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

Copyright of Erzincan University Journal of Science & Technology is the property of Erzincan Binali Yildirim Universitesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Acquisition of the pathogenicity plasmid pPATH that encodes a type III secretion system (T3SS) and effectors (T3Es) has likely led to the transition of a nonpathogenic bacterium into the tumorigenic pathogen Pantoea agglomerans. P. agglomerans pv. gypsophilae (Pag) forms galls on gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata) and triggers immunity on sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), while P. agglomerans pv. betae (Pab) causes galls on both gypsophila and sugar beet. Draft sequences of the Pag and Pab genomes were previously generated using the MiSeq Illumina technology and used to determine partial T3E inventories of Pab and Pag. Here, we fully assembled the Pab and Pag genomes following sequencing with PacBio technology and carried out a comparative sequence analysis of the Pab and Pag pathogenicity plasmids pPATHpag and pPATHpab. Assembly of Pab and Pag genomes revealed a ~4 Mbp chromosome with a 55% GC content, and three and four plasmids in Pab and Pag, respectively. pPATHpag and pPATHpab share 97% identity within a 74% coverage, and a similar GC content (51%); they are ~156 kb and ~131 kb in size and consist of 198 and 155 coding sequences (CDSs), respectively. In both plasmids, we confirmed the presence of highly similar gene clusters encoding a T3SS, as well as auxin and cytokinins biosynthetic enzymes. Three putative novel T3Es were identified in Pab and one in Pag. Among T3SS-associated proteins encoded by Pag and Pab, we identified two novel chaperons of the ShcV and CesT families that are present in both pathovars with high similarity. We also identified insertion sequences (ISs) and transposons (Tns) that may have contributed to the evolution of the two pathovars. These include seven shared IS elements, and three ISs and two transposons unique to Pab. Finally, comparative sequence analysis revealed plasmid regions and CDSs that are present only in pPATHpab or in pPATHpag. The high similarity and common features of the pPATH plasmids support the hypothesis that the two strains recently evolved into host-specific pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Acquisition of the pathogenicity plasmid pPATH that encodes a type III secretion system (T3SS) and effectors (T3Es) has likely led to the transition of a non-pathogenic bacterium into the tumorigenic pathogen Pantoea agglomerans. P. agglomerans pv. gypsophilae (Pag) forms galls on gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata) and triggers immunity on sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), while P. agglomerans pv. betae (Pab) causes galls on both gypsophila and sugar beet. Draft sequences of the Pag and Pab genomes were previously generated using the MiSeq Illumina technology and used to determine partial T3E inventories of Pab and Pag. Here, we fully assembled the Pab and Pag genomes following sequencing with PacBio technology and carried out a comparative sequence analysis of the Pab and Pag pathogenicity plasmids pPATHpag and pPATHpab. Assembly of Pab and Pag genomes revealed a ~4 Mbp chromosome with a 55% GC content, and three and four plasmids in Pab and Pag, respectively. pPATHpag and pPATHpab share 97% identity within a 74% coverage, and a similar GC content (51%); they are ~156 kb and ~131 kb in size and consist of 198 and 155 coding sequences (CDSs), respectively. In both plasmids, we confirmed the presence of highly similar gene clusters encoding a T3SS, as well as auxin and cytokinins biosynthetic enzymes. Three putative novel T3Es were identified in Pab and one in Pag. Among T3SS-associated proteins encoded by Pag and Pab, we identified two novel chaperons of the ShcV and CesT families that are present in both pathovars with high similarity. We also identified insertion sequences (ISs) and transposons (Tns) that may have contributed to the evolution of the two pathovars. These include seven shared IS elements, and three ISs and two transposons unique to Pab. Finally, comparative sequence analysis revealed plasmid regions and CDSs that are present only in pPATHpab or in pPATHpag. The high similarity and common features of the pPATH plasmids support the hypothesis that the two strains recently evolved into host-specific pathogens.

