The antioxidant activity of aqueous spinach extract: chemical identification of active fractions

Structural elucidation, binding sites exploration and biological activities of bound phenolics from Radix Puerariae Thomsonii

Radix puerariae thomsonii (RPT) contains many phenolics and exhibits various health benefits. Although the free phenolics in RPT have been identified, the composition and content of bound phenolics, which account for approximately 20% of the total phenolic content, remain unknown. In this study, 12 compounds were isolated and identified from RPT-bound phenolic extracts, of which 2 were novel and 6 were reported first in RPT. ORAC and PSC antioxidant activities of 12 compounds, as well as their effects on alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), α-glucosidase, and α-amylase were evaluated. Genistein exhibited the highest ORAC activity, while daidzin demonstrated superior PSC activity. Five compounds, including two new compounds, exhibited the ability to activate both ADH and ALDH. All the compounds except 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid methyl ester and 2,4,4'-trihydroxydeoxybenzoin demonstrated inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and α-amylase. Alkaline hydrolysis and stepwise enzymatic hydrolysis revealed that bound phenolics in RPT mainly exist within starch.

Accelerated wound healing induced by spinach extract in experimental model diabetic rats with streptozotocin

Patients with diabetes often have difficult-to-heal wounds. Spinacia oleracea extract comprises anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative compounds; this research, therefore, studied the impact of Spinacia oleracea extracts on ulcer regeneration. This study was conducted on 72 adult Wistar rats (200 [Formula: see text] 20 g). They were randomly divided into six groups of twelve. A: Diabetic group receiving normal saline. B: Non-diabetic group receiving normal saline. C: Diabetic group receiving spinach aqueous extract. D: Diabetic group receiving spinach alcoholic extract. E: preventive group that received aqueous extract for 2 months. F: preventive group that received alcoholic extract for 2 months. Ulcer regeneration, vascular endothelium growth factor, blood sugar, and weight changes were measured on days 3, 7, 14, 21, and 30. Macroscopic investigation of the wounds non-diabetic control group, diabetic group, as well as spinach aqueous and alcoholic extract groups, were compared and there were significant changes (P < 0.05). Pathologic examination in the spinach aqueous and alcoholic extract groups, and nondiabetic group than in the diabetic group revealed significant advances (P <  0.05). On the third and seventh days, Vascular endothelium growth factor detected significant differences between groups (P < 0.05). Results indicate that, in regenerating diabetic ulcers, Spinacia oleracea may be effective. It influences the ulcer structure and speed.

Antioxidant Capacity of Polar and Non-Polar Extracts of Four African Green Leafy Vegetables and Correlation with Polyphenol and Carotenoid Contents

In sub-Saharan Africa, chronic malnutrition is often associated with intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress. African green leafy vegetables (GLVs), commonly consumed by these populations and rich in bioactive compounds, may improve the antioxidant status. The aim of this study was to measure the antioxidant capacity using complementary assays (DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, ORAC and NO scavenging) in polar and non-polar leaf extracts of four African GLVs, cassava (Manihot esculenta), roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), jute mallow (Corchorus olitorius), and amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), with spinach (Spinacia oleracea) chosen as a reference. Their antioxidant capacity was correlated with their total polyphenol (TPC), flavonoid (TFC), condensed tannin, lutein, and β-carotene contents. Identification of phenolic compounds by UHPLC-DAD-MS/MS revealed the presence of three main classes of compound: flavonols, flavones, and hydroxycinnamic acids. Cassava and roselle leaves presented significantly higher TPC and TFC than amaranth, jute mallow, and spinach. They also exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity, even higher than that of spinach, which is known for its important antioxidant effect. The antioxidant capacity was 2 to 18 times higher in polar than non-polar extracts, and was more strongly correlated with TPC and TFC (R > 0.8) than with β-carotene and lutein contents. These findings provide new data especially for cassava and roselle leaves, for which studies are scarce, suggesting an appreciable antioxidant capacity compared with other leafy vegetables.

Solarplast®-An Enzymatically Treated Spinach Extract

In the modern world we are constantly bombarded by environmental and natural stimuli that can result in oxidative stress. Antioxidant molecules and enzymes help the human body scavenge reactive oxygen species and prevent oxidative damage. Most organisms possess intrinsic antioxidant activity, but also benefit from the consumption of antioxidants from their diet. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach are a well-researched rich source of dietary antioxidant molecules. However, plant cell walls are difficult to digest for many individuals and the bio-accessibility of nutrients and antioxidants from these sources can be limited by the degree of digestion and assimilation. Through a specific enzymatic process, Solarplast^® contains organic spinach protoplasts without the cell wall, which may facilitate higher yield and efficacy of beneficial antioxidant molecules. In this study, analytical techniques coupled to in vitro bioassays were used to determine the potential antioxidant activity of Solarplast^® and determine its antioxidant enzymatic capabilities. Solarplast^® demonstrated superior antioxidant activity when compared to frozen spinach leaves in TOC, FRAP and TEAC antioxidant assays. Several antioxidant enzymes were also increased in Solarplast^®, when compared to frozen spinach. As a functional readout, Solarplast^® attenuated hydrogen peroxide-, ethanol- and acetaminophen-induced increases in oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in both intestinal (HT-29) and liver (HepG2) cell lines. These findings suggest that Solarplast^® may represent a non-GMO, plant-based food supplement to help reduce oxidative stress in the human body.

New Hydrolyzable Tannin with Potent Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity from Black Tea Produced from Camellia taliensis

Camellia taliensis (W. W. Smith) Melchior, belonging to the genus Camellia sect. Thea., is mainly distributed from northern Myanmar to western and southwestern Yunnan province of China, and its leaves have been used to make various teas by the locals of its growing regions. The chemical constituents of C. taliensis are significantly related to those of cultivated tea plants, C. sinensis and C. sinensis var. assamica. The HPLC-ESI-MS analysis of black tea prepared from the leaves of C. taliensis showed a rich existence of polyphenols. Further comprehensive chemical study led to the separation and recognition of 32 compounds (1-32), including one new hydrolyzable tannin, 1-O-galloyl-4,6-tetrahydroxydibenzofurandicarboxyl-β-D-glucopyranose (1), and one new natural product (24). The known compounds referred to seven hydrolyzable tannins (2-8), 10 flavonols and glycosides (9-18), and 14 simple phenolics (19-32). Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses. Among them, 20 compounds (2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 15, 17, 18, 20-22, 24-32) were isolated from black tea for the first time. Most isolates displayed obvious antioxidant activities on DPPH and ABTS⁺ assays, and the hydrolyzable tannins 1, 3-5, 7, and 8 exhibited stronger inhibitory activities on α-glycosidase than quercetin and acarbose (IC₅₀ = 5.75 and 223.30 μM, respectively), with IC₅₀ values ranging from 0.67 to 2.01 μM.

