Antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) determined by HPLC-MS/MS

The "root" causes behind the anti-inflammatory actions of ginger compounds in immune cells

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is one of the most well-known spices and medicinal plants worldwide that has been used since ancient times to treat a plethora of diseases including cold, gastrointestinal complaints, nausea, and migraine. Beyond that, a growing body of literature demonstrates that ginger exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer and neuroprotective actions as well. The beneficial effects of ginger can be attributed to the biologically active compounds of its rhizome such as gingerols, shogaols, zingerone and paradols. Among these compounds, gingerols are the most abundant in fresh roots, and shogaols are the major phenolic compounds of dried ginger. Over the last two decades numerous in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that the major ginger phenolics are able to influence the function of various immune cells including macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells and T cells. Although the mechanism of action of these compounds is not fully elucidated yet, some studies provide a mechanistic insight into their anti-inflammatory effects by showing that ginger constituents are able to target multiple signaling pathways. In the first part of this review, we summarized the current literature about the immunomodulatory actions of the major ginger compounds, and in the second part, we focused on the possible molecular mechanisms that may underlie their anti-inflammatory effects.

Phenolic acids from medicinal and edible homologous plants: a potential anti-inflammatory agent for inflammatory diseases

Inflammation has been shown to trigger a wide range of chronic diseases, particularly inflammatory diseases. As a result, the focus of research has been on anti-inflammatory drugs and foods. In recent years, the field of medicinal and edible homology (MEH) has developed rapidly in both medical and food sciences, with 95% of MEH being associated with plants. Phenolic acids are a crucial group of natural bioactive substances found in medicinal and edible homologous plants (MEHPs). Their anti-inflammatory activity is significant as they play a vital role in treating several inflammatory diseases. These compounds possess enormous potential for developing anti-inflammatory drugs and functional foods. However, their development is far from satisfactory due to their diverse structure and intricate anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In this review, we summarize the various types, structures, and distribution of MEHP phenolic acids that have been identified as of 2023. We also analyze their anti-inflammatory activity and molecular mechanisms in inflammatory diseases through NF-κB, MAPK, NLRP3, Nrf2, TLRs, and IL-17 pathways. Additionally, we investigate their impact on regulating the composition of the gut microbiota and immune responses. This analysis lays the groundwork for further exploration of the anti-inflammatory structure-activity relationship of MEHP phenolic acids, aiming to inspire structural optimization and deepen our understanding of their mechanism, and provides valuable insights for future research and development in this field.

Comparative miRNome and transcriptome analyses reveal the expression of novel miRNAs in the panicle of rice implicated in sustained agronomic performance under terminal drought stress

MAIN CONCLUSION

Differential expression of 128 known and 111 novel miRNAs in the panicle of Nagina 22 under terminal drought stress targeting transcription factors, stress-associated genes, etc., enhances drought tolerance and helps sustain agronomic performance under terminal drought stress. Drought tolerance is a complex multigenic trait, wherein the genes are fine-tuned by coding and non-coding components in mitigating deleterious effects. MicroRNA (miRNA) controls gene expression at post-transcriptional level either by cleaving mRNA (transcript) or by suppressing its translation. miRNAs are known to control developmental processes and abiotic stress tolerance in plants. To identify terminal drought-responsive novel miRNA in contrasting rice cultivars, we constructed small RNA (sRNA) libraries from immature panicles of drought-tolerant rice [Nagina 22 (N 22)] and drought-sensitive (IR 64) cultivars grown under control and terminal drought stress. Our analysis of sRNA-seq data resulted in the identification of 169 known and 148 novel miRNAs in the rice cultivars. Among the novel miRNAs, 68 were up-regulated while 43 were down-regulated in the panicle of N 22 under stress. Interestingly, 31 novel miRNAs up-regulated in N 22 were down-regulated in IR 64, whereas 4 miRNAs down-regulated in N 22 were up-regulated in IR 64 under stress. To detect the effects of miRNA on mRNA expression level, transcriptome analysis was performed, while differential expression of miRNAs and their target genes was validated by RT-qPCR. Targets of the differentially expressed miRNAs include transcription factors and stress-associated genes involved in cellular/metabolic/developmental processes, response to abiotic stress, programmed cell death, photosynthesis, panicle/seed development, and grain yield. Differential expression of the miRNAs could be validated in an independent set of the samples. The findings might be useful in genetic improvement of drought-tolerant rice.

Rapid quality evaluation and geographical origin recognition of ginger powder by portable NIRS in tandem with chemometrics

Ginger powder is an important spice that is susceptible to improper sales such as adulteration or geographical fraud. In this study, a portable near infrared spectroscopy was used to quantitatively predict the 6-gingerol content, an important quality index of ginger, as well as to identify the gingers from three origins in China. Specifically, the optimal preprocessing method was first investigated by comparing the predictions of models. Then three feature variable selection methods including PCA, CARS, and RFrog, on the quantitative analysis of 6-gingerol were also compared, respectively. After comparison, the PLS model established on the S-G combined with SNV preprocessing outperformed the others. The PLS regression of 6-gingerol with variables selected by RFrog possessed the Rc2 of 0.9463, Rp2 of 0.9497, and the RPD of 4.2257, respectively. Moreover, the results further verified that the LDA model by SPA variables extraction successfully identify gingers from different origins with 100 % accuracy.

Identification of Bioactive Phytoconstituents, Nutritional Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Calyptocarpus vialis

This study is focused to highlight the phytochemical, nutrient content and in vitro antioxidant capacity of the wildly growing plant Calyptocarpus vialis (CV) of the Asteraceae family collected from the Garhwal region of India. Phytochemical and nutritional analysis of CV is done by qualitative and quantitative methods. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis confirmed the presence of phenols, alkanes, aliphatic primary amines, carboxylic acids, nitrile, aromatics and alcohols. Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) revealed the presence of terpenoids, plant sterols and phenols such as phytol (14.9%), stigmasterol (10.02%), viridiflorol (4.19%), squalene (2.54%) and various other phytochemicals. The plant's study reveals the existence of numerous nutritious elements, including proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates and amino acids. It also revealed the presence of the huge amount of phenolic content ⁓13.49 g in a 100-g dried CV plant sample. The antioxidant potential of methanolic extract of CV was estimated using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging assay, phosphomolybdate assay and reducing power assay. The highest percentage of antioxidant activity determined from three assays is 74 to 87% for 1 mg of dry extract. It is observed that the CV extract act as a good antioxidant when compared to other plants of the Asteraceae family even at very low concentration of the sample. Hence, CV found in the foothills of Himalayas can be further explored as a source of potent bioactive compounds and natural and economical antioxidant for biomedical and immunity-boosting applications.

Antimalarial potential, LC-MS secondary metabolite profiling and computational studies of Zingiber officinale

Malaria is among the top-ranked parasitic diseases that pose a threat to the existence of the human race. This study evaluated the antimalarial effect of the rhizome of Zingiber officinale in infected mice, performed secondary metabolite profiling and detailed computational antimalarial evaluation through molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and density functional theory methods. The antimalarial potential of Z. officinale was performed using the in vivo chemosuppressive model; secondary metabolite profiling was carried out using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Molecular docking was performed with Autodock Vina while the MD simulation was performed with Schrodinger desmond suite for 100 ns and DFT calculations with B3LYP (6-31G) basis set. The extract showed 64% parasitaemia suppression, with a dose-dependent increase in activity up to 200 mg/kg. The chemical profiling of the extract tentatively identified eight phytochemicals. The molecular docking studies with plasmepsin II and Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase (PfDHFR-TS) identified gingerenone A as the hit molecule, and MMGBSA values corroborate the binding energies obtained. The electronic parameters of gingerenone A revealed its significant antimalarial potential. The antimalarial activity elicited by the extract of Z. officinale and the bioactive chemical constituent supports its usage in ethnomedicine.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Bioactive Constituents in Cold-Pressed Plant Oils: Their Structure, Bioactivity and Chromatographic Analysis

Cold-pressed oils are oils prepared from pressing plant materials with a screw or hydraulic press, yielding oils with little contamination of harmful chemicals and high content of nutrients and functional constituents. Cold-pressed oils have gained increasing recognition as food supplements for preventing and ameliorating body deterioration due to ageing and the progression of lifestyle diseases or non-communicable diseases. This article aimed to review their structure, bioactivity, and chromatographic analysis of the mostly found functional compounds in cold-pressed oils, including phytosterols, carotenoids, tocols (tocopherols and tocotrienols), phenolic compounds (flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, stilbenes, and lignans), and squalene.

