A metabolite-profiling approach allows the identification of new compounds from Pistacia lentiscus leaves

Ameliorative effect of aqueous leaf extract of Pistacia lentiscus L. against oxaliplatin-induced hepatic injury, oxidative stress, and DNA damage in vitro and in vivo

The current study aimed to assess the preventive effects of aqueous leaf extract of Pistacia lentiscus (ALEPL) against Oxaliplatin (OXA)-induced DNA damage, hepatic injury, and oxidative stress. The in vitro cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of OXA and ALEPL on HCT116 colon cancer cells were evaluated using the MTT (Tetrazolium salt reduction) assay and comet assay. The in vivo study involved 24 female NMRI (Naval Medical Research Institute) mice that were equally divided into four groups as follows: Control group, ALEPL-treated group (100 mg/kg), OXA-treated group (7 mg/kg), and ALEPL-treated group (100mg/kg) + OXA (7mg/kg). All animals were sacrificed 48 h after OXA treatment. Samples of liver and blood were collected for histopathological, micronucleus, and biochemical analyses. Oxidative stress parameters were also evaluated through non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant activities. Our findings demonstrated that ALEPL contains high phenolic compounds. In the MTT assay, OXA exerted the most potent cytotoxic effect, but ALEPL alone showed no toxic effect in HCT116 cells. Furthermore, OXA administration caused significant DNA fragmentation both in vitro and in vivo, elevated serum biochemical parameters, and confirmed acute liver damage through histopathological observations compared to the control group. OXA exposure also led to a decrease in hepatic glutathione (GSH) and an increase in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities. From the results of our study, ALEPL pretreatment significantly restored the hepatic toxicity and DNA damage as well as the oxidative stress profile induced by OXA.

Phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activity and modulatory effect of aqueous leaf extract of Pistacia lentiscus L on oxaliplatin-induced oxidative stress in isolated rat liver mitochondria

This study evaluates the antioxidant effects of aqueous leaf extract of Pistacia lentiscus (ALEPL) and its potential to counteract oxaliplatin (OXA)-induced mitochondrial oxidative stress in rat livers, a common side effect of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Bioactive compounds were identified using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS and MS), with Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) for chemical and mineral analysis. ALEPL showed notable antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 4.30 ± 0.27 μg/mL for DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging, 13.64 ± 0.51 μg/mL for reducing power, 32.62 ± 5.32 μg/mL for hydroxyl radical scavenging, and 205.08 ± 25.77 μg/mL for superoxide anion radical scavenging. In ex vivo experiments, mitochondria isolated from Wistar rat livers were treated with OXA and ALEPL in a dose-dependent manner. ALEPL pretreatment effectively restored mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme activities, increased glutathione (GSH) levels, and reduced lipid peroxidation (MDA) caused by OXA. These findings suggest that ALEPL has the potential to act as a natural antioxidant to support cancer treatment by mitigating chemotherapy-induced oxidative stress. Future studies could explore its application as an adjuvant in clinical settings to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy while reducing its side effects.

The Phenolic Content of Pistacia lentiscus Leaf Extract and Its Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Properties

The aims of this study were to determine the polyphenolic profile, to estimate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, and to evaluate the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the extract of Pistacia lentiscus leaves, and the hydroacetonic mixture was employed as an alternative for common solvents in the extraction process. In order to explain the antidiabetic activity, molecular docking has been performed on the main constituents of the leaf extract. The characterization of the extract has been performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) leading to the detection of 20 compounds of which gallic acid, ellagic acid, catechin, kaempferol, and quercetin 3-glucoside were identified using authentic standards. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents, assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu and quercetin methods, were 394.5 ± 0.08 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry extract (mg GAE/g DE) and 101.2 ± 0.095 mg quercetin equivalent/g dry extract (mg QE/g DE), respectively. On the other hand, the antioxidant activity of leaf extract, quantified by determining the ability to neutralize the free radical DPPH and β-carotene/linoleate model system, reached the values of 0.0027 ± 0.002 mg/mL and 0.128 ± 0.04 mg/mL, respectively. Regarding the antidiabetic activity, based on the inhibition of pancreatic α-amylase activity, a significant inhibition of about 68.20% with an IC50 value of 0.266 mg/mL had been observed. This finding is consistent with the molecular docking study of the main phenolic compounds of the extracts, where a remarkable binding affinity against α-amylase was observed, with values of -7.631 (kcal/mol), -6.818 (kcal/mol), and -5.517 (kcal/mol) for the major compounds catechin, quercetin-3-glucoside, and gallic acid, respectively.

Distribution profiles of phenolic compounds in a cultivar of wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels) fruits and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The fruits of wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels), which contain significant amounts of phenolics, are frequently applied as traditional medications to prevent or relieve inflammatory symptoms. Green honey wampee (GHW) is a local cultivar specially cultivated in Lianjiang City, Guangdong Province.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate phenolic distribution profiles in the peels, seeds and pulp of GHW as well as elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of the effective compounds for anti-inflammatory activity.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Phenolic compounds in the extract were identified through UPLC-MS/MS and their ability to alleviate inflammation was assessed using RAW 264.7 macrophages exposed to lipopolysaccharide.

RESULTS

Among the three parts of GHW fruits, the total phenolic contents followed a descending order of peels > pulp > seeds. Additionally, eighty-six phenols were tentatively determined from the three parts, of which flavonoids accounted for the highest proportion. Furthermore, the phenolic extract of peels, seeds and pulp exhibited potential anti-inflammatory activity through the suppression effect on different pro-inflammatory mediators (NO, IL-6 and TNF-α). Among the three principal phenolic compounds (rutin, quercitrin, isorhamnetin-3-O-neohesperidoside) detected in GHW fruits, quercitrin was proved to be a more important anti-inflammatory compound inhibiting the iNOS and TNF-α mRNA expressions through the suppression effect on the phosphorylation of IκBα and ERK, belonging to the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathway respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Not only wampee pulp but also its by-products like peels and seeds are able to be comprehensively utilized as immunomodulatory supplements for daily diets due to their rich phenolic contents.

