new investigational trends in research on curative uses of these substances.
Abstract: Toad venom is regarded as the main source of bufadienolides; however, synthesis of these substances takes also place in a variety of other animal and plant organisms, including ethnomedicinal plants of the Kalanchoe genus. Chemically, bufadienolides are a group of polyhydroxy C-24 steroids and their glycosides, containing a six-membered lactone (α-pyrone) ring at the C-17β position. From the pharmacological point of view, bufadienolides might be a promising group of steroid hormones with cardioactive properties and anticancer activity. Most of the literature concerns bufadienolides of animal origin; however, the medicinal use of these compounds remains limited by their narrow therapeutic index and the risk of development of cardiotoxic effects. On the other hand, plants such as Kalanchoe are also a source of bufadienolides. Kalanchoe pinnata (life plant, air plant, cathedral bells), Kalanchoe daigremontiana (mother of thousands) and other Kalanchoe species are valuable herbs in traditional medicine of Asia and Africa. The present review focuses on the available data on chemical structures of 31 compounds, biological properties and prospects for therapeutic use of bufadienolides from Kalanchoe species. Furthermore, it presents some new investigational trends in research on curative uses of these substances.
TL;DR: This narrative review aims to provide an updated overview on the biological activities of O. vulgare and its main bioactive phytochemicals, considering both preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and in human studies focused on anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.
Abstract: Origanum vulgare L. is a plant species belonging to the Lamiaceae and native to the Mediterranean region and western Eurasia. This aromatic herb is widely used throughout the world as spice and medicinal plant, representing a remedy in various traditional healing systems. In particular, oregano essential oil, rich in C10 monoterpenes, has been extensively used and, consequently, investigated. This narrative review aims to provide an updated overview on the biological activities of O. vulgare and its main bioactive phytochemicals, considering both preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and in human studies focused on anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.
TL;DR: It has been demonstrated that geraniin possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, cytoprotective, immune-modulatory, analgesic properties besides exerting promising therapeutic effects on hypertension, cardiovascular disease and metabolic dysregulation.
Abstract: The discovery of the ellagitannin geraniin was made exactly 40 years ago. It is a secondary metabolite found in plants and is categorised as a hydrolysable tannin under the huge family of polyphenolic compounds. At present, the occurrence of geraniin has been verified in at least 71 plant species, many of which are used in traditional medicine. Hence, like other polyphenols, geraniin has also received widespread interest as a research focus to unearth its beneficial biological effects and therapeutic values apart from understanding its chemical properties, biosynthesis and interaction with the body system. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that geraniin possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, cytoprotective, immune-modulatory, analgesic properties besides exerting promising therapeutic effects on hypertension, cardiovascular disease and metabolic dysregulation. The objective of this review is to summarise the current knowledge about the basic chemistry, natural sources, isolation techniques, biosynthesis, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of geraniin. With reference to this information, the clinical significance, obstacles and future perspectives in geraniin research will also be scrutinised.
TL;DR: The nematicidal activity of isothiocyanates as components of botanical matrixes in the frame of a holistic nematode control approach encompassing secondary beneficial effects on soil structure and microbiology, beneficial preservation, enhanced residual life of biological activity and plant growth is reviewed.
Abstract: Natural isothiocyanates (ITCs) are toxic to a range of soil-borne pest and pathogens, including nematodes and fungi, and can thus be used as natural fumigants called biofumigants. Glucosinolates, β-thioglucoside N-hydroxysulfates, are secondary metabolites of Brassicales plants, stored in the S-cells vacuoles. Upon plant tissue damage myrosinase (thioglucoside glycohydrolase, EC 3.2.3.1), stored in contiguous cells, hydrolyses glucosinalates to an unstable aglycone that eventually eliminates sulfate group producing a wide range of different volatile isothiocyanates that are extremely toxic to root-knot nematodes. In fact, among synthetic commercial nematicidal formulates we can find isothiocyanates as active ingredients. Conventional nematode control practices have included soil sterilants of great environmental impact, most of which are now banned making mandatory the development of eco-sustainable alternative tools. We reviewed the nematicidal activity of isothiocyanates as components of botanical matrixes in the frame of a holistic nematode control approach encompassing secondary beneficial effects on soil structure and microbiology, beneficial preservation, enhanced residual life of biological activity and plant growth.