Inhibition of continuous cropping obstacle of celery by chemically modified biochar: An efficient approach to decrease bioavailability of phenolic allelochemicals

The accumulation of allelochemicals released by plants is commonly found in continuous monocropping systems. These chemicals, such as phenolic acids, were shown to be the major sources of autotoxin or pathogen accumulation in soils, leading to a direct or indirect continuous cropping obstacle. In this study, three types of agricultural residuals, i.e., rice husk, tea waste, and wood meal, were chosen as feedstocks. Biochar samples were prepared from these feedstocks to examine their abilities to remove gallic acid, a representative phenolic acid. Biochar, which was prepared from wood meal soaked with H3PO4 (1:1.5, w/w) and pyrolyzed at 400 °C (symbolized as WP400), exhibited the highest adsorption capacities of gallic acids and other phenolic acids. The mechanisms of phenolic acid removal by WP400 were evaluated via experimental and spectroscopic investigations to elucidate the notable adsorption capacity of WP400. The adsorption of gallic acids was pH-dependent and followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The combination of high surface area, the existence of O-containing groups, and the enhancement of H bonds between CC groups and phenolic acids may contribute to the high adsorption capacity of WP400. In a pot experiment, we found that celery growth was promoted with the addition of 0.3% (w/w) WP400 to soils that were continuously monocropped with celery. A large decrease in the water-soluble phenolic compound by more than 40% may be responsible for the results. However, WP400 scavenged nitrate, and this study showed that the synergistic actions of WP400 and nutrients exhibited the greatest efficiencies in mitigating the continuous cropping obstacles of celery.

Antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the leaf and stem extracts of Carissa bispinosa used for dental health care

BACKGROUND

Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan is one of the plants used traditionally to treat oral infections. However, there is limited data validating its therapeutic properties and photochemistry. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective efficacy of the leaf and stem extracts of C. bispinosa against oral infections.

METHODS

The phenolic and tannin contents were measured using Folin-Ciocalteau method after extracting with different solvents. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the extracts were assessed using the microdilution method against fungal (Candida albicans and Candida glabrata) and bacterial (Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis) strains. The 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing power (FRP) models were utilised to assess the antioxidant potential of the extracts. Cytotoxicity of the leaf acetone extract was evaluated using the methylthiazol tetrazolium assay.

RESULTS

The methanol leaf extract had the highest phenolic content (113.20 mg TAE/g), whereas hexane extract displayed the highest tannin composition of 22.98 mg GAE/g. The acetone stem extract had the highest phenolic content (338 mg TAE/g) and the stem extract yielded the highest total tannin content (49.87 mg GAE/g). The methanol leaf extract demonstrated the lowest MIC value (0.31 mg/mL), whereas the stem ethanol extract had the least MIC value of 0.31 mg/mL. The stem methanol extract had the best DPPH free radical scavenging activity (IC50, 72 µg/mL) whereas the stem ethanol extract displayed maximum FRP with absorbance of 1.916. The leaf acetone extract had minimum cytotoxicity with the lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.63 mg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained in this study validated the protective effect of C. bispinosa against oral infections.

Quality Standards and Pharmacological Interventions of Natural Oils: Current Scenario and Future Perspectives

Medicinal plants are rich sources of natural oils such as essential and fixed oils used traditionally for nutritive as well as medicinal purposes. Most of the traditional formulations or phytopharmaceutical formulations contain oil as the main ingredient due to their own therapeutic applications and thus mitigating several pathogeneses such as fungal/bacterial/viral infection, gout, psoriasis, analgesic, antioxidant, skin infection, etc. Due to the lack of quality standards and progressive adulteration in the natural oils, their therapeutic efficacy is continuously deteriorated. To develop quality standards and validate scientific aspects on essential oils, several chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques such as HPTLC, HPLC, NMR, LC-MS, and GC-MS have been termed as the choices of techniques for better exploration of metabolites, hence sustaining the authenticity of the essential oils. In this review, chemical profiling and quality control aspects of essential or fixed oils have been explored from previously reported literature in reputed journals. Methods of chemical profiling, possible identified metabolites in essential oils, and their therapeutic applications have been described. The outcome of the review reveals that GC-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, and NMR-based chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques are the most liable, economic, precise, and accurate techniques for determining the spuriousness or adulteration of oils based on their qualitative and quantitative chemical profiling studies. This review occupies the extensive information about the quality standards of several oils obtained from natural sources for their regulatory aspects via providing the detailed methods used in chemoprofiling techniques. Hence, this review helps researchers in further therapeutic exploration as well as quality-based standardization for their regulatory purpose.

Elucidating the Pharmacological Properties of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Ginger) on Muscle Ageing by Untargeted Metabolomic Profiling of Human Myoblasts

(1) Background: Muscle loss is associated with frailty and a reduction in physical strength and performance, which is caused by increased oxidative stress. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a potential herb that can be used to reduce the level of oxidative stress. This study aimed to determine the effect of ginger on the expression of metabolites and their metabolic pathways in the myoblast cells to elucidate the mechanism involved and its pharmacological properties in promoting myoblast differentiation. (2) Methods: The myoblast cells were cultured into three stages (young, pre-senescent and senescent). At each stage, the myoblasts were treated with different concentrations of ginger extract. Then, metabolomic analysis was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/MS). (3) Results: Nine metabolites were decreased in both the pre-senescent and senescent control groups as compared to the young control group. For the young ginger-treated group, 8-shogaol and valine were upregulated, whereas adipic acid and bis (4-ethyl benzylidene) sorbitol were decreased. In the pre-senescent ginger-treated group, the niacinamide was upregulated, while carnitine and creatine were downregulated. Ginger treatment in the senescent group caused a significant upregulation in 8-shogaol, octadecanamide and uracil. (4) Conclusions: Ginger extract has the potential as a pharmacological agent to reduce muscle loss in skeletal muscle by triggering changes in some metabolites and their pathways that could promote muscle regeneration in ageing.

Effect of Birch Sap as Solvent and Source of Bioactive Compounds in Casein and Gelatine Films

Birch sap consists of a natural water-based solution with valuable compounds such as minerals, sugars, organic acids and phenolic compounds that can be used advantageously in the preparation of edible films. In this study, gelatine- and casein-based films were prepared using birch sap as biopolymer solvent and source of bioactive compounds with the aim of developing new bioactive materials for food packaging. The physical, mechanical, barrier, antioxidant and iron-chelating properties of the obtained films were investigated. Birch sap enhanced the mechanical properties of the films by increasing puncture strength and flexibility, as well as their ultraviolet-visible light barrier properties. In addition, the presence of bioactive compounds endowed the birch sap films with an antioxidant capacity of almost 90% and an iron-chelating capacity of 40-50% with respect to the control films. Finally, to test these films as food packaging material, a photosensitive curcumin solution was packed and exposed to ultraviolet light. Tested films were able to protect curcumin against photodegradation, and the presence of bioactive compounds inside the birch-sap-enriched materials offered an additional 10% photoprotective effect compared to control films. Results showed the potential of birch sap as an environmentally friendly biopolymer solvent and plasticizer that can improve the mechanical and photoprotective properties of the prepared materials.

