Excito-repellent and Pesticide-Likeness Properties of Essential Oils on Carpophilus dimidiatus (Fabricius) (Nitidulidae) and Oryzaephilus mercator (L.) (Silvanidae).

Carpophilus dimidiatus (Fabricius) (Nitidulidae) and Oryzaephilus mercator (L.) (Silvanidae) are insect pests that cause severe damage in important walnut growing regions in the northwest of Argentina. The current management approaches for these pests involve the use of unsafe phosphorus pesticides whose overuse have led to farmworker poisoning, pest resistance issues, and environmental contamination. Plant extracts, particularly essential oils, are an alternative source of insect control agents. Excito-repellent essential oils can be used to develop ecofriendly tools for managing the pest population without affecting quality and visual appearance of the stored walnuts. Laboratory studies were conducted to assess the excito-repellent effects of C. dimidiatus and O. mercator of 12 essential oils derived from aromatic plants used as food additives and traditional medicine in Argentina: Aloysia citrodora (AC), Aloysia gratissima (AG), Aloysia gratissima var. Gratissima (AGG), Blepharocalyx salicipholius (BS), Hyptis mutabilis (HM), Lippia junelliana (LJ), Lippia turbinata (LT), Mentha x piperita (MP), Minthostachys mollis (MM), Minthostachys verticillata (MV), Origanum vulgare(OV), and Rosmarinus officinalis (RO). The most bioactive EOs (ERijk ≥ 70%) were Aloysia gratissima var. Gratissima (AGG), Minthostachys verticillata, and Lippia junelliana. Their bioactivity profile and chemical space, characterized from GC-MS measures, Generalized Estimating Equations, and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis, revealed that they are mixtures of very functionalized molecules with physicochemical properties similar to those of insecticides with low residual property that enter the insect body through the respiratory system by inhalation. The AGG, MV, and LJ oils are promising as protective agents of walnut products. In our laboratory, studies of their formulations for use in integrated pest management programs are still ongoing.

Chemical composition and biological activities of the essential oils from Lippia alba and Lippia origanoides.

There is an increasing interest in essential oils extracted from Verbenaceae plant species as potential sources of biologically active compounds that could provide a starting point for designing novel phyto-pharmaceuticals in aquaculture. The present study was aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, acute toxicity and antimicrobial effects against Vibrio parahaemolyticus of essential oils extracted from Lippia alba and L. origanoides. Approximately 23 components were identified and quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and flame ionization detection in each species' essential oil. The most predominant compounds were geranial (23.0%), limonene (17.0%) and neral (15.5%) in L. alba, and thymol (47.2%), p-cymene (16.0%) and E-caryophyllene (11.3%) in L. origanoides. The essential oils have antibacterial activity against Vibrio parahaemolyticus presenting Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) values between 156-625 µg mL-1. The essential oils also show antioxidant potential estimated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assays, presenting IC50 of 60.16 mg mL-1 and 0.22 mg mL-1 for L. alba and L. origanoides EO, respectively. Both oils were classified as toxic to Artemia salina nauplii. Therefore, these essential oils may be useful for controlling pathogenic bacteria important to the aquaculture industry.

Assessment of the in Vitro Antimelanoma Potential of Lippia microphylla Cham (Verbenaceae) Essential Oil.

Essential oils stand out among natural products for their complex composition, frequently described in the literature with a range of biological effects. This study evaluated the cytotoxic activity against several human cancer cell lines of essential oils extracted from the leaves of Lippia microphylla (EO-LM) Cham. (Verbenaceae). The melanoma cell line SK-MEL-28 was the most sensitive to the EO-LM, presenting an IC50 of 33.38±1.16 µg/mL. Afterward, the effects of EO-LM on the cell cycle, induction of apoptosis, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated. We stated a significant increase in the sub-G1 population, indicating apoptosis, later confirmed by an increase of SK-MEL-28 cells labeled with Annexin V-FITC and by the formation of apoptotic bodies and membrane blebs, observed by confocal microscopy. Additionally, EO-LM reduced the production of ROS, indicating antioxidant activity. Therefore, EO-LM exhibits anti-melanoma activity in vitro, suggesting its potential as an anticancer agent.

