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In this study, water-soluble polysaccharides purified from burdock root were used to intervene in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) of BRL3A hepatocytes and rats. Our results indicated that CCl4 significantly inhibited hepatocyte viability and upregulated the expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), and the pro-apoptotic protein Bax. However, Arctium lappa L. root polysaccharides (ALP) could effectively ameliorate liver function and histopathology, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers. In addition, ALP reduced the expression of apoptotic markers and promoted the proliferation of damaged hepatocytes. In conclusion, ALP possesses a hepatoprotective effect mediated by attenuating oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis in ALI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The total mineral content was studied in medicinal plants from roadside and railside biotopes of the Voronezh region. Pharmacopoeial plant raw materials of 10 species were evaluated: roots of Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wigg and Arctium lappa L.; herb of Polygonum aviculare L., Artemisia absinthium L., Leonurus quinquelobatus Gilib., and Achillea millefolium L.; leaves of Urtica dioica L. and Plantago major L.; and flowers of Tanacetum vulgare L. and Tilia cordata Mill. Plant raw materials were collected near roads and railways of various types in the periods specified in regulatory documents. The total ash content in plant material was used to determine the minimum allowable distances from various roads and railways for collecting plant material. The minimum allowable distance from heavy-traffic motorways was recommended to be 210 m in the forest zone, 240 m in the forest-steppe zone, and 380 m in the steppe zone. A distance of at least 80 m was recommended for secondary low-speed roads and railways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: The secondary metabolic conversion of monolignans to sesquilignans/dilignans was closely related to seed germination and seedling establishment in Arctium lappa. Arctium lappa plants are used as a kind of traditional Chinese medicines for nearly 1500 years, and so far, only a few studies have put focus on the key secondary metabolic changes during seed germination and seedling establishment. In the current study, a combined approach was used to investigate the correlation among secondary metabolites, plant hormone signaling, and transcriptional profiles at the early critical stages of A. lappa seed germination and seedling establishment. Of 50 metabolites in methonolic extracts of A. lappa samples, 35 metabolites were identified with LC–MS/MS and 15 metabolites were identified with GC–MS. Their qualitative properties were examined according to the predicted chemical structures. The quantitative analysis was performed for deciphering their metabolic profiles, discovering that the secondary metabolic conversion from monolignans to sesquilignans/dilignans was closely correlated to the initiation of A. lappa seed germination and seedling establishment. Furthermore, the critical transcriptional changes in primary metabolisms, translational regulation at different cellular compartments, and multiple plant hormone signaling pathways were revealed. In addition, the combined approach provides unprecedented insights into key regulatory mechanisms in both gene transcription and secondary metabolites besides many known primary metabolites during seed germination of an important traditional Chinese medicinal plant species. The results not only provide new insights to understand the regulation of key medicinal components of 'ARCTII FRUCTUS', arctiin and arctigenin at the stages of seed germination and seedling establishment, but also potentially spur the development of seed-based cultivation in A. lappa plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective]To understand the reproductive characteristics of A. lappa and provide theoretical basis for its cultivation and breeding. [Method]Flowering syndrome and breeding system of A. lappa growing in Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Dalian were studied by field observation, outcrossing index (OCI), pollen-ovule ratio (P / O) and bagging test. [Result] A. lappa population generally had 34-35 days of flowering period and overlapped flowering period. From late June to the end of July, pollen and stigma had vigor and the stigma had vigor throughout the day, OCI = 4, P / O= 5 666, cross-pollinators needed pollination, and the effect of wind on its pollination was not obvious. Both natural bagging and natural control were fruitful and the seed setting rate was 99. 0% and 69. 5% respectively. The setting rate of bagging at the emasculate and removing stigma of head was 0,it did not have apomixis characteristics. [Conclusion] A. lappa had the characteristics of cross-pollination and it also could self-pollination and fructification. And the possibility of wind pollination was low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel sustainable approach was proposed for the integral valorisation of Arctium lappa (burdock) seeds and roots. Firstly, a preliminary recovery of bioactive compounds, including unsaturated fatty acids, was performed. Then, simple sugars (i.e., fructose and sucrose) and phenolic compounds were extracted by using compressed fluids (supercritical CO2 and propane). Consequently, a complete characterisation of raw biomass and extraction residues was carried out to determine the starting chemical composition in terms of residual lipids, proteins, hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, and ash content. Subsequently, three alternative ways to utilise extraction residues were proposed and successfully tested: (i) enzymatic hydrolysis operated by Cellulases (Thricoderma resei) of raw and residual biomass to glucose, (ii) direct ethanolysis to produce ethyl levulinate; and (iii) pyrolysis to obtain biochar to be used as supports for the synthesis of sulfonated magnetic iron-carbon catalysts (Fe-SMCC) to be applied in the dehydration of fructose for the synthesis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF). The development of these advanced approaches enabled the full utilisation of this resource through the production of fine chemicals and value-added compounds in line with the principles of the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greater burdock (Arctium lappa L.), a biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, is a rich source of some bioactive compounds including chlorogenic acid, arctiin, and inulin which are involved in the treatment of a broad range of disorders. In this study, the phytochemical variability and antioxidant activity of nine Iranian A. lappa populations collected from different geographical regions were investigated. The highest content of chlorogenic acid was recorded in Baft (76.48 mg/g DW), Rudsar (75.5 mg/g DW), and Bijar (74.8 mg/g DW) populations, respectively. The content of chlorogenic acid in A. lappa seeds ranged from 23.4 to 75.1 mg/g DW with the lowest content in the Baft population and the highest content in the Savadkooh population. In addition, the highest content of arctiin was found in the seeds of Savadkooh (78.21 mg/g DW) and Baft (77.7 mg/g DW) populations. The mean total carbohydrate content in A.lappa populations was 31.8 mg/g DW. The maximum antioxidant activity was observed in the roots of Roodsar (IC50 = 78.2 µg/mL) and seeds of Firoozkooh (IC50 = 174.8 µg/mL) populations. In comparison, the antioxidant activity of the roots was the most reliable among the extracts. This information provides a perspective for the plant used in domestication, conservation, and breeding programs and for further commercial exploitation in food industries as a potent natural antioxidant source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of some known extracts on learning and memory impairment induced by streptozocin (STZ) in male rats.Materials and Methods: Eighty male rats were randomly divided: 1) control, 2) STZ (50 mg/kg), 3) STZ+Trigonella