Research progress of natural antioxidants in foods for the treatment of diseases

Natural Antioxidants: An Effective Strategy for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease at the Early Stage

The critical role of oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been recognized by researchers recently, and natural antioxidants have been demonstrated to have anti-AD activity in animal models, such as Ginkgo biloba extract, soy isoflavones, lycopene, and so on. This paper summarized these natural antioxidants and points out that natural antioxidants always have multiple advantages which are help to deal with AD, such as clearing free radicals, regulating signal transduction, protecting mitochondrial function, and synaptic plasticity. Based on the available data, we have created a relatively complete pathway map of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and AD-related targets and concluded that oxidative stress caused by ROS is the core of AD pathogenesis. In the prospect, we introduced the concept of a combined therapeutic strategy, termed "Antioxidant-Promoting Synaptic Remodeling," highlighting the integration of antioxidant interventions with synaptic remodeling approaches as a novel avenue for therapeutic exploration.

Potential use of antioxidants for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases

The excessive production of various reactive oxidant species over endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms leads to the development of a state of oxidative stress, with serious biological consequences. The consequences of oxidative stress depend on the balance between the generation of reactive oxidant species and the antioxidant defense and include oxidative damage of biomolecules, disruption of signal transduction, mutation, and cell apoptosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress is involved in the physiopathology of various debilitating illnesses associated with chronic inflammation, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, or neurodegenerative processes, that need continuous pharmacological treatment. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are tightly linked pathophysiological processes, one of which can be simply promoted by another. Although, many antioxidant trials have been unsuccessful (some of the trials showed either no effect or even harmful effects) in human patients as a preventive or curative measure, targeting oxidative stress remains an interesting therapeutic approach for the development of new agents to design novel anti-inflammatory drugs with a reliable safety profile. In this regard, several natural antioxidant compounds were explored as potential therapeutic options for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. Several metalloenzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, are among the essential enzymes that maintain the low nanomolar physiological concentrations of superoxide (O2•-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), the major redox signaling molecules, and thus play important roles in the alteration of the redox homeostasis. These enzymes have become a striking source of motivation to design catalytic drugs to enhance the action of these enzymes under pathological conditions related to chronic inflammation. This review is focused on several major representatives of natural and synthetic antioxidants as potential drug candidates for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.

The Efficacy of Dietary Intake, Supplementation, and Blood Concentrations of Carotenoids in Cancer Prevention: Insights from an Umbrella Meta-Analysis

Previous meta-analyses of multiple studies have suggested that dietary intake and blood concentrations of carotenoids, as well as dietary supplement of certain carotenoids, play a role in reducing the risk of cancer. However, the conclusions of these studies have been subject to controversy. We conducted an umbrella review of meta-analyses to comprehensively analyze and evaluate the evidence pertaining the association between carotenoids and cancer outcomes. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases of meta-analyses and systematic reviews up to June 2023. Our selection criteria encompassed meta-analyses of cohort and case-control studies, as well as randomized controlled clinical trials, which investigated the associations between carotenoids and cancer risk. We also determined the levels of evidence for these associations with AMSTAR 2 criteria. We included 51 eligible articles, including 198 meta-analyses for qualitative synthesis in the umbrella review. Despite the presence of moderate to high heterogeneity among the studies, dietary intake, supplementation, and blood concentrations of carotenoids were inversely associated with the risk of total cancer, and certain specific cancers of lung, digestive system, prostate, breast, head and neck, and others. Subgroup analysis also showed that individual carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene) offer certain protection against specific types of cancers. However, high doses of carotenoid supplements, especially β-carotene, significantly increased the risk of total cancer, lung cancer, and bladder cancer. Our umbrella meta-analysis supported that high intake of dietary carotenoids as a whole food approach could be more beneficial in reducing cancer risk. Concurrently, the findings suggest that the efficacy of single-carotenoid supplementation in cancer prevention remains a subject of controversy.

Effect of Chitosan and Its Water-Soluble Derivatives on Antioxidant Activity

The antioxidant activity of chitosan (CS) and three water-soluble derivatives was analyzed comparatively by in vitro and in vivo experiments, including hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCS), quaternary ammonium salt of chitosan (HACC), and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS). The results show that chitosan and its water-soluble derivatives have a scavenging ability on DPPH radicals, superoxide radicals, and hydroxyl radicals, and a reducing ability. A remarkable difference (p < 0.05) was found for HACC and HPCS compared with CS on DPPH radicals, hydroxyl radicals, and reducing ability. The antioxidant ability of the four chitosan samples was in the order of HPCS > HACC > CMCS > CS. Furthermore, antioxidant activity of all samples increased gradually in a concentration-dependent manner. The in vivo result indicates that oral CS and its derivatives samples result in a decrease in lipid peroxides (LPO) and free fatty acids (FFA) levels in serum with an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Especially for the HPCS and HACC groups, the LPO, FFA, and SOD activity in serum was different significantly in comparison with the high-fat controlgroup (HF) (p < 0.05). These results indicate that chitosan and its derivatives can be used as good antioxidants, and the antioxidant activity might be related to the molecular structure of chitosan derivatives.

Dunaliella β-Carotene Productivity Comparison Under In Vitro Conditions

Some species of Dunaliella produce high levels of β-carotene, which is the largest natural Vitamin A source. β-carotene production in Dunaliella is expensive due to low yields obtained under culture conditions used. Since three decades ago synthetic β-carotene has dominated 98% of world market, even when synthetic is less bioactive than Dunaliella β-carotene molecule. In vitro experiments have been performed to increase β-carotene productivity in Dunaliella and some useful results have been obtained. In this review, culture conditions used in those experiments were compared to identify parameters that improved β-carotene productivity in Dunaliella. Comparison results show that β-carotene in vitro production can be increased regulating some specific culture conditions.

