Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Fakhria A. Al-Joufi, Marwa Jan, Muhammad Zahoor, Nausheen Nazir, Sumaira Naz, Muhammad Talha, Abdul Sadiq, Asif Nawaz, Farhat Ali Khan
Summary: Anabasis articulata was extracted and evaluated for its rich bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic potentials. The observed biological potentials might be due to high content of phenolics and flavonoids in the extracts.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zhanybek Shegebayev, Aknur Turgumbayeva, Ubaidilla Datkhayev, Kairat Zhakipbekov, Assem Kalykova, Elmira Kartbayeva, Ahmet Beyatli, Kuanysh Tastambek, Gulmira Altynbayeva, Bassymbek Dilbarkhanov, Aiman Akhelova, Rabiga Anarbayeva, Kulpan Orynbassarova
Summary: The genus Anabasis belongs to the family Amaranthaceae (formerly known as Chenopodiaceae) and is comprised of approximately 102 genera and 1400 species. Anabasis is highly significant in salt marshes, semi-deserts, and other harsh environments. It is known for being abundant in bioactive compounds such as sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, saponins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and betalain pigments. These plants have a long history of being used to treat various diseases and possess pharmacological properties with potential therapeutic applications.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Rong-Rong Huang, Li-Ye Fan, Qi-Zhao Li
Summary: The aim of this study was to optimize the extraction process of Akebia trifoliata seed oil by investigating the effect of flash extraction on the oil yield. The optimal conditions for flash extraction were found to be a liquid-material ratio of 12:1, extraction voltage of 150 V, and extraction time of 90 s, resulting in an oil yield of 19.83%. The highest oil yield was observed in Akebia trifoliata seeds produced in Qujing of Yunnan, followed by Tongren of Guizhou and Zhangjiajie of Hunan, while the lowest yield was found in seeds from Shimian of Sichuan. This study provides valuable theoretical and experimental references for the research and development of Akebia trifoliata seed oil.
JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yemi A. Adekunle, Babatunde B. Samuel, Lutfun Nahar, Amos A. Fatokun, Satyajit D. Sarker
Summary: Bioactivity-guided phytochemical fractionation of the methanol extract of Olax subscorpioidea root led to the isolation of six triterpenes. These compounds, including three previously undescribed triterpenoid saponins, exhibited significant inhibitory effects on human cancer cell lines and showed greater selective cytotoxicity compared to normal cells.
Article
Plant Sciences
Rui Ma, Pengdi Yang, Chenxu Jing, Baoyu Fu, Xiaoyu Teng, Daqing Zhao, Liwei Sun
Summary: This study compared the secondary metabolite components and their synthesis between wild and cultivated ginseng using quantitative proteomics and secondary metabolomics approaches. Results showed that wild ginseng contains higher levels of triterpenoid saponins (ginsenosides) and phytosterols, especially rare ginsenosides. Stigmasterol and beta-sitosterol were also accumulated in wild ginseng. Key enzymes related to ginsenoside and phytosterol biosynthesis were found to have elevated activity in wild ginseng. This study provides valuable insights for germplasm improvement and cultivation of ginseng.
PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Doudou Huang, Zenan Du, Yanhong Chen, Zhiying Dong, Xiujuan Wang, Mengshuang Li, Feng Zhang, Wansheng Chen, Lianna Sun
Summary: Two new triterpenoid saponins were isolated from Polygonum capitatum for the first time, showing potential as a hypoglycemic agent by blocking alpha-amylase.
DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yu-Hong Huang, Wen-Luan Ding, Xi-Tao Li, Meng-Ting Cai, Hui-Lin Li, Zhi-You Yang, Xiu-Hong Piao, Shu Zhu, Chihiro Tohda, Katsuko Komatsu, Shu-Mei Wang, Yue-Wei Ge
Summary: The saponin extract (ESL-SAP) from dried Eleutherococcus senticosus leaves has been found to significantly enhance memory and may exert neuroprotective effects through multiple targets and signaling pathways.