Levels of nitrate, nitrite and nitrosamines in model sausages during heat treatment and in vitro digestion - The impact of adding nitrite and spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)

Nitrite derivatives react with endogenous precursors forming N-nitrosamines associated with development of colorectal cancer. The present study aims to investigate the formation of N-nitrosamines in sausage during processing and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion after adding sodium nitrite and/or spinach emulsion. The INFOGEST digestion protocol was used to simulate the oral, gastric, and small intestinal phases of digestion, and sodium nitrite was added in the oral phase to mimic the input of nitrite from saliva as it has shown to affect the endogenous formation of N-nitrosamines. The results show that the addition of spinach emulsion, in spite of it being a source of nitrate, did not affect the nitrite content in either batter, sausage, or roasted sausage. The levels of N-nitrosamines increased with the added amount of sodium nitrite, and further formation of some volatile N-nitrosamines was observed during roasting and in vitro digestion. In general, N-nitrosamine levels in the intestinal phase followed the same trend as in the undigested products. The results further indicate that nitrite present in saliva may cause a significant increase in N-nitrosamine levels in the gastrointestinal tract and that bioactive components in spinach may protect against the formation of volatile N-nitrosamines both during roasting and digestion.

Functional foods and their impact on health

Functional foods play an important role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk factors of various diseases. Most foods have a functional element which is responsible for improving the healthy state. All food substances such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish, dairy contain functional ingredients. A wide range of naturally occurring substances from plant and animal sources having active components which play a role in physiological actions deserve attention for their optimal use in maintaining health. The market for functional food is keep on expanding, and the global market is projected to reach a value of at least 91 billion USD soon. Overwhelming evidence from preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and clinical studies have shown that intake of functional foods could have an impact on the prevention of chronic diseases, especially cancer, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal tract disorders and neurological diseases. Extensive research needs to be done to determine the potential health benefits for the proper application of these foods to improve health state and combat chronic disease progression. The aim of this review is to conduct a thorough literature survey, to understand the various classification of functional foods and their health benefits.

Maizediterpene D from the roots of Zea mays L. alleviates hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative stress and improves cell survival by activation of TrkB/IGF-1R crosstalk pathways

The ent-kaurane diterpenoid enriched fraction (EDEF) of maize root was isolated and purified, and 10 compounds, including 4 ent-kaurane diterpenoids, were isolated and identified. We evaluated their neuroprotective properties in vitro for the first time using an H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage model in SH-SY5Y cells. The results showed that pretreatment with maizediterpene D, a new ent-kaurane diterpenoid isolated from the EDEF, significantly attenuated H₂O₂-induced apoptosis by improving cell survival, reducing ROS production and increasing mitochondrial membrane potential. Mechanistically, the neuroprotective effect of maizediterpene D was confirmed to be related to the dual activation of IGF-1R and BDNF/TrkB crosstalk pathways. Our findings suggest that the EDEF and its active constituent maizediterpene D had good neuroprotective properties and could serve as potential candidates for the development of therapeutic drugs for oxidative stress-related diseases.

Phenolic Acids - Versatile Natural Moiety With Numerous Biological Applications

BACKGROUND

Medicinal uses of natural phenolic acids and its synthetic derivatives have been augmented in recent years. Phenolic acids are chemically defined secondary plant metabolitesand being moieties or leads are much versatile in nature with a widescope of biological activities which seek the attention of researchers across the worldto synthesize different derivatives of phenolic acids and screen them for their various biological properties.These compounds are of meticulous interest due to the properties they possess and their occurrence.Based on the convincing evidences reported in the literature, it is suggested that phenolic acids andtheir derivatives are promising molecules as a drug.

OBJECTIVE

The present review article aims to bring together the information on the biosynthesis, metabolism, and sources of phenolic acids and emphasize on the therapeutic potential of phenolic acid and its synthetic derivatives to comprehensively portray the current scenery for researchers interested in designing drugs for furthering this study.

CONCLUSION

Phenolic acids being moieties or lead are much versatile in nature as they possess a wide range of biological activities like antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer and many more which offers researchers to explore more about these or many untapped benefits in medicinal field. The information mentioned in this article will be helpful to the forthcoming researchers working in this area. Phenolic acids have massive potential to be investigated for novel medicinal possibilities and for the development of new chemical moieties to treat different diseases of clinical importance.

Silicon fertilization counteracts salinity-induced damages associated with changes in physio-biochemical modulations in spinach

Plant growth and productivity are limited by the severe impact of salt stress on the fundamental physiological processes. Silicon (Si) supplementation is one of the promising techniques to improve the resilience of plants under salt stress. This study deals with the response of exogenous Si applications (0, 2, 4, and 6 mM) on growth, gaseous exchange, ion homeostasis and antioxidant enzyme activities in spinach grown under saline conditions (150 mM NaCl). Salinity stress markedly reduced the growth, physiological, biochemical, water availability, photosynthesis, enzymatic antioxidants, and ionic status in spinach leaves. Salt stress significantly enhanced leaf Na⁺ contents in spinach plants. Supplementary foliar application of Si (4 mM) alleviated salt toxicity, by modulating the physiological and photosynthetic attributes and decreasing electrolyte leakage, and activities of SOD, POD and CAT. Moreover, Si-induced mitigation of salt stress was due to the depreciation in Na⁺/K⁺ ratio, Na⁺ ion uptake at the surface of spinach roots, and translocation in plant tissues, thereby reducing the Na⁺ ion accumulation. Foliar applied Si (4 mM) ameliorates ionic toxicity by decreasing Na⁺ uptake. Overall, the results illustrate that foliar applied Si induced resistance against salinity stress in spinach by regulating the physiology, antioxidant metabolism, and ionic homeostasis. We advocate that exogenous Si supplementation is a practical approach that will allow spinach plants to recover from salt toxicity.

