Study on the inhibitory effect of tannins and flavonoids against the 1,1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl radical

Application of NIR Spectroscopy for the Valorisation of Cork By-Products: A Feasibility Study over the Screening and Discrimination of Chemical Compounds of Interest

Quercus suber is considered a sustainable tree mainly due to its outer layer (cork) capacity to regenerate after each harvesting cycle. Cork bark is explored for several application; however, its industrial transformation generates a significant amount of waste. Recently, cork by-products have been studied as a supplier of bioactive ingredients. This work aimed to explore whether near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), a non-destructive analysis, can be employed as a screening device for selecting cork by-products with higher potential for bioactives extraction. A total of 29 samples of cork extracts were analysed regarding their qualitative composition. Partial least squares (PLS) models were developed for quantification purposes, and R2P and RER values of 0.65 and above 4, respectively, were obtained. Discrimination models, performed through PLS-DA, yielded around 80% correct predictions, revealing that four out of five of samples were correctly discriminated, thus revealing that NIR can be successfully applied for screening purposes.

Phenylalkyl Glycosides from the Flowers of Brugmansia arborea L. and Their Radical Scavenging Effect and Protective Effect on Pancreatic Islets Damaged by Alloxan in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Larvae

The study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and antidiabetic activity of Brugmansia arborea L. flower extracts, solvent fractions, and isolated compounds. B. arborea L flowers were extracted with aqueous methanol, and concentrated extract was successively partitioned into EtOAc, n-BuOH, and H2O fractions. Repeated silica gel and octadecyl silica gel column chromatographies for EtOAc and n-BuOH fractions led to the isolation of a new phenylalkyl glycoside (6), along with five known ones. Several spectroscopic data led to the structure determination of one new phenylalky glycoside as brugmansioside C (named) (6) and five known ones as benzyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), benzyl-O-β-D-glucosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), 2-phenylethyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), 2-phenylethyl-O-β-D-glucosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), and 3-phenylpropyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5). The five known ones (1-5) were isolated from B. arborea flowers for the first time in this study. The extract, solvent fractions, and all isolated compounds showed radical scavenging activities using ABTS radical, and EtOAc fraction showed the highest scavenging capacity, whereas compounds 2, 4, and 6 did not display the capacity to use the DPPH radical. The extract, solvent fractions, and all isolated compounds showed a protective effect on pancreatic islets damaged by alloxan treatment in zebrafish larvae. The pancreatic islet size treated with EtOAc, n-BuOH fractions, and all compounds significantly increased by 64.0%, 69.4%, 82.0%, 89.8%, 80.0%, 97.8%, 103.1%, and 99.6%, respectively, compared to the alloxan-induced group. These results indicate that B. arborea flowers and their isolated compounds are useful as potential antioxidant and antidiabetic agents.

Structural Features of Small Molecule Antioxidants and Strategic Modifications to Improve Potential Bioactivity

This review surveys the major structural features in various groups of small molecules that are considered to be antioxidants, including natural and synthetic compounds alike. Recent advances in the strategic modification of known small molecule antioxidants are also described. The highlight is placed on changing major physicochemical parameters, including log p, bond dissociation energy, ionization potential, and others which result in improved antioxidant activity.

Sourcing New Ingredients for Organic Cosmetics: Phytochemicals of Filipendula vulgaris Flower Extracts

Plant extracts are well known for their beneficial cosmetic properties based on bioactive phytochemicals with highly demonstrated antimicrobial and antioxidant capacities as phenolic compounds. This work presents the polyphenolic characterization of different extracts from organically grown Filipendula vulgaris. An ultrasound-assisted extraction procedure is proposed for obtaining ethanolic extracts at the laboratory level, both from dried and fresh plants, to be compared with those obtained by classical flower processing techniques for cosmetic purposes. The individual quantification of target phenolic compounds was carried out using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results revealed the presence of 24 phenolic compounds in the analyzed samples, ranging in concentrations from 0.1 to 71.64 µg g−1. The total phenolic content (TPC) ranging from 1163 to 6114 mg GAE L−1, and the antioxidant activity (AA), from 6 to 52 mmol TRE L−1, were also evaluated. The differences were established between the plant material and extraction technique.

Nanoparticles derived from naturally occurring metal chelators for theranostic applications

Metals are indispensable for the activities of all living things, from single-celled organisms to higher organisms, including humans. Beyond their intrinsic quality as metal ions, metals help creatures to maintain requisite biological processes by forming coordination complexes with endogenous ligands that are broadly distributed in nature. These types of naturally occurring chelating reactions are found through the kingdoms of life, including bacteria, plants and animals. Mimicking these naturally occurring coordination complexes with intrinsic biocompatibility may offer an opportunity to develop nanomedicine toward clinical applications. Herein, we introduce representative examples of naturally occurring coordination complexes in a selection of model organisms and highlight such bio-inspired metal-chelating nanomaterials for theranostic applications.

Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antipyretic, and In Silico Measurements of Sonneratia caseolaris (L.) Fruits from Sundarbans, Bangladesh

Sonneratia caseolaris is a widely distributed mangrove plant having much therapeutic importance in traditional medicine. This plant is reported for possessing numerous compounds that are already used for many therapeutic purposes. After finding the presence of antioxidant components in the qualitative antioxidative assay, we went to conduct quantitative tests where the total contents of phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins were estimated as 122 mg GAE/gm, 613 mg QE/gm, and 30 mg GAE/gm, respectively. In DPPH free radical, H₂O₂, and superoxide radical scavenging assay, the SC₅₀ values were found to be 87, 66, and 192 μg/ml, respectively. In FeCl₃ reducing power assay, the RC₅₀ of SC extract and ascorbic acid were 80 and 28 μg/ml, respectively. This extract revealed a significant peripheral analgesic effect in the acetic acid-induced writhing model in mice by reducing the writhing impulse by about 21% and 39% at 250  and 500 mg/kg doses, respectively, and a central analgesic effect in the tail immersion method by elongating the time up to about 22% and 37% at the same doses. In the anti-inflammatory test in mice, this extract reduced the paw edema size over the observed period in a dose-dependent manner. It also showed a significant reduction in the elevated rectal temperature of mice in the observing period in Brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia model. In silico analysis revealed better binding characteristics of ellagic acid and luteolin among other compounds with various receptors that might be responsible for antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. From our observation, we suppose that SC fruits might be a potential source of drug leads for various inflammatory disorders.

