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Objective(s): Hyperglycemia, a prevalent metabolic condition observed in diabetes, leads to oxidative damage, inflammatory responses, and other consequences. Natural compounds alleviate the adverse impacts of diabetes. We aimed to explore the effects of alpha-pinene (AP) as a monoterpene on oxidative damage and inflammation caused by high glucose (HG) in the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma (HepG2) cell line. Materials and Methods: The HepG2 cells were subjected to non or HG concentration (50 mM) and treated with or without AP (8, 16, and 32 μg/ml) for 48 hr. The effect of treatments on cellular viability, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and activity of anti-oxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), was determined. The gene expression levels of nuclear factor-κβ (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) were estimated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results: HG exposure significantly increased cell death, MDA formation, and depletion of GSH content and GPx, CAT, and SOD activity (P

Objective(s): Hyperglycemia, a prevalent metabolic condition observed in diabetes, leads to oxidative damage, inflammatory responses, and other consequences. Natural compounds alleviate the adverse impacts of diabetes. We aimed to explore the effects of alpha-pinene (AP) as a monoterpene on oxidative damage and inflammation caused by high glucose (HG) in the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma (HepG2) cell line. Materials and Methods: The HepG2 cells were subjected to non or HG concentration (50 mM) and treated with or without AP (8, 16, and 32 µg/ml) for 48 hr. The effect of treatments on cellular viability, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and activity of anti-oxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), was determined. The gene expression levels of nuclear factor-κβ (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) were estimated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results: HG exposure significantly increased cell death, MDA formation, and depletion of GSH content and GPx, CAT, and SOD activity (P<0.05). We have also seen a significant induction in NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and DPP-4 gene expression in hepatocytes under HG conditions (P<0.05). Interestingly, co-treatment with AP in a dose-dependent manner improved cell death and altered levels of MDA and GSH, and activity of GPx and CAT (P<0.05). AP could also modulate the gene expression of NF-κB and inflammatory biomarkers dose-dependently (P<0.05). Conclusion: Our findings suggested the protective effect of AP on hepatocytes under HG conditions through attenuating oxidative stress markers and suppression of inflammatory pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Renal and testicular disorders are primarily associated with oxidative damage and inflammation. Here, alpha-pinene (a type of monoterpene) was investigated for its effect on oxidative/nitrosative stress and the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic factors in the kidneys and testes of rats treated with CCl4.Materials and Methods: CCl4 was injected intraperitoneally (IP) at a dose of 2 ml/kg (twice a week for six weeks). Alpha-pinene (50 mg/kg/day, IP) was also treated during the same period. Results: CCl4 increased the level of malondialdehyde (P

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a profound neurological disorder that affects approximately 1% of the global population. Alpha-pinene (α-pinene) is a natural and active monoterpene found in coniferous tree oil, primarily pine, with diverse pharmacological characteristics, including antioxidative, anxiolytic, and antidepressant properties. This research study delves into the neuroprotective effects of α-pinene on oxidative stress, memory deficits, and depressive and anxiety-like behaviors in a ketamine-induced mice model of SCZ using male mice. The mice were randomly divided into six groups: vehicle, control, positive control, ketamine, α-pinene at 50 mg/kg, and α-pinene at 100 mg/kg. Treatment of the ketamine-induced mice model of SCZ with α-pinene yielded significant improvements in depressive and anxiety-like behaviors and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, it significantly elevated glutathione (GSH) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), dopamine levels, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities while markedly reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The current study establishes that α-pinene treatment effectively mitigates oxidative damage, cognitive deficits, and depressive and anxiogenic-like behaviors in the brains of ketamine-treated mice. Therefore, α-pinene treatment is an efficacious approach to forestall the neurobehavioral and neurobiochemical adverse effects of the ketamine-induced SCZ model of mice.

Objective(s): Renal and testicular disorders are primarily associated with oxidative damage and inflammation. Here, alpha-pinene (a type of monoterpene) was investigated for its effect on oxidative/nitrosative stress and the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic factors in the kidneys and testes of rats treated with CCl4. Materials and Methods: CCl4 was injected intraperitoneally (IP) at a dose of 2 ml/kg (twice a week for six weeks). Alpha-pinene (50 mg/kg/day, IP) was also treated during the same period. Results: CCl4 increased the level of malondialdehyde (P<0.01 in the kidney and P<0.001 in the testis) and nitric oxide (P<0.001 in the kidney and P<0.01 in the testis) and decreased the levels of glutathione (P<0.05) in the kidneys and testicles of rats. CCl4 also reduced the catalase enzyme activity in the kidneys (P<0.05) but did not affect its activity in the testis. In addition, CCl4 enhanced the mRNA expression of TNF-α (P<0.01), nuclear factor-κB (P<0.05), and Bax (P<0.05 in the kidney and P<0.01 in the testis) and decreased the expression of Bcl-2 (P<0.05) in both organs. Alphapinene prevented all the mentioned changes, but it did not influence the expression of Bcl-2 in the kidneys of rats receiving CCl4. Conclusion: Alpha-pinene may have the potential to prevent renal and testicular diseases by strengthening the antioxidant system in the kidneys and testis, and inhibiting oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis caused by CCl4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

T‐cell acute leukemia and lymphoma have a poor prognosis. Although new therapeutic agents have been developed, their therapeutic effects are suboptimal. α‐Pinene, a monoterpene compound, has an antitumor effect on solid tumors; however, few comprehensive investigations have been conducted on its impact on hematologic malignancies. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential benefits of using α‐pinene as an antitumor agent for the treatment of T‐cell tumors. We found that α‐pinene inhibited the proliferation of hematologic malignancies, especially in T‐cell tumor cell lines EL‐4 and Molt‐4, induced mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species accumulation, and inhibited NF‐κB p65 translocation into the nucleus, leading to robust apoptosis in EL‐4 cells. Collectively, these findings suggest that α‐pinene has potential as a therapeutic agent for T‐cell malignancies, and further investigation is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential anticarcinogenic effects of three phytochemicals, namely Alpha-pinene (AP), Gamma-terpinene (GT), and P-cymene (PC), on melanoma cells (A2058 cell line). Additionally, the study aims to explore the synergistic activities of these phytochemicals with Dacarbazine, a chemotherapy drug. To understand the molecular mechanism involved in apoptosis induction in the A-2058 cell line, it was used AO/EB staining for apoptosis detection and cell cycle analysis, monitored through flow cytometry. It also determined the mRNA expression levels of different apoptosis-regulatory genes, including p53, Bax, NF-kB, Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, and caspase-3. The antitumor activities of these phytochemicals and their combinations were investigated in a subcutaneous mouse tumor model. The tumor diameter was 21.4 ± 1.1 mm in the Dacarbazine treatment group and 42.4 ± 3.1 mm in the control group. The antitumoral activities of AP and PC in the tumor model were similar to those of Dacarbazine. On the other hand, GT exhibited remarkable antitumoral activity, with a 1.75-fold reduction in tumor diameter compared to the Dacarbazine group. When different combinations of phytochemicals and Dacarbazine were used, the GT plus Dacarbazine treatment group was found to have a 3.5-fold reduction in tumor diameter compared to the Dacarbazine group. The tumor diameters in the Dacarbazine, AP plus GT, GT plus Dacarbazine, and AP plus Dacarbazine treatment groups were 21.4 ± 1.1, 7.6 ± 2.2, 8.6 ± 0.5, and 6.2 ± 1.9 mm, respectively.

