Phytolacca americana
Ribosome Inactivating Proteins, Type 1
N-Glycosyl Hydrolases
Periplaneta
Phytolacca dodecandra
Pokeweed Mitogens
Plant Lectins
Plant Proteins
Persea
Lectins
Cockroaches
Amino Acid Sequence
Molecular Sequence Data
Materia Medica
Isolation and characterization of a novel ribosome-inactivating protein from root cultures of pokeweed and its mechanism of secretion from roots. (1/12)
Ribosome-inactivating proteins are N-glycosidases that remove a specific adenine from the sarcin/ricin loop of the large rRNA, thus arresting protein synthesis at the translocation step. In the present study, a novel type I ribosome-inactivating protein, termed PAP-H, was purified from Agrobacterium rhizogenes-transformed hairy roots of pokeweed (Phytolacca americana). The protein was purified by anion- and cation-exchange chromatography. PAP-H has a molecular mass of 29.5 kD as detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and its isoelectric point was determined to be 7.8. Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) ribosomes incubated with PAP-H released the 360-nucleotide diagnostic fragment from the 26S rRNA upon aniline treatment, an indication of its ribosome-inactivating activity. Using immunofluorescence microscopy, PAP-H was found to be located in the cell walls of hairy roots and root border cells. PAP-H was determined to be constitutively secreted as part of the root exudates, with its secretion enhanced by a mechanism mediated by ethylene induction. Purified PAP-H did not show in vitro antifungal activity against soil-borne fungi. In contrast, root exudates containing PAP-H as well as additional chitinase, beta-1,3-glucanase, and protease activities did inhibit the growth of soil-borne fungi. We found that PAP-H depurinates fungal ribosomes in vitro and in vivo, suggesting an additive mechanism that enables PAP-H to penetrate fungal cells. (+info)Structures of 1,4-benzodioxane derivatives from the seeds of Phytolacca americana and their neuritogenic activity in primary cultured rat cortical neurons. (2/12)
The methanol extract of the seeds of Phytolacca americana was reinvestigated to yield three new 1,4-benzodioxane-type compounds, americanoic acid methyl ester (1), isoamericanoic acid A methyl ester (2), and 9'-O-methylamericanol A (3) along with the previously isolated neolignans 6-9. The structures of 1-3 were characterized by 2D NMR and long-range selective proton-decoupling (LSPD) techniques. The neuritogenic effects of compounds 1-3, and dicarboxilic acids 4 and 5, which had been previously synthesized with horseradish peroxidase-catalyzed oxidative coupling of caffeic acid, were examined in primary cultured rat cortical neurons. Americanoic acid A methyl ester (1) exhibited neurite outgrowth-promoting activity at concentration of 0.01-1.0 microM, whereas dicarboxilic acids 4 and 5 were found to induce neuritogenesis dose dependently at the concentrations from 0.1 microM to 10 microM. (+info)Mucosal toxicity studies of a gel formulation of native pokeweed antiviral protein. (3/12)
Pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP), a 29-kDa plant-derived protein isolated from Phytolacca americana, is a promising nonspermicidal broad-spectrum antiviral microbicide. This study evaluated the mucosal toxicity potential of native PAP in the in vivo rabbit vaginal irritation model as well as the in vitro reconstituted human vaginal epithelial tissue model. Twenty-two New Zealand white rabbits in 4 subgroups were exposed intravaginally to a gel with and without 0.01, 0.1, or 1.0% native PAP for 10 consecutive days. The dose of PAP used represented nearly 200- to 20,000 times its in vitro anti-HIV IC50 value. Animals were euthanized on day 11 and vaginal tissues were evaluated for histologic and immunohistochemical evidence of mucosal toxicity, cellular inflammation, and hyperplasia. Blood was analyzed for changes in hematology and clinical chemistry profiles. Reconstituted human vaginal epithelial tissue grown on membrane filters was exposed to 0.01, 0.1, or 1.0% native PAP in medium or topically via a gel for 24 hours and tissue damage was evaluated by histological assessment. In the in vivo rabbit vaginal irritation model, half of all PAP-treated rabbits (8/16) exhibited an acceptable range of vaginal mucosal irritation (total score <8 out of a possible 16), whereas nearly a third of PAP-treated rabbits (5/16) developed moderate to marked vaginal mucosal irritation (total score >11). However, no treatment-related adverse effects were seen in hematological or clinical chemistry measurements. Furthermore, in vitro exposure of a 3-dimensional human vaginal tissue grown on polycarbonate membrane filters to identical concentrations of PAP either added to culture medium or applied topically via gel formulation did not result in direct toxicity as determined by histologic evaluation. These findings indicate careful monitoring of vaginal irritation will be required in the clinical development of PAP as a nonspermicidal microbicide. (+info)The hydrophobic surface of PaAMP from pokeweed seeds is essential to its interaction with fungal membrane lipids and the antifungal activity. (4/12)
