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Melanoma is a highly malignant and serious form of skin cancer. In addition to the standard treatments, complementary approaches, including phytotherapy, are also used to alleviate symptoms and improve patient well-being. This study aims to investigate the anticancer effects of Gypsophila eriocalyx (GE), an endemic species from Türkiye, on melanoma cells. We set out to determine the efficacy of GE in inhibiting melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and growth, and to explore its underlying mechanisms.We examined the impact of GE on the proliferation of two melanoma cell lines, Malme-3M and SK-MEL-28, and assessed its developmental toxicity in zebrafish embryos. Next, we evaluated GE’s influence on colony formation and wound healing in melanoma cells, as well as its ability to induce apoptosis and affect the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, by measuring pathway reporter activity and target gene expression.GE inhibited cell proliferation in melanoma cell lines at concentrations 104 to 488 times lower than those required for normal non-malignant L929 fibroblast cells. In zebrafish embryos, GE demonstrated developmental toxicity only at concentrations above 50 μg/mL. GE treatment significantly impaired the colony formation and wound healing abilities of melanoma cells, indicating reduced proliferation and migration. Moreover, GE induced apoptosis in melanoma cells and inhibited the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, as evidenced by decreased pathway reporter activity and target gene expression.This study highlights the potential of GE as a novel therapeutic agent in melanoma treatment by demonstrating its ability to inhibit tumor growth and progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to determine the effects of sesamin, saponin, sesamin+saponin, tahini, gypsophila extract and tahini+gypsophila extract on aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels in experimentally induced type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in mice. 92 Swiss albino male mice were used. After 8 mice were separated as healthy control (HC) group, T2DM was induced by high-fat feeding and streptozotocin (STZ) application. 84 T2DM mice were divided into 7 groups; diabetes control (DC), sesamin (D+SS), saponin (D+SP), sesamin+saponin (D+SS+SP), tahini (D+T), gypsophila extract (D+C) and tahini+gypsophila extract (D+T+C) were applied for 2 weeks. At the end of the research, the animals were euthanized and serum was obtained. Serum AST, ALT, BUN and creatinine levels were measured on an autoanalyzer. AST level was higher than D+SP group (p<0.05), but like D+SP, D+T and DC groups (p>0.05). The AST level of the HC group was lower than DC, D+SP, D+SS+SP and D+T groups (p<0.05). While the ALT levels of DC and D+SP groups were similar to others (p>0.05), they were different from the other groups (p<0.05). While the BUN values of HC and DC groups were similar (p>0.05), BUN values of the two groups were different from the other groups (p<0.05). While the creatinine levels of HC, DC, D+SP and D+T groups were like each other (p>0.05), they were different from the other groups (p<0.05). As a result, it can be stated that the applied substances may have positive effects on T2DM liver and kidney function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is carried out between 1994-2023 years in Türkiye. The Gypsophila is a problematic and important genus that needs revision but will take several years. In the article, geographical distributions, endemism, flowering and fruiting months, habitat preffering, phytogeography and IUCN danger category of Gypsophila taxa distributed in Türkiye are explained according to field observations and herbaria records. Belonging to 51 taxa (47 species), almost 980 collections from 400 localities were identified. Other 15 species not carried out by us. The results presented here are based on informations of Gypsophila taxa in the country. In the light of current information, there are a total of 65 taxa belonging to 62 species in the country and these taxa named in actual situation. 39 taxa of these plants are endemics to Türkiye. Almost 40 taxa from 62 species in Türkiye shows natural distribution in Eastern Anatolia region. This situation shows that; 2/3 of Gypsophila taxa is in Eastern Anatolia region and endemic. Irano-Turanian element ratio in the genus is higher than this value. Species of the genus are distributed according to rock, climatic and geographical region. 9 taxa are indicators of gypsum areas. Among the plants in the paper Irano-Turanian elements 36, Saharo-Arabian element 1, Mediterranean elements 7, Euro-Siberian elements 4, Euxine elements 2; Cosmopolitan 1. Endemism; relict endemic 1, local and regional endemics 11, other endemics 20, nonendemics 19 as rare 1 taxon. Distributions to pytogeographical regions of endemic taxa as follows; endemic Irano-Turanian elements 23, endemic Mediterranean elements 6 and endemic Euro-Siberian elements 2. Weeds growing in fields are 4 taxa. There are new interesting geographical distributions for almost 20 taxa. Distributions to life forms of the taxa are Ch: 33, T: 14 and Chz: 4 taxa. Distributions to IUCN Threatened Cathegories of the taxa are Lc: 19, CR: 10, VU: 9, cd: 8, EN: 4, NT: 1. These two factors are dominant in the high level of endemism. 10 taxa in 0-500 m, 21 taxa in 500-1000 m, 26 taxa in 1000-1500 m, 24 taxa in 1500-2000 m, 17 taxa in 2000-2500 m, 7 taxa in 200-3000 m, 1 taxon in 3000-3500 m are naturally growing and vertical distribution. 40 taxa on steppe vegetation and slopes, 18 taxa on rocky (calcer, volcanic and conglomerate rockies) and their crevices, 14 taxa on gibsous rocky places, 10 taxa alpinic pastures/meadows, 4 taxa on macquis vegetation, 4 taxa on sandy soils, 6 taxa on forest (pine and oak) and opens, 16 taxa on fallow fields and margins and roadsides, 5 taxa on saline soils and 5 taxa on stream bads are naturally growing in Türkiye. Flowering months: 2 taxa in April, 17 taxa in May, 38 taxa in June, 40 taxa in July, 23 taxa in August, 1 taxon in September. Fruiting monts: 1 taxon in May, 12 taxa in June, 46 taxa in July, 42 taxa in August, 13 taxa in September, 2 taxa in November. The gene center of this genus has been estimated as the Eastern Anatolian region (Türkiye) in Irano-Turanian phytogeographical region. Five diversity areas in Türkiye identified: Lakes region, Mountaining areas in East Anatolia region, Region of Sivas, Erzincan Malatya, Tunceli, Erzurum, Bayburt, Gümüşhane, Region of Niğde, Aksaray, Ankara, Çankırı, Konya, Çorum, Yozgat, Region of Eskişehir, Kütahya and Bursa are very important areas in diversity for the genus. Existences of G. linearifolia in the country have not become definite. It was seen samples of G. muralis, G. antari, and G. laricina in fields in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants and their consituents play a crucial role in disease prevention and treatment. The genus Gypsophila (Caryophyllaceae family), comprising approximately 150 species of flowering plants, holds significant value in both ornamental and therapeutic fields. Traditional uses in various cultures highlight their potential in treating a range of conditions, such as liver disorders, diabetes, and kidney stones. These resilient plants, known for their delicate blooms and adaptability to diverse environments, are rich in chemical compounds, including non-volatile constituents such as phenolic compounds (e.g., flavonoids), terpenoids, saponins, cyclopeptides, and alkaloids. Additionally, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, the primary volatile constituents, exhibit significant insecticidal properties. Gypsophila species show a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, including hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, neuroprotective, and anti-obesity properties. This review underscores the promising therapeutic potential of Gypsophila and advocates for further research, particularly clinical trials, to thoroughly assess their efficacy and safety. By consolidating existing knowledge, it sheds light on the potential of Gypsophila species as valuable resources for human health and underscores the need for continued exploration to uncover novel treatments and interventions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen morphology of 43 species two subspecies and three varieties of the genera Acanthophyllum, Dianthus, Gypsophila, Petrorhagia, Psammosilene, Saponaria and Vaccaria, of Caryophylleae was observed and studied in detail using scanning electron microscopy. Among them, 28 species two subspecies and three varieties were reported for the first time. The results show that the number and distribution of pores and surface ornamentation have systematic significance. In addition, pollen morphology contributes