Background and Aim: Huntington's disease is a chronic hereditary disorder that causes cognitive and movement defects in affected individuals by progressive destruction of neurons in the cerebral cortex, striatum and the hippocampus. Studies have shown that increased activity of cyclin-dependent kinase-5 (CDK5) plays an important role in the pathogenesis and occurrence of memory impairment in Huntington's disease. Recently, alpha-pinene has been reported to improve learning and memory performance in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's models. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of alpha-pinene on passive avoidance memory and CDK5 gene expression in Huntington's animal model induced by 3-nitro-propionic acid (3-NP). Materials and Methods: In this study, 40 male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: sham, 3-NP (10 mg/kg),and 3 other groups receiving 3-NP (10 mg/kg) + alpha-pinene at doses of 1, 5 and 10 mg/kg (for 3 weeks,via intraperitoneal injection). Passive avoidance memory was assessed through the shuttle box device. Then, the expression level of CDK5 gene was measured by RT-qPCR method in brain cortex and hippocampus. Results: 3-NP injection caused memory impairment by decreasing step through latency (STL). Alpha-pinene at all three doses improved passive avoidance memory performance. Also, 3-NP injection caused a significant increase in CDK5 gene expression level in the brain cortex and hippocampus compared to that in the sham group. The groups which received alpha-pinene at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg in brain cortex and 1 mg/kg in hippocampus showed decreased expression level of this gene compared to the group that received 3-NP. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that alpha-pinene improves passive avoidance memory performance probably by reducing the CDK5 gene expression level in Huntington's animal model induced by 3-NP.

Abstract Neonatal hypoxia has a negative impact on the developing brain during the sensitive period. Inflammation plays a key role in the physiological response to hypoxic stress. Considering the anti-inflammatory properties of alpha-pinene, which has received a lot of attention in recent years, in this research we focused on the impact of alpha-pinene on the behavioral responses and proinflammatory factors in rats subjected to the neonatal hypoxia. This study involved Wistar rats (7-day-old) that were divided into six experimental groups, including a control group, groups receiving different doses of alpha-pinene (5 and 10 mg/kg), a hypoxia group receiving 7% O2 and 93% N2, 90 min duration for 7 days, and groups receiving alpha-pinene 30 min before hypoxia. All injections were done intraperitoneally. The rats were evaluated for proinflammatory factors 24 h after exposure to hypoxia (PND14) and at the end of the behavioral test (PND54). The results showed that hypoxia led to decreased motor activity, coordination, and memory, as well as increased inflammation. However, the rats that received alpha-pinene showed improved behavioral responses and reduced inflammation compared to the hypoxia group (all cases p

Purpose: Testicular toxicity is one of the most important side effects of cisplatin (CP) therapy. Alpha-pinene (AP) is a naturally occurring monoterpene with antioxidant character in plants. Here, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic activity of AP against CP-induced testicular toxicity by including the nuclear factor erythroid 2-associated factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway in rats. Methods: Thirty male rats were divided into 5 groups: control, CP, CP + AP (5 and 10 mg/kg) and only AP (10 mg/kg). CP was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 5 mg/kg on the first day, followed by three consecutive injections of AP. Serum reproductive hormone levels were evaluated using ELISA kits. Oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and apoptosis markers in testicular tissue were also determined colorimetrically. In addition, how CP affects Nrf2 pathway and the effect of AP on this situation were also addressed. Results: Treatment with CP significantly increased OS, inflammation, ERS and apoptosis in testicular tissue. Administrations of AP resulted in an amelioration of these altered parameters. The mechanism of therapeutic effect of AP appeared to involve induction of Nrf2. Furthermore, these results were also confirmed by histological data. Conclusion: Results suggest that AP can exhibit therapeutic effects against CP-induced testicular toxicity. It can be concluded that AP may be a potential molecule to abolish reproductive toxicity after chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. The growing concern of drug resistance of this infection has cautioned the need for new drug development. We evaluated the potential antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of a-pinene and tannic acid (TA) on Trichomonas vaginalis cells. In addition, the cytotoxicity of agents on Vero cells was investigated. Methods: Trichomonas cells were axenically cultured in TYI-S-33 medium. In vitro antiproliferative activity of a-pinene, TA, and metronidazole was investigated against Trichomonas cells. The assays were carried out in triplicate using microtiter plate and trypan blue staining method. Annexin V/PI staining with flow cytometry was used to evaluate apoptosis induction. In addition, the cytotoxic effect was measured by MTT assay. Results: α-Pinene and TA exhibited significant inhibition of the Trichomonas cells and the lowest IC50 values were 22.9 µg/ml and 140 µg/ml at 48 hours' incubation, respectively. The CC50 was found at 116 μg/ml for β-pinene and 473 μg/ml for TA, after 48 hours of treatment. The flow cytometry study demonstrated that the natural compounds induced apoptosis in Trichomonas cells. After 24 hours of treatment, the induction of apoptosis was 5.2% - 36.6% at concentrations of 3.9 - 62.5 μg/ml for β-pinene and TA induced-apoptosis was 6.1% - 53.8% at concentrations of 125-2000 μg/ml. Conclusion: Although the results show the antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of a-pinene and TA on Trichomonas cells, in vivo studies are needed to further clarify the effects of these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review provides an overview of the biotransformation of limonene and α-pinene, which are commonly found in wood residues and citrus fruit by-products, to produce high-value-added products. Essential oils derived from various plant parts contain monoterpene hydrocarbons, such as limonene and pinenes which are often considered waste due to their low sensory activity, poor water solubility, and tendency to autoxidize and polymerise. However, these terpene hydrocarbons serve as ideal starting materials for microbial transformations. Moreover, agro-industrial byproducts can be employed as nutrient and substrate sources, reducing fermentation costs, and enhancing industrial viability. Terpenes, being secondary metabolites of plants, are abundant in byproducts generated during fruit and plant processing. Microbial cells offer advantages over enzymes due to their higher stability, rapid growth rates, and genetic engineering potential. Fermentation parameters can be easily manipulated to enhance strain performance in large-scale processes. The economic advantages of biotransformation are highlighted by comparing the prices of substrates and products. For instance, R-limonene, priced at US$ 34/L, can be transformed into carveol, valued at around US$ 530/L. This review emphasises the potential of biotransformation to produce high-value products from limonene and α-pinene molecules, particularly present in wood residues and citrus fruit by-products. The utilisation of microbial transformations, along with agro-industrial byproducts, presents a promising approach to extract value from waste materials and enhance the sustainability of the antimicrobial, the fragrance and flavour industry.