foenum-graecum (200 mg/kg), 4) STZ+Ribes rubrum (500 mg/kg), 5) STZ+Lavandula angustifolia (400 mg/kg), 6) STZ+Arctium Lappa (200 mg/kg), 7) STZ+mix of extracts (quarter dose of each extract), and 8) STZ+metformin (100 mg/kg). Treatment was continued for 8 weeks and the after that, the behavioral tests related to learning and memory including Morris water maze (MWM) and passive avoidance (PA) were performed along with biochemical analysis associated with oxidative stress pathway and other related indicators.Results: According to the results, all extracts demonstrated potential effect to ameliorate cognitive impairment caused by STZ in both MWM and PA tests along with attenuating oxidative stress indicators like malondialdehyde (MDA), while total thiol content and anti-oxidant enzyme activity like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) remarkably increased in biochemical test results. Interestingly, the mixture of extracts illustrated much better results in ameliorating the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while attenuating the amyloid-B and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP).Conclusion: The present study demonstrated these extracts alone or in combination with a minimum dose have a strong potential to ameliorate learning and memory impairment induced by STZ along with lowering glucose levels by which they prevent or manage diabetes. It is noteworthy that the results matched those of metformin a well-known anti-diabetic drug.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully synthesized using an extract derived from Arctium lappa leaves, serving as both a reducing agent and stabilizer. This method proved to be rapid, environmentally friendly, and feasible at room temperature. The synthesized AgNPs were subjected to UV-vis spectrophotometry analysis, revealing a distinct peak at 422 nm, confirming the presence of silver nanoparticles. The spherical morphology of these nanoparticles was determined through atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), displaying an average diameter of 40 nm. Moreover, the AgNPs obtained from the A. lappa leaf extract showcased notable antifungal capabilities, effectively impeding the growth of Phytophthora infestans and Alternaria. This study successfully demonstrated the potential of A. lappa leaf extract as an efficient and eco-friendly medium for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. These nanoparticles not only exhibited distinctive characteristics, as revealed by UV-vis spectrophotometry and microscopy techniques, but also displayed significant antifungal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of some known extracts on learning and memory impairment induced by streptozocin (STZ) in male rats. Materials and Methods: Eighty male rats were randomly divided: 1) control, 2) STZ (50 mg/kg), 3) STZ+Trigonella foenum-graecum (200 mg/kg), 4) STZ+Ribes rubrum (500 mg/kg), 5) STZ+Lavandula angustifolia (400 mg/kg), 6) STZ+Arctium Lappa (200 mg/kg), 7) STZ+mix of extracts (quarter dose of each extract), and 8) STZ+metformin (100 mg/kg). Treatment was continued for 8 weeks and the after that, the behavioral tests related to learning and memory including Morris water maze (MWM) and passive avoidance (PA) were performed along with biochemical analysis associated with oxidative stress pathway and other related indicators. Results: According to the results, all extracts demonstrated potential effect to ameliorate cognitive impairment caused by STZ in both MWM and PA tests along with attenuating oxidative stress indicators like malondialdehyde (MDA), while total thiol content and anti-oxidant enzyme activity like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) remarkably increased in biochemical test results. Interestingly, the mixture of extracts illustrated much better results in ameliorating the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while attenuating the amyloid-B and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Conclusion: The present study demonstrated these extracts alone or in combination with a minimum dose have a strong potential to ameliorate learning and memory impairment induced by STZ along with lowering glucose levels by which they prevent or manage diabetes. It is noteworthy that the results matched those of metformin a well-known anti-diabetic drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of polysaccharides extracted from the roots of Arctium lappa (ALP) against acute lung injury (ALI) models induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The polysaccharides were extracted and characterized, and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities were assessed. The findings demonstrated that ALP could mitigate the infiltration of inflammatory cells and reduce alveolar collapse in LPS-induced ALI in mice. The expression levels of the pro-inflammatory factor TNF-α decreased, while the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 increased. Furthermore, the administration of ALP improved the activities of lung antioxidant enzymes, including SOD, GSH, and CAT, and lowered MDA levels. These results suggest that ALP exhibits a preventive effect on ALI and has potential as an alternative treatment for lung injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic inflammation contributes significantly to the burden suffered in many disease conditions in Africa with modern treatments often inaccessible to many. Phytotherapy presents a useful way to accelerate access to Universal health coverage with minimal incurred costs. The study was aimed at exploring the in vitro anti-inflammatory action and formulation of Arctium lappa root, a plant grown and available in different regions in Africa, as an herbal emulgel for the management of chronic inflammation Methods: Methanol root extract of Arctium lappa (0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 % w/w) was used for pre-formulation analysis. Phytochemical screening of the extract was done using the Harborne's standardized method for phytochemical analyses. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was studied by evaluating inhibitory actions of the extracts on Prostaglandin-E (PGE), tumour necrotic factor-α (TNF-α) and cyclooxygenase II (COX-2) using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Post formulation, the percentage inhibition of the pro-inflammatory cytokines by the herbal emulgels were compared with commercial diclofenac emulgel. The physicochemical properties of the herbal emulgels were also determined. Results: The preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis of Arctium lappa root extract gave tannins, saponins, phenolics, steroids, glycosides, flavonoids, anthocyanin, terpenoids, and alkaloids as its contents. The extract's inhibitory activities on PGE-2, COX-2 and TNF-α were dose dependent. The formulated herbal emulgel showed that the activities of PGE-2, COX-2 and TNF-α were significantly inhibited in comparison with vehicle-treated control. The physical appearance (which reflected the concentration gradient of the Arctium lappa root extract in the emulgels), consistency and homogeneity of the emulgels were acceptable and spreadable. The pH and viscosity of the emulgels were from 4.97 ± 0.04 to 5.42 ± 0.05 and 3.36 ± 0.40 and 3.95 ± 0.50 Pas, respectively. Conclusion: Here, the emulgel of Arctium lappa root extract showed promising anti-inflammatory property evidenced in its ability to attenuate PGE-2, COX-2 and TNF-α activities in-vitro, which was similar to the effect of diclofenac (a currently used anti-inflammatory agent of synthetic origin). This study is novel, important and of great impact because it provides a useful indication of Arctium lappa as a topical agent in the management of chronic inflammatory disorders. As compared to previous studies, key advances in this research include the first successful attempt to formulate the root extract of Arctium lappa into an emulgel, advancing the application of pharmaceutics in phytotherapy for prospects of improved treatment of inflammation, especially in Africa; and this can be adapted globally beyond the region.

