The genus Polygonum: An updated comprehensive review of its ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and phytopharmaceutical formulation

Polygonum is a plant genus that includes annual and perennial species and is found at various temperatures, from northern temperate regions to tropical and subtropical areas. The genus Polygonum has been used for centuries for various disorders, including hypertension, intestinal and stomach pain, dysuria, jaundice, toothaches, skin allergies, hemorrhoids, cardiac disorders, kidney stones, hemostasis, hyperglycemia, and others. Various databases, including Google Scholar, Scifinder, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, ResearchGate, and Web of Science, were utilized to collect pertinent scientific literature data. According to bibliographic studies, the Polygonum genus possesses various compounds from different families, including phenolic acids (gallic acid, caffeic acid, quinic acid, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, protocatechuic acid, chlorogenic acid, and many other compounds), flavonoids (quercetin, catechin, epicatechin, quercitrin, kaempferol, myricetin, etc.), tannins, stilbenes (polydatin and resveratrol), terpenes (α-pinene, β-caryophyllene and β-caryophyllene oxide, bisabolene, β-farnesene, etc.), fatty acids (decanoic acid, lauric acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, dodecanoic acid), polysaccharides, and others. Various chemical and biological activities (in vitro and in vivo), such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiparasitic, hepatoprotective, neuropharmacological, gastroprotective, diuretic, antipyretic, and others, have been described in several biological studies involving this species. An updated summary of Polygonum species and their ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, toxicological, pharmacological, and phytopharmaceutical formulations is necessary. Considering the numerous potentialities of the Polygonum species and their wide-ranging use, it is extremely essential to provide knowledge by compiling the accessible literature to identify the topics of intense investigation and the main gaps to better design future studies. The objective of this review is to give readers a better understanding, greater comprehension, and in-depth knowledge of the genus Polygonum's traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicological features, and galenic formulation. Several species of this genus have been detailed in this review, including those that were frequently used in traditional medicine (P. minus, P. aviculare, P. hydropiper, P. cuspidatum, and P. multiflorum) and many of the genus' therapeutic species, like P. equisetiforme, which do not get enough attention.

Copaifera mildbraedii Desf.: Phytochemical Composition of Extracts, Essential Oil, and In Vitro Biological Activities of Bark

Copaifera mildbraedii Desf. is an evergreen tree with an umbrella-like crown. It is distributed from south-eastern Nigeria eastward to the Central African Republic (CAR). The aim of this study was to assess the chemical composition and biological activities of C. mildbraedii bark, as well as the chemical composition of the essential oil. Ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and methanol (MeOH) extracts showed a high total phenolic content (TPC) (149.9 and 148.8 mg GAE/g dry residue (dr), respectively), which was related to good antioxidant activity (DPPH) with an IC50 of 21.2 and 12.9 µg/mL, respectively. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) analysis revealed seven phenolic compounds with myricitrin (13.3 mg/g dr) and 2,4-dihydroxy-3,6-dimethyl benzoic acid (30.7 mg/g dr) as major compounds, while gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis enabled detection of 13 volatile compounds (3 before and 10 after derivatization). Thirty compounds were identified in the essential oil, which corresponds to 65% of all identified compounds. Among the latter, E,E-farnesylacetone and γ-gurjunene were considered as major compounds (8.08 and 10.43%, respectively). The EtOAc extract showed a potent potential, simultaneously, against anti-acetylcholinesterase (AChE), anti-15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX), anti-xanthine oxidase (XOD), and cytotoxic (OVCAR) activities, whereas cyclohexane (CYHA) and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts showed a cytotoxic effect with high percentages of inhibition (95.2%).

Phytochemical Profile, GC-MS Profiling and In Vitro Evaluation of Some Biological Applications of the Extracts of Origanum syriacum L. and Cousinia libanotica D.C

Indigenous to Lebanon, Origanum syriacum L. and Cousinia libanotica D.C. are notable plants in the Middle East, with O. syriacum known for its aromatic qualities and C. libanotica being less explored. Both plants have a significant role in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and biological properties of the extracts from these plants. The extracts were obtained through cold maceration with solvents of increasing polarity. The ethyl acetate extract of O. syriacum exhibited the highest total polyphenol content. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) identified fifteen compounds in both C. libanotica and O. syriacum extracts, whereas gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis unveiled 179 volatile compounds. Notably, the O. syriacum-MeOH extract showed moderate antioxidant activity. Both plants' methanolic extracts demonstrated significant anti-Alzheimer's potential. The O. syriacum-dichloromethane and C. libanotica-cyclohexane extracts displayed the highest cytotoxicities against the HCT-116 cell line. For anti-proliferative activity against the Caco-2 cell line, the O. syriacum-methanol and C. libanotica-cyclohexane extracts were the most effective. This study provides valuable insights into the phytochemistry and potential therapeutic applications of extracts from these two oriental plant species.

Comparative Analysis of Organic Extracts Bioactivity from Two Limonium. Mill Species Growing Wild in Tunisian Salty Marshes

Limonium. Mill is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Plumbaginaceae family. The present study aimed to compare two Limonium species (L. pruinosum Kuntze and L. tunetanum (Barratte & Bonnet) Maire) in terms of their chemical composition and bioactivity. Chemical profiling showed that the methanolic (MeOH) extracts of both species were the most enriched with total phenolic (TP) and total flavonoid (TF) contents. The TFC were higher in L. tunetanum compared to L. pruinosum. HPLC-DAD analysis showed that distinctly the gallic acid and L-tyrosine 7-amido-4-methylcoumarin were the main compounds for L. pruinosum and L. tunetanum, respectively. For both Limonium. Mil species, the MeOH extracts displayed the highest antioxidant with IC50 of 7.7 and 8.4 μg/mL for L. pruinosum and L. tunetanum, respectively. The highest anti-15-lipoxygnase activity was recorded in the ethyl acetate (IC50 =14.2 μg/mL) and Methanol (IC50 =15.6 μg/mL) extracts for L. pruinosum. However, for L. tunetanum the best activity was recorded for dichloromethane extract (IC50 =10.4 μg/mL). L. pruinosum extracts displayed the highest cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 and HCT-116 cell lines compared to L. tunetanum ones. The obtained bioactivity discrepancy between Limonium. Mill species was discussed in relation to the organic extract chemical richness.