Development, characterization, and clinical investigation of Spinacia oleracea based ultra-high pressure homogenized emulsion system for facial physiological parameters

BACKGROUND

Spinacia oleracea (SO) exhibits radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibition activity indicating potential as a depigmenting agent.

AIMS

To develop and characterize a stable emulsified system containing SO extract through ultra-high pressure homogenization, evaluate skin permeability, and enumerate in-vivo performance in terms of melanin index, skin spots analysis, and related skin physiological parameters.

METHOD

Free radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibition potential of SO extract was quantified through DPPH radical scavenging and mushroom tyrosinase inhibition assay respectively. 6 SO extract loaded ultra-high pressure emulsified systems (UHSO) were developed using ultra-high pressure homogenizer and assessed for size and polydispersity index (PDI). Among the prepared formulations the optimized formulation (UHSO6) was subjected to 90 days stability studies performed at 8 ºC, 25 ºC, 40 ºC, and 40 ºC+75% RH (relative humidity) for organoleptic features, pH, and rheology. Ex-vivo skin permeability studies were performed on abdominal skin from male albino rat. Changes in skin physiological parameters were evaluated in healthy female volunteers (n=13) for 12 weeks utilizing mexameter®, corneometer® and sebumeter®. Skin spots were analyzed through computerized analysis of high-resolution images by visioFace®.

RESULTS

SO extract exhibited promising antioxidant (88±0.0096%) and tyrosinase inhibition potential (90.6±0.0015 mg of Kojic Acid Eq/g of extract). Optimized UHSO was found to be stable with respect to stability evaluation, globule size (1110 nm), zeta potential (-27.6), and PDI (0.34). Ex-vivo skin permeation of UHSO was significantly higher than SO loaded coarse emulsion. Moreover, the formulation showed a significant decrease in skin melanin, spot count, and spot % area, whereas skin hydration index was improved significantly.

CONCLUSION

Stable SO extract loaded emulsion system was successfully developed by a novel, cost-effective technique of ultra-high pressure homogenization which showed improved performance in terms of skin permeation and other skin physiological parameters.

Comparison in Content of Total Polyphenol, Flavonoid, and Antioxidant Capacity from Different Organs and Extruded Condition of Moringa oleifera Lam

Recently, interest in exploring phytochemicals with health benefits has grown significantly. In this research, we aimed to develop the processing profile and functionality of Moringa oleifera Lam. Here, we implemented biopolymer-mediated extrudate formulations of M. oleifera (leaves, seed, and husk) in order to enhance the phenolic, flavonoid, and antioxidant capacity. The formulation-1 (F1) was prepared for leaves, seed, and husk using biopolymers (10% w/w), namely: whey protein isolate (10% w/w) and lecithin (5% w/w) with vitamin E (2% w/w). The formulation-2 (F2) was composed of lecithin (5% w/w) with ascorbyl palmitate (10% w/w) and vitamin E (2% w/w), processed by hot-melt extrusion (HME). It was observed that the total phenol and flavonoid contents were persistent in the lecithin-mediated F2 formulation of leaves, seed, and husk. Likewise, antioxidant capacity was significantly stayed in the F2 formulation of all organs, compared to the extrudate and control. The IC50 values revealed that the leaves of the F2 formulation showed strong free radical scavenging capacity compared to the F2 formulation of seed and husk. It was concluded that the F2 formulation could be used in the different parts of M. oleifera processing to boost functionality.

Administration of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach improves oxidative stress and inflammation in high-fat diet-induced NAFLD rats

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach (HES) on hepatic and serum measurements of NAFLD in a rat model.

Methods

In the prevention phase, 18 Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, or a chow diet for seven weeks. For the treatment phase, after the induction of NAFLD, they were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, a chow diet, or a chow diet plus 400 mg/kg HES for four weeks (n = 6).

Results

Administration of HES combined with high-fat diet in rats was associated with decreased food intake (P < 0.01), weight loss (P = 0.01), and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P = 0.02) enzyme activity in the liver, at the end of the prevention phase. hs-CRP (P < 0.05), PTX-3 (P < 0.05), and TNF-α (P < 0.05) gene expression in the liver were decreased and PPAR-γ (P < 0.05) gene expression in the liver was increased by spinach intake, both in the prevention and treatment phases. Furthermore, administration of spinach in the treatment phase increased serum TAC (P = 0.03) and hepatic GPX (P = 0.01) enzyme activity.

Conclusion

Taking into account the potential beneficial effects of HES on prevention and treatment of NAFLD in the present study, to confirm these findings, we propose that further clinical trials be conducted on human subjects with NAFLD.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03396-x.

Spinach Methanolic Extract Attenuates the Retinal Degeneration in Diabetic Rats

It has been suggested that spinach methanolic extract (SME) inhibits the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are increased during diabetes progression, so it is important to know if SME has beneficial effects in the diabetic retina. In this study, in vitro assays showed that SME inhibits glycation, carbonyl groups formation, and reduced-thiol groups depletion in bovine serum albumin incubated either reducing sugars or methylglyoxal. The SME effect in retinas of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ) was also studied (n = 10) in the normoglycemic group, STZ, STZ rats treated with SME, and STZ rats treated with aminoguanidine (anti-AGEs reference group) during 12 weeks. The retina was sectioned and immunostained for Nε-carboxymethyl lysine (CML), receptor RAGE, NADPH-Nox4, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), 3-nitrotyrosine (NT), nuclear NF-κB, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), S100B protein, and TUNEL assay. Lipid peroxidation was determined in the whole retina by malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The results showed that in the diabetic retina, SME reduced the CML-RAGE co-localization, oxidative stress (NOX4, iNOS, NT, MDA), inflammation (NF-κB, VEGF, S100B, GFAP), and apoptosis (p < 0.05). Therefore, SME could attenuate the retinal degeneration by inhibition of CML-RAGE interaction.

