Chemical Characterization and Biological Activity of the Mastic Gum Essential Oils of Pistacia lentiscus Var. Chia from Turkey

Antimicrobial Activities of Pistacia lentiscus Essential Oils Nanoencapsulated into Hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrins

The rising risks of food microbial contamination and foodborne pathogens resistance have prompted an increasing interest in natural antimicrobials as promising alternatives to synthetic antimicrobials. Essential oils (EOs) obtained from natural sources have shown promising anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. EOs extracted from the resins of Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia are widely utilized for the treatment of skin inflammations, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, wound healing, and cancers. The therapeutic benefits of P. lentiscusessential oils (PO) are limited by their low solubility, poor bioavailability, and high volatility. Nanoencapsulation of PO can improve their physicochemical properties and consequently their therapeutic efficacy while overcoming their undesirable side effects. Hence, PO was extracted from the resins of P. lentiscusvia hydrodistillation. Then, PO was encapsulated into (2-hydroxypropyl)-beta-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) via freeze-drying. The obtained inclusion complexes (PO-ICs) appeared as round vesicles (22.62 to 63.19 nm) forming several agglomerations (180 to 350 nm), as detected by UHR-TEM, with remarkable entrapment efficiency (89.59 ± 1.47%) and a PDI of 0.1475 ± 0.0005. Furthermore, the encapsulation and stability of PO-ICs were confirmed via FE-SEM, 1H NMR, 2D HNMR (NOESY), FT-IR, UHR-TEM, and DSC. DSC revealed a higher thermal stability of the PO-ICs, reaching 351.0 °C. PO-ICs exerted substantial antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli as compared to free PO. PO-ICs showed significant enhancement in the antibacterial activity of the encapsulated PO against S. aureus with an MIC90 of 2.84 mg/mL and against P. aeruginosa with MIC90 of 3.62 mg/mL and MIC50 of 0.56 mg/mL. In addition, PO-ICs showed greater antimicrobial activity against E. coli by 6-fold with an MIC90 of 0.89 mg/mL, compared to free PO, which showed an MIC90 of 5.38 mg/mL. In conclusion, the encapsulation of PO into HPβCD enhanced its aqueous solubility, stability, and penetration ability, resulting in a significantly higher antibacterial activity.

Systematic qualitative analysis of terpenes in mastic (Pistacia lentiscus L.) extract and their fragmentations by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS

INTRODUCTION

Mastic is a natural resin produced by Pistacia lentiscus L. (Anacardiaceae). The beneficial properties of this resin are attributed to its triterpenes and volatile compounds.

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to screen and characterize the terpenes in mastic ethyl acetate extract (M-Ex).

METHODS

An ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS) method was developed for the qualitative analysis of terpenes in M-Ex. We utilized in-house-isolated compounds as reference substance (Rs), including monoterpenes (A) with α-pinane structures, tetracyclic triterpene (B) containing tirucallane skeletons, and pentacyclic triterpene (C) belonging to olean, moronic, amyrone, and lupane types. Based on the mass spectrometric characteristics of the above compounds, and the difference in characteristic diagnostic fragment ions (DFIs) in isomeric compounds, the terpene compounds were further identified in M-Ex.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 70 compounds, including monoterpenes and tetra-, and pentacyclic triterpenes, 20 were accurately determined by Rs, retention time (RT), and DFIs. Based on the cleavage patterns summarized from the above 20 compounds and with reference to the reported literature, another 50 compounds were putatively identified. Based on our discovery, six terpenic acids with A-seco-tirucallane types and one monoterpene dimer were identified for the first time in mastic.

CONCLUSION

Our research serves not only as a foundation for the rapid identification and screening of terpene compounds in mastic but also as a supplementary basis for the identification of such compounds in other types of resins.

Synergistic anticancer effect of Pistacia lentiscus essential oils and 5-Fluorouracil co-loaded onto biodegradable nanofibers against melanoma and breast cancer

