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
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)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Xin-Fu Zhang, Ying-Ying Han, Tai-Mei Di, Li-Ping Gao, Tao Xia
Summary: The study found that T2 extracted from tea seed pomace has anti-tumor activity by inhibiting proliferation and reducing the invasive potential of MCF-7 cells.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2021)
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
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
Tri Mayanti, Sarah Fawziah, Al Arofatus Naini, Rani Maharani, Kindi Farabi, Muhammad Yusuf, Desi Harneti, Dikdik Kurnia, Unang Supratman
Summary: Lansium domesticum, a member of the Meliaceae family, is a widely spread plant in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and America. In this study, two new onoceranoid triterpenes were isolated and identified from the fruit peels of L. domesticum, along with a new tetranortriterpenoid from the seeds. The cytotoxic activities of these compounds against MCF-7 breast cancer cells were tested, and moderate activity was observed. The findings highlight the potential of L. domesticum as a source of new compounds.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yun-Qing Song, Xiao-Qing Guan, Zi-Miao Weng, Jun-Ling Liu, Jing Chen, Lu Wang, Long-Tao Cui, Sheng-Quan Fang, Jie Hou, Guang-Bo Ge
Summary: The study proposed an integrated strategy to identify potent hCES2A inhibitors from herbal medicines, with licorice containing chalcones and isolicoflavonol identified as key ingredients responsible for hCES2A inhibition.
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
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Juraj Harmatha, Milos Budesinsky, Zdenek Zidek, Eva Kmonickova
Summary: In this study, three structurally related spirostanol saponins were isolated and identified from leek flowers. One of them is a new component, while the other two are identical to known constituents of leek plants. The cytotoxicity and effects on NO production in mouse peritoneal cells of these saponins were tested, with 6-deoxyaginoside showing the highest inhibitory effects and a close correlation between toxicity and NO production inhibition observed.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yun-Yuan Tian, Yang Liu, Peng-Cheng Qiu, Yao Li, Jin-Ming Hu, Tian-Yi Li, Wen-Wen Chen, Hai-Feng Tang, Yun-Yang Lu
Summary: Phytochemical investigation of Paris fargesii var. petiolata led to the identification of five new steroidal saponins and six known analogs. Compound 1 exhibited inhibitory effects on human cancer cells, potentially by inducing S phase arrest.
BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Thi Dieu Huong Hoang, Thi Kim Van Le, Thi Ha Do
Summary: Seven new triterpene glycosides were isolated from the extract of Elsholtzia penduliflora, and two of them showed significant cytotoxicity against human lung and breast cancer cells.
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
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
Tran Thuy Nga, Lai Thi Hoan, Bui Thi Mai Anh, Nguyen Thi Mai, Phan Thi Thanh Huong, Nguyen Xuan Nhiem, Phan Van Kiem, Bui Huu Tai
Summary: A phytochemical investigation of Acanthus ilicifolius led to the isolation of two new lignan glycosides, acaniliciosides A and B, as well as ten known compounds. The structures of the isolated compounds were determined using various spectroscopic techniques. The absolute configurations of the new compounds were established using CD spectra. These compounds exhibited significant inhibitory effects on NO production in LPS activated RAW264.7 cells, comparable to the positive control. Additionally, certain compounds showed cytotoxic activity against SK-LU-1 and HepG2 cell lines, with comparable potency to the positive control (ellipticine).
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Natale Badalamenti, Maurizio Bruno, Monica R. Loizzo, Valeria Puccio, Raimondo Gaglio, Nicola Francesca, Luca Settanni, Francesco Sottile
Summary: This study characterized the chemical composition of the almond skin of Prunus dulcis L. variety Casteltermini and evaluated its inhibitory activity against pathogenic, spoilage, and useful microorganisms. The n-hexane extract of almond skin showed strong inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus growth, indicating its potential as a food bio-preservative and pharmaceutical product.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Vincenzo Sicari, Rosa Romeo, Antonio Mincione, Simone Santacaterina, Rosa Tundis, Monica Rosa Loizzo
Summary: This study investigated the phytochemical content and bioactivity of Lycium barbarum collected in Calabria and evaluated the possibility of enriching traditional ciabatta bread with goji fresh flesh puree. The enriched bread showed good levels of bioactive compounds and exhibited antioxidant and inhibitory activities against metabolic enzymes. Sensory analysis confirmed the slight modification in appearance but not in flavor and taste of the bread.
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Umile Gianfranco Spizzirri, Monica Rosa Loizzo, Francesca Aiello, Sabrina Antonia Prencipe, Donatella Restuccia
Summary: This review provides an overview of different types of non-dairy kefir products, which use fruits or vegetables as substrates for fermentation. The microbiological, chemical-physical, technological, and sensory aspects of each formulation are discussed, along with other potential health benefits.