Optimized Separation of Carthamin from Safflower by Macroporous Adsorption Resins and Its Protective Effects on PC12 Cells Injured by OGD/R via Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

The growing demand for safe natural products has reignited people's interest in natural food pigments. Here, we proposed the use of macroporous adsorption resins (MARs) to separate and purify carthamin from safflower. The optimal parameters for carthamin purification with HPD400 MAR were determined as follows: a mass ratio of crude carthamin in sample solution to wet resin of 0.3, a crude carthamin solution concentration of 0.125 g·mL-1, a pH of 6.00, a sample volume flow rate of 0.5 mL·min-1, an ethanol volume fraction of 58%, an elution volume of 4 BV, and an elution volume flow rate of 1.0 mL·min-1. Under the above purification conditions, the recovery rate of carthamin was above 96%. Carthamin dramatically improved the survival rate of PC12 cells damaged by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation and protected them from oxidative stress by inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species and increasing the total antioxidant capacity and glutathione (GSH) levels. Carthamin promoted extracellularly regulated protein kinase phosphorylation into the nucleus, permitting Nrf2 nuclear translocation and upregulating the gene expression of the rate-limiting enzymes glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit and glutamate-cysteine ligase regulatory subunit of GSH synthesis to obliterate free radicals and exert antioxidant effects. This study revealed the purification method of carthamin and its antioxidant protective effects, providing important insights into the application of carthamin in functional foods.

In Vitro and in Silico Studies of Lichen Compounds Atranorin and Salazinic Acid as Potential Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Anticancer Agents

Lichens are symbiotic organisms made up of alga/cyanobacterium and fungus. We investigated antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer properties of two lichen compounds, atranorin and salazinic acid, and five lichen species: Heterodermia boryi, Heterodermia diademata, Heterodermia hypocaesia, Parmotrema reticulatum, and Stereocaulon foliolosum. Free radical scavenging, Ferric reducing potential, Nitric oxide scavenging, and Trolox equivalent capacity were used to measure antioxidant activity. Strong radical scavenging action was demonstrated by atranorin and salazinic acid, with IC50 values of 39.31 μM and 12.14 μM, respectively. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assay based on resazurin, was used to measure antibacterial activity. Parmotrema reticulatum demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Raoultella planticola with MIC of 7.8 μg/mL. Cytotoxicity assay on breast cancer cell line was used to assess anticancer activity. To further understand the binding locations on the target proteins Er (Estrogen Receptor alpha), EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor), mTOR (Mammalian Target of Rapamycin), and PgR (Progesterone Receptor), molecular docking experiments were conducted. Docking study showed that the binding energies of atranorin and salazinic acid with mTOR were -5.31 kcal/mol and -3.43 kcal/mol, respectively. The results suggest that atranorin has the potential to be a multitargeted molecule with natural antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.

Identification of bolegrevilol B and C as novel antioxidant compounds in Suillus grevillei mushroom

Suillus grevillei is a popular species of mushroom available worldwide. In this study, we isolated compounds, bolegrevilol B and bolegrevilol C, from the mushroom and observed their potent lipid peroxidation-inhibiting activity. The structures of bolegrevilol B and bolegrevilol C were elucidated as 3-geranylgeranyl-1,2,4-trihydroxybenzene and 3-geranylgeranyl-1,2-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzene, respectively, through high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (-) and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance analyses. Bolegrevilol B and C inhibited lipid peroxidation and exhibited IC50 values of 2.0 ± 0.29 µm and 1.0 ± 0.13 µm, respectively. Furthermore, bolegrevilol B and C demonstrated potent neuroprotective activities in neuronal hybridoma N18-RE-105 cells against L-glutamate toxicity (EC50 of 1.8 ± 1.7 n m and 7.2 ± 6.9 n m, respectively). Bolegrevilol B was found in nature for the first time, and, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the antioxidant activities of bolegrevilol B and C.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds from Edible Plants with Anti-Cancer Activity and Their Potential Use as Drugs

Food is our daily companion, performing numerous beneficial functions for our bodies. Many of them can help to alleviate or prevent ailments and diseases. In this review, an extensive bibliographic search is conducted in various databases to update information on unprocessed foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in treating diseases such as cancer. The current state of knowledge on inflammatory processes involving some interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is reviewed. As well as unprocessed foods, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are important factors in cancer development. Many studies are still needed to take full advantage of the food products we use daily.

Wastewater-Irrigated Vegetables Are a Significant Source of Heavy Metal Contaminants: Toxicity and Health Risks

Water contaminated with heavy metals constitutes an important threat. This threat is a real problem with a negative impact in some developing countries where untreated industrial effluents are used for irrigation. The present study examines heavy metals in wastewater-irrigated vegetables (apple gourd, spinach, cauliflower, sponge gourd, and coriander) water, and soil from Chenab Nagar, Chiniot, Pakistan. In particular, the metals quantified were cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and manganese (Mn). Among them, Cr and Co in crops irrigated -wastewater exceeded the levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). In contrast, Ni, Cu, Pb, and Mn concentrations were in line with WHO standards. Compared with the limits established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), all the study vegetables presented higher (thus unsafe) concentrations of Cd (0.38 to 1.205 mg/Kg). There were also unsafe concentrations of Cr in coriander, sponge gourd, and cauliflower. Pb was found at an unsafe concentration (0.59 mg/Kg) in cauliflower. Conversely, Ni and Mn concentrations were below the maximum permissible limits by WHO, and FAO in all of the analyzed samples. The contamination load index (CLI) in soil, bioconcentration factor (BCF) in plants, daily intake of metals (DIM), and health risk index (HRI) have also been evaluated to estimate the potential risk to human health in that area. We have found an important risk of transitions of Pb, Cd, Cr, and Co from water/soil to the edible part of the plant. The highest HRI value associated with Cd (6.10-13.85) followed by Cr (1.25-7.67) for all vegetable samples presented them as high health risk metal contaminants. If the issue is not addressed, consumption of wastewater-irrigated vegetables will continue posing a health risk.