Development of active edible coatings based on fish gelatin enriched with Moringa oleifera extract: Application in fish ( Mustelus mustelus ) fillet preservation

An edible coating was developed using gelatin extracted from the skin of gray triggerfish (Balistes capriscus) and applied to the fillet of the smooth‐hound shark (Mustelus mustelus). Moringa oleifera leaf extract was added to gelatin coating solution to improve its preservative properties. The phenolic profiles and antioxidant and antibacterial activities of M. oleifera extracts were determined. Phenolic acids constituted the largest group representing more than 77% of the total compounds identified in the ethanol/water (MOE/W) extract, among which the quinic acid was found to be the major one (31.48 mg/g extract). The MOE/W extract presented the highest DPPH• scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 0.53 ± 0.02 mg/ml) and reducing (Fe³⁺) power (EC_0.5 = 0.57 ± 0.02 mg/ml), as well as interesting inhibition zones (20–35 mm) for the most tested strains. Coating by 3% of gelatin solution significantly reduced most deterioration indices during chilled storage, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N), weight loss, pH, and mesophilic, psychrophilic, lactic, and H₂S‐producing bacterial counts. Interestingly, coating with gelatin solution containing MOE/W extract at 20 μg/ml was more effective than gelatin applied alone. Compared with the uncoated sample, gelatin‐MOE/W coating reduced the weight loss and MDA content by 26% and 70% after 6 days of storage, respectively. Texture analysis showed that the strength of uncoated fillet increased by 46%, while the strength of fillet coated with gelatin‐MOE/W only increased by 12% after 6 days of storage. Fish fillet coated with gelatin‐MOE/W had the highest sensory scores in terms of odor, color, and overall acceptability throughout the study period.

Combination analysis of single-molecule long-read and Illumina sequencing provides insights into the anthocyanin accumulation mechanism in an ornamental grass, Pennisetum setaceum cv. Rubrum

Combination analysis of single-molecule long-read and Illumina sequencing provide full-length transcriptome information and shed new light on the anthocyanin accumulation mechanism of Pennisetum setaceum cv. 'Rubrum'. Pennisetum setaceum cv. 'Rubrum' is an ornamental grass with purple leaves widely used in landscaping. However, the current next-generation sequencing (NGS) transcriptome information of this species is not satisfactory due to the difficulties in obtaining full-length transcripts. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of anthocyanin accumulation in P. setaceum have not been thoroughly studied. In this study, we used PacBio full-length transcriptome sequencing (SMRT) combined with NGS technology to build and improve the transcriptomic datasets and reveal the molecular mechanism of anthocyanin accumulation in P. setaceum cv. 'Rubrum'. Therefore, 280,413 full-length non-chimeric reads sequences were obtained using the SMRT technology. We obtained 97,450 high-quality non-redundant transcripts and identified 5352 alternative splicing events. In addition, 93,066 open reading frames (ORFs), including 57,457 full ORFs and 2910 long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) were screened out. Furthermore, 10,795 differentially expressed genes were identified using NGS. We also explored key genes, synthesis pathways, and detected lncRNA involved in anthocyanin accumulation, providing new insights into anthocyanin accumulation in P. setaceum cv. 'Rubrum'. To our best knowledge, we provided the full-length transcriptome information of P. setaceum cv. 'Rubrum' for the first time. The results of this study will provide baseline information for gene function studies and pave the way for future P. setaceum cv. 'Rubrum' breeding projects.

Some Antioxidant Properties of Components from The Flower of Ochna integerrima and Their Beneficial Effects on HaCaT Keratinocytes and In Silico Analysis on Tyrosinase

Four compounds, luteolin ( 1 ), 6- γ , γ -Dimethylallylquercetin 7- O - β -ᴅ-glucopyranoside ( 2 ), 6- γ , γ -Dimethylallylkaempferol 7- O - β -ᴅ-gluco-pyranoside ( 3 ), and 6- γ , γ -Dimethylallyldihydrokaempferol 7- O - β -ᴅ-glucoside ( 4 ), were isolated for the first time from EtOAc extract of the O. integerrima   flower. We then evaluated the antioxidant effects of EtOAc, n -butanol, and MeOH extracts and their effects on H 2 O 2 against oxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocyte cell lines. Furthermore, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH · ) radical scavenging activities of 1 - 4 were determined and their mechanisms of action on tyrosinase were predicted by in silico studies. The results revealed that the EtOAc extract and 1 - 3 exhibited good DPPH˙radical scavenging activity. Furthermore, this extract also had a significant protective effect against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative stress in HaCaT cells. In silico studies indicated that the activity of 1 - 3 may be due to tyrosinase inhibition with MM-GBSA free binding energies of -78.9, -70.1, -71.1 kcal mol -1 , respectively, compared to 4 with an energy -56.9 kcal mol -1 .

Sustainable phyto-fabrication of silver nanoparticles using Gmelina arborea exhibit antimicrobial and biofilm inhibition activity

Increase in bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics is a major public health concern generating interest in novel antibacterial treatments. Aim of this scientific endeavor was to find an alternative efficient antibacterial agent from non-conventional plant source for human health applications. We used an eco-friendly approach for phyto-fabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by utilizing logging residue from timber trees Gmelina arborea (GA). GC-MS analysis of leaves, barks, flowers, fruits, and roots was conducted to determine the bioactive compounds. Biosynthesis, morphological and structural characterization of GA-AgNPs were undertaken by UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). GA-AgNPs were evaluated for antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, wound healing properties and their toxicity studies were carried out. Results identified the presence of terpenoids, sterols, aliphatic alcohols, aldehydes, and flavonoids in leaves, making leaf extract the ideal choice for phyto-fabrication of silver nanoparticles. The synthesis of GA-AgNPs was confirmed by dark brown colored colloidal solution and spectral absorption peak at 420 nm. Spherical, uniformly dispersed, crystalline GA-AgNPs were 34-40 nm in diameter and stable in solutions at room temperature. Functional groups attributed to the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenols that acted as reducing and capping agents. Antibacterial potency was confirmed against pathogenic bacteria Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus by disc diffusion assay, MIC and MBC assay, biofilm inhibition assay, electron-microscopy, cell staining and colony counting techniques. The results from zone of inhibition, number of ruptured cells and dead-cell-count analysis confirmed that GA-AgNPs were more effective than GA-extract and their bacteria inhibition activity level increased further when loaded on hydrogel as GA-AgNPs-PF127, making it a novel distinguishing feature. Antioxidant activity was confirmed by the free radical scavenging assays (DPPH and ABTS). Wound healing potential was confirmed by cell scratch assay in human dermal fibroblast cell lines. Cell-proliferation study in human chang liver cell lines and optical microscopic observations confirmed non-toxicity of GA-AgNPs at low doses. Our study concluded that biosynthesized GA-AgNPs had enhanced antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, and wound healing properties.

