Solvent effects on phytochemical constituent profiles and antioxidant activities, using four different extraction formulations for analysis of Bucida buceras L. and Phoradendron californicum

Comprehensive analysis of different solvent extracts of Ferula communis L. fruit reveals phenolic compounds and their biological properties via in vitro and in silico assays

Although giant fennel is recognized as a "superfood" rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant activity, research into the antibacterial properties of its fruits has been relatively limited, compared to studies involving the root and aerial parts of the plant. In this study, seven solvents-acetone, methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, water, and hexane-were used to extract the chemical constituents of the fruit of giant fennel (Ferula communis), a species of flowering plant in the carrot family Apiaceae. Specific attributes of these extracts were investigated using in silico simulations and in vitro bioassays. High-performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode-array detector (HPLC-DAD) identified 15 compounds in giant fennel extract, with p-coumaric acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid being dominant. Among the solvents tested, ethanol demonstrated superior antioxidant activity and phenolic and flavonoid contents. F. communis extracts showed advanced inhibition of gram-negative pathogens (Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis) and variable antifungal activity against tested strains. Molecular docking simulations assessed the antioxidative, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of F. communis, facilitating innovative therapeutic development through predicted compound-protein interactions. In conclusion, the results validate the ethnomedicinal use and potential of F. communis. This highlights its significance in natural product research and ethnopharmacology.

Impact of induced mutation-derived genetic variability, genotype and varieties for quantitative and qualitative traits in Mentha species

PURPOSE

The genus Mentha spp. is an aromatic herb from the family 'Lamiaceae'. It is extensively predominant in temperate and sub-temperate regions of the world. The essential oil of this species is enriched with broad aroma constituents extensively utilized in food, beverages, flavor, cosmetics, perfumery, and pharmaceutical enterprises. With the global menthol market size estimated to be worth USD 765 million in 2022, India (accompanied by China and Brazil) is the world's primary manufacturer, consumer, and exporter of Mentha oil. Despite prominent global demand, the crucial bottleneck in mint cultivation is the need for more superior commercial cultivars. Predominant vegetative propagation mode with difficulties in manual emasculation, differential blooming times, sterile/sub-sterile hybrids, and low seed viability are the primary containment in creating genetic variability by classical breeding approaches. Therefore, genetic complications encountered in conventional breeding have led the breeders to apply mutation breeding as an alternative crop improvement approach in Mentha spp. These attempts at mutation breeding have produced some distinctive mutants as genetic pools for plant breeding programs, and some novel mutant mint cultivars have been made available for commercial cultivation.

CONCLUSIONS

The prime strategy in mutation-based breeding has proven an adept means of encouraging the expression of recessive genes and producing new genetic variations. The present review comprises a significant contribution of mutation breeding approaches in the development of mutant mint species and its effects on physiological variation, photosynthetic pigment, essential oil content and composition, phytochemical-mediated defense response, pathogen resistivity, and differential expression of genes related to terpenoid biogenesis. Development and diversification have led to the release of varieties, namely Todd's Mitcham, Murray Mitcham, Pranjal, Tushar, and Kukrail in M. piperita L., Mukta, and Pratik in M. cardiaca Baker, Neera in M. spicata L., Kiran in M. citrata Ehrh., and Rose mint in M. arvensis L. that have revolutionized and uplifted mint cultivation leading to economic gain by the farmers and entrepreneurs.

HPLC-DAD-MS Characterization, Antioxidant Activity, α-amylase Inhibition, Molecular Docking, and ADMET of Flavonoids from Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) has a great beneficial health effect; it has been used in traditional medicine by many cultures. Likewise, the α-amylase inhibitors are potential compounds in the development of drugs for the treatment of diabetes. The beneficial health effects of fenugreek lead us to explore the chemical composition of the seeds and their antioxidant and α-amylase inhibition activities. The flavonoid extraction from fenugreek seeds was achieved with methanol through a Soxhlet apparatus. Then, the flavonoid glycosides were characterized using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS analysis. The antioxidant capacity of fenugreek seed was measured using DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, and CUPRAC assays. Finally, the α-amylase inhibition activity was carried out using in vitro and in silico methods. The methanolic extract was found to contain high amounts of total phenolics (154.68 ± 1.50 μg GAE/mg E), flavonoids (37.69 ± 0.73 μg QE/mg E). The highest radical-scavenging ability was recorded for the methanolic extract against DPPH (IC50 = 556.6 ± 9.87 μg/mL), ABTS (IC50 = 593.62 ± 9.35 μg/mL). The ME had the best reducing power according to the CUPRAC (A 0.5 = 451.90 ± 9.07 μg/mL). The results indicate that the methanolic extracts of fenugreek seed best α-amylase inhibition activities IC50 = 653.52 ± 3.24 μg/mL. Twenty-seven flavonoids were detected, and all studied flavonoids selected have good affinity and stabilize very well in the pocket of α-amylase. The interactions between the studied flavonoids with α-amylase were investigated. The flavonoids from fenugreek seed present a good inhibitory effect against α-amylase, which is beneficial for the prevention of diabetes and its complications.

Pharmacognostical evaluation and physiochemical analysis of Salsola Kali as medicinal plant

One of the largest genera Salsola include halophytic plants with therapeutic potential. For the treatment of various ailments, plants of the genus are acclaimed. Salsola kali is an important medicinal plant exhibiting specific phytochemical and biological makeup that is frequently overlooked. The current study aimed at the pharmacognostical evaluation of leaves and stem of Salsola kali to ensure the purity, quality, and efficacy of this valuable medicinal species. For the identification, evaluation and standardization of diagnostic attributes of intact and powdered material of Salsola kali leaves and stem, various methods including organoleptic, macroscopic, microscopic, and physicochemical analysis were employed. The plant was identified to possess significant characteristics with a view to authenticate drug. Light Microscopy (LM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of aerial parts of Salsola kali manifested specialized anatomical features essential for the adaptability in dry-saline environment. Upon quantitative pharmacognostic analysis of powder of leaves and stem, the moisture content of 1.3% and 11.1%, respectively was found. The total ash (%) in leaves and stem was computed to be 65.95 and 85.3, respectively. The water soluble and alcohol soluble extractive values (%) were computed to be 79.38 and 75.4 in leaves and 78.0 and 76.8 in stem, respectively. The swelling index (cm) in leaves and stem was enumerated to be 0.8 and 0.5. The current study will be helpful in the quality check and authentication of various parts of Salsola kali that can be used as principal component of herbal medicine formulation. Based on various microscopic analyses, that is, Light Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy, the detailed description and valuable information on Salsola kali, a medicinal plant, has been provided. The present study can make a significant contribution in the literature as the findings may contribute to the determination of purity of Salsola kali for future perspectives.

Evaluation of biotechnological processing through solid-state fermentation of oilseed cakes on extracts bioactive potential

Oilseed cakes (OC) are natural sources of lignocellulosic biomass, produced every year in large amounts. In addition to their main applications as animal feed, plant or soil fertilizer, and compost, they present enormous potential for being used in biotechnological processes for the obtainment and extraction of valuable bioactive compounds. This work evaluated the effect of solid-state fermentation on the bioactive properties of extracts obtained from the bioprocessing of OC and evaluated the effect of solvents on the recovery of compounds with higher bioactive potential. A general decrease of EC50 values was observed for fermented extracts obtained using a mixture of water/methanol (1:1) as extraction solvent. A decrease in the minimum inhibitory concentration was observed for fermented water extracts compared to non-fermented. Additionally, growth inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes was observed when using aqueous methanolic fermented extracts. These extracts also exhibited a higher percentage of growth reduction against phytopathogenic fungi, and some extracts exhibited increased protection against genotoxic agents such as camptothecin and bisphenol A. It was demonstrated that bioprocessing of OC through SSF is an effective approach to obtaining valuable compounds with bioactive properties for use in the food, pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries.

