Measurement of anticancer, antidiabetic and anticholinergic properties of sumac (Rhus coriaria): analysis of its phenolic compounds by LC–MS/MS

Effect of Herniarin on Cell Viability, Cell Cycle, and Erk Protein Levels in Different Stages of Bladder Cancer Cells

This study examines the potential of herniarin from tarragon, as an agent with multifaceted effects on bladder cancer cells and investigates herniarin's impact on cell viability, migration, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis induction, and Erk signaling pathways in bladder cancer cell lines, including RT-112 (grade 1, non-invasive), HTB9 (grade 2, invasive), and HT1376 (grade 3, invasive), through comprehensive in vitro experiments. The compound causes cell cycle arrest at distinct phases in different cell lines: G1/S arrest in RT112 cells, G2/M arrest in HTB9 cells, and S phase arrest in HT1376 cells. Furthermore, herniarin induces caspase-mediated apoptosis in various cell lines and simultaneously modulates protein levels of apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent. Herniarin's influence also extends to Erk signaling, a crucial pathway that regulates cell growth and differentiation. In conclusion, this study reveals herniarin's potential as a versatile agent in the treatment of bladder cancer.

In silico assessment of a natural small molecule as an inhibitor of programmed death ligand 1 for cancer immunotherapy: a computational approach

Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is a crucial target for cancer therapy. Here, an in silico study investigates PD-L1 to inhibit its interaction with PD1, thereby promoting an immune response to eliminate cancer cells. The study employed machine learning (ML) -based QSAR to detect PDL1 inhibitors. Morgan's fingerprint with docking score showed a 0.83 correlation with the experimental IC50, enabling the screening of 3200 natural compounds. The top three compounds, considered 2819, 2821 and 3188, were selected from the ML-based QSAR and subjected to molecular docking and simulation. The binding scores for 2819, 2821 and 3188 were -7.0, -9.0 and -8.9 kcal/mol, respectively. The stability of the ligands during a 100 ns simulation was assessed using RMSD, showing that 2819 and 2821 maintained stable patterns comparable to the control inhibitor. Notably, 2819 exhibited a consistent stable pattern throughout the simulation, while 2821 showed stability in the last 40 ns. The control compound showed the highest number of hydrogen bonds with proteins, whereas compounds 2819 and 2821 formed continuous H-bonds. 3188 was separated from the protein in later phases and is not regarded as a potential PD-L1-binding molecule. MMGBSA binding free energy for complexes was computed. Control had the lowest binding free energy, while 2819 and 2821 also had lower binding energies. In contrast, 3188 showed poor binding free energy, causing protein separation. Principal component analysis showed a loss of entropy and reduced protein conformational variation. Overall, 2819 and 2821 are potential binders for PD-L1 inhibition and immune response triggering.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Stachydrine represses the proliferation and enhances cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of breast cancer cells via PLA2G2A/DCN axis

Considering the therapeutic efficacy of Stachydrine on breast cancer (BC), this study aims to decipher the relevant mechanism. The effects of Stachydrine on BC cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis were firstly investigated. Then, Bioinformatics was applied to sort out the candidate interacting with Stachydrine as well as its expression and downstream target in BC. Relative expressions of genes of interest as well as proliferation- and apoptosis-related factors in BC cells were quantified through quantitative reverse-transcription PCR and western blot as appropriate. As a result, Stachydrine inhibited the proliferation, down-regulated the expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and CyclinD1, enhanced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and up-regulated the levels of Cleaved caspase-3 and Cleaved caspase-9 in BC cells. Phospholipase A2 Group IIA (PLA2G2A) was predicted as the candidate interacting with Stachydrine and to be lowly expressed in BC. PLA2G2A silencing reversed while PLA2G2A overexpression reinforced the effects of Stachydrine. Decorin (DCN) was the downstream target of PLA2G2A and also lowly expressed in BC. PLA2G2A silencing counteracted yet overexpressed PLA2G2A strengthened the promoting effects of Stachydrine on DCN level. Collectively, Stachydrine inhibits the growth of BC cells to promote cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via PLA2G2A/DCN axis.