Inhibition of α-Glycosidase by Lippia dulcis Trevir. (Verbenaceae) Preparations, Quantification of Verbascoside, and Study of Its Molecular Docking.

This study aimed to quantify verbascoside (VEB), perform molecular docking studies of VEB with the α-glucosidase (GL) of Bacillus stearothermophilus, and evaluate the inhibition of the enzyme by L. dulcis preparations. The substrate concentration and presence of reduced glutathione were evaluated for their effect on the in vitro inhibition of the GL enzyme. Assays were also performed in the presence and absence of simulated gastric fluid. The antidiabetic fractions 2 and 3 were the most inhibited GL, but their activity were significantly decreased in the presence of gastric fluid. Chromatographic analyses confirmed the predominant presence of VEB in the samples. The samples had VEB concentrations between 49.9 and 243.5 mg/g. Simulation of the molecular docking of VEB were consistent with its GL-inhibitory activity. It can conclude that the crude ethanol extract and fractions show inhibitory activity against the GL enzyme.

Role of Polyphenols from the Aqueous Extract of Aloysia citrodora in the Inhibition of Aflatoxin B1 Synthesis in Aspergillus flavus.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a mycotoxin considered a potent carcinogen for humans that contaminates a wide range of crops. Various strategies have been established to reduce or block the synthesis of AFB1 in food and feed. The use of aqueous extracts derived from plants with high antioxidant activity has been a subject of study in recent years due to their efficacy in inhibiting AFB1. In this study, we assessed the effect of Aloysia citrodora aqueous extract on Aspergillus flavus growth and on AFB1 production. A bio-guided fractionation followed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass spectrometry analysis of the active fraction were applied to identify the candidate molecules responsible for the dose-effect inhibition of AFB1 synthesis. Our results revealed that polyphenols are the molecules implicated in AFB1 inhibition, achieving almost a total inhibition of the toxin production (99%). We identified luteolin-7-diglucuronide as one of the main constituents in A. citrodora extract, and demonstrated that it is able to inhibit, by itself, AFB1 production by 57%. This is the first study demonstrating the anti-Aflatoxin B1 effect of this molecule, while other polyphenols surely intervene in A. citrodora anti-AFB1 activity.

Volatile Compounds and Biological Activity of the Essential Oil of Aloysia citrodora Paláu: Comparison of Hydrodistillation and Microwave-Assisted Hydrodistillation.

Aromatic plants are a remarkable source of natural products. Aloysia citrodora Paláu (Verbenaceae), commonly known as lemon verbena, is a relevant source of essential oils with potential applications due to its lemony scent and bioactive properties. Studies carried out on this species have focused on the volatile composition of the essential oil obtained by Clevenger hydrodistillation (CHD), with little information available on alternative extraction methodologies or the biological properties of the oil. Therefore, this work aimed to compare the volatile composition, antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities of the essential oil extracted by conventional hydrodistillation by Clevenger (CHD) and Microwave-Assisted Hydrodistillation (MAHD). Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed for some compounds, including the two major ones, geranial (18.7-21.1%) and neral (15.3-16.2%). Better antioxidant activity was exhibited by the MAHD essential oil in DPPH radical scavenging and reducing power assays, while no differences were observed in the cellular antioxidant assay. The MADH essential oil also presented higher inhibition against four tumoral cell lines and exhibited lower cytotoxicity in non-tumoral cells as compared with Clevenger-extracted essential oil. In contrast, the latter showed higher anti-inflammatory activity. Both essential oils were able to inhibit the growth of eleven out of the fifteen bacterial strains tested.

Antibacterial Activity and Antibacterial Mechanism of Lemon Verbena Essential Oil.