to infrageneric evolutionary trends of Dianthus, infrageneric and intergeneric classification of Gypsophila, and reveals the differences between the tribes Caryophylleae and Sileneae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Roots of Gypsophila L. (Caryophyllaceae) have been shown to accumulate bidesmosides of triterpenoid carboxylic acids, also called GOTCAB saponins (G lucuronide O leanane-type T riterpenoid C arboxylic A cid 3, 28- B idesmosides). The study aimed at in-depth characterization of GOTCABs from root extracts of cultivated Gypsophila scorzonerifolia Ser. , G. acutifolia Stev. ex Spreng. , G. altissima L. , G. pacifica Kom. , G. paniculata L. , G. oldhamiana Miq. and G. zhegualensis Krasnova using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupol-Orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Based on the accurate mass measurements, elemental composition, isotopic peak profiles, fragmentation pattern in tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and literature data, a total of 53 GOTCABs were tentatively identified. In addition, 29 core structures, forming between 2 and 12 isobaric isomers were described. They possess gypsogenin, quillaic and gypsogenic acid as sapogenin, substituted at C-3 with O -β- d -galactopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-[pentosyl-(1 → 3)]-β- d -glucuronopyranoside (β-chain). According to the C-28 ester-bonded oligosaccharide (α-chain) saponins were classified into four groups: GOTCABs with C-28 tetra- and pentasaccharide (type I), GOTCABs with C-28 oligosaccharide substituted with methoxycinnamoyl group (type II), GOTCABs with mono- and diacetylated C-28 oligosaccharide (type III) and GOTCABs with C-28 oligosaccharide substituted with both acetyl and methoxycinamoyl groups (type IV). The possible fragmentation pathways of saponins were proposed. Eleven core structures forming between 2 and 7 isobars are undescribed in the literature. To examine the differences between the assayed Gypsophila species at the same environmental conditions, the variation of saponins was estimated by hierarchical clustering on isobaric fingerprints of GOTCABs. The clustering of the studied species revealed three well-defined clusters. The first cluster comprises G. scorzonerifolia (G1) and G. altissima (G3), characterized by GOTCABs from type III. G. acutifolia (G2) and G. pacifica (G4) formed the second cluster accumulating saponins from types II and III. The third cluster grouped G. paniculata (G5), G. oldhamiana (G6) and G. zhegualensis (G7) sharing GOTCABs from types IV in addition to II and III. This is the first report on the saponins from G. scorzonerifolia and G. zhegualensis. An in-depth depiction of the GOTCAB saponin composition of seven cultivated Gypsophila species was achieved. Therefore, saponins are worth investigating for better understanding of the potential use of Gypsophila roots for pharmaceutical purposes. Highlights • 29 core GOTCAB saponins were characterized in seven cultivated Gypsophila species. • 53 GOTCABs were elucidated by UHPLC-ESI/HRMS (Orbitrap). • Eleven new core structures forming between 2 and 7 isobars are described. • Saponin variation was estimated by hierarchical clustering on isobaric fingerprints. • This is the first report on the saponins from G. scorzonerifolia and G. zhegualensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) are enzymes with N-glycosylase activity that remove adenine bases from the ribosomal RNA. In theory, one single RIP molecule internalized into a cell is sufficient to induce cell death. For this reason, RIPs are of high potential as toxic payload for anti-tumor therapy. A considerable number of RIPs are synthesized by plants that belong to the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae). Prominent examples are the RIPs saporin from Saponaria officinalis L. or dianthin from Dianthus caryophyllus L. In this study, we have isolated and characterized a novel RIP (termed gypsophilin-S) from the tiny seeds of Gypsophila elegans M. Bieb. (Caryophyllaceae). It is noteworthy that this is the first study presenting the complete amino acid sequence of a RIP from a Gypsophila species. Gypsophilin-S was isolated from the defatted seed material following ammonium sulphate precipitation and HPLC-based ion exchange chromatography. Gypsophilin-S-containing fractions were analysed by SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry. The full amino acid sequence of gypsophilin-S was assembled by MALDI-TOF-MS-MS and PCR. Gypsophilin-S exhibited strong adenine releasing activity and its cytotoxicity in human glioblastoma cells was investigated using an impedance-based real-time assay in comparison with recombinant saporin and dianthin. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • First fully sequenced type 1 RIP from a Gypsophila species. • Isolation from the tiny seeds. • Molecular mass of 28624 Da. • High N -glycosylase activity and cytotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specific steppe flora of the Kaliakra Nature Reserve (08E1 Western-Pontic petrophytic steppes Natura 2000 habitat) is analyzed with regard to the pollination syndromes and breeding systems assessed respectively in terms of the functional morphology of blossoms and biological types of plants. The entomophilous pollination syndromes are classified. Plants with dish-bowl blossoms pollinated by small bees, flies and beetles are dominant. Next come the wind pollinated plants. A floristic analysis of the flora of Kaliakra Nature Reserve shows prevalence of Submediterranean geoelements over Euroasian, Euro-Mediterranean, Mediterranean, Pontian-Mediterranean, Euro-Siberian, Cosmopolitic, etc. in the area. This corresponds well to the dominance of the dish-bowl pollination syndrome. Also, the abundance of plants with wind pollination syndrome corresponds to the specific steppe flora and vegetation in the area. The analyses of functional blossom morphology only roughly predict pollinators. Each particular plant calls for detailed research. Adonis vernalis L., Gypsophila trichotoma Wend. Crithmum maritimum L. are presented as examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several species of the Gypsophila genus are endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, including gypsophytes of particular ecological, evolutionary and biochemical interest, and taxa that have undergone both sympatric and allopatric genetic differentiation. The niche shift among these taxa has been assessed using ecological niche modelling and ordination techniques, adopting a niche overlap approach to compare the similarity and equivalency of the ecological niches. We used the Maximum Entropy method to study the potential distribution of these taxa in different eras: the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), the Mid Holocene and the current conditions. We present evidence of niche shift during the speciation of G. bermejoi, with a strong niche overlap between the parental taxa (G. struthium subsp. struthium and G. tomentosa), yet both overlap much more weakly with the hybrid species. This phenomenon may be explained by genetic and epigenetic interactions, and it has been described in other species. We also studied the sister subspecies G. struthium subsp. struthium and G. struthium subsp. hispanica, with mostly allopatric distributions and with the Iberian System mountain range acting as a geographical barrier. The Iberian System and other mountain ranges may have favored differences in the climatic conditions on either side of the mountain range, which is consistent with an incipient process of bioclimatic ecological speciation. These results seem to indicate that niche shift can occur over very different timespans. In the case of G. bermejoi, speciation may have produced significant niche shifting in one or two generations due to its alloploid nature. By contrast, G. struthium subsp. struthium and G. struthium subsp. hispanica seem to have undergone a more gradual process of allopatric genetic differentiation driven by bioclimatic factors. Both these processes are relatively recent and they will have been strongly influenced by the climate change at the end of LGM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The scarcely investigated plant Gypsophila elegans M.Bieb. was screened for triterpenes as novel transfection enhancer. • With a bioassay guided isolation strategy an highly active triterpenoid saponin (gypsophilosid A) was isolated and characterized. • gypsophilosid A enabled an efficient gene delivery of nucleic acids into the cytosol of Neuro-2A-cells. • The combination of suicide gene carrying nanoplexes together with gypsophilosid A imply the potential significance in future gene therapies. • The isolation of the potent gypsophilosid A contributes to the establishment of the recently described sapofection as a transfection method. Abstract