Metabolomic Characterization of Phoradendron brachystachyum Mistletoe and In-Silico and In-Vitro Investigation of Its Therapeutic Potential in Metabolic Disorders

Plants of the Phoradendron genus have been traditionally used for their lipid- and glucose-lowering effects. However, the compounds responsible for these effects and the overall chemical profile of these plants have not been thoroughly investigated. We aimed to characterize the metabolome of leaves, stems, and aerial parts of the Phoradendron brachystachyum plant. We used mass spectrometry and colorimetric screening techniques (with various solvents) to identify and characterize the metabolites present. We also evaluated the antioxidant (FRAP, ORAC, TEAC, and DPPH assays) and inhibitory effects on pancreatic lipase and α-glucosidase enzymes of hydrophilic extracts. Furthermore, we compared the molecular fingerprints between the identified metabolites and FDA-approved drugs to gain insights into the metabolites that might be responsible for the observed effects on enzymes. Our findings revealed the presence of 59 putative metabolites, primarily flavonoids. However, we also hint at the presence of peptide and carbohydrate derivatives. The leaf extracts demonstrated the most promising metrics across all assays, exhibiting strong antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory effects as well as high levels of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins. Fingerprint analysis suggested potential peptide and carbohydrate metabolites as pancreatic lipase and α-glucosidase inhibitors. Overall, our study provides evidence on specific metabolites in Phoradendron brachystachyum that could be responsible for the therapeutic effects noted in obese and type 2 diabetes subjects.

Major phenolic compounds, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities of Selinum carvifolia (L.) collected from different altitudes in India

Antibiotic resistance poses a serious threat to public health, raising the number of diseases in the community. Recent research has shown that plant-derived phenolic compounds have strong antimicrobial, antifungal, and cytotoxic properties against a variety of microorganisms and work as great antioxidants in such treatments. The goal of the current work is to evaluate the anticancerous, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity activities in the extracts of the different plant parts (leaves, stems, and roots) of S. carvifolia (L.) L. This is a medicinally important plant and has been used for different kinds of diseases and ailments such as hysteria and seizures. The phenolic compounds from the different plant parts were analyzed using HPLC and the following were found to be present: chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, rutin, syringic acid, vanillic acid, cinnamic acid, caffeic acid, and protocatechuic acid. Gallic acid was found to have the highest concentration (13.93 mg/g), while chlorogenic acid (0.25 mg/g) had the lowest. The maximum TPC value, which ranged from 33.79 to 57.95 mg GAE/g dry extract weight, was found in the stem. Root extract with 9.4 mg RE/g had the greatest TFC level. In the leaf and stem extracts, the RSC ranged from 0.747 mg/mL to 0.734 mg/1 mL GE/g dry extract weight, respectively. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was used to measure in vitro antioxidant activity. In a concentration-dependent way, promising antioxidant activity was reported. Moreover, 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA) and the Folin-Ciocalteu phenol reagent technique were used to determine reducing sugar content and total phenolic content, respectively. Antibacterial activity against eight strains (MIC: 250-1,000 μg/mL) was analyzed, and the stem extract exhibited maximum activity. Antifungal activity was also assessed, and potent activity was reported especially in the extract obtained from the stem. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using an MTT assay in the A549 cell line, where different doses (0.0625, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL) of leaf, root, and stem extracts were used. Treatment with these extracts reduced the cell viability, indicating that S. carvifolia may possess anticancer potential, which can be of great therapeutic value.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Duchesnea indica Extracts Using Different Solvents and Their Antibacterial Activity

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using the whole plant of Duchesnea indica (DI) which was extracted in different solvents; the antimicrobial effects of the extract were investigated in this study. The extraction of DI was performed using three different solvents: water, pure ethanol (EtOH), and pure dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). AgNP formation was monitored by measuring the UV-Vis spectrum of each reaction solution. After synthesis for 48 h, the AgNPs were collected and the negative surface charge and size distribution of the synthesized AgNPs were measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS). The AgNP structure was determined by high-resolution powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the AgNP morphology was investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). AgNP antibacterial activities were evaluated against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using the disc diffusion method. Additionally, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were also determined. Biosynthesized AgNPs showed enhanced antibacterial activity against B. cereus, S. aureus, E. coli, S. enteritidis, and P. aeruginosa compared with that of pristine solvent extract. These results suggest that AgNPs synthesized from extracts of DI are promising antibacterial agents against pathogenic bacteria and can be further applied in the food industry.

Differentiation of Medicinal Plants According to Solvents, Processing, Origin, and Season by Means of Multivariate Analysis of Spectroscopic and Liquid Chromatography Data

Effects of processing and extraction solvents on antioxidant properties and other characteristics were evaluated for ten medicinal plant species originating from two different localities and two production years. A combination of spectroscopic and liquid chromatography techniques possessed data for multivariate statistics. Water, 50% (v/v) ethanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were compared to select the most suitable solvent for the isolation of functional components from the frozen/dried medicinal plants. DMSO and 50% (v/v) ethanol were evaluated as more efficient for phenolic compounds and colorants extraction, while water was more useful for element extraction. Drying and extraction of herbs with 50% (v/v) ethanol was the most appropriate treatment to ensure a high yield of most compounds. The satisfactory differentiation of herbs (61.8-100%) confirmed the significant effect of the processing, geographical, and seasonal factors on target functional component concentrations. Total phenolic and total flavonoid compounds content, total antioxidant activity expressed as TAA, yellowness, chroma, and browning index were identified as the most important markers for medicinal plant differentiation.

Understanding the Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Different Extracts of Secamone afzelii Leaves: A Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds for the Food Industry

Secamone afzelii (Roem. & Schult.) K. Schum (family Asclepiadaceae) is a creeping woody climber used to treat ailments in many traditional medicine systems. The present study aims to examine the antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities of S. afzelii leaf using different compositions of methanol-water mixture as an extraction solvent. The extracts were characterized by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ in terms of chemical compounds. The in silico results show that compound 23 (quercitrin) has the higher docking scores among the selected substances and the MD simulation revealed that the interactions with the enzymatic pocket are stable over the simulation time and strongly involve the tyrosinase catalytic Cu atoms. All together the results showed that both 80% and 100% methanolic extracts contained significantly (p < 0.05) the highest total phenolics content while the highest content of total flavonoids was significantly (p < 0.05) extracted by 100% methanol. About 26 compounds were tentatively identified by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ and 6 of them were quantified using standards. Results showed that the extracts were rich in flavonoids with a relatively high abundance of two kaempferol glycosides comprising 60% of quantified compounds. The 100% and 80% methanol extracts recorded significantly (p < 0.05) the highest total antioxidant, DPPH and ABTS activity as well as tyrosinase and ⍺-amylase inhibitory activities. The best significant (p < 0.05) cholinesterase inhibitory activity and reducing capacity of Fe⁺⁺⁺ and Cu⁺⁺ was recorded from the 80% methanolic extract while 100% ethanolic extract gave the highest significant (p < 0.05) butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. The best glucosidase activity was observed in the 50% and 80% methanolic extracts. Although the water extract displayed the least total phenolics and flavonoids content and consequently the lowest antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activity, it displayed significantly (p < 0.05) the highest chelating power. In conclusion, these results demonstrated the richness of S. afzelii leaf as a potential source of bioactive compounds for the food industry, for the preparation of food supplements and functional foods.