Phytochemical Investigation of Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) Fruits from Different Sicilian Accessions

Sumac, Rhus coriaria L., is employed as a natural preservative in the food sector, due to its rich content of antioxidant compounds, including hydrolysable tannins, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. In this work, the phytochemical characterization of sumac fruits from five Sicilian accessions was performed to evaluate their potential as a food preservative for nutraceutical exploitation. Spectrophotometric tests and HPLC-MS/MS analyses were conducted to assess and compare the antioxidant power of the water extracts produced with the five sumac accessions. Principal component analysis was also carried out to better visualize the obtained results. Flavonoids and phenolic acids, namely isoquercitrin (20,342.82 mg/kg dry extract) and gallic acid (197,489.19 mg/kg dry extract), were more abundant in fruits from the population of San Biagio Platani, while the one from Giarratana was characterized by a higher content of anthocyanins such as cyanidin-3-glucoside (20,889.81 mg/kg dry extract). These two populations can be recognized as the most suitable settings for the implementation of sumac cultivation and the development of sumac-based products, especially for food and nutraceutical purposes.

A Comparative Study on UHPLC-HRMS Profiles and Biological Activities of Inula sarana Different Extracts and Its Beta-Cyclodextrin Complex: Effective Insights for Novel Applications

Within this particular framework, the extracts obtained from Inula sarana using a variety of solvents, included n-hexane, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane (DCM), 70% ethanol, ethanol, and water. The extracts obtained from n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and DCM were then subjected to a specific method for their incorporation into β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). The establishment of complex formation was validated through the utilization of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The identification of phytochemical components was executed using UHPLC-HRMS. Furthermore, the total phenolic and flavonoid content was evaluated using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and the AlCl3 method. Subsequently, the determination of antioxidant capacity was conducted utilizing DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, Frap, PBD, and MCA assays. The enzyme inhibitory activities of the samples (extracts and β-CD complexes) were also examined by AChE, BChE, tyrosinase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase. The findings indicated that water and 70% ethanol extracts contained the highest phenolic content. One hundred and fourteen bioactive compounds were identified by UHPLC-HRMS analysis. This study unveiled a substantial array of flavonoids, phenolic acid-hexosides and caffeoylhexaric acids within I. sarana, marking their initial identification in this context. Among the various extracts tested, the 70% ethanol extract stood out due to its high flavonoid content (jaceosidin, cirsiliol, and eupatilin) and hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acid hexosides. This extract also displayed notably enhanced antioxidant activity, with ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP test values of 106.50 mg TE/g dry extract, 224.31 mg TE/g dry extract, and 110.40 mg TE/g, respectively. However, the antioxidant values of the complex extracts with β-CD were generally lower than those of the pure extracts, an observation warranting significant consideration. In terms of enzyme inhibition activity, the ethanol and 70% ethanol extracts exhibited higher inhibitory effects on AChE, tyrosinase, and α-glucosidase. Conversely, n-hexane displayed stronger inhibitory activity against BChE. The ethyl acetate extract demonstrated elevated amylase inhibitory activity. However, the antioxidant values of the complex extracts with β-CD were generally lower than those of the pure extracts, a noteworthy observation, while water and extracts from the I. sarana complex with β-CD exhibited minimal or negatable inhibitory activity against specific enzymes.

Experimental and theoretical investigations of Erbium complex: DNA/BSA interaction, anticancer and antibacterial studies

To assess the biological potential of an Er complex that contains a 2,2'-bipyridine ligand, various techniques such as multispectral and molecular modeling procedures were utilized to examine its DNA-binding ability, BSA binding affinity, antimicrobial effects, and anticancer properties. By analyzing fluorescent information and employing the vant' Hoff equation, important parameters such as the innate docking coefficient (Kb), Stern-Volmer coefficient (KSV), and thermodynamic properties including modifications in liberated energy (ΔG°), enthalpy (∆H°), and entropy (∆S°) were determined. The trial findings suggest that the compound can bind to DNA, primarily through groove binding. Additionally, the engagement between the Er compound and the protein BSA was examined using emission spectroscopy technique, revealing a powerful binding affinity between the compound and BSA. The Er complex binds to BSA primarily via hydrogen links and van der Waals forces, as indicated by the adverse values of ΔH° and ∆S°. Through a static quenching process, the complex significantly reduces the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA. Molecular binding calculations and rivalrous binding trials confirm that this compound dock to hydrophobic remains found in site III of BSA. Additionally, the Er complex demonstrates promising results in terms of its anticancer and antimicrobial activities based on screening tests.