An Overview of Spirits Made from Sugarcane Juice

Among the family of sugarcane spirits, those made from juice are diverse and often produced in a traditional way. They must be distinguished from other sugarcane spirits, which are more widely produced and made from other sugarcane derivatives, such as molasses. These alcoholic beverages contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of many countries. However, despite ancestral know-how, there is a lack of contemporary data required to characterize some sugarcane juice spirits (SCJSs) and to overcome the current and future threats that producers will have to face. While preserving their authenticity and specificity, SCJS producers expect to improve and ensure sufficient yield and a superior quality product. Even if the scientific knowledge on these spirits is not comparable, the available data could help identify the critical points to be improved in the making process. This review aims to present the main SCJSs encountered worldwide, defining their specific features through some important aspects with, notably, references to the complex notion of terroir. To continue, we discuss the main steps of the SCJS process from harvesting to aging. Finally, we expose an inventory of SCJS's chemical compositions and of their sensory description that define the specific organoleptic properties of these spirits.

Biological Activities and Polyphenol Content of Qi Cha Tea®, a Functional Beverage of White Tea Containing Botanicals and Dry Botanical Extracts with European Health Claims

Infusions of Camellia sinensis leaves have been known for their health benefits. The Bio Concentrate Assets® (ABC) method is a method of enriching organic infusion leaves (from Camellia sinensis) with organic dry and concentrated extracts using organic acacia gum, and its application to white tea has provided Qi cha tea®. In the present study, the content of tea polyphenols and caffeine, and the biochemical properties of Qi cha tea® and its botanical constituents (elderberry, tulsi, Echinacea purpurea, orange peel, lemongrass, and acacia gum) were assessed. Antioxidant and cell viability activities were determined by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay in human Caco-2 and HCT-116 cell lines, and ascorbic acid and tamoxifen, respectively. The caffeine and polyphenol composition of Qi cha tea® was modified with less caffeine and gallic acid and more epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) than the original white tea. The majority of the tested botanical samples including Qi cha tea® at 50 µg/mL show similar antioxidant activities, with the exception of Echinacea purpurea. The greatest effect was found for white tea. The antioxidant power of the Qi cha tea® (90% at 50 µg/mL for pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) was divided by approximately a factor of two (61% at 50 µg/mL for pressurized liquid extraction products (PLEP)), which corresponds to the 48.3% (mass/mass) white tea original content in the Qi cha tea®. Qi cha tea® shows the lowest cytotoxic activity in the viability of the two cell lines when compared to white tea. The application of the ABC method to Qi cha tea® using various botanicals and dry extract with acacia gum as blinder has allowed the development of a new innovative functional health beverage that complies with European health claims.

Metal catalyst-free N-allylation/alkylation of imidazole and benzimidazole with Morita-Baylis-Hillman (MBH) alcohols and acetates

A highly α-regioselective N-nucleophilic allylic substitution of cyclic MBH alcohols and acetates with imidazole or benzimidazole, in toluene at reflux with an azeotropic distillation, was successfully carried out with no catalysts or additives, affording the corresponding N-substituted imidazole derivatives in good yields. On the other hand, in refluxing toluene or methanol, the aza-Michael addition of imidazole onto acyclic MBH alcohols was performed using DABCO as an additive, leading to the corresponding 1,4-adducts in 70-84% yields.

The Phytochemical Screening and Biological Properties of Brassica napus L. var. napobrassica (Rutabaga) Seeds

Rutabaga, also known as swede and scientifically classified as Brassica napus napobrassica, is a biennial edible root vegetable that belongs to the Brassica genus and is widely cultivated in North Europe and North America. The present study highlights both the phytochemical profile and the in vitro biological properties of rutabaga seed extracts obtained through maceration using solvents of increasing polarity, namely, cyclohexane (CYHA), dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), methanol (MeOH), and water (H2O). HPLC-DAD was used to identify and quantify phenolic compounds, while volatile compounds were detected using GC-MS. The in vitro antioxidant capacity of the rutabaga seed extracts was evaluated through DPPH free radical scavenging activity. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity (15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) enzyme) was determined spectrophotometrically at the same concentration. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of the seed extracts was evaluated against human colon adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293) using the MTT assay. The rutabaga seed extracts obtained from EtOAc, MeOH, and H2O were particularly rich in reducing sugars, ranging from 189.87 to 473.75 mg/g DW. The MeOH extract displayed the highest concentration of both sugars and polyphenols. Phytochemically, the HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of four phenolic compounds in the tested extracts, including (±) synephrine, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, and trans-ferulic acid, newly discovered in rutabaga organs. Moreover, a total of ten volatile compounds were identified through GC-MS analysis, both before and after derivatization. At a concentration of 50 µg/mL, the methanol extract exhibited high antioxidant activity with 52.95% inhibition, while CYHA, DCM, and EtOAc exhibited moderate anti-15-LOX activity with less than 30% inhibition. Except for DCM and aqueous extracts, rutabaga seeds did not exhibit any anti-proliferative potential against Caco-2 cell lines. Interestingly, no cytotoxicity was registered for any of the seed extracts against the normal cell line HEK-293. Overall, the obtained data highlight the potential utilization of rutabaga seeds as a source of bioactive compounds in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and functional foods.

Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Potential of Prunus dulcis Shell Extracts

Prunus dulcis is one of the most widely cultivated species in the world. Its fruit (almond) is rich in various nutritious and bioactive compounds that exert several beneficial effects. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical profile and evaluate the biological potential in vitro of almond shell extracts. The chemical analysis of shell extracts led to the identification of 15 compounds by HPLC-DAD, of which 11 were first detected in the almond plant. Twenty-six volatile compounds were identified by the GC-MS technique; among them, seven were firstly detected in the studied plant. For the biological activities, the extracts demonstrated moderate inhibition potential against the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cytotoxic activities. The methanol extract at 50 µg/mL showed the highest antioxidant (45%) and antidiabetic activities (45% against alpha-glucosidase and 31% against alpha-amylase extracts), while the cyclohexane and dichloromethane at 50 µg/mL showed the highest cytotoxic activity towards Hela (32.2% with cyclohexane) and RAW 264-7 (45% with dichloromethane). Overall, these findings demonstrate the potential of almond shell extracts as a source of bioactive compounds that could be applied in the pharmaceutical and medical fields.

Comparative Study of Phytochemistry, Antioxidant and Biological Activities of Berberis libanotica Fruit and Leaf Extracts

Berberis libanotica Ehrenb. ex C.K. Schneider of the Berberidaceae family is an endemic Lebanese plant and is widely used in folk medicine. This study highlights the phytochemical composition and biological activities (in vitro) of fruit and leaf extracts. The two organs were extracted by cold maceration with four solvents of increasing polarity: cyclohexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol. The extracts were screened for their chemical composition by HPLC-DAD to identify and quantify the phenolic compounds. Volatile compounds were detected by GC-MS. The antioxidant capacity through DPPH inhibition was tested. The anti-acetylcholinesterase, antibacterial and anti-proliferative activities were evaluated. Thirteen compounds, including 12 phenolics, were detected in the fruits, whereas 8 phenolic compounds were identified in the leaves. A total of 137 volatile compounds were identified in both organs. At 50 μg/mL, the methanolic leaf extract presented the highest antioxidant capacity, with an inhibition percentage of 54.9%. The dichloromethane fruit extract reduced the acetylcholinesterase activity by 65.3%. The cyclohexane leaf extract reduced the proliferation of the HCT-116 cells by 54.8%, while the dichloromethane fruit extract exhibited the best inhibition against the Caco-2 cells (54%). Interestingly, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of the cyclohexane fruit extract against Salmonella enterica serovar Kentucky was 2.4 μg/mL, and the MIC value of the cyclohexane leaf extract against E. coli was 9.7 μg/mL.