To this date, a number of different Gypsophila species from the family of Caryophyllaceae were phytochemically characterized and tested for diverse pharmacological effects. With Gypsophila elegans M. Bieb., we investigated a scarcely explored Gypsophila species, providing a number of potential transfection enhancing triterpene saponins, and so-called sapofection agents. So far triterpene saponins have not been isolated in Gypsophila elegans M.Bieb. Crude extracts from roots and seeds, as well as each purification step were tested for delivery modulation of gene-loaded nanoplexes into neuroblastoma cells. The application of the bioassay guided isolation strategy enabled the assessment of the most active Gypsophila compound, the bisdesmosidic triterpene saponin gypsophilosid A. Gypsophilosid A was isolated by chromatographic techniques, and characterized by electrospray mass spectrometry and intense NMR-spectroscopy, using a variety of 1D and 2D-NMR experiments such as HSQC, HMBC, HQQC, TOCSY and NOESY. In neuroblastoma cells, gypsophilosid A increased the transfection efficiency of gene-nanoplexes up to 80% compared to 2% in the control group without saponin. Our results proved the successful applicability of the implemented methods to detect, isolate and identify saponins, which are biochemically active in terms of transfection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • We ignore if species with patchy distributions are sensitive to anthropogenic fragmentation. • We used a comparative landscape genetics approach with three gypsophiles. • Genetic variation was high for populations of all species. • Few effects of habitat loss and isolation were found. • Plants with fragmented distributions may be resilient to the genetic effects of anthropogenic fragmentation. Abstract Gypsum endemics occur in naturally-fragmented habitats, which may lead to genetic erosion and higher vulnerability to the genetic effects of anthropogenic fragmentation. Conversely, evolution in a fragmented landscape could increase their resilience to the effects of further fragmentation, but no evidence is available in either direction. In this study, we capitalize on previous results showing high genetic variation and a negative, yet small, effect of fragmentation on genetic variation on the gypsophile Lepidium subulatum , and jointly assess two other co-occurring dominant gypsophiles: Helianthemum squamatum and Centaurea hyssopifolia. We sampled individuals of the species in 20 populations varying in their fragment size and connectivity (≈400 plants/species; 1138 individuals total), and assessed genetic variation and population structure using species-specific microsatellite markers. Genetic variation was high in populations of the three study species, as shown by the high expected heterozygosity (0.454–0.735) and allelic richness (2.875–8.125). Population differentiation was in general low, but H. squamatum showed a stronger spatial structure than the other species. No effects of fragment size or connectivity were found for H. squamatum or C. hyssopifolia , i.e. differences among populations in genetic variation were not related to the size or connectivity of the sampled habitat remnants. These results contrast with the expectation that habitat specialists may be genetically impoverished. Furthermore, the correlation of key genetic diversity indices among species suggests that some fragments harbor more genetically-diverse populations than others, which provides insights for their conservation. We propose that these species may offset the genetic effects of human-mediated further habitat loss and increased isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the effects and possible mechanisms of oldhamianoside on the growth of human ovarian cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Materials and methods: CCK-8 assay was applied to estimate the effect of oldhamianoside on cell proliferation inhibition in vitro. Nude mice bearing human ovarian SKOV3 xenograft tumors were treated with oldhamianoside to investigate the effects of compound administration on tumor growth in vivo. To further investigate the mechanisms of inhibition effects of oldhamianoside on ovarian cancer growth in vivo, the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1 in plasma from the mice were measured by ELISA. Western blot was used to detect the expression of angiogenesis- and/or apoptosis-related proteins. Results: We found that oldhamianoside treatment inhibited SKOV3 proliferation and growth both in vitro and in vivo. Meanwhile, the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1 in plasma were markedly suppressed in oldhamianoside-treated mice. Additionally, oldhamianoside treatment inhibited the expression of VEGF and VEGFR2 and decreased the expression of caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Conclusion: Our data indicate that oldhamianoside has an obvious inhibition effect on SKOV3 proliferation, and the mechanisms might be related to inhibition of cell growth, apoptosis induction, and adjusting the inflammatory response and angiogenesis signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methanol-aqueous extracts from the aerial parts of Gypsophila glomerata (GGE), G. trichotoma (GTE) and G. perfoliata (GPE) were investigated for antioxidant potential using different in vitro models, as well as for phenolic and flavonoid contents. The possible anti-cholinesterase, anti-tyrosinase, anti-amylase and anti-glucosidase activities were also tested. The flavonoid variability was analyzed using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Eleven C -glycosyl flavones and 4 O -glycosyl flavonoids, including 2”- O -pentosyl-6- C -hexosyl-apigenin/methylluteolin, as well as their mono(di)-acetyl derivatives were found in GGE. Both GGE and GTE shared 2”-pentosyl-6- C -hexosyl-luteolin together with the common saponarin, homoorientin, orientin, isovitexin and vitexin, while di C -glycosyl flavones were evidenced only in GPE. The highest radical scavenging in both ABTS and DPPH assays was noted in GPE, as well as ferric and cupric reducing abilities. However, GTE had the strongest metal chelating activity (17.44 ± 0.51 mg EDTAE/g extract). GPE and GGE were more potent as acetylcholinesterases inhibitors witnessed by 2.09 ± 0.02 mg GALAE/g extract and 1.59 ± 0.09 mgGALAE/g extract, respectively. All flavonoids were found in G. glomerata for the first time. Therefore, further isolation and structural elucidation of newly described acetylated flavonoids are needed in order to determine their relevance in the beneficial properties of the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Pantoea agglomerans, a widespread epiphytic bacterium, has evolved into a hypersensitive response and pathogenicity (hrp)‐dependent and host‐specific gall‐forming pathogen by the acquisition of a pathogenicity plasmid containing a type III secretion system (T3SS) and its effectors (T3Es). Pantoea agglomerans pv. betae (Pab) elicits galls on beet (Beta vulgaris) and gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata), whereas P. agglomerans pv. gypsophilae (Pag) incites galls on gypsophila and a hypersensitive response (HR) on beet. Draft genome sequences were generated and employed in combination with a machine‐learning approach and a translocation assay into beet roots to identify the pools of T3Es in the two pathovars. The genomes of the sequenced Pab4188 and Pag824‐1 strains have a similar size (∼5 MB) and GC content (∼55%). Mutational analysis revealed that, in Pab4188, eight T3Es (HsvB, HsvG, PseB, DspA/E, HopAY1, HopX2, HopAF1 and HrpK) contribute to pathogenicity on beet and gypsophila. In Pag824‐1, nine T3Es (HsvG, HsvB, PthG, DspA/E, HopAY1, HopD1, HopX2, HopAF1 and HrpK) contribute to pathogenicity on gypsophila, whereas the PthG effector triggers HR on beet. HsvB, HsvG, PthG and PseB appear to endow pathovar specificities to Pab and Pag, and no homologous T3Es were identified for these proteins in other phytopathogenic bacteria. Conversely, the remaining T3Es contribute to the virulence of both pathovars, and homologous T3Es were found in other phytopathogenic bacteria. Remarkably, HsvG and HsvB, which act as host‐specific transcription factors, displayed the largest contribution to disease development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila bermejoi G. López is an allopolyploid species derived from the parental G. struthium L. subsp. struthium and G. tomentosa L. All these plants are gypsophytes endemic to the Iberian Peninsula of particular ecological, evolutionary and biochemical interest. In this study, we present evidence of a possible repression on the process of G. bermejoi speciation by climatic factors. We modelled the ecological niches of the three taxa considered here using a maximum entropy approach and employing a series of bioclimatic variables. Subsequently, we