Chemoresistance and severe toxicities represent major drawbacks of chemotherapy. Natural extracts, including the essential oils of Pistacia lentiscus (PLEO), exhibit substantial anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities where different cancers are reported to dramatically recess following targeting with PLEO. PLEO has promising antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the therapeutic properties of PLEO are restricted by limited stability, bioavailability, and targeting ability. PLEO nanoformulation can maximize their physicochemical and therapeutic properties, overcoming their shortcomings. Hence, PLEO was extracted and its chemical composition was determined by GC-MS. PLEO and 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) were electrospun into poly-ε-caprolactone nanofibers (PCL-NFs), of 290.71 nm to 680.95 nm diameter, to investigate their anticancer and potential synergistic activities against triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231), human adenocarcinoma breast cancer cells (MCF-7), and human skin melanoma cell line (A375). The prepared nanofibers (NFs) showed enhanced thermal stability and remarkable physical integrity and tensile strength. Biodegradability studies showed prolonged stability over 42 days, supporting the NFs use as a localized therapy of breast tissues (postmastectomy) or melanoma. Release studies revealed sustainable release behaviors over 168 h, with higher released amounts of 5FU and PLEO at pH 5.4, indicating higher targeting abilities towards cancer tissues. NFs loaded with PLEO showed strong antioxidant properties. Finally, NFs loaded with either PLEO or 5FU depicted greater anticancer activities compared to free compounds. The highest anticancer activities were observed with NFs co-loaded with PLEO and 5FU. The developed 5FU-PLEO-PCL-NFs hold potential as a local treatment of breast cancer tissues (post-mastectomy) and melanoma to minimize their  possible recurrence.

Chemical characteristics and biological activity screening of Pistacia lentiscus mastic gum and leaves from Türkiye

BACKGROUND

Mastic gum is a resin that is produced by Pistacia lentiscus. It has many traditional uses, dating from ancient times, such as the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders and as a food additive. In this study, the leaves and mastic gum of trees of different ages from Karaburun and the Cesme peninsula in Türkiye were examined chemically and biologically. Flavonoids, and phenolic and fatty acid components were evaluated by a liquid chromatography system coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). Cytotoxicity was screened against several cancer and healthy cell lines using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibition was determined on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7) cells. Antiviral activity was measured against avian coronavirus using an in ovo virucidal antiviral activity assay.

RESULTS

The main phenolic constituents of the gum were found to be salicylic, rosmarinic, and caffeic acids whereas the most abundant compounds detected were flavonoids in the leaf extracts. The most abundant fatty acids in hexane extracts were palmitic and oleic acids. All gum extracts except 3-year-old gum had significant cytotoxic activity on HeLa (IC50 1.74 ± 0.03-4.76 ± 0.95) and PC-3 (0.64 ± 0.25-6.22 ± 1.40) cells. Moreover, reducing virus activity by fivefold or sixfold logarithmically between the range of 5-10 μg g-1 of 30-year-old gum extracts underscored the biological activity.

CONCLUSION

In ovo antiviral activity studies on the P. lentiscus were conducted for the first time. The mastic gum and leaves obtained from P. lentiscus may have strong potential in terms of their chemical content and antiviral and cytotoxic activity. As a consequence of these properties, it is a sustainable, renewable natural resource that can be used as an additive and flavoring in the food and pharmaceutical industries. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Advances in the characterisation and identification of mastic (Pistacia sp.) resin in archaeological samples by GC-QToF-MS

The optimisation and application of an analytical method based on gas chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-QToF-MS) is proposed for the first time for the characterisation and identification of mastic (Pistacia sp.) resin in archaeological samples. The GC-QToF-MS method demonstrated higher sensitivity compared to single quadrupole GC-MS and enabled enhanced structural elucidation power to be exploited, particularly due to the high mass resolution and accuracy, the possibility to use standard and low ionisation energies as well as its tandem MS capabilities. The heat-induced degradation of the resin was also studied in open air conditions, showing that 28-norolean-17-en-3-one forms upon heating, but then progressively degrades. This makes it a reliable marker for heating of Pistacia resin; however, the lack of detection does not imply that the resin was not heated. These observations were used to interpret the results of a large number of archaeological samples containing Pistacia resin in different formulations, from various archaeological contexts and exposed to different environmental conditions. Lumps of relatively pure resin found in marine waterlogged conditions (Uluburun shipwreck, Turkey), residues on ceramics from Sai Island (Nubia, Sudan) as well as varnish and coating layers on Egyptian coffins from the collections of the British Museum (London, UK) and Fitzwilliam Museum (Cambridge, UK) were analysed to understand what the molecular profiles reveal about the use of the resin. The results showed that the resin was often mixed with a drying or semi-drying oil in ancient varnish formulations, thus suggesting that oil was used as a medium to dissolve the resin, which would have been impossible to apply as a layer using simple heat. These new observations significantly add to our understanding of ancient Egyptian technology and provide museum scientists and conservators with key information to accurately identify Pistacia resin and preserve objects containing it.