Influence of Extraction Techniques and Solvents on the Antioxidant and Biological Potential of Different Parts of Scorzonera undulata

The genus Scorzonera has various medicinal values. Species belonging to this genus were traditionally used as drugs or in food. The current study aimed to determine the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and biological properties of the tuber, leaf, and flower of Scorzonera undulata extracts, collected from the southwest of Tunisia. Phenolic compounds from the three parts were extracted using two solvents (water and ethanol) and two extraction techniques (maceration and ultrasound). The total phenolic content was measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu assay. Furthermore, the chemical composition of Scorzonera undulata extract was also investigated by the LC-ESI–MS method using phenolic acid and flavonoid standards. The variation of the extraction methods induced a variation in the real potentialities of the three parts in terms of bioactive molecules. However, the aerial part of S. undulata (leaves and flowers) showed, in general, the highest phenolic contents. Twenty-five volatile compounds have been detected by GC-MS in S. undulata extracts; among them, fourteen were identified before derivatization. The DPPH test showed that the aerial part of the plant has a higher antioxidant activity compared to the tuber (25.06% at 50 µg/mL for the leaf ethanolic extract obtained by ultrasound extraction). For most biological activities (anti-Xanthine, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic (alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase)), the aerial parts (flowers and leaves) of the plant showed the highest inhibition than tubers.

Optimizing Alternative Substrate for Tomato Production in Arid Zone: Lesson from Growth, Water Relations, Chlorophyll Fluorescence, and Photosynthesis

Soilless culture is considered the mostpromising, intensive, and sustainable approach with various advantages for plant production in terms of saving water and nutrients. It can provide consumers with sufficient and high-quality food. However, the commonly used growing substrate for soilless cultivation, coconut fiber (CF), is usually imported and expensive or even unavailable. The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of local organic farm resources substrates on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plant growth, water relations, photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence, and phytochemical analysis of fruits in a hydroponics culture system. Two growth substrates were evaluated: date-palm waste composted with animal manure (7:3 w/w) (DPAM) and date-palm trunk compost (DPT). CF and local soil were utilized as positive and negative controls, respectively, in randomized blocks. The results revealed that DPAM substrate enhanced plant growth and physiology: shoot development, leaves tissues hydration, and photosynthetic parameters, as well as chlorophyll fluorescence. However, DPT and CF improved fruit quality: water, mineral, sugar, and protein content. The antioxidant activity of the fruit extract was the greater in DPAM, reaching 13.8 mg GAEg^-1 DW. This value wasdecreased in soil by 40%. Photosynthesis activity was the most important in DPAM with 12 µmol CO₂ m^-2 s^-1, and only 6.4 µmol CO₂ m^-2 s^-1 in the soil condition. However, regarding the non-photochemical quenching, the dissipated light energy was greater in soil (0.096 ± 0.02) than in DPAM (0.025 ± 0.04). Date-palm waste-based substrates improved tomato vegetative growth and fruit quality as compared to soil-based culture. Date-palm waste-based substrates supplemented with manure appear to be promising and less expensive alternatives to the coconut fiber substrate extensively used in soilless crops in North Africa.

Chemical Characterization and Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Antiacetylcholinesterase and Antiproliferation Properties of Salvia fruticosa Miller Extracts

The Salvia fruticosa (Mill.) is the most medicinal plant used in Lebanon. The aim of this study is to investigate the phytochemical composition and the biological activities (in vitro) of its extracts. The plant was extracted by cold maceration with four solvents presenting an increasing polarity: cyclohexane (CHX), dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and methanol (MeOH). The extracts were screened for their chemical composition by a HPLC-DAD detector for phenolic compounds identification and quantification and by GC-MS for volatile compounds detection. The antioxidant capacity (DPPH inhibition) was tested. Biological activities, mainly anti-Alzheimer activity (acetylcholinesterase inhibition), the antiproliferation of two human colon cancer cell lines (HCT-116 and Caco-2 cells) and antibacterial activity, were evaluated. Ten aromatic compounds were quantified by HPLC-DAD analysis. A total of 123 compounds were detected by GC-MS analysis. The MeOH extract showed a very interesting antioxidant activity with an inhibition percentage (IP) of 76.1% and an IC₅₀ of 19.4 μg/mL. The EtOAc extract exhibited the strongest inhibition against the acetylcholinesterase activity (IP = 60.6%) at 50 μg/mL. It also strongly inhibited the proliferation of the HCT-116 cells (IP = 87.5%), whereas the DCM extract gave the best result with the Caco-2 cells (IP = 72.3%). The best antibacterial activity was obtained with the MeOH extract against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 1.2 μg/mL) and with the EtOAc extract against Escherichia coli (MIC = 2.4 μg/mL). This study highlights the chemical composition and therapeutic potential of S. fruticosa. It is important to mention that the following chemical compounds were identified for the first time in plant extracts: 2,6,11,15-tetramethyl-hexadeca-2,6,8,10,14-pentaene; 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroxy-1,8,8,9-tetramethyl-8,9-dihydrophenaleno [1,2-b]furan-3-one; podocarpa-1,8,11,13-tetraen-3-one,14-isopropyl-1,13-dimethoxy; podocarpa-8,11,13-trien-3-one,12-hydroxy-13-isopropyl-,acetate; 3',8,8'-trimethoxy-3-piperidin-1-yl-2,2'-binaphthyl-1,1',4,4'-tetrone; and 2,3-dehydroferruginol, thus underlining the originality of this study.