Phenolic compounds profile of macerates of different edible parts of carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) using UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MSE: Phytochemical screening and biological activities

Locust bean pulp and gum extracts were prepared, and phytochemical tests based on color reactions and chromatographic analyzes were performed. A profile of seventy-six phenolic compounds was obtained by the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The main groups of phenolic compounds identified in the both extracts of Ceratonia siliqua L., were flavonoids, tannins and phenolic acids. Moreover, carob pulp and gum extracts were tested for their antimicrobial activity using disk diffusion tests which showed sensitivity of the different strains to the analyzed extracts at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of Ceratonia siliqua L. extracts was assessed by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl acid test, which confirmed stronger antioxidant properties in the case of the pulp extract. To sum up, carob pulp and gum extracts present promising alternatives to synthetic additives within the medicinal industry, serving as potential antioxidant agents and preservatives that combat bacterial contamination, thereby offering a more natural approach to enhancing product safety and efficacy.

Phytochemical investigation of Pistacia lentiscus L. var. Chia leaves: A byproduct with antimicrobial potential

Pistacia lentiscus L. var. Chia belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, and it is cultivated only in the south part of Chios island, in Greece. Even though it is renowned for its unique resin, Chios mastic gum (CMG), the tree leaves have also been used in traditional medicine, while the annual pruning generates a large biomass of unused by-products. Thus, the aim of the present study was the detailed phytochemical investigation of P. lentiscus var. Chia leaves towards the search of antimicrobial agents. UPLC-HRMS & HRMS/MS based dereplication methods led to the detailed characterization of the aqueous leaf extract. In addition, twelve compounds were isolated and purified from the methanol extract and were identified using spectroscopic and spectrometric methods (NMR, HRMS) belonging to phenolic acids, tannins, flavonoids and terpenes, with the most interesting being 2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole β-D-glucopyranoside which was isolated for the first time in the Anacardiaceae family. Remarkably, based on NMR data, methanol and aqueous extracts were found to be particularly rich in shikimic acid, a valuable building block for the pharmaceutical industry, for instance in the synthesis of the active ingredient of Tamiflu®, oseltamivir. Finally, extracts (EtOAc, MeOH, H2O) and major compounds i.e., shikimic acid, 2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole β-D-glucopyranoside and myricitrin were evaluated for their antimicrobial properties. MeOH and H2O mastic leaf extracts as well as myricitrin and, particularly, 2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole β-D-glucopyranoside showed significant selective activity against pathogenic Mucorales, but not against Aspergilli (Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus fumigatus), Candida albicans or bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis).

Analysis of the Chemical Composition and Evaluation of the Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Anticoagulant, and Antidiabetic Properties of Pistacia lentiscus from Boulemane as a Natural Nutraceutical Preservative

Pistacia lentiscus L. has traditionally been employed as a diuretic and stimulant in the treatment of hypertension. Our interest centered on analyzing the chemical profile of the plant's leaves and its in vitro, in vivo, and in silico antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and antidiabetic effects in order to valorize this species and prepare new high-value products that can be used in the agro-food and pharmaceutical industries. When this species' essential oil was hydrodistilled and subjected to GC-MS analysis, the results showed that the principal components were germacrene D (17.54%), spathulenol (17.38%), bicyclogermacrene (12.52%), and terpinen-4-ol (9.95%). The extraction of phenolic compounds was carried out by decoction and Soxhlet. The determination of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins of aqueous and organic extracts by spectrophotometric methods demonstrated the richness of this species in phenolic compounds. Chromatographic analysis by HPLC/UV-ESI-MS of the aqueous extract of P. lentiscus revealed the presence of 3,5-di-O-galloyl quinic acid, gallic acid, and 3,4,5-tri-O-galloyl quinic acid specific to this species. The study of antioxidant activity by three methods (DPPH, FRAP, and Total Antioxidant Capacity) revealed that P. lentiscus is a very promising source of natural antioxidants. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil and aqueous extract (E0) was studied by microdilution on the microplate. The results revealed the effectiveness of the aqueous extract compared to the essential oil against Gram-negative bacteria (K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii, E. aerogenes, E. cloacae, P. fluorescence, Salmonella sp., Shigella sp., and Y. enterolitica) and candidoses (C. krusei and C. albicans). The measurements of prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) of the aqueous extract (E0) can significantly prolong these tests from concentrations of 2.875 and 5.750 mg/mL, respectively. The antihyperglycemic effect of the aqueous extract (E0) showed a strong in vitro inhibitory activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase compared to acarbose. Thus, it significantly inhibited postprandial hyperglycemia in Wistar albino rats. The in-silico study of the major compounds of the essential oil and extract (E0) carried out using PASS, SwissADME, pkCSM, and molecular docking tools confirmed our in vitro and in vivo results. The studied compounds showed a strong ability to be absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and to passively diffuse through the blood-brain barrier, a similarity to drugs, and water solubility. Molecular docking experiments deduced the probable mode of action of the identified compounds on their respective target proteins, such as NADPH oxidase, thrombin, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase. Furthermore, given the demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and antidiabetic effects, we can affirm the richness of P. lentiscus in bioactive molecules and its use in traditional medicine as a source of preservative agent.