Arctium lappa (A. lappa) is one of the most significant edible medicinal plants with high antibacterial effects, in which it could be supposed to grow with more beneficial effects under administration by salicylic acid and chitosan based biofertilizers. Accordingly, the effects of salicylic acid, chitosan, and 50% moisture discharge were investigated in this work to see the antimicrobial treatments of some foodborne pathogens effects by A. lappa. To this aim, plants were cultivated based on different concentrations of salicylic acid and chitosan with/without drought stress, in which their extracted essential oils were examined for showing the antimicrobial effect against different bacterial agents. The results indicated that the salicylic acid and chitosan administrated A. lappa could work with improved inhibitory functions. Comparing with referenced antibiotics showed even higher antimicrobial effects of A. lappa against the targeted bacterial agents, in which the species with 14 mmol of salicylic acid and 2 g/l of chitosan was a distinguished one for approaching the purpose. Consequently, the achievements of this work could be further investigated for producing novel antibiotic drug agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Burdock is a biennial herb of Asteraceae found in Northern Europe, Eurasia, Siberia, and China. Its mature dry fruits, called Niu Bang Zi, are recorded in various traditional Chinese medicine books. With the development of sequencing technology, the mitochondrial, chloroplast, and nuclear genomes, transcriptome, and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) fingerprints of burdock have all been reported. To make better use of this data for further research and analysis, a burdock database was constructed. Results This burdock multi-omics database contains two burdock genome datasets, two transcriptome datasets, eight burdock chloroplast genomes, one burdock mitochondrial genome, one A. tomentosum chloroplast genome, one A. tomentosum mitochondrial genome, 26 phenotypes of burdock varieties, burdock rhizosphere-associated microorganisms, and chemical constituents of burdock fruit, pericarp, and kernel at different growth stages (using UPLC-Q-TOF–MS). The wild and cultivation distribution of burdock in China was summarized, and the main active components and pharmacological effects of burdock currently reported were concluded. The database contains ten central functional modules: Home, Genome, Transcriptome, Jbrowse, Search, Tools, SRAP fingerprints, Associated microorganisms, Chemical, and Publications. Among these, the “Tools” module can be used to perform sequence homology alignment (Blast), multiple sequence alignment analysis (Muscle), homologous protein prediction (Genewise), primer design (Primer), large-scale genome analysis (Lastz), and GO and KEGG enrichment analyses (GO Enrichment and KEGG Enrichment). Conclusions The database URL is http://210.22.121.250:41352/ . This burdock database integrates molecular and chemical data to provide a comprehensive information and analysis platform for interested researchers and can be of immense help to the cultivation, breeding, and molecular pharmacognosy research of burdock.

In this work, a novel sustainable approach was proposed for the integral valorisation of Arctium lappa (burdock) seeds and roots. Firstly, a preliminary recovery of bioactive compounds, including unsaturated fatty acids, was performed. Then, simple sugars (i.e., fructose and sucrose) and phenolic compounds were extracted by using compressed fluids (supercritical CO2 and propane). Consequently, a complete characterisation of raw biomass and extraction residues was carried out to determine the starting chemical composition in terms of residual lipids, proteins, hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, and ash content. Subsequently, three alternative ways to utilise extraction residues were proposed and successfully tested: (i) enzymatic hydrolysis operated by Cellulases (Thricoderma resei) of raw and residual biomass to glucose, (ii) direct ethanolysis to produce ethyl levulinate; and (iii) pyrolysis to obtain biochar to be used as supports for the synthesis of sulfonated magnetic iron-carbon catalysts (Fe-SMCC) to be applied in the dehydration of fructose for the synthesis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF). The development of these advanced approaches enabled the full utilisation of this resource through the production of fine chemicals and value-added compounds in line with the principles of the circular economy.

Background: Burdock is a biennial herb of Asteraceae found in Northern Europe, Eurasia, Siberia, and China. Its mature dry fruits, called Niu Bang Zi, are recorded in various traditional Chinese medicine books. With the development of sequencing technology, the mitochondrial, chloroplast, and nuclear genomes, transcriptome, and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) fingerprints of burdock have all been reported. To make better use of this data for further research and analysis, a burdock database was constructed. Results: This burdock multi-omics database contains two burdock genome datasets, two transcriptome datasets, eight burdock chloroplast genomes, one burdock mitochondrial genome, one A. tomentosum chloroplast genome, one A. tomentosum mitochondrial genome, 26 phenotypes of burdock varieties, burdock rhizosphere-associated microorganisms, and chemical constituents of burdock fruit, pericarp, and kernel at different growth stages (using UPLC-Q-TOF–MS). The wild and cultivation distribution of burdock in China was summarized, and the main active components and pharmacological effects of burdock currently reported were concluded. The database contains ten central functional modules: Home, Genome, Transcriptome, Jbrowse, Search, Tools, SRAP fingerprints, Associated microorganisms, Chemical, and Publications. Among these, the "Tools" module can be used to perform sequence homology alignment (Blast), multiple sequence alignment analysis (Muscle), homologous protein prediction (Genewise), primer design (Primer), large-scale genome analysis (Lastz), and GO and KEGG enrichment analyses (GO Enrichment and KEGG Enrichment). Conclusions: The database URL is http://210.22.121.250:41352/. This burdock database integrates molecular and chemical data to provide a comprehensive information and analysis platform for interested researchers and can be of immense help to the cultivation, breeding, and molecular pharmacognosy research of burdock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Dental caries and oral infections have become a widespread issue in the modern world. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxicity characteristics of the extracts of Echinacea purpura, Arctium lappa, and the essential oil of Zataria multiflora as a potential herbal mouthwash. The essential oil of Z. multiflora leaves and the extracts of E. purpurea and A. lappa roots were prepared. The characterization was carried out by GC-MS and also, total phenol and flavonoid were assed for all three samples. The antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects were evaluated against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus salivarius, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. The cytotoxic effect of the samples was evaluated on HEK 293 and HDFa cells by MTT test. Thymol and carvacrol contents in EO of Z. multiflora were measured at 31% and 42.2%, respectively. A. lappa had the lowest total phenolic and flavonoid value among the samples. On the other hand, the total phenolic content of Z. multiflora and the total flavonoid content of E. purpurea were the highest. The MIC values of Zataria, Arctium, and Echinacea against S. mutans were 0.011% v/v, 187.5 mg/ml, and 93.75 mg/ml, while MBC were 0.011% v/v, 375 mg/ml, and 187.5 mg/ml, respectively. The formulation showed bactericidal activity against S. mutans in the concentration of 5.86 mg/ml for Echinacea and Burdock extracts and 0.08 µl/ml for EO of Zataria. The formulation significantly affected microbial biofilm formation and induced biofilm degradation. The cell viability percentages were higher than 50% during 24 and 48 h. The formulation had a significant antimicrobial effect on cariogenic bacteria and C. albicans, with the lowest cytotoxic effects. Therefore, this formulation can be an appropriate candidate for mouthwash.

Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertner. (milk thistle), is a member of the Asteraceae family. Silymarin has hepatoprotective effects, accumulates at high levels in the external cover of milk thistle seeds, and is composed of flavonolignan isomers. In the present study, we assembled and annotated the mitogenome of Silybum marianum. This mitogenome was found to have a length of 407,123 base pairs and an overall base composition: A, 27.41%; T, 27.33%; G, 22.72%; and C, 22.54%. Seventy-four unique genes were identified in the Silybum marianum mitogenome based on annotation results, including 27 protein-coding genes, 44 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes. Common protein-coding genes of 11 Asteraceae family references and four outgroup (Campanulaceae and Solanaceae) mitogenomes were used to construct a phylogenetic tree. The phylogenetic tree of the Silybum marianum mitogenome revealed close relationships with three reference mitogenomes (Arctium tomentosum, Arctium lappa, and Saussurea costus), and the flower morphology of Silybum marianum was similar to that of the three reference mitogenomes. This report describes unique features of the Silybum marianum mitogenome relative to the three related reference mitogenomes. In addition, we could envisage a specific analysis of the phylogenetic relationship of Silybum mariaum using additional Asteraceae family mitogenomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inulin is an important reserve polysaccharide in Asteraceae plants, and is also widely used as a sweetener, a source of dietary fibre and prebiotic. Nevertheless, a lack of genomic resources for inulin‐producing plants has hindered extensive studies on inulin metabolism and regulation. Here, we present chromosome‐level reference genomes for four inulin‐producing plants: chicory (Cichorium intybus), endive (Cichorium endivia), great burdock (Arctium lappa) and yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius), with assembled genome sizes of 1.28, 0.89, 1.73 and 2.72 Gb, respectively. We found that the chicory, endive and great burdock genomes were shaped by whole genome triplication (WGT‐1), and the yacon genome was shaped by WGT‐1 and two subsequent whole genome duplications (WGD‐2 and WGD‐3). A yacon unique whole genome duplication (WGD‐3) occurred 5.6–5.8 million years ago. Our results also showed the genome size difference between chicory and endive is largely due to LTR retrotransposons, and rejected a previous hypothesis that chicory is an ancestor of endive. Furthermore, we identified fructan‐active‐enzyme and transcription‐factor genes, and found there is one copy in chicory, endive and great burdock but two copies in yacon for most of these genes, except for the 1‐FEH II gene which is significantly expanded in chicory. Interestingly, inulin synthesis genes 1‐SST and 1‐FFT are located close to each other, as are the degradation genes 1‐FEH I and 1‐FEH II. Finally, we predicted protein structures for 1‐FFT genes to explore the mechanism determining inulin chain length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice bacterial leaf blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is responsible for a significant reduction in rice production. Due to the small impact on the environment, biogenic nanomaterials are regarded as a new type of antibacterial agent. In this research, three colloids of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized with different biological materials such as Arctium lappa fruit, Solanum melongena leaves, and Taraxacum mongolicum leaves, and called Al-AgNPs, Sm-AgNPs and Tm-AgNPs, respectively. The appearance of brown colloids and the UV-Visible spectroscopy analysis proved the successful synthesis of the three colloids of AgNPs. Moreover, FTIR and XRD analysis revealed the formation of AgNPs structure. The SEM and TEM analysis indicated that the average diameters of the three synthesized spherical AgNPs were 20.18 nm, 21.00 nm, and 40.08 nm, respectively. The three botanical AgNPs had the strongest bacteriostatic against Xoo strain C2 at 20 μg/mL with the inhibition zone of 16.5 mm, 14.5 mm, and 12.4 mm, while bacterial numbers in a liquid broth (measured by OD600) decreased by 72.10%, 68.19%, and 65.60%, respectively. Results showed that the three AgNPs could inhibit biofilm formation and swarming motility of Xoo. The ultrastructural observation showed that Al-AgNPs adhered to the surface of bacteria and broke the bacteria. Overall, the three synthetic AgNPs could be used to inhibit the pathogen Xoo of rice bacterial leaf blight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, water-soluble polysaccharides purified from burdock root were used to intervene in carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 )-induced acute liver injury (ALI) of BRL3A hepatocytes and rats. Our results indicated that CCl 4 significantly inhibited hepatocyte viability and upregulated the expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), and the pro-apoptotic protein Bax. However, Arctium lappa L. root polysaccharides (ALP) could effectively ameliorate liver function and histopathology, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers. In addition, ALP reduced the expression of apoptotic markers and promoted the proliferation of damaged hepatocytes. In conclusion, ALP possesses a hepatoprotective effect mediated by attenuating oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis in ALI.