Evaluation of Biological Activities of Twenty Flavones and In Silico Docking Study

This work aimed to evaluate the biological activities of 20 flavones (M1 to M20) and discuss their structure–activity relationships. In vitro assays were established to assess their numerous biological activities (anti-α-amylase, anti-acetylcholinesterase, anti-xanthine oxidase, anti-superoxide dismutase, and anticancer cell lines (HCT-116, MCF7, OVCAR-3, IGROV-1, and SKOV-3 cells lines)). An in silico docking study was also established in order to find the relationship between the chemical structure and the biological activities. In vitro tests revealed that M5 and M13 were the most active in terms of anti-α-amylase activity (IC50 = 1.2 and 1.4 µM, respectively). M17 was an inhibitor of xanthine oxidase (XOD) and performed better than the reference (allopurinol), at IC50 = 0.9 µM. M7 presented interesting anti-inflammatory (IC50 = 38.5 µM), anti-supriode dismutase (anti-SOD) (IC50 = 31.5 µM), and anti-acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 10.2 µM) activities. Those abilities were in concordance with its high scavenging activity in antioxidant ABTS and DPPH assays, at IC50 = 6.3 and 5.2 µM, respectively. Selectivity was detected regarding cytotoxic activity for those flavones. M1 (IC50 = 35.9 µM) was a specific inhibitor to the MCF7 cancer cell lines. M3 (IC50 = 44.7 µM) and M15 (IC50 = 45.6 µM) were particularly potent for the OVCAR-3 cell line. M14 (IC50 = 4.6 µM) contributed more clearly to inhibiting the colon cancer cell line (HCT116). M7 (IC50 = 15.6 µM) was especially active against the ovarian SKOV human cancer cell line. The results of the biological activities were supported by means of in silico molecular docking calculations. This investigation analyzed the contribution of the structure–activity of natural flavones in terms of their biological properties, which is important for their future application against diseases.

Polysaccharides from South Tunisian Moringa alterniflora Leaves: Characterization, Cytotoxicity, Antioxidant Activity, and Laser Burn Wound Healing in Rats

Phytochemical properties have recently increased the popularity of plant polysaccharides as wound dressing materials. This work aims at studying the structural characteristics of polysaccharides extracted from Moringa leaves (Moringa Leaves Water Soluble Polysaccharide: MLWSP), and its antioxidant activities, cytotoxic effects, and laser burn wound healing effects in rats. This MLWSP was structurally characterized. Results showed 175.21 KDa and 18.6%, respectively, for the molecular weight and the yield of the novel extracted polysaccharide. It is a hetero-polysaccharide containing arabinose, rhamnose, and galactose. XRD suggested a semi-crystalline structure of the studied polymer and FT-IR results revealed a typical polysaccharide structure. It is composed of 50 to 500 µm rocky-shaped units with rough surfaces and it was found to inhibit the proliferation of the human colon (HCT-116) (IC50 = 36 ± 2.5 µg/mL), breast (MCF-7) (IC50 = 48 ± 3.2), and ovary cancers (IC50 = 24 ± 8.1). The MLWSP showed significant antioxidant effects compared to Trolox (CI50 = 0.001 mg/g). Moreover, promising wound healing results were displayed. The effect of MLWSP hydrogel application on laser burn injuries stimulated wound contraction, re-epithelization, and remodeling phases 8 days after treatment. The wound healing potential of MLWSP may be due to its significant antioxidant activity and/or the huge amount of monosaccharide molecules.

Polysaccharides in CO2 enriched Arthrospira platensis: Structure, physico-chemical properties, antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities and laser burn wound healing in rats

This work was undertaken to determine the structural characteristics of polysaccharides extracted from CO2-enriched Arthrospiraplatensis (Spirulina Water Soluble Polysaccharide: SWSP), as well as its antioxidant activities, cytotoxic effects and laser burn wound healing in rats. This SWSP was structurally characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transformed infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and thin layer chromatography (TLC). This novel polysaccharide was found to have an average molecular weight of 6.21 kDa. It is a hetero-polysaccharide composed of rhamnose, xylose, glucose and mannose. According to XRD and FT-IR spectra, the SWSP showed a semi-crystalline structure. It is composed of 100 to 500 µm geometric shaped units with flat surfaces and it was found to inhibit the proliferation of human colon (HCT-116) and breast (MCF-7) cancers. This polysaccharide display potential antioxidant activities determined through three different assays: scavenging activity against 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP). Results strongly support the beneficial effects of the SWSP to accelerate wound healing in rats. Indeed, its application significantly increased tissue re-epithelization and remodeling phases, after 8 days of the experiment. Findings herein demonstrated that SWSP could be a novel auspicious source of natural wound healing closure and/or cytotoxic remedy.

Effect of heat treatment on the antioxidant activities of camel milk alpha, beta and total caseins

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of various heating temperatures on the antioxidant activities of camel milk caseins. The samples were processed with three different heat treatments: Pasteurization at low and high temperatures and boiling. Fresh camel milk (unheated) was used as a control. Camel milk caseins were separated by fast ion exchange liquid chromatography (FPLC) and identified by the sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS page). The antioxidant activities of caseins were measu- red by three different in vitro methods: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, 2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing power assay (FRAP). The antioxidant activity evaluated by the DPPH assay decreased significantly (p<0.05) with the increase in heat treatment of caseins. However, there was no significant difference in ABTS radical scavenging activity and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power assay (FRAP) of heat-treated camel caseins compared to unheated onesStill, a decrease was observed in those activities by the increase of temperature in the different casein concentrations. Besides, whatever the concentration tested and the methods applied, the antioxidant activity of beta-casein (β-CN) was more pronounced than the alpha-casein (α-CN). Therefore, camel milk casein could be used as a natural source of antioxidants which may have a potential application in the food and nutraceutical industries. Throughout the different heat treatments applied, pasteurization at low temperature could be the most suitable alternative to preserve the antioxidant properties of camel milk.

Study on the Chemical Composition and the Biological Activities of Vitis vinifera Stem Extracts

Vitis vinifera (V. vinifera) is a herbaceous plant, cultivated worldwide and known for its biological benefits. The aim of this study is the investigation of the chemical composition as well as the determination of the biological potential of different grape stem extracts obtained by maceration and accelerated solvent extraction (ASE). The HPLC analysis of the tested extracts led to the identification of 28 compounds of which 17 were identified for the first time in grape plants, in addition to seven revealed in the stem part for the first time. Twenty-nine volatile molecules have been detected by GC-MS in the grape stem part; among them seven were identified for the first time in the grape plant. For the biological analysis, the ethyl acetate extract (EtOAc) obtained by maceration showed a significant potential regarding antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 42.5 µg/mL), anti-Alzheimer (IC₅₀ = 14.1 µg/mL), antidiabetic (IC₅₀ = 13.4 µg/mL), cytotoxic with HCT-116 (IC₅₀ = 12.5 µg/mL), and anti-inflammatory (IC₅₀ = 26.6 µg/mL) activities, as well as showing the highest polyphenol content (207.9 mg GAE/g DW).

