Search Results (43)

This study evaluated the corrosion inhibitory effects of Ruta graveolens leaf extract for 304 stainless steel in 1 M HCl. The analysis of the leaf extract using HPLC indicated that the primary compounds present in the leaf extract were rutin, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and apigenin. The inhibition efficiency (IE%) of the extract was studied using weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and computational simulation (density functional theory, DFT). The effects of the inhibitor concentration and solution temperature were investigated. The results indicated that the IE% increased for increasing concentrations of the extract, while the reverse was true with increasing temperatures. At 25 °C and a 600 ppm extract concentration, the results indicated a maximum inhibition efficiency of 95%, 98%, and 96% by weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization, and EIS techniques, respectively. SEM observations showed a significant change in the surface morphology of the 304 SS with and without the addition of the inhibitor compound. At all temperatures, the adsorption of the inhibitor components onto the 304 SS surface was found to follow the Langmuir isotherm model, and the inhibition process was governed by physical adsorption. Furthermore, chemical interactions between the inhibitor and the 304 SS steel surface were elucidated via density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Full article

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive type of brain tumor, characterized by poor outcome and limited therapeutic options. During tumor progression, GBM may undergo the process of vasculogenic mimicry (VM), consisting of the formation of vascular-like structures which further promote tumor aggressiveness and malignancy. The resulting resistance to anti-angiogenetic therapies urges the identification of new compounds targeting VM. Extracts of natural plants may represent potential therapeutic tools. Among these, components of Ruta graveolens water extract (RGWE) display a wide range of biological activities. To test the effect of RGWE on human GBM and rat glioma cell line VM, tube formation on a gelled matrix was monitored. Quantitative assessment of VM formation shows the clear-cut inhibitory activity of RGWE. Unlike rutin, one of the most abundant extract components, the whole RGWE strongly reduced the migration and invasion of GBM tumor cells. Moreover, RGWE induced cell death of GBM patient-derived cancer stem cells and impaired VM at sub-lethal doses. Overall, our data reveal a marked RGWE-dependent inhibition of GBM cell survival, migration, invasion, and VM formation. Thus, the clear-cut ability of RGWE to counteract GBM malignancy deserves attention, holding the promise to bring natural products to clinical use, thus uncovering new therapeutic opportunities. Full article

Mountains matter. Rural subsistence communities living in areas with high biodiversity, such as mountains, are hotspots of ecological knowledge. However, modern lifestyles may threaten this unique cultural heritage. Our study aimed to document and analyze information on plants used to fulfill the everyday needs of the people in three rural communities in NW Portugal. Fieldwork was carried out for a period of one year and information was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews. A total of 98 species, belonging to 46 families, were identified, and 142 vernacular names were recorded. Ethnobotanical richness was similar among the studied communities. The five most frequently cited species were: Pterospartum tridentatum, Erica arborea, Ruta graveolens, Zea mays and Chamaemelum nobile. Phanerophytes and hemicryptophytes comprise nearly 81% of the list. The top three uses categories (total 14) were: medicine, fuel and ritual. Digestive, skin and respiratory symptoms were the most often conditions treated with plants. Medicinal plants were used fresh and dried, mostly as infusions. The insights gathered here are important for the preservation of the cultural heritage of the local communities. Moreover, the data are of considerable scientific interest because it provides the fundaments for future studies that aim to validate/invalidate specific uses. Full article