Dental caries and oral infections have become a widespread issue in the modern world. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxicity characteristics of the extracts of Echinacea purpura, Arctium lappa, and the essential oil of Zataria multiflora as a potential herbal mouthwash. The essential oil of Z. multiflora leaves and the extracts of E. purpurea and A. lappa roots were prepared. The characterization was carried out by GC-MS and also, total phenol and flavonoid were assed for all three samples. The antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects were evaluated against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus salivarius, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. The cytotoxic effect of the samples was evaluated on HEK 293 and HDFa cells by MTT test. Thymol and carvacrol contents in EO of Z. multiflora were measured at 31% and 42.2%, respectively. A. lappa had the lowest total phenolic and flavonoid value among the samples. On the other hand, the total phenolic content of Z. multiflora and the total flavonoid content of E. purpurea were the highest. The MIC values of Zataria, Arctium, and Echinacea against S. mutans were 0.011% v/v, 187.5 mg/ml, and 93.75 mg/ml, while MBC were 0.011% v/v, 375 mg/ml, and 187.5 mg/ml, respectively. The formulation showed bactericidal activity against S. mutans in the concentration of 5.86 mg/ml for Echinacea and Burdock extracts and 0.08 µl/ml for EO of Zataria. The formulation significantly affected microbial biofilm formation and induced biofilm degradation. The cell viability percentages were higher than 50% during 24 and 48 h. The formulation had a significant antimicrobial effect on cariogenic bacteria and C. albicans, with the lowest cytotoxic effects. Therefore, this formulation can be an appropriate candidate for mouthwash. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arctium lappa has a long medicinal and edible history with great economic importance. Here, the first high‐quality chromosome‐level draft genome of A. lappa was presented by the Illumina and PacBio sequencing data. The assembled genome was approximately 1.79 Gb with a N50 contig size of 6.88 Mb. Approximately 1.70 Gb (95.4%) of the contig sequences were anchored onto 18 chromosomes using Hi‐C data; the scaffold N50 was improved to be 91.64 Mb. Furthermore, we obtained 1.12 Gb (68.46%) of repetitive sequences and 32,771 protein‐coding genes; 616 positively selected candidate genes were identified. Among candidate genes related to lignan biosynthesis, the following were found to be highly correlated with the accumulation of arctiin: 4‐coumarate‐CoA ligase (4CL), dirigent protein (DIR), and hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT). Additionally, we compared the transcriptomes of A. lappa roots at three different developmental stages and identified 8,943 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in these tissues. These data can be utilized to identify genes related to A. lappa quality or provide a basis for molecular identification and comparative genomics among related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study provides an overview of the bioactive molecules present in Arctium lappa. The main bioactive compounds in this plant, their pharmacological activities, and the main methods of obtaining bioproducts concentrated in these bioactive compounds are summarized. Due to the diversity of pharmaceutical activities of the bioactive components found in Arctium lappa (biomolecules with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor properties) this species can be considered a potential source of compounds with therapeutic properties of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of herbal cosmetics is increasing in the world market, due to the good activity with no side effects of the active ingredients from plant extracts as compared to synthetic compounds. The aim of the present study was to formulate and characterize herbal creams containing several plant extracts (Arctium lappa, Magnolia virginiana, Tiliae flos) in different combinations. The creams were prepared with different ratio of plant extracts and essential oils, while the composition of the cream base was kept the same. The characterization of the formulated creams was carried out by standard methods, for evaluating the organoleptic characteristics, physicochemical properties, microbiological contamination level and in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Also, the plant extracts were evaluated in terms of cytotoxicity using MTS/MTT assay on L-929 fibroblasts. The creams were homogeneous, non-irritant and easily removable. The pH of creams was in the range of 5.0-5.5 which is safe for human skin. The samples were found to be populated with aerobic bacteria, yeast and fungi up to 10 CFU/g and showed moderate antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice bacterial leaf blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is responsible for a significant reduction in rice production. Due to the small impact on the environment, biogenic nanomaterials are regarded as a new type of antibacterial agent. In this research, three colloids of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized with different biological materials such as Arctium lappa fruit, Solanum melongena leaves, and Taraxacum mongolicum leaves, and called Al-AgNPs, Sm-AgNPs and Tm-AgNPs, respectively. The appearance of brown colloids and the UV-Visible spectroscopy analysis proved the successful synthesis of the three colloids of AgNPs. Moreover, FTIR and XRD analysis revealed the formation of AgNPs structure. The SEM and TEM analysis indicated that the average diameters of the three synthesized spherical AgNPs were 20.18 nm, 21.00 nm, and 40.08 nm, respectively. The three botanical AgNPs had the strongest bacteriostatic against Xoo strain C2 at 20 μg/mL with the inhibition zone of 16.5 mm, 14.5 mm, and 12.4 mm, while bacterial numbers in a liquid broth (measured by OD600) decreased by 72.10%, 68.19%, and 65.60%, respectively. Results showed that the three AgNPs could inhibit biofilm formation and swarming motility of Xoo. The ultrastructural observation showed that Al-AgNPs adhered to the surface of bacteria and broke the bacteria. Overall, the three synthetic AgNPs could be used to inhibit the pathogen Xoo of rice bacterial leaf blight.

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CAEC (Canavalia gladiata arctium lappa extract complex) in adults with white blood cells between 3 and 8 × 103 cells/µL by assessing natural killer (NK) cell activity and immune-related biomarkers. Overall, 100 participants (CAEC group = 50, placebo group = 50) were randomised, and administered CAEC or placebo once daily for 8 weeks, with an evaluation visit performed every 4 weeks. NK cell activity, the primary outcome, significantly increased in CAEC when compared with the placebo at effector-to-target (E:T) ratios of 25:1 and 50:1 after 8 weeks. Compared with the placebo group, IL-10 demonstrated significant differences at week 8 in the CAEC group. Our findings demonstrate that CAEC is safe and enhances immune function by stimulating NK cell activity through IL-10 expression. Hence, we anticipate that CAEC can be developed as a functional food for stimulating immunity.

The cross-compliance mechanism of the European Union (EU)'s common agricultural policy (CAP) makes the approval of the direct payments to the European farmers subject to compliance with the requirement to maintain the land in good agricultural and environmental condition. One of the obligations of the Romanian land owners and farmers is to avoid the installation of unwanted vegetation on their land plots. This vegetation is represented by some species of herbaceous or woody plants, annual or perennial, that spontaneously invade the agricultural lands, diminishing the production capacity of the cultivated plants. Included in this category are 10 meadow weeds, without fodder value or even toxic to animals: Arctium lappa L., Carduus nutans L., Conium maculatum L., Eryngium campestre L., Euphorbia cyparissias L., Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn, Rumex acetosella L., Veratrum album L., Xanthium spinosum L., and Xanthium strumarium L. Various and multiple uses in traditional medicine of these meadow weed species have been reported for Romania and other nine neighboring East European countries, i.e. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Kosovo, Russia, Turkey, Serbia, and Ukraine. For A. lappa were recorded the highest number of ethnomedicinal uses, in the largest number of East European countries, including Romania. C. maculatum and V. album are not recommended for human consumption but can be further investigated as potential sources of pharmaceutically active compounds. Once removed by landowners and farmers from their land, the raw plant material of these 10 species become readily and easily available to the Romanian local communities and the industry of herbal food supplements, while the biodiversity of the agro-ecosystems is maintained.