Nutritional Composition Profiles and Quality Evaluation of Different Cultivars of Asparagus Officinalis with Potential as Functional Foods and Health-Care Products

Asparagus officinalis is a health-care vegetable with homology value of medicine and food. The quality of A. officinalis is greatly different from various cultivars. It is essential to reveal the relationship between the variety and quality. This study investigated six nutritional compositions in ten A. officinalis cultivars, including amino acid, mineral substance, carbohydrate, vitamin C, protein and total sugar. Five chemometrics methods were further employed to evaluate their quality. The results consistently showed that ten varieties were divided into three grades as nutritional composition differences. HuaMiaoF1, JinGuan and FeiCuiMingZhu were grouped into cluster3 with the best quality, and Atlas and Jersey Giant were grouped into cluster1 with the lowest quality. Therefore, HuaMiaoF1, JinGuan and FeiCuiMingZhu can be suggested as good raw materials for medicine, food and health-care products industries. Meanwhile, the comprehensive application of five chemometrics methods was confirmed as a reliable methodology for quality evaluation of A. officinalis.

Quality assessment of commercial dried ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) based on targeted and non-targeted chemical profiles and anti-inflammatory activity

Dried ginger, a well-known medicine and food homologous production, has been widely circulated in China with high health benefits and economic value. Currently, there is still a lack of quality assessment on whether dried ginger in China exhibits chemically and biologically distinct properties, which creates a barrier to its quality control in commercial circulation. In this study, the chemical characteristics of 34 batches of common dried ginger samples in China were first explored using non-targeted chemometrics based on the UPLC-Q/TOF-MS analysis, leading to the identification of 35 chemicals that contributed to clustering into two categories, with sulfonated conjugates being the key chemically distinct components. By comparing the samples before and after sulfur-containing treatment and the further synthesis of a key differentiating component of [6]-gingesulfonic acid, it was then demonstrated that sulfur-containing treatment was the primary cause of the formation of sulfonated conjugates, as opposed to regional or environmental factors. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory efficacy of dried ginger with high presence of sulfonated conjugates was significantly decreased. Consequently, for the first time, UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS was used to develop a targeted quantification method for 10 characteristic chemicals in dried ginger, allowing researchers to quickly determine whether dried ginger has been processed with sulfur and quantitatively evaluate the quality of dried ginger. These results provided an insight into the quality of commercial dried ginger in China and a suggested method for its quality supervision as well.

Zingerone reduces sodium arsenite-induced nephrotoxicity by regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and histopathological changes

Arsenic is widely available in the environment and arsenic toxicity is a public health problem of serious concern worldwide. Zingerone is a promising phytochemical with various pharmacological effects. In this study, the potential protective effect of zingerone against sodium arsenite (NaAsO₂, SA) induced nephrotoxicity was investigated. Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five different groups as control, zingerone, SA, SA + zingerone 25, SA + zingerone 50. SA was administered alone at a dose of 10 mg/kg for 14 days or given 30 min before zingerone (25 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg) treatment. At the end of the experiment, the kidney tissues was examined biochemically, molecularly and microscopically. SA toxicity was associated with increased malondialdehyde level, whereas glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase were decreased. Administration of SA caused inflammation in the kidney tissue by upregulation of NF-κB and IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, COX-2, MAPK14, MAPK15, JNK. SA administration caused apoptosis in the kidney by upregulating caspase-3 and Bax levels and downregulating Bcl-2, and autophagy by activating beclin-1. Also, SA administration showed a suppressive effect on AKT2 and FOXO1 mRNA transcript levels. All these factors impair kidney function and increase creatinine and urea levels, resulting in pathological changes and a decrease in nephrin. Treatment with zingerone at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg significantly reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy in kidney tissue. In addition, it was confirmed by histological evaluation as well as serum urea and creatinine levels that kidney damage due to SA toxicity can be modulated by zingerone administration.

Comparative Study of Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, Cytotoxic Potentials, and Phytochemicals of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Trigonella foenum-graecum and Zingiber officinale are used as traditional medicinal plants for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases. However, a comparative analysis and bioactivities of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale lack some necessary information for therapeutic purposes. This study was designed to evaluate the biochemical characterizations and biological efficacy of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale as antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiamnesic, and cytotoxic agents. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Antidiabetic potentials were evaluated by glycation, alpha-amylase, and acetylcholinesterase inhibition assays. We performed biochemical characterization through analyses of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy). Results revealed that total phenolic contents (TPCs) (g GAE/100 g) of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale were 5.74 ± 0.81 g and 6.15 ± 0.06 g, respectively, and total flavonoid contents (TFCs) varied from 1.51 ± 0.58 g CE/100 g to 17.54 ± 0.58. DPPH scavenging potentials of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale extract were 50.27% and 88.82%, respectively. Antiglycation potentials of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale showed a maximum activity at 16–29% and 96%. Alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition ranged from 9.43–24.95 and 10.52–27.89 and 54.97%, respectively. All the test samples of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale showed acetylcholinesterase inhibition potential at 0.37–46.88%. HPLC analysis of T. foenum-graecum revealed the presence of quercetin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, vanillic acid, syringic acid, and cumeric acid, while Z. officinale revealed the quercetin, gallic acid, vanillic acid, benzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, p.Coumaric acid, ferulic acid, and cinnamic acid. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of aldehydes, ketones, aromatic compounds, amines, and carbonyl groups in T. foenum-graecum, while alcohol, alkane, alkene, ketone, amine, and ether are bioactives present in the methanolic extract of Z. officinale. It was concluded that a comparative analysis of T. foenum-graecum and Z. officinale showed that Z. officinale showed higher therapeutic effects.

An overview of wastewater treatment using combined heterogeneous photocatalysis and membrane distillation

The need for efficient remediation solutions to wastewater has risen due to the concerning prevalence of toxic organic pollutants. It is possible for the linked photocatalysis-membrane separation system to concurrently achieve the photoreaction of pollutants and their removal from wastewater in order to accomplish the goal of completely purifying the wastewater. This investigation's objective is to provide analytical overview of the photocatalytic and membrane coupling process, photocatalytic membrane reactors, and the potential applications of these technologies in the treatment of wastewater for the persistent organic matter removal. In the review, an examination of photocatalytic and membrane processes to remove organic compounds from wastewater is presented. Based on the literature analysis, it was observed that the application of photocatalytic membrane reactors is significantly influenced by a wide variety of factors. Some of these factors include pollutant concentration, dissolved oxygen, aeration, pH, and hydraulic retention time. Light intensity is another factor that has a significant influence. It was also revealed how distillation membranes work when integrated with photocatalytic process. This brief overview will help researchers understand how successful coupled photocatalytic and membrane distillation are in the treatment of wastewater containing organic pollutants.