Article
Plant Sciences
Yunita Eka Puspitasari, Tess De Bruyne, Kenn Foubert, Aulanni'am Aulanni'am, Luc Pieters, Nina Hermans, Emmy Tuenter
Summary: Sea cucumbers, belonging to the phylum Echinodermata, are used as food and traditional medicine in Asia, with triterpene glycosides being the most predominant secondary metabolites. The Holothuria genus, known for its high number and variety of triterpene glycosides, has had 63 saponins identified in the past decade, with LC-MS and NMR being common analytical techniques. However, inconsistencies in literature were noted, prompting a review to provide clarity on NMR and MS signals and interpretation for future research on Holothuria saponins.
PHYTOCHEMISTRY REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Ji-Wu Huang, Yi-Qian Du, Chuang-Jun Li, Jing-Zhi Yang, Jie Ma, Ying-Da Zang, Nai-Hong Chen, Dong-Ming Zhang
Summary: Two new triterpene saponins were isolated from Panax notoginseng leaves, with some compounds being able to inhibit cell damage and increase cell viability.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Dounia Ben Menni, Nabila Belyagoubi-Benhammou, Assia Benmahieddine, Hanane Ben Menni, Angelo Gismondi, Valentina Monteleone, Gabriele Di Marco, Alessia D'Agostino, Antonela Canini, Houari Benamar, Fawzia Atik-Bekkara
Summary: This study investigated the potential bioactivity of Anabasis articulata plant through in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results showed that the plant extract is rich in sterols and exhibits antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and antiproliferative activities, as well as anti-inflammatory function.
WASTE AND BIOMASS VALORIZATION
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Irma Podolak, Karolina Grabowska, Danuta Sobolewska, Dagmara Wrobel-Biedrawa, Justyna Makowska-Was, Agnieszka Galanty
Summary: This review provides an update on the research progress of saponins as cytotoxic agents, focusing on triterpene saponins. The studies on structure-activity relationships and molecular mechanisms of action are presented.
PHYTOCHEMISTRY REVIEWS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Miaoyin Dong, Jinjuan Li, Delong Yang, Mengfei Li, Jianhe Wei
Summary: Astragalus membranaceus, a well-known traditional herbal medicine, has been used for more than 2000 years and its bioactive compounds have shown various pharmacological effects, such as liver protection, immunomodulation, and anti-cancer activities. This review comprehensively discusses the biosynthesis pathway of flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins in Astragalus membranaceus, as well as the structural features of polysaccharides. The review also summarizes the pharmacological effects of these compounds, providing a foundation for the development of clinical candidate agents. Additionally, potential strategies for heterologous biosynthesis are proposed to improve the industrial production and supply of natural products from Astragalus membranaceus.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Francesca Masi, Giuseppina Chianese, Federico Peterlongo, Antonella Riva, Orazio Taglialatela-Scafati
Summary: A LC-MS guided phytochemical investigation on commercial Centella asiatica leaves extract found that the triterpenoid fraction accounts for 45% of the extract weight, and a new triglycoside saponin - isoterminoloside was discovered. The structure of isoterminoloside was characterized by detailed ESI-MS and NMR investigation.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Jose Jailson Lima Bezerra, Anderson Angel Vieira Pinheiro, Ricardo Barbosa Lucena
Summary: Enterolobium contortisiliquum is a widely distributed plant in Brazil, with ingestion of its beans causing serious poisoning in cattle, goats, and sheep, leading to photosensitization, abortions, digestive problems, and acute ruminal lactic acidosis. The main chemical compounds in this plant include triterpene saponins, monoterpene, phenylpropene, and triterpene classes. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms of action of these chemical compounds in vivo.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Ghada Gamal, Kamilia A. Abo-El-Seoud, Ghada Attia
Summary: A total of seven new triterpenoids were isolated from the aerial parts of Anabasis articulata, with one compound showing strong cytotoxic activity and significant antiulcer and antioxidant effects, as well as a high docking score against gastric H+/K+ ATPase.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Vincent O. Imieje, Ahmed A. Zaki, Ahmed M. Metwaly, Ibrahim H. Eissa, Eslam B. Elkaeed, Zulfigar Ali, Ikhlas A. Khan, Abiodun Falodun
Summary: Two humulene derivatives, asteriscunolides A and C, were isolated from the whole plant of Asteriscus hierochunticus. These compounds exhibited excellent antileishmanial and antimalarial activities, and their chemical structures suggest potential as tubulin inhibitors.
