Khellin
Apiaceae
Anethum graveolens
Psoralens
Setaria Nematode
Setariasis
Cations modulate the substrate specificity of bifunctional class I O-methyltransferase from Ammi majus. (1/4)
Caffeoyl-coenzyme A O-methyltransferase cDNA was cloned from dark-grown Ammi majus L. (Apiaceae) cells treated with a crude fungal elicitor and the open reading frame was expressed in Escherichia coli. The translated polypeptide of 27.1-kDa shared significant identity to other members of this highly conserved class of proteins and was 98.8% identical to the corresponding O-methyltransferase from parsley. For biochemical characterization, the recombinant enzyme could be purified to apparent homogeneity by metal-affinity chromatography, although the recombinant enzyme did not contain any affinity tag. Based on sequence analysis and substrate specificity, the enzyme classifies as a cation-dependent O-methyltransferase with pronounced preference for caffeoyl coenzyme A, when assayed in the presence of Mg2+-ions. Surprisingly, however, the substrate specificity changed dramatically, when Mg2+ was replaced by Mn2+ or Co2+ in the assays. This effect could point to yet unknown functions and substrate specificities in situ and suggests promiscuous roles for the lignin specific cluster of plant O-methyltransferases. (+info)Molecular cloning and functional characterization of psoralen synthase, the first committed monooxygenase of furanocoumarin biosynthesis. (2/4)
Ammi majus L. accumulates linear furanocoumarins by cytochrome P450 (CYP)-dependent conversion of 6-prenylumbelliferone via (+)-marmesin to psoralen. Relevant activities, i.e. psoralen synthase, are induced rapidly from negligible background levels upon elicitation of A. majus cultures with transient maxima at 9-10 h and were recovered in labile microsomes. Expressed sequence tags were cloned from elicited Ammi cells by a nested DD-RT-PCR strategy with CYP-specific primers, and full-size cDNAs were generated from those fragments correlated in abundance with the induction profile of furanocoumarin-specific activities. One of these cDNAs representing a transcript of maximal abundance at 4 h of elicitation was assigned CYP71AJ1. Functional expression in Escherichia coli or yeast cells initially failed but was accomplished eventually in yeast cells after swapping the N-terminal membrane anchor domain with that of CYP73A1. The recombinant enzyme was identified as psoralen synthase with narrow substrate specificity for (+)-marmesin. Psoralen synthase catalyzes a unique carbon-chain cleavage reaction concomitantly releasing acetone by syn-elimination. Related plants, i.e. Heracleum mantegazzianum, are known to produce both linear and angular furanocoumarins by analogous conversion of 8-prenylumbelliferone via (+)-columbianetin to angelicin, and it was suggested that angelicin synthase has evolved from psoralen synthase. However, (+)-columbianetin failed as substrate but competitively inhibited psoralen synthase activity. Analogy modeling and docked solutions defined the conditions for high affinity substrate binding and predicted the minimal requirements to accommodate (+)-columbianetin in the active site cavity. The studies suggested that several point mutations are necessary to pave the road toward angelicin synthase evolution. (+info)An aqueous extract of Ammi visnaga fruits and its constituents khellin and visnagin prevent cell damage caused by oxalate in renal epithelial cells. (3/4)
(+info)Prevention of renal crystal deposition by an extract of Ammi visnaga L. and its constituents khellin and visnagin in hyperoxaluric rats. (4/4)
(+info)I am not aware of a widely recognized medical definition for the term "Ammi." It is possible that it could refer to a specific medical condition, treatment, or concept in a certain regional or cultural context. However, without more information, I cannot provide an accurate medical definition for this term.
In botanical terms, "Ammi" refers to a genus of plants in the family Apiaceae, also known as the carrot or parsley family. Some species of Ammi are used in traditional medicine, but there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for specific medical conditions. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies or supplements.
Khellin is not typically defined in a medical dictionary as it is not a medical term itself, but rather a chemical compound found in certain plants. However, Khellin is known for its use in traditional medicine and has been studied in modern medicine for its potential therapeutic effects. Here's the definition of Khellin from a chemistry perspective:
Khellin (C10H8O3) is a chemical compound derived from the seeds of the plant Ammi visnaga, also known as khella or Bishop's weed. It belongs to the class of organic compounds called furanocoumarins, which are naturally occurring aromatic organic compounds containing a furan ring (a five-membered aromatic heterocycle with four carbon atoms and one oxygen atom) fused to a coumarin ring (a benzene ring fused to α-pyrone).
Khellin has been used in traditional medicine for treating various conditions, including asthma, angina pectoris, and headaches. Modern research has investigated its potential as a therapeutic agent for cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and other medical conditions. However, more studies are needed to establish its safety and efficacy before it can be widely used in modern medicine.