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

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

Characterization of the Nonpolar and Polar Extractable Components of Glanded Cottonseed for Its Valorization

Cottonseed is the second major product of cotton (Gossypium spp.) crops after fiber. Thus, the characterization and valorization of cottonseed are important parts of cotton utilization research. In this work, the nonpolar and polar fractions of glanded (Gd) cottonseed were sequentially extracted by 100% hexane and 80% ethanol aqueous solutions and subjected to ¹³C and ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS), respectively. The nonpolar (crude oil) extracts showed the characteristic NMR peak features of edible plant oils with the absence of ω-3 linolenic acid. Quantitative analysis revealed the percentage of polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, and saturated fatty acids as 48.7%, 16.9%, and 34.4%, respectively. Both general unsaturated fatty acid features and some specific olefinic compounds (e.g., oleic, linolenic, and gondonic acids) were found in the nonpolar fraction. In the polar extracts, FT-ICR MS detected 1673 formulas, with approximately 1/3 being potential phenolic compounds. Both the total and phenolic formulas fell mainly in the categories of lipid, peptide-like, carbohydrate, and lignin. A literature search and comparison further identifies some of these formulas as potential bioactive compounds. For example, one compound [2,5-dihydroxy-N'-(2,3,4-trihydroxybenzylidene) benzohydrazide] identified in the polar extracts is likely responsible for the anticancer function observed when used on human breast cancer cell lines. The chemical profile of the polar extracts provides a formulary for the exploration of bioactive component candidates derived from cottonseed for nutritive, health, and medical applications.

Metabolomics-Based Profiling via a Chemometric Approach to Investigate the Antidiabetic Property of Different Parts and Origins of Pistacia lentiscus L

Pistacia lentiscus L. is a medicinal plant that grows spontaneously throughout the Mediterranean basin and is traditionally used to treat diseases, including diabetes. The aim of this work consists of the evaluation of the α-glucosidase inhibitory effect (i.e., antidiabetic activity in vitro) of different extracts from the leaves, stem barks and fruits of P. lentiscus harvested on mountains and the littoral of Tizi-Ouzou in Algeria. Metabolomic profiling combined with a chemometric approach highlighted the variation of the antidiabetic properties of P. lentiscus according to the plant's part and origin. A multiblock OPLS analysis showed that the metabolites most involved in α-glucosidase inhibition activity were mainly found in the stem bark extracts. The highest inhibitory activity was found for the stem bark extracts, with averaged inhibition percentage values of 84.7% and 69.9% for the harvested samples from the littoral and mountain, respectively. On the other hand, the fruit extracts showed a lower effect (13.6%) at both locations. The UHPLC-ESI-HRMS characterization of the metabolites most likely responsible for the α-glucosidase-inhibitory activity allowed the identification of six compounds: epigallocatechin(4a>8)epigallocatechin (two isomers), (epi)gallocatechin-3'-O-galloyl-(epi)gallocatechin (two isomers), 3,5-O-digalloylquinic acid and dihydroxy benzoic acid pentoside.

A Review of Pistacia lentiscus Polyphenols: Chemical Diversity and Pharmacological Activities

Pistacia lentiscus (lentisk) is a plant species of the Anacardiaceae family. It is a medicinal plant that grows wild in the Mediterranean region. This review aims to update the existing knowledge regarding P. lentiscus polyphenols by consulting references dated from 1996 to 2022. The data are organized and analyzed as follows: (i) to show the chemical diversity of phenolic products from P. lentiscus; (ii) to summarize the variability in phenolic composition and quantity; this could be attributed to plant origin, environmental conditions, phenological stage, and the polarity of the extraction solvents; (iii) to present the pharmacological properties in agreement with the traditional uses of this plant; and (iv) to demonstrate the correlation between the chemical profile and the pharmacological effect. Various compositions were observed, including phenolic acids, flavonoid glycosides, anthocyanins, catechins, and their derivatives. The biological and therapeutic potentials of lentisk extracts have been evaluated in terms of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Most of these activities are related to the phenolic composition of this plant. The content of this review will undoubtedly contribute to the choice of techniques for isolating the different bioactive molecules contained in the P. lentiscus. It is also of significance for the potential development of a micro-industrial sector based on the valorization of lentisk polyphenols.

Comparison of Phytochemical Profiles of Wild and Cultivated American Ginseng Using Metabolomics by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) has been recognized as a valuable herb medicine, and ginsenosides are the most important components responsible for the health-beneficial effects. This study investigated the secondary metabolites responsible for the differentiation of wild and cultivated American ginsengs with ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS)-based metabolomic approach. An in-house ginsenoside library was developed to facilitate data processing and metabolite identification. Data visualization methods, such as heatmaps and volcano plots, were utilized to extract discriminated ion features. The results suggested that the ginsenoside profiles of wild and cultivated ginsengs were significantly different. The octillol (OT)-type ginsenosides were present in greater abundance and diversity in wild American ginsengs; however, a wider distribution of the protopanaxadiol (PPD)-and oleanolic acid (OA)-type ginsenosides were found in cultivated American ginseng. Based on the tentative identification and semi-quantification, the amounts of five ginsenosides (i.e., notoginsenoside H, glucoginsenoside Rf, notoginsenoside R1, pseudoginsenoside RT2, and ginsenoside Rc) were 2.3-54.5 fold greater in wild ginseng in comparison to those in their cultivated counterparts, and the content of six ginsenosides (chicusetsusaponin IVa, malonylginsenoside Rd, pseudoginsenoside Rc1, malonylfloralginsenoside Rd6, Ginsenoside Rd, and malonylginsenoside Rb1) was 2.6-14.4 fold greater in cultivated ginseng compared to wild ginseng. The results suggested that the in-house metabolite library can significantly reduce the complexity of the data processing for ginseng samples, and UHPLC-HRMS is effective and robust for identifying characteristic components (marker compounds) for distinguishing wild and cultivated American ginseng.