TL;DR: The review provides an update on recent findings in the field of AM research with a special focus on production of pharmaceutically important terpenoids, and suggests AM mediated manipulation of morphology, biochemistry and gene transcription in plants is suggested.
Abstract: Terpenoids, in addition to being essential for plant growth and survival, are commercially valued for their medicinal properties, ecological significance, and used as flavors and fragrances. Prospective role of arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) symbiosis in improving the accumulation of secondary metabolites especially terpenoids has gained recognition over the past two decades. Increased production of terpenoids in aboveground parts of AM-colonized medicinal plants has extensively been described. Understanding the mechanisms underpinning increase in accumulation of specific terpenoids in AM plants is important for obtaining higher yield and to improve the potential of AM in sustainable cultivation of plants harboring these compounds. Enhanced phosphorus uptake in the mycorrhizal plants has been largely credited for the increase in terpenoid production. However, recent findings have suggested AM mediated manipulation of morphology, biochemistry and gene transcription in plants. The review provides an update on recent findings in the field of AM research with a special focus on production of pharmaceutically important terpenoids. Several points are highlighted for future research to elucidate probable mechanisms underlying increase in terpenoids in mycorrhizal plants.
TL;DR: Based on available literature, Xylaria sp.
Abstract: The resinous part called agarwood of genus Aquilaria Lam has been exploited as a source of incense by mankind since time immemorial besides its medicinal properties. In global market purest oud/agarwood oil enjoys an exorbitant price tag owing to its mystical fragrance. This has led to over-exploitation of Aquilaria sp. at worldwide level. All the Aquilaria sp. are protected under CITES since 2002. Agarwood production is considered to have a pathological relation, secreted actively in response to foreign body infection as a means of defense mechanism in Aquilaria sp. In order to fulfill the demand for sustainable production of agarwood, chemical, physical and biological methods of inducing artificial infection for agarwood enhancement/production have been formulated. In addition, artificial inoculation of fungi has been used to induce agarwood in Aquilaria trees. In this review, we have discussed the success and limitations of various methods employed for agarwood stimulation and provided the analysis of investigation conducted by various researchers to ascertain the contributory role of fungi (endophytic–pathogenic–epiphytic) on agar formation and chemical composition of oil from artificially infected agarwood. Based on available literature, Xylaria sp., Lasiodiplodia sp., Colletotrichum sp. and Botryosphaeria sp. are promising fungal isolates which deserved to be further studied and scaled up to a commercial level for production of agarwood oil.
TL;DR: Plant in vitro cultures provide an alternative source of ecdysteroids, helping to avoid problems associated with field production—such as variable yield or dependence on environmental factors, as well as limited availability of natural resources.
Abstract: Ecdysteroids are secondary metabolites, widely distributed in the animal and plant kingdoms. They have a wide range of pharmacological effects in vertebrates, including mammals, most of which are beneficial for humans. Therefore, they have become compounds of interest for the pharmaceutical industry due to their adaptogenic, anabolic, hypoglycaemic, hypocholesterolaemic and antimicrobial activities, which are still being researched. Nowadays, ecdysteroids are present as active ingredients in bodybuilding supplements. Because of their complex structures, their chemical synthesis seems unprofitable and impractical. Due to high content of ecdysteroids in many plants, they are primarily obtained by extraction of the plant material. Plant in vitro cultures provide an alternative source of these compounds, helping to avoid problems associated with field production-such as variable yield or dependence on environmental factors, as well as limited availability of natural resources. Plant cell and tissue cultures may be suggested as alternatives for the production of plant biomass rich in pharmaceutically active ecdysteroids. Moreover, the use of common biotechnological strategies, such as elicitation or precursor feeding, may further increase the yield and improve production of these compounds. In this paper, we describe general information about ecdysteroids: their structure, biosynthesis, distribution, role in plants, and we review recent studies on micropropagation of ecdysteroid-producing plants and cell cultures, and potential ability of ecdysteroids enhancement in in vitro cultures.