Screening of Antiglaucoma, Antidiabetic, Anti-Alzheimer, and Antioxidant Activities of Astragalus alopecurus Pall-Analysis of Phenolics Profiles by LC-MS/MS

Astragalus species are traditionally used for diabetes, ulcers, leukemia, wounds, stomachaches, sore throats, abdominal pain, and toothaches. Although the preventive effects of Astragalus species against diseases are known, there is no record of the therapeutic effects of Astragalus alopecurus. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the in vitro antiglaucoma, antidiabetic, anti-Alzheimer's disease, and antioxidant activities of the methanolic (MEAA) and water (WEAA) extracts of the aerial part of A. alopecurus. Additionally, its phenolic compound profiles were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). MEAA and WEAA were evaluated for their inhibition ability on α-glycosidase, α-amylase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and human carbonic anhydrase II (hCA II) enzymes. The phenolic compounds of MEAA were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Furthermore, total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined. In this context, the antioxidant activity was evaluated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylene diamine (DMPD), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric ions (Cu²⁺) reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric ions (Fe³⁺) reducing, and ferrous ions (Fe²⁺) chelating methods. MEAA and WEAA had IC₅₀ values of 9.07 and 2.24 μg/mL for α-glycosidase, 693.15 and 346.58 μg/mL for α-amylase, 1.99 and 2.45 μg/mL for AChE, and 147.7 and 171.7 μg/mL for hCA II. While the total phenolic amounts in MEAA and WEAA were 16.00 and 18.50 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mg extract, the total flavonoid contents in both extracts were calculated as 66.23 and 33.115 μg quercetin equivalent (QE)/mg, respectively. MEAA and WEAA showed, respectively, variable activities on DPPH radical scavenging (IC₅₀: 99.02 and 115.53 μg/mL), ABTS radical scavenging (IC₅₀: 32.21 and 30.22 µg/mL), DMPD radical scavenging (IC₅₀: 231.05 and 65.22 μg/mL), and Fe²⁺ chelating (IC₅₀: 46.21 and 33.01 μg/mL). MEAA and WEAA reducing abilities were, respectively, Fe³⁺ reducing (λ₇₀₀: 0.308 and 0.284), FRAP (λ₅₉₃: 0.284 and 0.284), and CUPRAC (λ₄₅₀: 0.163 and 0.137). A total of 35 phenolics were scanned, and 10 phenolic compounds were determined by LC-MS/MS analysis. LC-MS/MS revealed that MEAA mainly contained isorhamnetin, fumaric acid, and rosmarinic acid derivatives. This is the first report indicating that MEAA and WEAA have α-glycosidase, α-amylase, AChE, hCA II inhibition abilities, and antioxidant activities. These results demonstrate the potential of Astragalus species through antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibitor ability traditionally used in medicine. This work provides the foundation for further research into the establishment of novel therapeutics for diabetes, glaucoma, and Alzheimer's disease.

Anticholinergic effect of resveratrol with vitamin E on scopolamine-induced Alzheimer's disease in rats: Mechanistic approach to prevent inflammation

The most common form of dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), is characterized by gradual declines in cognitive abilities and behavior. It is caused by a combination of factors, including amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, acetylcholine (ACh) loss, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Phenolic compounds have a variety of health benefits, including antioxidant activities. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate how resveratrol (RES) alone and in combination with vitamin E affected rats with AD using scopolamine (SCO). Animals are categorized into groups; (i) control, (ii) SCO (1 mg/kg i.p.), (iii) SCO + donepezil, (iv) SCO + RES (50 mg/kg, p.o.), (v) SCO + RES (75 mg/kg, p.o.), (vi) SCO + RES (50 mg/kg + vitamin E 1 mg/kg, p.o.) for 17 days. In rats, studied behavioural (NOR and EPM) and biochemical characteristics. In addition, brain histopathology was examined to investigate any damage to the hippocampus and neuroprotection. SCO-induced changes in acetylcholinesterase, protein carbonyl, and TNF-α improved after resveratrol treatment. RES increased antioxidant levels, decreased SCO-induced lipid peroxidation, and reversed SCO-mediated changes compared with the drug donepezil. The results indicated that RES and vitamin E had nootropic action in the NOR and EPM tests, measured by the recognition index and the inflection ratio. This study supports the efficacy of RES as a preventive and treatment agent for AD. Vitamin E showed a synergistic effect on RES, which helps in managing cognitive impairment AD.