Effect of the main constituents of Pistacia lentiscus leaves against the DPPH radical and xanthine oxidase: experimental and theoretical study

The aim of this work is to study the content of phenolic compounds in P lentiscus leaves and their antioxidant effect. After extracting the phenolic compounds, fractionation by liquid/liquid partition with increasing polarity gives five extracts. Three of them (ButF, AqF and ButA) were found to have good antioxidant activity. Their IC_50s for the inhibition of the free radical formation of DPPH are 1.76 µg/mL, 1.307 µg/ml, and 1.77 µg/mL, respectively. These values are very interesting, considering the effect of the powerful flavonoid quercetin, whose IC₅₀ against DPPH is 1.53 µg/mL. These extracts are also active against xanthine oxidase (XO). The IC_50s measured are 0.14 mg/mL, 0.186 mg/mL and 0.33 mg/mL for ButF, Aq F and ButAq F extract respectively, in comparison with allopurinol (0.44 mg/mL). A phytochemical analysis by LC/ESI-MS-MS was performed to explain the observed activities. The results show 22 peaks representing: flavanols, namely catechin, d-Gallocatechin, and gallocatechin gallate. The only flavone detected in the studied extracts was luteolin glucuronide and was found to be in higher amounts in butanolic extract (2,71mg/mL). The phenolic acids and derivatives were also identified in the extracts. A theoretical study was performed to deduce the specificity of the binding between the major compounds identified in the P. lentiscus extract and the xanthine oxidase enzyme using Schrödinger software. The docking procedure was validated using the extraction of ligands from the binding site. Their re-anchoring to the xanthine oxidase structure using quercetin and allopurinol was considered reference molecules. After docking, post-docking minimization was performed to achieve the best scoring poses with the MM-GBSA approach. The dGBind energy of MM-GBSA representing the binding energy of the receptor and the ligand was calculated based on molecular mechanics. Results reveal that β-Glucogallin compounds such as Digalloylquinic acid, Gallocatechin, and Myricetin-3-O rhamnoside are more active than allopurinol, with stronger Docking score (Gscore) and MM-GBSA dGBind.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Facile Fabrication of Methyl Gallate Encapsulated Folate ZIF-L Nanoframeworks as a pH Responsive Drug Delivery System for Anti-Biofilm and Anticancer Therapy

Zeolitic imidazole frameworks are emerging materials and have been considered an efficient platform for biomedical applications. The present study highlights the simple fabrication of methyl gallate encapsulated folate-ZIF-L nanoframeworks (MG@Folate ZIF-L) by a simple synthesis. The nanoframeworks were characterized by different sophisticated instruments. In addition, the drug-releasing mechanism was evidenced by in vitro releasing kinetics at various pH conditions. The anti-biofilm potential confirmed by the biofilm architectural deformations against human infectious pathogens MRSA and N7 clinical strains. Furthermore, anticancer efficacy assessed against A549 lung cancer cells. The result reveals that the MG@Folate ZIF-L exposed a superior cytotoxic effect due to the pH-responsive and receptor-based drug-releasing mechanism. Based on the unique physicochemical and biological characteristics of nanoframeworks, it has overcome the problems of undesired side effects and uncontrolled drug release of existing drug delivery systems. Finally, the in vitro toxicity effect of MG@Folate ZIF-L was tested against the Artemia salina (A. salina) model organism, and the results show enhanced biocompatibility. Overall, the study suggested that the novel MG@Folate ZIF-L nanoframeworks is a suitable material for biomedical applications. It will be very helpful to the future design for targeted drug delivery systems.

Entourage effect for phenolic compounds on production and metabolism of mammary epithelial cells

Primary culture of mammary epithelial cells (MEC) was exposed to ethyl-acetate, chloroform and hexane extracts of Pistacia lentiscus (lentisk). The hexane extract contained mainly ethyl gallate whereas the chloroform extract contained mainly ethyl-gallate with smaller amount of gallic acid, and the ethyl-acetate extract contained mainly rutin, gallic acid and myricetin. Ethyl acetate extract increased secretion of protein and fat and improved mitochondrial activity. The enhancing effect on protein production was attributed to myricetin, one of the polyphenols in the ethyl-acetate extract whereas gallic acid did not affect protein production or secretion. Interestingly, exposure to the isolated polyphenols did not improve mitochondrial productivity and activity as effectively as exposure to the complete plant extract. The results indicated that polyphenols improve production of milk constituents by MEC, through different modes of action for different polyphenols suggesting an additive or even synergistic effect on production traits of mammary cells.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Enzyme Inhibitory Activities of an Endemic Species from Southern Algeria: Warionia saharae

Warionia saharae Benth. & Coss. (Asteraceae) is an endemic species of North Africa naturally grown in the southwest of the Algerian Sahara. In the present study, this species’ hydromethanolic leaf extract was investigated for its phenolic profile characterized by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and an electrospray mass spectrometer (UHPLC-DAD-ESI/MS). Additionally, the chemical composition of W. saharae was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and its antioxidant potential was assessed through five in vitro tests: DPPH^● scavenging activity, ABTS^●+ scavenging assay, galvinoxyl scavenging activity, ferric reducing power (FRP), and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity. The UHPLC-DAD-ESI/MS analysis allowed the detection and quantification of 22 compounds, with taxifolin as the dominant compound. The GC–MS analysis allowed the identification of 37 compounds, and the antioxidant activity data indicate that W. saharae extract has a very high capacity to capture radicals due to its richness in compounds with antioxidant capacity. The extract also showed potent α-glucosidase inhibition as well as a good anti-inflammatory activity. However, weak anti-α-amylase and anticholinesterase activities were recorded. Moreover, an in silico docking study was performed to highlight possible interactions between three significant compounds identified in W. saharae extract and α-glucosidase enzyme.

Leaves and Fruits Preparations of Pistacia lentiscus L.: A Review on the Ethnopharmacological Uses and Implications in Inflammation and Infection

There is an increasing interest in revisiting plants for drug discovery, proving scientifically their role as remedies. The aim of this review was to give an overview of the ethnopharmacological uses of Pistacia lentiscus L. (PlL) leaves and fruits, expanding the search for the scientific discovery of their chemistry, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and antimicrobial activities. PlL is a wild-growing shrub rich in terpenoids and polyphenols, the oil and extracts of which have been widely used against inflammation and infections, and as wound healing agents. The more recurrent components in PlL essential oil (EO) are represented by α-pinene, terpinene, caryophyllene, limonene and myrcene, with high variability in concentration depending on the Mediterranean country. The anti-inflammatory activity of the oil mainly occurs due to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the arachidonic acid cascade. Interestingly, the capacity against COX-2 and LOX indicates PlL EO as a dual inhibitory compound. The high content of polyphenols enriching the extracts provide explanations for the known biological properties of the plant. The protective effect against reactive oxygen species is of wide interest. In particular, their anthocyanins content greatly clarifies their antioxidative capacity. Further, the antimicrobial activity of PlL oil and extracts includes the inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, periodontal bacteria and Candida spp. In conclusion, the relevant scientific properties indicate PlL as a nutraceutical and also as a therapeutic agent against a wide range of diseases based on inflammation and infections.

Structure and organization of the secretion apparatus of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus L.) and LC-HRMS analysis of leaf extracts

The quantitative profile of the biochemicals secreted by summer and winter leaves, present noticeable differences and appear to be qualitatively different from the biochemical profile of the commercially valuable mastic. The anatomy of the root and the primary and secondary shoot as well as that of the summer and winter leaves of P. lentiscus was thoroughly investigated. The secreting network was tracked throughout the plant axis, from the root to the leaves, and the active secreting cells of the duct epithelium were localized, while the secondary metabolites produced within the cells of the summer and winter leaf tissues were identified histochemically. Numerous phytochemicals were identified in the leaf extracts with UHPLC-qTOF MS analysis. The analyzed extracts from summer and winter leaves displayed similar qualitative profile, although quantitative differences were evident, since, during the summer, the leaves tend to synthesize the more complex amongst the identified compounds. The phytochemical profile of the leaf extracts turns to be completely different compared to that of the valuable mastic harvested from the injured trunks. Many of the compounds common in mastic were not detected in the analyzed leaves samples. The numerous secreting ducts either fail to form a unified network, so composition of the secreted material varies in the different organs of the plant or they compose a continuous network, but the biochemical profile of the secreted material differs along the plant axis. Such a detailed investigation of the secretion network of the mastic tree may assist the improvement of the yield and promote the production of valuable phytochemicals through in vitro cultures.

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.

Optimization of a Green Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Different Polyphenols from Pistacia lentiscus L. Leaves Using a Response Surface Methodology

Pistacia lentiscus leaves are used in several applications, thanks to their polyphenolic abundance. Thiswork aimed to characterize the polyphenols and to optimize the extraction conditions to shorten the time, decrease the consumption of solvent, and to maximize the yield of different classes of phenolics, which have diverse industrial applications. The variables were optimized by applying a Box-Behnken design. Galloyl and myricetin derivatives were the most abundant compounds, and two new tetragalloyl derivatives were identified by LC-MS/MS. According to the models, the maximum yields of polyphenols (51.3 ± 1.8 mg g-1 DW) and tannins (40.2 ± 1.4 mg g-1 DW) were obtained using 0.12 L g-1 of 40% ethanol at 50 °C. The highest content of flavonoids (10.2 ± 0.8 mg g-1 DW) was obtained using 0.13 L g-1 of 50% ethanol at 50 °C, while 0.1 L g-1 of 30% ethanol at 30 °C resulted in higher amounts of myricitrin (2.6 ± 0.19 mg g-1 DW). Our optimized extraction decreased the ethanolic fraction by 25% and halved the time compared to other methods. These conditions can be applied differently to obtain P. lentiscus extracts richer in tannins or flavonoids, which might be employed for various purposes.

The Mastic Tree (Pistacia lentiscus L.) Leaves as Source of BACs: Effect of Growing Location, Phenological Stage and Extraction Solvent on Phenolic Content

RESEARCH BACKGROUND

Mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus L.) of the Anacardiaceae family is an evergreen shrub from Mediterranean countries where it is used in traditional medicine. Analysis of P. lentiscus leaf, stem, fruit and root extracts showed high concentrations of principal groups of secondary metabolites (flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins), suggesting the plant possesses great biological potential. Therefore, the aim of this research is to evaluate the impact of environmental parameters and the extraction solvent type on the concentration of phenols in mastic tree leaf extracts grown at four different locations along the Adriatic coast (Barbariga, Lun, Hvar and Vela Luka) during three phenological stages (early flowering, early fruiting and late fruiting).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Since mastic tree plant has phenolic compounds with different structures and chemical properties, ethanolic and methanolic leaf extracts were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with UV/Vis PDA detector. Phenolic compounds were identified by comparing the retention times and spectral data with those of standards at 280 and 340 nm.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

In all samples, phenolic acids and flavonol glycosides were quantified, while catechin was quantified only in methanolic extracts. The 5-O-galloylquinic acid was determined as a predominant phenolic compound in all samples followed by monogalloyl glucose, 3,5-di-O-galloylquinic acid, 3,4,5-tri-O-galloylquinic acid and gallic acid, respectively. Myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside was found to be the predominant flavonol glycoside followed by myricetin-3-O-glucoside, myricetin-3-O-glucuronide, quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside and derivative of flavonol glycoside. The mass concentration of these compounds significantly varied during different phenological stages, at different growing locations and used extraction solvents. The highest phenolic mass concentration was determined in the samples harvested at Hvar growing location and extracted in 80% methanol. The highest total phenolic acid mass concentration was obtained in the samples harvested during the flowering phenological stage and the highest total flavonoid mass concentration in the samples harvested during the early fruiting stage.

NOVELTY AND SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTION

The obtained data provide a better understanding of the P. lentiscus species phenolic concentration, which can lead to further investigations regarding the valorisation of mastic tree leaves as pharmaceutical products or as food products with added value.