Ageing, Age-Related Cardiovascular Risk and the Beneficial Role of Natural Components Intake

Ageing, in a natural way, leads to the gradual worsening of the functional capacity of all systems and, eventually, to death. This process is strongly associated with higher metabolic and oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, accumulation of DNA mutations and increased levels of related damage. Detrimental changes that accumulate in body cells and tissues with time raise the vulnerability to environmental challenges and enhance the risk of major chronic diseases and mortality. There are several theses concerning the mechanisms of ageing: genetic, free radical telomerase, mitochondrial decline, metabolic damage, cellular senescence, neuroendocrine theory, Hay-flick limit and membrane theories, cellular death as well as the accumulation of toxic and non-toxic garbage. Moreover, ageing is associated with structural changes within the myocardium, cardiac conduction system, the endocardium as well as the vasculature. With time, the cardiac structures lose elasticity, and fibrotic changes occur in the heart valves. Ageing is also associated with a higher risk of atherosclerosis. The results of studies suggest that some natural compounds may slow down this process and protect against age-related diseases. Animal studies imply that some of them may prolong the lifespan; however, this trend is not so obvious in humans.

Synthesis and Evaluation of Gallotannin Derivatives as Antioxidants and α-Glucosidase Inhibitors

Gallotannins are phenolic natural products containing galloyl moieties connected to polyhydric alcohol cores, e.g., D-glucose. Some gallotannins are reported to have antidiabetic properties, such as α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. In this study, fourteen unnatural gallotannin derivatives with 1,5-anhydroalditol and inositol as the cyclic polyol cores were synthesized to investigate how their structures affected antioxidative and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Tannic acid demonstrated the most potent antioxidative activity (EC₅₀ = 2.84 μM), with potency increasing proportionally to the number of galloyl moieties. Synthetic inositol derivatives outperformed 1,5-anhydroalditol derivatives in rat α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Pentagalloyl glucose, a natural compound, demonstrated the highest activity (IC₅₀ = 0.336 μM).

Antioxidant and hepatopreventive effects of Cassia angustifolia extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The present study aimed to investigate the preventive effects of methanol fraction from Cassia angustifolia leaf extract (MECA), associated with its phytochemical content, on CCl₄-induced hepatic toxicity in adult rats. In the controls, CCl₄ induced an increase of serum biochemical parameters and triggered oxidative stress in the liver. MECA caused significant reductions in CCl₄-elevated levels of hepatic markers, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein and increased the level of high-density lipoprotein compared to the CCl₄ group. Moreover, pretreatment with the MECA produced significant reductions in lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) and protein carbonyl level in liver tissues as compared with the untreated group. The formation of pathological hepatic lesions was strongly prevented by MECA. Overall, this study suggests that administration of MECA has a high potential to quench free radicals and alleviate CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

The Effects of Adding Heartwood Extractives from Acacia confusa on the Lightfastness Improvement of Refined Oriental Lacquer

In this study, a renewable polymeric material, refined oriental lacquer (ROL), used as a wood protective coating, and the Acacia confusa Merr. heartwood extractive, which was added as a natural photostabilizer for improving the lightfastness of ROL, were investigated. The best extract conditions for preparing heartwood extractives and the most suitable amount of addition (0, 1, 3, 5, and 10 phr) were investigated. The lightfastness index including brightness difference (ΔL *), yellowness difference (ΔYI), and color difference (ΔE *), and their applied properties of coating and film were measured. In the manufacture of heartwood extractives, the yield of extractives with acetone solvent was 9.2%, which was higher than that from toluene/ethanol solvent of 2.6%, and also had the most abundant total phenolic contents (535.2 mgGAE/g) and total flavonoid contents (252.3 μgRE/g). According to the SEM inspection and FTIR analysis, the plant gums migration to the surface of films and cracks occurred after UV exposure. The phenomena for photodegradation of ROL films were reduced after the addition of heartwood extractives. Among the different amounts of the heartwood extractives, the 10 phr addition was the best choice; however, the 1 phr heartwood extractive addition already showed noticeable lightfastness improvement. The drying times of ROL were extended and film performances worse with higher additions of heartwood extractives. Among the ROL films with different heartwood extractive additions, the ROL film with 1 phr addition had superior films properties, regarding adhesion and thermal stability, compared with the films of raw oriental lacquer.

Antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities of traditional fermented Rosa from Dali Bai communities, Northwest Yunnan, China

Traditional fermented Rosa (TFR) is a typical food and medical product among the Dali Bai people, and its popularity is growing. A few studies have looked into TFR's medicinal advantages, linked germplasm resources, traditional processing procedures, and functional food qualities. Our goal was to look into Rosa's traditional processing, examine the dominant strains in TFR, and prove how these strains affected antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities. We used a snowball selection strategy to pick 371 informants for a semi-structured interview, supplemented with direct observations and sample collection. A microbial strain was isolated and identified from a TFR sample collected in the field. We synthesized TFR in the lab using the traditional way. Both of 2, 2-diphenyl-1 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibitory properties of the fermented solution of Rosa 'Dianhong' have been tested in this study. Altogether 15 species belonging to the genus Rosa, which are utilized in herbal medicine and fermented foods. Rosa 'Dianhong' was the Bai community's principal species with considerable cultural value and consumption. Raw Rosa petals included 15 major flavonoids and phenols, which were identified as TFR's active components. TFR-1 was discovered to be the dominating microbial strain in TFR, increasing total phenolic and flavonoid content in the fermented solution of Rosa 'Dianhong' by 0.45 mg GAE/ml and 0.60 mg RE/ml, respectively, after 30 days. TFR-1 also exhibited promising activity in terms of DPPH free radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibition. TFR showed potent antioxidant and free-radical scavenger properties and is beneficial in skincare and nutrition, according to the findings. TFR's medicinal and edible properties suggest that it could be used as a cosmetic or nutraceutical product.