Canavalia gladiata (C. gladiata) and Arctium lappa (A. lappa), used in traditional medicine and food. However, their preventive effects in dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain unclear. We found that the C. gladiata and A. lappa mixture suppressed inflammation in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. The mixture increased the population and activation of immune cells, up-regulation of cell cycle, and induction of IgA and IgG production in wild-type mice. Furthermore, the extract mixture prevented clinical IBD symptoms and restored IgA production in IBD mice. Similarly, a mixture of the marker compounds, chicoric acid and lupeol, ameliorated IBD-associated clinical signs, improved the population and activation of immune cells and functional defects in natural killer (NK) cells and reduced production of IgA in these mice. In conclusion, the C. gladiata and A. lappa mixture ameliorated progression of DSS-induced IBD by enhancing immune responses and recovering functional immune cell defects.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the aorta and is a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Arctium lappa root is a plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and Arctium lappa root extract (ALE) has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory capacity and to ameliorate endothelial dysfunction. Thus, we hypothesized that ALE would inhibit the early atherosclerotic stage. In this study, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of ALE on early arteriosclerosis and its mechanisms of action. ALE suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to the vascular endothelium by suppressing NF-κB signaling in HUVECs. In an acute mouse model of atherosclerosis, ALE suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte infiltration of the vascular endothelium and the expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1 in the mouse aorta. Moreover, inulin-type fructan and amino acids, especially L-aspartate and L-arginine (60.27 and 42.17 mg/g, respectively) were detected by NMR, MALDI-TOF MS, and HPLC analysis as the main components of ALE. Notably, L-arginine suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to HUVECs. Therefore, these results suggest that ALE may be a functional food for the suppression or prevention of early stages of atherosclerosis. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cross-compliance mechanism of the European Union (EU)'s common agricultural policy (CAP) makes the approval of the direct payments to the European farmers subject to compliance with the requirement to maintain the land in good agricultural and environmental condition. One of the obligations of the Romanian land owners and farmers is to avoid the installation of unwanted vegetation on their land plots. This vegetation is represented by some species of herbaceous or woody plants, annual or perennial, that spontaneously invade the agricultural lands, diminishing the production capacity of the cultivated plants. Included in this category are 10 meadow weeds, without fodder value or even toxic to animals: Arctium lappa L., Carduus nutan s L., Conium maculatum L., Eryngium campestre L., Euphorbia cyparissias L., Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn, Rumex acetosella L., Veratrum album L., Xanthium spinosum L., and Xanthium strumarium L. Various and multiple uses in traditional medicine of these meadow weed species have been reported for Romania and other nine neighboring East European countries, i.e. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Kosovo, Russia, Turkey, Serbia, and Ukraine. For A. lappa were recorded the highest number of ethnomedicinal uses, in the largest number of East European countries, including Romania. C. maculatum and V. album are not recommended for human consumption but can be further investigated as potential sources of pharmaceutically active compounds. Once removed by landowners and farmers from their land, the raw plant material of these 10 species become readily and easily available to the Romanian local communities and the industry of herbal food supplements, while the biodiversity of the agro-ecosystems is maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was done to evaluatethe influence of Arctiumlappa leavesextract on some hematological and antioxidant against the effect of Chorambucilin female rats. Twenty four female rats were distributed into four collections: The first group (G1) was treated with distilled water only. The second group (G2) was handled with Chlorambucil at daily dose (0.62 mg/kg). The third group (G3) was handled with Chlorambucil at daily dose (0.62 mg/kg) and alcoholic extract of Arctiumlappa (600 mg/kg), the fourth group (G4) was handled with only Arctiumlappa (600 mg/kg).The levels of Glutathione peroxides, Superoxide dismutase, Hb, RBCs and WBCs count in G2 revealed a significant decrease as compared with G3, G4 and G1. The Glutathione peroxides, Superoxide dismutaseHb, RBCs and WBCs count in G3 showed no significant difference when compared with G1. The animals in G4 showed a significant increase in antioxidant enzymes, Hb and RBCs count as compared with all other treated groups. Histopathological section ofrat liver in G2 showed severs inflammatory cells infilitration between hepatic cells. Histopathological section ofrat liver in G3 showed kupffer cells proliferation. While Section in the liver of rat treated in G4 showed kupffercells proliferation, histopathological section in the bone tissue of rat in G2 showed inflammatory cells infiltration. Histopathological section in the bone tissue of rat G3 showedvery mild inflammatory cells. The bone tissue of rat G4 showedno inflammatory cells reaction in the region of the joint. From this study concluded Arctium lappa leaves extract have the ability to minimize the side effect of therapeutic dose of Chorambucil on liver enzymes and blood pictures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many plant diaspores dispersing by epizoochory bear special structures, such as burrs with hooks, which are responsible for the mechanical interlocking with animal fur or feathers. The number, dimensions and distribution of the interlocking structures on the diaspore can strongly vary depending on the plant species. In this study, to evaluate the interlocking ability of distantly related plants having different diaspore morphologies, the contact separation force (CSF) of single burrs was measured in Arctium lappa, Bidens tripartita, Desmodium sp., Uncinia uncinata and Xanthium strumarium. This force is required to separate the single burr from interlocking with the loop. Usually in the experiment, the burr was broken after separation. The CSFs differed significantly, ranging from 7.07 to 820.94 mN, among the five taxa studied. Six morphometrical variables were measured from each burr and the correlations between the CSFs and these morphometrical variables were analyzed. We have shown that (1) the burr length, (2) the diameter of the distal part and (3) the hook span had significant influences on the CSF. The comparison between the CSF and the fruit weight indicated that single burrs of all taxa studied could bear at least 100-fold weight of the diaspore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Arctium lappa (burdock), (A. lappa) root has hypoglycemic and antioxidative effects, and has been used for treatment of diabetes in tradition medicine. This study was conducted to evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic properties of A. lappa root extract on nicotinamide-streptozotocin (NA-STZ)-induced type2 diabetes in mice.Materials and Methods: In this investigation, 70 adult male NMRI mice (30-35g) randomly divided into 7 groups (n=10) as follow: 1-control, 2-type 2 diabetic mice, 3-diabetic mice that received glibenclamide (0.25 mg/kg) as an anti-diabetic drug, 4, 5, 6 and 7- diabetic and normal animals that were pre-treated with 200 and 300 mg/kg A. lappa root extract, respectively, for 28 days. Diabetes has been induced by intraperitoneal injection of NA and STZ. Finally, the blood sample was taken and insulin, glucose, SGOT, SGPT, alkaline phosphatase, leptin and lipid levels was evaluated.Results: Induction of diabetes decreased the level of insulin, leptin and high density lipoprotein (HDL) and increased the level of other lipids, glucose, and hepatic enzymes significantly (p