Objective:It was aimed to evaluate whether alpha-pinene (AP) had a beneficial effect in the testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) model for the first time.Materials and Methods:Testicular malondialdehyde, total oxidant status, and total antioxidant status levels were determined using spectrophotometric methods. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), myeloperoxidase (MPO), 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) levels were determined using the commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Hematoxylin-eosin staining method was used in the histopathological evaluation.Results:In the IRI group, testicular MDA, MPO, GRP78, ATF6, and CHOP levels were significantly increased, while GSH and GPx levels were decreased compared with the control group (p

Background: Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. The growing concern of drug resistance of this infection has cautioned the need for new drug development. We evaluated the potential antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of α-pinene and tannic acid (TA) on Trichomonas vaginalis cells. In addition, the cytotoxicity of agents on Vero cells was investigated. Methods: Trichomonas cells were axenically cultured in TYI-S-33 medium. In vitro antiproliferative activity of α-pinene, TA, and metronidazole was investigated against Trichomonas cells. The assays were carried out in triplicate using microtiter plate and trypan blue staining method. Annexin V/PI staining with flow cytometry was used to evaluate apoptosis induction. In addition, the cytotoxic effect was measured by MTT assay. Results: α-Pinene and TA exhibited significant inhibition of the Trichomonas cells and the lowest IC50 values were 22.9 µg/ml and 140 µg/ml at 48 hours’ incubation, respectively. The CC50 was found at 116 μg/ml for α-pinene and 473 μg/ml for TA, after 48 hours of treatment. The flow cytometry study demonstrated that the natural compounds induced apoptosis in Trichomonas cells. After 24 hours of treatment, the induction of apoptosis was 5.2% - 36.6% at concentrations of 3.9 - 62.5 μg/ml for α-pinene and TA induced-apoptosis was 6.1% - 53.8% at concentrations of 125-2000 μg/ml. Conclusion: Although the results show the antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of α-pinene and TA on Trichomonas cells, in vivo studies are needed to further clarify the effects of these compounds.

This review provides an overview of the biotransformation of limonene and α-pinene, which are commonly found in wood residues and citrus fruit by-products, to produce high-value-added products. Essential oils derived from various plant parts contain monoterpene hydrocarbons, such as limonene and pinenes which are often considered waste due to their low sensory activity, poor water solubility, and tendency to autoxidize and polymerise. However, these terpene hydrocarbons serve as ideal starting materials for microbial transformations. Moreover, agro-industrial byproducts can be employed as nutrient and substrate sources, reducing fermentation costs, and enhancing industrial viability. Terpenes, being secondary metabolites of plants, are abundant in byproducts generated during fruit and plant processing. Microbial cells offer advantages over enzymes due to their higher stability, rapid growth rates, and genetic engineering potential. Fermentation parameters can be easily manipulated to enhance strain performance in large-scale processes. The economic advantages of biotransformation are highlighted by comparing the prices of substrates and products. For instance, R-limonene, priced at US$ 34/L, can be transformed into carveol, valued at around US$ 530/L. This review emphasises the potential of biotransformation to produce high-value products from limonene and α-pinene molecules, particularly present in wood residues and citrus fruit by-products. The utilisation of microbial transformations, along with agro-industrial byproducts, presents a promising approach to extract value from waste materials and enhance the sustainability of the antimicrobial, the fragrance and flavour industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemical pesticides increasing use caused increased resistance in insects and increases the residue of pesticides in agricultural products and the environment. Objective: The aims of this study was to achieve a safe method and using natural essential oils of Cupressus against adult insects of the wheat flour (Tribolium castaneum Herbst). Methods: A factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design in four replications in 2018. The Cupressus essential oils (EO) Clevenger by water distillation method and measured by GC-MS. Relative growth rate (RGR), repellency and nutritional indicators, and fumigant toxicity of EO on mature Tribolium castaneum Herbst were investigated in 27 ± 1 °C and 65 ± 5 % relative humidity. Results: Alpha-pinene was the major component of the EO in the studied species. The results of the fumigant toxicity test of essential oils showed that increasing concentration and duration of exposure to essential oil caused an increase in the mortality of T. castaneum. Among the studied species, C. sempervirens (France) with LC50 = 256.93 µL / L air had the highest fumigant toxicity (87.5%) on T. castaneum. Conclusion: Based on the insecticides, repellents and nutritional indices effect of Cupressus essential oils on T. castaneum they can be used as a biological management method for controlling storeroom pests.

Background and Aim: Oxidative stress is an important factor in the development of memory and learning disorder which can cause neuronal damage in the hippocampus. Alpha-pinene is a polyphenolic compound from the terpene family that has shown important anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, antioxidant and neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system and can affect memory. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of alpha-pinene on the improvement of working and spatial memory in rats. Materials and Methods: In this study, 24 male rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control and 2 alpha-pinene groups (5 and 10 mg/kg IP) for 3 weeks. Spatial and working memories were assessed by Morris water maze and Y maze, respectively. Then, malondialdehyde level and total antioxidant capacity in hippocampal tissue were measured. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test. Results: The percentage of alternation in the Y maze increased in the group which had received 10 mg/kg alpha-pinene group compared to those in the control group and the group which had received 5 mg/kg alpha-pinene. The time spent in the target area at the dose of 10 mg/kg of alpha-pinene showed a significant increase compared to that in the control group, but there was no significant difference among the groups in terms of the time to reach the target platform. Alpha-pinene at the dose of 10 mg/kg decreased the level of malondialdehyde in hippocampal tissue compared to the control group, but no significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of total antioxidant capacity. Conclusion: Alpha-pinene increased spatial and working memory performance in rats. One of the possible mechanisms of memory improvement in the present study could be due to the reduction of malondialdehyde in the hippocampal tissue, as one of the important indicators of oxidative stress in the central nervous system.

Alpha-pinene (α- pinene), an essential oil that falls under the category of monoterpenes, has various advantages. This research delves into the potential benefits of α-pinene in alleviating nociception caused by the formalin test and the molecular mechanisms involved. Alpha-pinene (1, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day, i.p.) was administrated for 7 days before the formalin test. Observations of nociceptive behaviors were made during the formalin test. We examined the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as the expression of COX-1 in the spinal cord. Additionally, we evaluated the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, SOD, GSH, CAT, and MDA in the skin of the hind paw that received a formalin injection. The peripheral injection of formalin triggered nociceptive behaviors, which was notably diminished by α-pinene 5 or 10 mg/kg. The biochemical evaluation revealed that α-pinene significantly moderated the evaluation in TNF-α and IL-1β in the spinal cord induced by formalin injection. Additionally, it was found that α-pinene had a decreasing effect on the expression of COX-1 protein in the spinal cord. Also, α-pinene 5 or 10 mg/kg caused a decrease of TNF-α, IL-1β, and MDA and an increase of SOD, GSH, and CAT at the formalin injection site. The study discovered that doses of 5 or 10 mg/ml of α-pinene can effectively relieve nociceptive response in the formalin test. Alpha-pinene pretreatment reduced the presence of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It also improved the oxidative stress condition by enhancing antioxidant factors and reducing oxidant factors.