PaAMP is a small seed-specific antimicrobial protein from pokeweeds. It has a cysteine-knot fold with a positive patch and a hydrophobic surface. Site-specific mutagenesis was performed to study the roles of these two domains in antimicrobial activity and we found that the mutations in the hydrophobic surface had a more profound effect than that in the positive patch. A protein-membrane interaction was observed with the green fluorescence protein-PaAMP (GFP-AMP) fusion protein. The mutations that replace the amino acid residues forming hydrophobic surface with neutral residues abolished the interaction of PaAMP with the membrane and the binding of PaAMP to fungal sphingolipids while ergosterol enhanced the binding, suggesting that the hydrophobic surface was required for the interaction between PaAMP and fungal plasma membrane lipid raft. (+info)Endotoxin contamination in commercially available pokeweed mitogen contributes to the activation of murine macrophages and human dendritic cell maturation. (5/12)
Commercially available pokeweed mitogen (PWM) has been reported to activate macrophages, leading to production of proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO). However, we found that polymyxin B (PMB), a specific inhibitor of endotoxin activity, inhibited the PWM-induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines and NO and the activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). A kinetic-turbidimetric Limulus amebocyte lysate assay demonstrated that commercial PWM contained substantial endotoxin, over 10(4) endotoxin units/mg of the PWM. A PWM repurified by PMB-coupled beads no longer induced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, TLR4 activation, or dendritic cell maturation. However, the repurified PWM remained able to induce proliferation of human lymphocytes, which is a representative characteristic of PWM. These results suggest that commercial PWM might be contaminated with a large amount of endotoxin, resulting in the attribution of misleading immunological properties to PWM. (+info)Characterization of pokeweed antiviral protein binding to mRNA cap analogs: competition with nucleotides and enhancement by translation initiation factor iso4G. (6/12)
(+info)Phytolacca americana lectin (Pa-2; pokeweed mitogen): an intrinsically unordered protein and its conversion into partial order at low pH. (7/12)
(+info)Suppression of human T-cell leukemia virus I gene expression by pokeweed antiviral protein. (8/12)
(+info)Phytolacca americana, also known as Pokeweed or American Pokeweed, is not a medical term but a botanical name for a plant species that is native to North America. However, all parts of the plant, including the root, stem, leaves, and berries, contain toxic substances, such as phytolaccatoxin, saponins, and oxalates, which can cause symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to respiratory failure and even death if ingested in large quantities.
Traditionally, some parts of the plant have been used in folk medicine to treat various ailments, such as skin conditions, rheumatism, and malignant tumors. However, due to the lack of scientific evidence supporting its safety and efficacy, its use as a medicinal remedy is not recommended. Moreover, its ingestion can be dangerous and potentially fatal, especially in children and people with compromised immune systems or pre-existing medical conditions.
"Phytolacca" is the genus name for a group of plants commonly known as pokeweeds. These plants are native to North America and contain several biologically active compounds, including phytolaccatoxin, phytolaccigenin, and resin. The roots, stems, and berries of some species have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, such as treating skin conditions, rheumatism, and digestive disorders. However, it's important to note that these plants can be toxic if not used properly, and their use as a medicine is not supported by modern scientific evidence. Therefore, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using any products derived from Phytolacca species.
Ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) are a type of protein that can inhibit the function of ribosomes, which are the cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis. Ribosome-inactivating proteins are classified into two types: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 Ribosome-Inactivating Proteins (RIPs) are defined as single-chain proteins that inhibit protein synthesis by depurinating a specific adenine residue in the sarcin-ricin loop of the large rRNA molecule within the ribosome. This results in the irreversible inactivation of the ribosome, preventing it from participating in further protein synthesis.
Type 1 RIPs are found in various plant species and have been identified as potential therapeutic agents for cancer treatment due to their ability to selectively inhibit protein synthesis in cancer cells. However, they can also be toxic to normal cells, which limits their clinical use. Examples of Type 1 RIPs include dianthin, gelonin, and trichosanthin.
N-Glycosyl hydrolases (or N-glycanases) are a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of the glycosidic bond between an N-glycosyl group and an aglycon, which is typically another part of a larger molecule such as a protein or lipid. N-Glycosyl groups refer to carbohydrate moieties attached to an nitrogen atom, usually in the side chain of an amino acid such as asparagine (Asn) in proteins.
N-Glycosyl hydrolases play important roles in various biological processes, including the degradation and processing of glycoproteins, the modification of glycolipids, and the breakdown of complex carbohydrates. These enzymes are widely distributed in nature and have been found in many organisms, from bacteria to humans.
The classification and nomenclature of N-Glycosyl hydrolases are based on the type of glycosidic bond they cleave and the stereochemistry of the reaction they catalyze. They are grouped into different families in the Carbohydrate-Active enZymes (CAZy) database, which provides a comprehensive resource for the study of carbohydrate-active enzymes.
It is worth noting that N-Glycosyl hydrolases can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on human health. For example, they are involved in the normal turnover and degradation of glycoproteins in the body, but they can also contribute to the pathogenesis of certain diseases, such as lysosomal storage disorders, where mutations in N-Glycosyl hydrolases lead to the accumulation of undigested glycoconjugates and cellular damage.
"Periplaneta" is a genus name that refers to a group of large, winged insects commonly known as cockroaches. The two most common species in this genus are the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) and the German cockroach (Periplaneta germantica). These insects are typically found in warm, humid environments and can often be seen scurrying across floors or walls in homes, restaurants, and other buildings. They are known to carry diseases and can cause allergies and asthma attacks in some people.
Phytolacca dodecandra, also known as Cape Hottentot berry or African soapberry, is not a medical term or a medicinal product itself. It is a plant species native to Africa. However, various parts of this plant have been used in traditional medicine for their alleged therapeutic properties.
In traditional medicine, the roots and fruits of Phytolacca dodecandra are used to treat a variety of health conditions such as skin diseases, rheumatism, fever, and digestive problems. The plant contains various bioactive compounds like saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and sterols, which may have potential medicinal benefits. However, it is important to note that the scientific evidence supporting these traditional uses is limited, and further research is needed to establish their safety and efficacy.
It is also worth mentioning that Phytolacca dodecandra contains toxic compounds, and its use in large amounts or over a long period can be harmful. Therefore, it should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Pokeweed mitogens are substances derived from the pokeweed plant (Phytolacca americana) that have the ability to stimulate the production and proliferation of various types of cells, particularly white blood cells (lymphocytes). They are often used in laboratory settings as tools for studying the immune system and cell biology.
Pokeweed mitogens are typically extracted from the roots or leaves of the pokeweed plant and purified for use in research and diagnostic applications. When introduced to cells, they bind to specific receptors on the surface of lymphocytes and trigger a series of intracellular signaling events that lead to cell division and growth.
These mitogens are commonly used in immunological assays to measure immune function, such as assessing the proliferative response of lymphocytes to mitogenic stimulation. They can also be used to study the mechanisms of signal transduction and gene regulation in lymphocytes and other cell types.
It is important to note that pokeweed mitogens should only be handled by trained professionals in a controlled laboratory setting, as they can cause adverse reactions if improperly administered or ingested.
Plant lectins are proteins or glycoproteins that are abundantly found in various plant parts such as seeds, leaves, stems, and roots. They have the ability to bind specifically to carbohydrate structures present on cell membranes, known as glycoconjugates. This binding property of lectins is reversible and non-catalytic, meaning it does not involve any enzymatic activity.
Lectins play several roles in plants, including defense against predators, pathogens, and herbivores. They can agglutinate red blood cells, stimulate the immune system, and have been implicated in various biological processes such as cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). Some lectins also exhibit mitogenic activity, which means they can stimulate the proliferation of certain types of cells.
In the medical field, plant lectins have gained attention due to their potential therapeutic applications. For instance, some lectins have been shown to possess anti-cancer properties and are being investigated as potential cancer treatments. However, it is important to note that some lectins can be toxic or allergenic to humans and animals, so they must be used with caution.
"Plant proteins" refer to the proteins that are derived from plant sources. These can include proteins from legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas, as well as proteins from grains like wheat, rice, and corn. Other sources of plant proteins include nuts, seeds, and vegetables.
Plant proteins are made up of individual amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. While animal-based proteins typically contain all of the essential amino acids that the body needs to function properly, many plant-based proteins may be lacking in one or more of these essential amino acids. However, by consuming a variety of plant-based foods throughout the day, it is possible to get all of the essential amino acids that the body needs from plant sources alone.
Plant proteins are often lower in calories and saturated fat than animal proteins, making them a popular choice for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as well as those looking to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Additionally, plant proteins have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including improving gut health, reducing inflammation, and supporting muscle growth and repair.
"Persea" is a botanical term that refers to a genus of plants in the family Lauraceae, which includes over 150 species. The most well-known member of this genus is Persea americana, which is commonly known as the avocado tree. The fruit of this tree, also called an avocado, is widely consumed for its rich, creamy texture and high nutritional value. Avocados are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and have been linked to various health benefits.
Therefore, in a medical or nutritional context, "Persea" may refer specifically to the avocado fruit or its extracts, which have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic properties. However, it is important to note that not all species of Persea have similar medicinal or nutritional benefits, so any medical or health claims should be specific to the particular species or extract being used.
Lectins are a type of proteins that bind specifically to carbohydrates and have been found in various plant and animal sources. They play important roles in biological recognition events, such as cell-cell adhesion, and can also be involved in the immune response. Some lectins can agglutinate certain types of cells or precipitate glycoproteins, while others may have a more direct effect on cellular processes. In some cases, lectins from plants can cause adverse effects in humans if ingested, such as digestive discomfort or allergic reactions.
Cockroaches are not a medical condition or disease. They are a type of insect that can be found in many parts of the world. Some species of cockroaches are known to carry diseases and allergens, which can cause health problems for some people. Cockroach allergens can trigger asthma symptoms, especially in children. Additionally, cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria and other germs, which can lead to illnesses such as salmonellosis and gastroenteritis.
If you have a problem with cockroaches in your home or workplace, it is important to take steps to eliminate them to reduce the risk of health problems. This may include cleaning up food and water sources, sealing entry points, and using pesticides or hiring a professional pest control service.
Molluscicides are a type of pesticide specifically designed to kill mollusks, which include snails and slugs. These substances work by interfering with the mollusk's nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. Molluscicides are often used in agricultural settings to protect crops from damage caused by these pests, but they can also be found in residential products designed to control nuisance snails and slugs in gardens or landscaping.
It is important to note that molluscicides can be harmful to other organisms as well, including pets and wildlife, so they should be used with caution and according to the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, some molluscicides may pose risks to human health if not handled properly, so it is essential to follow safety guidelines when using these products.
An amino acid sequence is the specific order of amino acids in a protein or peptide molecule, formed by the linking of the amino group (-NH2) of one amino acid to the carboxyl group (-COOH) of another amino acid through a peptide bond. The sequence is determined by the genetic code and is unique to each type of protein or peptide. It plays a crucial role in determining the three-dimensional structure and function of proteins.
Molecular sequence data refers to the specific arrangement of molecules, most commonly nucleotides in DNA or RNA, or amino acids in proteins, that make up a biological macromolecule. This data is generated through laboratory techniques such as sequencing, and provides information about the exact order of the constituent molecules. This data is crucial in various fields of biology, including genetics, evolution, and molecular biology, allowing for comparisons between different organisms, identification of genetic variations, and studies of gene function and regulation.
"Materia Medica" is a term that comes from the Latin language, where "materia" means "substance" or "material," and "medica" refers to "medical." In a medical context, Materia Medica historically refers to a collection of detailed descriptions of substances that are used for medicinal purposes.
It is essentially a comprehensive reference book that describes the properties, actions, uses, dosages, potential side effects, and contraindications of various drugs or medicinal agents. The information in a Materia Medica is typically based on historical use, experimental pharmacological data, clinical trials, and other scientific research.
Modern Materia Medica has evolved to become more specialized, with separate references for different types of medicinal substances, such as botanical (herbal) medicine, homeopathic remedies, or conventional pharmaceuticals. These resources are often used by healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and nurses, to guide their prescribing decisions and ensure the safe and effective use of medications for their patients.
"Green Chemistry Technology," also known as "Sustainable Chemistry," refers to the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. It aims to minimize negative impacts on human health and the environment, while maximizing economic benefits. This is achieved through the application of principles such as preventing waste, designing safer chemicals, using renewable feedstocks, and minimizing energy use. Green Chemistry Technology involves the development and implementation of novel chemical reactions, catalysts, and processes that are inherently safer and more environmentally benign than traditional methods.
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American Pokeweed1
- I just cut down three Phytolacca americana ( American Pokeweed) growing in my garden today as a matter of fact. (growsonyou.com)
Decandra2
- Phytolacca decandra L. (maltawildplants.com)
- Below are the main rubriks (i.e strongest indications or symptoms) of Phytolacca Decandra in traditional homeopathic usage , not approved by the FDA. (abchomeopathy.com)
Phytolaccaceae1
- Phytolacca americana (PHYTOLACCACEAE. (maltawildplants.com)
ACINOSA1
- Appears to be Phytolacca acinosa (UK). (growsonyou.com)
Genus1
- Interest in this problem arose from a survey of Phytolacca as a genus of poisonous plants in North Carolina (Hardin, 1961) and from my collections of the two species in Georgia and Florida. (castaneajournal.com)
Plants1
- Phytolacca with a tree-like stem, which has male and female flowers on different plants. (blogspot.com)
Plant2
- The first word in its scientific name, Phytolacca americana, comes from the Greek words phyton (plant) and lacca-the scarlet dye secreted by the Kerria lacca scale insect. (wikipedia.org)
- Sakuta M, Takagi T, Komamine A (1986) Growth related accumulation of betacyanin in suspension cultures of Phytolacca americana L. Journal of Plant Physiology 125: 337-343. (riken.jp)
Common1
- Poke or Pokeweed, Phytolacca americana L., is a common and well-known weed throughout eastern United States. (castaneajournal.com)
Activity1
- Pa GT2, a UGT from Phytolacca americana , can regioselectively glycosylate piceatannol but has low activity toward other stilbenoids. (figshare.com)
Small1
- Phytolacca rigida Small is limited to the lower Coastal Plain of southeastern United States. (castaneajournal.com)
Long1
- Phytolacca has a long tradition of use as a powerful alterative, increasing elimination via the lymph, liver and bowel. (goldenneedleonline.com)
Close1
- Phytolacca with oval spear-shaped leaves, and flowers sitting close to the stalks. (blogspot.com)
DECANDRA1
- Below are the main rubriks (i.e strongest indications or symptoms) of Phytolacca Decandra in traditional homeopathic usage , not approved by the FDA. (abchomeopathy.com)
Poke1
- Phytolacca americana, commonly known as pokeweed, common poke or scoke, is a vigorous, herbaceous perennial that typically grows to 4-10' tall with a spread to 3-5' wide. (floridaseeds.net)
Roots2
- 13. Bioactive triterpene saponins from the roots of Phytolacca americana. (nih.gov)
- Proteins isolated from the roots of the pokeweed, Phytolacca americana, that agglutinate some erythrocytes, stimulate mitosis and antibody synthesis in lymphocytes, and induce activation of plasma cells. (bvsalud.org)
Root1
- Your search for PHYTOLACCA AMERICANA ROOT did not return any results. (nih.gov)
PERENNIAL1
- Phytolacca americana is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1.5 m (5ft) at a fast rate. (pfaf.org)
Berries1
- Pokeweed plants ( Phytolacca americana ) have berries that turn dark purple in the fall. (fodm.org)
Photo1
- Photo: Phytolacca americana 2. (henriettes-herb.com)
Black1
- Dark purple-black berry composed of 5-12 segments fused in a ring, on an erect stem (stems shorter than those on P. americana). (ncsu.edu)