Hydrolysable tannins change physicochemical parameters of lipid nano-vesicles and reduce DPPH radical - Experimental studies and quantum chemical analysis

Tannins belong to plant secondary metabolites exhibiting a wide range of biological activity. One of the important aspects of the realization of the biological effects of tannins is the interaction with lipids of cell membranes. In this work we studied the interaction of two hydrolysable tannins: 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (PGG) and 1,2-di-O-galloyl-4,6-valoneoyl-β-d-glucose (T1) which had the same number of both aromatic rings (5) and hydroxyl groups (15) but differing in flexibility due to the presence of valoneoyl group in the T1 molecule with DMPC (dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine) lipid nano-vesicles (liposomes). Tannins-liposomes interactions were investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, laser Doppler velocimetry, dynamic light scattering and Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy. It was shown that more flexible PGG molecules stronger decreased the microviscosity of the liposomal membranes and increased the values of negative zeta potential in comparison with the more rigid T1. Both compounds diminished the phase transition temperature of DMPC membranes, interacted with liposomes via PO groups of head of phospholipids and their hydrophobic regions. These tannins neutralized DPPH free radicals with the stoichiometry of the reaction equal 1:1. The effects of the studied compounds on liposomes were discussed in relation to tannin quantum chemical parameters calculated by molecular modeling.

Volatiles and Antioxidant Activity of Citrus Fiber/Blackberry Gels: Influence of Sucrose and Trehalose

Citrus fiber/blackberry gels (CBg) can be used for the preparation of various bakery products as well as confectioneries. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the type of disaccharides (sucrose or trehalose) and their percentages (10% or 20%) on volatile compounds as well as phenolics, antioxidant activity and color of formulated CBg. Additionally, CBg were stored at room temperature for 3 months to evaluate their stability. Both disaccharides type and their percentage affected the investigated parameters. Sucrose had a higher positive impact on volatiles after formulation and storage of CBg, while trehalose had a higher positive impact on total phenolics. Amounts of phenolics increased with the increase of disaccharides amount, while the behavior of volatiles also depended on volatiles' properties. Results of this study emphasized the importance of the adequate choice of ingredients for the formulation of high-quality fruit products.

Evaluation of the Free Radical Scavenging Activities of Ellagic Acid and Ellagic Acid Peracetate by EPR Spectrometry

The purpose of this study was to examine the free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities of ellagic acid (EA) and ellagic acid peracetate (EAPA) by measuring their reactions with the radicals, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and galvinoxyl using EPR spectroscopy. We have also evaluated the influence of EA and EAPA on the ROS production in L-6 myoblasts and rat liver microsomal lipid peroxidation catalyzed by NADPH. The results obtained clearly indicated that EA has tremendous ability to scavenge free radicals, even at concentration of 1 µM. Interestingly even in the absence of esterase, EAPA, the acetylated product of EA, was also found to be a good scavenger but at a relatively slower rate. Kinetic studies revealed that both EA and EAPA have ability to scavenge free radicals at the concentrations of 1 µM over extended periods of time. In cellular systems, EA and EAPA were found to have similar potentials for the inhibition of ROS production in L-6 myoblasts and NADPH-dependent catalyzed microsomal lipid peroxidation.

Ethyl Acetate Fraction and Isolated Phenolics Derivatives from Mandevilla moricandiana Identified by UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn with Pharmacological Potential for the Improvement of Obesity-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction

Endothelial dysfunction in obesity plays a key role in the development of cardiovascular diseases, and it is characterized by increased vascular tonus and oxidative stress. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the vasodilatory and antioxidant activities of Mandevilla moricandiana ethyl acetate fraction and subfractions. Vascular effects were investigated on aorta isolated from control and monosodium glutamate (MSG) induced-obese Wistar rats, and antioxidant activity was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) methods. The ethyl acetate fraction (MMEAF) induced a concentration-dependent vasodilation on aortic rings through the NO pathway, with the involvement of histamine H1 and estrogen ERα receptors and showed potent antioxidant activity. In aorta of MSG obese rats, maximal relaxation to acetylcholine was increased in the presence of MMEAF (3 µg/mL), indicating that MMEAF ameliorated obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction. Quercetin and kaempferol aglycones and their correspondent glycosides, as well as caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, A-type procyanidin trimer, ursolic and oleanolic triterpenoid acids were identified in subfractions from MMEAF and seem to be the metabolites responsible for the vascular and antioxidant activities of this fraction.

Development of Simultaneous Analysis Method for Multi-Compounds Content of New Shilajit Using HPLC-UV and the Cognitive Enhancing Effect: Mongolian Shilajit

Shilajit has a longstanding use as an anti-aging and memory enhancing drug. It is known to have excellent anti-bacterial effects and is believed to be effective for cognitive enhancement, but is difficult to standardize because of the lack of quality control standards. This study, for the first time, proposes a quality control standard using a simultaneous analytical method for the drug’s multi-compound content using high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) as an aid for the internationalization of Mongolian Shilajit. Phenolic compounds 1-6 were isolated from Mongolian Shilajit extract using bioassay-guided isolation, and the isolated compounds were evaluated for cognitive-related anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD) activities using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical-scavenging, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), β-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), and advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation assays. The isolated compounds showed good effects for each activity. In addition, the isolated compounds were successfully quantified using a validated quantitative HPLC analysis method. As a result, the isolated compounds were suggested as standard marker compounds for Mongolian Shilajit. Also, we proved that the original material of Mongolian Shilajit is a lichen named Xanthoparmelia somloensis (Gyel.) Hale using HPLC-UV, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization/hybrid linear trap-quadruple-orbitrap-high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI/LTQ-HRMS).

Phytochemical and Ethnopharmacological Perspectives of Ehretia laevis

Ehretia laevis Roxb. (Boraginaceae) has been extensively used as a traditional remedy for the treatment of a diverse range of ailments related to the respiratory system, the gastrointestinal tract, the reproductive system, and against several infections. This review critically assesses and documents, for the first time, the fragmented information on E. laevis, including its botanical description, folklore uses, bioactive phyto metabolites and pharmacological activities. The goal is to explore this plant therapeutically. Ethnomedicinal surveys reveal that E. laevis has been used by tribal communities in Asian countries for the treatment of various disorders. Quantitative and qualitative phytochemical investigations of E. laevis showed the presence of important phytoconstituents such as pentacyclic triterpenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, fatty acids, steroids, alkaloids, aliphatic alcohols, hydrocarbons, amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Fresh plant parts, crude extracts, fractions and isolated compounds have been reported to exhibit broad spectrum of therapeutic activities viz., antioxidant, antiarthritic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antidiarrheal, antidysenteric, wound healing and anti-infective activities. E. laevis is shown to be an excellent potential source of drugs for the mitigation of jaundice, asthma, dysentery, ulcers, diarrhea, ringworm, eczema, diabetes, fissure, syphilis, cuts and wounds, inflammation, liver problems, venereal and infectious disorders. Although few investigations authenticated its traditional uses but employed uncharacterized crude extracts of the plant, the major concerns raised are reproducibility of therapeutic efficacy and safety of plant material. The outcomes of limited pharmacological screening and reported bioactive compounds of E. laevis suggest that there is an urgent need for in-depth pharmacological investigations of the plant.