Biological Effect of Different Spinach Extracts in Comparison with the Individual Components of the Phytocomplex

The Mediterranean-style diet is rich in fruit and vegetables and has a great impact on the prevention of major chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In this work we investigated the ability of spinach extracts obtained by different extraction methods and of the single main components of the phytocomplex, alone or mixed, to modulate proliferation, antioxidant defense, and genotoxicity of HT29 human colorectal cells. Spinach extracts show dose-dependent activity, increasing the level of intracellular endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) when tested at higher doses. In the presence of oxidative stress, the activity is related to the oxidizing agent involved (H₂O₂ or menadione) and by the extraction method. The single components of the phytocomplex, alone or mixed, do not alter the intracellular endogenous level of ROS but again, in the presence of an oxidative insult, the modulation of antioxidant defense depends on the oxidizing agent used. The application of the phytocomplex extracts seem to be more effective than the application of the single phytocomplex components.

Neuroprotective Effect of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis' Water Extract on Trimethyltin-Induced Seizures and Hippocampal Neurodegeneration

This study aimed to investigate whether the Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (PB)’ water extract (PBWE) ameliorates trimethyltin (TMT)-induced seizures and hippocampal neurodegeneration. To investigate the potential neuroprotective effect of the PBWE in vitro, a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay was conducted in TMT-treated primary cultures of mouse hippocampal neurons. In TMT-treated adult C57BL/6 mice, behavioral and histopathological changes were evaluated by seizure scoring and Fluoro-Jade C staining, respectively. In our in vitro assay, we observed that pretreating mice hippocampal neuron cultures with the PBWE reduced TMT-induced cytotoxicity, as indicated by the decreased LDH release. Furthermore, pretreatment with the PBWE alleviated seizures and hippocampal neurodegeneration in TMT-treated mice. The antioxidant activity of the PBWE increased in a dose-dependent manner; moreover, pretreatment with the PBWE mitigated the TMT-induced Nrf2 stimulation. In addition, six major compounds, including adenine, hypoxanthine, uridine, adenosine, inosine, and benzoic acid, were isolated from the PBWE, and among them, inosine and benzoic acid have been confirmed to have an essential antioxidative activity. In conclusion, the PBWE ameliorated TMT-induced toxicity in hippocampal neurons in both in vitro and in vivo assays, through a potential antioxidative effect. Our findings suggest that the PBWE may have pharmacotherapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases such as seizures or epilepsy.

Effects of nano-enabled agricultural strategies on food quality: Current knowledge and future research needs

It is becoming more feasible to use nano-enabled agricultural products such as nanofertilizers and nanopesticides to improve the efficiency of agrochemical delivery to crop plants. Experimental results have shown that nano-agrochemicals have great potential for reducing the environmental impact of traditional agrochemicals while simultaneously significantly increasing crop production. However, emerging data suggest that nano-enabled products are not only capable of increasing yield, but also result in alterations in crop quality. Variation in proteins, sugars, starch content, as well as in metallic essential elements have been reported. Verbi gratia, albumin, globulin, and prolamin have been significantly increased in rice exposed to CeO₂ engineered nanoparticles (ENPs), while CeO₂, CuO, and ZnO ENPs have increased Ca, Mg, and P in several crops. Conversely, reductions in Mo and Ni have been reported in cucumber and kidney beans exposed to CeO₂ and ZnO engineered nanomaterials, respectively. However, reports on specific effects in human health due to the consumption of agricultural products obtained from plants exposed to nano-agrochemicals are still missing.

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) Leaves and Seed as a Potential Source of the Bioactive Compounds: Effects of Various Extraction Solvents on Biological Properties

Hibiscus cannabinus (Kenaf) is a potential source of bioactive constituents and natural antioxidant. The current study determined the impact of various solvents on extraction yield, recovery of polyphenol and flavonoid, antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial properties of Kenaf leaves and seed. The powder of leaves and seed was separately extracted with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water solvent. Among them, the ethanol extract of leaves and seed showed the highest extraction yield, and their GC-MS analysis revealed a total of 55 and 14 bioactive compounds, respectively. The total polyphenols (TP) and flavonoids (TF) content were quantified by a spectrophotometric technique where water extracts displayed a noteworthy amount of TP and TF content compared to other extracts. A similar demonstration was noticed in antioxidant activity, evaluated by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging capacity. In addition, cytotoxicity and anti-lung cancer activity were identified against mouse embryonic fibroblast (NIH3T3) and human lung cancer (A549) cells. All extracts of leaves and seed were observed as non-toxic to the NIH3T3 cells, but slight toxicity was expressed by n-hexane extracts at the optimum dose (1000 µg/mL) of treatment. In parallel, n-hexane and ethanol extracts (leaves and seed) exposed promising anti-lung cancer activity at the same concentration. Furthermore, antibacterial activity was assessed using disc diffusion assay, and seed extracts exhibited a significant inhibition zone against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. Overall, Kenaf seed extracted with polar solvents was found very potent in terms of important bioactive compounds and pharmacological aspects, which can be an excellent biological matrix of natural antioxidants.

Consumption of Spinacia Oleracea (spinach) and aerobic exercise controls obesity in rats by an inhibitory action on pancreatic lipase

Context: Spinaciaoleracea (spinach) is abundant in antioxidant phytoconstituents, termed as the natural antioxidant mixture (NAO).Objective: This study evaluates the anti-hyperlipidemicand anti-obesity effects of an antioxidant-rich extract of Spinaciaoleracea (NAOE) and aerobic exercise (AE) in rats fed with high fat diet (HFD).Methods: Rats received NAOE (200 and 400 mg/kg), the standard drug orlistat (10 mg/kg), AE and NAOEAE (NAOE 400 mg/kg + AE) daily with HFD for 21 d.Results: Orlistat, NAOE and NAOEAE treatments to HFD-fed rats significantly reduced the HFD-elevated food intake, weight gain, pancreatic lipase activity and lipid peroxidation, and successfully restored the HFD-skewed lipid profile and antioxidant levels.Conclusions: It may be concluded that NAOE exhibited a promising anti-hyperlipidemic effect by its inhibitory action on pancreatic lipase. The combination treatment NAOEAE produced the best results indicating the essential role of exercise along with consumption of antioxidant-rich foods in maintaining a normal lipid profile and controlling obesity.

The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of spinach on prevention and treatment of some metabolic and histologic features in a rat model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of spinach (HES) on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In the prevention phase, 18 Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg kg^-1 HES, or a chow diet for 7 weeks. For the treatment phase, after the induction of NAFLD, they were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg kg^-1 HES, a chow diet, or chow diet plus 400 mg kg^-1 HES for 4 weeks (n = 6).