RECORDS OF NATURAL PRODUCTS
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Ahmed A. Zaki, Ahmed A. Al-Karmalawy, Ahmed E. Khodir, Yasser A. El-Amier, Ahmed Ashour
Summary: A germacranolide and four guaianolide sesquiterpenes were isolated from Reichardia tingitana, with compound 4 and compound 2 showing the highest cytotoxicity among the isolated compounds and promising antitumor activities.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ahmed A. Zaki, Mohamed M. Y. Kaddah, Hamada S. Abulkhair, Ahmed Ashour
Summary: Bioassay-guided investigation of Panicum turgidum extract led to the discovery of seven steroidal saponins (Turgidosterones 1-7), which showed antifungal, antileishmaniat, and antitrypanosomal activities. The most active antifungal compound was Turgidosterone 6, while Turgidosterones 4-7 exhibited significant activities against Leishmania donovani and Trypanosoma brucei. The structural features of spirostane-type saponins and the elongation of sugar residue at C-3 were found to affect the activities. Additionally, a LC-MS/MS method was used to quantitatively determine the abundance of active ingredients in Panicum turgidum extract.
Article
Biology
Hossam M. Abdallah, Albraa T. Kashegari, Akram A. Shalabi, Khaled M. Darwish, Ali M. El-Halawany, Mardi M. Algandaby, Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Gamal A. Mohamed, Ashraf B. Abdel-Naim, Abdulrahman E. Koshak, Peter Proksch, Sameh S. Elhady
Summary: Modern lifestyle with low physical activity leads to obesity and diabetes. Polyphenols in plants have antidiabetic effects through various mechanisms. 1,3,6-trigalloyl glucose exhibits strong antioxidant and inhibitory activities against diabetes-related enzymes, suggesting its potential for diabetes management.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mohamed A. Saleh, Samar A. Antar, Walied Abdo, Ahmed Ashour, Ahmed A. Zaki
Summary: Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and current treatment options are often uncomfortable and ineffective. Plant-derived natural chemicals, such as flavonoids, have gained attention due to their high bioavailability, safety, few side effects, and cost-effectiveness. Flavonoids have shown promising cytotoxic anti-cancer effects and are being researched for their ability to target inflammation and apoptosis. In a laboratory study, genistin, a flavonoid compound, demonstrated good cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cell lines. In vivo studies on animals also showed that genistin reduced tumor weight, volume, and certain biochemical markers associated with cancer progression.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Ahmed A. Zaki, Yasser A. El-Amier, Ahmed Ashour
Summary: Two new tetralin compounds were isolated from Panicum turgidum and their structures were determined through various analytical techniques. In addition, these compounds exhibited significant cytotoxic activities against ovarian and breast cancer cells.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Hossam M. Abdallah, Ali M. El-Halawany, Khaled M. Darwish, Mardi M. Algandaby, Gamal A. Mohamed, Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Abdulrahman E. Koshak, Sameh S. Elhady, Sana A. Fadil, Ali A. Alqarni, Ashraf B. Abdel-Naim, Mahmoud A. Elfaky
Summary: This study tested thirty-three plants from Saudi Arabia traditionally used for their ability to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Major constituents of the plants were isolated and tested for their inhibition potential. The results showed promising antiviral activity and provided insights for future drug development.