projected these models onto the geographical space of the Iberian Peninsula in the present age and at two past ages: the Last Glacial Maximum and the mid-Holocene period. Furthermore, we compared these niches using the statistical method devised by Warren to calculate their degree of overlap. We also evaluated the evolution of the bioclimatic habitat suitability at those sites were the soil favors the growth of these species. Both the maximum entropy model and the degree of overlap indicated that the ecological behavior of the hybrid differs notably from that of the parental species. During the Last Glacial Maximum, the two parental species appear to take refuge in the western coastal strip of the Peninsula, a region in which there are virtually no sites where G. bermejoi could potentially be found. However, in the mid-Holocene period the suitability of G. bermejoi to sites with favorable soils shifts from almost null to a strong adaptation, a clear change in this tendency. These results suggest that the ecological niches of hybrid allopolyploids can be considerably different to those of their parental species, which may have evolutionary and ecologically relevant consequences. The data obtained indicate that certain bioclimatic variables may possibly repress the processes by which new species are formed. The difference in the ecological niche of G. bermejoi with respect to its parental species prevented it from prospering during the Last Glacial Maximum. However, the climatic change in the mid-Holocene period released this block and as such, it permitted the new species to establish itself. Accordingly, we favor a recent origin of the current populations of G. bermejoi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of Gypsophila elegans isoorientin-2″-O-α- l -arabinopyranosyl (GEI) on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), to reveal the underlying mechanism of GEI against hepatic fibrosis. Our study showed that GEI significantly alleviated liver injury induced by porcine serum (PS) in rats; it notably alleviated collagen accumulation as evidenced by a significant decrease in the levels of collagen biomarkers including hyaluronic acid, laminin, hydroxyproline and procollagen III N-terminal peptide. Moreover, GEI treatment markedly decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and significantly inhibited the generation of excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) components by restoring the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Additionally, the cell experiments in vitro showed that GEI strongly inhibited HSC proliferation, migration and clonogenicity and markedly induced HSC apoptosis. Moreover, GEI caused cell cycle arrest at G2 phase. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that GEI significantly alleviates PS-induced hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, restoring the balance between MMPs and TIMPs, and suppressing HSC activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila sphaerocephala is a naturally Boron (B) tolerant species that can grow around the B mining areas in Turkey, where the B concentration in soil reaches a lethal dose for plants (up to ∼8900 mg kg −1 (∼140 mM). While its interesting survival capacity in extremely B containing soils, any molecular research has been conducted to understand its high tolerance mechanism yet. In the present study, we have performed a proteomic analysis of this plant to understand its high tolerance towards B-stress. Seedlings of G. sphaerocephala were collected from B mining area and were adapted to greenhouse conditions. An excessive level of Boric acid (3 mM)was applied to the plantlets for 24 h. Total proteins were precipitated by using TCA/Acetone method. 2D-PAGE (two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) analysis of the proteins was carried out. Out of 121 protein spots, 14 were differentially expressed between the control and B-exposed G. sphaerocephala roots. The peptide profile of each protein was determined by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer after in-gel trypsin digestion. The identified proteins are involved in different mechanisms in the cell such as in antioxidant mechanism, energy metabolism, protein degradation, lipid biosynthesis and signaling pathways, indicating that G. sphaerocephala has multiple cooperating mechanisms to protect itself from high B levels. Overall, this study sheds light on to the possible regulatory switches (gene/s) controlling the B-tolerance proteins and their possible roles in plant’s defense mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new acylated and triterpenoidal saponin, named GS1, was isolated from the roots ofGypsophila arrostiiGuss. On the basis of acid hydrolysis, comprehensive spectroscopic analyses and comparison with spectral data of known compounds, its structure was established as 3-O-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→2)-[β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl-{21-O-[(E)-3,4,5trimethoxycinnamoyl]}21-hydroxygypsogenin 28-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)- [β-D-arabinopyranosyl-(1→3)]-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→3]-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl ester. This article deals with the isolation and structural elucidation of new acylated and oleanane-type saponin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila perfoliata L. is a maritime sand-dune species naturally occurring in Asia and southeastern Europe. In Europe it also is found in ruderal habitats rarely, mainly along railway lines. In Poland the species was first recorded in the 1950s; it was found only at railway stations where iron ore was offloaded from the Kryvyi Rih region, Ukraine. Recently it was found in a new type of habitat: the roadside of a main road in the Carpathians. The paper characterizes the current status, distribution and habitat spectrum of this alien species in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first synthesis of the triterpenoid saponin 1 and its derivatives 2–3 was efficiently achieved in an efficient and practical strategy with an odourless 2-methyl-5-tert-butylphenyl (Mbp) thioglycoside and a N-phenyltrifluoroacetimidate donor as a key step, and their inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase and α-amylase were evaluated in vitro. The preliminary structure–activity relationship studies demonstrated that C4–CHO and C4–CH2OH were not essential to α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Among the three compounds, compound 3 exhibited remarkably potent inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase with an IC50 value of 9.17 μM. According to Ki determined at 9.35 μM from the intercept on a Dixon plot, the more potent saponin 3 against α-glucosidase may be a noncompetitive inhibition pattern. In parallel, the lipophilicity of compounds 1–3 was calculated as a prediction for pharmacological potency. According to the predicted log P values, lipophilicity may correlate with the evaluated biological potency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylogenetic diversity enhances ecosystem functioning but restoration ecology has not taken advantage of this knowledge. We propose plant facilitation as a mechanism to promote phylogenetic diversity in restoration practices. We planted three functionally different species (Gypsophila struthium, Sedum album, and Limonium sucronicum) in a degraded gypsum ecosystem in Spain and found that after 7 years, the species with nurse traits (G. struthium) survived longer and facilitated the establishment of new species forming phylogenetically diverse neighborhoods. These facilitation-driven phylodiverse communities may potentially produce a cascade of benefits on ecosystem functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila yazdiana Falat., F. Ghahrem. & Assadi (Caryophyllaceae, Caryophylloideae) is described here as a new species from central Iran and is assigned to Gypsophila L. sect. Paniculaeformes F. N. Williams. Despite the overall similarity in habit and shape of the leaves and inflorescence, it differs from the related species G. perfoliata L. by having the stems glabrous, the leaves glabrous and narrower, oblanceolate to narrowly lanceolate, to 1.5 cm wide, and the petals rounded at the apex. In G. perfoliata the stem is glandular pubescent in the lower half, the leaves are glandular pubescent, obovate or ovate-oblong, and up to 3.5 cm wide, and the petals are retuse at the apex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new strict gypsophilous species ofChaenorhinum,Ch. gamezii, is described. It is an annual to perennial species found in extremely arid locations upon Triassic gypsic habitats in the south-eastern Iberian Peninsula. This species has an eglandular heterotrichous indumentum, which is related toCh. segovienseandCh. flexuosum. However,Ch. gameziihas