Evaluation of Quality, Antioxidant Capacity, and Digestibility of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. cv Blanoro) Stored under N2 and CO2 Atmospheres

The aim of this work was to monitor the quality, antioxidant capacity and digestibility of chickpea exposed to different modified atmospheres. Chickpea quality (proximal analysis, color, texture, and water absorption) and the antioxidant capacity of free, conjugated, and bound phenol fractions obtained from raw and cooked chickpea, were determined. Cooked chickpea was exposed to N₂ and CO₂ atmospheres for 0, 25, and 50 days, and the antioxidant capacity was analyzed by DPPH (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis-[3ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid]), and total phenols. After in vitro digestion, the antioxidant capacity was measured by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power), and AAPH (2,2'-Azobis [2-methylpropionamidine]). Additionally, quantification of total phenols, and UPLC-MS profile were determined. The results indicated that this grain contain high quality and high protein (18.38%). Bound phenolic compounds showed the highest amount (105.6 mg GAE/100 g) and the highest antioxidant capacity in all techniques. Cooked chickpeas maintained their quality and antioxidant capacity during 50 days of storage at 4 and -20 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere. Free and conjugated phenolic compounds could be hydrolyzed by digestive enzymes, increasing their bioaccessibility and their antioxidant capacity during each step of digestion. The majority compound in all samples was enterodiol, prevailing the flavonoid type in the rest of the identified compounds. Chickpea contains biological interest compounds with antioxidant potential suggesting that this legume can be exploited for various technologies.

A review of plant metabolites with metal interaction capacity: a green approach for industrial applications

Rapid industrial development is responsible for severe problems related to environmental pollution. Many human and industrial activities require different metals and, as a result, great amounts of metals/heavy metals are discharged into the water and soil making them dangerous for both human and ecosystems and this is being aggravated by intensive demand and utilization. In addition, compounds with metal binding capacities are needed to be used for several purposes including in activities related to the removal and/or recovery of metals from effluents and soils, as metals' corrosion inhibitors, in the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles and as metal related pharmaceuticals, preferably a with minimum risks associated to the environment. Plants are able to synthesize an uncountable number of compounds with numerous functions, including compounds with metal binding capabilities. In fact, some of the plants' secondary metabolites can bind to various metals through different mechanisms, as such they are excellent sources of such compounds due to their high availability and vast diversity. In addition, the use of plant-based compounds is desirable from an environmental and economical point of view, thus being potential candidates for utilization in different industrial activities, replacing conventional physiochemical methods. This review focuses on the ability of some classes of compounds that can be found in relatively high concentrations in plants, having good metal binding capacities and thus with potential utilization in metal based industrial activities and that can be involved in the progressive development of new environmentally friendly strategies.

Evaluation of nutritional value and antioxidant activity of Leea macrophylla Roxb. ex Hornem. root and leaf

Background

Hanshia dabar or hathkan is one of the folklore plant of Odisha, the botanical source of which is Leea macrophylla Roxb. ex Hornem., family Vitaceae. Its root and leaves are eaten as vegetables, and used for Rasayana purpose (tonic and alterative properties).

Aim

The aim is to assess the nutritive value and antioxidant potential of the root and leaves of L. macrophylla with compound leaf.

Materials and methods

Nutritional parameters such as energy value, carbohydrate, protein, true protein, fat, mineral contents, and Vitamin A, Vitamin C of the root and leaves of the plant were evaluated with standard procedures. The in vitro antioxidant properties of the root and leaf of L. macrophylla were screened through 1,1diphenyl2picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and phosphomolybdenum assay.

Results

Root is having higher energy value (391.87 Kcal/100 g) as compared to leaf (353.62 Kcal/100 g). L. macrophylla root and leaf showed the presence of carbohydrates (30.65% and 21.72%), protein (8.78% and 9.37%), true protein (6.85% and 7.23%), fat (0.77% and 1.89%), iron (723.80 ppm and 285.07 ppm), zinc (26.51 ppm and 13.75 ppm), manganese (44.88 ppm and 35.00 ppm), phosphorous (0.07 ppm and 0.03 ppm), calcium (7806.90 ppm and 3862.80 ppm), Vitamin A (3.63 mg/g and 2.47 mg/g), and Vitamin C (8.49 mg/g and 6.7 mg/g), respectively. Percentage scavenging of DPPH radical was found to rise with an increase in concentration. IC50 values of root and leaf, by DPPH assay, were 66.46 and 110.68 μg/ml, respectively. In the FRAP assay, the antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract of leaf (507.06 μmol/l) was found to be more than root (455.93 μmol/l). The total antioxidant capacity of root and leaf were 20.15 and 17.90 mg, equivalent to ascorbic acid on a dry weight basis, respectively.

Conclusion

Root and leaf of L. macrophylla has the highest energy value, contains carbohydrate, protein, fat, iron, zinc, manganese, phosphorous, calcium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, and possesses antioxidant capacity.

Dietary Anti-Aging Polyphenols and Potential Mechanisms

For years, the consumption of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been considered healthy, increasing longevity, and decreasing morbidities. With the assistance of basic research investigating the potential mechanisms, it has become clear that the beneficial effects of plant-based foods are mainly due to the large amount of bioactive phenolic compounds contained. Indeed, substantial dietary intervention studies in humans have supported that the supplementation of polyphenols have various health-promoting effects, especially in the elderly population. In vitro examinations on the anti-aging mechanisms of polyphenols have been widely performed, using different types of natural and synthetic phenolic compounds. The aim of this review is to critically evaluate the experimental evidence demonstrating the beneficial effects of polyphenols on aging-related diseases. We highlight the potential anti-aging mechanisms of polyphenols, including antioxidant signaling, preventing cellular senescence, targeting microRNA, influencing NO bioavailability, and promoting mitochondrial function. While the trends on utilizing polyphenols in preventing aging-related disorders are getting growing attention, we suggest the exploration of the beneficial effects of the combination of multiple polyphenols or polyphenol-rich foods, as this would be more physiologically relevant to daily life.