The destructive effect and mode of action of lemon verbena essential oil on cells were investigated, taking the isolated Pseudosciaena D4 as the research object. The extracellular absorbance of the Pseudosciaena D4 increased at OD260 and OD280 after being treated with lemon verbena essential oil, which destroyed the integrity of Pseudosciaena D4 cells, showing a significant effect on preventing biomembrane formation and destroying the formed biomembrane. With an increased concentration of lemon verbena essential oil, extracellular polysaccharide showed a significant decrease in content and a significant increase in inhibition rate, indicating that the secretion of extracellular polysaccharide by Pseudosciaena D4 cells could be inhibited by lemon verbena essential oil during the process of biomembrane formation. Cell introcession and shrinkage appeared after the treatment with essential oil, and a transparent cavity was formed by the out-flowed cell content. Lemon verbena essential oil destroyed the cell wall, resulting in an enhanced permeability of the cell membrane and leakage of the contents, thereby causing cell death.

Standardized aqueous stem bark extract of Gmelina arborea roxb. possesses nephroprotection against adriamycin-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats.

Nephrotoxicity is a major limitation of adriamycin (ADR) chemotherapy. We hypothesized that administration of standardized aqueous bark extract of Gmelina arborea Roxb. (GA) (Family; Verbenaceae), a traditional therapeutic agent, may reduce the nephrotoxicity caused by ADR in Wistar rats. The dose-dependent nephroprotective activity of the standardized GA extract was investigated in ADR-induced (20 mg/kg, ip) nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats (n = 6/group). The lyophilized powder of the aqueous refluxed (4 h) GA extract was administered at 100, 300 and 500 mg/kg doses orally for three consecutive days. Fosinopril sodium (0.09 mg/kg) was used as the positive control. Assessment of biochemical parameters on serum, urine and histopathology on H and E stained kidney sections were done at the end of the intervention. The treatment with GA and fosinopril decreased the elevation of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, cystatin C, ß2-microglobulin and loss of total protein in urine in nephrotoxic rats in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). In contrast, serum concentrations of albumin and total protein were increased significantly (p < 0.05). H and E stained kidney sections showed an attenuation of renal parenchymal injury following the treatment. The aqueous extract of GA demonstrated antioxidant potential in vitro. Present findings conclude that the standardized aqueous extract of GA stem bark exerted a dose-dependent protection against ADR-induced nephrotoxicity in vivo and may be a promising adjunct in ADR chemotherapy.

In Vivo Antidepressant-Like Effect Assessment of Two Aloysia Species in Mice and LCMS Chemical Characterization of Ethanol Extract.

Medicinal plants belonging to the Verbenaceae family demonstrated antidepressant effects in preclinical studies. Depression is one of the largest contributors to the global health burden of all countries. Plants from the Aloysia genus are traditionally used for affective disorders, and some of them have proven anxiolytic and antidepressant activity. The aim of this work was to evaluate the antidepressant effect of the ethanolic extract of Aloysia gratissima var. gratissima (Agg) and Aloysia virgata var. platyphylla (Avp) in mice. A tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming test (FST) were conducted after three doses in a period of 24 h and after 7 days of treatment. Imipramine was used as an antidepressant drug. The main results demonstrated that Agg extract reduced the immobility time in mice treated orally for 7 consecutive days when compared to the control group (reduced by about 77%, imipramine 70%). Animals treated with three doses of Avp in a 24-h period had reduced immobility time in the FST (60%), and after 7 days of treatment the reduction was greater (Avp 50, 100, and 200 about 85%; Avp 400, 96.5%; p < 0.0001, imipramine, 77%). LCMS analysis showed the presence of verbascoside, hoffmaniaketone, and hoffmaniaketone acetate in both, A. virgata var. platyphylla and A. gratissima var gratissima. The flavonoids nepetin and 6-hydroxyluteolin were also found in Agg. Both tested extracts demonstrated promising antidepressant-like activity in mice.

Isolation and HPLC Quantitative Determination of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors from Tectona grandis L.f. Leaf Extract.