Apiaceae is a family of flowering plants also known as Umbelliferae. It includes aromatic herbs and vegetables such as carrots, parsley, celery, fennel, and dill. The plants in this family are characterized by their umbrella-shaped clusters of flowers (umbels) and hollow stems. Some members of Apiaceae contain toxic compounds, so caution should be taken when identifying and consuming wild plants from this family.
"Prosopis" is a genus of flowering plants in the pea family, Fabaceae. It includes several species of spiny trees and shrubs that are native to arid and semi-arid regions of America, Africa, and Asia. Some common names for Prosopis species include mesquite, algarrobo, and jand. These plants are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making them valuable for improving soil fertility in areas where they grow. They also produce seed pods that are a valuable food source for wildlife and humans in some regions. However, Prosopis species can also be invasive in some areas, outcompeting native vegetation and altering ecosystems.
'Anethum graveolens' is the medical term for a plant species more commonly known as dill. Dill is an herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family and is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has been used in traditional medicine for its carminative, antispasmodic, and sedative properties. The seeds and leaves of dill are used in cooking to add flavor to various dishes, and they are also used to make essential oils and extracts.
In a medical context, dill is sometimes used as a natural remedy for digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. It may also have antibacterial and antifungal properties, although more research is needed to confirm these effects. Dill should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
Psoralens are a class of organic compounds that can be found in several plants such as figs, celery, and parsnips. They are primarily known for their use in the treatment of skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. When combined with ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy, psoralens can help to slow down the excessive growth of skin cells that lead to these conditions.
Psoralens work by intercalating into DNA, which means they fit between the base pairs of the double helix structure of DNA. When exposed to UVA light, the psoralen molecules undergo a chemical reaction that forms cross-links in the DNA, which can inhibit the replication and transcription of DNA. This effect on skin cells can help to reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of affected skin cells, leading to an improvement in symptoms of certain skin conditions.
It's important to note that psoralens can have side effects, including increased sensitivity to sunlight, which can lead to sunburn and an increased risk of skin cancer with long-term use. Therefore, it's essential to follow the instructions of a healthcare provider carefully when using psoralen therapy.
Setaria nematodes are a type of roundworm that belongs to the family Setariidae. These parasitic worms primarily infect birds, but some species can also infect mammals, including humans. The most common Setaria nematode that infects humans is Setaria digitata, which is found mainly in Asia and is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater snails or fish.
In humans, Setaria nematodes typically cause mild symptoms or are asymptomatic. However, in some cases, they can lead to the development of eosinophilic meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can cause headaches, stiff neck, fever, and other neurological symptoms.
Setaria nematodes have a complex life cycle that involves several hosts, including snails, fish, and birds. Humans can become accidental hosts when they ingest infective larvae present in contaminated food or water. Once inside the human body, the larvae migrate to various tissues, such as the brain, eyes, or subcutaneous tissue, where they mature into adults and produce eggs. The eggs are then excreted from the body through feces or other bodily fluids.
Preventing Setaria nematode infections involves avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater snails or fish and practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly before eating or preparing food. In cases where infection occurs, treatment typically involves administering anthelmintic drugs to kill the worms and alleviate symptoms.
Setariasis is a cutaneous and subcutaneous infestation caused by the larval stage of the parasitic worm, Setaria cervi or Setaria digitata. These worms are commonly known as pork tapeworms or cattle threadworms. The larvae typically migrate to various body tissues, including the eyes, brain, and spinal cord, causing a range of symptoms depending on the site of infection.
In humans, setariasis is usually contracted through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from infected animals. However, it's essential to note that human infections with Setaria are rare, and the condition is more commonly seen in veterinary medicine.
The symptoms of setariasis can vary widely depending on the location and extent of the infestation. In some cases, there may be no noticeable symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do occur, they might include skin rashes or lesions, eye inflammation or vision problems, neurological symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or difficulty coordinating movements, and in severe cases, organ damage or failure.
Diagnosis of setariasis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to detect the presence of the parasite's larvae in bodily fluids or tissues. Treatment usually involves anti-parasitic medications to kill the worms, as well as supportive care to manage any associated symptoms or complications.
"Foeniculum" is the genus name for a plant species that includes fennel. In a medical context, fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is known for its seeds and essential oil, which have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes such as improving digestion, reducing bloating, and alleviating menstrual discomfort. The seeds and oil contain several compounds with potential therapeutic effects, including anethole, fenchone, and estragole. However, it's important to note that the use of fennel in modern medicine is not well-studied, and more research is needed to establish its safety and efficacy.