Total Phenolic Content, Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Potential of Wild Vegetables from Western Nepal

Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Proinflammatory Cytokines Is a Potential Therapeutic Action of Ficus lepicarpa B. (Moraceae) against Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4)-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Local tribes use the leaves of Ficus lepicarpa B. (Moraceae), a traditional Malaysian medicine, as a vegetable dish, a tonic, and to treat ailments including fever, jaundice and ringworm. The purpose of this study was to look into the possible therapeutic effects of F. lepicarpa leaf extract against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver damage in rats. The DPPH test was used to measure the antioxidant activity of plants. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used for the phytochemical analysis (GCMS). Six groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to the following treatment regimens: control group, CCl₄ alone, F. lepicarpa 400 mg/kg alone, CCl₄ + F. lepicarpa 100 mg/kg, CCl₄ + F. lepicarpa 200 mg/kg and CCl₄ + F. lepicarpa 400 mg/kg. The rats were euthanized after two weeks, and biomarkers of liver function and antioxidant enzyme status were assessed. To assess the extent of liver damage and fibrosis, histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations of liver tissue were undertaken. The total phenolic content and the total flavonoid content in methanol extract of F. lepicarpa leaves were 58.86 ± 0.04 mg GAE/g and 44.31 ± 0.10 mg CAE/g, respectively. F. lepicarpa’s inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) for free radical scavenging activity was reported to be 3.73 mg/mL. In a dose-related manner, F. lepicarpa was effective in preventing an increase in serum ALT, serum AST and liver MDA. Histopathological alterations revealed that F. lepicarpa protects against the oxidative stress caused by CCl₄. The immunohistochemistry results showed that proinflammatory cytokines (tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, prostaglandin E₂) were suppressed. The antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and free-radical scavenging activities of F. lepicarpa can be related to its hepatoprotective benefits.

Comparative Study of the Antioxidant Constituents, Activities and the GC-MS Quantification and Identification of Fatty Acids of Four Selected Helichrysum Species

Helichrysum Mill. (Asteraceae) is a plant genus comprising distinctively of aromatic plants of about 500–600 species. Since most of these plants have not been previously studied, extensive profiling helps to validate their folkloric uses and determine their potential value as sources of plant-derived drug candidates. This study, therefore, aims to investigate the antioxidant activity (DPPH, NO, FRAP); total antioxidant capacity, total phenolic, total flavonoid, and fatty acid compositions of the aqueous acetone extracts from four Helichrysum plants namely, Helichrysum pandurifolium, Helichrysum foetidum, Helichrysum petiolare, and Helichrysum cymocum. The results obtained showed that the H. cymocum extract had the best DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 11.85 ± 3.20 µg/mL) and H. petiolare extract had the best nitric oxide scavenging activity (IC50 = 20.81 ± 3.73 µg/mL), while H. pandurifolium Schrank extract (0.636 ± 0.005 µg/mL) demonstrated the best ferrous reducing power, all of which are comparable with results from ascorbic acid used as the standard. The IC50 values of the radical scavenging activity ranged from 11.85–41.13 µg/mL (DPPH), 20.81–36.19 µg/mL (NO), and 0.505–0.636 µg/mL (FRAP), for all the plants studied. The H. petiolare has the highest total antioxidant capacity (48.50 ± 1.55 mg/g), highest total phenolic content (54.69 ± 0.23 mg/g), and highest total flavonoid content (56.19 ± 1.01 mg/g) compared with other species. The fatty acid methyl esters were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results obtained showed variations in the fatty acid composition of the plant extracts, with H. petiolare having the highest saturated fatty acid (SFA) content (7184 µg/g) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content (7005.5 µg/g). In addition, H. foetidum had the highest monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content (1150.3 µg/g), while H. cymocum had the highest PUFA:SFA ratio of 1.202. In conclusion, the findings from this study revealed that H. pandurifolium Schrank, H. foetidum, H. petiolare, and H. cymocum are repositories of natural bioactive compounds with potential health-promoting benefits that need to be investigated, for both their antioxidant activity in a number of disease conditions and for further exploration in drug discovery and development projects.

Halotolerant biofilm-producing rhizobacteria mitigate seawater-induced salt stress and promote growth of tomato

Biofilm-producing rhizobacteria (BPR) enhance productivity and mitigate abiotic stresses in plants. This study showed that 21 out of 65 halotolerant rhizobacteria could build biofilms. The components of the biofilm matrices i.e., extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are proteins, curli, nanocelloluse, nucleic acids, lipids, and peptidoglycans. Various functional groups including carbonyl, carboxyl, amino, hydroxyl, and phosphate were identified. Positions of these groups were shifted by application of 5% NaCl, suggesting Na⁺ biosorption. By sequencing, Glutamicibacter arilaitensis (ESK1, ESM4 and ESM7), G. nicotianae (ESK19, ESM8 and ESM16), Enterobacter ludwigii (ESK15, ESK17, ESM2 and ESM17), E. cloacae (ESM5 and ESM12), Exiguobacterium acetylicum (ESM24 and ESM25), Staphylococcus saprophyticus ESK6, Leclercia adecarboxylata ESK12, Pseudomonas poae ESK16, Bacillus subtilis ESM14, and P. putida ESM17 were identified. These rhizobacteria exhibited numerous plant growth-promoting (PGP) activities including producing IAA, ACC deaminase, and siderophores, and solubilizing phosphate. Under non-stress, bacterized plants increased biomass accumulation (8–23.2% roots and 23–49.4% shoots), while under seawater-induced salt stress only ESK12, ESM4, ESM12, and ESM14 enhanced biomass production (5.8–52.9% roots and 8.8–33.4% shoots). Bacterized plants induced antioxidant defense system (19.5–142% catalase and 12.3–24.2% DPPH radical scavenging activity), retained a greater relative water content (17–124%), showed lesser membrane injuries (19.9–26.5%), and a reduced Na⁺ (6–24% in roots) and increased K⁺/Na⁺ ratio (78.8 and 103% in roots by ESK12 and ESM24, respectively) than the non-bacterized plants in saline conditions. Thus, native halotolerant BPR can be utilized as ameliorators of salt stress.

An In Vitro Anticancer, Antioxidant, and Phytochemical Study on Water Extract of Kalanchoe daigremontiana Raym.-Hamet and H. Perrier

Kalanchoe species are succulents with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, as well as cytotoxic activity. One of the most popular species cultivated in Europe is Kalanchoe daigremontiana Raym.-Hamet and H. Perrier. In our study, we analyzed the phytochemical composition of K. daigremontiana water extract using UHPLC-QTOF-MS and estimated the cytotoxic activity of the extract on human ovarian cancer SKOV-3 cells by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, flow cytometry, luminometric, and fluorescent microscopy techniques. The expression levels of 92 genes associated with cell death were estimated via real-time PCR. The antioxidant activity was assessed via flow cytometry on human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line. The DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical and FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power) assays were also applied. We identified twenty bufadienolide compounds in the water extract and quantified eleven. Bersaldegenin-1,3,5-orthoacetate and bryophyllin A were present in the highest amounts (757.4 ± 18.7 and 573.5 ± 27.2 ng/mg dry weight, respectively). The extract showed significant antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity, induced depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, and significantly arrested cell cycle in the S and G2/M phases of SKOV-3 cells. Caspases-3, 7, 8, and 9 were not activated during the treatment, which indicated non-apoptotic cell death triggered by the extract. Additionally, the extract increased the level of oxidative stress in the cancer cell line. In keratinocytes treated with menadione, the extract moderately reduced the level of oxidative stress. This antioxidant activity was confirmed by the DPPH and FRAP assays, where the obtained IC₅₀ values were 1750 ± 140 and 1271.82 ± 53.25 μg/mL, respectively. The real-time PCR analysis revealed that the extract may induce cell death via TNF receptor (tumor necrosis factor receptor) superfamily members 6 and 10.

