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Epimedium L. is an important genus in the family Berberidaceae. Epimedium trifoliolatobinatum (Koidz.) Koidz. 1939 is inhabited on the west side of the Shikoku, Japan. In this study, the first complete chloroplast genome of E. trifoliolatobinatum was assembled with Illumina paired-end sequencing data, which was 157,272 bp in length with a total GC content of 38.70%. A total of 112 unique genes were annotated, comprising 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis suggested that E. trifoliolatobinatum was sister to E. koreanum. The current results provided fundamental information for further conducting molecular systematics and phylogenetic research of Epimedium genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both Epimedium sutchuenense Franch. 1894 and E. fargesii Franch. 1894 are perennial herbs with excellent ornamental values due to their showy flowers. However, little molecular research has been done on these species. Here, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. sutchuenense and E. fargesii was analyzed and reported. The cp genome sizes of E. sutchuenense and E. fargesii were 157, 263 and 157, 133 bp, respectively. Both the two cp genomes contained a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) (25,782 and 25,796 bp), separated by the small single-copy (SSC) region (17,106 and 17,071 bp) and a large single-copy (LSC) region (88,593 and 88,470 bp). A total of 113 unique genes were annotated in each of the two cp genomes, including 79 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis supported a close relationship between E. sutchuenense and E. wushanense, while E. fargesii had no clear clustering branch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium muhuangense S. Z. He & Y. Y. Wang 2017, one of the rare unifoliolate species in the Epimedium genus of Berberidaceae, is distributed in the Guizhou province of China. In present research, we sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of E. muhuangense with Illumina sequencing technology. The whole genome was 157,264 bp in length, which consisted of a large single-copy region (LSC, 88,588 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC, 17,036 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb, 25,820 bp). A total of 112 unique genes were successfully annotated, consisting of 78 protein-encoding genes, 30 rRNA, and four tRNA. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that E. muhuangense is closely related to E. elachyphyllum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium jinchengshanense Y. J. Zhang & J. Q. Li 2014 is an important ornamental and medicinal herb, but of unclear taxonomy. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of E. jinchengshanense was sequenced. The genome was 157,169 bp in length, with a large single-copy region of 88, 520 bp, a small single-copy region of 17,075 bp and 2 inverted repeat regions of 25, 787 bp. The genome consisted of 113 unique genes, including 79 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes and 4 rRNA genes. The GC contents were 38.78%. Phylogenetic analysis showed a close relationship between E. jinchengshanense and E. ilicifolium, which was explained by the morphological similarity of flowers and leaves of the two species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium L. is an important medicinal herbaceous genus that belongs to the family Berberidaceae. Epimedium campanulatum Ogisu is a plant species only inhabited in the northwestern part of Sichuan province, China. Here, we reported the complete chloroplast genome sequence, assembly, and characterization of E. campanulatum. The chloroplast genome of E. campanulatum was 157,343 bp in length, and a total of 112 unique genes were identified. Phylogenetic results revealed that E. campanulatum formed a sister relationship with the cluster of Epimedium ecalcaratum, Epimedium davidii, and Epimedium chlorandrum. Our findings provided valuable data for future taxonomic and phylogenetic research within the genus Epimedium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium L. is an important medicinal herbaceous genus in the family Berberidaceae. Epimedium platypetalum K. Mey. is a plant species only narrowly distributed in the western part of China. Here, the complete chloroplast genome of Epimedium platypetalum was assembled. The chloroplast genome of E. platypetalum was 159,088 bp in length, with a total GC content of 38.79%. A total of 112 unique genes were identified, among which 78 are protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. Phylogenetic results revealed that E. platypetalum formed a sister relationship with E. membranaceum K. Mey. Our findings provided valuable data for future research on phylogenetic relationship and germplasm exploration within the genus Epimedium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium L. is the largest herbaceous genus in the family Berberidaceae which comprises more than 60 species. Epimedium sutchuenense Franch. is narrowly inhabited in the Daba Mountains of China. In the current study, we assembled the first complete chloroplast genome of E. sutchuenense through Illumina paired-end sequencing. The complete chloroplast genome of E. sutchuenense was 157,218 bp in length and the total GC content was 38.78%. A total of 112 unique genes were identified, including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes and 4 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that E. sutchuenense was sister to Epimedium wushanense T. S. Ying. Our results provided valuable information for further phylogenetic research and germplasm exploration of Epimedium genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium L. is a medicinally important herbaceous genus in the family Berberidaceae. Epimedium fargesii Franch. is only narrowly inhabited in the Daba Mountains in China. Here, we sequenced and assembled the first complete chloroplast genome of Epimedium fargesii Franch. The chloroplast genome of E. fargesii was 157,208 bp in length, with a total GC content of 38.77%. A total of 112 unique genes were identified, including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that E. fargesii formed a sister relationship with E. wushanense T. S. Ying. Our results provided fundamental data for further taxonomic and phylogenetic research of the genus Epimedium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberis weiningensis is a frequently-used traditional Chinese medicinal herb that included various active alkaloids. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of B. weiningensis. The complete cp genome of B. weiningensis is 166,275 bp in length, and has a typical structure with large single-copy (LSC 73,624 bp) and small single-copy (SSC 18,608 bp) regions separated by a pair of inverted repeats (IRs 37,019 bp) of large size. The B. weiningensis cp genome contains 147 genes, of which 101 protein-coding genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 38 tRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that Berberis species closely clustered with Mahonia species, which obviously support that Mahonia and Berberis are not monophyletic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium L. is the largest herbaceous genus of Berberidaceae which comprises more than 60 species. Epimedium pudingense is a rare plant species only narrowly inhabited in the Puding County in the Guizhou Province of China. Here, we first report the complete chloroplast genome of E. pudingense assembled from Illumina short-read sequencing data. The chloroplast genome of E. pudingense was 157,325 bp in length, with a total GC content of 36.11%. A total of 112 unique genes were identified, among which are 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes and four rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that E. pudingense closely related to E. elachyphyllum. Our study will provide useful fundamental data for further phylogenetic and evolutionary studies of the Epimedium genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium simplicifolium Ying is a rare and endangered species endemic to Guizhou, China. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. simplicifolium was sequenced. The total cp genomes size was 158,745 bp in length, with 38.7% of GC content, including four distinct regions: the large single-copy region (LSC, 88,413 bp), small single-copy region (SSC, 15,386 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs, each for 27,473 bp). The whole cp genome of E. simplicifolium encoded 131 unique genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis with the previously reported cp genomes showed that all the samples of Epimedium are grouped into one group, which can be easily separated from the other genera of the Berberidaceae, and the E. simplicifolium is a separate species from the rest of the Epimedium. This plastid genome is the first report for the E. simplicifolium and will be useful data for developing markers for further studies on resolving the relationship within the Berberidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium xichangense, a critically endangered herb with limited population, mainly distributes in Sichuan province, China. In our study, we obtained the complete chloroplast genome of E. xichangense with a length of 158,955 bp, including a large single copy region of 86,478 bp, small single copy region of 17,027 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat regions of 27,725 bp. The GC content in the whole chloroplast genome of E. xichangense is 38.81%. Among the 112 unique genes in the circular genome, 30 tRNA, four rRNA and 78 protein-coding genes were successfully annotated. We constructed the Maximum likelihood (ML) tree with 26 species, and came to the conclusion that E. xichangense was phylogenetically closely related to E. acuminatum and E. chlorandrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mahonia oiwakensis is a frequently-used traditional Chinese medicinal plant with efficient anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory ability. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of M. oiwakensis. The complete cp genome of M. oiwakensis is 165,126 bp in length, and has a typical structure with large (LSC 73,382 bp) and small (SSC 18,644 bp) single-copy regions separated by a pair of inverted repeats (IRs 36,550 bp) of large size. The M. oiwakensis cp genome contains 148 genes, of which 103 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis shows that M. oiwakensis closely clustered with Mahonia bealei, but were nested among three speices of Berberis, which robustly supports that Mahonia is not monophyletic, thus needs redefinition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 21 compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Epimedium koreanum Nakai, including 6 phenols (1-5 and 10), 4 lignans (6-9) and 11 flavonoids (11-21). The chemical structures of those isolates were established after extensive one-and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy analyses. This is the first report of compounds 2, 3, 4 and 9 in E. koreanum and of compounds 5 and 7 in the family Berberidaceae. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:The effects of icariin, a chief constituent of flavonoids fromEpimedium brevicornumMaxim (Berberidaceae), on the levels of HIF-1α, HSP-60 and HSP-70 remain unknown. Objective:To explore the effects of icariin on the levels of HSP-60, HIF-1α and HSP-70 neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and cell viability. Materials and methods:PC12 cells were treated with icariin (10−7, 10−6or 10−5 mol/L) for 3 h (1 h before oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) plus 2 h OGD). HSP-60, HIF-1α, HSP-70 and NSE were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cell viability was determined by metabolic 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results:After 2 h OGD, levels of HIF-1α, HSP-60, HSP-70 and NSE were increased significantly (HIF-1α: 33.3 ± 1.9 ng/L, HSP-60: 199 ± 16 ng/L, HSP-70: 195 ± 17 ng/L, NSE: 1487 ± 125 ng/L), and cell viability was significantly decreased (0.26 ± 0.03), while icariin (10−7, 10−6, or 10−5 mol/L) significantly reduced the contents of HIF-1α, HSP-60, HSP-70 and NSE (HIF-1α: 14.1 ± 1.4, 22.6 ± 1.8, 15.7 ± 2.1, HSP-60: 100 ± 12, 89 ± 6, 113 ± 11, HSP-70: 139 ± 9, 118 ± 7, 95 ± 9 and NSE: 1121 ± 80, 1019 ± 52, 731 ± 88), and improved cell viability (0.36 ± 0.03, 0.38 ± 0.04, 0.37 ± 0.03) in OGD-treated PC12 cells. Discussion and conclusion:These results indicate that the protective mechanisms of icariin against OGD-induced injury may be related to down-regulating the expression of HIF-1α, HSP-60 and HSP-70. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Context:Accumulating evidence indicates that Herba Epimedii [Epimedii folium(Berberidaceae)] has anti-osteoporotic effect by stimulating osteoblastic bone formation and reducing osteoclastic bone resorption. However, the effect of Herba Epimedii in regulating the cross-talk between osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) remains unclear. Objective:The present study investigates the effect of total flavonoids of Herba Epimedii (HETF) on the osteogenesis and adipogenesis of primary MSCs. Materials and methods:HETF were prepared and identified by HPLC-fingerprinting, primary mouse MSCs in the presence of 0.006–6 μg/mL HETF for 2–10 d were subject to morphological, biochemical, and quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Results:Sixteen chemical components were identified in HETF by HPLC-fingerprinting and account for over 95% of the total area of HPLC peaks. During osteogenesis of MSCs, 0.006–6 μg/mL HETF promoted the proliferation of MSCs from 17% to 22%, increased alkaline phosphatase activity up to 3.7-fold (0.6 μg/mL), and extracellular calcium deposits from 1.2- to 1.4-folds by up-regulating the expression of runt-related transcription factor-2 (Runx-2) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2). Meanwhile, HETF suppressed the adipogenesis of MSCs by reducing the formation of adipocyte-like cells and accumulation of fat droplets by down-regulating the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ). The above biological activities of HETF were mainly through estrogen receptor-mediated pathway, which were blocked by estrogen receptor antagonist, ICI 182,780. Conclusion:HETF could regulate Runx-2-mediated osteogenesis and PPAR-γ-mediated adipogenesis in MSCs and thus exhibit beneficial effects to bone health, which suggests a new strategy for treating patients with osteoporosis and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The rising problem of resistance to present antimalarial drugs stresses the need to look for newer antiplasmodial components with effective modes of action. The roots ofBerberis aristataDC. (Berberidaceae) are used in the traditional medicine for malaria in various parts of India. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate antiplasmodial activity ofB. aristataroots extract for the validation of its traditional medicinal use. Material and methods: Aqueous root extract ofBerberis aristata(AREBA) was screened for itsin vitroas well asin vivoantiplasmodial activity against lethal rodent malaria parasitePlasmodium bergheiNK65.In vitroactivity was evaluated against schizont maturation ofP. bergheiusing various concentrations ranging from 1 to 100 µg/mL. Forin vivostudies, AREBA at the doses of 150, 250, 350, and 650 mg/kg/d was administered toP. bergheiinfected BALB/c mice orally for 4 consecutive days (D0–D3). Results: AREBA showedin vitroantiplasmodial activity with an IC50value of 40 µg/mL.In vivostudies demonstrated a variable dose-dependent chemosuppression with higher efficacy at lower doses. At a dose of 350 mg/kg/d, the suppressive and preventive activities were found to be 67.1% and 53.9%, respectively, followed by enhancing mean survival period up to 12.8 d for the curative assay versus 7.5 d for the untreated mice. Discussion and conclusion: These results provide relevant scientific evidences for the traditional medicinal use of this plant as malaria remedy and further advocates the isolation and characterization of active antiplasmodial principle from this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberis lyciumRoyle belonging to family Berberidaceae is a high-value medicinal plant with a known history of uses in folk medicine. It is used traditionally for curing a broad range of human illnesses and diseases in the Indian Himalayan region of Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Its ethnomedicinal uses include its use for treatment of jaundice, diabetes, eye infections, fractured bones, internal wounds, diarrhea, rheumatism, stomachache, and its use as a general body tonic. Although its every part has some medicinal properties, the most commonly used parts are roots and stem-bark. Its biologically active phytochemicals are alkaloids with berberine as the major one. An analysis of literature shows that its main biological activities are mainly attributed to berberine.Available literature shows that the plant has a wide range of biological activities including antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer and antitumor, wound and bone healing, antimicrobial, anticoccidial, antioxidant, hypotensive, immunity enhancing, antiurolithic, anthelmintic and hepatoprotective. Its wide use in folk medicine has prompted research in its phytochemical constituents and biological activities over the last four decades. Research in these lines is attesting its ethnomedicinal uses.This review paper is aimed to explore the chemistry and biological activities of this gifted medicinal plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The demand for podophyllotoxin and deoxypodophyllotoxin is still increasing and commercially exploitable sources are few and one of them, Podophyllum hexandrum Royle (Berberidaceae), is a 'critically endangered' species. Objective: The first aim was to quantify the amount of podophyllotoxin and deoxypodophyllotoxin in 61 Juniperus (Cupressaceae) samples. Cytotoxic activity of podophyllotoxin and ethanolic leaf extracts of Juniperus scopulorum Sarg. 