Chemical Composition, Antibacterial Test, and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils from Fresh and Dried Stropharia rugosoannulata

The essential oils, respectively, from fresh and dried Stropharia rugosoannulata fruiting bodies, an important edible mushroom, have been studied for their chemical composition, antibacterial capacity, and antioxidant activity. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) combined with Kovats retention index. The oils’ antibacterial test was evaluated by the microdilution method against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and antioxidant activity was determined through DPPH radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing power. Twenty-nine components were identified from the fresh mushroom, and the compositions were mainly dominated by hydrocarbons (54.72%), acids (32.99%), esters (5.07%), and terpenic compounds (0.96%). Thirty-five components were identified from the dried sample, and acids (31.22%), terpenic compounds (28.7%), alcohols (12.7%), and ketones (10.48%) were the major compounds. Strong antibacterial capacity and obvious antioxidant activity were observed for both essential oils from the fresh and dried mushrooms.

Ruscogenin interacts with DPPC and DPPG model membranes and increases the membrane fluidity: FTIR and DSC studies

Ruscogenin, a kind of steroid saponin, has been shown to have significant anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-thrombotic characteristics. Furthermore, it has the potential to be employed as a medicinal medication to treat a variety of acute and chronic disorders. The interaction of a drug molecule with cell membranes can help to elucidate its system-wide protective and therapeutic effects, and it's also important for its pharmacological activity. The molecular mechanism by which ruscogenin affects membrane architecture is still a mystery. Ruscogenin's interaction with zwitterionic dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and anionic dipalmitoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DPPG) multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) was studied utilizing two non-invasive approaches, including: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry. Ruscogenin caused considerable alterations in the phase transition profile, order, dynamics and hydration state of head groups and glycerol backbone of DPPC and DPPG MLVs at all concentrations. The DSC results indicated that the presence of ruscogenin decreased the main phase transition temperature (T_m) and enthalpy (ΔH) values of both membranes and increased half height width of the main transition (ΔT_1/2). The FTIR results demonstrated that all concentrations (1, 3, 6, 9, 15, 24 and 30 mol percent) of ruscogenin disordered the DPPC MLVs both in the gel and liquid crystalline phases while it increased the order of DPPG MLVs in the liquid crystalline phase. Moreover, ruscogenin caused an increase in the dynamics of DPPC and DPPG MLVs in both phases. Additionally, it enhanced the hydration of the head groups of lipids and the surrounding water molecules implying ruscogenin to interact strongly with both zwitterionic and charged model membranes.

Chemical composition, enantiomeric analysis and anticholinesterase activity of Lepechinia betonicifolia essential oil from Ecuador

CONTEXT

Due to the interesting potential of essential oils (EO) against cholinesterases and their close relation in Alzheimer's disease, the EO of Lepechinia betonicifolia (Lam) Epling (Lamiaceae), a native shrub from Ecuador, was assessed. Chemical profiling and enantiomeric distribution were also recorded for the first time.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the chemical profile including the enantiomeric composition and anticholinesterase effect exerted by EO of L. betonicifolia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The EO of L. betonicifolia fresh aerial parts was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus. Physical properties were determined according to standard norms. The chemical composition was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID. Enantioselective GC-MS analysis was carried out by using a capillary chiral column. Anticholinesterase effect was assessed by Ellman's method with acetylthiocoline as substrate and Ellman's reagent (DTNB) to detect its hydrolysis at 405 nm for 60 min. Donepezil was used as a reference drug. EO was dissolved in methanol to reach 10 mg/mL concentration and two more 10× dilutions were included.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine constituents were identified corresponding to 97.55% of the total oil composition. The main components were β-pinene (30.45%), sabinene (27.98%), α-pinene (4.97%), β-phellandrene (4.79%), E-caryophyllene (4.44%) and limonene (3.84%). L. betonicifolia EO exerted a strong inhibitory effect over the AChE enzyme with an IC₅₀ value of 74.97 ± 1.17 μg/mL.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Current chemical characterisation and anticholinesterase effect of EO of L. betonicifolia encourage us to propose this EO as a candidate for the preparation of functional foods or as adjuvant therapy for Alzheimer's disease.

Fucoxanthin: A Promising Phytochemical on Diverse Pharmacological Targets

Fucoxanthin (FX) is a special carotenoid having an allenic bond in its structure. FX is extracted from a variety of algae and edible seaweeds. It has been proved to contain numerous health benefits and preventive effects against diseases like diabetes, obesity, liver cirrhosis, malignant cancer, etc. Thus, FX can be used as a potent source of both pharmacological and nutritional ingredient to prevent infectious diseases. In this review, we gathered the information regarding the current findings on antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin protective, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and other properties of FX including its bioavailability and stability characteristics. This review aims to assist further biochemical studies in order to develop further pharmaceutical assets and nutritional products in combination with FX and its various metabolites.

In Vitro Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity and Chemopreventive Potential in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines of the Standardized Extract Obtained from the Aerial Parts of Zigzag Clover (Trifolium medium L.)