The present review explores the underlying mechanisms of phytophotodermatitis, a non-immunologic skin reaction triggered by certain plants followed by exposure to ultraviolet radiation emitted by sunlight. Recent research has advanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of phytophotodermatitis, highlighting the interaction between plant-derived photosensitizing compounds (e.g., furanocoumarins and psoralens) and ultraviolet light leading to skin damage (e.g., erythema, fluid blisters, edema, and hyperpigmentation), identifying these compounds as key contributors to the phototoxic reactions causing phytophotodermatitis. Progress in understanding the molecular pathways involved in the skin’s response to these compounds has opened avenues for identifying potential therapeutic targets suitable for the management and prevention of this condition. The review emphasizes the importance of identifying the most common phototoxic plant families (e.g., Apiaceae, Rutaceae, and Moraceae) and plant species (e.g., Heracleum mantegazzianum, Ruta graveolens, Ficus carica, and Pastinaca sativa), as well as the specific phytochemical compounds responsible for inducing phytophototoxicity (e.g., limes containing furocoumarin have been linked to lime-induced photodermatitis), underscoring the significance of recognizing the dangerous plant sources. Moreover, the most used approaches and tests for accurate diagnosis such as patch testing, Wood’s lamp examination, or skin biopsy are presented. Additionally, preventive measures such as adequate clothing (e.g., long-sleeved garments and gloves) and treatment strategies based on the current knowledge of phytophotodermatitis including topical and systemic therapies are discussed. Overall, the review consolidates recent findings in the field, covering a diverse array of phototoxic compounds in plants, the mechanisms by which they trigger skin reactions, and the implications for clinical management. By synthesizing these insights, we provide a comprehensive understanding of phytophotodermatitis, providing valuable information for both healthcare professionals and researchers working to address this condition. Full article

Kokusaginine is a bioactive ingredient extracted from Ruta graveolens L., which has a range of biological activities. Its pharmacokinetic (PK) properties are particularly important for clinical applications; however, they have not been fully elucidated. In addition, the effect of sex differences on drug metabolism is increasingly being recognized, but most studies have ignored this important factor. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by taking an in-depth look at the PK properties of kokusaginine and how gender affects its metabolism and distribution in the body. It also lays the foundation for clinical drug development. In this study, a sensitive ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) method was developed and validated for quantifying kokusaginine in Sprague Dawley (SD) rat plasma and tissue homogenates. Metabolic stability was evaluated in vitro using gender-specific liver microsomes. Innovatively, we incorporated sex as a variable into both in vitro and in vivo PK studies in SD rats, analyzing key parameters with Phoenix 8.3.5 software. The developed UPLC method demonstrated high sensitivity and precision, essential for PK analysis. Notably, in vitro studies revealed a pronounced sex-dependent metabolic variability (p < 0.05). In vivo, gender significantly affected the Area Under the Moment Curve (AUMC)_(0-∞) of the plasma PK parameter (p < 0.05) and the AUMC_(0-t) of brain tissue (p < 0.0001), underscoring the necessity of sex-specific PK assessments. The calculated absolute bioavailability of 71.13 ± 12.75% confirmed the favorable oral absorption of kokusaginine. Additionally, our innovative tissue-plasma partition coefficient (K_p) analysis highlighted a rapid and uniform tissue distribution pattern. This study presents a sex-inclusive PK evaluation of kokusaginine, offering novel insights into its metabolic profile and distribution. These findings are instrumental for informing clinical medication practices, dosage optimization, and a nuanced understanding of drug efficacy and safety in a sex-specific context. Full article

Here, we report for the first time on the mechanisms of action of the essential oil of Ruta graveolens (REO) against the plant pathogen Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. In particular, the presence of REO drastically affected the morphology of hyphae by inducing changes in the cytoplasmic membrane, such as depolarization and changes in the fatty acid profile where straight-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) increased by up to 92.1%. In addition, REO induced changes in fungal metabolism and triggered apoptosis-like responses to cell death, such as DNA fragmentation and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The production of essential enzymes involved in fungal metabolism, such as acid phosphatase, β-galactosidase, β-glucosidase, and N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, was significantly reduced in the presence of REO. In addition, C. gloeosporioides activated naphthol-As-BI phosphohydrolase as a mechanism of response to REO stress. The data obtained here have shown that the essential oil of Ruta graveolens has a strong antifungal effect on C. gloeosporioides. Therefore, it has the potential to be used as a surface disinfectant and as a viable replacement for fungicides commonly used to treat anthracnose in the postharvest testing phase. Full article