Screening of Wood/Forest and Vine By-Products as Sources of New Drugs for Sustainable Strategies to Control Fusarium graminearum and the Production of Mycotoxins

Fusarium graminearum is a fungal pathogen that can colonize small-grain cereals and maize and secrete type B trichothecene (TCTB) mycotoxins. The development of environmental-friendly strategies guaranteeing the safety of food and feed is a key challenge facing agriculture today. One of these strategies lies on the promising capacity of products issued from natural sources to counteract crop pests. In this work, the in vitro efficiency of sixteen extracts obtained from eight natural sources using subcritical water extraction at two temperatures was assessed against fungal growth and TCTB production by F. graminearum. Maritime pine sawdust extract was shown to be extremely efficient, leading to a significant inhibition of up to 89% of the fungal growth and up to 65% reduction of the mycotoxin production by F. graminearum. Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of this active extract revealed the presence of three families of phenolics with a predominance of methylated compounds and suggested that the abundance of methylated structures, and therefore of hydrophobic compounds, could be a primary factor underpinning the activity of the maritime pine sawdust extract. Altogether, our data support that wood/forest by-products could be promising sources of bioactive compounds for controlling F. graminearum and its production of mycotoxins.

Feijoa [Acca sellowiana (Berg) Burret] accessions characterization and discrimination by chemometrics

BACKGROUND

Feijoa [Acca sellowiana (Berg) Burret] is a Brazilian native fruit with few commercial-level plantations and high agroindustrial potential. A genotype evaluation experiment was conducted from 1996 onward, aiming to obtain fruits based on the agronomical parameters; however, the selection based on chemical composition had not been evaluated with respect to developing a new cultivar. Accordingly, the present study aimed to discriminate seven accessions of feijoa in terms of nutritional composition, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity using multivariate analysis (principal component analysis and multivariate contrast), targeting the potential production of a new cultivar with better nutritional value and high antioxidant capacity.

RESULTS

Feijoa husk presented high content of ashes, lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity compared to feijoa pulp. However, only feijoa pulp was selected to multivariate analysis because it is the fruit edible part. Data variability was explained in 78% and the feijoa pulp accessions were discriminated into four groups related to their characteristics. The accession 5 discrimination can be explained by the high content of ashes, carbohydrates, soluble solids, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Accession 6 was also discriminated by the high content of total acidity, pH and proteins, as well as a low content of soluble solids.

CONCLUSION

Feijoa accessions may be indicated for increasing plant selection via hybridization with the other accessions, aiming to produce new cultivars with better nutritional composition and antioxidant capacity. For example, accession 5 is the most suited fruit for human consumption and is a potential plant with respect to becoming a new cultivar. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Determination of Antiradical Activity, Total Phenolic, and Total Flavonoid Contents of Extracts and Fractions of Langsat (Lansium domesticum Coor.) Seeds

Lansium domesticum Coor. is a fruit species from the Meliaceae family, which is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. Local citizens call it langsat, longkong, or duku and have used it as traditional medicine. The seeds of L. domesticum are used as a fever medicine, its bark is used to treat scorpion sting, and its leaves are used to repel mosquitoes. Because of its various uses, it is necessary to explore the antiradical potential of L. domesticum seeds. This study aims to determine the antiradical potential of L. domesticum seeds extract and fractions by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method and to discover compounds that act as antiradical. Lansium domesticum seed powder was macerated with methanol, and then the extract was concentrated using a rotary evaporator and fractionated by n-hexane and ethyl acetate. The antiradical assay was conducted on extract and fractions by using DPPH radicals. Phenolic and flavonoid contents from extract and fractions were also tested. The ethyl acetate fraction obtained strong antiradical potential with an IC50 value of 8.938 � 0.031 �g/mL. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of ethyl acetate fraction were higher with values ??of 58.25 � 0.501 mgGAE/g sample and 75.123 � 0.175 mgQE/g sample, respectively. Correlation of phenolic and flavonoid contents, which inhibited radicals had R2 values ??of 0.9182 and 0.7658. Ethyl acetate fraction of L. domesticum seeds had very strong antiradical activity. Further isolation is expected to be conducted to discover which compounds are the most responsible as antiradical.

Function of SlTILs and SlCHL under heat and oxidative stresses in tomato

Lipocalins are very important proteins for stress resistance in plants. To better understand the function of tomato lipocalins, we observed responses to oxidative stress using over-expressed SlTIL1, SlTIL2, SlCHL, and silenced-plants. Significant differences in reactive oxygen species accumulation (oxidative damage) were observed in all tested plants under heat stress. Plants with over-expressed SlTIL1, SlTIL2, and SlCHL showed less oxidative damage compared with wild-type plants under heat stress. The expression of SlSODs was induced in over-expressed SlTIL1, SlTIL2, and SlCHL plants under normal and heat stress conditions. Furthermore, silenced PDS, SlTILs, and SlCHL plants showed slightly increasing oxidative damage under heat stress alongside with lower SlSODs under normal and stress conditions. These results suggest that SlTIL1, SlTIL2, and SlCHL were involved in antioxidant defense by eliminating ROS in tomato plants.

Antioxidant Activity of Flavonoid Rich Fraction of Ligaria cuneifolia (Loranthaceae)

Ligaria cuneifolia (Ruiz & Pav.) Tiegh. (Loranthaceae), the 'Argentine mistletoe', is a hemiparasite species largely used in folk medicine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity using in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo methods. A screening of phenolics was performed by UV spectroscopy on different fractions. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated in vitro by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH^. ) assay on a crude extract (CE), ethyl acetate fraction (EAF), and aqueous fraction (AF). The results suggest that EAF concentrates the antioxidant capacity and was selected for further analysis. Capillary electrophoresis was employed to monitor the individual antioxidant capacity and the potential contributors to this effect. Ex vivo assays showed an efficient inhibition of tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced rat liver phospholipid oxidation, as well as rat brain autoxidation, and H₂ O₂ -induced DNA damage in blood monocytes. In vivo, the topical application of EAF significantly decreased skin chemiluminescence in a mice model.

Antioxidant activities of Clerodendrum cyrtophyllum Turcz leaf extracts and their major components

This study was designed to investigate the antioxidant properties of the extracts and subfractions of various polarities from Clerodendrum cyrtophyllum Turcz leaves and the related phenolic compound profiles. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) showed the most potent radical-scavenging activity for DPPH radicals, ABTS radicals, and superoxide anion (O2·-) radicals as well as the highest reducing power of the fractions tested; the n-butyl alcohol fraction (BAF) was the most effective in scavenging hydroxyl radical (OH·), and the dichloromethane fraction (DMF) exhibited the highest ferrous ion chelating activity. Twelve phenolic components were identified from the EAF of C. cyrtophyllum. Additionally, acteoside (1) was found to be a major component (0.803 g, 0.54%) and show DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities with IC50 values of 79.65±3.4 and 23.00±1.5 μg/ml, indicating it is principally responsible for the significant total antioxidant effect of C. cyrtophyllum. Our work offers a theoretical basis for further utilization of C. cyrtophyllum as a potential source of natural, green antioxidants derived from plants.