Kombucha analogues around the world: A review

Kombucha is a traditional healthy beverage usually made by the fermentation of sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. The consumption of kombucha is associated with numerous health benefits and therefore the beverage has attracted the attention of consumers worldwide. Non-typical substrates (fruits, vegetables, plants, herbs, dairy, and by-products) are being inoculated with the kombucha consortium in an attempt to develop new products. This review paper reviews the fermentation parameters for different non-tea substrates used to make kombucha, in addition to the findings obtained in terms of physico-chemical analysis, biological activities and sensory evaluation.

Staphylococcus aureus membrane-damaging activities of four phenolics

The membrane-damaging activities of four phenolics chosen for their bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus CNRZ3 were investigated: 5,7-dihydroxy-4-phenylcoumarin (DHPC), 5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (DHNQ), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and isobutyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (IBHB). Staphylococcus aureus CNRZ3 cells, as well as model liposomes mimicking its membrane phospholipids composition, were treated with each phenolic at its minimal bactericidal concentration. Membrane integrity, intracellular pH and intracellular esterase activity were examined by flow cytometric analysis of S. aureus cells stained with propidium iodide and SYTO® 9, 2',7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein acetoxymethyl ester, and 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate, respectively. While intracellular pH was affected by the foyr phenolics, only DHNQ and to a lesser extent EGCG, caused a loss of membrane integrity. Flow cytometric analysis of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) and DPPC/POPG (2-oleoyl-1-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoglycerol) liposomes stained with Coumarin 6 (which penetrates the lipid bilayer) or 5-N(octadecanoyl)-amino-fluorescein (which binds to the liposome shell) suggested that only EGCG and DHNQ penetrated the bilayer of phospholipids of liposomes. Taken together, these findings support the hypothesis that EGCG and DHNQ bactericidal activity results from their accumulation in the phospholipid bilayer of S. aureus cells membrane causing its disruption.

In vitro and in silico studies of two 1,4-naphthoquinones and their topical formulation in bigels

BACKGROUND

1,4-Naphthoquinones (1,4-NQs) are secondary plant metabolites with numerous biological activities. 1,4-NQs display low water solubility and poor bioavailability. Bigels are a new technology with great potential, which are designated as drug delivery systems. Biphasic bigels consisting of solid and liquid components represent suitable formulations improving the diffusion and bioavailability of NQs into the skin.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the in silico and in vitro activity of 5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (M1) and 2,3-dichloro-5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (M2) on elastase and assessed their cytotoxicity towards COLO38 melanoma cells. The 1,4-NQs were loaded into bigels for topical application.

METHODS

Molecular docking was performed, and cytotoxicity was evaluated on COLO38 cells using the resazurin assay. M1 and M2 were separately incorporated into bigels consisting of hydrogel organogel with sweet almond oil as a non-polar solvent and span 65 as organogelator. Their rheological behavior and microscopic properties were characterized. The diffusion kinetics and permeation of 1,4-NQs from bigels were studied by a paddle-over-extraction cell and a "Franz cell" in vitro permeation model.

RESULTS

Molecular docking data predicted high interactions between elastase and ligands. Hydrogen bonds to LYS233 were observed for M1, M2, and phosphoramidon (positive control). The average binding energies were -8.5 and -9.7 kcal/mol for M1 and M2 and -12.6 kcal/mol for phosphoramidon. M1 and M2 inhibited the elastase activity by 58.9 and 56.6%, respectively. M1 and M2 were cytotoxic towards COLO38 cells (IC50: 2.6 and 9.8 µM) y. The M1 release from bigels was faster and more efficient than that of M2.

CONCLUSION

M1 and M2 are promising for skin disease treatment. Biphasic organogel-hydrogel bigels are efficient and safe formulations to overcome their low bioavailability.

Deverra tortuosa (Desf.) DC from Saudi Arabia as a new source of marmin and furanocoumarins derivatives with α-glucosidase, antibacterial and cytotoxic activities

Deverra tortuosa (Desf.) DC (Syn. Pituranthos tortusus (Desf.) Benth. & Hook.f.) is a species belonging to the Apiaceae family that is common in the Northern Region of Saudi Arabia. The plant is well known in traditional medicine along the Arabian ecoregion. In the framework of the present study, the crude extract of n-hexane and ethyl acetate of the seeds were fractionated to purify major bioactive secondary metabolites. Five compounds were identified for the first time from the seeds of D. tortuosa: Marmin 1, Pituranthoside 2, Isoimperatorin 3, Bergapten 4 and Isopimpinellin 5. Their structures were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR, (ESI)-MS and IR spectroscopic analyses. The cytotoxic, α-glucosidase and antibacterial activities of the pure phytochemicals were also evaluated.

An Easy Efficient Method of Veterinary Drug Residue Analysis in Raw Milk by RP-HPLC-UV with Application to Raw Milk

Background:

This study reports an easy method of a veterinary drug investigation in raw milk, based on QuECHERS extraction followed by RP-HPLC-UV analysis. Use of this benchtop system was motivated by its availability and moderate cost relatively to other sophisticated methods such as LC-MS which are more efficient.

Methods:

This developed method has been optimized and then after validation according to EU legislation, it demonstrated good linearity with R²>0.997, acceptable peak resolution within a short time (<9.5 min) and good recovery of the analyzed drugs (OXY, ALZ and IVR, respectively 87.08, 99.02 and 92.01 %). Additionally, we applied the method to the analysis of cow milk, collected in Nouakchott, capital of Mauritania.

Results:

The obtained results indicated a mixed level of drug use according to targeted molecules. In 42% of sampled farms, the anti-parasitics IVR and ALZ were detected whereas the antibiotic OXY was detected in 50%.

Conclusion:

This investigation shows that 17% of the sampled farms exceeded European standards for IVR drug.

Evaluation of in vitro biological activities: antioxidant; anti-inflammatory; anti-cholinesterase; anti- xanthine oxidase, anti-superoxyde dismutase, anti-α-glucosidase and cytotoxic of 19 bioflavonoids