Weeds decrease yield in crops through competition for water, nutrients, and light. Due to the circumstances mentioned above and the challenge of the emergence of herbicide-resistant weeds, developing sustainable alternatives becomes imperative. Plant extracts formulated into nano- and micro-encapsulates (NPs) emerge as a viable option for weed management. The objectives of this study were to identify phytochemical compounds within the ethanolic extracts of Carya illinoinensis, Ruta graveolens, and Solanum rostratum; determine their pre-emergence herbicidal activity on the indicator plants Sorghum bicolor and Phaseolus vulgaris; produce and characterize NPs with plant extracts; and assess their phytotoxicity under greenhouse conditions. The extracts were provided by Greencorp Biorganiks de México. Phytochemicals were identified through colorimetric assays and HPLC-MS, while pre-emergence tests were conducted in vitro, assessing concentrations of 12.5, 25, and 50% for each extract. NPs were synthesized using the ionotropic pre-gelation method, with size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency (EE) being characterized. Finally, post-emergence tests were carried out in a greenhouse with seedlings. Compounds belonging to the hydroxycinnamic acid, flavonol, methoxyflavonol, hydroxybenzoic acid, methoxyflavone, tyrosol, stilbene, and lignan families were identified in all extracts. The pre-emergence herbicidal activity was observed for all extracts, with germination percentages ranging from 0 to 41% in both indicator plants. NPs exhibited sizes between 290 and 345 nm, zeta potentials ranging from −30 to −35 mV, and EE up to 94%. Finally, enhanced herbicidal activity was observed with plant extract NPs, with the species S. bicolor being more susceptible. NPs containing plant extracts are a viable option for bioherbicide production; however, continued research is necessary to refine formulations and enhance efficacy. Full article

Native corn in Cherán, Michoacán, southwestern Mexico, represents a high-impact economic, social, and religious support, although its yield is low due to fungal diseases. Fungicides are mainly used for their control, but the fungi involved create resistance. The aims of this study are to determine the incidence of foliar diseases in the field, isolate the causal fungi, evaluate the in vitro effect of the essential oil of rue (Ruta graveolens) on them, and identify the secondary metabolites. The essential oil was obtained using the steam distillation technique on fresh plants. Also used was an industrial-grade chitosan, and the commercial fungicide benomyl was used as a positive control. Rue essential oil was characterized by mass spectrometry with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization (UHPLC-ESI). The highest incidence of disease was obtained for leaf rust (35%), followed by gray leaf spot (GLS) (24%) and leaf blight (19%). Rue essential oil inhibited 100% of the mycelial growth of Coniothyrium phyllachorae and 96% of the mycelium of Exseroilum turcicum. The benomyl fungicide effectively inhibited C. phyllachorae (86 to 91%), but not E. turcicum, with the opposite effect when using chitosan by inhibiting 89 to 90% of the latter’s mycelial development. The majority compound of the essential oil of R. graveolens was 2-(3-phenylprop-2-enoyl)chromen-4-one; however, fatty acids were also detected: linoleic, palmitic, and retinoic acid. Full article

The objective of this study was to develop microspheres (Ms) from natural materials, chitosan (Ch) and sodium alginate (Na-Alg), that protect Ruta graveolens L. (RG) extract against temperature, pH, and the oxidative impact of degradation. The microspheres also masked the unpleasant taste by enclosing them in a biodegradable polymeric matrix. First, the total polyphenols, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity were quantified spectrophotometrically. Individual polyphenol contents were identified and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection. The RG extract was encapsulated in microspheres of chitosan–sodium alginate–Ruta graveolens L. extract (CARG-Ms) using two distinct procedures (method 1, in which the RG extract was added to the Ch solution and the Na-Alg solution was dripped into this mixture, and method 2, in which the RG extract was added to the Na-Alg solution and then dripped into the Ch solution) to determine which method was more advantageous. All microspheres were evaluated and characterized by confocal laser-scanning microscopy (CLSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical scanning, entrapping efficiency (EE%), swelling index (SWL%), and in vitro release (RGrel%), and all results underwent univariate and multivariate analysis using a regression model. Following these tests, it was observed that the extract had an appreciable flavonoid content of 37.98%, with antioxidant properties evidenced by the 54.25% inhibition of DPPH. Of the polyphenolic compounds identified in the extract by using the HPLC method, rutin was present in the highest amount, at 745.17 μg/mL. The microspheres prepared by method 2, which contained the highest concentration of chitosan, had several desirable properties, including a high degree of roughness, high entrapping efficiency (75%), a wrinkled appearance, a better in vitro release capacity, and a lower SWL%. On the other hand, CARG-Ms prepared by method 1, which contained a smaller concentration of Ch, had faster swelling and slower release of the extract due to the lower entrapping efficiency (35%). These results suggest that the concentration of wall material and the preparation method play important roles in the encapsulation process and final particle characteristics. According to the obtained results, after the multivariate statistical analysis, it can be observed that the microspheres prepared via method 2 of the complex coacervation process were the most efficient for encapsulating rue extract in microspheres, because the extract was protected against degradation from the gastrointestinal tract. Full article