Utilisation of the OliveNet™ Library to investigate phenolic compounds using molecular modelling studies in the context of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease that affects over 47 million people worldwide, and is the most common form of dementia. There is a vast body of literature demonstrating that the disease is caused by an accumulation of toxic extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles that consist of hyperphosphorylated tau. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the incidence of AD and the phenolic compounds in extra virgin olive oil, including oleocanthal, have gained a significant amount of attention. A large number of these ligands have been described in the pre-existing literature and 222 of these compounds have been characterised in the OliveNet™ database. In this study, molecular docking was used to screen the 222 phenolic compounds from the OliveNet™ database and assess their ability to bind to various forms of the Aβ and tau proteins. The phenolic ligands were found to be binding strongly to the hairpin-turn of the Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42 monomers, and binding sites were also identified in the tau fibril protein structures. Luteolin-4'-O-rutinoside, oleuricine A, isorhoifolin, luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside and luteolin-7,4-O-diglucoside were predicted to be novel lead compounds. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations performed using well-known olive ligands bound to Aβ1-42 oligomers highlighted that future work may examine potential anti-aggregating properties of novel compounds in the OliveNet™ database. This may lead to the development and evaluation of new compounds that may have efficacy against Alzheimer's disease.

Flavones' and Flavonols' Antiradical Structure-Activity Relationship-A Quantum Chemical Study

Flavonoids are known for their antiradical capacity, and this ability is strongly structure-dependent. In this research, the activity of flavones and flavonols in a water solvent was studied with the density functional theory methods. These included examination of flavonoids’ molecular and radical structures with natural bonding orbitals analysis, spin density analysis and frontier molecular orbitals theory. Calculations of determinants were performed: specific, for the three possible mechanisms of action—hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), electron transfer–proton transfer (ETPT) and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET); and the unspecific—reorganization enthalpy (RE) and hydrogen abstraction enthalpy (HAE). Intramolecular hydrogen bonding, catechol moiety activity and the probability of electron density swap between rings were all established. Hydrogen bonding seems to be much more important than the conjugation effect, because some structures tends to form more intramolecular hydrogen bonds instead of being completely planar. The very first hydrogen abstraction mechanism in a water solvent is SPLET, and the most privileged abstraction site, indicated by HAE, can be associated with the C3 hydroxyl group of flavonols and C4’ hydroxyl group of flavones. For the catechol moiety, an intramolecular reorganization to an o-benzoquinone-like structure occurs, and the ETPT is favored as the second abstraction mechanism.

Chemical Characterization of Bioactive Components of Rosa canina Extract and Its Protective Effect on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Intestinal Bowel Disease in a Mouse Model

Rosa canina is a well-known medicinal plant used in folk remedy that alleviates various disorders, including inflammation, gastritis, and diarrhea. The objective of this investigation was to identify and quantify the phenolic components of R. canina methanolic extract (RCME) and to determine its protective action with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-generated mice colitis model. RCME chemical analysis was done using Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization-Tandem Mass Spectrometry, and experimental animals received RCME at different doses before colitis induction by oral DSS administration during 7 days. Another group received sulfasalazine as a positive control. Colitis damages and RCME benefits were assessed using histopathological and biochemical changes and improvements. Many phenolic compounds have been identified. In addition, the DSS intoxication induced an alteration of colonic epithelium associated with an oxidative stress state. DSS administration led to an increase or decrease of intracellular mediators such as free iron and ionizable calcium. RCME consumption effectively protected against colonic histological/biochemical alterations induced by DSS intoxication providing support for the traditional use of this plant.

Anti-Aging Effects of Gyrophoric Acid on UVA-Irradiated Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts

This research was conducted to identify the anti-aging effects of gyrophoric acid on the skin, using normal human dermal fibroblasts. The anti-aging effects of gyrophoric acid on dermal fibroblasts were demonstrated through cell viability, verification of collagen, type I, alpha 1 (COL1A1)/COL3A1/matrix metalloproteinases 1 (MMP1) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression levels with quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, and protein estimation using type I collagen/MMP1-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Further, the effects of gyrophoric acid on superoxide dismutases (SODs)/catalase were investigated by assessing their mRNA expression. In ultraviolet A (UVA)-treated dermal fibroblasts, gyrophoric acid was observed to increase mRNA levels of COL1A1/COL3A1/SOD2 genes and type I collagen protein levels, consistent with its anti-aging role. Furthermore, gyrophoric acid treatment decreased both MMP1 mRNA and protein expression levels. Therefore, the results of this study demonstrate that gyrophoric acid can be considered as an important natural compound with potent anti-aging effects on the skin. Based on the findings of this study, further research about the mechanism of action of gyrophoric acid should be pursued so as to develop novel anti-aging strategies not only in the field of cosmetics but also for healthcare.

Tannin fraction of pistachio green hull extract with pancreatic lipase inhibitory and antioxidant activity

Polyphenolic compounds (present in different parts of the plant) have beneficial properties such as antioxidant and inhibition of key enzymes. In this research, antioxidant and anti-lipase activity of pistachio green hull (PGH) extract was investigated. Fractionation of PGH on Sephadex LH-20 furnished a tannin enriched fraction with higher antioxidant activity respect to that of the extract and of the non-tannin fraction. UHPL/MS² analyses showed the presence of phenolic compounds including galloyl-O-hexoside, galloyl-shikimic acid, galloylquinic acid, and gallic acid in tannin fraction. PGH-extract was an un-competitive inhibitor against porcine pancreatic lipase so that its IC₅₀ value was 2.26 mg/ml. In the same phenol amount (490 µg), anti-lipase activity of the tannin fraction was also more than non-tannin fraction and crude PGH-extract. This is probably due to the presence of some active polyphenolic compounds such as gallic acid. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Pistachio is native to the arid regions of Central and West Asia including Iran. The green hull is main by-product of pistachio industry that has numerous phenolic compounds. Our results showed that the pistachio green hull extract has antioxidant and anti-lipase activity and these activities in its tannin fraction were higher than non-tannin fraction. Therefore, the PGH extract and its tannin fraction can be used as potential substitutes of anti-obesity drugs. This allows the use of pistachio processing waste and reduces the amount of waste.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Flavonoids from Brugmansia arborea L. Flowers