Seasonal and Diurnal Variation in Leaf Phenolics of Three Medicinal Mediterranean Wild Species: What Is the Best Harvesting Moment to Obtain the Richest and the Most Antioxidant Extracts?

Mediterranean plants biosynthesize high amounts of polyphenols, which are important health-promoting compounds. Leaf polyphenolic composition changes according to environmental conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to know the temporal variation in their production. This study aimed to: i) evaluate the monthly and daily changes in polyphenols of Phyllirea latifolia, Cistus incanus, and Pistacia lentiscus to identify their best harvesting moment, ii) verify the possible correlations between phenolic production and temperature and irradiation, iii) evaluate their antioxidant capacity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical (OH)scavenging assays. The extracts of leaves harvested at 8:00, 13:00 and 18:00, in May, July, and October for two years were analysed by HPLC-DAD. Both "month" and "time of the day" affected the polyphenolic content in all species. July at 13:00 was the best harvesting moment for all polyphenolic classes of P. latifolia and only for some classes of C. incanus and P. lentiscus. Environmental parameters positively correlated with the polyphenols of C. incanus and P. latifolia, while the antioxidant capacity only varied in this last species, reaching the highest value in July. Results of the study allow to determine the balsamic time for each species. Moreover, the relationship between polyphenols and environmental data can be useful for the cultivation of these plants under controlled conditions.

Seasonal and daily variations in primary and secondary metabolism of three maquis shrubs unveil different adaptive responses to Mediterranean climate

Maquis species play a central role in the maintenance of coastal ecosystems thanks to anatomical, physiological and biochemical features evolved to cope with severe stress conditions. Because the seasonal and daily dynamics of physiological and biochemical traits of maquis species are not fully addressed, we performed a field study on three coexisting Mediterranean shrubs (Pistacia lentiscus L. and Phillyrea latifolia L., evergreen schlerophylls, and Cistus incanus L., semi-deciduous) aiming at detecting the main adaptive differences, on a seasonal and daily basis, in primary and secondary metabolism along with the principal climatic determinants. These species differed in their physiological and biochemical responses especially on a seasonal level. In P. latifolia, a great investment in antioxidant phenylpropanoids contributed to maintain high photosynthetic rates throughout the whole growing season. In C. incanus, high carotenoid content associated with chlorophyll (Chl) regulation alleviated oxidative damage during the hot and dry summers and help recover photosynthesis in autumn. In P. lentiscus, high abscisic acid levels allowed a strict control of stomata, while fine Chla/Chlb regulation concurred to avoid photoinhibition in summer. Temperature resulted the most important climatic factor controlling the physiological and biochemical status of these coexisting shrubs and, thus, in determining plant performances in this Mediterranean coastal habitat.

Chemical Composition, Antifungal, and Cytotoxicity Activities of Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd Leaves

The species Inga laurina is native to the Brazilian Cerrado. There are no studies about the chemical composition and biological activities of extracts of this endangered species. The ethanolic extract and its successive fractions are rich in phenolic compounds and presented good antifungal activities. HPLC/MS-MS/MS and H1/C13 analysis led to the identification of seventeen compounds, most of which are gallic acid derivatives, myricetin and quercetin glycosides. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) contained high levels of total phenolics, expressed in milligrams of gallic acid equivalents per gram of extract (475.3 ± 1.9 mg GAE g_extract⁻¹) and flavonoids expressed in milligrams of quercetin equivalents per gram of extract (359.3 ± 10.6 mg QE g_extract⁻¹). This fraction was active against fungi of the Candida genus. The EAF showed MIC value 11.7 μg mL⁻¹ against C. glabrata and a selectivity index of 1.6 against Vero cells. The flavonol glycoside myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside was isolated for the first time from the Inga laurina. These results make I. laurina a promising plant as a source of pharmaceutical and biological active antifungal compounds.

In vitro simulated digestion and in vivo metabolism of chlorogenic acid dimer from Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr.: Enhanced antioxidant activity and different metabolites of blood and urine

Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. is an evergreen edible vine in southern China. The antioxidant activity and metabolites of chlorogenic acid dimer from Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. were evaluated by the model of in vitro digestion and in vivo metabolomics approach, respectively. Moreover, metabolites of chlorogenic acid dimer in blood and urine of Sprague-Dawley rats were determined by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. In vitro digestion results suggested the antioxidant activity of the purified chlorogenic acid dimer was significantly enhanced after simulated digestion. Meanwhile, in vivo metabolism results showed that 7 and 20 new metabolites were observed in blood and urine, respectively, suggesting that hydrolysis along with methylation, glucuronidation and other reactions may all happen when the chlorogenic acid dimer entered the digestive and metabolic systems, which inducing and exhibiting various biological activities through metabolism. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. (GPM) is an evergreen edible vine with the effects of anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, depressurization, and antioxidation. As a health care vegetable, it is not usually eaten in daily life. Our current study shows that chlorogenic acid dimer extracted from GPM has a significant enhanced antioxidant ability after gastro-intestinal digestion in vitro, and their metabolites in vivo of urine is far more than that of blood, which may indicate that the chlorogenic acid dimer can be fully absorbed and decomposed through the gastro-intestinal digestion and metabolism. Thus, GPM could be used as a functional food ingredient for antioxidant enhancement to promote the economic value. The research also provides theoretical data for the intensive processing and utilization of GPM, as well as for the relative research on digestion and metabolism of edible plants.

Comprehensive metabolite profiling of Solanum tuberosum L. (potato) leaves by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS

The objective of this work was to study the non-targeted metabolite profiling of potato leaves using high performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS). The mass accuracy, true isotopic pattern in both MS and MS/MS spectra provided by QTOF-MS made possible the tentative identification of 109 compounds present in potato leaves, including organic acids, amino acids and derivatives, phenolic acids, flavonoids, iridoids, oxylipins and other polar and semi-polar compounds. Among them, 32 compounds have been found for the first time in potato leaf and in the Solanaceae family. Quinic acid and its derivatives represented more than 45% of the bioactive compounds quantified in the extract. Derivatives of hydroxybenzoic acid and gentisic acid were also founded at considerable concentrations. This study shed light on the composition of potato leaf extract and will serve as a base for further research into activities of the various compounds found in this matrix which has demonstrated a potential use as functional ingredients.