Naturally-occurring carboxylic acids from traditional antidiabetic plants as potential pancreatic islet FABP3 inhibitors. A molecular docking-aided study

The antidiabetic action of traditional plants is mostly attributed to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These plants are still having some secrets, making them an attractive source that allows for investigating new drugs or uncovering precise pharmacologic antidiabetic functions of their constituents. In diabetes, which is a lipid disease, long-term exposure of pancreatic islet beta cells to fatty acids (FAs) increases basal insulin release, reduces glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, causes islet beta cell inflammation, failure and apoptosis. Pancreatic islet beta cells express fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) that receives long-chain FAs and traffics them throughout different cellular compartments to be metabolized and render their effects. Inhibition of this FABP3 may retard FA metabolism and protect islet beta cells. Since FAs interact with FABPs by their carboxylic group, some traditionally-known antidiabetic plants were reviewed in the present study, searching for their components that have common features of FABP ligands, namely carboxylic group and hydrophobic tail. Many of these carboxylic acids were computationally introduced into the ligand-binding pocket of FABP3 and some of them exhibited FABP3 ligand possibilities. Among others, the naturally occurring ferulic, cleomaldeic, caffeic, sinapic, hydroxycinnamic, 4-p-coumaroylquinic, quinoline-2-carboxylic, chlorogenic, 6-hydroxykynurenic, and rosmarinic acids in many plants are promising candidates for being FABP3-specific inhibitors. The study shed light on repurposing these phyto-carboxylic acids to function as FABP inhibitors. However, more in-depth biological and pharmacological studies to broaden the understanding of this function are needed.

Comprehensive Metabolite Profiling of Berdav Propolis Using LC-MS/MS: Determination of Antioxidant, Anticholinergic, Antiglaucoma, and Antidiabetic Effects

Propolis is a complex natural compound that honeybees obtain from plants and contributes to hive safety. It is rich in phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which contain antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. In this study, the chemical composition and antioxidant activities of propolis were investigated; ABTS^•+, DPPH^• and DMPD^•+ were prepared using radical scavenging antioxidant methods. The phenolic and flavonoid contents of propolis were 53 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g and 170.164 mg of quercetin equivalent (QE)/g, respectively. The ferric ion (Fe³⁺) reduction, CUPRAC and FRAP reduction capacities were also studied. The antioxidant and reducing capacities of propolis were compared with those of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), α-tocopherol and Trolox reference standards. The half maximal inhibition concentration (IC₅₀) values of propolis for ABTS^•+, DPPH^• and DMPD^•+ scavenging activities were found to be 8.15, 20.55 and 86.64 μg/mL, respectively. Propolis extract demonstrated IC₅₀ values of 3.7, 3.4 and 19.6 μg/mL against α-glycosidase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carbonic anhydrase II (hCA II) enzyme, respectively. These enzymes' inhibition was associated with diabetes, Alzheimer's disease (AD) and glaucoma. The reducing power, antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibition capacity of propolis extract were comparable to those demonstrated by the standards. Twenty-eight phenolic compounds, including acacetin, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, naringenin, chrysin, quinic acid, quercetin, and ferulic acid, were determined by LC-MS/MS to be major organic compounds in propolis. The polyphenolic antioxidant-rich content of the ethanol extract of propolis appears to be a natural product that can be used in the treatment of diabetes, AD, glaucoma, epilepsy, and cancerous diseases.

Transcriptome and Physio-Biochemical Profiling Reveals Differential Responses of Rice Cultivars at Reproductive-Stage Drought Stress

Drought stress severely affects the growth and development of rice, especially at the reproductive stage, which results in disturbed metabolic processes, reduced seed-set/grain filling, deteriorated grain quality, declined productivity, and lower yield. Despite the recent advances in understanding the responses of rice to drought stress, there is a need to comprehensively integrate the morpho-physio-biochemical studies with the molecular responses/differential expression of genes and decipher the underlying pathways that regulate the adaptability of rice at various drought-sensitive growth stages. Our comparative analysis of immature panicle from a drought-tolerant (Nagina 22) and a drought-sensitive (IR 64) rice cultivar grown under control (well-watered) and water-deficit/drought stress (treatment, imposed at the reproductive stage) conditions unraveled some novel stress-responsive genes/pathways responsible for reproductive-stage drought stress tolerance. The results revealed a more important role of upregulated (6706) genes in the panicle of N 22 at reproductive-stage drought stress compared to that (5590) in IR 64. Functional enrichment and MapMan analyses revealed that majority of the DEGs were associated with the phytohormone, redox signalling/homeostasis, secondary metabolite, and transcription factor-mediated mitigation of the adverse effects of drought stress in N 22. The upregulated expression of the genes associated with starch/sucrose metabolism, secondary metabolites synthesis, transcription factors, glutathione, linoleic acid, and phenylalanine metabolism in N 22 was significantly more than that in the panicle of IR 64. Compared to IR 64, 2743 genes were upregulated in N 22 under control conditions, which further increased (4666) under drought stress in panicle of the tolerant cultivar. Interestingly, we observed 6706 genes to be upregulated in the panicle of N 22 over IR 64 under drought and 5814 genes get downregulated in the panicle of N 22 over IR 64 under the stress. In addition, RT-qPCR analysis confirmed differential expression patterns of the DEGs. These genes/pathways associated with the reproductive-stage drought tolerance might provide an important source of molecular markers for genetic manipulation of rice for enhanced drought tolerance.

Antioxidant Properties of Dried Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) var. Bentong

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a popular culinary herb used in the Eastern culture. The essential cultivar of the Zingiber genus is rich in antioxidants and is crucial in the fight against oxidative stress-related diseases. The antioxidant properties of dried ginger were evaluated and compared for their efficacy from different drying processes (sun-, oven-, vacuum- and freeze-drying) and using three extraction solvents: hot water, aqueous ethanol (80%, v/v) and ethanol. The drying process demonstrated a positive effect on the antioxidant activities of ginger. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in the extracting ability of each solvent. Sun-dried ginger extracted with ethanol performed better than the fresh ginger extract in the form of increased yield (3.04-fold), TFC values (12.25-fold), reducing power (FRAP) (15.35-fold), total antioxidant activity (TAA) (6.82-fold) and inhibition of ABTS•+ radical cation (3.51-fold) and DPPH• radical (95%). Meanwhile, freeze-dried aqueous ginger extracts demonstrated significantly higher TPC (1.66-fold), TFC (3.71-fold), FRAP (3.26-fold), TAA (2.97-fold), ABTS•+ scavenging activity (1.48-fold) and DPPH• radical inhibition (77%), compared to fresh ginger extracts. In addition, it was found that ethanol was significantly superior to aqueous ethanol in phenolic content recovery, despite the lower yield. Furthermore, ethanol ginger extracts exhibited higher antioxidant activity than aqueous ethanol extracts. On the other hand, hot water was the least potent solvent for extraction. In summary, there was an excellent correlation between TPC, TFC and antioxidant activity. Sun-drying is the most desirable method for preserving and enhancing ginger quality due to its cost effectiveness and bioactive compound efficacy.

Green synthesis of nanosized N,N'-bis(1-naphthylidene)-4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane and its metal (II) complexes and evaluation of their biological activity

Condensation of ecofriendly synthesized 4,4'-methanedianiline with 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde produced a (1:1) octopus-like Schiff base mixed ligand. Reaction with Co(OAc)₂⋅H₂O, NiCl₂⋅6H₂O, Cu(OAc)₂⋅H₂O and Zn(OAc)₂⋅2H₂O metals furnished their complexes in high yield and purity. All new structures were fully characterized by various spectroscopic and spectrometric measurements. The complexes exhibited high thermal stability up to 700 °C, leaving nearly 40% of their mass as residues. Antimicrobial screening results exhibited moderate activities towards all studied microbes. Antioxidant screening was concentration dependent, and their activities were in the order Ni(II) > Zn(II) > Cu(II) > Co(II) complexes. The NO inhibitory effect revealed that the nickel complex exhibited the highest activity, whereas the cobalt complex showed the lowest inhibition. All compounds showed a significant lipid peroxidation inhibitory effect against oxidative stress. The complexes significantly diminished the TBARS level, and the nickel complex exhibited the highest inhibition at p < 0.01. Antioxidants stress the oxidative damage induced by iron, indicating that the nickel complex has the highest reducing activity. The inhibitory effect against acetylcholine esterase showed that the copper complex has the highest activity. Membrane stabilization activities clearly indicated that most compounds can improve the integrity of the cells and stability of their membrane, and this result may be related to their antioxidant capacity to protect against cytotoxicity. The nickel complex exhibited a stronger total antioxidant capacity than the other complexes. The biological and antioxidant capacities of these complexes may make them promising candidates in pharmaceutical applications.