Two new (1 and 2) and two known arylbenzofuran lignans (3 and 4) were isolated from the seeds of Arctium lappa. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including extensive 1D and 2D NMR techniques. Compounds 1–4 were evaluated for their anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (anti-MRSA) activity. The results revealed that compound 3 showed good inhibition with IZD of 13.5 ± 1.5 mm), and compounds 1, 2, and 4 showed weak inhibition with IZD of 9.6 ± 1.0, 11.6 ± 1.2, and 10.8 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. Compounds 1–4 were also tested for the antioxidant activity, and they show good antioxidant activity with an IC50 values of 4.38, 4.22, 3.96, and 4.15 μg/mL, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Seven compounds, including one new sesquilignan and two dilignans, were isolated from the seeds of Arctium lappa. • Structures of these compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. • Four compounds inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Arctium lappa , commonly known as burdock, is being promoted as a healthy and nutritive food in Chinese societies. This study investigated the roots, seeds, and leaves of burdock in view of its popular uses in traditional Chinese medicine. Seven compounds, including three new ones, were isolated from the seeds of Arctium lappa. Structures of these compounds were examined by conducting extensive spectroscopic analysis. Biological analysis showed that compounds 4, 5, 6, and 7 could inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, and the IC 50 values were in the range of 14.7–18.3 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problems related to weed management such as outbreaks of herbicide-resistant weeds have recently increased. An interesting approach to such problems is to use plant materials with phytotoxic activity. Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) is a biennial herb belonging to Asteraceae and is cultivated in several countries. The present study investigated the phytotoxic activity of burdock and its active substances. Extracts of both burdock leaves and roots inhibited the shoot and root growth of cress and barnyard grass, where the level of inhibition increased with increasing extract concentration. The leaf extracts had 2.0–2.5 times higher activity than the root extracts. Bioassay-guided separations of the leaf extracts led to isolation of a phytotoxic substance, onopordopicrin. Onopordopicrin significantly inhibited the shoot and root growth of cress and barnyard grass. The concentrations of the substance required for 50% growth inhibition were 0.27 and 0.26 mM for cress shoots and roots, respectively, and 1.86 and 0.35 mM for barnyard grass shoots and roots, respectively. The present results suggest that burdock leaves have high phytotoxic activity and onopordopicrin may play a major role in the activity. Burdock leaves may be a good resource for weed management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new flavones, 8,4′-dimethoxy-6-(2-oxopropyl)-flavone (1) and 8,4′-dimethoxy-6-(3-hydroxypropyl)- flavone (2), were isolated from the seeds of Arctium lappa. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including extensive 1D and 2D NMR techniques. Compounds 1 and 2 were evaluated for their anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (anti-MRSA) activity. The results showed that compounds 1 and 2 exhibited weak active with diameter of inhibition zone (IZD) 10.8 ± 1.0 and 9.3 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. Compounds 1 and 2 were also tested for antioxidant activity, and they show good antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 3.85 and 3.47 μg/mL, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is a metabolic disease highly widespread worldwide, and the most common form is the type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A large number of synthetic drugs are currently available for the treatment of diabetes; however, they present various side effects and, for this reason, people are increasingly inclined to search natural alternative treatments. Among these, Arctium lappa (A. lappa) has interesting anti-diabetic activities, exerted by improving glucose homeostasis and reducing insulin-resistance. In addition, A. lappa exerts a marked antioxidant activity, an effect known to play a pivotal role in the treatment of T2DM. The purpose of this review is to analyse scientific evidence in order to evaluate the role of A. lappa and its bioactive compounds in management of T2DM. The literature search performed provided only in vitro and animal-based studies. No clinical studies have been conducted in order to investigate the effect of A. lappa on T2DM patients. However, available literature provides evidence for further clinical trials in order to confirm these claimed activities on humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the purified water-soluble polysaccharide (ALP-1) from Arctium lappa was used to intervene lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 macrophage and systemic inflammatory mice. Our results showed that ALP-1 could effectively accommodate the levels of inflammatory cytokines in macrophages and serum of mice, including increased anti-inflammatory cytokine (interleukin-10) and down-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, interleukin-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α). Moreover, according to our data from 16 s high-throughput sequencing, as compared with LPS model group, the composition of gut microbiota in mice was ameliorated in ALP-1 treatment group. There were higher levels of several probiotics in the stools of ALP-1 treatment group, such as Lactobacillius, Alistipes, Odoribacter, and Phascolarctobacterium. Simultaneously, symbiotic bacteria like Bacteroides were inhibited by ALP-1. Besides, ALP-1 could significantly enhance the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in gut. • The water-soluble polysaccharide from Arctium lappa (ALP-1) could alleviate inflammation in RAW264.7 cells. • ALP-1 regulated the inflammatory cytokines in systemic inflammatory mice. • ALP-1 could ameliorate gut microbiota in inflammatory mice. • ALP-1 could accommodate the levels of SCFAs in gut of inflammatory mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are one of the most harmful plant pathogenic nematodes worldwide. Application of some herbal products can safely reduce negative effect of these nematodes. In the present study, the effect of aqueous extracts of Amygdalus scoparia and Arctium lappa on hatching and mortality of second-stage juveniles of M. javanica evaluated under laboratory condition and LC30, LC50, LC70 and LC90 values were determined by probit analysis from March to November 2016. Tomato seeds (cv. Early-Urbana) were sown in 1.5 kg plastic pots and simultaneously were inoculated with 4000 eggs and second stage juveniles (J2s) of M. javanica and soil-drenched (50 ml/pot) with selected concentrations of A. scoparia viz. 0.37, 0.54, 0.8 and 1.39% and A. lappa viz. 0.51, 0.85, 1.4 and 2.91%. The experiments were carried out in completely randomized design tests with four replications. Plant growth parameters as well as nematode population indices were calculated 60 days after inoculation. Results showed that after 120 hours, leaf extracts of A. scoparia at the rate of 7.5 and 10%, and leaf extract of A. lappa at the rate of 10% lead to 100% inhibition of M. javanica egg hatching under laboratory condition. Leaf extracts of both of the tested plants at the rate of 2% caused 100% mortality of J2s. Any increase in concentration of used plant extracts significantly improved the growth indices in both of the inoculated and uninoculated tomato plants. As compared to control, application of A. scoparia leaf extract at the rate of 2%, reduced the number of galls, egg masses and eggs