Antimicrobial Evaluation of Various Honey Types against Carbapenemase-Producing Gram-Negative Clinical Isolates

The development of antibiotic resistance is a major public health issue, as infections are increasingly unresponsive to antibiotics. Emerging antimicrobial resistance has raised researchers’ interest in the development of alternative strategies using natural compounds with antibacterial activity, like honey, which has emerged as an agent to treat several infections and wound injuries. Nevertheless, the antibacterial effect of honey was mostly evaluated against Gram-positive bacteria. Hence, the objective of our study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity, as well as the physicochemical parameters, of genuine Greek honeys against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria. In this vein, we aimed to study the in vitro antibacterial potential of rare Greek honeys against Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM)- or Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-producing multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, hydrogen peroxide, free acidity, lactonic acid, total phenols total flavonoids, free radical scavenging activities, tyrosinase enzyme inhibitory activity and kojic acid were examined. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of 10 different honey types was evaluated in five consecutive dilutions (75%, 50%, 25%, 12.5% and 6.25%) against the clinical isolates by the well diffusion method, as well as by the determination of the minimum inhibition concentration after the addition of catalase and protease. Almost all the physicochemical parameters varied significantly among the different honeys. Fir and manuka honey showed the highest values in pH and H₂O₂, while the free acidity and lactonic acid levels were higher in chestnut honey. Total phenols, total flavonoids and free radical scavenging activities were found higher in cotton, arbutus and manuka honey, and finally, manuka and oregano honeys showed higher tyrosinase inhibition activity and kojic acid levels. The antimicrobial susceptibility depended on the type of honey, on its dilution, on the treatment methodology and on the microorganism. Arbutus honey was the most potent against VIM-producing Enterobacter cloacae subsp. dissolvens in 75% concentration, while fir honey was more lethal for the same microorganism in the 25% concentration. Many honeys outperformed manuka honey in their antibacterial potency. It is of interest that, for any given concentration in the well diffusion method and for any given type of honey, significant differences were not detected among the four multidrug-resistant pathogens, which explains that the damaging effect to the bacterial cells was the same regardless of the bacterial species or strain. Although the antimicrobial potency of different honey varieties dependents on their geographical origin and on their compositional differences, the exact underlying mechanism remains yet unclear.

Combined Metabolome and Transcriptome Analyses Reveal the Flavonoids Changes and Biosynthesis Mechanisms in Different Organs of Hibiseu manihot L

Hibiseu manihot L. (Jinhuakui, JHK), also known as a garden landscape plant, is widely cultivated as a landscape plant having pharmacological effects due to its high flavonoids content. Although flavonoids were the main active pharmaceutical ingredients in JHK, little information was obtained about the content, composition, and accumulation pattern of flavonoids in different tissues. Most studies only identified a few kinds of flavonoids in JHK limited by separation and identification problems. Therefore, combined metabolome and transcriptome analysis was performed to explore the accumulation patterns and biosynthesis mechanisms of flavonoids in JHK. In this study, we identified 160 flavonoids in 15 samples of JHK (flower, leaf, root, stem, and seeds) by using LC-MS/MS. Consistent with the total flavonoid content determination, these flavonoids were significantly accumulated in flowers, followed by leaves, stems, roots, and seeds. Among them, certain flavonoids, with high content, were also identified for the first time in JHK, such as tricetin, catechin, hesperidin, ncyanidin-3-O-sambubioside, astragalin, procyanidin B2/B3/C1, apigenin-5-O-glucoside, etc. Different tissues underwent significantly reprogramming of their transcriptomes and metabolites changes in JHK, particularly in the flavonoid, flavone, and flavonol biosynthesis pathways. We conducted a correlation analysis between RNA-seq and LC-MS/MS to identify the key genes and related flavonoids compounds, rebuild the gene-metabolites regulatory subnetworks, and then identified 15 key genes highly related to flavonoids accumulation in JHK. These key genes might play a fine regulatory role in flavonoids biosynthesis by affecting the gene expression level in different organs of JHK. Our results could be helpful for the improvement of the market/industrial utilization value of different parts of JHK, to pave the way for the regulatory mechanism research of flavonoids biosynthesis, and provide insight for studying the production quality improvement of JHK.

Antifungal Potential of Green Synthesized Magnetite Nanoparticles Black Coffee-Magnetite Nanoparticles Against Wilt Infection by Ameliorating Enzymatic Activity and Gene Expression in Solanum lycopersicum L

Tomato plants are prone to various biotic and abiotic stresses. Fusarium wilt is one of the most devasting diseases of tomatoes caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, causing high yield and economic losses annually. Magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) are one of the potent candidates to inhibit fungal infection by improving plant growth parameters. Spinach has been used as a starting material to synthesize green-synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). Various extracts, i.e., pomegranate juice, white vinegar, pomegranate peel, black coffee (BC), aloe vera peel, and aspirin, had been used as reducing/stabilizing agents to tune the properties of the Fe3O4 NPs. After utilizing spinach as a precursor and BC as a reducing agent, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed cubic magnetite (Fe3O4) phase. Spherical-shaped nanoparticles (∼20 nm) with superparamagnetic nature indicated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) monographs, whereas energy-dispersive X-ray gives good elemental composition in Fe3O4 NPs. A characteristic band of Fe-O at ∼ 561 cm-1 was exhibited by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results confirmed the binding energies of Fe 2p3/2 (∼710.9 eV) and Fe 2p1/2 (∼724.5 eV) while, Raman bands at ∼310 cm-1 (T2 g ), ∼550 cm-1 (T2 g ), and 670 cm-1 (A1 g ) indicated the formation of Fe3O4 NPs synthesized using BC extract. The in vitro activity of BC-Fe3O4 NPs significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of F. oxysporum both at the third and seventh day after incubation, in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo studies also exhibited a substantial reduction in disease severity and incidence by improving plant growth parameters after treatment with different concentrations of BC-Fe3O4 NPs. The increasing tendency in enzymatic activities had been measured after treatment with different concentrations of NPs both in roots and shoot of tomato plants as compared to the control. Correspondingly, the upregulation of PR-proteins and defense genes are in line with the results of the enzymatic activities. The outcome of the present findings suggests that Fe3O4 NPs has the potential to control wilt infection by enhancing plant growth. Hence, Fe3O4 NPs, being non-phytotoxic, have impending scope in the agriculture sector to attain higher yield by managing plant diseases.

Teucrium polium (L.): Phytochemical Screening and Biological Activities at Different Phenological Stages

The aim of the present study was to investigate the changes in the content of phytochemical compounds and in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities of Teucrium polium L. aerial parts and root methanolic extracts at different phenological stages (vegetative, flowering, and seeding). The T. polium extracts were analyzed using gas chromatography−mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and their antioxidant properties were tested with the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO), ferrous ions (Fe2+), and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) methods. Forty-nine compounds were identified with the majority of germacrene D, t-cadinol, β-pinene, carvacrol, bicyclogermacrene, α-pinene, and limonene. The results show that the extracts significantly differ between different phenological stages of the plant material used in terms of the phytochemical composition (total phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, total alkaloids, and total saponin contents) and bioactivities (antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory) (p < 0.05). The highest total contents of phenolics (72.4 ± 2.5 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dry weight), flavonoids (36.2 ± 3.1 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g dry weight), alkaloids (105.7 ± 2.8 mg atropine equivalent (AE)/g dry weight), and saponins (653 ± 6.2 mg escin equivalent (EE)/g dry weight), as well as antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities, were measured for the extract of the aerial parts obtained at the flowering stage. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for the extracts were varied within 9.4−300 µg/mL, while the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were varied within 18.75−600 µg/mL. In addition, they were more active on Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. The data of this work confirm that the T. polium extracts have significant biological activity and hence can be used in the pharmaceutical industry, clinical applications, and medical research, as well as cosmetic and food industries.