Objective: It was aimed to evaluate whether alpha-pinene (AP) had a beneficial effect in the testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) model for the first time. Materials and Methods: Testicular malondialdehyde, total oxidant status, and total antioxidant status levels were determined using spectrophotometric methods. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), myeloperoxidase (MPO), 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) levels were determined using the commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Hematoxylin-eosin staining method was used in the histopathological evaluation. Results: In the IRI group, testicular MDA, MPO, GRP78, ATF6, and CHOP levels were significantly increased, while GSH and GPx levels were decreased compared with the control group (p<0.01). AP application restored these levels significantly (p<0.05). Johnsen scores were also significantly lower in the IRI group compared the control group (p<0.001), and AP treatment increased these scores significantly (p<0.001). Conclusion: These results suggest that AP can protect the testicular tissue against IRI by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress with its antioxidant properties, thus providing a molecular basis for a novel medical treatment of testicular IRI. Future studies are needed on other mechanisms of the protective effect of AP on the pathogenesis of testicular torsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion leads to brain tissue injury. Inflammation and apoptosis play pivotal roles in the pathology. Objective: α-Pinene is an organic compound of many aromatic plants and is known as a potent agent to possess antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we sought to identify the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis mechanism by which α-Pinene improves brain ischemia injury. Results: Male Wistar rats underwent MCAO surgery for 1 h and different doses of alpha-pinene (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) were intraperitoneally injected immediately after reperfusion to test this hypothesis. IV, NDS, gene and protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclogenase-2 (COX-2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65, and caspase-3 were assessed 24 h after reperfusion. Results demonstrated that NF-κB p65, iNOS, and COX-2 gene and protein expression increased in the hippocampus, cortex, and striatum after 24 h of reperfusion, and alpha-pinene significantly inhibited NF-kB p65, iNOS, and COX-2 expression. Also, alpha-pinene significantly reduced the ischemia/reperfusion-induced caspase-3 activation in CA1 area of hippocampus. Conclusion: Results showed that alpha-pinene protects the cerebral against ischemic damage caused by MCAO, and this effect may be through the regulating iNOS -NF-kappa B- COX-2 and caspase-3 inflammatory and apoptotic pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how gases interact with and are incorporated into atmospheric secondary organic aerosol particles is crucial for predicting particle effects on climate and human health. This work examined how three gaseous organic nitrates (ON) are taken up into viscous particles formed from the ozonolysis of α-pinene (AP). Experiments were performed in a flow reactor at room temperature under dry conditions, either with or without an OH scavenger present, with constant ozone and variable AP concentrations. Each ON was introduced independently into the flow reactor and was present during particle formation/growth. ON gas-phase concentrations were determined by gas chromatography−mass spectrometry, and particle phase concentrations were measured by high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometry. Partition coefficients (KSOA) for each ON were independent of the initial AP concentration, except for 2-ethylhexyl nitrate which was undetectable in the particles at the lowest AP concentration. Measured KSOA values were larger than those previously determined for equilibrium partitioning, which points to a potential burying mechanism for incorporation of ON during particle growth. Estimated effective net uptake coefficients (γΟΝ) were found to increase with initial AP concentration. Concentrations of gas-phase oxidation products (including dimers and autoxidation products) predicted using an updated master chemical mechanism increased with AP concentration, with little change in the overall species distribution, consistent with increased trapping/burying of ON during particle growth and thus increased values of γΟΝ. These results provide further evidence that kinetically controlled burying can contribute significantly to particle growth, provided that the incoming gas-phase molecules have sufficient residence time on the particle surface to become buried via subsequent gas−surface collisions.

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders which is characterized by progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra. Therefore, drugs or natural agents that have suppressive effects on dopaminergic cell death may reduce the progression of such disorder. Here, the effect of natural product alpha-pinene was evaluated on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced damage in SH-SY5Y human dopaminergic cell line as an in vitro model of PD. Methods: The cells were incubated by 150 μM 6-OHDA alone or accompanied with different concentration of alpha-pinene (10–180 μM). Cell viability was determined by MTT assay. The amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential were measured by fluorescence spectrophotometry. In addition, the components of molecular apoptotic pathway such as cytochrome c release, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 levels were measured by immunoblotting. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) antagonist, bicuculline, was used to find the role of GABA Type A (GABAA) receptors in the signaling of alpha-pinene. Results: The data showed that 6-OHDA produced cell damage, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, increased intracellular ROS and cytochrome c release, as well as increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and caspase-3 activity. Moreover, alpha-pinene (70 μM) significantly inhibited cellular and molecular abnormalities. Blockage of GABAA receptor significantly suppressed the protective effect of alpha-pinene. Conclusion: The results suggest that alpha-pinene has a protective effect against dopaminergic toxicity, and at least in part, its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties are probably involved in such protection.

Determination of the myristicin and alpha-pinene content of nutmeg is still constrained by the extended testing time in the laboratory, which is expensive and is carried out destructively. In addition, non-destructive testing using spectroscopy often faces problems in building models that only rely on algorithms that perform linearly, such as PCR and PLSR. Therefore, the present study studied Vis-NIR (381-1065 nm) as a fast, inexpensive, and non-destructive mechanism to determine the myristicin and alphapinene of nutmeg fruits from Aceh, Indonesia. Two algorithms commonly used in spectral data processing, partial least squares regression (PLSR) and machine learning represented by a support vector machine (SVM), were employed and compared to predict myristicin and alpha-pinene in nutmeg fruits. The chemical reference parameters (myristicin and alpha-pinene) were measured using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Standard normal variate (SNV) and multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) preprocessing were involved as spectra enhancement before the prediction models outcome. The results show that the kernel of the radial basis function (RBF) kernel ε-SVM algorithm is better than PLSR for myristicin prediction with gamma (ε), c, and nu (ε) of 0.1, 1.0, and 0.99, respectively. Also, the ε-SVM algorithm by RBF kernel is better than PLSR for the prediction of alpha-pinene in nutmeg fruits with gamma (ε), c, and epsilon (ε) compositions of 0.01, 10, 0.1, respectively. The coefficient correlation of calibration (rc) and coefficient determination of prediction (Rp²), the root means square error of calibration (RMSEC) and prediction (RMSEP), and the ratio (RPD) for the prediction of myristicin were 0.992, 0.986, 0.941%, 1.325% and 8.348, respectively. The coefficient correlation of calibration (rc) and coefficient determination of prediction (Rp²), the root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC) and prediction (RMSEP), and the ratio of prediction to deviation ratio (RPD) for the prediction of alpha-pinene were 0.976, 0.979, 0.305%, 0.317% and 6.826, respectively. In general, the results satisfactorily indicate that Vis-NIRS, with the appropriate algorithm, has promising results in determining myristicin and alpha-pinene on nutmeg from Aceh, Indonesia, as nondestructive measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This survey designed to assess the in vitro and in vivo activity of α-pinene, a monoterpene commonly originated in essential oils on Toxoplasma gondii. The in vitro effect of various concentration of α-pinene against tachyzoites of T. gondii Rh strain was assessed by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The activity of α-pinene on the stimulation of apoptosis in tachyzoites of T. gondii was also examined using the caspase 3 colorimetric activity assay. In vivo assay, mice were orally received α-pinene at 2 and 4 mg/kg/day for 14 days, then, pre-treated mice were daily tested and the rate of death was recorded. α-pinene meaningfully declined (p < 0.001) the tachyzoites viability with the IC50 value of 23.3 µg/mL. α-pinene induced the apoptosis through increasing the caspase-3 activity by 35.6%. Oral treatment with α-pinene significantly (p < 0.01) improved the survival rate infected mice with by 9th day. α-pinene + atovauone (50 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.01) improved the survival rate infected mice up to 11 days compared with the control groups. α-pinene especially in combined atovaquone at 50 mg/kg for 2 weeks meaningfully (p < 0.05) declined oxidative stress. We found the promising in vitro anti-Toxoplasma effects of α-pinene on T. gondii RH strain. In addition, we found that α-pinene therapy particularly along with the reference drug declined the mortality rate of infected mice. Although, we just confirmed the stimulation of apoptosis and anti-inflammatory effects as the main anti-Toxoplasma mechanisms of α-pinene; however, more surveys concerning the accurate mechanisms, toxicity, and efficacy on other T. gondii strains are required to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented work describes the autoxidation of alpha-pinene for the first time using a catalyst based on activated carbon from biomass with introduced Fe. The raw material for the preparation of the carbon material was waste orange peel, which was activated with a KOH solution. The following instrumental methods characterized the obtained catalyst (Fe/O_AC):N2 adsorption at 77 K, XRD, UV, SEM, TEM, X-ray microanalysis, and catalytic studies. It was shown that the Fe/O_AC catalyst was very active in the autoxidation of alpha-pinene. The main reaction products were: alpha-pinene oxide, verbenone, verbenol, and campholenic aldehyde.