Ginkgo biloba Supplement Reverses Lead (II) Acetate-Induced Haematological Imbalances, Hepatic and Renal Dysfunctions in Male Wistar Rat

Lead is a heavy metal abundant in nature that causes haematological imbalances, and hepatic and renal dysfunction, and this imbalance has been linked to oxidative stress. Several reports have shown that natural products are implicated in ameliorating metal poisonings. Ginkgo biloba is a flavonoid-rich natural herbal supplement with several pharmacological properties. The present study investigated effect of Ginkgo biloba supplement (GBS) on lead-induced toxicity. Animals were given a lead dose of 25 mg/kg for 14 days orally and then given Ginkgo biloba supplements of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg orally for 14 days. Animals given GBS had significantly improved haematological and rheological parameters. GBS showed a protective impact in terms of improved kidney and liver histology, anti-oxidant enzyme activity (CAT, SOD, GSH, and MDA), organ function indices, and a lower rate of erythrocyte osmotic fragility. Conclusively, Ginkgo biloba supplementation attenuated lead toxicity by normalization of haematological imbalances, and hepatic and renal dysfunction as well as maintaining erythrocyte membrane integrity.

Evaluation of Antioxidant Capacity (ABTS and CUPRAC) and Total Phenolic Content (Folin-Ciocalteu) Assays of Selected Fruit, Vegetables, and Spices

Antioxidant (AOX) capacity assays are important analytical tools, used worldwide to measure the AOX capacities of various food commodities. Although numerous protocols have been published to ascertain AOX capacities, there are increasing concerns about the reliability of many of these assays. Poor correlation of results between various assays, as well as problems with reproducibility, consistency, and accuracy, is to blame. Published AOX assays also differ markedly from each other by employing different reaction conditions, using different extracting solvents, and applying dissimilar quantification methods. In this study, AOX capacities of a range of fruit, vegetables, and spices, commonly consumed and of commercial importance in Australia and worldwide, were measured in both hydrophilic and lipophilic solvents by using two different assay systems. As the polyphenolic compounds present in any sample matrix are the main contributors to its AOX properties, the commodities were also analysed for total phenolic content (TPC), again using both solvent systems. Analysis of the results from the current study with values from the published literature exposed the challenges that make direct comparison of any quantitative results difficult. However, a strong mutual correlation of our assay results facilitated a meaningful comparison of the data within the laboratory. Concurrent use of lipophilic and hydrophilic solvents made the results more reliable and understandable. Findings from this study will aid to address the existing challenges and bring a more rational basis to the AOX capacities. This unique analytical approach also provided a platform to build an internal reference database for the commonly consumed and commercially important food commodities with the potential to broaden the scope into a database for similar food matrices.

Effect of Grinding Process Parameters and Storage Time on Extraction of Antioxidants from Ginger and Nutmeg

The aim of this study was to optimize the grinding process parameters (mesh size of grinder sieve (X1), the peripheral velocity of the grinding wheels (X2)), and the storage time (X3) of ground ginger rhizome and nutmeg to obtain ethanol and ethanol-water extracts with improved antioxidant properties. The optimal conditions were estimated using response surface methodology (RSM) based on a three-variable Box-Behnken design (BBD) in order to maximize the antioxidant capacity (AC) determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) methods, and the total phenolic content (TPC) was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu (F-C) method in spice extracts. Additionally, the phenolic acid profiles in extracts from optimized conditions were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). It was found that the optimal preparation conditions for antioxidant extraction were dependent on the spice source and solvent type. The best antioxidant properties in nutmeg extracts were achieved for X1 = 1.0 mm, X2 = 40-41 Hz and X3 = 7 days, whereas the optimized parameters for ginger extracts were more varied (1.0-2.0 mm, 43-50 Hz and 1-9 days, respectively). The ginger extracts contained 1.5-1.8 times more phenolic acids, and vanillic, ferulic, gallic, and p-OH-benzoic acids were dominant. In contrast, the nutmeg extracts were rich in protocatechuic, vanillic, and ferulic acids.

Sahlep (Dactylorhiza osmanica): Phytochemical Analyses by LC-HRMS, Molecular Docking, Antioxidant Activity, and Enzyme Inhibition Profiles

Studies have shown an inverse correlation among age-related illnesses like coronary heart disease and cancer and intake of fruit and vegetable. Given the probable health benefits of natural antioxidants from plants, research on them has increased. Dactylorhiza osmanica is consumed as a food and traditional medicine plant in some regions of Turkey, so evaluation of the biological ability of this species is important. In this study, the amount of phenolic content (LC-HRMS), antioxidant activities and enzyme inhibitory properties of an endemic plant, D. osmanica, were investigated. The antioxidant capacities of an ethanol extract of D. osmanica aerial parts (EDOA) and roots (EDOR) were evaluated with various antioxidant methods. Additionally, the enzyme inhibitory effects of EDOA and EDOR were examined against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), α-glycosidase, and α-amylase enzymes, which are associated with common and global Alzheimer's disease and diabetes mellitus. The IC50 values of EDOA against the enzymes were found to be 1.809, 1.098, and 0.726 mg/mL, respectively; and the IC50 values of EDOR against the enzymes were found to be 2.466, 0.442, and 0.415 mg/mL, respectively. Additionally, LC-HRMS analyses revealed p-Coumaric acid as the most plentiful phenolic in both EDOA (541.49 mg/g) and EDOR (559.22 mg/g). Furthermore, the molecular docking interaction of p-coumaric acid, quercitrin, and vanillic acid, which are the most plentiful phenolic compounds in the extracts, with AChE, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase, were evaluated using AutoDock Vina software. The rich phenolic content and the effective antioxidant ability and enzyme inhibition potentials of EDOA and EDOR may support the plant's widespread food and traditional medicinal uses.

Phenolic compounds of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.): Separation method, chemical characterization, and biological properties

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is a good source of bioactive compounds. However, information on the biological properties of sugar beet root is limited and its beneficial effects have not been completely understood. In this work, 10 phenolic compounds have been separated and identified in various parts of sugar beet for the first time, including the most abundant epicatechin (31.16 ± 1.89 mg/100 g), gallic acid (30.57 ± 2.69 mg/100 g), and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (30.14 ± 3.63 mg/100 g). The biological activity tests indicated that sugar beet peel potently scavenged the nitric oxide and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radicals with IC₅₀ values of 88.17 ± 05.14 and 28.77 ± 0.62 μg/ml, respectively. In addition, sugar beet peel exhibited the highest reducing power, IC₅₀ values of 11.98 ± 1.20 μg/ml, and the highest ion-chelating activity, IC₅₀ values of 48.52% and 55.21% for cupric and ferrous ions at 250 μg/ml, respectively. Compared to synthetic antioxidants, sugar beet showed promising biological activities, which could be considered further in future studies.