Protective Effects of Alternanthera sessilis Ethanolic Extract against TNF-α or H2O2-Induced Endothelial Activation in Human Aortic Endothelial Cells

Activation of the endothelium has been shown to contribute to the early stage of vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and hypertension. In endothelial activation, excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and increased expression of cell adhesion molecules cause an increase in vascular permeability. Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R. Br. is an edible traditional herbal plant, which has previously been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the effect of A. sessilis on the activation of human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of A. sessilis on endothelial permeability, vascular cell adhesion-1 (VCAM-1) expression, production of ROS and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities. The viability of HAECs was first determined using the MTT viability assay. The effect of A. sessilis on endothelial permeability was examined using the FITC-dextran permeability assay. Besides, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was done to assess soluble VCAM-1 (sVCAM-1) expression. The production of ROS and H₂O₂ was studied using 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H₂-DCFDA) and Amplex Red fluorescent dyes, respectively. SOD and CAT activities were also measured using commercial kits. Our results showed that 25–200 μg/mL of A. sessilis ethanolic extract did not cause significant death in HAECs. A. sessilis at 200 μg/mL significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced hyperpermeability of HAECs. However, A. sessilis did not reduce increased VCAM-1 expression induced by TNF-α. A. sessilis also significantly reduced TNF-α-induced increased ROS production, but not H₂O₂ production. Furthermore, 100 μM of H₂O₂ decreased both SOD and CAT activities in HAECs at 2 h. A. sessilis ethanolic extract dramatically increased both reduced SOD and CAT activities caused by H₂O₂. The liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of A. sessilis ethanolic extract demonstrated the presence of arachidonic acid, azadirachtin, astaxanthin, flavanole base + 3O, 2Prenyl, and vicenin 2, while the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed that the extract contains 1,3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-2,3-dihydro-4H-pyran-4-one, 3-deoxy-d-mannoic lactone, 4-pyrrolidinobenzaldehyde, and n-hexadecanoic acid. In conclusion, our findings suggest that A. sessilis ethanolic extract protects against endothelial hyperpermeability and oxidative stress elicited by pro-inflammatory or prooxidant stimulus. This study reveals a therapeutic potential of A. sessilis in preventing endothelial activation, which is a key event in early atherosclerosis.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) pulp, seed and peel flour

The unripe pulp, inner peel and seed of durian were used in this study. These are generally not considered edible and must be disposed of as waste. However, they are good sources of bioactive compounds. Flour extracts from the unripe pulp, inner peel, and seed of two durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) varieties, namely, Monthong and Chanee, were analyzed chemically to determine their total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory capacities. Chanee pulp (CPu) contained a higher TPC (5285.37 ± 517.65 mg GAE/g) than Monthong pulp (MPu), Monthong peel (MP), Monthong seed (MS), Chanee peel (CP) and Chanee seed (CS) (p = 0.0027, 0.0042, 0.0229, 0.0069 and 0.36), respectively. The antioxidant activity of each durian extract was determined against ABTS, nitric oxide, superoxide, hydroxyl, and metal ions. The results indicated that the pulp, inner peel and seed of these durian varieties had antioxidant capacities. Murine Raw 264.7 macrophages were used to determine the cytotoxicity of the flour extracts. The extract of CS flour had the lowest cytotoxicity followed by MP, CPu, CP, MPu and MS (p = 0.5926, 0.44, 0.3191, 0.1471 and 0.0014), respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity was tested by anti-nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated cells by co-treating the Raw 264.7 cells with each durian flour extract and LPS. The extract of MP flour had the lowest IC50 against NO production, indicating the highest anti-NO production activity followed by CS, CPu, MPu, CP and MS (p = 0.7473, 0.0104, < 0.0001, 0.0002 and < 0.0001, respectively). The information obtained in this study is useful for researchers to explore more durian varieties in Southeast Asia to find bioactive compounds that might be novel nutraceuticals for antioxidant, anti-inflammation and therapeutic functional food.

Prevention of Enzymatic Browning by Natural Extracts and Genome-Editing: A Review on Recent Progress

Fresh fruits and vegetable products are easily perishable during postharvest handling due to enzymatic browning reactions. This phenomenon has contributed to a significant loss of food quality and appearance. Thus, a safe and effective alternative method from natural sources is needed to tackle enzymatic browning prevention. The capabilities of natural anti-browning agents derived from plant- and animal-based resources in inhibiting enzymatic activity have been demonstrated in the literature. Some also possess strong antioxidants properties. This review aims to summarize a recent investigation regarding the use of natural anti-browning extracts from different sources for controlling the browning. The potential applications of genome-editing in preventing browning activity and improving postharvest quality is also discussed. Moreover, the patents on the anti-browning extract from natural sources is also presented in this review. The information reviewed here could provide new insights, contributing to the development of natural anti-browning extracts and genome-editing techniques for the prevention of food browning.

Overexpression of the Selaginella lepidophylla bHLH transcription factor enhances water-use efficiency, growth, and development in Arabidopsis

Abiotic stresses have the greatest impact on the growth and productivity of crops, especially under current and future extreme weather events due to climate change. Thus, it is vital to explore novel strategies to improve crop plant abiotic stress tolerance to feed an ever-growing world population. Selaginella lepidophylla is a desiccation-tolerant spike moss with specialized adaptations that allow it to tolerate water loss down to 4% relative water content. A candidate basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor was highly expressed at 4% relative water content in S. lepidophylla (SlbHLH). This SlbHLH gene was codon-optimized (SlbHLH_opt) and overexpressed in Arabidopsis for functional characterization. Overexpression of the SlbHLH_opt gene not only significantly increased plant growth, development, and integrated water-use efficiency, but also significantly increased seed germination and green cotyledon emergence rates under water-deficit stress and salt stress conditions. Under a 150 mM NaCl salt stress condition, SlbHLH_opt-overexpressing lines increased primary root length, the number of lateral roots, and fresh and dry biomass at the seedling stage compared to control lines. Interestingly, SlbHLH_opt-overexpressing lines also have significantly higher flavonoid content. Altogether, these results suggest that SlbHLH functions as an important regulator of plant growth, development, abiotic stress tolerance, and water-use efficiency.

Evaluation of Peronema canescens Leaves Extract: Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis, Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content, Antioxidant Capacity, and Radical Scavenger Activity

BACKGROUND: Peronema canescens (Sungkai) leaves have been popular in Indonesia which contain various bioactive compounds with empirical therapeutic efficacy in dealing with COVID-19 and various other diseases. Total phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method from P. canescens leaf extract have not been studied much. AIM: This research has several objectives. The first is to compare the results of qualitative phytochemical analysis of the ethanol extract of the leaves of P. canescens (EEPL). The second is to measure the total phenol and flavonoid content. The third is to test the FTIR and antioxidant activity of the ethanol extract of P. canescens leaves in vitro using the DPPH method. METHODS: Fresh plant material and simplicia, ethanol extract extracted by maceration method using 96% ethanol as solvent from P. canescens. The Dragendorff’s and Mayer test carried out the qualitative phytochemical analysis, FeCl3 test, Salkowski method, Liebermann–Burchard method, foam test, and NaOH reagent. The total phenolic and flavonoid levels were tested using the Folin–Ciocalteu method. In vitro antioxidant activity was carried out using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) method. RESULTS: The results of qualitative phytochemical screening showed that alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and steroids were detected in the extract of P. canescens. The spectra from the FTIR test results showed various absorbance peak values indicating the bonding of specific functional groups, namely: 418.12, 599.94, 666.67, 1036.39, 1159.52, 1224.16, 1348.95, 1454.19, 1600.87, 1732.00, 2923.13, and 3353.01 cm-1. In the test results, total phenolic content was as much as 5.64% (mgEAG/g) and total flavonoid content of 142,247 mgEQ/g in a sample of 1 mg extract, which was equivalent to 1 mg quercetin. EEPL has antioxidant activity with the DPPH IC50 method of 116.7865 ppm. CONCLUSION: The data obtained at this time can contribute to the exploitation of P. canescens leaves in the future as one of the nutraceutical products, supplements, and herbal medicines by specific industries related to improving the health status of the world community. The higher the bioactive substance in preparation, the more significant the effect of the pharmacological efficacy response. P. canescens ethanol extract has good total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant action.