The aboveground parts of Trifolium medium L. (zigzag clover), a little-known representative of the family Fabaceae, collected during flowering in a wild stand (Sławin-Szerokie district, Lublin, Poland), were used in this study. Our previous investigations confirmed the higher content of phytoestrogenic isoflavones (especially biochanin A and formononetin derivatives) in T. medium compared to the closely related medicinal plant T. pratense (red clover) and the involvement of these compounds in anti-osteoporotic effects in ovariectomized female rats. The current study focused on evaluating other antibiodegenerative (antioxidant, chemopreventive, and cytostatic) effects for the lyophilisate (TML) obtained from wild zigzag clover. For this purpose, efficient ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was employed, followed by vacuum drying and phytochemical standardization using a newly developed reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-LC) coupled with a PDA detection. Malonylglycosides of biochanin A and formononetin were the predominant compounds and were found to contribute more than 54% to the total isoflavone content determined in the standardized extract of zigzag clover. The antioxidant potential of TML was examined in vitro using the Folin–Ciocalteu and cupric ion-reducing (CUPRAC) methods in addition to the free radical (DPPH• and ABTS•+) scavenging assays. The cytotoxic effects of TML, formononetin, and ononin were evaluated on MCF-7 (estrogen-dependent) and MDA-MB-231 (estrogen-independent) human breast cancer cell lines using the MTT assay. The important role of malonyl isoflavone derivatives has been indicated both in chemoprevention and potential cytotoxic effects of TML against certain types of breast cancer.

Concise total syntheses of two flavans and structure revision assisted by quantum NMR calculations

A two-step protecting-group-free protocol for the synthesis of 3'-hydroxy-5,7-dimethoxy-4-O-2'-cycloflavan (1) and concise total synthesis of 4'-hydroxy-5,7-dimethoxy-4-O-2'-cycloflavan (8) enabled by a PTSA triggered bioinspired olefin isomerization/hemiacetalization/dehydration/[3 + 3]-type cycloaddition cascade reaction are reported. The successful synthesis of cycloflavan 8 along with GIAO ¹³C NMR calculations of flavan-4-ol 9 and cycloflavan 8 indicated the misassignment of the flavonoid isolated previously and realized the revision of its actual structure.

Nanozyme-enabled sensing strategies for determining the total antioxidant capacity of food samples

Gold doped copper hexacyanoferrate (Au@Cu-HCF) nanozyme-based colorimetric sensing strategies were exploited to measure total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of some plant-derived food samples. The new developed Au@Cu-HCF nanozyme replaces natural enzymes to catalyze a redox reaction, and antioxidants can compete with substrates in the interaction with OH, leading to an antioxidant concentration-dependent color change. Depending on the Au@Cu-HCF-based ABTS colorimetric strategy, a smartphone-based sensor was devised using smartphone's camera as a "smart detector". The proposed sensor was successfully utilized to measure the TAC of lotus root (4.61 mM), citrus juice (6.35 mM), and lemon beverage (1.00 mM) with standard deviations of 0.16 mM, 0.16 mM, and 0.06 mM, respectively. These results all agree well with the commercial kit (4.55 mM for lotus root, 6.27 mM for citrus juice and 1.11 mM for lemon beverage), indicating this sensor has good practical applications in the TAC measurement of food samples.

Phytochemicals and quality level of food plants grown in an aquaponics system

BACKGROUND

Beyond nutrition, fruits and vegetables can be considered as natural sources of bioactive molecules, for which beneficial effects on human health are widely recognised. To improve food quality, soilless growing systems could represent a good strategy for promoting a sustainable food production chain, although the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of their products should be investigated in depth. The main quality traits and the volatile and non-volatile secondary metabolites of Solanum lycopersicum L., Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss and Ocimun basilicum L. grown in an aquaponics system and in organic farming were quantified and compared.

RESULTS

On a fresh basis, soil-grown P. crispum and O. basilicum showed significantly higher total phenolics and antioxidant activity compared to aquaponic crops, whereas, on a dry basis, both plants showed opposite results. Soil-grown S. lycopersicum was significantly richer in total phenolics, whereas the aquaponic type showed a higher antioxidant activity. Aquaponics induced the accumulation of resveratrol in P. crispum, rosmarinic acid and myricetin in O. basilicum, and lycopene in S. lycopersicum. Among the volatile compounds, in O. basilicum, linalool was the main constituent in both treatments, whereas τ-cadinol represented the second constituent in aquaponic crops. The volatile profiles of P. crispum did not differ significantly between the two cultivation methods.

CONCLUSION

The overall quality of organic and aquaponics cultures appeared to be comparable. The results showed that aquaponic farming method can be an innovative, rapid and sustainable way of producing quality food. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Antioxidant Activity, Microbiological Quality, and Acceptability of Spontaneously Fermented Shrimp Sausage (Litopenaeus vannamei)

Fermented shrimp sausages are prepared spontaneously with Litopenaeus vannamei as raw material. Shrimp is one of the marine sources with rich chitosan as bioactive compounds, antioxidants, vitamin E, and probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) produced by fermentation processes. This study aimed to analyze the variations in antioxidant activity, vitamin E content, total LAB, total pathogenic bacteria, pH, and acceptability of shrimp sausage produced at different fermentation times. A completely randomized experimental design study was performed using four levels of exposure time, including control (0 days), 1, 2, and 3 days. The treatment was conducted spontaneously with 1.2% salt concentration, a drying temperature of 50°C for 3 h, and fermentation at 35°C. The evaluated parameters included the antioxidant activity measured with the radical 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) method, vitamin E levels by high-performance liquid chromatography, total LAB with total plate count, and Escherichia coli bacteria by the most probable number method. Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus were estimated by the identification method. A pH meter was used to assess acidity, and hedonic organoleptic testing was performed for taste, aroma, color, and texture. The results show significant differences in antioxidant activity, vitamin E, and shrimp sausage acceptability at varied fermentation times $\left(p\le 0.05\right)$ . However, the best formulation was obtained with the first-day fermented shrimp sausage, as shown by its bioactive content and the level of acceptability.