Essential Oils in Cervical Cancer: Narrative Review on Current Insights and Future Prospects

Cervical cancer is a prevalent and often devastating disease affecting women worldwide. Traditional treatment modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy have significantly improved survival rates, but they are often accompanied by side effects and challenges that can impact a patient's quality of life. In recent years, the integration of essential oils into the management of cervical cancer has gained attention. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the role of various essential oils in cervical cancer, offering insights into their potential benefits and the existing body of research. The review also delves into future directions and challenges in this emerging field, emphasizing promising research areas and advanced delivery systems. The encapsulation of essential oils with solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsification of essential oils, or the combination of essential oils with conventional treatments showed promising results by increasing the anticancer properties of essential oils. As the use of essential oils in cervical cancer treatment or management evolves, this review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective, balancing the potential of these natural remedies with the challenges and considerations that need to be addressed.

Spices as Sustainable Food Preservatives: A Comprehensive Review of Their Antimicrobial Potential

Throughout history, spices have been employed for their pharmaceutical attributes and as a culinary enhancement. The food industry widely employs artificial preservatives to retard the deterioration induced by microbial proliferation, enzymatic processes, and oxidative reactions. Nevertheless, the utilization of these synthetic preservatives in food products has given rise to significant apprehension among consumers, primarily stemming from the potential health risks that they pose. These risks encompass a spectrum of adverse effects, including but not limited to gastrointestinal disorders, the disruption of gut microbiota, allergic reactions, respiratory complications, and concerns regarding their carcinogenic properties. Consequently, consumers are displaying an increasing reluctance to purchase preserved food items that contain such additives. Spices, known for their antimicrobial value, are investigated for their potential as food preservatives. The review assesses 25 spice types for their inherent antimicrobial properties and their applicability in inhibiting various foodborne microorganisms and suggests further future investigations regarding their use as possible natural food preservatives that could offer safer, more sustainable methods for extending shelf life. Future research should delve deeper into the use of natural antimicrobials, such as spices, to not only replace synthetic preservatives but also optimize their application in food safety and shelf-life extension. Moreover, there is a need for continuous innovation in encapsulation technologies for antimicrobial agents. Developing cost-effective and efficient methods, along with scaling up production processes, will be crucial to competing with traditional antimicrobial options in terms of both efficacy and affordability.

Chemical Composition, In Vitro Antitumor Effect, and Toxicity in Zebrafish of the Essential Oil from Conyza bonariensis (L.) Cronquist (Asteraceae)

The essential oil from Conyza bonariensis (Asteraceae) aerial parts (CBEO) was extracted by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antitumor potential was evaluated against human tumor cell lines (melanoma, cervical, colorectal, and leukemias), as well as non-tumor keratinocyte lines using the MTT assay. The effect of CBEO on the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) was evaluated by DCFH-DA assay, and a protection assay using the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) was also performed. Moreover, the CBEO toxicity in the zebrafish model was assessed. The majority of the CBEO compound was (Z)-2-lachnophyllum ester (57.24%). The CBEO exhibited selectivity towards SK-MEL-28 melanoma cells (half maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50 = 18.65 ± 1.16 µg/mL), and induced a significant increase in ROS production. In addition, the CBEO's cytotoxicity against SK-MEL-28 cells was reduced after pretreatment with NAC. Furthermore, after 96 h of exposure, 1.5 µg/mL CBEO induced death of all zebrafish embryos. Non-lethal effects were observed after exposure to 0.50-1.25 µg/mL CBEO. Additionally, significant alterations in the activity of enzymes associated with oxidative stress in zebrafish larvae were observed. These results provide evidence that CBEO has a significant in vitro antimelanoma effect by increasing ROS production and moderate embryotoxicity in zebrafish.

Combination of sweet orange, lentisk and lemon eucalyptus essential oils: Optimization of a new complete antimicrobial formulation using a mixture design methodology