Antioxidant Activity and Phytopathogenic Control of Extracts and Fraction from Struthanthus calophyllus A.C.Sm. (Loranthaceae)

Phytopathogenic microorganisms cause oxidative stress in host plants, thus affecting agricultural crops. Such stress could be controlled by antioxidant compounds from parasitic plants, given their antioxidant power. This article reports an evaluation of Struthanthus calophyllus antimicrobial activity and antioxidant mechanism by testing different polarity extracts. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against phytopathogens bacteria (e. g., Erwinia, Pectobacterium, Xanthomonas) using the agar diffusion method. Pectobacterium and Xanthomonas presented growth inhibition zones similar to streptomycin control. Antioxidant activity was determined by measuring total phenol content, DPPH⋅, and ABTS⋅+ radicals-scavenging inhibition percentage (IP). Most polar extracts presented 76,9-95,9 % IP, which correlates with its phenolic content. Besides, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance in a V14-1 sub-fraction from stem ethanolic extract, chose one for highest yield percentage, highest metabolites presence, and antimicrobial activity, showed triterpenic compounds mixture (α-amyrin, β-amyrin and 24-methylenecycloartanol). Findings in this study are among the first reports for S. calophyllus, even the chemical characterization, that confirm its strong antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Further molecular composition research about parasitic plants could show how unknown compounds may combat pathogenic microorganisms.

Antioxidant and Antithrombotic Activities of Kenaf Seed (Hibiscus cannabinus) Coat Ethanol Extract in Sprague Dawley Rats

Oxidative stress has been implicated in deadly lifestyle diseases, and antioxidants from plant sources are the primary option in the treatment regime. Kenaf seeds are the storehouse of potential natural antioxidant phytoconstituents. Perhaps, none of the studies documented the phytoconstituents and their antioxidant potential from Kenaf seed coat so far. Thus, the current study focuses on exploring the protective effect of Kenaf Seed Coat Ethanol Extract (KSCEE) against sodium nitrite and diclofenac-induced oxidative stress in vitro (red blood cell and platelets model) and in vivo (female Sprague Dawely rat's model) along with the antithrombotic activity. The infrared spectrophotometry data showed the heterogeneous functional groups (CH, OH, C = C, C = C-C) and aromatic rings. Reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry chromatogram of KSCEE also evidenced the presence of several phytochemicals. KSCEE displayed about 76% of DPPH scavenging activity with an IC₅₀ value of 34.94 µg/ml. KSCEE significantly (***p < 0.001) normalized the stress markers such as lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl content, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in sodium nitrite and diclofenac-induced oxidative stress in RBC, platelets, liver, kidney, and small intestine, respectively. Furthermore, KSCEE was found to protect the diclofenac-induced tissue destruction of the liver, kidney, and small intestine obtained from seven groups of female Sprague Dawely rats. KSCEE delayed the clotting time of platelet-rich plasma and platelet-poor plasma and activated partial thromboplastin time, suggesting its anticoagulant property. In addition, KSCEE also exhibited antiplatelet activity by inhibiting both adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation. In conclusion, KSCEE ameliorates the sodium nitrite and diclofenac-induced oxidative stress in red blood cells, platelets, and experimental animals along with antithrombotic properties.

Phytochemical Analysis, GC-MS Profiling, and In Vitro Evaluation of Biological Applications of Different Solvent Extracts of Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R.Br. Flower Buds

Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R.Br. is a medicinally important herb belonging to the family Lamiaceae. The plant is typically found in tropical regions, and its leaf and root extracts are renowned for their ethno-botanical and therapeutic applications. This study was designed to determine the presence of various bioactive components, and to evaluate antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-proliferative activities. The preliminary phytochemical screening and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of different solvent extracts revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds, of which methanol extract showed 24 compounds, petroleum ether extract revealed 26 compounds, and 24 compounds in hexane extracts. The major bioactive components including λ-sitosterol (16.20 %) in methanol extract, 1-nonadecanol (15.48 %) in petroleum extract, and eicosane (13.22 %) in hexane extract have been reported with various bio-therapeutic applications. In addition, the flower bud methanolic extract of L. nepetifolia exhibited inhibitory potential against all tested bacterial and fungal pathogens. The DPPH radical scavenging assay revealed that methanolic extract possessed the highest antioxidant activity. The scavenging activity increased in a concentration-dependent manner, as indicated by a 74 % inhibition rate at 1000 µg/ml. Furthermore, the in vitro cytotoxic effects of the methanolic extract on the HepG2 cell line were evaluated. The IC₅₀ value of methanolic extract against HepG2 cells was determined to be 83.28 µg/ml. The findings reveal that different solvent extracts of L. nepetifolia flower buds contain a significant amount of various bioactive phytochemicals with antioxidant and anticancer activities; and thus, the plant could serve as a potential source of pharmacological applications.

Antifungal Activity of Phenols Compound Separated from Quercus infectoria and Citrullus colocynthis against Toxic Fungi

Penicillium expansum is one of the most harmful post-harvest fungal pathogens. Aspergillus flavus is a saprotrophic fungal organism with broad distribution, producing mycotoxins that are toxic to humans and animals. This study aimed to investigate the antifungal activity of phenolic alcohol extract for the dry plants Oak (Quercus infectoria Oliv) and Bitter Melon (Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad). Three concentrations of phenolic alcohol extract of Oak and Bitter Melon (100, 200 and 300 mg/mL) have been prepared against two fungi, Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus flavus. The results showed that all three concentrations of phenolic extracts gave antifungal activity, and the percentage inhibition of diameter growth (PIDG) increased with increasing concentrations. The C. colocynthis extract gave the highest average of PIDG (38.29%), followed by Q. infectoria with an average of PIDG (34.13%) against P. expansum and A. flavus. The A. flavus fungus experienced more potent inhibition, with an average of PIDG (49.05%), than P. expansum, with an average PIDG of (23.37%). The results showed that the C. colocynthis extract gave the highest PIDG (70.7±3.90), followed by Q. infectoria with PIDG (31.1±3.335) at a concentration of (300 mg/mL) on P. expansum. While the results for phenolic extracts of C.colocynthis and Q. infectoria on A. flavus showed that the antifungal activity of C. colocynthis extract had the highest PIDG (72.09±4.10) followed by Q. infectoria with PIDG (62.49±3.63) at a concentration of (300 mg/mL). We concluded that the phenolic extracts of Q. infectoria galls and C. colocynthis fruit showed inhibitory activity against two toxin-producing fungi, P. expanisum and A. flavus.

Technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS): a MCDM approach for selecting suitable solvent considering biochemical profiles and in vitro antibacterial efficacy of petioles of betel leaf (Piper betle L.)

Petioles of betel leaf (BLP) are the major industrial by-products of betel leaf industries sold at throwaway prices or used as cattle feed. The present work was taken up to evaluate suitable solvent based on yield, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties to isolate extract of BLP using the Shannon entropy-TOPSIS method. Four solvents were chosen for the extraction process: hexane, toluene + ethanol (2:1), acetone, and ethanol. The findings showed that ethanol-based BLP extract had the highest TPC value, measuring 2193.71 ± 0.17 mg of gallic acid equivalence/g of dry extract, while acetone-based extracts had the highest TFC value, measuring 8.03 mg of quercetin equivalent/g of dry extract. Radical scavenging activities like DPPH (IC₅₀ = 52.44 μg/mL), ABTS (IC₅₀ = 62.41 μg/mL), and FRAP (8.03 mg QE/g of dry extract) were found best for acetone extract. The antibacterial study of the extracts revealed that acetone extract was more sensitive to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains followed by ethanol, toluene + ethanol, and hexane extracts. Among five foodborne bacteria, B. subtilis showed the highest susceptibility against all extracts. GC-MS analysis showed that acetoxychavicol acetate (31.27%) (PubChem ID: 119,104), germacrene D (7.24%) (PubChem Id: 531,750), isoxylic acid (22.56%) (PubChem ID: 11,892), and cis-1,2-indandiol (43.92%) (PubChem ID: 20,758) are four major compounds among 22 components. TOPSIS analysis revealed that acetone extract had the highest relative closeness value (0.71) followed by ethanol (0.65), toluene + ethanol (0.53), and hexane (0.32). These results indicate that acetone extract of BLP can be considered an alternative to synthetic active ingredients in the future. These results indicated that TOPSIS method has computational robustness for selecting a solvent comparing yield, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of extract of a plant part.

