Free-radical scavenging action of medicinal herbs from Ghana: Thonningia sanguinea on experimentally-induced liver injuries

Nutraceutical Potential of Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum) Hull: Phytochemicals, Antioxidant Activity, and Liver Protection

Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum), a traditional Taiwanese crop enriched with phenolic compounds and betalain pigments, is associated with various health benefits, including antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. This study analysed the phytochemical content and antioxidant capacity of extracts from both the hull and kernel of Djulis. The hull extract, which contained higher levels of flavonoids and exhibited superior antioxidant activity compared to the kernel extract, was selected for further in vivo studies. These experiments showed that oral administration of the Djulis hull crude extract significantly mitigated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in mice by increasing the activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reducing plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and enhancing liver levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-4 (IL-4). Additionally, the extract demonstrated potential in inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway, a critical signalling pathway in inflammation and apoptosis, offering insights into its protective mechanisms. These findings underscore Djulis hull's potential as a functional food ingredient for ALI prevention and propose a valuable application for agricultural by-products.

Synthesis of biologically active cefpodoxime and vanillin-based schiff base metal complexes with the detailed biological evaluations

Schiff bases of existing antimicrobial drugs are an area, which is still to be comprehensively explored to improve drug efficiency against consistently resisting bacterial species. In this study, we have targeted a new and eco-friendly method of condensation reaction that allows the "green synthesis" as well as improved biological efficacy. The transition metal complexes of cefpodoxime with well-enhanced biological activities were synthesized. The condensation reaction product of cefpodoxime and vanillin was further reacted with suitable metal salts of [Mn (II), Cu (II), Fe (II), Zn (II), and Ni (II)] with 1:2 molar ratio (metal: ligand). The characterization of all the products were carried out by using UV-Visible, elemental analyzer, FTIR, 1H-NMR, ICP-OES, and LC-MS. Electronic data obtained by UV-Visible proved the octahedral geometry of metal complexes. The biological activities Schiff base ligand and its transition metal complexes were tested by using in-vitro anti-bacterial analysis against various Gram-negative, as well as Gram-positive bacterial strains. Proteinase and protein denaturation inhibition assays were utilized to evaluate the products in-vitro anti-inflammatory activities. The in vitro antioxidant activity of the ligand and its complexes was evaluated by utilizing the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in-vitro method. The final results proved metal complexes to be more effective against bacterial microorganisms as compared to respective parent drug as well as their free ligands. Patch Dock, a molecular docking tool, was used to dock complexes 1a-5e with the crystal structure of GlcN-6-P synthase (ID: 1MOQ). According to the docking results, complex 2b exhibited a highest score (8,882; ACE = -580.43 kcal/mol) that is well correlated with a high inhibition as compared to other complexes which corresponds to the antibacterial screening outcomes.

Interaction of olive oil-based propolis and caffeic acid phenethyl ester with methylprednisolone used in the treatment of human acute myeloid leukemia

BACKGROUND

Methylprednisolone (MP) is a pharmaceutical agent employed in the management of Leukemia, which is a systemic malignancy that arises from abnormalities in the hematological system. Numerous investigations in the field of cancer research have directed their attention towards propolis, a natural substance with significant potential as a treatment-supportive agent. Its utilization aims to mitigate the potential adverse effects associated with chemotherapy medications. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of olive oil-based propolis (OEP) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia, as well as to determine if they exhibit a synergistic effect when combined with the therapeutic support product methylprednisolone.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The proliferation of HL-60 cells was quantified using the WST-8 kit. The PI Staining technique was employed to do cell cycle analysis of DNA in cells subjected to OEP, CAPE, and MP, with subsequent measurement by flow cytometry. The apoptotic status of cells was determined by analyzing them using flow cytometry after staining with the Annexin V-APC kit. The quantification of apoptotic gene expression levels was conducted in HL-60 cells. In HL-60 cells, the IC50 dosages of CAPE and MP were determined to be 1 × 10- 6 M and 5 × 10- 4 M, respectively. The HL-60 cells were subjected to apoptosis and halted in the G0/G1 and G2/M phases of the cell cycle after being treated with MP, CAPE, and OEP.

CONCLUSIONS

Propolis and its constituents have the potential to serve as effective adjunctive therapies in chemotherapy.

Unveiling the Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Chemical Compositional Information of an Invasive Plant: Lycium ferocissimum Miers

In this study, the antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging, ferric-reducing, iron (II)-chelating), anti-inflammatory (LPS-induced Raw 264.7 cell line), and cytotoxic activities (Du145 and A549 cell lines) of raw fruit, ripe fruit and leaves of the Lycium ferocissimum species were examined. By using high-pressure liquid chromatography, p-OH benzoic acid, caffeic acid, and rutin were detected in the ethanol and water extracts. For the most active raw fruit ethanol extract, the IC50 in terms of the DPPH-scavenging activity was 0.57 mg/mL, and the ABTS inhibition percentage was 88.73% at a 3 mg/mL concentration. The raw fruit ethanol extract exhibited significant inhibition of viability in the Du145 cell line in the concentration range of 62.5-1000 µg/mL. Additionally, the extract effectively reduced the LPS-induced inflammation parameters (TNF-α, IFN-γ, PGE 2, and NO) at a concentration of 31.25 µg/mL. The biological activities of L. ferocissimum, which have been elucidated for the first time, have yielded promising results.

Evaluation of Andrographis paniculata-supplemented Diet on the reproductive indices of Plasmodium berghei-infected mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The King of Bitters (Andrographis paniculata) is a plant used to cure a wide range of infectious diseases which includes malaria, fever and others. However, there is a paucity of scientific evidence of its effect on male reproductive indices during malaria treatment.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of supplemented diet on antiplasmodial, hematological and male reproductive indices in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Aqueous extract of A. paniculata (King of Bitters, KGB) was prepared and the total phenol and flavonoid contents were determined. Forty-two mice, weighing 20-25 g, were distributed into 7 groups consisting of 6 mice each. The mice were innoculated with strain NK65 Plasmodium berghei (Chloroquine, CQ sensitive) and the parasitemia suppression was assessed. The mice were fed with the dietary supplementation of KGB at varying inclusions (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%) and administered 10 mg/kg CQ (which served as the positive control) for 5 consecutive days after infection was established. The reactive malondialdeahyde (MDA), antioxidant [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH)] and the hematological (hemoglobin, packed cell volume and red blood cell) parameters in the infected mice were determined. The reproductive indices (serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm viability) and testis histopathology were also assessed.

RESULT

The result revealed that KGB had a total phenol content of 32.55 mgGAE/g and total flavonoid content of 19.71 mgQUE/g. The infected mice treated with the dietary supplementation of KGB showed significantly decreased (p < 0.05) parasitaemia and MDA levels. Furthermore, the 7.5% dietary inclusion showed significant improvement in the antioxidant, hematological and reproductive indices as well as the restoration of testis morphology as seen in the histopathology plate of the infected mice treated with KGB. Hence, this study suggests that the KGB- supplemented diet (7.5%) may be a potential alternative and complementary therapy in the treatment of malaria infection and reproductive disorders.