The carbonaceous precursor was obtained via pyrolysis of commercial aramid polymer (Kevlar). Additionally the precursor was activated at 1000°C in CO2 atmosphere for different times. Obtained materials were characterised by BET; XPS; SEM and optical microscopy. The sorption capacities were determined by temperature swing adsorption performed in TGA apparatus for CO2 and C2H4 gases. The obtained materials exhibit high difference in sorption of these gases i.e. 1.5 and 2.8 mmol/g @30°C respectively and high SSA ~1600 m2/g what can be applied in separation applications. The highest uptakes were 1.8 and 3.1 mmol/g @30°C respectively. It was found that the presence of oxygen and nitrogen functional groups enhances C2H4/CO2 uptake ratio.

Monoterpene alpha‐pinene possesses antioxidant, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. We evaluated the effect of alpha‐pinene on oxidative/nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, and molecular and behavioral changes induced by beta‐amyloid (Aβ)1‐42 in rats and investigated the possible mechanisms of these outcomes. Male Wistar rats received alpha‐pinene (50 mg/kg intraperitoneally) for 14 consecutive days after intrahippocampal injection of Aβ1‐42. Alpha‐pinene decreased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels, increased glutathione content, and enhanced catalase activity in Aβ‐injected rats. Also, messenger RNA expression of tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐6, nuclear factor κB, and N‐methyl‐ d‐aspartate receptor subunits 2A and 2B reduced in the hippocampus of these animals. Besides this, alpha‐pinene repressed the Aβ1‐42‐induced reduction of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 subunit and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression. Treatment with alpha‐pinene caused Aβ‐receiving rats to spend more time in the target quadrant in the Morris water maze test and led to an increase in percentages of open arm entrance and time spent in the open arm in the elevated plus‐maze test. We concluded that alpha‐pinene strengthens the antioxidant system and prevents neuroinflammation in the hippocampus of rats receiving Aβ. It improves spatial learning and memory and reduces anxiety‐like behavior in these animals. Consequently, alpha‐pinene alleviates Aβ‐induced oxidative/nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, and behavioral deficits. It is probably a suitable candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders which is characterized by progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra. Therefore, drugs or natural agents that have suppressive effects on dopaminergic cell death may reduce the progression of such disorder. Here, the effect of natural product alpha-pinene was evaluated on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced damage in SH-SY5Y human dopaminergic cell line as an in vitro model of PD. Methods: The cells were incubated by 150 μM 6-OHDA alone or accompanied with different concentration of alpha-pinene (10–180 μM). Cell viability was determined by MTT assay. The amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential were measured by fluorescence spectrophotometry. In addition, the components of molecular apoptotic pathway such as cytochrome c release, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 levels were measured by immunoblotting. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) antagonist, bicuculline, was used to find the role of GABA Type A (GABAA) receptors in the signaling of alpha-pinene. Results: The data showed that 6-OHDA produced cell damage, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, increased intracellular ROS and cytochrome c release, as well as increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and caspase-3 activity. Moreover, alpha-pinene (70 μM) significantly inhibited cellular and molecular abnormalities. Blockage of GABAA receptor significantly suppressed the protective effect of alpha-pinene. Conclusion: The results suggest that alpha-pinene has a protective effect against dopaminergic toxicity, and at least in part, its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties are probably involved in such protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for approximately 20% of all breast cancer cases and is characterized by a lack of estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor 2 receptors. Current targeted medicines have been unsuccessful due to this absence of hormone receptors. This study explored the efficacy of Tulbaghia violacea , a South African medicinal plant, for the treatment of TNBC metastasis. Extracts from T. violacea leaves were prepared using water and methanol. However, only the water-soluble extract showed anti-cancer activity and the effects of this water-soluble extract on cell adhesion, invasion, and migration, and its antioxidant activity were assessed using MCF-10A and MDA-MB-231 cells. The T. violacea extract that was soluble in water effectively decreased the movement and penetration of MDA-MB-231 cells through the basement membrane in scratch and invasion tests, while enhancing their attachment to a substance resembling an extracellular matrix. The sample showed mild-to-low antioxidant activity in the antioxidant assy. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed 61 chemical components in the water-soluble extract, including DDMP, 1,2,4-triazine-3,5(2H,4H)-dione, vanillin, schisandrin, taurolidine, and α-pinene, which are known to have anti-cancer properties. An in-depth examination of the transcriptome showed alterations in genes linked to angiogenesis, metastasis, and proliferation post-treatment, with reduced activity in growth receptor signaling, angiogenesis, and cancer-related pathways, such as the Wnt, Notch, and PI3K pathways. These results indicate that T. violacea may be a beneficial source of lead chemicals for the development of potential therapeutic medicines that target TNBC metastasis. Additional studies are required to identify the precise bioactive chemical components responsible for the observed anti-cancer effects.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential anticarcinogenic effects of three phytochemicals, namely Alpha-pinene (AP), Gamma-terpinene (GT), and P-cymene (PC), on melanoma cells (A2058 cell line). Additionally, the study aims to explore the synergistic activities of these phytochemicals with Dacarbazine, a chemotherapy drug. To understand the molecular mechanism involved in apoptosis induction in the A-2058 cell line, it was used AO/EB staining for apoptosis detection and cell cycle analysis, monitored through flow cytometry. It also determined the mRNA expression levels of different apoptosis-regulatory genes, including p53, Bax, NF-kB, Bcl-2, Bcl-xl , and caspase-3. The antitumor activities of these phytochemicals and their combinations were investigated in a subcutaneous mouse tumor model. The tumor diameter was 21.4 ± 1.1 mm in the Dacarbazine treatment group and 42.4 ± 3.1 mm in the control group. The antitumoral activities of AP and PC in the tumor model were similar to those of Dacarbazine. On the other hand, GT exhibited remarkable antitumoral activity, with a 1.75-fold reduction in tumor diameter compared to the Dacarbazine group. When different combinations of phytochemicals and Dacarbazine were used, the GT plus Dacarbazine treatment group was found to have a 3.5-fold reduction in tumor diameter compared to the Dacarbazine group. The tumor diameters in the Dacarbazine, AP plus GT, GT plus Dacarbazine, and AP plus Dacarbazine treatment groups were 21.4 ± 1.1, 7.6 ± 2.2, 8.6 ± 0.5, and 6.2 ± 1.9 mm, respectively., Competing Interests: No conflict interest., (© 2024 Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The carbonaceous precursor was obtained via pyrolysis of commercial aramid polymer (Kevlar). Additionally the precursor was activated at 1000°C in CO2 atmosphere for different times. Obtained materials were characterised by BET; XPS; SEM and optical microscopy. The sorption capacities were determined by temperature swing adsorption performed in TGA apparatus for CO2 and C2H4 gases. The obtained materials exhibit high difference in