Evaluation of diosgenin content from eleven different Indian varieties of fenugreek and fenugreek leaf powder fortified bread

The present study designed to establish the diosgenin profile from eleven different Indian varieties of fenugreek, and subsequently develop powder from the best stage and variety to prepare diosgenin fortified bread. The seeds, sprouts and leaves of different fenugreek varieties were analyzed for the diosgenin using HPLC. The content of phenolics and flavonoids also estimated and assessed for its antioxidant capacity using phosphomolybdate, DPPH and FRAP. Among eleven varieties screened for diosgenin and the other compounds, tender leaf of Kasuri methi (KS) variety showed the highest content of diosgenin (466.89 ± 0.32 mg/100 g FW), phenolics (58.54 ± 2.70 mg/100 g FW) and flavonoids (1104.16 ± 43.70 mg/100 g FW) followed by Pusa Early Bunching (PEB) (444.18 ± 0.36 mg/100 g FW) and Early Bunching (EB) (409.45 ± 0.42 mg/100 g FW). Among three stages, seeds found to be a better total antioxidant, DPPH scavenging, and reducing ability. Further, based on the results, bread fortified with 1.5% KS leaf powder is found to be optimal which also has significant diosgenin content (268.91 mg/100 g DW). And the effect of KS leaf powder on amylograph and farinograph characteristics of wheat flour and quality characteristics of bread showed promising results of acceptance.

Chemical characterization and evaluation of the neuroprotective potential of Indigofera sessiliflora through in-silico studies and behavioral tests in scopolamine-induced memory compromised rats

In the current study, we investigated the phytochemical and neuropharmacological potential of Indigofera sessiliflora, an indigenous least characterized plant widely distributed in deserted areas of Pakistan. The crude extract of the whole plant Indigofera sessiliflora (IS.CR) was preliminary tested in-vitro for the existence of polyphenol content, antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential followed by detailed chemical characterization through UHPLC-MS. Rats administered with different doses of IS.CR (100-300 mg/kg) for the duration of 4-weeks were behaviorally tested for anxiety and cognition followed by biochemical evaluation of dissected brain. The in-silico studies were employed to predict the blood-brain barrier crossing tendencies of secondary metabolites with the elucidation of the target binding site. The in-vitro assays revealed ample phenols and flavonoids content in IS.CR with adequate anti-oxidant and anticholinesterase potential. The dose-dependent anxiolytic potential of IS.CR was demonstrated in open field (OFT), light/dark (L/D) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests as animals spent more time in open, illuminated and elevated zones (P < 0.05). In the behavioral tests for learning/memory, the IS.CR reversed the scopolamine-induced cognitive deficits, as animals showed better (P < 0.05) spontaneous alternation and discrimination index in y-maze and novel object recognition (NOR) tests. Similarly, as compared to amnesic rats, the step-through latencies were increased (P < 0.05) and escape latencies were decreased (P < 0.05) in passive avoidance (PAT) and Morris water maze (MWM) tests, respectively. Biochemical analysis of rat brains showed significant reduction in malondialdehyde and acetylcholinesterase levels, alongwith preservation of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity. The docking studies further portrayed a possible interaction of detected phytoconstituents with acetylcholinesterase target. The results of the study show valuable therapeutic potential of phytoconstituents present in IS.CR to correct the neurological disarrays which might be through antioxidant activity or via modulation of GABAergic and cholinergic systems by artocommunol, 1,9-dideoxyforskolin and 6E,9E-octadecadienoic acid.

Establishing Relationship between Vitamins, Total Phenolic and Total Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activities in Various Honey Types

Honey is a well-known natural sweetener and is rich in natural antioxidants that prevent the occurrence of oxidative stress, which is responsible for many human diseases. Some of the biochemical compounds in honey that contribute to this property are vitamins and phenolic compounds such as phenolic acids and flavonoids. However, the extent to which these molecules contribute towards the antioxidant capacity in vitro is inconsistently reported, especially with the different analytical methods used, as well as other extrinsic factors that influence these molecules' availability. Therefore, by reviewing recently published works correlating the vitamin, total phenolic, and flavonoid content in honey with its antioxidant activities in vitro, this paper will establish a relationship between these parameters. Based on the literature, vitamins do not contribute to honey's antioxidant capacity; however, the content of phenolic acids and flavonoids has an impact on honey's antioxidant activity.

Comparison of Ethanolic and Aqueous-Polyethylenglycolic Propolis Extracts: Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Properties