Vikil 20 Suppresses the Proliferation of Prostate Cancer (PC-3) Cells and Quenches Free Radicals In Vitro

Vikil 20 is an herbal formula produced in Ghana and is widely marketed as a product to boost immunity as well as for general well-being. However, the pharmacological effect of this herbal preparation has not been proven scientifically. Therefore, this study was aimed at investigating the antioxidative as well as the anti-prostate cancer effects of the product. To assess the antioxidative effect of Vikil 20, the DPPH and ABTS activities were investigated. The total phenolic content was investigated using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The cytotoxic effect of Vikil 20 against prostate cancer (PC-3) cells as well as normal (RAW 264.7) cells was investigated using the MTT assay whereas its anti-metastatic effect was analyzed using the cell migration assay. The effect of Vikil 20 on cell adhesion was analyzed via the cell adhesion assay whereas its effect on TNF-α secretion was investigated using a TNF-α detection kit. Vikil 20 demonstrated significant antioxidant effects by suppressing 57.61% and 92.88% respectively of DPPH and ABTS radicals at 1000 µg/mL with total phenolic contents of 140.45 mg GAE/g. Vikil 20 suppressed the proliferation of PC-3 cells by reducing the number of viable cells to 49.5% while sparing the RAW, 264.7 cells. Further, Vikil 20 significantly suppressed both cellular migration and adhesion of prostate cancer cells. Finally, suppression of cellular migration and adhesion is associated with a reduction in TNF-α secretion by PC-3 cells. Taken together, Vikil 20 was found to possess significant antioxidant and anti-prostate cancer effects in vitro.

Effects of Antrodia cinnamomea solid culture mycelium by-products on growth performance and immune response in weaning black piglets

This study evaluated the effects of supplementation with Antrodia cinnamomea mycelium by-product (ACBP) on growth performance and immune response in weaning piglets. Total available content and antioxidant capacity of ACBP were determined. Ninety-six black pigs were randomly distributed to 24 pens. Study compared four groups which were supplemented with ACBP at 0%, 2.5%, 5%, or 10% for 6 weeks after weaning at 4 weeks. Results showed that ACBP on total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total triterpenoids contents were 13.68 mg GAE/g DW, 1.67 μg QE/g DW, and 15.6 mg/g, respectively. Weaning piglets fed 2.5% ACBP showed a significant decreased body weight gain compared with those supplemented with 5% ACBP, 10% ACBP, and control groups. Results showed that all ACBP groups increased the villi height of jejunum significantly. Incidence of diarrhea in 11 weeks with supplementation with 5% and 10% ACBP diets were lower than in control group. The 10% ACBP group showed significantly lower expression of immune response genes (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IFN-γ) than the 2.5% and 5% ACBP groups. Based on results, dietary supplementation with 10% ACBP did not significantly affect body weight but could decrease piglet diarrhea condition and expression of IL-1β and IL-6 genes.

Improvement of nutritional properties of regular and gluten-free cakes with composite flour

This study was carried out to develop regular and gluten-free cakes with the high nutritional and functional value from composite flours. Composite flour was prepared by blending of equal amounts of chestnut, lupine and pumpkin flour. Wheat flour (for regular cake) and corn starch: rice flour blend (for gluten-free cake) used in cake formulation were replaced with composite flour in ratios of 9, 18, 27 and 36%, respectively. Composite flour had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on all color parameters of the crust and crumb of regular and gluten-free cake samples. Cake weight and hardness values increased with the use of composite flour in regular and gluten-free cake samples, and higher weight and hardness values were determined in gluten-free cakes. High composite flour ratios (27-36%) resulted in the lowest cake volume in both cakes. The gluten-free cake had lower ash, protein, antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) compared to the regular cake. The composite flour usage increased the ash, protein, antioxidant activity, TPC, and mineral contents of both cake samples. When the nutritional, functional, technological and sensory properties of cakes were evaluated together, it was concluded that the use of 9% composite flour was the most appropriate ratio for both cake types.

Melissa officinalis L. nanoethosomal formulation: evaluation of antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory activities and in vitro toxicity

This work aimed to create an extract of Melissa officinalis L. with strong antiradical efficacy, characterize it, and enhance its long-term efficacy by developing an ethosomal formulation. DPPH and ABTS assays were used to test the antiradical activity of extracts with different ethanol ratios obtained from the aerial part. Phytochemical characterization of the extract with the highest activity, ethyl acetate fraction of 60% ethanol extract, was analyzed by HPLC. The active ethyl acetate fraction was loaded into ethosomes, and characterization and release studies of the formulation were performed. The released extract from the formulation exhibited substantial antiradical action as well as inhibition of collagenase (71.5%) and elastase (75.5%) enzymes. The toxicity of the active extract and the formulation was determined in the mouse fibroblast cell line. This study successfully developed a long-term antioxidant and enzyme inhibitor formulation containing M. officinalis, which stands out for its medicinal properties.

Host-parasite relationship modulates the effect of African mistletoe leaves on the cholinergic, monoaminergic and carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes in fruit fly

OBJECTIVES

Mistletoe infests common plant trees of great medicinal values such as Moringa and Almond. According to folklore, mistletoe leaves have been found to have application as food and medicine in the alleviation of various degenerative diseases. Host-parasite relationship may possibly influence the phytochemical and biological activities of mistletoe leaves. Hence, we examined the polyphenol contents, antioxidant properties, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitory activities of African mistletoe leaves obtained from Moringa and Almond host plants in fruit fly in vitro.

METHODS

The phenolic constituents of the leaves were evaluated using HPLC system. The antioxidant activities were determined through the ABTS, DPPH and OH free radicals scavenging properties, ferric (Fe3+) and malondialdehyde (MDA) reducing abilities and Fe2+ chelation. The inhibitory effects of the leaves aqueous extracts on α-amylase, α-glucosidase, AChE and MAO activities were also assessed.

RESULTS

The HPLC characterization of the leaves revealed that host plants caused marked variation in their phenolic composition, however, Almond mistletoe leaves had significantly (p<0.05) greater amounts of phenolic constituents. Both Moringa and Almond mistletoe leaves reduced Fe3+ and MDA levels, scavenged free radicals, chelated Fe2+ and inhibited α-amylase, α-glucosidase, AChE and MAO activities with the Almond mistletoe leaves having significantly (p<0.05) higher antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibitory activities.

CONCLUSIONS

This present study indicated that host plants could positively modulate the phenolic profile of mistletoe leaves and this probably brought about the vivid noticeable changes in their antioxidant abilities, cholinergic, monoaminergic and carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes inhibitory activities.