TL;DR: The aim of this review is to give a comprehensive overview regarding the current knowledge on botanical origin, pharmacology, biosynthesis as well as agricultural and biotechnological production of scopolamine.
Abstract: Tropane alkaloids are present in many different plants of the Solanaceae family and widely known for their anticholinergic properties. Among them, most valued and increasingly demanded is scopolamine, also known under the name of hyoscine, which is used as pharmaceutical active substance in the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting, motion sickness and gastrointestinal, renal and biliary spasms for instance. It naturally occurs in various plant genera, e.g. Anisodus, Anthocercis, Atropa, Brugmansia, Datura, Duboisia, Hyoscyamus, Mandragora and Scopolia and the purified substance has a long history of use dating back to the nineteenth century. Until today, the supply in scopolamine is mainly covered by large scale field plant cultivation of hybrids between Duboisia myoporoides and Duboisia leichhardtii. Biotechnological approaches optimising the alkaloid biosynthesis, for example the use of callus cultures or genetically transformed hairy root cultures, are not competitive by now. The aim of this review is to give a comprehensive overview regarding the current knowledge on botanical origin, pharmacology, biosynthesis as well as agricultural and biotechnological production of scopolamine.
TL;DR: The present review summarizes the phytochemical variability and pharmacological advances reported in literature.
Abstract: Withania somnifera Dunal, is a commonly used herb in Indian Ayurvedic medicine system. Due to its pharmacological value and an inexhaustible source of novel biologically active compounds, it has been a great interest for researchers. The plant is known to possess anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and hemopoetic properties. Various withanolides, steroidal lactones, have been isolated from W. somnifera and were known to have high therapeutic value. Based on the differences in the substitution patterns of withanolides the species has been classified into various chemotypes. So far, three different chemotypes have been identified, which have been further classified into ecotypes based on the contents of withanolides. Present review summarizes the phytochemical variability and pharmacological advances reported in literature.
TL;DR: Of particular interest is the cytotoxicity of phytocarbazoles against various cancer cell lines, where some derivatives turned out to act as cell cycle inhibitors and apoptosis inducers and especially the C23 derivative mahanine induced different cell-signaling pathways suggesting that it represents a multi-targeted and multi-functional compound.
Abstract: Carbazole alkaloids characterized by a heterocyclic aromatic basic skeleton are known from different organisms but do not represent a biogenetically homogenous group. The majority, comprising more than 330 derivatives, is derived from 3-methylcarbazole as common precursor and is designated as phytocarbazoles. They are nearly exclusively known from the four closely related plant genera Bergera (part of Murraya s. l.), Clausena, Glycosmis, and Micromelum of the family Rutaceae. Derived from anthranilic acid and malonyl-CoA the tricyclic basic skeleton is formed via a prenylated 2-quinolone intermediate. The following steps are speculated to involve the formation of 2-prenylindole and cyclization of the prenyl side chain to generate 3-methylcarbazole. Apart from different oxygenations and oxidations of the basic skeleton additional prenylations and geranylations contribute to the great structural diversity of phytocarbazoles which are grouped together according to their C13-, C18-, and C23-basic structures. Of taxonomic significance are the different oxidations of the characteristic C-3 methyl group leading to 3-formyl- and 3-carboxyl derivatives particularly accumulated in Clausena and Micromelum species. Predominant prenylation at C-5 is typical for Glycosmis and Micromelum, whereas in Clausena prenylation at different positions can contribute to an infrageneric grouping. Geranylation represents a characteristic biogenetic trend of Bergera. A wide variety of biological activities ranges from significant antimicrobial, antiprotozoal, and insecticidal properties to anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiplatelet aggregative, and anti-HIV activities. Of particular interest is the cytotoxicity of phytocarbazoles against various cancer cell lines, where some derivatives turned out to act as cell cycle inhibitors and apoptosis inducers. Especially the C23 derivative mahanine induced different cell-signaling pathways suggesting that it represents a multi-targeted and multi-functional compound that works on an array of different cancer types and has the potential to inhibit tumor growth in vivo.