sorption of these gases i.e. 1.5 and 2.8 mmol/g @30°C respectively and high SSA ~1600 m2/g what can be applied in separation applications. The highest uptakes were 1.8 and 3.1 mmol/g @30°C respectively. It was found that the presence of oxygen and nitrogen functional groups enhances C2H4/CO2 uptake ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chamomile has several variants, such as Anthemis Susiana Nábělek, Matricaria chamomilla L., Chamomilla recutita (L.) Rauschert, Matricaria suaveolens Koch and etc. Medicinal herbs, extracts and essential oils are of particular importance in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The phytoanalysis of these compounds is of particular importance. In April 2019, Anthemis Susiana Nábělek samples were collected from the Thermal Springs area of Dehloran, south of Ilam province, western Iran. The plant was dried and then pulverized. The essential oil was extracted from the plant using HSSPME and analyzed using GC-MS. GC-MS results showed that Anthemis susiana Nábělek contains 63 chemical compounds. The main chemical compounds included alpha-bisabolol oxide A (19.07%), alpha-pinene (15.50%), beta-bisabolene (12.56%), spathulenol (9.23%), beta-farnesen (8.95%), alpha-bisabolol (4.72%), caryophyllene oxide (4.46%), trans-farnesol (3.75%), and dl-limonene (3.47%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Testis-specific protein on Y chromosome (TSPY) is the output of a tandem gene cluster. TSPY expression has been observed in gonadoblastoma and numerous distinct kinds of germ cell tumors, such as carcinoma in situ/intratubular germ cell neoplasia, seminoma, and extragonadal intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT). Myrtus communis extract rich in α-pinene showed high antioxidant and anticancer activity against a TSPY. Methods: The molecular weight and theoretical isoelectric of the TSPY proteins were calculated, using the ExPASSY ProtParam tools. Some software like mega 6, BioEdit, NEB cutter (New England Biolabs), and CAP3 were used to analyze clustering and find restriction enzymes on the TSPY sequence. To evaluate the nucleotide diversity of all sequences, the number of diverse situations and Tajima's andWatterson's estimators of theta were assessed. Nucleotide polymorphism can be measured by several parameters, such as haplotypes diversity, nucleotide diversity, Theta using Dnasp software. To find interaction networks of protein-protein search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins (STRING) tools and to predict 3D structure, SWISS-MODEL was used; however, for docking protein-peptide based on interaction, Swiss Dock, Galaxy web, and CABS-dock software were employed. Results: We report a high (0.91) dN/dS index, positive Tajima's D, Fu, and Li's tests, and a non-significant D test suggesting the occurrence of old modifications or a decrease of newborn mutations in the TSPY gene family. Interestingly, several hub proteins produced a strong chain or an operative module within their protein groups, such as nucleosome assembly protein (1NAP1L), RBMXL2, TBL1Y, and AMELY, which are all associated with the same cellular appliance elements and/or genetic uses. The docking of the TSPY target with α-pinene using docking revealed that the computationally-prognosticated lowest energy networks of TSPY are established by intermolecular hydrogen bonds and stacking interactions. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated that α-pinene interacts with the TSPY protein target and could be developed as a promising candidate for the new anticancer agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Increased mupirocin use leads to mupirocin resistance and is associated with persistence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriers, prolonged hospitalization, and significant economic burdens for health systems. The study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of compounds of Salvia rosmarinus L. ("rosemary", formerly Rosmarinus officinalis), alone or in combination with mupirocin, against multidrug resistant MRSA using isolates obtained from pediatric patients., Methods: The in vitro antibacterial activity of the monoterpene α-pinene (α-Pi), a rosemary essential oil constituent, alone and in combination with mupirocin, was evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) and the fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs) and fractional bactericidal concentration indices against multidrug-resistant clinical MRSA strains. The in vivo efficacy of α-Pi, alone and in combination with mupirocin, to eradicate MRSA infection was determined using an optimized mouse model of MRSA-infected wounds. Mouse skin samples (obtained via biopsy) were assessed for toxicity, and rabbit skin samples for irritation., Results: Both in vitro and in vivo, α-Pi was active against MRSA strains and acted synergistically with mupirocin against MRSA strains. Mupirocin-monoterpene combinations exhibited FICI values of 0.2 to 0.4, reducing the MBC of topical mupirocin 33-fold. A topical formulation containing α-Pi and mupirocin enhanced the efficacy of mupirocin in an in vivo MRSA-infected mouse skin model without significantly harming the skin of mice and rabbits., Conclusions: A topical formulation combining mupirocin and α-Pi may aid in the development of innovative agents for treating MRSA infections.

Extractive electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (EESI-MS) has been shown, in other laboratories, to be a useful technique for the analysis of aerosols from a variety of sources.EESI-MS is applied here, for the first time, to the analysis of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formed from the reaction of ozone and α-pinene. The results are compared to those obtained using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (APCI-MS). The SOA was generated in the laboratory and merged with electrospray droplets. The recovered ions were directed towards the inlet of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Through the use of a denuder to remove gas phase compounds, the EESI-MS technique was found to be effective for measuring the major ozonolysis products either in particles alone or in a combination of vapor phase and particulate products. Due to its relatively simple setup and the avoidance of sample collection and work-up, EESI-MS shows promise as an excellent tool for the characterization of atmospherically relevant particles.

The effect of relative humidity (RH) on the composition and concentrations of gas-phase products and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) generated from the photooxidation of isoprene under high-NOx conditions was investigated. Experiments were performed with hydrogen peroxide as the OH precursor and in the absence of seed aerosol. The relative yields of most gas-phase products were the same regardless of initial water vapor concentration with exception of hydroxyacetone and glycolaldehyde, which were considerably affected by RH. A significant change was observed in the SOA composition, with many unique condensed-phase products formed under humid (90% RH) vs. dry (< 2% RH) conditions, without any detectable effect on the rate and extent of the SOA mass growth. There is a 40% reduction in the number and relative abundance of distinct particle-phase nitrogen-containing organic compounds (NOC) detected by high resolution mass spectrometry. The suppression of condensation reactions, which produce water as a product, is the most important chemical effect of the increased RH. For example, the total signal from oligomeric esters of 2-methylglyceric acid was reduced by about 60% under humid conditions and the maximum oligomer chain lengths were reduced by 7-11 carbons. Oligomers formed by addition mechanisms, without direct involvement of water, also decreased at elevated RH but to a much smaller extent. The observed reduction in the extent of condensation-type oligomerization at high RH may have substantial impact on the phase characteristics and hygroscopicity of the isoprene aerosol. The reduction in the amount of organic nitrates in the particle phase has implications for understanding the budget of NOC compounds.