Phytochemical analysis and botanical origin of Apis mellifera bee pollen from the municipality of Canavieiras, Bahia State, Brazil

Abstract An Apis mellifera bee pollen sample from Bahia state in Brazil was studied to evaluate its botanical origin and phytochemical composition. The bee pollen sample was collected in the municipality of Canavieiras, in an area with a very high predominance of Cocos nucifera L (Aracaceae), which was identified as the major taxon (99%), thus being the possible botanical origin of this pollen. The main constituents found in the non-polar extract analysed by GC-EI-MS were saturated fatty acids and long chain esters, together with phytosterols such as ergosta-5,24(28)-dien-3-ol, campesterol and sitosterol, detected in smaller quantities. Flavonoid glycosides, as well as hydroxycinnamic acid amide derivatives were detected in the polar extract analysed by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. The presence of flavonoid glycosides, hydroxycinnamic acid amide derivatives, fatty acids and phytosterols have been reported in many bee pollen taxa. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of the chemical composition of bee pollen from C. nucifera , which is cultivated for its coconut fruit.

Characterization of bioactive compounds of Annona cherimola L. leaves using a combined approach based on HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS and NMR

Annona cherimola Mill. (cherimoya) has widely been used as food crop. The leaves of this tree possess several health benefits, which are, in general, attributed mainly to its bioactive composition. However, literature concerning a comprehensive characterization based on a combined approach, which consists of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-TOF-MS), from these leaves is scarce. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the polar profile of full extracts of cherimoya leaves by using these tools. Thus, a total of 77 compounds have been characterized, 12 of which were identified by both techniques. Briefly, 23 compounds were classified as amino acids, organic acids, carbohydrates, cholines, phenolic acid derivatives, and flavonoids by NMR, while 66 metabolites were divided into sugars, amino acids, phenolic acids and derivatives, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and other polar compounds by HPLC-TOF-MS. It is worth mentioning that different solvent mixtures were tested and the total phenolic content in the extracts quantified (TPC via HPLC-TOF-MS). The tendency observed was EtOH/water 80/20 (v/v) (17.0 ± 0.2 mg TPC/g leaf dry weight (d.w.)) ≥ acetone/water 70/30 (v/v) (16.1 ± 0.7 mg TPC/g leaf d.w.) > EtOH/water 70/30 (v/v) (14.0 ± 0.3 mg TPC/g leaf d.w.) > acetone/water 80/20 (v/v) (13.5 ± 0.4 mg TPC/g leaf d.w.). Importantly, flavonoids derivatives were between 63 and 76% of the TPC in those extracts. Major compounds were sucrose, glucose (α and β), and proline, and chlorogenic acid and rutin for NMR and HPLC-TOF-MS, respectively. Graphical abstract The combined use of LC-HRMS and NMR is a potential synergic combination for a comprehensive metabolite composition of cherimoya leaves.

Applications for Marine Resources in Cosmetics

Marine resources represent an interesting source of active ingredients for the cosmetics industry. Algae (macro and micro) are rich in proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins (A, B, and C) and oligo-elements such as copper, iron and zinc. All those active principles play roles in hydration, firming, slimming, shine and protection. Marine organisms inhabit a wide spectrum of habitats. Photo-protective compounds can be obtained from organisms subjected to strong light radiation, such as in tropical systems or in shallow water. In the same way, molecules with antioxidant potential can be obtained from microorganisms inhabiting extreme systems such as hydrothermal vents. For example, marine bacteria collected around deep-sea hydrothermal vents produce complex and innovative polysaccharides in the laboratory which are useful in cosmetics. There are many properties that will be put forward by the cosmetic industries.

A new cineol derivative, polyphenols and norterpenoids from Saharan myrtle tea (Myrtus nivellei): Isolation, structure determination, quantitative determination and antioxidant activity

The phytochemical profile of decoction and infusion, obtained from the dried leaves of M. nivellei, consumed as tea in Saharan region, was characterized by UHPLC-PDA-HRMS. Fourteen compounds were characterized and, to confirm the proposed structures a preparative procedure followed by NMR spectroscopy was applied. Compound 3 (2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole disaccharide) was a never reported whereas a bicyclic monoterpenoid glucoside (2), two ionol glucosides (1 and 12), a tri-galloylquinic acid (4), two flavonol glycosides (5 and 9), and a tetra-galloylglucose (7), were reported in Myrtus spp. for the first time. Five flavonol O-glycosides (6, 8, 10-11, and 14) togheter a flavonol (13) were also identified. Quantitative determination of phenolic constituents from decoction and infusion has been performed by HPLC-UV-PDA. The phenolic content was found to be 150.5 and 102.6mg/g in decoction and infusion corresponding to 73.8 and 23.6mg/100mL of a single tea cup, respectively. Myricetin 3-O-β-d-(6″-galloyl)glucopyranoside (5), isomyricitrin (6) and myricitrin (8) were the compounds present in the highest concentration. The free-radical scavenging activities of teas and isolated compounds was measured by the DPPH assay and compared with the values of other commonly used herbal teas (green and black teas). Decoction displayed higher potency in scavenging free-radicals than the infusion and green and black teas.