Vitiligo, an acquired depigmentation disorder, is characterized by the loss of functional melanocytes and epidermal melanin. In recent years, research has focused on promoting melanin biosynthesis and protecting melanocytes to reduce stress-related damage for the purpose of applying it to vitiligo treatment. Ruta graveolens L. has been utilized as a medicinal herb in diverse traditional medicine systems to address conditions like vitiligo. In this investigation, we isolated and purified 16 unique alkaloid compounds from the chloroform extracts of R. graveolens, encompassing a new quinoline alkaloid and several recognized compounds. Bioactivity analysis showed that compound 13, an alkaloid derived from R. graveolens, promotes melanin production while protecting PIG3V melanocytes against 4-tert-butylphenol (4-TBP)-induced oxidative damage by downregulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines through interleukin-6 (IL-6) regulation. Additionally, the compound suppressed the expression of Bip, IRE1, p-IRE1, and XBP-1 proteins, suggesting a potential antioxidant function. These findings suggest that compound 13 isolated from R. graveolens can augment melanogenesis in melanocytes, reduce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and ameliorate vitiligo exacerbation. The melanogenic activity observed in the chloroform fraction emphasizes R. graveolens’s potential as a novel therapeutic target for vitiligo treatment, warranting further exploration in future studies. Full article

The use of combined biocontrol strategies to combat bacterial-related issues is an increasingly popular approach. Therefore, a novel investigation was performed, where interactions of lytic bacteriophages (MS2, T4 and phi6) and methanolic plant extracts (Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Ruta graveolens (RG)) in the bacterial environment have been examined to understand their application potential and limitations. Due to the complexity of these interactions, many up-to-date techniques were used (microdilution method, phage extract coincubation assay, static interactions synographies and dynamic growth profile experiments in a bioreactor). As a result of our study, antagonism interactions were observed: EP and RG extracts showed antiphage and bacterial stimulating activity. Effects caused by low extract concentrations on microorganisms depended on the species of phage and bacteria, while high concentrations suppressed bacterial lysis in general. Moreover, interactions observed in the static environment differed from those performed in a dynamic environment, showing the importance of performing multiple analyses when investigating such complex mixtures. Full article

The genus Ruta in the family Rutaceae includes about 40 species, such as the well-known plants R. graveolens L. (common rue) or R. chalepensis L. (fringed rue), but also much lesser-known species such as R. angustifolia Pers. (narrow-leaved fringed rue). This rue specie, originating from the Mediterranean region, is well-distributed in Southeast Asia, notably in the Indo-Chinese peninsula and other territories. In some countries, such as Malaysia, the plant is used to treat liver diseases and cancer. Extracts of R. angustifolia display antifungal, antiviral and antiparasitic effects. Diverse bioactive natural products have been isolated from the aerial parts of the plant, notably quinoline alkaloids and furocoumarins, which present noticeable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and/or antiproliferative properties. The present review discusses the main pharmacological properties of the plant and its phytoconstituents, with a focus on the anticancer activities evidenced with diverse alkaloids and terpenoids isolated from the aerial parts of the plant. Quinoline alkaloids such as graveoline, kokusaginine, and arborinine have been characterized and their mode of action defined. Arborinine stands as a remarkable inhibitor of histone demethylase LSD1, endowed with promising anticancer activities. Other anticancer compounds, such as the furocoumarins chalepin and rutamarin, have revealed antitumor effects. Their mechanism of action is discussed together with that of other bioactive natural products, including angustifolin and moskachans. Altogether, R. angustifolia Pers. presents a rich phytochemical profile, fully consistent with the traditional use of the plant to treat cancer. This rue species, somewhat neglected, warrant further investigations as a medicinal plant and a source of inspiration for drug discovery and design. Full article