Unravelling the phenolic compound reserves, antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities of an endemic plant species, Achillea pseudoaleppica

The present ethnobotanical study unravelled the phenolic reservoir (UHPLC-MS/TQ-MS) and pharmacological activity (antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities) of an endemic plant, Achillea pseudoaleppica Hub.-Mor. (Asteraceae). The effective antioxidant properties of ethanol and water extracts of A. pseudoaleppica leaves were determined by using six different in vitro bioanalytical methods including three reducing antioxidant methods and three radical scavenging antioxidant methods. In the other step of the study, the enzyme inhibitory effects of water and ethanol extracts of A. pseudoaleppica were determined against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), α-amylase, and α-glucosidase enzymes. The ethanol extract was found to have effective inhibition potential for all four respected enzymes. The IC₅₀ values of A. pseudoaleppica extract against AChE, BChE, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase enzymes were found to be 2.67 mg/mL, 4.55 mg/mL, 16.51 mg/mL, and 12.37 mg/mL, respectively. Also, UHPLC-MS/TQ-MS analyses revealed quinic acid as the most abundant phenolic compound of the water extract (31.12 ± 1.65 µg/mg) and ethanol extract (11.75 ± 0.82 µg/mg). In addition, the molecular docking interaction of the most abundant phenolic compound of A. pseudoaleppica (quinic acid) with AChE, BChE, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase target enzymes were evaluated using Chimera and AutoDock Vina softwares. In conclusion, the rich phenolic content and the potent antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties of A. pseudoaleppica extracts may support the widespread ethnobotanical use of the plant application.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Advantageous Effects of Sumac Usage in Meatball Preparation on Various Quality Criteria and Formation of Heterocyclic Aromatic Amines

Heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) are mutagenic/carcinogenic compounds that can be formed during the cooking process of proteinaceous foods such as meat. Therefore, it is needed to inhibit or reduce their formations in cooked meats. Hereby, the effects of sumac usage (0.5%, w/w) in beef meatball preparation on the formation of HAAs and some quality parameters (water, pH, cooking loss, and lipid oxidation values) of meatballs cooked at 150 and 250 °C were investigated. The sumac usage caused a reduction in pH (p < 0.01), cooking loss (p < 0.05), lipid oxidation level (TBARS, p < 0.01), and total HAA amount (p < 0.05) of the samples. In addition, increasing the cooking temperature significantly decreased the pH value (p < 0.01) and increased the cooking loss (p < 0.05) of the samples. Only one compound, 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo [4,5-ƒ]quinoxaline (MeIQx), from nine different HAAs studied in this study, could be determined, and the levels of the other HAAs studied were lower than their detection limits. On the other hand, MeIQx was not detected in the samples cooked at 150 °C, it was only determined in the control group samples cooked at 250 °C. The sumac usage completely inhibited MeIQx formation in the samples. Due to its positive effect on cooking loss value, lipid oxidation level, and MeIQx formation, it can be suggested to use sumac powder in meatball preparation.

Comprehensive Metabolite Profiling of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) Leaf Oil Using LC-HR/MS, GC/MS, and GC-FID: Determination of Antiglaucoma, Antioxidant, Anticholinergic, and Antidiabetic Profiles

In this study, for the first time, the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of the essential oil from cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) leaves were evaluated and investigated using various bioanalytical methods. In addition, the inhibitory effects of cinnamon oil on carbonic anhydrase II (hCA II), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and α-amylase, which are associated with various metabolic diseases, were determined. Further, the phenolic contents of the essential oil were determined using LC-HRMS chromatography. Twenty-seven phenolic molecules were detected in cinnamon oil. Moreover, the amount and chemical profile of the essential oils present in cinnamon oil was determined using GC/MS and GC-FID analyses. (E)-cinnamaldehyde (72.98%), benzyl benzoate (4.01%), and trans-Cinnamyl acetate (3.36%) were the most common essential oils in cinnamon leaf oil. The radical scavenging activities of cinnamon oil were investigated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH^•), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and (ABTS^•+) bioanalytical scavenging methods, which revealed its strong radical scavenging abilities (DPPH^•, IC₅₀: 4.78 μg/mL; and ABTS^•+, IC₅₀: 5.21 μg/mL). Similarly, the reducing capacities for iron (Fe³⁺), copper (Cu²⁺), and Fe³⁺-2,4,6-tri(2-pyridyl)-S-triazine (TPTZ) were investigated. Cinnamon oil also exhibited highly effective inhibition against hCA II (IC₅₀: 243.24 μg/mL), AChE (IC₅₀: 16.03 μg/mL), and α-amylase (IC₅₀: 7.54μg/mL). This multidisciplinary study will be useful and pave the way for further studies for the determination of antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibition profiles of medically and industrially important plants and their oils.

The antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials of polyphenolic-rich extracts of Cyperus rotundus (Linn.)

In this study, the rhizome of Cyperus rotundus L was investigated for its antioxidant and antidiabetic effects using in vitro and in silico experimental models. Its crude extracts (ethyl acetate, ethanol and aqueous) were screened in vitro for their antioxidant activity using ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), as well as their inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase enzyme. Subsequently, the extracts were subjected to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to elucidate their possible bioactive compounds. Furthermore, computational molecular docking of selected phenolic compounds was conducted to determine their mode of α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The aqueous extract displayed the highest level of total phenolic content and significantly higher scavenging activity in both FRAP and DPPH assays compared to ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts. In FRAP and DPPH assays, IC₅₀ values of aqueous extract were 448.626 µg/mL and 418.74 µg/mL, respectively. Aqueous extract further presented higher α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with an IC₅₀ value of 383.75 µg/mL. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of the following phenolic compounds: 4-methyl-2-(2,4,4-trimethylpentan-2-yl) phenol, Phenol,2-methyl-4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)- and 1-ethoxy-2-isopropylbenzene. Molecular docking study revealed 1-ethoxy-2-isopropylbenzene formed two hydrogen bonds with the interacting residues in the active site of α-glucosidase enzyme. Furthermore, 4-methyl-2-(2,4,4-trimethylpentan-2-yl) phenol had the lowest binding energy inferring the best affinity for α-glucosidase active site. These results suggest the possible antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of Cyperus rotundus.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

A Biochemical Approach for Hedysarum candidissimum from Turkey: Screening Phytochemicals, Evaluation of Biological Activites, and Molecular Docking Study

This study was designed to screen the phytochemical composition and investigate the biological activities of Hedysarum candidissimum extracts and also support the results with molecular docking studies. LC/MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of 22 phytochemical constituents (mainly phenolic acids, flavonoids, and flavonoid glycosides) in the plant structure. The methanol extract exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity among all the extracts with its strong DPPH radical scavenging and iron reducing capacity, as well as high phenolic and flavonoid contents. Additionally, it was found to be the most promising acetylcholinesterase (AChE: IC₅₀ : 93.26 μg/mL) and α-glycosidase (AG: IC₅₀ : 28.57 μg/mL) inhibitory activities, supported by the major phenolics of the species through in silico studies. Ethyl acetate extract had the strongest cytotoxic effect on HT-29 (IC₅₀ : 63.03 μg/mL) and MDA-MB-453 (IC₅₀ : 95.36 μg/mL) cancer cell lines. Both extracts exhibited considerable apoptotic and anti-migrative effects on HT-29 cells. The investigations provide phyto-analytical and bio-pharmacological results which can be extended by in vivo studies in the future.

Sumac and gallic acid-loaded nanophytosomes ameliorate hippocampal oxidative stress via regulation of Nrf2/Keap1 pathway in autistic rats

Autism spectrum disorders cover a range of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social interaction and cognitive deficits. Phenolic compound applications have been restricted due to their poor solubility, bioavailability, and low stability. This paper aimed to explore the neuroprotective effects of sumac and gallic acid-loaded nanophytosomes (GNP) on oxidative stress-induced cognitive impairment and Nrf2/Keap1 gene expression in the autism model. Valproic acid (VPA) was administered intraperitoneally at doses of 500 mg/kg to female rats during gestational 12.5 days (E12.5). The prenatal VPA-exposed rats were divided into five groups, including VPA, VPA treated with sumac, gallic acid (GA), sumac-loaded nanophytosome (SNP), and GNP at doses of 20 mg/kg for 4 weeks (n = 6). A novel object test was conducted and antioxidant parameters and Nrf2/Keap1gene expression were evaluated in the hippocampus. According to the obtained results, the rat model of autism exhibited recognition memory impairment. We observed an increase in glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) enzyme activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and glutathione (GSH) levels. Furthermore, sumac and GNP improved recognition memory deficits and increased GPx, GRx, SOD, and CAT activities, GSH and TAC levels, and Nrf2/Keap1gene expression in the hippocampal area. Our results also suggested that SNP and GNP ameliorate VPA-induced learning and memory deficits more efficiently than sumac extract and pure GA by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, and Keap1/Nrf2 gene expression. The present study demonstrated that the utilization of SNP and GNP significantly improved recognition memory deficits.