Characterisation and Antioxidant Activity of Crude Extract and Polyphenolic Rich Fractions from C. incanus Leaves

Cistus incanus (Cistaceae) is a Mediterranean evergreen shrub. Cistus incanus herbal teas have been used as a general remedy in traditional medicine since ancient times. Recent studies on the antioxidant properties of its aqueous extracts have indicated polyphenols to be the most active compounds. However, a whole chemical characterisation of polyphenolic compounds in leaves of Cistus incanus (C. incanus) is still lacking. Moreover, limited data is available on the contribution of different polyphenolic compounds towards the total antioxidant capacity of its extracts. The purpose of this study was to characterise the major polyphenolic compounds present in a crude ethanolic leaf extract (CEE) of C. incanus and develop a method for their fractionation. Superoxide anion, hydroxyl and DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assays were also performed to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the obtained fractions. Three different polyphenolic enriched extracts, namely EAC (Ethyl Acetate Fraction), AF1 and AF2 (Aqueos Fractions), were obtained from CEE. Our results indicated that the EAC, enriched in flavonols, exhibited a higher antiradical activity compared to the tannin enriched fractions (AF1 and AF2). These findings provide new perspectives for the use of the EAC as a source of antioxidant compounds with potential uses in pharmaceutical preparations.

Interactions Between Nutrition and Infections With Haemonchus contortus and Related Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Small Ruminants

Interactions between host nutrition and feeding behaviour are central to understanding the pathophysiological consequences of infections of the digestive tract with parasitic nematodes. The manipulation of host nutrition provides useful options to control gastrointestinal nematodes as a component of an integrated strategy. Focussed mainly on the Haemonchus contortus infection model in small ruminants, this chapter (1) illustrates the relationship between quantitative (macro- and micro-nutrients) and qualitative (plant secondary metabolites) aspects of host nutrition and nematode infection, and (2) shows how basic studies aimed at addressing some generic questions can help to provide solutions, despite the considerable diversity of epidemiological situations and breeding systems.

Hepatoprotective and antidiabetic effects of Pistacia lentiscus leaf and fruit extracts

Pistacia lentiscus (Anacardiaceae) is commonly used in folk medicine to treat various diseases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of extracts of P. lentiscus leaves (PL) and fruits (PF) against experimentally induced liver damage. Furthermore, characterization of extracts was attempted by a spectroscopic methodology (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection analysis. A hepatoprotective potential against paracetamol [165 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)] toxicity was noticed in mice pretreated with the same dose of PL or PF extract (125 mg/kg b.w.) or a combination of both (PL/PF 63/63 mg/kg b.w.), as revealed by an analysis of biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities and total bilirubin). These results were confirmed by histological examination of the liver, which revealed significant protection against paracetamol-induced hepatic necrosis. Furthermore, PF extract exhibited a promising antidiabetic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, similar to the reference drug glibenclamide (0.91 g/L), a result confirmed by in vitro inhibition of α-amylase. We demonstrated that the leaf crude extract showed the best effect in all tested methods, compared to its fruit counterpart, probably due to the presence of higher amounts of phenolic compounds, as determined by phytochemical and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. Moreover, high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection led to the identification of six compounds for each part of the plant. Gallic acid, a characteristic compound of Pistacia species, was most abundant in leaves and fruits, while luteolin was detected for the first time in fruits. Obtained activities of P. lentiscus extracts may well be due, at least in part, to the presence of the above compounds.

Seasonal variation and gender pattern of phenolic and flavonoid contents in Pistacia chinensis Bunge inflorescences and leaves

Pistacia chinensis Bunge (P. chinensis) is a deciduous and dioecious perennial arbor of the family Anacardiaceae that flowers from March to April and bears fruit from September to October. There are three rapidly growing stages in the annual growth process of P. chinensis. However, the knowledge of the secondary metabolites related to P. chinensis gender and growth season remains scant. In this study, HPLC was used to qualitatively and quantitatively determine the content of the catechin hydrate, rutin, quercetin, and kaempferol contents in male and female tree inflorescences and leaves. Total phenolics and flavonoids were also detected using a spectrophotometer. The results indicated that the contents of these compounds fluctuated with seasons and they reached the highest levels in nascent leaves. The fluctuations of these compounds followed different pathways of evolution, by increasing or decreasing in male and female trees throughout the whole growth process because they had their own biological functions. Moreover, the extracts exhibited DPPH radical scavenging bioactivity and showed no significant cytotoxicity towards 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Together, these results demonstrated that P. chinensis has great potential as an antioxidant medicine, and the best harvest time is in the spring.

Pattern of Variation of Fruit Traits and Phenol Content in Olive Fruits from Six Different Cultivars

In the present study, olive fruits from six cultivars grown under similar agronomical and environmental conditions were collected at four different times during fruit ripening. Some agronomical traits were determined, and general increases in the size of the fruit and oil contents were recorded for all cultivars. The phenolic fraction in fruits was also identified and quantified during the same period using high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry. Thus, a total of 57 phenolic compounds were determined, and qualitative and quantitative differences among cultivars and also among sampling times were observed. In contrast to the agronomical traits, a general decrease of total phenolic compounds was observed, characterized by a domination of secoiridoids at the beginning of ripening and by a domination of simple phenols and flavonoids in the end. This is the first time that four of the six cultivars have been studied regarding phenolic compounds evolution during ripening.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Effects of Pistacia lentiscus L. Extracts in Pork Sausages

Pistacia lentiscus fruits are ingredients of traditional Cypriot sausages. The objective of this study is to evaluate P. lentiscus extracts as natural additives to the sausages. First, the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of fruit and leaf extracts were determined. Results revealed that leaves are richer source of polyphenolic antioxidants than fruits, with methanol being the better extraction solvent. In the next step, the antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of methanolic extracts (300 mg/kg) in the pork sausage formulation were investigated. Peroxide, acid and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance values demonstrated that both fruit and leaf extracts reduced the rate of lipid oxidation of sausages at 4 °C. Total viable count revealed significant differences on the fifth day of storage, with better microbial inhibition by leaf extract. No significant differences between the extracts were observed after the tenth day of storage. Overall, the extracts can be used to prevent lipid oxidation and reduce microbial spoilage during the first days of storage of fresh traditional pork sausages.