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The genus Strophantus belongs to the Apocynaceae family of flowering plants which grows primarily in tropical Africa. The plants are widely used in traditional herbal medicine. S. sarmentosus, in particular, is used for the treatment of, e.g., joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis, wound infections, head lice, diarrhea, snake bite, and eye conditions. Despite its widespread use, dedicated research characterizing its bioactive plant components is scarce. Investigations have focused mainly on its cardenolides because of their cardioactivity and historical use as cardiotonic. There are also studies concerning the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity of plant extracts. This review summarizes the present knowledge surrounding the biochemical and analytical research on Strophantus, in general, and S. sarmentosus, in particular, and describes the current state of the field based on the available scientific literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The necessity of the typification of the Apocynum L. s.l. (incl. Poacynum Baill. and Trachomitum Woodson) (Apocynaceae) species is crucial for future dogbane diversity estimations. Still, the original material of many taxa of the genus Apocynum s.l. is doubtful or remains to be discovered. This study's topic is resolving a long-term taxonomic homonymy around the widely used binomial "A. sibiricum". The misusing of the name "A. sibiricum" became a reason for long-term misunderstanding of the meaning of the binomial Poacynum sarmatiense (Woodson) Mavrodiev, Laktionov & Yu.E.Alexeev (A. sarmatiense (Woodson) Wissjul.; T. sarmatiense Woodson) and therefore for the misestimation of the Apocynum s.l. diversity in Russian and other Eurasian floras. Resolving this issue, here, we designate the lectotype of A. sibiricum Jacq. and the name "A. sibiricum Pall." was validated within Poacynum as P. pallasianum Mavrodiev, Sytin, Laktionov & Vasjukov nom. nov. (Apocynum sibiricum auct., non Jacq.) with the lectotype selected from the original collections of Peter Simon Pallas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Echites umbellatus is a plant with tubular white flowers that are pollinated by hawkmoths. Few fruits are produced in nature, so we investigated the breeding system of E. umbellatus by growing plants from different populations in a greenhouse and hand-pollinating flowers with self-pollen, pollen from siblings (plants grown from seeds in the same fruit), and pollen from plants in other populations. Pollinations between unrelated plants were most successful, and we conclude that this species is mostly self-incompatible, though most populations had a few individuals that were somewhat self-compatible. There were more self-compatible individuals in smaller habitat fragments, perhaps a function of limited mating opportunities. We conclude that self-incompatibility in this species contributes to its limited fruit set, though other factors such as low pollinator activity may also be important. Pollinators are needed for the reproduction of Echites umbellatus, and only sphingid moths have mouthparts long enough to reach the nectar at the bottom of the species' long, twisted floral tube. Though plants produce many flowers over a period of several months, one observes very few fruits in nature. We asked: (1) Are plants self-compatible, or do they need pollen from another individual to set fruit and seed? (2) Are cross-pollinations between unrelated individuals more successful than crosses with relatives? (3) How does the relatedness of pollen and ovule parent plants affect fruit set, seed number, and seed quality? We investigated the breeding system of E. umbellatus by collecting fruits from seven sites, growing plants and performing hand pollinations over a period of several years, collecting and measuring fruits and counting seeds. Echites umbellatus is self-incompatible, though some individuals produce fruit by self-pollination. Cross-pollinations between unrelated individuals set the most fruit (59%), and those that were self-pollinated set the least (9%). Fruit set from cross-pollinations between related individuals was intermediate (32%). Although the number of seeds per fruit did not differ significantly among pollination treatments, fruits from self-pollinations had substantially fewer viable seeds than outcrossed fruits, with fruits from sibling crosses being intermediate. There were higher levels of self-compatibility in the fragment populations compared with plants from intact habitats. Self-incompatibility may explain why fruit set is low in this plant species; future investigation into the breakdown of self-incompatibility in smaller populations is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Apocynaceae is a known plant family that is rich in alkaloid, and many of its species were reported to have medicinal significance. An endemic plant from the Philippines, Alyxia linearis Markgr. -- which has not yet been investigated for its phytochemistry nor bioactivity -- is reported here. This study aims to characterize the phytochemical compounds and evaluate the antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and genotoxic activities of A. linearis. The hexane, dichloromethane, and methanol extracts from the roots, twigs, and leaves were subjected to different tests. The antimicrobial activity of the phytoconstituents was investigated against four bacteria (S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis, and E. coli) and two fungi (Penicillum sp. and A. niger). The antimicrobial analysis showed that among the nine extracts, only two extracts exhibited a partial inhibitory activity against those Gram-positive bacteria used, and only one extract exhibited a fungicidal activity. ATD inhibited the growth of both S. aureus and E. faecalis, whereas ARM inhibited only the growth of E. faecalis. Among the nine extracts, only ARD inhibited Penicillum growth. The genotoxicity of the extracts was tested using Allium cepa assay. The semipolar and polar extracts of A. linearis were all genotoxic except 1 ppm ALM. Cytotoxicity of the ALD extract was evaluated using an MTT assay on human dermal fibroblasts neonatal (HDFn). The assessment of cytotoxicity of ALD against HDFn showed an IC50 below 12.5 µg/mL as compared to the IC50 of the doxorubicin, which is 2.89 µg/mL. This indicates that the ALD extract is moderately cytotoxic as compared with doxorubicin. The phytochemical constituents of the A. linearis extracts were classified mainly as phenols, flavonoids, steroids, and triterpenes -- with a slight occurrence of coumarins, anthraquinones, and anthrones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L.) is an ornamental and therapeutic herbaceous subshrub. The available literature on inheritance of flower colour in periwinkle is meager. The present investigation was conducted at the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to exploit the genetic inheritance of flower colour and to determine the number of genes involved in the inbred lines of periwinkle by crossing of an accession Vi-15-1 possessing magenta with white centre corolla and another accession Vi-29 possessing white corolla. The all F1 plants developed from crossing, including reciprocal were shown pale purple coloured flowers. In the F2 generation, three types of plants were generated such as magenta with white centre corolla (OmOm), pale purple corolla (OmW) and white (WW) corolla in the ratio of 1:2:1. The results indicate that magenta corolla shows incomplete dominance over white corolla which is possibly governed by a single pair of gene. The reciprocal cross reported the same results indicating no involvement of the cytoplasmic genes in this process. Since it is crucial to improve the landscaping traits genetically in periwinkle hence, in light of this; the present study on inheritance of corolla colour may be able to serve as future reference for the valuable genetic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of vaccines shows the need for alternative leishmaniasis treatments. In vitro study previously demonstrated the leishmanicidal activity of A. nitidum extracts. This study describes for the first time, the antileishmanial activity of A. nitidum extracts in infected Balb/c mice and its immunomodulatory effect. The extract (EE) was obtained by maceration of the peel powder with ethanol, which was fractionated by acid-base partition, originating the alkaloid (FA) and neutral (FN) fractions. EE and FA were analyzed using mass spectroscopy. Daily intragastric treatment was performed with EE and FA, at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, in Balb/c mice with 28 days of infection by Leishmania amazonensis. A thickness gauge was used to assess the progression of the lesion and the MTT method to determine the parasite load in the spleen. The quantification of IL-10 and IFN-γ was performed by ELISA. Analysis of the mass spectrum of EE indicated the presence of the alkaloids corynantheol and yohimbine, while in FA the alkaloid dihydrocorynantheol was identified. To elucidate the mode of interaction of these alkaloids with the TR protein, molecular target of antileishmanial drugs, we used molecular modeling approaches such as docking, molecular dynamics simulations and free energy affinity. Treatment with EE for 28 days at the highest dose tested, significantly reduced the size of the lesion. EE and FA after 28 days of treatment showed dose-dependent antileishmanial activity, which reduced the parasite load in the spleen of infected mice by 42.5% and 22.1%, respectively. Both EE and FA presented immunomodulatory effect, as they decreased IL-10 expression and increased IFN-y levels. The effectiveness of A. nitidum in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis was proven in this study. The results obtained in silico demonstrated that the compounds are capable of interacting with the catalytic residues of the TR. The affinity energy results demonstrated that the complexes formed are favorable for enzymatic inhibition. The alkaloids present in the plant have demonstrated not only antileishmanial activity, but also the ability to modulate the host’s immune response. These promising results open perspectives for developing more effective and comprehensive treatments against cutaneous leishmaniasis.