RESULTS

Weight gain (P = 0.01), food intake (P < 0.01), serum glucose (P = 0.01), triglyceride (TG) (P = 0.02), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (P = 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (P = 0.02), liver steatosis, and the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score (NAS) (P < 0.01) in the high-fat group were statistically higher than in the other groups at the end of the prevention phase. Feeding spinach extract to rats on a high-fat diet decreased serum glucose (P = 0.01), total cholesterol (TCh) (P < 0.01), AST (P = 0.01), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P < 0.01), and liver steatosis (P < 0.01) in the treatment phase.

CONCLUSION

Overall, spinach extract showed beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Tree Fern Cyathea lepifera May Survive by Its Phytotoxic Property

Cyatheaceae (tree ferns) appeared during the Jurassic period and some of the species still remain. Those species may have some morphological and/or physiological characteristics for survival. A tree fern was observed to suppress the growth of other ligneous plants in a tropical forest. It was assumed that the fern may release toxic substances into the forest floor, but those toxic substances have not yet been identified. Therefore, we investigated the phytotoxicity and phytotoxic substances of Cyathea lepifera (J. Sm. ex Hook.) Copel. An aqueous methanol extract of C. lepifera fronds inhibited the growth of roots and shoots of dicotyledonous garden cress (Lepidum sativum L.), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), and monocotyledonous ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), timothy (Phleum pratense L.), and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.). The results suggest that C. lepifera fronds may have phytotoxicity and contain some phytotoxic substances. The extract was purified through several chromatographic steps during which inhibitory activity was monitored, and p-coumaric acid and (-)-3-hydroxy-β-ionone were isolated. Those compounds showed phytotoxic activity and may contribute to the phytotoxic effects caused by the C. lepifera fronds. The fronds fall and accumulate on the forest floor through defoliation, and the compounds may be released into the forest soils through the decomposition process of the fronds. The phytotoxic activities of the compounds may be partly responsible for the fern's survival.

Chlorophyll and Chlorophyll Derivatives Interfere with Multi-Drug Resistant Cancer Cells and Bacteria

Multidrug resistance (MDR) causes challenging tasks in medicine. Human cancer cells, as well as microorganisms, can acquire multiresistance due to the up-regulation of efflux pumps (ABC transporters) and are difficult to treat. Here, we evaluated the effects of chlorophyll, the most abundant pigment on the globe, and its derivative, pheophytin, on cancer cells and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). We found that both substances have significant reversal effects on multidrug-resistant CEM/ADR5000 cells (RR_pheophytin = 3.13, combination index (CI)_pheophytin = 0.438; RR_chlorophyll = 2.72, CI_chlorophyll < 0.407), but not on drug-sensitive CCRF-CEM cells when used in combination with doxorubicin. This indicates that the porphyrins could interact with efflux pumps. Strong synergism was also observed in antimicrobial tests against MRSA when combining ethidium bromide with chlorophyll (FICI = 0.08). As there is a strong need for new drugs in order to reliably treat MDR cells, our research provides potential candidates for further investigation.

Inula Viscosa Extract Inhibits Growth of Colorectal Cancer Cells in vitro and in vivo Through Induction of Apoptosis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in females and the third in males worldwide. Conventional therapy of CRC is limited by severe side effects and by the development of resistance. Therefore, additional therapies are needed in order to combat the problem of selectivity and drug resistance in CRC patients. Inula viscosa (IV) is a well-known medicinal perennial herb in traditional medicine. It is used for different therapeutic purposes, such as; topical anti-inflammatic, diuretic, hemostatic, antiseptic, antiphlogistic, and in the treatment of diabetes. Several studies attempted to reveal the anti-cancer activity of different extracts prepared by different organic solvents from different parts of the IV plant. The aim of the present study is to examine the potential beneficial effects of IV leaf aqueous extract on the growth of colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The results indicated that exposure of colorectal cancer cells to IV extract, significantly reduced cell viability in a dose and time dependent manner. Moreover, treatment of cells with 300 μg/ml of IV extract induced apoptosis, as it was detected by Annexin V/FITC/PI, TUNEL assay, and the activation of caspases. In vivo studies revealed that treatment with 150 or 300 mg/kg IV extract inhibited tumor growth in mice transplanted with MC38 cells. Tumors' weight and volume were significantly (P < 0.001) reduced when compared to untreated-control group. Staining of the paraffin section of tumors revealed that IV treatment inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. Additionally, no side effects such as; weight loss, behavior changes, ruffled fur or changes in kidney, and liver functions were observed. These results may indicate that active doses of IV extract are not toxic. Further studies are needed in order to identify the structure of the active compounds. Results from this study may contribute to the development of new and efficient strategies for treatment of human colon cancer.

Protective effect of lutein on spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

OBJECTIVES

Paraplegia is deterioration in motor or sensory function of the lower limbs that can occur after modification of a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. The purpose of this survey was to determine the protective action of lutein on spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-five male rats were distributed into five groups: intact, sham, dimethyl sulfoxide (I-R+DMSO), low dose lutein (I-R+0.2 mg/kg lutein), and high dose lutein (I-R + 0.4 mg/kg lutein). Thirty minutes before surgery, a single dose lutein or DMSO was administered to rats of experimental groups. Next, the abdominal aorta was clamped exactly under the left renal artery and proximal to the abdominal aortic bifurcation for 60 min. All animals were evaluated by neurological function and histological and biochemical examinations at 72 hr after I-R.

RESULTS

The mean motor deficit index (MDI) scores in lutein groups were lower compared with the DMSO group (P<0.001). Plasma level of malondialdehyde in lutein groups decreased compared with the DMSO group (P<0.05). Plasma level of total antioxidative capacity was increased in the high lutein group compared with low dose lutein and sham groups (P<0.05). Mean number of normal motor neurons in lutein groups was greater compared with the DMSO group (P<0.001). There was a significant negative correlation between MDI scores and the number of normal neurons (r= -0.764, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Findings of the present study demonstrate that lutein may support spinal cord neurons from I-R damage.