a characteristic combination of vegetative and micromorphological features (trichomes and ornamentation of the seeds) that are not present in any other taxon of the genus. Herein, the affinities and differences with related species are studied and discussed. For its differentiation, an original key is presented with comparative figures of indumentum and seeds, and a complete iconography. Knowledge of the species ecology, biogeography, demography and threats is also provided, and according to that,Ch. gameziishould be considered as a critically threatened species (critically endangered, according to IUCN criteria). Future conservation proposals are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genusGypsophilacontains about 150 annual and perennial flowering plant species native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia. NowadaysGypsophilaspecies are present worldwide as garden ornamental plants. AlthoughGypsophilais one of the most economically important ornamental crops, little is known about its genetic variability and the relationships among the different wild species, cultivars, and commercial hybrids. The aim of our work was to analyze genetic distances among 5 wild species and 13 commercial hybrids ofGypsophilawith similar phenotypes but unknown origin. For this purpose, we have used amplified fragment length polymorphism, target region amplification polymorphism, and inter simple sequence repeat whole-genome markers and chloroplast simple sequence repeat (cpSSR), targeting chloroplast DNA. Nuclear markers were found to distinguish all the analyzed samples while cpSSR markers were found to discriminate the different wild species, but could not sufficiently separate the commercial hybrids. This notwithstanding, the data obtained allowed us to cluster the commercial hybrids into different sub-groups and to determine the relationships with the putative species of origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hepatoprotective effect of Gypsophila elegans isoorientin (GEI) was evaluated using a hepatic fibrosis model induced by CCl 4 in rats. The results revealed that GEI significantly prevented CCl 4 -induced liver injury and fibrosis, as evidenced by the attenuation of histopathological changes, the decrease in serum aminotransferase, and the inhibition of collagen accumulation. GEI strongly inhibited lipid peroxidation and recruited anti-oxidative defense system. Moreover, GEI alleviated pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 via inhibiting nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. In addition, GEI down-regulated the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and up-regulated the level of hepatic Smad7, thereby inhibiting TGFβ1/Smad signaling pathway. In conclusion, our findings indicate that GEI can inhibit CCl 4 -induced hepatic fibrosis, which may be ascribed to its radical scavenging action, antioxidant activity, and modulation of NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of areas of endemism is a crucial tool for both the interpretation of the spatial component of biological evolution and the plotting of priority areas as far as biodiversity conservation is concerned. Geographical isolation, aridity and special substrates are among the factors which can help to explain the restricted areas of thetaxa. All these factors concur in the origin of the Iberian gypsophilous flora, rich in endemic and threatened species. Gypsum is a particularly demanding rock for plants, and gypsum outcrops are usually fragmented in space, in territories with arid conditions. Information on the presence of 71 gypsophytes was collected in 10 × 10 km Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM). The distribution of these plants was used to plot the main areas of endemism for the vascular flora on Iberian gypsum outcrops. This was carried out using the eNDeMism/Visor of eNDeMism (NDM/VNDM) program and several grid cell sizes. A total of 51 areas of endemicity were identified and represented on a map according to their program selection frequency. The South East (SE) of the Iberian Peninsula was the only area selected in all the tests. The results were also compared with other factors of interest for the conservation of gypsophilous flora like genetic diversity of four gypsophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GypsophilapaniculataL. is among the 10 best selling cut flower species globally and is considered a “target” plant for breeding varieties. The aim of this work was to make the genetic improvement ofGypsophilamore rational and focused. The study of basic chromosome number and the reproductive system (potential barriers to intraspecific and interspecific incompatibilities) of the wild species as well as the commercial hybrids forms the basis of crossbreeding and selection of variety. A significant difference in ploidy was found between the speciespaniculata, its cultivar Flocon de Neige doubles, the specieslibanoticaBoiss. (n = 34) andPacificaKom. (n = 68). A significant difference in the chromosome number was found among the commercial hybrids ofGypsophilaunder investigation, and this difference was observed among them as well as when compared with the wild type species. The flower structure of commercial hybrids can be remarkably complex. Some hybrids such as Biancanieves® and MeryG® showed empty pollen sacs, whereas others such as “Mirabella” and New Love® showed pollen grains trapped into anthers. However, the pollen, when present, exhibits immature or degenerated appearance. The examined commercial hybrids showed a gynoecium morphologically and anatomically conforming to that of wild species and it was potentially fertile. Therefore, the fertile pollen collected from the wild species could be used to fertilize the compatible eggs of commercial hybrids, thereby speeding the process of breeding varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Responses to salt stress of two Gypsophila species that share territory, but with different ecological optima and distribution ranges, were analysed. G. struthium is a regionally dominant Iberian endemic gypsophyte, whereas G. tomentosa is a narrow endemic reported as halophyte. The working hypothesis is that salt tolerance shapes the presence of these species in their specific habitats. Methods: Taking a multidisciplinary approach, we assessed the soil characteristics and vegetation structure at the sampling site, seed germination and seedling development, growth and flowering, synthesis of proline and cation accumulation under artificial conditions of increasing salt stress and effect of PEG on germination and seedling development. Results: Soil salinity was low at the all sampling points where the two species grow, but moisture was higher in the area of G. tomentosa. Differences were found in the species' salt and drought tolerance. The different parameters tested did not show a clear pattern indicating the main role of salt tolerance in plant distribution. Conclusions: G. tomentosa cannot be considered a true halophyte as previously reported because it is unable to complete its life cycle under salinity. The presence of G. tomentosa in habitats bordering salt marshes is a strategy to avoid plant competition and extreme water stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsum soils are among the most restrictive and widespread substrates for plant life. Plants living on gypsum are classified as gypsophiles (exclusive to gypsum) and gypsovags (non-exclusive to gypsum). The former have been separated into wide and narrow gypsophiles, each with a putative different ecological strategy. Mechanisms displayed by gypsum plants to compete and survive on gypsum are still not fully understood. The aim of this study was to compare the main chemical groups in the leaves of plants with different specificity to gypsum soils and to explore the ability of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra analyzed with neural network (NN) modelling to discriminate groups of gypsum plants. Leaf samples of 14 species with different specificity to gypsum soils were analysed with FTIR spectroscopy coupled to neural network (NN) modelling. Spectral data were further related to the N, C, S, P, K, Na, Ca, Mg and ash concentrations of samples. The FTIR spectra of the three groups analyzed showed distinct features that enabled their discrimination through NN models. Wide gypsophiles stood out for the strong presence of inorganic compounds in their leaves, particularly gypsum and, in some species, also calcium oxalate crystals. The spectra of gypsovags had less inorganic chemical species, while those of narrow gypsum endemisms had low inorganics but shared with wide gypsophiles the presence of oxalate. Gypsum and calcium oxalate crystals seem to be widespread amongst gypsum specialist plants, possibly as a way to tolerate excess Ca and sulphate. However, other