Antioxidant Activity and Chemical Composition of Geranium Oil and Its Synergistic Potential against Pneumococci with Various Antibiotic Combinations

The essential oil of Pelargonium graveolens L. is valuable for its therapeutic benefits, so this study aimed to determine the synergistic effect of the combination of the essential oil of this plant with antibiotics instead of the extracts prepared with various solvents. In addition, the second goal of this study was to determine whether the essential oil combined with various antibiotics increased the overall killing activity in mouse macrophage cells with the aim of introducing an immunotherapeutic approach to the infection treatments used today. Herein, the volatile profile of Geranium oil (G.O) was analyzed using GC/MS. The current study sought to assess the synergistic characteristics of several antibiotic combinations using G.O against pneumococci, as well as the oil's antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The major components of the oil were citronellol, geraniol, and isomenthone. In the combinations of G.O and antibiotics, the synergism of the Streptococcus pneumoniae to antibiotics advanced. When the time-kill data were evaluated, G.O + antibiotic combinations quickly diminished the viable cell count of S. pneumoniae from the 6th h. In this study, the combined use of existing antibiotics used in infection treatments with G.O could improve antibiotic effectiveness and thus prevent bacteria from developing antibiotic resistance.

Impact Assessment of Lead-Tolerant Rhizobacteria to Improve Soil Health Using Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) as an Indicator Plant

Due to ongoing human activities, heavy metals are heavily accumulated in the soil. This leads to an increase in the discharge and the quick spread of heavy metal pollution in human settlements and natural habitats, having a disastrous effect on agricultural products. The current experiment was planned to evaluate the effect of lead-tolerant-plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (LTPGPR) on growth, yield, antioxidant activities, physiology, and lead uptake in the root, shoot, and seed of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) in lead-amended soil. Three pre-isolated well-characterized lead-tolerant rhizobacterial strains-S10, S5, and S2-were used to inoculate seeds of Indian mustard grown at three different levels of lead (300 mg kg-1, 600 mg kg-1, 900 mg kg-1) contaminated soil. The experiment was designed following a completely randomized design (CRD) under factorial arrangements. Lead nitrate was used as a source of lead contamination. At harvesting, data regarding growth, physiology, yield per plant, antioxidant activities, malondialdehyde and proline content, and lead uptake in the root, shoot, and seed of Indian mustard were recorded. Results demonstrated that lead contamination at all levels significantly reduced the plant growth, yield, and physiological processes. Plants inoculated with lead-tolerant rhizobacteria showed a significant improvement in plant growth, yield, antioxidant activities, and physiological attributes and cause a valuable reduction in the malondialdehyde contents of Indian mustard in lead-contaminated soil. Moreover, plants inoculated with lead-tolerant rhizobacteria also showed an increment in lead uptake in the vegetative parts and a significant reduction of lead contents in the seed of Indian mustard.

Green synthesized cobalt nanoparticles from Trianthema portulacastrum L. as a novel antimicrobials and antioxidants

Trianthema portulacastrum is a dietary and medicinal plant that has gained substantial importance due to its pharmacological properties. This plant was used for its various healing properties since the ancient period in ayurvedic system of medicine. The green synthesis technique is an eco-friendly as well as cost effective technique which can produce more biocompatible nanoparticles when compared with those fabricated by physio-chemical methods. Therefore, nanoparticles produced by green synthesis are credible alternatives to those which are produced by conventional synthesis techniques. This research mainly aims to produce nanoparticles with the methanolic leaf extract of T. portulacastrum. The optimized nanoparticles were further analyzed for anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties. Disk diffusion assay was used for the determination of the antimicrobial property and on the other hand, DPPH radical scavenging assay as well as hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity proved the antioxidant property of the formulation. The study revealed that Escherichia coli (gram negative strain) shows greater zone of inhibition when compared with Bacillus subtilis (gram positive bacteria). The nanoparticles have also been reported to show significant anti-fungal activity against the strains of Aspergillus niger and Fusarium oxysporum which proves its desirability for its further use against both bacterial as well as fungal infections. The novel formulation can be explored dually as antimicrobial and antioxidant agent.

Antioxidant evaluation and computational prediction of prospective drug-like compounds from polyphenolic-rich extract of Hibiscus cannabinus L. seed as antidiabetic and neuroprotective targets: assessment through in vitro and in silico studies

BACKGROUND

Reports have implicated diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) as some of the global persistent health challenges with no lasting solutions, despite of significant inputs of modern-day pharmaceutical firms. This study therefore, aimed to appraise the in vitro antioxidant potential, enzymes inhibitory activities, and as well carry out in silico study on bioactive compounds from polyphenolic-rich extract of Hibiscus cannabinus seed (PEHc).

METHODS

In vitro antioxidant assays were performed on PEHc using standard methods while the identification of phytoconstituents was carried out with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For the in silico molecular docking using Schrodinger's Grid-based ligand docking with energetics software, seven target proteins were retrieved from the database ( https://www.rcsb.org/ ).

RESULTS

HPLC technique identified twelve chemical compounds in PEHc, while antioxidant quantification revealed higher total phenolic contents (243.5 ± 0.71 mg GAE/g) than total flavonoid contents (54.06 ± 0.09 mg QE/g) with a significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of ABTS (IC₅₀ = 218.30 ± 0.87 µg/ml) and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals (IC₅₀ = 227.79 ± 0.74 µg/ml). In a similar manner, the extract demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) inhibitory activity against α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 256.88 ± 6.15 µg/ml) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 183.19 ± 0.23 µg/ml) as well as acetylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 262.95 ± 1.47 µg/ml) and butyrylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 189.97 ± 0.82 µg/ml), respectively. Furthermore, In silico study showed that hibiscetin (a lead) revealed a very strong binding affinity energies for DPP-4, (PDB ID: 1RWQ) and α-amylase (PDB ID: 1SMD), gamma-tocopherol ( for peptide-1 receptor; PDB ID: 3C59, AChE; PDB ID: 4EY7 and BChE; PDB ID: 7B04), cianidanol for α-glucosidase; PDB ID: 7KBJ and kaempferol for Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase 1 (PARP-1); PDB ID: 6BHV, respectively. More so, ADMET scores revealed drug-like potentials of the lead compounds identified in PEHc.

CONCLUSION

As a result, the findings of this study point to potential drug-able compounds in PEHc that could be useful for the management of DM and AD.

Bioassay-guided preparation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory active fraction from crabapples (Malus prunifolia (Willd.) Borkh.)

The aim of current study was to optimize the extraction process and purification of main components (MC) to obtain high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effective fractions from crabapple (Malus prunifolia (Willd.) Borkh.). The effects of three variables including ethanol concentration A₁, solid-liquid ratio A₂, extraction temperature A₃ were investigated and optimized by response surface methodology (RSM) coupled with Box-Behnken design (BBD). The adsorption/desorption characteristics of MC on the five types of macroporous resins were investigated. According to batch adsorption test, HPD-300 resins were selected for kinetics. The adsorption mechanism showed that the process was appropriate by pseudo-second-order kinetics model, and purification parameters of MC were optimized through adsorption/desorption experiments with the column packed by HPD-300 resin. The effective fractions were obviously superior to other fractions according to DPPH, ABTS, COX-2 and 15-LOX radical scavenging. This work implies that the purified active fraction with high contents of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds from crabapple might be potential source for natural products and food industries.