In recent years, particular attention has been paid to the natural antioxidants. Bee products, especially propolis, are characterized by multifunctional (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and food preservative) effects and can be used for the development of functional food or food preservatives. Propolis extracts that are commonly produced are ethanolic; therefore, to certain groups of consumers, for example, children and alcohol sensitive group, their applicability is limited. The aim of this study was to develop alternative propolis from aqueous-polyethylenglycolic propolis extract (AQUA-PEG) and compare the chemical composition as well as antioxidant (radical-scavenging and reduction properties) activities to those of ethanolic propolis extract (EEP). Polyethylene glycol is quite a good solvent, which can be successfully used for the preparation of NEP. The total quantity of phenolic compounds identified in AQUA-PEG (400.36 µg/mL), prepared according to our technology, is very similar to that of EEP (433.53 µg/mL), whereas the amount of phenolic acids was greater by 1.31-fold in AQUA-PEG and of flavonoids was greater by 2.38-fold in EEP. The antioxidant activity depends on the method used: by applying the ABTS and CUPRAC methods, both extracts demonstrate similar antioxidant (antiradical and reducing) activity, whereas in the case of the DPPH and FRAP method, significantly higher antioxidant activity was detected in EEP. This should be taken by researchers into account especially when interpreting the results and drawing conclusions about the antioxidant activity of propolis extracts. On the basis of the results, AQUA-PEG, prepared by the developed technology, can be used as an alternative form to ethanolic propolis extract, since it contains a large quantity of antioxidants, namely, flavonoids and phenolic acids. We believe that nonethanolic propolis extract has the prospect of being applied for the development of functional foods in order to alleviate certain symptoms of oxidative stress or for the prevention of some oxidative-stress-related diseases.

The Developing Cerebellum as a Target for Toxic Substances: Protective Role of Antioxidants

Cerebellar development begins during the late embryological period and continues to undergo organizational changes long after birth. The cerebellum is particularly susceptible to developmental abnormalities on exposure to oxidants and free radicals, thus leading to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between reactive oxygen species generation and antioxidant defences which may disrupt signalling pathways, leading to cerebellar anomalies and dysfunction. In this regard, this review assesses current research underlining the importance of the cerebellum, provides an update on substances affecting cerebellar development and highlights some promising antioxidants that may play a role in attenuating toxicity in the developing cerebellum. To accomplish this, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) system was employed and key scientific databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched to explore and collect information on the cerebellum and the role of antioxidants during its development. Originally, 109 articles were obtained but 22 articles which met the inclusion criteria were selected for the review. These findings provide an updated compilation of antioxidants capable of attenuating oxidative damage in the developing cerebellum, thus allowing future interdisciplinary studies in the form of clinical applications for screening and possible development of novel therapeutic agents from the identified products.

Biochemical Profiling and Elucidation of Biological Activities of Beta vulgaris L. Leaves and Roots Extracts

RESEARCH BACKGROUND

Red beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is commercially grown in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) regions while cultivated as vegetable in Baluchistan and Sindh regions of Pakistan. It is well known for its health-promoting role in several clinical and pathologic outcome due to abundance of betalains and other bioactive compounds. The purpose of study was to interpret bioactivity of of B. vulgaris leaves (BvLM) and roots (BvRM) extracts for finding natural cure of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

BvLM and BvRM extracts were evaluated for phytochemical composition, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticholinesterase potential using standard protocols with modifications.

RESULTS

Phytochemicals analysis of BvLM and BvRM extracts depicted the presence of flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, saponins and glycosides. The IC50 values for free radical scavenging activity for BvRM and BvLM showed that BvLM (DPPH: 2.20 ± 0.72 μg/mL,H 2 O 2 : 0.0519 ± 1.02 μg/mL) is more significant as compared to BvRM (DPPH: 2.312 ± 0.72 μg/mL,H 2 O 2 : 2.668 ± 0.49 μg/mL). BvLM showed significant protection against heat induced hemolysis of HRBCs and protein denaturation (2.322 ± 0.1 > 2.324 ± 0.06 μg/mL) as compared to BvRM (8.572 ± 0.2 > 50.18 ± 1.0 μg/mL). Both extracts found to exhibit strong inhibitory potential against acetylcholinesterase enzyme.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Our study highlighted B. vulagris extracts as rich and nutritious source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and cholinesterase inhibitors that could be helpful in preventing and treating neurodegenerative disorders (NDs). In consideration of multifactorial and complex etiology of NDs, BvLM and BvRM extracts would be apt candidates for development of therapeutic strategy for management of multiple cognitive disorders.

Therapeutic potential of mangiferin in the treatment of various neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders

Xanthones are important chemical class of bioactive products that confers therapeutic benefits. Of several xanthones, mangiferin is known to be distributed widely across several fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants. Mangiferin has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects in both in-vitro and in-vivo models. Mangiferin attenuates cerebral infarction, cerebral edema, lipid peroxidation (MDA), neuronal damage, etc. Mangiferin further potentiate levels of endogenous antioxidants to confer protection against the oxidative stress inside the neurons. Mangiferin is involved in the regulation of various signaling pathways that influences the production and levels of proinflammatory cytokines in brain. Mangiferin cosunteracted the neurotoxic effect of amyloid-beta, MPTP, rotenone, 6-OHDA etc and confer protection to neurons. These evidence suggested that the mangiferin may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of various neurological disorders. The present review demonstrated the pharmacodynamics-pharmacokinetics of mangiferin and neurotherapeutic potential in several neurological disorders with underlying mechanisms.

Artichoke extracts in cancer therapy: do the extraction conditions affect the anticancer activity?

Background

Artichoke is an edible plant that is grown in the Mediterranean region and is known for its antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer activities. Different artichoke extraction methods can impressively affect the nature as well as the yield of the extracted components.

Main body

The different methods of artichoke extraction and the influence of the extraction conditions on the extraction efficiency are summarized herein. In addition, cancer causalities and hallmarks together with the molecular mechanisms of artichoke active molecules in cancer treatment are also discussed. Moreover, a short background is given on the common types of cancer that can be treated with artichoke extracts as well as their pathogenesis. A brief discussion of the previous works devoted to the application of artichoke extracts in the treatment of these cancers is also given.

Conclusion

This review article covers the extraction methods, composition, utilization and applications of artichoke extracts in the treatment of different cancers.