Pure compounds belonging to phenolic family were studied for their biological potential such as 5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (M1), rutin hydrate (M2), 2,3-dichloro-5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (M3), taxifolin (M4), myricetin (M5), plumbagin (M6), silibinin (M7), dihydromyricetin (M8), shikonin (M9), quercetin 3-β-D-glucoside (M10), (±)-taxifolin hydrate (M11), cardamonin (M12),(−)-epicatechin (M13), 9-chloro-10-hydroxy-anthracene-1,4-dione (M14), 9-chloro-10-hydroxy-2,3-dimethyl-anthracene-1,4-dione (M15), 2-chloro-3-(2-hydroxy-5-methylanilino)-1,4-naphthoquinone (M16), 2-chloro-3-(4-hydroxy-phenylamino)-(1,4) naphthoquinone (M17), 2-chloro-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-phenyl)-(1,4)-naphtoquinone (M18), and myricitrin dihydrate (M19). These molecules were chosen based on two reasons; the limited or total absence of their exploitation in several studied activities and the use of other tests for the same activity. The evaluation of the in vitro anti-acetyl-cholinesterase (AChE), anti-5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), anti-xanthine oxidase (XOD), anti-alpha glucosidase, anti-superoxide dismutase (SOD), anti-oxidant (DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2, 2- azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate)), and anticancer activities of mentioned 19 molecules was explored during this work. M3, M14, M15, M16, M17, M18, M19 were exploited for the first time for such purposes. Tested compounds were shown to have interesting radical scavenging abilities against DPPH radicals, and the highest molecules among them were M19 and M5 (IC50 = 12.0 and 15.5 µM, respectively), and M4, M19 and M2 against ABTS (IC50= 1.9, 4.3 and 4.3 µM, respectively). Moreover, the majority of products showed very important cytotoxic activity since IC50 values were ranging between (IC50= 0.2 µM (M1) and 79 µM (M8)) against HCT116 cell line, and values of IC50= 0.2 µM for M1 against MCF7 cell line. All new molecules (non studied before) were shown to have great cytotoxic effect against both cancer cell lines.Furthermore, molecule M5 was shown to have anti-inflammatory potential via the inhibition of 5-LOX enzyme (65% at 100 µM). In addition, M19 showed important anti XOD activity with 47% of inhibition at 100 µM. Also, it has been found that compound M3 had the best anti alpha glucosidase activity with 43.8 % of inhibition at 100 µM, the highest anti-AChE effect (IC50= 14.5 µM), and the best effect towards SOD (IC50= 10.0 µM).  A structure-activity relationship study was also performed.

Evaluation of in vitro biological activities: antioxidant; anti-inflammatory; anti-cholinesterase; anti- xanthine oxidase, anti-superoxyde dismutase, anti-α-glucosidase and cytotoxic of 19 bioflavonoids

Pure compounds belonging to phenolic family were studied for their biological potential such as 5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (M1), rutin hydrate (M2), 2,3-dichloro-5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (M3), taxifolin (M4), myricetin (M5), plumbagin (M6), silibinin (M7), dihydromyricetin (M8), shikonin (M9), quercetin 3-β-D-glucoside (M10), (±)-taxifolin hydrate (M11), cardamonin (M12),(-)-epicatechin (M13), 9-chloro-10-hydroxy-anthracene-1,4-dione (M14), 9-chloro-10-hydroxy-2,3-dimethyl-anthracene-1,4-dione (M15), 2-chloro-3-(2-hydroxy-5-methylanilino)-1,4-naphthoquinone (M16), 2-chloro-3-(4-hydroxy-phenylamino)-(1,4) naphthoquinone (M17), 2-chloro-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-phenyl)-(1,4)-naphtoquinone (M18), and myricitrin dihydrate (M19). These molecules were chosen based on two reasons; the limited or total absence of their exploitation in several studied activities and the use of other tests for the same activity. The evaluation of the in vitro anti-acetyl-cholinesterase (AChE), anti-5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), anti-xanthine oxidase (XOD), anti-alpha glucosidase, anti-superoxide dismutase (SOD), anti-oxidant (DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2, 2- azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate)), and anticancer activities of mentioned 19 molecules was explored during this work. M3, M14, M15, M16, M17, M18, M19 were exploited for the first time for such purposes. Tested compounds were shown to have interesting radical scavenging abilities against DPPH radicals, and the highest molecules among them were M19 and M5 (IC50 = 12.0 and 15.5 µM, respectively), and M4, M19 and M2 against ABTS (IC50= 1.9, 4.3 and 4.3 µM, respectively). Moreover, the majority of products showed very important cytotoxic activity since IC50 values were ranging between (IC50= 0.2 µM (M1) and 79 µM (M8)) against HCT116 cell line, and values of IC50= 0.2 µM for M1 against MCF7 cell line. All new molecules (non studied before) were shown to have great cytotoxic effect against both cancer cell lines.Furthermore, molecule M5 was shown to have anti-inflammatory potential via the inhibition of 5-LOX enzyme (65% at 100 µM). In addition, M19 showed important anti XOD activity with 47% of inhibition at 100 µM. Also, it has been found that compound M3 had the best anti alpha glucosidase activity with 43.8 % of inhibition at 100 µM, the highest anti-AChE effect (IC50= 14.5 µM), and the best effect towards SOD (IC50= 10.0 µM).  A structure-activity relationship study was also performed.

Phenyllactic Acid Produced by Geotrichum candidum Reduces Fusarium sporotrichioides and F. langsethiae Growth and T-2 Toxin Concentration

Fusariumsporotrichioides and F. langsethiae are present in barley crops. Their toxic metabolites, mainly T-2 toxin, affect the quality and safety of raw material and final products such as beer. Therefore, it is crucial to reduce Fusarium spp. proliferation and T-2 toxin contamination during the brewing process. The addition of Geotrichum candidum has been previously demonstrated to reduce the proliferation of Fusarium spp. and the production of toxic metabolites, but the mechanism of action is still not known. Thus, this study focuses on the elucidation of the interaction mechanism between G.candidum and Fusarium spp. in order to improve this bioprocess. First, over a period of 168 h, the co-culture kinetics showed an almost 90% reduction in T-2 toxin concentration, starting at 24 h. Second, sequential cultures lead to a reduction in Fusarium growth and T-2 toxin concentration. Simultaneously, it was demonstrated that G. candidum produces phenyllactic acid (PLA) at the early stages of growth, which could potentially be responsible for the reduction in Fusarium growth and T-2 toxin concentration. To prove the PLA effect, F. sporotrichioides and F.langsethiae were cultivated in PLA supplemented medium. The expected results were achieved with 0.3 g/L of PLA. These promising results contribute to a better understanding of the bioprocess, allowing its optimization at an up-scaled industrial level.

The antioxidant 2,3-dichloro,5,8-dihydroxy,1,4-naphthoquinone inhibits acetyl-cholinesterase activity and amyloid β42 aggregation: A dual target therapeutic candidate compound for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by amyloid β aggregation and cholinergic neurodegeneration. In the present study, pure DDN (2,3-dichloro-5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone) was examined, for the first time, for its dual potential as inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Aβ₄₂ aggregation. Such investigation was encouraged by the in vitro high antioxidant potential of DDN. Indeed, it revealed interesting antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values of 9.8 and 4.3 µM for ABTS and reducing power, respectively. The ability of DDN to counteract Aβ₄₂ aggregation was evaluated by thioflavine-T assay. Strong inhibition of Aβ₄₂ aggregation of more than 90% at 25 µM was measured. Moreover, results showed that DDN inhibited AChE (IC₅₀ = 14.5 µM). To better understand the interactions between DDN and AChE, molecular docking was performed. Obtained data predicted a high interaction characterized by hydrogen bonding at TYR337 as for galanthamine (positive control). Several residues involved in AChE hydrophobic interactions were similarly implicated in binding of this domain to DDN (ASP74, THR83, and TYR124). All these data would be useless if DDN could not pass the blood-brain barrier. So, DDN was loaded into alginate microspheres to enhance its stability and bioavailability. Thereafter, drug release profiles were assessed using immersion cell apparatus.