Exogenous Calcium Reinforces Photosynthetic Pigment Content and Osmolyte, Enzymatic, and Non-Enzymatic Antioxidants Abundance and Alleviates Salt Stress in Bread Wheat

One of the main environmental stresses that hinder crop development as well as yield is salt stress, while the use of signal molecules such as calcium (Ca) has a substantial impact on reducing the detrimental effects of salt on different crop types. Therefore, a factorial pot experiment in a completely randomized design was conducted to examine the beneficial role of Ca (0, 2.5, and 5 mM) in promoting the physiological, biochemical, and growth traits of the wheat plant under three salt conditions viz. 0, 30, and 60 mM NaCl. Foliar application of Ca increased the growth of salt-stressed wheat plants through increasing photosynthetic pigments, IAA, proline, and total soluble sugars contents and improving antioxidant enzymes in addition to non-enzymatic antioxidants glutathione, phenol and flavonoids, β-carotene, and lycopene contents, thus causing decreases in the over-accumulation of free radicals (ROS). The application of Ca increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes in wheat plants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), which scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and relieved salt stress. An additional salt tolerance mechanism by Ca increases the non-antioxidant activity of plants by accumulating osmolytes such as free amino acids, proline, and total soluble sugar, which maintain the osmotic adjustment of plants under salinity stress. Exogenous Ca application is a successful method for increasing wheat plants' ability to withstand salt stress, and it has a considerable impact on the growth of wheat under salt stress.

Evaluating the potential for utilising migratory locust powder (Locusta migratoria) as an alternative protein source in peanut-based ready-to-use therapeutic foods

This study aimed at exploring the possibility of substituting powdered milk (PM) with migratory locust powder (MLP) as a cheap and sustainable alternative protein source in peanut-based ready-to-use therapeutic foods used in treatment of malnutrition. The migratory locust is a wide spread and underutilised high protein edible insect. Peanut-based ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTFs) were formulated according to the MSF/UNICEF 2013 nutritional standards. Milk powder was substituted with MLP at 5-30% levels. RUTF containing 30% milk powder was used as the control. Nutritional, antioxidant and antinutrients composition of the insect-enriched RUTFs were compared with RUTF containing milk powder only and a standard. The protein content of the insect-enriched RUTFs ranged from 19.58-26.38% exceeding the MSF/UNICEF minimum standard for protein. RUTF with 10% PM and 20% MLP had the highest (p < 0.05) mineral contents. All formulations had more thiamine (vitamin B1) than the recommended level of 0.5 mg/100 g. Niacin (Vitamin B3) was the most abundant vitamin in the formulations with considerable amounts of vitamin D and E. All MLP-enriched RUTFs met the FAO 2011 standard requirements for amino acids for children aged six months to three years. Therapeutic food with 30% MLP had the highest radical scavenging ability against DPPH, and iron chelating activity. Levels of phytate and tannin were below the tolerable limits. Therefore, MLP can be used as a low-cost substitute for milk powder in producing ready-to-use therapeutic foods.

Evaluating Water bitter leaf (Struchium sparganophora) and Scent Leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) extracts as sources of nutraceuticals against manganese-induced toxicity in fruit fly model

Tropical vegetables remain one of the major sources of functional foods and nutraceuticals, while their constituent phytochemicals, especially alkaloids, have been reported to exhibit neuroprotective properties. Here, the protective effect of alkaloid extracts from Scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Water bitter leaf (Struchium sparganophora) on manganese (Mn)- induced toxicity in wild type fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) model was investigated. Flies were exposed to 30 mM of Mn, the alkaloid extracts (20 and 200 µg/g) and co-treatment of Mn plus extracts, respectively. The survival rate and locomotor performance of the flies were assessed 7 days post-treatment, after which the flies were homogenized and assayed for activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), monoamine oxidase (MAO), glutathione-S transferase (GST), catalase, superoxide dismutase SOD), as well as total thiol, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and neural L-DOPA levels. Results showed that the extract significantly reversed Mn-induced reduction in the survival rate and locomotor performance of the flies. Furthermore, both extracts counteracted the Mn-induced elevation in AChE and MAO activities, as well as reduced antioxidant enzyme activities, with a concomitant mitigation of Mn-induced elevated ROS and neural L-DOPA level. The HPLC characterization of the extracts revealed the presence of N-propylamine, Vernomine and Piperidine as predominant in Water bitter leaf extract, while 2, 6-dimethylpyrazine and sesbanimide were found in scent leaf extract. Therefore, the alkaloid extract of these leaves may thus be sources of useful nutraceuticals for the management of pathological conditions associated with manganese toxicity.

Simultaneous Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Olea europaea L. Leaves and Healthy Seed Oils Using Pressurized Propane

Olive leaves (OL) are products of olive cultivation with a high commercial value because they contain valuable bioactive compounds. Chia and sesame seeds have a high functional value because of their attractive nutritional properties. When combined in the extraction process, the two products constitute a product of high quality. The use of pressurized propane in vegetable oil extraction is advantageous because it provides solvent-free oil. This study aimed to combine two high-quality products to obtain oils with a unique combination of attractive nutritional properties and high levels of bioactive compounds. The mass percentage yields of the OL extracts with chia and sesame oils were 23.4% and 24.8%, respectively. The fatty acid profiles of the pure oils and their respective OL-enriched oils were similar. There was an aggregation of the 35% and 32% (v/v) bioactive OL compounds in chia and sesame oils, respectively. OL oils exhibited superior antioxidant capacities. The induction times of the OL extracts with the sesame and chia oils increased by 73% and 4.4%, respectively. Incorporating OL active compounds in healthy edible vegetable oils using propane as a solvent promotes the reduction of lipid oxidation, improves the lipid profiles and health indices of the oils, and forms a product with attractive nutritional characteristics.

Analyzing the Impact of Ramalina digitellata, R. fastigiata, R. fraxinea, and R. polymorpha's Usnic Acid Concentration on Antioxidant, DNA-Protective, Antimicrobial, and Cytotoxic Properties

The present study is focused on the antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and DNA protective effects of methanol extract obtained from R. digitellata, R. fastigiata, R. fraxinea, and R. polymorpha species that are distributed in Turkey. The highest total phenol content was determined in R. digitellata (144.6 mgGAE/gextract ), and the highest total amount of flavonoids was found in R. fastigiata (20.40 mgGAE/gextract ). The content of usnic acid was determined by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and the highest amount was found in R. digitellata. DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS [2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzathiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] radical scavenging methods were used for antioxidant activity. R. fraxinea showed the highest DPPH⋅ and ABTS+ ⋅ scavenging activity. In addition, the DNA protective effect was investigated using pBR322 plasmid DNA, and; all studied species were found to have DNA protective effects. The antibacterial activity was investigated using the disc diffusion method, and the R. digitellata methanol extract showed the best results with a 12.35 mm zone on Proteus mirabilis. On the human lung cancer (A549) and breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cell lines, cytotoxic activity was assessed using an MTT assay. All lichen extracts were found to have a significant cytotoxic effect on both cancer cell lines at 1000 μg/mL concentration. These results suggest that Ramalina species may be potential candidates for developing new phytopharmaceuticals and functional components.