Sweet orange (Citrus × sinensis (L.) Osbeck), lentisk (Pistacia lentiscus L.) and lemon eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora Hook) are medicinal plants known by its culinary virtues. Their volatile oils have demonstrated promising antimicrobial activity against a panel of microbial strains, including those implicated in food deterioration. In this exploratory investigation, we aimed to determine the antimicrobial formulation of sweet orange, lentisk and lemon eucalyptus essential oils (EOs) using the simplex-centroid mixture design approach coupled with a broth microdilution method. EOs were first extracted by hydrodistillation, and then their phytochemical profile was characterized using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). GC-MS analysis identified d-limonene (14.27%), careen-3 (14.11%), β-myrcene (12.53%) as main components of lentisk EOs, while lemon eucalyptus was dominated by citronellal (39.40%), β-citronellol (16.39%) and 1,8-cineole (9.22%). For sweet orange EOs, d-limonene (87.22%) was the principal compound. The three EOs exhibited promising antimicrobial potential against various microorganisms. Lemon eucalyptus and sweet orange EO showed high activity against most tested microorganisms, while lentisk EO exerted important effect against some microbes but only moderate activity against others. The optimization formulations of antimicrobial potential showed interesting synergistic effects between three EOs. The best combinations predicted on C. albicans, S. aureus, E. coli, S. enterica and B. cereus correspond to 44%/55%/0%, 54%/16%/28%, 43%/22%/33%, 45%/17%/36% and 36%/30%/32% of Citrus sinensis, Pistacia lentiscus and Eucalyptus citriodora EOs, respectively. These findings suggest that the combination of EOs could be used as natural food preservatives and antimicrobial agents. However, further studies are needed to determine the mechanisms of action and efficacy of these EOs against different microorganisms.

Antimicrobial Efficiency of Pistacia lentiscus L. Derivates against Oral Biofilm-Associated Diseases-A Narrative Review

Pistacia lentiscus L. (PlL) has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The richness in antimicrobial biomolecules of Pll derivates can represent an alternative to chemically formulated agents used against oral infections. This review summarizes the knowledge on the antimicrobial activity of PlL essential oil (EO), extracts, and mastic resin against microorganisms being of relevance in oral biofilm-associated diseases. Results demonstrated that the potential of PlL polyphenol extracts has led to increasing scientific interest. In fact, the extracts are a significantly more effective agent than the other PlL derivates. The positive findings regarding the inhibition of periodontal pathogens and C. albicans, together with the antioxidant activity and the reduction of the inflammatory responses, suggest the use of the extracts in the prevention and/or reversal of intraoral dysbiosis. Toothpaste, mouthwashes, and local delivery devices could be effective in the clinical management of these oral diseases.

HPTLC Analysis and Chemical Composition of Selected Melaleuca Essential Oils

Tea tree oil (TTO) is a volatile essential oil obtained by distillation, mainly from the Australian native plant Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) Cheel (Myrtaceae). In this study, a comparative analysis of the chemical constituents of seven tea tree oils (M. alternifolia) and four other Melaleuca spp. oils (M. cajuputi, (M_Ca), two chemotypes of M. quinquenervia, (M_Ne and M_Ni), and M. ericifolia (M_Ro)) was carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Among the seven TTOs, terpinen-4-ol (37.66-44.28%), γ-terpinene (16.42-20.75%), α-terpinene (3.47-12.62%), α-terpineol (3.11-4.66%), and terpinolene (2.75-4.19%) were the most abundant compounds. On the other hand, the most abundant compounds of the other Melaleuca oils varied, such as 1,8-cineole (64.63%) in M_Ca oil, (E)-nerolidol (48.40%) and linalool (33.30%) in M_Ne oil, 1,8-cineole (52.20%) in M_Ni oil, and linalool (38.19%) and 1,8-cineole (27.57%) in M_Ro oil. HPTLC fingerprinting of Melaleuca oils enabled the discrimination of TTO oils from other Melaleuca spp. oils. Variation was observed in the profile of the R_f values among EOs. The present study shows that HPTLC is one of the best ways to identify and evaluate the quality control in authenticating TTOs, other Melaleuca EOs, or EOs from other species within the Myrtaceae.

Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Essential Oils from Six Aromatic Medicinal Plants with Cosmetic Properties