mechanisms such as the accumulation of sulphates in organic molecules are also compatible with plant specialization to gypsum. While gypsovags seem to be stress tolerant plants that tightly regulate the uptake of S and Ca, the ability of narrow gypsum endemisms to accumulate excess Ca as oxalate may indicate their incipient specialization to gypsum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of gypsogenin (1) derivatives (1a–i) was synthesized in good yields, and the derivatives’ structures were established using UV, IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and LCMS spectroscopic data. Among the tested compounds, 1a, 1b, 1d, 1e, and gypsogenin (1) showed antimicrobial activities against Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus thrungiensis, with inhibition zones of 10–14 mm. In addition, compounds 1b, 1d, and 1e showed antimicrobial activities against Bacillus cereus, with inhibition zones of 9–14 mm. Using six human cancer cell lines in vitro, the cytotoxic activities of all tested compounds were determined by calculating the IC50 values. Doxorubicin and paclitaxel were used as controls. Among the tested compounds, 1a, 1c, and 1d had inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 3.9 μM (HL-60 cells), 5.15 μM (MCF-7 cells), and 5.978 μM (HL-60), respectively. To determine the type of cell death, Hoechst 33258 (HO) and propidium iodide (PI) double staining was used. Especially, gypsogenin (1) and compound 1a triggered the apoptotic mechanism at a concentration of 20 μM. Thus, gypsogenin (1) and compounds 1a, 1c, and 1d possess varying degrees of biological activities and can be considered as potential antitumor agents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Turkey has almost 70% of the total boron (B) in the world, and B-reserve areas form a special habitat in terms of plant–environment relationships. In this study, these relationships were used to investigate phytoremediation possibilities for B-contaminated environments. Field studies were carried out in seven different open B mine sites and their environments in four different provinces of Turkey. At the end of chemical analyses of soil and plant samples, 11 wild and potential phytoremediator plant species were determined; two of them were aquatic whereas nine were terrestrial. Some of the species were halophytes.Puccinella distanssubsp. distans (Poaceae) andGypsophila perfoliatasubsp. perfoliata (Caryophyllaceae) showed both the greatest tolerance and greatest B accumulation ratios. The results of the present study could be used as a tool to improve effective and environmentally friendly management strategies for both aquatic and terrestrial environments contaminated with high B concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Detailed soil and surficial geologic data are needed for ecological interpretations, yet are often absent or incomplete in published studies of arid land ecology or biogeography. Clear, edaphic habitat definitions are needed for gypsophilic plants including the Las Vegas buckwheat, E. corymbosum var. nilesii (LVB), a rare shrub endemic to the Mojave Desert. As a case study, we use soil profile data and high resolution (1:3000 scale) surficial geologic maps to identify likely edaphic controls of LVB habitat, potential habitat, and non-habitat distributions. We confirm gypsiferous substrates lacking hard, physical surface crusts as a boundary condition in most, but not all population clusters, but find that fine-grained, carbonate-rich soil lacking gypsum is also viable habitat, as is shallow (<1m) sandy alluvium overlying gypsiferous sediments. Deep (>1m), coarse-grained alluvium and/or surfaces with tightly interlocking desert pavement exclude LVB. Our results challenge the view of this target species as a true gypsophile, however, it remains unclear whether carbonate-rich habitats represent ideal conditions or refugia. This study underscores the important merits of surficial geologic mapping and soil morphological description for ecological research, conservation, restoration, and land management in arid environments, especially gypsum soils, worldwide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Four triterpenoid saponins were isolated from Gypsophila arrostii var. nebulosa and G. bicolor roots. [•] Structures were determinated by spectroscopic methods. [•] Compound 1 exhibited a potential cytotoxic activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Gypsophila trichotoma Wend. (Caryophyllaceae) is a medicinal plant which is protected in Bulgaria by the Biodiversity Law. Previous studies have showed the presence of triterpene saponins, sterols, flavonoids, triterpens, etc. Objective: Gypsogenic acid, isolated from Gypsophila trichotoma roots, was evaluated for cytotoxic activity. Materials and Methods: The structure of the compound was elucidated by spectral methods. The cell survival fraction was determined by the MTT dye reduction assay, performed with some modifications. Results: Gypsogenic acid was tested in a panel of human tumor cell lines and was found to inhibit the proliferation of malignant cells. It was active against leukemic cells with lymphoid (SKW-3 and BV-173) or myeloid phenotype (HL-60, K-562, and LAMA-84), as well as against the EJ bladder carcinoma cell line. Bcr-Abl expressing myeloid cells (LAMA-84 and especially K-562) displayed lower sensitivity. HL-60/Dox cells were less sensitive to gypsogenic acid than the parent cell line, which shows that gypsogenic acid is probably a substrate of MRP-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila Saponaria afficinalis, is in the family Caryophyllaceae, native to southern Europe and southwest Asia, and commonly known as the soapworts. The aqueous extract was obtained by sequential extraction of soapwort plant roots and prior to spray drying operation maltodextrin was added as a carrier material to adjust the soluble solid content (°Bx) of the soapwort extract (15°Bx, 22.5°Bx, 30°Bx). Powder properties of the product and the characteristic process indices were determined after spray drying of soapwort extracts with different air inlet (110°C, 135°C, 160°C) and outlet temperatures (50°C, 65°C, 80°C) with the other process parameters being constant. The moisture content of the powders changed between 6.35% and 0.44% being mostly affected by increasing outlet temperatures. Productivity and drying rate showed a decreasing tendency as air outlet temperature increased since high outlet temperatures required low feed flow rates. Dissolution time and tapped density were determined as powder characteristics combined with foam producing capacity, color and morphological properties. In general, results showed that spray drying can satisfactorily be used for spray drying of soapwort root extracts with acceptable moisture and water activity of the powders and functional properties of the reconstituted powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Eleven new triterpenoid saponins were isolated from Gypsophila trichotoma roots. [•] Their structures were established by NMR and ESI-MS n and HR-ESI-MS spectroscopy. [•] The structure of saponins were compared to saponins from G. perfoliata. [•] Тhe cytotoxicity of the saponin extract was evaluated. [•] The aminoacyl saponins enhance the cytotoxicity of the targeted toxin in HER14 cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article re-evaluates the taxonomic status of Agave gypsophila. It proposes a narrower circumscription for A. gypsophila and describes new species Agave abisaii, A. andreae, A. kristenii and A. pablocarrilloi from western Mexico. It also notes that all species are narrow endemics occurring on various limestone outcrops and belong to the subgenus Agave and to the Marmoratae species group sensu Berger. Their morphologic relation to A. gypsophila s. s. from Guerrero, Mexico is also cited.