The necessity of the typification of the Apocynum L. s.l. (incl. Poacynum Baill. and Trachomitum Woodson) (Apocynaceae) species is crucial for future dogbane diversity estimations. Still, the original material of many taxa of the genus Apocynum s.l. is doubtful or remains to be discovered. This study’s topic is resolving a long-term taxonomic homonymy around the widely used binomial “A. sibiricum”. The misusing of the name “A. sibiricum” became a reason for long-term misunderstanding of the meaning of the binomial Poacynum sarmatiense (Woodson) Mavrodiev, Laktionov & Yu.E.Alexeev (A. sarmatiense (Woodson) Wissjul.; T. sarmatiense Woodson) and therefore for the misestimation of the Apocynum s.l. diversity in Russian and other Eurasian floras. Resolving this issue, here, we designate the lectotype of A. sibiricum Jacq. and the name “A. sibiricum Pall.” was validated within Poacynum as P. pallasianum Mavrodiev, Sytin, Laktionov & Vasjukov nom. nov. (Apocynum sibiricum auct., non Jacq.) with the lectotype selected from the original collections of Peter Simon Pallas.

Leptadenia hastata (Pers.) Decne is a commonly used food source and prescribed as a traditional African medicine for treatment of various diseases, such as diabetes, skin disorders, wounds, and ulcers. However, quality control has become a bottleneck restricting the therapeutic development and utilization of this plant. In this study, a reliable method for qualitative and quantitative determination of components in Leptadenia hastata was established. The components of L. hastata were profiled using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadruple time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS). Subsequently, an ultra-high performance tandem diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD)-based method was used for simultaneous quantitative analysis of five major constituents in six batches of L. hastata samples. As a result, 35 compounds were tentatively identified. The quantities of the five constituents (vicenin-ll, orientin, schaftoside, chrysin 6-C- arabinoside 8-C-glucoside, chrysin 6-C-glucoside 8-C-arabinoside) were determined as 124.8-156.9 pg/g, 170.5-216.0 pg/g, 61.31-93.73 pg/g, 85.13-119.3 pg/g and 99.82-129.4 pg/g, respectively. This method offers a successful strategy for precise and effective evaluation of the constituents of L. hastata, providing a robust foundation for holistic quality assessment of medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the most frequent causes of anal complaints. The general aim of this study was to evaluate the release profile of the encapsulated drug, in order to overcome the limitations of conventional galenic forms, while maintaining their efficacy. Methods: Determination of the active ingredient contained in Landolphia owariensis extract was carried out by UV-Visible spectrophotometry. Release studies were carried out in a continuous flow cell. The dissolution profile of the suppository containing microparticles was compared to the dissolution profile of suppositories containing the unencapsulated extract and to that of Landolphia owariensis extract-based microparticles. Results: The percentage of active ingredient released from suppositories containing microparticles and those containing the extract alone was 69.47% and 80.01% respectively. Flavonoid release from suppositories containing microparticles was slower, with a release rate of 6.31µg/mm, slightly close to the release rate of extract based microparticles (7.37µg/mn); in contrast, in vitro flavonoid release from suppositories containing the extract was faster (19.85µg/mm). Conclusion: Release trials have shown the influence of the sodium alginate matrix system on PA release kinetics. These innovative suppositories will help improve compliance and the treatment of hemorrhoidal crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, toxicity of crude leaf extract of Calotropis procera (Aiton) (Apocynaceae) was assessed against Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) in laboratory conditions using the spraying method. The LC50 values after 24 hours of treatment were calculated as 3608.73 and 2277.02 mg/L for female and male mites respectively. These amounts after 48 hours of treatment were 2456.98 and 1671.2 mg/L. Results showed that the incubation period, total immature and life cycle durations of T. urticae were prolonged under the influence of the C. procera extract. The fecundity and hatchability percentages were significantly lower (18.2 eggs/females and 94.38%) compared to control (44.73 eggs/females and 99.47%), respectively. The reduction rate of T. urticae at different stages after 1, 3, 7, and 14 days of spraying showed that C. procera had a positive impact on mite population reduction that recorded 94.84 and 100% for females and males 14 days post-treatment. The methanolic extract of C. procera leaves was separated into 18 fractions. The 10th fraction exhibited 67, and 73% mortality, 48 and 72 hours post-treatment, respectively. Seventeen substances were identified in this fraction by using the GC-MS. These findings suggest that the leaf extract of C. procera which contains different novel compounds has the potential to be used for controlling T. urticae in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vincetoxicum gongshanense Wen B. Xu & J. Y. Shen (Apocynaceae), a new species from Gongshan County, Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to V. silvestre (Tsiang) Meve & Liede, V. kerrii (Craib) A. Kidyoo and V. biondioides (W. T. Wang) C. Y. Wu & D. Z. Li, but can be distinguished by the leathery leaves, five basal veins, ovate-triangular sepals, yellow corolla, lanceolate corolla lobes, wide triangular corona and reniform pollinia. Photographs, line drawing, distribution, comparison with related species, and a parallel conservation assessment are provided for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cynanchum pingtaoi S.Jin Zeng, G.D.Tang & Miao Liao, sp. nov. (Apocynaceae) from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. Its deeply cordate to reniform leaves and campanulate, large flowers show that it is a member of former Raphistemma Wall., which has been included in Cynanchum L.. It is different from all former Raphistemma species by the broadly ovate corolla lobes, purple-red corolla and connivent corona tip slightly exceeding the corolla throat. Meanwhile, Cynanchum longhushanense G.D.Tang & Miao Liao, nom. nov. is proposed as replacement name for Raphistemma brevipedunculatum Y.Wan, which was considered a synonym of Cynanchum hooperianum (Blume) Liede & Khanum but is here reinstated as a distinct species because of significant morphological differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a new species of Gonolobus, G. villasenorii, is described. It is endemic to Sinaloa, Mexico, distributed in the Sierra Madre Occidental in pine–oak forest. This species is characterized by the presence of lanceolate sepals, margin of the corolla lobes with a whitish-green callus, without being cristate, and anthers with rectangular dorsal appendages. The new species is compared to Gonolobus chloranthus and Gonolobus erianthus. Gonolobus grandiflorus, Gonolobus incerianus, and Gonolobus lozadae are species with which it shares reticulate corollas and flowers more than 2 cm in diameter. A detailed description of the new species includes data on its habitat, ecology, phenology, conservation status, a distribution map, and a section where the new species is compared with similar species and how to recognize it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periploca angustifolia (Labill.) is a multipurpose xerophytic shrub in the Apocynaceae, which