In this work, the chemical composition and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the essential oils (EOs) of six species-Laurus nobilis, Chamaemelum nobile, Citrus aurantium, Pistacia lentiscus, Cedrus atlantica, and Rosa damascena-have been studied. Phytochemical screening of these plants revealed the presence of primary metabolites, namely, lipids, proteins, reducing sugars, and polysaccharides, and also secondary metabolites such as tannins, flavonoids, and mucilages. The essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus. The yields are between 0.06 and 4.78% (mL/100 g). The analysis of the chemical composition carried out by GC-MS showed the presence of 30 to 35 compounds and represent between 99.97% and 100% of the total composition of EOs, with a variation in the chemical composition detected at the level of the majority compounds between these species. Indeed, in the EO of Laurus nobilis, 1,8-cineole (36.58%) is the major component. In Chamaemelum nobile EO, the most abundant compound is angelylangelate (41.79%). The EO of Citrus aurantium is rich in linalool (29.01%). The EO of Pistacia lentiscus is dominated by 3-methylpentylangelate (27.83%). The main compound of Cedrus atlantica is β-himachalene (40.19%), while the EO of Rosa damascenaa flowers is rich in n-nonadecane (44.89%). The analysis of the similarity between the EOs of the plants studied by ACH and ACP showed that the chemical composition of the EOs makes it possible to separate these plants into three groups: the first represented by Chamaemelum nobile, because it is rich in oxygenated monoterpenes, the second defined Cedrus atlantica and Rosa damascena, which are rich in sesquiterpenes, and the third gathers Pistacia lentiscus, Laurus nobilis and Citrus aurantium, which are composed of oxygenated sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes (these three species are very close). The study of the antioxidant activity showed that all the EOs tested have a high capacity for scavenging free radicals from DPPH. The EOs of Laurus nobilis and Pistacia lentiscus showed the highest activity, 76.84% and 71.53%, respectively, followed by Cedrus atlantica EO (62.38%) and Chamaemelum nobile (47.98%) then Citrus aurantium EO (14.70%). Antimicrobial activity EO was tested against eight bacterial strains and eight fungal strains; the results showed that EOs exhibit significant bactericidal and fungicidal activities against all the microorganisms tested, of which the MICs of the bacterial strains start with 5 mg/mL, while the MICs of the fungal strains are between 0.60 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL. Thus, these EOs rich in antimicrobial and antioxidant components can serve as a natural alternative; this confirms their use as additives in cosmetics.

Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Activity and Chemical Composition of Pistacia chinensis Leaf Essential Oil

Gout is a common metabolic disease caused by abnormal purine metabolism that promotes the formation and deposition of monosodium urate crystals within joints that causes acute arthritis and can seriously affect the daily life of patients. Pistacia chinensis is one of the traditional medicinal plants of the Anacardiaceae family, and there have been many studies on its biological activity, including anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antibacterial, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antigout effect of P. chinensis leaf essential oil and its constituents through xanthine oxidase inhibition. Leaf essential oil showed good xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity for both substrates, hypoxanthine and xanthine. Six fractions were obtained from open column chromatography, and fraction E1 exhibited the best activity. The constituents of leaf essential oil and fraction E1 were analyzed by GC-MS. The main constituents of both leaf essential oil and fraction E1 were limonene and 3-carene; limonene showed a higher inhibitory effect on xanthine oxidase. Based on the enzyme kinetic investigation, limonene was the mixed-type inhibitor against xanthine oxidase. The results revealed that Pistacia chinensis leaf essential oil and limonene have the potential to act as natural remedies for the treatment of gout.

Assessment of Antimicrobial Efficiency of Pistacia lentiscus and Fortunella margarita Essential Oils against Spoilage and Pathogenic Microbes in Ice Cream and Fruit Juices

Nowadays, the use of antimicrobial natural agents as alternative food preservatives represents an intriguing case. The purpose of this study was to investigate possible antimicrobial activity of Pistacia lentiscus and Fortunella margarita essential oils (EOs) and to evaluate their commercial potential in the food industry. The main constituents identified by GC/MS in Pistacia lentiscus EO were a-pinene (67.7%), myrcene (18.8%), and β-pinene (3.0%), whereas limonene (93.8%) and myrcene (2.7%) were the dominant compounds in Fortunella margarita EO. The antimicrobial properties were initially assayed and the minimum inhibitory, non-inhibitory, and minimum lethal concentration values against the Escherichiacoli, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas fragi, Aspergillus niger, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were determined using a previously published model, combining absorbance measurements with the common dilution method and non-linear regression analysis to fit the data. Their efficiency was further validated in ice cream containing 0.2% (w/w) Pistacia lentiscus, 0.006% (w/w) Fortunella margarita EOs and 2% (w/w) aqueous residue of F. margarita EO deliberately inoculated with 4 logcfu/g Escherichiacoli, Listeria monocytogenes or Pseudomonas fragi, separately. Similarly, the activity of the oils was monitored in fruit juice (lemon, apple, and blackcurrant) containing 0.2% (w/w) Pistacia lentiscus, 0.006% (w/w) Fortunella margarita EOs and 2% (w/w) aqueous residue of F. margarita EO deliberately spiked with 100 spores/mL of Aspergillus niger or 4 logcfu/mL of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, separately. The results showed that microbial viable counts in the supplemented products ranged at significantly lower levels compared to the control samples during storage. Overall, the data indicated that both EOs constitute effective antimicrobial sources with many potent applications in the food industry.

Why Should Pistachio Be a Regular Food in Our Diet?