Anticholinergic, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of Vitex agnus-castus L. seed extract : Assessment of its phenolic content by LC-MS/MS

In this current study, Vitex agnus-castus seed ethanol extracts were analyzed for their phytochemical component content, anticholinergic and antioxidant activities, and antibacterial properties. The phenolic compound composition of these seeds was determined by using LC-MS/MS. Antioxidant activity of the seeds was examined by the DPPH, ABTS, Fe 3+ -Fe 2+ reducing, and CUPRAC. Also, the anticholinergic activity was measured by the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The antibacterial activity was performed by disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration methods. The main phenolic compound was vanillic acid (22812.05 µg/L ) and followed by luteolin, fumaric acid, quercetin, caffeic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid, kaempferol, bütein, ellagic acid, resveratrol, catechin hydrate, phloridzin dehydrate, naringenin, respectively. The DPPH free radical scavenging value of ethanol extract of plant seeds was 9.41%, while the ABTS radical scavenging activity was determined as 12.66%. The ethanol extract of the seeds exhibited antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus , and Salmonella Typhimurium, differently. S. aureus was found to be more susceptible to the extract than other bacteria. Also, the inhibition effect of seed ethanolic extract on the AChE with IC 50 values were 36.34±5,6 µg/mL. From the results, V. agnus-castus seed can be suggested as a promising natural antioxidant and antibacterial candidate for the preservation of foods.

Aqueous Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract Ameliorates the Harmful Effects of High-Dose Lornoxicam in Albino Male Rats

Lornoxicam is a potent oxicam-class nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects. Its impacts on many biological functions are not fully understood. We measured various biomarkers in male albino rats provided an oral aqueous ginger extract before IM administration of therapeutic and 2× the therapeutic doses of lornoxicam. The aqueous ginger plant extract was characterized by mass spectroscopy, and its effects were determined by examining free radical scavenging activity, blood parameters, renal and hepatic function, semen quality, proinflammatory cytokines, antioxidant markers, and histopathology. Rats administered lornoxicam had significantly higher liver and kidney function biomarker values, TNF-α, interleukin-6, and sperm abnormalities than the control rats. The overall erythrocyte count, packed cell volume, prostaglandin, and sperm counts were all considerably lower in the experimental animals. Histological changes were found in the liver, spleen, and testes of rats administered lornoxicam alone. In rats, pretreatment with ginger extract reduced the majority of the negative effects of conventional and high dosages of lornoxicam.

Bioactive characterization of ultrasonicated ginger (Zingiber officinale) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) freeze dried extracts

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) are one of the most popular spices having a wide range of bioactive compounds that have varied biological and pharmacological properties. The study was aimed to extract polyphenols from Himalayan medicinal herbs ginger and licorice in different solvents using ultra-sonication technique. The extraction efficiency (EE) was determined, and the extracts were characterized for physical properties (particle size, colour values), total phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidant properties, and structural and morphological features. Ultra-sonicated ginger in aqueous phase had the highest EE of polyphenols (15.27%) as compared to other solvents. Similar trend was observed in licorice with EE of 30.52 % in aqueous phase followed by ethanol: water (50: 50), and methanol: water (50:50) with 28.52% and 26.39%, respectively. The preliminary screening showed the presence of tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins and carbohydrates, steroids and alkaloids in all the extracts. The phenolic and flavonoid content of dried ginger was found higher in ethanolic extracts compared to fresh ones as revealed by HPLC. Similarly, for licorice, the ethanolic fractions had the highest polyphenolic content. The representative samples of ginger (ethanol: water 75:25 and ethylacetate: water 75:25) and licorice (ethanol: water 70:30 and methanol: water 50:50) were studied for FESEM and particle size. The results showed the agglomerated extract micro-particles with a diameter of 0.5-10 µm and increased particle size (ginger: 547 and 766 nm), and (licorice: 450 and 566 nm). The findings could be beneficial for the advancement of ginger and licorice processing, for the comprehension of these herbs as a source of natural antioxidants in different food formulations.

Role of the Hydroxyl Radical-Generating System in the Estimation of the Antioxidant Activity of Plant Extracts by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR)

The scavenging activity of hydroxyl radicals, produced by the Fenton reaction, is commonly used to quantify the antioxidant capacity of plant extracts. In this study, three Fenton systems (Fe/phosphate buffer, Fe/quinolinic acid and Fe/phosphate buffer/quinolinic acid) and the thermal degradation of peroxydisulfate were used to produce hydroxyl radicals; the hydroxyl radical scavenging activity of plant extracts (ginger, blueberry juices and green tea infusion) and chemical compounds (EGCG and GA) was estimated by spin trapping with DMPO (5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide) and EPR (Electron Paramagnetic Resonance) spectroscopy. Phosphate buffer was used to mimic the physiological pH of cellular systems, while quinolinic acid (pyridine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid) facilitates the experimental procedure by hindering the spontaneous oxidation of Fe(II). The EC₅₀ (the concentration of chemical compounds or plant extracts which halves the intensity of the DMPO-OH adduct) values were determined in all the systems. The results show that, for both the chemical compounds and the plant extracts, there is not a well-defined order for the EC₅₀ values determined in the four hydroxyl radical generating systems. The interactions of phosphate buffer and quinolinic acid with the antioxidants and with potential iron-coordinating ligands present in the plant extracts can justify the observed differences.

Isolation of Some Phenolic Compounds from Plantago subulata L. and Determination of Their Antidiabetic, Anticholinesterase, Antiepileptic and Antioxidant Activity

In the current study, some phenolic compounds, including acteoside, isoacteoside, echinacoside, and arenarioside purified and characterized from Plantago subulata. These compounds were tested for its antioxidant potential, including Fe³⁺ and Cu²⁺ reductive ability and Fe²⁺ chelating effects. The inhibitory effects of isolated phenolic compounds were tested towards human carbonic anhydrase I and II isoenzymes (hCA I and hCA II), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) acetylcholinesterase (AChE), aldose reductase (AR) and α-glycosidase (α-gly). K_i values were found these compounds in range of 0.24±0.05-1.38±0.34 μM against hCA I, 0.194±0.018-1.03±0.06 μM against hCA II, 0.043±0.01-0.154±0.02 μM against AChE, 3.92±1.08-11.93±4.45 μM against BChE, 0.082±0.0008-1.68±0.42 μM against AR, and 6.93±2.74-17.17±6.70 μM against α-glycosidase. As a result, isolated compounds displayed inhibition effects against studied all metabolic enzymes. They are promising candidates for treating disorders like Alzheimer's disease, diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, leukemia, and epilepsy.

Dose-dependent Action of Zingiber officinale on Colonic Dysmotility and Ex Vivo Spontaneous Intestinal Contraction Modulation

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizomes are commonly used in foods and employed for many ailments including gastrointestinal disorders. Our main objective was to evaluate the effect of Zingiber officinale aqueous extract (ZOAE) on gastrointestinal (GI) physiological motility and colonic dysmotility. Thereby, Wistar rats were given loperamide (LP, 3 mg/kg, b.w.) and ZOAE (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg, b.w.) or yohimbine (YOH, 2 mg/kg, b.w.). ZOAE-action on intestinal secretion was assessed using Ussing chamber technique and intestinal motility with isometric transducer. GI-transit (GIT) and gastric emptying (GE) were evaluated with the charcoal meal test and the red phenol methods. ZOAE-bioactive components were analyzed by liquid chromatography-high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-HRESIMS). Constipation was induced with LP and the different indicators such as stool composition, GIT, oxidative stress biological parameters, and colonic mucosa histological alteration were performed. Anti-constipation effect of ZOAE was confirmed on stool composition, GIT (53.42% to 85.57%), GE (55.47% to 98.88%), and re-established oxidative balance. ZOAE induces an amplitude increase of spontaneous intestinal contraction with EC50 of 10.52 μg/mL. No effect of ZOAE was observed on electrogenic transport of intestinal fluid. These findings suggest that ZOAE-bioactive candidates might exert an anti-constipation action and spontaneous intestinal contraction modulation.