Oxygen Availability during Growth Modulates the Phytochemical Profile and the Chemo-Protective Properties of Spinach Juice

Fruits and vegetables are a good source of potentially biologically active compounds. Their regular consumption in the human diet can help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Plants produce additional chemical substances when subject to abiotic stress or infected by microorganisms. The phytochemical profile of spinach leaves (Spinacia oleracea L.), which is a vegetable with widely recognized health-promoting activity, has been affected by applying root hypoxic and re-oxygenation stress during plant growth. Leaf juice at different sampling times has been subject to liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MSn) analysis and tested on the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HT29 by using the Comet assay. The cells were previously treated with H₂O₂ to simulate the presence of an oxidative stress (as in colon cancer condition) and the leaf juice application resulted in a significant antioxidant and protective in vitro effect. The duration of the hypoxic/re-oxygenation stress imposed on the plant reflects the antioxidant leaf juice content. After hypoxic stress (24 h) and reoxygenation (2 h), we show a decrease (50%) of the relative abundance of the principal identified antioxidant molecules but a higher antioxidant activity of the spinach juice on HT29 cells (20%). Data shows a complex relation between plant growing conditions and the modulation of secondary metabolites content in leaf juice that results in different chemo-protective activities in colon cancer cells.

Ultrasound combined with manganese-oxide nanoparticles loaded on activated carbon for extraction and pre-concentration of thymol and carvacrol in methanolic extracts of Thymus daenensis, Salvia officinalis, Stachys pilifera, Satureja khuzistanica, and mentha, and water samples

A dispersive micro solid-phase extraction (DMSPE) technique was developed using manganese-oxide nanoparticles loaded on activated carbon (Mn₃O₄-NPs-AC) as an effective sorbent combined with ultrasound for the extraction and determination of a trace amount of thymol and carvacrol in methanolic extracts of Thymus daenensis, Salvia officinalis, Stachys pilifera, Satureja khuzistanica and mentha, and water samples.

Fabrication of a novel impedimetric biosensor for label free detection of DNA damage induced by doxorubicin

In this work, a novel impedimetric biosensor has been fabricated for detection of DNA damage induced by doxorubicin (DX). Cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR) is required for electron transfer from nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) to cytochrome P450 (CP450) which causes DX to undergo a one-electron reduction of the p-quinone residue to form the semiquinone radical resulting in the generation of free hydroxyl radical which causes DNA damage. After modification of bare glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and chitosan (Ch), CPR and CP450 were co-immobilized onto the surface of Ch/MWCNTs/GCE by cross-linking CPR, CP450 and Ch through addition of glutaraldehyde. Then, the DNA was assembled onto the surface of CPRCP450/Ch/MWCNTs/GCE to fabricate the biosensor (DNA/CPRCP450/Ch/MWCNTs/GCE). Modifications applied to the bare GCE to fabricate the biosensor were characterized by CV, EIS and SEM. The DNA/CPRCP450/Ch/MWCNTs/GCE was treated in the damaging solution (DX + NADPH) which caused a significant DNA damage and the exposed DNA bases reduced the electrostatic repulsion of the negatively charged redox probe leading to Faradaic impedance changes. Performance of the biosensor for detection of DNA damage in the presence of Spinach extract was also examined and finally, an indirect impedimetric method was developed for determination of DX.

Anti-Stress and Anti-Depressive Effects of Spinach Extracts on a Chronic Stress-Induced Depression Mouse Model through Lowering Blood Corticosterone and Increasing Brain Glutamate and Glutamine Levels

Spinach is one of the most widely consumed vegetables, and is known as for both physical and mental health maintenance. However, there is little information about how spinach protects one from stress. In the present study, we created three extracts from Spinach oleracea L., (frozen powder (FP), water extract (WE), and ethanol extract (EE)), and examined their anti-stress and anti-depressive effects on mouse using a chronic immobilization stress (CIS) regimen. FP, WE, and EE showed different free amino acid constituents. Calorie-balanced diets derived from each extract were tested for their ability to reduce blood corticosterone (CORT) levels in naïve mice. Diets supplemented with FP or EE induced lower blood CORT levels than a normal diet, but the WE diet did not. Mobility duration and sucrose preference were increased by FP and EE supplementation in the CIS-induced depression animal models. Moreover, FP and EE increased glutamate and glutamine levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) compared with CIS-induced depressed group. These results suggest that spinach has anti-stress and anti-depressive properties by lowering CORT and increasing glutamate and glutamine levels in the mPFC.

Detection of flavonoids from Spinacia oleracea leaves using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and UPLC-QqQLIT-MS/MS techniques

Spinacia oleracea L. (Spinach) is a leafy vegetable which is considered to have a high nutritional value. Flavonoids in spinach were reported to act as antimutagenic property. Rapid detection of these flavonoids in Spinach was achieved by using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. Thirty six compounds were tentatively identified based on their retention times, accurate mass and MS/MS spectra. The fragmentation patterns of known compounds were applied to elucidate the structure of their corresponding derivatives having the same basic skeleton. Out of thirty six peaks, three peaks were assigned as patuletin and six peaks were assigned as spinacetin derivatives. Twelve compounds were first time identified following the fragmentation pattern of known compounds. Five of the identified compounds i.e., spinacetin, 5,3',4'-trihydroxy-3-methoxy-6,7-methylenedioxyflavone, protocatechuic acid, ferulic acid and coumaric acid were simultaneously quantified in spinach leaves by a validated UPLC-ESI-MS/MS method under MRM mode.

Effect of Fermented Spinach as Sources of Pre-Converted Nitrite on Color Development of Cured Pork Loin

The effect of fermented spinach extracts on color development in cured meats was investigated in this study. The pH values of raw cured meats without addition of fermented spinach extract or nitrite (negative control) were higher (p<0.05) than those added with fermented spinach extract. The pH values of raw and cooked cured meats in treatment groups were decreased with increasing addition levels of fermented spinach extract. The lightness and yellowness values of raw cured meats formulated with fermented spinach extract were higher (p<0.05) than those of the control groups (both positive and negative controls). The redness values of cooked cured meats were increased with increasing fermented spinach extract levels, whereas the yellowness values of cooked cured meats were decreased with increasing levels of fermented spinach extract. The lowest volatile basic nitrogen (VBN) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values were observed in the positive control group with addition of nitrite. TBARS values of cured meats added with fermented spinach extract were decreased with increasing levels of fermented spinach extract and VBN values of curing meat with 30% fermented spinach extract was lower than the other treatments. Total viable bacterial counts in cured meats added with fermented spinach extract ranged from 0.34-1.01 Log CFU/g. E. coli and coliform bacteria were not observed in any of the cured meats treated with fermented spinach extracts or nitrite. Residual nitrite contents in treatment groups were increased with increasing levels of fermented spinach extract added. These results demonstrated that fermented spinach could be added to meat products to improve own curing characteristics.