Steroid 5α-reductase plays a crucial role in catalyzing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is involved in many androgen-dependent disorders. Leaf-hexane extract from Tectona grandis L.f. has shown promise as a 5α-reductase inhibitor. The objectives of this current study were to isolate and identify 5α-reductase inhibitors from T. grandis leaves and to use them as the bioactive markers for standardization of the extract. Three terpenoid compounds, (+)-eperua-8,13-dien-15-oic acid (1), (+)-eperua-7,13-dien-15-oic acid (2), and lupeol (3), were isolated and evaluated for 5α-reductase inhibitory activity. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited potent 5α-reductase inhibitory activity, while 3 showed weak inhibitory activity. An HPLC method for the quantitative determination of the two potent inhibitors (1 and 2), applicable for quality control of T. grandis leaf extracts, was also developed. The ethanolic extract showed a significantly higher content of 1 and 2 than found in the hexane extract, suggesting that ethanol is a preferable extraction solvent. This study is the first reported isolation of 5α-reductase inhibitors (1 and 2) from T. grandis leaves. The extraction and quality control methods that are safe and useful for further development of T. grandis leaf extract as an active ingredient for hair loss treatment products are also reported.

Essential oil of Aloysia citriodora Paláu and citral: sedative and anesthetic efficacy and safety in Rhamdia quelen and Ctenopharyngodon idella.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the efficacy of citral in inducing sedation and anesthesia in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) and grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) and to assess the safety of essential oil (EO) of Aloysia citriodora and citral in inducing and maintaining anesthesia in silver catfish. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical study, randomized, parallel, multi-arm with control group in target species. ANIMALS: A total of 96 juvenile and 72 adult silver catfish and 80 juvenile grass carp were used. METHODS: Silver catfish and grass carp were exposed to different concentrations of citral, 15-675 and 15-600 µL L-1, respectively, during the maximum period of 30 minutes to verify sedation and anesthesia induction and recovery times. In addition, for anesthetic induction, silver catfish were exposed to the EO of A. citriodora and citral at 225 µL L-1 for 3.5 minutes. Then, fish were transferred to an anesthesia maintenance solution at 50 µL L-1 for 10 minutes to assess hematologic and biochemical variables at 60 minutes, 2 and 6 days after treatment. RESULTS: Citral only induced sedation from 15, 25 and 40 µLL-1 in both species. Anesthesia without mortality was induced in silver catfish at 50-600 µL L-1 and grass carp at 75-450 µL L-1. At 675 and 600 µL L-1, mortality was recorded in silver catfish and grass carp, respectively. The EO of A. citriodora and citral were safe in inducing and maintaining anesthesia in silver catfish, with mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration being the only variable that varied in relation to time and treatments. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Citral was effective in inducing sedation and anesthesia in both species. In addition, A. citriodora EO and citral were safe in inducing and maintaining anesthesia in silver catfish. Both agents are promising substances for the development of new drugs for fish.

In Silico Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Thymol-Major Compounds in the Essential Oil of Lippia thymoides Mart. & Schauer (Verbenaceae).

In this paper, we evaluated the drug-receptor interactions responsible for the antimicrobial activity of thymol, the major compound present in the essential oil (EO) of Lippia thymoides (L. thymoides) Mart. & Schauer (Verbenaceae). It was previously reported that this EO exhibits antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans (C. albicans), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Therefore, we used molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and free energy calculations to investigate the interaction of thymol with pharmacological receptors of interest to combat these pathogens. We found that thymol interacted favorably with the active sites of the microorganisms' molecular targets. MolDock Score results for systems formed with CYP51 (C. albicans), Dihydrofolate reductase (S. aureus), and Dihydropteroate synthase (E. coli) were -77.85, -67.53, and -60.88, respectively. Throughout the duration of the MD simulations, thymol continued interacting with the binding pocket of the molecular target of each microorganism. The van der Waals (ΔEvdW = -24.88, -26.44, -21.71 kcal/mol, respectively) and electrostatic interaction energies (ΔEele = -3.94, -11.07, -12.43 kcal/mol, respectively) and the nonpolar solvation energies (ΔGNP = -3.37, -3.25, -2.93 kcal/mol, respectively) were mainly responsible for the formation of complexes with CYP51 (C. albicans), Dihydrofolate reductase (S. aureus), and Dihydropteroate synthase (E. coli).

Apoplasmic barrier in the extrafloral nectary of Citharexylum myrianthum (Verbenaceae).