Efficacy of Ficus carica leaf extract on morphological and molecular behavior of mice germ stem cells

Infertility is one of the most prevalent health disorders in reproductive-age males and females. Ficus carica (Fc), an herbal plant, has been used traditionally for the treatment of different diseases such as infertility especially in Iranian folk medicine. This study examined the effects of Fc leaf extract on the proliferation of mice spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Phenolic, flavonoid content, major polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated respectively by Folin-Ciocateu, aluminum chloride, HPLC and the FRAP and DPPH methods. Testicular cells of neonate mice were extracted and their identity was confirmed using cytokeratin for Sertoli and Oct-4, CDHI and PLZF for SSCs. Effects of Fc (0.0875, 0.175, 0.35, 0.71 and 1.42 mg/ml) was evaluated at third, 7th, 9th and 14th days of culture by colony assay. The expression of the Mvh, GFRα1 and Oct-4 genes and the viability and proliferation of cultured cells was assessed at the end of the culture period. The extract has a rich phenolic and flavonoid content such as Rutin, Psoralen, Bergapten and Caffeoylmalic acid using HPLC analysis. It also had a potent reducing and radical scavenging activity. Morphology of colonies was similar in all groups. Higher viability, proliferation, colony number and diameter of SSCs was seen in the presence of Fc leaf extract in a dose-dependent manner so that higher number and diameter of colonies were observed in two higher doses of 0.71 and 1.42 mg/ml, separately for each time point relative to other groups. The Mvh, Oct-4 and GFRα1 genes expression had no significant differences between groups. It seems that Fc leaf extract not only had no any cytotoxic effects on the viability and proliferation of SSCs but also support their stemness state. So, this culture system can be employed for enrichment of germ stem cells for use in clinical applications.

Synergistic Impact of Bioactive Byproduct Extract Leads to Anti-Fusarium and Anti-Mycotoxin Secretion

Fruit byproducts are considered a high source of bioactive molecules, which possess antioxidant activities. These antioxidants play principal functions in mycotoxin reduction. This study aimed to evaluate crude mandarin byproduct extract for its chemical interaction with fungal growth and suppression of mycotoxin production, and to illustrate whether the impact was regarding individual molecules or a synergistic antioxidation process. Extract contents were analyzed for their phenolic, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. The fatty acid composition and volatile components were determined using the GC apparatus. The influence of the extract evaluated versus the standard phenolics of trans-ferulic and hesperidin were evaluated. The liposome technique was applied to prevent the antioxidant properties of the bioactive extract. The anti-mycotoxigenic effects of the liposomal and non-liposomal extract were determined in fungal media against the standard phenolics. The results manifested ferulic (235.54 ± 3.34 mg/100 g) and hesperidin (492.11 ± 1.15 mg/100 g) as high phenolics in the extract. Limonene was the main volatile (67.54 ± 1.74%), as well antioxidant activities determined in considerable values. The crude extract recorded efficiency as an anti-Fusarium agent, but less than the standard hesperidin applied in fungal media. The bioactive extract recorded possessed a reduction influence on mycotoxin production. The impact may be joining with its fungal inhibition or its component activity with the active groups on the mycotoxin molecule. The formation of liposomal extract enhanced its efficacy in mycotoxin reduction. This enhancement may illustrate its protective properties for antioxidant components of the bioactive extract.

Assessment role of total phenols and flavonoids extracted from Pleurotus columbinus mushroom on the premature ovarian failure induced by chemotherapy in rats

BACKGROUND

Many species of mushroom contain an assortment of free radical scavengers (Phenolics and Flavonoids compounds) that have made them nutritionally beneficial and a source of expansion of drug production. In this study, we examined the preventive and remedial role of total phenol extract from Pleurotus columbines (TP) in alleviating the consequences of cyclophosphamide (CTX) on the ovaries of female rats. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: healthy controls, cyclophosphamide (CTX), received a TP (100 mg/kg) orally daily for 14 days and curative group: CTX-TP, we determined and identified a total phenol from a mushroom extract and examined it as an antioxidant agent. To investigate the therapeutic influence, it was administrated 2 weeks after CTX. To assess the impact of TP on ovarian damage caused by CTX, ovarian hormone tests were performed such as luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-β-estradiol (E2), and anti-mullerian hormone (AMH). Besides, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in serum was evaluated, and histopathological analysis of the ovary was examined.

RESULTS

This study indicates that treatment with TP decreased the severity of cyclophosphamide-induced ovary injury by reducing inflammation and apoptotic effects and increasing the activity of antioxidants.

CONCLUSIONS

TP could be used to alleviate cyclophosphamide-induced ovary injury.

Divya-Herbal-Peya Decoction Harmonizes the Inflammatory Response in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Zebrafish Model

Background

Divya-Herbal-Peya (DHP) is a plant-based decoction containing fourteen herbs in precise quantities; usually prescribed by the practitioners in Ayurveda to alleviate stress and minimize the exasperating symptoms of recurring infections. Our study aims to provide an experimental validation to the immunomodulatory properties of DHP.

Methods

Physico-chemical analysis of DHP was performed to evaluate the presence of secondary metabolites. The phytochemicals were then identified and quantitated through HPTLC, UHPLC, and GC-MS techniques. To address the scientific rationale behind DHP, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was intraperitoneally injected in adult zebrafish to develop inflammatory response. Following LPS-induction, abnormality in locomotory behaviour was determined by evaluating the relative swim velocity and the rate of turning in experimental zebrafish. Pathophysiological effects were determined through opercular frequency, behavioural fever, and caudal fin damage. LPS-mediated inflammation was measured of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNFα, IL-6, and IL-1β expression in the serum of study animals, by RT-PCR.

Results

Our study phytochemically characterized and ascertained the presence of glycyrrhizin, rosmarinic acid, gingerol, cinnamic acid, protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid, piperine and cinnamaldehyde in DHP decoction. LPS induced aberrant locomotory patterns, behavioural fever and caudal fin damage in zebrafish. A significant increase in gene expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNFα, IL-6, and IL-1β was also determined. However, these locomotory deviations and behavioural fever were negligible in zebrafish groups pre-administered either with DHP in a dose dependent manner or dexamethasone (DEX). The altered opercular rate, caudal fin damage and elevated transcription levels of pro-inflammatory genes upon LPS-induction were averted in groups pre-treated with DHP and DEX.

Conclusion

DHP prophylactically prevented the LPS-induced abnormal behaviour and inflammation-related pathophysiology in zebrafish. Immunomodulatory properties of DHP may not have therapeutic intervention, but do confer nutraceutical health benefits against mild infections.

Variation in Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Various Organs of African Cabbage (Cleome gynandra L.) Accessions at Different Growth Stages

The presence of nutritional and health-benefiting compounds has increased awareness of orphan leafy vegetables such as Cleome gynandra (CG), whose phytochemicals vary among accessions and organs during growth. This study investigated the polyphenol accumulation and antioxidant activities (AOA) of eight CG accessions from the vegetative stage to the seed set stage. Plants were separated into leaves and stem (LS), flowers, and silique organs, and extracts were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), rutin and astragalin content, and AOA using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS). There were significant interaction effects of growth stages and accessions that contributed to changes in compounds content and AOA. TPC accumulated in plant generative parts, whereas flavonoids accumulated in young plant organs. HPLC profiling revealed that rutin was the most abundant compound in all organs, with flowers having the highest levels, while astragalin was only found in flowers. Silique extracts, particularly accession KF-14, recorded the highest TPC, which corresponded to the strongest radical scavenging activity in ABTS and DPPH assays and a strong linear correlation. The germplasm contained accessions with significantly different and varying levels of bioactive compounds and AOA. These findings potentiate the exploitation of CG organs such as siliques for AOA, flowers for rutin and astragalin, and young shoots for flavonoids. Moreover, the significant accumulation of the compounds in particular accessions of the germplasms suggest that such superior accessions may be useful candidates in genetic breeding programs to improve CG vegetable.

Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical composition, antimicrobial activity, and brine shrimp cytotoxicity of different solvent extracts of Acanthus polystachyus, Keetia gueinzii, and Rhynchosia elegans

Background

The root, root bark, and root tubers of Acanthus polystachyus, Keetia gueinzii, and Rhynchosia elegans are used for managing bacterial and fungal infections among the Luo community of Kisumu East Sub County in Kenya. However, data on the efficacy of these plants against common bacterial and fungal pathogens is not available. The safety of these plants is also not known. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition, antimicrobial properties, and safety of different solvent extracts of the roots, root barks, and root tubers of Acanthus polystachyus, Keetia gueinzii, and Rhynchosia elegans. The broth microdilution method evaluated the antimicrobial activities of the root, root bark, and root tuber extracts (water, acetone, and methanol) of Acanthus polystachyus, Keetia gueinzii, and Rhynchosia elegans. Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus), gram-negative (Escherichia coli), and fungal (Candida albicans) microorganisms were used in the evaluation. The safety of the extracts was evaluated in Artemia salina. The phytochemical composition of the extracts was determined using qualitative and quantitative assays.

Results

In general, the extracts of Acanthus polystachyus, Keetia gueinzii, and Rhynchosia elegans displayed poor antimicrobial properties relative to conventional antimicrobial agents including Amoxicillin, Gentamicin, and Nystatin. The aqueous extract of Acanthus polystachyus and the aqueous, acetone, and methanol extracts of Keetia gueinzii were safe in Artemia salina but all other extracts were cytotoxic to Artemia salina.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the use of the roots, root barks, and root tubers of Acanthus polystachyus, Keetia gueinzii, and Rhynchosia elegans is limited by poor antimicrobial efficacy and cytotoxicity.

Effect of UV Irradiation (A and C) on Casuarina equisetifolia-Mediated Biosynthesis and Characterization of Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activity of Biocompatible Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

The green synthesis of nanoparticles has emerged as a simple, safe, sustainable, reliable and eco-friendly protocol. Among different types of NPs, green-synthesized zinc oxide NPs (ZnONPs) show various promising biological uses due to their interesting magnetic, electrical, optical and chemical characteristics. Keeping in view the dependence of the therapeutic efficacy of NPs on their physico-chemical characteristics, the green synthesis of ZnONPs using Casuarina equisetifolia leaf extract under UV-A and UV-C light was carried out in this study. UV-irradiation helped to control the size and morphology of ZnONPs by exciting the electrons in the photoactive compounds of plant extracts to enhance the bio-reduction of ZnO into ZnONPs. C. equisetifolia leaf extract was found enriched with phenolic (2.47 ± 0.12 mg GAE/g DW) and flavonoid content (0.88 ± 0.28 mg QE/g DW) contributing to its 74.33% free-radical scavenging activity. FTIR spectra showed the involvement of polyphenols in the bio-reduction, stabilization and capping of ZnONPs. Moreover, SEM-EDX and XRD analyses showed great potential of UV-C light in yielding smaller (34–39 nm) oval-shaped ZnONPs, whereas UV-A irradiation resulted in the formation of fairly spherical 67–71 nm ZnONPs and control ZnONPs were of mixed shape and even larger size (84–89 nm). Green-synthesized ZnONPs, notably CE-UV-C-ZnONPs, showed promising anti-bacterial activities against Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, ZnONPs also enhanced ROS production which led to a significant loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and activated caspase-3 gene expression and caspase-3/7 activity in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells. CE-UV-C-ZnONP treatment reduced HepG2 cell viability to as low as 36.97% owing to their unique shape and smaller size. Lastly, ZnONPs were found to be highly biocompatible towards brine shrimp and human red blood cells suggesting their bio-safe nature. This research study sheds light on the plausible role of UV radiation in the green synthesis of ZnONPs with reasonable control over their size and morphology, thus improving their biological efficacy.

Optimization of extraction conditions for polyphenols from the stem bark of Funtumia elastica (Funtum) utilizing response surface methodology

BACKGROUND

The recovery of phenolic compounds is seen as an arduous task because phenolic compounds are available as free aglycones, as sugar or ester conjugates, or as polymers with several monomeric components. This study looks at the optimization of factors that affect the efficiency for the extraction of phenolic compounds from the stem-bark of Funtumia elastica.

METHODS

Five independent variables (solvent concentration, time, the temperature, solid-liquid ratio, and pH) of the extraction process were selected. Single factor analysis as well as the response surface method was used to evaluate the impact of the selected factors on the total phenolic content. The effect of the extraction factors on the phenolic content was tested for its statistical significant (p <0.05). For the response surface method, a five/factor, five/level central composite design was used, and a fitted second-order polynomial regression model equation was used to show how the extraction parameters affected the total phenolic recovery.

RESULTS

The predicted value (R² of 0.5917) agreed with the adjusted value (R² of 0.7707). The residuals for response predictions were less than 5%. The optimal factors for the extraction were ethanol concentration of 75.99% v/v, extraction time of 193.86 minutes, temperature of 63.66°C, pH of 5.62, and solid-liquid ratio of 1:21.12 g/mL. Actual overall content of the phenolic compounds was validated at 82.83 ± 3.335 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) /g weight of extract, which agreed with the predicted response of 89.467 mg GAE/g of the dried extract under the optimal factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The rich phenolic content of stem-bark of Funtumia elastica points to its potential as a functional medicinal product to alleviate diseases caused by oxidative stress such as asthma, breathing disorders, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. The results obtained indicate that, the studied optimal conditions support effective phenolics extraction of Funtumia elastica.

Optimization of extraction conditions for polyphenols from the stem bark of Funtumia elastica (Funtum) utilizing response surface methodology

Background: The recovery of phenolic compounds is seen as an arduous task because phenolic compounds are available as free aglycones, as sugar or ester conjugates, or as polymers with several monomeric components. This study looks at the optimization of factors that affect the efficiency for the extraction of phenolic compounds from the stem-bark of Funtumia elastica.

Methods: Five independent variables (solvent concentration, time, the temperature, solid-liquid ratio, and pH) of the extraction process were selected. Single factor analysis as well as the response surface method was used to evaluate the impact of the selected factors on the total phenolic content. The effect of the extraction factors on the phenolic content was tested for its statistical significant (p <0.05). For the response surface method, a five/factor, five/level central composite design was used, and a fitted second-order polynomial regression model equation was used to show how the extraction parameters affected the total phenolic recovery.

Results: The predicted value (R² of 0.5917) agreed with the adjusted value (R² of 0.7707). The residuals for response predictions were less than 5%. The optimal factors for the extraction were ethanol concentration of 75.99% v/v, extraction time of 193.86 minutes, temperature of 63.66°C, pH of 5.62, and solid-liquid ratio of 1:21.12 g/mL. Actual overall content of the phenolic compounds was validated at 82.83 ± 3.335 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) /g weight of extract, which agreed with the predicted response of 89.467 mg GAE/g of the dried extract under the optimal factors.

Conclusions: The rich phenolic content of stem-bark of Funtumia elastica points to its potential as a functional medicinal product to alleviate diseases caused by oxidative stress such as asthma, breathing disorders, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. The results obtained indicate that, the studied optimal conditions support effective phenolics extraction of Funtumia elastica.

Sustainable food processing of selected North American native berries to support agroforestry

Chokeberries, elderberries, blueberries, and blackberries are highly nutritious native fruits in the US Midwest region. Their high moisture content, delicate structure easily leads to fruit loss/waste. This review focuses on different drying methods for whole fruits and juices to preserve their quality and improve their shelf life. Solar drying, hot-air drying, spray drying, freeze-drying, vacuum-drying, electromagnetic drying, and osmotic dehydration are the commonly used dehydrating methods for berries. Berries are photo, heat-sensitive, and rich source of essential nutrients. Texture, flavor, color, water content, phytonutrients, physicochemical properties can be influenced by dryer and processing parameter selection. Drying is a complex dynamic process, due to structural differences among various foods, combined thermal and non-thermal techniques could improve fruit quality. Hence, knowledge of drying behavior and degradation kinetics is vital for optimizing the process parameters to enhance the fruit quality. Freeze drying and spray drying showed better preservation of nutrients. Existing research suggests that chokeberries (Aronia) are underutilized compared to blueberries and blackberries. Aronia fruit has a lot of potentials containing health-promoting compounds and is yet to be explored. Future research suggestions have been put forward for the efficient use of drying techniques and to improve the fruit quality.