Attenuation of Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Wistar Rats by Combination Treatment of Two Natural Phenolic Compounds: Quercetin and Gallic Acid

The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of two potent natural antioxidants, gallic acid and quercetin as single or combination treatment against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF). A total of 50 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups. Group 1 and 2 intratracheally received saline and bleomycin (7.5 UI/kg), respectively, on day 7, accompanied by oral saline administration for 28 day. Groups 3, 4, and 5 received a single dose of bleomycin on day 7, accompanied by oral administration of gallic acid, quercetin, and their combination, respectively, for 28 day. Finally, the lungs were removed for biochemical and histopathological tests. The combination treatment demonstrated a remarkable decrease in lung hydroxyproline and TNF-α level and increase in catalase activity as compared with both single phytochemical-treated groups. The combination treatment significantly enhanced lung SOD activity and GSH level and decreased NO and IL-6 levels as compared with quercetin-treated group. However, only combination treatment could decrease the lung index and completely reversed histopathological changes in the bleomycin-treated group. In sum, when compared to a single exposure, the combination treatment might be a more effective approach for PF treatment because of its superior efficacy in reversing lung histological changes in the bleomycin-treated group.

Total Tocopherols, Carotenoids, and Fatty Acids Content Variation of Pistacia atlantica from Different Organs' Crude Oils and Their Antioxidant Activity during Development Stages

The current study investigated the effect of developmental stages on the chemical composition and the antioxidant activity of fifteen crude oil samples obtained from Pistacia atlantica Desf. leaves, galls, and fruits. Twelve fatty acids were detected by GC/FID, linolenic acid (C18 : 3) was the major fatty acid detected in leaves crude oils that registered [41.73 % (P<0.05)] on the last stage. The best content of tocopherols and carotenoids was recorded at the last stage for leaves and galls oils, respectively, with values of [1.530±0.01, 0.52±0.01 (P<0.05) mg α-tocopherol equivalent/g DW] and [86.60±0.95, 69.15±0.13 (P<0.05) μg β-carotene equivalent/g DW]. For fruits oils, the content varied depending on the levels of fruits maturation. The results from DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays revealed that the antioxidant activity increased with the increasing content of tocopherols and carotenoids in leaves and galls oils during development stages, and varied for fruits oils depending on the ripening stages. Moreover, according to PCA analysis, the best phytoconstituent content and antioxidant activity were attributed to P. atlantica Desf. fruit's crude oils. Also, a strong relationship was found between the antioxidant activity and bioactive phytochemical components, such as tocopherols, carotenoids, and omega-three fatty acid, which confirmed that P. atlantica Desf. crude oils present a valuable source of natural antioxidant that could be used for pharmaceutical and food industries purposes.

Differences in serum markers of oxidative stress in well controlled and poorly controlled asthma in Sri Lankan children: a pilot study

Background

Asthma is a disease characterised by hyper responsiveness and bronchoconstriction of airways, and is a major health burden globally. A dysfunction of the oxidant-antioxidant balance, termed oxidative stress, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of asthma. The present study aims to assess the changes in oxidative stress markers, namely nitric oxide metabolites and antioxidant capacity, in children with poorly controlled and well controlled asthma, in comparison to healthy controls.

Methods

The present study enrolled 72 children (ages 5-15 years) classified into three groups: (1) poorly controlled asthma (n = 20), (2) well controlled asthma (n = 24) and (3) healthy controls (n = 27). An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to record socio-demographic data of the participants. The serum concentrations of the oxidant markers (nitrite, nitrate and total nitric oxide metabolites [NO_x]) were determined using the Griess test, and the total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) was determined using the ABTS decolorisation method. The concentrations of these markers were compared across the three groups.

Results

The three study groups were similar in terms of socio-demographic data. The differences across the three groups were statistically significant for serum concentrations of nitrate and NO_x (but not nitrite) and serum TAOC. Further analyses showed that the disparity for nitrate and NO_x concentrations was greatest between poorly controlled asthma and healthy controls (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001) compared to the well-controlled asthmatics and healthy controls (p = 0.036 and p = 0.049). A significant difference in serum nitrate and NO_x concentrations was not observed between the two asthma groups (p = 0.311 and 0.203). The TAOC were significantly lower in poorly controlled asthmatics as compared to well-controlled asthmatics (p = 0.003) and healthy controls (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the serum TAOC between healthy controls and well-controlled asthmatics (p = 0.496). These findings may indicate that it is perhaps the higher TAOC that contributes to the well controlled state of asthma.

Conclusions

The present study indicated that an imbalance of oxidants and antioxidants in the serum may have an underlying role in asthma pathophysiology, and how these markers may be effective in asthma management.