Phytochemical Characterization of Rhus coriaria L. Extracts by Headspace Solid-Phase Micro Extraction Gas Chromatography, Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Liquid Chromatography, and Antioxidant Activity Evaluation

Rhus coriaria L. (Anacardiaceae), commonly known as sumac, has been used since ancient times for many different applications, and nowadays is used mostly as a spice obtained from its in the Mediterranean and the Middle ground fruits and employed for flavoring and garnishing food, predominantly Eastern regions. Traditionally, sumac has been also used in popular medicine for the treatment of many ailments including hemorrhoids, wound healing, diarrhea, ulcers, and eye inflammation. Sumac drupes are indeed rich in various classes of phytochemicals including organic acids, flavonoids, tannins, and others, which are responsible of their powerful antioxidant capacity, from which treatment of many common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer could benefit. In this work we evaluated the influence of fruit ripeness, conservation, and processing. To this aim, a phytochemical characterization of six different samples of Rhus coriaria L. was carried out. Specifically, headspace solid-phase micro extraction gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled to photodiode array and mass spectrometry detection, were employed. A total of 263 volatile compounds, including terpene hydrocarbons, acids, and aldehydes, as well as 83 polyphenolic compounds, mainly gallic acid derivatives, were positively identified. All samples showed a significant antioxidant activity by means of oxygen radical absorbance capacity, in line with their polyphenolic content and composition. Such findings set a solid ground to support the utilization of this plant as an attractive target for novel nutraceutical approaches and for drug discovery.

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.

Natural diversity in fatty acids profiles and antioxidant properties of sumac fruits (Rhus coriaria L.): Selection of preferable populations for food industries

The current study screened the oil content, fatty acids profile, and antioxidant properties of twelve Iranian sumac fruit accessions. The oil contents were variable among the investigated populations (ranging from 5.15 to 16.70%). Oleic acid (32.3-47.41%), palmitic acid (18.90-36.29%), and linoleic acid (10.31-35.39%) were the predominant fatty acids in the oil samples. According to principal component and cluster analysis, sumac germplasms were categorized into three groups: i.e., group I (five populations rich in linoleic acid), group II (four populations rich in oleic acid), group III (three populations rich in palmitic acid). The highest fruits weight, oil percentage, and linoleic acid content was obtained from Arasbaran population. Arasbaran population possessed the highest ∑PUSFA (i.e, 34.53%) and ∑UNSFA: ∑SFA ratio. Meanwhile, Paveh population possessed the highest antioxidant attributes. Such variabilities provide the possibility of using elite populations containing a high ratio of unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant compounds in the food industry.

Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Antiradical Properties of Some Phyto and Mammalian Lignans

In this study, the antioxidant and antiradical properties of some phyto lignans (nordihydroguaiaretic acid, secoisolariciresinol, secoisolariciresinol diglycoside, and α-(-)-conidendrin) and mammalian lignans (enterodiol and enterolactone) were examined by different antioxidant assays. For this purpose, radical scavenging activities of phyto and mammalian lignans were realized by 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical (ABTS^•+) scavenging assay and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) scavenging assay. Additionally, the reducing ability of phyto and mammalian lignans were evaluated by cupric ions (Cu²⁺) reducing (CUPRAC) ability, and ferric ions (Fe³⁺) and [Fe³⁺-(TPTZ)2]³⁺ complex reducing (FRAP) abilities. Also, half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values were determined and reported for DPPH^• and ABTS^•+ scavenging influences of all of the lignan molecules. The absorbances of the lignans were found in the range of 0.150–2.320 for Fe³⁺ reducing, in the range of 0.040–2.090 for Cu²⁺ reducing, and in the range of 0.360–1.810 for the FRAP assay. On the other hand, the IC₅₀ values of phyto and mammalian lignans were determined in the ranges of 6.601–932.167 µg/mL for DPPH^• scavenging and 13.007–27.829 µg/mL for ABTS^•+ scavenging. In all of the used bioanalytical methods, phyto lignans, as secondary metabolites in plants, demonstrated considerably higher antioxidant activity compared to that of mammalian lignans. In addition, it was observed that enterodiol and enterolactone exhibited relatively weaker antioxidant activities when compared to phyto lignans or standard antioxidants, including butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), Trolox, and α-tocopherol.