JOURNAL OF FOOD COMPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Vincenzo Sicari, Irene Maria Grazia Custureri, Rosa Tundis, Monica Rosa Loizzo
Summary: This study compared the physico-chemical characteristics and biological activity of olive mill wastewater (OMW) obtained by two different types of three-phase decanters: a traditional one and a water-saving ARA decanter. The results showed that the OMW extract obtained by the ARA decanter had a higher concentration of phenolic compounds, higher antioxidant activity, and moderate enzyme inhibitory activity, while reducing environmental impact.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rosa Tundis, Giuseppina Augimeri, Adele Vivacqua, Rosa Romeo, Vincenzo Sicari, Daniela Bonofiglio, Monica Rosa Loizzo
Summary: This study characterized bamboo leaf and sheath extracts, revealing their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Bamboo leaves contain phenolic compounds, while sheaths are rich in phenolic acids. These findings suggest potential applications of bamboo leaf and sheath in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Francesco Sottile, Assunta Napolitano, Natale Badalamenti, Maurizio Bruno, Rosa Tundis, Monica Rosa Loizzo, Sonia Piacente
Summary: For the first time, a new accession of myrobalan from Sicily was studied for its chemical and nutraceutical properties. The extracts of fresh myrobalan fruits were found to contain abundant phenolic compounds and antioxidants, with potential inhibitory effects on obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Review
Plant Sciences
Rosa Tundis, Jianbo Xiao, Ana Sanches Silva, Filipa Carreiro, Monica Rosa Loizzo
Summary: Citrus is a significant genus in the Rutaceae family, known for its medicinal and economic value, and including crops such as lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and limes. Citrus species are rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, dietary fiber, and phytochemicals, with various health-promoting properties. Citrus essential oils, mainly composed of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, have antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. These oils are widely used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Irene Maria Grazia Custureri, Vincenzo Sicari, Monica Rosa Loizzo, Rosa Tundis, Ana Cristina Soria, Angelo Maria Giuffre
Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of two enrichment processes on the quality and bioactivity of Ottobratica extra virgin olive oil with ginger. The results showed that the addition of ginger improved the antioxidant activity and inhibitory effect on enzymes.
Review
Plant Sciences
Rosa Tundis, Jayanta Kumar Patra, Marco Bonesi, Subrata Das, Rajat Nath, Anupam Das Talukdar, Gitishree Das, Monica Rosa Loizzo
Summary: Despite advancements in treatment strategies, cancer remains a leading cause of death globally. Therefore, the main focus should be on early cancer diagnosis, optimal therapeutic strategies, and the search for more effective molecules. This review comprehensively summarizes the potential anti-cancer properties of andrographolide, highlighting its mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential side effects, while discussing future perspectives, challenges, and limitations of use.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francesca Giordano, Stefano Comita, Giulia Venneri, Vittoria Rago, Giuseppina Daniela Naimo, Francesca De Amicis, Anna De Bartolo, Rosa Tundis, Loredana Mauro, Maria Luisa Panno, Dejan Stojkovic, Marija Ivanov, Ana Ciric
Summary: Prostate cancer is the second most common male cancer and its progression is associated with chronic inflammation and increased ROS production. Phytochemicals from fruits and vegetables are considered promising strategies for delaying cancer progression. Poncirus trifoliata, a plant with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anticancer effects, has been found to have anti-growth effects on prostate tumor cells.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maria Concetta Tenuta, Monica Rosa Loizzo, Rosa Tundis, Annabelle Dugay, Chouaha Bouzidi, Arul Marie, Rosaria Acquaviva, Anna Rita Cappello, Brigitte Deguin
Summary: This study analyzed extracts of Cornus sanguinea and Cornus mas fruits and compared their inhibitory effects on key enzymes and their impact on health. Flavonoids, iridoids, and phenolic acids were identified as the main healthy compounds. The extracts from Cornus sanguinea showed significant antioxidant effects and promising enzyme inhibitory activity.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maria Concetta Tenuta, Monica Rosa Loizzo, Rosa Tundis, Annabelle Dugay, Chouaha Bouzidi, Arul Marie, Rosaria Acquaviva, Anna Rita Cappello, Brigitte Deguin
Summary: In this study, extracts of Cornus sanguinea and Cornus mas fruits were analyzed using different extraction methods. The results showed that these extracts exhibited significant antioxidant activity and inhibited key enzymes associated with metabolic disorders. The findings suggest the potential use of Cornus species in the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals.