Isolation and identification of an anti-algal compound from Artemisia annua and mechanisms of inhibitory effect on algae.
The goals of this work were to isolate and identify an anti-algal compound from extracts of Artemisia annua and study its mode of action on Microcystis aeruginosa. The anti-algal compound was isolated from the extracts using column chromatography and activity-guided fractionation methods. Artemisinin with strong anti-algal activity was identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and (1)H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. The EC(50) of artemisinin on M. aeruginosa was 3.2mg L(-1). Artemisinin decreased the soluble protein content and increased the superoxide dismutase activity and ascorbic acid content of M. aeruginosa, but exerted no effect on soluble sugar content. The results suggested the mode of action of artemisinin on algae may primarily be the increasing level of reactive oxygen species in algae cells. The results of our research could aid in the development of new anti-algal substances and lead to further study of mechanisms of inhibitory effect on algae.
Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, School of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China. nilixiao@gmail.com
Lixiao
L
Ni
Kumud
K
Acharya
Xiangyang
X
Hao
Shiyin
S
Li
D000085:Acetates / Q000737:chemistry; D000473:Alkanes / Q000737:chemistry; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000032:analysis / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D031172:Artemisia annua / Q000737:chemistry*; D046931:Microcystis / Q000187:drug effects*; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000032:analysis / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000085:Acetates; D000473:Alkanes; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D010936:Plant Extracts; C007650:ethyl acetate; C004544:naphtha