is widely disturbed in arid zones. This shrub is often used in programs for the rehabilitation of degraded areas, so it is essential to investigate the impact of environmental factors (drought, burial depth) on seed germination patterns. During 20 days, germination responses of seeds were determined over a wide range of constant temperatures (25 °C), polyethylene glycol PEG-6000 solutions of different osmotic potentials (0 to -1.6 MPa), and burial depths (1–8 cm). The highest germination percentages (99%) were obtained under control conditions without PEG, and increasing osmotic pressure progressively inhibited seed germination, which was about 2% at -1.6 MPa. When seeds were buried deep, there was a significant decrease in seedling emergence percentage and rate. Seedlings of P. angustifolia emerged well at depths of 1–2 cm with the highest emergence percentage of 74 and 69%, respectively. They could not emerge when the sand burial depth was higher than 4 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The mangaba Hancornia speciosa Gomes (Apocynaceae) is more commercially viable than other native Cerrado fruit trees due to its nutritional properties and high production of fruit used in food products. Although thrips have been reported injuring mangaba, the identification of possible species of economic importance is not yet available. Thus, identifying species that may threaten mangaba plant health is a vital step in implementing management strategies. The aim of this present study was to survey thrips species during the reproductive stage of H. speciosa, determine the variety most susceptible to damage caused by these insects and to check whether the damage is economically important to this fruit tree. Thrips were collected from the ex-situ germplasm of the Agronomy School of the Federal University of Goiás, in Goiás state, Brazil. Twelve plants of three H. speciosa varieties (gardneri, cuyabensis and pubescens) were selected, from which 20 flowers and 20 fruits were assessed for the presence of thrips in September 2018 and 2019. A total of 1,306 thrips representing 13 species were collected from flowers. Of these, Frankliniella gemina was the most abundant. On the fruits, circular lesions were observed, initially as white spots that subsequently turned silver, possibly caused by Heliothrips longisensibilis. These injuries are superficial, rarely compromising large portions of the fruit, and do not cause economic damage. Therefore, thrips are not a primary threat to fruit production for fresh consumption or processing.

Monarch butterflies have a close relationship with plants of the Apocynaceae family, especially with the genus Asclepias Linnaeus, 1753, using their toxic cardenolides as a defense against predators. Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T. Aiton, 1811, native from Africa and Asia and introduced in Brazil as an ornamental plant, is a food alternative for monarchs but contains fewer cardenolides than Asclepias, which may make the butterflies more vulnerable to parasitoids. The interaction between wasps of the genus Brachymeria Westwood, 1829 and butterflies of the genus Danaus Kluk, 1802 is seldom reported. This study reports the first case of parasitism by Brachymeria pandora (Crawford, 1914) in pupae of Danaus erippus (Cramer, 1775) in Brazil, collected in the city of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso. Five butterfly pupae were collected on C. procera; three were parasitized, with 34 emergences of parasitoids. We suggest that the relationship between D. erippus and B. pandora may be facilitated by the lower toxicity of C. procera compared to Asclepias, possibly increasing susceptibility to parasitoidism. The high rate of parasitoidism observed suggests that this possible new interaction could be detrimental to the conservation of D. erippus. Further studies are needed to confirm whether this parasitoid-host interaction also occurs with native Asclepias plants and to investigate the impacts of exotic plants on these types of interactions and on butterfly conservation.

This work was developed with the objective of characterizing the variability and genetic structure of matrices and progenies of the Mangaba genebank of Embrapa Tabuleiros Costeiros, to define a core collection. From the matrix of seven accessions, 289 individuals were generated, evaluated by nine SSR markers. The characterization of genetic variability was performed from the estimates: average number of alleles observed (Na = 5.63) and effective (Ne = 2.71); Shannon Information Index (I = 1.04); Heterozygosity observed (Ho = 0.45) and expected (He = 0.51); Fixation index (f = 0.13); Percent polymorphism (%P = 90.47); and, Number of private alleles (Nap = 20). The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) identified that the largest proportion of genetic variation is present within accessions (92%). The estimates of genetic differentiation (GST and RST) were considered low (< 0.05) to moderate (0.05–0.15) magnitude. Multivariate analyses (PCoA, Rogers and Bayesian genetic diversity) did not discriminate the accessions according to origin. The formation of the core collection allowed retaining 94.9% of the identified alleles. The accessions present genetic variability to be explored in mangaba conservation and genetic improvement programs. In the future data related to agronomic and morphological characterization should be used to support the formation of this core collection, since the combination of this information contributes to the design of more efficient strategies for the use of this genetic resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specialized metabolites possess diverse interesting biological activities and some cardenolides- and monoterpene indole alkaloids- (MIAs) derived pharmaceuticals are currently used to treat human diseases such as cancers or hypertension. While these two families of biocompounds are produced by specific subfamilies of Apocynaceae, one member of this medicinal plant family, the succulent tree Pachypodium lamerei Drake (also known as Madagascar palm), does not produce such specialized metabolites. To explore the evolutionary paths that have led to the emergence and loss of cardenolide and MIA biosynthesis in Apocynaceae, we sequenced and assembled the P. lamerei genome by combining Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-reads and Illumina short-reads. Phylogenomics revealed that, among the Apocynaceae whose genomes have been sequenced, the Madagascar palm is so far the species closest to the common ancestor between MIA producers/non-MIA producers. Transposable elements, constituting 72.48% of the genome, emerge as potential key players in shaping genomic architecture and influencing specialized metabolic pathways. The absence of crucial MIA biosynthetic genes such as strictosidine synthase in P. lamerei and non-Rauvolfioideae species hints at a transposon-mediated mechanism behind gene loss. Phylogenetic analysis not only showcases the evolutionary divergence of specialized metabolite biosynthesis within Apocynaceae but also underscores the role of transposable elements in this intricate process. Moreover, we shed light on the low conservation of enzymes involved in the final stages of MIA biosynthesis in the distinct MIA-producing plant families, inferring independent gains of these specialized enzymes along the evolution of these medicinal plant clades. Overall, this study marks a leap forward in understanding the genomic dynamics underpinning the evolution of specialized metabolites biosynthesis in the Apocynaceae family, with transposons emerging as potential architects of genomics restructuring and gene loss.