Abstract: A bioassay-guided phytochemical analysis of the triterpene saponins from under ground parts of Gypsophila arrostii var. nebulosa allowed the isolation of two triterpene saponins; nebuloside A, B based on gypsogenin and quillaic acid aglycone. Two new oleanane type triterpenoid saponins (nebuloside A, B) and three known saponins (1–3) were isolated from the root bark of Gypsophila arrostii var. nebulosa. The structures of the two new compounds were elucidated as 3-O-β-d-galactopyranosyl-(1→2)-[β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)]-β-d-glucuronopyranosyl quillaic acid 28-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→3)-[β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)-β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→4)]-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-fucopyranosyl ester (nebuloside A) and 3-O-β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)-[β-d-galactopyranosyl(1→3)-β-d-galactopyranosyl-(1→2)]-β-d-glucuronopyranosyl gypsogenin 28-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→3)-[β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)-β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→4)]-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-fucopyranosyl ester (nebuloside B), on the basis of extensive spectral analysis and chemical evidence. Nebuloside A and B showed toxicity enhancing properties on saporin a type-I RIP without causing toxicity by themselves at 15μg/mL. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The virulence of the bacterium Pantoea agglomerans pv. gypsophilae ( Pag) on Gypsophila paniculata depends on a type III secretion system ( T3SS) and its effectors. The hypothesis that plant-derived indole-3-acetic acid ( IAA) plays a major role in gall formation was examined by disrupting basipetal polar auxin transport with the specific inhibitors 2,3,5-triiodobenzoic acid ( TIBA) and N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid ( NPA). On inoculation with Pag, galls developed in gypsophila stems above but not below lanolin rings containing TIBA or NPA, whereas, in controls, galls developed above and below the rings. In contrast, TIBA and NPA could not inhibit tumour formation in tomato caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The colonization of gypsophila stems by Pag was reduced below, but not above, the lanolin- TIBA ring. Following Pag inoculation and TIBA treatment, the expression of hrp L (a T3SS regulator) and pag R (a quorum-sensing transcriptional regulator) decreased four-fold and that of pth G (a T3SS effector) two-fold after 24 h. Expression of PIN2 (a putative auxin efflux carrier) increased 35-fold, 24 h after Pag inoculation. However, inoculation with a mutant in the T3SS effector pth G reduced the expression of PIN2 by two-fold compared with wild-type infection. The results suggest that pth G might govern the elevation of PIN2 expression during infection, and that polar auxin transport-derived IAA is essential for gall initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soil properties of the annual Gypsophila L. taxa of Turkey and their effects on plant morphology were investigated. The taxa studied were Gypsophila heteropoda Freyn & Sint., G. parva Barkoudah, G. elegans M.Bieb., G. bitlisensis Barkoudah, G. viscosa Murray, G. antari Post & Beauverd, G. muralis L., G. tubulosa (Jaub. & Spach) Boiss., G. confertifolia Hub.-Mor., and G. pilosa Hudson. The soils of the plant taxa were medium textured, sand or sandy-loam, saltless or a little salty, neutral, limy, rich in potassium and with very little phosphorous, and with medium levels of nitrogen and organic matter. G. antari, which had the greatest lime content, had the lowest number of leaves. G. muralis and G. tubulosa had the lowest saturation values and lime content but the greatest number of leaves. If the lime content increased, the development of roots decreased, and when the rate of sand increased, the development of roots increased. For G. muralis, phosphorus concentration, seed size, and salt content were negatively related to number of leaves. For G. tubulosa and G. antari, potassium and organic matter concentrations were negatively related to number of leaves. In G. muralis, salt content was positively related to calyx diameter and seed size. In G. confertifolia, organic matter content was positively correlated with height of the calyx, petal, and bract. It was observed that G. pilosa, G. bitlisensis, and G. viscosa species are also distributed in limeless steppe areas. The most important distribution areas of the species in Turkey are Sivas, Erzincan, Çankırı, Eskişehir, and Ankara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to determine the antioxidant system responses of a xerophytic plant to salinity and drought, which were not elucidated before. Physiological and antioxidant responses of the xerophytic plant Gypsophila aucheri Boiss. were investigated under salinity (100 and 300 mM NaCl) and drought (withholding watering) treatment for 2 weeks in a controlled growth chamber. Besides growth responses (relative growth rate (RGR)), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities, and SOD and CAT isoenzymes activities were determined under stress conditions. Moreover, the level of lipid peroxidation was determined as thiobarbutiric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content. Tolerance of G. aucheri to salinity and drought was evaluated based on lipid peroxidation (oxidative damage) and RGR. According to the experiments, G. aucheri was found to be tolerant to drought and 100 mM NaCl and its antioxidant system was able to cope with oxidative stress under these conditions. However, 300 mM NaCl treatment had detrimental effects on plant growth and membrane integrity. Under this concentration, oxidative stress cannot be precluded in spite of increased SOD, POX, and APX activities. These data indicate that xerophytic G. aucheri is a moderate halophytic plant that uses an efficient antioxidant defence mechanism under salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Turkish ecotype of Puccinellia distans displays exceptional boron (B) tolerance, >1,250 mg B L, compared to <50 mg B L for Gypsophila arrostil. In the present study, we compare the molecular basis for the difference in B tolerance between the two species by constructing high B-responsive suppression subtractive hybridization libraries to identify the upregulated genes. A total of 219 and 113 unique non-redundant expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were identified and functionally classified in P. distans and G. arrostil, respectively. In addition, 63 ESTs were down-regulated in P. distans in response to high B. The majority of the high B upregulated genes belong to four categories: metabolism, protein synthesis, cellular organization, and stress/defense. We hypothesize that the superior B tolerance exhibited by P. distans may be due to its ability to restrict the accumulation of B in plant tissues through the upregulated expression of efflux transporters comparable to the Bot1 transporter of barley. In addition, our results are consistent with the view that other molecular mechanisms involved in stress/defense, such as detoxification, anti-oxidative, and signaling pathways, are needed to tolerate B-toxicity stress. Key message The molecular basis of boron tolerance of two plant species ( Puccinellia distans and Gypsophila arrostil) that differ greatly in their boron tolerance was studied in this manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Alcohol abuse is one of the major causes of liver fibrosis, which shows a sharply increasing trend worldwide, yet effective therapeutic options for advanced alcohol fibrosis are limited. Recently we investigated the effect of anti-fibrosis by isoorientin-2″-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl (IOA) isolated from Gypsophila elegans. During the experiment, the model group received alcohol only, and treatment groups received the corresponding drugs plus alcohol respectively, while the normal control group received an equal volume of saline. Analysis at the end of 24-week experiments showed that IOA could significantly improve the liver function, as indicated by decreasing levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltransferase, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Moreover, IOA could effectively inhibit collagen deposition and reduce the pathological tissue damage. Research on mechanism showed that IOA was able to markedly reduce lipid peroxidation, recruit the anti-oxidative defense system, and induce HSC apoptosis by down-regulating bcl-2 mRNA, as well as inhibit the expression of α-smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor β1 proteins. In short, our results showed that IOA is effective in attenuating hepatic injury and fibrosis in the alcohol-induced rat model, which should be developed as a new drug to treat liver fibrosis and even cirrhosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Salinity is a major limiting factor to agricultural productivity. To ensure future productivity of the agricultural regions and achieve a selection of genetically transformed salt-tolerant plants, there is a need to select and characterize salt-tolerant plants. Gypsophila oblanceolata Bark. is a Turkish endemic and endangered halophyte occurring in salt marshes/hydromorphic soils. The aim of this experiment was to determine the responses of G. oblanceolata to salt stress during germination and vegetative growth. Therefore, effects of salinity (0, 50, 100, 150, 300mM NaCl) on germination and changes in the activities of antioxidant enzymes/isoenzymes (SOD, CAT and POX) during germination under stress and recovery after stress were determined. Moreover, during vegetative growth (60d old plants), changes in physiological parameters, ion concentrations, proline (Pro) content, lipid peroxidation (MDA), H2O2 content, NADPH oxidase activity and, antioxidant enzyme/isoenzyme system (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR)) were also investigated. Salt stress decreased both the germination percentage and rate. Few seeds germinated at 100mM NaCl. Exposure to high concentrations of NaCl did not permanently inhibit germination. Salinity (50mM NaCl) caused a decrease in activities of SOD, CAT and POX during germination. However, after stress, the activities of all enzymes were increased in recovered-plants. During vegetative growth, increased activities of SOD, CAT and APX in 50 and 100mM NaCl treated-plants may help to avoid oxidative damage in G. oblanceolata. However, at higher doses, induced stimulation of the CAT, POX and GR was not sufficient to cope with the enhanced ROS production and MDA level. From the results obtained in present study, it can be suggested that G. oblanceolata is a moderately salt-tolerant species. Differential responses of antioxidant enzymes to salt stress during germination and vegetative growth suggested different antioxidant metabolism in G. oblanceolata. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Gypsophila turcica Hamzaoğlu is described as a new species. The specimen was collected from gypsaceous hills, at an altitude between 1755 and 1835 m from Zara District (Sivas Province). The new species is similar to Gypsophila festucifolia Hub.-Mor. The differences between these 2 taxa are discussed. Moreover, Silene choruhensis Hamzaoğlu nom. nova should replace S. ispirensis A.P.Khokhr. 1997, which is an illegitimate name as a younger homonym of S. ispirensis Boiss. 1856. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Gypsum soils are among the most restrictive substrates for plant life, yet the mechanisms of plant adaptation to gypsum are still poorly understood. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can improve host plant nutrition and survival in stressful environments but little is known about the ubiquity and function of AMF in plants that grow in gypsum soils, both specialists and generalists. Previous studies indicate that most gypsophiles (specialists) show much higher concentration of nutrients than gypsovags (generalists), hence our hypothesis was that this would be related to increased mycorrhizal colonisation in gypsum specialists. We therefore quantified colonisation of the roots by mycorrhizal arbuscules (AC), vesicles (VC) and hyphae (HC) in six species of gypsophiles and six species of gypsovags growing in gypsum outcrops. Both groups of plants showed significant differences in AC, VC and HC but in contrast to our hypothesis, colonisation was greater in gypsovags than in gypsophiles. The extent of AMF colonisation does not seem to explain the distinctively high nutrient concentrations reported for gypsophiles. Our results indicate that increased AM colonisation could be a mechanism allowing non-specialist plants to cope with the restrictive conditions of gypsum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In order to examine the systematic application of seed-coat micro-morphology in Gypsophila and allied genera, seed surfaces of 30 species and two varieties representing four genera of tribe Caryophylleae were examined with scanning electron microscope. The seeds of examined species range between 0.5-2.1 mm in length and 0.3-2.4 mm in diameter. The exomorphology of the seed coat shows two distinctive cell patterns. The epidermis is constructed either of elongated polygonal or of broad polygonal cells. The elongated type is the most common among the studied species, but the variation in alignment of testa cells, their size and shape as well as the density of protuberances may provide further information and useful diagnostic characters at generic and specific rank. The testa cells in Gypsophila and Saponaria are shallowly undulate, deeply undulate, lobed and armed at anticlinal walls. Deeply undulate anticlinal walls were observed in both Gypsophila and Ankyropetalum and a few species of Saponaria. Non- or indistinctly grooved anticlinal walls is the more common type in Allochrusa. Seed-coat characters support the separation of Gypsophila and Saponaria to some extent but disagree with recognition of Ankyropetalum as a genus separate from Gypsophila. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study is revision of morphological and systematical characters of the taxa in Macrorrhizaea Boiss. section of Gypsophila L. genus of Türkiye. Three species of Macrorrhizaea Boiss. section (G. muralis L.,G. tubulosa (Jaub.& Spach) Boiss. and G. confertifolia Hub.-Mor.) were selected as study material. All of the species have annual life formation. G. muralis is narrowly ranged, Euro-Siberian element. G. tubulosa is endemic, East Mediterranian element, and G. confertifolia is endemic, East Mediterranian element. Number of localities where the the specimens of species were collected are: G. muralis 3, G. tubulosa 7, G. confertifolia 5 and G. pilosa 26. For each species, about 70 morphological characters were examined, biometric datas were analysed statistically and the results were interpreted. In addition, a comparison between all of the findings and literatures was done. G. muralis which can be easily distinguished with very weak roots and delicate stems and grows only in Tekirdağ. Hair properties are very important for G. tubulosa. There are long glandular hairs on upper parts and short a-glandular hairs in under parts of the stem. Differentiating characters of G. confertifolia are their root lengths are generally longer than the stem lengths and capitat inflorescence. As a resut; systematical and morphological investigations were done on Gypsophila species of Macrorrhizaea section of Türkiye. 45 new characters for G. muralis, 36 new characters for G. tubulosa and 39 new characters for G. confertifolia were added to definitions of the species. 11 characters for G. muralis, 9 characters for G. tubulosa and 18 characters for G. confertifolia have been found as different from present literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila tomentosa and G. struthium are closely related species, characteristic of two European priority habitats, salt and gypsum inland steppes, respectively. Germination strategies of the two taxa were investigated in plants from two nearby populations, growing under the same climatic conditions but on different types of soil, and belonging to different plant communities. heir germination patterns were studied at five constant temperatures in darkness: 5°C, 10°C, 15°C, 20°C and 25°C, and the base temperature and the thermal time requirement were calculated. As the distribution area of both species is subjected to a Mediterranean continental climate with significant differences between day and night, the possible preferences for an alternating temperature regime (25/10°C) were contrasted, as well as the influence of cold stratification and freezing. The effects on seed germination of light at constant 20°C and a 12/12 h photoperiod were also compared in the two species. he main conclusions of the work are the similarity of behaviour of both species, with an absence of seed dormancy, their opportunistic germination strategy, and water availability as the principal limitation to seed germination and plant establishment. he base temperature and thermal time indicate higher competitiveness of G. struthium at low temperatures, but seed germination of G. tomentosa is the most efficient at temperatures higher than 13.3°C. Optimal temperature and illumination conditions for nursery propagation depend on the species. he high viability of seeds observed after freezing prove the orthodox character of these seeds, providing additional information for long term seed conservation procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant effect of saponarin, which is the main flavone isolated from Gypsophila trichotoma Wend., and its protection against cocaine hepatotoxicity were investigated in male Wistar rats. The animals were treated with cocaine (40 mg/kg i.p.) alone and also after 3 consecutive days of pretreatment with saponarin (80 mg/kg p.o.). After 18 hours the rats were sacrificed by decapitation. The production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, reduced glutathione (GSH) and the activity of the following antioxidant enzymes: catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione-S-transferase were assessed in liver homogenate. Administered alone, cocaine induced significant hepatotoxicity manifested with GSH depletion and reduced antioxidant defences. Saponarin pretreatment, however, decreased cocaine toxicity both by increasing GSH levels and antioxidant enzyme activities. The results of this study proved the antioxidant activity of saponarin and its protective effect against cocaine-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]