Assessment of nutrient contents and bio-functional activities of edible fungus bio-fortified with copper, lithium and zinc

Bio-enrichment of edible mushrooms is an outstanding strategy to deliver essential nutrients to human. In this study, an edible fungus; Pleurotus pulmonarius was cultivated on spent mushroom substrate (SMS) supplemented with copper, lithium, and zinc. Proximate and mineral analysis of cultivated mushroom was determined using methods of AOAC. Antimicrobial activity of cultivated mushroom was assessed against microorganisms using agar well diffusion. Antioxidant property of mushroom was assessed against free radicals. Similar (p ≤ 0.05) protein contents of 18.93%, 18.80% and 17.90% were respectively obtained in P. pulmonarius biofortified with Cu + Li + Zn, Cu + Zn and Zn. Crude fibre in element fortified-mushroom ranged from 9.02 to 10.11%, while non-fortified mushroom was 8.66%. Copper content of P. pulmonarius fortified with Cu alone and Cu + Zn were 96.12 mg/100 g and 98.09 mg/100 g, respectively. Mushroom fortified with Zn has the highest zinc content of 520.15 mg/100 g. Mushroom fortified with Li and Li + Zn have a similar (p ≤ 0.05) Li content of 106.02 mg/100 g and 104.30 mg/100 g, respectively. Extract from mushroom-fortified with copper has the highest zone of inhibition (15.1 mm) against Klebsiella pneumoniae at 1.0 mg/ml. Mushroom fortified with Cu + Li + Zn and Li + Zn, respectively have similar (p ≤ 0.05) scavenging activities of 79.10 and 81.0% against DPPH. Mushroom fortified with Zn or Zn + Cu enhanced the growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum. Antimicrobial, antioxidant and prebiotic activities of fortified-mushroom could be attributed to arrays of phytochemicals and bio-accumulated elements. Hence, bio-fortified mushrooms can be used as functional foods and as biopharmaceuticals to treat ailments associated with nutrient deficient.

Nelsonia canescens (Acanthaceae) aqueous extract and partitioned fractions ameliorates type-2 diabetes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin. There is a continuous rise of this disease particularly in developing countries due to changes in life style and poverty among the people. In this study, antidiabetic activities of aqueous extract of Nelsonia canescens and its partitioned fractions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats were evaluated. Male albino rats were divided into 9 groups (diabetic and non-diabetic) of 5 rats each. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal administration of alloxan (90 mg/kgbwt). The experimental design consists of a diabetic control group (untreated), a normal control group (1 mL saline), a standard diabetic drug (Glibenclamide; 5 mg/kgbwt), two doses (50 and 300 mg/kgbwt) of aqueous extract, ethyl acetate and methanol fractions of Nelsonia canescens were orally administered for a period 21 days. Blood glucose of the rats was monitored at 3-days intervals while biochemical and in vivo antioxidant assays of serum and liver were determined after 21 days.

Results

The hypoglycemic effect of the extract observed was in a dose dependent manner with a significant reduction (p < 0.05) of blood glucose in ethylaceate fraction > aqueous extract > methanol fraction compared with the diabetic control group. A significant difference (p < 0.05) in lipid profiles and serum enzyme activity of rats in the diabetic control group was observed compared with the extract and fraction treated groups.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the aqueous extract and fractions of N. canescens showed hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic potentials and significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the progression of oxidative stress.

Phytochemical Profiles, Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Traditional Medicinal Plants: Centaurea pichleri subsp. pichleri, Conyza canadensis, and Jasminum fruticans

Centaurea pichleri subsp. pichleri, Conyza canadensis, and Jasminum fruticans are traditionally used plants grown in Turkey. Methanol extracts were obtained from these plants and pharmacological activity studies and phytochemical analyses were carried out. To evaluate the phytochemical composition, spectrophotometric and chromatographic techniques were used. The extracts were evaluated for antioxidant activity by DPPH^●, ABTS^●+ radical scavenging, and FRAP assays. The cytotoxic effects of the extracts were investigated on DU145 prostate cancer and A549 lung cancer cell lines. The anti-inflammatory effects of extracts were investigated on the NO amount, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and PGE 2 levels in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated Raw 264.7 cells. The richest extract in terms of phenolic compounds (98.19 ± 1.64 mg_GAE/g_extract) and total flavonoids (21.85 ± 0.64 mg_CA/g_extract) was identified as C. pichleri subsp. pichleri methanol extract. According to antioxidant activity determinations, the C. pichleri subsp. pichleri extract was found to be the most active extract. Finally, the C. pichleri subsp. pichleri methanol extract was revealed to be the most effective inhibitor of viability in the cytotoxic activity investigation, and the extract with the best anti-inflammatory action. The findings point to C. pichleri subsp. pichleri as a promising source of bioactive compounds in the transition from natural sources to industrial uses, such as new medications, cosmeceuticals, and nutraceuticals.

Multi-Step Biomass Fractionation of Grape Seeds from Pomace, a Zero-Waste Approach

Grape seeds are the wineries' main by-products, and their disposal causes ecological and environmental problems. In this study seeds from the pomace waste of autochthonous grape varieties from Lebanon, Obeidi (white variety) and Asswad Karech (red variety) were used for a multi-step biomass fractionation. For the first step, a lipid extraction was performed, and the obtained yield was 12.33% (w/w) for Obeidi and 13.04% (w/w) for Asswad Karech. For the second step, polyphenols' recovery from the defatted seeds was carried out, resulting in 12.0% (w/w) for Obeidi and 6.6% (w/w) for Asswad Karech, with Obeidi's extract having the highest total phenolic content (333.1 ± 1.6 mg GAE/g dry matter) and antioxidant activity (662.17 ± 0.01 µg/mL of Trolox equivalent). In the third step, the defatted and dephenolized seeds were subsequently extracted under alkaline conditions and the proteins were isoelectric precipitated. The recovered protein extract was 3.90% (w/w) for Obeidi and 4.11% (w/w) for Asswad Karech seeds, with Asswad Karech's extract having the highest protein content (64 ± 0.2 mg protein/g dry matter). The remaining exhausted residue can be valorized in cosmetic scrubs formulations as a replacement for plastic microbeads. The designed zero-waste approach multi-step biomass fractionation has the potential to improve the valorization of the side products (grape seeds) of these two Lebanese autochthonous grape varieties.