In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of Cynanchum acutum subsp. sibiricum using high-throughput Illumina sequencing reads. The resulting chloroplast genome assembly displayed a typical quadripartite structure with a total length of 158,283 bp, which contained a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 24,459 bp. These two IRs were separated by a large single-copy region (LSC) and a small single-copy region (SSC) of 89,424 bp and 19,941 bp in length, respectively. The C. acutum subsp. sibiricum cp genome contained 130 genes, and its overall GC content was 37.87%. Phylogenetic analysis among C. acutum subsp. sibiricum and nine other Cynanchum species demonstrated that C. acutum subsp. sibiricum was closely related to C. chinense. The C. acutum subsp. sibiricum cp genome presented in this study lays a good foundation for further genetic and genomic studies of the Cynanchum as well as Apocynaceae.

This article discusses the extended distribution of Ceropegia bhatii, an endemic plant from Haveri District, Karnataka, India. The genus Ceropegia is found in various parts of the world, including India, where 72% of the species are endemic. Ceropegia bhatii was first reported in 2008 and has now been found in the dry deciduous forest of Kanavisiddageri hillock in Haveri district. The article provides a taxonomic description of the plant and mentions its habitat and distribution. The species is considered critically endangered, and further assessment is needed based on new data. [Extracted from the article]

Two new pregnane glycosides, parasiticoside A (1) and parasiticoside B (2), were isolated from the leaves of Hoya parasitica. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis 1D and 2D NMR, and mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS in positive mode) techniques as 3β,20-dihydroxy-pregn-5-ene-3-O-β-Dfucopyranoside-20-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), and 3β,20-dihydroxy-pregn-5-ene-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl- (1→2)-β-D-fucopyranoside-20-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2). These compounds are believed to be the first example of pregnane glycosides from a plant of the genus Hoya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptostegia grandiflora and C. madagascariensis (Apocynaceae) are the only two species of this Madagascan plant genus. Both have been transported around the world as ornamentals due to their attractive flowers and based on a perceived potential as sources of rubber - hence, the common name rubber vine - because of their copious latex, which also contains toxic cardiac glycosides. As a result of their vigorous growth and ability to climb over and smother vegetation, both species have become invasive, posing an actual or potential threat to native ecosystems in many tropical and sub-tropical countries, as well as to human and animal health. Classical biological control (CBC), or the introduction of co-evolved natural enemies to control an invasive alien species in its exotic range, has successfully been used to tackle C. grandiflora in northern Queensland, Australia. This strategy is currently being evaluated for its suitability to manage C. madagascariensis in north-eastern Brazil using the same Madagascan rust fungus, Maravalia cryptostegiae, released as a CBC agent in Australia. For CBC to be successful, it is critical to understand the taxonomy of the invader as well as the origin(s) of its weedy biotype(s) in order to select the best-matched co-evolved natural enemies. Based on an exhaustive search in published and unpublished sources, we summarise the taxonomy and uses of these rubber vines, follow their historical movements and track their earliest records and current weed status in more than 80 countries and territories around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical investigation of the two Tabernaemontana species (Apocynaceae) T. peduncularis Wall. and T. divaricata (L.) R.Br. ex Roem. & Schult. indicated closely related biosynthetic pathways leading to lipophilic and hydrophilic alkaloids. In total, 18 specialized metabolites comprising indole-derived alkaloid aglycones, three oxindole-derived alkaloid glycosides, and two iridoid glucosides could be identified in the studied species. Among the alkaloids, the two Iboga-type alkaloids 3,7-coronaridine isoindolenine, coronaridine 3,4-iminium and a javaniside derivative bearing a glucuronic acid, named javanuronic acid, could be described by spectroscopic and spectrometric methods for the first time. A docking experiment using alpha-fold was performed to generate a protein model of the enzyme 7-deoxyloganetic acid glucosyl transferase. Performed bioassays exhibited a growth reduction of neonate Spodoptera littoralis larvae and reduced cell viability of HepG2 cells of the extracts containing Iboga alkaloids, whilst the javaniside derivatives containing hydrophilic fraction did not show any effects. These findings indicate a high flexibility in the formation of bioactive indole alkaloid aglycones by Tabernaemontana species and also evidence similar accumulation trends in both species as well as indicate that biosynthetic routes leading to oxindole alkaloids like javanisides are more widespread than reported. Furthermore, the incorporation of the three novel compounds into potential biosynthetic pathways is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new species are described from central and eastern Angola and adjacent NW Zambia. All occur in Kalahari sand savannas rich in endemic and more widely distributed geoxylic suffrutices. Despite being known from very few collections, the conservation status of one of these new species is assessed as Least Concern, as these grasslands are nutrient-poor, are in remote sparsely populated areas, and are not threatened with conversion to agriculture. The remaining three are treated as Data Deficient. In addition, one new combination is provided for Ancylanthos rubiginosus Desf. under Vangueria as V. rubiginosa (Desf.) Lantz is an illegitimate later homonym. We also make orthographic corrections to specific epithets commemorating Ilse von Nolde, a collector who made important collections from Quela in Malange in the 1930s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinization is a crucial factor that impacts plant distribution and growth. Apocynum venetum, an ornamental plant with medicinal value, has shown remarkable salt tolerance. However, the specific mechanisms through which A. venetum responds to salt stress are not yet fully understood. To address this gap, we conducted a study where 10-week-old A. venetum seedlings were subjected to salt stress by irrigating them with a nutrient solution containing varying concentrations of NaCl (0, 100, 200, and 350 mmol·L−1). After the salt stress treatment, various growth indicators (such as plant height, root length, root fresh weight, root dry weight, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, root water content, leaf water content, and root–leaf ratio) as well as physiological indicators (including SOD and CAT activities in both leaves and roots, soluble protein contents in leaves and roots, and chlorophyll and carotene contents in leaves) were determined. In addition, the gene expression profile of roots under salt stress was examined by transcriptome sequencing to explore the mechanism of salt response in A. venetum. Our results show that salt stress led to yellowing and wilting of A. venetum seedling leaves. Furthermore, the chlorophyll and carotenoid contents in the leaves of the 350 mmol·L−1 NaCl-treated group were significantly reduced. Although the leaf and root biomass gradually decreased with an increase in the salt concentration, the root–leaf ratio exhibited a decreasing trend. NaCl stress also caused significant changes in physiological indices in the A. venntum leaves and roots. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) increased in both leaves and roots of the 100 mmol·L−1 NaCl-treated group. The soluble protein content in both leaves and roots increased under the 200 mmol·L−1 NaCl stress. To screen changes in root gene expression, transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR were performed. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that salt stress primarily affects carbohydrate metabolism, MAPK signaling transduction, phytohormone signaling pathways, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, and other pathways. This study provides a novel understanding of the growth and physiological response of A. venetum leaf and root to NaCl stress, as well as the changes in the transcription levels in A. venetum root. The results serve as a reference for future research on salt-tolerant mechanisms and molecular breeding of A. venetum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karanda fruits are widely cultivated in Thailand. The fruit has several vitamins and minerals. One of the most fascinating possibilities is to transform it into a powdered drink. This study aimed to determine the optimal conditions for preparing karanda juice powder considering its physicochemical properties. Three levels of inlet air temperature were evaluated, 160 oC, 180 ℃ and 200 ℃. Subsequently, three levels of maltodextrin (dextrose equivalent 10, DE10) were evaluated, 30%, 40%, and 50% by weight. Finally, three levels of whey protein (WPI) were evaluated, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight. The moisture content dropped by 48.51% when the input air drying temperature rose from 160-200 ℃. Yield increased by 15.08% and solubility by 5.06%. The maltodextrin content was increased from 30% to 50%, resulting in a 23.17% increase in product yield, while the WPI content was increased from 5% to 15%, leading in an 82.88% increase in anthocyanin content. SEM investigation indicated that the particle morphology was spherical with smooth surfaces, but an increase in inlet air temperature led to greater deformation and particle surface roughness. Additionally, the optimal parameters for spray drying karanda fruit were an inlet air temperature of 174 ℃, maltodextrin (MD) content of 32%, and WPI content of 15% of soluble solids, with a product yield of 55.93±0.25%, solubility of 85.51±0.54%, and anthocyanin concentration of 12.58±0.36 mg/l. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of Cynanchum acutum subsp. sibiricum using high-throughput Illumina sequencing reads. The resulting chloroplast genome assembly displayed a typical quadripartite structure with a total length of 158,283 bp, which contained a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 24,459 bp. These two IRs were separated by a large single-copy region (LSC) and a small single-copy region (SSC) of 89,424 bp and 19,941 bp in length, respectively. The C. acutum subsp. sibiricum cp genome contained 130 genes, and its overall GC content was 37.87%. Phylogenetic analysis among C. acutum subsp. sibiricum and nine other Cynanchum species demonstrated that C. acutum subsp. sibiricum was closely related to C. chinense. The C. acutum subsp. sibiricum cp genome presented in this study lays a good foundation for further genetic and genomic studies of the Cynanchum as well as Apocynaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amsonia elliptica (Apocynaceae), endangered species in Korea, is a perennial herb that is economically important as traditional medicine and used as ornamentals. Natural populations of this species are facing extinction due to small population size and isolated distribution. Here, we report the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of A. elliptica using Illumina HiSeq sequencing and its phylogenetic position in subfamily Rauvolfioideae based on 20 Apocynaceae cp genomes. The cp genome of A. elliptica was 154,242 bp in length with a pair of inverted repeats of 25,711 bp, separated by large single-copy and small single-copy regions of 85,382 bp and 17,438 bp, respectively. Our phylogenomic analyses revealed that A. elliptica was closely related to Rhazya stricta in Rauvolfioideae (Apocynaceae).

Recent botanical explorations carried out in the northwest of Argentina allowed us to find two new species of Apocynaceae, one of them, which belongs to the genus Petalostelma, was found in the Garrapatas Private Reserve, General Güemes, in the Mountain Chaco region, the other, of the genus Philibertia, was found in the Quebrada de Escoipe, Chicoana, in inter-Andean valleys. In this contribution both taxa are described and illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hancornia speciosa Gomes belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is distributed across different regions of Brazil. The objective of this study was to evaluate callus induction and histodifferentiation in five mangaba accessions under different in vitro culture conditions. Five acessions from the Active Germplasm Bank of Mangaba (Embrapa, Brazil) were evaluated. In vitro-germinated plant seedlings were used for the excision of different explants (internode and node segments, and foliar section). These segments were inoculated in a culture medium containing different concentrations of 6-Benzylaminopurine (BA) and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). There was a significant effect of accessions, treatments, and time on the callus mass (g). There was no callus induction in the absence of regulators. After 60 days of in vitro culture, all treatments exhibited a linear positive cellular growth. The highest callus mass was observed in the BI accession, in the presence of 22.62 µM 2,4-D and 11.10 µM BA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the course of evolution, the formation of succulent variations in the underground and surface parts of plants in different taxa could occur simultaneously under the influence of similar abiotic factors, in particular as an adaptation to arid conditions, and similar structural features even in distant families are a manifestation of convergent evolution. Along with this, the development of such adaptive structures in ontogeny can occur in different ways in different taxa. Studying the anatomical and morphological features of the vegetative organs of Fockea edulis (Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae) at the early stages of ontogenesis and comparing them with those of other plants will improve the understanding of the features of growth and development of caudex-like plants. The research was conducted on seedlings, juvenile and immature plants of F. edulis. When comparing the features of the development of vegetative parts of three representatives of the Apocynaceae family, we found that the strategy of succulent traits development in F. edulis at the organ level is characterized by the active development of the hypocotyl already at the seedling stage, similar to Adenium obesum, and the subsequent formation of an expanded basal part of the stem due to the combined cortex-pith thickening and radish-like root due to the growth of xylem parenchyma. However, Petopentia natalensis is characterized by a mesophytic seedling. It was established that secondary thickening in the basal part of the stem occurs in two individual ways: in Adenium obesum, the cambium generates solid rings of phloem and parenchymatized xylem; in P. natalensis and F. edulis, the bundle type of conducting elements is preserved. The thickening of the tap root in F. edulis is similar to that in A. obesum.