TL;DR: The present review discusses the various methods used to determine quality of agarwood and chemical constituents of infected agar wood tree.
Abstract: Agarwood is a valuable oleoresin obtained from wounded tree of various genus of Thymelaeaceae family especially from Aquilaria species. Agarwood is regarded as most treasured non-timber forest product used in fragrances as well as medicines. Quality of agarwood plays an important role to define its commercial value. Different countries use different grading pattern to define the quality of agarwood. More than 250 compounds have been identified so far, mostly sesquiterpenoids, chromones and volatile aromatic compounds. GC–MS is the considered as a best method for the identification of chemical profile of the agarwood by various authors. Present review discusses the various methods used to determine quality of agarwood and chemical constituents of infected agarwood tree.
TL;DR: The concept, principles and examples of green pest control discussed here offer a new suite of environmental-friendly tools designed to promote and adopt sustainable agriculture.
Abstract: With mounting concerns over health and environmental effects of pesticides, the search for environmentally acceptable substitutes has amplified. Plant secondary metabolites appear in the horizon as an attractive solution for green crop protection. This paper reviews the need for changes in the techniques and compounds that, until recently, have been the mainstay for dealing with pest insects. Here we describe and discuss main strategies for selecting plant-derived metabolites as candidates for sustainable agriculture. The second part surveys ten important insecticidal compounds, with special emphasis on those involved in human health. Many of these insecticidal metabolites, however, are crystalline solids with limited solubility which might potentially hamper commercial formulation. As such, we introduce the concept of natural deep eutectic solvents for enhancing solubility and stability of such compounds. The concept, principles and examples of green pest control discussed here offer a new suite of environmental-friendly tools designed to promote and adopt sustainable agriculture.
TL;DR: This review aims to highlight the ‘evidence-based’ therapeutic potential of aforementioned phytopharmaceutical, which would accelerate the contemporary pharmaceutical development of this traditional phytomedicine.
Abstract: Hypericum perforatum L. is an ethnomedicine with a popular remedial legacy; especially of antidepressant and wound healing properties. Rigorous preclinical and clinical research conducted in last sesqui-decade has revealed newer facets of its therapeutic activities against psychiatric, metabolic and neoplastic disorders. Most of such curative effects are imparted synergistically by hypericin, hyperforin and flavonoids; but their action mechanisms remain ambiguous. Concomitant administration of St. John’s Wort formulation and cytochrome P450 substrate drug is limited by the episodes of herb–drug interactions; nevertheless, adverse drug reaction rate of H. perforatum remains only 2%. In present review, we aim to highlight the ‘evidence-based’ therapeutic potential of aforementioned phytopharmaceutical, which would accelerate the contemporary pharmaceutical development of this traditional phytomedicine.
TL;DR: This review aims to report the state-of-the-art of the natural products isolated from Lobophora species (Dictyotales, Phaeophyceae) and their associated bioactivities and raise awareness of chemists and biologists given the recent significant taxonomic progress of this brown algal genus.
Abstract: Although Lobophora belongs to a marine algal family (Dictyotaceae) that produces a large array of secondary metabolites, it has received little attention compared to other genera, such as Dictyota, in terms of natural compounds isolation and characterization. However, metabolites produced by Lobophora species have been found to exhibit a wide array of bioactivities including pharmacological (e.g. antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antitumoral), pesticidal, and ecological. This review aims to report the state-of-the-art of the natural products isolated from Lobophora species (Dictyotales, Phaeophyceae) and their associated bioactivities. All bioactivities documented in the literature are reported, therefore including studies for which pure active substances were described, as well as studies limited to extracts or fractions. From the early 1980s until today, 49 scientific works have been published on Lobophora chemistry and bioactivity, among which 40 have reported bioactivities. Only six studies, however, have identified, characterized and tested no less than 23 bioactive pure compounds (three C21 polyunsaturated alcohols, three fatty-acids, a macrolactone, 11 polyketides, a few sulfated polysaccharides, three sulfolipids, a tocopherol derivative). The present review intends to raise awareness of chemists and biologists given the recent significant taxonomic progress of this brown algal genus, which holds a promising plethora of natural products yet to be discovered with ecological and pharmacological properties.