The pistachio is regarded as a relevant source of biologically active components that, compared to other nuts, possess a healthier nutritional profile with low-fat content composed mainly of monounsaturated fatty acids, a high source of vegetable protein and dietary fibre, remarkable content of minerals, especially potassium, and an excellent source of vitamins, such as vitamins C and E. A rich composition in terms of phytochemicals, such as tocopherols, carotenoids, and, importantly, phenolic compounds, makes pistachio a powerful food to explore its involvement in the prevention of prevalent pathologies. Although pistachio has been less explored than other nuts (walnut, almonds, hazelnut, etc.), many studies provide evidence of its beneficial effects on CVD risk factors beyond the lipid-lowering effect. The present review gathers recent data regarding the most beneficial effects of pistachio on lipid and glucose homeostasis, endothelial function, oxidative stress, and inflammation that essentially convey a protective/preventive effect on the onset of pathological conditions, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, CVD, and cancer. Likewise, the influence of pistachio consumption on gut microbiota is reviewed with promising results. However, population nut consumption does not meet current intake recommendations due to the extended belief that they are fattening products, their high cost, or teething problems, among the most critical barriers, which would be solved with more research and information.

Found in the Folds: A Rediscovery of Ancient Egyptian Pleated Textiles and the Analysis of Carbohydrate Coatings

Charles T. Currelly, first director of the Royal Ontario Museum, participated in excavations of the tomb of King Nebhepetre, now known as Mentuhotep II, (Dynasty XI) in Deir el-Bahri, Egypt in 1906. He brought to Canada many objects from the excavations, and objects that he purchased while in Egypt; these formed the initial collection of the museum. Among the objects were seven fragments of fine linen cloth with intricate pleat patterns. Recently, the cloths became the subject of a study to learn how they had retained their pleats for 4000 years. Samples were examined and analysed using polarised light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy-electron dispersive X-ray spectrometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Three of the cloths were likely fragments of clothing re-purposed as bandages and were found to be saturated in mummification balms composed of Pinaceae resin, Pistacia resin, and an essential oil characterised by a high abundance of cedrol, possibly originating from a juniper species. All seven of the cloths were found to have traces of polysaccharides from two probable sources: an arabinogalactan gum such as gum arabic or a fruit gum, and a polyglucoside, possibly starch.

Profile of Myracrodruon urundeuva Volatile Compounds Ease of Extraction and Biodegradability and In Silico Evaluation of Their Interactions with COX-1 and iNOS

Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. Allem. (Anacardiaceae) is a tree popularly known as the "aroeira-do-sertão", native to the caatinga and cerrado biomes, with a natural dispersion ranging from the Northeast, Midwest, to Southeast Brazil. Its wood is highly valued and overexploited, due to its characteristics such as durability and resistance to decaying. The diversity of chemical constituents in aroeira seed has shown biological properties against microorganisms and helminths. As such, this work aimed to identify the profile of volatile compounds present in aroeira seeds. Headspace solid phase microextraction was employed (HS-SPME) using semi-polar polydimethylsiloxane-divinylbenzene fiber (PDMS/DVB) for the extraction of VOCs. 22 volatile organic compounds were identified: nine monoterpenes and eight sesquiterpenes, in addition to six compounds belonging to different chemical classes such as fatty acids, terpenoids, salicylates and others. Those that stood out were p-mentha-1,4, 4(8)-diene, 3-carene (found in all samples), caryophyllene and cis-geranylacetone. A virtual docking analysis suggested that around 65% of the VOCs molar content from the aroeiras seeds present moderate a strong ability to bind to cyclooxygenase I (COX-I) active site, oxide nitric synthase (iNOS) active site (iNOSas) or to iNOS cofactor site (iNOScs), corroborating an anti-inflamatory potential. A pharmacophoric descriptor analysis allowed to infer the more determinant characteristics of these compounds' conferring affinity to each site. Taken together, our results illustrate the high applicability for the integrated use of SPME, in silico virtual screening and chemoinformatics tools at the profiling of the biotechnological and pharmaceutical potential of natural sources.