MAIN CONCLUSION: The cytological changes underlying the formation of an apoplasmic barrier in the multi-layered extrafloral nectaries of Citharexylum myrianthum are compatible with the synthesis, transport and deposition of suberin. In terms of ontogenesis and function, the intermediate layers of these nectaries are homologous with the stalks of nectar-secreting trichomes. Anticlinal cell wall impregnations are common in trichomatic nectaries and their functions as endodermis-like barriers have been discussed because of possible direct effects on the nectary physiology, mainly in the nectar secretion and resorption. However, the cytological events linked to nectary wall impregnations remain little explored. This study documents the ontogenesis and the fine structure of the EFN cells, and cytological events linked to the wall impregnations of multi-layered extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) in Citharexylum myrianthum Cham. (Verbenaceae). EFNs are patelliform, and differentiated into (a) a multicellular foot, which is compound in structure and vascularised with phloem strands, (b) a bi-layered intermediate region with thickened cell walls and (c) a single-layered secretory region with palisade-like cells. EFNs are protodermal in origin, starting with a single protodermal cell and ending with the complex, multi-layered structure. The cell wall impregnations first appear in the very young EFN and increase towards maturity. Lipid patches (assumed to be suberin) are deposited on the inner faces of the primary walls, first along the anticlinal walls and then extend to the periclinal walls. On both walls, plasmodesmata remain apparently intact during the maturation of the EFNs. In the peripheral cytoplasm there are abundant polymorphic plastids, well-developed Golgi bodies often close to rough endoplasmic reticulum profiles, mitochondria and polyribosomes. Cytological events linked to the wall impregnations are consistent with suberin synthesis, transport and deposition. Our findings offer new insights into the structure-properties of specialised nectary cell walls and so should contribute to our knowledge of the physiological and protective roles of this structure in nectar glands.

Lampaya Medicinalis Phil. decreases lipid-induced triglyceride accumulation and proinflammatory markers in human hepatocytes and fat body of Drosophila melanogaster.

BACKGROUND: Excess hepatic triglyceride (TG) accumulation (steatosis) commonly observed in obesity, may lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Altered regulation of intracellular lipid droplets (LD) and TG metabolism, as well as activation of JNK-mediated proinflammatory pathways may trigger liver steatosis-related disorders. Drosophila melanogaster is an animal model used for studying obesity and its associated disorders. In Drosophila, lipids and glycogen are stored in the fat body (FB), which resembles mammalian adipose tissue and liver. Dietary oversupply leads to obesity-related disorders, which are characterized by FB dysfunction. Infusions of Lampaya medicinalis Phil. (Verbenaceae) are used in folk medicine of Chile to counteract inflammatory diseases. Hydroethanolic extract of lampaya (HEL) contains considerable amounts of flavonoids that may explain its anti-inflammatory effect. METHODS: We studied whether HEL affects palmitic acid (PA, C16:0) and oleic acid (OA; C18:1)-induced TG accumulation and proinflammatory marker content in HepG2 hepatocytes as well as impaired lipid storage and proinflammatory molecule expression in Drosophila melanogaster fed a high-fat diet (HFD). RESULTS: In HepG2 hepatocytes, exposure to OA/PA elevated TG content, FABP4, ATGL and DGAT2 expression, and the JNK proinflammatory pathway, as well as TNF-α and IL-6 production, while diminished FAS expression. These effects were prevented by HEL co-treatment. In Drosophila larvae fed a HFD, HEL prevented TG accumulation and downregulated proinflammatory JNK pathway activation. CONCLUSION: HEL effect counteracting OA/PA- and HFD-induced lipid accumulation and proinflammatory marker expression in HepG2 hepatocytes and Drosophila larvae may represent a preventive approach against hepatic steatosis and inflammation, associated to obesity and NAFLD.

Phylogeny, classification, and character evolution of tribe Citharexyleae (Verbenaceae).

