MK-1 molecule (C 16 H 16 O 2 ), the simplest structure of vitamin K (VK) compound family, is an extract from traditional Chinese medicine Cymbopogon distans (Nees ex Steud.) Wats (Chinese name YunXiangCao), which has attracted a great deal of attention in recent years due to its antiasthmatic, antitussives and expectorant effects. To investigate the molecular structure and chemical reactivity of MK-1 molecule, computational investigations on six conformational minima structures were carried out at the MP2/6-311++G(2d,2p) level of theory. Several local reactivity descriptors including condensed Fukui function, average local ionization energy, and molecular electrostatic potential on each individual atom were determined to predict the intrinsic reactivity of MK-1 molecule.
Gynostemma pentaphyllum (G. pentaphyllum) is a traditional medicinal plant with medicinal and economic value. With in-depth research on the chemical compositions and pharmacological effects, the applications of G. pentaphyllum have been expanded. G. pentaphyllum has the effects of clearing heat and detoxification, relieving cough and phlegm, nourishing heart, tranquilizing nerves, and can be used to treat gastroenteritis, tracheitis, pharyngitis, hyperlipidemia, and arteriosclerosis. It can also be used to alleviate symptoms such as migraines, insufficient sleep, and white hair. In recent years, G. pentaphyllum has also been used for clinical adjuvant treatment of various cancers. In this study, the chemical constituents and pharmacological effects on G. pentaphyllum in recent years were reviewed. This review could provide reference for further development and utilization of G. pentaphyllum.