per root system as well as the number of J2s per pot and reproduction factor of nematode by 37, 43, 45, 73 and 46%, and in the case of A. lappa, these indices reduced by15, 26, 27, 74 and 28%, respectively. Our results showed potential of leaf extracts of A. scoparia and A. lappa for management of M. javanica infecting tomato plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Polysaccharide from Actium lappa was purified into a fraction (ALP-1). • ALP-1 was identified to be an inulin-neoseries fructan. • ALP-1 could inhibit the colitis in mice induced by DSS. • ALP-1 could accommodate inflammatory cytokines in colitis mice. • ALP-1 ameliorated intestinal microbiota in colitis mice. Abstract In this study, water-soluble polysaccharide from Arctium lappa was extracted, isolated and purified to be a fraction (ALP-1). Characterization of structure revealed that ALP-1 was a kind of fructan with a molecular weight of 5.12 × 103 Da. ALP-1 was composed of (2→ 1)-β- d -fructofuranose backbone linked to a terminal of (2 → 1)-α- d -glucopyranose at the non-reducing end and a (2 → 6)-β- d -fructofuranose branching. DSS-induced colitis mice were used to determine the inhibitory effects of ALP-1 on gut inflammation. Results indicated that ALP-1 could significantly ameliorate the dysregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) caused by colitis. Besides, as compared with model group, the abundance of Firmicutes , Ruminococcaceae , Lachnospiraceae and Lactobacillus were significantly increased with ALP-1 treatment. And ALP-1 could significantly inhibit the levels of Proteobacteria , Alcaligenaceae , Staphylococcusand and Bacteroidetes. Therefore, ALP-1 may be effective in protecting mice from DSS-induced colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper develops a simple and green process of synthesizing palladium nanoclusters (PdNCs) capped on the hybrid nanocomposite based on biodegradable polysaccharides, 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPCD) and alginate (Alg) through an ionotropic gelation mechanism. PdNCs were biosynthesized from aqueous extract of Burdock root (BR), Arctium lappa. The nanocomposite PdNCs/HPCD/Alg was characterized by techniques like UV–Vis, FTIR, EDX, FESEM, TEM, HR-TEM and TG-DTA. The crystal palladium nanoparticles were found to distribute in cluster shape with a size of 4–10 nm. EDX data showed that average amount of palladium capped on the hybrid nanocomposite was approx. 4.7% (w/w). PdNCs/HPCD/Alg exhibited highly catalytic activity for degradation of pollutants including 4-nitrophenol, methyl orange and rhodamine B in wastewater and leaching mechanism of the nanocatalyst was showed. In particular, the nanocomposite showed excellent aqueous-phase catalytic performance for free-triphenylphosphine Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction. The nanocatalyst could be efficiently reused without much compromising with its activity. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Biogenic PdNCs/HPCD/Alg first synthesized by aqueous extract of Arctium lappa • Characterization of the nanocomposite determined by modern analytic technology • Recyclable catalytic activity of PdNCs performed for degradation of pollutants • Recyclable catalytic activity of PdNCs performed for Sonogashira reaction in water [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A quality marker (Q-marker) for Chinese materia medica (CMM, Zhongyao in Chinese) is a new concept proposed by the academician Changxiao Liu for the quality control of CMM. CMM refers to natural medicines used under the guidance of the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM, Zhongyi in Chinese), and includes Chinese herbal medicines (Zhongyaocai in Chinese), decoction pieces of Chinese medicines (Yinpian in Chinese) and proprietary Chinese medicines (Zhongchengyao in Chinese). The quality of Chinese herbal medicines is a prerequisite for using the decoction pieces of Chinese medicines and proprietary Chinese medicines.Hypothesis/purpose: We believe that the Q-markers for Chinese herbal medicines refer to certain types of substances or characteristics that can represent the quality of Chinese herbal medicines. In a narrow sense, the Q-marker refers to the active components (marker components) or chemicals that can be transferred during the subsequent processing of the proprietary Chinese medicines. Broadly speaking, the Q-marker refers to the morphological, chemical, biological, and ecological characteristics and markers that impact the quality of Chinese herbal medicines. We study on a Q-marker system for Chinese Herbal Medicines using burdock as an example in the paper.Methods: Based on more than 20 years of research by our team, the present paper uses burdock as an example to discuss the establishment of a Q-marker system for Chinese herbal medicines.Results: The Q-marker system for burdock was established from the morphological, chemical and biological aspects of burdock. During cultivation, the ecological environment is an important factor that affects burdock quality and arctiin accumulation.Conclusion: The Q-markers for the quality control of Chinese herbal medicines are the basis for CMM. The concept and theory of Q-marker provide guidance and correction for colleagues involved in the healthy development of the CMM industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide range of plant-derived preparations have been used against skin inflammatory disorders and as wound healing agents in traditional medicine. The purpose of the study was to determine the antioxidant activity of aqueous and 70% ethanolic extracts from eleven species of plants traditionally used in Poland to treat inflammatory skin diseases. The ability of extracts to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and superoxide anion (O2•−), was studied. In non-cellular studies, an analysis of the anti-inflammatory effect on the activity of enzymes, such as hyaluronidase (HYAL) and lipoxygenase (LOX), was also performed. The chemical profiles of the most active extracts were achieved by applying the UHPLC-DAD-MSn method, and the sum of polyphenols in all tested extracts was determined by the colorimetric method with the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent. The scope of the extracts’ influence on enzyme activity was significantly lower than their antioxidant activity. All extracts have shown high activity in free radical scavenging against DPPH. The ethanolic extracts have shown high potential to scavenge H2O2. The study of composition showed that the main components of the tested extracts were flavonoids, such as luteolin, apigenin, kaempferol, and quercetin derivatives, as well as caffeoylquinic acids, caffeic acid, and its conjugates.

Arctium lappa is a weed used in traditional medicine in the treatment of skin inflammation and digestive tract diseases. Arctium tomentosum is used in folk medicine interchangeably with Arctium lappa and, according to European Medicines Agency (EMA) monography, provides an equal source of Arctii radix (Bardanae radix), despite the small amount of research confirming its activity and chemical composition. The aim of the study was the comparison of the anti-lipoxygenase and the antioxidant activity, scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide anion (O2•−), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), of 70 % (v/v) ethanolic extracts from the aerial parts and the roots of Arctium lappa and Arctium tomentosum. In the tested extracts, the total polyphenols content and the chemical composition, analyzed with the HPLC–DAD–MSn method, were also compared. The extracts were characterized by strong antioxidant properties, but their ability to inhibit lipoxygenase activity was rather weak. A correlation between the content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity was observed. The extracts from A. lappa plant materials scavenged reactive oxygen species more strongly than the extracts from A. tomentosum plant materials. Moreover, the extracts from A. lappa plant materials were characterized by the statistically significantly higher content of polyphenolic compounds.