Traditional medicinal uses and biological activities of some plant extracts of African Combretum Loefl., Terminalia L. and Pteleopsis Engl. species

In Africa various species of Combretum, Terminalia and Pteleopsis are used in traditional medicine. Despite of this, some species of these genera have still not been studied for their biological effects to validate their traditional uses. The aim of this work has been to document the ethnomedicinal uses of several species of Combretum and Terminalia in Mbeya region, south-western Tanzania, and to use this information for finding species with good antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential. During a five weeks expedition to Tanzania in spring 1999 sixteen different species of Combretum and Terminalia, as well as Pteleopsis myrtifolia were collected from various locations in the districts of Mbeya, Iringa and Dar-es-Salaam. Traditional healers in seven different villages in the Mbeya region were interviewed in Swahili and Nyakyusa on the medicinal uses of Combretum and Terminalia species shown to them. A questionnaire was used during the interviews. The results of the interviews correlated well between different villages, the same species being used in similar ways in different villages. Of the ten species shown to the healers six were frequently used for treatment of skin diseases, bacterial infections, diarrhea, oedema and wounds. The dried plants were most commonly prepared into hot water decoctions or mixed into maize porridge, Ugali. Infusions made from dried or fresh plant material were also common. Wounds and topical infections were treated with ointments made from the dried plant material mixed with sheep fat. Twenty-one extracts of six species of Combretum and four of Terminalia, collected from Tanzania, were screened for their antibacterial effects against two gram-negative and five gram-positive bacteria, as well as the yeast, Candida albicans, using an agar diffusion method. Most of the screened plants showed substantial antimicrobial activity. A methanolic root extract of T. sambesiaca showed the most potent antibacterial effects of all the plant species screened, and gave a MIC value of 0.9 mg/ml against Enterobacter aerogenes. Also root extracts of T. sericea and T. kaiserana gave excellent antimicrobial effects, and notably a hot water extract of T. sericea was as potent as extracts of this species made from EtOH and MeOH. Thus, the traditional way of preparing T. sericea into hot water decoctions seems to extract antimicrobial compounds. Thirty-five extracts of five species of Terminalia, ten of Combretum and Pteleopsis myrtifolia were screened for their antifungal effects against five species of yeast (Candida spp.) and Cryptococcus neoformans. The species differed from each other to their antifungal effects, some being very effective whereas others showed no antifungal effects. The most effective extracts showed antifungal effects comparable to the standard antibiotics itraconazol and amphotericin B. Species of Terminalia gave in general stronger antifungal effects than those of Combretum. The best effects were obtained with methanolic root extracts of T. sambesiaca, T. sericea and T. kaiserana, and this investigation indicates that decoctions of these species might be used for treatment of HIV-related fungal infections. Twenty-seven crude extracts of eight species of Combretum, five of Terminalia and Pteleopsis myrtifolia were evaluated for their cytotoxic effects against human cancer cell lines (HeLa, cervical carcinoma; MCF 7, breast carcinoma, T 24 bladder carcinoma) and one endothelial cell line (BBCE, bovine brain capillary endothelial cells). The most outstanding effects were obtained with a leaf extract of Combretum fragrans, which nearly totally inhibited the proliferation of T 24 and HeLa cells at a concentration of 25 ug/ml and inhibited 60 % of the growth of the HeLa cells at a concentration of 4.3 ug/ml. The species of Terminalia were less cytotoxically potent than the Combretum species, although T. sericea and T. sambesiaca gave good cytotoxic effects (< 30 % proliferation). In summary this study indicates that some of the species of Terminalia, Combretum and Pteleopsis, used in Tanzanian traditional medicine, are powerful inhibitors of both microbial and cancer cell growth. In depth studies would be needed to find the active compounds behind these biological activities.