Indole alkaloids are a class of alkaloids enclosing a structural moiety of indole; numerous indole alkaloids also comprise isoprene groups and are thus named terpene indole or secologanin tryptamine alkaloids and have more than 4100 identified diverse compounds. Indole alkaloids are one of the main classes of alkaloids identified in several significant plant groups, mainly Catharanthus and Rauvolfia plants from Apocynaceae family. The pharmacological actions of these plants have been studied scientifically, with some undergoing clinical trials while others were already approved for medicinal use. This review aimed at the fundamental objective of summarizing the developed analytical methods for quantification of indole alkaloids obtained from plants and complete examination of their present quantification method, which may result in the identification of alternative method developments for the effective and accurate quantification of indole alkaloids by considering the green method. This systematic review was conducted from January 2006 to June 2022, using electronic databases like PubMed, Web of Science and Embase. Several studies in the literature have been reported for quantitative estimation of indole alkaloids using different techniques including the spectrophotometric methods, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Most of the studies reported HPLC analysis for quantification. This review will offer a greater understanding of the available methods to develop a more precise and sensitive quantification method for indole alkaloids with the cost-effectiveness that is expected to emerge in line with clinical usage and to promote the development of the pharmaceutical industry for routine quality control analysis.

Gastric cancer is among the major causes of death from neoplasia leading causes of death worldwide, with high incidence rates and problems related to its treatment. Here, we outline how Geissospermum sericeum exerts antitumor activity on the ACP02 cell line (human gastric adenocarcinoma) and the mechanism of cell death. The ethanol extract and fractions, neutral fraction and alkaloid fraction, were characterized by thin-layer chromatography and HPLC-DAD, yielding an alkaloid (geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine) identified by NMR. The cytotoxicity activity of the samples (ethanol extract, neutral fraction, alkaloid fraction, and geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine) in HepG2 and VERO cells was determined by MTT. The ACP02 cell line was used to assess the anticancer potential. Cell death was quantified with the fluorescent dyes Hoechst 33342, propidium iodide, and fluorescein diacetate. The geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine was evaluated in silico against caspase 3 and 8. In the antitumor evaluation, there was observed a more significant inhibitory effect of the alkaloid fraction (IC50 18.29 µg/mL) and the geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine (IC50 12.06 µg/mL). However, geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine showed lower cytotoxicity in the VERO (CC50 476.0 µg/mL) and HepG2 (CC50 503.5 µg/mL) cell lines, with high selectivity against ACP02 cells (SI 39.47 and 41.75, respectively). The alkaloid fraction showed more significant apoptosis and necrosis in 24 h and 48 h, with increased necrosis in higher concentrations and increased exposure time. For the alkaloid, apoptosis and necrosis were concentration- and time-dependent, with a lower necrosis rate. Molecular modeling studies demonstrated that geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine could occupy the active site of caspases 3 and 8 energetically favorably. The results showed that fractionation contributed to the activity with pronounced selectivity for ACP02 cells, and geissoschizoline N4-methylchlor is a promising candidate for caspase inhibitors of apoptosis in gastric cancer. Thus, this study provides a scientific basis for the biological functions of Geissospermum sericeum, as well as demonstrates the potential of the geissoschizoline N4-methylchlorine in the treatment of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wild plants is considered to be an eco-friendly and promising natural resource. In sandy desert habitats, Leptadenia pyrotechnica flourishes as a xerophytic shrub with high biomass production. As a dominant shrub in the arid sand dune habitats of Saudi Arabia, Leptadenia pyrotechnica (Forssk.) Decne (Asclepiadaceae) is one of the most common xerophytes; the many medicinal uses of this plant include treating allergies, productive coughs, abortions, diabetes, stomach disorders, fevers, kidney disorders, and stones. In such a distribution, morpho-anatomical characteristics, among other adaptive traits, play an important role. This study aims to characterize some morpho-anatomical adaptations of L. pyrotechnica in two stressful habitats: the hyper-arid inland sand dunes of the Empty Quarter (EQ) and the arid coastal sand dunes of Jazan. A morpho-anatomical analysis of plant stems and roots from both habitats was conducted using light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The outcomes indicated similar characteristics, a low surface-to-volume ratio (S/V), a thin boundary layer (δbl), an epidermis with many layers of hypodermis, bundles of sclerenchymatous cells around vascular tissue, and storage starch grains in ray parenchyma between xylem conduits. On the other hand, the L. pyrotechnica stem from the hyper-arid habitat of the Empty Quarter revealed more encrypted stomata, more elongated palisade cells, less calcium oxalate crystals with low Ca percentage, and a high vulnerability index of xylem vessels compared with the same traits of the stem from the Jazan coastal sand dunes habitat. Roots of L. pyrotechnica from both habitats revealed similar features of general anatomy. However, differences in specific anatomical traits were observed, especially in xylem vessel characters. The vulnerability index of root xylem vessels from the Empty Quarter habitat was more than that from the Jazan coastal sand dunes habitat. Furthermore, vestured bordered pits in root xylem walls were more abundant in the Empty Quarter habitat than in the Jazan coastal sand dunes habitat. As a result, these characteristics in the morpho-anatomy of L. pyrotechnica from both habitats provide practical adaptations to highly stressful conditions, along with specific anatomical traits relating to each habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the tropical Americas, the Orthosiinae (Apocynaceae) comprises plant species with small but intricate flowers and harbours a tremendous, still understudied diversity currently classified in four genera, Jobinia, Monsanima, Orthosia and Scyphostelma. In this study, we describe and illustrate four new species of Scyphostelma: S. bolivianum, S. gracile, S. rotorum and S. solomonii, based on specimens collected in Bolivia and Peru. Phylogenetic analysis places S. bolivianum and S. gracile in a clade with S. harlingii, a species from southern Ecuador and central Peru, together as sister clade to the rest of Scyphostelma. Due to the size of flowers and the long-filiform peduncles and pedicels, we consider the two new species S. rotorum and S. solomonii and the new combination S. erikseniae a part of the S. harlingii group, for which an identification key is presented. Furthermore, four species names are lectotypified and six new combinations in Scyphostelma are made: S. fasciculiflorum, S. jaramilloi, S. purpurascens, S. quitense, S. stenospira and S. unguiculatum. Citation: Pineda Y. M., Keller H. A., Balderrama-Torrico J. A., Meve U., Nürk N. M. & Liede-Schumann S. 2023: Phylogenetics in Scyphostelma (Apocynaceae: Orthosiinae) and description of new species. – Willdenowia 53: 83–112. Version of record first published online on 5 September 2023 ahead of inclusion in August 2023 issue. En las Américas tropicales, Orthosiinae (Apocynaceae) comprende especies de plantas con flores pequeñas pero complejas y alberga una alta diversidad, aún poco estudiada, actualmente clasificada en cuatro géneros: Jobinia, Monsanima, Orthosia y Scyphostelma. En este estudio, describimos e ilustramos