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

Gypsophila pilulifera Boiss. & Heldr., an endemic and endangered species is an economically important plant that has a potential used in medicine thank to the saponins it contains. It is also an ornamental plant. In this study, the production was carried out under in vitro conditions in order to protect and economically evaluate the species, which is in danger of extinction due to its distribution in a very narrow area open to anthropogenic effects. For this purpose, seed and shoot tip explants of G. pilulifera were cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different concentrations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). Explants were obtained from two different locations of the natural habitats of G. pilulifera and more plants were obtained in the tissue culture from both explant types taken from the 1st location. Propagation from seed gave better results, and 96.67% of the seeds cultured in hormone-free MS medium were germinated and rooted. The shoot tip showed lower regeneration in vitro than the seed explant. Especially the rooting percentage is quite low and the highest rooting and shoot formation was obtained in MS medium containing 2 mg/L BAP + 2 mg/L IAA. In this medium, 10.50 ±0.17 shoots were obtained per plant, and rooting (1.67 ±0.09 per plant) was also achieved only in this medium. Seedlings obtained in tissue culture continue to develop successfully in field conditions, and this method has been determined as a suitable method for ex-situ conservation and economically rapid production of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, foam and water extracts were obtained from Gypsophila root, which forms the foam part of the dessert known as kerebiç. The bioactive compounds of samples were analysed with Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). To determine their antioxidant properties, ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method, cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) method, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate (ABTS) method, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method, and total antioxidant activity method were performed. The pUC18 plasmid DNA was used to investigate the effect of the samples on the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). In addition, the inhibitory properties of the samples against key enzymes (acetyl and butyryl-cholinesterases) involved in the pathogenesis of diseases were investigated. Based on the results of FT-IR analysis, terpenes and sugars were detected in the extracts. Based on the HPLC results, glucose, fructose, maleic acid, acetic acid, acetoin, and 2,3 butanediol were detected in the extracts. Antioxidant results showed that extracts had similar and moderate activities as compared to the standard antioxidants. It was observed that the extracts preserved the stable structure of pUC18 plasmid DNA, but could not remove the scavenging effect of peroxide. In addition, it was determined that the extracts showed a stronger inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyryl-cholinesterases (BChE) than galantamine, which was used as the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila pilulifera Boiss. & Heldr., an endemic and endangered species is an economically important plant that has a potential used in medicine thank to the saponins it contains. It is also an ornamental plant. In this study, the production was carried out under in vitro conditions in order to protect and economically evaluate the species, which is in danger of extinction due to its distribution in a very narrow area open to anthropogenic effects. For this purpose, seed and shoot tip explants of G. pilulifera were cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different concentrations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). Explants were obtained from two different locations of the natural habitats of G. pilulifera and more plants were obtained in the tissue culture from both explant types taken from the 1st location. Propagation from seed gave better results, and 96.67% of the seeds cultured in hormone-free MS medium were germinated and rooted. The shoot tip showed lower regeneration in vitro than the seed explant. Especially the rooting percentage is quite low and the highest rooting and shoot formation was obtained in MS medium containing 2 mg/L BAP + 2 mg/L IAA. In this medium, 10.50 ±0.17 shoots were obtained per plant, and rooting (1.67 ±0.09 per plant) was also achieved only in this medium. Seedlings obtained in tissue culture continue to develop successfully in field conditions, and this method has been determined as a suitable method for ex-situ conservation and economically rapid production of the species.

Effects of increased concentration of calcium chloride on growth and production of flavonoids in newly established shoot and callus Gypsophila glomerata cultures were studied. The highest impact of CaCl2 on the growth index was determined in callus cultures (GI = 0.92), while in shoot cultures calcium treatment reduced the amount of biomass (GI = 0.38). Total flavonoids in shoot cultures grown on MS medium and MS medium supplemented with double amount of CaCl2 were 0.36 mg/g d. w. In both callus cultures, 2 mg/g d. w. total flavonoids were quantified. Shoots and callus grown on non-modified media accumulated 0.02 mg/g d. w. quercetin derivatives. Unlike these, both shoots and callus grown on calcium-enriched media accumulated 0.03 and 0.05 mg/g d. w. of isorhamnetin derivatives. In vitro shoot cultures grown on MS medium enriched in twice the amount of CaCl2 accumulated the highest amount of saponarin (0.138 mg/mg d. w.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gypsophila is an ornamental plant whose flowers are economically important, which is cultivated in the Callejón de Huaylas valley-Ancash. Recently, cultivated Gypsophila fields have shown diseased plants characterized by stem base rot, which has been followed by a reduction in vigor and the collapse and death of plants. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to describe the symptomatology of the disease, identify the causative agent of the disease, and prove how effective fungicides and biological control agents (BCA) are in controlling the disease using in vitro and field experiments. To isolate the pathogen, symptomatic plant tissue samples were washed, cut into small pieces, disinfected in 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 1 min, rinsed twice with sterilized water, and air-dried on paper towels. The samples were seeded on Petri dishes containing potato dextrose agar media and incubated at 25 °C. A pathogenicity test was conducted in healthy Gypsophila seedlings, which were grown in a sterilized substrate, using mechanical inoculation on the stem base and agar disks colonized by the pathogen-mycelium. Then the pathogen was reisolated from symptomatic inoculated Gypsophila seedlings. The “poisoned medium” technique was used to conduct the in vitro fungicide test, while the “dual method” was used to conduct the bio controller’s test. The results of the pathogenicity test and in vitro and field experiments showed that Rhizoctonia solani is the causative agent of the stem base Gypsophila disease, and at both assayed doses, the fungicides Rovral, Benopoint, Parachupadera, Vitavax, and Homai completely inhibited the mycelial growth of R. solani. Moreover, the BCAs Trichoderma harzianum and T. viride showed higher in vitro growth rates than R. solani and completely colonized the pathogen-mycelium. Under field conditions, the incidence of the disease in field plots treated with T. harzianum was 12.5% lower than in the control treatment, which showed 51.28% incidence of the disease. In addition, Gypsophila plants harvested from plots treated with T. harzianum exhibited higher numbers of flower stalks per plant and a higher fresh weight compared to the control treatment.