GDP-L-fucose: synthesis and role in inflammation

GDP-L-fucose: synthesis and role in inflammation The migration of leukocytes from intravascular locations to extravascular sites is essential to the immune responses. The initial attachment of leukocytes to the endothelium and the rolling step of the leukocyte extravasation cascade are mediated by selectins, a family of cell adhesion molecules on cell surfaces. Selectins are able to recognize glycoproteins and glycolipids containing the tetrasaccharide sialyl Lewis x (sLex, Neu5Acα2-3Galβ1-4(Fucα1-3)GlcNAc). Several glycosyltransferases are involved in the biosynthesis of sLex, fucosyltransferase VII (Fuc-TVII) being the last enzyme to modify the sLex structure. Fuc-TVII transfers L-fucose from GDP-L-fucose to sialylated N-acetyllactosamine. GDP-L-fucose is synthesized in the cytosol via two different metabolic pathways. The major, constitutively active de novo pathway involves conversion of GDP-α-D-mannose to GDP-β-L-fucose. In the alternative salvage pathway, L-fucokinase synthesizes from free fucose L-fucose-1-phosphate, which is further converted to GDP-L-fucose by GDP-L-fucose pyrophosphorylase. GDP-L-fucose is translocated from the cytosol to Golgi for fucosylation via the GDP-fucose transporter. This thesis involved the study of the synthesis of GDP-L-fucose via the salvage pathway: cloning and expression of murine L-fucokinase and GDP-L-fucose pyrophosphorylase. The gene expression levels of these enzymes were found to be relatively high in various tissues; the mRNA levels were highest in brain, ovary and testis. This study also describes molecular cloning of rat fucosyltransferase VII (FUT7) and its expression as a functional enzyme. Gene expression levels of GDP-L-fucose synthesizing enzymes, GDP-fucose transporter and FUT7 were determined in inflamed tissues as well as cancer cells. Our results revealed a clear upregulation of the enzymes involved in the synthesis of GDP-L-fucose via de novo pathway, GDP-fucose transporter and FUT7 in inflamed tissues and in cancer cells. On the contrary, the GDP-L-fucose salvage pathway was found to be irrelevant in inflammation and in tumorigenesis. Furthermore, our results indicated the transcriptional coregulation of Golgi transporters involved in the synthesis of sulfo sLex, i.e. CMP-sialic acid, GDP-fucose and 3 phosphoadenosine 5 -phosphosulfate transporters, in inflammation.

X-ray studies of crystalline complexes involving amino acids. II. The crystal structure of L-arginine L-glutamate

Abstract is not available.

New ternary copper(II) complexes of L-alanine and heterocyclic bases: DNA binding and oxidative DNA cleavage activity

Four new ternary copper(II) complexes of alpha-amino acid having polypyridyl bases of general formulation [Cu(L-ala)(B)(H2O)](X)(1-4), where L-ala is L-alanine, B is an N,N-donor heterocyclic base, viz. 2,2'-bipyridine (bpy, 1), 1,10-phenanthroline (phen, 2) and 5,6-phenanthroline dione (dione, 3), dipyrido[3,2:2',3'-f] quinoxaline (dpq, 4), and X = ClO4-/NO3- are synthesized, characterized by various spectroscopic and X-ray crystallographic methods. The complexes show a distorted square-pyramidal (4 + 1) CuN3O2 coordination geometry. The one-electron paramagnetic complexes (1-4) display a low energy d-d band near 600 nm in aqueous medium and show a quasi-reversible cyclic voltammetric response due to one-electron Cu(II)/Cu(I) reduction near - 100 mV (versus SCE) in DMF-0.1 M TBAP. Binding interactions of the complexes with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were investigated by UV-Vis absorption titration, ethidium bromide displacement assay, viscometric titration experiment and DNA melting studies. All the complexes barring the complexes 1 and 3 are avid binder to the CT-DNA in the DNA minor groove giving an order: 4 > 2 >>>1, 3. The complexes 2 and 4 show appreciable chemical nuclease activity in the presence of 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) as a reducing agent. Hydroxyl radical was investigated to be the DNA cleavage active species. Control experiments in the presence of distamycin-A show primarily minor groove-binding propensity for the complexes 2 and 4 to the DNA.

The Crystal and Molecular Structure of l-(Diphenylmethyl)azetidin-3-ol

1-(Diphenylmethyl)azetidin-3-ol is triclinic, space group P1, with a=8.479(2), b=17.294(4),c = 10.606 (3) A, a = 118.59 (2),/~ = 100.30 (2), y = 89.63 (2) °, Z = 4. The structure was solved by multisolution methods and refined to an R of 0.044 for 2755 reflexions. The four-membered rings in the two independent molecules are puckered with dihedral angles of 156 and 153 ° . The two molecules differ in conformation with respect to rotation of the phenyl rings about the C-C bonds. The structure is stabilized by a network of O-H. • • N intermolecular hydrogen bonds.