Background: This study investigated the effect of central administration of α-pinene and the interaction of α-pinene with GABAA receptor on pulpal nociception-induced changes in learning and memory performances in rats. Materials and Methods: Sixty-six adult male Wistar rats were used. Pulpal nociception was induced by intradental application of capsaicin (100 μg/rat). α-pinene (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 μg/rat) was injected centrally 10 min before the administration of capsaicin. In addition, α-pinene (0.4 μg/rat) was co-injected with bicuculline (0.5 μg/rat). Spatial and passive avoidance learning and memory were assessed using Morris water maze (MWM) and shuttle box tasks, respectively. Results: Experimental results of the MWM test showed that capsaicin increases escape latency and distance traveled to the hidden platform (P < 0.01). The effect was prohibited by α-pinene at the dose of 0.4 μg/rat. Moreover, capsaicin-treated animals spent less time in the target zone than capsaicin + α-pinene (0.4 μg/rat)-treated rats (P < 0.05). In the shuttle box test, α-pinene (0.2 μg and 0.4 μg) prevented an increased number of acquisition trials and time spent in the dark chamber induced by capsaicin, whereas it increased step-through latency (P < 0.01). However, the effects of α-pinene (0.4 μg/rat) in both tests were prohibited by bicuculline (0.5 μg/rat). Conclusion: The data showed that central administration of α-pinene might reduce pulpalgia-induced learning and memory impairment, at least partially, via modulation of GABAA receptors.

Background and Aim: Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease which presents with a wide range of clinical features, including cutaneous and visceral forms in Iran. Leishmania (L) major is one of the agents responsible for cutaneous leishmaniasis transmitted by the bite of sand fly. In this study we assessed the antileishmania effect of pistacia Atlantica (alpha-pinene) in culture and also its therapeutic effects on Balb/c mice infected with L. Major. Material and Method: Certain amount of promastigots was challenged with increasing concentrations of pistacia atlantica extract. MTT test was used to assess promastigote survival after 24, 48 and 72 hours. For in vivo assessment, in the stationary phase, 0.1 ml solution containing 2×106 promastigotes were injected subcutaneously into the base of the tails of the mice. Four weeks after injection, cutaneous lesions appeared and different doses of the extract were applied daily in the form of an ointment for 3 weeks. Diameters of the lesions were measured at the end of each week and therapeutic effect of the extract on the lesions was assessed. Results: The results of MTT test revealed remarkable effect of the treatment on the growth of promastigots. IC50 values for glucantime and alpha pinene were found to be 10 µg/ml and 1.46 µg/ml respectively. 30 % ointment of the extract decreased the lesion diameter significantly while 15% ointment and treatment for control group were ineffective. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed antileishmanial effect of alpha-pinene on Leishmania major promastigots, in vitro. Moreover, topical ointment of the extract can reduce size of the lesions caused by the parasite, in vivo.

Glycerol monostearate solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) were produced by hot high-pressure homogenization technique to load alpha-pinene, citral, geraniol or limonene. SLN were composed of 1 wt.% monoterpene, 4 wt.% of Imwitor® 900K as a solid lipid and 2.5 wt.% of Poloxamer188 as a surfactant. Empty SLN consisted of 5 wt.% of Imwitor® 900K and 2.5 wt.% of Poloxamer188. The mean particles size (Z-Ave) and polydispersity index (PDI) of SLN were analyzed by dynamic light scattering (DLS), while the zeta potential (ZP) of each formulation were measured by electrophoretic light scattering. LUMiSizer® was applied to calculate the velocity distribution in the centrifugal field and instability index. Drug release profile from SLN was analyzed using Franz cell diffusion cells assayed by UV–Vis spectrophotometry, whereas the gas chromatography technique was applied to determine the encapsulation parameters of volatile monoterpenes. The matrix state, polymorphism and phase behavior of SLN were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD, low and wide angles) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Selected monoterpenes were successfully loaded in glycerol monostearate SLN. A burst release profile within the first 15 min was observed for all formulations, being the modified release profile dependent on the type of monoterpene and on the encapsulation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soils can be contaminated with substances arising from anthropogenic sources, but also with natural bioactive compounds produced by plants, such as terpenes and flavonoids. While terpenes and flavonoids have received much less attention from research studies than metals, the effects that phytocompounds can have on soil organisms such as beneficial microorganisms should not be neglected. Herein we report the sole and combined exposure of Rhizobium to cadmium, to the monoterpene alpha-pinene and to the flavanol quercetin. A range of environmentally relevant concentrations of the phytocompounds was tested. Physiological (growth, protein content and intracellular Cd concentration), oxidative damage (lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation) and antioxidant mechanisms (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, glutathione-S-transferases, protein electrophoretic profiles) were assessed. Results suggest that exposure to both phytocompounds do not influence Rhizobium growth, but for combined exposure to phytocompounds and Cd, different responses are observed. At low concentrations, phytocompounds seem to relieve the stress imposed by Cd by increasing antioxidant responses, but at high concentrations this advantage is lost and membrane damage may even be exacerbated. Thus, the presence of bioactive phytocompounds in soil may influence the tolerance of microorganisms to persistent toxicants, and may change their impact on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the genus Hypericum L. are traditionally used for various illnesses including depression. In this study, the effects of essential oil obtained from Hypericum scabrum L. on anxiety and depressive-like behavior were evaluated in dementia animal model. H. scabrum essential oil (1% and 3%) was applied to rats for 21 days by inhalation. Then, the rats were treated with scopolamine prior to behavioral tests: elevated plus maze and forced swimming test. H. scabrum essential oil increased the number of open arm entries and number of crossings within elevated plus maze as compared to scopolamine-alone treated group, demonstrating anxiolytic effect. Furthermore, depressive-like symptoms induced by scopolamine were reduced by H. scabrum essential oil inhalation as evidenced by increases in the swimming time and decreases in the immobility time within forced swimming test. These results show anxiolytic and antidepressant-like activities of H. scabrum essential oil in dementia rat model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photodegradation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) prepared by ozone-initiated oxidation of D-limonene is studied with an action spectroscopy approach, which relies on detection of volatile photoproducts with chemical ionization mass-spectrometry as a function of the UV irradiation wavelength. Efficient photodegradation is observed for a broad range of ozone (0.1-300 ppm) and D-limonene (0.02-3 ppm) concentrations used in the preparation of SOA. The observed photoproducts are dominated by oxygenated C1-C3 compounds such as methanol, formic acid, acetaldehyde, acetic acid, and acetone. The irradiation wavelength dependence of the combined yield of the photoproducts closely tracks the absorption spectrum of the SOA material suggesting that photodegradation is not limited to the UV wavelengths. Kinetic simulations suggest that RO(2)+HO(2)/RO(2) reactions represent the dominant route to photochemically active carbonyl and peroxide species in the limonene SOA prepared in these experiments. Similar photodegradation processes are likely to occur in realistic SOA produced by OH- or O(3)-initiated oxidation of biogenic volatile organic compounds in clean air.