Synthesis, molecular properties, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of novel 3-hydroxyflavone derivatives

A new series of 3-hydroxyflavones (1-46) were synthesized according to the Claisen-Schmidt followed by Algar-Flynn-Oyamada reactions (AFO) in one step. The synthesized flavonoids were characterized by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR and DCI-HRMS. All the synthesized compounds were tested in vitro for their 15-lipoxygenase inhibitory and cytotoxic activity against the human cell lines HCT-116 (Human colon carcinoma), IGROV-1 and OVCAR-3 (human ovarian carcinoma). It has been found that the derivatives 25, 37 and 45 were the most actives against HCT-116 (IC₅₀ = 8.0, 9.0 and 9.0 μM, respectively) and against IGROV-1 (IC₅₀ = 2.4, 5.0 and 6.0 μM, respectively). The derivatives 14 and 21 exhibited the higher anti-inflammatory activity at 100 μM with PI values of 76.50 and 72.70%, respectively. Molecule description was performed with DFT calculations, the drug likeness and bioactivity scores. The results exhibted that some compounds are in linear correlation with Lipinski's rule of five showing good drug likeness and bioactivity score for drug targets.

Plant antimicrobial polyphenols as potential natural food preservatives

BACKGROUND

The growing demand for natural food preservatives in the last decade has promoted investigations on their application for preserving perishable foods. In this context, the present review is focused on discussing the prospective application of plant extracts containing phenolics or isolated plant phenolics as natural antimicrobials in foods. Plant essential oils are outside the scope of this review since utilization of their antimicrobial activity for food preservation has been extensively reviewed.

RESULTS

Although the exact antimicrobial mechanisms of action of phenolic compounds are not yet fully understood, it is commonly acknowledged that they have diverse sites of action at the cellular level. Antimicrobial phenolics can be added directly to the formulation of perishable food products or incorporated into food-contact materials to release them in the immediate zone of perishable foods. Edible coatings or active food packaging materials can thus be used as carriers of plant bioactive compounds.

CONCLUSION

These materials could be an interesting delivery system to improve the stability of phenolics in foods and to improve the shelf life of perishable foods. This review will thus provide an overview of current knowledge of the antimicrobial activity of phenolic-rich plant extracts and of the promises and limits of their exploitation for the preservation of perishable foods. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Synthesis of new anticancer and anti-inflammatory isoxazolines and aziridines from the natural (-)-deltoin

Objectives

This work describes the synthesis, the bioactivity and the structure–activity relationship of new derivatives from a natural coumarin.

Methods

(-)-Deltoin 1 and the corresponding isoxazolines and aziridines were characterized by spectroscopic means. The cytotoxic (HTC-116, IGROV-1 and OVCAR-3 cancer cell lines) and 5-lipoxygenase activity of (-)-deltoin 1 and its structural analogues have been evaluated.

Key findings

The phytochemical investigation of the ethyl acetate extract of the flowers of Ferula lutea (Poir.) Maire has led to the isolation of (-)-deltoin 1. A series of new isoxazoline 2a,a′–2f,f′ and aziridine 3a,a′–3e,e′ derivatives have been prepared by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. It has been found that the derivatives 2a (IC50 = 3.3 ± 0.1 μm), 3a,a′ (IC50 = 5.9 ± 0.1 μm), 3b,b′ (IC50 = 6.1 ± 0.7 μm) and 3c,c′ (IC50 = 7.3 ± 0.9 μm) bearing a phenyl isoxazoline, a phenylaziridine, a 4-methlphenylaziridine and a 4-methoxyphenylaziridine, respectively, are more cytotoxic than (-)-deltoin 1 (IC50 = 14.3 ± 0.2 μm). The diastereoisomers in mixture (2f,f′) with a 6-chloropyridin-2-yl system have shown the best anti-5-lipoxygenase activity (% inhibition = 53.1 ± 4.8% at 200 μm).

Conclusions

Some analogues have been found more bioactive than deltoin 1. Their activity has been related to the nature of the added heterocycles. It would be interesting to evaluate their in-vivo activity.

Understanding Kombucha Tea Fermentation: A Review

Kombucha is a beverage of probable Manchurian origins obtained from fermented tea by a microbial consortium composed of several bacteria and yeasts. This mixed consortium forms a powerful symbiosis capable of inhibiting the growth of potentially contaminating bacteria. The fermentation process also leads to the formation of a polymeric cellulose pellicle due to the activity of certain strains of Acetobacter sp. The tea fermentation process by the microbial consortium was able to show an increase in certain biological activities which have been already studied; however, little information is available on the characterization of its active components and their evolution during fermentation. Studies have also reported that the use of infusions from other plants may be a promising alternative.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Kombucha is a traditional fermented tea whose consumption has increased in the recent years due to its multiple functional properties such as anti-inflammatory potential and antioxidant activity. The microbiological composition of this beverage is quite complex and still more research is needed in order to fully understand its behavior. This study comprises the chemical and microbiological composition of the tea and the main factors that may affect its production.

New cytotoxic sesquiterpene lactones from Achillea cretica L. growing in Tunisia

The phytochemical study of Achillea cretica growing in Tunisia led to the isolation of two novel sesquiterpene lactones, which have been designated achicretin 1 and achicretin 2. Their chemical structures were further confirmed by mass spectroscopy (ESI-MS) and by extensive application of one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy. The isolated compounds were tested for their cytotoxic activity against four human cancer cell lines, IGROV-1, OVCAR-3, MCF-7, and HCT-116 using the MTT assay. It has been found that achicretin 2 exhibited more potent inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ = values of 14.0 ± 1.0 and 16.0 ± 2.0 μM against OVCAR-3 and HCT-116 cells, respectively.