Differential Triggering of the Phenylpropanoid Biosynthetic Pathway Key Genes Transcription upon Cold Stress and Viral Infection in Tomato Leaves

Plants develop a plethora of defense strategies during their acclimation and interactions with various environmental stresses. Secondary metabolites play a pivotal role in the processes during stress acclimation, therefore deciphering their relevant responses exchange the interpretation of the underlying molecular mechanisms that may contribute to improved adaptability and efficacy. In the current study, tomato plants were exposed to short-term cold stress (5 °C for 16 h) or inoculated (20 d) with either Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV) or Potato Virus Y (PVY). Responses were recorded via the assessments of leaf total phenolic (TP) content, total flavonoid (TF) levels, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) enzyme activity. The transcription of the gene families regulating the core phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway (PBP) at an early (PAL, cinnamic acid 4-hydroxylase, 4-coumarate-CoA ligase) or late (chalcone synthase and flavonol synthase) stage was also evaluated. The results showed that cold stress stimulated an increase in TP and TF contents, while PAL enzyme activity was also elevated compared to viral infection. Besides genes transcription of the enzymes involved in the core PBP was mostly induced by cold stress, whereas transcription of the genes regulating flavonoid biosynthesis was mainly triggered by viral infection. In conclusion, abiotic and biotic stressors induced differential regulation of the core PBP and flavonoid biosynthetic metabolism. Taking the above into consideration, our results highlight the complexity of tomato responses to diverse stimuli allowing for better elucidation of stress tolerance mechanisms at this crop.

Anticancer Activity of Natural and Synthetic Chalcones

Cancer is a condition caused by many mechanisms (genetic, immune, oxidation, and inflammatory). Anticancer therapy aims to destroy or stop the growth of cancer cells. Resistance to treatment is theleading cause of the inefficiency of current standard therapies. Targeted therapies are the most effective due to the low number of side effects and low resistance. Among the small molecule natural compounds, flavonoids are of particular interest for theidentification of new anticancer agents. Chalcones are precursors to all flavonoids and have many biological activities. The anticancer activity of chalcones is due to the ability of these compounds to act on many targets. Natural chalcones, such as licochalcones, xanthohumol (XN), panduretin (PA), and loncocarpine, have been extensively studied and modulated. Modification of the basic structure of chalcones in order to obtain compounds with superior cytotoxic properties has been performed by modulating the aromatic residues, replacing aromatic residues with heterocycles, and obtaining hybrid molecules. A huge number of chalcone derivatives with residues such as diaryl ether, sulfonamide, and amine have been obtained, their presence being favorable for anticancer activity. Modification of the amino group in the structure of aminochalconesis always favorable for antitumor activity. This is why hybrid molecules of chalcones with different nitrogen hetercycles in the molecule have been obtained. From these, azoles (imidazole, oxazoles, tetrazoles, thiazoles, 1,2,3-triazoles, and 1,2,4-triazoles) are of particular importance for the identification of new anticancer agents.

Light Tailoring: Impact of UV-C Irradiation on Biosynthesis, Physiognomies, and Clinical Activities of Morus macroura-Mediated Monometallic (Ag and ZnO) and Bimetallic (Ag-ZnO) Nanoparticles

A nano-revolution based on the green synthesis of nanomaterials could affect all areas of human life, and nanotechnology represents a propitious platform for various biomedical applications. During the synthesis of nanoparticles, various factors can control their physiognomies and clinical activities. Light is one of the major physical factors that can play an important role in tuning/refining the properties of nanoparticles. In this study, biocompatible monometallic (AgNPs and ZnONPs) and bimetallic Ag-ZnONPs (0.1/0.1 and 0.1/0.5) were synthesized under UV-C light irradiation from the leaf extract of Morus macroura, which possesses enriched TPC (4.238 ± 0.26 mg GAE/g DW) and TFC (1.073 ± 0.18 mg QE/g DW), as well as strong FRSA (82.39%). These green synthesized NPs were evaluated for their anti-diabetic, anti-glycation, and biocompatibility activities. Furthermore, their anti-cancerous activity against HepG2 cell lines was assessed in terms of cell viability, production of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, and apoptotic caspase-3/7 expression and activity. Synthesized NPs were characterized by techniques including ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, SEM, EDX, FTIR, and XRD. UV-C mediated monometallic and bimetallic NPs showed well-defined characteristic shapes with a more disperse particle distribution, definite crystalline structures, and reduced sizes as compared to their respective controls. In the case of clinical activities, the highest anti-diabetic activity (67.77 ± 3.29% against α-amylase and 35.83 ± 2.40% against α-glucosidase) and anti-glycation activity (37.68 ± 3.34% against pentosidine-like AGEs and 67.87 ± 2.99% against vesperlysine-like AGEs) was shown by UV-C mediated AgNPs. The highest biocompatibility (IC50 = 14.23 ± 1.68 µg/mL against brine shrimp and 2.48 ± 0.32% hemolysis of human red blood cells) was shown by UV-C mediated ZnONPs. In the case of anti-cancerous activities, the lowest viability (23.45 ± 1.40%) with enhanced ROS/NOS production led to a significant disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential and greater caspase-3/7 gene expression and activity by UV-C mediated bimetallic Ag-ZnONPs (0.1/0.5). The present work highlights the positive effects of UV-C light on physico-chemical physiognomies as well as the clinical activities of NPs.

Biological and Cytoprotective Effect of Piper kadsura Ohwi against Hydrogen-Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in Human SW1353 Cells

Oxidative stress plays a role in regulating a variety of physiological functions in living organisms and in the pathogenesis of articular cartilage diseases. Piper kadsura Ohwi is a traditional Chinese medicine that is used as a treatment for rheumatic pain, and the extracts have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, there is still no study related to cell protection by P. kadsura. The P. kadsura extracts (PKE) were obtained by microwave-assisted extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, and column chromatography separation. The extracts could effectively scavenge free radicals in the antioxidant test, the EC₅₀ of extracts is approximately the same as vitamin C. PKE decreased the apoptosis of SW1353 cells treated with H₂O₂ and could upregulate the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (SOD-2, GPx, and CAT) and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio, as well as regulate PARP, thus conferring resistance to H₂O₂ attack. PKE protects cells against apoptosis caused by free radicals through the three pathways of JNK, MEK/ERK, and p38 by treatment with MAPK inhibitor. The identified components of PKE were bicyclo [2.2.1] heptan-2-ol-1,7,7-trimethyl-,(1S-endo)-, alpha-humulene, and hydroxychavicol by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry.