Introduction: One of the most critical stages of human growth and development is the early years of life. During this period, the nervous system of the brain is very sensitive to environmental and psychological stress, so that facing stress, especially chronic stress, can have adverse consequences in the behavior and performance of a person in adulthood. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of alpha-pinene during chronic stress with the model of separation from the mother on social behavior and serum corticosterone levels in adult rats. Methods and Materials: In this study, 49 male rats were used and randomly divided into 7 groups, including: 1) control group: receiving alpha-pinene solvent, 2 and 3) groups receiving alpha-pinene with doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg, 4) stress group: those born on 21 On the first day after birth, they were separated from their mother for 6 hours every day, 5 and 6) groups receiving alpha-pinene with doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg along with stress, 7) Positive control group: They received imipramine hydrochloride at a dose of 10 mg/kg by intraperitoneal method. Measurement of social behavior, measurement of serum corticosterone was done by ELISA method, and to measure oxidative stress, MDA and GPx activity in brain tissue were measured. Results: It showed that in the social behavior test, the average time spent around the familiar mouse in the stress group compared to the control group increased (p<0.05) and the time spent around the strange mouse in the stress group compared to the control group showed a significant decrease gave (p < 0.01). Serum corticosterone also increased significantly in the stress group compared to other experimental groups (p<0.001) and the activity of MDA and GPx in the stress group compared to the control group showed an increase (p<0.05) and a significant decrease (p<0.001), respectively. Conclusion: In general, it can be concluded that the stress of separation from the mother in adult rats can cause depressive behaviors such as a decrease in social behaviors and an increase in serum corticosterone levels. By using different concentrations of alpha-pinene, we can expect an improvement in social behavior and a decrease in serum corticosterone levels in mice that were under the stress of separation from their mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The absolute photoionization cross section of the monoterpenoid, alpha-pinene (AP), is presented together with the relative photoionization cross sections of its dissociative fragments for the first time. Experiments are performed via multiplexed vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) synchrotron photoionization (PI) mass spectrometry in the 8.0-11.0 eV energy range. Experimental work is conducted at the Advanced Light Source of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Dissociative fragments were identified at m/z 121, 94, 93, 92, and 80. The photoionization cross section for the parent mass at 11.0 eV was determined to be 17±4 Mb with a total ionization cross section of 92±23 Mb at the same photon energy. Experimental appearance energies of dissociative ionization fragments and potential dissociative ionization pathways calculated at the G4 level of theory are presented as well., (© 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a profound neurological disorder that affects approximately 1% of the global population. Alpha-pinene (α-pinene) is a natural and active monoterpene found in coniferous tree oil, primarily pine, with diverse pharmacological characteristics, including antioxidative, anxiolytic, and antidepressant properties. This research study delves into the neuroprotective effects of α-pinene on oxidative stress, memory deficits, and depressive and anxiety-like behaviors in a ketamine-induced mice model of SCZ using male mice. The mice were randomly divided into six groups: vehicle, control, positive control, ketamine, α-pinene at 50 mg/kg, and α-pinene at 100 mg/kg. Treatment of the ketamine-induced mice model of SCZ with α-pinene yielded significant improvements in depressive and anxiety-like behaviors and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, it significantly elevated glutathione (GSH) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), dopamine levels, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities while markedly reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The current study establishes that α-pinene treatment effectively mitigates oxidative damage, cognitive deficits, and depressive and anxiogenic-like behaviors in the brains of ketamine-treated mice. Therefore, α-pinene treatment is an efficacious approach to forestall the neurobehavioral and neurobiochemical adverse effects of the ketamine-induced SCZ model of mice., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial and personal relationships with other individuals or institutions that could affect their investigation reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Objectives: Renal and testicular disorders are primarily associated with oxidative damage and inflammation. Here, alpha-pinene (a type of monoterpene) was investigated for its effect on oxidative/nitrosative stress and the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic factors in the kidneys and testes of rats treated with CCl 4 ., Materials and Methods: CCl 4 was injected intraperitoneally (IP) at a dose of 2 ml/kg (twice a week for six weeks). Alpha-pinene (50 mg/kg/day, IP) was also treated during the same period., Results: CCl 4 increased the level of malondialdehyde ( P <0.01 in the kidney and P <0.001 in the testis) and nitric oxide ( P <0.001 in the kidney and P <0.01 in the testis) and decreased the levels of glutathione ( P <0.05) in the kidneys and testicles of rats. CCl 4 also reduced the catalase enzyme activity in the kidneys ( P <0.05) but did not affect its activity in the testis. In addition, CCl 4 enhanced the mRNA expression of TNF-α ( P <0.01), nuclear factor-κB (P<0.05), and Bax ( P <0.05 in the kidney and P <0.01 in the testis) and decreased the expression of Bcl-2 ( P <0.05) in both organs. Alpha-pinene prevented all the mentioned changes, but it did not influence the expression of Bcl-2 in the kidneys of rats receiving CCl 4 ., Conclusion: Alpha-pinene may have the potential to prevent renal and testicular diseases by strengthening the antioxidant system in the kidneys and testis, and inhibiting oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis caused by CCl 4 ., Competing Interests: None.

The monoterpene composition (emission and tissue internal concentration) of major forest tree species in the United States is discussed. Of the 14 most commonly occurring compounds (α-pinene, β-pinene, Δ3-carene, d-limonene, camphene, myrcene, α-terpinene, β-phellandrene, sabinene, ρ-cymene, ocimene, α-thujene, terpinolene, and γ-terpinene), the first six are usually found to be most abundant. Expected regional variability based on the monoterpene composition fingerprints and corresponding tree species distribution and abundance is examined. In the southeast, a-pinene and β-pinene seem to dominate monoterpene emissions, while in the northern forests emissions are distributed more evenly among the six major compounds. In some parts of western forests, β-pinene and Δ3-carene can be more abundant than α-pinene. Among the other eight compounds, β-phellandrene and sabinene occasionally are significant percentages of expected local monoterpene emissions. Ocimene and ρ-cymene are estimated to be more common in regions dominated by deciduous broadleaf forests, although total emission rates are generally lower for these forests relative to those dominated by conifers. These percentages are compared with monoterpene composition measured in ambient air at various sites. Estimated monoterpene emission composition based on local forest species composition agrees fairly well with ambient measurements for the six major compounds. The past assumption that α-pinene composes approximately 50% of total monoterpene emissions appears reasonable for many areas, except for possibly the northern coniferous forests and some areas in the west dominated by true firs, spruce, and western pines (lodgepole and ponderosa pines). The oxygenated monoterpenes such as camphor, bornyl acetate, and cineole often compose high percentages of the monoterpenes within plant tissues, but are much less abundant in emission samples. Even after adjusting for lower vapor pressures of these compounds, emission rates relative to the hydrocarbon monoterpenes are often lower than would be expected from their internal concentrations. More study is warranted on monoterpene emission rates and composition, especially from the spruces, true firs, hemlocks, cedars, and some deciduous species such as the maples. Non-invasive canopy level and whole ecosystem flux studies are also needed to establish uncertainty estimates for monoterpene emission models. © 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.