Chemical Composition of Essential Oils from Leaves and Fruits of Juniperus foetidissima and Their Attractancy and Toxicity to Two Economically Important Tephritid Fruit Fly Species, Ceratitis capitata and Anastrepha suspensa

The present study analyzed the chemical composition of Juniperus foetidissima Willd. essential oils (EOs) and evaluated their attractancy and toxicity to two agriculturally important tephritid fruit flies. The composition of hydrodistilled EOs obtained from leaves (JFLEO) and fruits (JFFEO) of J. foetidissima was analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The main compounds were α-pinene (45%) and cedrol (18%) in the JFLEO and α-pinene (42%), α-thujone (12%), and β-thujone (25%) in the JFFEO. In behavioral bioassays of the male Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), both JFLEO and JFFEO showed strong attraction comparable to that observed with two positive controls, Melaleuca alternifolia and Tetradenia riparia EOs. In topical bioassays of the female Caribbean fruit fly, Anastrepha suspensa (Loew), the toxicity of JFFEO was two-fold higher than that of JFLEO, with the LD₅₀ values being 10.46 and 22.07 µg/µL, respectively. This could be due to differences in chemical components between JFLEO and JFFEO. The JFFEO was dominated by 48% monoterpene hydrocarbons (MH) and 46% oxygenated monoterpenes (OM), while JFLEO consisted of 57% MH, 18% OM, and 20% oxygenated sesquiterpenes (OS). This is the first study to evaluate the attractancy and toxicity of J. foetidissima EOs to tephritid fruit flies. Our results indicate that JFFEO has the potential for application to the management of pest tephritid species, and further investigation is warranted.

Assessment of in vitro Cytotoxic, iNOS, Antioxidant and Photodynamic Antimicrobial Activities of Water-soluble Sulfonated Phthalocyanines

In recent years, much effort has been devoted to the development of effective anticancer agents. In this manner, the utilization of water-soluble sulfonated phthalocyanines is crucial for many cancer cell lines. In this study, phthalonitrile and metallophthalocyanine compounds linked by benzenesulfonic acid groups have been prepared. Antimicrobial behaviors of those compounds were investigated by performing disk diffusion and photodynamic assays on gram-positive and negative bacteria. Indium phthalocyanine (InClPc) (3) showed inhibition activity against B. cereus, B. subtilis and S. aureus with disk diffusion assay. Also, gallium and indium phthalocyanines (2 and 3) exhibited inhibitory activity on both gram-positive and -negative microorganisms after light activation. Increasing the inhibitor concentration and light exposure time increased the inhibition activity for both molecules. GaClPc (2) demonstrated the maximum reducing power capacity among studied compounds, and CoPc (4) showed even better DPPH radical scavenging ability than the standard molecule Trolox at 2000 µg mL^-1 concentration. The dose-dependent effect of compounds on cytotoxicity was studied against cancer cells PANC-1, MDA-MB-231, HepG2, A549, HeLa, CaCo-2 and non-tumorigenic cells HEK-293. All compounds showed no significant cytotoxic effect on any cell line up to the highest treated concentration at 50 µg mL^-1 . However, all phthalocyanines had significant nitric oxide inhibition activity, and only in copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) (5), the MTT IC₅₀ value was reached on LPS-activated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The lowest inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) IC₅₀ values were defined as 6 ± 1 μg mL^-1 and 7 ± 0.5 μg mL^-1 for CuPc (5) and InClPc (3), respectively.

Insecticidal and Attractant Activities of Magnolia citrata Leaf Essential Oil against Two Major Pests from Diptera: Aedes aegypti (Culicidae) and Ceratitis capitata (Tephritidae)

In this study, Magnolia citrata Noot and Chalermglin (Magnoliaceae) essential oil (MCEO) was evaluated for insecticidal activity against the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti and attractant activity for the Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata. The leaves of Magnolia citrata (Giổi chanh) were collected from northwestern Vietnam, and the water-distilled MCEO was analyzed by gas-chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The major constituents of MCEO were identified as linalool 19%, geranial 16%, citronellal 14%, neral 14%, and sabinene 12%. MCEO showed 100% mortality at 1 μg/μL against 1st instar larvae of Ae. aegypti (Orlando strain, ORL), and the oil exhibited 54% (ORL) and 68% (Puerto Rico strain) mortality at 5 μg/mosquito against Ae. aegypti adult females. Initial screens showed that MCEO had weak insecticidal activity compared to the positive control permethrin. In bioassays with sterile male C. capitata, MCEO exhibited moderately strong attraction, comparable to that observed with a positive control, Tetradenia riparia essential oil (TREO). Herein, the insecticidal and attractant activities of MCEO are reported for the first time.