Herb and Spices in Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Treatment: A Narrative Review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most deadly cancer worldwide. CRC management is challenging due to late detection, high recurrence rate, and multi-drug resistance. Herbs and spices used in cooking, practised for generations, have been shown to contain CRC protective effect or even be useful as an anti-CRC adjuvant therapy when used in high doses. Herbs and spices contain many bioactive compounds and possess many beneficial health effects. The chemopreventive properties of these herbs and spices are mainly mediated by the BCL-2, K-ras, and MMP pathways, caspase activation, the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, and the regulation of ER-stress-induced apoptosis. As a safer natural alternative, these herbs and spices could be good candidates for chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic agents for CRC management because of their antiproliferative action on colorectal carcinoma cells and inhibitory activity on angiogenesis. Therefore, in this narrative review, six different spices and herbs: ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), garlic (Allium sativum L.), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), and flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) used in daily cuisine were selected for this study and analyzed for their chemoprotective or chemotherapeutic roles in CRC management with underlying molecular mechanisms of actions. Initially, this study comprehensively discussed the molecular basis of CRC development, followed by culinary and traditional uses, current scientific research, and publications of selected herbs and spices on cancers. Lead compounds have been discussed comprehensively for each herb and spice, including anti-CRC phytoconstituents, antioxidant activities, anti-inflammatory properties, and finally, anti-CRC effects with treatment mechanisms. Future possible works have been suggested where applicable.

The Antimicrobial Efficacy Against Selective Oral Microbes, Antioxidant Activity and Preliminary Phytochemical Screening of Zingiber officinale

Introduction

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been one of the most commonly consumed herbal medicines for a long time to treat several common diseases. Antibacterial activity, antioxidant properties and many bioactive compounds in ginger have been identified previously, which could be used as an alternative method to treat many infectious diseases.

Methods

The current study evaluates ginger’s biochemical profile using qualitative and quantitative analysis and its bioactive potentials using antioxidant and antimicrobial assays against Streptococcus mutans and selective oral microbes. HPLC analysis was performed for the quantitative analysis. DPPH and disc diffusion assays were used for antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The antimicrobial activity was checked against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus spp., and Lactobacillus spp. All solvents were removed by rotary evaporation before testing the dried extracts.

Results

The observed IC₅₀ value showed that distilled water extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (43.9), followed by ethanol extract (52.4), and the lowest activity was observed in n-butanol extract (91.2) and n-hexane (90.6). Different plant extracts have shown significant antibacterial activity (p = 0.001) against each bacterium. The highest antibacterial activity against tested bacteria was observed in n-hexane, chloroform and ethanol extracts. In comparison, the ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water extracts showed low antibacterial activity.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes that Zingiber officinale (Z. officinale) against Gram-positive bacteria is an effective antimicrobial herb. Furthermore, it can be used as a potential natural source of antioxidants. Further studies on the toxicity analysis of ginger are recommended.

Screening of Carbonic Anhydrase, Acetylcholinesterase, Butyrylcholinesterase, and α-Glycosidase Enzyme Inhibition Effects and Antioxidant Activity of Coumestrol

Coumestrol (3,9-dihydroxy-6-benzofuran [3,2-c] chromenone) as a phytoestrogen and polyphenolic compound is a member of the Coumestans family and is quite common in plants. In this study, antiglaucoma, antidiabetic, anticholinergic, and antioxidant effects of Coumestrol were evaluated and compared with standards. To determine the antioxidant activity of coumestrol, several methods-namely N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine dihydrochloride radical (DMPD•+)-scavenging activity, 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) radical (ABTS•+)-scavenging activity, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•)-scavenging activity, potassium ferric cyanide reduction ability, and cupric ion (Cu2+)-reducing activity-were performed. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), Trolox, α-Tocopherol, and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were used as the reference antioxidants for comparison. Coumestrol scavenged the DPPH radical with an IC50 value of 25.95 μg/mL (r2: 0.9005) while BHA, BHT, Trolox, and α-Tocopherol demonstrated IC50 values of 10.10, 25.95, 7.059, and 11.31 μg/mL, respectively. When these results evaluated, Coumestrol had similar DPPH•-scavenging effect to BHT and lower better than Trolox, BHA and α-tocopherol. In addition, the inhibition effects of Coumestrol were tested against the metabolic enzymes acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), carbonic anhydrase II (CA II), and α-glycosidase, which are associated with some global diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), glaucoma, and diabetes. Coumestrol exhibited Ki values of 10.25 ± 1.94, 5.99 ± 1.79, 25.41 ± 1.10, and 30.56 ± 3.36 nM towards these enzymes, respectively.

UPLC-HRMS Polyphenolic Characterization, Contents and Antioxidant Activity of Zingiber officinale Roscoe rhizomes from Costa Rica

Zingiber officinale Roscoe rhizomes have been associated with multiple health benefits, such as blocking blood clotting, digestive and antinausea effects and aid in respiratory conditions. These effects have been linked with their polyphenolic main metabolites, gingerols and shogaols. Herewith, we report a detailed study on the polyphenolic profile and in the contents of main gingerols and shogaol as well as the antioxidant activity of extracts from Z. officinale rhizomes (n = 17) produced in Costa Rica. Using UPLC-QTOF-ESI MS, a total of 34 polyphenols were identified, grouped in 12 types of structures. In addition, our findings on the main metabolites using UPLC-DAD show all rhizomes complying with total gingerols (TG) content established by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). At an individual level, samples SR-1 and NR-4 show the higher contents and also exhibit the highest Folin–Ciocalteu (FC) reducing capacity results as well as the best DPPH antioxidant values. In addition, Pearson correlation analysis results showed positive correlation (p < 0.05) between TG and 6-gingerol with FC results and negative correlation (p < 0.05) between 6-gingerol, TG and FC with DPPH results. In turn, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated variability in the composition associated with their region of origin and confirmed that NR-3, NR-4, and especially SR-1 stand out significatively, showing the highest PC1 because of its particularly high TG, 6-gingerol and antioxidant activities. Finally, results from controlled experimental plots of Z. officinale rhizomes (n = 6) indicated influence on metabolites content with higher values for a shorter harvest time and high tunnel cultivation. Therefore, our findings indicate the value of Z. officinale in the elaboration of products with potential benefits for health, delivering extracts with higher levels of gingerols than previous reports and exhibiting high antioxidant activity.

Valorization of rice biomass by a green approach to release phenolic compounds and their antioxidant activities

In the present context, we have assessed the green approach for the extraction of phenolics from agro-residues of rice viz., rice bran, and rice straw using water as an extracting solvent. The extraction was optimized with respect to time, temperature, pH, and solid (agro-residues) to liquid (water) ratio. The hydrolysates obtained were determined for phenolics and their antioxidant activities. The maximum total phenolic content (61.32 mg/100 g GAE), flavonoid content (13.19 mg/100 g QE), and tannin content (58.33 mg/100 g TAE) were obtained for rice bran followed by rice straw at pH 5, 1:20 (solid: liquid) for 10 min of extraction. Also, higher antioxidant properties (78.03% for DPPH, 86.45% for ABTS, and 0.85 absorbance at 700 nm for FRAP) were observed for the extracts of rice bran. Caffeic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, syringic acid, ferulic acid, 2,5-dihydroxy benzoic acid, kaemferol, quercetin, and epicatechin were analyzed by HPLC in both the rice biomass used. This study significantly converts rice biomass to antioxidative phenolic compounds under simple extraction conditions favoring the waste management process and also adding value to the waste biomass.