'Blue Pacific' and Juniperus communis L. 'Depressa Aurea' was examined against different leukemia cell lines. Materials and methods: Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) analysis was performed with the use of a Waters ACQUITY UPLCTM system (Waters Corp., Milford, MA). The peaks of podophyllotoxin and deoxypodophyllotoxin were assigned on the basis of their retention data and mass-to-charge ratio ( m/z). Trypan blue assay was performed to obtain IC50 cytotoxicity values against selected leukemia cell lines. Results: Juniperus scopulorum was characterized with the highest level of podophyllotoxin (486.7 mg/100 g DW) while Juniperus davurica Pall. contained the highest amount of deoxypodophyllotoxin (726.8 mg/100 g DW). Podophyllotoxin IC50 cytotoxicity values against J45.01 and CEM/C1 leukemia cell lines were 0.0040 and 0.0286 µg/mL, respectively. Juniperus scopulorum extract examined against J45.01 and HL-60/MX2 leukemia cell lines gave the respective IC50 values: 0.369-9.225 µg/mL. Juniperus communis extract was characterized with the following IC50 cytotoxity values against J45.01 and U-266B1 cell lines: 3.310-24.825 µg/mL. Conclusions: Juniperus sp. can be considered as an alternative source of podophyllotoxin and deoxypodophyllotoxin. Cytotoxic activity of podophyllotoxin and selected leaf extracts of Juniperus sp. against a set of leukemia cell lines was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mahonia duclouxiana is a member of the genus Mahonia of Berberidaceae and is distributed in South Asia. Here, the complete chloroplast genome sequence of M. duclouxiana was reported. The complete chloroplast genome is 165,384 bp in length, which has a large single-copy (LSC) region of 73,477 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,563 bp, and two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 36,672 bp. The G/C content in the chloroplast genome is 38.1%. The whole chloroplast genome contains 151 genes, including 38 unique tRNA genes, 105 unique protein-coding genes, and 8 unique rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis supported that this species should be included in Maddenia. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of M. duclouxiana will provide extremely important information in tracing the evolutionary history of the genus Mahonia and the development of the medicinal value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium flavum Stearn, which belongs to Berberidaceae, is mainly distributed in the Sichuan province of China. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of E. flavum was reported for the first time. The whole genome of E. flavum was 159,134 bp in length, and revealed a typical quadripartite structure, including two copies of an inverted repeat (IR) region of 27,735 bp separating a large single-copy region (LSC, 86,576 bp) and a small single-copy region (SSC, 17, 088 bp). The chloroplast genome contained 112 unique genes, including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that E. flavum of series Davidianae was firstly clustered with E. brevicornu of ser. Brachyerae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Podophyllotoxin, a pharmaceutically important bioactive compound of Podophyllum sps. (Berberidaceae), is in great demand worldwide as an anticancer and antivirus drug precursor. However, the source of podophyllotoxin is very limited due to the endangered status of the Podophyllum plant. Objective: The aim of this study was to isolate podophyllotoxin-producing endophytic fungi from Sinopodophyllum hexandrum (Royle) Ying (1979) (Berberidaceae) plants of the Taibai Mountains of China in order to obtain bioactive compounds. Materials and methods: The strains producing kaempferol and podophyllotoxin were screened by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis. The presence of kaempferol and podophyllotoxin in extracts of these strains was further confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses. Results: Among six endophytic fungi isolated from the rhizomes of S. hexandrum, one strain was able to produce kaempferol. Another strain, named TW5, was able to produce both kaempferol and podophyllotoxin simultaneously according to the TLC, HPLC, and NMR results. The podophyllotoxin yield of TW5 was calculated to be 49.3 μg/g of mycelial dry weight after 7-d fermentation. Strain TW5 was identified morphologically and phylogenetically to be Mucor fragilis Fresen. (Mucoraceae). These results suggest that the podophyllotoxin-synthesizing ability is obtained by uptaking genes involved in the podophyllotoxin synthesis from the host plant into endophytic fungal genomes. Conclusion: Our results showed, for the first time, that the endophytic fungus M. fragilis is able to produce simultaneously the same two bioactive metabolites, podophyllotoxin and kaempferol, as its host plant. Furthermore, the relatively high podophyllotoxin yield obtained may improve the industrial production of podophyllotoxin, which may help protect this endangered plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Homocysteine-induced endothelial cellular senescence may contribute to some cardiovascular disorders. Icariin (ICA), a flavonoid derived from Epimedium sagittatum Maxim. (Berberidaceae), has been reported to increase production of nitric oxide (NO) and reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Objective: To observe the effects of ICA on homocysteine-induced senescence and the underlying mechanisms in HUVECs. Materials and methods: ICA at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 5 μM was added into homocysteine pretreated