Investigation on the Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant and Enzyme Inhibition Potential of Polygonum Plebeium R.Br: A Comprehensive Approach to Disclose New Nutraceutical and Functional Food Ingredients

The present work describes medicinal potential and secondary metabolic picture of the methanol extract (PP-M) of Polygonum plebeium R.Br. and its fractions; hexane (PP-H), ethyl acetate (PP-E) and water (PP-W). In total bioactive component estimation, highest contents of phenolic (89.38±0.27 mgGAE/g extract) and flavonoid (51.21±0.43 mgQE/g extract) were observed in PP-E, and the same fraction exhibited the highest antioxidant potential in DPPH (324.80±4.09 mgTE/g extract), ABTS (563.18±11.39 mgTE/g extract), CUPRAC (411.33±15.49 mgTE/g extract) and FRAC (369.54±1.70 mgTE/g extract) assays. In Phosphomolybdenum activity assay, PP-H and PP-E showed nearly similar potential, however, PP-H was the most active (13.54±0.24 mgEDTAE/g extract) in metal chelating activity assay. PP-W was the stronger inhibitor (4.03±0.05 mgGALAE/g extract) of the enzyme AChE, while PP-H was potent inhibitor of BChE (5.62±0.27 mg GALAE/g extract). Interestingly, PP-E was inactive against BChE. Against tyrosinase activity, PP-E was again the most active fraction with inhibitory value of 71.89±1.44 mg KAE/g extract, followed by the activity of PP-M and PP-W. Antidiabetic potential was almost equally distributed among PP-M, PP-H and PP-E. For mapping the chemodiversity of P. plebeium, PP-M was analyzed through UHPLC/MS, which led to the identification of more than 50 compounds. Flavonoids were the main components derived from isovitexin, kaempferol and luteolin however, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, gingerols and lyoniresinol 9'-sulfate were among important bioactive phenols. These findings prompted to conclude that Polygonum plebeium can be a significant source to offer new ingredient for nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Combined enzymatic hydrolysis and herbal extracts fortification to boost in vitro antioxidant activity of edible bird’s nest solution

Objective

Edible bird’s nest (EBN) is a popular traditional tonic food in Chinese population for centuries. Malaysia is one of the main EBN suppliers in the world. This study aims to explore the best strategy to boost the antioxidant potential of EBN solution.

Methods

In this study, the raw EBN (4%, mass to volume ratio) was initially enzymatic hydrolyzed using papain enzyme to produce EBN hydrolysate (EBNH), then spray-dried into powdered form. Next, 4% (mass to volume ratio) of EBNH powder was dissolved in ginger extract (GE), mulberry leaf extract (MLE) and cinnamon twig extract (CTE) to detect the changes of antioxidant activities, respectively.

Results

Results obtained suggest that enzymatic hydrolysis significantly reduced the viscosity of 4% EBN solution from (68.12 ± 0.69) mPa·s to (7.84 ± 0.31) mPa·s. Besides, the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total soluble protein, DPPH scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were substantially increased following EBN hydrolysis using papain enzyme. In addition, fortification with GE, MLE and CTE had further improved the TPC, TFC, DPPH scavenging activity and FRAP of the EBNH solution. Among the samples, MLE-EBNH solution showed the most superior antioxidant potential at (86.39 ± 1.66)% of DPPH scavenging activity and (19.79 ± 2.96) mmol/L FeSO₄ of FRAP.

Conclusion

This study proved that combined enzymatic hydrolysis and MLE fortification is the best strategy to produce EBN product with prominent in vitro antioxidant potential. This preliminary study provides new insight into the compatibility of EBN with different herbal extracts for future health food production.

Evaluation of antioxidant potential of Heliotropium bacciferum Forssk extract and wound healing activity of its topical formulation in rat

Wound healing is a dynamic process that occurs in the tissue under the skin. During this process, oxidative stress biomarkers are excessively produced, which finally lead to inflammation and cellular damage. In this study, efforts have been made to evaluate the antioxidant effect and wound healing activity topical formulation containing Heliotropium bacciferum Forssk extract. The in vitro antioxidant properties were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activities and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The herbal ointments (2.5% w/w and 5% w/w) were prepared from the hydroalcoholic extract of H. bacciferum Forssk and administrated on the induced wounds in Wistar rats. The chromatic assay, percentage of wound contraction, and histopathological studies were used for evaluating the wound healing activity. For the evaluation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), catalase (CAT) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) levels were examined. The DPPH method showed tremendous radical scavenging activities at the corresponding concentrations with EC₅₀ value of 80μg/mL. Topical application of the ointment (5% w/w) showed the highest wound contraction in comparison to the positive control (treated with CICALFATE™) and the control group (treated with normal saline). Similarly, the histological study of the group treated with the extract ointment (5% w/w) showed full collagen tissue deposition with a complete epidermal regeneration. The results of the assessment of GSH levels as well as CAT and SOD activities in the treated group (5% w/w) confirmed the scavenging property of the extract ointment. Our findings indicated the proper wound healing impact of the topical formulation of H. bacciferum Forssk due to its notable antioxidant capacity.

Synergy of production of value-added bioplastic, astaxanthin and phycobilin co-products and Direct Green 6 textile dye remediation in Spirulina platensis

Phyco-remediation of dyestuffs in textile wastewaters is of economic, industrial, and environmental importance. We evaluated the remediation of the textile dye, Direct Green 6 (DG6), by Spirulina platensis, and investigated the novel possibility that DG6 treatment enhances production of the biopolymer, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB). We showed that both live and dead cells of Spirulina were capable of DG6 remediation, but live cells could be re-used with no loss of remediation efficiency. Furthermore, DG6 remediation by live cells resulted in increased algal biomass and trichome lengths, and stimulated production of valuable metabolites, including PHB, antioxidants, carbohydrates and pigments (phycobilins and astaxanthin). We determined the optimal conditions for DG6 remediation and an artificial neural network (ANN) accurately modeled the experimental data and predicted the concentration of dye as the most and algal turbidity as the least important parameters for DG6 removal efficiency. A DG6 concentration of 60 mg L^-1 resulted in the highest simultaneous co-production of PHB (12.7 ± 1.7% DW) and increase of astaxanthin (194%), carotenoids (50%), phenol (51%), carbohydrates (27%) total phycobilin (43%), together with the enhancement of biomass and trichome lengths (95%). Oxidative stress indices and enzyme activities such as peroxidases and laccase (involved in dye removal/antioxidant functions) were also increased by dye dosage. On the basis of our results, we propose that S. platensis may use DG6 dye as a nitrogen/carbon source for co-accumulation of valuable bioplastic and metabolites.

Hepato and nephroprotective activity of methanol extract of Hygrophila spinosa and its antibacterial potential against multidrug resistant Pandoraea sputorum

This research was aimed to evaluate the phytochemical profile, bactericidal activity of Hygrophila spinosa against multidrug resistant Pandoraea sputorum and assess their antioxidant competence against various radicals and studied their hepatoprotective and nephroprotective activity on HepG2 and HEK 293 cell line. The results showed that the methanol extract has various phytochemical components with reasonable quantity. Fortunately, the multidrug-resistant P. sputorum was sensitive (22.8 ± 0.2 mm of the zone of inhibition) at 15 mg mL-1 concentration of methanol extract. The higher concentration of phenolic and other phytochemical components, showed significant antioxidant activity against ferric, DPPH, hydroxyl, and ABTS radicals, with IC50 values of 71.09, 64.333, 91.157, and 104.931 g mL-1, respectively. Surprisingly, the methanol extract possesses hepato and nephroprotective activity against CCl4 and cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity on HepG2 and HEK 293 cell lines, respectively. It maintains the cell viability as up to 90.48% and 90.35% of HepG2 and EK 293 cell line at the concentration of 20 μg mL-1. The FTIR analysis states that the methanol extract possesses a significant functional group responsible for these multi-potential activities. These results suggest that, the methanol extract of H. spinosa might contain the most significant bioactive components with outstanding medicinal properties.

Evaluation of Bioactive Metabolites and Antioxidant-Rich Extracts of Amaranths with Possible Role in Pancreatic Lipase Interaction: In Silico and In Vitro Studies

Fat/carbohydrate-rich diet consumption or elevated secretion of pancreatic lipase (PL) in pancreatic injury results in increased fat digestion and storage. Several metabolites in plant-based diets can help achieve the requirements of nutrition and fitness together. Presently, nutritional metabolites from Amaranthus tricolor, A. viridis, and Achyranthes aspera were assessed and predicted for daily intake. The volatile-metabolite profiling of their extracts using GC-MS revealed various antioxidant and bioactive components. The implication of these specialized components and antioxidant-rich extracts (EC₅₀ free radical scavenging: 34.1 ± 1.5 to 166.3 ± 14.2 µg/mL; FRAP values: 12.1 ± 1.0 to 34.0 ± 2.0 µg Trolox Equivalent/mg) in lipolysis regulation by means of interaction with PL was checked by in silico docking (Betahistine and vitamins: ΔGbind -2.3 to -4.4 kcal/mol) and in vitro fluorescence quenching. Out of the various compounds and extracts tested, Betahistine, ATRA and AVLA showed better quenching the PL fluorescence. The identification of potential extracts as source of functional components contributing to nutrition and fat regulation can be improved through such study.