Can current force fields reproduce ring puckering in 2-O-sulfo-α-l-iduronic acid? A molecular dynamics simulation study

The monosaccharide 2-O-sulfo-α-l-iduronic acid (IdoA2S) is one of the major components of glycosaminoglycans. The ability of molecular mechanics force fields to reproduce ring-puckering conformational equilibrium is important for the successful prediction of the free energies of interaction of these carbohydrates with proteins. Here we report unconstrained molecular dynamics simulations of IdoA2S monosaccharide that were carried out to investigate the ability of commonly used force fields to reproduce its ring conformational flexibility in aqueous solution. In particular, the distribution of ring conformer populations of IdoA2S was determined. The GROMOS96 force field with the SPC/E water potential can predict successfully the dominant skew-boat to chair conformational transition of the IdoA2S monosaccharide in aqueous solution. On the other hand, the GLYCAM06 force field with the TIP3P water potential sampled transitional conformations between the boat and chair forms. Simulations using the GROMOS96 force field showed no pseudorotational equilibrium fluctuations and hence no inter-conversion between the boat and twist boat ring conformers. Calculations of theoretical proton NMR coupling constants showed that the GROMOS96 force field can predict the skew-boat to chair conformational ratio in good agreement with the experiment, whereas GLYCAM06 shows worse agreement. The omega rotamer distribution about the C5–C6 bond was predicted by both force fields to have torsions around 10°, 190°, and 360°.

Plant regeneration from protoplasts of Capsicum annuum L cv. California Wonder

Plant regeneration from mesophyll protoplasts of pepper, Capsicum annuum L. cv. California Wonder has been demonstrated via shoot organogenesis, Protoplasts isolated from fully expanded leaves of 3-week-old axenic shoots when cultured in TM medium supplemented with 1 mgl(-1) NAA, 1 mgl(-1) 2, 4-D, 0.5 mgl(-1) BAP (CM 1) resulted in divisions with a frequency ranging from 20-25%. Antioxidant ascorbic acid and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in the medium and incubation in the dark helped overcome browning of protoplasts. Microcalli and macrocalli were formed in TM medium containing 2 mgl(-1) NAA and 0.5 mgl(-1) BAP (CM II) and MS gelled medium containing 2 mgl(-1) NAA and 0.5 mgl(-1) BAP (CM III), respectively, Regeneration of plantlets was possible via caulogenesis, Microshoots, 2-5 per callus appeared on MS gelled medium enriched with 0.5 mgl(-1) IAA, 2 mgl(-1) GA and 10 mgl(-1) BAP (CM IVc). Rooting of microshoots was obtained on half strength gelled medium containing 1 mgl(-1) NAA and 0.5 mgl(-1) BAP, Protoplasts isolated from cotyledons failed to divide and degenerated eventually.

X-ray studies on crystalline complexes involving amino acids and peptides. XXIII. Variability in ionization state, conformation and molecular aggregation in the complexes of succinic acid with DL- and L-lysine

Crystalline complexes of succinic acid with DL- and L-lysine have been prepared and analysed by X-ray diffraction. DL-Lysine complex: C6HIsN202 + 1 2- 1 ~C4H404 .~C4H604, Mr -- 264"2, PI, a = 5"506 (4), =8.070(2), c=14.089(2) A,, a=92.02(1), /3= 100"69 (3), y = 95"85 (3) ~>, Z = 2, Dx = 1"44 g cm -3, R = 0.059 for 2546 observed reflections. Form I of the e-lysine complex: C6HIsN20-, ~ .C4H504, Mr = 264.2, P1, a = 5" 125 (2), b = 8"087 (1), c = 8"689 (1) A,, a = 112.06 (1), /3 = 99.08 (2), y = 93"77(2) °, Z--l, D,,,=1"34(3), Dx=l"34gcm 3 R = 0.033 for 1475 observed reflections. Form II of + I 2- the e-lysine complex: C6H15N202 .,iC4H404 .- 1 I ") 4C4H604.4(C4HsO4""H'"CaH404)" , Mr = 264"2, P1, a = 10.143 (4), b = 10.256 (2), c = 12"916 (3) A,, a = 105.00 (2),/3 = 99-09 (3), y = 92"78 (3)::, Z = 4, Dm= 1"37(4), D,.= 1.38gcm 3, R=0.067 for 2809 observed reflections. The succinic acid molecules in the structures exhibit a variety of ionization states. Two of the lysine conformations found in the complexes have been observed for the first time in crystals containing lysine. Form II of the L-lysine complex is highly pseudosymmetric. In all the complexes, unlike molecules aggregate into separate alternating layers. The basic element of aggregation in the lysine layer in the complexes is an S2-type head-to-tail sequence. This element combines in different ways in the three structures. The basic element of aggre gation in the succinic acid layer in the complexes is a hydrogen-bonded ribbon. The ribbons are interconnected indirectly through amino groups in the lysine layer.