Exogenous aspartic acid alleviates salt stress-induced decline in growth by enhancing antioxidants and compatible solutes while reducing reactive oxygen species in wheat

Salinity is the primary environmental stress that adversely affects plants' growth and productivity in many areas of the world. Published research validated the role of aspartic acid in improving plant tolerance against salinity stress. Therefore, in the present work, factorial pot trials in a completely randomized design were conducted to examine the potential role of exogenous application of aspartic acid (Asp) in increasing the tolerance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants against salt stress. Wheat plants were sown with different levels of salinity (0, 30, or 60 mM NaCl) and treated with three levels of exogenous application of foliar spray of aspartic acid (Asp) (0, 0.4, 0.6, or 0.8 mM). Results of the study indicated that salinity stress decreased growth attributes like shoot length, leaf area, and shoot biomass along with photosynthesis pigments and endogenous indole acetic acid. NaCl stress reduced the total content of carbohydrates, flavonoid, beta carotene, lycopene, and free radical scavenging activity (DPPH%). However, Asp application enhanced photosynthetic pigments and endogenous indole acetic acid, consequently improving plant leaf area, leading to higher biomass dry weight either under salt-stressed or non-stressed plants. Exogenous application of Asp, up-regulate the antioxidant system viz. antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, and nitrate reductase), and non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbate, glutathione, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, beta carotene, lycopene) contents resulted in declined in reactive oxygen species (ROS). The decreased ROS in Asp-treated plants resulted in reduced hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxidation (MDA), and aldehyde under salt or non-salt stress conditions. Furthermore, Asp foliar application increased compatible solute accumulation (amino acids, proline, total soluble sugar, and total carbohydrates) and increased radical scavenging activity of DPPH and enzymatic ABTS. Results revealed that the quadratic regression model explained 100% of the shoot dry weight (SDW) yield variation. With an increase in Asp application level by 1.0 mM, the SDW was projected to upsurge through 956 mg/plant. In the quadratic curve model, if Asp is applied at a level of 0.95 mM, the SDW is probably 2.13 g plant^-1. This study concluded that the exogenous application of aspartic acid mitigated the adverse effect of salt stress damage on wheat plants and provided economic benefits.

Carduus edelbergii Rech. f. Mediated Fabrication of Gold Nanoparticles; Characterization and Evaluation of Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Potency of the Synthesized AuNPs

Background: Due to the high expense, less effectiveness and more side effects of available synthetic medicine, the researchers and communities are focusing on phyto-based natural bioactive compounds, which are considered safer for the treatment of syndromes and chronic diseases. Aim: The current project was aimed to determine the phytochemicals constituents available in the aerial parts of methanol extract of Carduus edelbergii via GC-MS, fabrication of AuNPs mediated with the mentioned extract; characterization and evaluation of antimicrobial, antioxidant and antidiabetic potency of the synthesized AuNPs. Methods: Confirmation of green synthesis of AuNPs, functional groups responsible for the reduction in Au+, size and crystallinity, morphology and quantity of gold (Au) were carried out by Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and dispersive X-ray (EDX), respectively, whereas in vitro antioxidant characteristics were assessed by DPPH and ABTS assays. Wistar albino rats were used to test the anti-diabetic properties of the methanol extract and AuNPs. Results: GC-MS revealed that the diluted methanol extract of Carduus edelbergii consists of about 19 chemical constituents. Among the identified compounds, the 13-Docosenoic acid, methyl ester, (Z)—has the highest concentration (38.16%), followed by 9-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester, (E)—(15.72%) and n-Hexadecanoic acid (15.07%). Methanol extract and its fabricated nanoparticles showed significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. In vivo antidiabetic study revealed a noteworthy (p < 0.05) decline in body weight and HDL and elevated concentration of blood glucose, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, triglyceride, VLDL, LDL, ALP, ALT and AST in diabetic control. The said changes were recovered significantly (p < 0.05) by treatment of diabetic rats with methanol extract (150 and 300 mg/Kg BW) and AuNPs of Carduus edelbergii (5 and 10 mg/Kg BW). Conclusion: The green synthesized AuNPs exhibit significant antioxidant, antimicrobial and antidiabetic characteristics.

Phytochemical Composition and Biological Activities of Arctium minus (Hill) Bernh.: A Potential Candidate as Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitor, and Cytotoxic Agent

Arctium minus (Hill) Bernh. (Asteraceae), which has a wide distribution area in Turkey, is a medicinally important plant. Eighty percent methanol extracts of the leaf, flower head, and root parts of A. minus were prepared and their sub-fractions were obtained. Spectrophotometric and chromatographic (high-performance liquid chromatography) techniques were used to assess the phytochemical composition. The extracts were evaluated for antioxidant activity by diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil radical (DPPH^●), 2,2′-Azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS^●+) radical scavenging, and β-carotene linoleic acid bleaching assays. Furthermore, the extracts were subjected to α-amylase, α-glucosidase, lipoxygenase, and tyrosinase enzyme inhibition tests. The cytotoxic effects of extracts were investigated on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. The richest extract in terms of phenolic compounds was identified as the ethyl acetate sub-fraction of the root extract (364.37 ± 7.18 mg_GAE/g_extact). Furthermore, chlorogenic acid (8.855 ± 0.175%) and rutin (8.359 ± 0.125%) were identified as the primary components in the leaves’ ethyl acetate sub-fraction. According to all methods, it was observed that the extracts with the highest antioxidant activity were the flower and leaf ethyl acetate fractions. Additionally, ABTS radical scavenging activity of roots’ ethyl acetate sub-fraction (2.51 ± 0.09 mmol/L Trolox) was observed to be as effective as that of flower and leaf ethyl acetate fractions at 0.5 mg/mL. In the β-carotene linoleic acid bleaching assay, leaves’ methanol extract showed the highest antioxidant capacity (1422.47 ± 76.85) at 30 min. The enzyme activity data showed that α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition of leaf dichloromethane extract was moderately high, with an 87.12 ± 8.06% inhibition value. Lipoxygenase enzyme inhibition was weakly detected in all sub-fractions. Leaf methanol extract, leaf butanol, and root ethyl acetate sub-fractions showed 99% tyrosinase enzyme inhibition. Finally, it was discovered that dichloromethane extracts of leaves, roots, and flowers had high cytotoxic effects on the MDA-MB-231 cell line, with IC50 values of 21.39 ± 2.43, 13.41 ± 2.37, and 10.80 ± 1.26 µg/mL, respectively. The evaluation of the plant extracts in terms of several bioactivity tests revealed extremely positive outcomes. The data of this study, in which all parts of the plant were investigated in detail for the first time, offer promising results for future research.