PREMISE: As a family of Neotropical origin and primarily Neotropical distribution, the Verbenaceae are a good but understudied system with which to understand Neotropical evolution. Tribe Citharexyleae comprises three genera: Baillonia, Citharexylum-one of the largest genera in Verbenaceae-and Rehdera. A molecular phylogenetic approach was taken to resolve intergeneric relationships in Citharexyleae and infrageneric relationships in Citharexylum. The phylogeny is used to elucidate character evolution in a widespread, morphologically diverse Neotropical genus. METHODS: Seven plastid regions, two nuclear ribosomal spacers, and six low-copy nuclear loci were analyzed for 64 species of Citharexyleae. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and multispecies coalescent approaches. Habit, presence or absence of thorns, inflorescence architecture, flower color, fruit color, and geography were examined to identify diagnostic character states for clades within Citharexylum. RESULTS: Rehdera is resolved as sister to Citharexylum, and Baillonia nested within Citharexylum. Two species, C. oleinum and C. tetramerum, are not closely related to tribe Citharexyleae, but may be related to members of tribe Duranteae instead. Seven clades within Citharexylum are inferred, each characterized by a combination of geography, fruit color and/or maturation, and inflorescence architecture. There is evidence of correlated evolution between habit, axillary inflorescences, and flower number per inflorescence. Shrubs with reduced inflorescences have evolved repeatedly. CONCLUSIONS: A subgeneric classification for Citharexylum is proposed. Although suites of associated traits are found, character morphology has been labile throughout Citharexylum's evolutionary history. Morphological diversity may be related to adaptation to differing mesic and xeric habitats.

Phylogeny of Lantana, Lippia, and related genera (Lantaneae: Verbenaceae).

PREMISE: Lantana and Lippia (Verbenaceae) are two large Linnean genera whose classification has been based on associated fruit traits: fleshy vs. dry fruits and one vs. two seed-bearing units. We reconstruct evolutionary relationships and the evolution of the two fruit traits to test the validity of these traits for classification. METHODS: Previous studies of plastid DNA sequences provided limited resolution for this group. Consequently, seven nuclear loci, including ITS, ETS, and five PPR loci, were sequenced for 88 accessions of the Lantana/Lippia clade and three outgroups. RESULTS: Neither Lantana nor Lippia is monophyletic. Burroughsia, Nashia, Phyla, and several Aloysia species are included within the clade comprising Lantana and Lippia. We provide a hypothesis for fruit evolution and biogeographic history in the group and their relevance for classification. CONCLUSIONS: Fleshy fruits evolved multiple times in the Lantana/Lippia clade and thus are not suitable taxonomic characters. Several sections of Lantana and Lippia and the small genera are monophyletic, but Lippia section Zappania is broadly paraphyletic, making circumscription of genera difficult. Lippia sect. Rhodolippia is a polyphyletic group characterized by convergence in showy bracts. Species of Lantana sect. Sarcolippia, previously transferred to Lippia, are not monophyletic. The clade originated and diversified in South America, with at least four expansions into both Central America and the Caribbean and two to Africa. The types species of Lantana and Lippia occur in small sister clades, rendering any taxonomy that retains either genus similar to its current circumscription impossible.

Isolation and characterization of flavonoid compounds from Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl and its role as anti-gastro ulcerative agent in rats.

CONTEXT: Stomach ulcer is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in the world. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to isolate flavonoid compounds from methanol extract of the aerial parts of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl. and evaluate its protective and therapeutic effects against gastric ulcer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chromatographic techniques were used for the identification of the isolated compounds. To explore the effects of the plant extract, it was administrated by oral gavage for one week either before or post-ethanol ulcer induction. Ranitidine was also evaluated as a reference drug. Stomach pH, gastric juice volume, lesions number, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase, Interleukin-10, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, prostaglandin E2, and total protein levels were estimated in gastric tissue. Stomach histopathological features were also monitored. RESULTS: Six flavonoid compounds were isolated, where five of them were isolated for the first time (vitexin, isovitexin, apigenin 7,4'-dimethyl ether, 5,7,2'-trimethoxyflavone, and scutellarein), while apigenin was previously reported. Treatment with plant extract recorded amelioration in all the biochemical parameters. CONCLUSION: The methanol extract of plant aerial parts had prophylactic and treatment effects against gastric ulcer in rats, where its treatment effect exceeded its protective role. The extract recorded anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects due to the presence of flavonoid compounds.