Review
Plant Sciences
Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Sana A. Fadil, Haifa A. Fadil, Rawan H. Hareeri, Hossam M. Abdallah, Gamal A. Mohamed
Summary: Carpesium abrotanoides is a medicinal plant with diverse ethnomedicinal uses and bioactivities. It contains various phytoconstituents with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties. This review summarizes the traditional uses, phytoconstituents, bioactivities, and toxicological aspects of C. abrotanoides, and discusses the potential of this plant for medicine development.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Sana A. Fadil, Haifa A. Fadil, Rawan H. Hareeri, Hossam M. Abdallah, Gamal A. Mohamed
Summary: Marine sponges are a rich source of bioactive metabolites in the marine environment. Smenospongia sponges, belonging to the order Dictyoceratida and family Thorectidae, produce diverse metabolites with unique chemical structures and varied bioactivities. This review provides an overview of reported metabolites from Smenospongia sponges, including their biosynthesis, synthesis, and bioactivities from 1980 to June 2022.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Abdelsattar M. Omar, Yosra A. Muhammad, Ali A. Alqarni, Abdullah M. Alshehri, Shaimaa G. A. Mohamed, Hossam M. Abdallah, Mahmoud A. Elfaky, Gamal A. Mohamed, Jianbo Xiao
Summary: This review provides an overview of phenalenones from fungal sources, including their structures, sources, biosynthesis, and bioactivities. Over 135 metabolites are listed and 71 references are cited. The study also utilizes artificial intelligence to predict potential targets for phenalenones, with a focus on human glucose transporter 1 (hGLUT1). The virtual screening results suggest that phenalenones have the potential to serve as hGLUT1 inhibitors for cancer therapy.
Review
Mycology
Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Hossam M. Abdallah, Gamal A. Mohamed, Sunil K. Deshmukh
Summary: Fungi are an abundant source of structurally unique bioactive metabolites. Aspergillus sclerotiorum, a fungus in the Aspergillaceae family, produces different enzymes with potential biotechnological and industrial applications. It also biosynthesizes various metabolites, including pyrazines, cyclic peptides, indole derivatives, diketopiperazines, butenolides, and lovastatin analogs, which exhibit diverse bioactivities. Diketopiperazines and butenolides are particularly bioactive metabolites with notable antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. This review provides an overview of the metabolites produced by A. sclerotiorum, including their structures, bioactivities, proposed biosynthesis, and biotechnological applications from 1958 to September 2022, with a total of 104 metabolites and 91 references listed.
MYCOLOGICAL PROGRESS
(2023)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Gamal A. A. Mohamed, Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Rawan H. H. Hareeri, Lenah S. S. Binmahfouz, Amina M. M. Bagher, Hossam M. M. Abdallah, Wael M. M. Elsaed, Dina S. S. El-Agamy
Summary: The study found that Garcinone E (GE), a xanthone derivative from Garcinia mangostana, effectively protects the liver from Con-A-induced damage by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and suppressing oxidative stress, NF-kappa B, and TNF-alpha/JNK/apoptosis signaling pathways. These results suggest that GE has potential as a novel hepato-protective agent against autoimmune hepatitis.
Article
Biology
Akaber T. Rizq, Alaa Sirwi, Dina S. El-Agamy, Hossam M. Abdallah, Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Gamal A. Mohamed
Summary: This study evaluated the potential protective efficacy of cepabiflas B and C (CBs) separated from Allium cepa against LPS-induced hepatic and kidney damage and its possible mechanistic pathways. CBs effectively protected the liver and the kidney against LPS-induced damage. CBs ameliorated oxidative damage and enhanced the Nrf2/HO-1 protective pathway, while counteracting the activation of NF-κB/downstream cytokines which attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory response and showed remarkable anti-apoptotic activity.
Article
Plant Sciences
Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Shaimaa G. A. Mohamed, Hossam M. Abdallah, Gamal A. Mohamed
Summary: This article summarizes the reported scientific studies on the phyto-chemical, ethnopharmacological, biological, and toxicological aspects of Justicia procumbens. The plant has been found to possess various pharmacological effects, such as antiplatelet aggregation, antimicrobial, antitumor, and antiviral activities. These findings further support the utilization of Justicia procumbens as a herbal remedy and drug, but further research on its toxicity is needed.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Mohamed Samir Darwish, Longxin Qiu, Mohamed A. Taher, Ahmed A. Zaki, Noha A. Abou-Zeid, Dawood H. Dawood, Ola M. A. K. Shalabi, Ebtihal Khojah, Asmaa A. Elawady
Summary: Changes in the composition of phenolic compounds are associated with changes in the activities of antimicrobial, antitumor, and antioxidant properties of postbiotics. YCG-7 showed the highest antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity, as well as effective scavenging of free radicals. The presence of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 in YCG exhibited prebiotic activity.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2022)