cuatro especies nuevas de Scyphostelma: S. bolivianum, S. gracile, S. rotorum y S. solomonii, con base en especímenes recolectados en Bolivia y Perú. El análisis filogenético ubica a S. bolivianum y S. gracile en un clado con S. harlingii, una especie del sur de Ecuador y el centro de Perú, juntas como clado hermano del resto de Scyphostelma. Debido al tamaño de las flores y a los pedúnculos y pedicelos filiformes largos, consideramos a las dos nuevas especies S. roturum y S. solomonii y la nueva combinación S. erikseniae una parte del grupo S. harlingii, para el cual se presenta una clave de identificación. Además, se lectotipifican cuatro nombres de especies y se realizan seis nuevas combinaciones en Scyphostelma: S. fasciculiflorum, S. jaramilloi, S. purpurascens, S. quitense, S. stenospira y S. unguiculatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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SUMMARY: Marsdenia tenacissima is a medicinal plant widely distributed in the calcium‐rich karst regions of southwest China. However, the lack of a reference genome has hampered the implementation of molecular techniques in its breeding, pharmacology and domestication. We generated the chromosome‐level genome assembly in Apocynaceae using combined SMRT sequencing and Hi‐C. The genome length was 381.76 Mb, with 98.9% of it found on 11 chromosomes. The genome contained 222.63 Mb of repetitive sequences and 21 899 predicted gene models, with a contig N50 of 6.57 Mb. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that M. tenacissima diverged from Calotropis gigantea at least 13.43 million years ago. Comparative genomics showed that M. tenacissima underwent ancient shared whole‐genome duplication. This event, together with tandem duplication, contributed to 70.71% of gene‐family expansion. Both pseudogene analysis and selective pressure calculations suggested calcium‐related adaptive evolution in the M. tenacissima genome. Calcium‐induced differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly enriched in cell‐wall‐related processes. Domains (e.g. Fasciclin and Amb_all) and cis‐elements (e.g. MYB and MYC) frequently occurred in the coding and promoter regions of cell‐wall DEGs, respectively, and the expression levels of these genes correlated significantly with those of calcium‐signal‐related transcription factors. Moreover, calcium addition increased tenacissoside I, G and H contents. The availability of this high‐quality genome provides valuable genomic information for genetic breeding and molecular design, and lends insights into the calcium adaptation of M. tenacissima in karst areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hoya medusa M.D.De Leon, Cabactulan, Cuerdo & Rodda, sp. nov. (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) is described from the Philippines. Even though numerous taxa with a shrubby habit from this area are known, it can be immediately separated because of its urceolate corolla and prominent elongated corona lobes. No other species in the genus possesses such a combination of characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hoya spectatissima, a new species from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated. Hoya spectatissima is morphologically similar to H. lyi, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by its succulent leaves that are 2-4.5 cm long (vs. coriaceous leaves that are up to 9 cm long), corolla that is pink to pale pink (vs. yellowish-white) and corona lobes that are sub-rhombic in top view (vs. ovoid in top view). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carissa spinarum L. (Apocynaceae), commonly known as Garna or Jungli Karonda, has a rich history of use in indigenous traditional medicinal systems owing to its tremendous medicinal and nutritional benefits. The present review aims to discuss the traditional uses, ethnopharmacology, bioactive composition, toxicity analysis, and biotechnological applications of Carissa spinarum L. (CS) to identify the gap between current applications and research conducted on this plant. We collected the literature published before December 2022 on the phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and biotechnological applications of CS. Literature in English from scientific databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, and Wiley, along with books on CS, was analyzed and summarized to prepare this review. The plant taxonomy was verified using the "World Flora Online" database. The in vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies on CS revealed its anthelmintic, anticonvulsant, anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, vasorelaxant, antihypertensive, antitumor, wound-healing, anti-venom, and antipyretic effects. Toxicological studies on CS also indicated the absence of any adverse effects even at high doses after oral administration. Although CS showed remarkable therapeutic activities against several diseases—such as diabetes, cancer, inflammation, and hepatitis B virus—there are several drawbacks in previous reports, including the lack of information on the drug dose, standards, controls, and mechanism of action of the extract or the phytocompounds responsible for its activity. Extensive research with proper in vivo or in vitro model systems is required to validate its reported activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomical characteristics play a pivotal role in understanding the evolutionary relationship among various plant taxa and identifying species of pharmacological importance. Though the anatomical features of the family Apocynaceae have been widely recognized, there is limited research on the stem wood anatomy of Kopsia fruticosa, whereas nothing was previously known about its root wood anatomy. The present work describes and analyses its anatomy and correlates the anatomical features with the habitat and ecology of this plant. The oval shape of the young stem and the presence of unicellular trichomes, stone cells in the pith region, laticiferous canals, calcium oxalate crystals, and vascular bundles of two different sizes, viz., smaller in the broad, flattened region and more prominent on the two narrow sides, are remarkable features of the plant, which collectively may often be helpful in distinguishing K. fruticosa from other species of this genus. Apart from the previously known qualitative characteristics of the family Apocynaceae, the coalescence of pit aperture and storied pattern of vessels of K. fruticosa are newly observed features of the subfamily Rauvofiòideae. On the other hand, in the root wood, vessels are wider (33–64 μm), less frequent (about 53% more in the stem), and shorter, and the rays are larger (21–46 cells in height) and more frequent than those of stem wood; these are the valuable findings which strongly support the non-climbing nature of the studied plant. The vulnerability and mesomorphy indices for stem wood are 0.914 and 349, respectively, indicating plants' adaptation toward a mesic habitat. The correlation of the anatomical traits of plants with the habitat and ecology represents their survivability in different situations. Consequently, anatomical features such as intraxylary phloem, vessel grouping, the storied pattern of vessels, the simple perforation plate, and intervascular vestured pits suggest that plants can tolerate drought. We firmly believe that the present study's outcome can fulfil the research gaps of this hardy plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study was aimed at evaluating the phytochemical components and antibacterial activity of crude extracts of Allium sativum and Gongronema latifolium on multidrug-resistant isolates from clinical samples. Methodology and results: Collection of clinical samples [wounds (43) and throat (17)] and plant leaves, preparation of extracts, gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometer (GC-MS), isolation and characterization of bacterial isolates were all carried out using standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic resistance studies were conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Antibacterial assay of plant extracts was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method. From