Effect of interaction with food constituents on plant extracts antibacterial activity

Gaillac red wine powder and Cinnamon cassia essential oil were selected for their in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus CNRZ3 and Listeria innocua LRGIA 01, respectively. In order to assess the potential application of Gaillac wine powder to the preservation of raw meat, its antibacterial activity was assayed in Mueller Hinton broth supplemented with up to 20% (w/w) bovine meat proteins (bovine meat protein content): Gaillac wine powder as well as resveratrol, a stilbene polyphenol present in red wine, lost their antibacterial activity, likely as a result of interactions of Gaillac wine antibacterial molecules with bovine meat proteins at the expense of their interactions with S. aureus CNRZ3 cells. Cinnamon cassia essential oil antibacterial activity assays in Tryptone Soya broth, skimmed, semi-skimmed, and whole milk showed that its antibacterial activity was significantly reduced by milk fat globules but not by milk proteins: it could thus be used for the preservation of skimmed milk. The developed methodology based on the use of microbiological media mimicking the composition of perishable foods or of liquid foods such as sterilized milk with various milk fat contents could be used for the rapid screening of antibacterial plant extracts of interest for perishable foods preservation.

Synthesis of New Arylidene 2,5-Diketopiperazines and Evaluation of their Anti-Acetylcholinesterase, Anti-xanthine Oxidase, Anti-diabetic and Cytotoxic Activities

BACKGROUND

2,5-Diketopiperazine derivatives are considered to be an important classe of cyclic peptides due to their wide range of biological activities.

OBJECTIVES

Synthesis of a new series of protected 2,5-diketopiperazine derivatives and evaluation of their in vitro biological activities.

METHODS

A series of new mono-protected arylidene 2,5-diketopiperazine derivatives 3a-p have been prepared via Claisen-Schmidt condensation of the N,N-diacetyl-diketopiperazine 1 with a series of substituted arylaldehydes. All prepared compounds were characterized by 1D and 2D 1H/13C NMR and ESI-HRMS, and screened for their in vitro acetylcholenesterase, xanthine oxidase and α-amylase inhibition and cytotoxic (HCT-116, MCF-7 and OVCAR-3) activity.

RESULTS

Among these compounds, the greatest activity against the α-amylase enzyme (percentage of inhibition (PI)=57.8±1.9%) was obtained for compound 3f bearing a phenoxy moiety. Moreover, the results demonstrated that some arylidene 2,5-diketopiperazines 3 exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against the three cell lines used. The compound 3g (4-PhCH2O.Ph) was found to be the most cytotoxic against the HCT-116, MCF-7 and OVCAR-3 cell lines (PI=83.2±2.4, 89.6±4.9 and 74.4±5.2%, respectively) followed by 3m (2-Br-5-F.Ph) then 3j (4-C2H5-3-NO2.Ph) which displayed a good cytotoxic potential against OVCAR-3 (PI=77.0±2.1 and 71.4±0.9%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A series of sixteen new arylidene diketopiperazines 3a-p were synthesized via Claisen-Schmidt condensation. Most of the piperazines 3a-p exhibited a good cytotoxic and antidiabetic effects.

Chemical composition and biological activities of extracts and essential oil of Boswellia dalzielii leaves

CONTEXT

Boswellia dalzielii Hutch. (Burseraceae) is an aromatic plant. The leaves are used for beverage flavouring.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the chemical composition and biological activities of various extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The essential oil was prepared via hydrodistillation. Identification and quantification were realized via GC-MS and GC-FID. Consecutive extractions (cyclohexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol) were carried out and various chemical groups (phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, antocyanins and sugar) were quantified. The volatile compounds of organic extracts were identified before and after derivatization. Antioxidant, antihyperuricemia, anti-Alzheimer, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities were evaluated.

RESULTS

In the essential oil, 50 compounds were identified, including 3-carene (27.72%) and α-pinene (15.18%). 2,5-Dihydroxy acetophenone and β-d-xylopyranose were identified in the methanol extract. Higher phenolic (315.97 g GAE/kg dry mass) and flavonoid (37.19 g QE/kg dry mass) contents were observed in the methanol extract. The methanol extract has presented remarkable IC₅₀=6.10 mg/L for antiDPPH, 35.10 mg/L for antixanthine oxidase and 28.01 mg/L for anti-5-lipoxygenase. For acetylcholinesterase inhibition, the best IC₅₀ (76.20 and 67.10 mg/L) were observed, respectively, with an ethyl acetate extract and the essential oil. At 50 mg/L, the dichloromethane extract inhibited OVCAR-3 cell lines by 65.10%, while cyclohexane extract inhibited IGROV-1 cell lines by 92.60%.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Biological activities were fully correlated with the chemical groups of the extracts. The ethyl acetate and methanol extracts could be considered as potential alternatives for use in dietary supplements for the prevention or treatment of diseases because of these extracts natural antioxidant, antihyperuricemic and anti-inflammatory activities.

Cytotoxicity of new secondary metabolites, fatty acids and tocols composition of seeds of Ducrosia anethifolia (DC.) Boiss

Two new monoterpene Ducrosin A (1) and sesquiterpene Ducrosin B (2) were isolated along with three known compounds, stigmasterol (3) and two furanocoumarins (4 and 5), from the dichloromethane extract of the seeds of Ducrosia anethifolia (DC.) Boiss. Their structures were determined using extensive 1D and 2D NMR, (ES)-HRMS and IR spectroscopic analyses and by comparison with literature data. Gas chromatography analysis of the fatty acids (FAs) of D. anethifolia seed oils (DAOs) showed high percentages of elaidic acid (C18:1 Δ9t) 65% and oleic acid (C18:1 Δ9c) 15%. The total tocopherol (tocols) content in DAOs was found to be 164 mg/100 g. The cytotoxic effect of the isolates was also evaluated using the MTT assay against the HCT-116 and SKOV-3 cell lines. The results showed that compound 2 was the most cytotoxic agent followed by compounds 1 and 4, which has an epoxide moiety that most likely contributes to its activity.

Bioactive flavones isolated from Tunisian Artemisia campestris L. Leaves

Four flavones were isolated from dried leaves of Artemisia campestris L. 2',4',5,7-tetrahydroxy-5',6-dimethoxyflavone, eupatilin and dimethoxycentaureidin were reported for the first time in this species whereas cirsiliol was previously identified but it was isolated for the first time. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR experiments and mass spectrometry analysis. In addition, all isolated flavones were evaluated for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-superoxide dismutase, anti-xanthine oxidase and cytotoxic activities. The results showed that all isolated compounds exhibited potent anti-xanthine oxidase activity with IC50 ranging from 3.3 to 6.8 µM, which was higher than that of the control compound allopurinol (8.2 ± 0.6 µM). In addition, cirsiliol was found to be the most cytotoxic against OVCAR-3, IGROV-1and HCT-116 cell lines at 15µM, with inhibition percentage values of 53.7, 48.8 and 40.9%, respectively. All compounds also showed weak to moderate anti-inflammatory and anti-superoxide dismutase activities.