HUVECs. Cellular senescence was assayed by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and cumulative population doublings (CPDs). ICA (5 μM) was given orally to homocysteine-treated rats, luminal surface of aortic artery of rats was subjected to SA-β-gal staining. Protein expression was measured by western blot. Results: Homocysteine significantly increased cellular senescence both in vitro and in vivo. After treatment by ICA, the percentage of SA-β-gal-positive cells, and the ROS level significantly decreased. The CPDs were partially restored. ICA also significantly reduced the mean density of SA-β-gal staining in vivo. We found that NO production and phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, and endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) were elevated by ICA in HUVECs. Furthermore, the increased level of NO production was fully abolished by the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor PD98059, which can inhibit phosphorylation of ERK, did not show this ability. Discussion and conclusion: Our results indicate that ICA delays homocyteine-induced endothelial senescence in vitro and in vivo. Activation of PI3K/Akt-eNOS-dependent signaling pathway may be responsible for this efficacy of ICA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mayapple rust is a common, disfiguring disease that is widespread in temperate eastern North America wherever the host, Podophyllum peltatum, occurs. Puccinia podophylli, the etiological agent of this rust, has been shown to be distantly related to both Puccinia and Uromyces as exemplified by their types. A systematic study was made to determine the generic classification of P. podophylli. Phylogenetic analyses of two rDNA loci from multiple specimens support the recognition of this taxon as a separate genus of Pucciniaceae. Based on historical literature and type material, P. podophylli was found to represent the type of the forgotten genus Allodus and it is correctly named Allodus podophylli. A neotype is designated for Puccinia podophylli Schwein. (≡ Allodus podophylli) and a lectotype is designated for Aecidium podophylli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and sensitive method for the determination of isocorydine in rat plasma and tissues was developed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The biological samples were processed by extracting with diethyl ether–dichloromethane (3:2, v/v) and tetrahydropulmatine was used as the internal standard (IS). Detection of the analytes was achieved using positive ion mode electrospray ionization in the multiple reaction monitoring mode. The MS/MS ion transitions monitored were m/z 342.0→279.0 and 356.0→191.9 for isocorydine and IS, respectively. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax 2496.8 ± 374.4 µg/L) was achieved at 0.278 ± 0.113 h (Tmax) and the half-life (t1/2) of isocorydine was 0.906 ± 0.222 h after a 20 mg/kg oral administration. As for a 2 mg/kg intravenous (i.v.) administration, the Cmax and clearance (CL) were 1843.3 ± 338.3 µg/L and 2.381 ± 0.356 L/h/kg, respectively. Based on the AUC0–∞ obtained from oral and i.v. administration, the absolute bioavailability (F) was estimated as 33.4%. Tissue distribution results indicated that isocorydine underwent a rapid and wide distribution into tissues and it could effectively cross the blood-brain barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation patterns of phenolic compounds during fruit growth and ripening of Berberis buxifolia and their correlations were studied to determine the optimal time and conditions needed to obtain maximum phenolic content. Anthocyanin content increased from 1.7 to a maximum of 752.7 mg·100 g−1 FW at the end of ripening, while the flavonoid content was maximal in unripe fruits [604.0 mg (+)-catechin equivalents·100 g−1 FW]. Total phenolic compounds decreased from 968.1 to a minimum of 746.3 mg gallic acid equivalents·100 g−1 FW just as soluble solids started to accumulate; a maximum of 1522.9 mg gallic acid equivalents·100 g−1 FW was attained at the end of ripening. Both variables (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging effect and reducing power) were maximum in unripe fruits, and decreased during the ripening period, although the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging effect increased again towards the end of this period. The accumulation patterns of phenols varied depending on the specific group of compounds considered, and could be correlated with fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioassay-guided fractionation of Berberis tabiensis against Culex quinquefasciatus third instar larvae afforded a new bisbenzyltetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid having an unusual head-head binding pattern. This new alkaloid (tabienine B) is the first member of this family found to possess a diphenyl ether bridge in C-6 and C-7'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperlipidemia is an associated complication of diabetes mellitus. Many spices and herbs are known to be hypoglycemic. Mahonia leschenaultia Takeda (Berberidaceae) (MLT) is a traditional medicinal plant that is commonly used against diseases in India and other Asian countries. The aim of this study is to identify the phytoconstituents by gas chromatography-mass spectrography (GC-MS) and evaluate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects of the ethanol extract of MLT on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Phytoconstituents like oleicacid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z, Z)-n-hexadecanoic acid were identified as high % peak when compared with other compounds by GC-MS. STZ-induced diabetic animals were fed with plant extracts at different doses (250 or 500 mg kg-1 body wt) of ethanol extract of MLT. The results of the study revealed a significant increase in total hemoglobin and glycosylated hemoglobin along with the reduction in hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia effects in MLT-treated STZ-induced diabetic rats compared to diabetic only rats. Further, ethanol extracts of MLT-treated animals at 500 mg kg-1 showed that shrinkage of β cells of islets of Langerhans was restored as evidenced by histological studies of pancreas of diabetic animals. Thus the ethanol extract of MLT might serve as a reliable adjuvant for antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects of STZ, and may be promising for development of phytomedicines for diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mahonia leschenaultia takeda (Berberidaceae) (MLT) is a traditional medicinal plant that is commonly used to treat and improve liver and renal conditions in India and other Asian countries. Acetaminophen (APAP) is commonly used as an analgesic and an antipyretic agent that, in high doses, produces liver and kidney necrosis in mammals. The aim of this study was to investigate the nephroprotective and antioxidant activities of the ethanol extract of MLT at two dose levels of 250 and 500 mg kg-1 bw on APAP-induced toxicity in rats. APAP significantly increased levels of serum urea, hemoglobin (Hb), total leukocyte count, creatinine, packed cell volume, DLC, and mean corpuscular volume, raised body weight, and reduced levels of neutrophils, mean corpuscular Hb content, mean corpuscular hematocrit, granulocytes, uric acid, and platelet concentration. MLT inhibited the hematological effects of APAP. MLT significantly increased activities of renal superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase and decreased malondialdehyde content of APAP-treated rats. Apart from these, histopathological changes also showed the protective nature of the MLT extract against APAP-induced necrotic damage of renal tissues. In conclusion, data suggest that the ethanol extract of MLT prevented renal damage from APAP-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and it is likely mediated through antioxidant activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven flavonol glycosides and four nonflavonoid compounds were isolated from Epimedium koreanum Nakai (Berberidaceae), and their effects on the proliferation of rat osteoblast-like (ROB) cells were evaluated with a mitochondrial activity assay. Both flavonol glycosides and nonflavonoid compounds strongly inhibited the proliferation of primary ROB cells at most concentrations (2.0 × 10- 5 mol/L ∼ 1.0 × 10-8 mol/L), and a simple structure-function relationship was also found in these compounds. Considering the antiosteoporotic effect of flavonoids in vivo, these results suggest that the flavonoids may enhance the development of osteoblasts through their active metabolites, and the mechanism between proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts needs to be further studied to fully evaluate the mechanism of E. koreanum in the treatment of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus of Epimedium belongs to Berberidaceae family, which is famous for their medicinal and ornamental value. In recent years, Epimedium has attracted increasing attention due to their medicinal and nutritive value. In this research, we reported the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of Epimedium enshiense. The complete chloroplast of this species is 157,076 bp in length, including a pair of invert repeat regions (IRS) (25,833 bp) that is divided by a large single copy area (LSC) (88,340 bp) and a small single copy area (SSC) (17,070 bp). The circular chloroplast genome of E. enshiense contains 112 unique genes, composing of 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA, and four rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that E. enshiense has a closer relationship with E. dolichostmon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium rhizomatosum is a rare endemic plant species inhabited in some high-elevation mountain area in the Sichuan province of China. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast genome of E. rhizomatosum from Illumina short-read sequencing data. The chloroplast genome of E. rhizomatosum was 159,151 bp in length, which comprises of a large single copy (LSC) region of 86,604 bp, a small single copy (SSC) region of 17,071 bp and two inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb) of 27,737 bp for each. The total GC content of E. rhizomatosum chloroplast genome was 38.8%, while the corresponding values of LSC, SSC, and IR regions were 37.3%, 32.8%, and 43.0%, respectively. A total of 112 unique genes was identified from the chloroplast genome of E. rhizomatosum, including 78 protein-coding genes, four ribosomal RNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis showed that E. rhizomatosum closely related to E. acuminatum. Our study will provide useful information on further clarifying the phylogenetic and evolutionary relationship in the genus Epimedium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium shuichengense S. Z. He is a rare and endangered species endemic to Guizhou, China. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. shuichengense was sequenced. The total cp genomes size was 157,046 bp in length, with 38.8% of GC content, including four distinct regions: the large single-copy region (LSC, 88,394 bp), small single-copy region (SSC, 17,048 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs, each for 20,820 bp). The whole cp genome of E. shuichengense encoded 130 unique genes, including 85 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis with the previously reported cp genomes showed that all the samples of Epimedium are grouped into one group, which can be easily separated from out groups, and E. shuichengense with E. borealiguizhouense into a supported branch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium dewuense S. Z. He is a rare and endangered endemic to China. The complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. dewuense was reported in this study. The total cp genomes size was 157,056 bp in length, with 38.8% of GC content, and a typical quadripartite structure, the large single-copy region (LSC, 88,346 bp), small single-copy region (SSC, 26,768 bp) that separate by a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs, each for 20,820 bp). The whole cp genome of E. dewuense contained 130 unique genes, including 37 tRNA, 7 rRNA, and 86 protein-coding genes. This plastid genome is the first report for the E. dewuense and will be useful data for developing markers for further studies on resolving the relationship within the Berberidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedii Folium has been used as a common traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2000 years in China. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of Epimedium brevicornu. The whole cp genome of E. brevicornu is 158,658 bp in length, comprising a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (27,699 bp) separated by a large single copy (LSC) region (86,558 bp) and a small single copy (SSC) region (16,702bp). The E. brevicornu cp genome contains 129 genes, of which 84 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis shows that E. brevicornu is closely clustered with E. wushanense, E. lishihchenii, and E. sagittatum. The published E. brevicornu chloroplast genome will provide useful information for the phylogenetic and evolutionary study on Epimedium family of Berberidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium elachyphyllum, which belongs to Berberidaceae, is only distributed in Guizhou province of China. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp)genome of E. elachyphyllum was sequenced and assembled. The circular genome is 157,201 bp in length, which comprises of a large single-copy region (LSC, 88,519 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC, 17,042 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb, 25,820 bp). The genome of E. elachyphyllum contains 112 unique genes, of which 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis based on 18 complete cp genome sequences indicated that E. elachyphyllum was closely related to E. dolichostemon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium wushanense is a well-known medicinal plant in Berberidaceae in China. In this study, we sequenced the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. wushanense. The results showed that the cp genome of E. wushanense was 157,283 bp in length, which is composed of a large single-copy region (LSC, 88,579 bp) and a small single-copy region (SSC, 17,082 bp) that were separated by a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb, 25,811 bp). The chloroplast genome of E. wushanense contains 112 unique genes, of which are 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. The overall GC content was 38.78%. The phylogenetic tree analysis showed that E. wushanense was closely related to E. pseudowushanense, E. lishihchenii, and E. sagittatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium mikinorii is a vulnerable species in the Epimedium genus of Berberaceae. Here, we sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of E. mikinorii, which is 157,136 bp in length, and is a typical quadripartite circular molecule composed of two inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,896 bp for each, a large single-copy region (LSC) of 88,395 bp, and a small single-copy region (SSC) of 16,949 bp. The complete chloroplast genome of E. mikinorii contains 134 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 5 pseudogenes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that E. mikinorii was closely related to E. dolichostemon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium qingchengshanense G. Y. Zhong & B. L. Guo is an endangered species with high ornamental value and medicinal value in China. In this study, we reported the first complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. qingchengshanense. The whole cp genome of E. qingchengshanense is 159,087 bp in length, comprising a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) (27,709 bp) that are separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region (86,607 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC) region (17,062 bp). The circular genome contains 112 unique genes, of which 78 are protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA, and 4 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis shows that E. qingchengshanense has a closer relationship with other Epimedium species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium davidii, which belongs to Berberidaceae, is mainly distributed in the southwest of China. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of E. davidii was sequenced and assembled. The circular genome is 159,715 bp in length, which comprises a large single-copy region (LSC, 85,862 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC, 17,081 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb, 28,386 bp). The chloroplast genome of E. davidii contains 112 unique genes, of which 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that E. davidii was closely related to Epimedium acuminatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sixty-day-old in vitro–induced roots and roots regenerated from totipotent calli of Podophyllum hexandrum Royle produced an enhanced quantity of podophyllotoxin. Induced root cultures originated from aseptically germinated seedlings, and regenerated roots were established on both Gamborg's B5 and Murashige and Skoog media. The podophyllotoxin content was compared with normal plant root/rhizomes by HPLC. The highest values, both in growth/proliferation and in podophyllotoxin production, were obtained using Gamborg's B5 medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, selective, and precise RP-HPTLC method has been developed for the quantification of podophyllotoxin in Podophyllum hexandrum, collected