Some ectoparasites are vectors of illness-causing bacteria and viruses, and these are treated with antibiotic and antiviral drugs, which eventually contribute to the excessive use of antimicrobials. Therefore, the control of ectoparasites is crucial, and the challenge will be to manage them in a sustainable way. Data from a preliminary ethnobotanical survey was reanalyzed to obtain information on the use of various plant species in companion animals and livestock as ectoparasiticides. The survey responses were reviewed for traditional use of plants as ectoparasiticides, and cross-sectional bibliographic research was undertaken. The following plants were selected among the nine mentioned plants: Juglans regia, Daphne gnidium and Ruta graveolens, which have the most potential to be developed as veterinary ectoparasiticides. Moreover, the absence of published data for Plantago lanceolata and Cistus populifolius suggests that their traditional use as ectoparasiticides is noted here for the first time. In summary, these plants could give promising plant-derived veterinary ectoparasiticides that, ultimately, will help reduce and even avoid the excessive use of antimicrobials. Full article

This study aimed to examine the influence of the addition of a precursor (phenylalanine) on the accumulation of secondary metabolites in agitated shoot cultures of Ruta graveolens. Cultures were grown on Linsmaier and Skoog (LS) medium, with plant growth regulators (0.1 mg/L α-naphthaleneacetic acid—NAA—and 0.1 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine—BAP). Phenylalanine was added to the cultures at a concentration of 1.25 g/L after 4 and 5 weeks of growth cycles. Biomass was collected after 2, 4, and 7 days of precursor addition. Both control and experimental cultures had the same secondary metabolites accumulated. Using the HPLC method, linear furanocoumarins (bergapten, isoimperatorin, isopimpinellin, psoralen, and xanthotoxin), furoquinoline alkaloids (γ-fagarine, 7-isopentenyloxy-γ-fagarine, and skimmianine), and catechin were detected and quantified in the methanolic extracts. In turn, phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, and ferulic acid were detected in hydrolysates. The production of phenolic acids and catechin (1.5-fold) was significantly increased by the addition of precursor, while there was no significant effect on the production of coumarins and alkaloids. The highest total content of phenolic acids (109 mg/100 g DW) was obtained on the second day of phenylalanine addition (the fourth week of growth cycles). The dominant phenolic compounds were p-coumaric acid (maximum content 64.3 mg/100 g DW) and ferulic acid (maximum content 35.6 mg/100 g DW). In the case of catechins, the highest total content (66 mg/100 g DW) was obtained on the third day of precursor addition (the fourth week of growth cycles). This study is the first to document the effect of feeding the culture medium with phenylalanine on the accumulation of bioactive metabolites in in vitro cultures of R. graveolens. Full article

Pathogenic plant oomycetes cause devastating damage to fruits and vegetables worldwide. Plant essential oils (EOs) are known to be promising candidates for the development of fungicides. In this study, we isolated twelve EOs from Tetradium ruticarpum, Tetradium daniellii, Tetradium fraxinifolium, Zanthoxylum armatum, Ruta graveolens, and Citrus medica leaves and fruits. We then investigated their chemical composition and antifungal activity against phytopathogenic oomycetes. Our results demonstrated that Z. armatum fruit essential oil (ZFO) in particular substantially inhibited the mycelial growth of Phytophthora capsici. Similarly, ZFO also strongly suppressed spore production and germination of P. capsici, and the application of ZFO significantly reduced disease symptoms caused by P. capsici in pepper. Furthermore, results from microscopic and biochemical studies indicated that ZFO damaged the ultrastructure and destroyed the membrane integrity of P. capsici, leading to the leakage of the cellular contents and ultimately causing cell death. It was concluded that ZFO could enhance the activities of defense-related enzymes in pepper fruits, which may also be responsible for the inhibition of phytophthora disease. Moreover, linalool and D-limonene were proven to be the primary effective components of ZFO. Our results collectively indicate that ZFO could be a potential candidate for the management of disease caused by P. capsici. Full article