Chemical Profiling of Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia Resin and Essential Oil: Ageing Markers and Antimicrobial Activity

Chios Mastic Gum (CMG) and Chios Mastic Oil (CMO) are two unique products of the tree Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia, cultivated exclusively on the Greek island of Chios. In the present study, the method proposed by the European Pharmacopoeia for mastic identification was employed using HPTLC together with an in-house method. A GC-MS methodology was also developed for the chemical characterization of CMOs. α-Pinene and β-myrcene were found in abundance in the fresh oils; however, in the oil of the aged collection, oxygenated monoterpenes and benzenoids such as verbenone, pinocarveol, and α-campholenal were found at the highest rates. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of Chios Mastic Gums (CMGs) with their respective Chios Mastic Oils (CMOs) was evaluated, with growth tests against the fungi Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Mucor circinelloides, and Rhizopus oryzae, and the bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis, with the samples exhibiting a moderate activity. To our knowledge, this is the first time that an HPTLC method is proposed for the analysis of mastic and its essential oil and that a standardized methodology is followed for the distillation of CMO with a parallel assessment of the ageing effect on the oil’s composition.

Blue Tansy Essential Oil: Chemical Composition, Repellent Activity Against Aedes aegypti and Attractant Activity for Ceratitis capitata

Blue tansy essential oil (BTEO) ( Tanacetum annuum L.) was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID using two different capillary column stationary phases. Sabinene (14.0%), camphor (13.6%), myrcene (8.0%), β-pinene (7.7%), and chamazulene (6.9%) were the main components using an SE52 column (non-polar). On a polar CW20M phase column, sabinene (15.1%), camphor (14.4%), α-phellandrene (7.9%), β-pinene (7.7%), and myrcene (6.9%) were the most abundant compounds. To assess the oil for potential applications in integrated pest management strategies, behavioral bioassays were conducted to test for repellency against yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti, and for attractant activity for Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata. Results showed that BTEO was not effective in repelling Ae. aegypti (minimum effective dosage [MED]: 0.625 ± 0.109 mg/cm2 compared with the standard insect repellent DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide). In assays with male C. capitata, BTEO displayed mild attraction compared with two positive controls (essential oils from tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia and African ginger bush Tetradenia riparia). Additional studies are needed to identify the specific attractant chemicals in BTEO and to determine if they confer a synergistic effect when combined with other known attractants for C. capitata. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first investigation of BTEO for repellency against the mosquito vector Ae. aegypti and for attractancy to C. capitata, a major agricultural pest worldwide.

Myrcene Attenuates Renal Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in the Adrenalectomized Rat Model

Physiological Glucocorticoids are important regulators of the immune system. Pharmacological GCs are in widespread use to treat inflammatory diseases. Adrenalectomy (ADX) has been shown to exacerbate renal injury through inflammation and oxidative stress that results in renal impairment due to depletion of GCs. In this study, the effect of myrcene to attenuate renal inflammation and oxidative stress was evaluated in the adrenalectomized rat model. Rats were adrenalectomized bilaterally or the adrenals were not removed after surgery (sham). Myrcene (50 mg/kg body weight, orally) was administered post ADX. Myrcene treatment resulted in significant downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) compared to untreated ADX rats. In addition, myrcene resulted in significant downregulation of immunomodulatory factors (IFNγ and NF-κB) and anti-inflammatory markers (IL-4 and IL-10) in treated ADX compared to untreated ADX. Myrcene significantly increased the antioxidant molecules (CAT, GSH, and SOD) and decreased MDA levels in treated ADX compared to untreated. Moreover, myrcene treatment reduced the expression of COX-2, iNOS, KIM-1, and kidney functional molecules (UREA, LDH, total protein, and creatinine) in ADX treated compared to ADX untreated. These results suggest that myrcene could be further developed as a therapeutic drug for treatment of kidney inflammation and injury.

Chemical Composition of Essential Oil From Tetradenia riparia and Its Attractant Activity for Mediterranean Fruit Fly, Ceratitis capitata

The Mediterranean fruit fly or medfly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is one of the most economically important invasive pests worldwide, with over 300 known hosts. Essential oils have great promise for application in integrated pest management, where they function as natural repellents, attractants, and toxicants with a reduced impact on the environment. In this study, we evaluated essential oil from aerial parts of the African ginger bush, Tetradenia riparia (Hochst.) Codd (Lamiaceae), as a potential new attractant for male C. capitata. Tetradenia riparia essential oil (TREO) was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC)-flame ionization detection and GC-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The primary compounds identified were fenchone (15%), δ-cadinene (11%), 14-hydroxy-β-caryophyllene (8%), and tau-cadinol (7%). In short-range laboratory bioassays with sterile male medflies, TREO exhibited attractancy comparable to that observed with a positive control, essential oil from tea tree ( Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden and Betche) Cheel.). This study provides the first report of C. capitata behavioral response to TREO. Further research is needed, particularly with the 2 enantiomers of fenchone, to determine the chemical constituents responsible for the attraction of C. capitata.