Appetite suppressing effect of Spinacia oleracea in rats: Involvement of the short term satiety signal cholecystokinin

Spinacia oleracea (spinach) is a green leafy vegetable rich in antioxidant phyto-constituents such as flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids and vitamins. Fruits and vegetables rich in flavonoids are known to prevent weight gain by inducing satiety. The present study evaluates the appetite suppressing effect of a flavonoid rich extract of the spinach leaf (SOE) in rats. HPTLC of SOE was performed for detecting flavonoids. Rats were administered SOE (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, p. o) and fluoxetine (6 mg/kg i. p) as a pre-meal for 14 days. Food intake and weight gain was observed daily during the treatment period. Serum levels of the short term satiety signals cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucose were measured on the 7th and 14thdays at different time points after start of meal to study the satiety inducing effect of SOE. HPTLC showed the presence of 14 flavonoids in SOE. SOE and fluoxetine treated rats showed a significant reduction in food intake and weight gain when compared with the normal control rats. On the 7th day of treatment, peak CCK levels were reached in 30 min after start of meal in fluoxetine treated rats and in 60 min in the remaining rats. On the 14th day, CCK peaking was observed in 30 min after start of meal in the fluoxetine as well as SOE 400 mg/kg treated rats. Peak glucose levels in all treatment groups were obtained in 60 min after start of feeding on both days of the study. It maybe concluded that SOE exhibited a promising appetite suppressing effect by inducing a quicker than normal release of CCK, thus eliciting an early onset of satiety in rats. This effect may be due to its high flavonoid content.

Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents of the Extract and Subfractions of Euphorbia splendida Mobayen

Introduction:

The harmful action of the free radicals which cause the oxidative stress can be blocked by antioxidant substances, and different plant extracts showed antioxidant activity. The aim of this study is was evaluation the antioxidant activity of total methanol extract (ME) and subfractions of Euphorbia splendida Mobayen.

Materials and Methods:

Aerial part of E. splendida was extracted by maceration with methanol and then subfractionated by liquid–liquid fractionation using petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and water. Antioxidant activity was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity assay, reduction of ferric ions and ferrous ion chelating potential. Total phenolic contents (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) were estimated with Folin-Ciocaltue and aluminum chloride methods, respectively.

Results:

The findings revealed that E. splendida ME and subfractions showed a dose-dependent antioxidant activity. ME showed the highest antioxidant activity based on total reduction capability and ferrous ions chelating assay tests. Aqueous fraction and then ethyl acetate fraction showed the best IC₅₀in DPPH radical scavenging test in comparison to butylated hydroxytoluene. ME showed the highest value of TPC and TFC (270.74 ± 0.005 mg/g and 208.23 ± 0.007 mg/g, respectively).

Conclusion:

This study showed that the extract and subfractions of E. splendida have antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of the extract and fractions might be attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds. More studies are needed to determine the active antioxidant compounds of this plant.

SUMMARY

Total extract and subfractions of Euphorbia splendida showed antioxidant activity.

Abbreviations Used: TPC: Total phenolic content, TFC: Total flavonoid content, DPPH: 2, 2’- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, BHT: Butylated hydroxytoluene, EDTA: Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic acid, ME: Total methanol extract, EAF: Ethyl acetate fraction, AQF: Aqueous fraction, PEF: Pertolium ether fraction, CHF: Chloroformic fraction

Phytochemical and Antinociceptive, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Studies of Smilax larvata (Smilacaceae)

The tea of aerial parts of Smilax larvata Griseb. (Smilacaceae) has been ethnopharmacologically used in Southern Brazil due to its anti-inflammatory action. In this study, ethanolic and organic extracts from aerial parts of S. larvata were phytochemically and pharmacologically characterized. The phytochemical analysis of EtOAc extract of S. larvata revealed the presence of three flavonoids, drabanemoroside, kaempferol 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside, and kaempferol, the first two being isolated for the first time in this genus, two phenolic compounds p-hydroxybenzoic acid and p-coumaric acid, and alkaloids. In vitro assays demonstrated a potential antioxidant property of SLG. The treatment with SLG induced a significant reduction of the formalin-evoked flinches in rats, an effect reversed by opioid antagonist naloxone. Treatment with SLG also induced a significant increase in the hot plate latency and a decrease of intestinal motility by 45%. No effect was observed over nociceptive responses induced by a TRPA1 agonist mustard oil or over acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. Together, our data suggested that SLG has an in vivo antinociceptive effect, which seems to be associated with the opioid system activation. These findings support previous claims of medical use of Smilax larvata in the treatment of pain conditions.

Antioxidant capacity of phytochemicals and their potential effects on oxidative status in animals - A review

Oxidative stress suppresses animal health, performance, and production, subsequently impacting economic feasibility; hence, maintaining and improving oxidative status especially through natural nutrition strategy are essential for normal physiological process in animals. Phytochemicals are naturally occurring antioxidants that could be considered as one of the most promising materials used in animal diets in various forms. In this review, their antioxidant effects on animals are discussed as reflected by improved apparent performance, productivity, and the internal physiological changes. Moreover, the antioxidant actions toward animals further describe a molecular basis to elucidate their underlying mechanisms targeting signal transduction pathways, especially through the antioxidant response element/nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 transcription system.

Functional properties of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) phytochemicals and bioactives

Overwhelming evidence indicates that diets rich in fruits and vegetables are protective against common chronic diseases, such as cancer, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Leafy green vegetables, in particular, are recognized as having substantial health-promoting activities that are attributed to the functional properties of their nutrients and non-essential chemical compounds. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is widely regarded as a functional food due to its diverse nutritional composition, which includes vitamins and minerals, and to its phytochemicals and bioactives that promote health beyond basic nutrition. Spinach-derived phytochemicals and bioactives are able to (i) scavenge reactive oxygen species and prevent macromolecular oxidative damage, (ii) modulate expression and activity of genes involved in metabolism, proliferation, inflammation, and antioxidant defence, and (iii) curb food intake by inducing secretion of satiety hormones. These biological activities contribute to the anti-cancer, anti-obesity, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic properties of spinach. Despite these valuable attributes, spinach consumption remains low in comparison to other leafy green vegetables. This review examines the functional properties of spinach in cell culture, animals and humans with a focus on the molecular mechanisms by which spinach-derived non-essential phytochemicals and bioactives, such as glycolipids and thylakoids, impart their health benefits.