Evaluation of Antioxidant, Cytotoxic and Antidiabetic Effects of Single Bulb Black Garlic Extracts

Amaç: Allium sativum L. (Sarımsak) bitkisinin belli bir derecede nem ve sıcaklık ile işlem görmesi sonucu, elde edilen fermente ürün tek diş siyah sarımsağın biyoaktivitesinin tespit edilmesi amaçlandı.Yöntem: Çalışmada, siyah sarımsak dişlerinin etanol ve su ekstresi hazırlandı, yine ayrılan kabuk kısımları da etanol ile ekstre edilerek, DPPH● ve ABTS●+ radikalini süpürücü etki tayin yöntemi ile antioksidan aktivitesi değerlendirildi. In vitro α-amilaz inhibisyon testi ile antidiyabetik aktivitesi belirlendi. MTT yöntemi kullanılarak ekstrelerin Colo-205 hücrelerinde sitotoksik etkisi tayin edildi.Bulgular: Siyah sarımsak ekstrelerinden kabuk ekstresi (A.S.K EtOH) en yüksek toplam fenol (61,40±0,48 mgGA/gekstre) ve toplam flavonoit (26,08±0,37 mgCA/gekstre) içeriğine sahip ekstre olarak tespit edildi. Ayrıca, 4mg/mL konsantrasyonda A.S. SU ekstresi DPPH● radikalini süpürücü aktivitesi (% inhibisyonu 64,66±1,94) en yüksek ekstre olarak tespit edilirken, A.S.K EtOH ekstresi 4mg/mL’de ABTS radikalini süpürücü aktivitesi en yüksek ekstre (2,44±0,16mmol/L/Trolox) olarak bulundu. İnsan kolorektal kanser hücre hattı Colo-205’te sitotoksik etkisi değerlendirilen ekstrelerden, S.K EtOH ekstresinin 1000-250 µg/mL konsantrasyon aralığında diğer ekstrelere oranla en fazla sitotoksik etki gösteren ekstre olduğu belirlendi. Ekstrelerden hiçbiri akarbozun pozitif kontrol olarak kullanıldığı α-amilaz inhibiyon testine göre antidiyabetik aktivite gösteremedi.Sonuç: Sonuçlar son yıllarda oldukça popüler olan siyah sarımsağın biyolojik aktivitelerine dair ön çalışma verileridir. Elde edilen verilere göre siyah sarımsağın aktif bileşenlerinin daha detaylı bir şekilde çalışılması ve siyah sarımsak elde etme ve saklama yöntemlerinin daha detaylı araştırılması gerekmektedir. Böylelikle tıbbi açıdan oldukça büyük öneme sahip bir bitkinin fermente halinin kullanımı ve faydaları ile ilgili umut vaat edici sonuçlar elde edilebilir.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Azadirachta indica and Their Antioxidant and Anticancer Effects in Cell Lines

In the present study, silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were synthesized using Azadirachta indica extract and evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity efficacy against MCF-7 and HeLa cells. The silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were formed within 40 min and after preliminary confirmation by UV-visible spectroscopy (peak observed at 375 nm), they were characterized using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The TEM images showed the spherical shape of the biosynthesized Ag-NPs with particle sizes in the range of 10 to 60 nm, and compositional analysis was carried out. The cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of various concentrations of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles, Azadirachta indica extract, and a standard ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 mg/mL were evaluated. The 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity of the biosynthesized Ag-NPs and aqueous leaf extract increased in a dose-dependent manner, with average IC₅₀ values of the biosynthesized Ag-NPs, aqueous leaf extract, and ascorbic acid (standard) of 0.70 ± 0.07, 1.63 ± 0.09, and 0.25 ± 0.09 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, higher cytotoxicity was exhibited in both the MCF-7 and HeLa cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. The average IC₅₀ values of the biosynthesized Ag-NPs, aqueous leaf extract, and cisplatin (standard) were 0.90 ± 0.07, 1.85 ± 0.01, and 0.56 ± 0.08 mg/mL, respectively, with MCF-7 cell lines and 0.85 ± 0.01, 1.76 ± 0.08, 0.45 ± 0.10 mg/mL, respectively, with HeLa cell lines. Hence, this study resulted in an efficient green reductant for producing silver nanoparticles that possess cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity against MCF-7 and HeLa cells.

Stability and Antioxidant Activity of Hydro-Glyceric Extracts Obtained from Different Grape Seed Varieties Incorporated in Cosmetic Creams

Grape seeds are agro-industrial by-products, which if improperly managed, may be responsible for socioeconomic and environmental problems. Nevertheless, it is possible to effectively valorize them by means of extraction of the bioactive compounds, especially the antioxidant phenolic molecules, using a safe, green, and environmentally-friendly extractive medium (i.e., hydro-glyceric solution). In the present study, the extraction was performed using seeds from two Lebanese varieties, Obeidi and Asswad Karech, and three international varieties, Marselan, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. The type and amount of phenolic compounds were identified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Marselan was the extract richer in catechins (132.99 ± 9.81 μg/g of dried matter), and it also contained a higher amount of phenolic compounds (49.08 ± 0.03 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of dry matter and 10.02 ± 0.24 mg of proanthocyanidin content/g of dry matter). The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was assessed using three different colorimetric assays including 2,2-DiPhenyl-1-PicrylHydrazyl (DPPH), CUPRIC ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity (CUPRAC), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP). As expected, Marselan exhibited the highest antioxidant activity; as well, the total phenolic and proanthocyanidin content were the highest. The stability of the Marselan extract incorporated into a commercial cream, was performed at three different temperatures (4, 25, and 50 °C), and four different concentrations (5, 4, 3, 2%), over a period of 4 months, using different methods such as centrifugation, Heat-Shock Cycles, pH, and viscosity. All Marselan hydro-glyceric extract formulations were proven to be stable over the entire 4 months, where the highest stability was achieved at 4 °C and the least at 50 °C. This study supports the suitability of the incorporation of phenolic extracts into commercial creams to enrich the cosmetic industry with effective, natural, and safe skincare products.

GC-MS/MS Quantification of EGFR Inhibitors, β-Sitosterol, Betulinic Acid, (+) Eriodictyol, (+) Epipinoresinol, and Secoisolariciresinol, in Crude Extract and Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Thonningia sanguinea

Medicinal plants are widely used in folk medicine to treat various diseases. Thonningia sanguinea Vahl is widespread in African traditional medicine, and exhibits antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anticancer activities. T. sanguinea is a source of phytomedicinal agents that have previously been isolated and structurally elucidated. Herein, gas chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) was used to quantify epipinoresinol, β-sitosterol, eriodictyol, betulinic acid, and secoisolariciresinol contents in the methanolic crude extract and its ethyl acetate fraction for the first time. The ethyl acetate fraction was rich in epipinoresinol, eriodictyol, and secoisolariciresinol at concentrations of 2.3, 3.9, and 2.4 mg/g of dry extract, respectively. The binding interactions of these compounds with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were computed using a molecular docking study. The results revealed that the highest binding affinities for the EGFR signaling pathway were attributed to eriodictyol and secoisolariciresinol, with good binding energies of −19.93 and −16.63 Kcal/mol, respectively. These compounds formed good interactions with the key amino acid Met 769 as the co-crystallized ligand. So, the ethyl acetate fraction of T. sanguinea is a promising adjuvant therapy in cancer treatments.