Brugmansia arborea L. (Solanaceae), commonly known as "angel's trumpet," is widely grown in North America, Africa, Australia, and Asia. It has been mainly used for ornamental purposes as well as analgesic, anti-rheumatic, vulnerary, decongestant, and anti-spasmodic materials. B. arborea is also reported to show anti-cholinergic activity, for which many alkaloids were reported to be principally responsible. However, to the best of our knowledge, a phytochemical study of B. arborea flowers has not yet been performed. Four flavonol glycosides (1-4) and one dihydroflavanol (5) were for the first time isolated from B. arborea flowers in this study. The flavonoids showed significant antioxidant capacities, suppressed nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 cells, and reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) protein production increased by LPS treatment. The contents of compounds 1-4 in n-BuOH fraction were determined to be 3.8 ± 0.9%, 2.2 ± 0.5%, 20.3 ± 1.1%, and 2.3 ± 0.4%, respectively, and that of compound 5 in EtOAc fraction was determined to be 12.7 ± 0.7%, by HPLC experiment. These results suggest that flavonol glycosides (1-4) and dihydroflavanol (5) can serve as index components of B. arborea flowers in standardizing anti-inflammatory materials.

Jujube (Zizyphus lotus L.): Benefits and its effects on functional and sensory properties of sponge cake

Jujube (Ziziphus lotus L.) fruit has multiple functional properties and represents an interesting source of bioactive compounds. The purpose of this study was to improve the functionality and the sensory properties of sponge cake enriched with Z. lotus fruit. The polyphenols and flavonoids levels in the sponge cake and its antioxidant potential increased with the addition of 0–10 g of jujube powder/100 g of wheat flour. The crumb color parameters, L* and b*, decreased with the addition of jujube powder, whereas the a* value increased. In the texture analysis, addition of jujube powder resulted in an increase of the hardness and chewiness, but the springiness was reduced. The sensory evaluation showed that supplementation of jujube powder did not manifest any undesirable organoleptic response and showed satisfactory consumer acceptability. Overall, the addition at 5% jujube powder showed the finest sensory properties of the sponge cake.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Melia azedarach: Enhancement of Antibacterial, Wound Healing, Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Activities

PURPOSE

Global demand for novel, biocompatible, eco-friendly resources to fight diseases inspired this study. We investigated plants used in traditional medicine systems and utilized nanotechnology to synthesize, evaluate, and enhance potential applications in nanomedicine.

METHODS

Aqueous leaf extract from Melia azedarach (MA) was utilized for bio-synthesis of silver nanoparticles (MA-AgNPs). Reaction conditions were optimized for high yield and colloidal stability was evaluated using UV-Vis spectroscopy. MA-AgNPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Standard methods were used to analyze the antibacterial, wound healing, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities.

RESULTS

The formation of MA-AgNPs at room temperature was confirmed by stable brown colloidal solution with maximum absorbance at 420 nm (UV-Vis Spectroscopy). MA-AgNPs were spherical (SEM), uniformly dispersed, 14-20 nm in diameter (TEM), and crystalline in nature (XRD). Presence of elemental silver was confirmed by peak at 3 KeV (EDX). FTIR data revealed the presence of functional groups which indicate phyto-constituents (polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids) may have acted as the reducing and capping agents. MA-AgNPs (1000 µg/mL) showed larger zone of inhibition than MA-extract in the disk diffusion assay for human pathogenic gram positive bacteria, Bacillus cereus (34 mm) and gram negative, Escherichia coli (37 mm), thus confirming their higher antibacterial activity. The cell scratch assay on human dermal fibroblast cells revealed potential wound healing activity. The MA-AgNPs (400 µg/mL) demonstrated high antidiabetic efficacy as measured by α-amylase (85.75%) and α-glucosidase (80.33%) inhibition assays and antioxidant activity as analyzed by DPPH (63.83%) and ABTS (63.61%) radical scavenging assays. Toxic effect of MA-AgNPs against human chang liver cells (CCL-13) as determined by MTS assay, optical microscopic and CMFDA dye methods was insignificant.

CONCLUSION

This sustainable, green synthesis of AgNPs is a competitive alternative to conventional methods and will play a significant role in biomedical applications of Melia azedarach.

Prominent Pancreatic Lipase Inhibition and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of a Myristica fragrans Ethanolic Extract in vitro. Potential Role in Obesity Treatment

Objective:The objective of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and lipase inhibitory potential of various extracts of Myristica fragrans (in vitro). Material and methods:Ethanolic extracts of Myristica fragrans were studied for their free radical scavenging and lipase inhibitory potentials by using porcine lipase, PNPB and DPPH. All results were obtained by applying active formulas and calculating the percentage of inhibition. Results:Among all extracts, Myristica fragrans ethanolic extract has shown the strongest pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity at 100 ìg/mL (66.24%), with the closest potency to tthat of the standard drug, Orlistat (81.57%). This extract has also exhibited a potent antioxidant activity. The findings of the present study clearly showed that DPPH free radical scavenging activity of MFE produced 88% inhibition at 5 mg/mL as compared to standard ascorbic acid, which was 90%. Conclusions:Ethanolic extracts of Myristica fragrans had a marked PL inhibitory action and antioxidant effect. Therefore, based on this research evidence, they could be aternatively used for obesity treatment.

Synthesis and Comparative Structure-Activity Study of Carbohydrate-Based Phenolic Compounds as α-Glucosidase Inhibitors and Antioxidants

Twenty-one natural and unnatural phenolic compounds containing a carbohydrate moiety were synthesized and their structure-activity relationship (SAR) was evaluated for α-glucosidase inhibition and antioxidative activity. Varying the position of the galloyl unit on the 1,5-anhydro-d-glucitol (1,5-AG) core resulted in changes in the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and notably, particularly strong activity was demonstrated when the galloyl unit was present at the C-2 position. Furthermore, increasing the number of the galloyl units significantly affected the α-glucosidase inhibition, and 2,3,4,6-tetra-galloyl-1,5-AG (54) and 2,3,4,6-tetra-galloyl-d-glucopyranose (61) exhibited excellent activities, which were more than 13-fold higher than the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of acertannin (37). Moreover, a comparative structure-activity study suggested that a hemiacetal hydroxyl functionality in the carbohydrate core and a biaryl bond of the 4,6-O-hexahydroxydiphenoyl (HHDP) group, which are components of ellagitannins including tellimagrandin I, are not necessary for the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Lastly, the antioxidant activity increased proportionally with the number of galloyl units.