Chlorophyll enhances oxidative stress tolerance inCaenorhabditis elegansand extends its lifespan

Green vegetables are thought to be responsible for several beneficial properties such as antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, and detoxification activities. It is not known whether these effects are due to chlorophyll which exists in large amounts in many foods or result from other secondary metabolites. In this study, we used the model systemCaenorhabditis elegansto investigate the anti-oxidative and anti-aging effects of chlorophyllin vivo. We found that chlorophyll significantly improves resistance to oxidative stress. It also enhances the lifespan ofC. elegansby up to 25% via activation of the DAF-16/FOXO-dependent pathway. The results indicate that chlorophyll is absorbed by the worms and is thus bioavailable, constituting an important prerequisite for antioxidant and longevity-promoting activities inside the body. Our study thereby supports the view that green vegetables may also be beneficial for humans.

Ethnopharmacological analysis of medicinal plants used against non-communicable diseases in Rodrigues Island, Indian Ocean

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rodrigues is an autonomous outer island that form part of the Republic of Mauritius and one of three islands that constitute the Mascarene archipelago in the Indian Ocean. Though herbal medicine is in common use in Rodrigues, there has been no ethnopharmacological study to document quantitatively such traditional practise particularly against non-communicable diseases (NCD) which is currently a growing major health issue on the island. The aim of the present study was to collect, analyse and document traditionally used medicinal plants (MP) from key informants and traditional medicine practitioners (TMP) in the tropical island of Rodrigues to treat and/or manage common NCD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was collected via face-to-face interviews with MP users (n=113) and TMP (n=9). Seven quantitative ethnopharmacological indices, namely family use value (FUV), use value (UV), informant agreement ratio (IAR), relative frequency of citation (RFC), fidelity level (FL), relative importance (RI) and ethnobotanicity index (EI) were calculated.

RESULTS

Hundred and three plants belonging to 55 families were recorded for the treatment and/or management of 27 different NCD. Three of the MP (Terminalia bentzoë (L.) L.F, Sarcostemma cf. adontolepis Balf.f. and Clerodendrum laciniatum Balf.f.) recorded are endemic to Rodrigues and 2 (Carissa xylopicron Thouars., Phyllanthus casticum Willemet f.) endemic to the Mascarene Islands. The most solicited MP family was Asteraceae with a total of 8 species. Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle scored the highest RFC (RFC=1.02) value. Ten plants were found to score 100% FL and the highest IAR (0.98) was observed for the disease category of certain conditions originating in the perinatal period. Arecaceae scored the highest FUV value and Ayapana triplinervis (Vahl) R.M. King et H.Rob highest UV (UV= 2.72).

CONCLUSION

Given the dearth of updated information on traditional medicine of Rodrigues, this study can provide an opportunity to establish valuable primary information on the different MP used by the local people and hence can open new perspectives for further pharmacological research.

Extraction of functional ingredients from spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) using liquid solvent and supercritical CO₂ extraction

BACKGROUND

In this work three different techniques were applied to extract dry leaves of spinach (Spinacia oleracea): solid-liquid extraction (SLE), pressurised liquid extraction (PLE) and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) to investigate the influence of extraction solvent and technique on extracts composition and antioxidant activity. Moreover, the influence of carotenoids and phenolic compounds on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of spinach extracts was also studied.

RESULTS

The higher concentrations of carotenoids and the lower content of phenolic compounds were observed in the supercritical CO₂ extracts; whereas water and/or ethanol PLE extracts presented low amounts of carotenoids and the higher concentrations of phenolic compounds. PLE extract with the highest content of phenolic compounds showed the highest antioxidant activity, although SFE carotenoid rich extract also showed a high antioxidant activity. Moreover, both extracts presented an important anti-inflammatory activity.

CONCLUSION

PLE seems to be a good technique for the extraction of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds from spinach leaves. Moreover, spinach phenolic compounds and carotenoids present a high antioxidant activity, whereas spinach carotenoids seem to show a higher anti-inflammatory activity than phenolic compounds. It is worth noting that of our knowledge this is the first time the anti-inflammatory activity of lipophilic extracts from spinach leaves is reported.

Assessment of antioxidant and antiproliferative properties of spinach plants grown under low oxygen availability

BACKGROUND

In the human diet, the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables is important in maintaining good health and in preventing chronic diseases. It is known that plant-derived food is a powerful source of chemopreventive molecules, i.e. antioxidants, and spinach (Spinacia oleracea L., Chenopodiaceae) possesses a wide range of metabolites with such biological activity. Plant stress response could lead to the production of metabolites with high value for human health and this could be a tool to enhance the production of molecules with antioxidant activity in plants.

RESULTS

Data reported in this paper confirm the antioxidant properties of spinach plants, and show a strong antiproliferative activity of leaf extract on HT-29 human cell line. Besides, the hypoxic stress seems to affect the pool of antioxidant molecules present in spinach leaves, as verified by means of HPLC-MS/MS analysis and the aluminium chloride and ABTS assays.

CONCLUSION

Our findings represent a basis for improving the biological and pharmacological properties of spinach plants, including the use of different growth conditions to modulate the phytocomplex profile of spinach.

Phytochemical, antioxidant and mineral composition of hydroalcoholic extract of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) leaves

The phytochemical, antioxidant and mineral composition of hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Cichorium intybus L., was determined. The leaves were found to possess comparatively higher values of total flavonoids, total phenolic acids. The phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, in the leaves of the plant. The leaf extract was found to show comparatively low value of IC₅₀ for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition. The IC₅₀ value of chicory leaves extract was found to be 67.2 ± 2.6 μg/ml. The extracts were found to contain high amount of mineral elements especially Mg and Zn. Due to good phytochemical and antioxidant composition, C. intybus L., leaves would be an important candidate in pharmaceutical formulations and play an important role in improving the human health by participating in the antioxidant defense system against free radical generation.