Characterization of Somatic Embryogenesis in Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)

In the synchronous embryogenesis system of sandalwood developed in our laboratory, we observed that the early events of differentiation from freshly induced callus (stage 0) are accomplished in three distinct stages viz., preglobular masses (stage 1), globular embryos (stage 2), and bipolar embryos (stage 3). Transition from stage 0 to 1 was accomplished using 2,4-D and involves a stage specific appearance of two polypeptides of 15 and 30 kDa molecular weight. A 24 kDa polypeptide that was detected as a marked band in extracts of primary callus was not detected in stages 1, 2, and 3. Further, the tissue level of a 50 kDa glycoprotein decreased during transition from stage 2 to stage 3. However, the levels of glycoproteins in the medium were markedly higher in stage 0 cultures compared to those in stage 1. The activities of a protein kinase, glycosidase, and xylanase increased markedly with progressing embryogenesis. Our observations suggest that in addition to being controlled at the level of stage-specific gene expression, somatic embryogenesis in sandalwood is also regulated at the level of controls on cell wall flexibility and posttranslational changes in the pool of preexisting proteins.

The ecology of the mountain hare (Lepus timidus L.) in managed boreal forests: habitat associations at different forest scales

Aims of this thesis This study is part of a larger hare project in Finland, which provides answers to basic ecological questions regarding the mountain hare. This study of the ecology of the mountain hare focuses in particular on different levels of managed boreal forest. The feeding habits and intensity of mountain hares in winter are explored, and the connections between mountain hares versus the forest structure are also studied (e.g. habitat use and the importance of different forest layers for hares). The use of the environment by hares at the landscape level was examined (forest patch structures), and the home ranges of mountain hares were studied. Finally, the productivity and survival rate of mountain hare populations were also studied (discussion e.g. predator effects on hare populations). Conclusions Feeding intensity seemed to be highest in the spring-winter, when home ranges were also largest. Favourable food species are covered by snow in winter and the mobility of hares is highest during late winter. A shortage of suitable food species may be problematic for hares, especially during the winter period. In this study mountain hares preferred a dense shrub layer at local level and deciduous and mixed tree forest over coniferous forest at the landscape level. Food and shelter are vital for hares and the preference for particular habitats may also affect the population dynamics of the mountain hare. It would be possible to improve the quality of food and shelter or at least prevent the most negative habitat changes through forest management. At a local level it is also possible to add supplementary food for hares through the winter period. The intensive clearing of young sapling stands and especially the removal of deciduous shrubs and trees reduces the quality of habitats for the mountain hare. Mountain hares primarily live in forest habitat and it is possible that changes in the forest structure play a crucial role in mountain hare habitat preference. Ecological knowledge of the mountain hare is vital to create habitat structure more suitable for the species. More deciduous trees should be saved in managing forests and the mechanical clearing of the shrub layer should be done carefully.

Purification and properties of protocatechuate-3,4-dioxygenase from Tecoma stans L

Protocatechuate-3,4-dioxygenase from the leaves of Tecoma stans was purified to near homogeneity and some of its properties studied. It was optimally active at pH 5.2 and at 40°C. Its molecular weight of approx. 150 000 was determined by gel filtration on a Sephadex G-150 column. The Km value for protocatechuate was found to be 330 μM and for ferrous sulfate, 40 μM. The enzyme was highly specific for protocatechuate and did not attack any of the substrate analogues. None of the substrate analogues tested inhibited the enzyme activity. Sulfhydryl reagents inhibited the enzyme activity which could be partially reversed by sulfhydryl compounds. The dioxygenase activity was not associated with polyphenol oxidase activity.