Essential oil composition of Gypsophila turcica Hamzaoğlu, Gypsophila pinifolia Boiss. & Hausskn., G. tuberculosa Hub.-Mor., G. eriocalyx Boiss. and G. laricina Schreb. were analyzed by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thirty six, fourty four, sixty six, forty one and sixty one compounds were identified in the essential oils of G. turcica, G. pinifolia, G. laricina, G. tuberculosa and G. eriocalyx respectively. The major components were determined hentriacontane (12.93 ± 0.4%), 1-octadecanol (8.97 ± 0.1%), hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (6.9 ± 0.09%) and pentacosane (6.63 ± 0.08%) in G. turcica oil, hexadecanoic acid (17.6 ± 0.4%), 1-tetradecanol (7.6 ± 0.1%) and phytol (5.63 ± 0.05%) in G. pinifolia oil, octacosane (6.83%), eicosanal (6.19%), triacontane (6.03%) and heneicosane (5.78%) for G. eriocalyx, hexadecanoic acid (25.3%, 27.0%) and hentriacontane (13.0%, 12.6%) for G. tuberculosa and G. laricina, respectively. Antibacterial activity of G. eriocalyx, G. tuberculosis and G. laricina were investigated against Gram negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria.

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

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

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

Copyright of BIOAGRO is the property of Revista BIOAGRO and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Assigning correct names to taxa is a challenging goal in the taxonomy of many groups within the Caryophyllaceae. This challenge is most serious in tribe Caryophylleae since the supposed genera seem to be highly artificial, and the available morphological evidence cannot effectively be used for delimitation and exact determination of taxa. The main goal of the present study was to re-assess the monophyly of the genera currently recognized in this tribe using molecular phylogenetic data. We used the sequences of nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and the chloroplast gene rps16 for 135 and 94 accessions, respectively, representing all 16 genera currently recognized in the tribe Caryophylleae, with a rich sampling of Gypsophila as one of the most heterogeneous groups in the tribe. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference methods. The results show that most of the large genera of Caryophylleae are not monophyletic. As a result, we propose a new classification system matching both molecular phylogenetic and morphological evidence. The main taxonomic conclusions include: (1) the description of three new genera, (2) treating five small genera as synonyms, (3) resurrecting the genus Heterochroa with six species, and (4) proposing 23 new combinations plus 2 replacement names at the specific level. As a result, we recognize 14 genera in Caryophylleae. A diagnostic key to all genera of Caryophylleae is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

Habitat fragmentation, i.e., fragment size and isolation, can differentially alter patterns of neutral and quantitative genetic variation, fitness and phenotypic plasticity of plant populations, but their effects have rarely been tested simultaneously. We assessed the combined effects of size and connectivity on these aspects of genetic and phenotypic variation in populations of Centaurea hyssopifolia, a narrow endemic gypsophile that previously showed performance differences associated with fragmentation. We grew 111 maternal families sampled from 10 populations that differed in their fragment size and connectivity in a common garden, and characterized quantitative genetic variation, phenotypic plasticity to drought for key functional traits, and plant survival, as a measure of population fitness. We also assessed neutral genetic variation within and among populations using eight microsatellite markers. Although C. hyssopifolia is a narrow endemic gypsophile, we found substantial neutral genetic variation and quantitative variation for key functional traits. The partition of genetic variance indicated that a higher proportion of variation was found within populations, which is also consistent with low population differentiation in molecular markers, functional traits and their plasticity. This, combined with the generally small effect of habitat fragmentation suggests that gene flow among populations is not restricted, despite large differences in fragment size and isolation. Importantly, population's similarities in genetic variation and plasticity did not reflect the lower survival observed in isolated populations. Overall, our results indicate that, although the species consists of genetically variable populations able to express functional plasticity, such aspects of adaptive potential may not always reflect populations' survival. Given the differential effects of habitat connectivity on functional traits, genetic variation and fitness, our study highlights the need to shift the focus of fragmentation studies to the mechanisms that regulate connectivity effects, and call for caution on the use of genetic variation and plasticity to forecast population performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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