Article
Immunology
Lucia Elaine de Oliveira Braga, Gisele Goulart da Silva, Ilza Maria de Oliveira Sousa, Ellen Cristina Souza de Oliveira, Michele Pedroza Jorge, Karin Maia Monteiro, Tamires Carolina Sedano, Mary Ann Foglio, Ana Lucia Tasca Gois Ruiz
Summary: The study evaluated the therapeutic potential of Mentha aquatica essential oil to treat gastrointestinal disorders. The essential oil showed a strong gastroprotective effect on peptic ulcers, reducing gastric secretion and acidity. It also exhibited anti-inflammatory properties in a model of induced gastrointestinal lesions.
INFLAMMOPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Boukraa Djamila, Kiari Fatima Zohra, Kerdal Lahcene, Reguig Fatima Zohra
Summary: The study found that shade drying and oven drying had the highest yield of essential oil, while the best quercetin level was obtained with oven-drying at 50 degrees Celsius. The highest total polyphenols was seen for the extract with fresh plants, while the highest total flavonoids and tannins was found in dried plants.
Article
Agronomy
Mohammad Bagher Hassanpouraghdam, Ahmad Mohammadzadeh, Mohammad Reza Morshedloo, Mohammad Asadi, Farzad Rasouli, Lamia Vojodi Mehrabani, Agnieszka Najda
Summary: This study investigates the morphological and essential oil diversity of Mentha aquatica populations from the Hyrcanian hotspot of Iran. The results show significant differences among the populations in terms of morphological characteristics and essential oil components. The populations from Rahimabad-Gilan and Behshahr-Mazandaran are considered reliable selections for the food and pharmaceutical industries due to their higher yields and specific essential oil components.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kiyoshi Mashiguchi, Yoshiya Seto, Yuta Onozuka, Sarina Suzuki, Kiyoko Takemoto, Yanting Wang, Lemeng Dong, Kei Asami, Ryota Noda, Takaya Kisugi, Naoki Kitaoka, Kohki Akiyama, Harro Bouwmeester, Shinjiro Yamaguchi
Summary: Strigolactones are plant hormones that regulate shoot branching and other developmental processes. In Arabidopsis, a methyl esterified derivative of the biosynthetic precursor carlactonoic acid (CLA), called methyl carlactonoate (MeCLA), acts as an endogenous SL-like molecule. It has been found that an enzyme called CLAMT efficiently catalyzes the methylation of CLA to produce MeCLA. This methylation step is critical for converting an inactive precursor to a bioactive compound in the shoot branching inhibition pathway.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Xu Yu, Xiwu Qi, Shumin Li, Hailing Fang, Yang Bai, Li Li, Dongmei Liu, Zequn Chen, Weilin Li, Chengyuan Liang
Summary: Light plays a crucial role in regulating secondary metabolic synthesis in mint leaves, affecting the development of peltate glandular trichomes and essential oil production. Transcriptome analysis identified a large number of differentially expressed genes involved in light signaling pathways and monoterpene synthesis pathways. The study also revealed the potential use of responsive transcription factors in metabolic engineering to increase essential oil yields.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Abu Talha Aqueel Ahmed, Chinna Bathula, Ritesh Soni, Hyun-Seok Kim, Hyunsik Im, Sang-Wha Lee, Woo Kyoung Kim, Sreedevi Gedi, Abhijit N. Kadam
Summary: The study introduces a composite material TiO2@BAC prepared by biogenically synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles coupled with biomass-derived activated carbon, showing excellent performance as a supercapacitor with high capacitance and cyclic stability.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Marta Ferrati, Eleonora Spinozzi, Cecilia Baldassarri, Filippo Maggi, Roman Pavela, Angelo Canale, Riccardo Petrelli, Loredana Cappellacci
Summary: In recent years, there has been a focus on developing essential oil-based biopesticides as alternatives to traditional chemical products in the agrochemical industries. The genus Mentha, which includes various species with diverse biological activities, has shown promise as a source of pesticidal agents. This study specifically investigated the insecticidal activity of the essential oil from a rare chemotype of Mentha aquatica, which demonstrated high efficacy against multiple insect species. These findings suggest the potential use of this plant or its major volatile compounds as novel ingredients in botanical insecticides and pesticides.
Article
Plant Sciences
Chih-Ting Chang, Yu-Hsin Chen, Lie-Fen Shyur
Summary: This study demonstrates that the combination of mint essential oil (EO) and its major constituents, limonene and carvone (L + C), can prevent cutaneous side effects and skin carcinogenesis caused by BRAF inhibitors. This combination works by reprogramming the macrophage cell population and inhibiting keratinocyte activity.
Article
Plant Sciences
Xinqiao Zhan, Yingpeng Tong
Summary: In this study, comparative transcriptome analyses revealed significant enrichment of terpenoid biosynthesis and cytochrome P450 pathways in Sinocalycanthus chinensis. Phylogenetic analysis showed high sequence similarity of terpene synthases between S. chinensis and Arabidopsis, classified into three subfamilies. Most phytohormone pathway-related genes were upregulated in flowers and downregulated in leaves.
PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Yini Zhang, Shu Diao, Xianyin Ding, Jiaming Sun, Qifu Luan, Jingmin Jiang
Summary: Global climate change has increased drought frequency and severity, potentially affecting coniferous terpene biosynthesis, but the regulatory mechanism remains unclear. This study investigated the mechanism of terpenoid regulation under drought stress in slash pine, analyzing changes in terpenoid composition and gene expression. The results identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including transcription factors associated with plant resistance, proteins involved in terpene synthesis, and a potential regulatory role of a specific gene (PITA_24906) in levopimaric acid production. These findings enhance our understanding of slash pine defense mechanisms and provide a foundation for its management and genetic improvement.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2023)
Correction
Plant Sciences
Jingrui Li, Yiming Wang, Yanmei Dong, Wenying Zhang, Di Wang, Hongtong Bai, Kui Li, Hui Li, Lei Shi
Summary: A correction to the paper has been published.
HORTICULTURE RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yueheng Hu, Aiping Song, Zhiyong Guan, Xue Zhang, Hainan Sun, Yuxi Wang, Qi Yu, Xianrong Fu, Weimin Fang, Fadi Chen
Summary: Chrysanthemum morifolium is a versatile crop with ornamental, medicinal, and edible value, and terpenoids are essential components of its volatile oils. However, the transcriptional regulation of terpenoid biosynthesis in chrysanthemums is still unclear. This study identified CmWRKY41 as a candidate gene that may promote terpenoid biosynthesis in chrysanthemums, and it was found to bind directly to the promoters of CmHMGR2 or CmFPPS2 to activate their expression and promote sesquiterpene biosynthesis.
PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yanmei Dong, Jingrui Li, Wenying Zhang, Hongtong Bai, Hui Li, Lei Shi
Summary: This study investigated the effects of MeJA application on the biosynthesis of terpenoids in lavender. The results showed that MeJA could affect the emission of volatiles, increase the total content of terpenoids, and alter gene expression. These findings provide valuable insights for studying terpenoid biosynthesis in lavender.
PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
(2022)
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Yachao Chen, Bing Hu, Jianmin Xing, Chun Li
Summary: Terpenoids are natural compounds found predominantly in plants, with pharmaceutical and nutritional functions widely utilized in medical, food, and cosmetic industries. Due to the increasing demand in international markets, microbial cell factories are being explored as a sustainable platform for terpenoid production. Endophytes show potential as alternative sources for terpenoid production, although cost remains a challenge.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Xiangyu Qi, Huadi Wang, Shuangshuang Chen, Jing Feng, Huijie Chen, Ziyi Qin, Ikram Blilou, Yanming Deng
Summary: In this study, the draft genome of Jasminum sambac cultivar 'Danbanmoli' was obtained and its genome size, gene number, origin time, and genes related to heat stress tolerance were identified. The study provides important fundamental knowledge for studying the molecular mechanism and fragrance of Jasmine flowers.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Massimo E. Maffei
Summary: This review examines the relationship between human exposure to electromagnetic fields and cancer, focusing on epidemiological studies indicating a positive correlation. It also discusses the in vivo and in vitro effects of electromagnetic fields on cancer and explores the use of magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic nanoparticles in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Gabriele Magara, Marino Prearo, Cristina Vercelli, Raffaella Barbero, Marco Micera, Alfonso Botto, Christian Caimi, Barbara Caldaroni, Cinzia Margherita Bertea, Giuseppe Mannino, Damia Barcelo, Monia Renzi, Laura Gasco, Giovanni Re, Alessandro Dondo, Antonia Concetta Elia, Paolo Pastorino
Summary: Phytotherapy involves using plants to prevent or treat diseases in humans and animals. Increasingly, essential oils and polyphenol-enriched extracts are being used in aquaculture for sustainability. A study on rainbow trout showed that supplementation with basil supercritical extract improved antioxidant pathways at 0.5% but led to enzyme activity failure at higher levels.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Michela Cecchin, Stefano Cazzaniga, Flavio Martini, Stefania Paltrinieri, Simone Bossi, Massimo E. Maffei, Matteo Ballottari
Summary: A new Nannochloropsis gaditana mutant strain, S4, with increased carotenoids and lipids accumulation was obtained by chemical mutagenesis, providing a novel platform for industrial production of ketocarotenoids and EPA.