Phytochemicals, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory Studies, and Identification of Bioactive Compounds Using GC-MS of Ethanolic Novel Polyherbal Extract

Hyperglycemia is the hallmark of diabetes, which is a collection of related metabolic disorders. Over time, diabetes can cause a variety of problems, including cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Ethanolic novel polyherbal extract (PHE) was prepared by mixing equal amounts of the following ingredients: Terminalia chebula Retz. (TC), Terminalia bellerica Roxb. (TB), Berberis aristata DC. (BA), Nyctanthes arbostratis L. (NA), Premna integrifolia L. (PI), and Andrographis paniculata Nees. (AP). Analysis of PHE results revealed phytochemicals like glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phytosterols, and saponins. The aim of the study was to prepare an ethanolic extract of PHE using the cold maceration technique, and identify bioactive molecules from gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, and evaluate biological responses by using in vitro studies like antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. PHE was found to contain a total of 35 phytochemicals in GC-MS of which 22 bioactive compounds were obtained in good proportion. There are a few new ones, including 2-buten-1-ol, 2-ethyl-4-(2, 2, 3-trimethyl-3-cyclopenten-1-yl (17.22%), 1, 2, 5, 6-tetrahydrobenzonitrile (4.26%), 4-piperidinamine, 2, 2, 6, 6-tetramethyl-(0.07%), undecanoic acid, 5-chloro-, chloromethyl ester (0.41%), are identified. Antioxidant activity was estimated using EC₅₀ values of 392.143 µg/ml, which were comparable to the standard value of EC₅₀ 310.513 µg/ml obtained using DPPH. Antioxidant activity was estimated with EC₅₀ 392.143 µg/ml, comparable to standard EC₅₀ 310.513 µg/ml using DPPH. In vitro anti-inflammatory potential was found with IC₅₀ of 91.449 µg/ml, comparable to standard IC₅₀ 89.451 µg/ml for membrane stabilization and IC₅₀ of 36.940 µg/ml, comparable to standard IC₅₀ 35.723 µg/ml for protein denaturation assays. As a result, the findings of this study show an enrichment of bioactive phytochemicals that can be used to investigate biological activity. To better understand how diabetes receptors work, in silico studies like docking could be carried out.

Comparative evaluation of solvent extracts of Azanza garckeana fruit pulp on hormonal profiles, spermiogram and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks

The study investigated the comparative influence of different extraction solvents on spermiogram, hormonal profiles and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks. Adult New Zealand White rabbit bucks (n=18), with average live weight of 1.2±0.03 kg and aged 10-18 mo were fed ad libitum on a commercial diet. They were administered five different Azanza garckeana (AG) fruit pulp extracts at 500 mg/kg via oral gavage, comprising control group (Con), crude (AG Cr), methanol (AG M), n-hexane (AG H), ethyl acetate (AG E)and aqueous (AG AQ) for four weeks. The extracts improved the spermiogram in rabbit bucks administered methanol (AG M) and the reaction time was significantly (P<0.05) lower in AG E group when compared to other groups. The ejaculate volume, sperm motility, pH and sperm concentration were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the AG M group when compared to the other groups. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in concentrations of blood testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone in methanol extract group (AG M). While the glutathione and malondialdehyde concentrations were (P<0.05) lower, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the groups administered methanol extract (AG M). It was concluded that AG M extracts of AG pulp elicited the best response in spermiogram, hormonal concentrations and antioxidant activities in New Zealand White rabbit bucks. Its use as the extraction solvent is recommended.

In vitro evaluation of immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer molecular mechanisms of Tribulus terrestris extracts

Dampened immunity and impaired wound healing in diabetic patients may lead to diabetic foot ulcer disease, which is the leading cause of limb amputations and hospitalization. On the other hand, cancer is the most significant cause of mortality globally, accounting for over 10 million fatalities in 2020, or nearly one in every six deaths. Plants and herbs have been used to treat chronic diseases due to their essential pharmaceutical attributes, such as mitigating drug resistance, ameliorating systemic toxicities, reducing the need for synthetic chemotherapeutic agents,and strengthening the immune system. The present study has been designed to evaluate the effects of Tribulus terrestris on wound healing, cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory responses against HepG-2 liver cancer cell line. Two solvents (methanol and ethanol) were used for root extraction of T. terrestris. The wound healing potential of the extracts was studied on diabetic cell culture line by scratch assay. The anti-oxidant and cytotoxic potentials were evaluated by in vitro assays against HepG2 cell line. The methanolic root extract resulted in the coverage of robust radical scavenging or maximum inhibition of 66.72%,potent cytotoxic activity or reduced cell viability of 40.98%, and anti-diabetic activity having mighty α-glucosidase inhibition of 50.16% at a concentration of 80 μg/ml. Significant reduction in the levels of LDH leakage (56.38%), substantial ROS (48.45%) and SOD (72.13%) activities were recorededMoreover, gene expression analysis demonstrated the down-regulation of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, MMP-9, Bcl-2, and AFP) in HepG-2 cells when treated with T. terresteris methanolic extract as compared to stress. Furthermore, the down-regulation of inflammatory markers was validated through ELISA-mediated protein estimation of IL-1β and TNF-α. It is expected that this study will lay a foundation and lead to the development of efficient but low-cost, natural herbs extract-based dressing/ointment for diabetic patients and identify potential drug metabolites to treat out-of-whack inflammatory responses involved in cancer onset, progression, and metastasis.

Bioprospecting of Helichrysum Species: Chemical Profile, Phytochemical Properties, and Antifungal Efficacy against Botrytis cinerea

Variation in plant species and extraction solvents play a crucial role in the recovery of their bioactive compounds and antifungal efficacy. Thus, in this study, a comparative investigation was carried out using extraction solvents: 70% acetone and 95% ethanol to obtain crude aqueous extracts from Helichrysum odoratissimum and H. patulum. Crude aqueous extracts were screened using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), to gain insight into their chemical composition. Phytochemical properties (total polyphenols (TP) and radical scavenging capacity via 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)), and antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea of the crude extracts were evaluated. Fungicide (Rovral^® WP) and extraction solvents were used as controls. Variation in Helichrysum spp. and extraction solvent had influence on the chemical composition, phytochemicals, and antifungal activities. Metabolites such as γ-terpinene (≈0.1%), α-amorphene (≈0.6%) α-gurjunene (≈1.4%), β-selinene (2.2-3.2%), γ-gurjunene (≈3.3%), and methyl cinnamate (≈20%) were detected only in extracts of H. patulum. Crude extract of H. odoratissimum using 70% acetone had the highest TP (19.3 ± 0.76 g GA 100 g^-1), and DPPH capacity (13,251.5 ± 700.55 µmol Trolox g^-1) compared to H. patulum (p ≤ 0.05). Ethanolic extracts of H. patulum showed highest antifungal efficacy (≈65%) against B. cinerea (p ≤ 0.05) compared to other crude extracts. This study showed that Helichrysum spp. differ in their potential as a source for bioactive compounds and antifungal treatments/formulations.

Effect of Extraction Solvents on Total Polyphenolic Content and Antioxidant Capacity of Syzygium Aromaticum L. Flower Bud from Ethiopia

In this study, the antioxidative activity and polyphenolic content of Syzygium aromaticum's flower bud were compared under different extraction solvents including chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol, and aqueous. The antioxidant activity was assessed via established in vitro assay models such as 2, 2-diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, NO- radical scavenging assay, H2O2 scavenging assay and Fe3+ reducing capacity. Total phenolic content was measured according to Folin-Ciocalteu's method, and total flavonoid content was estimated by using the aluminum chloride colorimetric method. The results showed that aqueous extract possessed the highest TPC (19.11 ± 2.76 mg GAE/g DW) and TFC (15.32 ± 1.53 mg CtE/g DW). Among the extracts, methanol extract exerted the strongest radical DPPH quenching activity with an IC50 value of 303.56 ± 13.14 μg/mL. The highest NO- radical scavenging activity was shown by methanol extract (IC50192.94 ± 1.9 μg/mL) which is stronger than BHT (IC50247.64 ± 12.89 μg/mL). Methanol extract showed a strong H2O2 scavenging activity (IC50233.71 ± 3.72 μg/mL). The highest Fe3+ reducing capacity was shown by methanol extract (Absorbance = 0.36 ± 0.05). Strong and positive correlations were observed between total phenolic and flavonoid contents and the antioxidant assays. The results of the present work revealed that the tested spice demonstrated high antioxidant activity, total phenolics, and flavonoids. Thus, this spice is worth considering as important source of natural antioxidant agents.