Effects of polyphenol-rich traditional herbal teas on obesity and oxidative stress in rats fed a high-fat-sugar diet

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Zingiber officinalis teas are traditionally used for the therapies of various diseases, including obesity. The present research work was planned to appraise the potential of polyphenol-rich extracts of selected herbal plants in obesity and related biochemical parameters of high-fat-sugar diet-induced obese rats. Three herbal teas were prepared from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers and Zingiber officinalis rhizomes and their mixture (3:1, respectively). Total phenolic contents (TPC) of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Zingiber officinalis extracts were found to be 5.82 and 1.45 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as GAE, while total flavonoid contents (TFC) were 9.17 and 1.95 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as CE, respectively. Two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg BW) of each tea were administered and body weight, BMI, kidney, liver, and atherogenic indices, TC, TG, HDL, LDL, VLDL, BT, AST, ALT, AP, SC, MDA, SOD, GSH, and TAC of rats groups were measured. Data showed that higher doses of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis significantly reduced the rat's BMI (0.50 g/cm2) in comparison with the high-fat-sugar diet group (0.79 g/cm2). All treatment groups, especially H-500 group, showed a significant decrease in the elevated kidney and liver weights and atherogenic index in comparison with HFSDC groups. Higher doses of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis significantly decreased the levels of AST, ALT, AP, and SC in comparison with the HFSDC group. A significant decrease in the levels of serum TC, TG, LDL, and VLDL was observed in all the treatment groups in comparison with the HFSDC group. Furthermore, all the teas, especially higher doses of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, prevented the alterations in MDA, SOD, and GSH levels of experimental groups, thus showing the potential against oxidative stress. It can be concluded from these results that Hibiscus rosa-sinensis teas exhibited strong protective effects against obesity and oxidative stress, especially at higher doses.

Production and evaluation of novel functional extruded corn snacks fortified with ginger, bay leaves and turmeric powder

Abstract

Extruded corn snacks are accepted by all human ages especially children, but they have low functional value. Therefore, corn extruded snacks contain rich nutraceuticals dried herbs including Laurus nobilis (T1), Curcuma longa (T2), Zingiber officinale Roscoe (T3), and the mixture of these herbs (T4) were manufactured and analyzed. The results declared that all the herbal extruded corn snacks had significantly higher ash, fibers, minerals, and vitamins A and B6. For minerals, the highest percent of increase compared to control was achieved by Fe, K, Ca, Zn content in order, being the highest in T4. The contents of Vitamin A and B6 were ranged from 283 to 445 IU/100 g and from 0.01 to 0.08 mg/100 g for the herbal extrudates, respectively. The increased percent in herbal corn snacks relative to control ranged from 743 to 452%, 188 to 17.6%, and from 313 to 99% for total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. Besides, the highest number of phenolic compounds was recorded in T4. Despite the fact that approximately all herbal extruded products had good texture and color characteristics, the best formulation was T2 and T4 corn snacks. Furthermore, the extruded products were microbiologically safe for up to 9 months. The formulation of herbal-corn snacks could fulfill consumers’ requirement for ready-to-eat-healthy foods with acceptable sensory attributes and also economically suitable for the food industry.

Graphical abstract

Polyphenol Contents, Potential Antioxidant, Anticholinergic and Antidiabetic Properties of Mountain Mint (Cyclotrichium leucotrichum)

In the present work, antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials of mountain mint [Cyclotrichium leu-cotrichum (Stapf ex Rech. Fil.) Leblebici] was the first time appraised. In this sense, methanol (MECL) and water (WECL) extracts were obtained from aerial parts of mountain mint (Cyclotrichium leucotrichum) and studied for their antioxidant ability by several bioanalytical assays. Also, their inhibition profiles were realized toward several metabolic enzymes connected to some diseases, including butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), α-glycosidase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and α-amylase enzymes. Additionally, their phenolic contents were determined by putative chromatographic method of LC-MS/MS. Consequently, nineteen phenolic molecules were identified in MECL and fifteen phenolic molecules were found in WECL. Also, antioxidant effects of both extracts were studied using by the methods of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH·), 2,2´-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and (ABTS•+)N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine (DMPD•+) scavenging activities, ferric (Fe3+) and cupric (Cu2+) ions and Fe3+-2,4,6-tri(2-pyridyl)-S-triazine (TPTZ) reducing capacities. MECL and WECL were found as powerful DPPH· (IC50: 23.74 and 28.85 μg/mL), ABTS•+ (IC50: 12.53 and 14.05 μg/mL) and DMPD•+ scavenging effects (IC50: 43.52 and 54.80 μg/mL). Also, both extracts demonstrated the effective inhibition effects on AChE (IC50: 69.31 and 115.51 μg/mL), BChE (IC50: 57.75 and 86.62 μg/mL), α-glycosidase (IC50: 36.47 and 62.94 μg/mL) and α-amylase (IC50: 1.01 and 3.43 μg/mL). This study will be useful for future studies to determine the antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibition profile of food, medical and industrially important plants.

Metal Ions, Metal Chelators and Metal Chelating Assay as Antioxidant Method

Heavy metals are essential for a wide range of biological processes, including the growth and reproduction of cells, synthesis of biomolecules, many enzymatic reactions, and the body’s immunity, but their excessive intake is harmful. Specifically, they cause oxidative stress (OS) and generate free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in metabolism. In addition, the accumulation of heavy metals in humans can cause serious damage to different organs, especially respiratory, nervous and reproductive and digestive systems. Biologically, metal chelation therapy is often used to treat metal toxicity. This process occurs through the interaction between the ligand and a central metal atom, forming a complex ring-like structure. After metals are chelated with appropriate chelating agents, their damage in metabolism can be prevented and efficiently removed from the body. On the other hand, heavy metals, including Zn, Fe and Cu, are necessary for the suitable functioning of different proteins including enzymes in metabolism. However, when the same metals accumulate at levels higher than the optimum level, they can easily become toxic and have harmful effects toward biomolecules. In this case, it induces the formation of ROS and nitrogen species (RNS) resulting in peroxidation of biological molecules such as lipids in the plasma membrane. Antioxidants have an increasing interest in many fields due to their protective effects, especially in food and pharmaceutical products. Screening of antioxidant properties of compounds needs appropriate methods including metal chelating assay. In this study, a general approach to the bonding and chelating properties of metals is described. For this purpose, the basic principles and chemical principles of metal chelation methods, both in vivo and in vitro, are outlined and discussed. Hence, in the main sections of this review, the descriptions related to metal ions, metal chelating, antioxidants, importance of metal chelating in biological system and definitions of metal chelating assays as widely used methods to determine antioxidant ability of compounds are provided. In addition, some chemical properties, technical and critical details of the used chelation methods are given.

Cabbage juice protect against lead-induced liver and kidney damage in male Wistar rat

AIM

Liver and kidney has been implicated in Lead toxicity and this has been linked to oxidative damage. On the other hand, cabbage is one of the widely consumed vegetables with a plethora of health benefits. This present study investigated the protective effect of cabbage juice on lead-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats.

METHODS

Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 5) and were treated with distilled water (1 ml/100 g b.wt), Lead acetate (25 mg/kg b.wt), cabbage juice (1 ml/100 g b.wt) and Lead acetate plus cabbage juice respectively. All treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Following euthanasia, blood was collected and serum decanted for biochemical assay and liver and kidney tissues were harvested, prepared for antioxidant activity and histological study.

RESULT

Cabbage juice significantly attenuated Lead-induced liver and kidney dysfunction by lowering serum concentrations of urea, creatinine, ALP, AST and ALT. Antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GSH) were also upregulated in liver and kidney tissues. Cabbage juice restored the histoarchitectural changes caused by lead intoxication.

CONCLUSION

Cabbage juice consumption protected the liver and kidney against lead-induced toxicity by enhancing in vivo anti-oxidant defense system.