Correlation Study of Antioxidant Activity with Phenolic and Flavonoid Compounds in 12 Indonesian Indigenous Herbs

The antioxidant activity (AA), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) of selected Indonesian Zingiberaceae herbs were determined. An optimization extraction procedure was conducted by using Taguchi L₁₆ orthogonal array. Four chemical assays were applied, including 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity assay, H₂O₂ scavenging activity assay, Folin-Ciocalteau (F-C) assay, and NaNO₂-AlCl₃-NaOH assay, which revealed remarkable differences in AA, TPC, and TFC. The result indicated the diversity of AA composition among the herbs, and C. longa exhibited the highest AA. HPLC-PAD analysis revealed that curcumin was present in five high antioxidant herbs, and the highest amount was in C. longa. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that the identified TPC and TFC were significant contributors to AA, and curcumin was likely the main contributing antioxidant compound. Our approach concluded that C. longa is the greatest source of natural antioxidants among 12 Indonesian indigenous Zingiberaceae herbs. The use of a mixed-method approach to augment the findings of solitary methods might facilitate future researchers to uncover deeper and hidden meanings.

Pterocarpus santalinus L. extract mitigates gamma radiation-inflicted derangements in BALB/c mice by Nrf2 upregulation

Plant-based natural extracts contain several nutrients and bioactive compounds, such as phenolics and flavonoids, that possess various health-promoting activities. This study investigated the effects of polyphenols from Pterocarpus santalinus hydroalcoholic extract (PSHE) against gamma radiation-induced derangements via the upregulation of Nrf2. Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled to High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) analysis was performed to identify the possible radioprotectors. In vivo and in vitro studies, namely Real-Time-PCR (RT-PCR) analysis, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) scavenging activity, lipid peroxidation and GSH levels, DNA damage and cell death studies, anti-inflammatory (Sandwich ELISA), immunomodulatory studies (antibody staining), and model free radical scavenging assays, were performed. Vanillic acid, protocatechuic acid, para-hydroxybenzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, TNF-α inhibitor (Eudesmin), isoflavone (Daidzein 7-o-glucoside), astragalin (Kaempferol 3-o-glycoside), and other polyphenols were identified in PSHE using UHPLC-HRMS/MS analysis. Prophylactic administration of PSHE (-1 h) rendered more than 33% survival in mice exposed to 8 Gy whole-body-irradiation with increased mice survival and recovery of bone marrow and spleen cellularity. Real-time RT-PCR analysis showed that PSHE treatment (50 µg/mL) upregulated Nrf2, HO-1, and GPX-1 in mice splenocytes. At 50 µg/mL, PSHE reduced ROSscavenging activity, mitochondrial and spleen membrane lipid peroxidation levels, DNA damage, and cell death, and increased GSH levels. At 10 µg/mL, PSHE treatment diminished the content of IL-6 and TNF-α. At 50 µg/mL, PSHE suppressed lymphocyte proliferation. These findings indicate that polyphenols of PSHE possess marked antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory capacities, which play important roles in the prevention of radiation damage.

High-performance thin-layer chromatography based approach for bioassay and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy for the evaluation of antioxidant compounds from Asparagus racemosus Willd. aerial parts

Asparagus racemosus Willd. is widely used to combat various diseases owing to its medicinal properties. In this study, arial parts of A. racemosus were investigated for their total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidative potential. A high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method combined with effect-directed-analysis was also developed to screen the antioxidant effects of A. racemosus and quantify biologically active compounds on chromatograms from A. racemosus. Total phenolics (154 mg gallic acid equivalent/g), flavonoid contents (497 mg quercetin/g) and IC₅₀ (15.25 μg/ml) were found to be higher in methanolic extract of A. racemosus than in n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts. HPTLC hyphenated with chemical derivatizations (DPPH•, p-anisaldehyde/sulfuric acid, and ferric chloride) was used to evaluate antioxidant activity and the presence of phytosterols, terpenoids and polyphenolic contents. The same compounds at 100*retention factor = 58, 68, 74 and 65 in extracts were responsible for antioxidant activity. Hyphenated HPTLC allowed a rapid characterization of the active compound with a combination of effect-directed-analysis and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Spectral analysis of the band from attenuated total reflectance identified myricetin, quercetin, p-coumaric acid and caffeic acid as responsible for the antioxidant activity.

A Concise Review of Current In Vitro Chemical and Cell-Based Antioxidant Assay Methods

Antioxidants remain interesting molecules of choice for suppression of the toxic effects of free radicals in foods and human systems. The current practice involves the use of mainly synthetic molecules as potent antioxidant agents. However, due to the potential negative impact on human health, there is an intensive effort within the research community to develop natural alternatives with similar antioxidant efficacy but without the negative side effects of synthetic molecules. Still, the successful development of new molecules depends on the use of reliable chemical or cell culture assays to screen antioxidant properties. Chemical antioxidant assays include the determination of scavenging ability against free radicals such as DPPH, superoxide anion radicals, hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide. Other antioxidant tests include the ability of compounds to bind and sequester prooxidant metal cations, reduce ferric iron, and attenuate the rate of lipid oxidation. Ex vivo tests utilize cell cultures to confirm entry of the molecules into cells and the ability to quench synthetic intracellular free radicals or to stimulate the increased biosynthesis of endogenous antioxidants. In order to assist researchers in their choice of antioxidant evaluation methods, this review presents background scientific information on some of the most commonly used antioxidant assays with a comparative discussion of the relevance of published literature data to food science and human nutrition applications.

Chemical characterization and bioactive potential of Artemisia campestris L. subsp. maritima (DC) Arcang. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia campestris L. is widely used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. A. campestris subsp. maritima Arcang., a halophyte plant ("madorneira" or "erva-lombrigueira" in Portugal), is traditionally used for gastric disorders, rheumatism and hypertension.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aims to characterize the essential oil (EO) and the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW), a by-product of the EO production, of Artemisia campestris subsp. maritima from Portugal and evaluate the antioxidant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities of both extracts at concentrations without toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phenolic profile of HRW was determined by HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSⁿ and the EO was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC-FID and GC-MS). The antioxidant activity of both extracts were determined by several assays (ABTS, NO FRAP, β-carotene and DPPH). The antifungal activity (MIC and MLC) was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophytes and Aspergillus strains using broth macrodilution methods. The anti-inflammatory potential was determined measuring the nitric oxide (NO) production by stimulated mouse leukemic macrophages (RAW 264.7). Cell viability was evaluated for RAW 264.7 and mouse fibroblasts (NIH/3T3). The wound healing activity was evaluated in mouse fibroblasts (NIH/3T3) by the scratch assay.

RESULTS

The HRW is mainly characterized by hydroxycinnamic acids and the essential oil is characterized by high amounts of β-pinene (54.5%), cadin-4-en-7-ol (9.5%), Z-β-ocimene (6.0%) and Ƴ-terpinene (4.6%). Both extracts showed high antioxidant potential in different assays. Additionally, only the hydrodistillation residual water showed anti-inflammatory activity (IC₅₀ of 330 μg/mL). On the other hand, only the EO showed antifungal activity, particularly against Epidermophyton floccosum (MIC and MLC values of 0.16 μL/mL), and wound healing activity. Bothe extracts were not cytotoxic to macrophages CONCLUSIONS: The by-product HRW contains safe bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect and the EO shows antioxidant properties, antifungal activity against dermatophytes and wound healing effect in skin cells. Overall, our results support the interest and economic value of two extracts obtained from a Portuguese native species and provide scientific validation to some of its traditional uses.