Bioaccessibility of Phenolic Compounds from Mistletoe Infusions and Effect of In Vitro Digestion on Its Antioxidant and Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitory Activity

Phoradendron brachystachyum is an American mistletoe distributed in México and used ethnobotanically in infusions to treat hypertriglyceridemia and lower cholesterol levels. This study aimed to evaluate the bioaccessibility of the phenolic acids from mistletoe infusions and the effect of simulated digestion on its antioxidant and lipase inhibitory properties. The in vitro digestion process decreased the antioxidant capacity activity by the TEAC and ORAC assays in infusions from leaves, stems, and whole plant samples. Moreover, the individual phenolic content of mistletoe infusions was also affected by the in vitro digestion process; the most abundant individual phenolic constituents at the end of the digestion process were ferulic and quinic acids. These compounds showed low bioaccessibility values ranging from 7.48% to 22.60%. In addition, the in vitro digestion diminished the pancreatic lipase inhibition percentage of leaves and whole plant infusions but increased it in the stem samples. This research showed that given the phenolic content and pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity of mistletoe infusions, it could be used as a potential source for the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals; nonetheless, its phenolic content is affected by gastrointestinal digestion; thus, encapsulation strategies are encouraged to protect these metabolites from the gastrointestinal environment while preserving their antioxidant and hypolipidemic potentials.

Evaluation of Possible Antioxidant, Anti-Hyperglycaemic, Anti-Alzheimer and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Teucrium polium Aerial Parts (Lamiaceae)

Teucrium polium L. is commonly used in folk medicine to treat hypertension and diabetes and to heal wounds. The present work aimed to evaluate the different biological activities of T. polium hydroalcoholic extract, its total phenol and flavonoid content, and its mineral elements. Results showed that T. polium extract showed significant antioxidant potential in 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay with IC₅₀ equal to 8.68 μg/mL but with moderate activity in galvinoxyl assay with IC₅₀ of 21.82 μg/mL and mild activity in the β-carotene assay. It also showed a pronounced anti-hyperglycemic activity using α-amylase inhibitory assay (IC₅₀ = 111.68 µg/mL) and exceeds that of acarbose. T. polium showed excellent activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) with IC₅₀ values of 28.69 and 4.93 μg/mL, respectively, postulating its promising anti-Alzheimer potential. The plant extract exhibited a strong anti-inflammatory effect with Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) denaturation inhibitory potential estimated by 97.53% at 2 mg/mL, which was further confirmed by the in vivo carrageen-induced edema model. The extract revealed its richness in flavonoids and phenols, evidenced by its polyphenols content (36.35 ± 0.294 μg GAE/mg) and flavonoids (24.30 ± 0.44 μg QE/mg). It is rich in minerals necessary for human health, such as calcium, potassium, iron, sodium, magnesium, manganese and zinc. Molecular docking performed for previously identified compounds on human α-amylase, 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and acetylcholine esterase confirmed the results. Thus, it can be concluded that T. polium can be a good candidate for alleviating many health-debilitating problems and can be highly beneficial in the pharmaceutical industry and medical research.

Cardioprotective potential of the antioxidant-rich bioactive fraction of Garcinia pedunculata Roxb. ex Buch.-Ham. against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in Wistar rats

This Study aimed to characterise the phenolic compounds in Garcinia pedunculata extract and assess their potential antioxidant activity as well as its cardioprotective potential in isoproterenol-induced cardiac hypertrophy in an experimental animal model. In vitro antioxidant properties were determined using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, PMD assays. In vitro lipid peroxidation experiment was also performed with heart tissues. Cardioprotective and cardiotoxicity effects were determined using the cell line studies. The cardioprotective effect of GP was assessed in a rat model of isoproterenol-(ISO-) induced cardiac hypertrophy by subcutaneous administration. Heart weight/tail length ratio and cardiac hypertrophy indicators were reduced after oral administration of GP. Additionally, GP reduced oxidative stress and heart inflammation brought on by ISO. In H9c2 cells, the antihypertrophic and anti-inflammatory effects of the extract of GP were seen in the presence of ISO, which were further supported by the in vivo observations. This study makes a compelling case for the possibility that supplementing with dried GP fruit can prevent heart hypertrophy by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Phytochemical profile and antimicrobial activity of the leaves and stem bark of Symphonia globulifera L.f. and Allophylus abyssinicus (Hochst.) Radlk

Introduction

Symphonia globulifera and Allophylus abyssinicus are used in the management of skin rashes and sores, cough, malaria, digestive diseases, stomach ache, wounds and helminthic infections among others in Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Cameroon. This study aimed at determining the phytochemical profile and antimicrobial activity of these two plants.

Methods

The stem bark and leaves of both plants were collected from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and air-dried under shade at room temperature. Cold maceration, decoction and infusion with methanol, water and ethyl acetate as solvents were used in phytochemical extraction. Preliminary qualitative screening and thin layer chromatography were used for phytochemical profiling. Antimicrobial activity was analysed by agar well diffusion assay, broth macro-dilution assay and fractional inhibition concentration index (FICI).

Results

The leaves and stem bark of both plants have a diverse set of phytochemical compounds of variable polarity including, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, quinones and anthraquinones among others. Generally, methanol and water extracts of S. globulifera and A. abyssinicus had in-vitro bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa but weak fungistatic activity against Candida albicans. Allophylus abyssinicus leaf water and S. globulifera leaf methanol extract combination had a synergistic activity (ΣFICI = 0.37) against S. aureus. Similarly, A. abyssinicus stem bark water extract and A. abyssinicus leaf water extract combination had an additive effect (ΣFICI = 1) against P. aeruginosa.

Conclusion

The leaves and stem bark crude extracts of S. globulifera and A. abyssinicus possess a wide range of bioactive phytochemical compounds but have weak antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa and C. albicans.

Determination of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Commiphora mollis (Oliv.) Engl. resin

In this study, total phenolic contents (TPC) and antioxidant activity of Commiphora mollis (Oliv.) Engl. (Burseraceae) resin were investigated. The resin was extracted using petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol to give 27.46 ± 0.48, 46.56 ± 0.42, and 53.00 ± 1.39% extractable solids, respectively. The Folin–Ciocalteu (F–C) redox assay was optimized considering relevant parameters such as reaction time, maximum wavelength, and sample dilution effect before the determination of TPC. The concentration of antioxidants necessary to decrease by 50% the initial concentration of DPPH (EC₅₀) was determined at 60 min. The reaction kinetics was analyzed using the pseudo-first-order kinetics model. For the F–C assay, the optimum conditions for the maximum absorbance and analysis time were 760 nm and 30 min, respectively. Under these conditions, the method exhibited good sensitivity and linear instrumental responses over wide ranges of concentrations. The highest TPC;168.27 ± 3.44, 137.43 ± 1.32, and 136.16 ± 0.42 mgGAE/g were recorded in the diluted samples (500 µg/mL) of methanol, chloroform, and petroleum ether extracts, respectively. By using different concentrations of the test sample, exhaustive reduction of phenolics and/or antioxidant substrates was achieved. Regarding the DPPH radical scavenging capacity, the EC₅₀ values for methanol, chloroform, and petroleum ether extracts were 295.03 ± 3.55, 342.75 ± 9.72, and 353.69 ± 7.30 µg/mL, respectively. The standard (l-ascorbic acid), however, exhibited much lower EC₅₀ value (44.72 ± 0.48 µg/mL). The methanol extracts showed kinetic behavior (k₂ values,115.08 to 53.28 M⁻¹ s⁻¹; steady-state time, < 29 min) closer to that of l-ascorbic acid (k₂ values, 190 to 109 M⁻¹ s⁻¹; steady-state time, < 16 min), than other two extracts (k₂ values,14 to 28 M⁻¹ s⁻¹; steady-state time, 63 to 130 min). For all tested samples, the rate of the DPPH radical scavenging increases with concentration from 50 to 250 µg/mL. The current study demonstrated that the polar solvent (methanol) extract has a better F–C reducing capacity and DPPH radical scavenging activity than the nonpolar solvents extracts. This could be due to phenolics and other oxidation substrates extracted by methanol from the C. mollis resin. For a better understanding of the antioxidant constituents of the resin, a further study including isolation of its compounds is recommended.