MICROBIAL CELL FACTORIES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Eguono W. Omagamre, Yeganeh Mansourian, Diamond Liles, Tigist Tolosa, Simon A. Zebelo, Joseph S. Pitula
Summary: This study investigated the impact of PFBA on soybean plants and found that it stimulated and inhibited plant growth. It also affected oxidative stress response and transcriptomic activity. The circadian rhythm and ethylene signaling pathway were found to be regulated in response to PFBA exposure. These findings suggest that PFBA induces stress in soybean plants, and the observed stimulation at 100 ng/L may represent an overcompensation response via the circadian rhythm pathway.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ambra S. Parmagnani, Giuseppe Mannino, Carla Brillada, Mara Novero, Luca Dall'Osto, Massimo E. Maffei
Summary: The study evaluates the interaction between Two-Spotted Spider Mites (TSSMs) and their host Lima bean through analyzing leaf pigment metabolomics and TSSM guanine production transcriptomics. The researchers also examine the morphology and structure of TSSMs and their excreta using various microscopic techniques. Additionally, the photosynthetic ability of TSSMs and the activity and content of RubisCO are evaluated. The study reveals the genes involved in guanine production in TSSMs and demonstrates the catabolic activity of TSSMs on leaf chlorophyll and carotenoids. Furthermore, the potential acaricidal effect of decoyinine (DCY) against TSSMs is demonstrated.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ambra S. Parmagnani, Nico Betterle, Giuseppe Mannino, Stefano D'Alessandro, Fabio F. Nocito, Kristina Ljumovic, Gianpiero Vigani, Matteo Ballottari, Massimo E. Maffei
Summary: Plants rely on Earth's magnetic field for photosynthesis and oxidative stress regulation. Near-null magnetic field conditions negatively affect Lima bean's photosynthesis and result in changes in leaf morphology, chloroplast structure, and biochemical parameters.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Alberto Asteggiano, Loris Curatolo, Valentina Schiavo, Andrea Occhipinti, Claudio Medana
Summary: This article introduces an HPLC method for the quantification of boswellic acids, which can be used for the analysis of food-grade resin extracts of Boswellia plant species. The method can be applied for quality control and studying the differences in regional origin, years of harvesting, and species-related differences.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rosaria Scandiffio, Sara Bonzano, Erika Cottone, Sujata Shrestha, Simone Bossi, Silvia De Marchis, Massimo E. Maffei, Patrizia Bovolin
Summary: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease without approved pharmacological therapy. The study investigated the effects of (E)-beta-caryophyllene (BCP), a phytocannabinoid, on HepG2 steatotic hepatocytes. BCP was found to decrease lipid accumulation and change the lipid profile in steatotic conditions by reducing saturated fatty acids. The action of BCP was mediated by CB2 cannabinoid receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR alpha), and gamma (PPAR gamma). The results suggest potential applications of BCP in the treatment of NAFLD.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giuseppe Mannino, Luca Pietro Casacci, Giorgia Bianco Dolino, Giuseppe Badolato, Massimo Emilio Maffei, Francesca Barbero
Summary: The geomagnetic field affects the foraging and orientation abilities of ants. Changes in the magnetic field increase the time it takes for ants to find food and return to the nest, and decrease the levels of brain biogenic amines, potentially impacting locomotion and chemical perception abilities. The regulation of genes related to magnetosensory complex is also influenced by the geomagnetic field.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Correction
Plant Sciences
Junya Iida, Yoshitake Desaki, Kumiko Hata, Takuya Uemura, Ayano Yasuno, Monirul Islam, Massimo E. Maffei, Rika Ozawa, Tadaaki Nakajima, Ivan Galis, Gen-ichiro Arimura
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giuseppe Mannino, Ronja Kunz, Massimo E. Maffei
Summary: This study used a combination of chemical and molecular fingerprinting techniques to discriminate commercial green coffee accessions from different geographical origins. It was found that CC had higher content of polyphenols and flavonoids compared to CA. PCR-RFLP analysis was instrumental for the identification of recognition markers for different coffee accessions.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ambra S. Parmagnani, Chidananda Nagamangala Kanchiswamy, Ivan A. Paponov, Simone Bossi, Mickael Malnoy, Massimo E. Maffei
Summary: The bacterial phytopathogen Erwinia amylovora produces volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that enhance Arabidopsis thaliana growth. These mVOCs trigger early signaling events and modulate the expression of genes involved in plant growth and defense responses.
Editorial Material
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francesca Barbero, Massimo E. Maffei
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giuseppe Mannino, Graziella Serio, Raimondo Gaglio, Massimo E. Maffei, Luca Settanni, Vita Di Stefano, Carla Gentile
Summary: This study evaluated the metabolomic profile and explored the antioxidant properties, antiproliferative activity, and antimicrobial potential of Griffonia simplicifolia seed extracts. The results showed that methanol had superior extraction efficiency, while acetone and ethanol were effective solvents for flavonoid extraction. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was found to be effective in extracting N-containing compounds. The extracts exhibited significant antioxidant and antiproliferative activity, with variations observed among different extracts and cell lines. Griffonia simplicifolia extracts also showed antibiotic activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The findings highlight the potential of Griffonia simplicifolia phytochemicals in the development of functional foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements.
Article
Plant Sciences
Anna Fiorillo, Ambra S. Parmagnani, Sabina Visconti, Giuseppe Mannino, Lorenzo Camoni, Massimo E. Maffei
Summary: The study found that the geomagnetic field regulates the activity of the plasma membrane proton pump H+-ATPase, and reduced geomagnetic field values weaken the binding of 14-3-3 proteins to the pump, leading to decreased activity. This effect is associated with downregulation of genes related to ROS production, calcium homeostasis, and plant hormone synthesis, which ultimately result in inhibited root growth.