from different locations of the western Himalaya of India, ranging from 3250 to 4100 meters above the mean sea level. The assay employed RP-18 F254 TLC plates (chromatoplates) as the stationary phase. The solvent system consisted of acetonitrile-water (4:6, v/v) and gave better resolution, with well separated, compact spots for podophyllotoxin (Rf value 0.41 ± 0.02). Densitometric analysis was carried out in the absorption remission mode at 217 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The osteoblast-like UMRIO6 cells were employed as an osteoblast model, and the effect of the aerial parts of Epirnediurn korean urn Nakai extracts on cell proliferation was studied. The ethyl acetate fraction from the crude extract was found to have the maximal stimulating activity. Three flavonoid compounds (icariside II, icariin, and epimedin B) were isolated from this fraction by activity-guided assay, and their effects on cell pro liferation was investigated. Icariin produced the most significant promoting effect on UMR 106 cell proliferation. The results suggested that Epirnediurn korean urn extracts might have potential activity against osteoporosis, and its ethyl acetate fraction might contain active constituents stimulating osteoblasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii DC.) is a species non-native to North America but widely found as a garden ornamental. Due to its invasiveness, it has become a pest in certain parts of Maine. A comparison of alkaloid content and antibacterial activity of Japanese barberry with common barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.) has been carried out to determine whether B. thunbergii might serve as a viable substitute for more commonly used berberine-containing medicinal plants such as goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.). Extracts were prepared by exhaustively extracting B. thunbergii, B. vulgaris, and H. canadensis with 70% ethanol (ratio of roots to solvent was 1:5). Additional extracts were prepared with both 65% glycerin, and a mixture of 15% alcohol, 40% glycerin and 45% water (ratio of roots to solvent was 1:4). The ethanolic extracts were more potent against five bacteria than either the glycerin extracts or the mixed solvent extracts. Notably, the extracts exhibited strongest activity versus bacteria associated with sore throat (Streptococcus pyogenes) and opportunistic skin infection (Staphylococcus aureus), which supports the traditional uses of berberinecontaining plants. The total alkaloid content in the dried roots (% w/w) was found to be 3.47 ± 0.39 (1.38 ± berberine) for B. thunbergii, 2.22 ± 0.12 (0.43 ± 0.02 berberine) for B. vulgaris, and 9.04 ± 0.21 (6.34 ± 0.14 berberine) for H. canadensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium sagittatum is an important traditional medicinal plant in China. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. sagittatum. The whole cp genome of E. sagittatum is 157,114 bp in length, comprising a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (25,775 bp) separated by a large single copy (LSC) region (88,507 bp) and a small single copy (SSC) region (17,057 bp). The E. sagittatum cp genome contains 133 genes, of which 82 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, 8 rRNA genes and 5 pseudogenes. Phylogenetic analysis shows that E. sagittatumis closely clustered with E. lishihchenii. This genome provides a wealth of information for distinguishing of Epimedium species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gymnospermium kiangnanense is an endangered species in the family Berberidaceae. In this study, we assembled the chloroplast (cp) genome of G. kiangnanense and reconstructed the phylogenetic tree of Berberidaceae based on the complete cp genome. The cp genome of G. kiangnanense is 160,136 bp in length, comprising a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (26,424 bp) separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region (87,580 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC) region (19,708bp). The genome encodes 111 unique genes, consisting of 77 different protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNA, and 4 ribosomal RNA genes, with 18 duplicated genes in the inverted repeats. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that G. kiangnanense is sister to G. microrrhynchum, and the Gymnospermium clade is closely related with Nandina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vancouveria planipetala (Berberidaceae) is a perennial herb which has high ornamental and ecological values. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of V. planipetala. The whole cp genome of V. planipetala is 156,871 bp in length, comprising a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (25,888 bp) separated by a large single copy (LSC) region (88,321 bp) and a small single copy (SSC) region (16,772 bp). The cp genome contains 114 unique genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA, and four rRNA genes, with 17 genes duplicated in IRs. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Papaveraceae is the basal group of Ranunculales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete chloroplast (cp) genome of theSinopodophyllum hexandrum(Berberidaceae) was determined in this study. The circular genome is 157,940 bp in size, and comprises a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,077 bp each, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 86,460 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19,326 bp. The GC content of the whole cp genome was 38.5%. A total of 133 genes were identified, including 88 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and eight rRNA genes. The whole cp genome consists of 114 unique genes, and 19 genes are duplicated in the IR regions. The phylogenetic analysis revealed thatS. hexandrumis closely related toNandina domesticawithin the family Berberidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]