LC-ESI-tandem MS and in silico ADMET analysis of polyphenols from Rhus coriaria L. and Micromeria fruticosa (L.) Druce ssp. brachycalyx P. H. Davis

Background

Micromeria fruticosa (L.) Druce ssp. brachycalyx P. H. Davis and Rhus coriaria L., which are Lamiaceae species, are used both as spices in food and medicinally. Lamiaceae species are known to contain high amounts of polyphenols. In this study, liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS/MS) was used for analysis of polyphenols in the plants. Under gradient elution with using 0.1% aqueous acetic acid solution and acetonitrile mobile phases, an Agilent Poroshell C18 reversed phase column was used for the simultaneous determination of 18 polyphenols, and separation was performed in 30 min. Pharmacokinetic properties of these polyphenols such as drug-like and toxicity were estimated using open-source software, pkCSM and SwissADME.

Results

These compounds were determined to represent different classes of polyphenols, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarin and tannins. ADMET predictions of polyphenols indicated that these compounds are easily absorbed and do not have toxic effects.

Conclusion

While the Rhus coriaria L. includes anthocyanidins, tannins, phenolic acid and flavonoids, the Micromeria fruticosa (L.) Druce ssp. brachycalyx P. H. Davis has phenolic acid, coumarin and flavonoids, according to these results. In silico ADME/Tox predictions revealed that these bioactive components are to be drug-like and non-mutagenic. These data are supportive for future analysis that can lead to their therapeutic use of the plants, suggesting that this species may be used as a natural medicinal source in the future after detailed analysis tests.

Graphical abstract

The effect of sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) supplementation on glycemic indices: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Rhus coriaria L. (Sumac) is a popular spice/herb with several biological functions owing to its antioxidant and insulin-like activities. Many clinical trials have indicated the potent anti-diabetic property of sumac but the results on few glycemic indices were inconclusive. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis were aimed to investigate sumac supplementation effect on glycemic indices.

METHODS

Systematically searched was performed by two independent reviewers using online databases including: PubMed, Scopus, web of science, EMBASE from inception until November 2020. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 6 potentially relevant clinical trials met the inclusion criteria with total of 278 participants. Random-effects meta-analysis suggested no significant effects on the levels of fasting blood glucose [-7.08 mg/dl, 95 % CI: -14.85 to 0.70,P = 0.07, I² = 59.8 %], glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) [-0.48 %, 95 % CI: -1.01 to -0.04, P = 0.07, I² = 0.0 %], homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [-0.97, 95 % CI: -1.96 to 0.02, P = 0.05, I² = 83.8 %], and insulin [-2.94 Hedges' g, 95 % CI: -6.67 to 0.80, P = 0.12, I² = 83.1 %] following supplementation with sumac powder.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis showed no significant effects on any glycemic indices following supplementation with sumac powder.

Biopreservation and Quality Enhancement of Fish Surimi Using Colorant Plant Extracts

The biopreservation, flavoring, and coloration of foodstuffs, e.g., seafoods, with natural plant derivatives are major demands for consumers and overseers. Different colored plant parts, i.e., Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces, Curcuma longa rhizomes, and Rhus coriaria fruits, were extracted and evaluated as biopreservatives, antimicrobial and colorant agents for fish surimi from Oreochromis niloticus. All colorant plant extracts (CPEs) exhibited strong antibacterial activities against screened pathogens, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. H. sabdariffa extract (HCE) was the most effectual antimicrobial CPEs. S. aureus was the most sensitive strain to CPEs, whereas S. typhimurium and P. aeruginosa were the most resistant strains. The exterior coloration of tilapia surimi with CPEs resulted in great bacterial count reduction in colored products; stored CPEs-colored surimi had enhanced sensorial attributes. HCE-exposed S. aureus indicated bacterial cell lyses in time-dependent manner. CPEs application as colorants and antibacterial and quality enhancing agents is recommended for seafoods’ biopreservation.

Traditional Applications of Tannin Rich Extracts Supported by Scientific Data: Chemical Composition, Bioavailability and Bioaccessibility

Tannins are polyphenolic compounds historically utilized in textile and adhesive industries, but also in traditional human and animal medicines or foodstuffs. Since 20th-century, advances in analytical chemistry have allowed disclosure of the chemical nature of these molecules. The chemical profile of extracts obtained from previously selected species was investigated to try to establish a bridge between traditional background and scientific data. The study of the chemical composition of these extracts has permitted us to correlate the presence of tannins and other related molecules with the effectiveness of their apparent uses. The revision of traditional knowledge paired with scientific evidence may provide a supporting background on their use and the basis for developing innovative pharmacology and food applications based on formulations using natural sources of tannins. This traditional-scientific approach can result useful due to the raising consumers' demand for natural products in markets, to which tannin-rich extracts may pose an attractive alternative. Therefore, it is of interest to back traditional applications with accurate data while meeting consumer's acceptance. In this review, several species known to contain high amounts of tannins have been selected as a starting point to establish a correlation between their alleged traditional use, tannins content and composition and potential bioaccessibility.