the results obtained, Gram-negative bacteria isolated were found to be 73.7% while Gram-positive were 26.3%. The result also showed that Staphylococcus aureus had the highest occurrence rate of 12(21.1%), while Citrobacter sp. 2(3.5%) was the least occurring bacteria organism isolated from the clinical samples. The antibiotic susceptibility pattern evaluated showed at least one resistance in all the clinical bacterial isolates. The results showed that all the isolates were resistant to imipenem with the exception of Citrobacter sp. The results of GC-MS analysis of plant extracts identified fourteen and twelve bioactive compounds in the leaf extracts of G. latifolium and A. sativum, respectively. All extracts showed antibacterial activity with zones of inhibition ranging from 04 to 28 mm against the different resistant bacteria used. Ethanol extracts showed higher antibacterial activity as compared to aqueous extracts. Conclusion, significance and impact of study: The overall results of the present work provide baseline information for the possible use of these plants in treating bacterial infections involving MDR phenotypes. Thus, this study could serve as a foundation for exploring the potential of bioactive compounds of G. latifolium and A. sativum for the discovery of new antimicrobial drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amsonia elliptica (Apocynaceae), endangered species in Korea, is a perennial herb that is economically important as traditional medicine and used as ornamentals. Natural populations of this species are facing extinction due to small population size and isolated distribution. Here, we report the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of A. elliptica using Illumina HiSeq sequencing and its phylogenetic position in subfamily Rauvolfioideae based on 20 Apocynaceae cp genomes. The cp genome of A. elliptica was 154,242 bp in length with a pair of inverted repeats of 25,711 bp, separated by large single-copy and small single-copy regions of 85,382 bp and 17,438 bp, respectively. Our phylogenomic analyses revealed that A. elliptica was closely related to Rhazya stricta in Rauvolfioideae (Apocynaceae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Vincetoxicum mongolicum Maxim. (1876), is a perennial medicinal herb, widely distributed in the Loess Plateau of China. Here, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of V. mongolicum, and compared the highly variable gene regions and phylogenetic positions between V. mongolicum and other related species. Results showed that the complete cp genome of V. mongolicum was 160,157 bp in length, containing a large single copy (LSC) region of 91,263 bp, a pair of inverted repeats (IR) region of 23,892 bp, and a small single copy (SSC) region of 21,110 bp. The GC content accounts for 37.8%, and we annotated 131 single genes, which include 86 protein-coding genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 37 tRNA genes. By comparing and analyzing the variable region of the cp gene of V. mongolicum and other Vincetoxicum, we found that the variable sequences of rpoC1-rpoB, ycf4-cemA, ndhF, ndhF-rpl32, and rpl32-ccsA fragments were highly significant, which could be targeted as the DNA barcodes for evidence of V. mongolicum and its relatives in Apocynaceae. Maximum-likelihood (ML) phylogenetic tree analysis elucidated that V. mongolicum was sister to V. pycnostelma with strong support. Our results provide useful information for future phylogenetic studies and plastid super-barcodes of the family Apocynaceae.

Background and aimsLarge clades of angiosperms are often characterized by diverse interactions with pollinators, but how these pollination systems are structured phylogenetically and biogeographically is still uncertain for most families. Apocynaceae is a clade of >5300 species with a worldwide distribution. A database representing >10 % of species in the family was used to explore the diversity of pollinators and evolutionary shifts in pollination systems across major clades and regions.MethodsThe database was compiled from published and unpublished reports. Plants were categorized into broad pollination systems and then subdivided to include bimodal systems. These were mapped against the five major divisions of the family, and against the smaller clades. Finally, pollination systems were mapped onto a phylogenetic reconstruction that included those species for which sequence data are available, and transition rates between pollination systems were calculated.Key resultsMost Apocynaceae are insect pollinated with few records of bird pollination. Almost three-quarters of species are pollinated by a single higher taxon (e.g. flies or moths); 7 % have bimodal pollination systems, whilst the remaining approx. 20 % are insect generalists. The less phenotypically specialized flowers of the Rauvolfioids are pollinated by a more restricted set of pollinators than are more complex flowers within the Apocynoids + Periplocoideae + Secamonoideae + Asclepiadoideae (APSA) clade. Certain combinations of bimodal pollination systems are more common than others. Some pollination systems are missing from particular regions, whilst others are over-represented.ConclusionsWithin Apocynaceae, interactions with pollinators are highly structured both phylogenetically and biogeographically. Variation in transition rates between pollination systems suggest constraints on their evolution, whereas regional differences point to environmental effects such as filtering of certain pollinators from habitats. This is the most extensive analysis of its type so far attempted and gives important insights into the diversity and evolution of pollination systems in large clades.

Abstract Steroidal alkaloids possess the basic steroidal skeleton with a nitrogen atom in rings or side chains incorporated as an integral part of the molecule. They have demonstrated a wide range of biological activities, and some of them have even been developed as therapeutic drugs, such as abiraterone acetate (Zytiga®), a blockbuster drug, which has been used for the treatment of prostate cancer. Structurally diverse natural steroidal alkaloids present a wide spectrum of biological activities, which are attractive for natural product chemistry and medicinal chemistry communities. This review comprehensively covers the structural classification, isolation and various biological activities of 697 natural steroidal alkaloids discovered from 1926 to October 2021, with 363 references being cited.

Doubtlessly, wood identification is critically important for a number of sectors, including government organizations, the wooden-based industry, museums, law enforcement, and scientists working in the fields of botany, ecology, forestry, and wood technology. Unfortunately, most wood species listed as “the least-known species” lack essential knowledge or even their anatomical feature and basic properties to promote their usage. This research aimed to investigate the anatomical characteristics and fiber quality of the least-known timber species of Apocynaceae family, which are authentic wood collection from Xylarium Bogoriense, namely , Ervatamia. sphaerocarpa, E. aurantiaca, Kopsia flavida, Lepiniopsis ternatensis, Plumeria acuminata, P. rubra, and Voacanga foetida. Wood samples have indistinct growth ring boundaries, diffuse-porous vessels in diagonal and/or radial pattern, vessels in radial multiples of 4 or more cells, simple perforation plate, alternate intervessel pits; distinct borders of vessel-ray pits, similar with those of intervessel pits in size and shape throughout the ray cell, and septate fibers with simple pits to minutely bordered pits which are common in radial and tangential walls. Based on the fiber length and the derived values of fiber dimension, some species are classified into Quality Class II and III, and the rest of them are classified into Quality Class II or III for pulp and paper manufacturing. Based on general characteristics, commonly Apocynaceae can be used as handicrafts raw material. Based on the fiber quality, some species which are classified into Quality Class II, are predicted to have potential as pulp and paper material with medium quality.