TL;DR: This review covers the distribution, phytochemistry, synthesis and pharmacological activities of furanoditerpenoids, describing 444 compounds, and suggests that these plants are widely used in traditional medicines and have therefore been disclosed with a wide range of bioactivities including anti-cancer, anti-inflammation and anti-microorganism.
Abstract: Furanoditerpenoids are a special group of diterpenoids composing of one or more furan rings, which are rarely found in nature. This review aims to survey the various naturally occurring furanoditerpenoids and their pharmacological activities. A fairly large number of furanoditerpenoids have been reported from the families Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae and Lamiaceae, and a few ones from the families Asteraceae, Codoniaceae, Dioscoreaceae, Fossombroniaceae, Jamesoniellaceae, Meliaceae, Menispermaceae, Olacaceae, Psathyrellaceae, Sapindaceae and Scapaniaceae. Their distribution correlates strongly with the taxonomic divisions. Most of these plants are widely used in traditional medicines, and furanoditerpenoids have therefore been disclosed with a wide range of bioactivities including anti-cancer, anti-inflammation and anti-microorganism. To structure this review, the furanoditerpenoids were classified into seven types, including clerodane-type (Type I), labdane-type (Type II), cassane-type (Type III), abietane-type (Type IV), spongian-type (Type V), prenylbisabolane-type (Type VI) and miscellaneous type (Type VII). On the basis of 170 references, this review covers the distribution, phytochemistry, synthesis and pharmacological activities of furanoditerpenoids, describing 444 compounds. The information provided in this review might shed light on further research and development of furanoditerpenoids as potential therapeutic agents.
TL;DR: The development of traditional medicine with the perspectives of safety, efficacy and quality would help not only to preserve the traditional heritage but also to rationalize the use of herbal medicine in the human healthcare.
Abstract: The development of traditional medicine with the perspectives of safety, efficacy and quality would help not only to preserve the traditional heritage but also to rationalize the use of herbal medicine in the human healthcare. Nature is considered as a compendium for templates of new chemical entities. The medicinal plants mentioned in the different ancient texts worldwide may be explored with the modern scientific approaches for better leads in the healthcare. Drugs from medicinal plants are unique for their chemical and biological features, and are gaining global acceptance because they offer natural ways to treat diseases and promote healthcare. Natural products are the best sources of chemical diversity for finding new drugs and leads. Globalization of traditional medicine is necessary for health care with assessment of its safety, efficacy, therapeutic and clinical evidence. Evidence based validation of the ethnopharmacological claims on traditional medicine is necessary for its promotion and development. Applications of techniques such as marker analysis, DNA bar coding, plant metabolomics, network pharmacology etc. are being taken into account for the validation and documentation of medicinal plants. This can be achieved by the scientific exploitation of the established facts from ancient systems through proper validation of the claims based on pharmacological and phytochemical assessments.
TL;DR: This review aims to highlight recent discoveries of different strains of Pestalotiopsis identified for producing natural bioactive compounds along with insights of their source of origin and potential in biotechnological applications.
Abstract: Fungal endophytes have marked a significant impact on drug discovery reducing the burden and dependency on plants. The vast diversity of Pestalotiopsis sp. has emerged as promising source of wide range of bioactive natural compounds. Recently a series of numerous novel secondary metabolites have been discovered of which taxol has drawn attention of scientific community towards its medicinal potential. A wide variety of compounds like alkaloids, polyketides, terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, xanthones, quinones, semiquinones, peptides, phenols, phenolic acids, and lactones have been identified which have usage as antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral antoneoplastic, and antioxidant activities. This review aims to highlight recent discoveries of different strains of Pestalotiopsis identified for producing natural bioactive compounds along with insights of their source of origin and potential in biotechnological applications.