In vitro Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Extracts of Endemic Tanacetum erzincanense Together with Phenolic Content by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS

In this study, phenolic composition, and in vitro biological activities of ethyl acetate (EAE) and methanol (ME) extracts obtained from the aerial parts of endemic Tanacetum erzincanense were investigated. Total phenolic and flavonoid content of the extracts were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. Antioxidant capacity of the extracts was evaluated over radical scavenging (DPPH and ABTS) and metal ion reducing power (FRAP and CUPRAC) tests. Individual phenolic compounds in ME was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF/MS). Cell inhibitory potential of the extracts was tested against colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29), breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7), and hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells by 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) assay. The results showed that ME contains higher TPC (64.4 mg GAE/g) and TFC (62.2 mg QE/g) than those of EAE (41.5 mg GAE/g and 40.0 mg QE/g). LC-ESI-QTOF/MS analysis revealed that ME is rich in phenolic compounds, namely, chlorogenic acid, apigenin, quercetin, luteolin, and diosmetin. Antioxidant assay results indicated that ME possess stronger activity than EAE and a power that competes with synthetic antioxidants. XTT assay results demonstrated that although both extracts displayed a considerable cytotoxicity against the tested cancer cell lines in a time and dose-dependent manner, ME expressed its selective inhibitory action towards MCF-7 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 20.4 μg/mL for 72 h. These results may serve as a basis for further in vivo studies to examine the potential applications of T. erzincanense in food and pharmaceutical industries.

In-vitro digestion of the bioactives originating from the Lamiaceae family herbal teas: A kinetic and PLS modeling study

The stability of lavender, lemon balm, mint, sage, and thyme teas was investigated using in-vitro simulation of the digestive system. Kinetics of changes in the total polyphenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidant activity during the in-vitro trials were also evaluated. Results showed that TPC of mint teas decreases the fastest. Mathematical models for prediction of the TPC and the antioxidant activity of prepared teas based on UV-VIS and NIR spectra collected before, during, and after simulation showed that the best prediction was obtained for the wavelength ranges from 410 to 900 nm, 904 to 928 nm, and 1,399 to 1699 nm. It was concluded that the NIR can be used for calibration, validation, and classification of teas prepared from Lamiaceae plants. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The bioactives' in-vitro digestion process can successfully be characterized by chemical, spectroscopic, and mathematical analysis. Application of NIR spectroscopy, in combination with multivariate analysis, leads to a reduction of time, costs, and chemical consumption and gives reliable results that pharmaceutical, food, and chemical industries can benefit from.

ICP-MS and HPLC analyses, enzyme inhibition and antioxidant potential of Achillea schischkinii Sosn

Achillea schischkinii Sosn. is an endemic plant species and it belongs to Asteraceae family. It is distributed widely in the Central and East Anatolia. This study was carried out for evaluation of the antioxidant activity, enzyme inhibition effect, elemental and phenolic content of A. schischkinii. Briefly, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), α-glycosidase (α-Gly), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes were strongly inhibited by A. schischkinii. IC₅₀ values for AChE, BChE, α-Gly, and GST enzymes were found as 19.3 mg/mL, 15.4 mg/mL, 69.3 mg/mL, and 34.7 mg/mL respectively. The antioxidant activity of the sample was evaluated by four different in vitro bioanalytical methods. Besides, the concentrations of twelve elements in A. schischkinii were analyzed by ICP-MS technique. Zn (50.6 ppm), Mn (23.0 ppm), and Cu (12.7 ppm) were found as major elements. Furthermore, catechin (20.8 µg/mg extract), trans-ferulic acid (18.3 µg/mg extract), and gallic acid (11.2 µg/mg extract) were characterized as major phenolic compounds by using HPLC. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, α-glycosidase, and glutathione s-transferase enzymes have crucial functions on metabolism. Enzyme inhibition or activation mostly attributed to some health disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Diabetes mellitus, cancer and hyperglycemia. Phenolic contents are responsible for effective biological activity. This study evaluated the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Achillea schischkinii as well as the inhibition effect against four metabolic enzymes. The results would be beneficial for using the plant in the food industry and pharmacological process.