Melatonin alleviates drought impact on growth and essential oil yield of lemon verbena by enhancing antioxidant responses, mineral balance, and abscisic acid content.

Melatonin has recently emerged as a multifunctional biomolecule with promising aspects in plant stress tolerance. The present study examined the effects of foliar-sprayed melatonin (0, 100, and 200 µM) on growth and essential oil yield attributes of lemon verbena (Lippia citriodora) under water-shortage (mild, moderate and severe). Results revealed that melatonin minimized drought effects on lemon verbena, resulting in improved growth and essential oils yield. Drought impositions gradually and significantly reduced several growth parameters, such as plant height and biomass, whereas melatonin application revived the growth performance of lemon verbena. Melatonin protected the photosynthetic pigments and helped maintain the mineral balance at all levels of drought. Melatonin stimulated the accumulation of proline, soluble sugars and abscisic acid, which were positively correlated with a better preservation of leaf water status in drought-stressed plants. Melatonin also prevented oxidative damages by enhancing the superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase and catalase activities. Furthermore, increased levels of total phenolic compounds, chicoric acid, caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, as well as ascorbate and total antioxidant capacity in melatonin-sprayed drought-stressed plants indicated that melatonin helped verbena plants to sustain antioxidant and medicinal properties during drought. Finally, melatonin treatments upheld the concentrations and yield of essential oils in the leaves of lemon verbena regardless of drought severities. These results provided new insights into melatonin-mediated drought tolerance in lemon verbena, and this strategy could be implemented for the successful cultivation of lemon verbena, and perhaps other medicinal plants, in drought-prone areas worldwide.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Supplementation with Planox® Lemon Verbena Extract in Improving Oxidative Stress and Muscle Damage: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial.

Excessive exercise load can cause muscle soreness and fatigue, as well as inflammation and oxidative stress. Lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla; Lippia citriodora) is often used as a spice in tea or beverages. Its leaves are rich in polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactivities. In the present study, we investigated whether supplementation with Planox® lemon verbena extract (LVE) could improve muscle damage and biochemical indicators after exhaustive exercise challenge. All subjects (30 males and 30 females) underwent a double-blind trial and were randomly divided into a placebo group (0 mg/human/day) and an LVE supplement group (400 mg/human/day), with gender-equal distribution. All subjects started supplementation 10 days before exhaustive exercise and continued it until all tests were completed. Before the intervention, after the exhaustive exercise, and on the following 3 days, the participants underwent 12-minute Cooper running/walking; blood collection; assessments of pain, muscle stiffness, maximum jump heights, and isometric maximum muscle strength. The results showed that supplementation with LVE effectively increased GPx and reduced CK, IL-6, 8-OHdG and muscle pain after the exhaustive exercise, but it had significant effect on strength recovery. In summary, LVE is a safe and edible natural plant extract that can reduce muscle damage and soreness after exercise. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04742244.

Verbena officinalis Verbenaceae (Lamiales): a new plant model system for phyllotaxis research.

Phyllotactic diversity and developmental transitions between phyllotactic patterns are not fully understood. The plants studied so far, such as Magnolia, Torreya or Abies, are not suitable for experimental work, and the most popular model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, does not show sufficient phyllotactic variability. It has been found that in common verbena (Verbena officinalis L.), a perennial, cosmopolitan plant, phyllotaxis differs not only between growth phases in primary transitions but also along the indeterminate inflorescence axis in a series of multiple secondary transitions. The latter are no longer associated with the change in lateral organ identity, and the sequence of phyllotactic patterns is puzzling from a theoretical point of view. Data from the experiments in silico, confronted with empirical observations, suggest that secondary transitions might be triggered by the cumulative effect of fluctuations in the continuously decreasing bract primordia size. The most important finding is that the changes in the primary vascular system, associated with phyllotactic transitions, precede those taking place at the apical meristem. This raises the question of the role of the vascular system in determining primordia initiation sites, and possibly challenges the autonomy of the apex. The results of this study highlight the complex relationships between various systems that have to coordinate their growth and differentiation in the developing plant shoot. Common verbena emerges from this research as a plant that may become a new model suitable for further studies on the causes of phyllotactic transitions.