Antioxidant Potential of Selected Wild Edible Leafy Vegetables of Sikkim Himalayan Region: Effects of Cooking Methods and Gastrointestinal Digestion on Activity

Green leafy vegetables or GLVs are one of the main attractions in the local vegetable market and are widely consumed as the main course and side dish in the Sikkim Himalayan region (SHR). This study evaluated the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC) and antioxidant potential in different extracts such as methanolic (MeOH), ethyl acetate (EtOAC), and hexane extracts of selected GLVs followed by changes in the antioxidant activity on cooking and stimulated gastrointestinal (GI) digestion. The MeOH extracts of Urtica dioica L. (Sisnu), Nasturtium officinale W. T. Aiton (Simrayo), Diplazium esculentum Retz. Sw. (Ningro), and Chenopodium album L. (Bethu) were estimated to have higher TPC [22.73–45.84 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mg of extract]. In contrast, the plant extracts prepared using EtOAC (except for N. officinale, where TFC was found to be higher in hexane extract) were found to contain higher TFC (3.42–14.86 μg quercetin equivalent (QE)/mg of extract). The MeOH extracts also exhibited higher 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity (9.55–18.67 μg ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE)/mg of extract), total antioxidant activity (TAA) (0.27–0.32 mg AAE/mg of extract), and reducing power potential (RPP) (1.6–9.9 μg AAE/mg of extract). Among the test MeOH extracts, U. dioica demonstrated relatively higher antioxidant activities and was selected for cooking experiments followed by simulated GI digestion. The findings revealed that the loss of antioxidant activity was minimal in steam-cooked leaves (3.5% in 40 min) as compared to the boiled ones (18% in 10 min). The simulated GI (simulated salivary, gastric, and intestinal) digestion performed on raw, steam cooked, and boiled U. dioica leaves showed substantial enhancement of antioxidant properties (by 64.63%) through steam cooking in comparison to the raw leaves. Overall the study concludes that higher antioxidant properties can be achieved on the consumption of steam-cooked U. dioica leaves.

Phytochemical Profile and Pharmacological Activity of Vernonia amygdalina Delile Stem Bark Extracts Using Different Solvent Extraction

BACKGROUND: Vernonia amygdalina is a native plant from Africa which is widely distributed to Asia, especially in Indonesia. Parts of V. amygdalina such as roots, leaves, and bark are used by the community as traditional medicines such as antidiabetic, antibacterial, and anticancer. AIM: This study aims to show the effect of solvents in the V. amygdalina stem bark extraction process on phytochemical’s content and their correlation with pharmacological activities. METHODS: V. amygdalina extract from stem bark in this study was obtained using the maceration method with different solvents. The extracts were investigated for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoids content (TFC) using calorimetry assay. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to grouping the extracts based on Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) data. Antioxidant activity of the extracts was done using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethyl benzhothiazoline sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assay. While, the cytotoxic activity of the extracts was carried out using MTT assay on PANC-1 cell line. The correlation phytochemical content and pharmacology activities of extracts were analyzed using person correlation method. RESULTS: There were significantly different TPC and total flavonoid content of extracts (p < 0.05). The ethyl acetate extract was identified to have the highest TPC, TFC, DPPH, ABTS, and cytotoxic values of 3.61 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g dry powder, 25.12 ± 0.09 mg QE/g dry powder, 27.12 ± 0.65 μg/mL, 67.02 ± 0.23 μg/mL, and 33.83 ± 0.82 μg/mL, respectively (p < 0.05). This is supported by PCA analysis which shows that there are differences in extracts based on FTIR data and there is a strong correlation between TPC and TFC values with antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. CONCLUSIONS: This study report that each extract of V. amygdalina stem bark gives a distinct phytochemical profile (TPC, TFC, and FTIR spectrum) that contributes to the antioxidant activity and cytotoxic activity.

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES AND CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF Rubia tinctorum (L) ROOT AND AERIAL PART EXTRACTS THEREOF

In the present study, the phytochemical composition, antioxidant and anti-hemolytic activities of root and aerial part Rubia tinctorum hydromethanolic extracts were investigated. Phytochemical screening reveals the presence of phenol, alkaloids, coumarin, flavonoids, and tannins in both extracts. LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis showed the presence of 15 and 17 components in the root and the aerial part extracts, respectively. The quantitative analysis indicates the richness of root extracts in phenolic compounds (118.38 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (45.29±0.04 mg GAE/g), the aerial part extract has the highest levels in tannins (134.1±0.1 mg GAE/g). Besides, aerial part extracts revealed the highest antioxidant activity for DPPH (83.23 %) and FRAP (1.51±0.22), while the root extract exhibited the highest potential for TAC and antihemolytic activity (61.09 %). Rubia tinctorum contains different active compounds to prevent diseases related to oxidative stress.

The Anti-Hypertensive and Hypoglycemic Potential of Bioactive Compounds Derived from Pulasan Rind

Pulasan (Nephelium mutabile Blume) is an underutilized fruit native to tropical countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. To date, the medicinal potential of pulasan remains unexplored, although this fruit shares the same genus with the well-known rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum). Therefore, the current study aims to examine the antioxidant properties of different parts of pulasan (flesh, rind, and kernel) and investigate the bioactive profile, anti-hypertensive and hypoglycemic properties of pulasan rind. Pulasan were extracted using different solvents, including distilled water, methanol, and ethanol. The antioxidant capacity was measured using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and the antioxidant component was identified by total flavonoid content (TFC) and total phenolic content (TPC). The bioactive profile of pulasan rind was characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The anti-hypertensive and hypoglycemic properties of pulasan rind were determined with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) assay and alpha-amylase inhibition assay, respectively. Emerging findings revealed that pulasan rind exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity (DPPH, TEAC, and FRAP) in all extraction solvents and antioxidant components (TPC and TFC) in ethanolic extract. The ethanolic extracts of pulasan rind also had higher ACE and alpha-amylase inhibition activities than the distilled water extracts. Geraniin, chlorogenic acid, catechin, corilagin, syringic acid, and naringenin of pulasan rind may function as anti-hypertensive agents.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant and Bone Anabolic Effects of Blainvillea acmella (L.) Philipson