Ethosomal (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate as a novel approach to enhance antioxidant, anti-collagenase and anti-elastase effects

Controlled release systems containing natural compounds have been successfully applied in cosmetics as antiaging products to enhance the penetration of active compounds through the skin. In this study, we aimed to develop novel ethosomal formulations containing a potent antioxidant, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), and to evaluate their potential for use in cosmetics by determining their antioxidant and antiaging effects. Ethosomes (ETHs) were prepared via mechanical dispersion and characterized in vitro in terms of particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), encapsulation efficiency percentage (EE%), and in vitro release. The best ETH formulation was used to prepare the ethosome-based gel (ETHG) by using Carbopol 980 as a gelling agent at a ratio of 1:1 (v/v). The gel formulation was evaluated regarding organoleptic properties, pH values, and viscosity. Stability studies were conducted for three months and changes in characterization parameters and residual EGCG content of ETHs were examined. Besides, for ETHG, organoleptic properties, pH values (every two weeks), and viscosity (first and twelfth week) were determined for three months. The 3-(4,5-dimethyldiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to test the cytotoxicity of the formulations and different EGCG solutions on the L929 cell line. The cell permeation properties and inhibitory effects of ETHs and ETHGs on collagenase and elastase enzymes were investigated compared to those of the solution form. Within the scope of antioxidant activity studies, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+•) radical scavenging and β-carotene/linoleic acid co-oxidation inhibitory effects were carried out. The optimized EGCG-loaded ETHs (F3) were within the nanoscale range (238 ± 1.10 nm). The highest encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release values were 51.7 ± 1.15% and 50.8 ± 1.70%, respectively. The ETHG was successfully formulated with F3-coded ETHs and the cytotoxicity test revealed that the formulations and the EGCG solution at different concentrations were nontoxic. In terms of cell permeability, enzyme inhibition, and antioxidant activity, the ethosomal formulations yielded better results compared to the EGCG solution. It was observed that the formulations had a long-term effect due to the stability of EGCG. The findings of the study underline the potential of antioxidant and antiaging effects of the developed ethosomal formulations for use in the cosmetic field.

Phytochemical profile, antioxidant, antiproliferative, and enzyme inhibition-docking analyses of Salvia ekimiana Celep & Doğan

Salvia ekimiana Celep & Doğan is an endemic species of Turkey. To our knowledge, the number of studies on biological activities and phytochemical profiling of this plant is quite limited. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze its activities and phytochemical content in detail. The qualitative-quantitative compositions were determined via spectrophotometric and chromatographic (LC-MS/MS and HPLC) techniques. 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH^•) and 2,2'-Azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS^•+) radical scavenging and ascorbate-iron (III)-catalyzed phospholipid peroxidation experiments were performed to measure antioxidant capacity. Hyaluronidase, collagenase, and elastase enzyme inhibition tests were determined in vitro using a spectrophotometer. Antiproliferative activity was evaluated in human lung cancer (A549) and human breast cancer (MCF7) cells. The murine fibroblast (L929) cell line was used as a normal control cell. While the subextract rich in phenolic compounds was n-butanol extract, rosmarinic acid was defined as the main secondary metabolite. The highest antioxidant activity observed for the n-butanol subextract included the following: DPPH^• EC50: 0.08±0.00 mg/mL, TEAC/ABTS: 2.19±0.09 mmol/L Trolox, MDA EC50: 0.42±0.03 mg/mL. The methanolic extract, the ethyl acetate, and n-butanol subextracts displayed significant inhibitory activity on collagenase, while the other subextracts did not show any inhibitory activity on hyaluronidase and elastase. Due to strong interactions with their active sites, molecular docking showed luteolin 7-glucuronide, apigenin 7-glucuronide, and luteolin 5-glucoside had the highest binding affinity with target enzymes. The chloroform subextract showed significant cytotoxicity in all cell lines. These novel results revealed that S. ekimiana has strong antioxidant, collagenase enzyme inhibitory, and cytotoxic potential.

Saponins and flavonoids from Bacopa floribunda plant extract exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on amyloid beta 1-42-induced Alzheimer's disease in BALB/c mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bacopa floribunda (BF), a locally available plant has been employed traditionally as memory enhancer in Southwestern, Nigeria. It has been utilized in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine as brain tonic for enhancing memory, anti-aging and forestalling series of psychological disorders. However, there is a dearth of scientific information on the mechanism(s) of action of important phytochemicals from BF extract on dementia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Alzheimer's disease, the commonest form of dementia has been postulated to triple by 2050 as a result of increase in life expectancy. This study therefore assessed and compared the possible mechanism(s) of action of flavonoids and saponins from BF on Amyloid beta (Aβ1-42)-induced dementia in male BALB/c mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty (80) healthy BALB/c mice divided into 10 groups (n = 8) were given a single bilateral ICV injection of Aβ1-42 or normal saline. Graded doses of Saponins and flavonoids (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were used as treatment for 21 days. Hippocampal homogenates were assayed for the levels of antioxidants, oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory markers. In vitro antioxidant activity of flavonoids and saponins were equally assessed using standard procedures. The extent of microglial activation was quantified through immunohistochemistry procedure.

RESULTS

Aβ1-42 successfully caused a spike in hippocampal levels of MDA, IL1β, TNF-α including MPO levels and invariably decreased antioxidant activities. Likewise an increase in reactive microglia (microgliosis) was observed. However, crude saponins and flavonoids from BF were able to suppress microgliosis, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation induced by Aβ1- 42 and were observed to be more effective at higher doses of saponins (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) and flavonoid (100 mg/kg).

CONCLUSIONS

Phytochemicals from BF efficiently exhibited dose dependent alleviation of some symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Simultaneous extraction of sunflower oil and active compounds from olive leaves using pressurized propane

Sunflower is grown in different parts of the world and oil from the grain has many uses, including cosmetics and food. Olive leaves are rich in active compounds with potential for industrial use. The simultaneous extraction of raw materials is an economical and sustainable way of using the same extraction process to obtain products with high added value. The aim of this work was to promote the incorporation of bioactive compounds from olive leaves in sunflower oil by two extraction techniques: pressurized propane (PRO) and Soxhlet (SOX) and to evaluate the increase in oxidative stability and antioxidant activity of oils. The techniques used were useful in producing sunflower oil incorporating olive leaf extract (SFO + OLE); 4.3% 1-octacosanol and 5.8% 1-triacontanol were incorporated, and β-sitosterol increased by at least 90%. Also, SFO + OLE showed an increase in the induction time of 2.7 and 3.7 h compared to SFO for the PRO and SOX methods, respectively. The profile of fatty acids was maintained, with the majority in all samples being oleic and linoleic acids. Consequently, with this procedure is possible to produce SFO + OLE with better antioxidant activity and better nutritional characteristics using PRO and SOX. The scaled-up of the simultaneous extraction process via pressurized propane is economically viable according to the process simulation and economic evaluation.

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The extraction of sunflower seeds and olive leaves is carried out with propane.

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Conventional and pressurized techniques are used for simultaneous extraction.

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The components of the olive leaf extract promote the improvement of sunflower oil.

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Simultaneous extraction promotes oil with greater resistance to oxidation.

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The extraction in structured bed is economically viable.