Metabolic Flux Analysis of Catechin Biosynthesis Pathways Using Nanosensor

(+)-Catechin is an important antioxidant of green tea (Camelia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze). Catechin is known for its positive role in anticancerous activity, extracellular matrix degradation, cell death regulation, diabetes, and other related disorders. As a result of enormous interest in and great demand for catechin, its biosynthesis using metabolic engineering has become the subject of concentrated research with the aim of enhancing (+)-catechin production. Metabolic flux is an essential concept in the practice of metabolic engineering as it helps in the identification of the regulatory element of a biosynthetic pathway. In the present study, an attempt was made to analyze the metabolic flux of the (+)-catechin biosynthesis pathway in order to decipher the regulatory element of this pathway. Firstly, a genetically encoded fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based nanosensor (FLIP-Cat, fluorescence indicator protein for (+)-catechin) was developed for real-time monitoring of (+)-catechin flux. In vitro characterization of the purified protein of the nanosensor showed that the nanosensor was pH stable and (+)-catechin specific. Its calculated K_d was 139 µM. The nanosensor also performed real-time monitoring of (+)-catechin in bacterial cells. In the second step of this study, an entire (+)-catechin biosynthesis pathway was constructed and expressed in E. coli in two sets of plasmid constructs: pET26b-PT7-rbs-PAL-PT7-rbs-4CL-PT7-rbs-CHS-PT7-rbs-CHI and pET26b-T7-rbs-F3H-PT7-rbs- DFR-PT7-rbs-LCR. The E. coli harboring the FLIP-Cat was transformed with these plasmid constructs. The metabolic flux analysis of (+)-catechin was carried out using the FLIP-Cat. The FLIP-Cat successfully monitored the flux of catechin after adding tyrosine, 4-coumaric acid, 4-coumaroyl CoA, naringenin chalcone, naringenin, dihydroquercetin, and leucocyanidin, individually, with the bacterial cells expressing the nanosensor as well as the genes of the (+)-catechin biosynthesis pathway. Dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR) was identified as the main regulatory element of the (+)-catechin biosynthesis pathway. Information about this regulatory element of the (+)-catechin biosynthesis pathway can be used for manipulating the (+)-catechin biosynthesis pathway using a metabolic engineering approach to enhance production of (+)-catechin.

Contact hybrid potentiometric method for on-site and in situ estimation of the antioxidant activity of fruits and vegetables

A new version of the hybrid potentiometric method (HPM) for evaluating the antioxidant activity (AOA) of fruits and vegetables, which we called contact (CHPM), is proposed. A screen-printed electrode pair coated by a membrane impregnated with a mediator serves as a sensor system. The potential shift, which is observed when the sensor system is exposed to the sample slice is used as a source of information. CHPM provides reproducible and correct results: relative standard deviation does not exceed 8.4% and recovery of model antioxidant at close to 100%. The AOA values of fruits and vegetables found by CHPM are in the range of 1-21 μmol-eq/g. Correlation between the AOA of slices and suspensions is found. The proposed CHPM can be used in on-site and in situ formats.

Battle between plants as antioxidants with free radicals in human body

Free radicals are constructed by natural physiological activities in the human cells as well as in the environment. They may be produced as a result of diet, smoking, exercise, inflammation, exposure to sunlight, air pollutants, stress, alcohol and drugs. Imbalanced redox status may lead to cellular oxidative stress, which can damage the cells of the body, resulting in an incidence of various diseases. If the endogenous antioxidants do not stop the production of reactive metabolites, they will be needed to bring about a balance in redox status. Natural antioxidants, for example plants, play an important part in this context. This paper seeks to report the available evidence about oxidative stress and the application of plants as antioxidant agents to fight free radicals in the human body. For this purpose, to better understand oxidative stress, the principles of free radical production, the role of free radicals in diseases, antioxidant defense mechanisms, and the role of herbs and diet in oxidative stress are discussed.

Evaluation and Exploitation of Bioactive Compounds of Walnut, Juglans regia

In the last few years, great importance has been given to natural materials (such as walnuts, peanuts, chestnuts) due to their medicinal and pharmaceutical uses induced by the presence of natural agents, including polyphenols. Juglans regia is a traditional plant that has been used since ancient times in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases like microbial infections, stomach ache, thyroid dysfunctions, cancer, heart diseases and sinusitis. Recently, scientific attention for the phytochemical profile of walnut by-products is increasing due to their valuable active constituents. Natural polyphenols are important compounds present in walnut with valuable properties that have been studied for the treatment of inflammation, cancer or anti-ageing effect. The use of nanocarriers as a drug delivery system is now a promising strategy to get more stable products and is easier to apply in a medical, therapeutic and pharmaceutical environment. The aim of this work was to review the latest information provided by scientific investigators regarding the nutritional value, bioactive compounds, antioxidant and antitumor activity of walnut by-product extracts. Moreover, this review provides comprehensive information on the nanoencapsulation of bioactive constituents for application in clinical medicine, particularly in cancer research.

Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Condition for Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, and Epigallocatechin Gallate in Lipid-Extracted Microalgae

Lipid-extracted microalgae (LEM, Tetraselmis KCTC 12236BP), a solid waste by-product obtained from algal biodiesel production, is typically considered a rich source of antioxidant compounds, including phenolic compounds. The purpose of this study was to apply a statistically-based methodology to enhance the extraction of total phenolic compounds (TPCs) and antioxidant activity (AA) from LEM and to verify the production of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a bioactive material, under optimum conditions. The optimal extractions of TPC and AA were explored by varying the key variables, including the extraction temperature, ethanol concentration, extraction time, and ultrasonic power, through statistical optimization. The optimal extraction conditions were identified through 27 runs following the central composite design. The regression analyses of TPC and AA showed good fit of the experimental data to the second-order polynomial models, with coefficient of determination (R²) values of 0.8769 and 0.8432, respectively. In the variation experiment, the maximum TPC and AA values of 9.8 mg GAE/g and 91.8% were obtained respectively with an extraction temperature of 74.4 °C, ethanol concentration of 55.4%, extraction time of 59.6 min, and ultrasonic power of 700 W. HPLC coupled with diode array detection was used to identify and quantify the phenolic compounds in the extracts, and EGCG (0.12 mg/g DM) was identified as a major peak in the analysis, demonstrating that high value-added material with a bioactive property can be produced from LEM. The results indicated that statistical optimization is applicable for optimizing the extraction of TPC and AA from LEM and provided a scientific basis for applying ultrasound-assisted extraction on an industrial scale by optimizing the conditions. LEM has a high TPC value, particularly with regard to EGCG, and excellent AA, considering it is highly used as a functional material for food, cosmetics, and medicine.