Blainvillea acmella (L.) Philipson [Asteraceae] (B. acmella) is an important medicinal plant native to Brazil, and it is widely known as a toothache plant. A plethora of studies have demonstrated the antioxidant activities of B. acmella and few studies on the stimulatory effects on alkaline phosphatase (ALP) secretion from bone cells; however, there is no study on its antioxidant and anabolic activity on bone cells. The study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical contents of aqueous and ethanol extracts of B. acmella using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) and liquid chromatography time of flight mass spectrometry (LCTOFMS) along with the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents using Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum colorimetric methods. The extracts of B. acmella leaves were used to scavenge synthetic-free radicals such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The bone anabolic effects of B. acmella extracts on MC3T3-E1 cells were measured with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazoium bromide (MTT) at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days, Sirius-red and ALP at 7 and 14 days, and Alizarin Red S at 14 and 21 days. Comparatively, ethanol extract of B. acmella (BaE) contributed higher antioxidant activities (IC₅₀ of 476.71 µg/ml and 56.01 ± 6.46 mg L-ascorbic acid/g against DPPH and FRAP, respectively). Anabolic activities in bone proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization were also higher in B. acmella of ethanol (BaE) than aqueous (BaA) extracts. Positive correlations were observed between phenolic content (TPC and TFC) to antioxidant (ABTS and FRAP) and anabolic activities. Conversely, negative correlations were present between phenolic content to antioxidant (DPPH) activity. These potential antioxidant and bone anabolic activities in BaE might be due to the phytochemicals confirmed through GCMS and LCTOFMS, revealed that terpenoids of α-cubebene, cryophyllene, cryophyllene oxide, phytol and flavonoids of pinostrobin and apigenin were the compounds contributing to both antioxidant and anabolic effects in BaE. Thus, B. acmella may be a valuable antioxidant and anti-osteoporosis agent. Further study is needed to isolate, characterize and elucidate the underlying mechanisms responsible for the antioxidant and bone anabolic effects.

Comparison of Phytochemical Contents, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Various Solvent Extracts Obtained from 'Maluma' Avocado Pulp Powder

Although avocado is a superfood rich in phytochemicals with high antioxidant activities, studies on the antibacterial properties of its pulp are limited, except for seed and peel portions. In this study, three types of solvent (acetone, methanol, and diethyl ether) were used to obtain the extracts from "Maluma" avocado pulp powder prepared by infrared drying. The extracts were analyzed for total polyphenols, phytopigments (total chlorophylls and carotenoids), antioxidant activities (ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays), and antibacterial activities against seven pathogens (Shigella sonnei ATCC 9290, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Salmonella typhi ATCC 6539, Vibrio parahaemolyticus ATCC 17802, Proteus mirabilis ATCC 25933, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, and Bacillus cereus ATCC 11778). The results showed that the acetone solvent could extract the highest polyphenols and chlorophylls with the highest antioxidant activity in terms of ABTS and DPPH assays. In contrast, diethyl ether exhibited the most significant content of carotenoids and FRAP values. However, the methanol extract was the best solvent, exerting the strongest antibacterial and meaningful antioxidant activities. For the bacterial activities, Gram-positive pathogens (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus) were inhibited more efficiently by avocado extracts than Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, the extracts from avocado powder showed great potential for applications in food processing and preservation, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

In vitro study of the antioxidant, antiproliferative, and anthelmintic properties of some medicinal plants of Kokrajhar district, India

Alstonia scholaris, Cardiospermum halicacabum, Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides, and Hypericum japonicum are important folk medicinal plants used by tribal communities of Bodoland region of Assam to treat helminth infections. Because of their ethnomedicinal values, the present study was designed to investigate the antioxidant, antiproliferative, and anthelmintic activities of the plants. The antioxidant activity was measured by total antioxidant capacity, total phenolics (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC), FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, and TBARS assay. Antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities of plants were conducted in Dalton's lymphoma (DL) cells. Cells were treated for 24 h with different doses (25-200 mg/mL) of plant extracts. Anthelmintic study was conducted by treating the Paramphistomum sp. at different doses of plant extracts. Phytochemical and antioxidant studies showed rich TPC, TFC, and free radical scavenging activity in H. japonicum and H. sibthorpioides. Both the antiproliferative and anthelmintic bioassays showed a dose-dependent efficacy in all plants. H. japonicum showed the strongest anthelmintic activity (LC₅₀ 0.21 mg/mL) followed by H. sibthorpioides (5.36 mg/mL), C. halicacabum (13.40 mg/mL), and A. scholaris (18.40 mg/mL). Evidently, H. sibthorpioides showed the strongest antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities among all the plants. The study observed a positive correlation between the antioxidant properties and antiproliferative and anthelmintic activities of the plants. We, therefore, conclude that the phytocompounds present in the crude extracts along with antioxidant molecules may have combined effects contributing to the antiproliferative and anthelmintic activities of the plants.

Exploring the Chemical Profiles and Biological Values of Two Spondias Species (S. dulcis and S. mombin): Valuable Sources of Bioactive Natural Products

Spondias species have been used in traditional medicine for different human ailments. In this study, the effect of different solvents (ethyl acetate, methanol, and water) and extraction methods (infusion, maceration, and Soxhlet extraction) on the enzyme inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and antioxidant properties of S. mombin and S. dulcis leaves and stem bark were evaluated. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) yield in the identification and/or annotation of 98 compounds showing that the main secondary metabolites of the plant are gallic and ellagic acids and their derivatives, ellagitannins, hydroxybenzoic, hydroxycinnamic, acylquinic acids and flavonols, flavanones, and flavanonols. The leaves infusion of both Spondias species showed highest inhibition against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (10.10 and 10.45 mg galantamine equivalent (GALAE)/g, for S. dulcis and S. mombin, respectively). The ethyl acetate extracts of the stem bark of S. mombin and S. dulcis actively inhibited α-glucosidase. Methanolic extracts of the leaves and stem bark exhibited highest tyrosinase inhibitory action. Antioxidant activity and higher levels of phenolics were observed for the methanolic extracts of Spondias. The results suggested that the Spondias species could be considered as natural phyto-therapeutic agents in medicinal and cosmeceutical applications.

LC-MS/MS characterization, antidiabetic, antioxidative, and antibacterial effects of different solvent extracts of Anamur banana (Musa Cavendishii)

The main objective of this study was to examine the phenolic compounds and the antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-α-glucosidase and anti-α-amylase activities of the different extracts (methanol, ethanol and hexane) of Musa cavendishii collected from the Anamur district in Turkey. LC-MS/MS was used to identify phenolic compounds. Quinic acid, acotinic acid, hesperidin and amentoflavone were identified in methanol extract. These phenolic compounds, excluding hesperidin, were also identified in the ethanol extract. Methanolic extract appeared the most active in all enzyme inhibition, antibacterial and antioxidative activity assays which is mainly due to its rich phenolic content. The methanol extract of banana showed the highest anti-α-glucosidase and anti-α-amylase activities with IC50 values of 5.45 ± 0.39 mg/mL, 9.70 ± 0.29 mg/mL, respectively. This study showed that methanol and ethanol extract, especially the methanol extract, have potential for use in the development of functional foods for reducing the diabetes and bacterial risks.

The Effects of Tormentic Acid and Extracts from Callistemon citrinus on Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis Growth and Inhibition of Ergosterol Biosynthesis in Candida albicans

Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis are the leading causes of human fungal infections worldwide. There is an increase in resistance of Candida pathogens to existing antifungal drugs leading to a need to find new sources of antifungal agents. Tormentic acid has been isolated from different plants including Callistemon citrinus and has been found to possess antimicrobial properties, including antifungal activity. The study aimed to determine the effects of tormentic and extracts from C. citrinus on C. albicans and C. tropicalis and a possible mode of action. The extracts and tormentic acid were screened for antifungal activity using the broth microdilution method. The growth of both species was inhibited by the extracts, and C. albicans was more susceptible to the extract compared to C. tropicalis. The growth of C. albicans was inhibited by 80% at 100 μg/ml of both the DCM: methanol extract and the ethanol: water extract. Tormentic acid reduced the growth of C. albicans by 72% at 100 μg/ml. The effects of the extracts and tormentic acid on ergosterol content in C. albicans were determined using a UV/Vis scanning spectrophotometer. At concentrations of tormentic acid of 25 μg/ml, 50 μg/ml, 100 μg/ml, and 200 μg/ml, the content of ergosterol was decreased by 22%, 36%, 48%, and 78%, respectively. Similarly, the DCM: methanol extract at 100 μg/ml and 200 μg/ml decreased the content by 78% and 88%, respectively. A dose-dependent decrease in ergosterol content was observed in cells exposed to miconazole with a 25 μg/ml concentration causing a 100% decrease in ergosterol content. Therefore, tormentic acid inhibits the synthesis of ergosterol in C. albicans. Modifications of the structure of tormentic acid to increase its antifungal potency may be explored in further studies.

Ultrasound-homogenization-assisted extraction of polyphenols from coconut mesocarp: Optimization study

Coconut pericarp (shell fiber (mesocarp) and shell (endocarp)), the main by-product of coconut production, is often discarded and causing serious environmental pollution. To make better use of coconut pericarp, the extraction process of polyphenols from coconut mesocarp (CM) carefully studied by screening seven solvent systems, optimizing the assisted ultrasonic process by response surface methodology, and comparing the four processes of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE), Homogenization-Assisted Extraction (HAE), Homogenization-Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (HUAE), and Ultrasound-Homogenization-Assisted Extraction (UHAE). The UAE and HAE are considered to be the main methods for efficient extraction of natural active ingredients. The former effectively destroys the cell wall structure and promotes the intermolecular diffusion based on the cavitation, thermal and mechanical effect of ultrasonic, while the latter breaks the material based on strong shear force between the rotor and stator. Their combinations (HUAE and UHAE) enhance the damage to the cell wall of raw materials and improve the extraction efficiency by the synergistic effect. The results showed that using 60% acetone (V : V) as extraction solvent, solid-liquid ratio of 1:5 g mL^-1, ultrasonic temperature of 80 ℃, ultrasonic time of 80 min, ultrasonic power of 225 W, and then homogenizing at 10,000 rpm for 10 min, the total flavonoid content of CM reached the maximum value of 551.99 ± 12.69 mg Rutin g^-1 dry weight (dw), while the total phenolic content reached the maximum value of 289.48 ± 4.41 mg GAE g^-1 dw at 10,000 rpm for 5 min, which may be related to the oxidative degradation of polyphenols caused by the increase of polyphenol oxidase with the extension of homogenization time. This study provides a technical guarantee for the further utilization of phenolic substances in CM.

Persicaria strigosa (R.Br.) Nakai: a natural anthelmintic?

Persicaria strigosa (R.Br.) Nakai. (Family Polygonaceae) is an important plant of Assam, having several ethnobotanical uses. Tribal communities consume leaf extracts to cure helminth infection. The present study investigated the antioxidant, phytochemicals, and anthelmintic activity of P. strigosa. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were estimated following standard methods. Antioxidant properties were analyzed by TAC, FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, and TBARS assays. Anthelmintic activity of plant was investigated in Paramphistomum sp. treated with 5 mg/mL, and paralysis and death times were recorded. The most potent solvent extract was performed GC-MS analysis to identify the phytocompounds. Plant extract-treated parasites were further analyzed for biochemical changes. Additionally, molecular docking was performed to study the binding affinities between phytocompounds and enzymes. P. strigosa showed rich phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant properties. Ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts showed more powerful antioxidant properties than other extracts. In vitro anthelmintic study found ethyl acetate and diethyl ether the most active extracts. Treated parasites showed a significant decrease in enzyme activity. The highest inhibition was observed in AchE, followed by MDH, LDH, ALP, and ACP. GC-MS study identified 12 probable compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of P. strigosa. Molecular docking showed the strongest binding affinity between the phytocompounds and AchE enzyme (- 7.6 kcal/mol). Overall, compounds C6, C7, and C12 showed better binding affinity compared to other compounds. The in vitro helminth bioassays and biochemical analysis suggest Persicaria strigosa a possible anthelmintic agent. However, isolation and characterization of bioactive compound(s) may promise new drug candidates for helminth infections.

Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activity of Selected Medicinal Plants of Lower Assam, India: An In Vitro and In Silico Study

BACKGROUND

The use of medicinal plants for general wellbeing and disease treatment is a common practice among tribal communities of Kokrajhar districts of Assam. However, little works have been done to study the pharmacological aspect of the plants.

OBJECTIVES

The present study intends to study the antioxidant and antiproliferative properties of selected medicinal plants used by the tribal communities of the Kokrajhar district of Assam since ancient times.

METHODS

Five traditionally important medicinal plants, namely, Cassia fistula, Citrus grandis, Lindernia crustacea, Sacciolepis myosuroides, and Zingiber zerumbet were investigated for antioxidant, antiproliferative (cytotoxic) and apoptosis-inducing potential in the malignant cancer cell line. Phytochemical content, such as phenolic and flavonoid content, were estimated following standard protocol. The methanolic extract of plants was investigated following the phosphomolybdate method (TAC), FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, and TBARS assays. Antiproliferative activities of the plants were carried out by MTT assay in DL and PBMC cells. The apoptotic study was carried out following the acridine orange and ethidium bromide staining method and fluorescent microscopic imaging. Based on the significant (P≤0.05) high apoptotic inducing potential of the plant and to further dissect the molecular mode of action, including downstream biological action, major phytochemicals derived from L. crustacea were investigated for its prospective binding affinity with anti-apoptotic cancer target proteins.

RESULTS

Antioxidant studies by FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, and TBARS assay revealed that all five plants contain considerable free radical scavenging activity. C. fistula showed the strongest free radical scavenging activity while the fruit peel extract of C. grandis showed poor activity. The overall antioxidant activities of plants such as TAC, FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, and TBARS may be arranged in decreasing activity as C. fistula > Z. zerumbet > L. crustacea > S. myosuroides > C. grandis. MTT based cell proliferation study showed that all the plants extract significantly (P≤0.05) inhibited cell viability with negligible cytotoxicity (~5-12%) in normal cells. Moreover, L. crustacea showed promising antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing ability against Dalton's lymphoma. It is worth mentioning that the major bioactive compounds of the most potent plant extract, L. crustacea interacted with anti-apoptotic proteins (cancer target) with higher affinity and the results are compared with reference inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

It is worth noting that these plants have the potential to consider for further scientific studies in different cell lines and animal models. Furthermore, isolation and characterization of bioactive compound(s) may promise the discovery of new and valuable drugs candidate to tackle various human diseases.

A Prospective of Multiple Biopharmaceutical Activities of Procyanidins-Rich Uapaca togoensis Pax Extracts: HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS Coupled with Bioinformatics Analysis

The article reports the chemical composition, antioxidant, six key enzymes inhibitory and antimicrobial activities of two solvent extracts (water and methanol) of leaves and stem bark of Uapaca togoensis. For chemical composition, methanol extract of stem bark exhibited significant higher total phenolic (129.86 mg GAE/g) and flavanol (10.44 mg CE/g) contents. Methanol extract of leaves and water extract of stem bark showed high flavonoids (20.94 mg RE/g) and phenolic acid (90.40 mg CAE/g) content, respectively. In addition, HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS analysis revealed that U. togoensis was rich in procyanidins. The methanol and water extracts of stem bark had overall superior antioxidant activity; however, only methanol extract of stem bark showed higher inhibition of cholinesterase (AChE: 2.57 mg GALAE/g; BChE: 4.69 mg GALAE/g), tyrosinase (69.53 mg KAE/g) and elastase (2.73 mmol CE/g). Potent metal chelating ability was showed by water extract of leaves (18.94 mg EDTAE/g), higher inhibition of amylase was detected for water extracts of leaves (0.94 mmol ACAE/g) and stem bark (0.92 mmol ACAE/g). The tested extracts have shown wide-spectrum antibacterial properties and these effects have shown to be more effective against Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium funiculosum, Trichoderma viride, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results revealed that the antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory and antimicrobial activities depended on the extraction solvents and the parts of plant. Bioinformatics analysis on the 17 major compounds showed modulation of pathway associated with cancer. In brief, U. togoensis might be valuable as potential source of natural agents for therapeutic application.